Bengaluru, India – January 30, 2025: Infosys Finacle, part of EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY), today announced the launch of the Finacle Asset Liability Management Solution – a liquidity and interest rate risk management solution that provides banks with an enterprise-wide view of all on-and-off balance sheet exposures. The solution enables banks to identify gaps, assess impact on net interest margin and liquidity, and take corrective actions, to better manage their funding and liquidity decisions.

The Finacle Asset Liability Management Solution allows monitoring of a broad range of liquidity and interest rate risk metrics and deliver an aggregated view of such risks across entities, geographies, and currencies. This helps banks make informed decisions regarding funding and liquidity strategies, optimize asset allocation, and effectively manage risk and compliance.

Finacle Asset Liability Management Solution highlights:

• The solution has advanced data analytics and AI-infused capabilities to address asset liability management (ALM) objectives, along with a cashflow engine to generate forecasts for contractual and behavioral cash flows.
• It will enable banks in strategic management decisions, including balance sheet planning, liability mix optimization, asset/liability pricing, and funding concentration regulation.
• It also has stress testing and scenario modeling functionalities that allow banks to simulate and optimize key liquidity and interest rate risk drivers, to better respond to market shocks.
• The solution integrates reporting infrastructure with a range of on-demand and pre-configured Basel norms-based reports for enhanced compliance management.

Sajit Vijayakumar, Chief Business Officer and Global Head, Infosys Finacle, said, “With Finacle Asset Liability Management, we are equipping banks to navigate the global economic uncertainty and the complexities of liquidity and interest rate risk with unprecedented clarity and precision. Our solution offers a holistic view of exposures while providing financial institutions with intelligent capabilities and tools to manage risks effectively, streamline reporting, and enhance their risk modelling capabilities.

Mohammad Muzaffar Wani, DGM – IT and BPR, Jammu and Kashmir Bank, said, “We are delighted to announce our adoption of Finacle’s advanced Asset Liability Management solution. This strategic initiative empowers us to enhance our liquidity and interest rate risk management capabilities, while also improving our modeling sophistication to better adapt to changing market dynamics. The solution will streamline our ALM operations, offer valuable insights and enable informed decision-making in managing our assets and liabilities.”

30 January 2025,Bhopal: The book ‘Big Country, Little Business,’ a comprehensive guide for Indian micro-entrepreneurs and small businesses. The book offers an in-depth analysis of the challenges faced by small businesses, which serve as the backbone of the Indian economy. Authored collaboratively by eminent author, social entrepreneur, educationist, and chairman of the AISECT Group Shri Santosh Choubey; business leader, educationist, and Chancellor, SCOPE Global Skills University, Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi; and educationist, influencer, author, and EVP of the AISECT Group, Dr. Pallavi Rao Chaturvedi, the book combines their diverse expertise of 40 years and success secrets from 40 successful businesses. It provides practical tips, actionable strategies, and over 100 innovative business ideas to guide small enterprises towards success.

During the book launch event, the authors shared their personal experiences and the inspiration that led to the creation of this book. The event commenced with a warm welcome to the guests, followed by an in-depth discussion by the authors on the key highlights and objectives of the book.

On this occasion, Mr. Santosh Choubey said, “Today 90 percent of the small businesses in India are coming from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. So there is a lot of potential for small businesses, but they also face many challenges. This book is a guide for small businesses, which not only inspires them, but also teaches practical ways to make their business successful.”

Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, while talking to journalists, said that “At present, India has the third largest small businesses ecosystem in the world. There are more than 1.60 lakh registered small businesses and 5 crores 70 lakh micro enterprises here. Medium and small industries contribute 30 percent to the country’s GDP. Keeping these things in mind, we have emphasized on explaining the process of starting a business in the Indian context. Our effort was that this book presents a detailed picture of business possibilities. In the digital age, small businesses should know how to use technical tools correctly and we have tried to explain it in simple words.”

