Category news

Mahanagar Gas Limited signs MoU with Oil India Limited to collaborate across the LNG value chain

 Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL), one of India’s leading City Gas Distribution company and Oil India (OIL), a Maharatna public sector enterprise with integrated capabilities across the oil and gas value chain, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6th October 2025. The MoU was signed by VP (BD, BIS, Commercial & STU), MGL and ED (BD), OIL in the presence of Managing Director, MGL and Director (Operations) and Director (HR), OIL.

MGL, having successfully forayed into the LNG value chain, operates LNG retail stations and is actively pursuing other clean energy initiatives. OIL has an expansive hydrocarbon exploration and development programme with plans to significantly ramp up gas production, alongside a defined roadmap for advancing clean energy projects. Under the MoU, the two organisations will collaborate to explore opportunities across the LNG value chain and in emerging clean energy areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Ashu Shinghal, Managing Director, MGL, said, “This collaboration with OIL will help accelerate adoption of cleaner fuels in the long-haul transport sector. It will enable corporates to move towards greener logistics solutions and contribute to reducing the overall pollution footprint.”

Mr Trailukya Borgohain, Director (Operations), OIL, said, “The collaboration will focus on assessing technical and commercial viability of LNG in the heavy-duty transport segment and on exploring projects in clean energy. Our objective is to take feasible pilots to commercial scale.”                                  

Mumbai, 07/10/25: Groupe MRP is initiating as an active corporate company. It wants to be a catalyst for transformative collaborations between India, Africa, and Arab Countries. The new agency will promote cooperation between 78 countries, 54 of which are African and 24 of which are Arab, through six main business units called DiVisions: Healthcare, Skill Development, Agriculture, Tourism, Hospitality and Insurance.

Leadership and a Clear Plan

Under the leadership of Groupe MRP’s Global MD and the President of the Indo-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sumit Govind Sharma, Groupe MRP is collaborating with world-class professionals from the industry, each entrusted with heading a DiVision. This strategic initiative ensures that all sectors have specialised knowledge and targeted execution.

Sumit Govind Sharma remarked, “This initiative is about more than just expanding the business; it’s about building lasting bridges between countries that will lead to shared prosperity. We’re making a platform that can really change how India works with Africa and the Arab countries by bringing together experts from different fields around a single vision.”

Six DiVisions to fast-track growth

• Pharmaceutical & Healthcare: India, a key hub for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries, has a lot to offer Africa and the Arab region. Mr Rajesh Sharma, who brings over 33 years of experience in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, will lead this DiVision.
• Skill Development: Groupe MRP will develop training programs focused on enhancing work skills across all sectors in partner countries. The core of these scalable learning programs aims to bridge skill gaps and create courses that empower women and youth. This DiVision will be led by Savita John, who has over 25 years of experience in education, training, and workforce development.
• Agriculture: This DiVision envisions the mission of scalable, practical, and sustainable agriculture innovation. This would be led by Dr Nupur N Nagwekar (Head, Agriculture DiVision) and Mr Kshitij Nagvekar (Co-head, Agriculture DiVision). Dr Nupur N. Nagwekar, PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Mumbai, has a strong background in scientific research and agricultural innovation, with leadership roles in domain-specialised institutions. At the same time, Mr Kshitij Nagvekar brings entrepreneurial vision and AgTech domain experience – co-founding “Blessings from the Earth,” which has delivered transformative impact in farming through homestead farming kits, hydroponics, and digital tools.
• Tourism: This DiVision will be closely examined as it aims to boost the overall economy, increase community revenue, create jobs, and enhance visibility for all the country’s culture and traditions. Mr Kewal Kotian, who has over 25 years of experience in the travel and marketing sectors, will lead this DiVision.
• Hospitality: Sumit Govind Sharma, a prominent figure in the hospitality sector, will lead this DiVision. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise from his successful ventures in the food and hospitality industry, including notable restaurants such as Eve, Que Sera Sera and TAT. This DiVision aims to promote regional cuisines from India while ensuring an authentic dining experience. Sumit is committed to setting high standards for hospitality while preserving the authenticity of local cultures.
• Insurance / Re-Insurance: This Division will work on bringing new insurance products and risk management solutions to markets that are growing. India will be a key player in setting industry standards and giving insurance brokers a stronger voice across the country. But this DiVision’s vision goes far beyond India’s borders. They will be actively expanding their operations across Africa and the Arab world, forming strong partnerships in the region to have an effect around the world. Very soon a big partnership will be announced.

