Archives October 2024

National, 25th October 2024: Komaki Electric Vehicle, a leading electric vehicle brand, introduced the new model of Cat 3.0 NXT before the festive season. The new model of CAT 3.0 NXT comes up with two battery variants, Graphene and LIPO4, which will now be available . This eco-friendly e-fleet is aimed at last-mile delivery operators for all-day usage in a sustainable manner and strengthens the SMEs and MSMEs to flourish their businesses. Komaki is offering an introductory cashback offer on Cat 3.0 NXT till 31st October.

Komaki Cat 3.0 NXT is powered by app-based battery variants, Graphene and LIPO4. The company claims a range of 180+ km to 200+ km on a single charge, depending on the battery variant. The electric fleet is based on a solid metal body with convertible seats, offering ample space for seating and a loading capacity of up to 500 kg. It provides utility and convenience used for transporting both goods and passengers. The new Cat 3.0 NXT’s convertible design allows for seamless transformation into a loader, providing flexibility for diverse transportation needs.

“Our vision at Komaki is to strengthen the small businesses to flourish their businesses at every corner around the nation through innovative, eclectic mobility solutions. The launch of CAT 3.0 NXT marks another significant milestone toward our goal, which will empower businesses to be eco-friendly and promote last-mile delivery operations,” said Gunjan Malhotra, Co-Founder of Komaki Electric Division.

In addition, the new Cat 3.0 NXT is packed with a host of features, including parking assist/cruise control, both sides special brake levers with incline locking, a Triple disc brake system, a Windshield with clear visibility, three gear mode with green eco sport turbo, Repair switch, Anti-theft lock, Self-diagnosis, Both side wide foot space. Furthermore, its convertible design allows a seamless transition into a loader; offering added flexibility to cater to diverse transportation requirements.

Tamil Nadu, October 25, 2024: Equitas Small Finance Bank becomes the first small finance bank to offer a dedicated mobile loan application with the launch of Selfe Loans. The user-friendly interface of the app allows its users to apply for loans from the comfort of their location.

As the festive season approaches, Equitas SFB recognizes the increased financial needs of small businesses such as provision stores, teashops, and repair centers. These enterprises often require additional funds to support inventory expansion, manage working capital, and capitalize on seasonal business opportunities. To address this need, the bank offers long-term credit, term loans secured against the borrower’s property through the Selfe Loans app. It combines the flexibility of digital lending with tailored financial products, to empower small businesses to thrive during this crucial business period.

Through the app, Equitas is focused to provide solution to this growing demand aiming to increase the use of internet in the realm of financial services and reducing the chances of users being exposed to financial frauds. Currently, the app offers secured loans without income proof including loans against property, home loans, merchant overdraft, new and used car and commercial vehicle loans. The bank plans to expand loan products and will be made available within the app.

The Selfe Loans App, is available on both iOS and Android app stores, with a user-friendly interface that can be accessed in regional languages. Through the app, the bank currently provides secured loans and plans to introduce personal loans for salaried professionals. Additionally, customers can track and manage their loan through the app.

New Delhi, October 25, 2024 – KARAM Safety, a leading global PPE player and fall protection solutions provider, proudly participated in the 5th Annual World Safety Organization (WSO) India OHS&E Professional Development Symposium and the 3rd WSO India (State) Level OHS&E Awards Ceremony held in Chennai. The event gathered a diverse array of industry leaders, safety professionals, and organizations committed to advancing occupational health, safety, and environmental (OHS&E) standards.

KARAM Safety was honored to receive the prestigious Silver category award for Manufacturing OHS&E Excellence. This recognition underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to maintaining high safety standards and fostering a culture of safety throughout its operations. It reflects KARAM Safety’s dedication to providing safe working environments and innovative safety solutions.

“At KARAM Safety, our mission has always been to ensure the highest standards of safety and well-being for workers across industries. This award is a testament to our team’s relentless efforts and our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in safety solutions,” said Mr. Hemant Sapra, President, Global Sales & Marketing, KARAM Safety. “We are deeply honored to be recognized at this prestigious event, and we will continue to drive excellence in occupational health and safety.”

KARAM Safety is renowned for its comprehensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall protection solutions, offering over 3,500 certified products that meet international standards. The company’s dedication to quality and safety has made it a trusted name in over 100 countries, ensuring the well-being of workers across various industries.

