12th December 2024- Celebrating the eternal triumph of light over darkness, the sacred festival of Karthigai Maha Deepam holds profound spiritual significance for millions of devotees. Sri Mandir, India’s largest devotional platform, proudly announces a special initiative for devotees to partake in the Karthigai Maha Deepam LIVE Darshan Special on Friday, December 13, 2024. This sacred event, timed with the auspicious Karthigai Maha Deepam Tithi, allows devotees to virtually witness the Arunachala Teerth Shiva Parvati Kalyanam, Maha Rudra Homa, and the LIVE Darshan of the Arunachaleshwara Deepam from the holy town of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu.

Karthigai Maha Deepam, a festival symbolizing divine light, is celebrated across South India with unmatched fervor. The event culminates at the Arunachaleswarar Temple, where the grand lighting of the Maha Deepam atop the sacred Arunachalam hill draws millions of devotees each year. Rooted in the legend of Lord Shiva’s manifestation as a Jyotirlinga (fire pillar), the festival embodies the triumph of light over darkness and offers a pathway to inner illumination and liberation from the karmic cycle.

Sri Mandir’s initiative bridges tradition and technology, enabling devotees worldwide to join this spiritual journey. The live Darshan Special includes the performance of the Maha Rudra Homa, believed to dispel negativity and attract prosperity, and the Arunachala Teerth Shiva Parvati Kalyanam, a sacred ritual that invokes divine blessings for peace and wisdom. Participants can meditate, chant mantras, or recite stotras alongside the rituals, fostering a deeper connection with Lord Shiva.

“Spirituality becomes meaningful when it is accessible to everyone. The Karthigai Maha Deepam LIVE Darshan Special allows devotees to experience this sacred festival from anywhere, bringing faith and connection closer to their lives. This initiative reflects our commitment to making spiritual experiences available to all, no matter where they are.” Prashant Sachan, Founder & CEO of Sri Mandir said

Sri Mandir invites devotees to embrace the transformative energy of Karthigai Maha Deepam and witness the divine light of the Arunachaleshwara Deepam through its platform. The LIVE Darshan will be accessible via the Sri Mandir app, ensuring a seamless and immersive spiritual experience. Join this sacred celebration and let the eternal light of Lord Shiva guide you toward peace, prosperity, and liberation.

NEW DELHI, 12th December 2024 – The inaugural day of the much-awaited India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 (IMHC 2024), organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi, commenced today with a special session addressed by Hon’ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, who emphasized the importance of preserving India’s maritime legacy for future generations. The conclave that brought together key ministers, prominent speakers, maritime experts & thought leaders from across the globe highlighted India’s rich seafaring legacy, its pivotal role in shaping cultural and economic exchanges across the world, and its vision for sustainable maritime innovation, underscoring its emergence as a maritime powerhouse.

“India stands today as an emerging maritime powerhouse, strategically leveraging our geographical location and advanced infrastructure to spearhead global maritime initiatives. Through sophisticated maritime diplomacy, particularly initiatives like Sagar, security and growth for all in the region, we are fostering robust international partnerships and ensuring regional stability across the Indo-Pacific. Rule-based order is quintessence, and India is taking initiatives and lead to ensure that there is larger subscription to rule-based regime on seas. I am quite confident and optimistic that this two-day Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024 renews our collective dedication to honouring our maritime legacy while advancing towards sustainable innovation”, said the Hon’ble Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar.

The India Maritime Heritage Conclave fosters collaboration with key ministries like Labour and Employment, Youth Affairs and Education, and Culture and Tourism and highlights opportunities for skill development and employment, aligning with the Labour Ministry’s goals of creating sustainable livelihoods. It also inspires youth to explore maritime careers and integrates heritage into education. In partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event promotes India’s maritime legacy as a catalyst for cultural preservation and tourism. Together, these ministries create a unified framework for national development, youth empowerment, and global engagement.

