17th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Experience the remarkable journey of Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a multi-business corporation and a leading FMCG Conglomerate that has become a household name synonymous with trust, quality, and innovation in India, on Discovery Channel.

This captivating documentary chronicles the Group’s evolution from a humble shop established in 1929 by Dharampal Ji in the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, to one of India’s most iconic and diversified conglomerates. Viewers witness Dharampal Ji’s unwavering resilience in the face of challenges, including a devastating fire, which laid the foundation for this extraordinary success story. Narrated by Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of DS Group, it takes viewers on a nostalgic journey, sharing captivating anecdotes from the era of Dharampalji and Satyapalji, while offering a peek into the one-of-a-kind corporate museum, state of the art factory while unravelling the inspiring stories behind each iconic brand.

DS Group’s journey is an inspiring and successful business story that blends a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. It has an extensive and diverse portfolio with presence in Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Freshener, Hospitality, Agri, Luxury Retail businesses, and other investments. Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Silver Pearls, Ksheer, Rajnigandha, Ovino, Birthright, LuvIt, Chingles are some of the iconic brands, the Group proudly shelters today. These products showcase the group’s commitment to excellence, blending traditional values with modern innovation to meet the ever-evolving needs of consumers.

The documentary goes beyond business achievements, highlighting DS Group’s significant contributions towards a better tomorrow. Their unwavering focus on sustainability is reflected in initiatives like water conservation, sustainable farming practices, and education programs, underlining their deep commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Under the visionary leadership of Satyapal Ji and the next generation, DS Group has successfully expanded its global footprint, balancing its rich heritage with a forward-looking approach. This inspiring story of perseverance, innovation, and unwavering commitment serves as a testament to how a small beginning can lead to extraordinary success, leaving a lasting impression across industries and communities worldwide.

As a corporate, DS Group is guided by a clear set of values that are built on a strong foundation of collective good to give back to society and protect the planet. The DS Headquarters has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, under the USGBC (US Green Building Council) existing building O&M (Operation and Maintenance) program version 4.0. The DS Headquarters has also received LEED Zero Carbon Certification, by the USGBC.

17th December 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Navigating the world of personal loans can be challenging, especially when deciding between secured and unsecured options. Understanding the differences between these two types of loans is crucial to making informed financial decisions.

Most banks and NBFCs in India offer secured and unsecured personal loans, catering to a wide range of customers with different financial requirements. Shriram Finance, one of the leading players in the NBFC landscape, offers competitive interest rates on its personal loan, ensuring customers can access funds when they need them the most without straining their finances.

What Are Personal Loans?
Personal loans are a type of credit that allows individuals to borrow a lump sum of money for various personal expenses, such as home renovations, medical bills, debt consolidation, etc. Borrowers agree to repay the loan in fixed monthly instalments over a set period, usually ranging from one to five years. The interest rate on personal loans typically depends on the financial institution’s policies, borrower’s credit score, income, and overall financial profile.

Secured vs. Unsecured Personal Loans
Based on the requirement of collateral, personal loans can either be secured or unsecured. Loans that are backed by collateral, like a loan against your credit card or an investment like a fixed deposit, are secured personal loans. Unsecured personal loans do not require borrowers to pledge any asset, like their house or any investment.

In the event of a default on a secured personal loan, the lender may take possession of the collateral to recover their loss. Because the risk to the lender is lower, secured loans often come with lower interest rates and higher borrowing limits.

Unsecured personal loans usually come with higher interest rates compared to secured personal loans and may also have limitations on the borrowing limit due to a high risk to the financial institution. These loans are faster to obtain and more flexible, making them a good option if you need quick access to funds and don’t want to risk losing assets.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Personal Loan

When deciding between a secured and unsecured personal loan, borrowers should evaluate several factors:

• Interest Rates: Secured loans usually offer lower interest rates due to the collateral involved. Unsecured loans, on the other hand, might come with higher rates but provide flexibility without the need for assets.
• Loan Amount and Term: Secured loans often allow for larger loan amounts and longer repayment terms, while unsecured loans may be more limited in these features.
• Risk Tolerance: Borrowers should consider their comfort level with potentially losing collateral if they choose a secured loan and default on it in unforeseen circumstances. Those unwilling to take this risk may prefer the unsecured option.
• Credit Score and History: A strong credit score can improve the chances of securing favourable terms for either type of loan, particularly for unsecured loans.

