Archives February 2024

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Records Highest-ever Monthly Sales with 24,609 Units in January’ 2024

Bangalore, 02nd  February 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), continued to demonstrate  a strong wholesales performance by selling 24,609 units for January of 2024 – this is the highest ever monthly wholesales for the company in India. The company achieved sales of 23,197 units in the domestic market, with an additional 1,412 units of The Urban Cruiser Hyryder being exported.

This achievement represents a significant growth of 92% compared to the same period last year, when the company sold 12,835 wholesale units. Furthermore, in the preceding month of December’ 2023 TKM had sold 22,867 units.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “Last Calendar Year we reported our best performance in the country by selling 2,33,346 units. In the new year, we plan to enhance momentum by executing our long-term growth strategy. This involves our focus on three key areas such as – developing cleaner and greener products, driving production efficiencies and enhancing overall customer delight. We believe that these will be the core towards further enhancing Toyota brand presence and capitalizing on the expanding opportunities in the market.

Sales in the month of January ’2024 stood at a record high wholesale of 24,609 units, 92% higher than same period last year. The company’s MPV and SUV offerings continue to be our greatest strength with major contributions from the Innova Hycross, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Innova Crysta, Fortuner and the Legender. Other offerings such as the Camry Hybrid, Glanza, Hilux, Vellfire and the Rumion too have fuelled our growth story.

We are also excited to announce our participation at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo, scheduled to commence on February 1, 2024. Aligning with TKM’s long-term strategy towards achieving business sustainability and contribution to the nation’s energy self-reliance and carbon neutral goals. We are geared-up to demonstrate advanced green technology product line-up along with technology innovation centred around the theme of “Grow India – Grow with India”. On display will be the full range of electrified vehicle technologies including Battery Electric Vehicle, Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle, Fuel Cell Vehicle Flex Fuel vehicle – Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle, all having common powertrain parts besides CNG, Emergency Response Vehicles.

Yamaha Powers into Inaugural Bharat Mobility Expo with Exciting Product Range and Interactive Pavilion

Yamaha Powers into Inaugural Bharat Mobility Expo with Exciting Product Range and Interactive PavilionBengaluru, 02nd February 2024: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd announced its participation in the inaugural edition of Bharat Mobility, the first-of-its-kind global mobility show hosted in India. It is a pioneering event that unites the entire mobility value chain in a single venue. More than just an exhibition, it serves as a preview for the future of mobility.

The Yamaha Pavilion, spanning 400 sq meter, promises to captivate visitors with an exclusive display of its exciting motorcycle & scooter range, attractive apparels, & accessories and innovative technology, at this groundbreaking event, showcasing its commitment to innovation and passion for two-wheeled freedom. Yamaha stands at the forefront of developing products that incorporate advanced technologies, revolutionizing modern motorcycling. At the heart of Yamaha‘s commitment lies a dedication to pushing the boundaries of mobility, bringing forth solutions that align with the evolving needs of today’s dynamic and young generation.

 Embracing #TheCallOfTheBlue at Bharat Mobility 

To meet the aspirations of young customers in India, Yamaha is wholeheartedly embracing the #TheCallOfTheBlue at the Bharat Mobility Show. The concept of this exclusive brand campaign revolves around cultivating the spirit of racing and offering enriching experiences to Yamaha fans through Exciting, Stylish & Sporty product range and excellent services. With a strategic focus on the premium segment space, Yamaha‘s offerings not only embody cutting-edge technology and design excellence but also resonate with the dynamic lifestyle choices of the youth. ‘The Call of the Blue’ goes beyond being a mere product showcase; it becomes a symbol of excitement and innovation. Through this initiative, Yamaha not only introduces superior mobility solutions but also creates engaging experiences, reflecting the brand’s dedication to shaping the future of mobility in India. 

The strategically designed Yamaha Pavilion is a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence. The heart of the exhibit will pulsate with the adrenaline of its diverse portfolio. 

