Home Blog Page 395

Signify Illuminates 55 Villages in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, with Solar and LED Lights under Har Gaon Roshan CSR Project

In line with the #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision, Signify, the world leader in lighting, has brightened up 55 villages in Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh under its Har Gaon Roshan Corporate Social Responsibility program. Impacting over 70,000 lives, this initiative, empowers women safety, promotes tourism, enhances security, and socio-economic development through sustainable lighting solutions.

Signify Team at the Inauguration of the Har Gaon Roshan CSR Project in Chattarpur District

The project is executed in partnership with Haritika, NGO, which includes the installation of 2000 energy efficient LED streetlights, 700 solar home lighting system, and 100 solar streetlights across these tribal villages, ensuring the safety of the residents and tourists.

Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India, shared his thoughts on this project, “At Signify, we believe in the transformative power of light to uplift lives. By installing sustainable lighting solutions in these villages, we aim to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone. This initiative reflects our dedication to leveraging the best of lighting technology for social impact, and we are honoured to play our part in brightening these tribal communities.”

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2023, we had sales of EUR 6.7 billion, approximately 32,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for seven consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for four consecutive years, placing Signify in the top one percent of companies assessed. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

ASCL-PACT Launch Certificate Course in Mediation Advocacy

The Asian School of Cyber Laws (ASCL) and The PACT is proud to announce the launch of their highly anticipated Certificate Course on Advocacy in Mediation – a uniquely designed and delivered virtual learning course in India, aimed at transforming legal practice in the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). This cutting-edge course is designed to provide legal professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to grasp the lawyer’s role in representing clients in Mediation.

ASCL-PACT Launch Certificate Course in Mediation Advocacy

ASCL and The PACT have trained nearly 100,000 young lawyers over the span over the last two decades, introducing them to various skills of an all-round modern-day lawyer in India. As Indias legal landscape evolves with The Mediation Act 2023, mediation has become a crucial process to dispute resolution, with courts now referring parties to mediation as a norm and not just an alternative. The new course focuses on the practical aspects of client advocacy in mediation, including the art of preparing client’s for mediation, building a strategy, working with the mediator to break an impasse, drafting a settlement agreement, and more.

Key Features of the Course:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering essential topics such as the fundamentals of mediation, the lawyer’s / advocate’s role, negotiation strategies, problem-solving techniques and settlement agreement drafting.

  • Professional Development: Ideal for law students, young lawyers, and seasoned legal professionals looking to advance their mediation advocacy skills.

  • Online, Self-Paced Learning: Flexible learning format that allows participants to study at their own pace while receiving high-quality training.

  • Expert Faculty: The course is taught by experienced professionals and subject matter experts in the field of mediation and dispute resolution.

Course Details:

  • Duration: 3 Months

  • Fee: INR 3,500 + 18% GST (Special inaugural pricing)

  • Mode: Online, Self-Paced Learning

  • Starting Date: March 1, 2025

Lawyers play a crucial role in mediation, which is a process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps disputing parties reach a voluntary settlement. From advising clients to attempt mediation to ensuring fairness in the process; from preparing and strategizing with clients to negotiating during the session; from drafting agreements to preserving confidentiality and ethical standards; from providing out-of-the-box solutions to objectively assessing risks and benefits, lawyers offer a unique expertise to the mediation process. 


In summary, lawyers bring their legal expertise, negotiation skills, and emotional intelligence to the mediation table, helping to guide the process toward a fair and effective resolution. Join the ASCL-PACT Certificate Course on Mediation Advocacy to be a better Mediation Lawyer. For more information, or to register, visit Asian School of Cyber Laws.

Shriram Life Partners with JM Financial Services to Expand Insurance Access

Shriram Life Insurance, one of Indias leading life insurance providers, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with JM Financial Services. This collaboration aims to enhance the accessibility of life insurance products for JM Financial’s customers and equity stakeholders.

This partnership allows Shriram Life to offer its comprehensive range of products, helping customers easily explore and access insurance plans and secure themselves and their families while ensuring a seamless and convenient experience through both digital and offline channels.

