Bengaluru, 25th September 2023: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) commenced the third leg of its thrilling ‘Great 4X4 Expedition’ today in the northern region of India. In May 2023, TKM marking its inaugural 4X4 Expedition started in Southern Region of India (Sakleshpur-Hasssan of Karnataka State), followed by the second drive held recently in West Region at Lonavala. Needless to mention, the recently concluded South and West based ‘Great 4×4 Expedition by Toyota’ were filled with unlimited excitement and adventure. Participants were treated to specially curated drives and the joy of breath-taking green landscape views. This initiative has been designed to unite and engage with motoring enthusiasts from all corners of the country – the regions of North, South, East, and West, thereby ensuring nationwide participation. Building on the success of the previous expeditions in the southern and western regions, TKM flagged-off its third 4X4 Expedition in the north region starting at Hoshiarpur, as a testament to Toyota’s commitment to provide exhilarating experience to 4×4 SUV community, fuelling their passion for adventure, and promoting ‘Mass Happiness and Mobility for All.’

The expedition features a convoy of remarkable 4-wheel drive SUVs, such as the iconic Hilux, the legendary LC300, the popular Fortuner and the Hyryder AWD (All Wheel Drive) and including the owners of SUVs from other brands as well, thereby fuelling their spirit of thrilling and adventurous 4X4 drive.

Starting from Gaj Retreat of Hoshiarpur in the northern region, the experiential drive will take participants through the challenging terrains, showcasing the exceptional capabilities of the 4X4 vehicles. As a unique element of this extraordinary expedition, TKM has thoughtfully curated a 4WD trail featuring natural obstacles like articulation, side inclines, rambler sections, deep ditches, slushy terrain, and rocky beds at Kikar. These carefully designed tracks promise an unmatched off-roading adventure, showcasing the versatility of the 4X4 vehicles. It goes without saying that Toyota places the utmost importance on customer safety and to ensure this, comprehensive safety measures have been meticulously put in place, wherein all the participants will be closely guided by the experienced 4X4 professionals throughout the entire expedition.

In addition to the thrilling adventure, participants will engage in a meaningful eco-activity, making a positive impact on the environment in line with Toyota’s commitment towards sustainability and carbon neutrality goals. Each of the participating 4×4 enthusiast will also plant saplings at one of the identified locations during the expedition, which will be their contribution to enrich the biodiversity in the surrounding areas of Kikar, Hoshiarpur.

Commenting on the third edition of ‘Great 4×4 Expedition by Toyota’, Mr. Atul Sood, Vice President – Sales and Strategic Marketing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We believe that the ‘Great 4X4 Expedition’ isn’t just about conquering terrains; it’s about conquering hearts and inspiring a sense of adventure in everyone. With each of these 4X4 expeditions, we strive to connect people with their passion for 4X4 SUVs, foster unity and providing a joyful experience of indulging in 4X4 adventures. With this initiative, our aim is to ignite the spark of thrill in the hearts of participants, regardless of the 4X4 vehicle brands they own. It is a testament to our commitment, to not only provide delightful 4X4 experiences, but also to promote inclusivity and the spirit of exploration.

 As we navigate through the 4X4 Expedition, we are reminded of our responsibility to leave a positive impact in the places we visit. Through the ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota,’ we aim to inspire individuals to not only explore their passion for motorsports but also to build lasting connections, strengthen their culture of contributing to greener, more sustainable world through tree plantation activity.”

 Stay tuned for the next ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota’, being planned in the eastern region of India in the coming month.

Overview of TKM

Overview of TKM 1st Plant:

Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:

New Delhi, 25th September 2023 The Digital Lenders Association of India (DLAI) and the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) recently announced that they have formally signed an MoU to propel the growth of the fintech sector in the country. Mr. Sivasubramanian Ramann, CMD SIDBI, also released DLAI’s latest version of the Industry Code of Conduct (CoC) document at the UnConclave 2023 organized by DLAI in Goa on September 23, 2023. The event was attended by the top 100 executives of the Indian fintech industry.