Shriram Personal Loan – Key Features and Benefits

Shriram Finance provides unsecured personal loans at competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options. Here are some of the benefits of choosing Shriram Personal Loan for your funding requirements:

• Collateral-free Loans: You can apply for Shriram Personal Loan up to ₹10 lakh* without pledging your assets or investments.
• Competitive Interest Rates: Shriram Personal Loan starts at an interest rate as low as 11%* p.a., easing your EMI burdens.
• Flexible Repayment Tenure: You can choose a comfortable repayment tenure between 12 to 60 months* based on the loan amount.
• Quick Loan Approval: The personal loan application is approved quickly and seamlessly with minimal documentation.
• Fully Digital Experience: Applying for Shriram Personal Loan is as quick as it is easy. The NBFC’s website and mobile app is intuitive and customer friendly, ensuring you can apply for loans comfortabl

Conclusiony.

Personal loans can be one of the best ways to access emergency funds or planning your dream vacation, since they do not come with end-use restrictions. With Shriram Personal Loan, getting access to quick funds with minimal documentation is no longer a challenge. Visit the company’s website to learn more about its loan and investment products.

17th December 2024   Bihar, India  JK Cement, one of India’s leading manufacturers of Grey Cement and one of the leading White Cement manufacturers in the World, today marks a significant milestone in its expansion with the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony for its new Grey Cement Grinding Unit in Buxar, Bihar. This expansion is part of the company’s strategic initiative to strengthen its footprint in Eastern India and contribute to the region’s infrastructural and economic development.

The foundation stone was laid by Dr. Nidhipati Singhania, Vice Chairman, JK Cement Ltd, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd and other senior officials. The event signifies the beginning of a new chapter for the company on its journey to serve the growing demands of the Bihar market with world-class cement products.

Commenting on the addition of the new Grinding Unit, Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement, said, “The ceremony today marks a historic step for JK Cement in Bihar. We are excited to bring our high-quality products to this vibrant and fast-growing region. This Grinding Unit will not only strengthen our national presence but will also contribute to Bihar’s infrastructural development and economic growth. We are confident that our advanced manufacturing capabilities and commitment to quality will meet the needs of the local market.”

The new Grinding Unit, poised to become a pivotal player in the region, will address the rising demand for premium cement in Bihar as the market continues to expand. With this expansion, JK Cement Ltd. (JKCL) is set to strengthen its presence in Eastern India, marking a significant step toward balancing demand and supply at a national level. The proposed capacity of the Buxar unit is 3.00 MTPA, and will enable company plans to cross production capacity of 30 MTPA by next year. The investment for this project amounts to over ₹500 crore.

Commenting on the future plans, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd., said, “We are proud to lay the foundation for this new Grinding Unit in Buxar, and this project is an important step in our growth strategy. Our presence in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh along with this new facility in Bihar, will significantly enhance our ability to meet market demand and support the region’s development.”

With Bihar undergoing rapid infrastructural advancements and the implementation of key megaprojects, JK Cement’s entry into the market is poised to play a vital role in supporting these developments. The company’s legacy of delivering superior quality cement, coupled with its commitment to innovation, will help drive progress in the region and contribute to India’s broader growth trajectory.

17th December 2024   Manipal, Karnataka, India   Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has been honored with the esteemed “CII Industry Academia Partnership Award 2024” in the platinum category. The award was conferred at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Summit on Technology, Intellectual Property, and Industry-Academia Partnerships, held on 12th December 2024 at The Lalit, New Delhi.

