Former Karnataka CM Sadananda Gowda inaugurates AU Small Finance Bank’s new branch in Sanjay Nagar

AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest SFB, today inaugurates its new branch at Sanjay Nagar, Bengaluru, which is the Bank’s 12th branch in Karnataka. This launch signifies AU SFB’s targeted offerings for the Bengaluru city and its commitment to delivering accessible and technology-driven financial services across South India. The inauguration was done by former Chief Minister of Karnataka D. V. Sadananda Gowda and senior officials of AU SFB.

The strong economy of Karnataka makes it a significant market offering high potential of deposits and credit. Bangalore alone contributes to around Rs 9 lakh crores of deposits of the state and remains a key city in AU SFB’s expansion plan in South India. Sanjay Nagar is an appealing strategic locality with well-planned infrastructure, luxury residential projects, high-class educational institutes, and healthcare facilities.

Speaking on the occasion, former Chief Minster of Karnataka, D. V. Sadananda Gowda said, “Bengaluru is an industrial hub that is contributing a great deal to the economy of our state as well as the nation. Over the years, AU Small Finance Bank has gained reputation of bringing customer centric banking solutions bundled with tech advancements. With this branch, I am sure the residents of Sanjay Nagar stand to benefit from that. As more and more industrial leaders as well as common man gain access to better banking, it will help add up to the prosperity of our state.”

Mr. Uttam Tibrewal, Executive Director, AU Small Finance Bank, said, “As a customer-centric bank, we strive to serve customers in Bengaluru with our unique proposition while fostering long-term relationships. To date, the positive response and trust from our tech-savvy clientele in Bengaluru have instilled confidence in us to extend our presence. At Sanjay Nagar branch, we aim for the customers to enjoy the advantages of our flagship features, such as monthly interest payout on savings accounts, extended banking hours, 24×7 video banking, vehicle loans, business banking, FDs/Green FDs, credit cards, construction funding to real estate developers, along with meticulously crafted wealth management products.”

As of December 2023, the Southern region has surpassed Rs 3,000 crore in the deposit book of AU SFB, instilling confidence of AU SFB to scale up its operations in South India. The bank aims to reach approximately 37 branches in South India by March 2024.

Swaraj Tractors launches ‘Josh Ka Swaran Utsav’, a nationwide campaign honouring Indian farmers

Swaraj Tractors, a part of the Mahindra Group, proudly commenced a nationwide van campaign ‘Josh Ka Swaran Utsav’ coinciding with brands Golden Jubilee. Through the campaign Swaraj Tractors aims to pay tribute to Indian farmers instrumental in the brands success, while introducing Swaraj’s new range of tractors – ‘Naya Swaraj’ to forge stronger connections with farmers across the country.

 

To symbolize 50 years of excellence, Swaraj has launched ‘Josh ka Swaran Utsav’ campaign, embarking on an extensive journey across the country, starting from North India. This initiative will serve as a dynamic platform for direct engagement with farmers and spread awareness about Naya Swaraj.

 

The campaign promises a series of exciting events, including tractor rallies and customer meets, bringing together the Swaraj sales team, local farmers, channel partners and influencers. The initiative is expected to attract enthusiastic participation, enabling Swaraj to connect with over 50,000 customers directly.

 

Flagging off the ‘Josh ka Swaran Utsav’ campaign from one of Swaraj’s Tractors oldest manufacturing plants in Mohali, Mr. Hemant Sikka, President – Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., emphasized the significance of the celebration, stating that, “As we embark on this momentous journey, we honour the invaluable role of farmers in Swaraj’s success story. This Golden Jubilee celebration is a testament to our commitment to serving and empowering farmers across India.

 

Mr. Harish Chavan, CEO – Swaraj Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., highlighted the trust between Swaraj and its customers, stating, “At Swaraj we have the privilege to experience the unwavering trust and loyalty of our customers and the ‘Josh ka Swaran Utsav’ campaign is a gesture to acknowledge and thank farmers and the farming communities for their contribution in our success. By introducing Naya Swaraj, we aspire to continue our endeavour of empowering farmers and deepen our bond with them.”

 

During the campaign, Swaraj will showcase its latest range of tractors and farm equipment, while also seizing the opportunity to raise awareness about sustainable agriculture practices.