The new version of CoC is structured around the RBI’s Digital Lending Guidelines and takes into account important aspects such as Responsible Lending, Transparency, Fair Debt Collection Practices, Data Privacy and Security, Compliance with Regulatory Framework etc.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Ramann, said “High growth in Indian Fintech sector has been driven by best in class Public Digital Infrastructure (PDI) and matured policy support from regulator. It’s for the industry to leverage the Digital lending guidelines of RBI to develop responsible lending practices and the code of conduct prepared by DLAI is an important first step in this direction. We are happy to work with the Industry on other important aspects like standard protocols, customer protection, grievance redressal, etc. to facilitate faster adoption of digital lending. As a part of its business strategy SIDBI is using digital technology and partnerships to directly reach out micro enterprises. SIDBI will explore offering its credit products through the DLAI members.”

The MOU with SIDBI, is to establish a framework for collaboration between DLAI, the members of DLAI and SIDBI. Some of the key highlights of the MoU are as follows:

1. Collaborations to Boost Digital Adoption: Collaborating with SIDBI to develop standard protocols to expedite the adoption of digital lending partnerships including alliances between Banks and Lending Service Providers (LSPs), Co-lending collaborations, developing model partnership agreements, etc.
2. Enhancing Public Good Interventions: SIDBI to consider support to DLAI to recommend significant public good interventions in areas such as client protection, customer Grievance redressal mechanism, financial literacy, research and publications, etc.
3. Direct Lending Collaborations: SIDBI will explore partnerships for its “Prayaas” Scheme for informal enterprises, co-lending, GST Sahay, Express loan, green financing, etc and other direct credit schemes SIDBI.
4. Providing Liquidity for DLAI members: SIDBI shall provide resource support to eligible DLAI member NBFCs and also explore Assignment and Securitization transactions.

Speaking at the MoU announcement, Mr. Jatinder Handoo, CEO, DLAI, shared, “SIDBI is the apex Institution for development of MSME sector in the country. This partnership signifies an important step in India’s fintech journey for enhancing their role in financing to MSME sector. Both organizations are committed to leveraging our combined expertise and resources to pit the sector on high growth trajectory with responsible lending with innovation enbedded therein.”

Mumbai,25th September 2023Eros Now, a leading South Asian OTT platform owned by Xfinite Global Plc today announced the launch of the teaser and poster of its much-awaited short film “Soulmate.” The movie is set to premiere on the digital screens of Eros Now starting September 29. “Soulmate” promises a gripping narrative combined with spellbinding performances that will keep viewers at the edge of their seats. The movie is the latest addition to Eros Now’s vast library of over 12,000 Indian content titles including movies, original series, music, and high quality short-form content in multiple Indian languages.

In addition to watching Soulmate on Eros Now, viewers can engage in an interactive campaign. Follow Xfinite’s Eros Now network or its social media pages ErosNow (FB), @ErosNow (Instagram) and @ErosNow (X/Twitter) to know more about this opportunity.

Vikram Tanna, CEO, Eros Now & Mzaalo says, “Innovation is at the heart of Xfinite. With Soulmate’s release on Eros Now, we aim to offer our viewers a complete experience that includes not just a compelling film but also the opportunity to engage and connect with their favourite stars in ways they’ve never experienced before.”

“Soulmate” delves into the intricate web of human desires, obsessions, and the uncharted realms of the supernatural. In this compelling tale, Madhurima Roy takes on the role of Aditi Roy, a woman, vying for the love of her partner Abhishek Malhotra, portrayed by Vivan Bhathena. The twist lies in Abhishek’s marriage to Kanika Malhotra, brought to life by the talented Hina Khan. As Aditi’s obsession reaches its peak, she turns to a supernatural ritual in a desperate bid to bind Abhishek to her forever. Little does she know the consequences of her actions are darker and more sinister than she could have ever imagined.

Lead actor Hina Khan, who embodies the character of Kanika, shares her thoughts on the film, “Soulmate challenged me as an artist to explore the depths of human emotions. Kanika’s journey is both haunting and tragic, and it was a privilege to bring her story to life. Brace yourself, for the film will ingeniously blur the boundaries between passion and peril, only on Xfinite’s Eros Now.”

