Category business

Mumbai/ Kolkata, September 19, 2025: Dhruva Capital Services, an NBFC engaged in the business of investment and financing has announced strategic merger with Vector Finance Private Limited marking its foray into microfinance business. The company currently offers business loan, loan against property, loans for commercial vehicle and commercial equipment, invoice and lease rental discounting and construction finance.

The board of directors of Dhruva Capital Services on Friday approved the merger of Vector Finance with the company and its shareholders. The merger will be subject to necessary approvals/sanctions, from National Company Law Tribunal or such other competent authority and shareholders and creditors of both the companies, Dhruva Capital said in a notification to stock exchanges.

With Assets under Management (AUM) of Rs 390.23 crore as on March 31, 2025, Vector Finance has presence across six states primarily in the eastern and north eastern parts of the country. In FY25, the company disbursed a total amount of Rs 222.66 crore among 43,274 customers. Its total revenue from operation stood at Rs 27.16 crore as on March 31, 2025.

Mr Rahul Johri, Chairman, Vector Finance and a veteran banker with over 34 years of experience in leadership roles between the microfinance sector and banks such as Bandhan Bank, DBS Bank, Standard Chartered and Barclays said, the merger would offer perfect synergies and help create and develop a more diversified and resilient organisation.

“At Vector Finance it has been our constant endeavour to drive grassroot level penetration of finance in the country. This merger will offer the perfect synergies to help create and develop a more diversified and resilient organisation by leveraging upon Dhruva Capital’s understanding of financial sector and backed by our strong deep roots level connect in the MFI sector. The merger will also help reduce the overall cost of borrowing besides providing access to additional capital, which in turn would help the company further improve both its topline and also endeavour to reduce the interest rate to customers. This integration will enhance our ability to serve customers across segments, expand our product suite and unlock synergies in operations and capital efficiency,” Johri said.

Commenting on the merger, Mr Shreeram Bagla, Managing Director of Dhruva Capital Services, said, “The proposed merger of Vector Finance with Dhruva Capital marks a significant milestone in our growth journey. The microfinance company has a strong presence across six key states in the eastern and northeastern parts of the country, which are largely underpenetrated. By joining forces with the company, we wish to create a stronger and more resilient institution which combines our robust understanding of the financial sector with the deep and well entrenched reach of microfinance sector. Our vision is to drive inclusive growth by penetrating into under penetrated markets and empowering underserved communities. We believe that this strategic merger will not only strengthen our balance sheet and help us expand our reach and presence but will also make finance accessible and affordable to the mass market.”

According to SIDBI data, the portfolio outstanding of microfinance industry as on 31st March 2025 is ₹3,35,071 crore with 11.1 crore active loans. NBFC-MFIs contributes highest towards portfolio outstanding.

Bengaluru, 18th September 2025 – MATTER, India’s pioneering electric mobility innovator, today announced the grand opening of its second Experience Hub in Bengaluru, located in Domlur. The new hub marks another milestone in MATTER’s rapidly expanding retail network, reinforcing its commitment to accelerate India’s transition towards clean, connected, and sustainable mobility.

The MATTER Experience Hub – Domlur, located at Hiranya Complex, 2/3, 1st Stage, Domlur, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560071, offers a futuristic destination where riders can explore MATTER’s cutting-edge EV technologies and experience first-hand the AERA—India’s first geared electric motorbike.

The inauguration was graced by Chief Guest Shri Prabhakar Sindhe MA., LLB., ACP (Rtd.), alongside MATTER’s leadership team, dealer partners, and enthusiastic riders from across Bengaluru.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Arun Pratap Singh, Founder & Group COO, MATTER, said:
“Bengaluru is India’s innovation capital, and Domlur is a vibrant, well-connected community at the crossroads of the city’s tech and residential hubs. With our new Experience Hub here, we are creating an opportunity for people to experience world-class EV technology up close. Through the AERA, we hope to offer riders not just a new way to commute, but a smarter, cleaner, and more exhilarating way to move through their city.”

