9, Jan 2024
Narayana Health Insurance Receives License to Operate as a Standalone Health Insurance Company

Bengaluru – [9th January, 2024] – Narayana Health Insurance Limited (Narayana Health), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Narayana Hrudayalaya Limited (Narayana Health), today announced that it has received a license to operate as a standalone health insurance company from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

“We are delighted to receive the license to operate as a standalone health insurance company,” said Dr. Devi Shetty, Founder and Chairman of Narayana Hrudayalaya and Chairman of Narayana Health Insurance. “This is a major milestone for our company and will allow us to achieve our mission of making healthcare accessible to all. We are grateful for the support of IRDAI Chairman, Shri Debasish Panda, and the entire IRDAI team for their guidance. This is the fastest approval for a health insurance license in recent times and shows that the Regulator and Government are serious in their commitment to increase insurance penetration across the country. We are motivated by the vision of Insurance for All by 2047 and believe that our company can play a significant role in achieving this goal.”

Narayana Health Insurance will focus on simplifying health insurance by creating comprehensive policies that are easy to understand. The company will leverage the investments made by Narayana Health in technology and AI over the years to create personalized care plans for its members and manage risks better.

“This is an important step in the evolution of Narayana Health from a Hospital operator to an integrated care provider,” said Viren Shetty, Vice Chairman of Narayana Hrudayalaya Limited and Director of Narayana Health Insurance Limited. “Our goal is to provide a seamless and integrated healthcare experience for our subscribers, and this license will allow us to offer a comprehensive suite of health insurance products and services. We believe that this will help us fulfil our purpose of keeping people healthy and providing affordable health care to underserved sections of society.”

The company is expected to commence business in a few months, with an initial focus on Karnataka market.

9, Jan 2024
Lava International Strengthens Collaborative Partnerships with Leading Indian Academic Institutions

New Delhi, January 9, 2024 — Lava International, a leading Indian Smartphone brand, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Kanpur and Amity University in an agreement aimed at advancing research in the fields of Mobile Technology, 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), and Cyber Security etc.

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The MoU signing ceremony between Lava International and IIT Kanpur, held on January 8, witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including UC-San Diego Chancellor Prof Pradeep K. Khosla and other esteemed officials from the Uttar Pradesh government.

Recently, Lava International has entered into a similar collaboration with Amity University further solidifying its commitment to fostering innovation and research in mobile technology. The partnership between Lava International and Amity University will focus on joint research projects in the dynamic field of mobile technology and software design.

The collaboration goes beyond the MoU, as the parties are engaged in discussions regarding various initiatives, such as organizing a Ideathons, Hackathon, and conducting research to build a secure Indian operating systems.

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Speaking on signing the MoU, Dr. Rishi Mohan Bhatnagar, President, Lava International said, “These strategic partnerships signify a pivotal moment for Lava, aligning with our vision to push the boundaries of mobile technology. By joining forces with renowned academic institutions, we are strategically positioning ourselves at the forefront of innovation. This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to advancing research and development but also provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange and exploration. Together, we are poised to shape the future of mobile technology in India, fostering a synergy to drive strategic growth for Lava.”

The joint efforts of Lava International and the respective institutions promises to shape the future of mobile technology, creating a synergy that brings together the strengths of both academia and industry.

9, Jan 2024
apna.co Celebrates Job Seekers with #ApnaThankYou Campaign

National, 09 January 2024: This New Year, apna.co, India’s leading jobs and networking platform, launched a game-changing campaign titled #ApnaThankYou as a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable job seekers whose careers found new horizons on this groundbreaking platform. The campaign used state-of-the-art CGI technology to unveil awe-inspiring Magic Portals hovering above India’s iconic landmarks. From the majestic India Gate to the cultural wonders of Charminar, the digital film weaved magic, spotlighting not just apna.co’s profound impact but also narrating compelling success stories.

The data unveiled is as inspiring as the campaign itself. Delhi witnessed an unprecedented 1.9 crore job applications, while Chennai made history with equal gender representation in applications. Bengaluru saw a staggering 40 Lakh women applicants, Hyderabad boasted 31 lakh fresher applications, and Mumbai shone with 40 lakh graduate applications in 2023 alone. #ApnaThankYou heralds a fresh chapter in job-seeking narratives as it took the digital world by storm while unveiling a mesmerising campaign on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Sharing insights about the initiative Mr. Nirmit Parikh, Founder and CEO, apna.co said, “Since the inception of apna.co, our mission has centred on providing a singular platform for job seekers to not only discover career opportunities but also foster valuable professional connections. The essence of the #ApnaThankYou campaign encapsulates the celebration of diverse narratives that have unfolded within our platform’s vibrant ecosystem. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each user who has placed their trust in apna.co’s journey.”

