Archives 2026

Sanctoria, Jan 20: Eastern Coalfields Limited successfully convened its 64th Corporate-Level Tripartite Safety Committee Meeting at the Dishergarh Officers’ Club, Sanctoria, reaffirming the organization’s unwavering commitment to occupational safety, health and welfare in mining operations.

The meeting was attended by ECL’s top management, including Shri Satish Jha, Chairman-cum-Managing Director; Md. Anzar Alam, Director (Finance); Shri Niladri Roy, Director (Technical/Operations); Shri Gunjan Kumar Sinha, Director (HR) and Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair, Director (Technical/Planning & Projects). The deliberations were further enriched by the presence of Shri Supriyo Chakraborty, Deputy Director General, representing the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Eastern Zone.

The proceedings were presided over by Shri Binod Singh, Corporate Safety Board Member and representative of CMSI (CITU). Corporate Safety Board Members representing major trade unions—CMS (AITUC), WBKMS (UTUC), CMC (HMS), and KSC (BMS)—also participated. Senior officials from ECL HQ, all Area General Managers, Area Safety Officers and officers from DGMS (Eastern and Central Zones) took part, reflecting the strong spirit of tripartite collaboration.

The Committee deliberated on a wide range of critical safety issues, including enhancement of safety awareness through structured safety talks; strengthening of safety monitoring mechanisms; integration of advanced safety features in mining equipment and winding installations; expeditious conversion of steam winders to electrical winders with fail-safe technology; provision of statutory manpower; improvement of mine ventilation systems; identification and fast-tracking of man-riding systems; slope stability monitoring; and stowing lag. Emphasis was laid on developing comprehensive short-term and long-term action plans to ensure effective implementation and continuous improvement in safety performance across ECL’s mining operations.

The meeting concluded with a collective resolve by all stakeholders to work in close coordination towards fostering a safer, healthier, and more secure working environment for both regular and contractual workmen, thereby reinforcing ECL’s steadfast commitment to Zero Harm and sustainable mining practices.

 Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community, and platform, in partnership with Shishu Mandir, today launched the Mysuru chapter of its flagship ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative. The event flagged off 75+ electric autos driven by women, kicking off the “Her Route, Our Future” movement and year-long “Green Mysuru, Clean Mysuru” campaign to promote green mobility and economic independence.

The launch took place in the presence of Uday Prakash, VP of Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife India; T.S. Srivathsa, MLA of Krishnaraja Constituency, Mysuru; Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir; Smt. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner of Mysuru City Police and other distinguished dignitaries. The initiative empowers marginalized women with e-autos, driving training for local terrains, licensing, maintenance, digital tools, financial literacy, self-defense, and market linkages.

Uday Prakash, Vice President – Strategy and Implementation at Herbalife said, 

“At Herbalife, we’re deeply inspired by the ECO Wheels Women’s Initiative, which embodies our commitment to sustainable progress and shared prosperity. Following Bengaluru’s remarkable success, this expansion to Mysuru is transforming lives by equipping these women with vital skills and the confidence to thrive. They’re not just driving electric autos; they’re steering their families and communities towards a brighter, greener future.”

Building on the success of Bengaluru’s ECO-Wheels initiative, which enabled 115 women beneficiaries to increase their monthly incomes from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 and positively impacted over 750 individuals and the wider community through a zero-emission mobility model, Herbalife India in partnership with Shishu Mandir is now scaling the program to Mysuru as Phase 2.

The next phase will focus on high-demand transport routes, accelerating the adoption of clean mobility while creating sustainable livelihoods. The expansion is projected to deliver impact equivalent to planting around 1.4 lac trees over five years, aligning with the Government of India’s FAME-II objectives. Over a five-year period, the Mysuru rollout is expected to generate a cumulative income of ₹50 crore for all women beneficiaries, reinforcing Herbalife India’s commitment to inclusive growth, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

Addressing the gathering Shri. Seema Latkar, I.P.S., Commissioner, Mysuru City Police said

“As Commissioner of Mysuru City Police, I have seen firsthand how economic independence transforms the lives of women and makes our communities safer and more resilient. The Eco-Wheels Women’s Initiative is a commendable step toward enabling women to take charge of their futures while contributing to greener, cleaner urban mobility. Mysuru Police extends its full support to such initiatives that champion equality, inclusion, and social progress.”

