Mumbai, 28 January 2025 – Škoda Auto India’s first-ever sub-4-metre SUV, the Kylaq, has officially arrived on Indian roads, marking a significant milestone for the brand. With its launch, the Kylaq opens new horizons for Škoda in India’s booming SUV market. It is the brand’s first offering in the high-demand sub-4m segment and the first model in India to showcase Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language, emphasising robustness, functionality, and authenticity. Customer deliveries and test drives to begin from today.

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India shares, “The Kylaq has officially arrived and is set to drive Škoda’s growth trajectory in India over the coming years. Its availability from today marks the New Era for Škoda Auto India. It combines safety, exceptional driving dynamics, and segment-leading features. Following the success of the Kushaq and Slavia, the Kylaq continues our India-focused product strategy, helping us tap into new markets and bring even more customers into the Škoda family. With its accessible pricing, we can say the Kylaq truly democratises European technology on Indian roads.”

With the overwhelming response to the Kylaq and its strong appeal in the competitive sub-4m SUV segment, Škoda Auto India is confident of achieving robust sales momentum. The company has outlined its goal of reaching 1 lakh annual sales by 2026, driven by the Kylaq’s segment-leading features, exceptional safety standards, and European technology for Indian roads, which resonate with consumers. This strategic focus aligns with Škoda Auto India’s commitment to expanding its footprint and bringing premium mobility solutions to a broader customer base across the country.

5-star rated at BNCAP

The Škoda Kylaq has set a benchmark in safety, emerging as the best-performing vehicle in the ICE sub-4-metre compact SUV segment. It achieved an impressive 30.88 points out of 32 (97%) in Adult Occupant Protection and 45 points out of 49 (92%) in Child Occupant Protection. For child safety, the Kylaq excelled with a perfect score of 16 points (100%) in the frontal offset barrier test and 8 points (100%) in the side-moving deformable barrier test for 1.5 and 3-year-old children. Additionally, it earned maximum points in the recommended child seat assessment and 9 points out of 13 (69%) in the vehicle-based assessment, highlighting Škoda‘s commitment to safety across all parameters.

Tailored features

The Kylaq introduces several segment-firsts, including six-way electric seats with ventilation for both the driver and front passenger. A dedicated stowing space for the parcel tray further enhances the boot’s usability and versatility. The Kylaq’s boot offers a segment-best 446 litres of capacity, which expands to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded down. features Auto Climatronic, with ventilation for the electrically adjustable front seats. Select variants are also available with an electric sunroof. Also on offer are cruise control, steering-mounted paddle-shifters with the six-speed automatic gearbox, leatherette seats, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and wireless charging among other features. Taking centre stage is a 25.6cms infotainment screen with an even more intuitive user interface, while the driver gets a 20.32cms Virtual Cockpit with a renewed interface.

Modern Solid: A new interpretation of familiar Škoda lines

As the first Škoda model in India to adopt the new Modern Solid design language, the Kylaq’s exterior is defined by a distinctive shape and clean lines. front is characterised by a shiny black grille with 3D ribs, while the hallmark Škoda SUV “four eyes” headlights graphic has been completely reinterpreted. The Kylaq is also the first model in India to feature the all-new Škoda wordmark on the rear. Also new is a bold front lower spoiler in aluminium optics in the front.

Precise Daytime Running Lamp signature

With the Modern Solid era, the headlights feature slim lines and a minimalist, purposeful design. While the narrow upper segments of the headlights serve as daytime running lights, position lights and indicators, the larger lower modules provide the important low-beam and high beam functions with crystalline designed LED elements.

Compact dynamic silhouette

The sides of the Kylaq are adorned with clean and modern lines. It has a robust cladding around the wheel arches and sills that accentuate the high ground clearance and space around the wheel. This lends the Kylaq that SUV character within its compact dimensions. Adding more value to the design of the Kylaq is a hexagon pattern along the side and rear of the car.

Robust proportions, soulful colours

The Škoda Kylaq is 3,995mm long, 1,783mm wide, and 1,619mm, with a wheelbase measuring a generous 2,566mm. Most importantly, the Kylaq stands a comfortable 189mm off the ground. These compact, yet elegant proportions are rounded off at the rear with the all-new Škoda wordmark on a wide black stripe flanked by the rear lights. The rear lamps themselves reveal a distinct T-shaped light signature. This is supported by the distinct rear bumper equipped with a 3D diffusor insert in aluminium optics. The Kylaq is available in seven paint finishes and making its debut in the Kylaq is the Olive Gold colour. This colour is exclusive to the Kylaq and is inspired by the rich greens and versatile fauna of Lonavala during the monsoon season.