The R-World Legacy

The Pavilion stands out with its impressive display of exciting models from the R-World. From showcasing the R15 V4 series (155cc) in four dynamic colors: Racing Blue, Intensity White, Dark Knight, and Metallic Red, the R-World is all set to impress the biking enthusiasts with the display of iconic models in the R-Series family including the R1 (1000cc), R7 (700cc), R3 (321cc), and R15M (155cc) models. R-World embodies high-performance sportbikes, delivering cutting-edge engineering and track-worthy thrills. Each machine is a testament to Yamaha‘s engineering excellence, offering unparalleled performance, handling, and design. 

AEROX Adrenaline

Another major attraction of Yamaha Pavilion is the display of the India’s renowned Maxi-Sports scooter, AEROX 155cc in three attractive colors: Racing Blue, Metallic Black, and Grey Vermillion. This scooter redefines urban mobility with its sporty design, advanced features, and efficient performance, making it a perfect choice for city dwellers seeking style and substance in their daily commute. The AEROX 155cc is a sporty scooter that packs a punch with its 155cc Liquid cooled engine and advanced features like TCS, VVA, Smart Motor Generator System (SMG) and Automatic Stop Start System, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride. 

The MT Series Pedigree 

The center stage of the Pavilion provides a glimpse into the Dark Side of Japan and in the exciting world of MT-series family, showcasing the versatile MT-07 (700cc), MT-03 (300cc), and MT-15 (155cc). MT-World focuses on offering dynamic, torque-driven motorcycles, designed for urban agility and a muscular aesthetic. These models define distinct motorcycling realms for diverse enthusiasts.

 Streetfighter FZ 

From the FZ-Series family, the popular street fighter, FZS FI V4 Deluxe (149cc) is displayed in the Ice Fluo-Vermillion and Sparkle Green colours, showcasing power with sophistication and magnificent shades. Along with it, the Matte Titan variant of FZ-X (149cc) exudes a rugged charm with its robust design and touring capabilities. Also, FZ -X has been introduced in the all-new Chrome & Metallic Black colors, adding a touch of elegance to the entire FZ-X lineup. The FZ series boasts advanced features, including a high-performance engine, state-of-the-art suspension, and cutting-edge safety technologies, ensuring an exhilarating riding experience. 

Scooter Symphony 

Yamaha urges visitors to take a spin through the world of Yamaha scooters with the RAY ZR 125 Hybrid and Fascino 125 FI Hybrid, renowned for their agility and style. The company showcases its commitment to ease urban mobility with these models highlighting key features like 125cc Fi Hybrid Power Assist Engine, Automatic Stop & Start system, Smart Motor Generator (SMG), Y-connect application, and available in unique and vibrant colors. With a distinct emphasis on cutting-edge hybrid technology, these scooters are engineered for efficiency and seamless urban rides. These scooters seamlessly blend electric and conventional power, providing an eco-friendly and economical ride. The scooter display area takes it a step further by featuring a complete 125cc scooter engine, accompanied by an LED screen highlighting the key features such as Hybrid technology, SMG, Stop Start System, Y-connect app, and more. Yamaha invites visitors to delve into the intricate details of their scooter lineup, including the innovative TCS. 

Global Grandeur 

Revered across continents, Yamaha N-Max (155cc) and Grand Filano (125cc) are two iconic models that showcase Yamaha‘s commitment to delivering excellence on a global scale. The resounding fame of both these vehicles is a testament to their exceptional features and performance. From the Grand Filano’s sleek design to the N-Max’s powerful performance, these scooters embody Yamaha‘s pursuit of perfection. Their acclaim worldwide attests to Yamaha‘s prowess in crafting outstanding two-wheelers that captivate riders on a global stage.

 Beyond Two-Wheelers 

The Yamaha Pavilion goes beyond the thrill of bikes and scooters. Yamaha caters to every rider’s passion by helping them gear up in style with the Yamaha-branded apparel and accessories section, featuring jackets, T-shirts, helmets, and gloves. Additionally, the pavilion features an exciting gaming zone for enthusiasts to indulge their passion for virtual adventures. Furthermore, Yamaha has curated a selfie zone that provides the perfect backdrop for visitors to capture memories with the R15V4 Monster Energy Edition. Also, the exclusive Monster Energy stall in the Pavilion is all set to add further excitement and provide an incredible experience to all Yamaha fans. 