The Dealer Principal, Ms. Bhanu Praveen, present at the scene, said:
“We are proud to bring this state-of-the-art EV experience to Domlur in partnership with MATTER. The city is ready for a new chapter in transportation, and with the AERA, we are offering something truly unique—where innovation meets performance.”

AERA – Geared for Thrills, Built for the Future

At the heart of the Experience Hub is the AERA 5000+, the world’s first manufactured geared electric motorbike and MATTER’s flagship innovation. Equipped with HyperShift, a 4-speed manual gearbox, the AERA combines the thrill of gears with the efficiency of electric power—bridging tradition and future mobility.

Visitors to the Domlur Hub can explore a phygital environment—where immersive digital engagement meets hands-on product experience. From interactive displays to test rides, the Hub is designed to help riders understand MATTER’s in-house engineered innovations that are shaping the future of urban mobility.

Key Features of the AERA 5000+:

• HyperShift Gearbox – 4-speed manual transmission with Eco, City, and Sport ride modes
• Liquid-Cooled Powertrain – Engineered for India’s urban traffic and high temperatures
• 7” Smart Touch Dashboard – Navigation, ride stats, media, and OTA updates
• 5kWh Battery Pack – Certified 172 km range; IP67 rated for dust and water resistance
• Quick Acceleration – 0–40 km/h in under 2.8 seconds
• Enhanced Safety – Dual disc brakes with ABS, dual suspension, smart park assists
• MATTER Mobile App – Real-time tracking, geo-fencing, ride history, remote controls
• Lifetime Battery Warranty – A first in India, ensuring long-term rider confidence

Driving Bengaluru’s Electric Momentum

As India’s EV adoption accelerates, Bengaluru—home to tech-forward, sustainability-conscious riders—plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility. The Domlur Experience Hub will serve as a community hub for electric mobility, allowing enthusiasts to discover, engage, and join MATTER’s growing LOOPED program, which already connects thousands of riders across the country.

By Reema Diwan

For decades, the sustainability conversation in India’s hospitality sector revolved around doing less harm. Energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction became standard talking points. But a deeper shift is underway, one that moves beyond preservation into active restoration. Today, the focus is not only on minimising impact but on regenerating ecosystems, cultures and communities.

Completing the Circle of Care

Regeneration is more than sustainability; it is the completion of a circle. Where sustainability seeks to maintain, regeneration seeks to rebuild economies, ecosystems, cultural heritage and human experiences. In the context of Indian hospitality, this means integrating climate-conscious operations with community revival, cultural storytelling and ecological repair.

A Shift from Global to Local

The design philosophy has evolved from global mimicry to local immersion. For years, hotel architecture was heavily influenced by Western aesthetics, overlooking the depth of India’s cultural and environmental narratives. Now, regeneration positions hotels as gateways to authentic local experiences. Guests arriving in a city like Varanasi or a heritage town in Rajasthan or Gujarat are greeted not just by international luxury but by the textures, stories and craftsmanship that belong to the land itself.

Reviving Craft and Heritage

One of the cornerstones of regenerative hospitality is the revival of indigenous strategies and materials. Traditional craftsmanship, once sidelined during globalisation, is being revived and adapted for modern use. However, this revival is not without challenges. Many artisanal skills have faded after decades of neglect, making it difficult to find craftspeople capable of intricate heritage work. When done well, these efforts create deeply immersive environments. Restored heritage properties can immerse guests in the spirit of their location, with every corridor, courtyard and detail of the mahal or haveli telling a story rooted in place. This approach benefits not only guests but also local economies and pride, turning hotels into cultural custodians.

Innovation Meets Ecology

Regeneration is also finding expression through technological innovation. Emerging building technologies, such as advanced facades capable of reducing energy use by up to 40 per cent, are now part of luxury hotel planning. These solutions, once successful in the hospitality sector, have the potential to influence other industries. Water management offers another field for regenerative action, from rainwater-fed lily ponds that double as aesthetic features to on-site wastewater recycling. Similarly, biodiversity-conscious planning, such as preserving mature trees, creating green roofs and protecting gardens, ensures that natural habitats are not sacrificed for construction.

