PUMA’s Palermo Pop-Up Revives 60s Heritage at Sneaker Festival
National, February 5, 2025: Where sneaker culture meets vintage beats, sports brand PUMA India turned up the retro vibe at the Indian Sneaker Festival ongoing at the Backyard Sports Ground, Gurugram. Bringing back the magic of 60s music and classic terrace style, the brand spotlighted its iconic Palermo sneaker with a pop-up that felt straight out of a golden-era record store.
PUMA has pulled out all stops to give sneakerheads an immersive experience like never before. Picture terrace culture drenched in retro beats, vintage cool with a bold and modern edge.
Inspired by the original soundtrack created for the Palermo digital Film released in 2024 featuring Ibrahim Ali Khan Pataudi and Ayesha Kanga among others, the pop-up reimagines the vibe of 60s music record store but with a PUMA spin. Imagine a walk through rows of vinyl records, CD showcases, a record-style sneaker display, and a listening station pumping curated tracks, this aesthetic, Instagrammable pop-up is the ultimate celebration of the power of music—a timeless classic—much like the Palermo sneaker itself.
PUMA chose the 4th edition of the Indian Sneaker Festival to offer a fun, multi-sensorial experience for sneakerheads to get a first-hand feel and vibe of the iconic Palermo sneaker. In addition, the pop-up features a customisation station where shoppers can accessorise their new Palermos with charms and create a memorable PUMA experience.
The Palermo sneaker, with its signature mix of bold colourways and undeniable retro charm, is perfect for those who love to blend vintage style with new-age spirit. It is all about fun, friendships, and that effortlessly cool 60s energy. The Palermo comes in a range of vibrant colourways, from bold and electric to classic and understated, offering something for every style. Each shade is a nod to retro charm, reimagined for the modern-day sneaker lover.
What’s Happening at the Pop-Up?
- Shop the Goods: Exclusive Palermo sneakers and premium Prime Select apparel are up for grabs.
- Customisation Station: Bought some PUMA heat? Make it yours with a customisation set-up only for pop-up shoppers.
- 500 Giveaways: Join the buzz for a chance to win from our 500-product giveaways, inspired by the retro record store vibe.
- Special Appearance: Actor and trendsetter Ayesha Kanga is set to make an appearance at the PUMA Palermo pop-up on February 1st, bringing her unique flair to the mix.
Indian Bank to Host Cyber Security & FinTech Hackathon with IIT Madras
Chennai, February 5th, 2025 – Indian Bank will organize a hackathon on Cyber Security & FinTech in association with IIT Madras in April 2025. The proposed hackathon will be a part of the hackathon series by Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in compliance to DFS and IBA guidelines to conduct hackathon series in association with different IITs, Universities and Science institutions.
The hackathon will focus on Key issues such in the FinTech and Advanced Fraud Detection Mechanism in Cyber Security domains. This exclusive hackathon is open to students and scholars of IIT Madras, providing them with an opportunity to innovate and contribute to strengthen the financial security ecosystem.
In this connection, Bank entered into an agreement with IIT Madras. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between Shri Binaya Bhusan Dikshit, General Manager (Digital Business & FinTech Partnership) of Indian Bank, and Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean (Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research) of IIT Madras. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Shri Deepak Sarda, Chief General Manager (IT & Partnership/CTO/CIO) of Indian Bank and other senior officials.
With this Indian Bank takes a step ahead in fostering innovation in financial security, fintech domain and digital banking, aligning with the Government of India’s vision for a robust and secure digital financial ecosystem.
Zydus Wellness Reports 12.7% Net Sales Growth in Q3 FY25
Ahmedabad, February 5, 2025
For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, Zydus Wellness Limited, recorded 12.7% y-o-y growth in Q3 net sales which stood at ₹ 4,508 million. EBITDA rose to ₹ 148 million, marking a 16.5% y-o-y increase, while net profit surged to ₹ 64 million.
