Archives January 2025

Visakhapatnam, January 20, 2025 — Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach is pleased to announce the appointment of Uday Prakash as the new Director of Food and Beverage. Uday brings a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in various capacities across multiple prestigious hotels.

Uday Prakash’s career spans over a decade in the food and beverage sector, showcasing his expertise and leadership skills. His most recent role was as Food & Beverage Manager at Welcome Hotel Guntur by ITC Hotels from December 2021 until November 2024. Prior to that, he served as Food & Beverage Manager at Novotel Vijayawada Varun from June 2020 to December 2021, and as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager at the same establishment from 2018 to 2020.

“Uday’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for our food and beverage operations. His proven track record in enhancing guest experiences and optimizing operational efficiencies aligns perfectly with our vision for Novotel Visakhapatnam. We are excited to see how his leadership will elevate our offerings.”says Ms.Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager of Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach.

Makar Sankranti and Pongal bring an exciting selection of films and series across streaming platforms! From the heartfelt romance of The Great Gujarati Matrimony on ShemarooMe, to the legacy of The Roshans on Netflix, and the thrilling Paatal Lok Season 2 on Amazon Prime Video, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s gripping crime dramas like Chidiya Udd, action-packed tales like Pani, or supernatural adventures with Power of Paanch, this week promises to captivate and entertain.

The Roshans- Netflix
A captivating documentary series, The Roshans, premieres exclusively on Netflix on January 17, 2025, offering an intimate exploration of one of Bollywood’s most iconic families. Spanning three generations, the series chronicles the journey of music director Roshan Lal Nagrath, his sons—filmmaker Rakesh Roshan and composer Rajesh Roshan—and his grandson, superstar Hrithik Roshan. Featuring rare archival footage, candid interviews, and heartfelt anecdotes from industry stalwarts like Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Karan Johar, The Roshans celebrates their enduring legacy and unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. A must-watch for film enthusiasts!

Paatal Lok season 2
Paatal Lok returns with its highly anticipated second season on January 17, 2025, five years after its groundbreaking debut. This time, Inspector Hathiram Chaudhary (Jaideep Ahlawat), the weary yet determined protagonist, takes on a high-profile murder investigation that leads him to the remote landscapes of northeast India. Alongside his trusted ally Ansari (Ishwak Singh), Hathiram confronts formidable adversaries and personal demons in his quest for justice. The new season introduces compelling characters played by Jahnu Barua, Tillotama Shome, Nagesh Kukunoor, and Anurag Arora, each adding depth and complexity to the story. With a darker, grittier tone, Paatal Lok Season 2 promises to unravel a sinister conspiracy while exploring Hathiram’s turbulent psyche and relentless pursuit of truth. Don’t miss it!

Chidiya Udd – Amazon MX Player
Chidiya Udd, a gripping series on human trafficking, premieres on January 15, 2025, exclusively on Amazon MX Player. Headlined by Jackie Shroff and Sikandar Kher, the show delves into the harsh realities of Mumbai’s red-light district, Kamathipura. Inspired by real incidents and based on Abid Surti’s book Cages, the story follows Seher (Bhoomika Meena), a 20-year-old from Rajasthan, who arrives in Mumbai with dreams of a brighter future. Set against a backdrop of gang wars and the city’s dark underbelly, Chidiya Udd explores her harrowing struggle to survive in a ruthless world. This hard-hitting narrative shines a light on the grim truths of trafficking, promising a poignant and emotional journey. Don’t miss it!

The Great Gujarati Matrimony- ShemarooMe
ShemarooMe presents The Great Gujarati Matrimony, streaming exclusively from January 18, 2025. Directed by Preetsinh Gohil, this heartwarming romantic movie follows three compelling characters—an aspiring actress with big dreams, a cheerful matchmaker, and a practical investment banker—on a journey of love, self-discovery, and cultural celebration. Featuring Siddhi Idnani, Mitra Gadhvi, and Devarshi Shah, the film blends romance, emotions, traditions while offering a fresh perspective on modern relationships. Perfect for cozy family viewing, The Great Gujarati Matrimony is a celebration of relationships and the values that bind us together. The movie also stars Hiten Kumar, Tatsat Munshi, Jhanvi Gurnani, and Sucheeta Trivedi, who bring depth to the story with their flawless performances.

