Archives June 2025

Abbott Introduces Lab-based Blood Test to Help Evaluate Concussion

BANGALORE, India, June 28, 2025 – Abbott, the global healthcare company, announced the launch of its laboratory-based blood test to evaluate mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), commonly known as concussions. The traumatic brain injury (TBI) test runs on Abbott’s Alinity i and Architect i1000SR laboratory instruments, which are available in major hospitals and laboratories such as Apollo, Hyderabad and Neuberg Supratech Laboratory.

Ravi Sinha, Abbott

Ravi Sinha

The test offers a reliable result in 18 minutes to help clinicians quickly evaluate brain injury and triage mTBI patients. The diagnostic tool also helps eliminate the need for CT scans by up to 40% with a high degree of certainty eliminating wait time at the hospital and unnecessary exposure to radiation. The test measures two biomarkers in the blood – ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) – that, in elevated concentrations, are correlated to brain injury.

The test can help streamline care benefiting both patients and the healthcare system. This is particularly important in areas where access to CT systems may be limited.

Ravi Sinha, General Manager & Country Head – Diagnostics, Abbott India said, “Abbott’s TBI blood test improves patient evaluation and delivers reliable results in just minutes helping doctors quickly and accurately rule out the need for a CT scan. This means less time spent in emergency care and less stress for patients and families. The test enables early and accurate evaluation to ensure better long-term health outcomes.”

TBIs can be caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head and can pose short- and long-term risks. In India, nearly one million people are estimated to experience it every year.[ii] People who experience a TBI may have impairment of memory, movement, sensation (e.g., vision and hearing), and emotional functioning (e.g., personality changes, psychological symptoms). People who sustain a TBI are more likely to have another one – similarly to how a sprained ankle or torn ligament is more susceptible to future injury.

TBIs are among the most common neurological disorders worldwide, affecting millions each year. In India, 77% of head injury referrals were patients with mild TBI.[iii] Many people don’t seek medical attention after a head injury, thinking their symptoms aren’t serious. However, timely screening and detection are crucial. Early diagnosis helps people get the care they need, avoiding long-term effects.”

Abbott’s TBI test can offer a key alternative to traditional methods of assessing concussions, which have limitations including long wait times, radiation exposure, and accessibility and logistical challenges.

OPPO India unveils new chapter of ‘Live the Aawara Life’ campaign with Ishaan Khatter, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Pooja Hegde

OPPO Reno14 Series to launch in India on 3rd July 2025 

New Delhi, 28 June 2025: Today, OPPO India sets the vibe – and the countdown – for its Reno14 Series launch on 3rd July with its newest brand film under the ‘Live the Aawara Life’ campaign. After Ranbir Kapoor teased fans by name-dropping his “Aawara Gang” – Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ishaan Khatter and Pooja Hegde – OPPO India has now unveiled the full story, and it’s a joyride of spontaneity, friendship, and rediscovery. Rooted in Reno’s philosophy of living in the moment, the campaign positions the Reno14 Series as the ultimate travel companion – capturing fleeting experiences and turning them into unforgettable memories.

oppo

In this fun-filled adventure, Siddhant, Ishaan and Pooja ditch their routine lives and hit the road, chasing forgotten dreams and fresh beginnings. The film opens in a chaotic urban office, where Monday blues and corporate hustle feel all too real. A casual exchange of messages sparks something deeper – a long-forgotten promise, a memory half-buried. In an instant, the trio escapes the mundane, embarking on a soul-refreshing journey to the mountains. Every frame brims with fun, laughter, and the camaraderie that only old friends can share.

Fuelling this road trip is the iconic ‘Aawara Hoon’ anthem – now reimagined as a tribute to freedom. The OPPO Reno14 Series joins in as more than a phone – it becomes the fourth companion. With its flagship-level camera system, it freezes every raw, candid, mid-laughter moment with crisp clarity. From zooming into distant peaks to capturing the sparkle in an unguarded smile, Reno14 turns unfiltered moments into timeless memories.