Inaugurating the conclave, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighted India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its maritime heritage. Speaking about the significance of this initiative, Shri Sonowal said, “Our rich maritime heritage is not merely a story of our past but a beacon for our future. This conclave reaffirms India’s leadership in maritime innovation and conservation, advancing sustainable practices while preserving our cultural legacy for future generations. Under the visionary guidance and leadership of our hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi Ji, National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal is a step in that direction, a place where we will bring our maritime past to life for future generations. It will showcase the brilliance of our ancestors while inspiring young minds to carry forward their legacy.”

He further added, “The ocean is not just a resource; it is a legacy—a bridge that connects the past with the future, uniting civilizations, fostering innovation, and shaping our identity as a maritime nation. By preserving our maritime heritage, we not only honour our ancestors but also unlock immense potential for tourism, education, and youth engagement. Let us inspire future generations to embrace this legacy, transforming it into a beacon of sustainable growth, cultural exchange, and global leadership.”

The inaugural session included addresses by prominent dignitaries. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, highlighted the integration of maritime heritage into cultural tourism, stating “Our maritime past serves as a source of inspiration and pride, fostering global appreciation of India’s unique legacy. India’s rich maritime heritage, from the ancient dockyards of Lothal to the cultural exchanges fostered by our forefathers, symbolizes centuries of economic prosperity and global connectivity. As we establish the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, we honor this legacy while setting the course for a future of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. Our oceans, a source of prosperity and security, hold the key to addressing global challenges and opportunities. Let us celebrate and safeguard this legacy, ensuring India’s maritime influence continues to shape the world stage.”

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Union Minister for Labor and Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke about the potential of maritime studies in engaging youth, saying, “Understanding our maritime roots empowers the youth to connect with their heritage and innovate for a sustainable future. India’s southern states, under the visionary leadership of dynasties like the Cholas, have long championed trade expansion, connecting India to distant shores and fostering a legacy of maritime excellence. As the only country with an ocean named after it, our heritage shines through marvels like Lothal, the world’s oldest manmade dockyard, and the Malam community’s dedication to sharing maritime knowledge with the world. This wealth of ancient wisdom is a source of immense pride and inspiration for building our maritime future.”

Shri Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, underlined India’s historic contributions to global trade networks, while Shri T K Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, welcomed participants and set the stage for the event. Shri Bhushan Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ports & Sagarmala, delivered a vote of thanks, appreciating the collaborative efforts in organizing the conclave.

The keynote sessions and panel discussions on India’s maritime legacy seamlessly interconnected, offering a comprehensive exploration of the nation’s historic contributions to global trade, culture, and innovation. Prof. Vasant Shinde set the stage with an enlightening presentation on India’s maritime heritage as depicted in the Lothal Museum, followed by Eric Staples, who delved into India’s connections with the Western Indian Ocean. Complementing these insights, Dr. Rajiv Nigam examined the influence of coastal environments on human cultures, weaving a multidimensional narrative of maritime history.

Building on these themes, the panel discussions also brought together eminent experts to further explore India’s ancient maritime practices and trade networks. Topics such as Hinterland and External Trade Links of the Harappan Civilization, India’s Contact with the Roman World and Its Impact, and Trade and Cultural Relations between India, Southeast Asia, and Beyond highlighted India’s pivotal role as a global connector through its vibrant maritime traditions.

The day also featured an exhibition showcasing India’s shipbuilding techniques, navigation systems, and historical trade routes, inaugurated by dignitaries. A vibrant cultural program celebrating India’s coastal traditions marked the day’s conclusion, offering a rich blend of scholarship and celebration.

Day 2 of the conclave promises engaging discussions on themes such as the Cholas’ contributions to maritime history, advancements in traditional shipbuilding, and the evolution of naval power in India. A valedictory session will summarize the key takeaways and outline a roadmap for preserving and promoting India’s maritime legacy.