Dr. Pallavi Rao Chaturvedi, co-author of the book, while highlighting the relevance of this book for women and youth, said that “Women and youth are the future of our country’s economy. Today more than 73 thousand small businesses are being run by women. Understanding their specific needs and struggles, we have included specially designed solutions and business ideas for them in this book. I believe that if they get the right direction and opportunity, they can do wonders.”

Big Country, Little Business” is not just a book, but a comprehensive guide for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to establish and scale small businesses successfully. It delves into the ground realities of Indian business dynamics, offering bespoke solutions tailored to their needs. Authored by seasoned experts with a proven track record of fostering micro-enterprises, ‘Big Country, Little Business’ stands as a testament to the authors’ profound insights into India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. This book serves as a roadmap for millions of small businesses across the nation to not just survive but to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape, especially in an era where an entrepreneurial mindset is more crucial than ever.

The main themes of the book include a comprehensive analysis of the key challenges faced by Indian micro-enterprises, strategic approaches to conducting business with limited resources, and business ideas tailored specifically for women and youth. It also delves into business strategies crafted to align with local market dynamics, consumer behaviour, and cultural diversity, as well as leveraging technological tools to empower small businesses in the digital age. Furthermore, the book provides detailed insights into the importance of networking, funding options, and sustainable strategies for ensuring long-term business success. Moreover, eminent doyens such as Mr. Pavan K. Verma, author, diplomat, and former member of parliament (Rajya Sabha), Mr. Anand Kumar, Padma Shri awardee, and founder, Super 30 programme, Mr. Yogesh Chander Munjal, chairman and managing director, Munjal Showa Ltd, Mr. Harish Bijoor, brand guru and founder, Harish Bijoor Consults Inc., and Mr. K Mantrala, former editor-in-chief, Journal of Retailing, Alexander Von Humboldt Research Award (Berlin) recipient, and Ned D. Fleming professor of marketing, University of Kansas School of Business, Lawrence, Kansas have heaped praises on this book.

Chennai, January 30: Zee Tamil, one of the leading channels in the Tamil television industry, is renowned for entertaining its audience with high-quality content. The channel’s non-fiction shows have received widespread acclaim for discovering real talent and transforming common people into achievers and giving them a chance to shine on stage.  The reality show, ‘Mahanadigai’, introduce talented female participants passionate about acting, that’s became a hit among the viewers. Now, the channel is gearing up for its highly anticipated finale which is just around the corner. This grand finale event will telecast on February 2nd, Sunday, at 8:30 PM, promising an evening of entertainment, on Zee Tamil.

The grand finale of Mahanadigai will bring together the perfect blend of talent and stardom. Mahanadigai has captured the hearts of millions of viewers across Tamil Nadu. From stunning performances to inspiring stories, the show has been a light of empowerment and recognition for women from various walks of life. The Grand Finale promises to carry forward this legacy, presenting electrifying performances, heartfelt moments, and the ultimate crowning of the Mahanadigai title winner.

The finale will also see renowned actress Aishwarya Rajesh gracing the event as the special guest. Adding to the excitement, artists from the upcoming movie ‘Bottle Raja’ will also make a special appearance, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.

The star-studded panel of judges – National Award-winning actress Saritha, multi-talented actor, director, music composer Vijay Antony, and celebrated actress Abirami, will closely monitor the performances for the finale. With their unique perspectives and expertise, they are all set to crown the most deserving contestant of this season. With 10 contestants guided by 10 mentors, the competition has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and brilliance. Now, the top 5 contestants are ready to battle it out in the ultimate round.

Zee Tamil’s commitment to delivering innovative and engaging content continues to shine through ‘Mahanadigai.’ The show has not only provided a platform for talented women but has also redefined entertainment by integrating elements of inspiration and celebration.

New Delhi, January 30, 2025: The first session of Season 2 of the ‘My Music, My Rights’: Creators Connect Programme’ by the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) unfolded as a resounding success yesterday, with a strong turnout of music creators, independent artists and industry professionals.. Hosted at Ajeenkya DY Patil University in Pune, the event provided a valuable platform for music creators to gain firsthand knowledge on IP rights, creators’ royalties, music publishing, enhancing music production, and leveraging YouTube’s potential. It also featured insightful panels on navigating the music industry as an emerging artist and fostering diversity in the music ecosystem.