OPPO has launched the campaign across digital platforms, cinemas, and OTTs, ensuring fans everywhere can catch the magic. And behind the magic stands the Reno14 Series, designed for wanderers at heart. Packed with a 50MP AI camera, 3.5x Telephoto Portrait lens and 4K 60fps HDR video, it delivers crisp, cinematic memories with the ease of a snapshot. Built to keep up with every adventure, it also features IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance, offering added peace of mind on the road. Editing becomes effortless thanks to AI tools like AI Editor 2.0AI Perfect Face, and AI Recompose – making storytelling on the move as spontaneous as the journey itself.

Commenting on the campaign, Sushant Vashistha, Head of Product and Digital Marketing at OPPO India, said: “At OPPO, we are driven by the spirit of now – of turning everyday moments into unforgettable stories. With over 130 million Reno users globally, our goal has always been to empower creativity and live fully in the present. ‘Live the Aawara Life’ builds on this spirit, celebrating the joy of exploration and spontaneity that resonates with today’s generation. Ishaan, Siddhant and Pooja embody the soul of the Reno14 Series—curious, bold, and always ready for the next chapter.” 

For Siddhant Chaturvedi, this campaign hits home: “Being part of the Reno journey has always felt personal. The emotion of Living the Aawara Life is so real and relevant today. It reminded me how powerful it is to pause, reconnect and live something you once promised yourself.”

Ishaan Khatter reflected on the campaign’s emotional core: “There’s a kind of magic in leaving the script behind—just hitting the road with old friends and no plan. That spirit of spontaneity resonated with me. This campaign isn’t just about capturing memories, it’s about living them – fully, freely, in the moment.”

Pooja Hegde added: “There’s a beautiful honesty in the story. It’s about joy, nostalgia, and the kind of memories that stay with you. Shooting it with the Reno14 felt like we weren’t performing – we were just living it.” 

Sumit Chaurasia, Founding Partner and Creative Head, Delhi, Famous Innovations, said: “The Aawara life has evolved from its older meaning to now embody the spirit of a true explorer. In today’s world, if you are not a little bit ‘aawara’, you are probably missing out on life’s best unscripted moments! That’s precisely why we are so thrilled to team up with OPPO India for their Reno14 Series to bring this to life, bringing those travellers’ mindset on board by seamlessly integrating those handy features you need right at your fingertips on the go. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to live the Aawara life and snap it forever!”

Since 2019, the OPPO Reno Series has evolved from a smartphone into a trusted creative companion for over 130 million users worldwide. With each generation, Reno has redefined mobile photography – bringing flagship-level camera capabilities to a wider audience. Combining OPPO’s AI-powered imaging, an advanced camera system, productivity features and long-lasting performance, the Reno Series is crafted to elevate not just how users capture the world, but how they experience it.

The Power of Live Interactive Classes: Enhancing Student Engagement Beyond the Classroom

Mr. Neeraj Kansal, CEO and Founder of Crack Academy

In recent years, the education landscape has undergone a significant transformation, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Online learning has become an integral part of academic life, and among the most impactful innovations is the rise of live interactive classes. These sessions go far beyond replicating the traditional classroom—they actively engage students in real-time, foster collaboration, and bridge the gap between physical and digital learning environments.

Real-Time Interaction and Engagement

Live interactive classes provide students with the opportunity to actively participate by asking questions, expressing opinions, and engaging in meaningful discussions. Unlike static recorded content, these sessions promote two-way communication, which enhances understanding and retention. Students also benefit from the option to revisit recorded classes for revision or clarification, reinforcing concepts at their own pace.

Building a Sense of Community

A major advantage of live classes is the sense of belonging they create. The ability to interact with peers and instructors in real time helps students feel more connected to their learning environment. This connection is especially important in online education, where isolation can often be a challenge. When students feel part of a learning community, their motivation and commitment to the course naturally improve.

Developing Digital and Collaborative Skills

Participating in live classes introduces students to a variety of digital tools—from video conferencing platforms to shared documents, online whiteboards, and presentation software. These interactions not only make the learning experience more dynamic but also equip students with valuable tech skills that are increasingly vital in today’s job market. Through collaborative assignments and discussions, students also learn how to communicate effectively and work as a team, skills that are critical for future careers.

