Category business

New Delhi, February 23rd 2024: H.E. Mr. Igli Hasani, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania who is on a visit to India to participate in Raisina Dialogues and engagements with other government dignitaries, sees immense opportunity to deepen and strengthen relationship with India on political and economic fronts.

Addressing the media, Mr. Hasani said “Albania and India have lot in common and one of the common threads is Mother Teresa. Albania enjoys a great relationship with India and it is our effort to deepen and strengthen it further from hereon. Our aim is to further strengthen economic ties with India as we see immense potential. We need to create the necessary mechanisms to make things happen. We met a few industry captains and entrepreneurs from India to explored opportunities on how to make things work better”. He further added “Albania is at the crossroads between the European Union and East. Albania is a part of many corridors that go through possible routes of goods that link India with European Union. With Albania today emerging as one of the fastest growing European economic realities in the last year, we are moving rapidly to foster more stronger economic ties with India. On the other hand, Tourism is one of the best opportunities that Albania is offering in European Union. Replete with its sea, mountains and canyons together with the hospitality of Albanians, the country witnessed over 10 million tourists in 2023 alone. It is of utmost importance that this momentum between Albania and India is not only kept and preserved but also enhanced and I’m glad to know the plans of the Indian Government to open an Embassy in India. I’m happy to have the Honorary Consul General of Albania in India, Mr. Dikshu Kukreja working and progressing with us to enhance future engagement and possibilities of moving forward together”.

He emphasised on letting things go the sporadic way but in a more structured approach for forging and strengthening an excellent relationship between the two India in the years to come. He further urged people from India to make Albania as one of the tourist destinations for their next vacation to witness its natural and scenic beauty.

Honorary Consul General of Albania to India, Dikshu Kukreja said, “Albanian language traces its roots in Sanskrit and has a strong connect with India. The beauty of the country and peace loving nature of Albanians go hand-in-hand. Both countries have a lot in common and I look forward to leveraging this role to enhance and solidify the relations between our two countries, which have historically shared many cultural, linguistic and historical ties.”

Silver medal winning team in the 750 meters Mixed team Sprint and the officials (L-R) Shri K Dathatraye, Organising Secretary, Telangana Cycling Association; Shaik Arshad; Jalaluddin Ansari; Aditya Mehta, Chief Coach Team India and Founder AMF; Shri Maninder Singh, Secretary General, CFI; Shri Onkar Singh, Secretary General, Asian Cycling Confederation & Basavaraj Horaddi; at the Asian Para Cycling Championship, in New Delhi, today.

Hyderabad, 23rd February, 2024: The day one of the 43^rd Senior, 30th Junior Asian Track & 12^th Para Track Cycling Championships, being held from February 21^st to 26^th, 2024, at the Indoor Cycling Velodrome, IG Sports Complex, New Delhi; started with an amazing result for India. India got its first set of medals, Arshad Shaik (Category -C2), Jalaluddin Ansari (Category -C2) and Basavaraj Horradi (Category -C5) won the silver medal in the 750 meters Team Sprint.

The support for the complete training of this team was provided by GMMCO, Qualcomm, Nirmaan, United Way of Hyderabad, NMDC, Mudhra Trust and UST Global. These para-athletes have really worked hard since the last 4 years with the Aditya Mehta Foundation and team. This is just the beginning for this championship., more to go, tomorrow, day after and so on, there are back-to-back competitions, says .

Indian participants at the ongoing tournament, trained at the Aditya Mehta Foundation are Jyoti Gaderiya from Maharashtra and Arshad Shaik from Andhra Pradesh, both of whom have qualified for Paralympics 2024, AryaVardhan of Telangana and Pavan from Andhra Pradesh, Basavaraj Horradi from Karnataka and Jalaluddin Ansari from Bihar.

Jyoti Gaderiya an above knee amputee cyclist, is Asia No.2 Female Para cyclist and Arshad Shaik an above knee amputee cyclist, is Asia no.2 in Men’s Paracycling. Both these para-cyclists have qualified and will represent India for Paralympics 2024.

Cycling federation of India and Aditya Mehta Foundation have worked really hard with all these para-athletes.

Bengaluru, 23rd February 2024: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, today announced the production rollout of its 3 millionth vehicle. The event took place at its the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. This significant achievement highlights Ashok Leyland’s enduring dedication to innovation, technological advancement, and strong customer relationships.