Speaking about the partnership, Casparus J.H. Kromhout, MD & CEO, Shriram Life Insurance, said, “Ensuring financial security for individuals across all segments of society remains at the core of our purpose. This collaboration with JM Financial Services [offering diversified solutions to its customers] allows us to broaden our reach, offering tailored protection solutions through a seamless and convenient platform. We are committed to simplifying access to life insurance, empowering customers with robust financial protection, and equipping them with the right tools to secure their future.”

Nirav Gandhi, Managing Director and Co-Head, Investment Advisory and Distribution, at JM Financial Services added, “We are delighted to partner with Shriram Life Insurance, a stalwart in the industry. Our collaboration enables us to combine our expertise in trading and investments with Shriram Life Insurances trusted offerings, ensuring that we provide holistic solutions like tax-free guaranteed income solutions, long-term investment, retirement/pension plan and family protection. We believe this partnership will capitalize on the strengths of both our organizations, and together, we are committed to empowering individuals and families with the financial security and peace of mind they deserve.”

About Shriram Life Insurance Company

Shriram Life Insurance is a reliable name in the industry, with a strong presence across India through 403 branches. The company provides a variety of products including term, endowment, ULIPs, and annuities, catering to both rural and urban middle-class customers with affordable premiums. The average ticket size for non-single individual premium policies is approximately Rs18,000, while individual policies typically have an average ticket size of around Rs21,000. Currently, Shriram Life’s total Assets Under Management (AUM) amount to Rs12,791 crore as on December 2024. It has an in-force policyholder base of over 13 lakh.

About JM Financial Services

JM Financial Services (JMFS), a part of the JM Financial Group, is an award-winning full-service stock broking firm catering to individual and institutional investors across the entire capital market spectrum. Our wide range of products include equity trading, wealth management, and distribution of other investment products such as insurance, mutual funds, portfolio management services/alternative investment funds, IPOs, and fixed income products. We have extensive network and well-established distribution channels, which include more than 55 branches, over 860 business affiliates, and more than 14,400 active financial distributors.

Affordable Healthcare on the Rise: RenewBuy’s Low-cost Health Insurance Witnessed Strong Adoption Amongst Women, Making up 30 percent of Policyholders

  • Gen Z contributed close to 24% of the uptake

  • Senior citizens accounted for around 10% of policyholders

  • RB Health witnessed strong demand in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat & Maharashtra

In the last two years of its launch, RenewBuy’s proprietary low-cost health insurance plan has seen remarkable growth across states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra and wider adoption across age groups. By making affordable healthcare accessible, the plan has successfully bridged the gap for under-insured consumers, especially beyond Tier 1 markets.

RB Health has gained a strong and growing presence across age groups, with a 24% uptick amongst Gen Z. With rising awareness towards financial security, preventive healthcare, rising medical costs, the younger population is becoming more conscious towards health insurance and demanding flexible policies. This mirrors the broader industry trends, where around 50%- 60% of Gen Z demand better digital engagement.

There has been a significant rise in women purchasing RB Health Plan, accounting for 30% of the policyholders. This shows their growing financial independence and health awareness, growing need for maternity insurance and OPD benefits, even in the smaller cities. The year-on-year demand amongst women has increased by 10-12%, with women within the age group of 31-40 years showing highest adoption. Most have opted for the low-cost plan with OPD benefits, particularly younger women, who are increasingly taking a proactive approach to their health, driving an increase in policyholders under the age of 40.

Driven by its affordability and extensive benefits, RB Health has attracted around 10% of senior citizens across the country. The plan offers up to 70% lower premiums for seniors, addressing chronic disease management needs and gaps in the traditional plans.

Indraneel Chatterjee, Co-founder, RenewBuy said, “Today’s consumers, especially in the smaller markets, seek OPD benefits, coverage for lab tests and medications, and customized premium rates. The purchasing power in these regions differs significantly from metro cities, making affordability a key factor. Over the past two years, we have tapped around 1.5% of RenewBuy’s overall consumer base with our low-cost health insurance, and interestingly, women and the younger generation have shown a growing inclination, especially in the smaller markets.”