Commenting on the participation, Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies, said, “We are thrilled to be a part of this landmark event and showcase the best of Yamaha to the Indian audience. With unparalleled performance, sleek design, and innovative technology, our bikes and scooters are built to fuel the passion of every rider. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Indian market, actively contributing to shaping the future of this dynamic and evolving landscape. We would like to congratulate Bharat Mobility Expo for establishing this pivotal platform that fosters collaboration among OEMs, with a shared vision of cultivating a sustainable mobility ecosystem in harmony with the environment.”

Analyst Sees $12B Research-Innovation Fund Provisioned In Budget As Catalyst For Building Half Trillion Dollar Indian Tech. Startup Economy

New Delhi 02nd February 2024: Today Finance Minister of India Nirmala Sitharaman presented an interim budget for 2024-25 in Indian parliament where she proposed a corpus fund of rupees one lakh crore (USD 12B+) for fifty-year interest free loan to tech. startups working in research and innovation in sunrise domains like deep tech., AI (Artificial Intelligence). The proposed corpus fund will provide long-term financing or refinancing to private sector with long tenures on low or nil interest rates.

Tech. Analyst 5 Jewels Research (5JR) sees this proposed $12B+ research and innovation fund provisioned in interim budget presented today by Indian finance minister as a catalyst for building half trillion dollar ($0.5T) Indian Tech. Startup Economy.

Giving his analyst insights on this year’s interim budget of Govt. of India Chief Analyst of 5 Jewels Research (5JR)  Mr. Sumant Parimal said “Even this year interim budget has technology, innovation and startups focus in line with previous years Modi Govt. budgets, which is very encouraging for tech. and startups segments. This one lakh crore rupees corpus fund ($12B+) proposed in year 2024 interim budget of Govt. of India is going to act as a catalyst for accelerating growth of technology research and innovations in India through commercial entities like startups, leading to higher tech. startups contribution in Indian economy, which is estimated to the tune of half a trillion dollar ($0.5T) over the years. This $12B+ fund targeted for tech. startups is getting injected by the Govt. of India when last year private funding in Indian startups saw a deep decline due to geo-political and other economic reasons. Further this $12B+ fund shall bring long term sustenance among Indian tech. startups as loan re-payment duration is too long upto 50 years with very favorable terms and conditions like zero to nominal interest rate as its focus is to build innovative sustainable startups keeping in mind long term economic goals of the country, which is different to the private investments which are typically focused on immediate financial returns with valuation pressures ”.

“With private funds, typically startup’s majority ownership goes to the parent VCs who are mostly overseas funds, but with Govt. of India coming as investor in Indian tech. startups, majority ownership of such govt. funded Indian startups to remain among Indians or Indian entities, which shall create many Global Indian brands and Indian MNCs in long term. Hence today’s announcement of Finance Minister of India for creating a corpus fund of rupees one lakh crore (USD 12B+) for fifty-year interest free loan to tech. startups working in research and innovation in sunrise domains is actually targeted towards building a million global Indian brands, which I personally emphasized in year 2021” Mr. Sumant Parimal add further.

5JR’s Chief Analyst further adds that the new scheme announced in today presented interim budget of Govt. of India for strengthening deep-tech technologies for defence purposes and expediting ‘Atmam Nirbhat Bharta’ (Self Reliant India) is another positive step taken towards deepening cutting edge new technology deployments in Indian defense forces, and it will boost Quantum Technology, Robotics and AI (Artificial Intelligence) deployments in our armed forces making it technically stronger to compete with nearby military powers like China.

Further details and implementation approach of both announcements viz. creating a corpus fund of rupees one lakh crore for promoting research and innovation through startups and new scheme for strengthening deep-tech technologies for defence purposes are awaited from Govt. of India.

