Bidadi Industries Association Hosts 2nd Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon
Bangalore, 24th March 2025: The Bidadi Industries Association Foundation (BIAF) successfully hosted the 2nd edition of the Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon on 23rd March 2025 at Jollywood Studios, nestled in the scenic Bidadi Industrial Area on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Centred around the theme “Run for Safety & Sustainability,” witnessed a turnout of over 4,500 registered participants from diverse walks of life—highlighting a rising passion for fitness, road safety awareness, and environmental responsibility. Toyota Kirloskar Motor, given its strong commitment to road safety and sustainability, proudly supported the event as the Title Sponsor.
India continues to grapple with alarming road safety challenges—over 1,50,000 fatalities occur annually due to road crashes, making it the highest globally. Shockingly, road traffic injuries remain the leading cause of death among individuals aged 5 to 29 years. In this backdrop, the marathon stood as a meaningful platform to raise awareness, advocate responsible road behaviour, and inspire change.
The marathon served as a powerful testament to community spirit, resilience, and collective action, bringing together participants from over 30 industries, fitness enthusiasts, community members, and a remarkable group of more than 1,000 runners from Toyota Kirloskar Motor.
The event also saw the active participation of key government official from Ramanagara—Mr. Yashwanth Gurukar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner; underscoring the strong, shared commitment to promoting health, safety, and sustainability, reinforcing the marathon’s deeper purpose beyond the run.
Present at the occasion, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President and Head State Affairs, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota, we strongly believe in empowering communities through sustainable initiatives that promote health, safety, and well-being. The Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon is more than just a race—it is a testament to our vision of creating a fitter, safer, and more environmentally responsible future. By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, industries, and communities, this marathon has demonstrated the power of unity in driving meaningful change. We are incredibly proud of the enthusiastic participation and unwavering support received from all stakeholders. Toyota remains committed to championing such initiatives that inspire people to take charge of their fitness while advocating for road safety and sustainability.”
As part of a broader awareness drive, the marathon featured impactful road safety hoardings, street plays, and skits led by students and volunteers to educate participants and spectators on responsible road behaviour and sustainability. The active involvement of children and youth fostered deeper community engagement, reinforcing the event’s inclusive spirit. With race categories for all fitness levels—including 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K Timed Runs, and a fun-filled 3K Majja Run—the event drew participants from all walks of life, including senior citizens, bureaucrats, and community members, who were recognized and awarded for their commitment to health, safety, and the environment.
The BIA Foundation, established in 2023 and formally registered under the Indian Trust Act, continues to drive impactful community development initiatives across the Ramanagara district. Powered by the collective contributions of industries in and around the Bidadi Industrial Area, the foundation remains committed to creating sustainable, long-term change. The Toyota Bidadi Half Marathon was not just a celebration of physical endurance—it was a rallying call for health, safety, and sustainability. By bringing together individuals, industries, and institutions for a common cause, the event left a lasting imprint on the community, reinforcing the values of unity, awareness, and collective responsibility that lie at the heart of the foundation’s mission.
17th NAR-India Convention Concludes with Strong Industry Participation
The 17th NAR-India Annual Convention, hosted by NAR-India at JW Marriott, Aerocity, New Delhi, concluded on a high note. The two-day national convention brought together policymakers, industry stalwarts, and real estate professionals from across India. The grand closing ceremony was graced by the presence of renowned Indian actress Divya Dutta as the Chief Guest, who applauded the efforts of NAR-India in driving ethical and professional standards in the real estate sector. The event was earlier inaugurated in the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of Power and Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.
The convention served as a dynamic platform for discussions on pivotal reforms and progressive trends, with a special focus on the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), the proposed “One Nation, One Licence” policy for brokers, and the increasing emphasis on structured certification and training programs. The deliberations reflected NAR-India’s unwavering commitment to creating a transparent, professional, and future-ready real estate ecosystem in India.
In his keynote address during the inauguration, Hon’ble Manohar Lal Khattar emphasized the significant role of regulatory frameworks like RERA in building a transparent and accountable industry. He remarked, “On the occasion of World Real Estate Day, I extend my best wishes to the real estate community for their substantial role in nation-building. As envisioned by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, India’s development into a prosperous nation by 2047 hinges on a robust economic foundation, and the real estate sector, contributing nearly 18% to the GDP, will be instrumental in this journey. With continuous innovation, reforms, and skill development, this industry can grow to ₹85 lakh crore by 2030, generating employment and boosting economic strength.”