Power with performance and safety

The Kylaq accelerates to a 100kph in 10.5 seconds with the manual transmission. The SUV also has a top speed of 188kph. Its 1.0 TSI engine produces 85kW of power and 178Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters in select variants. The car is based on the same MQB-A0-IN platform as the Kushaq and Slavia. These two cars have already scored a full 5-stars in Global NCAP tests for adults and children. The Kylaq comes standard with over 25 active and passive safety features, including standard equipment includes six airbags, traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Disc Wiping, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, Passenger airbag de-activation, Multi Collision Braking, ISOFIX child seats, and more. The manual variant claims a fuel efficiency of 19.68 km/l.

Tested to the moon and back

The Kylaq has undergone more than 800,000 km of testing on diverse Indian terrains – including urban roads, highways, steep inclines, and rough surfaces – exceeding the distance from Earth to the moon and back and amounting to over 20 trips around the Earth’s circumference. This all-new sub-4m segment SUV has been put through temperatures varying from -10 to +85 degree Celsius and across elevation ranging from sea level to 3,000 metres above sea level. To ensure thorough monsoon preparedness and perfect sealing from the elements, 100 random samples of the Kylaq have been exposed to 25-30 litre per minute/sq mt. of water at an angle of up to 16 degrees. This ensures the Kylaq has zero water ingress in extreme monsoons. The Kylaq has also been put through a vehicle shaker test to ensure the interiors remain silent and rattle-free on all road surfaces. The car has also spent two years in open weather to test all the polymeric parts to ensure highest quality standards.

Quality at its roots

Numerous quality measures are integrated into the Kylaq’s manufacturing processes, resulting in class-leading safety and driving dynamics. The roof and other joints are laser-blazed, the geometry setting of the Kylaq is robotised, inline measurements of the chassis are done at two locations and AI cameras at the assembly line inspect for variations and inconsistencies on the engine surface. And the use of hot-stamped steel, with a redone crash management system ensures the best possible safety in the Kylaq.

Comprehensive options

The Škoda Kylaq presents a wide range of choices, including two transmission options, four variants, and seven colours. Powered by the high-performance, efficient and reliable 1.0 TSI engine delivering 85kW of power and 178Nm of torque, it is available with a choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic. Customers can choose from four variants – Classic, Signature, Signature+, and Prestige – and seven striking colour options, including Tornado Red, Brilliant Silver, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Lava Blue, Deep Black and the Kylaq exclusive Olive Gold.

Variants for an enhanced ownership experience

The entry-level Classic variant comes equipped with six airbags and over 25 active and passive safety features as standard, including ESC, LED lighting, rear parking sensors, and automatic speed-sensitive central locking. The Signature variant goes up a notch and includes a tyre pressure monitoring system, Cruise Control, a 17.7cms infotainment system, and adjustable rear AC vents. Signature+ adds Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, a larger 25.6cms infotainment system, and a virtual cockpit. The top-of-the-line Prestige is packed with features like an electric sunroof, ventilated seats, paddle shifters, and segment-first six-way electrically adjustable seats.

Segment-best ownership

The Kylaq offers a 3-year/100,000kms whichever earlier, standard warranty. Along with this, it also offers six-year anti-corrosion warranty as standard across the range. This SUV, like the Kushaq and Slavia, is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. It was developed jointly by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an eye on low maintenance costs, while retaining Škoda’s traditional qualities of dynamics and safety.

Sustainably manufactured

The Kylaq is produced at the Chakan plant, where 30% (18.5 MW) of the power is generated from solar energy – a figure Škoda aims to increase to 75% by 2026. This water-positive facility returns more water to the environment than it consumes. With over 660,000 trees planted, the plant has earned Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge Certifications. The Kylaq itself uses a sustainable bamboo-fibre infused pad with a textile finish creating a speckle effect in the dashboard area.

Pune, Maharashtra, India — January 28, 2025: FLAME University, a pioneer in interdisciplinary education, recently hosted B.S. Nagesh, Non-Executive Chairman, Shoppers Stop Ltd. & Founder, Trust for Retailers and Retail Associates of India (TRRAIN), a trailblazing figure in the Indian retail industry, as part of its Industry Connect Initiative led by Dr. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor, FLAME University. As a university that fosters holistic learning by connecting academic pursuits with real-world industry insights, the Industry Connect Initiative at FLAME University serves as a consolidated platform for students to engage with thought leaders and industry stalwarts, providing them with invaluable exposure to diverse sectors and contemporary business practices.

