Hyderabad, September 02, 2024: Mana Yatri, Hyderabad’s home-grown cab and auto booking app, is rapidly gaining traction and emerging as a game-changer in tackling the city’s commute challenges. With a people-first approach, Mana Yatri has onboarded over 35,000 autos and 25,000 cabs, providing a reliable alternative to traditional apps. It offers fast bookings, with average times as low as 30 seconds for autos and 40 seconds for cabs. It is becoming Hyderabad’s favourite app, creating a win-win for drivers and passengers. As part of the government-backed T-Hub and ONDC, Mana Yatri belongs to the Namma Yatri family of apps, which have enabled drivers to earn ₹800 Cr without any commission and helped passengers save nearly ₹100 Cr on their commute expenses.

Mana Yatri also has lower driver cancellation rates and superior service quality compared to other apps. This is attributed to Mana Yatri’s unique approach to driver empowerment and enhanced ownership. Operating on a zero-commission model, the app allows drivers to retain 100% of their earnings, which not only benefits them financially but also motivates them to provide better service like low cancellations.

Mahankali Srinivas Rao, CEO of T-Hub, stated, “Mana Yatri’s approach marks a significant shift in how mobility is perceived in Hyderabad. They’ve partnered with T-Hub, Telangana’s innovation epicentre, to create a model that benefits both passengers and drivers. I’m pleased to see their commitment to improving service quality by closely collaborating with the driver community to reduce booking times and cancellations. It is building a fair, efficient transport network that supports Hyderabad’s growth. I encourage the people of Hyderabad to support Mana Yatri drivers in setting new benchmarks for community-driven initiatives in the city.”

The app has been receiving positive feedback for reducing commute costs and offering better services. Ms. Mounika, a 28-year-old software professional, shared, “Mana Yatri is my go-to app for cabs. The prices are usually cheaper compared to other apps, and the drivers are happy since they receive full payment. My commuting is stress-free thanks to quick bookings and low cancellations!” Another user, Mr. Satyavart, a marketing professional, added, “A driver suggested I try the app. It’s a new model, and I’m happy with both the service and price. I’m now a regular user and highly recommend giving it a try.”

Mana Yatri Drivers also shared how the app is positively transforming their lives. Mr. Raju Nayak, a cab driver from Miyapur, said, “Mana Yatri is Mana App. With no commission cuts, every rupee I earn goes directly to my family.” AITUC State Secretary of Telangana, Mr. B. Venkatesham summed it as, “Mana Yatri is people’s app, and all customers are Mana customers. It motivates us to provide the best service.” By maintaining its driver-first approach, Mana Yatri empowers drivers to offer reliable, affordable, and quality rides. As a community-driven app, Mana Yatri remains open to contributions and suggestions.

Looking for a place to rent but want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck? All while ensuring that your prospective property meets certain requirements, like having a swift deposit return time, a fair deposit amount, and strong repair policies?

Well, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to, and found the 10 most renter-friendly states in the US. Using reliable sources from government websites, plus data from our own archives, we analyzed nine different data points for all 50 US states and gave each one a score out of 50 for each area. Overall, the highest-scoring location was Massachusetts, making it the most renter-friendly.

But, if the state in New England is too far from home, there are plenty of other places with a positive renting reputation. From Minnesota to Arizona, and Iowa to Oregon, let’s find the best renting location for you…

Top 10 Tenant-Friendly States

Who made it onto the most renter-friendly US state list? Just a heads up, our research actually included the 25 best states to rent in, but we decided to zoom in on the top 10 due to their scoring results. Don’t worry though, we’ve dropped the last 15 at the end for you to check out.

1. Massachusetts

Despite Massachusetts being the sixth-smallest state by land area, it comes in first for being the best place to rent. This is for a multitude of reasons. For example, Massachusetts has a large number of rental properties available and also has strict landlord requirements and laws.

The state also ranked highest for termination notice for violations, giving the tenant 14 days to pay rent or move before the landlord can file for eviction.

In terms of lifestyle, Massachusetts is probably most famous for its wide choice of colleges and universities, notably the prestigious Harvard University.

Massachusetts also has a reputation for political and social progressivism and cultural diversity, which is why it’s a perfect place to live for those looking to improve their quality of life.

Plus, the state has great healthcare, an impressive job market, and is a hub of opportunity. In terms of scenery, the state boasts some stunning beaches and incredible mountains and valleys thanks to its New England position.

2. Connecticut

Neighboring Massachusetts and located in southern New England is Connecticut – the state that had the second least eviction notices and ranked number two for its excellent repair policies.

Not only is it the second-best renter-friendly state, but it’s also a favorite for those who consider outstanding nature a non-negotiable. Nearly 60% of Connecticut is covered in woodland, but the state also has pristine lakes and idyllic beaches.