Ashok Leyland has been a driving force in the Indian and international commercial vehicle sector with technology at the forefront. Millions of passengers rely on Ashok Leyland buses daily to reach their destinations, while the brand’s trucks play a pivotal role in keeping the wheels of the economy turning.

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO of Ashok Leyland said, “We are proud to have achieved this significant milestone. Ashok Leyland has always been ahead of the curve and leading the CV industry in product technology and innovation. The rollout of our 3 millionth vehicle is a testament to our well-established reputation for manufacturing highly reliable products and delivering top-notch customer service. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our employees, customers, and all business partners who have contributed immensely to our success.”

Mr. Ganesh Mani, Chief Operating Officer, Ashok Leyland said, “This is indeed a historic milestone for Ashok Leyland. The roll out of the 3 millionth vehicle from our factory validates the joint efforts made by our numerous teams including our supplier and technology partners. It also reinforces our commitment to provide top-quality products and services tailored to meet the emerging demands of commercial mobility.”

Ashok Leyland has a history of pioneering industry-first achievements that redefine standards and establish new benchmarks, reflecting its commitment to excellence across all business operations. Also, in line with its dedication to customer satisfaction and service excellence, the company has embarked on a comprehensive network expansion, bolstering its presence and reach nationwide. This expansion reaffirms the brand’s commitment to delivering unparalleled service and support to customers, ensuring their continued success. Outside India, Ashok Leyland has now expanded to 48 countries. Ashok Leyland, as it completes its 75 years, is fully committed to driving a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation ecosystem, moving steadfastly on its vision of becoming the Top 10 Commercial Vehicle player globally.

New Delhi, February 23, 2024: Center Fresh, the flagship gum and mints brand of Perfetti Van Melle India, is thrilled to introduce its latest innovation – the Center Fresh Mints Clean Breath Lemon Honey flavor. This new addition provides a delightful blend of intense mint and citrusy freshness offering 60 minutes of clean breath.

Center Fresh is dedicated to captivating those who are enthusiastic about refreshments. The brand aims to provide an invigorating experience for every palate, and this variant is perfect for those who love fruity flavors. The sweet and citrusy taste is like a refreshing dip in a lively, zestful pool, leaving a delightful aftertaste.

The brand pioneered the intense mint category in India with the Menthol Eucalyptus flavour which is available in a stylish tin pack @ Rs. 100 and in mono packs at Rs. 1/- as well. The distinctive shape of Center Fresh mints is loved by the consumer and is referred to as an ‘infinite shape’ and an ‘hourglass’.

The launch of the new Lemon Honey Clean Breath mint is being amplified by a vibrant digital commercial (DVC) that showcases the invigorating effect of the new flavor.

Watch the DVC here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJMrksdbJBA

Gunjan Khetan, Marketing Director, PVMI, shared thoughts on the launch, stating, “Center Fresh, our flagship gum and mints brand, has been synonymous with long-lasting fresh breath. With the launch of the Lemon Honey flavor, we are excited to offer our customers a new way to enjoy the freshness they trust, now with a lemony twist. Center Fresh Mints Lemon Honey flavor aims to leave a lasting fresh breath for 60 mins. We believe that this addition will not only delight our existing customers but also appeal to new ones who love fruity flavors.”

The new Lemon Honey Lemon flavor is set to make a splash in the mint market, catering to both affordability and indulgence. The mint is priced at just Rs. 1/-.

Center Fresh is dedicated to continuously surprising and delighting consumers with new and refreshing experiences.

This Saturday, Sony Entertainment Television’s much loved singing reality show, ‘Indian Idol 14’, will welcome evergreen actor Urmila Matondkar, wherein the contestants will put their best foot forward to secure their place in the “Top 6” in this special episode titled ‘Semi-Finals with Urmila’. Paying tribute to Urmila’s journey in the film industry, the contestants will deliver melodious acts, compelling Urmila to take a walk down memory lane and share interesting facts and fun anecdotes, making this episode a must-watch.

But it was Rajasthan’s Piyush Panwar, who owned the stage and once again impressed one and all with his amazing renditions of ‘Bahut Khoobsurat Ho’ from the film Khoobsurat, and ‘Is Pyaar Se Meri Taraf Na Dekho’ from the film Chamatkar. Impressed by his performance, Urmila said, “You sang beautifully. You have a softness in your voice like Rafi Sahab, which is rare to hear these days.”