In this Industry Connect Initiative session, B.S. Nagesh shared his profound thoughts on customer centricity through an engaging session that emphasized the importance of placing customers at the core of business strategies. He also highlighted the key takeaways from his recently launched book, SERVE, which encapsulates his philosophy of service excellence and offers valuable lessons for businesses and individuals alike.

Beyond his corporate achievements, B.S. Nagesh is celebrated for his impactful social initiatives. He received the Helen Keller Award for his exemplary efforts in creating livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities and has been recognized as an Ashoka Fellow for his commitment to social entrepreneurship. As the first employee and Non-Executive Chairman of Shoppers Stop Ltd., he has been the guiding force to expand the operations of the retail giant since the inception of its first store in 1991. The session proved to be an enlightening experience for students, offering them knowledge of industry trends, challenges, and innovative retail strategies. It not only broadened their understanding of the dynamic retail landscape but also inspired them to think creatively and adapt to evolving market demands.

Speaking about the session, Dr. Dishan Kamdar, Vice Chancellor, FLAME University, shared, “FLAME University remains focused on creating opportunities for our students to engage closely with the industry in various ways, such as interacting with business leaders, internships, organizing conferences, study treks to companies, and more. These activities allow them to get an understanding of the real world as we prepare them to become future-ready. It was an honor to host B.S. Nagesh, the retail luminary and founder of TRRAIN, which empowers the differently-abled and low-income women in the retail sector. His talk was a tale of success and innovation peppered with real-world examples and personal anecdotes, which illustrated how customer-centric practices drive long-term success. His insights resonated with the students of FLAME, encouraging them to prioritize empathy, innovation, and service excellence in their future careers.”

Sharing his thoughts, B.S. Nagesh, Non-Executive Chairman, Shoppers Stop Ltd. & Founder, TRRAIN, said, “Interacting with the students at FLAME University was a great opportunity for me to learn how the young mind thinks. My interaction with the faculty was not just academic in nature, but the discussions were a mix of real-world issues and the rigor of learning through the classroom and cases. I was mesmerized with the campus and the facilities it offers. It also gave me great pleasure to see some of the Shoppers Stop alumni teaching at FLAME. I would love to go back to FLAME as and when the team requires me to be part of their projects.”

The Industry Connect Initiative was a grand success. In the past, FLAME University also hosted other prominent industry leaders such as Don Norman, who is also known as the Father of User Experience. These important industry collaborations underline FLAME University’s dynamic approach to a well-rounded education that is offering students opportunities to engage with diverse industries, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and enhancing their understanding of real-world applications across multiple fields.

28th January 2025, Chennai, India- Garuda Aerospace, a leading drone technology company in India, is deploying free drone surveillance for the next three months along Chennai’s coastline to protect endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. This initiative comes in response to recent reports of over 300 mass turtle deaths in the last three weeks and aims to support conservation efforts by combating illegal fishing practices. Garuda Aerospace is partnering with the Tree Foundation and the Departments of Forest and Fisheries for this operation.

Garuda Aerospace’s advanced drone technology offers a crucial solution. These drones provide efficient, non-invasive aerial surveys, identifying nesting sites, tracking hatchling progress, and monitoring coastal areas for illegal fishing activity. Equipped with speakers, the drones can issue warnings to fishermen violating Marine Fishing Regulations within five nautical miles of the coast, as stipulated by Section 5 of the Tamil Nadu Marine Regulation Act, 1983.

Olive Ridley turtles face numerous threats, including entanglement in fishing gear, habitat loss, predation, and human interference. Recent incidents have highlighted the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and enforcement of existing regulations. The nesting season, typically from January to April, is a particularly vulnerable period. Garuda Aerospace’s free drone surveillance, covering 5 to 10 km of the ocean, will provide critical support during this time, helping to protect nesting females and ensure the safe passage of hatchlings to the ocean.

“We are deeply concerned by the recent mass deaths of Olive Ridley turtles,” said Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace. “The plight of the Olive Ridley turtles demands immediate action and long-term solutions. By deploying our drones free of charge for the next three months, we’re directly intervening to protect nesting sites, deter illegal fishing, and give these hatchlings a chance at survival. We believe this initiative will not only help these endangered creatures but also drive future innovation and growth for Garuda in the vital field of environmental protection.”