How would all the countries benefit

• Market Access: India’s technological expertise, combined with Africa’s large population and market potential, along with the Arab countries’ willingness to embrace new technology, will create unique opportunities for growth across all regions.
• Agricultural Innovation: Sharing India’s agricultural innovations, combined with Africa’s resources and the market for these products in Arab countries, will enhance overall benefits.
• Pharmaceutical Collaboration: India is at the forefront of the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. It has much to offer, making this a perfect opportunity for all markets to collaborate.
• Strategic Gateway: The Arab countries are an important link between India and the larger markets in the Middle East and Africa.
• Investment Flow: The strong financial sectors of Arab countries make it easier to invest in Indo-African projects.
• Logistics Excellence: The Arab countries have a world-class logistics infrastructure that makes trade operations run smoothly.
• Trade Facilitation: Easier procedures and better trade agreements between countries.

Effects on the economy and chances

This trilateral collaboration model puts India in a good position to:

• Reach a combined market of more than 1.5 billion people in Africa and 0.5 billion in Arab countries.
• Diversify its export markets and become less reliant on traditional ones
• Create jobs by increasing trade and investment flows
• Make India a key player in Global cooperation initiatives

Looking Ahead

As Groupe MRP starts this big project, the organisation promises to make a difference that can be measured in all partner countries. The corporation wants to open regional offices, make strategic connections with local businesses, and create whole programs that meet the needs of each region.
This project provides India with an excellent opportunity to become a better global partner, especially in new markets where sustainable development and mutual prosperity are crucial.

Delhi, 7th October 2025; Vegas Mall, Dwarka, once again proved to be the capital’s favorite lifestyle destination as it partnered with PUMA to host the brand’s exclusive intellectual property PUMA Nitro Run (10K & 5K). The electrifying event saw an overwhelming participation of 1000+ runners, transforming the mall’s premises into a vibrant hub of fitness, enthusiasm, and community spirit.

The run was more than just a fitness challenge; it celebrated togetherness, energy, and the joy of an active lifestyle. To elevate the experience, the mall featured engaging activity zones, including a Glitter Station and a T-shirt Distribution counter, ensuring memorable moments for all participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, said, “Vegas has always envisioned itself as more than just a shopping destination – we are a hub for lifestyle, fitness, and entertainment. Hosting the PUMA Nitro Run reflects our commitment to curating experiences that bring communities together while promoting health and well-being. We are delighted to see such an overwhelming response and remain committed to hosting more large-scale, vibrant events for our patrons.”

The event successfully blended fitness, brand engagement, and community celebration, further reinforcing Vegas Mall as the go-to destination for premium events in Delhi NCR.

New Delhi, 7th october, 2025: This festive season, The Lodhi reimagines the art of gifting with a collection of Diwali hampers that bring together the essence of tradition and the joy of indulgence. Designed to celebrate togetherness and elevate the spirit of giving, each hamper blends artisanal treasures with festive accents, making them perfect for family, friends, and corporate gifting.

The collection features a range of exquisitely crafted hampers such as The Deluxe Hamper, priced at INR 5,000, a refined assortment featuring The Lodhi’s signature artisanal chocolates, assorted dates and nuts, Newby loose-leaf tea, and festive accents including a Ganesh idol and decorated candle holder. For those seeking a more elaborate indulgence, The Signature Hamper, at INR 7,500, comes in a festive red basket, complete with elegant décor accents such as a Ganesh idol, diya, and scented candle. Inside, it offers an indulgent selection of dry fruits, Zuffon millet snacks, French macarons, luxury perfume, artisanal jams, coffee, olive oil, cookies, and The Lodhi’s signature chocolates, making it a thoughtful blend of tradition and gourmet flair.