The award honors MAHE’s outstanding contributions to innovation, advancing knowledge for long-term solutions to global issues, and creating significant relationships between academics and industry.

At the esteemed occasion, Dr. Raviraja N. S., MAHE’s Chief Operating Officer, MAHE, and Dr. Harish Kumar S., MAHE’s Director of Corporate Relations, accepted the award on behalf of MAHE.

Mr. Shrinidhi Kamath, Assistant Director, MAHE, Manipal, and Dr. S. Varadharajan, Coordinator of Intellectual Property Rights and the Technology Transfer Office, were also part of MAHE delegation.

Lt Gen (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice-Chancellor, MAHE, said, “This CII recognition further solidifies MAHE’s standing as a leader in creating significant industry-academia partnerships. At MAHE, we have always aimed to build an academic-industry bridge that encourages creativity and provides practical answers to urgent problems. This honor is a tribute to our partners, instructors, and students who have put in countless hours to realize this goal. We are still dedicated to fostering collaborations that strengthen sectors, increase knowledge, and enhance the welfare of society.”

The CII Industry Academia Partnership Award honors academic institutions that effectively cultivate close ties with businesses, fostering technological advancement and research commercialization. Initiatives including innovative intellectual property development, state-of-the-art research partnerships, and a strong technology transfer ecosystem are all part of MAHE’s efforts in this area.

This acknowledgement marks a critical turning point for MAHE and strengthens its position as a pioneer in fostering information sharing and cooperative growth.

17th December 2024   New Delhi, Delhi, India   Ball Corporation, the leading global provider of sustainable aluminum packaging for beverages, personal care, and home products, announced today its partnership with Dabur India Limited, one of the most iconic and longstanding consumer goods companies founded over 135 years ago, to expand their Real juice portfolio with the launch of the new Real Bites in fully recyclable aluminum cans in India. Real Bites juice offers a unique drinking experience with real fruit chunks in every sip.

The juice category in India recorded strong double-digit growth in 2023, owing to rising consumer affinity for healthy beverages, amid growing health concerns. The popularity of the category as a refreshment for social occasions aided growth. The juice category is forecasted to grow over 35 million liters in volume by 2028 with new flavors & innovative launches.

Real Bites in aluminum cans is available in delightful flavors like: Peach, Pineapple and Real Green Apple. The 185ml can was introduced as an entry point for this segment, offering a convenient size for on-the-go consumption. Along with the refreshing taste, the new aluminum cans provide a shelf life of up to one year, significantly longer than the four to nine months offered by other packaging formats. This ensures that consumers can enjoy the deliciousness of Real Bites for a longer period, while also making a sustainable choice, as aluminum cans are the most recycled beverage containers in the world.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Mayank Kumar, Vice President Marketing, Dabur India Ltd. said, “At Real, our goal is to continually innovate and cater to the evolving preferences of our consumers. The introduction of Real Bites in aluminium cans not only broadens our product portfolio but also meets the demand for longer shelf life and more sustainable packaging. We are excited to offer our customers the same great taste in a format that is both convenient and fully recyclable.”

Aluminum has numerous advantages. As a truly circular material, aluminum can be recycled over and over again without losing its key intrinsic properties, minimizing waste and preserving its value. Additionally, using recycled aluminum saves 95% of the energy compared to using virgin aluminum. Utilizing recycled aluminium can optimize resource utilization from production to disposal, minimizing adverse environmental impacts.

Speaking about the packaging partnership between Ball and Dabur India, Manish Joshi, Commercial Director Asia at Ball said, “As consumers shift to healthy beverages and prefer on-the-go consumption, can as a packaging substrate is expected at grow at a CAGR of 12% from 2023 to 2028 in the juice-based category. Ball’s 2-piece aluminium beverage cans are fully recyclable and come in varied sizes to meet the customer requirements. Ball’s cans help our customers achieve their sustainability goals while offering a 360-degree branding opportunity and varied innovation in the print. With Dabur’s Real Bites, which contain small fruit chunks, the wide opening of the can provided a perfect solution for easy consumption.”