Dr. Supraja Dharini of The Tree Foundation, a leading expert in Olive Ridley turtle conservation, added, “The Olive Ridley turtle population is facing a critical threat. The combination of habitat destruction and accidental entanglement in fishing nets has led to a drastic decline in their numbers. This initiative by Garuda Aerospace to provide drone surveillance is a welcome and essential step in protecting these magnificent creatures. Real-time monitoring and rapid response to illegal fishing activities are vital for the success of conservation efforts.”

With over 3,000 drones sold and serving clients like DRDO and the NDRF, Garuda Aerospace has a pan-India presence and the largest drone fleet in India. The Company has versatile drones equipped with various payloads, including cameras and loudspeakers, to tailor solutions for specific needs. As the only NDRF-empaneled drone company for disaster response, and holding dual DGCA certification, Garuda Aerospace is uniquely positioned to support this vital conservation effort. Garuda Aerospace has the technology that is ideally suited to protect Olive Ridley turtles by monitoring coastal areas and deterring illegal fishing. The next three months are the crucial breeding period when turtles migrate from the Gulf of Munnar to the Northern Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh coast to nest.

Chennai, January 28, 2025: EDT Offshore, a leading provider of integrated marine and subsea services, and Synergy Marine Group, a global ship management company, have launched EDT Synergy Shipmanagement Ltd, a joint venture designed to deliver tailored ship management solutions to the offshore industry.

Registered in Cyprus, this new entity combines EDT Offshore’s extensive expertise in offshore operations with Synergy Marine Group’s reputation for quality-driven technical management and innovative maritime solutions. Together, the joint venture aims to address the unique challenges of offshore operations while aligning with global priorities in decarbonisation and digitalisation.

Synergy Marine Group is the world’s second-largest ship manager and the largest third-party manager of Indian-flagged vessels. Founded in 2006 by Captain Rajesh Unni, the company employs over 28,000 seafarers worldwide, 90% of whom are from India. The Group plans to increase this number by 5,000 by 2026 and to have at least 1,000 female seafarers by 2030.

Ajay Chaudhry, Co-CEO Ship Management at Synergy Marine Group, suggests that the launch of EDT Synergy Shipmanagement Ltd will help empower Indian seafarers and strengthen India’s position as a key player in the global maritime industry.

He said, “As India positions itself as a $5 trillion economy, its workforce will play a pivotal role in adapting to the demands of automation, artificial intelligence, and emerging industries. Synergy Marine Group remains committed to fostering innovation, empowering our Indian seafarers, and championing sustainability and diversity across the global maritime ecosystem. This partnership with EDT highlights our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions and strengthening India’s position as a key player in the global maritime industry.”

With an extensive presence in India, including offices in eight cities employing more than 2,000 shore-based personnel, Synergy complements its global operations across 15 maritime hubs, delivering unmatched depth and breadth of service to ship owners.

Speaking about the new venture, Giles Heimann, Director-Shipmanagement & Operations, EDT Offshore said, “This joint venture represents a strategic evolution of our shared vision for operational excellence.” He added, “By combining our expertise, EDT Synergy Shipmanagement Ltd is well positioned to meet the demands of the offshore sector and deliver innovative solutions to our clients.”

Ajay Chaudhry further said “This partnership highlights our commitment to fostering innovation and delivering customised solutions for the offshore industry. Through this collaboration, we aim to elevate operational efficiency and tackle critical challenges like decarbonisation and digitalisation.”

EDT Synergy Shipmanagement Ltd will address key challenges in offshore vessel management, including the high energy demands of dynamic positioning, limited access to alternative fuels and the growing need for sustainable retrofitting. Leveraging advanced technologies and best practices, the joint venture aims to provide customised management solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of the offshore sector.

This collaboration also aligns with the increasing growth in subsea and renewable energy projects, as well as offshore terminal operations—areas where EDT Offshore has long-standing expertise. The joint venture will support the maintenance and upgrading of offshore facilities and the expansion of exploration and production activities worldwide.

New Delhi, January 28, 2025: The launch ceremony of Padmashree Dr. Deepa Malik’s autobiographical book “Bring It On” was organized by Presidential Awards, Banyan Tribe, Blanky, and Straight Angle at Hotel Umrao, Delhi. Deepa Malik launched her book “Bring It On” at the book launch ceremony. After the book launch, Deepa Malik announced that much waited Presidential Awards will be held on 18th June 2025. . On this occasion, many dignitaries including the organizer of Presidential Awards Akhil Ghai, Abhishek Anand, Anu Agarwal, Saurabh Sharma, Sumit Gautam were present.