Viduthalai Part 2- Zee5
Viduthalai Part 2 (Freedom Part 2) premiered on January 17, 2025, exclusively on ZEE5, continuing the gripping narrative directed by Vetrimaaran. A sequel to Viduthalai Part 1, this Tamil-language period political crime thriller, adapted from Jeyamohan’s short story Thunaivan (Companion), delves deeper into the life of Perumal Vaathiyaar (Vijay Sethupathi), a revolutionary fighting for justice. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Soori, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Manju Warrier, the film uncovers Vaathiyaar’s tumultuous backstory, his radical ideology, and the devastating consequences of his fight against oppression. Packed with intense confrontations, emotional depth, and moral dilemmas, Viduthalai Part 2 is a powerful tale of resistance and sacrifice, culminating in an unforgettable climax. Don’t miss this cinematic masterpiece!

Pani – SonyLiv
SonyLIV’s gripping new series Pani premieres on January 16, 2025, blending intense action with emotional depth to explore the fragile balance between progress, power, and personal relationships. Directed by Joju George, in his much-anticipated directorial debut, this action-thriller follows the journey of Giri (Joju George), a local kingpin whose life is upended when two criminally inclined youngsters disrupt the peace of his family and city. As Giri’s quest for vengeance intensifies, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power. Featuring a stellar cast including Sagar Surya, Junaiz V.P., Bobby Kurian, and Abhinay, Pani promises a riveting tale of urban upheaval and personal retribution.

I Want To Talk – Prime Video
Shoojit Sircar’s heartfelt drama I Want to Talk streams on Prime Video starting January 17, 2025, after its theatrical release on November 22, 2024. Starring Abhishek Bachchan as Arjun Sen, a cancer survivor facing life-altering challenges, the film portrays a deeply emotional journey of resilience and healing. As Arjun navigates his battle with multiple surgeries and a grim prognosis, he struggles to mend his relationship with his teenage daughter, Reya, while dealing with societal judgment and personal loss. Aided by his nurse Nancy (Kristin Goodard) and guided by his doctor, Jayant Deb, Arjun defies expectations, finding humor, hope, and strength in the face of adversity. With poignant storytelling and a moving exploration of father-daughter bonds, I Want to Talk is an inspiring tale of love, perseverance, and the triumph of the human spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey.

Power of Paanch- Disney+ Hotstar
Power of Paanch, a supernatural drama, premiered on Disney+ Hotstar on January 17, 2025. Starring Riva Arora and Urvashi Dholakia, this fantasy-filled series follows a group of teenagers who discover they possess elemental powers—wind, fire, and water—after a trip to Dehradun. What begins as a thrilling journey of self-discovery quickly turns into a battle against dark forces, as the friends grapple with the weight of their newfound abilities. As secrets surface and betrayals unfold, they must come together to protect themselves and the world from greater dangers. With a perfect blend of action, fantasy, and emotional depth, Power of Paanch is sure to captivate audiences. Don’t miss it!

On the first media day at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the vehicle exhibitors in total launched and unveiled 34 new products at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi

At the 2nd Edition of Bharat Mobility Global Expo Maruti Suzuki has launched its first-ever electric SUV, the e VITARA. The e VITARA is equipped with cutting-edge features like Level 2 ADAS, and next-gen connectivity with Suzuki Connect.

Suzuki Motorcycle India has also unveiled three innovative products including the e-ACCESS, Suzuki’s first electric scooter; the all-new Access 125, and the GIXXER SF 250 Flex Fuel, India’s first E85-compliant sports bike promoting ethanol-based mobility.

Hero MotoCorp unveiled a series of new vehicles and initiatives, marking its entry into the 250cc motorcycle segment with the Xtreme 250R and enhancing its adventure lineup with the Xpulse 210. In the scooter category, the company introduced the Xoom 125 and Xoom 160. Additionally, Hero showcased its first flex-fuel motorcycle, the ethanol-based Hero HF Deluxe, and presented the VIDA V2 e-scooter.

