Bengaluru, April 25, 2025: Demonstrating its commitment to providing world-class mobility solutions and deepening its presence in key global markets, Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, today announced the launch of four new products – Xoom 110 scooter, Hunk 160R 4V, Xtreme 125R and HF Deluxe motorcycles in partnership with its long-standing distributor, Abans Auto in Sri Lanka.

Hero MotoCorp has been present in Sri Lanka since 2012 through its trusted distributor partner –Abans Auto. Strengthening this presence, the company will support its new product lineup with a robust sales and service network, reaching over 500 customer touchpoints across the country by May 2025. This wide-reaching network will ensure convenient access to genuine spare parts and high-quality after-sales service for customers across Sri Lanka.

Hero MotoCorp’s new product line-up in Sri Lanka includes –

• Xoom 110 – A sporty, compact scooter packed with features, designed to offer agility and ease for everyday urban commuting. The Hero Xoom will be Sri Lanka’s first and only scooter in the 110cc category.
• Hunk 160R 4V – A muscular and performance-driven streetfighter built for thrill-seekers, now comes with ABS for an added safety
• Xtreme 125R – A dynamic new contender in the 125cc segment, offering an ideal balance of power, performance, and style
• HF Deluxe – A trusted and reliable commuter motorcycle, is now available in all-black edition with refreshed bold presence for a more striking road presence

To make ownership even more accessible, Hero MotoCorp will soon open pre-bookings for the muscular Hunk 160R 4V and the stylish Xtreme 125R.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice President, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Sri Lanka has held a position of strategic importance in our global plans. Our partnership with Abans Auto has not only established Hero as a trusted brand, but also helped us build deep-rooted confidence in the market. Our new line-up of cutting-edge motorcycles and feature-rich scooters bring together performance, style, and technology, delivering a world-class riding and ownership experience. With the launch of these new products and a robust sales and service ecosystem, we are confident of rapidly growing our presence and deepening our engagement with customers in Sri Lanka.”

Mr. Rusi Pestonjee, Managing Director, Abans Auto (Pvt) Ltd, said, “We are proud to strengthen our partnership with Hero MotoCorp, a brand that stands for innovation, reliability and customer trust. Over the years, Hero has become a highly respected name in Sri Lanka, and this exciting new range of technologically advanced, stylish, and performance-driven products further reinforces our shared commitment to delivering the high-quality two-wheeler offerings. With an expanding sales and service footprint of over 500 customer touchpoints across the country, we are confident that these new launches will resonate strongly with customers and accelerate Hero’s growth journey in Sri Lanka.”

 Xoom 110

The Hero Xoom 110 brings a refreshing burst of sporty styling and futuristic design to Sri Lanka’s scooter segment. Its aerodynamic bodywork, aggressive LED headlamps, signature H-shaped tail lamp, and bold color palette give it an unmistakably edgy look. Compact yet commanding, the Xoom is designed for young urban riders who seek a perfect mix of style, agility, and everyday practicality.

The Xoom is powered by a 110cc, air-cooled engine, delivering peppy performance and responsive acceleration suited for city riding. The scooter features Hero’s patented i3S technology for improved fuel efficiency, a front disc brake with CBS, and Telescopic Front Suspension for confident handling and ride comfort. With a digital speedometer, ample under-seat storage, and a lightweight frame, the Xoom 110 is engineered to offer a seamless and fun ride, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters in Sri Lanka.

Hunk 160R 4V

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V brings an unmistakable muscular streetfighter exuding raw attitude and athletic energy. With aggressive tank shrouds, an all-LED lighting setup, sculpted bodywork, and a sporty split seat, the Hunk 160R is built to stand out on city streets and highways alike. Its bold stance is complemented by premium finishes and dynamic colour options, making it the perfect expression of performance and style for the next-gen rider.

Powered by a 163cc 4-valve, air-oil cooled engine, the Hunk 160R delivers a thrilling 16.6 bhp power and torque-rich acceleration, ideal for spirited city rides and open stretches. The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, single-channel ABS, and a lightweight yet rigid diamond frame chassis—ensuring nimble handling and superior braking performance. Additional features such as a fully digital LCD display, side-stand engine cut-off, and a comfortable upright riding posture make the Hunk 160R a complete package.