Notably, the campaign gained widespread acclaim through various social media handles on Instagram, reaching diverse audiences. Through this, apna.co aims to create a relatable and supportive environment for individuals navigating the complexities of the job market. apna.co is ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their journey, feels empowered and supported in their pursuit of rewarding career opportunities.

9, Jan 2024
“Paws and Play: Pet Fed Brings a Furry Celebration to Mumbai”

Gear up for a day of fun as Pet Fed, India’s Largest Pet Festival, returns for its 8th edition, and this time it’s making waves in Mumbai! This eagerly awaited pet extravaganza promises an exciting time for pets, pet parents, and pet enthusiasts alike. Spanning across 3 acres of lush greenery, Pet Fed Mumbai will be transformed into a haven for all things furry and fantastic. This year’s festival is not just a tribute to pets; it’s a distinctive experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

PET FED

Free Entry for Street Dogs: All dogs are invited, regardless of their background.

PET FED

Fashion Shows: Walk the runway with your stylish pet and indulge in the latest trends in pet fashion.

Adoption Camps: Discover your new family member at our adoption camps.

Music, Food, and Shopping: Delight in live music, delectable treats, and explore pet care stalls.

Off-leash Play Area: Witness pets playing freely in this specially designed zone.

Contests and Games: Engage in fun activities designed for both dogs and their human companions.

Join us for a day filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments with your pets!

What: Pet Fed Mumbai

Where: Nesco Grounds, Goregaon

When: January 13th & 14th, 2024

Entry: Rs.499 Online & Rs 699 on-site (For one day per person)/ Rs. 2099 (Two-day passes for 5 persons)

9, Jan 2024
IIMC to hold its 55th convocation tomorrow

Former President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind to give the Convocation address

New Delhi, January 9: The 55th Convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) will be held Pragati Maidan’s Bharat Mandap on January 10, 2024. The former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, will be the chief guest at the event and give the Convocation address. The ceremony will also be attended by the Chairman of IIMC, Shri R Jagannathan, and the Director General, Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar.

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The event, scheduled to commence at 10:00 AM, will see the participation of IIMC faculty from IIMC New Delhi and its five regional centers at Dhenkanal, Aizawl, Amravati, Kottayam and Jammu.

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During the Convocation ceremony, Post Graduate Diploma certificates will be awarded to the IIMC students (from IIMC Delhi and all its centres) from 2021-22 and 2022-23 batches. Further, 65 students from the two batches will be awarded different medals.

IIMC is one of India’s leading institutions that offers education in the field of media and communication. Set up in 1965, IIMC offers PG Diploma courses in Hindi Journalism, English Journalism, Advertising and Public Relations, Radio and Television, Digital Media, Odia Journalism, Marathi Journalism, Malayalam Journalism, and Urdu Journalism.

9, Jan 2024
Howden India Expands Regional Presence with Inauguration of Gujarat Office

Ahmedabad, 9th January 2024: Howden Broking (India), a premier specialist broker in bespoke risk management solutions, announces the opening of its Gujarat regional office, a significant step in its growth journey. As a valued part of Howden Group, Europe’s leading insurance intermediary, Howden has left an indelible mark on India’s insurance sector since its inception in 2004.

In the dynamic landscape of resilience and progress, Howden’s unwavering dedication to excellence shone brightly in 2023. Ranking as the 6th Largest Specialty Broker in India, it showcases the company’s dedication to creating unmatched solutions for its diverse clientele. With a robust presence across 11 locations and a dedicated team of 335 professionals, Howden has expanded both its reach and human resources substantially.

Amit Agarwal, CEO & MD of Howden India, shared his excitement, saying, “Our Gujarat office’s launch embodies our dedication to delivering innovative risk solutions tailored to local needs. Our growth journey, powered by our exceptional team, aligns with our mission to offer premier insurance services.” This ethos highlights Howden’s commitment to provide value-centric solutions, promote collaboration, and harness cross-selling opportunities.

