Bajaj Markets simplifies access to personal loans from multiple financial partners, and facilitates the funding for diverse needs, including travel, wedding expenditures, and medical emergencies. Users can easily compare vital loan specifics like interest rates, available loan amounts, and repayment tenures, and select those that align with their specific requirements and preferences.

Get Personal Loans through Bajaj Markets

Loans available through Bajaj Markets can extend to amounts of up to ₹55 Lakhs, provided without the requirement of collateral submission. The instant personal loan options presented on the platform are characterised by several features:

• Tenure: Flexible repayment options ranging from 12 to 96 months

• Interest Rates: Starting from as low as 9.99% p.a.*

• Processing: Completely digital, with quick approval and disbursal

The entire process, from initial application to final disbursal, is conducted digitally. This digital approach, combined with minimal documentation requirements, aims to create a seamless experience for borrowers.

In addition to personal loans, Bajaj Markets provides access to a wide range of financial products such as credit cards, investment plans, insurance solutions, and CIBIL score checks. Explore these products on the Bajaj Markets website or app today.

About Bajaj Finserv Direct
Bajaj Finserv Direct, a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv, is one of the fastest growing fintech companies in India. It has two primary arms, Bajaj Markets, a financial marketplace, and Bajaj Technology Services, a tech solutions provider.

Bajaj Markets is a marketplace that offers multiple financial products across all categories such as Loans, Cards, Investments, Insurance, Pocket Insurance, Stock Market, electronics via ONDC and Value-Added Services (VAS). Bajaj Markets has partnered with trusted financial brands to offer “India ka Financial Supermarket”. A one-stop destination where its customers can explore a host of products that can help them achieve their financial life goals.

Having started its journey as a fintech, Bajaj Finserv Direct has also built a very strong technology services business – Bajaj Technology Services, through which it offers a wide gamut of digital technology solutions spanning Experience, Commerce, Engineering, CRM, Data & AI, Cloud, Digital Agency, and Emerging Tech practices.

Visit the Bajaj Markets website or download the Bajaj Markets’ app from the Play Store or App Store to experience “India ka Financial Supermarket”.

To know more about Bajaj Technology Services, visit www.bajajtechnologyservices.com

Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, today launched the Blood Disorder Clinic in Navi Mumbai-a pioneering center dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of blood-related conditions. The unit, helmed by Dr Subhaprakash Sanyal, Director-Fortis Institute of Blood Disorders, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai, was inaugurated by Dr S Narayani, Business Head-Maharashtra, Fortis Hospitals and Mr Nitin Kamaria, Facility Director, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi.

(L-R) Mr Nitin Kamaria, Dr Subhaprakash Sanyal, Dir. Institute of Blood Disorders, and Dr S. Narayani at the inauguration of Blood Disorder Clinic

The Blood Disorder Clinic, a subset of Fortis Institute of Blood Disorders, will offer specialized care for life-threatening blood cancers such as Multiple Myeloma, Leukemia, and other serious hematologic conditions, as well as non-cancerous blood disorders like Anemia and Hematomas. Additionally, the clinic will provide cutting-edge CAR T-cell Therapy, a ground-breaking treatment offering new hope for patients with certain types of Blood Cancers. It aims to provide comprehensive, patient-centered services for individuals in need of expert care. Dr Subhaprakash Sanyal, Director-Fortis Institute of Blood Disorders, will be work closely with Dr Hamza Dalal, Consultant-Haematology and a team of specialists, to lead the Blood Disorder Clinic, providing dedicated care and support for patients and their caregivers.

“This Blood Disorder Clinic reflects our commitment to providing specialized care for those with blood-related conditions. We understand the challenges these patients face, and our goal is to provide them with the most advanced treatments, ongoing support, and a compassionate environment that promotes healing and holistic well-being. A first-of-its-kind program in Navi Mumbai is designed to be a safe space for patients to heal,” said Dr S. Narayani, Business Head-Maharashtra, Fortis Hospitals.

