Archives October 2023

Bengaluru, 12th October 2023 –Tech Avant-Garde (TAG), India’s largest Hybrid Learning Solution Provider in the education sector, inaugurated Project Carte Blanche to the participants, visitors and dignitaries from India and across the world, on 11 Oct 2023 at Army Public School, Kamaraj Rd, FM Cariappa Colony, Bengaluru, Karnataka.

The Army Hybrid Node classrooms were inaugurated by Gen. Brar, GOC, DB Area. Ms Shanta Sait, Chairman of Tech Avant-Garde, K.V Vincent, Project Director, Mr Deepak Satyanarayan from Microsoft, Swapnil Bose from Lenovo, and Sandeep Singh from TCIL inaugurated the other 4 Node Classrooms and Hybrid Studio.

As October 11, 2023, is also the International Day of the Girl Child. As a tribute to this day, a young girl – Suchitra Nair – was chosen to be given a Blank Cheque (Carte Blanche), which will be her scholarship to pursue her studies for life.

*Project Carte Blanche – An Overview*

One CBSE school from every district of India has been selected under the Project Carte Blanche.

Under this program, TAG will implement Hybrid Learning, Digital Literacy, Skill Hub Initiative, Financial Digital Literacy Program, Adolescent Health Program, Health Kiosk, School & College Connect, Art Connect, and Virtual Field Trips, in partnership with CBSE and Microsoft.

The mission of Project Carte Blanche is Endless Empowerment – the stakeholders of education viz., Principals, Educators, Students, Parents and School Management will be the beneficiaries. Carte Blanche Project will empower 1500+ students, 100+ teachers, 3000+ parents from 800+ schools at least one from every district of India. This initiative will impact over 4 million stakeholders of education across the country.

Hybrid Learning will enhance and accelerate learning by providing student-centered approaches to meet diverse learners needs. This project will also simultaneously ensure that the NEP 2020 is implemented in its fullest form.

Through this initiative, students will gain valuable experience in utilizing technologies such as Azure, Office 365, Analytical tools, STEM and STEAM learning and other productivity tools. The students will be equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in the digital economy and prepare them for the challenges in the Knowledge Age.

Mr Ali Sait, CEO, Tech Avant-Garde said “It’s a dream come true that finally education turns the corner and adopts Digital transformation and Hybrid Learning en masse in 800 CBSE schools. This process will allow anywhere, any place, any device learning, and schools becoming lockdown-proof. With India being the first to adopt Hybrid Learning, there’s a great chance that it will become the most progressive society in the years to come.”

Project Carte Blanche will initiate Digital Transformation in education. Hybrid Learning will lend towards personalized learning and adaptive learning… Any society or country which adopts this new system of learning will become the most progressive society of the world for next 1000 years.”.

Savdhaan India Criminal Decoded, is keeping the viewers hooked to their seats ever since it’s launch. The show which takes a deep dive into criminal minds is yet again back with a week full of bone chilling episodes. This week the upcoming episodes will shed light on some of the heinous and nerve wreaking stories like thefts and frauds to kidnappings and domestic disputes. Be ready for a week filled with thrill and psychological suspense cases that will shiver down your spine.

In the forthcoming episode will see a story about “Teenage PUBG Addiction which leads to Tragic Matricide” psychological drama with unexpected twist. Following the second episode ‘The Haunting Justice where Nayan’s Ghost unveils the murderers’ this thrilling episode is about a criminal mystery which will unfold a sense of suspense and danger permeating the atmosphere. Later in the third episode “In the pursuit of social media fame, Ketan dons the mask of a joker, but behind the laughter lies a mastermind of heinous crimes.” The social media craze has the potential to lead some individuals into criminal behavior. Alongside in the fourth episode “Navigating the Shadows of Obsession: Unraveling Deepti’s Complex Journey from Beauty Fixation to Violent Outbursts” Obsession and anxiety can potentially contribute to the emergence of violent behaviors. And Lastly in the fifth episode ‘The husband’s male ego succumbed to criminal behavior due to his wife’s dominance” Highlighting the thrilling dynamics arising from the powerful blend of male pride and a wife’s assertiveness.

These episodes go beyond mere entertainment, as they possess the ability to captivate and educate audiences on a deep level. With their gripping stories and sophisticated storytelling, they offer viewers an insight into the intricacies of human behavior and the complexities of various types of relationships, whether they are personal or political in nature.