Supportive and Responsive Learning

One of the most important features of live sessions is the immediate feedback loop. Students can get their doubts clarified on the spot, which enhances comprehension and reduces confusion. Post-session, many platforms allow for continued interaction through chat groups or messaging tools, offering ongoing support and reinforcing a student-centred learning environment.

Flexible, Yet Structured

Live classes can be attended from anywhere, eliminating geographical barriers and making education more accessible and inclusive. The availability of recordings ensures that learning continues even if a session is missed. At the same time, the structured nature of scheduled live sessions instills a sense of accountability. Knowing they need to attend and participate at a specific time fosters discipline, routine, and consistent study habits.

Preparing for a Tech-Driven Future

Ultimately, live interactive classes are more than just a digital substitute for in-person learning—they are a step forward in preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. They offer a platform where real-time engagement, personal interaction, collaboration, and technological fluency come together to create a richer, more immersive educational experience.

As educational institutions continue to innovate, live interactive learning will play a central role in shaping a future-ready, inclusive, and engaged generation of learners.

Empowering Bharat: Celebrating MSME champions thriving on Flipkart

June 26, 2025: India’s economic tapestry is richly woven with the contributions of artisans and micro-entrepreneurs who not only preserve our cultural heritage but also drive inclusive, grassroots development. This International MSME Day, Flipkart highlights the inspiring journeys of entrepreneurs from the Flipkart Samarth program, an initiative launched in 2019 that has positively impacted over 1.8 million livelihoods by enabling access to digital tools, market reach, and the e-commerce ecosystem.

We are honored to spotlight the remarkable stories of Mohammad Raaziq and Prathamesh Desai, dedicated to traditional artifacts, and Nalini Anumakonda, who has built a thriving business around honey and tea. Each of these entrepreneurs exemplify the power of passion, innovation, and resilience. Their journeys reflect not just individual success but also the transformative role Flipkart plays in empowering MSMEs through digital inclusion, sustainable growth, and community upliftment.

Mohammad Raaziq, Online Craft, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh

In a quiet village near Saharanpur, Online Craft emerged from humble beginnings into a flourishing enterprise rooted in family, tradition, and ambition. Founded by Mohammad Raaziq, the business draws strength from a legacy that began in 1993 as an offline setup specializing in home décor, kitchenware, and wooden furniture reflecting the craftsmanship of Saharanpur’s rich artistic heritage.

Raaziq’s decision to take the business online in 2017 marked a turning point. With Flipkart as a partner, Online Craft began reaching homes across India, and demand surged. What was once a modest operation is now a thriving venture run by six brothers, employing over 100 people from nearby villages. “Most of our products are made by us,” says Raaziq, proudly referring to their in-house manufacturing setup that enables quality control and innovation.

For Raaziq, success is measured in both impact and personal fulfillment. He leads a simple life with the belief that one can be healthy, wealthy, and truly happy by building something meaningful and enjoying the journey along the way. Big Billion Days have become a significant milestone each year, bringing in nearly four times the usual order volume and opening up newer regions to explore and serve. As Online Craft continues to grow, Raaziq remains deeply connected to his roots, creating opportunities for others while crafting a life that reflects his values: simplicity, joy, and lasting success.

Nalini Anumakonda, Trulio, Hyderabad, Telangana

In the heart of Hyderabad, Nalini Anumakonda took a bold leap from a software engineer to founding Trulio in 2022 with a mission to deliver premium, natural food products at accessible prices. What started as a small venture with just four products has since blossomed into a growing catalog of over 40 listings on Flipkart, offering everything from flavoured honeys sourced from Assam to saffron from Kashmir. As a digital-first business, Flipkart’s reach has enabled Trulio to serve customers across India from Delhi and Mumbai to Haryana and Andhra Pradesh.

