Archives April 2024

NEW DELHI, 4th April 2024: TECNO – the global smartphone brand – recently announced the grand launch of its latest flagship smartphone, the POVA 6 Pro 5G, at the world’s first gaming entertainment show ‘Playground’ Season 3 in association with Rusk Media. Episode 16 of Season 3 on Amazon miniTV saw the virtual launch of the Pova 6 Pro 5G with Indian actress Mouni Roy. This alliance promises to redefine the gaming experience for enthusiasts worldwide. Launched on 17 March 2024, this season is committed to delivering unprecedented entertainment and excitement while enhancing the viewer experience manifold.

Embodying TECNO’s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology, backed by its mantra of ‘Better. Faster. Stronger’ the POVA 6 Pro perfectly complements the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere of Playground Season 3, setting the stage for an unmatched gaming extravaganza. The TECNO POVA 6 Pro 5G will be available for sale on Amazon and nearest retail outlets, starting from 04th April.

Building on the immense success of its previous seasons, Season 3 of Playground is poised to deliver triple the excitement, entertainment and challenges. Hosted exclusively on Amazon miniTV, the Playground Arcade will feature 16 micro-influencers battling it out over 30 days under the guidance of renowned mentors, including the legendary Carry Minati, Elvish Yadav, TechnoGamerz, and Mortal. Viewers will have the opportunity to actively engage in the gaming spectacle by voting for their favorite contestants, adding an interactive element to the excitement.

Speaking on the launch, Mayank Yadav, CEO and Co-Founder, Rusk Media said, “TECNO’s collaboration with Playground Season 3 heralds a new era of gaming excellence, where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled entertainment. With TECNO’s unwavering commitment to innovation and our shared passion for delivering top-notch experiences, this partnership sets the stage for an extraordinary journey into the heart of gaming culture. Together, we aim to redefine the gaming landscape, empowering enthusiasts with the tools they need to unlock their full potential and embark on unforgettable gaming adventures.”

The TECNO POVA 6 Pro 5G takes standout design and performance to new heights in an aggressive price segment. With up to *24GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it’s a powerhouse in a sleek 7.9mm frame. Additionally, it boasts of India’s first 6000mAh battery, paired with a robust 70W charger for a ‘Better. Faster. Stronger.’ experience like never before.

Addressing the launch, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO Mobile India, said “With a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to pushing boundaries, we are proud to introduce POVA 6 Pro 5G, which not only delivers exceptional performance but also boasts sleek and futuristic design along with an ARC Interface supported by LED lights. This collaboration with Playground Season 3 exemplifies our commitment to providing cutting-edge technology alongside unparalleled entertainment while connecting with our young audience. Together, we aim to empower users worldwide with the tools they need to unlock their full potential and embark on unforgettable adventures.”

Elevating the user experience to premium levels, the POVA 6 Pro 5G is designed with precision. Its back panel is intricately crafted using advanced photolithography techniques, enhancing the look and feel of the Arc Interface, inspired by the motherboard. The innovative LED design offers more than 200 LEDs, providing a spectrum of 100+ customizable options. This ensures every user’s journey is uniquely personalized, matching the dynamic preferences of Gen Z and tech enthusiasts.

Playground Season 3 is headlined by Hero MotoCorp as ‘Presenting Partner’; powered by POVA from TECNO; Swiggy, Pizza Hut, LG OLED TV, Philips, Too Yumm!, PUMA, and Kreo as Special Partners. These collaborations fuse the thrill of gaming with high-caliber entertainment, creating an immersive experience unlike any other.

Usher in the new year with joy, prosperity, and the delectable flavors of Chowman Hyderabad, as the Kolkata-based Chinese brand brings you an exclusive Ugadi celebration offer. This Ugadi enhances your festive feast with special deals on their app and for dining, designed just for you and your loved ones.

