New Sadhana Hyper-Local Journalism Awards to Premiere in January 2026

Celebrating Grassroots Reporting and Community Journalism in India

The Sadhana Hyper-Local Journalism Awards, an initiative spearheaded by Satish Raj Goravigere, founder of Kannada News Today, are set to debut in January 2026 in Hyderabad. This unique event will honor the outstanding efforts of local journalists, community reporters, and digital content creators who focus on highlighting issues impacting grassroots communities across India.

Launched in 2019, Kannada News Today has been a pioneer in the regional news landscape, and this awards program reflects its commitment to uplifting hyper-local journalism. The initiative seeks to fill a gap in the Indian media space, where local stories often lack visibility compared to national and international headlines. The awards will bring much-needed recognition to journalists covering stories that deeply impact smaller communities.

Recognizing Excellence in Hyper-Local Journalism

The Sadhana Hyper-Local Journalism Awards will feature categories that celebrate various aspects of grassroots reporting:

  • Best Hyper-Local Story of the Year
  • Outstanding Community Reporting
  • Grassroots Journalism Impact
  • Emerging Hyper-Local Journalist
  • Digital Innovation in Local Media

By spotlighting exceptional talent in these areas, the awards aim to inspire more journalists to focus on community-driven storytelling and encourage innovation in regional reporting.

Organized by Kannada News Today and Timesnib

The awards are organized by Kannada News Today, in collaboration with its sister platform, Timesnib, another initiative led by Satish Raj Goravigere. Timesnib complements Kannada News Today’s focus on regional content by catering to English-speaking audiences. Together, these platforms emphasize the importance of local journalism in bridging information gaps within communities.

To ensure a fair and transparent selection process, the awards will be judged by a panel of veteran journalists, media professionals, and digital content innovators with extensive experience in the industry.

Supporting Regional Journalists

Hyper-local journalists face numerous challenges, including limited resources, lack of recognition, and infrastructural constraints, particularly in rural areas. The Sadhana Awards aim to shine a light on their efforts and provide them with a platform to gain national visibility, fostering a culture of appreciation for their impactful work.

Workshops and Networking Opportunities

Beyond recognizing winners, the event will include workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions to support professional growth among attendees. These sessions will feature industry leaders who will share strategies for navigating challenges in hyper-local journalism and improving reporting standards.

Emerging journalists will also have the opportunity to connect with experienced professionals, creating pathways for collaboration and mentorship within the journalism community.

The Importance of Grassroots Journalism

Local journalism plays an essential role in informing communities about critical issues, fostering civic engagement, and holding institutions accountable. The Sadhana Hyper-Local Journalism Awards aim to amplify these contributions, emphasizing the need for accurate and ethical reporting at the grassroots level.

Industry Reactions

The media industry has lauded the launch of this initiative, recognizing its potential to uplift regional journalism. “Local stories often shape the core of journalism, yet they rarely receive the attention they deserve. This initiative is a commendable step toward empowering grassroots reporters,” commented a senior media professional.

Looking Ahead

With the countdown to January 2026 underway, the Sadhana Hyper-Local Journalism Awards promise to be a landmark event for regional journalism in India. The awards will not only celebrate the achievements of local journalists but also inspire a new generation of storytellers to embrace the power of community-based reporting

Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar, RMCH Partner for Healthcare

Bengaluru; January 20, 2025: Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar and Ramaiah Medical College Hospital (RMCH), Bengaluru, have signed a 2-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide comprehensive medical check-ups and treatment to BPL card holders, underprivileged, destitute, and senior citizens across Karnataka. Initially, for 2 years, the arrangement could be extended further on mutually agreeable terms.

Dr. Ramesh D, Associate Dean, Ramaiah Medical College Hospital and Rtn Dr. Murali Krishnan, Charter President, Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar signed the MoU in Bengaluru marking a new beginning to take comprehensive healthcare to the needy across Karnataka, thereby ushering in a new healthcare revolution.

This MoU covers medical treatment as and when required as in-patient and outpatient at free or subsidized costs for referral patients and periodical free medical check-ups for senior citizens in old age homes.

According to Dr. Ramesh D, Associate Dean, RMCH, “The Ramaiah group has been at the forefront of offering community health services for several decades. By partnering with Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar, we wish to take our comprehensive health services across Karnataka and ensure our contemporary services reach the underprivileged and senior citizens seamlessly.”

