13th December 2024 Gurugram, Haryana, India  Navanc, a pioneering FinTech startup building India’s first AI-powered property score and stack for secured lending and insurance practices, has successfully raised USD 1 million in a seed funding round. The round was led by Prarambh Ventures, with participation from Inflection Point Ventures (IPV), Brigade REAP FirstPort Capital, and marquee angel investors

The funds will be directed toward expanding operations across India, with a focus on strengthening Navanc’s presence in urban and semi-urban areas. Additionally, the startup will bolster its AI FinTech capabilities by incorporating Generative AI and Computer Vision models to further its vision of becoming India’s first Property Credit Score and Stack provider.

Navanc was founded by Nagachethan S M, CEO, and Byom Kesh Jha, CT&DO, in 2021. With a strong background in technology and finance, Nagachethan leads Navanc’s vision and strategy, driving innovation in the BFSI segment. A seasoned data science professional, Byom oversees Navanc’s Technology and Data Science, ensuring seamless execution of its AI and Tech goals.

Mr Mitesh Shah, Co-Founder, Inflection Point Ventures, says, ”Banks, NBFCs, HFCs all face the same challenges in mortgage and property assessment: inconsistent and time-consuming property valuations, lacking both transparency and data to build trust. By providing precise & scalable property valuation, transparency and reliability, Navanc helps every player in the industry make informed decisions based on real-time assessment, data and knowledge of legal and technical aspects. Thus reducing risks for both lenders and buyers. As investors, we are confident in Navanc’s potential to make property valuation efficient, trustworthy and data-driven.”

Mr Sreenivas Ramarao, from Prarambh Venture opines, “We believe Navanc is the pioneer in delivering AI and Digital services in making the real estate transactions faster, cheaper, reliable and more accurate. We also have great confidence in the team and are fully confident of their ability to deliver user friendly products in the space.”

“Brigade REAP has played a key role in refining and accelerating growth for Navanc, who have shown immense potential in revolutionizing property assessment through their innovative solutions. Navanc’s strengths lie in its ability to streamline financial access for properties by integrating AI, IoT and Blockchain for secure, transparent transactions, making it a transformative player in the PropTech sector. Our association with Navanc is testament to our commitment to fostering innovation in the PropTech sector,” commented Abhay Garg, the Head of Brigade REAP.

Navanc stands out as India’s first FinTech startup to introduce an AI-powered property score and stack, specifically designed for secured lending and insurance practices. Its comprehensive collateral assessment, powered by cutting-edge AI and ML models, significantly enhances credit decision-making and portfolio management for the BFSI industry.

Nagachethan S M, CEO, Navanc, says, “We’re grateful for the support of our investors and excited to further our mission of revolutionizing secured lending and insurance practices in India. Our AI-powered solutions are set to make property transactions faster, more transparent, and accessible to all.”

Currently operating across Tiers of cities in about 6 states, Navanc is focused on expanding its reach to all states under its Bharat Vision. This strategic move aims to foster financial inclusion across India, transforming property lending and insurance practices nationwide.

Since its inception in 2021, Navanc has developed a cutting-edge data driven technology stack that streamlines secured lending, insurance, and property management practices in the BFSI sector. Its innovative solutions significantly reduce turnaround time, enhance transparency, and facilitate improved credit decision-making and portfolio management. The Indian property lending market is poised for exponential growth, with a rapidly increasing demand for digital and AI-enabled solutions to facilitate secured transactions.

13th December 2024 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Ever felt the weight of adult responsibilities and craved a carefree escape to relive your childhood? Well here’s your fun retreat- Altitude Ball In, Ball Out, India’s first adult ball pit, is your ticket to a world of pure nostalgia! Located in Kamala Mills, Lower Parel, sprawled across an area of 5500 sq. ft. Altitude is poised to redefine the entertainment scene in Mumbai.