What truly sets Trulio apart is its all-women workforce. From operations to marketing, every aspect of the business is driven by women, making it not just a brand but a movement in itself. Nalini’s vision is rooted in empowerment; she dreams of scaling the brand offline. While building a nationwide retail presence she also aims to uplift more women through employment, training, and leadership opportunities. Speaking about her vision Nalini says, “Our dream is to expand the business, create a diverse product range, build offline presence as well and bring more women into the fold from sourcing to distribution.”

Recognized by accolades such as the Visionary Women Award 2023 and Nandi Award 2024, Nalini’s journey embodies the spirit of entrepreneurial resilience and innovation. With Trulio, she isn’t just building a brand, she’s nurturing a community, one that blends the wisdom of traditional wellness with the ambition of modern enterprise, showcasing the transformative power of women-led MSMEs in India’s digital economy.

Prathamesh Desai, The Creative Artist, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Prathamesh Desai, a Bachelor of Science graduate based in Ahmedabad, has always harbored the dream of building something of his own. Though he began his professional journey in the health and fitness industry, his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him down a different path – one rooted in creativity and culture.

Five years ago, driven by his market research and a keen sense of consumer demand, Prathamesh founded The Creative Artist, a handicrafts company specializing in traditional artefacts. What started as a personal dream has grown into a thriving business that not only supports local artisans but also collaborates with self-help groups to create beautiful, handmade products. Among the most popular offerings from The Creative Artist are torans (decorative door hangings) and intricate wall décor items. Sales typically peak during festive seasons like Diwali and Holi, when demand surges, particularly from states such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.

Flipkart has been a crucial partner in Prathamesh’s journey right from the beginning. The platform has played a significant role in offering valuable market insights, and guiding him on pricing strategies and product positioning. Flipkart’s regular seminars and workshops have also provided ongoing education and support, helping sellers like Prathamesh navigate and grow in the competitive online marketplace. Looking ahead, Prathamesh is excited to expand into new categories within the artefacts space, continuing his mission to bring India’s rich craftsmanship to homes across the country.

Delhi Public School Varanasi in Top 10 finalists for the World’s Best School Prizes 2025 for Environmental Action

27th June 2025: Delhi Public School has been named a Top 10 finalist for the World’s Best School Prizes 2025 for Environmental Action. The five World’s Best School Prizes, founded by T4 Education to share the best practices of schools that are changing lives in their classrooms and far beyond their walls, are the world’s most prestigious education prizes.

Delhi Public School Varanasi, an independent kindergarten, primary and senior-secondary school in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, is creating an environment where students are empowered to explore, grow and lead with compassion through its learner-centric educational model that embeds environmental stewardship and social responsibility into the learning experience, and has been named a Top 10 finalist for the World’s Best School Prize for Environmental Action. Driven by the need to address the impact of environmental harm in the region, along with the desire to entrench a ‘service before self’ school culture, the school’s reimagined approach includes the entire community – students, parents and staff – to delivering high-quality education that blends traditional Indian values with modern global perspectives to build both competence and character.

Through its collaborative culture and sustainability-led learning model, students learn the value of selflessness and community service. Various projects developed and led by students provide them with international perspectives on issues such as climate change and access to clean water, and Say no to plastic. They also provide hands-on experience that extends beyond the classroom to shape academically accomplished and empathetic individuals equipped to lead as socially responsible, globally connected citizens.

With sustainability as the core of school culture, the student-led initiatives have had a significant community impact. Trees have been planted, plastic waste have been diverted from landfills and made into eco-bricks, and close to 500 students across 23 schools globally have been engaged, creating a powerful platform for collaborative action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with 70% of participating students reporting a heightened sense of responsibility and global awareness. Currently, students are collaborating with local hospitals to install vertical planters, and the newly launched Har Ghar Neem Abhiyan (Neem for Every Home – A Community Plantation Drive) is aiming to become a massive green movement led by the community. This shared sense of purpose has also positively impacted staff retention.

In this collaborative learning environment, DPS Varanasi is showing students that change is possible, education can fuel lasting impact, and being active contributors in their community can make a meaningful difference.