 

Roadzen CEO Rohan Malhotra Awarded ‘Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year’ at the Economic Times Summit

Rohan Malhotra, CEO of Roadzen Inc. (NASDAQ: RDZN), was honored with the ‘Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year’ award at the prestigious 2024 Economic Times Entrepreneurs Summit and Awards. The ceremony, held recently in New Delhi, showcased Malhotra’s leadership and Roadzen’s achievements in AI, highlighting the company’s success in bringing its innovations to global markets.

In his acceptance remarks, Rohan Malhotra said, “I am honored receiving this recognition from The Economic Times, which is the vanguard of business journalism in India. I accept this award on behalf of our team, whose remarkable and inspiring efforts continue to drive our success.”

The ET Entrepreneur Awards celebrates entrepreneurial excellence that drives forward-thinking and innovation across industries. It plays a crucial role in promoting innovation, recognizing leadership accomplishments, and inspiring the wider entrepreneurial community.

About Roadzen

Roadzen (NASDAQ: RDZN) is a leading insurance technology company on a mission to transform global auto insurance powered by AI. Thousands of clients – from some of the world’s leading insurers, fleets and carmakers to small fleets, brokers and insurance agents – use Roadzen’s technology to build new products, sell insurance, process claims and improve road safety. Roadzen’s pioneering work in telematics and computer vision has earned recognition as a top AI innovator by publications such as Forbes, Fortune and Financial Express. Roadzen has 400 employees across its global offices in the US, India, UK and France. To learn more, please visit www.roadzen.ai.

MM Group Founder Udit Pathak Unveils ‘Pure Reality With Udit’ Podcast Series To Inspire Next-Gen Entrepreneurs

Udit Pathak, Founder Director , Media Mantra Group – India’s leading independent PR and integrated communications conglomerate, announces the launch of his much-anticipated podcast series, ‘Pure Reality With Udit’. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, the video podcast series delves into the untold narratives of entrepreneurship, spotlighting the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of industry leaders in their pursuit of success.

 

Officially launched on YouTube, Instagram, ‘Pure Reality With Udit’ aims to provide listeners with an intimate glimpse into the behind-the-scenes struggles encountered by entrepreneurs across various industries. By sharing these powerful narratives, the podcast promises to offer invaluable insights and inspiration to aspiring business leaders navigating their own entrepreneurial journeys. The episodes are also available on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music.

 

Reflecting on his own journey and success, Mr. Udit Pathak, Founder Director of Media Mantra Group, said, “Success is often portrayed as a glamorous destination, but the road to get there is rarely discussed. Having started working at the tender age of 16, I understand first-hand the challenges and obstacles that entrepreneurs encounter along the way. While everyone knows me as a successful entrepreneur, few are aware of the hardships and sacrifices that paved the way for my achievements. With this podcast, I want to give back to the community by shedding light on the realities of entrepreneurship and empowering others to persevere in the face of adversity.”

The podcast will feature candid conversations with accomplished entrepreneurs from various industries who will share their personal accounts of overcoming adversity, making tough decisions, and persevering through setbacks. By offering a raw and authentic perspective, ‘Pure Reality With Udit’ aims to demystify the entrepreneurial experience and provide valuable insights for those embarking on their own business ventures.

Excited about her association with the series, the show’s Co-Host,  Ms. Mamtaa. Dhingra, Founder, Lateral Sutraa and Award Winning Podcaster of Unbound with Mamtaa, added,” This is a golden-era of content creation and India with its 57.6 million monthly listeners is already the third-largest podcast listening market in the world. This is my third podcast series in less than two-years and I am thrilled at the sheer promise of the series ‘Pure Reality With Udit’. Udit with his sharp business acumen and an inherent curious nature brings to the show a refreshing  approach as he digs insights from the realstories and lessons of those who have navigated familiar territories and negated challenges. This series is a much-needed initiative to sheds light on the authentic stories of entrepreneurial grit and perseverance. For me personally this is a true extension and growth of my podcasting journey. “

With its compelling storytelling and emphasis on authenticity, ‘Pure Reality With Udit’ is poised to become a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, business students, and anyone seeking inspiration from the trials and triumphs of those who have walked the path before them.