As you step into Altitude Ball In, Ball Out, you’re not just entering a venue; you’re stepping into a world of pure joy. It’s a place where age is just a number and fun knows no bounds. Altitude offers a unique and immersive experience like no other. Designed specifically for adults, Altitude creates a safe haven, where adults can let loose and reconnect with their inner child without a care in the world.

Step into a massive ball pit, an area of 1500 sq. filled with thousands of balls and feel the weightlessness as you dive and splash your way to pure bliss. With a dream to create a unique experience, Nishita Shah envisioned a space where adults could escape the stresses of daily life and reconnect with their inner child. With Altitude -Ball In, Ball Out, this dream has become a reality.

Nishita Shah, a visionary entrepreneur and founder, shares the story behind Altitude, “We wanted to create a space where adults can escape the stresses of daily life and indulge in pure fun. The ball pit at Altitude is more than just a play area; it’s a place to unwind, socialise, and create unforgettable memories.”

Beyond the ball pit, Altitude-Ball In, Ball Out offers a diverse range of entertainment options. From bowling alleys to arcade games, there’s something for everyone. Challenge your friends to a thrilling game of Bowling, or immerse yourself in a world of virtual reality with the Bungee Adventure with 12 different scenarios to choose from. Test your aiming skills with Sniper Game or unleash your competitive spirit with the arcade games, ranging from the Crazy Guitar, a hammer game that tests your strength, score big or go home with the Basketball Game.

Add more fun to the festivities with a side of Altitude’s delectable range of food and beverages. From mouthwatering snacks to refreshing drinks, each dish is curated to complement your gaming experience. Give your tastebuds a delightful treat with in-house specials like Cigar rolls, Khichiya Avocado Salsa, Gnocchi Pasta, and Watermelon feta salad. Have a fill of the hearty mains ranging from Chole Kulche, Mac n cheese, Paneer Makhani, Thai Curry Rice, Hakka Noodles and more. Try the lip-smacking signature mocktails like Lost in Guava, Kafir Royal, Blue Lagoon and Purple Rain for a refreshing break. Give your sweet tooth a taste of the Sizzling Brownie and Apple Pie for a perfect climax to your gaming journey.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into a world of pure joy and nostalgia. Altitude- Ball in, Ball Out is more than just a venue; it’s an experience. Come and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Let’s make every moment count!

13th December 2024   Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India   In the dynamic urban landscape of Chennai, Porur has emerged as a prime contender for the title of the city’s next major IT corridor. Often referred to as OMR 2.0, Porur has mirrored the success of Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) while carving its own identity as a hub for technological innovation, industrial growth, and real estate expansion. Here’s how Porur’s development is reshaping Chennai’s urban ecosystem.

Porur’s transformation from a residential suburb to a thriving commercial hub is driven by its strategic location. Proximity to key industrial belts and excellent connectivity via the Chennai-Bangalore Highway have attracted diverse industries, particularly in IT.

Key players like DLF IT Park, which houses companies such as IBM, Cognizant, and TCS, along with SP Infocity and L&T Infotech, have turned Porur into a critical node in Chennai’s IT network. Unlike OMR, Porur hosts a mix of IT, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, providing a diversified employment base.

Infrastructure: The Backbone of Porur’s Growth

Infrastructure development has been pivotal in Porur’s growth story. The government and private sectors have invested significantly in modern amenities and connectivity.

Metro Connectivity and Roadways

Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro is set to connect Porur to various parts of the city, reducing travel time and enhancing commuter convenience. Mount-Poonamallee Road, a vital arterial road, and the Porur Flyover have also improved connectivity, linking Porur to Guindy, Sriperumbudur, and Chennai International Airport.

Premium FSI: Boosting Porur’s Growth

Enhanced metro connectivity and road upgrades in Porur will unlock premium FSI opportunities, allowing developers to build larger structures like high-rises and luxury projects. This benefits developers with more saleable space and authorities with additional funds for infrastructure improvements, further driving Porur’s urban development.