BMW India unveiled the BMW X1 Long Wheelbase All Electric at Auto Expo 2025, marking its first locally produced EV. Priced at ₹49 lakh, the SUV is powered by the eDrive20L drivetrain with 204 hp, 250 Nm torque, and a 531 km MIDC range.

Mercedes-Benz at the Global Expo launched its exquisite luxury BEV the EQS Maybach SUV 680 ‘Night Series’ priced at INR 2.63 Cr along with Maybach GLS 600 at INR 3.71 Cr.

Hyundai Motor India launched the much-anticipated Hyundai CRETA Electric at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, starting at an introductory price of ₹17.99 lakh.

At the Expo, MG Motors expands its NEV Portfolio with MG Cyberster and MG M9. Introduced under the newly launched luxury brand channel MG Select, these models exemplify the company’s vision of intelligent, sustainable, and customer-centric mobility.

Tata Motors has launched the All-New Tata Sierra at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. This modern iteration of the legendary vehicle combines timeless design with cutting-edge technology, embodying the perfect balance of style, functionality, and sustainability.

VE Commercial Vehicles unveiled the Eicher Pro X Range marking its entry into the 2-3.5T Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) segment. This electric-first range, co-created with logistics leaders, redefines mid and last-mile logistics.

Kia India unveiled the new Kia EV6 at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Equipped with the advanced ADAS 2.0 package featuring 27 cutting-edge safety and driver-assistance features.

Greaves Cotton Limited introduced premium variants of the Ampere Nexus, including the Race and Executive editions. The company also unveiled the ‘Xyber’ e-motorcycle, offering a certified range of up to 200 km per charge with fast-charging capability.

Porsche India unveiled two groundbreaking Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), the all-new Macan SUV and the updated Taycan sports saloon, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The Macan BEV, available in three variants—Macan (₹1.21 Cr), Macan 4S (₹1.39 Cr), and Macan Turbo (₹1.69 Cr).

Škoda Auto India showcases a striking lineup of eight ICE and EV models from India and global portfolio. Products showcased were Škoda Kylaq, Škoda Kylaq (Accessorised), Škoda Kushaq Monte Carlo, All-new Škoda Kodiaq, All-new Škoda Superb, Facelifted Škoda Octavia vRS, Škoda Elroq, and the Škoda Vision 7S.

The ongoing Tarasha Craft Exhibit 2025 at the Bengaluru International Centre, a collaborative effort between Titan Company Limited and Creative Dignity, has been the spark of the town this week. The exhibit focused on empowering rural craft entrepreneurs and enhancing craft-based livelihoods. This year Tarasha went to new heights, witnessing 75 craft entrepreneurs from 18 states, promoting 40+ unique crafts. The event was also graced by Ms. Suparna Mitra, CEO Watches and Wearables, Titan Company Limited.

The initiative sets premise as an organic incubator for rural artisans. Through various activities like workshops, personalized mentoring, training sessions, and continuous monitoring, it aims to empower craftpreneurs and promote local artisans. Adding to the exhibit’s vibrancy are workshops, engaging panel discussions and live performances through the week. Swarathma, Bengaluru’s iconic folk-rock band also graced the event with a special performance and immersive interactions with the artisans.

Open to the public until 19th January 2025 at the Bengaluru International Centre, Domlur, Bengaluru, Tarasha underscores Titan’s dedication to celebrating India’s cultural and rich artisans’ heritage.

India, 2025: HDFC ERGO General Insurance, India’s leading non-life insurance company, has launched #GalatRaastePeMatJao, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about the risks associated with unsafe driving practices and promoting responsible road usage.

Indian roads have been witnessing a large number of deaths and serious injuries due to accidents caused by various factors such as overspeeding, mobile phone usage, reckless driving, etc. Alarmingly, over 4.60 lakh road accidents happened in the country in 2022 in which over 4.40 lakh individuals got injured.

To address these concerns, HDFC ERGO has unveiled a campaign titled #GalatRaastePeMatJao, to create awareness metaphorically and urge individuals to avoid unsafe practices like using mobile phones while driving, over-speeding, and other risky behaviors, thus motivating people to be responsible on roads.