JIS Group Highlights Exceptional Achievements at the JIS SAMMAN 2024

JIS Group Highlights Exceptional Achievements at the JIS SAMMAN 2024Kolkata, 02nd February, 2024: JIS SAMMAN 2024, the biggest award ceremony hosted by the JIS Group, took place on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre. The event was graced by distinguished guests, celebrities, scholars, prominent figures from the cultural and sports arenas, and members of the JIS Group community. The event commenced with the award presentation, followed by an exhilarating performance by the renowned rock band, FOSSILS. This year, the prestigious JIS Maha Samman was conferred to Dr. Suman Chakraborty, Professor& Dean at IIT Kharagpur, and Dr. Partha Sarathi Bhattacharya, an eminent Pulmonologist.
JIS SAMMAN 2024 aimed to recognise exceptional achievements in Academics, Culture, and Sports across various institutions under the aegis of the JIS Group. This annual initiative seeks to honour and celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. As in previous years, the highlight of JIS SAMMAN was the prestigious JIS Maha SAMMAN awards, presented to individuals who have excelled in their domains and made an indelible impact on society. The recipients of the JIS Maha SAMMAN 2024 awards were Dr. Suman Chakraborty, Professor & Dean at IIT Kharagpur, known for his substantial contributions to mechanical engineering and a source of sheer motivation to numerous engineering aspirants; along with Dr. Partha Sarathi Bhattacharya, an eminent Pulmonologist, recognised for his compassionate and proficient approach to simplifying what is often a very complicated and confusing area of health care.
Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, stated, “We are proud and thrilled to showcase the JIS SAMMAN 2024, our prestigious award ceremony that acknowledges outstanding achievements across diverse domains. This event not only commemorates the remarkable accomplishments of distinguished individuals but also serves as an inspiration for others to strive for excellence. JIS Group remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing talent and cultivating a culture of growth and success.”

Lupin Digital Health introduces Digital Therapeutics Certificate for Cardiologists in India in collaboration with the ACC

Hyderabad, 02nd February 2024: Lupin Digital Health, India’s first evidence based cardiology Digital Therapeutics (DTx) platform and the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the global scientific leader in the practice of Cardiology, have announced the introduction of the world’s first-ever Digital Therapeutics Certificate for Cardiologists. This unveiling took place during the Platinum Jubilee celebration event of the Cardiology Society of India (CSI) in Kolkata.

Dr. Edward Fry, the Past President of ACC, attended the event, emphasizing the global significance of this collaboration in advancing cardiovascular patient care. In a bid to encourage the integration of cutting-edge digital solutions in Cardiology, ACC will grant ‘Digital Pioneer’ certificates to cardiologists who adopt Remote Cardiac Rehab and Digital Heart Failure clinic solutions, acknowledging their commitment to innovation and patient-centered healthcare. This collaboration is crucial in ensuring top-notch care and enhancing outcomes, all from the convenience of patients’ homes.

Expressing enthusiasm about this initiative, Rajeev Sibal, President – India Region Formulations, Lupin stated, “Lupin is proud to support cardiologists with our patient-centric solutions. As a pioneer in the DTx space, we are delighted to play a pivotal role in bringing this important ACC certificate to cardiologists and setting new standards in digital therapeutics.”

Sidharth Srinivasan, CEO, Lupin Digital Health added, “The collaboration with the American College of Cardiology marks a transformative milestone in remote cardiac rehabilitation. A growing number of doctors and cardiac institutes are acknowledging Remote Cardiac Rehab as a foundational pillar in making cardiac care more accessible. We are sure that this initiative will further encourage the healthcare fraternity to better understand and utilize technology-led Cardiac Rehab.”

Ami Bhatt, MD, ACC Chief Innovation Officer, highlighted the broader impact, “The ACC is proud to recognize cardiologists who are pioneering digital therapeutics adaptation in India through Lupin Digital Health’s Lyfe platform. This recognition underscores our commitment to advancing digital solutions that improve patient outcomes globally.”

Lyfe, developed by Lupin Digital Health, is India’s first clinically proven remote cardiac rehabilitation program. Addressing the underutilization of cardiac rehabilitation, Lyfe is trusted by over 450 cardiologists with patients across 250 towns and cities in India. The program has demonstrated its effectiveness in enhancing heart health and improving the quality of life for cardiovascular patients.

This collaboration is a significant step forward in global healthcare, aligning with the mission of both Lupin Digital Health and the American College of Cardiology to revolutionize cardiovascular patient care through innovative digital solutions.