Gillco International School proudly served as the host of Let’s Talk Education a pioneering 10-day event organized by Bootcamps, which traveled across 10 schools in 10 cities. This extraordinary initiative brought together a diverse group of educators, school leaders, and students to discuss the future of education, explore innovative teaching strategies, and honor exceptional leadership in the education sector.

The event served as a powerful platform for dynamic conversations about the rapidly changing landscape of education, offering opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. Mr. Akshay Ahuja, Co-Founder of Bootcamps, delivered an engaging keynote address that set the stage for the entire event. His session focused on revolutionizing education through personalized learning, embracing educational technology, and fostering innovation in schools. Mr. Ahuja emphasized the importance of preparing students for the future by equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an increasingly digital world. His thought-provoking ideas resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring them to think critically about how they can transform education within their own institutions.

Interactive Workshops and Meaningful Conversations

Beyond the keynote sessions and discussions, ‘Let’s Talk Education’ offered attendees the opportunity to engage in *interactive workshops* that addressed some of the most pressing challenges in education today. Topics ranged from *rethinking curriculum design* and *advancing digital literacy* to *adopting student-centered teaching practices* and *navigating the intersection of technology and pedagogy*. These hands-on sessions provided practical tools and strategies that participants could immediately implement in their schools.

A Vision for the Future of Education

Reflecting on the significance of the event,Dr. Kritika Kaushal stated, “‘Let’s Talk Education’ was a transformative experience for all of us at Gillco International School. It not only allowed us to connect with like-minded educators and share ideas but also reinforced our commitment to being at the forefront of educational innovation. This event is a testament to the collective effort required to create a future where education evolves to meet the needs of every student.”

Mr. Akshay Ahuja echoed these sentiments, adding, “Education is no longer just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity. ‘Let’s Talk Education’ is exactly the kind of platform we need to facilitate these discussions, empower educators, and create actionable solutions for the challenges we face in schools today.”

The success of ‘Let’s Talk Education’]* at Gillco International School has set a new standard for educational events, reinforcing the school’s position as a leader in embracing innovation and change. Through such initiatives, Gillco continues to create impactful spaces for educators to explore new horizons, exchange ideas, and ultimately shape the future of education in India and beyond.

Chandigarhi,12th December 2024: Martial Solren, a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra Susten Private Limited, the clean-tech arm of the Mahindra Group, has successfully secured a Rupee term loan of Rs. 1,448 Crores. The financing documents have been formally executed with HDFC Bank and Axis Bank to support its ambitious 560 MWp solar power projects in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan. This funding will enable the development of the proposed solar plants, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to advance renewable energy infrastructure in India.

GUVN: Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited; RUVN: Rajasthan Urja Vikas Nigam Limited

The financing will support solar PV power projects being developed under long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with key off-takers. These projects are strategically positioned to play a transformative role in India’s transition to renewable energy.

Once completed, the plant is expected to generate approximately 9 lakh MWh of solar energy annually. This output will offset around 8.19 lakh tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions annually, contributing to India’s renewable energy targets. The solar power generated will be sufficient to provide clean energy to approximately 1.8 lakh households every year.

Deepak Thakur, Managing Director & CEO of Mahindra Susten, said, in this fiscal year, Mahindra Susten has continued to deliver on its core purpose with several strategic achievements. Securing the financial closure for our 560MWp Solar Projects in Gujarat and Rajasthan is an important step for Mahindra Susten. The financial closure of Martial Solren, following the on boarding of our strategic investor in 2022, underscores our commitment to powering ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ with clean, sustainable energy. This milestone reflects our robust project financing capabilities and de-risked development strategy. We are excited about the opportunities ahead as we expand our portfolio and contribute to building a sustainable future”.

This achievement highlights Mahindra Susten’s dedication to supporting India’s clean energy transition and reinforces its position as a leading IPP (Independent Power Producer) player in the renewable energy sector.

