9, Jun 2025
Air India Extends Self Check-In & Baggage Drop Facilities to Destinations in EU, UK, Canada
Chandigarh, 09 June 2025: Air India has rolled out an integrated self-check-in and baggage-drop service for its passengers flying from India to all destinations operated by the airline in Europe, the UK and Canada. Air India was the first airline to have introduced this service from India to international destinations in the US and Australia, besides airports in the domestic network.
Air India is now extending the facility to a total of 19 airports – London (Heathrow and Gatwick), Birmingham, Paris, Vienna, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Milan, Zurich, Toronto, Vancouver and to all five destinations in US (New York, Newark, Chicago, Washington and San Francisco) and two in Australia (Sydney and Melbourne) – from airports in India. The initiative reaffirms Air India’s commitment to leveraging technology to elevate customer experience and deliver world-class service across every touchpoint.
The integrated self-check-in and baggage-drop service offers smooth and faster check-in process at the airport, significantly enhancing passenger experience. With this facility, Air India passengers can enjoy a seamless digital process to print boarding passes and baggage tags and drop bags on their own, eliminating the need to queue up for check in at counters.
The kiosks allow travellers to customise their trips by selecting and even paying for their preferred seats or update their frequent flyer number and contact details. This initiative cuts down on the time spent queueing up at the counters and helps passengers breeze through the airport to reach their boarding gates in time.
Over the last one year, Air India has introduced several customer initiatives including the Premium Lobby that offers exclusive check-in for first, business, and premium economy passengers, the dedicated Family Assistance counters at Delhi airport offering support to passengers travelling with family, city-side check-in counters at Delhi and Hyderabad helping passengers skip queues at airport counters and Self Check-in and Baggage-drop service. These initiatives are further elevating Air India’s customer experience to global standards that are now reflecting in our NPS (customer satisfaction) scores.
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- By Neel Achary
9, Jun 2025
Indian Life Insurers Report Record New Business in May 2025, Premiums Up 10.86Percentage YTD
Mumbai, 9th June 2025: The Life Insurance Council has released updated industry business numbers for May 2025, highlighting a remarkable performance by Indian life insurers. New business premiums (NBPs) underwritten by Indian life insurers achieved a robust year-on-year growth of 12.68% in May 2025, with YTD figures recording a 10.86% growth over the same period last year. New business premiums expanded from ₹27,034.15 Crs in May 2024 to ₹30,463.21 Crs in May 2025, while YTD collections increased from ₹47,293.01 Crs to ₹52,427.4 Crs this year.
According to data released by the Life Insurance Council, the life insurance industry saw individual single premiums grow by 5.21% year-on-year to close at ₹3,525.28 Crs for May 2025, with YTD growth standing at 4.89%. Individual non-single premiums came in at ₹7,086.1 Crs and grew by 2.45% in May 2025, with YTD collections 1.28% higher than the corresponding period last year.
This strong performance is attributed to life insurers’ focus on encouraging first-time buyers to secure essential life insurance solutions, contributing to a 3.35% growth in combined individual premium collections for May 2025 and 2.46% growth on a YTD basis.
In the Group policy segment, single premiums grew by 13.09%, with monthly collections reaching ₹18,068.04 Crs. The Group policy category also witnessed an impressive 18.40% growth in premiums collected in May 2025.
The life insurance industry in India has been making significant strides forward by expanding access to insurance and making an effort to reach out to areas and segments of the country’s population that were previously underserved when it comes to their insurance needs. Towards this end, life insurers added more than 1,46,341 individual life insurance agents.
9, Jun 2025
Covid Testing Spikes 70 Percentage With 25-30 Percentage Positives As 3 New Variants Drive Rise In Cases
New Delhi: In view of rising COVID-19 cases, testing has surged by 70%, with 25–30% of those tested now confirmed positive. This surge reflects growing public awareness and willingness to get tested, especially as people no longer let fear hold them back from seeking help. Earlier, a large number of people avoided testing due to stigma or inconvenience, but increased understanding of COVID risks has led to this encouraging rise. Those detected with Covid-19 infection should follow the expert’s guidelines. And prevent the infection by adhering to the Covid protocol of masking, hand sanitizing, and social distancing.