The Real Estate Boom

Porur’s rise as an IT and industrial hub has driven demand for residential and commercial properties, making it one of Chennai’s most sought-after real estate markets.

A Thriving Residential Market

Porur offers a mix of residential plots, villa communities, and budget-friendly apartments. Plots are particularly attractive for those seeking customizable homes with excellent long-term appreciation potential. Developers have also introduced luxury gated communities equipped with modern amenities. For middle-income groups, affordable apartments provide an entry point into this booming market.

Investment Potential

Porur’s strategic location at the intersection of growth corridors, affordability compared to OMR, and a robust rental market make it an ideal destination for real estate investments. The ongoing infrastructure projects are expected to drive property value appreciation, offering significant returns for long-term investors.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its impressive growth, Porur faces challenges like water scarcity and traffic congestion. However, the government’s proactive measures in water management and traffic decongestion are expected to mitigate these issues. With infrastructure projects like the metro nearing completion, Porur’s future remains bright.

Porur: A Smart Investment Destination

Porur’s transformation into OMR 2.0 highlights its potential as a powerhouse for economic and real estate growth. Excellent connectivity, a thriving IT ecosystem, and superior social infrastructure make it an ideal location for residential and commercial investments. For prospective buyers and investors, Porur offers immediate livability and promising long-term returns.

13th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  The much-awaited Slurrp Great Indian Cookout (GIC) – Season 3 at HTCity Unwind brought together food lovers, culinary experts, and home chefs for an unforgettable celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage in the capital city. Back with a bigger, better and at an extravagant scale, the Great Indian Cookout’s third edition was hosted at the Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium on the weekend of November 30 and December 1, 2024. The two days were power packed with thrilling cook-offs, mouthwatering flavours, and a vibrant cultural experience.

This year’s theme, Delhi vs Mumbai, set the stage for an epic clash of flavours, highlighting iconic street food like Vada Pav and Chole Bhature and traditional recipes from both cities with iconic culinary hits. Homechefs and culinary enthusiasts competed in high-energy cookouts by integrating local ingredients to create innovative dishes. Celebrating the best of Delhi and Mumbai, the event featured celebrity chefs Kunal Kapur, Harpal Singh Sokhi, Nishant Choubey, Gurkirat Singh, Kamaldeep Kaur, and Vaibhav Bhargava, alongside home chefs Puja Bansal, Shail Swamy, Renu Tyagi, Gayatri Singh, Tanu Mittal, and Nidhi Sehgal, who showcased their culinary prowess.

During the weekend, this stellar lineup of celebrity chefs engaged with the audience through informative sessions, workshops, and lively panel discussions. Chef Kunal Kapur also hosted an exceptional masterclass on Amritsari Khatte Ladoo ki Chaat and Punjabi Til Bhugga.

Mr. Anil Gurnani, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, and J.Justin Antony, Head – Media, PR & Brand Communication, TTK Prestige, said, “We were extremely delighted to witness top chefs in action and feel the enthusiasm from the audience. As a brand, it’s always a pleasure to see such positive energy surrounding our products. A big thanks to the Slurrp team for organizing a well-thought-out cookout that highlighted the versatility of Prestige products and why they are essential in Indian kitchens.”

Commenting on a successful run of the culinary festival, Avinash Mudaliar CEO and Co-founder of HT Labs, said, “This season’s Delhi vs Mumbai theme has been a testament to the diversity of these cities’ iconic cuisines, and we are elated to have brought this culinary showdown to life. The presence of celebrity chefs, who are also Indian culinary icons for home chefs across the country added immense value to the experience. We are looking forward to celebrating the success of the Great Indian Cookout Season 3 and are optimistic to bring forth a bigger experience of culinary excellence next year, once again.”

The event therefore not only showcased the immense talent of Slurrp’s strong community of 7+ lakh home chefs across India, but also became an occasion to celebrate the recent gold trophy win for community building at the E4M Maddies 2024 Awards. The victory was announced by Avinash Mudaliar on-stage with Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi and Chef Nishant Choubey, and the crowd consisting of home chefs and Delhi-based foodies erupted in joy. With this, the Delhi edition of the event was wrapped up.