Rakesh Singh, Group Head – Investment Banking, Private Banking, International Banking, Digital Ecosystems and BaaS, HDFC Bank said, “We’re pleased to contribute positively towards scaling India’s renewable energy and supporting energy transition projects in the country. Partnering with Mahindra Susten on the 560 MWp solar power project in Gujarat & Rajasthan is another step in the direction of supporting businesses creating solutions that are climate sensitive. We hope our partnership with Mahindra Susten enhances our resolve to encourage green energy products as part of our contribution towards reducing carbon footprint in India.”

Rajiv Anand, Deputy Managing Director, Axis Bank, said, “Axis Bank is honored to be a financial partner in Mahindra Susten’s solar power projects. Supporting this 560 MWp initiative reinforces our commitment to driving India’s renewable energy revolution and fostering a sustainable future. At Axis Bank, we believe that responsible financing is key to driving socio-economic growth and environmental stewardship, and we remain dedicated to empowering initiatives that create long-term value for the communities and the planet.”

Chandigarh, 12th December 2024: Merino Industries Ltd., a global leader in manufacturing laminates and surface solutions, announced its partnership with GreenLine Mobility Solutions Ltd, a key player in Essar’s Green Mobility initiative to redefine sustainable logistics in the manufacturing and logistics sectors.

As part of its efforts to reduce Scope 3 emissions, Merino is integrating GreenLine’s LNG-powered trucks into its logistics operations—an industry-first for the laminate sector. This collaboration reflects Merino’s ongoing commitment to decarbonising its value chain and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.

Through its integrated sustainability program, Nirmal, Merino has already made significant progress in reducing its environmental footprint. The company now meets 75% of its energy needs through non-fossil fuel sources such as solar, agro residue, and biogas. These initiatives have already led to a reduction of 95,000 metric tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions annually.

At the launch event, Mr. Prakash Lohia, Managing Director of Merino Industries Ltd. said, “This transition marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward sustainable operations. The adoption of LNG-powered trucks not only aligns with our vision for a greener tomorrow but also sets a benchmark for responsible logistics in the industry. Together with GreenLine, we are creating a cleaner and more sustainable operational network in India.”

Mr. Anand Mimani, CEO of GreenLine Logistics Solutions Ltd, further added stating, “As we expand our fleet across various sectors, this partnership with Merino Industries marks a significant milestone, being the first of its kind in the laminate industry. By introducing LNG-powered trucks into their logistics operations, we are not only reducing emissions but also paving the way for sustainable practices to be adopted more widely across different industries.”

GreenLine, home to India’s largest fleet of LNG-powered heavy commercial trucks, is at the forefront of transforming the logistics sector across industries such as FMCG, E-commerce, Automotive, Cement, Steel, Metals and Mining, Express Cargo, Oil and Gas, and Chemicals. GreenLine’s LNG-powered trucks help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 30% compared to traditional diesel vehicles, collectively reducing approximately 7,825 tonnes of carbon emissions to date. This makes GreenLine a key partner for businesses striving to meet their sustainability targets and minimise their environmental impact.

Chandigarh,12th December 2024: Mahindra Construction Equipment Division (MCE), a part of the Mahindra Group, today launched its latest offerings at BAUMA CONEXPO 2024, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and reliability. The new CEV5 range of Construction Equipment are set to redefine the standards in their respective categories, offering advanced features and compliance with the latest industry norms. Mahindra pavilion at the India Expo Centre, showcases entire range of Mahindra BSV construction equipment like RoadMaster and EarthMaster, as well as the extensive truck range for construction segment – BLAZO X 48 CLS 10×4 Tipper, BLAZO X m-DURA 35 8×4 Tipper, BLAZO X 28 Transit Mixer with 7.5 cum capacity drum, FURIO 10 Fuel Bowser with 6KL capacity and BOLERO Camper & Maxx Pik-up were on display.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Venkat Srinivas, Business Head – Truck and Bus & Construction Equipment, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “Our consistent efforts to introduce cutting-edge products and technologies, coupled with emphasis on local manufacturing, exemplifies the company’s strong support for the Make in India initiative. The introduction of the New CEV5 range of construction equipment at BAUMA CONEXPO, reaffirms Mahindra’s commitment towards the sustainability goals set by the Government of India. The new CEV5 range is a testament to the agility of our engineers, who have developed these products with a clear focus on performance. The range is specially equipped with a larger, more comfortable cabin to enhance operator productivity”.