This report offers valuable insights to enhance consumer experience and accelerate growth for low-cost insurance in the untapped markets. So far, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh have led the adoption, accounting for 47% of the total consumer base. The rapid success of this low-cost product has been driven by digital adoption, transparency, and the seamless policy purchase experience,” he further added.

RB Health is one of the simplest health insurance products for consumers to understand and 30% cheaper than standard health insurance plans. Insurance as a sector, is today witnessing fast-changing momentum, with the changing consumer needs, changes in lifestyle, environment, digital adoption and thus, there is a need to introduce products catering to today’s consumers. Along with this, the medical inflation in India is rising by 13%-14% and low-cost health insurance distributed through digital channels, will play a critical role in bridging these insurance gaps.

About RenewBuy
Founded in 2015 by Balachander Sekhar and Indraneel Chatterjee, RenewBuy is a disruptive InsurTech player providing choice and convenience to customers buying Health, Life and Motor Insurance products, delivered through a trusted network of insurance advisors. The company has more than 1.25 lakh plus insurance advisors and has insured more than 5.5 million customers across 1500+ cities, towns and districts. Using technology as an enabler, the company has created differentiation in consumer experience and service, as well as in the geographical expansion of the sector.

For more information, visit: www.renewbuy.com

Ekart Joins Forces with IKEA to Power Seamless, Sustainable Last-mile Deliveries for Home Furnishings in India

Ekart, one of Indias leading 4PL supply chain companies, has partnered with IKEA to power last-mile deliveries for its home furnishings business, enabling seamless doorstep fulfillment of orders placed on IKEA’s website.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/31292_Ekart_IKEA_image.jpg

Ekart and IKEA announce a partnership to power seamless, sustainable last-mile deliveries for home furnishings in India, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency

As part of this collaboration, Ekart will play a crucial role in executing the optimized fulfillment of large parcels across IKEA’s extensive catalog of over 7,000+ products, including furniture, home dcor, and household essentials, across North India. Ekarts robust logistics capabilities will enable IKEA to fulfill most customer orders within 24 hours, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence. With a relentless focus on precision, Ekart consistently delivers streamlined logistics at scale, achieving an industry-leading 99%+ success rate in pre-paid shipments – setting new benchmarks in reliability and customer satisfaction.

Ekart will facilitate deliveries through IKEA India’s recently launched fulfillment hub in Delhi-NCR, leveraging high-performance logistics solutions. The integration of real-time tracking will further ensure seamless deliveries and provide customers with enhanced visibility. With sustainability at the core of this partnership, Ekart will leverage its fleet of electric vehicles to align with IKEA’s commitment to eco-friendly logistics.

Mani Bhushan, Chief Business Officer, Ekart, said, “This partnership is a testament to Ekart’s ability to offer enterprise grade supply chain solutions to large retail brands. IKEA’s vision is to create a better everyday life for many people, and Ekart is proud to be an enabler in this mission. For us, it has been about shared values of transparency and sustainability in the supply chain with an uncompromising commitment to customer delight and reliability. Through this collaboration, we will continue to unlock the world-class customer experience that IKEA is known for. IKEA satisfies its customers through a philosophy of close listening, engagement and support, and it matches well with Ekart’s mantra of reliability, response, and resolution. We look forward to delighting customers with this partnership.”

Saiba Suri, Country Customer Fulfilment Manager, IKEA India, said, “EV-led deliveries are at the heart of our expansion in the north of India. This move also brings us closer to our global EV100 goals. We are glad to extend this partnership with Ekart in our new market and look forward to powering IKEA India’s expansion story with greater efficiency and sustainable means as we grow together.”

Ekart powers end-to-end logistics for 400+ retail brands, offering last-mile delivery, part-truckload (PTL), full-truckload (FTL), warehousing, and industry-first innovations like Open Box Delivery and product refurbishing for seamless, transparent operations. By bringing together IKEA’s world-class retail experience and Ekart’s robust logistics network, the collaboration aims to redefine home furnishing deliveries in India, making them faster, greener, and more customer-centric.