SpiceJet to Enhance Haj Operations with Two Wide-body A340 Aircraft Induction

SpiceJet has finalised a significant lease agreement to introduce two wide-body A340 aircraft into its fleet for the upcoming Haj operations. This strategic move underscores the airline’s commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences while maximizing revenue streams.

 

The airline will deploy the wide-body aircraft from both Srinagar and Guwahati.

 

Last year, SpiceJet’s Haj operations generated substantial revenue of INR 337 Crore. The airline aims to replicate this success in the current year’s operations.

 

Chandan Sand, Head of Leasing and Legal, SpiceJet said, “We are happy to announce the finalisation of the lease agreement for the induction of two wide-body A340 aircraft into our fleet, further enhancing our capacity to serve the needs of our passengers, especially during the upcoming Haj operations. These A340s will not only elevate our service standards but also play a vital role in enhancing our revenue streams.”

 

“Furthermore, we are actively pursuing opportunities to expand our fleet through long-term lease agreements, which will not only bolster our existing fleet but also facilitate the expansion of our network, enabling us to better serve our passengers and strengthen our position in the aviation industry.”

 

The wide-body aircraft, each with a seating capacity of 324, will play a crucial role in SpiceJet’s Haj operations, which are scheduled to commence their first phase to Medina on May 9, 2024. With flights scheduled to operate from seven Indian cities, including Srinagar, Gaya, Guwahati, Bhopal, Indore, Aurangabad, and Vijayawada, SpiceJet is set to facilitate seamless travel experiences for pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey to Medina.

 

SpiceJet operated over 200 special Haj flights last year, carrying over 21,000 pilgrims.

Kantar India Foundation and WeLive Foundation, together launched 2nd residential bridge program for young women of child care institution(CCI) in Chennai

Kantar India Foundation has partnered with WeLive Foundation to launch its second residential bridge program for young women from orphanages and shelter homes in Chennai to aid the young women as they transition into adulthood.

For children growing up in CCIs, turning 18 marks a critical juncture. Legally required to leave the institution upon reaching adulthood, these “care leavers” often struggle to navigate the challenges of the real world. WeLive’s residential bridge program supports these individuals aged between 18-23 by equipping them with the necessary skills and resources for independent living. This includes support for physical and emotional well-being, education and skill-building programs, and guidance on financial management.

According to a report by Make a Difference, an NGO working with CCIs, there are approximately 35 million children classified under the Children in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP) category. Out of these children, a marginal number is registered in institutional care, facing various challenges ranging from abuse to family neglect.Kantar India Foundation, in partnership with WeLive Foundation, has effectively initiated analogous programs in Bangalore in 2022 and Chennai in the year 2024. Over this span of two years, they have extended their support to young women from CCIs across 10 states in India, spanning from Kashmir to Kerala. The assistance has been comprehensive, encompassing completion of skilling programs, acquisition of educational certificates, and facilitation of employment opportunities. These young women have embarked on their professional journeys, securing positions in banks, corporate entities, and retail chains. Additionally, they have demonstrated financial responsibility by earning and saving for their future, all the while benefiting from provisions for nutrition, safe accommodations, and holistic well-being provided by the program.

Speaking about the partnership, Rajani Athreya, Director HR, Insights Division, South Asia at Kantar said, “Kantar India Foundation is anchored in its mission of ” Equipping Women for Life” and we strongly believe that every little step that we take in this direction has the potential to create a magnified and powerful social impact. This partnership ensures a safe environment and holistic development opportunities for the youngsters and equips  them, as they  step into the real world, to spread their wings and soar high.”

N S Parthasarathy, Co-Founder of Mindtree Limited, Board member of WeLive Foundation, added, “WeLive has been focused on providing a comprehensive, robust program for care leavers, in a caring residential setting that will help them bridge their transition to the outside world. In collaboration with Kantar India Foundation, we are delighted to start our second centre for young women, who lack a support system – a space where they can learn, thrive, and get ready for independent living.”

The newly launched center in Chennai aims to accommodate young women from various locations like Gujarat, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana and more, offering them educational support, skill training, and job placement opportunities. They will also receive mentorship in areas such as financial literacy and documentation.