Shri Anand C, Director, Shishu Mandir, added 

“For over three decades, Shishu Mandir has worked to create dignified, scalable livelihood opportunities for underserved communities. Eco-Wheels has grown from a mobility program into a movement of confidence and self-reliance. With the Mysuru launch, we are enabling more women and transgender individuals to claim their rightful place as independent earners and respected contributors to society.”

New Delhi, Jan 20: Punjab & Sind Bank, a leading public sector bank, has announced the launch of its exclusive “PSB Roadways SB Salary Account” designed especially for the permanent employees of PEPSU Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). The modified salary account aims to provide comprehensive financial protection, convenience, and value-added benefits to roadways personnel who play a critical role in the nation’s transport network.

The PSB Roadways SB Salary Account offers a comprehensive suite of insurance and banking benefits tailored to the professional and personal needs of PRTC employees. It provides Personal Accidental Death Cover of up to ₹40 lakh, along with an Additional Air Accident Death Cover of up to ₹120 lakh. The account also includes a Free Child Education Benefit under the Personal Accident Cover of up to ₹24 lakh, ensuring support for dependents in unforeseen circumstances. Further, customers can avail an overdraft facility of up to two months of net salary, and enjoy up to 25% waiver on locker rent charges, making the account both protective and highly convenient for everyday financial requirements.

These benefits are structured to provide financial security to employees and their families, particularly those exposed to occupational travel-related risks.

Speaking on the launch, Punjab & Sind Bank reaffirmed its commitment to designing sector-specific banking products: the bank continues to expand its specialized offerings for various employee groups, combining protection, convenience, and long-term financial wellbeing.

The PSB Roadways SB Salary Account also underscores the bank’s dedication to supporting public service professionals and strengthening financial inclusion among transport sector employees.

Bangalore, Jan 20: Saving for the future is something most people want to do—but sticking to a long-term savings plan can often feel difficult. Rising household expenses, changing priorities, and the pressure of paying premiums year after year can make long-term commitments hard to sustain. To make saving simpler and more affordable, Tata AIA Life Insurance has enhanced its long-term savings plan, Fortune Guarantee Supreme*, with features that ease the financial burden while offering guaranteed returns.

Sharing the Responsibility of Saving with the ‘Premium Offset’ feature

At the heart of this enhancement is Tata AIA’s unique ‘Premium Offset’ proposition. Under this feature, customers pay premiums only for the first six years of a 12-year premium-paying term, and can choose to offset the remaining six premiums with the income benefit offered by Tata AIA. This offset structure allows customers to stay invested for the long term without the pressure of paying premiums throughout the entire term. By reducing the out-of-pocket commitment, the plan lowers the barrier to disciplined saving—especially in an environment where costs and taxes often make long-term financial commitments feel overwhelming.

Commenting on the enhancement, Sujeet Kothare, Chief of Products, Marketing, Corporate Communications & Business Mid Office, Tata AIA Life Insurance, said:

“Many consumers want to save for the long term but hesitate because the commitment often feels heavy and difficult to sustain—especially with rising costs and taxes. With the strengthened Fortune Guarantee Supreme, we are changing this experience by sharing the responsibility of saving with our customers. The premium offset proposition, combined with guaranteed income options, is designed to make disciplined saving simpler, more predictable, and easier to sustain over time.”

Clarity, Certainty, and Confidence with the ‘Power of 6’

Fortune Guarantee Supreme also offers customers the option to receive a guaranteed income and other guaranteed benefits with an attractive Internal Rate of Return (IRR) upwards of 6%, subject to policy terms and conditions. This feature, known as the ‘Power of 6’, is designed for individuals seeking certainty and regular income in the future—whether to support post-retirement needs, long-term family goals, or financial stability during later life stages.

The “Power of 6” variant strengthens the company’s focus on dependable long-term solutions by offering customers an attractive guaranteed of 6% IRR. Built for individuals planning for life goals such as children’s education, retirement, and income security, the variant combines assured returns with life insurance protection to deliver greater confidence in financial planning.