The Slurrp Great Indian Cookout Season 3 will culminate in a grand finale in Mumbai on December 15, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM at Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai, where celebrity chef Harpal Singh Sokhi and two other masterchefs will join the event to crown the ultimate winner of this ultimate food showdown between Delhi and Mumbai.

The event was presented by the iconic TTK Prestige as the title sponsor, powered by Vikram Tea and Goldiee Masale as proud partners, ensuring a premium experience for all attendees and participants.

13th December 2024  Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India  GT GAMES, the largest online tambola real money gaming platform, is gearing up to launch its most anticipated and lucrative game to date, The Jackpot. This exciting new feature is set to offer players not only entertainment but also the opportunity to win some of the biggest cash prizes in the platform’s history.

With The Jackpot, GT GAMES aims to elevate the traditional tambola experience by offering bigger payouts, more winners, and an enhanced gaming experience. Players can expect massive cash prizes, with winnings that could potentially be life-changing. Whether aiming for a full house or a special line prize, The Jackpot promises to multiply player rewards and take the tambola to a whole new level.

For those unfamiliar with GT GAMES, the platform has earned a reputation as the go-to destination for online tambola (also known as Housie), a game that has captivated players across India. The platform offers users the thrill of winning real money while enjoying tambola, making it a popular choice for those seeking fun, excitement, and rewarding cash prizes.

However, GT GAMES is not just about winning money; it is also about bringing people together. Tambola has long been a favorite at get-togethers, parties, and community events, and GT GAMES has successfully translated this tradition into the digital world. The platform allows families and friends to bond over a shared game, adding a dash of friendly competition to virtual gatherings. GT GAMES tambola offers the perfect mix of social interaction and entertainment, whether for casual play or special occasions.

Madhav Sharma, Founder of GT GAMES, expressed his excitement about the upcoming launch, “At GT GAMES, we’ve been working tirelessly to deliver the best and biggest fast tambola gaming experience in India. With The Jackpot, we’re offering our users not just a game, but the opportunity to win life-changing amounts of real money. Our goal is to revive the traditional tambola mindset and bring that sense of community and excitement into the digital age. We want GT GAMES to be the ultimate tambola destination for people across India.”

With The Jackpot set to launch soon, GT GAMES is poised to revolutionize the online tambola gaming landscape. The platform will not only provide users with a chance to win big but also offer a way to connect, socialize, and have fun, whether at home or during events. Tambola fans should prepare for an exhilarating experience, as GT GAMES is about to redefine how people play and win.

13th December 2024  Bangalore, Karnataka, India  Deloitte India announced the winners of the 19th edition of Technology Fast 50 India Awards, recognising the nation’s fastest-growing tech companies of 2024. This year’s awards spotlight the dynamic growth of startups across sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), clean energy, healthcare, supply chain, and education.

Delhi NCR led the rankings with 16 winners, followed by Bangalore and Mumbai. Notably, 2 winners from tier two and tier three cities underscore the growing innovation footprint beyond metro areas. Some of the new categories such as Sustainability Tech, EdTech, InsurTech, and Credit Tech reflect the evolving priorities of India’s technology ecosystem.

Top performers: The “Fast Five”

Garuda Aerospace Pvt Ltd, Redcliffe Lifetech Pvt Ltd, FarMart Services Pvt Ltd, Capgrid Solutions Pvt Ltd, and Upgrid Solutions Pvt Ltd (Batterysmart), topped the ranking with contributions to drone services, healthcare innovation, supply chain management, precision manufacturing, and clean mobility.

Speaking at the awards, Peeyush Vaish, Partner and TMT Industry Leader, Deloitte India, highlighted the remarkable adaptability and innovation this year’s TechFast50 winners demonstrated. He noted that these companies are not merely navigating a fast-changing digital environment but actively shaping it. From harnessing the power of AI to pioneering advancements in sustainability technologies, these trailblazers exemplify the transformative potential of India’s tech ecosystem.