Xtreme 125R

The Xtreme 125R, a dynamic and sporty motorcycle, brings a new dimension to the entry-level performance segment. At its heart is the powerful 125cc sprint engine delivering an impressive 11.4 bhp power, fast acceleration, and fuel efficiency. With a bold, chiselled design and first-in-segment LED lighting, it stands out on every street. The Bluetooth-enabled LCD instrument cluster brings smart connectivity to everyday rides.

The motorcycle features a lightweight diamond frame, a class-leading 120/80 rear tyre, and a precision-tuned 37mm Showa front suspension, offering unmatched handling and comfort. Safety is elevated with first-in-segment single-channel ABS, a robust 276mm front disc brake, and a hazard lamp, ensuring enhanced protection in all riding conditions.

HF Deluxe

The Hero HF Deluxe arrives in Sri Lanka with a striking new All-Black Edition, featuring bold graphics, black alloy wheels, and a contemporary design that reflects confidence and everyday toughness. Its ergonomically designed seat, stylish headlamp, and body-colored mirrors seamlessly blend utility with visual appeal, making it a perfect companion for both city commutes and rural rides.

Under the hood, the HF Deluxe is powered by a 97.2cc air-cooled, 4-stroke engine offering enhanced fuel efficiency without compromising on performance. With a 4-speed gearbox, superior ground clearance, and a longer front suspension, the motorcycle delivers a smooth, stable ride even on challenging terrains. HF Deluxe is equipped with tubeless tyres for higher on road safety. Designed for durability, performance, and comfort, the HF Deluxe is engineered to be the smart choice for the everyday Sri Lankan rider.

New Delhi, 25^th April 2025: Ahead of World Corrosion Awareness Day, Hindustan Zinc Limited , India’s only and the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, launched a series of impactful initiatives under its campaign #ZungKeKhilaafZinc to raise public awareness about corrosion and its widespread impact. The campaign underscores the awareness on corrosion, a critical issue that costs India nearly 5% of its GDP annually, amounting to over $100 billion in preventable losses. Corrosion, a natural yet relentless process, deteriorates metals through chemical and electrochemical reactions caused by moisture, oxygen, pollutants, and salts. This leads to accelerated structural damage and threatens key assets such as infrastructure and vehicle bodies. Zinc galvanization is a proven, scalable solution to prevent such losses by forming a protective barrier that extends metal life and performance.

As part of the campaign, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer rolled out a week-long integrated activation including social media outreach, on-ground demonstrations, and a nationwide consumer survey. The company’s efforts aim to promote long-term, cost-effective protection for public infrastructure and private assets by advocating the use of galvanized steel—an affordable, highly durable alternative to costlier materials like stainless steel.

To raise customer awareness in the automotive sector, Hindustan Zinc conducted a live demonstration from 21^st to 24^th April in high-footfall areas of Zinc City, Udaipur, a city with over 2,500 years of zinc legacy. The company displayed 2 two-wheelers — one galvanized and one non-galvanized — were placed side by side. The contrast was evident: the non-galvanized two-wheeler showed visible rust, while the galvanized two-wheeler remained intact, protected by its zinc coating. This public experiment sparked curiosity and conversations, capturing real-time reactions to promote informed, zinc-smart decisions. The demonstration was targeted at youth, business owners, and the general public.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc Limited, said: “Corrosion poses a serious threat to our infrastructure and the nation’s economy at large. At Hindustan Zinc, we believe awareness is the first step toward real change. While it’s essential for manufacturers to adopt galvanization, consumers also play a vital role by asking the right questions – especially when it comes to long-term investments like homes and vehicles. Through #ZungKeKhilaafZinc, we’re committed to educating industries and individuals alike about the critical value of zinc protection.”

Observed annually on 24^th April, World Corrosion Awareness Day is an initiative by the World Corrosion Organization (WCO) to spotlight the enormous economic and environmental cost of rust. Globally, corrosion results in economic losses exceeding $2.5 trillion, or approximately 3%–4% of industrial nations’ GDP. In India with its 7,800 km coastline and high-humidity zones faces a high risk of corrosion. However, countries like Japan and Australia have reduced their corrosion-related GDP losses to just 1.5%, primarily due to widespread use of zinc-coated steel. Studies suggest that up to 30% of corrosion-related damage can be avoided with proper prevention strategies.