Talking about the song and her co-star Shahrukh Khan, Urmila further added, saying, “This song (Is Pyaar Se Meri Taraf Na Dekho) was sung by Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik, and it has a separate fanbase. Piyush, you have beautifully attempted the song. I remember filming with the iconic Shahrukh Khan, who is not only a great actor but also a lovely human being. He is one of the finest actors who has also done theatre, he’s been humble since the beginning and he has an aura that makes his co-actors feel comfortable. I feel that the people who have worked with him and shared screen space with him are truly blessed.”

Not only this, Piyush, who discovered his acting talent on Indian Idol, will be seen enacting the famous Rangeela movie hotel scene, impressing Urmila not just with his singing but his acting skills as well.

To know more, be sure to tune in to ‘Indian Idol Season 14’ this Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television.

Mumbai, 23 February 2024: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released their patriotic series ‘Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2’. The series is an unconventional story with a strong sense of patriotism, which will also instill a sense of national pride among the viewers. This biographical war drama follows the life of Shaurya Chakra-awardee Naib Subedar Sombir Singh, unfolding the brave saga of the Kulgam Operation, a crucial chapter in India’s battle against terrorism. Based on a real-life story, the series shines a spotlight on the sacrifices and bravery of the unsung heroes of our nation.

Here are reasons to watch Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2:

• Fact is stranger than fiction: There’s a certain thrill in watching movies based on real-life personalities and incidents. Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 is a true story that reignites your love for the country, even in moments when it may have faded. It is based on the life of Naib Subedar Sombir Singh who devoted his life to serving the nation. The film brilliantly encapsulates the narrative of the Kulgam Operation capturing the high-stakes mission undertaken by the armed forces to combat militant threats and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.

• Igniting patriotic fervor: Right from our school days we’ve recited the pledge, ‘India is my country…’, but only a few of us truly grasped its depth. Naib Subedar Sombir Singh was one such individual, who lived and breathed this pledge, dedicating their lives to the service and protection of our nation. The series beautifully captures this profound dedication, weaving a narrative steeped in patriotism that strikes a chord with every proud Indian. This isn’t about creating an overblown battle zone to visually blow people’s minds, Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 is about the story that was never told to us.

• Stellar Performance of the cast: Produced by Juggernaut Studios and directed by Ajay Bhuyan, the movie boasts an ensemble cast starring Barun Sobti, Surbhi Chandna, and Vishwas Kini in pivotal roles. Their performances will have a profound effect on the audience, evoking their emotions, striking a chord, and giving a sense of pride and gratitude. Bringing characters to life, their captivating performances will immerse you in every emotion and moment of the series.

• Immersive Cinematic Experience: It is a challenge to capture war-torn images and make them visually compelling, Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 excels in conveying the strife, gloom, and stress of the terrorist-attacked Kulgam district. Every scene in the movie commands attention, drawing audiences deeper into the narrative with its compelling visuals while capturing patriotic sentiment without being preachy.
• Free to watch: Indulge in the spirit of patriotism, and feel the emotions, while embarking on this heroic and courageous journey for free. Watch this intriguing series without any pay or subscription. It is available to stream for free on Amazon miniTV and Fire TV in the Amazon Shopping App and Play Store.

 Foster the essence of patriotism and celebrate India’s unsung heroes who sacrificed their lives to safeguard peace and harmony with Rakshak- India’s Braves: Chapter 2 for free only on Amazon miniTV, available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV, and on Play Store.

VitrA, a pioneer in premium bathroom fittings and sanitaryware, recently concluded its captivating exhibition at India Design ID 2024, held at NSIC Grounds, New Delhi. The event served as a testament to VitrA’s commitment to redefining the standards of bathroom design, offering a captivating blend that seamlessly integrated aesthetic appeal, practicality, and groundbreaking design.

Elevating its presence at the distinguished ID Design Show 2024, VitrA’s booth emerged as a sophisticated showcase, inviting enthusiasts to delve into a curated fusion extending beyond mere products. At the grand event, India Design ID 2024, VitrA took center stage, captivating attendees with its latest offerings and actively engaging design enthusiasts. The exhibition served as a platform for visitors to explore and appreciate the intricate details of VitrA’s premium bathroom solutions, providing a firsthand experience of the brand’s commitment to design excellence and innovation.