Hotels as Community Assets

The new measure of success is whether a hotel actively benefits its surroundings. Properties are increasingly seen as assets for their local communities, supporting livelihoods, preserving culture and fostering resilience. This shift is as much about mindset as it is about architecture. Established hotel developers, familiar with the long-term value of regenerative design, are often more receptive than emerging players who may still view hotels as status symbols. In urban hotels, where space and function are tightly constrained, there is still hesitancy to integrate eco-sensitive materials, though designers are finding creative ways to bring natural textures and conscious choices into business properties.

Blending Global Benchmarks with Local Realities

Global hospitality brands bring established green benchmarks, but these must adapt to India’s diverse climates and cultural contexts. The best results come from aligning international frameworks with local environmental conditions, prioritising Indian ecological truths first, then integrating broader global standards where relevant.

Bridging Gaps in Policy and Finance

Despite the growing interest, financial and policy support for regenerative hospitality in India remains limited. Certification systems such as LEED are still rare, and more robust incentives are needed to make eco-sensitive design the norm rather than the exception. Regenerative hotels must evolve into a standard, i.e., places where operations, design and guest experience are part of a seamless ecosystem. Here, guests will understand the purpose behind design choices, staff will balance comfort with ecological care, and properties will aim for net-zero or net-positive impact.

Towards a Regenerative Future

Indian hotels can lead this transformation by protecting biodiversity, managing water responsibly, embracing adaptive reuse, engaging with communities and choosing non-toxic materials. In this vision, hotels are no longer just places to stay, but active participants in restoring land, reviving culture and regenerating community well-being. From heritage mansions reborn as immersive experiences to modern city hotels with green roofs and zero-waste kitchens, the shift is already ongoing. The challenge now is scaling it from inspiring examples to an industry-wide standard.

Reema Diwan, Vice President of Design & Technical Services at Accor India & South Asia, is a seasoned hospitality design leader with over two decades of experience and a proven track record of delivering award-winning hotels.

Mumbai, September 17, 2025 – In a disruptive collaboration that exemplifies innovation in digital marketing, Dun & Bradstreet India, the nation’s premier business decisioning data and analytics leader with over 42 million business records, has partnered with Infidigit, one of the most award-winning digital marketing agencies, to spearhead the transformation of AI-powered search at an exclusive executive workshop.

This strategic alliance represents a pivotal moment in search marketing evolution, as AI Overviews now appear in 47% of Google searches and 60% of searches complete without clicks, fundamentally reshaping how brands connect with their audiences. The workshop at Dun & Bradstreet’s Mumbai headquarters brought together senior marketing leaders to address the most pressing challenge facing businesses today: maintaining visibility in an AI-first search landscape.

Revolutionary Results Define Industry Leadership

Infidigit’s transformative impact on Dun & Bradstreet India has set new industry benchmarks:

• 1,500+ keyword placements secured in Google’s AI Overview
• 57-fold increase in traffic from LLM platforms within just three months
• Complete strategic realignment for AI-driven search environments

These extraordinary results position both organisations at the forefront of the $17.6 billion AI content marketing industry that’s projected to grow at a 25.68% CAGR through 2033.

Addressing Critical Industry Transformation

The workshop tackled the seismic shifts revolutionising search behaviour:

Traditional Search Disruption: With Google’s Search Engine Results Pages evolving from basic listings to AI-generated summaries, traditional organic strategies face unprecedented challenges. Recent studies show a 34.5% drop in position 1 click-through rates when AI Overviews appear.

Emergent Platform Dominance: LLM-powered platforms, including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity, are establishing themselves as primary search destinations, with ChatGPT reaching 10 million monthly mobile downloads and 31% of Gen Z searches now occurring on AI platforms.

Measurement Revolution: Organisations are abandoning traditional rank-and-traffic models for sophisticated metrics, including brand presence within AI answers and conversational search outcomes – capabilities that Infidigit’s proprietary Infigrowth platform delivers with unprecedented precision.