The symposium featured a series of insightful presentations and discussions on the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in OHS&E. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful exchanges with peers, share best practices, and learn from industry experts about the evolving landscape of occupational safety.

October 25, Kochi: CGH Earth Saha is thrilled to announce the opening of Mansao Curtorim, the latest addition to its burgeoning villa and bungalow holiday collection. Nestled in the tranquil village of Curtorim, this 223-year-old heritage villa serves as a unique getaway for travellers eager to discover an unexplored side of Goa, all within a serene and unhurried environment of an authentic old-Goan village and the beaches, a 30-min drive away.

Set amidst lush landscapes, historic churches, and peaceful paddy fields, Mansao Curtorim has undergone meticulous restoration, harmoniously blending traditional Indo-Portuguese architecture with contemporary comforts. The villa’s striking red-hued façade complemented by high wooden ceilings, expansive sit-outs overlooking vibrant tropical gardens, and carefully selected colonial Goan furniture, encapsulates the timeless allure of Goa’s rich cultural heritage.

Mansao Curtorim boasts six elegantly furnished bedrooms, a spacious living room, an exquisite formal dining room as well as a more relaxed outdoor dining area framed by an enchanting courtyard, and balconies that offer breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets. The villa’s focal point is its beautifully landscaped courtyard, adorned with archways and colonial-style galleries, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation or intimate gatherings.

The interiors of Mansao Curtorim have been thoughtfully curated with restored colonial furniture, Portuguese-inspired textiles and other intricate details pay tribute to Goa’s architectural legacy. From exquisite rosewood beds to ornate mirrors, each piece reflects the region’s storied past.

A culinary experience at Mansao Curtorim is a celebration of Goa’s vibrant and diverse food culture, artfully merging Portuguese and Indian influences. Guests can indulge in a rich variety of flavors through menus crafted for both vegetarian as well as meat and seafood lovers.

“At CGH Earth, we believe that travel should transcend mere visitation—it should facilitate deep connections with the essence, history, and people of a place. Mansao Curtorim is a homage to Goa’s rich heritage, crafted to offer our guests an immersive experience that surpasses the ordinary. By restoring this historic villa, we preserve its architectural beauty while curating encounters that reflect the soul of South Goa—its cuisine, natural surroundings, village life, and timeless charm. Mansao Curtorim offers a rare window into the authentic Goan way of life, and we are proud to share it with the world,” stated George Joseph, Vice President of Operations at CGH Earth.

Offering guests a serene escape to one of Goa’s less-explored regions, Mansao Curtorim encourages guests to uncover the hidden treasures of South Goa – birdwatching along the picturesque Zuari River, exploring historical landmarks such as St. Alex Church, enjoying nature walks, cycling trails, and picnics by the villa’s private lake. Mansao Curtorim is a perfect destination for creative minds, reflective and restorative holidays and intimate gatherings with family and friends.

25 October 2024: As Diwali is just a fortnight away, a new study by AdvantageClub.ai, a leading global employee engagement platform, has revealed significant shifts in corporate gifting trends, underscoring that digital gifts are rapidly becoming the preferred choice over traditional options and reflect evolving workplace dynamics and generational shifts in expectations.

Covering different industries, AdvantageClub.ai has discovered a 75% rise in digital gift preference for the last three years. The reasons behind these changes were mainly driven by technology incorporation, changing demographics, and the need for flexibility in gift selection. With 72% of workplaces using digital platforms in order to give rewards and recognition, digital gifting has become a preferred trend at times of festivals like Diwali.

The report further predicts that the corporate Diwali celebrations market on digital gifts will expand even more in the next fiscal year by 30% for industries like IT, BFSI, and Pharma. These sectors have a high adoption rate of the strategies of digital gifting. The sectors of IT, BFSI, and Pharma have over 80% IT adoption rates of digital gifting strategies, over 70% for BFSI, and the pharmaceutical industry has around 50% of the people adopting such strategies. With AdvantageClub.ai, one can choose from curated e-gift cards, physical cards, or branded gifts for special festivals, streamlined through seamless API integration.

“Diwali is a time of joy, celebration, and gratitude, and it’s clear that today’s workforce values the freedom to personalize their festive experiences. Here we would like to highlight that digital gifting is not just a trend but a reflection of evolving workplace dynamics. With the AdvantageClub.ai platform, we empower companies to offer a wide range of personalized gift choices through a seamless digital experience. This shift not only enhances the festive spirit but also contributes to a more engaged and satisfied workforce, ultimately fostering a positive culture that values individuality and inclusion.” said Sourabh Deorah, Co-founder & CEO of AdvantageClub.ai.

