News nuggets from around town
Gurugram, The BMW 620d M Sport Signature has made its debut in India, offering an exclusive blend of luxury and performance. Priced attractively at ₹78, 90, 000, this diesel variant of the M Sport Signature series is locally produced at the BMW Group Plant Chennai. With features like BMW Display key, crystal door, comfort seats in leather, comfort access system and 19” Bicolour Alloys, remote control parking it promises an elevated driving experience. The Rear-seat Entertainment Professional comprises two 10.25” touchscreen monitors with fullHD technology, a Blu-ray player, screen mirroring function and two USB ports.
Equipped with a two-litre fourcylinder diesel engine generating 140KW/190hp and 400 Nm of torque, the BMW 620d accelerates from 0-100km/hr in just 7.9 seconds. Its eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, while the Adaptive two-axle air suspension offers exceptional ride comfort and handling. The BMW 620d M Sport Signature comes in four shiny paint colours and has seats made of high-quality Dakota Cognac leather. It comes with helpful parking features like the Rear View Camera, the car has six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), dynamic stability control (DSC). It offers an amazing driving experience.
In addition, the brand has also launched the all-electric BMW iX xDrive50, offering an impressive range of up to 635 kms (WLTP) and priced at ₹1,39,50,000 (ex-showroom).
ALL THAT GLITTERS…
Mumbai, the 5th edition of the India Gems and Jewellery Show (GJS April 2024) is set to take place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai organized by the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC). Saiyam Mehra, Chairman, GJC, and Convenor, GJS said, “GJS April 2024 show will be the ultimate sourcing platform for new designs and fashion trends providing a platform for jewellery manufacturers, traders, wholesalers, and retailers to connect and exhibit their latest designs and fashion trends and a must-attend for every jeweller, small-to-big to enrich their jewellery collection in their showroom.” The show will cater to 350+ exhibitors, across 600+ booths, 12,000 visitors, and 2,000+room – nights for the hosted buyers.
KVIC’S VISION
New Delhi, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has taken significant steps towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat.’ They distributed 100 bee boxes, electric potter’s wheels to 40 artisans, and automatic agarbatti machines to 20 beneficiaries. Manoj Kumar, Chairman, KVIC, highlighted the success of KVIC schemes in driving economic growth and sustainable development in Delhi. He emphasized PM Modi’s initiatives like ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Make in India,’ which have popularized Khadi, leading to a fourfold surge in sales. The distribution program was attended by representatives from Khadi institutions, associations, artisans, and officials from banks and the Delhi government, highlighting the commitment to empowering rural artisans and fostering sustainable development.
HEALTHY UNDERSTANDING
New Delhi, Merck India has partnered with the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) to enhance cancer care access through its Umeed program. This collaboration aims to improve access to cancer care for patients affected by head and neck, and colorectal cancer. Merck, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices. Together with Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Merck will prioritize raising awareness and educating communities in identified Delhi districts about the signs, symptoms, timely diagnosis and management of head and neck and colorectal cancer alongside providing subsidized diagnostic assistance through various supporting programs.
POWERED BY ENVY
Bengaluru, HP has launched new Envy x360 14 laptops in India, specially designed for artists and creators. These laptops have features like a Microsoft CoPilot button for smart AI tools that help with searching and creating content. They start at ₹99,999 and come in two stylish colours. These laptops are super light, with a 14inch touch screen and powerful Intel Core Ultra processors, perfect for using apps like Adobe Photoshop.
They also have a special Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that helps save battery life by 65%, so you can keep being creative without worrying about running out of power. Plus, they are environmentally friendly, made from up to 55% recycled metal. With more than 14 hours of battery life and fast Wi-Fi, HP’s Envy x360 14 laptops are a great choice.
BAZAAR BUZZ
Bengaluru, Amazon’s latest initiative, “Bazaar,” aims to make online shopping more accessible to budget-conscious consumers by offering a wide range of products priced below ₹600. From trendy t-shirts at just ₹129 to stylish watches under ₹200, Bazaar promises to deliver affordability without compromising on quality. To take advantage of these irresistible deals, you can simply visit the dedicated Bazaar section on Amazon’s website or mobile app. Here, you will find a curated selection of products across various categories, including fashion, accessories, home essentials, and more, all priced competitively to fit within the budget-friendly range.