Attendees received exclusive insights and expert guidance from some of the most experienced professionals in the industry, making it a truly enriching experience.

The engaging panel discussions and insightful presentations provided actionable go-to-market solutions, as industry leaders shared their expertise, strategies, and personal experiences with the participants. Speakers included Karan Grover, Senior Director (India, Middle East & Africa) at Dolby Labs; Sagarika Das, CEO of Sagarika Music; Bhaskar Nair, Partner Engineer & Nikhil Nerkar, Strategic Partner Manager at YouTube Music; Chandrika Shah, India Head at Horus Music; Saee Tembhekar, Singer, Songwriter; and Murtuza Gadiwala, Founder Partner Outwrite Publishing. Their collective knowledge inspired attendees to take proactive steps in safeguarding their work and advancing their music careers. Additionally, Rumpa Banerjee, Head of Marketing, Communication & Member Relations at IPRS, shared valuable insights on managing rights and royalties as a creator and highlighted the crucial role of music copyright societies like IPRS in enhancing the careers and earnings of authors, composers, and publishers across all levels of the industry.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Mr. Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS, expressed, “It’s immensely rewarding to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the creators today. The overwhelming response reinforces IPRS’s commitment to empowering music creators by educating them about their rights and the resources available to them. To see such a diverse group of creators come together to learn, share, and grow is inspiring. This initiative is all about fostering a culture where creators are empowered, and their contributions are acknowledged and rewarded.”

The sessions not only equipped participants with essential tools to navigate the rapidly evolving music industry but also provided a valuable platform for creators to connect, collaborate, and engage with industry leaders and peers. Building on this momentum, upcoming sessions of ‘My Music, My Rights’ are scheduled in Ahmedabad on 6th Feb, Bangalore on 20th Feb, Chennai on 6th March, Lucknow on 26th March, and Patna on 9th April.

“We not only announced and showed the possibilities of end-to-end integration of our products with the systems of the world leaders of the security systems market, but also personally met with their representatives to show the opportunities for the raising of ecosystems of universal convenience and safety using facial recognition software as a key cross between security systems, digital business logic, and real people,” said Eugenia Marina, Business Development Director, MENA

RecFaces, a leader in ready-made Facial Recognition Software (FRS), received an overwhelming footfall at Intersec 2025, one of the largest gatherings in the security industry. Attendees, including technology partners, system integrators, and consultants from various countries, were keen to learn more about the comprehensive range of products offered by RecFaces.

Visitors from the manufacturing, hotel, transportation, real-estate, retail and oil & gas industries expressed great enthusiasm for RecFaces’ flagship products, Id-Guard and Id-Gate. These innovative solutions significantly enhance the capabilities of existing Video Management Systems and Access Control Systems, maximizing their effectiveness.

The demand for intelligent, connected FRS is surging across various sectors. With the proliferation of smart city projects and IOT, the role of FRS is evolving to play a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and public safety.

At the booth, RecFaces’ team demonstrated its versatile software which is easily adaptable to the unique requirements of any industry. Its primary technical advantages include rapid deployment and the ability to operate without the need for significant investment in the hardware or varying levels of technical complexity.

With a 3-month demo license to experience all the functionalities of its products supported by regular training programs makes them an ideal solution for organizations looking to effortlessly integrate advanced facial recognition technology into their operations.

Hyderabad, January 30, 2025 – A gathering brings together Chef representatives from over 50 countries to showcase their national dishes. IIHM United World of Young Chefs Brings International Flavors to Mana Hyderabad/Telangana.

This is a unique and non-competitive gathering when 50 participants belonging to different countries will showcase their national dishes in different cities in India, with 10 of them taking part in the Hyderabad event

Known as the United World Young Chefs (UWYC) Gastronomic Experience will be held in the city on Monday, the 3rd of February at 6.30 pm, The Glass Onion, Next to Infosys, Boulder Hills Madhava Reddy Colony Opp ISB, Gachibowli, Hyderabad.