Collaborating with globally acclaimed designers and the VitrA Design Team, VitrA has produced exquisite collections. Although the recent event has ended, VitrA continues to lead in shaping the future of bathroom design. The Liquid Collection by Tom Dixon seamlessly blends practicality with contemporary aesthetics, introducing a sense of fluidity to design. The Plural Collection by Terri Pecora, distinguished by its artistic fusion of form and function, serves as a testament to VitrA’s commitment to crafting spaces that go beyond the ordinary. Furthermore, Istanbul by Ross Lovegrove, a tribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and timeless bathroom experience.

Mr. Tirthankar Sarkar, Sr. Country Manager, VitrA Bathrooms India, provided insights through an impactful quote, “VitrA goes beyond the ordinary, presenting a blend of style, functionality, and innovation, establishing new standards in premium bathroom solutions. India Design served as a dynamic platform, enabling visitors to directly experience groundbreaking innovations and emerging trends in bathroom design. VitrA not only exhibited products but curated an immersive experience that resonated with those aspiring to a refined lifestyle.”

VitrA’s participation in India Design ID 2024 solidifies its status as the sole international brand providing holistic solutions for complete bathroom needs. The brand’s commitment to excellence and forward-thinking design was evident throughout the exhibition, leaving a lasting impression on the discerning audience.

VitrA continues to lead the way in redefining the standards of bathroom design, offering a fusion of style, functionality, and innovation that elevates the everyday living experience.

For those who missed the opportunity to visit the VitrA booth during India Design ID 2024, we invite you to stay connected with VitrA through the website and social media channels for updates on the latest innovations and upcoming events.

Hyderabad, 23rd February 2024 – Synchrony, a premier consumer financial services company in collaboration with Soham Academy, proudly hosted a one-of-a-kind Robotics Hackathon, an innovative event initiated by their Citizenship team.

Embracing a spirit of inclusivity and empowerment, the hackathon provided a platform for 30 students of grades 7 and 8 from 10 schools across Hyderabad and nearby districts to unleash their creativity and engineering prowess. Unlike traditional school projects, this event went beyond cardboard and popsicle sticks. This event embraced advanced technology providing access to 3D-printed components designed and printed on-site. This not only gave the students a taste of real-world engineering practices but also fueled their imaginations to create truly extraordinary models.

“By empowering these future engineers and inventors, we’re not just building robots; we’re building a brighter future where technology serves humanity,”said Kameswari Gangadharabhatla, VP, HR – Asia Diversity & Recruitment COE Leader.“This Robotics Hackathon truly highlighted how these students are using technology to make a difference in the real world. It was incredible to see their dedication at such a young age. By giving them early exposure to STEM fields, this hackathon shaped the future of innovation. It wasn’t just about competition; it was an opportunity for these students to dive deeply into the world of robotics. The dedication and ingenuity they displayed are testaments to the power of early exposure to STEM fields. By opening doors to technology at a young age, we’re indeed shaping the trajectory of innovation,” she added.

The esteemed judges panel, included Mrs. Uttara Kumari, a retired DRDO scientist, Mrs. Phanisree from JNTU’s Electrical and Electronics Engineering department, and Mr. Prashant Tiwari – VP, Solution Architect and a volunteer from Synchrony’s Technology team, ensured that the competition maintained the highest standards of excellence. Their presence at the event highlighted the importance of expertise and mentorship in fostering the growth of these young talents. The Senior Wellness Centre of Zilla Parishad High School, Janampet, Mahbubnagar district, won the first position. The second position was jointly awarded to the projects titled Modern Exhibition of Telangana State Model School and Smart Jewelry Store of Government High School. The third position was shared by Smart Agriculture of Zilla Parishad High School, Indira Nagar, Siddipet School, and Intelligent Baby Monitoring System of Government High School, Devaljhamsingh, Hyderabad.

Prizes were presented by Michael Matthews – SVP, Chief Diversity & Corporate Responsibility Officer during his India visit, along with Kameswari Gangadharabhatla – VP, HR – Asia Diversity & Recruitment COE Leader, and Danielle Brown – VP, Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

These winning projects truly displayed the incredible impact envisioned by these young minds. It is fantastic to see how their ideas align with Synchrony’s dedication to making a positive difference in the world. This Robotics Hackathon marks the beginning of an incredible journey towards an even brighter future. With the potential of young minds and Synchrony’s steadfast commitment to empowerment, we are fostering a path for exciting opportunities and advancements. It is remarkable to witness how this event mirrors the values and dedication of Synchrony in building a resilient community.