Elsewhere, it’s got one of the highest quality of life rankings in the US and low crime rates, which no doubt contributes to the former. In terms of education, Connecticut has highly ranked institutions, with high schools and college graduation rates being higher than average.

3. Rhode Island

Up next is Rhode Island, which is also referred to as the ‘Ocean State’ thanks to its 640 km of coastline. The state is mostly known for its beaches, sailing, seafood, and picturesque coastal towns.

Like Connecticut, Rhode Island had a lower number of eviction notice downloads, with only one being reported in 2023. It also came in third for the amount of deposit needed, with tenants only being required to pay one month in advance.

Despite being the smallest state in the US, Rhode Island has a lot more to offer, including a rich art history. The state is home to Providence, aka ‘The Creative Capital,’ where you’ll find a slew of artsy hangouts.

At its core, life in Rhode Island is laid back and easy. It’s the perfect location for those who are seeking a unique coastal lifestyle but still want access to larger cities and bustling culture.

4. Minnesota

Minnesota is known as the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’ because of its 14,000+ bodies of fresh water. Renting-wise, it’s also a land that’s ideal to set up roots in due to its eight landlord-tenant laws and its generous – and longer – notice period than other states.

The state borders Canada, and due to its geographical location, it can get pretty cold in winter. But, this makes it perfect for a thriving ice hockey scene, plus the ideal destination for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and other snow sports.

However, there’s also plenty of farmland, prairies, and forests. In terms of being welcoming, the state has been dubbed ‘Minnesota Nice’ due to its friendly residents.

Meanwhile – as well as ranking on the renter-friendly list – Minnesota was also named in the top 10 best US states to live in, according to WalletHub. This was due to its high quality of life thanks to its excellent healthcare system, quality education, a strong sense of community, and, of course, its natural beauty.

5. New York

You might be surprised to find New York so high up on the renter-friendly list, considering it’s one of the most famous locations in the world.

But with a good amount of properties available to rent, plus a quick turnaround time of 14 days in terms of deposit refunds, New York has proved itself as an all-rounder when looking for a place to live.

Home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, Niagara Falls, and Grand Central Terminal, New York State also offers its residents a myriad of job and career opportunities in almost any sector.

In terms of leisure activities, it ticks all the boxes, with award-winning theaters, restaurants, museums, parks, and an abundance of cultural activities right on your doorstep.

For those seeking a more suburban lifestyle but still want links to the Big Apple, New York State is obviously ideal. This is because it’s got plenty of affordable housing and family-friendly neighborhoods.

6. Oregon

Oregon scored the highest out of all the states for the number of landlord requirements and laws, giving the location legitimacy in terms of renting. The state also ranked well for rent control laws, coming in second just short of California.

But a positive renting reputation isn’t Oregon’s only great asset – it’s also a unique state that’s often defined by the contrasting landscapes. From its dramatic canyons to the snow-dusted mountains, its rugged coastline and lush valleys, Oregon is also home to some impressive beaches, lively cities, and charming towns.

Nature aside, the state has a strong, thriving economy and is home to a slew of different industries, including education, technology, and healthcare. Oregon has a relatively low unemployment rate coupled with a median household income which is a little higher than the national average.

In terms of politics and social policies, the state is known for being very progressive, which, to many, is an important aspect when considering where to live. Another fun fact about Oregon is that it’s slightly larger than the United Kingdom, so you’ll never run out of places to explore.

7. South Dakota

Located in the North Central region of the US, South Dakota is part of the Great Plains. The state is named after the Dakota Sioux tribe, which makes up a large chunk of the population.

South Dakota is considered to be the happiest state in North America because of its incredibly strong economy. This makes it a perfect place for start-ups, as small businesses are given the opportunity and resources to grow.

Residents also find South Dakota a great place to live because of its rental requirements. Not only does the state provide a fair deposit return time (14 days if there are no deductions, 45 days if there are deductions), but the rent is extremely affordable too. With an average monthly charge of $761 against an average monthly wage of $4,158, South Dakota’s rent prices as a % of income equate to 18.30%.

There are also some pretty impressive landmarks all over the state, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, the Black Hills, and the Missouri River.

8. Arizona

Of course, Arizona is known as the ‘Grand Canyon State.’ Its most famous and iconic feature is the Grand Canyon, after all.

The state has plenty of other cultural and natural landmarks to explore, which means residents will be in the vicinity of the red rocks of Sedona, the Hoover Dam, the Saguaro cactus, panoramic desert landscapes, and the Native American culture.

Renting-wise, South Dakota made it onto the list for a number of reasons, including its deposit return time of 14 days if there are no deductions, or 45 days if there are deductions, _and _the low amount of deposit needed. Tenants will only need to pay their landlords one month’s rent in advance, leading South Dakota to sit just below Rhode Island.

The state is notorious for its hot and dry climate, so for those who love basking in the sun, Arizona has more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Due to the above reasons – from Arizona’s natural beauty, warm climate, and plenty of recreational activities – many people find the location an ideal state to set up roots.