During the later part of the quarter, the Company acquired Naturell (India) Private Limited specialised in manufacturing, research and development, marketing of nutrition bars, protein cookies, protein chips, and health food products under the Ritebite Max Protein (Protein fuelled healthy snacks) and Ritebite (fibre-enriched snacks).
Growth in Q3 FY 25 was driven by robust consumer demand in the personal care segment, which posted double-digit growth of 50.3% while food and nutrition segment recorded a growth of 8.8% for the quarter.
Most of the Company’s brands are the market leaders in the respective categories/segments and continued to perform well.
Leveraging its strong research and development capabilities, Nutralite Doodhshakti Professional forayed into processed cheese this quarter, while Naturell launched the choco-filled fibre bar ‘Melting Chocolate,’ and two variants under the fruit-filled bar range—’Blueberry Blast’ and ‘Berry Delite’—and ‘Protein Bar Bytes’.
Zydus Wellness Limited continues to drive innovation, category expansion, and market leadership, reinforcing its strong growth momentum.
Rapido Offers Free Rides in Delhi to Boost Voter Turnout for 2025 Elections
5th February 2025| National: Rapido, India’s leading shared mobility platform, is making it easier for Delhi residents to cast their votes in the upcoming 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly Elections. As part of its “Sawaari Zimmedari Ki” commitment, Rapido will provide a 100% discount (up to ₹40) on all bike taxi rides to encourage voter participation.
On February 5th, 2025, Delhi residents can avail of this offer by using the coupon code “VOTENOW”, applicable on up to two bike taxi rides. This initiative, launched in partnership with the Delhi Chief Electoral Office, reinforces Rapido’s commitment to civic engagement by ensuring affordable and seamless transportation to polling stations. By reducing logistical challenges, Rapido aims to contribute to a higher voter turnout and enable all eligible citizens to exercise their democratic right.
“Ensuring access to polling stations is essential for a thriving democracy. At Rapido, we believe in leveraging mobility to empower citizens, and this initiative is a step towards enabling greater voter participation. We are grateful for the support of the Delhi Chief Electoral Office in amplifying this effort and ensuring its success.” Says Pavan Guntupalli, Co-Founder of Rapido.
“Transportation should never be a barrier to voting. We appreciate Rapido’s support in making polling stations more accessible to Delhi residents. By collaborating with mobility partners, we aim to ensure every eligible voter can cast their ballot conveniently and without hesitation,” said Representative, Delhi Chief Electoral Office.
This initiative builds upon Rapido’s broader commitment to social responsibility. The company remains dedicated to creating meaningful impact through mobility solutions and will continue to explore ways to empower citizens across India.
Calcium Supplements Are They Really Necessary
By: Dr. M S Somanna, Senior Consultant – Joint Replacement & Arthroscopic Surgery
Calcium is an essential mineral for strong bones, teeth, and overall health. It plays a crucial role in muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart health. However, with increasing concerns about osteoporosis and bone-related issues, many people turn to calcium supplements as a preventive measure. But do you really need them? Let’s explore the benefits, risks, and best sources of calcium.
The Role of Calcium in the Body
Calcium is vital for numerous bodily functions. The majority of calcium in the body about 99% is stored in bones and teeth, providing structural support. The remaining 1% is found in the blood and plays a key role in muscle contractions, blood clotting, and nerve communication.
Since the body does not produce calcium, it must be obtained through diet or supplements. The recommended daily intake (RDI) varies by age and gender:
- Children (4-8 years): 1,000 mg/day
- Adolescents (9-18 years): 1,300 mg/day
- Adults (19-50 years): 1,000 mg/day
- Women over 50 and men over 70: 1,200 mg/day
Do You Need Calcium Supplements?
Many people get enough calcium through their diet. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources. Leafy greens, almonds, tofu, and fortified foods like orange juice and cereals also contribute to calcium intake.
However, certain individuals may benefit from supplements, including:
- Postmenopausal women: Estrogen levels decline after menopause, leading to decreased calcium absorption and increased bone loss.
- People with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies: Those who avoid dairy may struggle to meet their calcium needs.
- Vegans: Plant-based diets can lack sufficient calcium unless carefully planned.
- Individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia: Those at risk of fractures or weak bones may require extra calcium.
Potential Risks of Calcium Supplements
While calcium is essential, excessive intake from supplements can lead to health risks. Some concerns include:
- Kidney Stones: High calcium intake, especially from supplements, may increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
- Heart Health Risks: Some studies suggest that excess calcium supplements may contribute to arterial calcification, potentially increasing heart disease risk.
- Poor Absorption of Other Minerals: Too much calcium can interfere with the absorption of iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- Digestive Issues: Calcium supplements can cause bloating, constipation, and gas in some individuals.
Best Ways to Get Calcium
The best way to obtain calcium is through a balanced diet rich in calcium-containing foods. Here are some natural sources:
- Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, cheese
- Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, collard greens
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds
- Fish: Sardines and salmon with bones
- Fortified foods: Plant-based milk, cereals, orange juice
Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and overall health, but not everyone needs supplements. A well-balanced diet usually provides sufficient calcium for most individuals. However, for those at risk of deficiency, supplements may be beneficial. It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.
SUD Life Launches Guarantee Royale Plan for Financial Security
SUD Life launches SUD Life Guarantee Royale, a Non-Linked, Non-Participating individual savings plan that is created to provide guaranteed financial security for both you and your loved ones while helping you achieve life’s important milestones. Imagine a life where your financial goals align seamlessly with security and certainty, where you can confidently provide for your loved ones, achieve your dreams, and navigate through life’s unexpected turns with complete assurance. SUD Life Guarantee Royale helps you transform this dream into reality, allowing you to live worry-free with financial stability.
SUD Life Guarantee Royale is more than just a policy, it is a thoughtfully created plan that combines the benefits of a guaranteed lump-sum payout and savings to help you achieve your financial goals. It offers a guaranteed maturity benefit, which includes the sum assured on maturity, along with guaranteed additions and maturity loyalty additions at the end of the policy term. The plan also provides a special benefit of a 5% discount on the first-year annualised premium for women. Furthermore, the convenience of purchasing the plan online makes it easier to access, and it also comes with added advantages such as an enhanced sum assured at maturity and tax benefits.
Speaking about the launch, Shri Abhay Tewari, MD & CEO of SUD Life, said, “SUD Life Guarantee Royale is designed to offer guaranteed benefits, irrespective of market interest rate movements, providing peace of mind and making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking reliable savings solutions.”
Experience the power of guaranteed financial security and the confidence that comes with it with SUD Life Guarantee Royale, where your dreams, loved ones, and future are secured. Invest today and take the first step towards a stable tomorrow.
PWNSAT Awards INR 2.2 Crore in Cash Rewards to Empower Scholars
Noida, February 5, 2025: PhysicsWallah, (PW), an education platform, honored 1,581 students who emerged as top performers in the National Scholarship Admission Test (PWNSAT) 2024 from all over the country. The top 3 students each from classes 7 to 12, including both JEE and NEET students, were invited to Noida for a grand felicitation ceremony to honor their exceptional achievements. They received cash prizes, with the highest award being ₹2 lakhs. Along with the monetary rewards, they were also presented with medals and trophies as a token of recognition for their dedication and hard work. As part of its pursuit to make education accessible, PW awarded these students a total of ₹2.2 crore in cash prizes at the felicitation ceremony, recognizing their academic achievements. The event marked the culmination of PWNSAT 2024, with over 15.5 lakh students appearing for the exam, making it a significant scholarship initiative in the country.
The PWNSAT 2024 scholarship fund, amounting to ₹250 crore, represents a vision by PW to assist students gain access to coaching without the burden of tuition fees. Through PWNSAT 2024 the aim is to provide JEE and NEET aspirants the access to the faculties, resources, and learning environment. The scholarship program is extended beyond financial assistance, offering accommodation support, and mentorship, allowing meritorious students to pursue their academic goals. This year, over 5 lakh students received at least a 50% scholarship.
Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO of PW, said, “When we started, the aim was simple, to make education accessible and affordable. PWNSAT 2024 is one of the ways we try so that financial constraints are not a hurdle for talented students. This ₹250 crore scholarship amount isn’t just a number, it represents our commitment to help a students’ future. The 1,581 students we are felicitating today have worked hard, and this is our way of recognizing their efforts. The real success will be when they achieve their dreams and help others do the same.”
The felicitation ceremony was an event celebrating the perseverance, dedication, and achievements of these students. It brought together students, parents, educators, and academic leaders to recognize and reward exceptional talent. With this initiative, PW continues to redefine access to education in India, and reinforce its aim to make learning equitable, affordable, and empowering.
Cyber for HER Hackathon Draws Women from Across India
New Delhi, 5th February, 2024: The Cyber for HER hackathon, bringing together 70 teams from across nine states in India, comprising of more than 150 women aged 18-23 to compete and test their cybersecurity skills was successfully held at the Scope Convention Centre in Delhi.
Supported by the British High Commission, New Delhi, sponsored by Rubrik and delivered in collaboration between EY and DSCI, the initiative aimed to enable aspiring young women in cyber and support the development of a more diverse cyber security workforce in India and beyond.
The Cyber for HER Hackathon was formally inaugurated by distinguished guests, notably, Ms. Christina Scott, Deputy British High Commissioner to India; Mr. Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Ms. Sundari Nanda, Special Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.
The winning teams are ‘Team Fallen Order’ who clinched the winner title, ‘Team Tech Titans’ as 1st runner up and ‘Team Arthasutra’ as 2nd runner up who received a winning prize of INR 2,00,000, INR 1,50,000 and INR 70,000 respectively. The challenge saw pan India participation where young female students travelled from states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Haryana. Participants competed in a jeopardy-style Capture the Flag (CTF), tackling technical challenges in cybersecurity domains such as Reverse Engineering, Mobile Security, Digital Forensics, Web Application Security, Exploitation, and Hardware Security.
The hackathon was executed in two phases. In the first phase, participants showcased their creativity and understanding by designing non-technical cyber awareness materials on themes such as Cyber Awareness, Digital Hygiene, and Privacy Awareness. The phase saw over 1,300 registrations, reflecting the enthusiasm and dedication of participants with 550+ submissions. From these submissions, 200 participants were shortlisted for the second live hackathon phase.
Dominic Gillan, First Secretary – Cyber, British High Commission, New Delhi, said, “Improving diversity in cyber security is a goal for both the UK and India. Diverse teams provide more creativity, innovation, and solutions to cyber security problems. The British High Commission is proud to support the Cyber for HER Hackathon, as part of our India-UK cyber collaboration. To see over 150 young women from across India join us in Delhi to compete in the final phase was inspiring. Well done to all those who took part in both phases and many congratulations to the winners.”
Vinayak Godse, CEO, DSCI, said, “It was indeed heartwarming to witness the enthusiasm and participation of women candidates from all corners of the country. We would like to congratulate all the participants and not just the winners for making their way from tier II, tier III and small cities to compete. Cyber for HER was conceptualised to encourage more young women into the industry and provide an opportunity to explore cyber security careers. We would like to thank the British High Commission for supporting this campaign and partnering with us through the India-UK Cyber Programme.”
Axis Bank Strengthens Support for Cancer Research and Care in India
National, 5th February 2025: On this World Cancer Day, Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, reaffirms its commitment towards supporting cancer research, and patient care initiatives in India. As part of its CSR commitments, Axis Bank has partnered with three reputed cancer institutions in India – National Cancer Grid (NCG) under Tata Memorial Centre, The Indian Cancer Society (ICS), and the St. Jude India Childcare Centres, for building India’s digital capabilities in oncology, enhancing access to cancer care, raising awareness on early cancer diagnosis and treatment, and advancing cancer research and innovation.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), cancer cases in India are projected to rise significantly, reaching 2.08 million by 2040, marking a sharp increase of 57.5 percent from 2020, highlighting the urgent need to scale up India’s efforts in cancer research and innovation, available medical infrastructure, and mitigating the heavy patient burden in accessing treatment[1]. In this light, the Bank welcomes the announcement by Hon’ble Union Finance Minister in her budget speech on 1st February to establish cancer daycare centres across all districts in India, with 200 such centres to be established in the next three years.