“This clinic represents a rare and invaluable resource in an area of treatment that is often overlooked and under-practiced. For those battling complex blood disorders and life-threatening conditions like Leukemia or Multiple Myeloma, having access to specialized care is not just a necessity-its a lifeline. The Blood Disorder Clinic will offer expert treatment in a field that requires precision, dedication, and a deep understanding of these rare and challenging conditions,” said Dr Subhaprakash Sanyal, Director-Fortis Institute of Blood Disorders, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai.

With the launch of the Blood Disorder Clinic, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi is redefining specialized care for blood-related conditions in Navi Mumbai. More than just a medical facility, the clinic is a lifeline for patients and their families-providing expert guidance, innovative therapies, and unwavering support every step of the way. As it embarks on this journey, the clinic is committed to setting new standards in blood disorder care, ensuring that every patient receives not just world-class treatment, but also the compassion and dignity they deserve.

About Fortis Healthcare Limited

Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities, ~4,750 operational beds (including O&M facilities), and over 400 diagnostics centers (including JVs). The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with a global major and parent company – IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs over 23,000 people (including Agilus Diagnostics Limited) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.

ACE, a leading name in NCR’s real estate landscape with a distinguished legacy of over 14 years, has launched an exclusive premium residential project Ace Verde along the rapidly developing Yamuna Expressway corridor. This new enclave will feature meticulously designed homes of 3 and 3.5 BHK configuration tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern urban families.

Ace Verde Artists Impression picture

Ace Verde is a part of a 100-acre integrated development by Ace, located at Yamuna Expressway. The master plan features residential plots under Ace Acreville, along with an upcoming commercial hub. It also encompasses educational institutions, petrol pumps, and other essential infrastructure to support a self-sustained community. The project is envisioned as a seamless blend of contemporary design, smart infrastructure, and lush green surroundings-offering residents a neo classical architecture with melange of greens and open sky lines for a modern lifestyle with natural tranquillity. With a meticulously planned plotted community as its backdrop, the project ensures every home enjoys uninterrupted, picturesque views-offering a rare blend of openness, privacy, and scenic tranquillity. Adding to its premium offerings, the project includes two exclusive clubhouses for leisure and recreation. From fitness to recreation, the project is equipped with top-tier amenities including a gym, Pilates zone, swimming pool, cricket pitch, and a multipurpose court-ensuring something for every lifestyle.

Speaking on the subject, Mr. Ajay Chaudhary, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of ACE, said, “Ace Verde on the Yamuna Expressway reflects our ongoing commitment to building sustainable, well-connected communities. We aim to create living spaces that go beyond meeting the needs of today’s homebuyers-spaces that inspire elevated lifestyles through green design and smart urban planning.”

The Yamuna Expressway continues to emerge as one of NCR’s most dynamic real estate growth corridors, bolstered by ambitious infrastructure developments including the upcoming Noida International Airport, proposed high-speed rail to Chandigarh, and enhanced civic and transport networks.

Having already established a significant footprint along the Expressway through its residential townships and commercial ventures, Ace now reaffirms its dedication to transforming the region into a thriving hub for both end-users and investors with the launch of Verde.

With over 16.5 million sq. ft. of successfully delivered projects and approximately 30million sq. ft. currently under development, ACE continues to earn the trust of discerning buyers by consistently delivering excellence in design, innovation, and timely execution.

Website: acegroupindia.com.

In a heartfelt celebration of World Caring Day, Asian Paints and the St+art India Foundation launches Project Udaan at Arpan Charitable Trust in Vadodara-an institution that supports and educates children with special needs. As the latest chapter under their St+art Care initiative, the project reimagines the school environment for neurodivergent children with conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome, through thoughtful use of colour, texture, and material. With interactive, sensory-friendly zones, Project Udaan creates a space that feels safe, engaging, and joyful, honouring the different ways children see, feel, and connect with the world around them.