Plus, because Arizona borders Mexico, plenty of Americans visit the country for weekend trips and other leisure activities. Arizona’s geographical location makes it pretty easy to enjoy Mexico’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, whether for a short getaway or a longer holiday.

9. Iowa

Tradition says that ‘Iowa’ in the Native American tongue means ‘Beautiful Land.’ According to reports, this phrase was being used to describe the mid-western state from as early as the mid-nineteenth century.

So, the fact that the state is in the top 10 renter-friendly list is only an added benefit. In fact, there are multiple benefits to renting in Iowa – the first being that the average rent price is $806 while the average monthly income is $4,460. Meanwhile, in 2023, there were only five eviction notice downloads recorded.

Residents of Iowa will tell you that there are a lot of reasons to love the state, from its wide-open spaces, unique cuisine, friendly communities, and recreational activities. In Iowa, you’ll find plenty of natural beauty, including breathtaking rivers and lakes, rolling hills, and sprawling prairies.

Meanwhile, it has a low employment rate, is one of the top educational performers in terms of schools and universities, and has a diversified economy thanks to finance, manufacturing, biotechnology, agricultural, and insurance industries.

10. Nebraska

Nebraska is another model state to rent in thanks to its short deposit return time (14 days after the tenant moves out) and the deposit amount needed: one month’s rent, excluding pet fees.

Should you be considering moving to Nebraska, there are a few things you should know about the state and what it’s most famous for. See: corn and its football team, The Cornhuskers. Hence, it earned the nickname ‘Cornhusker State.’

When looking at quality of life, Nebraska has a lot to offer. Lincoln, its capital, is a vibrant university town and the base of the sports team, which was founded 134 years ago.

The state has a vast agricultural landscape and also encompasses the prairies of the Great Plains, like its neighboring state, South Dakota. In Nebraska, you’ll find a combination of job opportunities, affordability, quality education, cultural richness, and friendly residents who will be ready to welcome you with a warm smile.

The other states that made it onto the renter-friendly list are:

• North Dakota
• Kansas
• Maine
• Wisconsin
• Pennsylvania
• Alabama
• Washington
• New Mexico
• Colorado
• New Jersey
• Michigan
• New Hampshire
• Ohio
• North Carolina
• Tennessee

So, where will you set down your renting roots?

What data areas were used to calculate the scores?

The nine data areas that we used to calculate the scores were as follows. Also included is how each state ranked, so depending on what you value the most, you can make a more informed renting decision.

No. rental properties available per capita

(The higher the number, the better the score)
Top 5 states: Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, Colorado and Arizona.

Rent prices as a % of income

(The lower the number, the better the score)
Top 5 states: Ohio, North Dakota, West Virginia, Iowa and Kentucky.

Eviction notices by state

(A lower number of evictions meant a better score)
Top 5 states: North Dakota, Connecticut, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Iowa.

Deposit amount needed

(A lower deposit needed meant a better score)
Top 5 states: Alabama, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Hawaii.

Deposit return time

(The shorter the deposit return time, the better the score)
Top 5 states: Arizona, Hawaii, Nebraska, New York and South Dakota.

Repair policies

(The stronger the repair policies were, and if the state allowed the use of the repair and deduct policy, the better the score)
Top 5 states: Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii and Nevada.

Landlord requirements/laws

(The more laws for landlords, the better the score)
Top 5 states: Oregon, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada and California.

Rent control laws

(States with rent control received a higher score, those without a lower score)
Top 5 states: California, Oregon, Maine, Maryland and New Jersey.

Termination notice for violations

(The longer the notice period the higher the score)
Top 5 states: Massachusetts, Minnesota, Tennessee, Vermont and Washington.

Read the original article here: https://www.lawdistrict.com/articles/most-renter-friendly-us-states

Mumbai, August 2024 — In a groundbreaking move set to reshape India’s rental market, RentenPe is launching the country’s first Rent Credit Score and Residence Card (R-Card). This innovative platform, validated by market research undertaken by the global consultancy Ernst & Young, aims to address a significant gap in the financial ecosystem by recognizing and rewarding tenants for their consistent rent payments, a crucial yet undervalued financial commitment.

Revolutionizing the Rental Market

With nearly 50% of India’s population under the age of 40, many young professionals relocate from smaller towns to major cities, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. These individuals often dedicate a substantial portion of their income—up to 30%—to rent, while aspiring to own a home, a symbol of status and security in Indian society.

Despite the regularity and significance of these payments, they remain unacknowledged in traditional financial metrics. Unlike credit card payments or loan EMIs, which contribute to building a positive credit score, rent payments have historically been overlooked, leaving renters without the financial recognition they deserve.