Stepping up in grandeur, The Premium Hamper, priced at INR 10,000, brings together a lavish selection of handcrafted sweets, artisanal chocolates, premium dry fruits, and luxury teas, complemented by elegant décor accents such as coasters and a festive candle, a refined choice for those who value exclusivity in their celebration. The collection further extends to The Luxury Hamper at INR 15,000, a curation of international delicacies, French macarons, organic preserves, and The Lodhi’s signature chocolates, paired with artisanal décor accents. Adding to this is The Lodhi Hamper, priced at INR 25,000, an extravagant ensemble featuring gourmet indulgences, artisanal desserts, elegant décor, and a Lodhi sling bag, embodying both sophistication and festive grandeur.

For the ultimate indulgence, The Grand Hamper, priced at INR 55,000, features The Lodhi Hamper along with a one-night stay in The Lodhi Pool Room, creating a memorable and luxurious festive experience. Taking it a notch higher, The Lodhi Platinum Hamper, priced at INR 1,00,000, offers The Lodhi Hamper, a one-night stay in The Lodhi Pool Room, a spa couple massage, and an exclusive New Year’s Gala Dinner for two, the epitome of opulent gifting.

Adding a unique dimension to this year’s collection are The Lodhi Exclusives, bespoke hampers showcasing an array of handcrafted silverware, artisanal delights, and elegant décor accents.These exclusive offerings reflect prosperity, purity, and refined elegance, making them timeless keepsakes that beautifully blend tradition with contemporary luxury.

With personalisation and bespoke options available, The Lodhi ensures every hamper resonates with thoughtfulness and charm, making it not just a gift but a lasting memory.

New Delhi, October 7, 2025: The Indian Healthcare League(IHL), India’s pioneering sports league dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and fitness among healthcare professionals,  announced its official broadcast partnership with DD Sports, one of the country’s largest and most widely accessible sports broadcasters. With this collaboration, all IHL matches will now be telecast live across India from 14th – 21st December 2025, ensuring millions of households can join in celebrating the spirit of healthcare and sportsmanship.

This year, the league carries a special focus on Cancer Awareness, using the platform of sports to amplify one of the most pressing health challenges facing India. The IHL aims to spread the message of early detection, preventive lifestyle, and community support by engaging viewers through matches, campaigns, and inspiring stories of doctors who dedicate themselves to both medicine and fitness.

Highlighting the league’s commitment to inclusivity and women empowerment, the final day will feature an exclusive Women’s Match, showcasing the strength, resilience, and leadership of women healthcare professionals. This aligns with Whitecoat Sports’ broader mission of breaking barriers and creating equal opportunities in healthcare and sports.

Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Rahul Mangal, CMD, Whitecoat Sports, said:
“This collaboration with DD Sports is a game-changer for the Indian Healthcare League. Our vision has always been to celebrate healthcare professionals, inspire a culture of fitness, and spread meaningful awareness on critical health issues like cancer. The addition of a dedicated women’s match further strengthens our mission of empowerment and equality. With DD Sports as our broadcast partner, we are confident of reaching millions of Indians with both entertainment and inspiration.”

DD Sports, renowned for its grassroots and national-level coverage, will not only showcase matches but also highlight the journeys of 150 doctors and healthcare professionals participating in the league. These inspiring individuals balance their demanding careers with their love for sports, making them true role models for the community.

Key Highlights of the Partnership:

• Live Broadcast: All IHL matches to be broadcast live on DD Sports TV Channel, DD Waves OTT Platform, and DD Sports YouTube Channel
• Nationwide Reach: Ensuring accessibility for both urban and rural audiences across India
• Cancer Awareness Mission: Dedicated focus on spreading awareness, education, and preventive health measures
• Women Empowerment Spotlight: Special Women’s Match on the final day to highlight inclusivity and gender equality in healthcare and sports
• Healthcare Heroes in Action: 150 doctors and medical professionals competing in the league, showcasing both skill and dedication

The 2025 season of IHL promises high-energy matches, meaningful health campaigns, and inspiring participation from India’s medical community. Fans can look forward to action-packed fixtures, behind-the-scenes stories, and a league that goes beyond sports to drive a powerful message of health, fitness, and collective well-being.