“India’s technology sector is at a defining moment, driven by policies promoting innovation, increasing digital inclusivity, and rising global recognition. The TechFast50 winners lead this change, setting new benchmarks for agility, scalability, and impact. By honouring their success, we celebrate a dynamic ecosystem of entrepreneurs and innovators, fostering a culture of innovation that drives co-creation and collaboration—efforts that propel India towards global tech leadership,” he added.

Peeyush Vaish, Partner and TMT Industry Leader, Deloitte India addressing the gathering

This year’s awards highlighted several emerging trends shaping the tech industry. A notable increase in sustainability-focused innovations led to the introduction of the “Sustainability Tech” category, recognising companies’ contributions to the electric vehicle ecosystem. The influence of AI was evident in the “Data and AI” category, with companies developing generative AI tools to modernise enterprises. Additionally, a rise in tech-driven solutions for legacy insurance processes led to the creation of the “InsurTech” category.

Various senior industry leaders graced the event, and the chief guest was Milesh J, Head of Strategy & Operations at SAP Labs India Pvt Ltd. There was an exclusive masterclass session for the TF50 winners, where a distinguished jury offered insights on IPO strategies, governance, funding, and ESG. The jury included prominent figures such as Nishant Rao, Founding Partner at Avataar Ventures; Romit Mehta, Vice President at Lightspeed Venture Partners; Justin Paul, Head of Innovation Office at SAP Labs; and Siddarth Pai, Founding Partner at 3One4 Capital.

For details of this year’s Top 50 rankings companies at TF50, click here.

Key highlights from Deloitte’s TechFast50 awards:

• Between 2005 and 2022, several notable companies that won the TF50 award went public, such as RateGain IT and Zomato.
• Seven companies reached Unicorn status: Zomato, RazorPay, Rupeek, Moglix, Pepper Content, Cashfree Payments, and The MathCompany.
• Dynamic evaluation: A distinguished jury assessed companies using a balanced approach that considered revenue growth alongside innovation, sustainability, and market impact.
• Empowering diversity: The “SheXO in Tech” category highlighted technology’s role in empowering women and fostering inclusivity.

Notes to the editor for reference purposes only

This press release has been issued by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee (“DTTL”), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about for a more detailed description of DTTL and its member firms.

13th December 2024 Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India  Ahmedabad University has built an innovative academic ecosystem, redefining the ways of learning through research-driven thinking, hands-on experiences, and interdisciplinary exploration. The University has reimagined the classroom experience to equip students to tackle complex global challenges that lie at the intersection of diverse disciplines – a foundation that not only shapes the future of education but also drives societal progress.

The University has rapidly emerged as a high-quality multidisciplinary institution, renowned for its transformative impact on the lives of young people evidenced in the outstanding outcomes achieved by the graduating class of 2024.

830 students received degrees, including 659 undergraduates, 164 masters, and seven doctoral students. The University honoured six students with gold medals for their outstanding achievements

The 14th Annual Convocation celebrated the remarkable achievements of its students, showcasing their groundbreaking research and real-world impact. These achievements include developing strategies for decarbonisation using material efficiency and circular economy principles; analysing canal irrigation systems to propose equitable solutions for water distribution among farmers; and innovating nanoparticle-based immunoliposome delivery systems for targeted chemotherapy and microRNA therapy to treat breast cancer, to name a few.

In addition to their research accomplishments, the class of 2024 demonstrated the benefits of a liberal education, securing admissions to prestigious global institutions, obtaining roles with progressive Indian companies, and venturing into the dynamic world of startups.

The 14th Annual Convocation, held on December 10, 2024, marked the success of 830 such students embarking on their next journeys after earning their degrees. Among them were 494 students from the Amrut Mody School of Management, 162 from the School of Arts and Sciences, and 174 from the School of Engineering and Applied Science. The University also conferred doctoral degrees to seven graduates for their groundbreaking contributions to research. Additionally, the top students of the Class of 2024 were honoured with gold medals for their exceptional performance.