Thanking RMCH for partnering Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar in this healthcare mission, Rtn Dr. Murali Krishnan, observed, “We have been focussing on healthcare and reaching out to masses in a limited way for the last few years. Our partnership with RMCH will enable us to ramp up and further strengthen our resolve to provide comprehensive & affordable health care for the most vulnerable segments of society in a structured manner.”

Commenting on the deliverables, Dr. Sriram Ramalingam, Medical Director, Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar, said, “The healthcare campaign will begin from Tiptur, Turuvekere, Bellary, Urban and Rural Bengaluru & Gadag, and gradually it will be extended to other regions. The target is to reach a minimum of 2,500 beneficiaries by the end of the year.”

According to the MoU, RMCH will provide consultation services, diagnostic facilities, and hospitalization to the referral patients of Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar. As per the agreement, RMCH will waive the registration fee, re-visit charges, and offer a 25 % concession for diagnostic & radiology investigation. Further, patients who need hospitalization will be admitted to concessional wards.

While many routine investigations will be free of cost, a concession ranging between 25 % and 50 % will be offered in the case of special laboratory investigations. Also, Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar or their referred patients will have to bear expenses incurred for medicine and other consumables.

In addition, periodical eye check-ups and follow-up treatments will be done as required. Also, psychological examinations and interventions shall be done for the needy. Further, free annual/half-yearly medical camps will be carried out in the rural and urban areas through RMCH’s Department of Social Welfare. For, in-patients, the MoU provides scope for free bed charges, and free food for patients during their stay at the hospital.

Mr. Pradeep M Kulkarni, President, Rotary Bangalore Gulmohar, revealed that RBG has been conducting General Health Check-ups, Breast Cancer Screening, Eye Screening, Cataract Surgeries, Free Spectacle Distribution, etc. for multiple years. This partnership will help us to scale our services and make it more impactful.

Dr. Aijaaz Ashai Leads Team at Tata Mumbai Marathon

January 20, 2025, Mumbai: The Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025, one of India’s most iconic sporting events, took place today with a renewed focus on participant safety and well-being. Thousands of runners from across the globe gathered for the marathon, and this year, the event witnessed enhanced medical preparedness, with a specialized Quick Response Team stationed every 2 kilometers along the route.

The team, led by Dr. Aijaaz Ashai, President of the Sports Cell of the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP), was tasked with providing immediate medical assistance to runners in need. Dr. Ashai, brought his extensive expertise to the role, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for participants.

The Quick Response Team, which included skilled physiotherapists and medical professionals, was established under the leadership of Dr. Sanjiv Jha, President of the IAP, and Dr. Ruchi Varshney, President of the Women Cell of the IAP. The team’s presence throughout the marathon route underscored the importance of professional care and readiness for any health concerns or emergencies that might arise.

Reflecting on his role, Dr. Ashai said:
“I am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to lead the Quick Response Team for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025. It was an incredible experience working alongside such a dedicated and skilled group of professionals to ensure the health and safety of every participant. Our team worked tirelessly to provide immediate assistance, and I am proud of the positive impact we made.”

Dr. Ashai’s leadership and expertise, combined with the support of his team, ensured a world-class medical experience for all runners. The safety measures were highly praised, contributing to a smooth and successful marathon day.

JSW MG Motor Debuts 9 Models at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025

National , January, 2025: JSW MG Motor India, in line with its vision of Drive.Future, showcased its new-age technologies and forward-thinking initiatives on the second day of the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Solidifying its technological leadership, JSW MG Motor India demonstrated its competencies in CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric) technology. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric initiatives, the brand presented pragmatic solutions that elevate mobility for the modern era.

Taking the vision of Drive.Future to the next level, JSW MG Motor India showcased a diverse range of powertrain options, including Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models. These include innovative models with strong battery management, the IM5 and IM6, a premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle MG HS, the grand SUV MG MAJESTOR, D+ Segment SUV, the Comet BLACKSTORM and the luxurious MG7 Trophy Edition, among others.

Rajeev Chaba, CEO Emeritus, JSW MG Motor India, said “We are excited to showcase our pioneering initiatives in CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric) technologies at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, reaffirming our commitment to shaping the future of mobility. Our vision of Drive.Future is rooted in leveraging advanced technology to transform mobility into a sustainable, connected, and customer-centric experience. Through our technology zone and diverse powertrain showcase, we are pushing the boundaries to offer practical, sustainable solutions that not only make electric mobility more accessible but also enhance the overall driving experience with a greener, smarter, and more connected future for all.”