Get ready for a week filled with unmatched thrills and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat, yearning for more. Make sure not to overlook these captivating narratives! Dive into intense and heart-pounding accounts on “Savdhaan India: Criminal Decoded,” Keep watching exclusively on Star Bharat every Monday through Saturday at 10:30 pm.

Bangalore,12th October 2023: At the heart of the bustling WIPRO Bengaluru Marathon, amidst the pounding footsteps and racing hearts, a unique movement unfolded – AThlete Unleashed. It was a segment by the AssisTech Foundation (ATF) under the WIPRO Bengaluru Marathon to showcase the power of Assisted Technology (AT) in making running inclusive for the very first time in the history of marathons in India. It involved 18 people with disabilities running a distance of 5km. To create a supportive environment, CXO-level professionals from various organizations ran alongside the participants as buddy runners.

AThlete Unleashed was flagged off by Deepa Malik, India’s First Female Paralympic Athlete and the esteemed President of the Paralympic Committee of India at 9:15 am. Supported by state-of-the-art technology, the participants began the 5k run at Kanteerava Stadium.

Speaking on the need to revolutionize the marathon landscape by empowering disabled participants, Deepa Malik said “AThlete Unleashed is recognizing the transformative power of breaking down barriers and embracing tech innovation for people with disabilities. As President of the Paralympic Committee of India, I wholeheartedly commend the AssisTech Foundation & WIPRO Bengaluru Marathon for their unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities.

Moreover, as the Indian Contingent prepares to represent our nation in the Paris Paralympics 2024, events like these become more than just milestones; they exemplify our dedication to nurturing talent, breaking barriers, and creating a future where every Indian athlete, regardless of ability, can shine on the global stage.”

At the forefront of this Initiative are 18 exceptional participants, each with their own inspiring journey including Shekhar Naik, the former Captain of the Indian Blind Cricket Team and a Padma Shri Awardee & Deepa Narasimhan who boasts over 12 years of corporate experience, shaping diversity and inclusion strategies at MiQ, Dell Technologies and many more. Their story is one of triumph and self-belief.

The Role of Assistive Technology during the event was demonstrated by startups pioneering Disability Inclusion through tech innovation including Neomotion (providing a Personalized wheelchair and motorized add-on for independent outdoor mobility for locomotor disabilities), Symbiotic (developing Titan, the bionic arm for arm amputees), SignAble (providing real-time Indian Sign Language interpretation for deaf), Sensory ALL | AxcesAble Designs (providing Sensory Kits for people with intellectual disabilities) & SHG Technologies (providing Smart Vision Glasses for people with visual impairment)

Speaking on the occasion, Prateek Madhav, Co-Founder & CEO, of AssisTech said, “AThlete Unleashed is illuminating a larger narrative of inclusivity through tech innovation. We are igniting the belief of ‘Everyone has the ability to change disability’, driven by AT innovation, Entrepreneurship, ecosystem collaboration and technology for good that ultimately empowers every person with a disability.

Let’s collectively foster entrepreneurship and innovation, not just for the benefit of a few, but for the empowerment of all. With this vision, ATF has a mission to positively impact 5 million people with disabilities in the next 3 years. Let’s turn disabilities into abilities, one stride at a time”

ATF’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities are enabled through a strategic partnership with Runner’s High as training partners, a renowned authority in the field of running who ensured that individuals with disabilities receive not just training but personalized guidance.

Hyderabad, 12th October 2023: Maxivision Eye Hospital, a prominent eye care provider in India, has expanded its facilities in their Super Tertiary Eye Care centre in Somajiguda one of their 40th branch in the group. Somajiguda branch was opened in 2010, with a 10,000 square ft facility with all Super Tertiary eye care facilities. The center was headed by the Founder and Mentor of Maxivision, Dr. Kasu Prasad Reddy, one of the top 10 ophthalmologists in the country. He and his dedicated and experienced team of surgeons, with an average experience of over 20 years in Super Specialties of eye care have been operating in this place since 2010, and as of today, over 1 million patients have been treated here in this facility. As the facility grew in popularity, Maxivision also got accredited with the Telangana government’s most prestigious eye care programs, Arogyasree and Udyogsree. The number of patients who come to this scheme is growing every month, and Maxivision has expanded to another 10,000 square ft in the same building to create a dedicated floor for EHS and Arogyasree patients. This dedicated floor can now treat more than 1000 people every month, without any compromise on service and quality output. The eye care and surgical technology exclusive for this floor will be at par with any Super Specialty eye care hospital in the town. A dedicated team of doctors and optometrists will manage this floor and patients. This EHS floor also features 3 dedicated EHS Consultant rooms, a specialized EHS ward with 20 beds to the pre-operative and post-operative care needs of patients, and an EHS OT complex tailored to meet the unique requirements of EHS patients.