Vinita Bali, former Managing Director of Britannia Industries and a globally acclaimed leader in business and sustainability, delivered the convocation address that embodied Ahmedabad University’s commitment to inspiring students to apply their learning in service to the community. Drawing from her extensive experience across sectors and geographies, Ms Bali emphasised the need to make the right choice. “In your everyday life, you will face choices and dilemmas, both big and small. Maintain your integrity, sense of ethics, and values, and strive to do what is right—not just for ourselves but also for our planet and community. The planet is crying out to people like us for help because when all the trees are cut, the waters are polluted, the animals are gone, and the air is no longer fit to breathe, we will realize that we cannot eat money.”

Emphasising the responsibility of industrialists, she added, “Today in the corporate world, we talk about concepts like CSR and ESG. But past industrialists had already embraced these values long before such terms existed. For instance, Ahmedabad University is the vision of an industrialist—your Chancellor’s grandfather, Kasturbhai Lalbhai. Similarly, consider what Jamshedji Tata did in Jamshedpur long before CSR and ESG were coined. He believed that in business, the community is not just another stakeholder; it is the very purpose of our existence. This is the responsibility that those people have bestowed on us. And this is our responsibility.”

Presiding over the ceremony, Chancellor Sanjay Lalbhai reflected on the vision of Ahmedabad University: to build an institution that positions India once again as a leading light in the creation and dissemination of knowledge. He remarked, “We recall the time when ancient universities like Nalanda and Takshashila were the foremost institutions of research and learning, recognised worldwide. We aspire for Ahmedabad University to shine just as brightly and add many more disciplines to make it a holistic and be acclaimed as an excellent centre of learning with many more disciplines to make it a holistic and complete center of education. Graduating students, your continued support for the University will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Ahmedabad University.”

Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Management, Professor Pankaj Chandra, in his address, inspired graduates to use their education to make meaningful contributions to society with five key messages. “To the graduating class – as you step out of the University today, let me say five things: One: Question everything around you and make your education count. Two: Be grateful. Three: Don’t stop learning today. Continue to invest in your learning and your experiences. It will be the new learning that will keep you moving forward purposefully. Four: Fulfil the public good promise of education – to become a better citizen with a strong civic sense and a caring eye. And, Five, always remember that your journey going forward is going to be unique to you. Each of your paths will unfold differently and at different times from others, so flourish within your uniqueness in this world,” said Professor Chandra.

The valedictorian, Aditya Gupta (BBA Hons, Class of 2024), reflected on the unique journey of the Class of 2024, which began in the midst of the pandemic. As the first cohort to transition from online classrooms to exploring the University’s vibrant campus, Aditya recounted how the challenges of the pandemic brought his peers closer, creating cherished memories in every corner of the campus. Highlighting how Ahmedabad University became more than just a learning platform – a community of people who made difficult times easier – he concluded with an empowering message: “We have the power to lead, to inspire, and to make a difference.”

The 14th Annual Convocation was attended by the University’s Governing Body and Board of Management members, faculty, alumni, students, staff, and all the proud families, friends, and loved ones of the graduates who have helped their graduates succeed.

13th December 2024   Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Limited, renowned for its dedication to quality and innovative lighting solutions, is thrilled to unveil its latest range of Decorative lights – The Wallsmile Wall Light Series. Whether you are decorating your home or just looking to add a touch of elegance, this collection is designed to elevate living spaces for DIY enthusiasts and professional decorators. Perfect for both minimalist and luxurious interiors, these wall lights will add a touch of elegance and charm to any room.