Aligned with this campaign, the Company is also distributing car danglers across a select network of cashless garages across the country. These car danglers, with important road safety messages, aim to serve as reminders to the vehicle owners to follow safety measures, while they are driving.

Speaking about the need for road safety week, ParthanilGhosh, Director and Chief Business Officer, of HDFC ERGO General Insurance, said, “Road crash casualties lead to tremendous emotional and financial turmoil for families. Additionally, it also significantly dented the Indian GDP, to the tune of 3% to 5% annually. As per the latest Global Status Report on Road Safety by WHO, road traffic crash numbers continue to rise in India. Sadly, young people from 18-45 age-group accounted for around 65% of total accident deaths in 2022. Road accidents are caused by various factors, with the use of mobile phones accounted for over 2% ofthe deaths with drunken driving accounted for over 2.5% of the persons killed in 2018.As a responsible corporate citizen, at HDFC ERGO we have always taken initiatives that can contribute towards building a Healthy and Safe India. Through #GalatRaastePeMatJao, we aim to raise awareness about the profound impact of unsafe driving habits and foster a culture of responsible road behaviour.”

HDFC ERGO has launched various campaigns to propel the idea of road safety such as #TakeItEasyonRoads in 2015, a social media campaign to spread awareness on the impact of distracted driving, which is one of the key reasons for road accidents; Do Not Disturb an awareness campaign in 2018 around various reasons that lead to road accidents and #EyesOnTheRoad to raise awareness on the importance of being focused on the road.

In 2020, the company also launched High beam – not OK please radio campaign, addressing the misuse of the high beam while driving and #KyaYehChaltaHai, highlighting the casual attitude of people towards Road Safety and encouraged the audience to obey even all traffic rules, no matter how small they are. Reinforcing its commitment to drive road safety, the company launched #RoadSafetyKiZimmedariHamari in 2021, highlighting the importance of working collectivelytowards road safety and #SadakSurakshaJeevanSuraksha in 2022 to raise awareness on various aspects of road safety that can prove to be dangerous, if not followed carefully.

Further, the company strategically collaborates with NGOs for urban trials and intersection redesigns, aiming to transform high-fatality stretches into zero-fatality corridors and encourage road safety across India. The company also launched a campaign to sensitise netizens about the probable impact of non-insured vehicles on the families of motor accident victims. Through various road safety initiatives, the insurer has benefitted over 2.6 lakh lives in FY24, thus, underscoring its commitment to fuel road safety in the country.

MINI India announced the launch of the new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack. The car will be available as a completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked exclusively on the MINI Online Shop. Deliveries will begin in April 2025.

The fifth-generation MINI Cooper S combines progressive technology with the sportiness of the John Cooper Works Pack, along with the MINI body language and origins. Together, they pack an innovative punch with a new personality and hallmark driving dynamics.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, of BMW Group India said, “The launch of the new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack underscores MINI’s legacy of blending timeless design with modern innovation. With its dynamic, sporty exterior and exclusive John Cooper Works trim, the special edition stands out as the epitome of driving fun and individuality. The interior’s sporty details express motorsport passion, while the highly digital interactive interfaces make for a hi-tech experience. This special John Cooper Works Pack is a fitting tribute to MINI’s legendary racing genes.”

The ex-showroom price is:

The new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack

*Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices include GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but exclude Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), RTO, statutory taxes/fees, other local tax/cess levies, and insurance. Price and options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the local MINI authorized Dealer.

The new MINI Cooper S JCW Pack will be available in two striking colours – Legend Grey and Midnight Black with Roof and Mirror Caps in Jet Black. 17-inch wheels Sprint-Spoke Black is available as standard. Upholstery options includes JCW Sports Seats with Vescin/Cord Combination | JCW Black.

The car comes with a standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. The 2 years 24×7 Road-Side Assistance on MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack provides complete peace of mind. These benefits are transferrable along with the ownership of the car. Service inclusive plan starts from 3 yrs / 40,000 kms and package extension is available up to 10 yrs / 2,00,000 kms. An option to extend warranty benefits from third year of ownership and extendable up to maximum ten years, is also available.