Asian Paints St+art India – Project Udaan, Arpan Charitable Trust interiors

Born out of a shared vision between Asian Paints and the St+art India Foundation, St+art Care is a long-term initiative dedicated to making public institutions more inclusive, welcoming, and emotionally responsive through the power of art and design. Project Udaan is the third intervention under this initiative, following a vibrant transformation of a children’s hospital in Noida and Project Sparsh at a school for the visually impaired in Rajasthan. Each project reflects a deeper purpose-not just to beautify spaces, but to create impact, spark connection, and start conversations around care, inclusion and empathy.

Project Udaan draws inspiration from the butterfly, a symbol of transformation, while also echoing this year’s World Caring Day theme, ‘Celebrating Every Journey.’ At Arpan, the school’s play area has been reimagined to bring this vision to life. With Asian Paints’ carefully curated textures, colours, and interactive surfaces, a once ordinary space has been transformed into a vibrant environment that both soothes and engages the senses. A soaring butterfly mural on the school’s faade now stands as a symbol of hope and possibility, a gentle reminder of the beauty of growth and the limitless potential within every neurodiverse child.

Developed through a co-creation process with students, artists, and designers, Project Udaan was led by artists Amrit Khurana and Anikesa Dhing. Drawing from her lived experience with autism, Khurana designed tactile, predictable elements that promote comfort and expression. Dhing complemented this with textured contrasts to encourage calm interaction. A hands-on workshop at Arpan, facilitated by Siddhanth Shah of Access For ALL, gave children the chance to explore textures, tools and colours, ensuring their voices directly shaped the final design.

Asian Paints’ expertise in material and colour innovation brought the vision to life with Royale Play textures, matte pastel emulsions, and tactile Nilaya fabrics and wallpapers. These elements create an engaging, multi-sensory environment that stimulates exploration while offering grounding. The matte finishes reduce glare for visual ease, while sensory rugs, pompom-textured surfaces, and cocoon-like structures cater to diverse sensory needs.

Speaking about the initiative, Amit Syngle, MD & CEO, Asian Paints said, “At Asian Paints, we believe spaces should do more than exist-they should evolve with their users. Project Udaan under St+art Care reimagines how thoughtful design can create an inclusive environment, where walls invite interaction, and colour provides clarity and comfort. By integrating textures that respond to touch and materials that support sensory needs, we’ve built a space that adapts to children, rather than the other way around. While we continuously reinvent ourselves to create beautiful homes for our consumers, we extend the same passion and empathy to create beautiful and safe spaces for all, with our partners at St+art India.“

Arjun Bahl, Co-founder, St+art India Foundation, added, “With St+art Care, we extend our vision of making spaces more open, accessible and engaging. Project Udaan transforms art from a decorative element to an interactive experience, creating familiarity and comfort for neurodivergent children. This initiative is about rethinking how creative interventions can transform everyday spaces into something more intuitive and inclusive. At its heart, Udaan embodies ArtForAll, where design is a language that speaks to everyone, regardless of how they see or experience the world.”

Project Udaan – A space for neurodivergent individuals by Asian Paints and St+art India

Witness the unique Project Udaan by Asian Paints and St+art India in this YouTube video: youtu.be/vRHU2Ci_65o

About Asian Paints Limited

Since its founding in 1942, Asian Paints has become India’s leading and Asia’s second-largest paint company, with a consolidated turnover of Rs. 33,797 crores (Rs. 338 billion). It continues to uplift spaces, transcend the boundaries of colour and design, creating a positive impact on the lives of customers. The organization operates in 14 countries and has 26 paint manufacturing facilities globally, servicing consumers in over 60 countries. Asian Paints has always been a leader in the paint industry, innovating and introducing new concepts in India like Colour Ideas, Beautiful Homes Painting Service, Colour Next, and Asian Paints Beautiful Homes Stores.

Asian Paints manufactures a wide range of paints and coatings for Decorative and Industrial use and also offers specialized painting and interior decor solutions. The decorative business portfolio also includes the SmartCare range for waterproofing, WoodTech products for wood finishes, and the Adhesives range for all surfaces. Asian Paints also offers a wide range of Home Dcor products and is one of the leading players in the integrated decor space in India, offering Modular Kitchens and wardrobes, Bath Fittings and Sanitaryware, Decorative Lightings, uPVC windows and doors, Wall coverings, Furnitures, Furnishings, Rugs, etc.