Furthermore, it is powered with Mahindra IMAXX advanced telematics, providing strong control over the lower costs of ownership and higher fleet safety. The New CEV5 range of Construction Equipment: An upgrade to existing Earthmaster – Backhoe Loader & Roadmaster – Motor Grader with the higher power of 74 HP & 102 HP engine with CEV 5 emission standards.

Below are details of the key products on display:

MCE CEV5 Range: Redefining Efficiency and Compliance

The MCE CEV5 Range debuted with two flagship offerings: The RoadMaster G100, the high-power Motor grader, is designed to meet the forthcoming CEV5 emission standards. Its 102 HP engine and 440 NM torque make it an excellent grader for road construction, especially on state and national highways. The new EarthMaster SX & SXe also complies with CEV5 emission regulations. It is a versatile backhoe loader with a 74 HP engine, a new larger and more comfortable cabin, and iMAXX telematics technology, ensuring improved performance and efficiency.

BLAZO X 48 CLS 10×4 Tipper 29 cum & 18 cum BS6 OBD2 – All New Business solution for our customers in Blue metal, Coal, M-sand, Earthwork and 18 cum specially designed for Iron ore transportation hence providing a wide range of long-haul Tipper applications. The Double Service Guarantee, which offers a 36-hour Turnaround Time (TAT) and 48-hour Uptime to ensure maximum productivity for the users. The BLAZO X 48 10×4 Tipper is more than just a truck; with Mahindra IMAXX advanced telematics, it is a comprehensive solution for the modern transporter. MORE UPTIME AND MORE PROFITS ASSURED.

BLAZO X m-DURA Tipper (22 cum body in 35T Tipper & 16 cum in 28T Tipper & 14 cum Rock body also available in 28T Tipper platform): A New Benchmark in Tipper Technology. BLAZO X m-DURA heralds a new era in tipper technology in India. With its well-proven, robust, and dependable aggregates, this range, available in 28T and 35T GVW categories, sets new standards for performance and durability. The Double Service Guarantee, which offers a 36-hour Turnaround Time (TAT) and 48-hour Uptime to ensure maximum productivity for the users, is one of its primary highlights. Furthermore, the range offers up to 10 tipper fleets with round-the-clock onsite support, giving customers’ unmatched peace of mind. The BLAZO X m-DURA is more than just a truck; with Mahindra IMAXX advanced telematics, it is a comprehensive solution for the modern transporter.

BLAZO X 28 (7.5 cum) Transit Mixer – A completely unique offering for construction segment customers with state-of-the art Cabin with best in class suspension, comfort enhancing productivity, 7 cum drum capacity powered by Kirloskar reliable Slave engine with fuelsmart technology leading to best in class fluid efficiency and better clutch life towards more uptime supported by double service guarantee. Reduced Service intervals from 12 to 7 which provides TCO advantage to the customers.

FURIO 10 6KL Fuel Bowser – Unique On-Door step diesel delivery business solution for CV customers in the niche segment and GoI Drive towards fuel savings cum ease of business. Mahindra has tied up with Repos Energy to cater to Doorstep Fuel delivery demand through their FURIO trucks – range of Light and Intermediate commercial vehicles. It is a double dispensing Alpha Mobile Fuel Pump built on Mahindra FURIO truck. Door-step diesel delivery will lead to an efficient energy distribution infrastructure and will provide diesel to bulk consumers and industries.