Designed for Long-Term Security

As an individual, non-linked, non-participating life insurance savings plan, Fortune Guarantee Supreme provides guaranteed benefits along with life cover throughout the policy term—ensuring continuity and financial protection even in unforeseen circumstances. Eligible premiums continue to qualify for tax benefits under Section 80C, while maturity and death benefits are exempt under Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, subject to prevailing tax laws.

With these enhancements, Tata AIA Life Insurance aims to help consumers move beyond hesitation and cost-related concerns—empowering them to commit to long-term savings with greater ease, confidence, and clarity.

The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa Announces Key Leadership Appointments: Sidharth Bhardwaj as Executive Chef and Braj Mohan Jat as Director of Food & Beverage

The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa is pleased to announce the appointment of two seasoned hospitality Culinary & Food & Beverage professionals Sidharth Bhardwaj as Executive Chef and Braj Mohan Jat as Director of Food & Beverage. Together, they bring over three decades of combined experience within the luxury hospitality sector, particularly with Marriott International brands.

Executive Chef Sidharth Bhardwaj Chef Sidharth joins the resort with over 18 years of culinary expertise. He has previously helmed culinary operations as Executive Chef at prestigious properties including the Sheraton Hyderabad and JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort and Spa. His distinguished career is marked by numerous accolades, including the ‘Young Hotel Chef of the Year 2017’ by FHRAI and the ‘Award of Culinary Excellence, Asia Pacific Rising Star 2016’ from Marriott International. Chef Sidharth is renowned for his commitment to using natural, wholesome ingredients and his ability to create immersive, experiential dining journeys.

Director of Food & Beverage, Braj Mohan Jat Mr. Braj Mohan Jat (Braj) brings a wealth of strategic leadership to his role as Director of Food & Beverage. With a robust background that includes over 13 years with Marriott International. His expertise lies in revenue management, event and conference management, and a proven track record of achieving the highest levels of guest satisfaction through customized service standards.

Elevating the Dining Experience In their new roles, Chef Sidharth and Braj will oversee the resort’s diverse culinary portfolio, ensuring that each venue Harvest, Haven, Ira, and the Pool Bar delivers the Westin brand’s signature wellness experience. Beyond the traditional outlets, the duo is set to revolutionize the resort’s gastronomic identity by curating a series of unique, immersive dining experiences. Guests can look forward to intimate Villa Barbeques, providing a personalized and private culinary affair, and authentic Farm-to-Table dining experiences that celebrate local produce and seasonal flavours. Central to their vision is the implementation of the Westin Eat Well Menus, designed to provide delicious, nutrient-rich options that sustain health and well-being without compromising on gourmet flair.

We are thrilled to welcome Chef Sidharth and Mr. Braj to our leadership team,” said Mr. Kamaljit Singh, General Manager of The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa. “Chef Sidharth’s creative vision and culinary prowess, combined with Braj’s strategic expertise in F&B operations, will undoubtedly elevate our guest experiences. Their shared passion for excellence and deep-rooted experience with Marriott International makes them the perfect fit to lead our talented team as we introduce these new dining concepts and continue to define luxury hospitality in Jaipur.

New Delhi, Jan 20: Zomato, India’s food ordering and delivery platform, launches a video campaign featuring Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana that flips the script on healthy eating: it’s not about restriction, it’s about choosing hard because hard is what makes you better.

The film draws a compelling parallel between Mandhana’s journey, from winning World Cups and reaching new milestones to navigating personal challenges, and the everyday choices we all face. Through unwavering discipline and determination, she has consistently chosen the harder path to become one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.

The campaign deliberately shifts the narrative around healthy eating. Instead of positioning it as deprivation or a New Year’s resolution destined to fail, Zomato frames it as what elite performers do, making disciplined choices that compound over time. This isn’t about guilt. It’s about ambition. The same mindset that drives athletic excellence can drive personal health goals.

Commenting on the campaign, Sahibjeet Singh Sawhney, Marketing Head, Zomato said, 

“Smriti’s journey reminds us that excellence isn’t built on easy choices; it’s built on the hard ones, made consistently. This campaign isn’t about guilt or New Year resolutions that fade by February. It’s about reframing healthy eating as an act of strength and ambition. With Healthy Mode, we’re giving customers the tools to make those hard choices easier, so that discipline becomes habit, and habit becomes transformation.”