Strategic Framework for Future Dominance

The session concluded with actionable strategies for maintaining competitive advantage:

• Structured content development optimised for AI interpretation
• AI-focused SEO frameworks that anticipate algorithm evolution
• Real-time optimisation platforms like Infigrowth for emerging search environments
• Brand presence strategies within AI-generated responses

Industry Leadership Voices

Vipul Oberoi, Director – Marketing, CSR & Learning Solutions, Dun & Bradstreet India, emphasised the transformative impact: “Infidigit’s AI workshop connected critical dots between AI’s influence on Google SERPs and our adaptive SEO strategies. Their Infigrowth insights on AI Overviews proved invaluable, positioning us to make confident, data-driven decisions in this rapidly evolving landscape.”

Kaushal Thakkar, Founder and CEO of Infidigit, positioned the collaboration within broader industry transformation: “We’re witnessing search’s most significant evolution in decades. AI Overviews and LLMs are fundamentally rewriting discovery rules, and brands moving decisively now will capture disproportionate benefits. Our partnership with Dun & Bradstreet exemplifies both immediate measurable impact and strategic preparation for AI-first search futures.”

Market Leadership Through Innovation

This collaboration underscores both organisations’ market-leading positions:

Dun & Bradstreet India celebrates 30 years of business intelligence leadership, generating ₹14.7 billion economic impact in FY24 alone and supporting over 10,600 jobs nationwide.

Infidigit maintains its position as India’s premier digital marketing innovator with 70+ award-winning campaigns recognised by SMX, APAC Search Awards, ET BrandEquity Shark Awards, and E4M IDMA. Recent accolades include dual wins at the BW Merit Awards 2025 and recognition by Forbes ‘India’s Promising Brands 2025.

Industry Transformation Imperative

Industry analysis confirms the urgency driving this partnership. With AI searches reducing organic web traffic by 15-25% and 58% of informational queries triggering AI overviews, businesses across sectors are fundamentally rethinking digital strategies. Consumer expectations have shifted toward instantaneous, conversational answers, making visibility within AI-driven results critical for sustainable brand growth.

In today’s fast-paced business world, marketing professionals face the constant challenge of staying ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape. While technical skills, creativity, and knowledge of digital tools are essential, one of the most powerful drivers of professional success remains business networking. Building meaningful connections, cultivating relationships, and creating a professional circle of trust can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and growth for marketing professionals.

This article explores the importance of business networking, strategies to master it, and its role in advancing careers and marketing effectiveness.

Why Business Networking Matters for Marketing Professionals

Marketing, by its nature, thrives on relationships—with customers, clients, partners, and colleagues. Networking extends this principle by helping professionals foster connections that can directly and indirectly influence their career and business trajectory.

Here are some key reasons why networking is vital:

1. Access to Opportunities
   Networking introduces professionals to potential clients, job openings, partnerships, and industry events that might not be publicly advertised. Many marketing contracts, speaking opportunities, and collaborations emerge from personal connections rather than formal applications.

2. Knowledge Sharing and Learning
   The marketing landscape evolves rapidly with trends like AI, influencer marketing, and data-driven strategies. Through networking, professionals gain insights into new tools, techniques, and best practices directly from peers who are actively experimenting and learning.

3. Building Credibility and Trust
   A strong network enhances credibility. When respected peers recommend you or your services, it boosts trust with potential clients and employers. This is particularly important in marketing, where personal reputation often influences decision-making.

4. Career Growth
   Networking can help professionals position themselves as thought leaders. By engaging with the right circles, sharing insights, and contributing to discussions, marketing professionals increase their visibility and stand out in the industry.

Types of Networking for Marketing Professionals

Networking doesn’t always mean attending large conferences or exchanging business cards at mixers. For marketing professionals, there are several avenues to build and strengthen networks:

1. Professional Associations and Organizations
   Groups such as the American Marketing Association (AMA), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), or regional marketing councils provide structured networking opportunities through events, seminars, and online forums.

2. Industry Conferences and Trade Shows
   These events allow professionals to meet potential clients, vendors, and collaborators face-to-face, fostering deeper connections.