The winners of the five World’s Best School Prizes – for Community Collaboration, Environmental Action, Innovation, Overcoming Adversity, and Supporting Healthy Lives – will be chosen by an expert Judging Academy based on rigorous criteria. All winners will be announced in October.

The winners and finalists of these global schools prizes will be invited to the World Schools Summit in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on November 15-16, where they will share their best practices and unique expertise and experience with policymakers and leading figures in global education.

University of Leeds and University of Delhi Sign MoU to Strengthen Academic and Research Collaboration

New Delhi, 27 June 2025 – In a move that signals a growing commitment to international academic collaboration, the University of Leeds (UoL) and the University of Delhi (DU) have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aims to foster deeper engagement in collaborative research, academic exchange, and capacity building between the two institutions.

The MoU builds on a sustained relationship led by the UoL’s Faculty of Social Sciences. Over the past two years, University of Leeds academics have undertaken a series of visits to Delhi University and co-hosted events designed to create shared learning platforms. Most notably, a workshop on social science research methods was held in April 2025 in Delhi, bringing together scholars and early-career researchers from both institutions. This workshop marked a key milestone in advancing interdisciplinary and inter-institutional dialogue.

The MoU sets the stage for collaborations encompassing joint research initiatives, academic events, faculty and student exchanges, and shared resources. It reflects a mutual commitment to building capacity, fostering innovation, and contributing to global knowledge production through equitable and inclusive academic partnerships.

Talking about the MoU, Professor Shearer West, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Leeds, said, “This agreement with the University of Delhi is an important part of our ambition to be a truly global university. It reflects our commitment to forging meaningful partnerships that support impactful research, enrich student and staff experiences, and contribute to shared academic and societal goals. We are excited to continue growing our relationship with DU in the years to come.”

Professor Yogesh Singh, Vice-Chancellor, University of Delhi, said, “We welcome this partnership with the University of Leeds as an opportunity to build collaborative networks that advance our academic mission. This MoU reflects our shared values of innovation, inclusion, and excellence in higher education and research.”

This partnership aligns with the UoL’s international strategy and long-standing engagement with India — one of its priority countries for academic collaboration. For the University of Delhi, the MoU strengthens its vision of building globally relevant research capacity and enhancing the internationalisation of its academic programmes.

Further announcements regarding upcoming joint initiatives are anticipated in the months ahead.

Prime Video launches songs of Uppu Kappurambu in partnership with Believe India

MUMBAI, India — 27 June 2025 — Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today launched the evocative and earthy music album of its Telugu Original Movie, Uppu Kappurambu. Released under the Believe India label, the album boasts three original tracks that beautifully capture the quirky tone and emotional undercurrents of this small-town satire. Composed by the exceptionally talented Sweekar Agasthi, with lyrics penned by Ravi Krishna Vissapragada, S Attavur Rahim, and Raghuram Dronavajjala, the soundtrack breathes soul into Chitti Jayapuram — a village caught in an unusually grim yet humorous crisis.

Prime Video launches songs of Uppu Kappurambu in partnership with Believe

Enhancing the charm of the music album are powerful vocals by celebrated artists Sean Roldan, Anurag Kulkarni, and Anthony Daasan, each bringing a distinct flavour to the film’s soundscape. From carefree celebrations in Nomilala to grief-tinged longing in Yaadunaavo and the rustic energy of the title track Uppu Kappurambu, the tracks perfectly complement the story’s journey with warmth and wit. The entire album of Uppu Kappurambu is now available to stream on Amazon Music, Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music, and all leading music platforms.

“Nomilala is one of those rare songs that instantly transport you — emotionally and visually — to the heart of the story,” shares singer Sean Roldan. “It’s an anthem for letting go, for dancing through life’s absurdities. The song embraces both chaos and community, something that resonated deeply with me while recording it. There’s cheekiness, yes, but there’s also a sense of resilience that I think a lot of people from smaller towns will connect with. I’m thrilled that this song, and the world it belongs to, will now reach homes across the globe with Prime Video.”