The Covid-19 curve still refuses to flatten in the country, and the cases are commonly seen in people of all age groups. The three emerging variants are JN.1, NB.1.8.1, and LF.7 are showing symptoms similar to the previous strain, mainly Omicron. The common symptoms are sore throat, fatigue, mild fever, cough, and occasional stomach upset or poor appetite. Moreover, loss of taste and smell is less common this time, but persistent cold-like symptoms will need timely attention. Initiate treatment without any delay for prompt recovery.
Dr. Pranav Gupta, Consultant and Head, Molecular Biology Apollo Diagnostic Delhi said, “Over approximately last 2-3 months, we are witnessing a spike in Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing by 70%, with 25–30% of samples testing positive. The rise in testing is a positive shift as people are now choosing awareness over fear. These new JN.1, NB.1.8.1, and LF.7 variants may present with mild flu-like symptoms, but without timely testing and patient isolation, they can spread rapidly and infect more number of people. Timely testing is crucial as it allows prompt intervention and improves one’s overall well-being.”
Dr. Gupta Added, “Even though a majority of people are vaccinated, it is necessary to take Covid-appropriate measures. Ensure to wear masks in crowded places, maintain good hand hygiene, and take vaccination and booster doses, avoid being around sick people, and report the symptoms to the doctor without any delay. Likewise, disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door knobs, handles and furniture. It is imperative for each and every one to take utmost care of their health and prevent Covid-19 infection.”
9, Jun 2025
Release-A’Live Experiences Signs Singer and performer Sudhir Yaduvanshi: A Game-Changer in Live Entertainment
09 June, New Delhi: A’Live Experiences, a leading name in live entertainment and artist management, has announced the signing of renowned singer and performer Sudhir Yaduvanshi. This strategic collaboration is set to redefine the live music scene by delivering electrifying performances and curated experiences to audiences worldwide.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mayur Agarwal, Owner of A’Live Experiences, stated, “We are thrilled to have Sudhir Yaduvanshi on board. His exceptional talent and dedication to music align perfectly with our mission to elevate live entertainment. With this partnership, we aim to bring unparalleled musical experiences to our clients and audiences.”
Sudhir Yaduvanshi also expressed his excitement, saying, “Joining hands with A’Live Experiences is an incredible opportunity to explore new creative avenues and connect with a wider audience. I look forward to curating unforgettable musical experiences together.”
Sudhir Yaduvanshi is celebrated for his energetic voice and dynamic stage presence, having built a strong reputation with versatile performances across various genres. His career includes multiple successful shows and collaborations, marking this association with A’Live Experiences as a significant milestone in his musical journey. The partnership aims to deliver world-class live shows, corporate events, and exclusive musical experiences that resonate globally.
In addition to his live performances, Sudhir boasts an impressive discography. His recent works include Kill (Kaawaa Kaawaa), featured in the Kill (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2024); Shambhu, a soulful single released in 2024; Sharam Da Chola, part of the Cake EP (2024); and Cha Chadheya from the Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani soundtrack (2024). He continued his musical streak with powerful singles like Aa Bhid Jaa Re from the Dange soundtrack (2024), Damru Baaje (2025), Agg Lagniya Tara Ne (2025), Japphi Pauni Si Yaara Ne (2025), and Watna Ve, a patriotic release in 2025. One of his latest collaborations includes Aao Ji, a single featuring Siddharth Basrur and others, released in 2025.
With this collaboration, A’Live Experiences continues its legacy of representing top-tier artists and delivering premium entertainment experiences. The company remains committed to setting new benchmarks in the live entertainment industry, making each event a memorable spectacle.
9, Jun 2025
L and T Wins Order for Heavy Civil Infrastructure Business
Chandigarh, June 09, 2025: The Heavy Civil Infrastructure (HCI) business vertical of Larsen & Toubro has secured a significant order from JSW Energy for the execution of Bhavali Pumped Storage Project (PSP) in the state of Maharashtra.
The project is strategically located across the Nashik and Thane districts of Maharashtra and is designed to have a total installed capacity of 1500 MW, Comprising various small units.