Unlocking the Power of Rent

RentenPe aims to change this by introducing the Rent Credit Score—a pioneering metric specifically designed for the residential rental market. Developed using an advanced algorithm, this score considers a variety of financial, qualitative, and quantitative factors. It enables tenants to build a credit profile based on their rental history, paving the way for better rental agreements, rent loans, pre-approved home loans, and potential savings on rent.

Sarika Shetty, Founder of RentenPe, explains, “We believe that rent, a significant monthly financial commitment, should be recognized in the same way that EMIs and credit card payments are. Our Rent Credit Score and R-Card are designed to empower tenants, giving them the financial recognition they deserve and helping them achieve their long-term goals, including homeownership.”

Validation and Local Impact

RentenPe’s approach is backed by extensive research conducted in partnership with Ernst & Young, which revealed the potential of integrating rent payment data into financial assessments. The research highlighted that India’s residential rental market, valued at INR 1.85 lakh crores across the top seven cities, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8-10% over the next five years.

The R-Card: India’s First Digital Rental Identity

Complementing the Rent Credit Score is the R-Card, India’s first digital rental identity. Unlike traditional financial tools, the R-Card acts as a digital ID, offering tenants access to better rental deals, quicker approval processes, and potential rent discounts. For landlords, it provides instant access to verified tenant profiles, early rent facilities, and more, streamlining the rental process and fostering trust.

A Paradigm Shift in India’s Rental Market

As RentenPe prepares for its official launch, the platform is set to drive a fundamental shift in how rent is perceived and valued in India. By turning rent payments into a powerful financial tool, RentenPe is not just launching a new product—it is revolutionizing the rental landscape, creating a more secure and equitable future for tenants and landlords alike.

Chandigarh, August 29, 2024: WeWork India, the leading flexible workspace provider in the country, is partnering with Uber, India’s leading ridesharing app, to offer a seamless commuting solution to their 70,000+ members. This collaboration is set to redefine commuting convenience, providing a range of travel benefits designed to support WeWork India members in their day-to-day operations.

Through this partnership, WeWork India members will gain access to Uber for Business, a B2B2C platform that allows organisations to consumerise Uber’s extensive suite of travel benefits for business riders, ensuring a seamless commuting experience that aligns with their mobility needs. Members will have access to a uniquely built travel benefits program that includes user-friendly payment options, improved reliability and flexible cancellation. They can choose from Uber’s range of premium and economy options, tailored to their comfort and needs, including latest products like Uber Reserve, Uber Rentals, Uber Intercity, Uber Shuttle, amongst others. Members will also get exclusive access to premium ride options such as Business Premier, which curates top-rated drivers for a more comfortable commuting and business ride experience.

Commenting on the collaboration, Abhinav Mittoo, Sr. Country GM, Uber for Business, India & South Asia said, “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to enhance and simplify business mobility for dynamic environments and workplaces. Our customer portfolio is growing as organisations are increasingly focusing on cost, digitization and experience of its employees or community. We are excited to partner with WeWork India and its members to help them leverage a tech-based mobility solution that not only optimises travel needs to enhance productivity, but also provides a more safer and reliable way to move around. We believe this partnership will be instrumental in creating a more connected and convenient mobility experience for their vibrant community.”

“Our collaboration with Uber is a significant step towards enhancing the daily lives of our members by offering them a seamless and convenient commuting experience. By integrating Uber’s mobility solutions with our flexible workspaces, we’re not only simplifying their journey to work but also reinforcing our commitment to creating a holistic and sustainable work environment that meets the evolving needs of modern professionals. Furthermore, Uber’s safety technology and community guidelines will ensure a safe, secure, and positive experience for our members,” said Raghuvinder Singh Pathania, Head of Community & Operations, WeWork India.

As part of this collaboration, all WeWork India members will receive a one-time incentive upon activating their WeWork profile on the Uber App. This partnership will be stitched across all WeWork locations in India and will be supercharged with Uber for Business’ Tech implementation to ensure a seamless launch across the WeWork India community. While WeWork India is focused on its sustainability impact by improving mobility access at its locations, Uber for Business will also fuel the rider experience with their 24×7 premium business support, built to offer an elevated servicing framework.

Since its inception in 2017, WeWork India’ has constantly focused on elevating the workplace experience for members. This partnership reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment towards enhancing it further by providing innovative and sustainable solutions. By leveraging Uber’s expertise in mobility, WeWork India aims to offer an unparalleled commuting experience, contributing to productivity and work-life balance of members.

Unfolds new products ahead of festivals & holiday season

Mumbai, August 28: Riding on a high-growth trajectory, Kerala Tourism has unfolded a range of fresh products and packages to whip up new interest among travellers from both inside the country and outside in the upcoming festive and winter holiday seasons.

Alongside the new projects, the state’s core assets like beaches, hill stations, houseboats and backwater segment will continue to have a mesmeric charm for the visitors. Kerala’s unique touristy appeal lies in providing a diverse range of experiences for tourists like houseboats, caravan stays, plantation visits, jungle lodges, homestays, Ayurveda-based wellness solutions, adventure activities, countryside walks, and trekking to verdant hills.