“Yaadunaavo carries the ache of a child missing his mother and the quiet poetry of everyday absence,” says singer Anurag Kulkarni. “The song is rooted in pain, but also hope, and I’m grateful to lend my voice to something so tender. I’m sure it will strike a nostalgic chord with listeners everywhere. I’m so happy that Prime Video is taking this heartfelt track to such a wide and diverse audience.”

“The title track, Uppu Kappurambu is full of grit, wit, and madness — just like the village it belongs to,” notes singer Anthony Daasan. “It has this raw energy and rustic flavour that I absolutely loved channeling. It’s wild, it’s grounded, and it was a total riot to record. This song will make you smile, groove, and feel the chaos all at once! I can’t wait for audiences across languages and regions to vibe with it on Prime Video.”

“At Believe, we take great pride in collaborating on an album that challenges creative norms while staying grounded in cultural authenticity,” says Shilpa Sharda, Director of Believe Artist Services for India and Southeast Asia. “This project is especially meaningful for us—it marks our first collaboration with the Amazon India team, and it’s one that reflects our shared passion for original, impactful music. The album is bold, distinctive, and deeply rooted in folk influences, capturing the spirit of the film. Featuring Telugu songs, it also shines a light on a language and musical landscape that is at the forefront of a creative evolution. This is more than just a release—it’s the beginning of a valued partnership, and we’re excited to see where it leads.”

Check out the complete tracklist below:

● Nomilala is composed by Sweekar Agasthi, sung by Sean Roldan, and written by Ravi Krishna Vissapragada

● Yaadunaavo is composed by Sweekar Agasthi, sung by Anurag Kulkarni, and written by S Attavur Rahim

● Uppu Kappurambu is also composed by Sweekar Agasthi, sung by Anthony Daasan, and written by Raghuram Dronavajjala

Uppu Kappurambu delivers a sharply humorous take on the issues plaguing Chitti Jayapuram, a tight-knit village burdened by a severe crunch in its burial plots. The story follows Apoorva (Keerthy Suresh), a newly appointed and idealistic young village head, who takes charge with a resolve to fix the peculiar crisis alongside Chinna (Suhas), the graveyard caretaker with a hidden agenda. As tensions mount and traditions clash with practicality, the story unfolds through humour, mischief, and unexpected heart.

Directed by Ani. I.V. Sasi and produced by Radhika Lavu, under the banner of Ellanar Films Pvt Ltd, Uppu Kappurambu features a stellar ensemble cast, including Keerthy Suresh, Suhas, Babu Mohan, Shatru, and Talluri Rameshwari. The Telugu Original film is slated to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across 240+ countries and territories worldwide on July 4.

Sundaram Finance Limited Revises Deposit Interest Rates effective July 1, 2025

Chennai, Friday, June 27, 2025…. Sundaram Finance Ltd., one of India’s most trusted NBFC’s is revising Deposit Interest Rates effective July 1, 2025 in line with RBI’s repo rate revision announced recently. Revised Rates for Senior Citizens are 7.2% for 12 months and 7.5% for 24 & 36 months. Similarly for others 6.70% for 12 months and 7% for 24 & 36 months.

Sundaram Finance

The adjustments reflect Sundaram Finance Ltd.’s measured response to broader economic conditions and market dynamics and is a part of their financial strategy to align with current economic trends.

Recently, the company introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer and more accessible than ever. Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954, and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance as well as working capital for SMEs.

Mumbai Metro Rail and IRHPL Sign MoU to Reshape Urban Transit Experiences

As part of the MoU, IRHPL aims to create a seamless retail experience through its innovative approach to bridge the gap between airports and metro stations, beginning with Mumbai Metro Line 3.

June 27, 2025: India Retails and Hospitality Private Limited (IRHPL), one of the fastest-growing multi-diversified retail groups has recently entered into an exclusive MoU with Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) to reshape urban transit experiences. The collaboration aims at setting a stage for an innovative approach to travel retail while bridging the gap between airport and metro environment for an enhanced passenger experience.

As part of the MoU, IRHPL has been declared as Master Concessionaire for retail operations at key Mumbai Metro 3 Line stations, specifically Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and Mumbai Airport T2 Terminal. The retail group will focus on transforming these metro spaces into vibrant retail hubs, food & beverage and passenger-centric services.