In the last 3 decades, Maxivision has gained the trust of over 6 million patients, and most popular sought-after eye care hospital in Hyderabad. Almost all VVIPs of the town visit Maxivision for their entire gamut of eye diseases. As the patient inflow was increasing to this centre as a Super Specialty hub, Maxivision also extended one dedicated floor for other patients with enhanced patient care facilities, like a more spacious patient area, 5 World-class Modular infection free Operation theatres, and Robotic technology in Cataract, Refractive surgeries.

These new World Class facilities will be of their kind in eye care hospitals, with dedicated floors designed to enhance patient comfort, and more space for Super Specialities like Cornea, Oculoplasty, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Myopia Clinic, Paediatric Clinic apart from their already existing Cataract, Glaucoma, Retina, Diabetic Retina Clinic, Lasik, Smile facilities. The hospital has already established its excellence with a total of 5 modern operating theaters, equipped with state-of-the-art infection control technology, dedicated to performing a wide range of eye surgeries, including Cataract, Retina, Cornea, Glaucoma, Oculoplasty, and Squint Surgeries. Currently, the hospital boasts a healthcare facility comprising 20 dedicated bed wards, four specialized rooms, and private accommodations to cater to patients’ varying needs. It accommodates and provides expert care to approximately 200 patients daily, facilitating over 500 surgeries per month.

The operation theaters (OTs) at this branch are equipped with HEPA filters and AHU units, ensuring a sterile and hygienic surgical environment. The hospital features five specialized theaters: one exclusively designated for Retina Surgeries, three for Cataract Surgeries, and a dedicated theater for FEMTO-Cataract Surgeries. Notably, the Somajiguda branch is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology, including Stellaris Phaco Machines, Centurion Phaco Machine, Catalys Femto Cataract Machine, and Constellation VR Machine, complemented by high-end Anesthesia workstations.

This expansion initiative by Maxivision Eye Hospital Group underscores its unwavering commitment to delivering accessible and top-tier eye care services. The hospital’s aim is to serve a diverse range of patients, with a particular focus on extending these services to individuals residing in tier 2 and tier 3 cities throughout India. Recently, Maxivision got an investment from Asia’s largest Health care investor, Quadria Capital, from Singapore. The investment of 1400 crore will be used for expanding its network from 40 hospitals to 100 end of this year, and also create and enhance world-class facilities in current hospitals.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Kasu Prasad Reddy, Founder, Mentor, and Co-Chairman of the Maxivision Group of Eye Hospitals, highlighted “Maxivision believes and practices in the very strong ethos of Patient First’ philosophy. Whatever we earn as profit, is reinvested to improve patient facilities of build more hospitals to reach the patients. On Technology investments, Maxivision has always been a pioneer in bringing in world-class eye care technology, is committed to staying at the forefront of Vision Correction technology accessible to all classes of society. He further emphasized its recent expansion of the Somajiguda branch in Hyderabad. He said Maxivision does not compromise on the quality of care provided ensuring that all patients of all economic segments receive top-notch medical attention. Our gesture of dedicating a floor to Government eye care schemes shows our unwavering commitment to participate in and support in State government’s health care initiatives.

Adding more on the same Mr. V.S.Sudheer, CEO of Maxivision Group of Eye Hospitals said, “Maxivision would like to treat all patients equally, with the same technology across the centers. Our network model of Hub and Spoke, expansion with this objective to cater to the needs of the entire gamut of eye care with the best technology even to the remotest locations in Telangana. Parallelly we are always focused on enhancing existing facilities and upgrading the technology to the best in the world. This new expansion of the EHS floor and an EHS OT complex is tailored to the unique needs of EHS patients. Maxivision Eye Hospital’s expansion reaffirms its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality eye care services to a wide range of patients, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities across India.”