Mumbai, 23rd February 2024 – In the realm of medical advancements, the intersection of technology and compassionate care often becomes a beacon of hope for patients facing intricate health challenges. Mrs. Reema’s journey at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of robotics in overcoming complex orthopedic dilemmas.

Mrs. Reema found herself in the clutches of end-stage arthritis, a condition that rendered even the simplest steps a painful ordeal. Adding to the complexity, an earlier intervention had left a rod embedded in her right thigh bone, presenting a formidable obstacle to the much-needed knee replacement surgeries. The dilemma loomed large: Should she undergo a protracted and arduous surgery to remove the rod?

Dr. Manan Shah, Consultant Joint Replacement surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central, devised a meticulous plan tailored to Mrs. Reema’s unique situation. The strategy unfolded in two phases, addressing each knee with a thoughtful approach that combined conventional and robotic surgical techniques.

The first phase involved a conventional knee replacement on Mrs. Reema’s left side. This procedure allowed her to recover and regain mobility without the need for extensive measures. It was a pivotal step in preparing her for the subsequent challenges posed by the rod in her right thigh bone.

The second phase marked the introduction of cutting-edge technology – the Stryker Mako robot. This state-of-the-art robotic system offered a revolutionary solution by enabling knee replacement surgery on the right side without the necessity of removing the embedded rod. The precision and adaptability of the Stryker Mako robot allowed Dr. Manan Shah and his team to navigate the intricate contours of Mrs. Reema’s anatomy, tailoring the procedure to match her natural bone shape with unparalleled accuracy.

The decision to utilize robotic assistance not only spared Mrs. Reema from the rigors of an unnecessary surgery to remove the rod but also facilitated a level of precision that traditional methods might struggle to achieve. The robot’s ability to fine-tune the surgical plan ensured a personalized and optimized outcome for the patient.

In the aftermath of this innovative approach, Mrs. Reema has emerged triumphant. With newfound comfort and confidence, she has seamlessly reintegrated into her routine life, free from the shackles of debilitating knee pain. The success of this case not only reflects the skill and expertise of Dr. Manan Shah but also underscores the commitment of Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, to embrace advancements that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of its flagship exhibition, the 22nd IAAPI Amusement Expo, scheduled to take place from 27th to 29th February 2024 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of MSME, Government of India and Bihar Tourism as a partner state, this event serves as a testament to the exponential growth of the Amusement, Leisure, and Entertainment industry in India.

The current market size of the amusement industry in India is valued at 11,500 crores, with a projected CAGR of 10.20%. The industry is expected to reach a staggering 25,000 crores by 2030, reflecting the nation’s growing appetite for recreational activities. Building on the immense success of previous years, this year’s expo promises to be grander than ever, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders under one roof.

With over 165 exhibitors from India and 35 overseas companies participating, including representatives from Australia, Canada, China, Dubai, Germany, Italy, Russia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the USA, the expo offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Attendees can engage with decision-makers from Amusement Parks, Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Family Entertainment Centres, showcasing new products, exploring joint ventures, and witnessing the latest industry trends.

The event will feature concurrent events such as the IAC Connect conference, Networking Evening, Business Excellence Award, and Training Programme, providing attendees with a comprehensive experience. Moreover, participants can gain expert insights by participating in discussions on vital industry issues and learning from the experiences of industry stalwarts.

Reflecting on the industry’s growth, Mr. Srikanth Goenka, Chairman of IAAPI, stated, “The Indian amusement sector, with its significant growth potential, is an exciting space for innovation and development. The IAAPI Expo 2024 is not just an expo but a catalyst for new opportunities and collaborations.”

Mr. ND Rana, Chairman for the amusement expo, added, “The Indian amusement park industry is still in its infancy, with enormous growth potential. IAAPI aims to bring together members of the industry across India to contribute to this ever-growing market. This year, the show floor area will exceed one Lakh sq. ft, and we have already received a great response, with thousands of participation requests and registrations from delegates across the country.”

Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to be a part of the 22nd IAAPI Amusement Expo 2024 and explore the future of the amusement industry in India.

IAAPI, established in 1999, has been a pivotal force in shaping the amusement and entertainment industry in India. With over 500 members, including SMEs, park operators, and equipment manufacturers, it serves as the voice and advocate for the sector’s advancement.

Join us at IAAPI Expo 2024 to experience the evolution of India’s amusement industry and to be part of its future.