The partnership between Ball and Dabur comes at a time when sustainability is more important than ever to consumers, who expect brands to offer products in sustainable packaging. The growing recognition of aluminum beverage cans as a sustainable packaging option is expected to continue and expand, aligning with the Indian government’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

17th December 2024  Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India  IEL Limited (formerly Indian Extractions Limited) (BSE: 524614, Symbol – INDXTRA), a renowned name in chemical, dye, pigment, and commodity trading, has announced its strategic diversification into the warehousing and storage sector. As a significant milestone in this journey, the company has acquired approximately 29,598.89 square meters of land in Village Neeva, Sarojini Nagar, District Lucknow, for RS. 11.80 crores.

Evolution and Diversification

Starting as a manufacturer and exporter of solvent extraction and groundnut oil, IEL Limited has evolved into a key player in export trading and chemical indenting. Catering to international markets like the U.S. and Europe, the company specializes in trading chemicals, dyes, pigments, intermediates, and commodities, while also providing marketing and support services.

Building on its established expertise, IEL is expanding into the development, operation, and management of modern storage facilities across India. This move represents a transformative step in the company’s growth, positioning it as a leader in the burgeoning warehousing and logistics sector.

Ambitious Warehousing Initiatives

IEL Limited’s new warehousing and storage ventures will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Warehouses
• Cold storage units
• Godowns

Equipped with advanced technology, these facilities will streamline logistics and distribution, addressing the increasing demand for reliable storage solutions across industries. By amending its Memorandum of Association, IEL has laid a foundation for its new business focus, which includes:

• Constructing and maintaining storage facilities for commodities and goods.
• Offering services such as clearing, forwarding, transportation, and distribution of stored items.
• Acting as packers, hauliers, and commission agents to support end-to-end logistics solutions.

Lucknow Land Acquisition

The recently acquired land in Lucknow will be used to establish cutting-edge storage facilities, marking the company’s first project in its warehousing and logistics diversification. This initiative underscores IEL’s commitment to contributing to India’s infrastructure growth and addressing the evolving needs of various industries.

Market Potential

India’s warehousing and logistics sector is projected to grow exponentially, reaching a market size of $215 billion by 2026. IEL Limited’s entry into this space positions it to seize emerging opportunities, playing a pivotal role in enhancing India’s supply chain infrastructure.

Leadership’s Vision

Commenting on this strategic initiative, IEL Limited’s leadership stated, “Our diversification into warehousing and storage aligns with our vision to evolve with market demands. The Lucknow project is the first of many steps we are taking to offer state-of-the-art storage solutions across India. This expansion not only strengthens our business portfolio but also reflects our commitment to contributing to the nation’s economic growth and infrastructure development.”

17th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  The Centre for Digital Economy Policy Research (C-DEP) which announced the Cheistha Kochhar Good Samaritan Award in memory of visionary behavioral scientist Cheistha Kochhar, announced that the first award since its inception was given to Mr. Suraj Prakash Vaid also known as ‘the man of the Golden Hour’.

For over 35 years, Mr. Vaid has been helping road accident victims in Delhi and has rushed many victims to different city hospitals when other bystanders merely stood and watched. Mr. Vaid not only saved lives but also completed legal processes like registering accident cases with the police, appearing in courts as an eyewitness and safeguarding victims’ valuables until their next of kin arrived.

Father of Late Cheistha Kochhar, Lt. Gen. Dr. S.P. Kochhar said, “There can’t be a better person than Mr. Vaid for the first Cheistha Kochhar Good Samaritan Award and his presence not only came as a savior for so many accident victims but also imparts inspiration of selfless service and showcases the impact of a good Samaritan in the society. It’s a true tribute to Cheistha’s life, who was always at the forefront of social initiatives and change.”

Mr. Suraj Prakash Vaid said, “I have been working alongside the police, hospitals and legal authorities for helping the accident victims for a very long time now. I feel proud to receive this prestigious award and know about Cheistha’s contributions to society. I would also urge others to come forward to take this path for creating a better society”.