Furthermore, Mr. CV Anand, City Police Commissioner said, “The establishment of Maxivision’s EHS floor is a testament to their unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in eye care. This initiative not only elevates the standard of healthcare but also reflects its vision for a brighter, healthier future for countless individuals in need of specialized eye care. I am sure a large number of patients in Hyderabad will want to get operated in this new facility built with a lot of care to ensure quality output of vision correction surgeries.

Ahmedabad,12th October, 2023:In a green initiative, Ratnaakar Group has collaborated with the Parkville Foundation to establish a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals. This initiative, unveiled on September 28th, underscores Ratnaakar Group’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for animals under the care of the Barkville Foundation. The message resonating from this endeavor is clear: “Earth is for All.”

Swati Verma and Hemani Mod, the Founders of the Barkville Foundation, conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to Ratnaakar Group and extended their gratitude to the dedicated employees of Ratnaakar who actively participated in a tree plantation activity. Under this remarkable initiative, one thousand trees of various species, ranging from the majestic Neem to vibrant flowering varieties like Drumstick, BilliPatra, Madudo, Champa, and Jasud, were planted. The designated area underwent meticulous preparation, including tilling and pit creation for plantation, and protective fences were installed to safeguard specific plants. Additionally, a drip irrigation system was implemented to ensure efficient water usage and accelerate the growth of the newly planted trees.

Mr. Nishant Shah, Joint Managing Director, Ratnaakar Group, emphasized, “Caring for our planet and its inhabitants is not just a responsibility; it’s our privilege. Through our partnership with the Barkville Foundation, we are nurturing a Green Oasis for Rescued Animals, a sanctuary that embodies the spirit of harmony and coexistence. Together, we are sowing the seeds of compassion and sustainability, ensuring that ‘Earth is for All,’ now and for generations to come.”

Situated on a sprawling 17,000 square feet of land in Dabhod, Gandhinagar, Barkville Foundation is on a mission to provide second chances for our four-legged companions. Their unwavering commitment revolves around offering a safe and caring home for animals in dire need—whether they are large or small, abused, neglected, or abandoned. Barkville’s vision is to end the cycle of abuse and pet overpopulation through rescue operations, investigations, spay/neuter programs, and educational initiatives while fostering lasting relationships between people and animals through their adoption programs.

Initially, Barkville’s goal was to rescue and rehabilitate homeless (stray) dogs and other animals in need. However, the post-COVID landscape brought new challenges, primarily centered around abandoned pets. Presently, Barkville provides shelter to 85 abandoned pet dogs, including Labradors, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, St. Bernards, Beagles, Pitbulls, and various mixed breeds. In addition to dogs, the facility houses cows, horses, kittens, bunnies, and numerous birds.

Running a shelter for such a diverse array of animals comes with its share of challenges, with funding being a primary obstacle. The invaluable assistance of volunteers and organizations in various capacities, including fundraising, caring for the shelter’s residents, participating in educational efforts, and promoting adoptions through personal and social media connections, plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges.

Ratnaakar Group has been a stalwart in the construction industry for over three decades, creating spaces that fulfill dreams and inspire trust. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, integrity, superior workmanship, timely delivery, and the highest level of professionalism, Ratnaakar Group has garnered the trust of over a thousand satisfied clients and business partners, residing across a remarkable 4.8 million square feet area of residential and commercial spaces.

When Barkville envisioned creating an open and green space for their cherished animal residents, they knew they could trust Ratnaakar Group to partner with them in bringing joy and happiness to their furry friends. The joint endeavor aimed to plant a variety of trees in a designated space on the Barkville campus, complete with a protective fence to create a safe environment for vulnerable animals, allowing them to heal.

Bengaluru, 12th October 2023: As Indians eagerly look forward to hosting the World Cup 2023 on Indian soil, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has launched a new #PrayforIndia campaign to unite the country in prayer, for team India’s victory.

At the heart of the campaign is a simple, yet powerful chant of “Pray for India, win-win India”. The chant is all set to reverberate across the stadium stands, and on the lips of every Indian who wishes for the nation’s victory.

Speaking about the campaign, Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, Cycle Pure Agarbathi said, “Cycle Pure Agarbathi was founded in 1948, in the wake of Indian Independence. For the past 75 years, we have been burned with national pride, with every Indian’s prayers and stood with the nation’s prayers. We hope to ignite national pride with a prayer movement for India’s victory. We want to unite the nation in prayer, by harnessing the power of technology and social media.