Thanks to BMW India Financial Services, customized and flexible financial solutions are designed as per individual requirements. Customers enjoy great value and complete peace of mind with BMW 360˚ finance plan. It includes attractive monthly instalments, assured buy-back option up to five years, flexible term-end opportunities, and options to upgrade to a new model among other benefits.

The new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack.

Modern, digital and unmistakable, the new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack takes driving fun and user experience into a new era. A comprehensive transformation that is reflected in the new design language ‘Charismatic Simplicity’. This combines the traditional MINI values with progressive innovations in a particularly authentic way, reducing the vehicle design to the essentials. The new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack shares a purist design that takes equal account of the urban character and the innovative spirit of the MINI community.

The classic round headlights, striking octagonal grille and compact silhouette are the dominant features of the new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack. The exterior color options Legend Grey or Midnight Black are complemented by roof and mirror caps and Sport Stripes in Black. The John Cooper Works trim stands out with unique design features of the Grille, Bumpers, Side Skirts, Rear Spoiler and Door Entry Sills. The Piano Black Exterior Trim and wheel arches add to the sporty look of the car. The 17-inch Sprint Spoke Black alloy wheel further elevates the sharp character.

Short overhangs, short bonnet, long wheelbase, and big wheels – the proportions of the new model generation are typical MINI. The visual three-part division into the vehicle body, surrounding window area and contrasting roof ensure the new MINI model is instantly recognizable. The surfaces look particularly exciting thanks to an integrative treatment of details. A clearly defined shoulder area gives the new MINI model a decidedly athletic body. A wider stance on the rear, characteristic charisma and a modern minimalist design with clearly designed surfaces, the MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack now has a significantly enhanced presence.

The striking appearance of the car is enhanced by three selectable Signatures Modes (Classic, Favoured and John Cooper Works) for the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) of the LED headlights and the redesigned matrix rear lights. All three modes begin and end with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation.

Minimalist design, digital innovations and an immersive user experience are the hallmarks of the interior. The sportiness is elevated with JCW Sports Seats, Vescin/Cord combination JCW Black upholstery and JCW Dashboard Trim. The new JCW Steering Wheel with paddle shifters adds to the hallmark MINI go-kart feeling.

The MINI Interaction Unit takes a quantum leap into the digital age with the hi-resolution 240mm Circular OLED touchscreen display. It is the defining feature of the interior with a completely new feel and versatile functions. It has moved closer to the driver and can be operated similar to a smartphone. The new MINI Operating System 9 is optimized for touchscreen and voice control and provides advanced connectivity for maximum ease of use. The new MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) can be activated by saying “Hey MINI” to control a wide range of functions such as navigation, telephony, entertainment and others. The innovative MINI Digital Key Plus turns the smartphone into a car key via the MINI App and can be transferred to different users, along with their personal vehicle settings. Head-up Display projects all relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight. A Fisheye Camera can capture selfies, fun moments and videos with sound, inside the cabin and is capable of transfers via a QR code. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System is an aural treat. Other features include Navigation, Remote Services, Remote Software Upgrades, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, Teleservices, In-Car Weather and Intelligent Emergency Call.

The new interior experience is mainly created by the textile surfaces. A specially developed knitting process is used to create the easy-care, versatile structure of the two-tone textile. The dashboard and door panels are completely chrome-free and leather-free, using recycled 2D knitted fabric lining. The textile surface is made luminescent by ambient lighting and projections from the MINI Interaction Unit that make even rush hour relaxing.

With the MINI Experience Modes, one can choose from several immersive driving experiences, from the race-inspired ‘Go-Kart Mode’ to the energy-saving ‘Green Mode’ or the lively ‘Vivid Mode’ and more. MINI Experience Modes extend the indoor experience by tuning the light, sound and graphics settings.

A distinctive Toggle Bar Island gives access to the important driving functions including start/stop, gear selector, parking brake, experience modes and volume control. General storage area below the toggle bar provides space for a smartphone to be wirelessly charged.

JCW Sport Seats are covered in Vescin Black- a high-quality, perforated, artificial leather-free upholstery made from recycled materials The panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and spacious atmosphere. Electric seat adjustment with Active Seat for the driver is available as standard.