The annual award honors exceptional societal contributions and includes financial support, resources, and a platform for sharing initiatives. The award aims to inspire more citizens towards service and social change.

Late Cheistha Kochhar was a young and dynamic student who was doing her Philosophy (PhD) at the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), who lost her life in London in a tragic accident on March 19th, 2024. However, the family of Cheistha Kochhar is still waiting for the police investigations to get completed in London. Unfortunately, the family has been informed that the investigation will go on till May 2025 even though the fatal accident took place on 19th March 2024.

17th December 2024  Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India  As Delhi-NCR’s luxury housing segment grows, the region sees the presence of eminent real estate developers in its emerging micro-markets. Prateek Group, with more than two decades of experience and unwavering commitment to quality and on-time delivery, has contributed to the region’s real estate by crafting premium properties. Even during the pandemic, the group successfully delivered over 4,500 flats, providing quality homes while maintaining strict adherence to timelines. The group has consistently embraced advanced construction techniques, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge design to deliver homes that not only meet but exceed the expectations of discerning buyers.

Standing tall, Prateek Group is set to redefine luxury living with its upcoming premium residences in Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad. Due to its exceptional connectivity and strategic location, Siddharth Vihar stands out as a prime micro-market for luxury living in the NCR. Its proximity to major highways, such as the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and NH-24, ensures effortless connectivity to prominent business districts, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment centers, making it an ideal choice for homeowners and investors.

Further, the area’s well-planned growth, availability of modern amenities, and rising interest from HNIs and professionals seeking luxury residences have propelled property values upward. Siddharth Vihar’s steady appreciation in real estate prices has positioned it as a hotspot for investors looking to maximize returns and capitalize on its growing appeal. Aligning with the area’s growth, the project presents an irresistible pre-launch offer at a price unmatched in the luxury segment. With homes starting at Rs. 1.10 crore onwards, the project offers an incredible opportunity to own a piece of luxury at an unbeatable value. The project features a range of meticulously designed 2 BHK, 3 BHK, and 4 BHK homes to suit the diverse needs of homebuyers. The project’s attractive price makes it a standout choice for those looking to secure their dream home or a high-value investment. The group has successfully pre-launched the 1st phase of their project, offering 1200 flats, and have already booked 600 units during this phase.

Besides, the upcoming premium residences are part of Prateek Grand City, a landmark township in Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad. At the heart of this extraordinary project lies its unique mascot, The Butterfly. Representing the essence of beauty, transformation, and harmony, the butterfly symbolizes the project’s vision of blending natural serenity with architectural elegance. The project reimagines luxury living by seamlessly integrating vibrant greenery with timeless colonial architecture, creating an enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a fantasy world. In addition, the project is strategically located just a 20-minute drive from India Gate and 25 minutes from South Delhi’s commercial hub, offering a seamless blend of accessibility and a luxurious lifestyle.

Moreover, the excitement of Prateek Group’s upcoming project in Siddharth Vihar is already palpable, with channel partners observing an overwhelming response even before its official launch.

Vijay Jain from Star, one of the channel partners, says, “The overwhelming response to the project during the pre-launch phase highlights its unmatched appeal. The combination of a trusted legacy, premium features, and an unbeatable price point has resonated with homebuyers and investors, making it one of the most sought-after premium projects in the region.”

Devender Sahoo, from Resource Mantra, added, “Siddharth Vihar is rapidly establishing itself as a premier luxury destination in the NCR, driven by its strategic location and exceptional connectivity to various parts of the region. Its thoughtfully planned infrastructure and consistent property value appreciation create the perfect synergy of modern living and lucrative investment potential. This thriving micro-market is undoubtedly the top choice for buyers seeking exclusivity and growth.”