3. Digital Networking Platforms
   Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and niche marketing forums offer space for professionals to share content, engage in discussions, and connect with industry peers globally.

4. Alumni and Local Business Groups
   University alumni networks or local chambers of commerce provide a close-knit community of professionals who often support each other in business ventures.

5. Mentorship and Peer Groups
   Joining masterminds, peer groups, or mentorship circles allows marketing professionals to exchange ideas and gain guidance from experienced leaders.

Effective Networking Strategies

Networking is not about collecting the most contacts but about building authentic, long-term relationships. Here are some strategies to help marketing professionals succeed:

1. Give Before You Ask

Offer value to others before seeking help. Share industry insights, connect people within your network, or provide feedback. This establishes goodwill and strengthens bonds.

2. Be Consistent

Networking isn’t a one-time event—it requires continuous effort. Follow up with contacts after meetings, engage with their posts online, and check in periodically.

3. Leverage Social Media

Share thought leadership content, comment on discussions, and participate in groups to expand your reach. LinkedIn, in particular, is a powerful tool for marketing professionals.

4. Personalize Your Approach

Instead of generic introductions, personalize your outreach. Show genuine interest in the person’s work and highlight common ground to build rapport.

5. Attend with a Purpose

When attending events, set clear goals—such as meeting three potential collaborators or learning about new marketing technologies. This ensures productive interactions.

6. Build a Diverse Network

Don’t restrict networking to your niche. Connect with professionals from related industries like sales, technology, and entrepreneurship, as cross-industry connections often lead to innovative collaborations.

Networking in the Digital Era

The rise of remote work and digital platforms has transformed how professionals connect. Virtual events, webinars, and online communities are now powerful networking tools. For marketing professionals, this means:

• Webinars and Online Workshops: Attending and speaking at online sessions enhances visibility and credibility.

• Content Collaboration: Partnering on blogs, podcasts, or social media campaigns with peers broadens reach.

• Virtual Networking Apps: Tools like Slack groups, Meetup, and Clubhouse foster real-time interactions with industry experts.

Common Networking Mistakes to Avoid

While networking offers immense benefits, some missteps can harm your reputation:

1. Over-Pitching Yourself
   Constantly promoting your services without listening to others can drive people away. Focus on genuine conversations first.

2. Neglecting Follow-Ups
   Failing to reconnect after the initial meeting results in lost opportunities.

3. Not Being Authentic
   Insincere or transactional networking rarely leads to strong connections. Authenticity builds trust.

4. Ignoring Online Presence
   An outdated or inactive online profile undermines credibility in today’s digital-first world.

How Networking Fuels Marketing Success

For marketing professionals, networking does more than build connections—it directly impacts performance:

• Client Acquisition: Referrals and introductions from trusted contacts often lead to high-quality leads.

• Partnerships: Collaborations with other businesses, influencers, or agencies expand reach.

• Market Insights: Networking provides real-time feedback on consumer behavior and competitor strategies.

• Professional Development: Exposure to new perspectives and mentorship helps professionals refine their skills and strategies.

Final Thoughts

Business networking is not just an optional activity—it is an essential strategy for marketing professionals looking to grow their careers and businesses. In a world where relationships often precede opportunities, building a strong, authentic network can be the key differentiator between good and great marketing professionals.

By embracing both traditional and digital networking avenues, avoiding common pitfalls, and consistently adding value to their connections, marketing professionals can position themselves as trusted experts while unlocking opportunities for growth, collaboration, and long-term success.

With the festive shopping season approaching, the excitement is higher than ever. Meesho’s Mega Blockbuster Sale begins on September 19, followed closely by Amazon’s Great Indian Festival and Flipkart’s Big Billion Days from September 23. These sales are expected to bring significant discounts across categories, ranging from smartphones, laptops and smart televisions to fashion, beauty, furniture, home décor, kitchen appliances and more.

However, great deals often arrive before payday, leaving many buyers worried about missing out. Quick loan apps are increasingly becoming the bridge that allows shoppers to access funds instantly and make timely purchases during such high-demand sales. Below are five apps that can help you be sale-ready without financial delays. 