The event named The United World of Young Chefs (UWYC) is the most sought and eagerly looked forward to event in the city organised under the aegis of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in partnership with the International Hospitality Council (IHC) London.

The representatives represent nations such as Albania, Australia, Greece, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Timur-Leste, Nigeria, Uganda, Philippines, and India, presenting their cuisines exclusively to the most renowned and elite personalities of Hyderabad, ensuring a truly memorable gathering.

Celebrating friendship and camaraderie, UWYC offers Young Chef Olympians a chance to experience solidarity through culinary arts amidst the intense competition.

The national dishes will be open to public vote, allowing the world to determine the most popular national dish.

Esteemed guests such as the British Dy High Commissioner Hyderabad H.E. Gareth Wynn Owen, Ms. Abhilasha Bisht IPS, Director General of Police, and world-renowned chefs like Chef Steven Munkley, Chef Sarah Hartnett, Chef Stefan Hogan, Chef Rahul Akerkar, Chef Chalapathi Rao, and Chef Amey Marathe and many culinarians and Hospitality leaders will be in attendance.

The event will also witness the felicitation of Hyderabad’s most renowned chefs, honouring their outstanding contributions to the fields of Culinary and Hospitality.

Ever wondered what it’s like to experience the spiritual richness of Kumbh Mela, yet can’t make the journey? This once-in-a-lifetime event is an awe-inspiring opportunity for millions to connect with sadhus and gurus, however, many people are unable to attend. Luckily, a rich collection of audiobooks and documentaries now brings this sacred experience to your ears, offering guidance and life lessons from some of the most respected gurus. For those fascinated by the deep teachings of spiritual masters, these stories offer a window into a world of devotion, knowledge, and enlightenment.

Pro Tip: If you’re intrigued by the mysticism surrounding ascetics who walk the path few dare to tread, a must-listen for you would be ‘Aghori’ by Kevin Missal, which is set to release on Audible this February!

Karma: A Yogi’s Guide to Crafting Your Own Destiny

Authored by Sadhguru, the audiobook explores the concept of karma beyond its common understanding as a simple system of rewards and punishments. Rather than seeing it as a strict ledger of good and bad actions, he shows how we can use the principles of karma to bring more meaning and joy into our lives. With clear, step-by-step sutras, he guides us through the complexities of life, helping us harness the power to shape our destinies and live more fully. It’s a thought-provoking, empowering journey toward self-discovery and transformation.

The Power of Thoughts

Did you know the 60,000 thoughts we produce daily are the true architects of our happiness and challenges? In this audiobook, Swami Mukundananda reveals the incredible potential within our minds to shape the course of our lives. By focusing on transforming these thoughts, rather than just our actions, we can achieve remarkable results with minimal effort. Through practical teachings on mind management, meditation, and creative thinking, this audiobook guides you toward harnessing the power of your thoughts to fulfil your life’s purpose and elevate your inner self.

Autobiography of a Yogi

Autobiography of a Yogi is a timeless spiritual classic, revered since its release in 1946. With Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley narrating, this audiobook brings to life Paramahansa Yogananda’s inspiring journey, blending personal stories and profound wisdom. Yogananda takes us through his encounters with extraordinary masters and saints, offering an insightful introduction to the philosophy of Yoga. Still celebrated as one of the most influential books on Eastern spirituality, this edition invites listeners to explore a path to deeper truth and enlightenment.

Kundalini

Ever wondered how to tap into the ultimate source of happiness within you? In this audiobook, Himalayan ascetic Om Swami reveals the mysteries of kundalini, the hidden energy that can transform your life. With his trademark blend of personal anecdotes and wisdom, Swami offers practical steps for awakening this powerful force and understanding the seven chakras. This is an inspiring journey into the core of kundalini, drawn from years of deep meditation and firsthand experience.