The social experiment highlighted how over 70% of a vehicle’s body is steel, which corrodes easily without protection. In the automotive sector, Indian automakers are increasingly adopting zinc coatings for the body-in-white (BIW), the structural skeleton of a vehicle and its components. Galvanized steel not only provides robust corrosion protection but also enhances durability, safety, and resale value. With galvanization costing less than 0.1% of a vehicle’s price, it pays for itself within a year through reduced maintenance. The company is also conducting a nationwide survey on corrosion’s impact, especially in India’s harsh climate. The initiative brings industry experts together to stress the need for galvanized steel in cutting long-term repair and infrastructure costs.

Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s largest integrated zinc producer and amongst the top 5 silver producers globally. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024. The company also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, produced using renewable energy. As an energy transition metals company, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for a sustainable future.

Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and a pioneer of mobile payments, QR codes, and Soundbox, has launched ‘Golden Rush’ — a special campaign to promote digital gold savings during Akshaya Tritiya, a festival known for auspicious gold purchases.

Through this initiative, individuals investing ₹500 or more in gold on Paytm can earn reward points, with 5% of the transaction value credited as points on every purchase. These points contribute to a dynamic leaderboard, where top participants stand a chance to win from a total prize pool of 100 grams of gold.

Whether it’s for a wedding gift, festive tradition, or long-term wealth planning, Paytm Gold provides a simple and secure way to invest in 24K, 99.99% pure gold, sourced from MMTC-PAMP, India’s only refinery accredited by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). The gold is stored in fully insured, world-class vaults, ensuring complete safety and transparency.

Paytm Gold also enables disciplined saving through its Daily Gold SIP from Rs 9 onwards, allowing small, regular investments to accumulate over time. With real-time pricing, secure storage, and flexible investment options, it serves a variety of needs — whether it’s setting aside gold for future milestones, festive gifting, or building long-term financial security.

 How to Invest in Paytm Gold

1. Open the Paytm app and use the search bar to find ‘Paytm Gold’ or ‘Daily Gold SIP’.
2. Tap ‘Buy More’ and enter the amount you want to invest. The minimum investment starts at just ₹9.
3. Review the live gold price, inclusive of GST, displayed on the app. Choose to invest either as a one-time purchase or through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) with daily, weekly, or monthly frequency.
4. Select a payment method — UPI, net banking, or debit card. Once the payment is made, the gold is securely stored in fully insured vaults.
5. Receive confirmation of your transaction via SMS and email.

Mumbai, 25th April, 2025:  Recovery is just as important as the workout itself, and Squat Up in Ghatkopar is introducing fitness enthusiasts to a game-changing way to bounce back stronger—ice baths. This age-old practice, embraced by elite athletes and fitness lovers worldwide, isn’t just about braving the cold. It’s a science-backed recovery method that helps reduce muscle soreness, fight fatigue, and sharpen mental resilience. With expert guidance and a focus on holistic wellness, Squat Up is making the benefits of cold therapy accessible to all, proving that sometimes, the fastest way forward is through the ice.

The science behind ice baths is as compelling as the results. When you step into water chilled to 10-15°C, your blood vessels constrict, flushing out waste products like lactic acid that build up during intense exercise. As your body warms up afterward, fresh, oxygen-rich blood rushes back to the muscles, reducing inflammation and speeding up repair. For marathon runners, weightlifters, or anyone pushing their limits, this process can mean the difference between days of stiffness and a swift return to peak form.  

At Squat Up, the approach is practical yet personalized. Members are guided through sessions lasting 5 to 10 minutes, often after high-intensity workouts like HIIT or endurance training. It’s not about enduring the cold for the sake of it, it’s about timing it right—using it when your body needs it most, like after a tough leg day or a long run. That’s when you really feel the magic. 

Ice baths not only aid in physical recovery but also enhance mental toughness. The initial shock can be intense, but once you emerge from the ice, you feel invincible and ready to tackle anything. This boost in resilience is a significant advantage, particularly for those striving to achieve their personal bests.

Of course, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Ice baths work best when paired with a smart recovery plan, proper nutrition, stretching, and rest. It’s a tool, not a cure-all. But when you use it right, it’s like giving your body a head start. 

As Squat Up continues to innovate in fitness and recovery, they invite all fitness enthusiasts to experience the benefits of ice baths firsthand. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just beginning your journey, a cold plunge could be the game-changing recovery tool you’ve been searching for.

