Welspun Living Limited (WLL), a global leader in home textiles, has achieved a remarkable milestone in sustainability, securing a total ESG score of 83 in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA). This recognition solidifiesWLL’s ongoing leadership as the highest-ranked textile manufacturing company from India in the Textile, Apparel & Luxury Goods category. The score also places WLL at the 4^th position globally in the aforesaid category of the CSA. The company has demonstrated a significant 26% improvement from its 2023 score of 66, highlighting its commitment to sustainable business practices and responsible growth.

WLL’s impressive performance is reflected across all three key pillars of the assessment: Governance & Economic (79), Environment (85), and Social (84). The company’s continuous advancements in sustainable manufacturing, ethical sourcing, and environmental stewardship have played a crucial role in this achievement. With a strategic focus on innovation, transparency, and circular economy principles, WLL continues to lead the way in embedding sustainability into its core business operations.

Welspun Living Limited has outperformed industry benchmarks in ESG performance. It scored 85 in Environmental (industry mean: 34, highest: 96), 84 in Social (mean: 34, highest: 91), and 79 in Governance & Economic (mean: 38, highest: 88). These scores highlight Welspun Living’s leadership in sustainability and excellence in the industry.

 

 

Commenting on this accomplishment, Dipali Goenka, MD& CEO, Welspun Living Limited, said: “We are incredibly proud of achieving the Fourth position in the Textile, Apparel & Luxury Goods categoryglobally in the S&P CSA with a score of Eighty Three this year. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who continuously strive to integrate sustainable practices into every aspect of our business. At Welspun Living, we believe that responsible growth goes hand in hand with innovation and transparency, and we remain committed to leading the way in sustainable manufacturing and setting benchmarks in the industry”.

Alok Mishra, President & Group Head – Sustainability, added: “This remarkable improvement in our ESG score is a result of our efforts to address the company’s ESG risks holistically and build a future proof organization. It’s a proof of our belief that economic growth and environmental stewardship can co-exist. The success re-energises us to continue working towards our long-term vision of creating impact-driven solutions for a better world.”

As sustainability continues to shape the global business landscape, Welspun Living remains dedicated to enhancing its ESG initiatives, setting new benchmarks for responsible growth in the textile industry. The company’s strategic roadmap focuses on decarbonization, water conservation, circular economy, and social empowerment, ensuring a holistic approach toward long-term value creation.

 

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) today announced the launch of the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) to nurture and support the growth of India’s space technology capabilities. This fund is designed to support the transition of early-stage space technologies developed by Indian companies into commercially viable products. By providing partial funding to Non-Government Entities (NGEs), the TAF will support the transition of innovative ideas from the drawing board to a market-ready stage.

The TAF has been created to promote the development of space technology within India while reducing the nation’s dependence on imported solutions. Investing in domestic research and development, the TAF will help building a strong partnership between government bodies and the private sector and position India as a reliable global partner in the space industry.

“The fund will offer financial support of up to 60% of the project cost for startups and MSMEs, and 40% for larger industries, with a maximum funding cap of ₹25 Crores per project,” said Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe. “We have designed this fund to help innovators bridge the gap between early-stage development and commercialization. This support will enable companies to refine their technologies, enhance production processes, and meet market demands both within India and abroad. Our focus is on enabling practical solutions that can be quickly integrated into the space ecosystem”, he added. 

With TAF, IN-SPACe aims to support a wide range of outcomes—from the development of new space products to the creation of intellectual property that can drive future research and development. The fund will help promote advanced space technologies and contribute to job creation along with economic growth. By funding projects that have the potential to become commercial successes, IN-SPACe is taking concrete steps toward strengthening India’s position in the global space sector.

The Technology Adoption Fund is open to all eligible NGEs/companies that are ready to demonstrate the commercial potential of their innovations. Interested parties are encouraged to register on the IN-SPACe Digital Platform (IDP) at www.inspace.gov.in/taf to review the Guidelines Document and to submit their applications in the prescribed format.

In addition to financial support, the initiative will provide technical guidance and mentoring opportunities, which will help companies navigate challenges during the product development phase. This comprehensive support framework is intended to ensure that innovative ideas are not only protected and refined but also brought to market efficiently.

 

EDITOR’S SYNOPSIS

 

·         ACC and the Adani Foundation facilitate expansion of Vijay Lakshmi Devi’s grocery store near ACC Salai Banwa, through the Radhe self-help group (SHG).

·         The initiative has enabled Vijay Lakshmi to increase her family’s monthly income by Rs. 5,000, significantly improving their financial stability.

·         Vijay Lakshmi plans to repay the loan in 12 months and further expand her business, aiming to boost her family’s annual income to Rs. 1.20 lakh.