Consumers are increasingly looking for lighting solutions that combine beauty and functionality. Crompton’s Wall Lights satisfy the consumer’s needs by offering a blend of elegance and style that transforms any space. These lights create a distinctive ambiance. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of luxury or set the perfect mood, Crompton’s Wall Lights come in a variety of shapes that match every emotion, effortlessly infusing warmth and charm into your home. Ideal for corridors, garden walls as well as indoor spaces, these lights help create an inviting atmosphere that reflects your unique personality. They add depth and visual interest to any space, enhancing your living environment.

Crompton’s Decorative Wall Lighting Range includes a diverse range of products which elevate the overall experience of the consumer:

Wall Lamps: All four of these contemporary designs are made to last and are easy to install. With a one-year warranty, these lights demonstrate Crompton’s dedication to excellence.

Ball Lights: Lighting is more than just a necessity; it’s an essential element of design that transforms spaces. This collection of wall lights combines artistry and functionality, providing not only illumination but also a touch of elegance for any room.

K Lights: The One-Way and Up & Down K Light are engineered to direct light precisely where you need it. Whether you want to highlight a piece of art, illuminate a pathway, or create ambiance in a cozy corner, this fixture delivers bright, focused lighting that enhances your environment.

Telescopic Up & Down Lights: The Two-Way Telescopic lights are designed to project light both upward and downward, offering enhanced versatility for your lighting needs. Whether you want to highlight architectural features or create a warm ambiance in a living area, this fixture delivers beautifully balanced light in both directions.

Designed to upgrade the overall lighting experience of the space, the Decorative Wall Lights range offers reliable lighting solutions for anyone who wants to upgrade the aesthetics of their home décor. This range of lights is water resistant and dust-free, which makes them suitable for both indoor as well as outdoor environments as they can take splashes of water without affecting the productivity and functioning of the product. Additionally, the entire range of these wall lights are registered with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which ensures that the safety, quality & performance standards are verified.

Speaking about the latest launch, Mr. Shaleen Nayak, Vice President & Business Head, Lighting – Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., stated, “At Crompton, we view lighting as an art form that has the power to redefine spaces—going far beyond mere illumination. Our approach focuses on offering consumers innovative solutions that elevate their everyday experiences. From enhancing ambiance to ensuring reliability, our lighting solutions are designed to combine beauty, functionality, and durability. The latest Wall Lights Range exemplifies this ethos, featuring surge protection, water resistance and easy installation. These lights are not just fixtures—they’re a testament to Crompton’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in quality and originality, making us a trusted partner for modern homes.”

Available at Crompton-authorized retail outlets nationwide and on major e-commerce platforms, this collection is designed to brighten and elevate interiors while enhancing décor.

The price range of the products is as follows:

Available at Crompton-authorized retail outlets nationwide and on major e-commerce platforms, this collection is designed to brighten and elevate interiors while enhancing decor.

13th December 2024   New Delhi, Delhi, India   A new study highlights the grave impacts of illegal ritualistic hunts in West Bengal, India, where thousands of hunters gather during cultural or religious festivals to kill wildlife using traditional weapons such as bows, catapults, and spears. The research involved socio-economic questionnaires carried out with 99 hunters from hot spot areas and reveals that these large-scale social events impact more than 90 different species, including some already at risk of extinction, while posing significant challenges for animal welfare.

The hunts, which are conservatively estimated to result in the deaths of 5,000 animals annually, target species ranging from wild boars and Bengal monitors to jungle cats, Indian flying foxes and greater coucals. Among these, seven species are listed as globally threatened on the IUCN Red List, including the Critically Endangered elongated tortoise and long-billed vulture. Additionally, 25 species fall under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, making their killing illegal under all circumstances.

The study also explored the motivations driving hunters. Wild meat consumption remains central to these events, often as part of celebratory feasts. However, some species, such as Bengal monitors, are also hunted for their skin, bones, and fat for use in traditional medicine or decorative items. Economic trade in wildlife derivatives was reported by a smaller proportion of hunters. Notably, personal enjoyment, rather than economic gain or subsistence use, emerged as the primary motivation for participating in the hunts.