Gracing the closing ceremony, Guest of honor Divya Dutta lauded the real estate community for their dedication and impact. Sharing her thoughts, she said, “I think it’s a great initiative. It’s not an easy job—it requires a lot of effort. A home is one of the most essential needs for a person, and they make it happen. It’s beautiful to be here and witness the commitment of professionals who turn dreams into reality.”
The convention underscored the critical importance of education, certification, and ongoing professional development. Several discussions highlighted the need to equip real estate professionals with contemporary skills, ethical practices, and comprehensive regulatory knowledge to better meet the evolving needs of the market.
Mr. Sumanth Reddy Arani, Chairman of NAR-India, shared his thoughts on the occasion, stating, “This year’s convention has marked another milestone in our journey towards a professionalized and transparent real estate sector in India. NAR-India remains committed to promoting education, advocating policy reforms, and empowering professionals to lead the way in this transformative era.”
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Mitesh Poddar, President-Elect, APP Delhi NCR and Co-Chair of the 17th NAR-India Annual Convention, added, “The proposed ‘One Nation, One Licence’ system is a revolutionary step for real estate professionals. It will simplify processes, enhance trust, and create uniform regulations, enabling ease of doing business across different states.”
Mr. Gaganpal Singh, President of APP Delhi NCR and Co-Chair of the convention, also remarked, “While RERA has already brought significant transparency, there is an ongoing need to strengthen professional education in our field. By focusing on knowledge-building and ethical standards, we can ensure that every real estate agent is well-prepared to serve clients with integrity and professionalism.”
The two-day event also witnessed the participation of several prominent personalities,; Aman Gupta, Co-founder & CMO of boAt; Sahil Kapoor of Keller Williams India; Bharath Kumar, Co-founder & CEO of ZeroCode Innovations; celebrated author Chetan Bhagat, and many others. Their valuable insights and experiences enriched the conversations, providing a comprehensive perspective on the future of Indian real estate.
The convention concluded with a special felicitation ceremony for participants of NAR-India’s national knowledge-driven training program, Real Estate Business Management. Twenty participants from across India who successfully completed the course were awarded certificates in recognition of their achievements. This initiative reflects NAR-India’s focus on enhancing professional capabilities through structured learning and certification.
With the resounding success of its 17th Annual Convention, NAR-India has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a progressive, ethical, and professionally driven real estate industry that is ready to meet the aspirations of a rapidly developing India.
From Wales to Kolkata Young Volunteers Champion Education and Social Change
Kolkata, 24th March, 2025: A team of ten young women from Wales completed a truly inspirational two-week volunteering trip in Kolkata, India. As part of Urdd Gobaith Cymru, Wales’ largest youth organization, the volunteers worked with nonprofit organizations dedicated to aiding and educating children, youth, and women from some of the city’s most marginalized communities.
During their time in Kolkata, the volunteers fully immersed themselves in the city’s vibrant culture while also sharing Welsh traditions and language. A key highlight of the trip was their engagement with Ek Tara Middle School, which provides vital educational opportunities to hundreds of girls from Kolkata’s largest slum. The volunteers organized interactive and engaging activities to create a fun and supportive learning environment for the children.
Reflecting on the experience, one of the volunteers said, “I feel very honoured to have been selected as one of ten young women from Wales to go to India with the Urdd. It has been a truly inspirational, unforgettable, and life-changing experience. I loved meeting some of Kolkata’s young women and children, contributing towards a local charity’s incredible work, and sharing cultures while learning from one another.”
The team also visited the Suchana Centre, where they conducted language exchange sessions as part of the Urdd’s “Chwarae yn Gymraeg” (Play in Welsh) program. This initiative encouraged a cross-cultural dialogue, with participants exchanging knowledge in six different languages in a single session, fostering valuable learning experiences for all involved.
The collaboration between the Urdd and Kolkata-based charities has been ongoing for over two decades, with continuous support from the Welsh Government. This relationship was initiated through the ‘Welcome Kolkata’ campaign, originally launched by the Urdd and Christian Aid, which established an exchange program between Urdd members and young women from Kolkata’s red-light districts. Since the inaugural trip in 2003, Urdd volunteers have frequently visited Kidderpore, a resource center in Kolkata’s red-light area, engaging in a range of humanitarian projects.
Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of Urdd Gobaith Cymru, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to fostering international connections, stating, “We strongly believe in creating international links and broadening the horizons of young Welsh people. Twenty years ago, the Urdd established a partnership with the city and charities of Kolkata, and thanks to the support of the Welsh Government, we have been able to resume our international volunteering programs. Taking a group of ten young women to India to support the incredible humanitarian work in Kolkata is a continuation of this meaningful journey.”
The volunteers’ experience in Kolkata has left a lasting impact on both the young Welsh participants and the communities they served. Their journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of cultural exchange and the enduring impact of volunteerism in creating meaningful, positive change.
SMFG India Credit Raises USD 175M via ECB from Standard Chartered, CTBC
Mumbai, March 25, 2025: SMFG India Credit (SMICC), has successfully raised USD 175 million via External Commercial Borrowing (ECB). The facility has been jointly arranged by Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) and CTBC Bank. SMFG India Credit has fully hedged the facility to mitigate risks associated with foreign exchange and interest rate fluctuations.
The funds will be utilized for lending purposes, reinforcing the company’s commitment to expanding its lending portfolio and supporting customers across various segments.
Mr. Pankaj Malik, Chief Financial Officer, SMFG India Credit, said, “This syndicated loan facility is a testament to SMFG India Credit’s strong financial standing and robust growth outlook. The successful closure of this transaction demonstrates the confidence of global banking partners in our business fundamentals and long-term vision. With this funding, we aim to strengthen our lending capabilities, ensuring greater access to credit for individuals and businesses while maintaining a prudent risk management framework.”
This transaction further solidifies SMFG India Credit’s position as a financially resilient and growth-oriented NBFC, committed to delivering innovative and sustainable financing solutions.
SGSU and RNTU Launch Navonmesh & Shodh Shikhar for Innovation
24 March 2025, New Delhi: AISECT Group of Universities proudly unveiled two landmark events that underscore its commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and research excellence—Navonmesh 2025 and 4th edition of Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv 2025. Under this, AIC-RNTU will organize ‘Navonmesh 2025’ at Scope Global Skills University on March 25 and 26, and Rabindranath Tagore University will host ‘Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv 2025’ on March 28 and 29. These events are set to bring together thought leaders, innovators, researchers, start-up founders, investors, students, entrepreneurs, and scholars from around the globe to drive meaningful discussions and advancements.
To provide further details regarding this, a press conference was organized on Saturday at Scope Global Skills University. During the conference, Dr. Aditi Chaturvedi Vats (Director of AISECT Group of Universities); Mr. Nitin Vats (Director of Atal Incubation Centre – Rabindranath Tagore University); Prof. (Dr.) Vijay Singh (Vice Chancellor of Scope Global Skills University); Dr. Sitesh Kumar Sinha (Registrar of Scope Global Skills University); and Dr. Sangeeta Jauhari (Registrar of Rabindranath Tagore University) addressed the journalists and shared a detailed outline of the program.
Navonmesh 2025: Central India’s Biggest Innovation Carnival – Scheduled for March 25–26, 2025, at Scope Global Skills University, Navonmesh 2025 is a flagship initiative by AIC-RNTU Foundation. Co-hosted by Rabindranath Tagore University and Scope Global Skills University, this event is a celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, and research.
“Navonmesh is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation and progress. We look forward to welcoming ideas that will shape the future,” said Mr. Nitin Vats, Director (AIC–RNTU).
“The carnival will feature a dynamic lineup, including keynote addresses by industry stalwarts such as Aman Gupta, Co-Founder & CMO of boAt, and Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy. With engaging competitions, hands-on workshops, insightful panel discussions, and networking opportunities, Navonmesh 2025 aims to equip attendees with practical knowledge and skills to scale their ventures effectively. Highlights include a MoU exchange between Google and SGSU, symbolizing a new era of technological collaboration, and an inaugural session graced by Hon’ble Shri Gautam Tetwal Ji, (Minister of Skill Development & Employment, MP Govt.) & Shree Chetan Kasyap Ji (Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises MP Govt.)”, said Dr. Vijay Singh.
Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv 2025: International Conference on Research, Innovation & Science Communication – Following Navonmesh, Rabindranath Tagore University will host the fourth edition of Shodh Shikhar on March 28–29, 2025. Centred on the theme “Progressing from Developing to Developed India,” this international conference will provide a platform for researchers, students, and industry professionals to showcase ground-breaking advancements and foster collaboration.
Mrs. Aditi Chaturvedi Vats, Pro Chancellor of Rabindranath Tagore University, underscored, “Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv 2025 is emblematic of AISECT’s vision to empower individuals through innovation and research. These events are platforms for shaping the future of entrepreneurship and driving India’s transition towards becoming a global knowledge hub.”