MG MAJESTOR – The MG MAJESTOR is a new D+ segment SUV with massive dimensions – the longest, widest, and tallest in its class, creating an imposing stance. It redefines excellence, setting new benchmarks for SUVs in handling urban and off-road driving conditions. Inside, the MG MAJESTOR is an abode of luxury, spaciousness, and comfort. This D+ segment SUV blends commanding performance, unmatched luxury, and advanced technology and is equipped with a range of advanced features that set it apart from the competition. With commanding power and rugged capability, the MG MAJESTOR excels on any terrain, making it ideal for both city and adventure. The massively spacious cabin, crafted with premium materials and thoughtful design, guarantees a refined journey for all occupants. Safety takes centre-stage with limitless safety features, including robust structural integrity and advanced driver-assist systems.

IM5 – The IM5 is a luxurious sedan, featuring contemporary technology and elegant design. At the heart of the IM5 is its innovative solid-state battery, offering a substantial range without compromising on performance. The IM5 also features an intelligent digital chassis and a hurricane motor delivering exceptional power.

IM6 – The IM6 all-electric SUV is equipped with the advanced Lizard digital chassis and a four-wheel steering system, enhancing manoeuvrability. Its IM AD 3.0 intelligent driving system supports ‘Navigate on Autopilot’ in city conditions without a map. Inside, the “IMOS Future Smart Cabin” offers a futuristic, seamless experience with innovative technology and comfort.

MG HS – The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is a versatile SUV that combines electric and petrol power, offering an efficient and sustainable driving experience. One of the standout features of the MG HS PHEV is its ability to run on electric power alone for short distances. It can cover up to approximately 120 km on a full charge, making it ideal for daily commutes.

MG 7 Trophy Edition – The MG 7 Trophy Edition sedan is a true automotive excellence, offering a superior blend of power, precision, and elegance. This fastback sports sedan is a true masterpiece, combining a sleek and stylish design, advanced technology, and safety features with a turbocharged engine that delivers exhilarating performance.

MG Comet BLACKSTORM – The MG Comet BLACKSTORM edition elevates style and sophistication of this popular street-smart car with exclusive features and enhancements. Available in the stunning starry black exterior, it showcases a dark chrome ‘Comet EV’ emblem and a black finish ‘Internet Inside’ emblem. The cabin exudes elegance with leatherette seats featuring bold Red ‘BLACKSTORM’ embroidery on the headrests, complemented by an immersive 4-speaker audio system. Equipped with a 17.4 kWh battery for improved performance, the BLACKSTORM edition is designed for those who desire unmatched style with practical driving comfort.

The EV Ecosystem Zone, a comprehensive exhibit is designed to demonstrate how JSW MG Motor India is shaping the future of electric mobility through holistic solutions. This zone is a one-stop destination for understanding the infrastructure, technology, and partnerships required to support India’s transition towards the faster adoption of electric vehicles along with building a robust EV infrastructure for a hassle-free ownership experience. The zone features the 6-way charging infrastructure, eHUB by MG, the Industry’s first and largest charging platform by an OEM; Project REVIVE, focused on repurposing EV batteries beyond cars; EVPEDIA, India’s first dedicated educational and knowledge platform for electric car users; the MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (MG-Jio ICP) and Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS).

OPG Mobility’s Ferrato ‘DEFY 22’: A New Era for Electric Scooters

Hyderabad, January 20, 2025: OPG Mobility (formerly known as Okaya EV), a trusted name in the electric mobility sector, today launched the much-anticipated Ferrato ‘DEFY 22’ at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The company showcased a glimpse of the future where mobility is more sustainable, innovative, and designed for every Indian. Pre-bookings for the DEFY 22 commences from January 17, 2025.

Ferrato ‘DEFY 22’, the all new electric scooter is equipped with Combi Disc Brake System, offering an impressive speed of 70kmph with a range of 80km, verified by ICAT in a single charge. It’s robust structure features a newly designed, highly durable IP67-rated LFP battery and a weatherproof IP65-rated charger, ensuring reliable performance in various conditions. The 7-inch touch display speedometer, with a music feature, and stylish 12-inch alloy wheels make the design classy and bold. With a motor power of 1200W and peak power of 2500W, coupled with 72V 30Ah (2.2 kWh) LFP battery, the DEFY 22 delivers a powerful and practical ride. Furthermore, it is set to elevate the rider’s posture with a dual foot board level.