The multi-channel campaign will be brought to life through digital and social media.

To convert intent into action, the campaign spotlights Healthy Mode, Zomato’s feature that removes friction from choosing healthy:

• Healthy Scores at a glance
• Macro breakdowns
• Healthier alternatives across every cuisine
• One-tap filtering

Healthy Mode aligns with Zomato’s core mission of “Better food for more people.” By making nutritional information accessible and actionable, the platform aims to transform healthy eating from an occasional choice to an everyday ordering habit. Check out the Healthy Mode on Zomato.

Chennai, Jan  20 : EscrowTech India, the country’s only pure-play software escrow services provider and the market leader, has officially rebranded as EscrowNXT to underscore its focus on next-generation software escrow solutions for AI-driven systems, enhanced capabilities, and global expansion.

EscrowNXT officially came into effect on January 1, 2026. Founded in 2005 as EscrowTech India, the company has served over 500 clients, including leading Indian and international BFSI institutions and prominent software companies. With a focus on next-generation software escrow solutions for AI-driven systems, EscrowNXT plans to incorporate automated verification and smart contract integration. As part of its international growth strategy, the company is establishing an office in Dubai to strengthen its presence in the GCC region and support regional enterprises and financial institutions.

Software escrow is a secure, tripartite arrangement between a software developer, a client or end user, and an independent escrow provider, under which the software’s source code and documentation are held safely and released only if predefined events, such as vendor insolvency or contract breaches, occur. Escrow services protect clients by ensuring business continuity when vendor support fails, while helping developers build trust and credibility without exposing their intellectual property. By acting as a neutral custodian, escrow services reduce risk and strengthen confidence for all parties in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

EscrowNXT pioneered the institutionalisation of software escrow services in India at a time when technology risk mitigation was largely unexplored. Over the past 20 years, it has offered a comprehensive suite of ISO 9001:2015–certified services including software escrow, technology escrow, IP archival, verification and testing, and secure vault solutions.

In his comments, Mr. Arun Mahadevan, Managing Director – EscrowNXT said,

“As the first mover in software escrow in India, EscrowNXT has played a pivotal role in mitigating enterprise risks such as vendor insolvency, technology obsolescence, and regulatory compliance, including the Reserve Bank of India’s requirements on source code access for critical applications. This milestone underscores our unmatched expertise in a market where pure-play escrow providers remain rare. Our transition to EscrowNXT reflects our evolved vision and expanded capabilities, with a sharp focus on global markets and next-generation software escrow solutions for AI-driven systems, incorporating automated verification and smart contract integration.”

Bengaluru, Jan  20: Deconstruct Skincare, the science-backed skincare brand, unveils #BringBackBarbershops, a campaign that celebrates a space many of us hold close: the neighbourhood barbershop. Supported by digital amplification, the campaign invites people to rediscover these local institutions.

For generations, these shops have been more than places to get a haircut or a shave. They’ve been safe havens where conversations flow easily, where human bonds form naturally, and where the rhythm of routine brings a rare kind of comfort. There’s something special about these spaces – the familiar chair, the trusted hands, the unrushed attention. They’re cornerstones of the neighbourhood, quietly important in ways that go beyond grooming.

Malini Adapureddy, Founder & CEO, Deconstruct, said:

“Before algorithms told men how to groom, there was the neighbourhood barber. We wanted to honour that tradition, not disrupt it. This campaign isn’t about selling a new routine; it’s about recognising one that’s already there and showing how thoughtful products can fit seamlessly into rituals men already trust. The barbershop has always been a place of care. Our Oil-Free Moisturiser simply replaces the sting at the end with something gentler.”

“Today’s ceremony is a defining moment in Pavna’s journey of sustained growth and regional outreach. The Hosur facility underscores our strategic intent to be closer to our customers, drive operational excellence, and reliably meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry. Our investment and expansion in Hosur will bolster production capability, strengthen logistics efficiency, and contribute to local economic development. We now look forward to the swift completion of this facility and to commencing operations at the earliest possible time frame.”