Director Pawan Shharma brings a fresh perspective to the psychological thriller genre, merging the realms of human psychology and supernatural elements. “Soulmate” is a testament to his unique vision and storytelling finesse, a quality that resonated strongly with Eros Now, leading to this partnership.

Teaser: SOULMATE

The gripping teaser of “Soulmate” has been released today. Be ready to catch a glimpse of the twisted tale on Eros Now that will leave you craving for more.

The official poster of “Soulmate” released today offers a sneak peek into the haunting visuals that await the audience. The poster encapsulates the essence of the film, hinting at the darkness that engulfs the journey of all the three characters.

Hi-Res photos of the poster can be found here.

Mark your calendars for September 29 on Eros Now, as an enthralling narrative is set to captivate your senses and send shivers down your spine.

New Delhi, 25th September 2023 The atmosphere was electric this morning at Siri Fort Auditorium in Delhi as the 4th JK Tyre Times Women’s Drive roared to life. The TSD Rally was flagged-off by the Chief Guest Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State of External Affairs and Culture, Government of India and Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries. Padma Shree Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awardee Deepa Malik was also present as Special Guest to cheer for the participants.

The event saw around 300 female participants in 100 cars from all walks of life come together to celebrate the occasion called Motorsport. This exhilarating rally is yet another milestone in JK Tyre’s steadfast dedication to elevating women in motorsports. The TSD (Time, Speed, Distance) Rally features a series of specially designed routes, all in compliance with safety guidelines, navigating through the picturesque highway and cruising to the finish line at the luxurious Marriott Hotel in Jaipur.

Rooting for all the teams, Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State of External Affairs and Culture, Government of India, said, “It is heartening to see women of all ages bonding together to take control of the streets with this event. Similarly, the government has been working dedicatedly to empower women in the nation through its numerous initiatives and policies. I wish luck to all the participants and encourage them to put their best foot forward.”

At the flag-off, Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries, said, “JK Tyre is delighted to be associated with the Women’s Drive which is in its fourth consecutive year. We have been advocating the cause of encouraging female participation in motorsports for over a decade now. We’re thrilled to witness the burgeoning interest in motorsports among women while promoting the social causes closer to their hearts in a creative manner through this event. We wish all the participants would demonstrate their exemplary driving abilities while having fun and being in total control.”

Padma Shree, Khel Ratna & Arjuna Awardee, Deepa Malik, said, “JK Tyre is like my family and it’s an absolute privilege to be a part of this wonderful initiative by them. It has been my learning that the progression of civilization and technology, as well as a pivot for change, have all been represented by wheels throughout history. I would like all the participants to take inspiration from it and thrive through this liberating drive.”

The rally, conducted under the aegis of FMSCI (Federation of Motor Sport Clubs of India), is conducted in the classic TSD (Time, Speed, and Distance) format. This accessible format allows anyone with a driving license to team up with a navigator and tackle the course. It’s a unique opportunity to hone one’s driving and navigation skills, all while exploring the scenic routes between Delhi and Jaipur. The experience gained here serves as an invaluable stepping stone for those aspiring to venture into professional motorsports.

The JK Tyre Women’s Drive is more than just a rally; it’s a celebration of female drivers nationwide championing social causes like ‘Mental Health’, ‘Stop Road Rage’, ‘Stop Substance Abuse’, ‘Break free of stress’ amongst others. It’s a powerful statement that women are not just breaking stereotypes; they’re owning the road and making their mark in the world of motorsport

The Indian financial market is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the government’s careful consideration of cryptocurrency regulation. This evolving space not only captures the attention of enthusiasts but also raises fundamental questions about the future of digital finance in India. In this dynamic landscape, industry leaders offer unique perspectives on these developments.

The introduction of the Cryptocurrency Bill 2021 by the Indian government marked a significant turning point in the journey toward regulating the crypto market. This comprehensive bill addresses both private and financial law aspects, signalling the government’s commitment to establishing a structured framework for digital currencies. Currently, the bill is under consideration in the Lok Sabha, holding the promise of shaping the future of cryptocurrencies in India.