Get ready to indulge in the festive spirit with a special discount of a flat ₹175 off on all orders above ₹599 on the Chowman app. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore our wide range of culinary delights, from traditional favorites to modern twists, all from the comfort of your home. Ensure your Ugadi celebration is as delicious as it is auspicious with this exclusive delivery offer.

For those who prefer the warmth of our hospitality, join us at our Madhapur and Kukatpally branches to celebrate Ugadi in style. Avail of a 15% flat off on your bill when you pay through Chowman Pay. It’s our way of adding to your festive cheer, ensuring that your dine-in experience is not just memorable but also rewarding. Let this festive season be filled with joy, prosperity, and the unforgettable taste of Chowman’s culinary creations.

Avaada Foundation, the welfare arm of Avaada group, is delighted to announce the launch of its unique initiative – Avaada Foundation’s Summer Camp, scheduled from April 5th to April 20th, aimed at fostering the holistic development of rural youth and local communities.

Avaada Foundation, a non-profit organization, has been bringing positive transformations in the lives of citizens of the Prime Minister’s adopted village, Jayapur, and Nagpur through education, women empowerment, healthcare, environmental conservation, and rural electrification for the past 8 years.

Continuing the positive impact, this special program by Avaada Foundation is tailored to nurture the potential of the youth in Nagpur and engage 20 neighboring villages, offering a diverse range of activities completely free of charge. The Summer Camp is thoughtfully curated to cater to rural youth, homemakers, and local communities, ensuring inclusive participation for all. Featuring a variety of activities including sports, arts, and educational contests, the initiative aims to engage over 500 youth and approximately 2,000 students through the “Bal Pratibha Education Competition”, providing them with opportunities typically available in urban areas.

Highlights of the Summer Camp Program:

Sports Activities: Cricket, Kusti, Kabaddi, Badminton (for boys & girls), and more.

Other Competitions: Drawing, On-the-spot speech, Storytelling, Public speaking competitions (for both boys and girls), Folk songs such as Kajari/Jhumar, folk dance, etc.

Educational Competition: Bal Pratibha Sanman, spanning from class 6th to 12th, with prizes including Ranger Cycles, Pressure Cooker, Iron, School bag, Water Colour, Geometry Box, Glass set, Lunch box, etc.

Awards & Recognition: Cash Prizes, Mementos, medals, certificates, Avaada Foundation T-shirts, and more for winners.

We strongly believe that empowering our youth through such initiatives is crucial for their holistic growth, fostering the spirit of harmony and a strong collective consciousness for nation-building. We invite you to join us in this initiative and extend your support to the youth of Nagepur and neighboring villages as they strive to reach their fullest potential.

Unique Features: The Summer Camp introduced by Avaada Foundation is truly unique and a first-of-its-kind initiative in rural India. It presents a groundbreaking opportunity to provide a platform for rural youth to showcase their talents and get recognition. Unlike summer camps at urban cities and schools, which are often associated with privileged classes and communities, our program is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background.

One of the key aspects that sets our Summer Camp apart is its focus on engaging and empowering rural women, particularly homemakers. By encouraging their participation, we aim to revive the folk songs of rural women and instill a sense of pride in their folk culture.

By extending this opportunity to rural communities, we aim to make everyone feel special and valued, while also celebrating and preserving our rich cultural diversity.

In essence, our Summer Camp is not just an event; it’s a transformative experience that uplifts and empowers rural communities, offering them a chance to showcase their talents and celebrate their unique identity.

4th April 2024, Nationwide: Chef Thomas Zacharias or ChefTZac, represented by OML (Only Much Louder), is the founder of The Locavore, a community dedicated to ‘Doing Good Through Food’ through volunteer-driven social impact projects. This month, The Locavore has launched its anniversary fundraising campaign #DoingGoodThroughFood through which funds will be directed towards the Tamarind Tree School kitchen’s annual expenses of 10 lakhs, covering student meals for a year. The team has already raised more than 6 Lakhs and is aiming for even more significant contributions.