Chandigarh, October 6, 2025: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the PM-SETU (Prime Minister Skill and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs) scheme at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, along with other youth-focused education and skill development initiatives worth over ₹62,000 crore. Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, was also present at the event.

With an outlay of ₹60,000 crore, PM-SETU aims to modernize 1,000 government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through a unique 200 Hub and 800 Spoke model. This transformative initiative underlines the government’s commitment to empowering India’s youth through modern skilling and employability programs.

Speaking at the launch, Shri Jayant Chaudhary said, “As Chaudhary Charan Singh used to say, the path to national development passes through our farms and villages. Similarly, ITIs will now drive India’s growth. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has given a clear message to our youth — focus on your skills and education to build a developed India by 2047.”

In Phase 1 of PM-SETU, ITI Bharatpur in Rajasthan has been identified as a Hub, while ITIs in Dholpur, Karauli, Kaman, and Bayana will serve as Spokes. These institutions will focus on key sectors such as Manufacturing, Agriculture, and Hospitality.

Each Hub will be equipped with:

• Innovation Centers

• Training of Trainers (ToT) facilities

• Production Units

• Placement Services

Spoke institutes will offer expanded training outreach. The initiative will be industry-driven, with Anchor Industry Partners managing each cluster to ensure relevance and employability. The Bharatpur cluster will leverage partnerships with CII, FICCI, and local industry bodies to strengthen regional skilling ecosystems.

With the PM-SETU scheme, India’s ITIs are poised to become engines of employment, entrepreneurship, and economic transformation.

National, October 06, 2025: PhonePe today announced a strategic partnership with Utkarsh Small Finance Bank to launch the Wish Credit Card, designed to empower every Indian with easy, digital access to credit. The card will be available for online application directly via the PhonePe app, offering users a seamless and hassle-free experience.

This collaboration aims to expand the reach of formal credit to a wider, digitally-savvy population, especially those who are underserved or new to credit – including self-employed individuals, homemakers, Gen Z users, and residents of tier-2 and tier-3 cities where credit card penetration remains relatively low.

What makes the Wish Credit Card unique is its Fixed Deposit (FD)-backed model, which allows users to unlock credit against an FD. This not only provides a secured credit line but also enables users to earn interest on their deposit, making it both a practical and rewarding financial tool. As a RuPay Credit Card, it supports UPI-based payments, bridging the convenience of modern digital payments with the traditional safety of a fixed deposit.

The card further promotes financial inclusion by helping users build a strong credit history, making future access to loans or credit products easier and more reliable.

Key Features of the Wish Credit Card:

• 3% reward points on recurring monthly payments like mobile recharges and utility bills via the PhonePe app

• 1% reward points on shopping from select leading e-commerce brands

• 1% reward points on all Scan & Pay transactions

• Milestone bonus of reward points on monthly spends above a specified threshold

• Simple redemption process with 1 reward point equal to ₹1
  (T&C apply)

The end-to-end digital application and issuance process through the PhonePe app ensures that users can complete the journey without any paperwork or branch visits. The rollout of the Wish Credit Card will take place in phases.

Deep Agrawal, Head of Payments at PhonePe, commented: “This partnership with Utkarsh Small Finance Bank is a vital step in enhancing our financial services ecosystem. It offers users easy access to a trusted credit product, seamlessly integrated with RuPay on UPI. Together, we’re moving closer to a more financially inclusive India.”

Govind Singh, MD & CEO of Utkarsh Small Finance Bank, said: “As digital adoption grows across the country, it’s essential to provide products that meet the evolving needs of customers from diverse backgrounds. This FD-backed Credit Card blends the security of traditional banking with the ease of digital payments, while also helping users build their creditworthiness.”

With the launch of the Wish Credit Card, PhonePe and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank are setting a new benchmark for accessible, inclusive, and rewarding credit solutions in India’s growing digital economy.