About St+art India

Since 2014, St+art India Foundation has been working across the country to reimagine public spaces through art, making creativity more accessible and inclusive. In a country where art is often confined to galleries and a select audience, St+art fosters new ways of experiencing art-bringing it into the everyday lives of people and bridging socio-cultural divides.

Through art districts, festivals, and public interventions, St+art has transformed urban landscapes across 25+ cities, creating meaningful engagements between communities, artists, institutions, and local governments. Over the last decade, the foundation has facilitated 500+ artist collaborations, producing over 600 murals and installations in India’s major cities. These projects have not only revitalized cityscapes but have also provided platforms for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collective expression.

With seven art districts and 25+ festivals to its name, St+art continues to champion the idea of ArtForAll, ensuring that art is not just seen but experienced, interacted with, and shared.

Applying for a gold loan in India has become one of the fastest and most convenient ways to access funds. Many people turn to gold loans for quick financial support without having to sell their precious gold jewellery. Bajaj Finance offers a reliable and secure option through its trusted service – Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan. The process is simple, documents are minimal, and the interest rates are competitive.

Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan

Before applying, it is important to understand how gold loans work, what documents are required for gold loan, and how Bajaj Finance makes the process quick and transparent for customers.

Understanding how gold loans work

A gold loan in India is a type of secured loan where gold jewellery is pledged as collateral. Bajaj Finance offers a loan amount, starting from Rs.5,000 to Rs.2 crore, based on the purity and weight of the gold pledged. The purity of the gold, the set LTV ratio and the prevailing gold price determines how much one can borrow.

Once the gold is deposited at the branch and its purity is tested, the gold loan in India is approved quickly, and funds are disbursed often on the same day, directly to the borrower’s bank account. The gold remains safe with a complementary insurance of gold that keeps the jewellery covered against theft and misplacement. Bajaj Finance stores it in a secure vault until the loan is fully repaid.

Who can apply for a gold loan

Applying for a gold loan in India with Bajaj Finance is easy and inclusive. Here are the eligibility conditions

• The applicant should be an Indian citizen

• The age of the applicant should be between 21 and 70 years

• The applicant must have 18-22 karat gold jewellery to pledge

There is no requirement for income proof, making it accessible for homemakers, farmers, and self-employed individuals as well.

Documents required for gold loan

Bajaj Finance has kept the paperwork simple. Borrowers just need any one of the following KYC documents

• Aadhaar card

• Voter ID

• Passport

• Driving licence

• NREGA job card

• Letter from the National Population Registration

There is no need for salary slips, income tax returns, or property papers. This ease of paperwork helps customers complete the process faster. Though it is important to note that for loans over Rs.5 lakh, submission of PAN Card details may be required.

Know the interest and repayment options

The interest rate plays a major role in any loan. Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan offers competitive interest rates, depending on the loan amount and repayment plan chosen by the customer.

Bajaj Finance offers multiple repayment options, including

• Borrowers can choose to pay interest monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually.

• They can select a payment schedule that suits their convenience.

• The principal loan amount is payable at the end of the loan tenure.

• Any remaining interest, if not paid earlier, will also be due at the time of loan maturity.

The loan tenure can range from 1 day to 12 months, giving customers the freedom to choose what works best for them.

Conclusion

A gold loan in India is a practical way to raise quick funds without selling precious assets. With minimal paperwork, quick approval, and convenient repayment options, Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan offers a seamless experience for customers from all walks of life.

By understanding the documents required for gold loan and how the process works, one can apply with full confidence. Bajaj Finance continues to make gold loans accessible, safe, and quick for everyone across India.

T&C Apply.