One key aspect of this transformation is the taxation and money laundering rules surrounding cryptocurrencies. India has amended its income tax laws to facilitate the taxation of cryptocurrencies, marking a notable shift in the country’s approach to digital assets. Additionally, the inclusion of crypto businesses under money laundering rules empowers regulatory bodies with the authority to oversee the industry effectively. These changes reflect the government’s intent to ensure transparency and accountability within the crypto space.

India’s efforts to regulate cryptocurrencies have garnered support on the global stage. Institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the United States at G20 meetings have expressed their endorsement. However, the ultimate decision on whether to regulate or ban cryptocurrencies remains uncertain. This uncertainty underscores the complexity of the regulatory landscape, where finding a balance between innovation and security is crucial.

Mr. Roshan Aslam, Co-Founder & CEO of GoSats, a leading cryptocurrency-focused platform, emphasizes the significance of these developments: “The Indian government’s proactive stance toward cryptocurrency regulation is a positive sign for the industry. It reflects a growing recognition of digital assets’ role in the modern financial landscape. Moreover, responsible regulation is key to safeguarding users’ interests while fostering innovation.”

With these highlights, the Indian financial market is at a pivotal juncture, where cryptocurrency regulation will significantly influence the future of digital finance. As India and industry leaders recognize the transformative power of responsible regulation, the overarching goal is to create a more inclusive and secure financial ecosystem that enables individuals to harness the potential of cryptocurrencies for their financial well-being.

Bengaluru, 25th September 2023: Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer, continues its commitment to sustainable mobility with the launch of its third Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF), in Surat, Gujarat. Named ‘Re.Wi.Re – Recycle with Respect’, this advanced facility was inaugurated by Mr. PB Balaji, Group Chief Financial Officer, Tata Motors. The state-of-the-art facility uses environmentally friendly processes and has the capacity to disassemble 15,000 end-of-life vehicles safely and sustainably each year. The RVSF is developed and operated by Tata Motors’ partner Shree Ambica Auto to scrap end-of-life passenger and commercial vehicles of all brands. This launch follows the success of the two facilities; in Jaipur and Bhubaneshwar, and marks another significant milestone for the company’s sustainable initiatives.

Commenting on momentous launch, Mr. PB Balaji, Group Chief Financial Officer, Tata Motors, said, “Sustainability is our driving force and serves as our compass, guiding our vision and actions. Today, I am delighted to witness the launch of the Re.Wi.Re. facility in Surat, as we make great strides on a transformative journey towards responsible end-of-life vehicle scrapping. With our globally benchmarked recycling processes, we aim to minimise waste for a brighter future. We are confident that these decentralised facilities will benefit our customers, foster economic growth, generate employment opportunities and fulfil the need of eco-friendly vehicle scrapping.”

A cutting-edge facility, Re.Wi.Re. is purpose-built for dismantling end-of-life passenger and commercial vehicles across all brands, with a focus on employing environmentally friendly practices. The fully digitalized facility is equipped with dedicated cell-type and line-type dismantling for commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles, respectively, and all its operations are seamless and paperless. Additionally, there are dedicated stations for the safe dismantling of various components, including tyres, batteries, fuel, oils, liquids and gases. Every vehicle undergoes a meticulous documentation and dismantling process specifically designed to meet the requirements of passenger and commercial vehicles. By doing so, the dismantling process ensures maximum attention to detail, guaranteeing the safe disposal of all components. Ultimately, the Re.Wi.Re. facility embodies a ground-breaking leap towards fostering sustainable practices within the automotive industry.

Bangalore25th September 2023– On a vibrant Saturday morning, the Canadian International School, Bangalore, joined hands with Cytecare Cancer Hospitals to host the 13th Annual Terry Fox Run, a remarkable event that brought together students, families, and the community at large to foster a spirit of unity, raise awareness about cancer research, and emphasize the pressing need to find a cure.