South African Tourism Kickstarts its Annual Multi-city Roadshow 2024

South African Tourism Kickstarts its Annual Multi-city Roadshow 2024; Debuts in Jaipur & Returns to Key Indian Cities02nd February 2024: Aligning with the strategic roadmap for the Indian market, South African Tourism is delighted to announce the 2024 edition of its annual India roadshow. Serving as an essential tool in promoting travel and tourism for the Rainbow Nation, the roadshow for the first time ever will enter the pink city of Jaipur. Scheduled from 12th – 16th February 2024, the event will further move to other significant Indian cities, namely – Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and Mumbai in the respective order.

The 20th annual roadshow schedule marks a vital milestone in South African Tourism’s efforts in the Indian market. It will witness the unveiling of the tourism board’s year-long plan to engage with Indian consumers. The novel insights leading to redefined approach will enable the trade partners to tap into India’s growing outbound travel market. Commencing in Jaipur the inaugural roadshow will be complemented by a panel discussion on 11th February 2024 and a gala for more than 150 key delegates and trade partners bringing on ground the sights, sounds, culture, and cuisine of South Africa.

India is currently one of the top three focus markets for South African Tourism across the globe and holds a position of strategic importance. Led by Ms. Neliswa Nkani – Hub Head – Middle East, India and Southeast Asia, South African Tourism the roadshow remains an integral tool in attracting ‘more & more’ consumers to the Rainbow Nation. For years, India has been one of the largest source markets to many destinations across the globe. Owing to the recent uptick in its appetite for outbound tourism, the country is impossible to overlook for any tourism board.

Commenting on the occasion Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – Middle East, India and South East Asia, South African Tourism said “In 2023, we experienced another year marked by substantial growth in arrivals from the Indian market. Indicative of our successful strategy, the increase in inbound tourism to South Africa is a testament to our initiatives undertaken in the preceding year. Through meticulously curated campaigns, we showcased the hidden beauty of South Africa leading us to achieving an impressive recovery of 82% of the pre-pandemic level arrivals from India to South Africa.

She continues “The overwhelming response not only underscores our commitment to the Indian market but also inches us closer towards our targets of surpassing pre-pandemic arrival figures. Eager to continue building on the robust traveller momentum witnessed so far, our 2024 roadshow promises to provide trade partners with novel and valuable insights. We are confident that our efforts will assist our Indian counterparts in redefining their approach and equip themselves with all necessary tools.”

Paving way for mutually beneficial partnerships with Indian trade buyers, the convention will host more than 40 prominent exhibitors from the Rainbow Nation out of which 14 are SMMEs. It is also key to note that this year over 40% are new products. Each year, Indian and South African trade partners come together during the annual trade schedule and chart the way forward for next phase of growth. Reputed companies such as Ethiopian Airlines, The Westin Hotels – Cape Town, SA Forest Adventures, and government authorities such as JoBurg Tourism, WesGro and more will showcase their latest offerings, promoting comforting stays, thrilling adventures, and unforgettable experiences.

In 2023, South African Tourism made a giant leap forward and inched closer to its target of surpassing pre-pandemic arrivals from India. It is worth noting that Indian travellers are the largest consumer of adventure in the Rainbow Nation. Besides, the country is also home to the largest population of Indian diaspora outside India. As the ongoing conversations for improved accessibility through e-visa pilot program and direct air-connectivity make headway, the bond between the two nations will only flourish further. At present, several stop-over flights fly from India to South Africa, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways and Air Seychelles.

“She is a fun-loving and exciting person”, Prerna Lisa on her quirky character in Badi Heroine Banti Hai

“She is a fun-loving and exciting person”, Prerna Lisa on her quirky character in Badi Heroine Banti HaiMumbai, 02nd February 2024: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released its rom-com series, Badi Heroine Banti Hai chronicles the riveting story of Kajal, a young, ambitious girl from Ludhiana who comes to Bombay as an intern at the renowned fashion couture firm Veer Singhania Designs. Having been fired by her boss Advait Singhania on the first day of her job, Kajal’s life takes an unexpected and a rather surprising turn as she gets announced as the company’s heir based on the will of Advait’s recently deceased father, Mr. Veer Singhania. Amidst the thrill of a suspenseful murder and the shine of the high-end glamorous world, passion blooms in her life with the entrance of Advait. Along with featuring Rajeev Siddhartha, Nehal Chudasama, and Utkarsh Kohli in pivotal roles, the series also stars Prerna Lisa who essays the character of Kajal.