The MTB range of Tipper, Transit mixer and Fuel bowser range comes with Double service guarantees, i.e. “Back on Road in 48 hours or get Rs. 1000 per day”. And “36 Hours Turnaround Time from Dealership Workshop or get Rs. 3000 per day.”

Customer Welfare Programs such as Mahindra Saarthi Abhiyaan aim to provide 1000+ scholarships every year for Truck Driver’s Daughters, by direct bank transfer of INR 10,000 and a certificate in recognition of this achievement. Till date cumulatively 10000+ Girl Child of Truck Drivers has been benefitted under the Mahindra Saarthi Abhiyaan program.

MTBD’s service network has expanded to 400 plus touch points, including 80 3S dealerships and over 2900 Roadside assistance service points and Spares network of over 1600 retail outlets on key trucking routes across India.

Chandigarh, 12th December 2024– SWITCH Mobility Ltd, subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, and a leading manufacturer of electric buses and light commercial vehicles today unveiled its contemporary electric bus platform SWITCH EiV12 – the low floor electric city bus for the Indian market. It is India’s First Low-Floor City Bus with Chassis-mounted batteries, featuring a scalable battery capacity of over 400+ kWh.

The vehicle was launched by Shri Nitin Gadkari Hon’ble Minister for Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, in the presence of Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group Companies (India), other dignitaries, and industry leaders.

On the occasion, SWITCH E1, engineered for the European Market, was flagged off virtually. Both these buses share common design philosophies and EV architecture.

The purpose-built SWITCH EiV12 platform is indigenously designed, developed and manufactured for urban city commutes, offering global standards in performance, safety, reliability, and comfort. With seating for up to 39 passengers, the SWITCH EiV12 leads its segment, offering maximum revenue potential for operators.

Mr Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group of Companies (India) observed while launching these vehicles “These buses are a tribute to the PM’s Make in India vision: made in India, for India and the World. Switch Mobility is inspired to launch newer vehicles with cutting-edge technology and zero carbon emissions, only because of the wonderful road infrastructure that is coming up in India, owing to visionaries like Modi Ji and implementers like Gadkari Ji.”

Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of SWITCH Mobility, said, “The launch of the SWITCH EiV12 and the flagging off of the SWITCH E1 for Spain is a proud milestone for the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland, underscoring our commitment to sustainable mobility. In addition to the EiV12 and E1, SWITCH is developing a range of new products to expand our global offerings. At SWITCH Mobility, we are driving a greener future and advancing our long-term vision to democratize electric mobility worldwide.”

Mr. Mahesh Babu, Chief Executive Officer, SWITCH Mobility, said, ” At SWITCH Mobility, we’re excited to unveil two new products for India and Europe, both built on our Global EV architecture. These innovations harness cutting-edge EV technology to deliver superior efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. Our low-floor electric city bus, designed for optimal energy performance and accessibility, has garnered an overwhelming 1,800 orders—proof of the market’s confidence in SWITCH Mobility’s vision for a sustainable urban transport future.”

The India electric city bus market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21% by 2030 with an EV penetration of 70%. The total parc for electric city buses is likely to cross 70,000 units by 2030.

The SWITCH EiV12 sets a new benchmark in passenger comfort, safety, and technology, reshaping the EV landscape. Its low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism ensures easy ingress and egress, while the automated wheelchair ramp and dedicated spaces make it accessible for differently abled passengers. Designed with women’s safety in mind, it is equipped with 5 CCTV cameras with no blind spots and includes 5 dedicated seats for women. The expansive panoramic glass area, the largest in its segment, offers superior visibility, naturally lit interiors, and enhanced safety. Powered by SWITCH iON, our proprietary telematics system, the SWITCH EiV12 offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, ITMS and efficient fleet management. Its efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface not only ensures rapid recharging but also optimizes depot spaces, while an IP67 rated battery lets the bus deal with flooded roads with ease.