Kerala’s resilience in putting its pandemic-hit tourism industry back on the rail is evident from an appreciable surge in domestic arrivals. In pre-COVID times, it was the year 2019 when the state registered the highest growth rate in domestic and total tourist arrivals in 24 years with their number pegged at 1,95,74,004, comprising 1,83,84,233 domestic tourists and 11,89,771 visitors from abroad.

In 2023, it witnessed a record surge in the number of domestic tourists with as many as 21,871,641 people visiting the state. The number of international tourists was pegged at 6,49,057.

As for the first quarter (January-March) of 2024, Kerala attracted 50,37,307 domestic tourists compared to 49,36,274 visitors in the corresponding period a year earlier, registering a 2.05 per cent increase, in a rousing endorsement of its touristy appeal. Equally assuring for Kerala is the uptick in international tourist arrivals, which are expected to reach the pre-COVID levels by 2025.

Tourism Minister Shri PA Mohamed Riyas says the focus will no longer be confined to beaches, backwaters and hill stations. “We are making a calibrated move to bolster Kerala’s reputation as an all-weather hospitable destination. Our latest offerings will spark new interest among the visitors as it makes Kerala a compelling experiential tourist hotspot for all segments of visitors, be it an upscale globetrotting tourist, a honeymooning couple, a backpacker, or an adventure-seeker.”

An upshot of the sustained efforts to rejuvenate the tourism sector was Kerala Tourism’s digital marketing campaign bagging the prestigious PATA Gold Award. The New York Times had included Kerala in its list of ‘52 must-visit places in 2023’.

Kerala Travel Mart, Asia’s largest tourism event, is slated to be held in September to boost the state’s tourism sector. More than 1,500 domestic buyers and 650 foreign buyers have already registered for the event.

Kerala will also host an international conference on gender-inclusive tourism in October to showcase the state’s success in promoting participatory development in tourism through the Responsible Tourism scheme and address the issues faced by women travellers.

“We are transforming the whole of Kerala into a sustainable, interconnected tourist haven where visitors get plenty of choices and diverse experiences within the few days they spend in the state,” said Shri Biju K, Secretary – Tourism, Government of Kerala.

“It will make the stay of new-age travellers a relaxing, rejuvenating, safe and learning experience by unfolding before them the captivating charm of Kerala’s rural hinterland and lesser-known places,” he added.

Among the new offerings is heli-tourism, which has been hailed as a game changer. The project —Sky Initiative— is aimed at providing one-day travel between the state’s top tourist destination. Another offering is caravan tourism—Keravan Kerala—that takes tourism deep into the state’s interiors and rural hinterlands.

In order to create an appreciable surge in tourist footfalls, tour operators and hoteliers in Kerala are offering attractive packages for the festival and winter holiday seasons. Alongside, international bookings are also witnessing an upswing in the upcoming holiday season.

“Started with a Partnership Meet in Vadodara, followed by Surat, Kerala Tourism has planned a string of travel trade networking activities, including participation in Trade Fairs and organizing B2B roadshows, to introduce the new products to a wider audience across the country”, said Smt. Sikha Surendran, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala.

Apart from Mumbai, B2B meets will be held in Pune on August 29th, followed by similar Partnership Meets in Chennai and Kolkata in the coming months.

“Our continuous and innovative initiatives to reach our target markets through various promotional means have successfully placed Kerala as a must-visit destination, and this will remain our focus in the future as well. Also, MICE, Destination Weddings, Responsible Tourism, adventure, wellness and will be taken forward with greater vigour,” she added.

Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan has recently rented out his property in Mumbai’s upscale Juhu locality for Rs. 4.5 lakh per month, reflecting the ongoing strength in real estate activity. The transaction, reviewed by Square Yards, was officially registered with a stamp duty of Rs. 42,500. The property, situated within Siddhi Vinayak Presidency Co-operative Housing, spans 1,912 sq. ft. (177.72 sq. m).

Aaryan originally purchased and registered the apartment on June 30, 2024, for Rs. 17.5 crore, jointly with his mother, Mala Tiwari. The purchase incurred a stamp duty of Rs. 1.05 crore and a registration fee of Rs. 30,000, including two car parking spaces. According to SquareYards.com, the rental yield on Aaryan’s property stands at 3.1%. This transaction is part of Aaryan’s broader real estate portfolio; in July 2023, his mother and father together invested Rs. 16.5 crore in an apartment on the 8th floor of the same housing project.

The housing society is located in Juhu, a favourite among celebrities, which is known for its scenic beachfront and vibrant atmosphere, with numerous luxury high-rises offering sea views. The locality’s appeal is further heightened by its proximity to a range of high-end amenities, making it a highly desirable address for celebrities, professionals, and businesspeople alike. Earlier this year, renowned screenwriter, poet, and lyricist Javed Akhtar also purchased a property in Juhu, underscoring the area’s continued popularity among the elite as reported by Square Yards.