Packed with a stylish design, ‘DEFY 22’ comes in seven dual tone colour options, providing customers an ease to pick the one fitting their choice and personality. Focused on innovative features and stringent safety standards, this all new product is ideal to meet the diverse needs of Indian consumers, in addition to offering reliability, efficiency and eco-friendliness. With this, the Ferrato ‘DEFY 22’ promises superior performance, advanced safety and other iOT features. It is a perfect companion to all, be it a student, working professional or family, empowering everyone to take control of their journey with confidence and style.

Launching Ferrato ‘DEFY 22’ as the ultimate-head turner at the expo, Mr. Anshul Gupta, Managing Director at OPG Mobility said, “We are thrilled to launch the stylish yet practical scooter that provides a stellar riding experience of daily commute to Indians. Adapting to the diverse needs of consumers, we at OPG Mobility, believe in introducing innovative products while ensuring safety and durability. The all-new ‘DEFY 22’ is the perfect blend of extraordinary style, unmatched power and top-tier performance. In times to come, it is certain to revolutionise the two-wheeler electric mobility space in India.”

The feature-packed ‘DEFY 22’ is priced at INR 99,999 (Ex- showroom) and will be available in seven refreshing colours: Champagne Cream, Black Fire, Coastal Ivory, Unity White, Resilience Black, Dove Grey and Matte Green. With this new product and the existing portfolio, OPG Mobility is on a mission to provide sustainable, accessible and innovative transportation solutions.

OPG Mobility is showcasing its commitment to innovation at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, launching the Ferrato DEFY 22 and offering a glimpse into the future with the unveiling of one concept model designed for the Indian market: the Ferrato Z Model. This showcase also highlights OPG Mobility’s diverse range of sustainable transportation solutions, including the Ferrato electric two-wheeler products and the OTTOOPG electric three-wheeler products. The complete range of electric scooters and bikes on display this year includes:

Ferrato DEFY 22: Dual-tone – Red & Black & Dual-tone – Gold & White

Ferrato Faast F4: Matte Green

Ferrato Freedum LI: Cyan

Ferrato Disruptor: Black

Ferrato Z Model: Silver

In the electric three-wheeler category, the following models are exhibited for both passenger and cargo applications:

● L5 Passenger Vehicle D+3

● L5 Loader Covered Body

● L3 Passenger Vehicle

Analyst Advocates for India to Secure Sovereign AI Negotiations with US Following AI Chip Restrictions

20th January 2025, New Delhi

Recent executive order by Biden- Harris Administration restricting access of AI Chips to non-key allies countries of US has come at a time when Govt. of India has floated a tender to procure 10,000 GPUs (AI Chips) under its ambitious Rs. 10,000-crore AI (Artificial Intelligence) Mission. Though India is not into list of countries (tier-III) for which access of US AI Chips have been fully restricted, but it is into tier-II category of countries for which access of US AI Chips got conditionally restricted.

Giving its analyst insights on this recent executive order of Biden-Harris administration for regulating access of AI Chips (which includes GPUs), Analyst firm 5 Jewels Research has said that though there won’t be immediate impact on the Indian AI Mission, as India being placed in tier-II category of countries for which restrictions are conditional, and allowed to procure upto 50,000 advanced GPUs, while Indian AI Mission requires procurement of only 10,000 GPUs, but other access conditions related with usages of these procured AI Chips from US may requires India to negotiate for its Sovereign AI ambitions with incoming Trump Administration.

Giving his insights Chief Analyst of 5 Jewel Research at Innogress Mr Sumant Parimal, who is a Global thought leader on Quantum & AI (Artificial Intelligence), has said “For India, recent AI chip export restrictions by US has mixed impact on Indian AI ambitions. At one end upto 50,000 GPUs exports are allowed by US for tier-II countries like India, hence existing requirements of India AI Mission to procure 10,000 GPUs through recent AI Mission tender floated by Govt. of India, where most of the bidders have proposed US based OEMs AI Chips, MeitY won’t hit any GPUs procurement cap restrictions as imposed by US Federal Govt., however at other end recent US AI Chip regulations imposes some restrictions on usages of these AI Chips, and ban its application in developing strategic AI applications in sectors like defense. Thus, even India AI mission succeed in procuring GPUs from US based chip makers like NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, but the AI systems built over those AI Chips can’t be termed as Sovereign AI as its usages, users and applications are likely to subject to US regulations”.