Driven by a vision to create a meaningful impact on the Indian food system, ChefTZac founded The Locavore. Here, he emerges not only as a chef but also as a visionary, connecting people and food, cultivating awareness around sustainability, and empowering individuals to be agents of positive change through their food choices.

Nestled in the tribal village of Dahanu, Maharashtra, Tamarind Tree School is a technology-driven English medium school and a beacon of open-access education and knowledge for the local Adivasi community. The Tamarind Tree kitchen, mirroring most of The Locavore’s ethos, serves as a classroom where students receive nutritious meals and engage in a dynamic culinary curriculum. The school places a strong emphasis on fostering literacy and appreciation for diverse food cultures and empowering students, particularly those from the Warli tribal community, who are also first-generation learners. Besides, students get to interact with the daily menu which enhances their reading abilities. They are also encouraged to express their food preferences, nurturing not only their language skills but also cultivating a sense of agency and importance in their opinions on food – which perfectly aligns with The Locavore’s commitment to sustainable food choices and community support.

Chef Thomas Zacharias, the vision behind The Locavore, said, “We believe that food transcends mere sustenance to become a conduit for education, cultural exchange, and empowerment. The Locavore is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the Indian food system through impactful projects. Through initiatives like The Locavore’s anniversary campaign, we endeavor to foster curiosity, celebrate diverse culinary cultures, and establish the framework for informed, health-conscious food decisions for future generations. Investing in the future of young minds is pivotal for fostering a more equitable and sustainable world, where knowledge and sustainability seamlessly intertwine.”

As a part of this fundraising initiative, The Locavore is inviting people all across India to participate in the #DoingGoodThroughFood anniversary campaign for the Tamarind Tree kitchen as The Locavore enters its second year of encouraging action via food. Supporters can donate, and volunteer their time and skills, and all contributors supporting this cause will stand the chance to win a spot on the Locavore’s #DoingGoodThroughFood Anniversary Day Trip to Tamarind Tree School on 6th April. Participants can also gain firsthand insight into the impact of their support during this immersive program, culminating in a skill-sharing and networking workshop.

Thus, leading the charge in transforming India’s food landscape towards a more sustainable and responsible future for all, through his culinary adventures, ChefTZac directs The Locavore in embracing a conscious approach to food consumption, production, and appreciation, championing mindful eating, meaningful storytelling, and purpose-driven community building.

Campaign details:

Date: 6th April, 2024

Venue: Tamarind Tree School, Dahanu, Maharashtra

Indore, 4th April 2024: Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the leading jewellery retailers, announces a significant initiative aimed at fostering education among promising young women. The company organised a scholarship distribution ceremony at Mata Jijabai PG Girls College in Indore, extending support to 124 deserving students. The event took place on Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, marking a milestone in the company’s commitment to empowering communities through education.

Totalling an impressive ₹1,170,000, the scholarships represent a tangible investment in the educational journey of these talented individuals. Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ steadfast dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) shines through this endeavour, reinforcing its pledge to enable access to education, particularly among girls.

Esteemed guests Dr Anoop Kumar Jaggi, Principal of Mata Jijabai PG Girls College, and Dr Sudhir Kumar Saxena, Administrative Officer, graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of this collaborative effort.

“At Malabar Gold & Diamonds, we firmly believe in the transformative power of education,” says Noushad Ali, Showroom Head, Malabar Gold & Diamonds-Indore. “Our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence, especially among young women, remains unwavering. This scholarship program exemplifies our ethos of giving back to society and creating pathways for a brighter future,” he adds.

Expressing gratitude for the invaluable support, Dr. Anoop Kumar Jaggi, Principal at Mata Jijabai PG Girls College, acknowledges the impact of this initiative on the students’ educational pursuits. He said, “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Malabar Gold & Diamonds for their generous scholarship program. This noble gesture will undoubtedly alleviate financial burdens, enabling our students to focus wholeheartedly on their studies and realize their academic aspirations.”