The scope of work encompasses complete execution of all civil works related to the project, including construction of approach roads, upper and lower reservoirs, water conductor system, pressure tunnels, and the underground powerhouse unit.
The order reaffirms L&T’s proven capabilities in delivering complex hydroelectric infrastructure and reinforces its position as a key enabler in India’s quest for renewable energy.
Pumped storage projects like the Bhavali PSP are pivotal to grid stability, particularly in the context of growing integration of variable renewable energy sources.
Background:
Larsen & Toubro is a USD 30 billion Indian multinational engaged in EPC Projects, Hi-Tech Manufacturing, and Services, operating across multiple geographies. A strong, customer–focused approach and the constant quest for top-class quality have enabled L&T to attain and sustain leadership in its major lines of business for eight decades.
9, Jun 2025
eClerx Expands Global Outreach with New Delivery Center in Cairo, Egypt
NEW YORK, June 9, 2025 – eClerx Services Ltd, a leading productized services provider, today announced the launch of a new delivery center in Cairo, Egypt. This strategic expansion strengthens eClerx’s global operations and reinforces its commitment to driving innovation and harnessing top-tier talent in high-growth markets.
The Cairo center will serve as a major expansion in technical support operations for one of eClerx’s largest telecom clients. Nestled between Africa, Europe, and Asia, this center allows eClerx to serve several of its largest clients in the US and Europe markets and provide enhanced multilingual support.
“The opening of our Cairo delivery center marks the second new country opening for eClerx this year in line with our mission to deliver seamless, tech-enabled customer care experiences to our clients,” said Kapil Jain, CEO of eClerx.
For 25 years, eClerx’s deep domain expertise and innovative technology solutions have provided clients access to enhanced customer journeys, improved our clients’ CSAT, and offered valuable insights that help them remain competitive in their industry. The addition of this center in Egypt will not only enable eClerx to offer these services to more clients across the globe, but also allow the company to leverage the wealth of talent and expertise present in this region.
“Cairo’s rich talent pool coupled with the region’s thriving tech ecosystem and its strategic geographical location make it an ideal region to invest in,” said Michael Hutchison, Head of Customer Operations at eClerx. “We are excited to take part in an area so rich with innovation and resilience, and we look forward to creating valuable opportunities for local talent while continuing to drive transformative outcomes for our global partners.”
With this new delivery center, eClerx underscores its commitment to deliver excellence, foster innovation, and strengthen partnerships with both its clients and the local community.
9, Jun 2025
Skin Beauty Pal & Pers. Active Lab Launches in India, to Revolutionise Skin health with AI-Powered Personalized Skincare
New Delhi, 09th June 2025 – ‘Skin-Pal’ global skincare-tech company originated in Taiwan, officially launches along with their skincare line ‘Pers Active Lab’ and analysis device line ‘Skin Beauty Pal’ in India.
At the heart of Skin-Pal platform, is a unique, fully personalised approach to skincare that begins with an AI’s root cause analysis and extends into a comprehensive skin wellness journey. Powered by professional AI-based skin analysis through the mobile app ‘Skin Beauty Pal’ goes beyond just recommending products, it offers highly customised skincare solutions from the ‘Pers Active Lab’ range.
Backed by the founder’s four decades of experience in technology, especially in the mobile handset industry, the AI behind Skin Beauty Pal stands out as a breakthrough in skin analysis. Using high-resolution back camera images, it delivers dermatologist-level accuracy in identifying concerns such as acne, pigmentation, wrinkles, and redness, making it a powerful tool for uncovering root causes with precision.
Grant Kuo, founder and CEO of Digital Doctor, the parent company behind SBP & PAL said, “I often saw friends and family frustrated by skincare that overpromised and underdelivered – driven more by vflashy marketing than real skin understanding. With over 40 years in tech, I believe the most effective way to solve every problem is to start with root-cause analysis, then target solutions that deliver better, fast results. That’s how we built Skin Beauty Pal and Pers Active Lab by cutting the guesswork with AI diagnostics and using only a few clinically proven, high-impact ingredients in optimal balance. It’s the ‘Power of Less’ approach. People don’t need multiple overlapping products but one smart, targeted solution that actually works.”