The Terry Fox Run is an event deeply ingrained in the ethos of Canadian International School, Bangalore, as it embodies their vision of nurturing, challenging, and empowering their students and larger community. Year after year, the school takes pride in organizing this run that not only honours the legacy of Terry Fox but also underscores the importance of pushing past physical challenges. This year, the event was marked by an overwhelming turnout of students, parents, teachers, and residents of Bangalore, all converging at the school’s campus with an unbridled enthusiasm to make a difference. The atmosphere was electric as more than 600 participants of all ages laced up their running shoes and took to the run route.

“The crucial issue is about finding treatments and cures for cancer. Cancer touches every community, including CIS. We are incredibly thankful for our continued support from Cytecare Cancer Hospitals who has treated a number of our staff as well as sponsoring this year’s TFR again,” said Dr. Ted Mockrish, Head of School.

Shweta Sastri, Managing Director, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the immense support from the school community and partners like Cytecare Cancer Hospitals. She said, “The Terry Fox Run has always been a symbol of our commitment to community service and raising awareness about crucial issues. This year, our collaboration with Cytecare Cancer Hospitals adds a significant dimension, as we stand together in the fight against cancer. It’s awe-inspiring to witness the spirit of our students, who exemplify perseverance and resilience in pushing past their own limits to support this noble cause.”

The event aimed not only to raise awareness about cancer research but also to raise funds for the cause. Through generous donations from participants, as well as corporate sponsors, the 13th Annual Terry Fox Run managed to make a substantial contribution to cancer research initiatives here in India. This year’s fundraising efforts have exceeded the goal of 2 lakh rupees! In total, CIS has helped raise over 17 lakh rupees towards cancer research for the Terry Fox Foundation.

The 13th Annual Terry Fox Run at Canadian International School, Bangalore, concluded with a heartwarming sense of achievement and unity. It served as a reminder that, just like Terry Fox did during his Marathon of Hope, we can overcome obstacles and create a better future when we come together for a common cause.

Nellore, Andhra Pradesh: Southern Travels, a pioneer in the travel and hospitality industry with a rich history spanning five decades, proudly announces the inauguration of its newest branch in Nellore city, Andhra Pradesh. Located at Srinivasa Agraham, Mini Bye Pass Road, this branch was inaugurated recently.

Southern Travels has a longstanding reputation for enriching the travel experiences of the people of Simhapuri (Nellore) and beyond. The new Nellore branch will continue this tradition by catering to the diverse travel and tourism needs of enthusiasts in the region. Southern Travels has been a trusted travel partner for 4million+ travellers, offering international destinations such as Europe, Dubai, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Maldives, as well as domestic favorites like Chardham, Varanasi, Vaishno Devi, Goa, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Kashmir.

The grand opening ceremony saw the presence of several distinguished guests, underscoring the significance of the event. Among the notable attendees were Chief guest Smt. Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy, President of LAC, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Temples (Delhi, Varanasi, Rishikesh & Kurukshetra) and Co-Chairperson of VPR Foundation along with our guest of honor Sri Tanguturi Rama Krishna, the Global President of World Arya Vysya Mahasabha, Sri Kota Gurubrahmam, Vice President of World Arya Vysya Mahasabha and Ex-Chairman of Sri Thalpagiri Ranganadha Swamy Temple, as well as the distinguished Managing Director of Simhapuri Paints.

With over 1,500 meticulously designed travel packages to choose from, Southern Travels has always prioritized customer satisfaction. This year, the company expanded its presence with a brand store in Warangal, Telangana. Furthermore, on March 28th, 2023, the Southern Group inaugurated the “Southern Grand Kashi” hotel, situated within the prestigious Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor in Varanasi, which was recently unveiled by Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.

Mr. Alapati Krishna Mohan, Managing Director of Southern Travels, expressed his excitement about the Nellore branch opening, stating, “We are thrilled to open this new branch and bring our exceptional holiday packages to even more people. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to providing the best travel services to our customers. I am sure people of Simhapuri (Nellore) will pour their love into Southern Travels.”

Having served more than 4 million customers over the past 50 years, Southern Travels is renowned for its dedication to excellence in the travel and tourism industry. The new Nellore branch will offer an extensive range of services, including domestic and international holiday packages, flight bookings, worldwide hotel reservations, visa services, and more.