Delighted with the landmark announcement, Mr. Naresh Sharma CEO of IRHPL group of companies said, “It is a major step in our journey as we will now be expanding our portfolio beyond the airport ecosystem At IRHPL, the idea is to create a company with presence in different domains of travel retail in India and the metro railway ecosystem is an emerging opportunity for us.”

Besides infrastructure, the collaboration elevates daily commuting into a curated experience. By integrating modern retail formats, curated F&B offerings, the initiative sets a new benchmark in how metro stations are perceived, utilized and offer enhanced passenger services. The collaboration marks a significant step toward redefining metro spaces for an innovative and refreshing experience. It introduces a new dimension to urban transit as the partnership reflects a shared vision of transforming metro environments into dynamic hubs as the company plans to bring world class design and standards to India through its new venture.

Commenting on the partnership, Ramana Rachaprolu, Planning Director at MMRCL said, “Our partnership with IRHPL is a turning point in urban transit. With IRHPL’s proven expertise in airport retail, we’re confident in delivering a metro experience that feels more fresh, functional and future-forward.”

As part of its future plans, IRHPL is actively exploring similar partnerships with other metro networks across India. The group plans to replicate its dynamic and passenger-first model nationwide.

Moreover, as part of this initiative, metro commuters can expect high-quality retail outlets, quick-service food counters, premium lounges and experiential zones that brings the airport retail experience directly into the city’s core transit system.

ASUS Scales Community Engagement with Second City Chapter of ‘Beyond Incredible with ASUS’ in Pune

Pune, 27th June 2025: ASUS, the Taiwanese tech giant, hosted the second chapter of its flagship community initiative, ‘Beyond Incredible with ASUS’, in Pune. Bringing the gaming community together with a power-packed Community Meet-up at Antisocial, Pune, the day-long interactive session saw a wave of attendees interacting with the brand and its latest innovative offerings.

Building on the enthusiastic response to its previous chapter, ASUS plans to take this initiative to more cities, creating a vibrant, hands-on platform for real-time immersive product experiences, feedback exchange, and community-building. The Pune edition gave attendees a chance to dive deep in the latest innovations by ASUS, including the powerhouse ROG Zephyrus G14, the most sought-after ROG Flow Z13, the newly launched Vivobook 14 Flip, and the Snapdragon-powered Zenbook A14 amongst others. The event delivered a high-energy experience featuring live gaming battles, exclusive product demos, creator sessions, and interactive engagement with the creators. Gamers and creators alike enjoyed hands-on access to the latest ROG laptops and accessories powered by cutting-edge tech designed for pro-level gameplay, streaming, and content creation.

Addressing the event, Mr. Arnold Su, Vice President, Consumer and Gaming PC, ASUS India, said, “With ‘Beyond Incredible with ASUS’, our mission is clear to cultivate genuine and meaningful tech-conversations across our community. This initiative is all about listening to the people’s aspirations and expectations, so we can develop products that don’t just meet the needs of today but also resonate with today’s ever-evolving lifestyle. At ASUS, we see our community not just as customers but as collaborators, and with this initiative, we aim to get closer to the people who continuously shape our brand journey.”

Building on the success of the inaugural ‘Beyond Incredible with ASUS’ community meet held in Bangalore, ASUS brought the second edition of the initiative to Pune. The first-of-its-kind engagement platform, which debuted in Bangalore with over 85+ attendees comprising community members, creators, and regional media, set the tone for a deeper connection with the ASUS ecosystem. The Pune edition further strengthened this vision by bringing together the local community to experience ASUS’ latest innovations, participate in knowledge-led sessions, and engage meaningfully with the brand. ASUS plans to further strengthen its community with plans to roll out editions of ‘Beyond Incredible with ASUS’ in other metro cities throughout 2025. The initiatives are designed to offer customized experiences, collaborative platforms, and early access to ASUS innovations, fostering and nurturing an engaged and empowered tech community.