The 2022 IRDAI approval for Howden India’s 100% ownership further cements the company’s vision of forging a premier broking enterprise in India, emphasizing long-term client relationships and investments in people, technology, and data. Eager to embrace future prospects, Howden India is set to utilize its Gujarat office, further extending its reach and enhancing insurance solutions for its regional clients.

9, Jan 2024
Bandhan Multi Asset Allocation Fund Launched for Investors

Bandhan Mutual Fund Logo

Bangalore, 09 January 2024: Bandhan Mutual Fund announced the launch of the Bandhan Multi Asset Allocation Fund, an open-ended scheme that enables investment across diverse asset classes including Indian Equities, International Equities, Arbitrage, Fixed Income, Gold and Silver. Studies have established that asset allocation, rather than security selection or market timing, is the dominant factor impacting return variability. This new fund will adopt a multi-asset allocation strategy to optimize reward and risk by diversifying investments across various asset classes, each offering unique advantages in terms of growth, stability, and inflation protection. The New Fund Offer (NFO) is set to open on Wednesday, 10 January 2024, and will close on Wednesday, 24 January 2024. Investments in the Bandhan Multi Asset Allocation Fund can be made through licensed mutual fund distributors, investment advisors, online platforms, or directly at https://bandhanmutual.com/nfo/bandhan-multi-asset-allocation-fund/.

Bandhan Multi Asset Allocation Fund

Highlighting the importance of a multi-asset allocation approach, especially at a time when select segments in equity markets have provided very strong past returns potentially leading to build-up of concentration risks for some investors, Vishal Kapoor, CEO of Bandhan AMC, commented, “Asset Allocation helps investors avoid behavioural pitfalls, such as market timing and performance chasing which can result in shorter holding periods, portfolio imbalances and eventually sub-optimal returns. Seasoned investors recognise that no single asset class has been a winner for consecutive periods, and hence, diversifying across asset classes brings greater stability and consistency of returns. Bandhan Multi Asset Allocation Fund is crafted to offer investors a sophisticated, transparent, and effective way to achieve a well-diversified portfolio investing in 5 major asset classes and across 13 sub-asset classes. By expertly integrating major asset classes into a single well-curated fund, the fund aims for potential long-term growth, with relatively lower volatility. Investors seeking a long-term well-rounded portfolio for relatively stable returns may find this very attractive.”

Target allocation for this Fund includes about 50% to Indian Equities across Large-cap, Mid-cap and Small-cap stocks, 15% to International Equities across the U.S., other developed markets as well as emerging markets, 15% to fully hedged Arbitrage strategies, 10% towards actively managed high-quality Fixed Income and 10% towards domestic Gold and Silver. The portfolio would be systematically rebalanced half yearly to the targeted allocation.

9, Jan 2024
MOU between the Hinduja Group and the Government of Tamil Nadu

hinduja group

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO of Ashok Leyland, exchanged an MOU between the Hinduja Group and the Government of Tamil Nadu, at the Tamil Nadu Global Investors meet for an investment of Rs 1200 Cr. over the next 3 – 5 years, assigned for strategic initiatives to drive innovation, technological advancements and overall business expansion. This commitment also reflects the group’s vision for sustainable growth and competitiveness in the automotive sector. The group is committed to creating employment opportunities for 500- 1000 people both direct & indirect, based on the work demand.

9, Jan 2024
Press Conference on The Valued Partnership on ’47th International Kolkata Book Fair 2024′

Only 9 more days are left before the inauguration of the 47th International Kolkata Book Fair. The fair will be inaugurated on 18 January 2024 at 4pm at the Boimela Prangan, Salt Lake, by our Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt. Mamata Banerjee, in presence of Mr Alex Ellis CMG, British High Commissioner to India, Ms Alison Barrett MBE, Director, British Council, India, Smt Bani Basu, eminent author along with other authors, dignitaries and Hon’ble Ministers of our state.

press conference

The following are the highlights of this year’s International Kolkata Book Fair:

1. There will be around 1000 stalls and Little Magazines. This year we have allotted stalls to many more small publishers at the Book Fair.

2. Senior Citizen’s Day, ‘Chiro Tarun’ will be celebrated on 24 January. An interactive session between a senior author, senior publisher and a senior reader namely, Abul Basar, Debajyoti Datta and Saswati Adhikari, will be organised on that day.