INDIA’ S SINGAPORE SPOTLIGHT
New Delhi, India is set to highlight its pioneering role in the Clean Economy sector at the upcoming Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) meeting in Singapore on June. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced plans to exhibit large-scale infrastructure projects and top climate tech companies, inviting global investors to explore investment opportunities. The IPEF, consisting of 14 partner nations, focuses on fostering sustainable economic growth. Under the IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum, India invites tech companies and startups to present sustainable infrastructure projects like electric vehicles and solar initiatives. The forum aims to mobilize investments in sustainable infrastructure, climate technology, and renewable energy projects, aligning with the region’s goals for cooperation and prosperity.
ENERGIZED EV PARTNERSHIP
New Delhi, Adani Total Energies E-Mobility Limited (ATEL) and MG Motor India have inked a partnership to strengthen India’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Under this agreement, 60 kW DC EV charging stations will be deployed at select MG dealerships nationwide, enhancing accessibility for EV customers. Suresh P. Mangalani, CEO, ATEL, emphasized the milestone’s significance in accelerating India’s energy transition and reducing carbon emissions. ATEL plans to install CC2 60 kW DC chargers at upcoming MG dealerships, strengthening the charging network. A digital platform will be launched to streamline user experience, facilitating charging and billing through a dedicated mobile app. With ATEL currently operating over 300 charge points and plans for expansion, this partnership signifies a concerted effort to promote electric mobility in India, offering convenience and sustainability to customers nationwide.
GE AEROSPACE’S PUNE INVESTMENT
New Delhi, GE Aerospace invests over ₹ 240 crore in its manufacturing facility located in Pune in the year 2024. The city known for its strategic location and robust industrial infrastructure, serves as an ideal hub for such advancements. The investment signals GE Aerospace’s confidence in the Indian market and its long-term vision for growth and innovation. Moreover, this move is poised to create employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. This expansion highlights GE Aerospace’s commitment to strengthening its operations and capabilities in India.
ZOMATO STEPS UP!
Gurugram, Zomato’s CEO, Deepinder Goyal, made a big announcement recently. Now, over 20,000 Zomato delivery partners in 31 cities can give medical help during emergencies on the road. Goyal said that more than one lakh delivery partners were happy to get trained to help without getting paid for it. This program is called ‘Emergency Heroes’. It’s the first time in India that delivery partners are trained to help in emergencies. Zomato’s profits have also gone up. They made ₹ 125 crore profit in the third quarter of the financial year 2024. That is ₹ 390 crore more than last year’s third quarter. Plus, their overall earnings went up by 53% from last year, reaching ₹ 3,609 crore in the third quarter.
MERCK’S NEW APPOINTMENT
India, Merck India appoints Dhananjay Singh as the Managing Director of Merck Life Science, alongside his current role as Head of Science & Lab Solutions expert with 26 years with Merck, Dhananjay Singh has been instrumental in shaping the Science and Lab Solutions commercial business in India. His focus includes driving life science strategy, governance, and compliance. Singh
expresses commitment to supporting initiatives like “Make in India” for growth and innovation. Founded in 1668, Merck focuses on exploring science and running businesses responsibly, aiming to make a positive difference everywhere. Merck, a global science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare, and electronics, with €21 billion in sales in 2023.
STYLISH COLLABORATION
New Delhi, TECNO, a global smartphone brand, has teamed up with Tech Burner’s Layers to introduce stylish mobile skins exclusively for the new POVA 6 Pro 5G smartphone. With over 60 designs available, users can choose from bold patterns to minimalist options, perfectly complementing the device’s sleek design. Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO Mobile India, highlights the collaboration’s commitment to delivering trend-setting design elements for young consumers. Tech Burner’s Layers, founded by YouTuber Shlok Srivastava (Tech burner) and entrepreneur Neel Gogia, specializes in creating unique and high-quality mobile accessories that let you show off your personality. Launched on March 29th, the POVA 6 Pro features specifications including India’s first 6000mAh battery with 70W charging capabilities and over 200 back LEDs, enhancing both functionality and design.
STARRY STARRY NIGHT
Bangaluru, Miss World and actor Manushi Chillar becomes the brand ambassador of GJEPC. The actor dazzled at “Jewels on the Ramp” event during IIJS Tritiya event, adorning an exquisite jewellery piece in a white gown, along with several fashion models. From traditional Indian artistry to contemporary brilliance, the stage was ablaze with the beauty and grandeur of Indian gems. The event featured industry leaders and highlighted a mix of traditional Indian styles and modern trends. IIJS Tritiya, attended by over 15,000 visitors from India and 60 countries. At IIJS Tritya, India’s apex trade body, The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) unveiled “Brilliant Bharat” theme for the next six India International Jewellery Shows (IIJS).