“With some cooling off period available before this executive order of Biden- Harris Administration on AI Chip gets enforced fully, in-coming Trump Administration has option to review the same, and this opportunity should be used by India to negotiate with the new Trump Administration to keep India into tier-I countries category, which is for key allies of US, under which no restriction exists as far as AI Chip supply is concerned. This essentially means that India should Negotiate for Sovereign AI With Trump Administration” adds Mr Sumant Parimal.

Point to be noted is that the 19 companies that submitted proposals for the government of India’s Graphics Processing Units (GPU) tender under India AI Mission, have offered a variety of GPUs from Nvidia, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), and Intel, which essentially indicates that India AI Mission is going to be 100% dependent on US based GPU OEMs, and may requires India to comply with the rules and regulations laid out by the Federal Govt. of US for exporting AI Chips. And 5 Jewels Research Analyst believes that emergence of such regulations on supply of US based OEM’s AI Chip may delay India’s ambition to build its own Sovereign AI through on going India AI Mission.

Maha Kumbh 2025 to Create 1.2 Million Jobs

By : Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services

The Maha Kumbh, Hinduism’s largest spiritual gathering held every 12 years, marks an extraordinary milestone in 2025 as the rarest Kumbh celebration in 144 years. This historic congregation is emerging as a powerhouse for temporary employment and economic growth in India. Beyond its profound spiritual significance, the sacred gathering has transformed into a major driver of economic activity. The Uttar Pradesh government anticipates welcoming 400 million devotees, making it one of history’s largest peaceful gatherings. According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), the event is expected to generate a staggering ₹2 trillion in economic activity, creating unprecedented opportunities across various sectors. The economic ripple effect extends through infrastructure development, event management, security services, local trade, tourism, entertainment, and horticulture, fostering growth in both traditional and modern business segments. The surge in temporary jobs in these diverse sectors is providing a significant boost to both the formal and informal employment sectors.

This landmark event is projected to boost commerce not only in Prayagraj but also in neighboring regions, with key industries such as tourism, transportation & logistics, healthcare, IT, and retail expected to see substantial benefits. Over its 45-day duration, Maha Kumbh 2025 is anticipated to generate an estimated 1.2 million gig and temporary jobs, benefitting over 8 lakh workers across various sectors. In the tourism and hospitality industry, roles such as hotel staff, tour guides, porters, travel consultants, and coordinators are expected to grow substantially, contributing approximately 4.5 Lakh to manage the massive influx of visitors.

Similarly, the transportation and logistics sector will experience heightened demand for drivers, supply chain managers, courier personnel, and other support staff, creating an estimated 3 Lakh employment. Temporary medical camps set up during the event will provide freelance nurses, paramedics, and allied healthcare professionals with opportunities, generating around 1.5 Lakh to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of attendees. Meanwhile, the IT and technology sector is likely to witness a surge in demand, with 2 Lakh professionals required to manage virtual darshan apps, real-time event update applications, and cybersecurity for seamless digital experiences. Retail businesses catering to the needs of devotees are expected to create approximately 1 lakh jobs for on-ground sales and customer support staff to meet the demand for religious items, souvenirs, and local products.

Auto Expo 2025: Motovolt Launches a Revolutionary New Era of Electric Vehicles

Kolkata / New Delhi, 18th January, 2025: Motovolt Mobility Pvt. Ltd,a leading player in the electric mobility sector, unveiled an innovative new species of electric vehicles at the Auto Expo 2025. This launch marks the beginning of a new category rooted in a purpose-built design philosophy aimed at addressing urban India’s most pressing mobility challenges, including technology-driven trade-offs, last-mile delivery inefficiencies, accessibility issues, and the increasing demand for eco-friendly commuting solutions.

India’s EV market is rapidly growing, projected to expand from USD 8 billion in 2023 to an impressive USD 117 billion by 2032. Motovolt’s new range taps into this potential with advanced solutions that cater to both individual commuters and commercial logistics needs. The vehicles combine cutting-edge technology with user-centric design to unlock new efficiencies and opportunities.