Exploring the nuances of her character, Prerna Lisa gave insight by unfolding its different layers. She shared, “Kajal Bakshi is a small-town girl who travels to Mumbai to pursue her dreams. She is a courageous and hardworking girl who manages everything on her own. She is not afraid of anyone, no matter how high the authority. Being a truthful person, she believes in honesty. With all of these fantastic attributes, she is also quite funny, quirky, and at times clumsy. Overall, she is a fun-loving and exciting character.”

Adding to this, she further gave a sneak peek into the fun BTS moments from the sets. “I recall one instance in which I was meant to perform an emotional scene, but the DOP sir was joking around and making me laugh. I had to literally request him to cut down on the jokes as it was distracting me during an important scene.  It was a very funny moment altogether,” she shared.

Created by Gul Khan, Badi Heroine Banti Hai is streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV for free, available on Amazon’s shopping app, Fire TV, and Play Store.

BMW Group India presents India Art Fair 2024

BMW Group India presents India Art Fair 2024Bengaluru, 02nd February 2024 : BMW Group India is the presenting partner of the latest edition of India Art Fair from 1 – 4 February 2024 at the NSIC Exhibition Grounds in New Delhi. India Art Fair is the leading platform for showcasing modern and contemporary art in India and South Asia. The fair has brought hundreds of artists from the region to the world’s attention over its many successful editions.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group India is deeply committed to nurturing corporate citizenship and fostering intercultural dialogue, integral to our societal responsibilities. We are proud partners for the fair, as it celebrates 15 incredible years of establishing itself as the leading platform for discovering modern and contemporary art in India and South Asia. As the ‘Presenting Partner’ of the India Art Fair, we have been instrumental in promoting the growth and visibility of modern Indian art and artists. This year, BMW India is excited to unveil the third installment of the ‘Future is Born of Art’ commission. We invite art and automobile enthusiasts alike to join us in exploring new realms of creative expression at the India Art Fair.”

BMW Group India has supported the evolution and exposure of modern contemporary Indian art and artists since 2012. Through this year’s collaboration, BMW India will exhibit the first-ever fully electric BMW i7 sedan as part of third ‘The Future is Born of Art’ commission and host the BMW Art Talk on the theme ‘Through the Looking Glass’.

The first-ever BMW i7 is a true all-electric luxury sedan that clearly demonstrates how an exclusive driving experience can be combined with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. The i7 offers all-electric innovation, visionary design, and powerful driving dynamics so that you can make a striking impression everywhere you go. Built for the luminaries with next-level style and substance, it is undeniably alluring from the inside out.

‘The Future is Born of Art’ commission is an initiative by BMW India and India Art Fair which aims to propel emerging Indian artists and boost BMW Group’s commitment to promote art, sustainability and innovation. BMW India will showcase its third commission based on the theme ‘Forwardism’.

Sashikanth Thavudoz is the winner of the third edition of ‘The Future is Born of Art’ commission, following Faiza Hasan and Devika Sundar, the winners of the 2022 and 2023 commissions, respectively. Selected by the advisory panel comprising of HRH Radhikaraje Gaekwad – a distinguished patron and conservationist, Jaya Asokan – director, India Art Fair, Veeranganakumari Solanki, curator and Sameer Kulavoor, contemporary artist.

For his installation at the India Art Fair, titled ‘Symphony of Nature: The Harmonic Forest’, Thavudoz has combined materials and mediums from his past experiences and projects, including illuminated lights and wood blocks, into a multi-sensory and immersive experience. In-line with the theme ‘Forwardism,’ the installation is more than a concept. It is an ongoing journey of the artist emphasizing responsible creativity amidst change. It combines natural and manufactured materials that aims to highlight the fragility of this balance that we must all consider as we go into the future.