About Ekart
Ekart is one of the largest Supply Chain companies in India. Starting out in 2009 with an aim to fulfill the supply chain requirements of customers across India, Ekart today provides 4PL services to many small and large-scale businesses across the country. It provides integrated supply chain solutions encompassing warehousing, distribution, dropship, as well as multi-modal heavy/non-unitized inventory movements to customers across industries. With state-of-the-art grade A warehouses across 20+ locations, 7000+ trucks running daily across the length and breadth of the country, Ekart delivers across 15,000 pin codes.

Ekart strives to empower every Indian’s dream by delivering value through Innovation in Technology and Commerce.

For more details please visit the website here.

ELECRAMA 2025 Concludes Successfully, Showcasing Innovations and Industry Leadership

The 16th edition of ELECRAMA 2025 organised by Indian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA) wrapped up on a high note, firmly establishing itself as the premier global platform for the electrical and allied electronics industry. This edition broke previous records, by hosting over 1,000+ exhibitors, attracting more than 400,000 business visitor footfalls, and generating an estimated $20 billion in business enquiries – an undeniable testament to its unparalleled scale, influence, and global appeal.

ELECRAMA 2025 organized by IEEMA successfully concludes, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to shape the future of the electrical and power sector

ELECRAMA 2025 emerged as an important platform for industry engagement, showcasing impactful B2B meetings, insightful thought leadership sessions, and constructive policy dialogues that united both global and Indian stakeholders. The event successfully facilitated over 15,000+ B2B meetings and attracted close to 500 international buyers from 80 countries, further solidifying Indias stature as a reliable partner within the global electrical ecosystem.

One of the biggest highlights this year was the launch of the New Energies Pavilion, a game-changing showcase of breakthrough technologies in Battery Storage, EV Charging Infrastructure, Digital Energy, Solar Modules, Solar Inverters, and more. This dedicated space showcased India’s rapid strides towards a sustainable and future-ready energy landscape.

The global interest at ELECRAMA 2025 has increased. While attending the event Hon’ble Minister Bachir Camara, Deputy Minister, MEHH, Guinea said, “India’s advancements in energy and digitalization offer valuable insights for developing nations like Guinea. Strengthening collaborations with India can help us enhance our electricity systems and adopt innovative solutions. Platforms like ELECRAMA provide an excellent opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies, engage with industry leaders, and understand best practices in renewable energy, electrification, and carbon footprint reduction. Events like these are crucial in fostering global partnerships, allowing us to learn from India’s expertise and implement sustainable energy solutions that will drive our nations growth. We believe this is the right time to leverage India’s achievements and work together for a brighter, more energy-secure future.”

ELECRAMA 2025 also witnessed four MoU signings, laying the foundation for transformative collaborations in the power and electrical sector. These agreements mark a significant step in driving innovation, industry partnerships, and next-generation energy solutions.

Highlighting the potential of the event, Kris Van den Zegel, Head of BD & Stakeholders, Eurelectric said, “ELECRAMA has been an electrifying experience, showcasing the booming Indian power sector and its remarkable growth. We were particularly impressed by the innovation, expanding capabilities of Indian companies, and the welcoming business culture. As the flagship event of IEEMA, it brings together key stakeholders to explore advancements in renewable energy, grid modernization, and digital transformation. The exhibition highlights Indias rapidly expanding power sector, offering insights into emerging technologies and sustainable solutions. With global partnerships and knowledge-sharing at its core, ELECRAMA continues to position India as a hub for electrical manufacturing and energy innovation, strengthening industry connections and accelerating the transition towards a more efficient and resilient power ecosystem.”