Kartik Aaryan has rapidly risen to prominence as one of India’s most popular and bankable young stars, with successful films like Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. His charming on-screen presence and relatable performances have earned him a massive fan following, establishing him as a leading figure in the new generation of Bollywood actors. His recent performance in Chandu Champion has been well-received, and his film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is slated for release this Diwali.

The culinary scene at Bengaluru just got more exciting as multiple Hilton hotels across the city celebrate their annual F & B initiative named ‘Chefs of Hilton’ where signature creations of chefs across the luxury, full service and focused service portfolio of Hilton are on the offering. This bespoke journey is the confluence of the finest minds from Hilton properties who come together to showcase the best-kept secrets from their homelands, offering a voyage filled with rich and diverse flavours. From the streets of Bihar to the mountains of Tibet, and the deserts of Rajasthan, ‘Chefs of Hilton’ will focus on authenticity, heritage, and culinary mastery, culminating in an extraordinary dining experience.

Chefs at Conrad Bengaluru, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks and DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield curate signature creations, crafted with exquisite flavors and meticulous presentation, and uncover the inspirations and passions behind each culinary masterpiece.

From exclusive meet-the-chef stories to behind-the-scenes insights, join us for a glimpse into the world of Hilton’s culinary masters where we celebrate culinary diversity. This event promises a unique fusion of traditional techniques, modern twists, and innovative flair, showcasing exceptional talent and creativity at the heart of Hilton’s dynamic team of chefs until September 2024.

Chef Mohammed Eliyaz, Executive Chef at Conrad Bengaluru – with deep-rooted passion for the gastronomy landscape, Chef Eliyaz is known for his expertise in conceptualising and crafting signature and seasonal menus alike. Chef Eliyaz will present fusion dishes like Chicken Tiradito and Fish Tamale.

With his motto of “Cooking is Art”, Chef Nessamani from Conrad Bengaluru will present a modern, fusion touch to South Indian cuisine, presenting a contemporary twist to its traditional dishes. Chef will present Cholam Triology (Corn ribs, popcorn cream, cornmeal upma), Seabass Kunafa (Moilee, Coconut strussels)

Meet Chef Ramadas Chandran, Chef de Partie at DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. With over 15 years of experience in the culinary world, his passion for South Indian cuisine reflects in every dish he creates. Hailing from the vibrant state of Kerala, he brings an authentic touch to every plate, infusing his creations with the rich flavors and traditions of his homeland.

Meet Kalil Rahuman Kadhar, Pastry Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield. Chef Kalil draws inspiration from one of Kerala’s finest pastry chefs, his global journey further ignited his passion. With over 15 years of experience, Chef Kalil has honed his skills across multiple countries, working with renowned brands and drawing inspiration from time-tested traditions.

Hailing from the culturally rich state of Bihar, Chef Irfan Ahmed is a master of authentic Indian cuisine. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Chef Irfan meticulously crafts dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Bihar, infusing each creation with a touch of family tradition and an unwavering attention to detail.

From the serene landscapes of Tibet, Chef Tashi Dakpa brings a fusion of tradition and innovation to the table. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Manyata, Chef Tashi reinterprets the beloved ‘Tsampa,’ a traditional Tibetan dish cherished by generations. Drawing inspiration from this heritage, he crafts a German interpretation of Tsampa, presenting a unique culinary experience that marries Tibetan tradition with contemporary flair.

From the sun-kissed deserts of Rajasthan, Chef Jagdish Dewashi emerges as a culinary virtuoso with unparalleled expertise in Marwari and Rajasthani cuisine. His journey through the heartland of India has imbued him with a profound appreciation for the region’s culinary traditions. At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Manyata, Chef Dewashi brings to life the time-honored traditions of “Shakahari” cuisine.

Chef Gaurav, Executive Chef at Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, started his journey 18 years ago in Kolkata, mastering his craft at prestigious establishments. Chef Gaurav’s dishes, such as narkel cholar dal, kumroor chokka, and loochi aamer aachar, are steeped in the flavors of his heritage, offering an authentic taste of Bengal. As an Executive Chef for the past eight years, he has blended traditional Bengali recipes with contemporary techniques, creating dishes that resonate with both nostalgia and innovation.

Chef Tushar Das, Executive Sous Chef at Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, comes with over 15 years of experience, specializing in Italian cuisine. Chef Tushar’s Italian dishes are a celebration of simplicity and authenticity, using just a few high-quality ingredients to craft rich, memorable flavors. His signature Spaghetti with Aubergine and Mint, enhanced by the tang of Feta cheese, exemplifies his dedication to Italian cuisine while offering a fresh twist.