Every Indian with a smartphone can share their prayer either by making an instagram reel with the #PrayforIndia mantra, or using an instagram filter with the ‘V’ victory symbol, or by just uploading a picture and a prayer. Every Indian can be a part of this prayer movement for India’s victory, on or off the field. The hook step is pretty cool and catchy. We hope Gen Z will love it. “

Cycle Pure Agarbathi has ingeniously crafted a heartfelt strategy to unite people of all age groups on Instagram, showcasing their undying love and support for team India. As the 11 warriors step onto the cricket field, Cycle Pure Agarbathi wants Team India to feel the collective prayers of 140 crore Indians reverberating through the digital realm.

In a remarkable Instagram campaign, the brand has introduced the #PrayForIndia Cycle Challenge that is designed to sustain the prayer cycle for Team India. This initiative invites the users to partake in a beautiful gesture of solidarity by tagging three of their friends in the comments and including the hashtag #PrayForIndia.

In doing so, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has successfully harnessed the power of social media to amplify the nation’s support for our cricket heroes. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to fostering a sense of togetherness and unity, emphasizing that when the nation prays as one, the spirit of India shines brighter than ever. Join the movement, and let’s keep the prayers going for Team India!

The multimedia campaign has been launched in an innovative manner by Saurav Ganguly along with over 300 social media influencers from various fields who have created reels by taking the #PrayForIndia victory challenge to inspire and invite the nation to create theirs. Share your prayer for India’s victory at PrayforIndia.com

Dr. Cyres K. Mehta, a distinguished name in the field of ophthalmology in the world, has added a new chapter to his illustrious career by launching two remarkable books, each offering unique insights into the world of eye care and his own remarkable journey.

The first of these books, titled “The Sight Guide,” is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in eye health. This comprehensive compilation covers a spectrum of common eye diseases, providing readers with a deep understanding of these conditions and the ground-breaking modern technologies employed in their treatment. Dr. Mehta’s expertise shines through as he demystifies these ailments, making complex medical information accessible to all.

The second book, “CYRES: The Education of an Ophthalmologist,” is an intimate biography that chronicles Dr. Cyres K. Mehta’s life. From his humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated figure in the world of eye surgery, this biography offers readers a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and unwavering dedication that have defined Dr. Mehta’s career.

Trailblazing a number of firsts to his credit, Dr. Cyres Mehta was the first Indian to be honoured with the ‘Presbymania’ Award; he acquired Maharashtra’s first automated Robotic Avedro Cornea Systemas well as Robotic cataract surgery system and SMILE minimally invasive laser vision correction system. He was awarded ‘Fellow Of The Collegium Of AIOS’ At Annual Conference (May 2023).

The books were officially launched at a prestigious Hotel in South Mumbai, a fitting venue for the unveiling of these literary gems. The event was hosted by Ms. Nisha JamVwal, Celebrated Columnist and was graced by a constellation of luminaries from the business and entertainment industries. Their presence underscored the profound impact of Dr. Mehta’s work, both as a medical professional and an author. The event was organised by Kajal Shah, Founder of Tangerine Online Reputation Management.

Adding a touch of authority to the event was the presence of Mr. Vivek Phansalkar, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, who served as the chief guest. Mr. Phansalkar’s participation emphasized the significance of Dr. Mehta’s contributions to society and the respect he commands not only within the medical community but also among law enforcement professionals.

The event was graced by the guests of honour: Shri Vishwas Nangre Patil IPS; Padma Bhushan Mr. Hafeez Contractor; and Padma Shri Dr. Keiki R. Mehta, who witnessed Dr. Cyres’s triumphant success. Other distinguished dignitaries who were present included Shri Upadhyay IPS, Dr. Pasricha IPS, all of whom showered Dr. Cyres with accolades. Also, in attendance were Mr. Terence Lewis, Indian Choreographer; Mr. Gul Kripalani, the Honorary Consul General of Iceland; Miss Marja Einig, Deputy Consul General of Germany; Prof. Cyrus Gonda, Co-Author; Mr. Jimmy Mistry, founder of Della Resorts; and Mr. Parvez Damania, Industrialist, who joined in lauding Dr. Cyres for his remarkable achievements.