Despite the scale of the issue, the study underscores opportunities for change. The authors call for strengthening law enforcement alongside targeted awareness campaigns to help communities transition toward sustainable practices, ensuring the preservation of both cultural traditions and West Bengal’s unique wildlife. Additionally, they recommend involving local stakeholders in the development of wildlife-friendly initiatives, offering a practical pathway to protect biodiversity while fostering community pride.

Dr Neil D’Cruze, lead author and Head of Wildlife Research at World Animal Protection, said, “Every year these large ritualistic hunts are a devastating blow for both local biodiversity and animal welfare. They typically involve thousands of hunters, leading to the estimated indiscriminate killing of at least 5,000 wild animals annually. Among the species most at risk are the Critically Endangered elongated tortoise, slender-billed vulture, and long-billed vulture, whose populations are already in steep decline. Beyond the staggering loss of threatened species, the methods used—such as spears, catapults, and bows—inflict immense suffering on animals, many of whom are left to die slow, painful deaths. The scale of animal suffering and its impact on ecosystems cannot be overstated.”

Shubhobroto Ghosh, Co-author of the study and Wildlife Projects Manager at World Animal Protection India, said, “While ritualistic hunting may have deep cultural roots, it is illegal under Indian law. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, strictly bans hunting of Schedule I species, including the Critically Endangered long-billed vulture and elongated tortoise, granting them the highest protection. Our study, however, offers hope: these hunts are largely motivated by personal enjoyment rather than subsistence. Encouragingly, most hunters expressed interest in legal alternatives like wildlife-friendly tourism or nature-based festivals, which could sustain cultural traditions while safeguarding wildlife and instilling pride in the region’s rich biodiversity.”

Gajender Sharma, Director of World Animal Protection India, said, “This study is not just about documenting a problem but finding solutions. The success of community-led conservation initiatives, such as the Khonoma Nature Conservation Sanctuary in Nagaland, shows what’s possible when people and wildlife thrive together. By offering wildlife friendly alternatives like wildlife photography, birdwatching, and eco-tourism, we can address hunters’ motivations for enjoyment while creating new opportunities. With combined efforts in law enforcement and community engagement, a positive transformation for both wildlife and people in West Bengal is achievable.”

13th December 2024 Gurugram, Haryana, India  Drinking water has never been this exciting! Wahter, India’s innovative advertising and packaged drinking water brand, has launched a new product, Shot by Wahter, which combines hydration with an engaging chance to win the latest iPhone every month.

Shot by Wahter is designed for GenZ and millennials, offering not just water but also a bit of excitement. Every bottle comes with a QR code on its eye-catching label. Scan the code, fill in some important details, and you’re entered into a monthly giveaway to win the latest iPhone. It’s an easy and fun way to turn something as simple as drinking water into a thrilling experience.

Co-founded by Amitt Nenwani and Kashiish A Nenwani, Wahter has redefined everyday advertising, and Shot by Wahter takes this vision further by creating an interactive, youth-focused product that seamlessly blends functionality with engagement. Available in 250 ml and 500 ml sizes, Shot is competitively priced alongside market leaders like Bisleri and Kinley. Its vibrant design and accessibility across General Trade, Modern Trade, and local stores ensure it appeals to a broad audience. Beyond being a refreshing hydration choice, Shot also serves as a unique advertising platform, with 40% of its label reserved for brands to communicate directly with consumers in high-traffic retail environments.

GenZs, with its 43% contribution to India’s household consumption, represents a significant growth driver for brands. Shot taps into this influence by offering a product that resonates deeply with their lifestyle and preferences. The interactive element of the iPhone giveaway adds an extra layer of fun and engagement for customers and gives advertisers a fresh way to connect with their audience.

Winners of the iPhone giveaway will be announced on the 25th of every month on Wahter’s social media pages, building excitement and keeping everyone engaged. Launched in November, Shot by Wahter is a new way to enjoy your water while adding a little thrill to your day. So why wait? Grab a bottle, scan the code, and see if you’re the next iPhone winner!