About Bajaj Finance Limited
Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 80.41 million customers. Bajaj Finance has a credit rating of AAA/Stable for its Fixed Deposit program from CRISIL and ICRA, AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings, CARE and ICRA, and A1+ for short-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings and ICRA. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB-/Stable and a short-term rating of A-3 by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

• Building on the success of last years program, the second round aims to find the next cohort of trailblazers who can deliver innovation in the sustainable pet food space.

• Startups from around the world are invited to apply, with selected participants to showcase their solutions at the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit.

• The program continues to unite leading food and pet care experts to accelerate sustainable pet food innovation.

Following the success of last year’s program, Big Idea Ventures and Mars Petcare will launch the second round of the Next Generation Pet Food Program, in collaboration with AAK, Bhler, and Givaudan.

Collaborative initiative between Big Idea Ventures and Mars Petcare to accelerate innovation in pet care

This initiative aims to accelerate sustainable innovation in the pet food sector by supporting startups with novel ingredients, sustainable fats and proteins, and advanced processing technologies.

Mars is exploring alternative ingredients in its pet food products to create more sustainable, future-ready nutrition. As consumer preference evolves Mars is working to give pet parents the opportunity to make more environmentally conscious choices, while taking steps to reduce its own carbon footprint.

This year, Givaudan, a global leader in taste and wellbeing, joins AAK and Bhler as a collaborator, offering expertise in ingredient innovation and product development for humans and pets.

Andrew D. Ive, Founder and Managing General Partner of Big Idea Ventures, stated, “Working with Mars last year was fantastic! We want to take the learnings and implement them on a big scale as we continue to search for and develop sustainable solutions for the pet food ecosystem. Last year, the teams from Mars Petcare, Bhler, and AAK offered invaluable insights to our startups. Now, by integrating Givaudan into the mix, we will further enhance the resources available to the startups we choose.”

Paul Gardner, Commercial VP, Mars Pet Nutrition added, “We must invest in innovation to help us source the best ingredients and build a future where the planet stays healthy, and where people and their pets are thriving. We’re excited to be launching the second round of this program harnessing the creativity of startups, alongside partners that share our vision“

“We were thrilled at the enthusiastic response we got from last’s program. It is a testament that innovative startups are the driving force behind the future of sustainable pet nutrition. The program offers a unique opportunity for visionary entrepreneurs to collaborate with leading industry experts, access state-of-the-art technology, and accelerate their impact on the global petfood market. I encourage all startups with bold ideas and a passion for transformation to apply and help us shape a healthier, more sustainable future for pets and planet alike,” said Dr. Ian Roberts, CTO at Bhler Group.

Niall Sands, President Commercial Innovation and Development, AAK, shared that the company is excited to support pet food innovators to bring nutrition and health-promoting functionality to our beloved pets. They look forward to exploring how innovation in this space is helping pet parents support and care for our 4-legged family members.

Fabio Campanile, Global Head of Science & Technology, Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing, noted, “Givaudan is excited to be part of this program as it presents a unique opportunity to collaborate with innovative startups and partners, paving the way for a more sustainable and enriching world for pets. We look forward to building on our current capabilities in the pet food space as well as exploring new technologies.”

Companies selected for the program will benefit from expert guidance, potential commercial partnerships, and the opportunity to showcase their solutions on a global stage at Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit in Singapore from November 4-6, 2025.

Winners of the 2024 Global Pet Food Innovation Program include BiomeMega, Anomaly Bio, KIDEMIS, String Bio Private Limited, MiAlgae, who have been under the mentorship of Big Venture Idea, Mars, AAK and Bhler. The startups have gained insights from top pet food experts and collaborated with leading CPG, ingredient, and technology companies to further develop their concepts with the potential to develop future long-term collaborations.

The program is open to startups from around the world, with a strong preference for scalable solutions that can demonstrate real-world impact and sustainability. While APAC-based startups are preferred, companies from all geographies are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit bigideaventures.com/petfoodprogram. Interested startups are encouraged to apply here as early as possible and will be able to do so until July 16.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, Astral Foundation, the CSR arm of Astral Limited, marked a significant step toward environmental and social responsibility by initiating the plantation of 10,000 trees in Keliya Vasna, a village adopted by the Foundation.