Gurugram, 6th October 2025 : KOCA Garden, Gurugram’s ultimate nightlife hotspot co created by cricket icon Yuvraj Singh, is all set to light up Diwali with its Royal Diwali Night on 11th October. The evening will feature live performances by the celebrated Nizami Brothers, creating a magical musical experience for guests.

Adding to the festive spirit, KOCA will offer a Diwali special dessert, available throughout the month, alongside candle-lit décor on the rooftop terrace, creating a warm and enchanting ambiance. KOCA Garden, with panoramic skyline views, immersive lighting, and vibrant energy, promises an unforgettable Diwali celebration for all attendees.

With world-class cuisine, and curated seasonal menus, KOCA continues to redefine Gurugram’s dining and nightlife scene, making this Diwali one to remember.

New Delhi, 6th October 2025: adidas announces the launch of the first-ever official Manchester United Fan Jersey in India. The launch marks a milestone moment for football fans across the country, bringing the club closer to its passionate Indian supporters by making its iconic colours more accessible and affordable than ever before.

The MUFC fan jersey, priced at INR 1999, will be available on Blinkit across Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, and on Flipkart Minutes across 17 PIN codes in Delhi NCR as well as pan-India via the Flipkart app. This retail-first collaboration enables adidas to meet consumers where they are, offering unparalleled speed and convenience in accessing official club merchandise.

The jersey is developed in a classic athletic silhouette and is designed with a crew neck which comes with a flat knit collar while also featuring the club’s crest and adidas logo in flat heat transfer execution along with three stripes on shoulder. 

Through this launch, adidas reinforces its leadership at the intersection of sport, culture, and retail innovation, giving Manchester United fans in India an opportunity to connect with their club like never before. 

Awfis Expands Mumbai presence by adding A New Centre in Supreme Business Park, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai

India, October 6, 2025: Awfis Space Solutions Limited, India’s largest and first publicly listed workspace solutions company, has announced the launch of its latest centre in Supreme Business Park, Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, further strengthening its footprint in Mumbai. Spanning approximately 50,000 sq. ft. of chargeable area, the new centre is strategically located in one of the city’s most well-connected and upscale business hubs.

With this addition, Awfis now operates 35 centres across Mumbai, offering over 1.04 million sq. ft. of workspace solutions, catering to a diverse and growing clientele across sectors.

The new Powai centre is already operational and occupied by Howden Insurance Brokers India Pvt. Ltd., a leading independent insurance and reinsurance intermediary. Howden has taken ~36,000 sq. ft. under a 60-month lease, reflecting a long-term commitment to Awfis and confidence in its flexible, enterprise-grade offerings.

“Mumbai continues to flourish as India’s financial capital, driven by strong commercial real estate growth, the influx of global capability centres, and rising demand for Grade A office spaces,” said Amit Ramani, Chairman and MD, Awfis Space Solutions Ltd.

“We are proud to contribute to this growth by delivering future-ready coworking formats, managed offices, and custom-built solutions that cater to a wide range of business needs. Our partnership with Howden Insurance Brokers India Pvt. Ltd. for their new Powai office further reinforces our position as the preferred workspace partner for enterprises in prime business districts.”

Strong Client Retention and Market Leadership

Awfis continues to demonstrate robust client retention, with 73% of its clientele on tenures exceeding 24 months. Large enterprises account for 59% of its portfolio, supported by a healthy mix of mid- and small-sized occupiers — a testament to the platform’s adaptability and appeal across segments.

With India’s office market gaining further momentum, particularly in metros like Mumbai (which contributes nearly 20% of market growth), Awfis is well-positioned to capitalize on demand for flexible, tech-enabled, and ESG-compliant workspace solutions.

Meeting the Future of Work

As enterprises increasingly seek scalable, sustainable, and technology-driven office environments, Awfis is reinforcing its leadership by offering a comprehensive suite of workspace solutions. This includes coworking spaces, managed offices, enterprise solutions, allied services, and design & build capabilities across India.

Awfis’ continued expansion in Mumbai reflects both market demand and the company’s strategic focus on delivering high-quality workspaces in business-centric locations.