As the event draws its curtains, the significance of this year’s edition Sunil Singhvi, President, IEEMA said, “ELECRAMA 2025 has surpassed all expectations, marking yet another milestone in its journey as the worlds leading platform for the electrical and power industry. The remarkable increase in visitor footfall compared to the previous edition underscores the growing global interest in Indias energy and power capabilities. With over 400,000 business visitor footfalls, ELECRAMA has demonstrated its ability to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to drive impactful collaborations and business opportunities.”

Vikram Gandotra, President (Elect) and Chairman, ELECRAMA 2025 also added, “Sustainability and innovation were at the heart of ELECRAMA 2025, setting new benchmarks in green electricity adoption and carbon footprint reduction. The event highlighted groundbreaking advancements in renewable energy integration, energy storage, and automation, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future. Our collective efforts have contributed significantly to reducing carbon emissions, reinforcing Indias commitment to clean energy and decarbonization. ELECRAMA continues to be a key enabler in accelerating the transition toward a low-carbon economy.”

Siddharth Bhutoria, Vice President, IEEMA & Vice Chairman, ELECRAMA 2025, “ELECRAMA 2025 has been a resounding success, particularly in fostering the growth of startups and emerging enterprises in the energy sector. Through initiatives like Electraverse Sparks, we have provided a dynamic platform for breakthrough innovations, enabling startups to showcase their solutions, connect with investors, and explore strategic collaborations. The overwhelming response from industry leaders and stakeholders underscores the critical role of ELECRAMA in driving innovation, nurturing entrepreneurship, and shaping the future of Indias electrical and power industry.”

The event, inaugurated by Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s energy infrastructure. Delivering the keynote, Hon’ble Minister Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, emphasized India’s energy transition, policy direction, and technological advancements. He urged the electrical industry to unify major expos, creating a world-class platform to position India as a global hub for energy and electrical solutions.

A key highlight was the 3rd Edition of Electraverse Sparks, where 20 high-potential startups showcased breakthrough innovations in energy, AI, automation, and sustainability, driving investments and strategic collaborations. The World Utility Summit brought together 70+ speakers and 400+ delegates including Vijay Mittal (IOFS), Joint Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries, to discuss grid modernization, sustainable policies, and digital transformation.

Meanwhile, ETECHnxt had 40+ unique speakers and 350+ delegates, the premier forum for emerging technologies, explored AI integration, IoT-driven smart grids, and blockchain applications in energy markets, reinforcing ELECRAMA’s role in shaping the future of the power sector.

To mark the successful culmination of the event, ELECRAMA 2025 hosted the prestigious Awards Distribution & Exhibitor Night, celebrating excellence in innovation and industry leadership. The evening was further enhanced by a spectacular musical performance by renowned playback singer Shaan, leaving the audience enthralled.

As ELECRAMA 2025 promoted sustainability in a big way, it was able to save 2.3 metric ton of CO2 through providing co-friendly cabs and the event on green electricity. The event leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking discussions, cutting-edge technological showcases, and strategic collaborations that will shape the future of the electrical and power industry. The event reaffirmed India’s position as a leader in energy solutions, paving the way for a more connected, sustainable, and technologically advanced future.

About IEEMA

IEEMA is the apex association of manufacturers of electrical and industrial electronics and allied equipment in India. Established in 1948, IEEMA is the first ISO-certified industry association, encompassing the entire value chain in power generation, transmission, and distribution equipment, including new and renewable energy sectors.

About ELECRAMA

ELECRAMA is the flagship showcase of the Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers Association (IEEMA), bringing together the complete spectrum of solutions that powers the planet from source to socket and everything in between. ELECRAMA is a platform to connect the world with the Indian industry in respect of technology, new trends, and innovation for future energy transition.

For more information about ELECRAMA 2025, please visit: elecrama.com.

Bringing the Best in Polycarbonate Sheet Solutions, Sri Ramana Leads the Way

With technology advancing quickly, people want more than just what meets the eye. They want the best of both worlds without compromise – sustainability, durability, and top-notch quality all rolled into one. Polycarbonate sheet are now one of the top choices for construction and design for their perfect feature mix of strength, clarity, and flexibility to meet todays needs.