Ahmedabad,4th April 2024: Gujarat Titans has launched a slew of initiatives in its efforts towards environmental sustainability and creating a circular waste economy. One of the significant efforts in this direction is the strategic waste management partnership with Nepra Resource Management Pvt. Ltd. (NEPRA) for the home games of the TATA IPL 2024 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The partnership will also emphasize on segregation of waste into recyclable and reusable commodities and educate fans about the segregation of waste and maintaining hygienic practices in public places, thereby contributing towards a cleaner and greener stadium.

Further, Gujarat Titans will also endeavor to reduce GHG (greenhouse gas) footprint through reduction in Scope 3 category emissions with an active partnership with Gujarat Metro, adoption of electric vehicles for transportation, and adoption of public buses during the five home matches. The tie-up with NEPRA with an objective of “zero waste to landfills” will focus on creating a circular waste economy. NEPRA will also oversee the efficient collection and transportation of waste, spearheading sensitization and awareness campaigns for stall operators within the stadium.

Having implemented its sustainability policy last year, the Titans aim to take it to the next level forging new partnerships. During IPL 2023, the Titans implemented an initiative to ensure only 2% of waste generated over seven home games made it to landfills. More than 33,000 kg of waste was managed through collection, segregation, and disposal across the five home matches. Reuse of plastic was also undertaken last year in a partnership with Bisleri to recycle it into benches for schools. These benches were distributed among various schools across Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, and Bhuj where the Junior Titans programs were successfully hosted during the months of January and February 2024.

Colonel Arvinder Singh, Chief Operating Officer, of Gujarat Titans emphasized the team’s commitment to environmental stewardship through sustainability and said, “Responsible behavior on and off the field is an integral part of our conduct at Gujarat Titans. We are alive to the challenges that all of us face and shall strive to make a difference with our sustainable initiatives. Our partnership with NEPRA will enable us to contribute significantly to waste reduction and encourage fans to preserve the environment while enjoying the games.”

Hyderabad, India. 4th April 2024:Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Limited (Aurigene), a contract research, development, and manufacturing services organization, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratoriescompany introduces Aurigene.AI, an AI and ML-assisted platform for accelerating drug discovery projects from hit identification to candidate nomination.

Aurigene.AI combines advanced physics-based simulation, generative and predictive AI models, and CADD (Computer-AidedDrug Design)in one platform, allowing users to pick the appropriate algorithms for a given application. The modular platform also consists of a meticulously curated database of 180 million compounds and 1.6 million validated bioassay data points. This database is ever-expanding and serves as training data for the platform.

Aurigene.AI is hosted on Google Cloud, which offers a scalable infrastructure for handling large datasets and efficient computation while safeguarding client data confidentiality.

Integrating AI and ML-based solutions with Aurigene’s core capabilities in chemical design, synthesis, and assessment in bioassays will facilitate faster development of novel therapeutics. Discovery scientists at Aurigene have validated the platform using a case study and demonstrated that the application of Aurigene.AI reduced the cycle time from chemical design to synthesis and testing by 35%.

Akhil Ravi, CEO, Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Ltd., said,”We are committed to continually advancing our service experience and providing innovative end-to-end solutions to our global partners. Aurigene.AI is an important addition to our small molecule discovery offering and represents a data-driven approach to novel therapeutic development.”

Dr. Gayathri Ramaswamy, Global Head of Discovery Services, Aurigene Pharmaceutical Services Ltd.,said, “The addition of AI and iterative machine learning capabilities to our core expertise in synthesizing and testing molecules will significantly reduce the DMTA cycle time in the discovery process. Aurigene.AIaugments our core scientific capabilities in the small molecule discovery space and will serve as an efficient engine towards identifying a drug candidate.”

Step into the vibrant streets of Old Delhi this Ramadan with Times Prime’s exclusive Iftaar Food Walk in association with Enroute Indian History! Join us and your loved ones for an unforgettable culinary adventure as we delve into the heart of the city’s rich gastronomic traditions.

On April 6th, embark on a journey through time and taste, exploring six iconic spots renowned for their mouth-watering delicacies and cultural significance. From fragrant kebabs to indulgent sweets, each stop on our carefully curated route promises a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your senses.