3. There will be nine entry and exit gates in the IKBF 2024 for the easy movement of the visitors. One of the gates will be the replica of London Tower Bridge. Another Gate will be replica of Bethune School, commemorating its 175th foundation year. Among the other gates, there will be Biswa Bangla Gate and two gates will be named after Tarashankar Bandyopadhyay and Federico García Lorca commemorating their 125th birth year.

4. Big two halls of the Book Fair having mainly the English publications have been named after Samares Mazumdar and A.S. Byatt, who breathed their last in 2023. The Little Magazine Pavilions will be named after Sandip Dutta, who also left us last year. Also there will be a HDFC Ergo Press Corner and two Mukta mancha(Open stage) named after Nirendranath Chakraborty and Samaresh Basu, commemorating their birth centenary year. The Children’s Pavilion will be based on the characters of Pandab Goenda in memory of Sashtipada Chattopadhyay.

5. The Transport Department, Government of West Bengal will provide additional bus services. There will be a special Metro from Sealdah and the service will also be there on the holidays. With the help of Bidhannagar Police, the auto fare will also be fixed for the Book Fair.

6. A special medical assistance service with ambulance by Peerless Hospitex Hospital And Research Centre Limited,-­ the Health Partner of IKBF 2024.

7. International Kolkata Book Fair 2024 android app to locate any stall in the fair, created by CESC will be available.

8. Meghbela Broadband will be the Exclusive Broadband Partner of Book Fair 2024.

9. Our hospitality partner – Novotel hotels and residencies, will provide hospitality to our Guests coming from abroad.

10. Around 20 Countries across the globe will participate at the International Kolkata Book Fair 2024.

11. We are indebted to CESC for their all-out cooperation. There will be a well decorated CESC Corner for eminent guests of Book Fair. The daily lottery will be held from there, where CESC will distribute a Book Gift Coupon worth Rs 15,000/- per day to the lucky winners.

“Buy books and win a Book Library” – As a commitment to the society, Guild’s initiative to disseminate the opportunity to more and more book lovers. The ‘Book Bumper Library lottery’ will be organised and the winners will win a Book Gift Coupon of Rs 25,000/- each.

Dr Rama Prasad Goenka CESC Sristi Samman 2024′ will be awarded to Smt Bani Basu.

We are deeply indebted to State Bank of India – our official Banker for providing full banking facilities, ATM, and E-services in the Fair Ground.

We are also indebted to ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company – our Official Insurer.

We also acknowledge great support from the National Jute Board as our Green partner.

IKBF 2024 will have a virtual live presence through the website and social media pages of the Book Fair. Those who are staying abroad, they can enjoy Book Fair’s programs online. Our exclusive digital partner is Sister Nivedita University.

For the first time, a special digital ground map with the participant list of the IKBF 2024 will be available just by scanning QR Code at all the entry points of the Book Fair.

The major attraction of the International Kolkata Book Fair that we all look forward to, will be the 10th edition of the Kolkata Literature Festival which will be held for 3 days inside the SBI auditorium, from 26 to 28 January 2024.

9, Jan 2024
METRO Cash & Carry rolls out ‘METRO Kirana Utsav’ campaign

9 th January 2024: METRO Cash and Carry, India’s leading wholesaler has launched the ‘METRO Kirana Utsav’ for traders and kiranas across its ‘METRO Wholesale’ stores in India. The campaign will go live across rest of METRO’s wholesale stores and online METRO Wholesale application from 8 th January and end on 14th January 2024.

 With the tagline ‘Maha Munafe Ke Saat Din’, the Kirana Utsav campaign has been rolled out for traders, small retailers and kirana customers to enable them to avail attractive schemes and offers from leading FMCG brands across categories, under one-roof at competitive wholesale prices. The initiative is aimed to help Kiranas, small retailers and traders to leverage sales and help pass on the special offers and benefits to their end customers in their local catchments.

 METRO India is offering special offers across Commodities, Winter skincare, hot and cold beverages, baby diapers, toiletries, Confectionary items, processed foods, pet food, Cleaning & laundry items, batteries, stationery, and general merchandise amidst host of other categories. During the weeklong period, special discounts and curated offers will be rolled out on a range of merchandise and products.

 Since inception in 2003, METRO India has built a strong brand equity and established itself as a trusted partner for kiranas, MSMEs and other small businesses and merchants in India.