Bringing the Best in Polycarbonate Sheet Solutions, Sri Ramana Leads the Way

Leveraging such advantages, Sri Ramana Enterprises has come up as one of the premier providers of high-end LEXAN™ polycarbonate solutions. Their sheets, made of the perfect blend of durability, versatility, and design innovation, have made their mark across India, operating in cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Vizag.

As the cornerstone of Sri Ramana Enterprises product line, LEXAN polycarbonate sheets are well known for their superior impact resistance, optical clarity, and versatility. From building construction and architecture to automotive and aerospace sectors, LEXAN sheets have made themselves the premium standard, better than glass and acrylic materials in wide-ranging critical applications for various industries.

Sri Ramana Enterprises caters to a wide range of industries, each taking advantage of the unique properties of LEXAN™ polycarbonate sheets. In the construction and architecture fields, these sheets are valued for their strength and flexibility, which enable the creation of curved roof structures and intricate glazing without compromising on safety and durability. Automotive industries benefit from the light nature of LEXAN, giving the vehicle parts a critical impact resistance whether it comes to headlights, taillights or roof panels. Agriculture also benefits due to the high light transmission feature and UV protection provided by sheets that protect greenhouses with perfect plant growth conditions. Besides that, these sheets are also used in the electronics and medical device industries due to their high thermal resistance and clarity, which is essential for protective coverings and sensitive equipment housings.

The commitment of Sri Ramana Enterprises to quality and innovation has made it the preferred provider for polycarbonate solutions. It provides the best in the market by ensuring its LEXAN™ sheets keep up with international stringent, developed safety and performance standards. Its proactive approach to customer service involves thorough consultation and bespoke solutions to ensure that every client receives products perfectly tailored to meet their specific needs. This customer-centric approach, combined with continuous investment in technology and sustainability, positions Sri Ramana not just as a supplier but as a reliable and forward-thinking partner for diverse industries looking for top-tier polycarbonate solutions.

LEXAN™ polycarbonate sheets have transformed the way industries approach material usage in design and functionality. Theyre lightweight but rigid, making installation easier and able to handle harsh conditions while prioritising safety. These sheets can be shaped and moulded to fit creative architectural designs without losing strength, plus they offer excellent thermal insulation-perfect for skylights, roofs, and wall panels.

With over a decade of industry experience, Sri Ramana Enterprises has become a trusted name in the polycarbonate sheet market. By continuously delivering high-performance, eco-friendly recyclable products that reduce environmental impact, Sri Ramana continues to meet the changing needs of todays industries, staying ahead as a market leader.

Airbnb Invests in India’s Communities with Grants to Four Nonprofits Through the Airbnb Community Fund

  • The Airbnb Community Fund will distribute $100 million to communities by the end of 2030.

  • In the Fund’s fourth year, over 160 organizations across 30+countries will receive donations totaling more than $8.5 million USD.

  • Four Indian nonprofits organizations will receive the Airbnb Community Fund.

  • Recipients include nonprofits working to make a difference in economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and ending abuse and exploitation.

Airbnb is proud to announce the latest recipients of Airbnb Community Fund grants, including four organizations in India that are making a profound difference across various sectors.

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/31286_airbnb_image.jpg

Airbnbs $8.5 Million Community Fund Boosts Local Organizations in India and Beyond

Launched in 2020, the Airbnb Community Fund is a $100 million initiative to directly support local communities and the people who live there. Each year, Airbnb donates to organizations that are supporting and strengthening communities around the world, including donations made in partnership with local hosts in many of these communities.

Each year, Airbnb partners with hosts to identify important issues and many of the non-profit organizations to receive donations. Airbnb hosts are deeply connected to their communities and by involving them in this process, Airbnb aims for the Fund to drive meaningful local impact. As in previous years, hosts helped direct a majority of the donations.

Amanpreet Bajaj, Country Head, Airbnb India and Southeast Asia, said, “At Airbnb, we believe in the power of community, and we are thrilled to support organizations across India that are working towards creating a lasting positive change. This year’s grants are a testament to our commitment to empowering local nonprofits that are driving impactful initiatives in critical areas like waste management, education, and womens empowerment. The Airbnb Community Fund is not just about financial support; it’s about amplifying the efforts of organizations that make a real difference in peoples lives.”