Mumbai, 25 April, 2025 – Bio-Integrated cladding for greener cities, an innovative solution by a 29-year-old Indian architect, has won the 2025 Swarovski Foundation’s Creatives for Our Future programme, an initiative in partnership with the United Nations Office for Partnerships. Mangesh Kurund is the only Indian to win the 2025 Swarovski Foundation’s Creatives for Our Future programme.

Eco-friendly housing solutions for refugee camps in Nigeria, textiles made from ocean waste in Egypt by local fishermen, and a device making music more accessible for the Deaf community from Indonesia are among other winning initiatives.

With the support of the Creatives for Our Future programme, Mangesh hopes to turn his concept into a scalable, impactful and commercially viable system, developing functional prototypes that can be tested in a variety of real-world conditions.

Mangesh’s bio-cladding system uses lightweight tiles embedded with water reservoirs to cultivate algae and moss, mimicking natural water management processes. This living cladding purifies air, sequesters carbon, and reduces urban heat, contributing to healthier, greener cities.

Mangesh Kurund, said: “My architectural ideas have always revolved around bridging the gap between built and natural environments to create inter-connected, complementary spaces. I am excited and grateful that the Creatives for Our Future programme will give me the opportunity to develop prototypes of my bio-receptive cladding systems. Just as trees purify the air and provide natural cooling, this cladding acts like the bark of a tree and does exactly that for buildings.”

Jakhya Rahman-Corey, Director of the Swarovski Foundation, praised the winners, stating:
“Each year, I am inspired by the remarkable creativity and vision of these young innovators. Their groundbreaking solutions demonstrate the transformative power of creativity in tackling global challenges. Through the Creatives for Our Future programme, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of talent, providing them with the tools, education, and support needed to turn their ideas into impactful solutions.”

At the event, Annemarie Hou, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Partnerships, highlighted the importance of investing in young creative leaders: “Supporting young people with the tools to create a sustainable world is more important than ever. They bring fresh ideas, hope, and drive change for a better future. We are proud to support these innovators grow their projects and work towards the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Now in its fourth year, the programme identifies and supports the next generation of creative innovators driving sustainable solutions across architecture, fashion, circular design, community development, product design, and technology. The 2025 winners were chosen from 487 applicants and announced at a reception at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The other winners are:

Blossom Eromsele, 23, Nigeria – AllSpace Modular Home: Sustainable Refugee Housing

Blossom has developed the AllSpace Modular Home, a low-cost, solar-powered housing solution designed for refugee camps. Inspired by traditional African huts, the structures are made from recycled materials, providing a sustainable and scalable alternative for displaced communities.

Moemen Sobh, 24, Egypt – Visenleer: Ocean Waste Textiles

Through Visenleer, Moemen is transforming ocean waste into sustainable textiles with zero carbon emissions. His community-focused social enterprise trains local fishermen and artisans in Egypt to convert discarded marine waste into eco-friendly fabrics, empowering coastal communities and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Azra Firmansyah, 23, Indonesia – Svaika: Music Accessibility for the Deaf

Azra’s wearable device, Svaika, enables Deaf individuals to experience music by translating auditory information into tactile sensations. The device allows users to feel rhythm and beats through touch, creating an inclusive musical experience tailored to the Deaf community.

Aurelie Fontan, 29, United Kingdom – Regen Ink: Regenerative Textile Dyes

Aurelie’s Regen Ink project cultivates plants on polluted land to produce natural, non-toxic dyes and pigments. Her goal is to create biodegradable, commercially viable textile print pastes that meet industry standards, reducing reliance on chemical dyes.

Barimah Asare, 21, United States – Project Hivemind: Sustainable Tech Solutions

Barimah has developed an external graphics card enclosure (eGPU) that extends the lifespan of laptops by up to three years, reducing e-waste. The device offers a cost-effective alternative to replacing outdated hardware, promoting a circular economy in consumer electronics.

Since its launch in 2021, the Creatives for Our Future programme has received nearly 2,000 applications from over 90 countries, underscoring its growing global impact. The 2025 cohort represents the extraordinary potential of creativity to address critical global challenges—from combating e-waste and pollution to promoting inclusivity and sustainable urban development.

Alongside the €20,000 grant, the winners will benefit from bespoke mentorship, access to industry experts, and a global support network to scale their projects and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).