Hyderabad January 30, 2025: KRBL Limited, a global leader in the food industry and parent to the World’s No.1 India Gate Basmati Rice, proudly announces the launch of its new packaging. Designed with a consumer-first approach, the revamped packaging aims to educate and empower consumers, enabling them to make informed choices based on their unique preferences and requirements.

The journey to this milestone began with a deep dive into consumer behavior, aiming to address significant gaps in the category. Research highlighted key challenges: lack of detailed product knowledge and price-driven decision-making. These insights laid the foundation for the new packaging, designed to simplify choices, provide transparency, and strengthen consumer trust.

To bring this vision to life, KRBL partnered with renowned brand consulting and design firm Landor Associates. This collaboration brought global expertise to address complex challenges, such as the integration of modern design elements with India Gate’s rich legacy and ensuring that the packaging resonates with diverse consumer mindsets. Through extensive research and validation, the new packaging emerged as a solution that blends tradition with innovation, empowering consumers with detailed product information, consumer-forward illustrations and interactive features like QR codes.

By segmenting the portfolio based on mindsets—such as The Perfectionist, The Quality-Seeker, The Taste Champion, The Smart Shopper—KRBL ensures a tailored experience for every consumer.

“The new packaging represents a significant step forward in our mission to empower consumers,” said Ayush Gupta, India Business Head, KRBL Limited. “By addressing long-standing consumer challenges, we aim to redefine how consumers interact with basmati rice. Every detail, from AR-enabled QR codes to variant-specific prefixes, is designed to make their journey easier and more rewarding. This is packaging with a purpose—intelligent, engaging, and deeply rooted in our values. This initiative not only reflects our dedication to quality and innovation but also strengthens our legacy as a trusted leader in the industry.”

The revamped packaging is just the beginning of a multi-phase campaign that is being launched on 29th January 2025 at PVR Director’s Cut, Vasant Kunj, with the unveiling kicking off with a grand premiere at PVR Director’s Cut, marking a bold step in redefining consumer engagement in an otherwise low-engagement category.

The movie premiere was the ideal stage to unveil this milestone. said Kunal Sharma, Head of Marketing & Business Head, Modern Trade and E-commerce, KRBL Limited. “Films are about storytelling, and we wanted to leverage that power to ensure maximum engagement. This high-impact ATL campaign was designed to dominate the conversation with a mix of creativity and innovation. From anamorphic displays at iconic landmarks to immersive AI-enabled robots in retail stores, every element was crafted to create a buzz that resonated across platforms and geographies.”

“With 20% of the marketing budget driving this initiative, we reached new heights of visibility and engagement. We didn’t just unveil packaging; we redefined how brands engage with their audiences. By combining the glamour of Bollywood with cutting-edge activations, this campaign stands as a benchmark for scale, depth, and impactful storytelling in the industry.”

Designed for maximum impact, the 360-degree marketing campaign spans digital, on-ground, influencer, and in-cinema activations. On over 200 sites in 14 cities, striking hoardings command attention, while anamorphic displays at iconic landmarks and a 45-day presence at Mahakumbh create mass visibility. AI-enabled robots and selfie booths at Reliance stores transform consumer interaction into immersive experiences.

Beyond Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, top film critics and directors, including Karan Johar, Vignesh Shivan and Rajiv Masand along with an army of prominent influencers, amplified the campaign’s influence. On the digital front, BookMyShow roadblocks, Meta, YouTube, and OTT campaigns ensured massive reach, while activations and partnership with quick-commerce giants like Swiggy Instamart, Zepto and BlinkIT added to the momentum.

After nearly three decades, this packaging refresh marks a historic moment for KRBL. As pioneers in the packaged basmati rice segment, KRBL continues to set industry benchmarks, cementing its position as the category captain. With this initiative, KRBL reinforces its leadership, ensuring India Gate Basmati Rice remains a category icon.

30 January 2025, Mumbai

The city witnessed an evening of glitz, glamour, and timeless allure as the much-awaited 5th edition of the Glam Onn Calendar 2025: Gliteratti on 29th January, 2025– She’s a Timeless Tale was unveiled at the chic Leviitate Bar, Hotel Sea Princess, Mumbai. Conceptualized by Parimal Mehhta, founder of Blanckanvas Media, the event celebrated beauty, artistry, and elegance, encapsulated perfectly in this year’s calendar launch.