Speaking about these initiatives, Vijay Mulbagal, Group Executive for Strategic Programs & Sustainability, Axis Bank, said, “At Axis Bank, we are dedicated to supporting India’s collective fight against cancer. Our partnership with key institutions who are playing an important role in the country’s cancer research, treatment and patient care ecosystem is aligned to our vision towards building longer-term capabilities in India’s healthcare sector overall. Together with our partners, we shall continue to work towards building a future where advanced cancer care is within reach for all those in need.”
As part of its long-term vision to improve cancer care facilities, Axis Bank’s partnerships are focusing on three key themes:
1. Advancing cancer research, innovation, and training: Through a landmark multi-year partnership with the National Cancer Grid (NCG), a constituent unit of the Tata Memorial Centre, the Bank is supporting strategic initiatives such as a establishing a national tele-consultation platform for follow-up care, a National Tumour Biobank, digitalization of oncology-specific electronic medical records (EMRs), and setting up of a Virtual Skills Lab for training healthcare professionals. The initiatives are aimed at benefitting not only the 300+ hospitals across India affiliated to the NCG but also the overall healthcare ecosystem in India. The digital initiatives are also aligned to India’s efforts to scale up digital health adoption including the use of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
2. Strengthening preventive care: In collaboration with the Indian Cancer Society (ICS), one of India’s oldest non-profit, national organisations focused on awareness, detection, cure, and care for those affected with cancer, the Bank is supporting screening and awareness camps for oral, cervical and breast cancer targeted to reach over 8 Lakh beneficiaries including citizens and community health workers. The program shall also support the Dr. Arun Kurkure Initiation and Treatment Fund as well as the Cancer Cure Treatment Fund towards providing aid to low-income patients seeking support for diagnostics and treatment.
3. Providing Patient Support: Axis Bank has supported the St. Jude India Childcare Centres, a not-for-profit organization focused on providing ‘home away from home’ facilities for needy children being treated with cancer in major cities, to set up a new childcare facility in Hyderabad, which will provide clean and safe accommodation for families whose children are undergoing cancer treatment. The Hyderabad Centre, with a capacity of 26 family units, was inaugurated on 26th January 2025.
Leucine Rich Bio Earns NABH Accreditation in Microbiome Industry
India, February 04, 2025: Leucine Rich Bio, a pioneering company in the field of microbiome research, has reached a significant milestone by achieving accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). This prestigious recognition makes Leucine Rich Bio the first Indian microbiome company to meet NABH’s stringent standards of quality and excellence.
Expressing his excitement, Mr. Prabhath Manjappa, Co-Founder and Chief Products Officer of Leucine Rich Bio, stated, “Quality is above all things for us. We are happy that we have met the standards of the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) council. Our effort for quality continues.”
Leucine Rich Bio is well-known for its innovation in microbiome research and diagnostics. The company’s flagship product, BugSpeaks, South Asia’s first microbiome testing solution, has revolutionized the way microbiome testing is conducted. BugSpeaks offers a deeper understanding of the human microbiota, enabling the development of personalized health insights and solutions.
The NABH accreditation underscores Leucine Rich Bio’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality in research and product development. NABH, a constituent board of the Quality Council of India (QCI), is recognized globally for its rigorous evaluation process, ensuring healthcare organizations adhere to the highest safety and quality standards.
Leucine Rich Bio’s NABH certification is a testament to its dedication to excellence and innovation. This recognition not only strengthens the company’s reputation as a leader in microbiome research but also sets a benchmark for the Indian microbiome industry. It continues its mission to advance scientific knowledge and improve health outcomes by providing cutting-edge solutions. With NABH accreditation, the company is well-positioned to expand its impact, both in India and globally, fostering innovation and ensuring the highest standards of healthcare and diagnostics.