The new MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Pack offers the innovative and efficient petrol engine powered by the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. It mobilises a peak output of 150 kW/204 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and produces a maximum torque of 300 Nm at 1450-4500 rpm. The car sprints from 0 – 100 km/hr in 6.6 seconds and the top speed is 242 km/h. The 7-Speed Double Clutch Steptronic Sport Transmission offers efficient, comfortable and sporty driving due to a broader gear spread and smaller engine speed steps. The adaptive suspension ensures an exhilarating experience. JCW Sport Brakes impress with direct response and a better pedal feel.

In the MINI family, advanced assistance systems such as Cruise Control and Parking Assistant increase comfort, control and safety and relieve the driver from monotonous and less demanding aspects of driving. With Comfort Access, the car is locked / unlocked automatically as it recognises the key is at a distance of less than 1.5 meters.

The standard MINIMALISM technology includes auto start/stop function, brake energy recuperation, active cooling air ducts and electromechanical power steering. The wide range of alloy wheels depending on the variant, radiate confidence while reducing carbon footprint thanks to their lightweight design and use of recycled aluminium.

The standard SAFETY equipment comprises of front passenger airbags and side curtain airbags, Brake Assist, 3-Point Seat Belts, Dynamic Stability Control, Crash Sensor, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Rear View Camera, and Tubeless Tyres with Tyre Pressure Indicator.

SBI Life Insurance, one of the leading life insurers in the country registered a New Business Premium of `26,256 crores for the period ended on 31st December, 2024 vis-a-vis `26,000 crores for the period ended December 31, 2023. Regular premium has increased by 12% over the corresponding period ended on 31st December, 2023.

Establishing a clear focus on protection, SBI Life’s protection new business premium stood at `2,792 crores for the period ended December 31, 2024. Protection Individual new business premium stands at `519 crores for the period ended December 31, 2024. Individual New Business Premium stands at `19,857 crores with 12% growth over the corresponding period ended on 31st December, 2023.

SBI Life’s profit after tax stands at `1,600 crores for the period ended December 31, 2024.

The company’s solvency ratio continues to remain robust at 2.04 as on December 31, 2024 as against the regulatory requirement of 1.50.

SBI Life’s AUM also continued to grow at 19% to `4,41,678 crores as on December 31, 2024 from ` 3,71,410 crores as on December 31, 2023, with the debt-equity mix of 61:39. 94% of the debt investments are in AAA and Sovereign instruments.

The company has a diversified distribution network of 309,590 trained insurance professionals and wide presence with 1,086 offices across the country, comprising of strong bancassurance channel, agency channel and others comprising of corporate agents, brokers, Point of sale persons (POS), insurance marketing firms, web aggregators and direct business.

Performance for the period ended December 31, 2024

•  Private Market leadership in New Business Premium of `26,256 crores with 22.4% market share.
•  Private Market leadership in Individual New Business Premium of `19,857 crores with 12% growth and 27.8% market share
•  Annualized Premium Equivalent (APE) stands at `15,965 crores with growth of 11%
•  New Business individual sum assured stands at ` 1,81,489 crores with 33% growth
•  Improvement in 13M & 61M persistency by 83 bps & 521 bps respectively
•  Value of New Business (VoNB) stands at `4,293 crores
•  VoNB Margin stands at 26.9%.
•  Indian Embedded value (IEV) stands at ` 68,140 crores with 17% growth over FY 24
•  Profit After Tax (PAT) stands at `1,600 crores with 48% growth
•  Robust Solvency ratio of 2.04
•  Assets under Management stands at `4,41,678 crores with 19% growth.

Disclaimer

Except for the historical information contained herein, statements in this release which contain words or phrases such as ‘will’, ‘expected to’, etc., and similar expressions or variations of such expressions may constitute ‘forward-looking statements’. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, opportunities and growth potential to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the actual growth in demand for insurance and other financial products and services in the countries that we operate or where a material number of our customers reside, our ability to successfully implement our strategy, including our use of the Internet and other technology our exploration of merger and acquisition opportunities, our ability to integrate mergers or acquisitions into our operations and manage the risks associated with such acquisitions to achieve our strategic and financial objectives, our growth and expansion in domestic and overseas markets, technological changes, our ability to market new products, the outcome of any legal, tax or regulatory proceedings in India and in other jurisdictions we are or become a party to, the future impact of new accounting standards, our ability to implement our dividend policy, the impact of changes in insurance regulations and other regulatory changes in India and other jurisdictions on us. SBI Life Insurance Company Limited undertakes no obligation to update forward looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date thereof.