The launch was graced by a stellar lineup of celebrities and industry icons, including actors Mir Sarwar, Rehmat Rattan, Omkar Kapoor, Zeba Khan, Mrunal Jain, Rohit Khandelwal, Hema Sharma, Pushkar Jog, and Ritu Shivpuri. Also in attendance were renowned fashion designers Ken Ferns, Rohit Verma, and Archana Kochhar, alongside casting director Vicky Sidana, director Suzad Iqbal Khan, and Bigg Boss fame Aakash Dadlani. Adding to the glamour were Sanjay Nigam, Shivam Khajuria, Soniya Birjee, and Ritu. The stunning visuals were brought to life by Rehan Shah, Sayan Sur Roy, Kapil Chiraniya, and Kalpesh Goswami, Sarika Manganlal Dresswala, Kavita Sonchhatra among others.

Parimal Mehhta, Founder of Glam Onn Calendar, says, “Gliteratti – She’s a Timeless Tale’ is more than a theme; it is a celebration of the enduring spirit, beauty, and grace that women bring to the world. With the fifth edition of the Glam Onn Calendar, we aim to showcase not just glamour but the essence of timeless stories that resonate across generations. This calendar is a tribute to the power of women who inspire us through their journeys and achievements. Each page is a testament to the impact they have on shaping the world around us.”

The event was made possible with the support of Sonani Jewels, pioneer in lab-grown diamond jewellery, as Title Sponsor, who debuted their latest bridal collection, Celestia, adding a touch of magic was Colorbar Cosmetics, offering clean and ethical beauty, and SynbioPro Nutraceutix as Gifting Partner, introducing their premium probiotics. Other key collaborators included Carlsberg Smooth Package Drinking Water (Happiness Partner), Chivas Luxury Perfume (Experience Partner), Bright Outdoor (Hoarding Partner), Mid-Day (Print Partner), Cherag Makeovers (HMU) and Third Eye Tarot by Riddhi Mehhta (Supporting Partner).

Mumbai, 30 January 2025: VIP Industries, Asia’s largest and the world’s second-largest luggage maker, has unveiled Carlton’s new retail identity with the launch of an exclusive 872 sq. ft. store in Colaba, Mumbai. Carlton aspires to be the preferred luggage choice for discerning travelers by offering thoughtfully designed, sophisticated travel solutions that go beyond mere badge value. With a focus on craftsmanship, discernment, and intelligent design, our products reflect the spirit of modern travelers. Aligned with this philosophy, Carlton’s new retail identity marks a significant step in strengthening its premium positioning.

The new Carlton store in Colaba sets the foundation for its future retail journey, offering a refined, immersive space that reflects its evolving premium identity. Thoughtfully designed to enhance engagement, it blends sophisticated aesthetics with seamless product discovery for a truly elevated shopping experience.

As part of its aggressive expansion strategy, VIP Industries is investing massively to strengthen Carlton’s presence in key markets across India. The company plans to open 25 exclusive Carlton stores over the next six months, further solidifying the brand’s position in the premium luggage segment.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Neetu Kashiramka, Managing Director of VIP Industries, said, “The launch of Carlton’s exclusive store in Colaba marks a pivotal step in strengthening our brand’s premium presence. This store embodies the new retail identity we envision for Carlton, offering a seamless blend of innovation, luxury, and customer-centricity. More than just a retail space, it is a gateway to a rich and immersive shopping experience. With this expansion, we aim to establish Carlton as the preferred choice for discerning travelers, offering a refined retail experience that blends sophistication with functionality in the premium luggage space.”

Carlton has been witnessing a strong growth momentum, with 11.4% growth in Q3FY25 over Q3FY24, reaffirming its market performance. The launch of this flagship store is a testament to VIP Industries’ commitment to enhancing the retail experience and catering to the evolving needs of premium consumers.