Padma Bhushan Mr. Hafeez Contractor said, “Dr. Cyres K. Mehta has achieved so much at such a young age, and I am certain that this is only the beginning of a long and enriching expedition in his life. I believe he is a true pioneer and has carved a niche in the sphere of ophthalmology. These books launched today go a long way in educating people about ophthalmic care, which is often neglected.”

Speaking at the launch of his two books, Dr. Cyres K. Mehta said, ” The goal in releasing these books is to ensure that information about eye care is readily available to everyone. It is both gratifying and humbling to receive such enthusiastic support and encouragement. If my book can make even a small difference in someone’s life, I would view it as a meaningful achievement.”

In recognition of his pioneering contributions to ophthalmology, Dr. Cyres K. Mehta has received numerous prestigious awards, including the International Hero of Indian Ophthalmology, The SOI International Award, Youngest Eye Surgeon, British Ophthalmic Excellence Award, Swiss Eye Research Foundation Award, and many more. These accolades are a testament to his unwavering commitment and outstanding achievements in the field.

Bengaluru12th October 2023– Urban Company, Asia’s leading home services platform, has launched a new range of smart RO water purifiers under the sub-brand Native. Native M1 and M2 models are engineered to deliver clean and safe drinking water for households, equipped with cutting-edge technology and superior-quality filters that sets them apart.

Native by Urban Company is India’s first range of water purifiers which need no servicing for 2 years and are capable of giving an output of 12000 liters of pure water without needing their filters changed. The Native water purifiers are Made in India and come with state-of-the-art filters, ‘rapid reverse rinse’ technology, and multi-micron filter surfaces that enable filters to last for two years, reducing the overall ownership costs for consumers. Additionally, the IoT feature available in the M2 version of the RO device can help users track real-time TDS levels, water consumption and filter life status on their Urban Company app. Further, Urban Company is offering a ‘zero-cost’ warranty that includes filters, membranes and all other spare parts for the two year period.

Addressing the media at the launch, Abhiraj Singh Bhal, Co-founder and CEO, Urban Company said, “We have always strived to make the lives of our customers easier. Over the past few years, we have repaired and serviced over a million water purifiers. One pain point we constantly heard from customers is why water purifiers need filter changes and servicing every few months. We decided to address this problem head-on with our new range of Native water purifiers. The Native water purifiers perform flawlessly for 2 years without needing any service, giving customers safe and clean drinking water. Thereafter, they only need servicing once in 2 years. We are backing our claim with a comprehensive zero cost warranty for 2 years which includes all filters, membranes and spare parts. The purifiers are designed with a lot of thought, and the M2 device is fully integrated into the UC app, giving customers a real-time picture of water quality, consumption and filter life. We are very excited and hope customers will love the product.”

Commenting on the launch, Aditya Shrivastava, SVP, Business said, “At Urban Company, we have been at the forefront of RO servicing for years now, and after years of R&D, technological innovation, and customer feedback, we have built a new product under the Native brand that we hope will be appreciated by our customers. The two Native models, M1 and M2, are equipped with advanced features for better performance while providing safe and healthy drinking water at zero servicing costs for the first two years.”

Both M1 and M2 models have an 8-litre water capacity and have been beautifully designed keeping modern Indian kitchens in mind. Native M2 is an IoT-enabled smart water purifier, which helps customers track their real-time water TDS levels, filter health status and water consumption, all through the Urban Company app. The Native M2 has a futuristic mirror design with a brushed metal finish, 3 preset dispensing mode and a breathing LED indicator that displays IoT pairing status. The Native M1 has 9 stages of filtration (RO + UV + UF + MTDS Minerals and Alkaline Filters) that help remove 99.99% impurities including chemical contaminants like metal ions, chromium, lead, sodium and reduce arsenic, radium, fluoride, sulphate, magnesium, amongst others. The M2 device has 10 stages of filtration, with all the stages of the M1 device + copper-charged filters.

Price and Availability 

The Urban Company Native M2 Water Purifier will be available at an introductory price of INR 17,499 and the Native M1 Model will be at INR 13,499. These models are currently available on the Urban Company app and website as well as on Amazon. The products will be available offline on Croma stores soon.

Mumbai, 12th October 2023: InsuranceDekho, India’s leading Insurtech player, has raised $60 million in its ongoing Series B funding round, marking a significant milestone for the company. With this latest capital infusion, a mix of equity and debt, the company has attracted new marquee investors to its cap table while reaffirming the confidence of existing investors. This is the second fundraise for the Gurugram-based startup in 2023, taking its total fundraise to $200M+, further solidifying its position as the leading Indian Insurtech.