BharatLoan

BharatLoan is designed with a simple three-step loan process that makes borrowing quick and efficient. The app ensures rapid approvals and fast disbursals, ideal for shoppers who want to act quickly during limited-period sales. With its streamlined system, users can rely on it for both big-ticket items and everyday purchases. From premium smartphones to festive gifting, BharatLoan enables buyers to shop without delaying their plans. Its convenience makes it especially appealing during high-demand events like Amazon, Flipkart and Meesho sales.

Rupee112

Rupee112 provides a completely digital loan journey, removing paperwork and unnecessary delays. Once users apply through the app, funds are credited swiftly after eligibility is confirmed. This speed becomes an advantage during lightning deals or flash sales that require immediate checkout. Rupee112 can support a wide range of purchases, from electronics and home appliances to fashion and lifestyle products. For those who want instant access to money when shopping opportunities arise, Rupee112 is a dependable option.

Lendingplate

Lendingplate positions itself as a flexible and modern loan platform that gives borrowers more control. Its application process is straightforward, with quick approvals and timely credit into bank accounts. The platform works well for higher-value purchases such as laptops, televisions and furniture that often feature in festive sales. By offering smooth digital services, Lendingplate appeals to busy professionals who do not want to spend time on lengthy procedures. It ensures that shopping plans during big sales are not restricted by monthly cash flow limits.

KreditBee

KreditBee is among the most widely used quick loan apps, particularly trusted by younger professionals. The app offers loans up to three lakh rupees, making it suitable for both small and large festive purchases. Its intuitive interface allows borrowers to apply, track and manage loans with ease. KreditBee’s speed of disbursal ensures that customers can seize attractive offers before stocks run out. For those aiming to shop across categories during Amazon, Flipkart and Meesho sales, KreditBee provides the flexibility they need.

CASHe

CASHe stands out with its use of AI-powered systems to process applications quickly and reduce waiting times. The platform has built its reputation on delivering funds on the same day, which is critical during festival discounts. It caters to both small-ticket and mid-size loans, covering everything from gadgets to lifestyle shopping. CASHe’s user-friendly app design makes the borrowing process simple for working professionals. With its focus on speed and convenience, CASHe is well-positioned for the demands of the upcoming festive season sales.

During festive sales, deals often disappear within minutes. By keeping these loan apps installed and ready, you’ll always have a backup plan to shop electronics, fashion, home essentials, lifestyle products and more without stressing about cash in hand.

Delhi,17 september 2025: Motorists using automated driving systems overestimate their situation awareness and readiness to respond but are slower to recognise hazards compared with active “hands on” driving, a new study from Macquarie University shows. The findings, published in the journal Applied Ergonomics, raise significant concerns about driver performance and road safety as increasingly advanced automation systems are integrated into new vehicles, the authors warn.

Researchers from Macquarie’s Performance and Expertise Research Centre studied participants who used a sophisticated simulator to “drive” about six kilometres in automated and non-automated driving modes, asking them to rate their situation awareness and measuring their responses to hazards. Surprisingly, drivers under automated driving conditions self-reported higher levels of situation awareness than those actively driving in non-automated mode. However, they also demonstrated significantly poorer hazard recognition compared to those participants in non-automated driving conditions, taking a longer driving distance to react to both anticipated hazards (such as another vehicle with its turning indicators on) and surprise hazards (such as a pedestrian emerging suddenly from behind a sign). Globally, there are approximately 54 million automated cars, which is expected to grow to 80 million units worldwide, and in India, there are 1.2 million units, and the number is expected to grow to 4.5 million by the year 2030.

Shedding a little light on the psyche of the drives, Mr. George Nasser, the researcher, said, “This paradox is an example of what we call the ‘out-of-the-loop’ phenomenon. When they’re relieved of responsibility for control, and as their trust in the vehicle increases, drivers tend to pay less attention to monitoring what the automated systems are doing. Under these conditions, the driver’s situation awareness declines and so does their ability to get back ‘in the loop’ and take control should they need to in the event of a hazard or malfunction.”