The showstopper of the range is the Hyper One, India’s first digital pedal motorbike, designed to thrill. It addresses a significant user expectation gap that exists with current EV technology, which often fails to offer manually controlled power on demand—a feature typical in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This motorcycle pairs advanced propulsion from a foot-operated digital pedal with a powerful 5 kW motor, delivering breakneck acceleration from 0-40 km/h in seconds. With a top speed of 110 km/h, a range of 105 km, and peak torque of 90 Nm, the Hyper One is a revolution. Its hybrid design combines the agility of a bike with the power of a motorcycle, creating an exhilarating experience that redefines e-motorbiking in India.

Leading this new era, the HUM NYC is India’s first multi-utility speed pedelec, tailored for the intense demands of New York City’s last mile delivery riders. Offering a 42 km/h top speed, 200 kg of payload, along with a 130 km riding range on a single charge, and compatible with advanced battery-swapping technologies that operate in NYC, offering BaaS for the end users. This indeed is a significant advancement in last-mile delivery solutions that will soon be seen on the streets of NYC.

Designed to handle multiple utility functions, the M7 is perfect for transporting goods, making it a valuable asset for logistics, while also providing a comfortable and efficient ride for personal commuting. Its sporty design, combined with practicality, makes it equally well-suited for business and family use, offering a flexible, attractive, and reliable transportation option for a variety of needs.

The M7 Rally is a sporty and attractive version of M7, a versatile vehicle that combines reliability, robustness, and safety, bridging the gap between scooters and motorcycles. With an impressive acceleration of 0-40 km/h in just 3 seconds, a top speed of 80 km/h, and a range of over 120 kilometers, it offers an ideal solution for both personal and professional use.

Designed with the utmost consideration for safety and accessibility, these slow-speed e-two-wheelers are ideal for students, homemakers, and senior citizens, ensuring mobility is a convenience that everyone can enjoy. Unique in both form and function, these models offer a 25 km/h top speed and high torque, capable of carrying higher payloads or pillion riders without a power deficiency, even while climbing a flyover.

CLIP: This plug-and-play portable device works magic in the blink of an eye and is an innovation without precedent. With the best design complemented by state-of-the-art technology, CLIP is the world’s smallest and most convenient e-bike conversion kit. It can instantly convert any bike into an e-bike, allowing you to enjoy e-biking without changing the brand of your bike.

Speaking about this, Tushar Choudhary, Founder & CEO of Motovolt, “Our latest EV range isn’t just about new products—it’s a leap toward creating a more inclusive, sustainable urban mobility ecosystem. Every vehicle we design is a step closer to achieving India’s ambitious EV penetration goals while offering unmatched value to our users. We aim to inspire a shift in how cities move, work, and live.

Motovolt’s impact extends beyond product innovation. With over 25,000 vehicles already deployed across India, the company has offset more than 142,000 kg of carbon emissions to date. This new range is set to amplify this positive impact, supporting the government’s ambitious target of achieving 30% EV penetration by 2030.

Pearl Academy Debuts India’s First Meta Campus at Comic Con Bengaluru 2025

Bengaluru(S.N): In a groundbreaking move that is set to revolutionise the landscape of education in India, Pearl Academy, the country’s leading creative education institutions, has launched India’s first Meta Campus at Comic Con Bengaluru 2025. This initiative marks a historic milestone in the institution’s 32-year legacy, pushing the boundaries of education by integrating cutting-edge technology with creativity in a fully immersive virtual environment.

The Pearl 2.0 Meta Campus takes the educational experience to unprecedented heights, offering visitors the chance to explore the institution’s diverse offerings, including programs offered, introduction to the faculty, student project showcase, student engagement events, and much more – all within a futuristic metaverse. It’s not just a campus; it’s an experience, designed to transform how we learn, engage, and interact in the world of education.

In a first-of-its-kind concept, the Meta Campus serves as a digital twin of Pearl Academy’s physical campus, spread across a series of immersive zones. Each zone represents different academic disciplines, complete with interactive touch points such as a virtual counsellor that answers real-time queries, 3D installations, live fashion shows, student work showcases, ‘spin the wheel’ activities, coin smash challenge, photo booth, and more. Visitors at Comic Con had the unique opportunity to experience the Meta Campus firsthand, using VR headsets for an even deeper, more immersive journey into the future of education. They interacted with the Virtual Counsellor and competed for exciting merchandise in the Coin Smash Challenge, an interactive game within the Meta Campus.