Airbnb Community Fund Recipients in India
This year’s Community Fund grants were directed to organizations focusing on three key areas identified by the Airbnb Host Advisory Board: economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and ending abuse and exploitation.

The nonprofits receiving donations in India are:

  • Waste Warriors to create awareness around responsible waste management in the Indian Himalayan Region.

  • Maher Ashram to support the shelter and care of destitute elderly women at the Sukhsandhya Home located at Maher Vatsalyadham Centre in Pune.

  • Pratham to provide quality education to young people, primarily women and girls, in the underserved communities across India and beyond.

  • Concern India Foundation to support higher and professional education for underprivileged youth across India.

Etosha Chatterjee, Director, Programs for Waste Warriors, shared, “The multi-year support from Airbnb Community Fund will continue to play a key role in helping us strengthen waste management systems in the Indian Himalayas. Our focus is on empowering local communities, especially women, and creating sustainable solutions. The Fund will allow us to expand our work and drive long-term change.”

Keshav Aggarwal, a member of the Airbnb Host Advisory Board, shared, “The people at Maher Ashram are natural hosts, welcoming everyone with warmth and compassion. Their inclusivity inspires us to bring the Airbnb host community closer to their mission. We’re excited to organize host meetups at Maher Ashram, focusing on volunteering and cultural immersion, which will help Airbnb hosts contribute meaningfully and build deeper connections with the incredible individuals at Maher Ashram.”

The Airbnb Community Fund in action
To date, the Airbnb Community Fund has distributed more than $36 million to organizations in nearly 70 countries, with hosts providing input each year. To learn more about the Airbnb Community Fund, please visit the website.

This year’s Airbnb Community Fund grants were distributed from July 2024 through early 2025. Airbnb works with grantmaking partners to support due diligence and facilitate payment to many nonprofit grantees.

About Airbnb
Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed 2 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Simta Astrix Presents Innovative Architectural and Interior Products at ACETECH and Zak Expo

Simta Astrix excelled in redefining designs with its innovative building materials ranging from uPVC windows and doors, ABS doors, steel doors, system aluminium, and modular interior solutions at two prestigious expos-ACETECH in Bengaluru on October 18th-20th, 2024, and the Zak Doors & Windows Expo in New Delhi on December 5th-7th, 2024. As a renowned manufacturer of uPVC windows and doors, Simta Astrix brings the best to the market. They made their mark with high-quality products and launched their new line of modular uPVC interiors during these events. The design and setup of Simta Astrixs exhibition areas received much praise as attendees showed their love for how the quality and benefits of their products are showcased, and it made a focal point for many.

Simta Astrix Presents Innovative Architectural and Interior Products at ACETECH and Zak Expo

ACETECH is a premier platform with more than 4,000 exhibitors, attracting 8 Lakh plus visitors at their Bengaluru Expo. Among the array of displays, Simta Astrix stood out with its distinctive product line and also, notably, their introduction of uPVC modular kitchens, wardrobes, and TV units attracted an exciting response from architects, engineers, builders and developers alike. They received positive responses, with attendees browsing the brands standout qualities, such as the durability and sturdiness of the frame, the lightweight design making the function smooth at ease, and their sleek aesthetics making the headlines at the event.

At the Zak Doors & Windows Expo, Simta Astrix once again presented their versatile range. This Expo, featuring 256 exhibitors and with over 30,000 registered attendees interested in the latest fenestration solutions for windows and doors, draws a specialized audience of fabricators, builders, designers and more. It proved to be the perfect venue for Simta Astrixs appealing offers and contribution to the construction industry.

Visitors at the Simta Astrix booths were especially impressed with the uPVC modular interior solutions, praising them as better alternatives for conventional wood interiors. They garnered significant attention with advantages like water resistance, lightweight, and durability. The attendees also appreciated the modern and elegant aluminium systems, crediting their slim interlocks and concealed fittings as standout features.