The disconnect researchers found between drivers’ perceptions and their actual driving performance suggests they develop inaccurate understandings or “mental models” of the automated driving system and what it does. As an example of a worst-case scenario, Mr. Nasser cites a fatal 2016 crash in the US involving a Tesla electric vehicle in which the driver had his hands on the steering wheel for only 25 seconds while the vehicle’s ‘autopilot’ system was active for 37 minutes. An incomplete understanding of the system’s limitations led to the driver not intervening when the automated system failed to detect and respond to a truck crossing the vehicle’s path.

Speaking on the subject, Mr. Nasser said, “The driver’s mental model – in other words, how fully and accurately the driver understands the automation system and the information it feeds back to them – determines their ability to take control. What complicates this area is that our mental models of driving are constantly changing as we encounter more automated systems built into new cars.”

Mr. Nasser further added, “What the review highlights is a need to keep drivers ‘on the loop’ — monitoring without direct control but remaining vigilant and ready to intervene, if necessary. Evidence suggests interfaces and visual displays that provide the driver with continuous, easy-to-interpret feedback about system status and limitations are the best way to support accurate mental models and optimise take-over performance.”

“Automation in vehicles is here to stay, and the challenge now is ensuring it works with drivers, not against them. If we design systems that keep drivers engaged, we can enjoy the safety benefits of automation without compromising lives on the road,” concludes Mr. Nasser.

Hyderabad (17 September 2025) — The 19th edition of CII PaperTech, a flagship conference advancing energy efficiency in India’s pulp & paper sector, will be held on 16th & 17th September 2025 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC). Themed “Make Indian Pulp & Paper Industry World Class”, the event brings together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for elevating the sector to international standards.

Mr. Pawan Agarwal, President, Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA) and MD, Naini Papers Ltd., highlighted: ” The Indian pulp and paper industry can become world-class with a simple shift in mindset. Small steps, such as scaling operations, ensuring export consistency, and creating unique value propositions, can make a significant difference. By moving beyond just commodities and focusing on value-added products, we can create a thriving ecosystem for engineered solutions.”

Mr. Sushil Kumar Khetan, Vice President of the Indian Newsprint Manufacturers Association (INMA) & Chief Executive Officer, Emami Paper Ltd., shared: ” CII’s PaperTech has become a powerful platform for ideas, innovations, and change. The paper industry has rapidly embraced technology, with recycling at its very core. Our next big step must be to make paper mills efficient without coal, moving decisively from intent to action.”

Mr. Pramod Agarwal, President, Indian Agro & Recycled Paper Mills Association ( IARPMA) & Chairman & Managing Director, Rama Paper Mills Ltd. remarked: “Paper is not just a product—it is an integral part of our economy. The growth of this industry is directly linked to the progress of the nation. As the largest contributor to recycling, the paper industry perfectly aligns with the Swachh Bharat Mission envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister.”

In addition to insightful discussions and keynote addresses, PaperTech 2025 featured the release of the “Best Practices Manual in Paper Sector (Volume 13),” showcasing advancements and innovations within the industry. The conference also honored N Gopalratnam, Chairman, Seshasayee Paper & Boards Ltd. with the Distinguished Personality award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the pulp and paper sector.

PaperTech 2025 is being organized alongside the 24th CII Energy Efficiency Summit and the 26th CII National Energy Awards for Excellence in Energy Management, where leading paper mills and other industries will be awarded after evaluation of their achievements in energy efficiency.

National, 16th September 2025 –  Zupee recently announced the launch of Zupee Studio, a short-format video content platform designed to deliver fresh, engaging stories to audiences across Bharat. With episodes lasting just one to two minutes, Zupee Studio is designed for today’s fast-paced lifestyles, offering light-hearted, snackable content at your fingertips.

Zupee Studio currently offers a series of romance, drama, thriller, comedy and more, all designed for mobile-first entertainment. This makes the content both refreshing and relatable to Indian audiences.