AdvantageClub.ai has also highlighted the positive impact of digital gifting on employee satisfaction. Organizations that adopted digital gifting strategies reported an 82% increase in employee satisfaction scores, showcasing the importance of offering flexibility and choice in rewards. Additionally, companies implementing digital gifting strategies have seen a 20% reduction in overall gifting costs, indicating that the shift is beneficial for employees and economically advantageous for employers. For example, AdvantageClub.ai wallet points offer non-expiring points for over 10,000 brands, allowing flexible options, eliminating delivery costs, and streamlining HR processes.

To motivate employees and strengthen team bonds, one can go beyond traditional gifts with unforgettable and customized experiences like scuba diving and skydiving using AdvantageClub.ai. Generational shifts have driven a preference for digital choices, with 88% of millennials and Gen Z employees favoring personalized gifting options over pre-selected items. According to a study by Technopak, this shift aligns with the growing corporate gifting market in India, estimated at Rs. 12,000 crore and expanding by over 200% annually. Digital gifting offers an opportunity for companies to make their workplaces more engaging and even more flexible. Its outcomes result in a positive culture, which means enhanced celebrations of festivals while contributing to long-term employee engagement and retention.

Mumbai, 25th October: Mitali Srivastava Hough has bid farewell to McCann Worldgroup, stepping down from her role as Senior VP and Head of Planning for the Mumbai office.

With over 25 years of experience, Hough has worked with leading agencies like DDB Mudra, Ogilvy & Mather, Famous Innovations, and TBWA India. Notably, she was the first planner in Indian advertising to co-found an agency, Utopeia Communicationz, followed by another venture, Equal, specializing in CSR solutions.

While keeping her future plans intentionally enigmatic, Mitali hinted at her intent to mentor her creative consultancy – The Equal Agency and continue advising various other agencies. “I am deeply grateful for the experiences and relationships I’ve built at McCann. My time there was short but I got the opportunity to work with Prasoon Joshi and some incredible talent and clients across various industries. As I look ahead, I feel a sense of excitement to push my boundaries further. It’s the right moment to explore new horizons, take on new challenges, and pursue my passions in ways I haven’t yet imagined. I look forward to continuing my journey through mentoring and consultancy work, and I’m eager to bring my energy into new collaborations” she shared.

In addition to her consultancy work, she is diving into a collaboration with musical maestro AR Rahman, where she will be contributing as a writer on a major project that is an amalgamation of creativity and technology. This partnership, along with her other ventures, marks a new phase in her career, where she will continue to explore the intersection of creativity, strategy, and passion in new and unexpected ways.

Mumbai | October 25, 2024: Chalet Hotels Limited announces its results for the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025 ending September 30, 2024.

Other Highlights:

• Chalet Hotels have been recognized for its work in ESG.
  • Won the KPMG ESG Excellence Award 2024 in Mid-cap/Small-cap Companies.
  • Chalet continues to be ‘India’s Best Workplaces for Women’ 2024 by Great Place To Work.
• Acquired 11-acres beachfront land in the pristine white sand beaches of Varca Goa with a development potential of ~170 upper upscale rooms.

Consolidated Performance for Q2FY25                                                                       

The Finance (No. 2) Act, 2024 withdrew the indexation benefit on long-term capital gains, as a result the company

reversed the deferred tax assets created on certain capital assets (carried at indexed cost) having one time non cash

Segmental Performance for Q2FY25                                                                                                                                                   

Development Pipeline Updates:

• Hotel inventory expansion at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield (~125-130 rooms) in Q3 FY25
• Renovation, upgradation and expansion of The Dukes Retreat (65 rooms) completion in Q4 FY25
• ‘Taj’ at the T3 Terminal Delhi International Airport (385-390 rooms), ‘Hyatt Regency’ at Airoli, Navi Mumbai (~280 rooms) and CIGNUS POWAI^® Tower II in Mumbai are now scheduled for completion in FY27
• Renovation of Four Points by Sheraton Navi Mumbai has commenced. Currently 35 rooms are under renovation and not available for sale.