The SWITCH E1, our latest innovation designed specifically for the European market, showcases cutting-edge engineering with a lightweight monocoque construction, ensuring optimal efficiency and performance. The SWITCH E1 features in-wheel motors and a flat gangway layout throughout the bus, providing seamless movement and accessibility for passengers. With its triple-door configuration (front, center, and rear), the bus offers unmatched convenience for quick boarding and alighting, perfectly suited for urban transit systems. Capable of accommodating up to 93 passengers, including standees, the SWITCH E1 sets a new benchmark in sustainable, passenger-centric public transportation.

Chandigarh,12th December 2024 Shares of Vedanta Limited touched a new 52-week high of Rs 525 during the trading session on Wednesday backed by strong fundamentals and progress on the company’s demerger plans. It closed at Rs 513.80, gaining 2.71 %. Vedanta’s shares have rallied nearly 100% year to date, showing a 5x outperformance on the Nifty metal index which has rallied ~19%. The company’s market cap also crossed the crucial Rs 2 lakh crore mark in this financial year.

Multiple factors account for the strength of the company’s stock. Brokerages and credit rating agencies have upgraded their outlook on Vedanta based on developments during the past few quarters.

Brokerage Nuvama and ICICI Securities have a price target of Rs 663 and Rs 600 on Vedanta respectively. On the operational front, Vedanta is focusing on volume growth, having completed two important projects in the first half of this fiscal. These include commissioning of the 1.5 MTPA unit of the Lanjigarh Refinery expansion project and operationalizing the Bicholim iron ore mine at Goa, which has a 3MTPA capacity.

Rating agency CRISIL recently said in its recent report that Vedanta’s consolidated operating profitability (EBITDA, excluding brand and management fees to VRL) is expected to increase to more than Rs 45,000 crore in fiscal 2025, mainly supported by volume growth in aluminium, zinc international and iron ore segments, improved cost efficiencies in zinc and aluminium and healthy metal prices. The rating agency upgraded its rating on Vedanta’s long-term bank facilities and debt instruments to ‘AA’ from ‘AA-’

CRISIL also factored in Vedanta’s moves to deleverage its balance sheet and improving financial flexibility in its rating rationale. “The promoters and group management have been articulating about increased focus on deleveraging balance sheets at VRL as well as at operating levels. This commitment has been reflected in recent fundraising events such as QIP and OFS by Vedanta, and stake sale by VRL which have resulted in cumulative fundraising of USD 1.9 billion by the group during April-August 2024.” the rating agency had said in its report, while expecting Vedanta’s net debt to continue declining further after FY 2025 as well.

11th December 2024 Gurugram, Haryana, India  BookMyForex.com, India’s first and largest online foreign exchange marketplace, has announced a dual offer this travel season. The company has launched ‘Lowest Rate Guarantee’ offer along with the “Crazy Cashback Sale”, setting a new benchmark in the forex industry. With the “Lowest Rate Guarantee” offer, BookMyForex guarantees customers the most competitive rates on forex cards, currency notes, and international money transfers. If a customer finds a lower rate elsewhere, BookMyForex will refund double the price difference as cashback. To make international travel even more rewarding, the company has also launched its “Crazy Cashback Sale” which allows customers to get up to ₹7500 cashback on forex purchases made via forex cards and currency notes-offering up to 3.3% savings on overall forex expenses.

Commenting on the dual offer launch, Sudarshan Motwani, Founder and CEO, BookMyForex.com, said, “BookMyForex has already established itself as the most affordable forex player in India, offering customers up to a 5% rate advantage compared to other providers. With the introduction of the ‘Lowest Rate Guarantee’ and the ‘Crazy Cashback Sale,’ we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering unparalleled value. Our platform leverages real-time data from partner Banks & hundreds of RBI-licensed money changers to ensure the most competitive rates for forex cards, currency notes, and money transfers. For forex cards, our zero-markup on live interbank rates (IBR) ensures that customers get prices as close as possible to the true interbank rates. This Lowest Rate Guarantee is a game-changer, elevating our promise to provide the best forex solutions in the industry.”