How to watch –

• Download the Zupee app from www.zupee.com
• Open Zupee app and sign in by entering your mobile number
• On the Home screen, tap the Studio icon to start watching
• Select and play the free episodes of your choice.
• Tap Zupee Plus to access full series and extra content, with plans starting at ₹2, then complete the in-app payment safely.

Key Features of Zupee Studio:

• Each episode runs just 1 to 3 minutes across genres such as romance, drama, thriller, comedy and more, perfect for on-the-go streaming.
• You can unlock premium content at just INR 2 per episode.
• Enjoy seamless and uninterrupted entertainment with Zupee Plus subscription at INR 599.

At present, Zupee Studio can be accessed directly within the Zupee app on Android devices. Users can download the app from the official Zupee website. An iOS version will be available soon, enabling users to enjoy the same experience.

Zupee Studio marks a bold new chapter in the company’s growth journey, expanding its horizons from online social gaming to shaping India’s digital entertainment landscape. For more details and to start watching, download the Zupee app today.

India – September 16, 2025 – Amazon India today announced a strategic partnership with the Army Welfare Placement Organization (AWPO), an establishment under the Indian Army, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at creating meaningful career opportunities for ex-servicemen, military spouses and war widows across the company. This collaboration reinforces Amazon’s commitment to tapping into the exceptional skills and resilience of the veteran and military spouse community, while supporting their transition into rewarding civilian careers through tailored recruitment pathways, training, and development programs.

Under the MOU, Amazon India will share relevant job openings with AWPO, which focusses on the three pillars of military community of 1. Veterans, 2. Military spouses and 3. War widows – for employment opportunities. Amazon will also conduct awareness sessions, including webinars and workshops, to guide prospective applicants through available roles and career progression opportunities within the company.

“At Amazon, our commitment to building a diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace is paramount. We recognize that veterans and military spouses exemplify Leadership Principles such as Bias for Action, Ownership, and Deliver Results—bringing operational excellence, mission focus, and leadership that align strongly with Amazon’s culture. This partnership with the Army Welfare Placement Organization is a vital step in deepening our support for ex-service personnel, military spouses and war widows, providing them with meaningful career opportunities that leverage their unique strengths and experiences. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for enabling this strategic partnership,” said Deepti Varma, VP – People Experience and Technology at Amazon Stores India, Japan and Emerging Markets. 

This collaboration is aligned with Amazon’s global commitment to supporting military families through initiatives such as the Military Spouse Fellowship Program and the Military Hiring Program, which provide career pathways, mentorship, and providing career pathways, mentorship for veterans including flexibility for spouses. 

Speaking about the MoU, Maj Gen Ajay Singh Chauhan, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal (Retd.), Managing Director at Army Welfare Placement Organization said, “The AWPO is deeply committed to the welfare of our service personnel and their families. Our collaboration with Amazon India significantly strengthens our mission to connect deserving veterans, military spouses, and war widows with meaningful employment opportunities. These individuals bring exceptional resilience and a diverse range of skills to the workforce. This partnership establishes a structured pathway for them to access corporate roles, fostering economic independence and enhancing their overall well-being. We sincerely appreciate Amazon’s recognition of the valuable skillsets and unwavering dedication of military veterans, spouses, and war widows to bring them into their organization.’’

Amazon has already successfully integrated hundreds of military veterans into its workforce in India. The company offers specialized career support including tailored interview preparation, peer mentorship networks like ‘Warriors At Amazon’, and career advancement pathways designed for the military community. 

The initiative also reflects Amazon’s broader commitment to foster an inclusive workplace by expanding opportunities for all underrepresented communities—including women, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and now military spouses and war widows. The MoU is another step towards enabling diverse talent to thrive across Amazon’s vast network of roles spanning multiple functions and job families.

Sharing her experience with Amazon as an employee of 8 years and a military spouse, Priyanka Bali, Senior Product Manager, Amazon Devices, shares, ”Being a military spouse comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining career continuity through frequent relocations and transitions. Amazon’s flexibility and support have allowed me to build a stable, fulfilling career while continuing to honor my family’s commitments to military service. It’s empowering to be part of a company that truly understands and values the military spouse community.”