PAL has not just one motive but many solution-oriented visions. With a rising demand for personalised skincare and a tech-savvy, appearance-conscious population aged 25-40, India presents the ideal market. Clinics and dermatologists in India will also benefit through SaaS integrations, offering ERP/CRM tools and a direct link to patients through the app’s measurement and consultation ecosystem.
- The Skin-First, Tech-Smart Approach
Unlike traditional routines that rely on trial and error, Skin Beauty Pal prioritises diagnosis root cause. The app is AI trained on millions of clinical images and delivers near-clinical accuracy in analysing skin, anytime and anywhere. The results are insightful, real-time moments to reflect back on an Interpersonal understanding of the perceptions behind their skin concerns.
- From Insight to Impact
Once diagnosed, users are guided to Pers Active Lab Skincare, a line of dermatologist-coded skincare products. These solutions target both root causes and visible symptoms using only essential, science-backed ingredients. With built-in 3-in-1 technology, each product works as a toner, serum, and repair essence, streamlining routines while delivering high-impact results.
The formulations are vegan, cruelty-free, and made in Taiwan, featuring premium ingredients often found in luxury skincare but offered at accessible prices.
The best solution for skincare should not be just about skincare products. It shall be inside out, from water intake, nutrition, UV protection, to even involve the dermatologist’s outpatient & remote diagnosis. The PAL combines with the Skin Beauty Pal app to provide the total solution as a wonderful skincare PAL to the user.
- Bridging Skin and Planet Care
Skin Beauty Pal isn’t just about quick fixes. Its long-term vision is to build skin resilience and planet harmony, with sustainable packaging, native botanical extracts, and eco-conscious production. A built-in referral and reward program adds a community-driven touch to the experience.
- Smart Skincare Meets Smart Clinics: Empowering Clinics
As part of its India strategy, Skin Beauty Pal is willing to enable aesthetic clinics to become integrated partners through a powerful ERP and CRM system. This platform allows clinics to offer AI-based skin diagnostics, manage appointments, billing, inventory, and even e-commerce from a single interface. It not only enhances clinic productivity but also strengthens patient engagement and retention, turning clinics into intelligent skincare destinations that align with SBP’s vision of accessible, personalised skincare for all.
9, Jun 2025
One Point One Solutions Ltd to acquire a majority share in Techscient.ai Private Limited to drive AI-led BPM transformation
Mumbai, India, June 9, 2025: One Point One Solutions Limited , a publicly listed leader in Business Process Management (BPM) and digital transformation services, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in TECHSCIENT.AI PRIVATE LIMITED, a next-generation AI-powered no-code automation firm specializing in autonomous software engineering. The strategic acquisition strengthens 1Point1’s AI-led automation capabilities and positions it as a key player in India’s digital transformation landscape.
TECHSCIENT.AI, is an AI-first deep-tech firm focused on no-code workflow automation, generative AI solutions, and intelligent process orchestration. Its proprietary platform enables enterprises to design, deploy, and scale AI-driven workflows without manual coding, enhancing operational efficiency across industries.
“With this acquisition, 1Point1 enhances its strategic focus on AI-powered transformation,” said Akshay Chhabra, Promoter & Director, 1Point1. “TECHSCIENT.AI’s autonomous AI capabilities represent a pioneering shift in BPM. By integrating their advanced solutions into our ecosystem, we are enabling enterprises to automate complex operations, optimise costs, and scale at unprecedented speed.”
TECHSCIENT.AI’s flagship platform integrates AI-native automation, API-first architecture, and real-time data intelligence to enhance customer experience and enterprise efficiency. The acquisition aligns with 1Point1’s commitment to AI-driven BPM, enabling rapid digital transformation across BFSI, healthcare, fintech, e-commerce, and logistics. The acquisition will enable 1Point1 to embed intelligent automation into its core BPM offerings and deliver more comprehensive, technology-led solutions to its clients. It will enhance the company’s ability to engage with new-age enterprises and digital-first clients seeking scalable, AI-driven solutions.