Key Highlights of the Offer

• Lowest Rate Guarantee: Customers will receive double the price difference as cashback if they find the same product offered on any other forex company’s website.
• Crazy Cashback Sale: Customers can get up to ₹7,500 cashback on forex purchases, saving 3.3% on their orders. This offer is available to both new and existing customers and applies to every forex card or currency note purchase during the offer period.

Addressing Growing Demand for Forex Solutions
According to recent industry statistics, over 17 million Indian nationals travelled abroad between January and July 2024. The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Thailand, and Singapore ranked as the top five destinations. BookMyForex is leveraging this trend by offering affordable and transparent forex solutions, solidifying its reputation as the most trusted online forex brand with over USD 1.5 billion in currency exchanges.

Nitin Motwani, Founder & CTO, BookMyForex commented, “With the holiday season around the corner, the launch of the Lowest Rate Guarantee and Crazy Cashback Sale is perfectly timed to meet the growing demand for forex services. BookMyForex has introduced the much-required technology in money changing business that has revolutionized the customer experience while ensuring highest standards of compliance. We anticipate a threefold growth, solidifying our position as the preferred choice for Indian travellers.”

BookMyForex delivers currency notes across 50+ Indian cities at the best forex rates, compared across hundreds of money changers in the area, with same-day doorstep delivery across India. The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card, a zero-markup card, offers seamless features such as instant reload and unload for hassle-free transactions. Additionally, the company provides same-day money transfers to over 200 countries with zero transfer fees, making global payments simple and cost-effective. The Lowest Rate Guarantee applies to all new forex orders (forex card, foreign currency notes, and international money transfers) placed via the BookMyForex mobile app (available on Android and iOS) or the website www.bookmyforex.com. This offer is valid until January 2024.

11th December 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India It’s time to sweat, sculpt, and soar like never before! Squat Up, Mumbai’s cutting-edge fitness destination is all set to take the game a notch higher. The sprawling, over 10,000 sq. ft., gym has undergone a spectacular makeover with brand-new pickleball courts, an open terrace workout space, and an atmosphere that will get you addicted to your fitness regime.

Co-founded in 2017 by Maitri Boda, Squat Up began as a personal journey of transformation and has grown into a vibrant fitness community. Rooted in the belief that fitness thrives in a supportive environment, Squat Up empowers individuals to achieve their health and wellness goals together.

“Creating a facility like this has been a dream come true,” says Maitri Boda, Co-founder of Squat Up. “With top-notch equipment, diverse classes, and an expert team of trainers, we’re here to help you achieve your fitness goals and live your healthiest, happiest life.”

What’s New at Squat Up?

Pickleball Courts: Squat Up proudly introduces two brand-new pickleball courts, becoming the first gym in Mumbai to feature this exciting sport. Whether you’re an experienced player or a newcomer, these courts are a fun way to stay active and fit.

Open Terrace Workout Space: Enjoy invigorating outdoor workouts on the terrace, surrounded by lush greenery. This sunlit, serene space is perfect for combining fitness with the rejuvenating power of nature.

Sleek Interiors and Premium Equipment: Step into a modern workout haven featuring premium equipment from top brands like Hammer Strength, Hoist, and RealRyder. Whether you’re into high-intensity functional training, kickboxing, Pilates, or yoga, Squat Up offers classes and personalized training programs tailored to every fitness style.

World-Class Amenities: Recover and recharge with world-class facilities, including steam rooms, relaxing massages, and ice baths.

At Squat Up, fitness isn’t just about physical transformation—it’s about community, support, and achieving your full potential. With expert trainers, vibrant classes, and a holistic approach to wellness, it’s a space where you can truly thrive.