Tree plantation by Astral Foundation with local villagers of Keliya Vasna, Ahmedabad on World Environment Day

This green initiative is part of a larger, long-term commitment inspired by Padma Shri awardee Shyam Sunder Paliwal, known for his revolutionary concept of honoring the birth of a girl child with tree plantations. Taking this inspiration forward, Ms. Jagruti Engineer, Director of Astral Foundation, announced a heartfelt pledge to plant 111 trees for every girl child born in Keliya Vasna.

“A tree is a symbol of life, and what better way to celebrate the birth of a girl than by nurturing new life in nature,” said Ms. Jagruti Engineer. “This initiative not only promotes gender positivity but also strengthens our commitment to sustainability,” She added.

The plantation drive began today with active participation from the villagers, who have also taken up the responsibility of nurturing these saplings into fully grown trees. The goal is to eventually plant 1,00,000 trees, creating a lasting green legacy and encouraging community involvement in environmental preservation.

Astral Foundation continues to work across diverse areas such as health, education, water conservation, and environmental sustainability, aiming to create meaningful change in the lives of people and the planet.

To mark World Environment Day, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Rotary Club of Bombay Mid City, and Tetra Pak India have joined forces to launch a citywide sustainability campaign-the Carton Recycling Relay-designed to turn used beverage cartons into durable benches for Mumbai’s public parks.

Benches made entirely from recycled cartons donated by Tetra Pak to Patwardhan Park, Bandra

In its first phase, the initiative aims to collect 2.5 lakh used cartons from across the city, which will be recycled into 25 garden benches to be installed in selected public parks. This collaborative effort brings to life the principles of recycling, circular economy, and community participation, with citizens at the heart of the transformation.

“This is a brilliant example of how partnerships can bring sustainability into public spaces, and how the public can actively participate in this transformation,” said Jeetendra V. Pardeshi, Superintendent of the Gardens and Tree Office, BMC. “We’re not just recycling-we’re creating something useful and lasting for the community. This initiative represents the kind of smart, sustainable thinking our city needs.”

To kick off the campaign, a set of benches made entirely from recycled cartons were donated to Patwardhan Park, Bandra, a popular green space in Mumbai. The event was attended by Mr. Dinesh Pallewad, Assistant Commissioner, Ms. Swapna Mhatre, Ex Corporator, Mr. Dnyandev Mundhe, Dy. Supdt. of Gardens Zone 3, Mr. Kamlesh Kholiya, Sustainability Manager, Tetra Pak South Asia; Ajay Mishra, Rotary President; and Ms Monisha Narke, Founder, RUR Greenlife.

“At Tetra Pak, we believe that sustainability is a shared responsibility,” added Kamlesh Kholiya, Sustainability Manager, Tetra Pak South Asia. “The Carton Recycling Relay turns citizens into changemakers. By transforming used cartons into public assets, we’re fostering circularity and strengthening community engagement.”

A life-size, carton-shaped collection bin will now travel across prominent locations in the city, encouraging schools, housing societies, businesses, and individuals to deposit their used beverage cartons. More than 50 drop-off points are already available across Reliance Retail and Shakari Bhandar stores across Mumbai up to make participation easy and accessible for all.

Over the next few weeks, the relay will travel across key Mumbai locations, mobilizing schools, RWAs, and workplaces. As the city works toward the 2.5 lakh carton target, 22 more benches will be created and donated-transforming waste into symbols of community action and environmental stewardship.

“Sustainability is one of the 7 pillars of Rotary thrust area and always work around related to protection of environment. We are working with MCGM and corporate to set up street furniture made from recycled waste for awareness since long time. We are happy to see that Tetra Pak came forward to support the cause and create awareness. We are glad to work as bridges between benefactor and donor,” added Ajay Mishra, President, Rotary.

The initiative is being implemented on-ground by RUR Greenlife, a long-standing Tetra Pak partner known for its work in waste management and citizen-led recycling. Media outreach is being supported by Free Press Journal.