Southern Travels is dedicated to upholding its legacy of delivering quality travel and tourism services to people across the country. The organization looks forward to serving the travel enthusiasts in Nellore, making their travel experiences memorable and hassle-free.

Handle-less furniture is a popular trend that adds a touch of luxury and comfort to your designs. Most handle-less furniture opens with a simple push and closes with the lightest touch and no force. Furthermore, handle-less furniture will result in cleaner drawer fronts, giving it a more modern and appealing appearance.

Handle-less furniture is the true trend in minimalism. Minimalist looks put the spotlight on the functionality of furniture. Four motion technologies for lift systems, doors and pull-outs open up infinite possibilities for handle-less furniture. Blum has picked up this latest trend and offers fittings ideas that inspire purists and aficionados of special solutions alike.

Blum’s innovative furniture fittings enable you to customize lift systems, doors, and pull-outs to meet specific needs, enhancing user convenience in all three applications – in kitchens and throughout the home. Our motion technologies make it simple to develop handleless applications.

Austrian fittings manufacturer Blum offers a wide range of hinge, pull-out and lift systems that come in various models to give you the right fitting for almost every application. The solutions can be combined with different motion technologies, for example with a mechanical or electric support system (depending on the degree of convenience desired) so that handle-less fronts open at a single touch. And they close again softly and effortlessly with Blum’s tried and tested soft-close Blumotion.

Blum’s motion innovations allow you to implement handle-less lift systems, doors, and pull-outs with various motion technologies. The furniture can be combined with Tip-On mechanical opening support system, Tip-On Blumotion combines the mechanical opening support system with tried and tested soft-close Blumotion, Servo-Drive, the electric motion support system. This opens up an endless array of design possibilities for handle-less furniture in all living spaces – including kitchens!

Ergonomics and convenience, are all enhanced by motion technologies (especially enhanced opening ease). Blum’s motion technologies support the design of handle-less lift systems, doors and pull-outs. Blum has a solution for any living space, whether it’s kitchen, bedroom, living area or bathrooms.

Bengaluru, India, 25th September 2023 Embassy Office Parks REIT (NSE: EMBASSY / BSE: 542602) (‘Embassy REIT’), India’s first listed REIT and the largest office REIT in Asia by area, today flagged off the 8th edition of Embassy Pedal for the Planet, a premier cycling event at Embassy TechVillage (ETV). Spread over 103 acres, ETV is a cutting-edge, integrated office park in Bengaluru, which houses over 45,000 employees from marquee multinational occupiers, and is a complete business ecosystem providing world-class amenities.

Pedal for the Planet, a flagship Embassy REIT event, dedicated to promoting sustainable commuting, saw overwhelming participation this year from over 1300 cycling enthusiasts, including many Embassy REIT’s office park users.

Aravind Maiya, Chief Executive Officer, Embassy REIT, said,“We’re pleased to host this exciting event, which has become a cornerstone of the local cycling calendar, drawing participants from all over the city for a day of eco-friendly fun, fitness, and camaraderie. At Embassy REIT, we’re always looking for ways to create more buzz in our office parks, and this year’s event received a fantastic response from our 100+ occupiers across our Bengaluru properties. This initiative further aligns with our efforts to promote sustainability across our business operations.”

The event featured four categories – a 40 km Pro-Elite ride open to men and women above the age of 16 for professional athletes, a 25 km Amateur ride open to men and women over 14 years, a 15-km Fun ride open to all over the age of 13 and a 1 km Fun ride open to children under the age of 12.

With a sustainability theme at its core, some of the environmental initiatives at the event included tree planting for every registration, no single-use plastic zone, efficient waste management and recycling, among others. All funds raised at the event were donated to non-profit causes for the upliftment of underprivileged children and transformation of local community schools.

Recognized for its modern infrastructure, exceptional office spaces, and amenities, Embassy TechVillage is a 9.6 msf LEED platinum-rated business park. The property also recently opened its sprawling 8-acre Central Garden, which includes one of the biggest sports zones in Bengaluru, multiple retail, F&B and break-out spaces. In addition, the upcoming 518-keys dual-branded Hilton Hotels will further add to the overall moat of the asset.