Talking about the launch, CB Arun Kumar, Dean, Communication Design, Film and Gaming at Pearl Academy, said “We are absolutely thrilled to launch India’s first Meta Campus at Comic Con Bengaluru 2025. This initiative is a testament to Pearl Academy’s commitment to staying at the forefront of creative education. As the OGs of creative education in India, Pearl Academy has carved a niche by nurturing creativity and equipping students with the skills to thrive in the dynamic worlds of Communication Design, Product Design, Fashion, Interiors and Business Management. Through this immersive virtual experience, we are embracing the future of learning, where technology and creativity converge to provide our students with an exceptional, future-ready educational experience.”

The Pearl 2.0 Meta Campus is the latest in a series of innovations from Pearl Academy, which has consistently set new standards in creative education since its inception in 1993. Going LIVE on on January 18, 2025, the Meta Campus will be accessible to all.

Known for its global exposure, entrepreneurial focus, and technological expertise, the institution has maintained an impressive track record, with over 99% of its graduates securing great placements each year. Students at Pearl Academy campuses at Delhi West, Delhi South, Jaipur, Mumbai and Bengaluru will receive Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees effective 2024 intake from Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development, a Government of India Institution of National Importance (like IIT, IIM, NID, AIIMS).

As technology continues to shape industries and societies, the institution’s Meta Campus is just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey for students preparing to enter the world of tomorrow.

ICICI Lombard’s Q3 FY25 Results – Net Profit jumps 68% to RS. 724 Crores

With effect from October 1, 2024 Long-term Products are accounted on a 1/n basis, as mandated by IRDAI, hence Q3 & 9M FY2025 are not comparable with prior years.

  • Gross Direct Premium Income (GDPI) of the Company was at ₹ 206.23 billion in 9M FY2025 compared to ₹ 187.03 billion in 9M FY2024, a growth of 10.3%, which was higher than the industry growth of 7.8%. Excluding the impact of 1/n, GDPI of the Company grew by 11.9% for 9M FY2025.
    • GDPI of the Company was at ₹ 62.14 billion in Q3 FY2025 as against ₹ 62.30 billion in Q3 FY2024, a de-growth of 0.3%, as against the industry growth of 9.5%. Excluding the impact of 1/n, GDPI of the Company grew by 4.8% for Q3 FY2025.
  • Combined ratio was at 102.9% for 9M FY2025 compared to 103.7% for 9M FY2024.
  • Combined ratio was at 102.7% in Q3 FY2025 as against 103.6% in Q3 FY2024.
  • Profit before tax (PBT) grew at 42.8% to ₹ 26.53 billion in 9M FY2025 as against ₹ 18.57 billion in 9M FY2024.
  • PBT grew at 67.3% to ₹ 9.60 billion in Q3 FY2025 as against ₹ 5.74 billion in Q3 FY2024.
  • Capital gains was at ₹ 7.96 billion in 9M FY2025 as against ₹ 3.95 billion in 9M FY2024. Capital gains was at ₹ 2.76 billion in Q3 FY2025 as against ₹ 1.08 billion in Q3 FY2024.
  • Consequently, Profit after tax (PAT) grew at 42.9% to ₹ 19.99 billion in 9M FY2025 as against ₹ 13.99 billion in 9M FY2024.
    • PAT grew at 67.9% to ₹ 7.24 billion in Q3 FY2025 from ₹ 4.31 billion in Q3 FY2024.
  • Return on Average Equity (ROAE) was at 20.8% in 9M FY2025 compared to 17.1% in 9M FY2024.
  • ROAE was at 21.5% in Q3 FY2025 compared to 15.3% in Q3 FY2024.
  • Solvency ratio was 2.36x as at December 31, 2024 as against 2.65x as at September 30, 2024 and higher than the minimum regulatory requirement of 1.50x. Solvency ratio was 2.62x as at March 31, 2024.

Operating Performance Review:

Financial Indicators Q3 FY2024 Q3 FY2025 Growth

%

9M FY2024 9M

FY2025

Growth

%

FY2024
GDPI 62.30 62.14 -0.3% 187.03 206.23 10.3% 247.76
PBT 5.74 9.60 67.3% 18.57 26.53 42.8% 25.55
PAT 4.31 7.24 67.9% 13.99 19.99 42.9% 19.19

 

Ratios:

Financial Indicators Q3 FY2024 Q3 FY2025 9M FY2024 9M FY2025 FY2024
ROAE – Annualised 15.3% 21.5% 17.1% 20.8% 17.2%
Combined Ratio (CoR)* 103.6% 102.7% 103.7% 102.9% 103.3%