This campaign is part of a program called ‘Go Green with Tetra Pak‘ launched in 2010 by Tetra Pak, in collaboration with Reliance Retail and RUR Greenlife. The program encourages Mumbaikars to drop off their used beverage cartons at over 60 Reliance Smart and Sahakari Bhandar outlets, and over 100 other drop-off points across Mumbai. These cartons are then recycled into useful items like desks & garden benches and donated back to the society. Tetra Pak cartons are paper-based, recyclable, and increasingly being recycled through a robust ecosystem nurtured by Tetra Pak over the last 20 years, working closely with various stakeholders such as urban local governments, NGOs, brand owners, academia, and consumers.

A complete list of carton deposit points is available here.

About Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is a global leader in food processing and packaging solutions, ensuring safe and nutritious food reaches millions in over 160 countries. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the company continually innovates to protect food, people, and the planet through impactful community programs and advanced recycling initiatives.

With over 24,000 employees worldwide, Tetra Pak remains dedicated to making food safe and available, everywhere, while upholding its promise to protect what’s good: food, people, and the planet.

More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak.com.

On World Environment Day this year, World Animal Protection takes serious note of a recent incident whereby an Indian tourist was mauled by a captive tiger he was walking in Tiger Kingdom zoo in Phuket in Thailand. Expectedly, this unfortunate incident has raised questions on the nature and desirability of these actions that bring people in proximity to potentially dangerous wild animals like tigers and elephants in captive situations. Reports indicate the tourist survived, but the whole popular spectacle of coming close to wild animals in captivity in Thailand and other venues, raises grave concerns on the nature of human animal relations this World Environment Day.

Elephants in Haathi Gaon in Jaipur : Shubhobroto Ghosh

World Animal Protection has consistently raised the issue of abuse of wildlife entertainment worldwide. This includes displays like tiger selfies in Thailand, elephant rides in Amer Fort in Jaipur in Rajasthan in India and dolphin shows at SeaWorld in several venues in the United States of America. World Animal Protection has conducted investigations on captive tigers in Thailand, captive elephants in Thailand, India and Indonesia and captive dolphins in USA, Netherlands and Thailand. These researches show that the welfare of these captive animals is severely compromised in these wildlife entertainment venues, and especially so in situations where they are compelled to come into proximity with humans. Close contact between wild animals and humans can cause undue stress to animals and additionally risk injury and spread of diseases(zoonoses) between humans and animals. After coronavirus, these interactions are risky and antithetical to harmonious man animal relationships.

Tiger in Rohtak Zoo in Haryana: Shubhobroto Ghosh

“The recent incident of tiger mauling an Indian tourist in Thailand makes us reinforce the necessity of responsible choices in tourism,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director of World Animal Protection in India. “Spectacles like tiger selfies and elephant rides in Amer Fort represent a travesty of nature that is inimical to animal welfare and environmental preservation. Wild animals like tigers and elephants should be cherished where they belong, in the wild and not exploited in captivity to serve vested interests of humans.”

To raise awareness on ethical wildlife tourism, World Animal Protection encourages tour companies to desist from offering captive wildlife entertainment as part of their itineraries. There are more than two hundred companies that have taken the wildlife friendly pledge of World Animal Protection worldwide. The latest company to become wildlife friendly in India is Her Expeditions, a travel company promoting women’s travel. Her Expeditions has now decided to highlight the cause of animal welfare alongside those of women as part of their company policy. World Animal Protection is also highlighting wild animal abuse persistently in the media and

Bearing environmental preservation in mind, World Animal Protection also raises awareness on the harmful effects of factory farming and excessive meat consumption that leads to destruction of habitat for wildlife. Growing concern for the environment and awareness on the welfare of animals are intertwined in the modern world. Tackling wildlife in entertainment and changing our diet can make the world a more habitable place, that, as the astronomer Carl Sagan stated to be a pale blue dot, “the only home we have ever known.”