Japanese giant Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (“MUFG”), the insurer BNP Paribas Cardif, through its Insurtech fund managed by European investment major Eurazeo, India- focused Beams Fintech Fund and Yogesh Mahansaria Family Office have come on board as new investors. InsuranceDekho’s existing investors, TVS Capital, Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Avataar Ventures, also invested, re-enforcing their confidence in the company. In February, InsuranceDekho had secured $150 million in the largest Series A funding raised by an Insurtech in South Asia.

By securing more than $200 million in a year, InsuranceDekho has not only emerged as the leading Indian Insurtech; but has also cemented its position amongst the very few startups to be able to raise large Series A and B funding in the same year, a significant win amidst the ongoing funding winter. This exceptional fundraise is a testimony of InsuranceDekho’s vision of insuring every Indian and its robust business model.

The Insurtech player plans to utilize the proceeds from this funding round to boost its marketing activities, further expand its distribution presence in the Indian hinterland, scale up its tech platform, explore inorganic growth opportunities, and for new initiatives like Reinsurance to continue democratizing and revolutionizing the insurance landscape in India.

Ankit Agrawal, CEO and founder of InsuranceDekho said,” We are incredibly thankful to our investors for trusting our vision and potential. Our aim has always been to make insurance accessible and user-friendly for all Indians, and this funding will allow us to accelerate our efforts, reach more customers, and innovate further in the Insurtech space. The insurance sector in India is at the cusp of a tech-backed revolution and I believe InsuranceDekho is well positioned as one of the pioneers leading this transformation.”

Founded by Ankit Agrawal and Ish Babbar in 2017, InsuranceDekho has witnessed a significant growth trajectory. It is on track to achieve ₹3,600 crores premium this financial year and is targeting to have 2,00,000 agent partners on its platform by Mar’24. Currently, the Insurtech player is present in 1500+ regions, covering 98% of pin codes across the country. It gets 90%+ premium from tier 2 and beyond regions. InsuranceDekho has served 6Mn+ customers till date and is currently insuring 12¹ Indians every minute.

Amit Jain, CEO and Co-founder of CarDekho Group added, “InsuranceDekho is expanding at a rapid pace and reaching remarkable milestones. The capital infused will accelerate its growth trajectory, providing the impetus to reach more underserved markets with a reliable insurance platform. This investment brings the company one step closer to its vision of enhancing insurance penetration across the nation. Under the dynamic leadership of Ankit and Ish alongside a great team, InsuranceDekho has demonstrated outstanding success, disrupting the Insurtech landscape in India. InsuranceDekho will continue to leverage tech, innovate and disrupt Insurtech space to be the pioneer in making insurance accessible to Bharat.”

Shashank Joshi, Deputy CEO MUFG Bank, India said, “MUFG’s dedication to fostering a sustainable and inclusive future is at the core of our investment ethos. Our entry into the Insurtech sector signifies a strategic commitment to increase insurance accessibility in India. InsuranceDekho’s tech-driven last-mile distribution model perfectly aligns with our vision of advancing insurance outreach in India. We commend the visionary leadership of Ankit and Ish, and their strong executional approach that adds value for all the stakeholders in the insurance value chain. Together, we commence this journey with InsuranceDekho, with the objective of supporting the company’s growth journey going forward”.

Matthieu Baret, Managing Partner – Venture at Eurazeo, said, “We are thrilled to make InsuranceDekho our first investment in India with the insurer BNP Paribas Cardif. After our investments in China, Indonesia and Singapore, we’re extending our footprint with the ambition to become a leading player in Asia.”

Sagar Agarvwal, Managing Partner, Beams Fintech Fund said, “We have spent a lot of time in the Insurtech space now to identify the challenges in the manufacturing & distribution of Insurance in India. The Insurance space in India is marred with low penetration, lack of trust, mis-selling, limited access and affordability. Within this complex space, we found InsuranceDekho, led by the incredibly talented team of Ankit Agrawal and Ish Babbar, building a large platform not just solving the penetration problem but also fostering trust & providing peace of mind to millions in India. In the diverse & growing Indian insurance market, where protection and financial security is paramount, the potential for growth in this sector is immense & InsuranceDekho is building a robust platform to capitalize on this opportunity.”