Speaking on the financial results, Mr. Sanjay Sethi, MD & CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited, “We are pleased to report another outstanding quarter of growth, driven by positive momentum in room rates and backed by strong EBITDA margins, an indication that our strategic initiatives and efforts to drive operational excellence are paying off. Our upcoming 11-acre beachfront development in Goa is set to transform the region over the next three years. As we enter the second half of the year, we are confident in maintaining this upward trajectory to maximise returns across our diverse portfolio.” 

October 25, 2024, Mumbai : Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, today felicitated the winners of WorldSkills 2024 competition which was recently held in Lyon, France. He also honoured eight paralympic winners (Praveen Kumar, Ajeet Singh Yadav, Sharad Kumar, Pranav Soorma, Simran Sharma, Rubina Francis, Rakesh Kumar, Preethi Pal), who graced the facilitation ceremony of 19 WorldSkills winners, who faced toughest of global parameters to emerge victorious.

“It was a pleasure to interact with the Medal and Medallion of Excellence Winners from Team India who competed at WorldSkills Lyon 2024. They have displayed tremendous confidence and have become inspiring icons for the nation. India’s performance in Lyon, with 16 accolades including four bronze medals, marks a significant step towards our goal of becoming the skill capital of the world. As industry demands a skilled workforce, discussions around skill benchmarking are gaining momentum. We now have a team that has excelled in Lyon, overcoming some of the toughest global standards,” said Shri Jayant Chaudhary.

He emphasized that their achievements reflect not only their dedication but also the robustness of India’s skilling ecosystem under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. These accomplishments underscore our expanding expertise in both traditional crafts and emerging industries, positioning India as a rising global leader in key sectors.

While honoring the nine Paralympic winners of Paris 2024, who joined the celebrations of the 16 winners, the Hon’ble Minister added: “Hard work is the key to overcoming challenges. The extraordinary achievements of the Paralympic team in Paris 2024, who triumphed against significant odds to secure 29 medals, embody this spirit,” remarked Shri Chaudhary.

The Hon’ble Minister, Shri Jayant Chaudhary Ji, emphasized the importance of promoting WorldSkills achievements with the same pride and recognition as our Olympic victories. He noted that just as we celebrate our athletes’ success on the global stage, we must also honor our WorldSkills champions—bringing them together to celebrate, learn from each other, and inspire the next generation. He further added that it’s your individual victories, through sheer dedication and excellence, that will make our collective mission easier, paving the way for India’s continued rise on the global skills map.

Preeti Pal NSDC brand ambassador too graced the occasion. She had made history by securing India’s first para-athletics medal at the Paralympics, winning bronze in the women’s 100m T35 race at the 2024 Games in Paris.

India achieved remarkable success in Lyon, France, winning four Bronze medals in Patisserie and Confectionery, Industry 4.0, Hotel Reception, and Renewable Energy. The winners were Ashwitha Police, Dhrumilkumar Dhirendrakumar Gandhi, Sathyajith Balakrishnan, Joethir Adithya Krishnapriya Ravikumar, and Amaresh Kumar Sahu. In addition to these victories, India earned 12 Medallions of Excellence, showcasing the country’s skill and innovation across various trades. Competing against over 70 countries, the Indian delegation’s success is a testament to their training and strong industry support.

The honourable minister awarded cash prize of Rs.6 lakhs to four bronze medallists of WorldSkills, and two lakh each to the experts, who trained them. Another two lakh was awarded to 12 medallion winners, and one lakh each to the industry experts who trained them to face one of the toughest skilling competition.

Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship said: “I had the privilege of witnessing the WorldSkills competition firsthand in Lyon, and the intensity of the event was remarkable. The level of skill and competition on display was truly world-class, with each challenge pushing the participants to their limits. Despite the tough conditions and high standards, the Indian team remained calm, focused, and delivered outstanding performances. Their confidence and dedication under pressure filled us with immense pride. It was a testament to the exceptional training and support they received, and their achievements reflect the hard work and resilience they brought to the global stage.

Looking ahead, we are committed to further strengthening our approach to WorldSkills by making the training process even more structured and streamlined. This will ensure that our youth are better prepared for future competitions and equipped to consistently perform at the highest levels,” Shri Tiwari said. The trainers who groomed our youth were primarily industry experts, and the invaluable support from NSDC and the Sectoral Skill Councils played a significant role in their success,” he added.

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, has been spearheading India’s participation in WorldSkills International competitions. NSDC oversees the selection, development, management, and participation of Team India in WorldSkills and other international competitions, including at Lyon, France. The IndiaSkills Competition is held every two years with the participation of state governments and industry. This competition has been making grassroots level of impact.