Prateek Group’s upcoming premium residences are poised to revolutionize luxury living in Ghaziabad, setting a new benchmark for opulence, comfort, and modernity. With its iconic design, thoughtful amenities, and seamless integration of nature and architecture, this development will reshape the skyline of Siddharth Vihar, cementing its reputation as a premier luxury destination in the NCR. Hence, investing in this iconic project is beyond owning a home; it’s about reaping long-term benefits through an elevated lifestyle and exponential returns.

17th December 2024  Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia  Malaysia is delighted to announce the achievement of its target to welcome 1 million Indian tourists between January to November 2024. A total of 1,009,114 Indian visitors were recorded, representing a remarkable 47% growth compared to the same period is 2019, prior to the pandemic. This also marks an impressive 71.7% increase compared to 2023, reaffirming Malaysia’s appeal as a preferred destination for Indian tourists.

“The introduction of free visa entry in December 2023 has proven to be a transformative initiative, driving a significant increase in the number of Indian tourists visiting Malaysia. This policy has opened up new opportunities for travel and played a key role in this remarkable growth. In response to the surge, 2024 saw the launch of numerous new routes from India, inkling Indigo Airlines which introduced direct flights daily to Penang and Langkawi starting December 2024 alongside their existing routes to Kuala Lumpur. The increased connectivity from India helps to further strengthen Malaysia as a choice destination especially in the lead up to the Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” said Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia’s promotional activities in India, conducted in collaboration with leading tour operators and online travel agencies (OTAs) have played a crucial role in achieving positive outcomes. Joint promotions and innovative marketing campaigns have effectively highlighted Malaysia’s rich culture and world-class attractions to Indian audiences. Furthermore, extensive advertising campaigns across digital platforms have generated enthusiasm and increased awareness of Malaysia as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

Malaysia recognition as the Best MICE Destination 2024 in the Indian market has further solidified its reputation, making it a preferred choice for Indian corporations to host Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). This seamless integration of business and leisure tourism enhances Malaysia’s overall appeal. Additionally, MICE activities play a significant role in attracting a large number of Indian tourists, driving substantial spending that bolsters the local economy.

Looking ahead to 2025, Malaysia is poised to build on this year’s successes by enhancing connectivity, developing tailored tourism products, and deepening collaborations with industry partners. As the nation prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, it remains dedicated to providing Indian tourists with unforgettable experiences and solidifying its status as their preferred travel destination.

The new Indigo flights bring the total number of direct flights from India to Malaysia to an impressive 246, marking a significant step in bolstering tourist arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. These expansions have further enhanced connectivity and supported the growing demand for travel between India and Malaysia.

17th December 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Pepe Jeans, the globally recognized denim lifestyle brand known for its premium casual wear, is excited to announce the launch of its exclusive Winter Wear Collection. With winter well and truly upon us, it’s the perfect time to update your wardrobe with stylish yet practical pieces that ensure warmth and comfort during the colder months. Featuring an exquisite selection of jackets, hoodies, sweaters, and more, Pepe Jeans offers winter essentials that combine cutting-edge design with the latest trends to provide the perfect balance of fashion and functionality.

As temperatures drop, Pepe Jeans’ Winter Wear Collection offers high-quality, versatile pieces for warmth and style. The collection features the Parka Jacket with advanced insulation, weather-resistant fabric, and functional details like adjustable hoods and pockets. Puffers with 3M-Thinsulate insulation that provide warmth without bulk in 6 colors. Sweaters & Hoodies offer sleek, modern designs with lightweight warmth for casual or outdoor wear. Jackets blend timeless style with modern trends, while Puffer Jackets provide insulation, weather protection, and pack-ideal for travel.

Pepe Jeans continues to be a leader in the global fashion landscape, known for delivering high-quality, stylish clothing to fashion-forward individuals worldwide. The Winter Wear Collection continues this legacy by offering functional, yet stylish, pieces that are perfect for modern living. The collection has been thoughtfully designed to emphasize comfort and warmth, all while maintaining the signature Pepe Jeans style, ensuring that customers look great while staying cozy through the colder months.