1Point1 will embed TECHSCIENT.AI’s autonomous AI engine within its BPM framework to optimise customer management, back-office operations, and workflow automation. The combined teams will focus on co-developing scalable AI-driven solutions for industries seeking intelligent automation at scale.
9, Jun 2025
Whistling Woods International launches Plastic to Purpose Initiative on World Environment Day 2025
June, 2025, Mumbai- Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier institute for Film, Communication, and Creative Arts, reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and innovation with the launch of a pioneering campus-wide initiative on the occasion of World Environment Day 2025.
This year’s initiative takes a creative and eco-conscious leap forward, led entirely by the WWI community of sustainability warriors, who are at the forefront of collecting and transforming plastic waste into sustainable T-shirts. As part of this ongoing project, up to 50 kilograms of plastic waste is processed each month, gathered not just from the campus but also from surrounding areas. The waste is then repurposed into limited-edition garments, available exclusively at the WWI Student Store. More than just merchandise, these T-shirts serve as powerful symbols of student-led environmental action, showcasing how creativity and responsibility can drive lasting, positive change.
Meghna Ghai Puri, President of Whistling Woods International commented on the initiative, “At Whistling Woods International, we believe that creativity must go hand in hand with sustainability. World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder, but our commitment to the planet goes far beyond just one day. Sustainability should be a way of life, integrated into everything we do. Through initiatives like these, we aim to inspire our students to lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to a greener future.”
WWI’s dedication to sustainability is deeply rooted in its campus culture. For years, a dedicated plastic crusher machine has been operational on-site, converting waste into durable raw material for outdoor furniture and infrastructure, including benches placed across the campus. These year-round circular economy efforts highlight the institute’s ongoing mission to reduce its environmental footprint.
The recycled T-shirt project aligns perfectly with WWI’s larger educational philosophy, where experiential learning, community engagement, and creative expression are tied to purposeful, real-world impact. Students are encouraged to become not only creative professionals but also responsible changemakers who understand the power of their choices, both artistic and environmental.
This World Environment Day, WWI reminds us that small, consistent actions can create large, lasting change. By turning trash into textiles, the institute sets an example for academic institutions across the country, showing how environmental responsibility can be woven into the fabric of everyday life.
9, Jun 2025
Tenneco Appoints Mahender Chhabra as Chief Financial Officer of India Operations
India, June 09, 2025 – Tenneco, a leading global automotive supplier, today announced the appointment of Mahender Chhabra as Chief Financial Officer of Tenneco India, effective immediately. In this role, Chhabra will oversee financial strategy and operations, compliance, and overall financial performance across Tenneco’s Clean Air, Monroe Ride Solutions (MRS), Champion Ignition, and Powertrain (Bearings and Sealing) businesses in India. Chhabra will report to Arvind Chandra, Chief Executive Officer of Tenneco India, and will work closely with the leadership team to support the company’s strategic, financial, and operational goals.
“Mahender’s depth of financial expertise and proven leadership will be key as we continue to strengthen our operational excellence and deliver value to customers across the region,” said Arvind Chandra, CEO of Tenneco India. “His appointment underscores our commitment to long-term growth in this strategic market.”
Chhabra brings over 27 years of extensive finance leadership experience across global automotive and technology companies. He joins Tenneco from Motherson Sumi Wiring India Limited, where he served as Chief Financial Officer. He has also held senior finance roles at HMD Mobile India, Microsoft Corporation (India) Private Limited, Bharti Airtel Limited, and Pepsi Foods Limited. His background includes serving as group controller and business controller across high-growth organizations, where he led financial transformation, compliance, and business planning initiatives.
Chhabra holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Maharishi Dayanand University and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.
Tenneco’s presence in India includes 12 manufacturing facilities, 2 R&D centers, and a growing employee base, supporting both domestic and global customers. As the Indian automotive sector evolves—driven by supply chain diversification, increasing export capacity, and technology adoption—Tenneco continues to align its operations with these broader market shifts. Tenneco remains committed to long-term investment in the region, focused on innovation, operational excellence, and building high-performing, future-ready talent.