Key activities include research paper presentations, project competitions, and a Science Communication segment (Vigyan Parv), focusing on innovative outreach through storytelling, poetry, and digital tools. Participants will compete for prestigious cash prizes, while selected papers will gain international recognition through publication in esteemed journals like Taylor & Francis, Elsevier, and Springer. Industry leaders and scholars will come together to drive impactful discussions and foster partnerships. Furthermore, Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv 2025 will feature keynote speakers from around the world, who will share their highly valuable insights with the participants. The inaugural ceremony will be graced by Shri Santosh Choubey (Chancellor, RNTU), Dr. Atul Kothari (National Secretary of Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, New Delhi), Dr. Manoranjan Mohanty (Scientist G, Advisor, Office of Principal Scientific Advisory, New Delhi), Dr. Tripta Thakur (Director General, National Power Training Institute, New Delhi), Dr. Ranjana Agrawal (Director, CSIR, NISPER, New Delhi), Dr. Arvind Ranade (Director, NIF, Ahmedabad), Dr. Namrata Pathak (Dept. of PCPM, Coordinator & Manager, DST, Delhi), and Dr. Amitabh Mishra (DGM, NRDC, New Delhi).
Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, Executive Vice President of the AISECT Group and Chancellor of Scope Global Skills University, concluded, “Through initiatives like Navonmesh and Shodh Shikhar – Vigyan Parv, the AISECT Group continues to reaffirm its role as a pioneer in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and research. These events provide an unparalleled platform for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators to present ground-breaking ideas, engage with industry leaders, and drive transformative progress across the ecosystem.”
ZELIO E Mobility to Expand to 550 Dealerships Creating 1,000 Jobs by May 2025
24th March 2025: ZELIO E Mobility Ltd., a leading force in India’s electric two-wheeler market, is set to aggressively expand its dealership network, with plans to increase the number of two-wheeler dealerships from 400 to 550 by the end of May 2025. This expansion will further strengthen ZELIO’s leadership position in the rapidly growing electric vehicle sector, making eco-friendly transportation accessible to a wider audience across the country.
Currently, ZELIO operates in 25 states, including key markets like Kerala, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Tripura, Assam. As part of its dealership expansion, ZELIO plans to further strengthen its presence in several of these states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Bihar, while also entering new territories like Himachal Pradesh and Goa.
The expansion is not only a substantial business milestone but also a major boost for local employment. ZELIO E Mobility aims to create 1,000 new jobs through this dealership expansion, contributing to regional economic growth and fostering opportunities in the growing EV ecosystem.
Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Kunal Arya, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ZELIO E Mobility Ltd., said, “We have successfully built a strong foundation in the electric two-wheeler industry, and our next step is to expand this network to cater to even more customers across India. Extending our dealership footprint not only drives our business growth but also brings eco-friendly, cost-efficient transportation solutions closer to the communities that need them most. This expansion opens doors to untapped markets, creates new job opportunities, and strengthens our leadership in India’s transition to sustainable mobility. The confidence our customers and partners have shown in ZELIO inspires us to continue innovating and advancing in this space.”
The new dealerships will feature ZELIO’s latest models, including the X-Men, Gracy, Eeva, and Mystery, which are designed for urban commuters seeking stylish and efficient electric mobility options. In addition, the new dealerships will feature upcoming ZELIO models that are designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally conscious transportation options.
ZELIO expects this expansion to drive remarkable sales growth, with an estimated 5,000 additional two-wheelers projected to be sold by the end of May 2025. This expansion comes at a time when electric mobility is gaining momentum in India, and ZELIO is poised to take a leading role in this transformative industry. Since its inception, ZELIO E Mobility has quickly become a frontrunner in India’s electric two-wheeler market, boasting over 200,000 satisfied customers who rely on its products for sustainable transportation.
LAKMĒ Redefines Matte with New 9to5 HYA Matte Collection
National, February 2025– Lakmē, India’s iconic beauty brand, is proud to unveil its latest innovation: the Lakmē 9to5 Hya Matte Collection, designed for the evolved 9to5 woman. The new range combines the longevity of matte makeup with skincare benefits, setting a new standard for hybrid beauty solutions.
The 9to5 Woman Reimagined
The modern 9to5 woman seeks more than just about long wear; she desires maximum prep, evolved formats, and makeup that feels like a second skin. Lakmē ’s Hya-Matte range is crafted to meet these expectations. It’s not just about coverage but about delivering skin-like finishes that enhance your natural beauty rather than masking it.