Rajat Sood, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, said: “InsuranceDekho continues to help improve insurance penetration in India by bringing value-added solutions to the insurance market using its technology platform and capitalizing on its expanding distribution partner network. We have been supporting the company’s growth by leveraging our network and resources, and we look forward to creating more value as InsuranceDekho continues to scale up its business.”

Praveen Sridharan, Partner at TVS Capital added, “We remain steadfast in our conviction that to enhance insurance penetration, there must be a simultaneous improvement in accessibility. This aligns seamlessly with InsuranceDekho’s overarching mission of extending insurance coverage to the remote corners of India, including its smaller towns and villages. This funding round reaffirms our confidence in the team and positions InsuranceDekho to drive innovation in the Insurtech sector.”

MUMBAI, INDIA – 12th October 2023 In a groundbreaking move that showcases the ever-expanding global reach of Japanese beauty and cosmetics giant SHISEIDO, the company in collaboration with its India distributor, Baccarose Perfumes & Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd. has appointed Tamannaah Bhatia as its first-ever brand ambassador in India for brand SHISEIDO Skincare range.

Tamannaah Bhatia, the versatile and beloved Bollywood star, has achieved a momentous milestone in her illustrious career by becoming the very first Indian brand ambassador for SHISEIDO.

Tamannaah Bhatia, known for her mesmerizing on-screen presence and her dedication to her craft, represents the perfect embodiment of SHISEIDO’s values of elegance, innovation, and individuality. Her natural beauty, combined with her ability to effortlessly adapt to various roles and styles, makes her an ideal choice as SHISEIDO’s brand ambassador for India.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be associated with SHISEIDO, a brand that has consistently set the standard for excellence in beauty for over a century. SHISEIDO’s commitment to innovation, quality, and celebrating individuality resonates with me on a personal level. I believe that beauty is not just about external appearance, but also about feeling confident and empowered in your own skin,” commented Tamannaah Bhatia.

Mr. Nicolas Baudonnet, Vice President, Fragrance and Cosmetics division, SHISEIDO Asia Pacific, shared his thoughts on this momentous announcement saying, “We are delighted to welcome Tamannaah Bhatia into the SHISEIDO family. Her charisma, talent, and timeless beauty resonates with our brand’s core values, making her the perfect choice to represent SHISEIDO in India. We look forward to working closely with Tamannaah and believe that her association with our brand will help us connect with our consumers on a deeper level.

We are committed to bringing the best of SHISEIDO to the Indian beauty market. With the appointment of Tamannaah and expanding our presence in the market with the opening of our first brand SHISEIDO store in Mumbai, we are looking forward to bringing Indian beauty enthusiasts on an exciting journey ahead with the brand.”

The partnership between Tamannaah Bhatia and SHISEIDO represents a significant moment in the world of beauty and entertainment. It marks SHISEIDO’s unwavering commitment to connecting with the diverse and dynamic Indian market while recognizing Tamannaah’s exceptional talent, timeless beauty, and influence on fans across the nation.

Kadambari Lakhani, Director, Baccarose Perfumes & Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd. says “This exciting collaboration not only marks a significant milestone for us and for SHISEIDO but also symbolizes the harmonious fusion of Japanese precision and Indian vibrancy. Tamannaah Bhatia embodies the essence of timeless beauty and has captivated audiences with her talent and charisma. This partnership promises to bring together the rich traditions of Japanese skincare innovation with the dazzling allure of Bollywood glamour, setting the stage for an enchanting journey into the world of beauty that transcends cultural boundaries.”

Villoo Daji, Sr. Vice President, Group Marketing, Baccarose Perfumes & Beauty Products Pvt. Ltd. says, “SHISEIDO’s choice of Tamannaah Bhatia as their first brand ambassador in India reflects the brand’s dedication to enhancing the beauty experiences of Indian consumers.

SHISEIDO’s Skincare range is an induction into the skincare regimen which is simple and has a proven efficacy after detailed testing on Asian skin. This partnership is set to inspire beauty enthusiasts and consumers across the country to explore the world of SHISEIDO’s skincare and makeup products, renowned for their outstanding quality and effectiveness.

The collaboration between Tamannaah Bhatia and SHISEIDO promises exciting new ventures, innovative campaigns, and an enhanced brand experience for beauty enthusiasts across India.”