NSDC CEO and Managing Director NSDC international, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, said, “We have gathered here to honour WorldSkill winners. India achieving 13th rank globally and participated in 52 out over 60 skills. The industry experts including from, Suzuki, Exalta, NTTF, and the multiple sectoral skill councils of NSDC played a key role in the training and grooming of workers, and exposed them to world class preparation for them to excel. The accomplishments of the Indian delegation at WorldSkills 2024 mark a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward becoming a global hub for skilled talent. India’s performance across key skills, and emerging fields like Industry 4.0 and Renewable Energy, highlights the nation’s growing leadership in global skills excellence.”

National, October 25, 2024: Tata Digital today announced a significant milestone of disbursing over 1 lakh personal loans through its lending partners on Tata Neu, amounting to more than. This achievement underscores the platform’s growing popularity and commitment to providing accessible financial solutions to customers across India.

To celebrate this achievement, Tata Neu has launched its festive ‘Loan Utsav,’ where successful loan applicants can receive 1,000 NeuCoins (1 NeuCoin = 1 rupee saving), and become eligible to win a Gold Coin daily. Tata Neu has now also expanded its loan offerings beyond personal loans. The platform now also provides gold loans, with loans against mutual funds and home loans to follow shortly.

Tata Neu’s loan offerings allow customers to meet their diverse financial needs with the convenience of a fully digital, paperless application process that can be completed in less than 10 minutes. Upon approval by the lenders, the loan amount is instantly transferred to the customer’s bank account, making it an ideal solution for urgent financial requirements.

“Tata Neu’s lending marketplace has reached a significant milestone, surpassing in total loans disbursed. This achievement is a testament to our customers’ confidence in our offerings and our unwavering commitment to providing accessible and seamless financial solutions,” said Gaurav Hazrati, Chief Business Officer, Financial Services, Tata Digital. “We remain dedicated to further expanding our financial services offerings and strengthening our partnerships with lenders to offer a comprehensive loan portfolio that aligns with our customers’ evolving needs.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Vivek Chopra, COO, Retail Finance, Tata Capital said, “With Tata Neu, we are proud to offer lending solutions that empower individuals to achieve their financial goals. By integrating our services with Tata Neu’s robust platform, we’re able to provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience. This partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing credit accessibility and convenience for millions of customers across India.”

Sushma Abburi, Chief Business Officer, MoneyView added, “We are excited about our partnership with Tata Digital, which enables us to deliver personalized loan products through its innovative platform. Together, we provide a seamless experience for customers, making it easier for them to access the financial solutions they need.”

The strength of Tata Digital’s lending marketplace on Tata Neu lies in its extensive network of trusted lending partners Tata Capital, Aditya Birla Finance Limited, MoneyView, Kreditbee, Prefr, Ring, Cashe, IndiaGold, Rupeek, and Muthoot FinCorp Ltd., along with being an early adopter of ONDC’s loan offerings. These partnerships provide customers with a wide range of loan options – both secured and unsecured, featuring competitive interest rates and minimal processing fees. Additionally, Tata Digital offers free credit score reports on Tata Neu to enhance the overall value proposition for its customers.

Bengaluru ,Oct 25 2024: With a focus on strengthening its distribution capabilities, Edelweiss Life Insurance is aggressively pursuing strategic partnerships to expand its footprint nationwide and enhance customer accessibility, said Chief Distribution Officer Anup Seth. The company has a higher focus on entities that can offer expertise in specific geographies or niche customer segments.

“We are looking at deepening our presence by partnering with entities that specialize in niche segments or hold geographic expertise. In our experience, such partners bring insights that allow us to craft more personalized, need-based offerings for our customers, giving us a distinct competitive advantage,” Seth said.

In the recent past, the life insurer has inked 2 bancassurance partnerships with ESAF Small Finance Bank and Capital Small Finance Bank, both of which boast a geographic stronghold in Kerala and Punjab respectively. In FY24, the company’s Bancassurance channel accounted for 21% of the business.

“We have a healthy and balanced distribution mix currently. While there is a focus on expanding our partnerships, we are equally focused on improving productivity across our existing ones. A blend of innovative product offerings and service excellence – from onboarding to post-sales service – has been critical to set us on an upward trajectory. We are committed to providing service excellence to all our partners to enable seamless customer experience,” Seth added.

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