At the heart of the collection is the star product LAKMÉ 9to5 HYA MATTE FOUNDATION + HYALURONIC ACID, formulated with 5% Hyaluronic Acid Complex and SPF 40. This liquid matte foundation goes beyond long wear; it delivers 5x more hydration, a matte finish for up to 12 hours fresh, and a lightweight, skin-like texture that keeps you looking flawless all day long. It is also 100% sweat-proof and smudge-proof, making it the perfect companion for India’s diverse climate. Available in 20 shades, there is a match for everyone!
Key Features of the LAKMÉ 9to5 HYA MATTE FOUNDATION + HYALURONIC ACID
- 5x Hydration: Powered by Hyaluronic Acid for a boost of hydration
- Hydrated Matte Finish: Upto 12 hours fresh
- Lightweight Texture: Feels like second skin
- Sweat-Proof & 3x Oil Control: Designed to keep you fresh all day
- SPF 40 Protection: Shields your skin from harmful UV rays
Beyond Foundation: Explore the Complete Hya-Matte Collection Complementing the foundation, the Hya-Matte Collection includes:
- Hya-Matte Concealer: Enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Moringa Oil for hydrating coverage that brightens and conceals effortlessly
- Hya-Matte Pressed Powder: Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, this compact delivers a hydrated matte look while keeping your skin hydrated
- Hya-Matte Lipstick: A hydrated matte formula enriched with Hyaluronic Acid for intense hydration and long wear of up to 16 hours
- Hya-Matte Liquid Lipstick: A soft matte formula with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E for a plush finish that lasts
The New Standard In Beauty
With the Lakmē 9to5 Hya-Matte Collection, matte makeup is no longer just about long wear. It’s about doing more – combining skincare benefits, a hydrated look, and a skin-like finish that reflects the essence of today’s empowered women. Say goodbye to cakey, dry mattes and step into the future of makeup with Hya-Matte.
Ryan International Students Organize Book Donation Drive for ZPHS School
Hyderabad, March 24th 2025 – In a sincere effort to promote education and support young learners, students from Ryan International School, Kondapur, successfully organized a Book Donation Drive benefiting ZPHS Government School. The initiative, a part of a community service program spearheaded by students from Grades 1 to 6, collected an impressive 800 books to establish a library for students of ZPHS.
The donation drive, which took place recently, aimed to encourage a reading culture among students. Through this initiative, 800 books, including storybooks, reference books, textbooks, dictionaries, and map skill books, were carefully collected and donated to help set up a library at the government school. The students’ efforts were driven by the belief that access to books can open doors to new opportunities and promote a love for learning.
Speaking about the event, Kiranmayi, Principal of Ryan International School Kondapur branch said “This initiative demonstrates how small actions can create meaningful change in our community. By sharing the gift of knowledge, our students are learning that true education extends beyond classroom walls into real-world compassion and service.”
The Book Donation Drive stands as a powerful example of how young changemakers can address educational inequalities through simple yet impactful community-driven initiative
3F Oil Palm Uses Drones for Tree Counting and Health Monitoring
Mumbai / National, March 24, 2025: 3F Oil Palm Pvt Ltd, has successfully conducted a pilot drone survey of palm plantations in Ayyavaram Village, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, marking a major step toward modernizing oil palm development in India. Over the last three days, the survey covered 800 plots owned by 530 farmers, mapping around 1150 hectares with precise GPS coverage.
The survey focussed on plantation health monitoring, and accurate tree count for enabling early detection of pest and nutrient deficiencies, and FFB (fresh fruit bunches) estimation. By utilizing cutting-edge drone technology, 3F Oil Palm is empowering farmers with real-time, data-driven insights to optimize yields and improve plantation health.
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to leveraging technology for smarter and more efficient farming. With the success of this pilot project, we aim to expand drone-based surveys across India covering 30000 Hectares, 14000 Farmers, 21000 Plots supporting farmers with advanced agricultural solutions.” said Kilari Srinivas Rao, Head – Agriculture for 3F Oil Palm Pvt Ltd.
As part of its long-term vision, 3F Oil Palm plans to scale this initiative nationwide, ensuring that more farmers benefit from precision farming techniques. By integrating technology-driven insights into traditional farming practices, the company is set to revolutionize the palm oil sector and contribute to India’s agricultural growth.