Simtas presence at ACETECH and Zak Expo was a phenomenal success. With invaluable feedback from the industrys best, ranging from individual clients to large-scale builders, these platforms allowed them to demonstrate their commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Simta Astrix continues to expand its footprint in the market. The success at ACETECH and Zak Doors & Windows Expo has cemented Simta Astrixs reputation as a trusted provider of top-notch, durable, and aesthetically pleasing building solutions. This recognition sets them apart and positions them as top choices for fabricators, architects, builders and developers seeking the best.

ASICS India Unveils Limited Edition Race Day Merchandise for TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2025

ASICS, the Japanese sportswear brand, today launched the limited-edition merchandise collection as the official sports good partner, inspired by the tranquility and sweeping vistas of the Nandi Hills for the World Athletic Gold Label Race TCS World 10K Bengaluru. The limited-edition merchandise was launched digitally, unveiling the official race day look for the upcoming race scheduled on Sunday, April 27th, 2025. This exclusive collection is now available on ASICS website and across stores.

ASICS x TCS World 10K Bengaluru Raced Day Merchandise

The limited-edition collection of Tata Consultancy Services World 10K 2025 Bengaluru run showcases Nandi Hills, standing as a majestic testament to nature’s beauty and the city’s spirit of adventure. With its panoramic views, mist-covered peaks, invigorating sunrises and verdant landscapes, it has long been a destination for those who lace up their shoes as these hills embodies the true essence of endurance, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. The official race day collection reflects the same vibrant color palette featuring Arctic Sky and Vapor hues, offering the perfect synergy between performance and nature-where each stride taken, whether on the hills or the streets of Bengaluru, echoes the power of perseverance and achievement.

The race day Graphic Tee offers both function and style, crafted from 100% polyester interlock fabric that ensures lightweight breathability and sweat-wicking performance ensuring comfort and ease throughout their run. The unique design elements symbolize the ethereal experience of Nandi Hills, inspiring runners to embrace the freedom of movement and the serenity of nature.

The highlight of the collection is the Novablast 5 Limited-Edition Running Shoes featuring FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning technology, delivering superior bounce and responsiveness. This shoe comes in brilliant white sky colorway with the imprints of Nandi hills embodies the fresh, airy aesthetic of running ‘above the clouds’ which perfectly complements the event’s spirit. The limited-edition race day merchandise of TCS World 10K is not just a tribute to Namma Bengaluru’s natural grandeur but a symbol of athletic excellence for runners to wear.

Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director, ASICS India & South Asia said, “We return humbled and excited as the official sports goods partner for TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2025 edition. As a landmark event for the running community, ASICS is thrilled to introduce this year’s limited-edition race day collection, inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of Nandi Hills. Our vision is to provide runners with not just apparel and footwear, but a complete race-day experience that resonates with the city’s vibrant running culture. The cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design of the merchandise will empower participants to run stronger, feel lighter, and truly embrace the spirit of movement.”

Vivek Singh, Joint MD, Procam International, said, “ASICS has been a steadfast partner of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, continuously elevating the running experience with state-of-the-art merchandise. The 2025 race day collection reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation and community-inspired running gear.

As we gear up for another exciting edition of the race, we look forward to seeing participants celebrate the joy of running.”

The official TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2025 race day merchandise will be available at ASICS flagship stores across India and online at www.asics.co.in/tcsw10k

About ASICS
Anima Sana In Corpore Sano, meaning ‘A Sound Mind in a Sound Body’ is an old Latin phrase from which ASICS is derived and the fundamental platform on which the brand still stands. The company was founded in 1949, more than 70 years ago by Kihachiro Onitsuka and is now a leading designer and manufacturer of running shoes, as well as athletic and SportStyle-inspired footwear, apparel, and accessories.

ASICS currently has 117 stores across India. More details can be found at. www.asics.com/in/en-in/store-locator.


For more information, visit www.asics.com/in/en-in