This release does not constitute an offer of securities.

National, January 20, 2025– Soaring rates of workplace stress and anxiety are evident, with approximately 40% of the workforce reporting stress levels that significantly impacted their ability to work in the last year.1 As we approach ‘Blue Monday’, known as one of the most challenging days for mental health, International SOS, the world’s leading health and security risk services company, calls on organisations to take proactive steps in addressing the mental health challenges of employees.

International SOS has identified the three most frequent mental health-related requests it has received from global workforces across various sectors over the past three years.2 These include support and assistance for:

1. Anxiety disorder: intense and excessive fear and distress, often accompanied by physical tensions.

2. Depressive disorder: mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or loss of interest. It can significantly impact an employee’s emotions, behaviour, and physical health.

3. Panic disorder: a condition when an employee has repeated, unexpected panic attacks and worries constantly about when the next one might happen.

For individuals living with mental health conditions, meaningful employment can significantly contribute to their recovery and social inclusion, fostering increased confidence and improved social functioning. Research findings indicate that employment can have a more profound positive impact on mental health outcomes than traditional psychiatric care alone.3 However, when an employee experiences ongoing workplace stress, it causes an elevated level of anxiety-causing hormones. This sustained pressure can leave employees feeling fatigued and exhausted and, ultimately, may contribute to burnout. Without robust support, mental health conditions can severely impact an individual’s self-confidence, job satisfaction, and ability to thrive in the workplace.

Dr Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez, Global Health Advisor, Wellness and Mental Health, at International SOS, comments, “January and the start of a new year can be a particularly challenging time for many. The post-holiday blues, the return-to-work routines, and the harsh winter weather in the northern hemisphere can really take a toll on mental health and wellbeing. Blue Monday presents a crucial opportunity for organisations to proactively address mental health challenges for the year ahead and cultivate a culture of wellbeing that extends far beyond this single day.

“For organisations, recognising the inextricable link between good mental health, employee wellbeing, and organisational effectiveness is paramount. Alarmingly, workplace stress and anxiety rates remain high, with around 15% of the global working-age population suffering from mental illness.4 The detrimental effects of stress are multifaceted and can include circulatory and gastrointestinal issues, as well as significant physical and emotional repercussions.5 Protecting and promoting mental health in the workplace is about strengthening capacities, increasing awareness, and offering early intervention opportunities for those in need.”

International SOS offers five points for organisations to implement proactive strategies to address stress and anxiety in the workforce:

1. SUPPORT

Foster a supportive culture and work environment: create a workplace culture that values open communication and support. Encourage employees to speak up about their stress levels and provide a safe space for them to share their concerns without fear of judgment or repercussions.

2. BALANCE

Promote work-life balance and implement flexible work arrangements: consider changing time-off policies to accommodate employees’ mental health needs. Encourage employees to take breaks and set boundaries between work and personal life.

3. ASSESS

Conduct regular stress assessments: regularly assess the stress levels within the organisation through surveys, feedback sessions, and health screenings. Use the data collected to identify stressors and implement targeted interventions to address them.

4. ASSIST

Offer Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs): ensure easily accessible resources for mental health support, including workshops for stress management techniques, counselling services and mental health hotlines.

5. TRAIN

Equip managers with mental health first-aid training: upskill managers to identify signs of distress and offer initial support to employees who may be struggling.

The International SOS Foundation will host a Workforce Wellbeing training course on 20-21 January. The course will provide individuals and leaders responsible for wellbeing within their respective organisations with the competencies necessary to plan, design and deliver best-in-class programmes.