Experience the magic of Ramadan like never before as we come together to celebrate the spirit of togetherness and community and savor the best that Old Delhi has to offer.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot for a truly unforgettable Ramadan experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create lasting memories with Times Prime.

Join Times Prime and enjoy 20+ subscriptions, 40+ exclusive benefits on brands along with exclusive access to curated events. Click here to learn more and reserve your place on this culinary journey through Old Delhi’s streets.

India, 4th April 2024: The saying “Health is wealth” highlights the importance of prioritizing our well-being, as it directly impacts our overall health and quality of life. This year’s World Health Day, observed annually on April 7 with the theme “My Health, My Right,” emphasizes the idea that taking care of our health is our own responsibility and a fundamental right. Maintaining good health requires prioritizing a balanced diet, as nutrition plays a crucial role. This highlights the significance of including foods such as green leafy vegetables, almonds, and seasonal fruits, which are rich in essential nutrients. Incorporating nutritious almonds into our diet can offer numerous health benefits, including improved blood sugar regulation, heart health, skin health, and weight management.

Almonds offer a comprehensive array of nutrients essential for maintaining optimal health. Packed with 15 essential nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, protein, riboflavin, and zinc, almonds serve as a vital support system for overall well-being. The magnesium, protein, and vitamins B2 and E contained in almonds contribute to sustained energy levels, while copper, zinc, folate, and iron aid in bolstering immunity. Moreover, these powerhouses of energy and nutrition play a pivotal role in weight management due to their satiating properties and help minimize the impact of carbohydrate foods on blood sugar levels.

Incorporating these nuts into a balanced diet can also lead to reductions in total and LDL cholesterol levels, as well as mitigating heart-damaging inflammation. Additionally, the healthy fats and vitamin E present in almonds impart anti-aging properties, nurturing skin health and radiance. So, integrating almonds into your daily diet can provide a multitude of health benefits, supporting overall well-being, vitality, and longevity.

Commenting on World Health Day, Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – Dietetics, Max Healthcare, Delhi said, “In today’s hectic lifestyle, prioritizing our health can be a challenge, especially when it comes to maintaining a nutritious diet. This World Health Day, let’s pledge to prioritize our health as a fundamental right and commit to it wholeheartedly. I recommend embracing a clean and balanced diet while avoiding fried or junk food. Additionally, I strongly advocate for incorporating a handful of almonds into our daily diet, given their rich array of essential nutrients. Packed with vital nutrients such as protein, dietary fiber, healthy fats, vitamins E and B2, as well as minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, almonds serve as a convenient and wholesome snack.”

Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan said, “In the fast-paced world of entertainment, managing job demands requires staying active and enthusiastic. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are vital, and incorporating almonds into my routine provides the necessary nutrition and long-lasting energy. Almonds serve as my go-to snack for myself and my family, offering versatility and essential nutrients. Consuming a handful of almonds regularly can enhance energy levels and focus, aiding in day-to-day tasks. Let’s prioritize our health this World Health Day by committing to clean eating, incorporating nutrient-rich foods like almonds, and engaging in regular physical exercise.”

Sheela Krishnaswamy, a renowned Nutrition and Wellness consultant said, “Almonds are a remarkable nutrient powerhouse, providing a wide array of health benefits that enhance our overall well-being. Packed with 15 essential nutrients, almonds help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, among many other health advantages. By integrating almonds into our daily routines, we actively strive for better health, asserting our entitlement to a healthy lifestyle and resonating with the ‘My Health, My Right’ theme of World Health Day.”

On World Health Day, Yasmin Karachiwala, Celebrity Pilates Master Instructor emphasizes the importance of staying active and energetic. She said, “A balanced diet and consistent exercise are paramount for sustaining a healthy lifestyle. I strongly advocate engaging in physical activity at least five days a week to foster vitality and well-being. Additionally, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, especially through home-cooked meals, is crucial. Incorporating foods like almonds, green leafy vegetables, and seasonal fruits enriches our diet with essential nutrients. Almonds serve as an ideal snack, aiding in hunger management and facilitating weight maintenance. These nuts boast a rich profile of 15 essential nutrients, including protein, zinc, magnesium, iron, and folate, among others.”