Deepa Malik said on this occasion that “Bring It On” not only a book, it is an adventurous journey of my life. It is a campaign to give new hope to people’s lives. It is the spirit of never giving up and making difficulties easier with your courage. Dr. Deepa Malik is a Padma Shri Khel Ratna Arjuna Award winner and is also the first Indian female Paralympic medalist.

Braving chest below paralysis for the last 25 years, Dr. Deepa Malik is India’s first Woman Paralympic Medalist and winner of 5 President of India awards, 4 Limca world records, 3 International Awards, 68 national & state medals, 23 international medals. Beyond sports, Deepa Malik is also India’s first paraplegic woman biker, swimmer & rallyist; a policy maker & social activist championing inclusion of persons with disabilities. Belonging to the defence family, Deepa Malik is an Army wife, daughter & daughter in law. In 2024, Dr. Deepa Malik has been appointed the South Asian Sub-Region Representative of the Asian Paralympic Committee. In her autobiography published with Harper Collins, Deepa Malik recounts her journey of saying ‘Bring It On’ to every challenge life has thrown her way

Mohali, January 28, 2025 – CP67 Mall in Mohali marked Republic Day with a spectacular Grand Republic Day Weekend from January 24-26. The highlight of the event was Punjab’s first-ever grand Republic Day parade, which captivated and united the community with its vibrant display of cultural richness and diversity.

The grand Republic Day parade, held on January 26 showcased the traditions of 12 states, vividly portraying unity in diversity. Over 400 participants, including students and cultural groups in traditional attire, performed lively dances, music, and customs unique to their states. The parade featured spectacular performances from states such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Sikkim, Maharashtra, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, each presenting a one-minute cultural performance that celebrated India’s rich heritage.

CP67 Mall was adorned with stunning Republic Day décor, including tricolor banners and beautifully designed photo booths, creating a perfect patriotic atmosphere. Visitors had the opportunity to capture memorable moments and showcase their pride on social media.

In addition to the parade, the mall hosted a Nail & Thread Art Workshop from January 24-26. Led by a renowned artist, participants created an 18’ x 6’ Indian flag using nail-and-thread art, weaving threads of orange, white, and green to bring the tricolor to life in a creative and patriotic way.

The festivities culminated in a Flag Hoisting Ceremony on January 26 where attendees were invited to “raise the flag and raise the pride.” CP67 Mall’s Republic Day celebrations were full of culture, creativity, and patriotism, making it an event to remember.

Bengaluru, 28th January 2025: Narayana One Health and Narayana Health Insurance today introduced Arya Health Plans, a revolutionary healthcare plan designed to address the limitations of traditional health insurance. Arya combines hospitalization coverage of up to ₹1 crore with unparalleled outpatient benefits and partners with customers in their health journey by offering dedicated family physicians and care managers to help them get well and stay healthy.

“Arya Health Plans are simple, integrated, friendly, and personalised . Our Care Managers and world-class physicians will partner with you to help you get well and stay healthy. Arya offers comprehensive hospitalisation coverage, amazing out-patient care and value, efficient service, and the trust of Narayana Health”, said Ravi Vishwanath, Board Member and Director, Narayana Health Insurance.

Traditional insurance plans often burden consumers with high premiums, hidden clauses, and long waiting periods. Arya Health Plans address these challenges, offering coverage options ranging from ₹25 lakh to ₹1 crore, with flexible top-up options starting as low as ₹25,000. The plans also include consultations with general practitioners, paediatricians, and OBGYNs, along with substantial savings on diagnostics, specialist consultations and medications. Added conveniences include home sample collection, free medicine delivery and access to CAP-certified labs. Arya offers day one benefits to eligible applicants, which provide immediate coverage upon policy activation. With the One Health Promise, which refunds the annual premium if the insured undergoes surgery of any kind within the policy year, Arya takes an industry-first initiative in India. Each customer will have a dedicated Care Manager and a Family Physician to help them in their journey to good health.

“With Arya Health Plans, we are extending Narayana Health’s commitment to accessible and quality healthcare into the realm of insurance. These plans are designed to complement our robust healthcare network, ensuring every member experiences world-class care tailored to their needs. Arya embodies our vision of making healthcare not only affordable but also personalised and hassle-free,” said Viren Shetty, Vice Chairman, Narayana Health.