Pune, India, 20th January 2025 – Relata, the pioneering provider of innovative real estate technology solutions, announced its expansion into Dubai through a joint venture between Cognilements International and visionary leader Neeraj Srivastava. The expansion includes Neeraj Srivastava’s appointment as Chairman of Relata Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Africa, leveraging his extensive regional expertise to drive the company’s presence in one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.

The real estate market in Dubai was up by 36.5% in 2024 as compared to 2023, and reached a record of 1,80,987 deals. Similarly, as compared to the previous year, the transaction value of these deals was up by 27.2% in 2024, totalling $142.25 billion. As the real estate market in Dubai continues to grow, integrating technology is an essential aspect to attract consumers.

Emphasising the technological impact on the real estate market, Neeraj Srivastava, Chairman, Relata GCC and Africa, said, “Our decision to partner with Relata stems from their visionary approach to revolutionising the real estate industry. Relata’s innovative platform, blending advanced technology with customer-centric solutions, stood out as a game-changer. Their focus on digital-first strategies and seamless integration across the customer journey aligns perfectly with the growing demand for tech-enabled real estate solutions in dynamic markets like Dubai.” The strategic expansion into Dubai capitalises on its thriving real estate ecosystem, world-class infrastructure, and ongoing construction boom. This move positions Relata to serve the region’s growing demand for advanced property technology solutions, including AI, advanced analytics, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and comprehensive digital suites for onsite operations.

Srivastava further added, “Dubai’s real estate ecosystem is vibrant yet challenging, with opportunities to streamline processes, enhance customer engagement, and drive faster conversions. Relata’s advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and operational efficiencies fill critical gaps, empowering brokers and developers to meet the evolving needs of this market. This partnership not only positions us at the forefront of innovation but also reinforces Dubai’s standing as a global leader in real estate advancements.”

Srivastava brings invaluable regional leadership experience to Relata, having served as Vice President for Tata Consultancy Services, Riyadh and Dubai, Chairman and Managing Director of TCS, Saudi Arabia, and held Vice President positions at Wipro and Cognizant in Dubai, UAE. His appointment underscores Relata’s commitment to building a strong local presence while delivering global expertise.

Mumbai, 20 January, 2024: Following Amazon’s recent acquisition of key assets of MX Player, the service has set out with the goal to redefine free entertainment in India with unparalleled reach and a massive content library. In line with this goal, the streaming service launched an exciting campaign last weekend, reinforcing that the pair of Amazon and MX Player is the ‘Superhit Jodi’ in the streaming space. This campaign brings together ace cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and social media sensation Orry for a humorous campaign.

Sharing his thoughts on the campaign, Aruna Daryanani, Head – Marketing, Product & Tech at Amazon MX Player, said, “Our latest campaign showcases Amazon MX Player’s vision to premium quality content for free to all Indians. By bringing together cricket icon Shikhar Dhawan and social media sensation Orry, our aim is to highlight our vast content selection that viewers across the country can enjoy on the service, at no cost! The campaign brings in great humour and reflects our commitment to offering great content, innovative marketing, and strategic partnerships.”

Shikhar Dhawan, being part of this campaign shared, “Entertainment, like cricket, has the power to bring people together. Collaborating with Amazon MX Player for this campaign was an absolute joy, the energy and fun of the ‘Shikhar x Orry’ spot are contagious. It’s amazing to see how Amazon MX Player is redefining free entertainment for millions of Indians, and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey.”

Adding to this, Orry shared, “This campaign was such a blast to be part of. Pairing up with Shikhar for the ‘Shikhar x Orry’ spot truly brought out the jodi vibes, and the concept is so fresh and fun. Amazon MX Player is bringing something truly unique to the table, and I’m so excited to see audiences connect with this campaign and its amazing content.”

With its “Watch Free, No T&C” promise, Amazon MX Player ensures a completely free entertainment experience for viewers, while giving advertisers the chance to deepen their relationship with a vast and engaged audience. From returning seasons to new original series, popular international shows and movies, and a vast movie library the streaming service offers a robust content library spanning various genres, such as romance, dramas, thrillers, action, and many more. Viewers can easily access Amazon MX Player on its own app on mobile and Connected TVs, on the Amazon Shopping app, Prime Video, and Fire TV.