Popular South Indian actress Pranitha Subash said, “Incorporating almonds into my regular routine has noticeably enhanced my overall well-being and energy levels. These versatile nuts complement a variety of dishes and snacks, providing an extra nutritional boost to my diet. I encourage everyone to adopt healthier food habits, such as consuming handfuls of almonds, which can significantly improve their physical well-being and contribute to a more balanced lifestyle. Additionally, almonds have played a role in keeping me active throughout the day and maintaining radiant skin.”

On this World Health Day, let us reflect on the significance of taking charge of our health and making informed choices regarding our diet and eating habits. Embracing nutrient-dense foods, such as almonds, can particularly serve as a cornerstone in our pursuit of optimal health.

New Delhi,4th April 2024 Nikon India Private Ltd., a 100% subsidiary of Nikon Corporation, is thrilled to announce the top three winners for the first season of the ‘Wonders of the Wild’ Contest held in collaboration with Worldwide Fund for Nature -India (WWF – India). The contest witnessed an overwhelming response from approx. 3000 participants from across India with a deep passion for capturing the essence of Indian wildlife. Through this contest, Nikon created a platform for both wildlife photographers and videographers to showcase their expertise by capturing the breathtaking beauty of wildlife through the Nikon lens.

Nikon offers a range of lenses and cameras suitable for wildlife photography, catering to both amateurs and professionals. Equipped with unique features such as autofocus, sensor size, frame rate, and weather sealing these top-tier lenses and mirrorless cameras are designed for wildlife photographers’ experience with the wild.

Judging the entries was a luminary panel of the jury that comprised of seasoned professionals, including “Mr. Shaaz Jung – aka big cat specialist, Nikon Z Ambassador, Director of Photography for the National Geographic feature film titled “The Real Black Panther”, and Ms. Latika Nath, also known as ‘The Tiger Princess of India’, a renowned Wildlife photographer, Wildlife conservationist, and Nikon Creator. Completing the esteemed panel was Mr. Kallol Mukherjee, a distinguished Nikon creator and acclaimed wildlife photographer with multiple awards to his credit.

The winners were selected post a stringent and meticulous evaluation process judged by the distinguished jury panel and through live voting. The top three winners received prizes worth Rs. 8 lakhs in recognition of their exceptional skills and talent. The winner of the contest Mr. Abhinandan Sharma from Haryana won a powerful and versatile mirrorless camera, Nikon Z 8 worth INR 3,43,995/- as a grand prize. The first runner-up Mr. Sadanand Koppalkar from Pune received the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S lens worth INR 2,93,995/- and the second runner-up Mr. Tanmoy Das Karmakar from Kolkata took home the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens worth INR 1,69,995/-. Furthermore, the top ten entries were awarded exclusive WWF-India Nature Store Merchandise.

Cheering the winners Mr. Sajjan Kumar, Managing Director, Nikon India Private Limited, said “With our first ever contest we have tried to bring People and the Planet together. We are delighted to congratulate the winners of the ‘Wonders of the Wild’ contest and commend all participants for their passion and dedication towards wildlife. We offer our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, judges, and our esteemed partners for making the first season of this contest a resounding success. Through this collaboration with WWF-India, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and inspire people to protect our planet for the upcoming generations.”

Building upon the success of the first season, and further leveraging the achievements of the ‘Wonders of the Wild’ Contest, Nikon India is poised to continue its efforts to champion wildlife conservation. Nikon India’s commitment extends beyond mere photography and videography and encompasses a dedicated effort to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the natural heritage. The aim remains to foster a greater appreciation for the natural world by capturing the “real in reel”. Together let’s capture the beauty of wildlife with a Nikon camera and lens.