Speaking on ‘Chefs of Hilton’, Chef Prashant Kulkarni, Director of Food & Beverage Operations – Hilton South Asia highlights “We are excited to collaborate with F&B maestros across Hilton properties. A celebration of stories, flavours and shared experiences, ‘Chefs of Hilton’ is our tribute to culinary art, celebration of exceptional skills and creativity of our chefs, as well as honouring the diversity of global cuisine.”

Conrad Bengaluru is excited to bring together a dynamic group of experts, each a master of world cuisine. This exceptional team of culinary professionals will showcase their unparalleled skills and passion for food, offering a diverse array of unforgettable flavours. Their collective expertise promises to deliver an extraordinary dining experience as they present their finest creations and share their journey in a setting unlike any other.

To know more details, log on to the hotel website: www.conradbengaluru.com

Gurugram, August 29th 2024: M3M India, a leading name in luxury real estate development, and Oravel Stays, the parent company of OYO Hotels & Homes, a global hospitality technology company, have announced a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the largest SUNDAY Hotel in India. This ambitious project will feature 220 keys at M3M SkyLoft, New Golf Course Road Extension, Gurugram with approximately 1.67 lakh square feet of space, out of 15 lakh square feet.

The hotel is located near the proposed upcoming Cyber City 2 on Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) in Gurugram, making it an attractive option for business travellers and professionals working in the area as well as for those attending meetings and conferences.

This strategic location aligns with the high standards and expectations of discerning travelers seeking exceptional experiences, state-of-the-art amenities, cutting-edge design, and unparalleled services. The Hotel cum Residences offering is set to transform and redefine luxury, convenience, and quality, setting new benchmarks in the commercial real estate and hospitality sectors.

The initiative is a part of a larger partnership to develop luxurious hospitality space across 15 lakh square feet with 1000 keys across multiple destinations in Gurgaon and NOIDA.

The transaction was successfully completed with the assistance of well-known transactional advisory and consultancy firm Corevest advisory.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established between M3M India and Oravel Stays highlights a mutual dedication to the improvement of the urban environment and the delivery of exceptional services and amenities. This strategic alliance is anticipated to stimulate the local economy, generate employment opportunities, and establish new benchmarks within the commercial and hospitality industries.

The project is on the cusp of market entry, poised to attract a diverse array of stakeholders including investors, business proprietors, and tourists in search of upscale experiences in a prime locale. The development is meticulously crafted to cater to the escalating demand for superior commercial spaces and hospitality services within the vicinity.

The project’s architectural design is led by Mr. Zubin Cooper, CEO of Bentel Associates International. His renowned expertise is set to infuse the development with unparalleled sophistication and functionality, ensuring it stands out in the luxury market.

Mr. Sudeep Bhatt, President, M3M India, stated, “We are thrilled to announce the signing of this significant Memorandum of Understanding with Sunday Hotel, marking a pivotal moment for M3M India. This collaboration is a testament to our shared vision of creating unparalleled commercial spaces that redefine luxury and convenience. With this MoU, we are poised to develop 1.5 million square feet of world-class facilities that will set new benchmarks in the industry. We are confident that this partnership will bring immense value to our stakeholders and contribute to the fast growing region.”

Aditya Sharma, Business Head, Oravel Stays Private Limited added “The SUNDAY Hotel partnership with M3M India allows us to expand our footprint in the luxury segment in metro cities beginning with Gurugram which has emerged as one of the key destinations for social events, domestic tourists and long stay international guests. Our shared vision is to create a landmark property that offers the best of comfort, convenience, and sophistication”.

In the current portfolio, M3M India has 56 projects spread across retail, residential, offices, service apartments etc. All of its projects launched prior to 2019 have already been delivered and the construction is in full swing in the rest of the projects. It has an impressive land-bank of 3,000 acres across Gurugram, Noida and Panipat.

SUNDAY Hotel, a premium brand of hotels was originally launched in May 2023 through a joint venture between the Softbank Group and Oravel Stays, the parent company of OYO. The first SUNDAY hotel was launched in Jaipur followed by Vadodara and Chandigarh in India and London and Dubai in overseas markets.

Marathon is not just about running, but it is also about humanity

Moved by the effort of the NGO, Manasa, the Indian winner of the race Srinu Bugatha announced a donation of INR 10,000 from his prize money winnings

Hyderabad, August 27, 2024: Hyderabad Runners Society took the Elite athletes who participated in the 13th edition of NDMC Hyderabad Marathon to one of its charity partners, Manasa (Manasa Institute of Child Health and Disability Studies), which promotes child health and rights, inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities and families.

The Indian and the Kenyan Elite athletes visited Manasa and interacted with the kids and also witnessed a few cultural performances by the differently abled children.

Kenyan marathon runners Ezekiel Kipkorir, Sheila Chelangat, Zenith Kiptu and Hamington Cherope and Indian elite runners Vipul from Delhi, Bhagirathi from Uttarakhand and Srinu Bugatha from Vizianagaram were in the team that visited the NGO.