BMW Art Talk on the theme of ‘Through the Looking Glass’ will be hosted on 2 February 2024 at the India Art Fair. Three ground-breaking contemporary artists, Anita Dube, Barthélémy Toguo and Jitish Kallat share the inspiring stories of their creative journeys in a candid conversation with Prof. Dr. Thomas Girst, Global Head, BMW Group Cultural Engagement.

Both Dube and Kallat have been leading the Kochi-Muziris Biennale as artistic directors in 2018, and 2014, respectively. BMW is a committed long-term partner of the biennial since its inception in 2012.

Budget 2024: Setting the tone for Viksit Bharat and Sustainable Mobility

Budget 2024: Setting the tone for Viksit Bharat and Sustainable MobilityMr. Devndra Chawla, MD and CEO, GreenCell Mobility

We commend the major announcements made by Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman in the Interim Budget 2024. The government’s commitment to promoting sustainable mobility is a welcome step towards a greener future.  Focusing on increased usage of e-buses for public transport networks is a noteworthy initiative. As a green mobility firm, we applaud this effort for its potential to greatly cut carbon emissions and improve the overall efficiency of public transit networks. This decision is completely aligned with our aim to promote ecologically friendly urban mobility alternatives.

Furthermore, encouraging states to undertake the entire development of renowned tourist destinations and sell them worldwide is a smart decision. This not only benefits the tourism industry, but it also presents opportunity for sustainable transportation solutions in these places. We look forward to contributing to such projects with our environmentally friendly mobility solutions.

The commitment to a significant FY25 capex spend of 3.4% of GDP and a capex target of Rs 11.1 trillion, an 11.1% increase, is very bold and forward looking step. It demonstrates the Government’s commitment to infrastructure development. The assistance for the production and manufacture of electric mobility is well aligned with our main business. We applaud the Government’s measures in promotion of sustainable mobility which plays a crucial role in creating a cleaner and greener world.

The announcement highlights the promotion of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and increased adoption of e-buses in public transport networks. This will be facilitated through a payment security mechanism. The government’s initiative not only drives electric vehicle adoption but also creates entrepreneurial opportunities for vendors involved in the supply and installation of EV chargers. This approach contributes to employment generation, particularly for skilled youth, aligning with our vision of promoting sustainability and fostering economic growth.

Lastly, the focus on solar energy and the rooftop solarisation scheme is a forward-looking initiative. It not only aims to provide free electricity to households but also acts as a catalyst for the growth of the electric vehicle charging ecosystem. We appreciate the holistic approach towards sustainable development, which not only considers the end-users but also fosters entrepreneurship and employment opportunities across the value chain.

At last, the Interim Budget 2024 sets an optimistic tone for the future. We believe that the next few years will indeed be filled with golden moments as the nation progresses toward a more sustainable and resilient future. We eagerly look forward to contributing to and benefiting from these positive changes in the mobility and energy sector.

GreenCell Mobility, promoted by Eversource Capital, is a leading player in the shared e-mobility space. GreenCell Mobility operates NueGo, India’s first premium intercity electric coach service

I believe Devndra’s perspective would be valuable for your coverage of the budget announcement and its impact on the electric vehicle and green mobility space. Please let me know if you would like any additional details or need to schedule a call/meeting with Devndra to discuss this further. I’d be happy to coordinate.

Building a More Inclusive & Sustainable India: Budget 2024 Unveils Roadmap for Vikas & Viksit Bharat

Mr. Santanu Agarwal,

By Mr. Santanu Agarwal, Deputy Managing Director, Paisalo Digital Limited 

“The budget presents a vision of prosperity and resilience, reflecting the vision of a Viksit Bharat. It strikes a balance between growth and fiscal responsibility, prioritizing key sectors, green initiatives, and the rural economy. The government’s commitment to sustainable development and financial inclusion is evident through increased capital and operational expenditures across all three sectors.

This optimistic outlook promises inclusive development, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment for all. Targeted measures for the rural sector, coupled with visionary strategies for financial upliftment and social welfare, underscore India’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship, ensuring credit access, and developing sound financial regulations.

The budget champions entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic development, paving the way for their active participation and contribution to India’s diverse sectors.”