Rajesh Vetcha, Smita Chamling, Diwakar, Gautam Pothineni, Vijigeesha and Sunder from the Hyderabad Runners Society, accompanied the elite runners. ‎

Situated in Mohan Nagar near Kothapet (Nagole), it has been working to promote and strengthen child health and disability rehabilitation services. Currently, 80 children visit the NGO daily and avail the facilities being offered by the centre. There are nearly 23 personnel who take care of these children.

Following the cultural performances, a small presentation on the NGO was made by the teachers. The athletes visited the various classrooms and activity rooms in the facility and interacted with the children. They also took a lot of pictures as well.

Moved by the effort being put in by Manasa, the Indian winner of the race Srinu Bugatha announced a donation of INR 10,000 from his prize money winnings.

Until now, Manasa has raised close to Rs 5 lakhs via various donors on the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon website. Corporates like Natco Pharma and Procter & Gamble also contributed to this endeavour. The charity donations on the website are open until 30th September.

The NGO’s treasurer, Madan Mohan Reddy Terala thanked the Hyderabad Runners, the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon and the Elite runners who visited their facility today.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, August 27, 2024—Under the Patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudi Arabia is set to host the fourth edition of the world’s leading platform on minerals, the Future Minerals Forum (FMF), from January 14 – 16, 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The FMF, convened by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, is a unique government-led platform and an inclusive multi-stakeholder conference where the world’s top decision-makers come together to drive action on tough challenges, where minerals are placed at the top of the global agenda as key to development, global prosperity, and the energy transition.

Since 2022, FMF has focused on fostering collaboration amongst minerals-producing nations, promoting sustainability initiatives to build trust, and creating a resilient supply chain of critical minerals that the world needs. Building on these successes, FMF 2025 will focus on “Delivering Impact,” the theme of the fourth edition.

The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, His Excellency Mr. Bandar Alkhorayef, disclosed that next year’s FMF is focused on creating and driving investment opportunities in the mining and mineral sector.

Alkhorayef stated that FMF has become a prominent global forum for all stakeholders in the mineral sector, from governments to mining companies, financial institutions, service companies, research centers, and academic institutions.

He further pointed out that the conference provides a platform to discuss the challenges facing the mining and minerals sector, with opportunities to proffer concrete solutions at the regional and international levels to tackle these challenges.

“The upcoming Ministerial Roundtable will engage participation from 100 countries. This extensive collaboration will include working groups comprising government bodies and 40 organizations, including international organizations, NGOs and trade associations. These groups will collaborate to implement the initiatives and strategies established during the last MRT, driving forward the shared goals of sustainable development and innovation in the global mineral sector,” the minister added.

FMF will kick off on January 14, 2025, with the government-led Ministerial Roundtable, and will be followed by the Conference and Exhibition (15-16 of January), where participants will be privileged to learn from experts who will take turns speaking on important topics. The conference will also feature exhibitions of the latest mineral innovations and applications.

The program this year will focus on:

• New voices on critical minerals, highlighting downstream perspectives and new regional perspectives, including the Super Region spanning Africa, Western and Central Asia, and Latin America.
• Delivering investment partnerships in supplier countries that will include the entire mineral value chain.
• Minerals’ contribution to society.
• Green technology and AI revolution.
• Country and project showcase.

While preparations are in top gear for FMF 2025, some notable figures in the mining, mineral and industrial sectors have already been confirmed to speak at the forum. They include Tom Palmer, CEO of Newmont Corporation; Jonathan Price, President and CEO of Teck Resources; Dominic Barton, Chairman of Rio Tinto; Mark Cutifani Chairman of Vale Base Metals; Robert Friedland, Founder and Co-CEO of Ivanhoe Mines; Bob Wilt, CEO of Ma’aden; Jeremy Weir, Chairman and CEO of Trafigura; and Duncan Wanblad, CEO of Anglo American among other distinguished personalities.

Since its inception in 2022, the FMF has charted many progressive initiatives, such as being a voice for the Super Region and other supplier countries. In 2023, the Ministerial Roundtable participants agreed to collaborate on four initiatives, including:

• Development of a regional critical minerals framework to promote global collaboration and maximize the creation of value in supplier countries.
• Creation of green metals hubs in the Super Region enabled by new technologies and powered by renewable energy.
• Development of a framework setting our regional expectations for the responsible production of minerals based on transparency of supply chains.
• Creation of centers of excellence in the Super Region covering Africa, Western, and Central Asia as foundational pillars for capacity building across mineral value chains.

The third edition of FMF brought together over 14,000 participants from 133 countries, including ministers, senior government officials, leaders of international organizations, and C-level executives from global mining and mineral companies. The forum also saw the signing of 75 minerals deals worth around SAR 75 billion.

For more information and registration, please visit https://www.futuremineralsforum.com.