 

ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to empowering rural communities through sustainable livelihoods. The Company along with the Adani Foundation is supporting Vijay Lakshmi Devi, president of the Radhe self-help group (SHG), to expand her grocery store near ACC Salai Banwa.

 

Under ACC and the Adani Foundation’s community outreach initiatives, Vijay Lakshmi received a Rs. 50,000 loan which has enabled her to expand her inventory, attract more customers, and boost her family’s financial stability. Despite challenges such as balancing her growing business with family responsibilities, Vijay Lakshmi remains determined to succeed. Her goal is to repay the loan within 12 months while increasing her monthly income by Rs. 5,000, raising her family’s annual earnings to Rs. 1.20 lakh this year.

 

Vijay Lakshmi’s journey reflects resilience and determination. With the additional income, her family’s financial position has significantly improved, giving them the confidence to plan for a better future. She also serves as an inspiration to other rural entrepreneurs in the region.

 

ACC remains committed to enhancing economic opportunities for communities where it operates. Initiatives such as supporting rural entrepreneurs through SHGs highlight its efforts towards facilitating financial independence and promoting inclusive growth in rural areas of the nation.

 

–       THE ULTIMATE FUN AND NAKED BIKE ARRIVES ON THE 457 PLATFORM WITH A COMPLETELY NEW DESIGN LANGUAGE

 

–       DEDICATED TO YOUNG BIKERS ALL OVER THE WORLD, IT IS 100% TUONO: UNIQUE PERFORMANCE, TOP-LEVEL CONTENT AND SUPERB RIDING

 

–       THE NEW TUONO 457 BOASTS THE BEST POWER/WEIGHT RATIO IN ITS CATEGORY: EASY TO HANDLE, PURE FUN TO RIDE

 

–       THE NEW REFERENCE POINT IN TERMS OF STYLE AND TECHNOLOGY: TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE, ALUMINIUM FRAME AND AN ELECTRONIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THAT INCLUDES RIDE-BY-WIRE, TRACTION CONTROL AND THREE RIDING MODES

 

–       PRICED AT INR 3,95,000 (EX-SHOWROOM, MAHARASHTRA) AND AVAIABLE IN TWO COLOURS OF PIRANHA RED AND PUMA GREY

 

–       BOOKINGS NOW OPEN VIA WWW.SHOP.APRILIAINDIA.COM AT INR 10,000

 

–       TEST RIDES AND DELIVERIES TO COMMENCE FROM FIRST WEEK OF MARCH 2025 AT SELECT APRLIA INDIA DEALERSHIPS IN INDIA

 

A new Aprilia Tuono is born, and new generations of motorcyclists – among the most knowledgeable and passionate out there – know that a new machine dedicated to pure fun has arrived in India. At a thunderous evening in Bangalore, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd along with Aprilia India brand ambassador John Abraham, launched the Aprilia Tuono 457 for the India market. 

 

Young motorcyclists have already demonstrated their appreciation for Aprilia's skill in understanding and interpreting their desire for fun with the RS 457, a model that was conceived in Noale. This excellent technical base provides the building blocks for the Aprilia Tuono 457, unveiled to new riders as a true naked bike, dedicated to day-to-day riding and leisure-time fun. The new Aprilia bears a legendary name which has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technology, maximum performance and absolute enjoyment both on the road and on the track.

 

Speaking at the unveil, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd, said, “I am thrilled to introduce to India the Aprilia Tuono 457, a year after we introduced the segment disruptor Aprilia RS457. There were a lot of enquiries for naked sibling to the RS and Tuono 457 is the latest heir to a tradition of excellence in high-handlebar sports bikes offering a superb, adrenaline-filled ride. The Tuono 457 has a number of differences that render it all the more exclusive: it is the only bike in the range that does not have a fairing integrated into the frame. In its place – for the first time on a Tuono – is a pared-back light cluster, worthy of a true naked bike. It’s the most non-conformist and rebellious Tuono that has ever been, and whilst it retains the core features of all Tuono bikes, the new model boasts an all-new look, designed to satisfy the needs and desires of the youngest generation at which it is aimed.”

He further added, “I am sure the Tuono 457 will also win over bikers in India and I cannot wait to hear their feelings astride the new Tuono”

 

Brand Ambassador John Abraham also expressed his views, “Like many other bikers, I was also hoping for a Tuono 457 to be introduced to India. The Aprilia Tuono has a legendary portfolio and I am sure the new Tuono 457 will completely dominate the naked segment. The bike is agile, powerful and looks distinct and incredible, all things that one expects from Aprilia. I think this will be the perfect city and urban riding bike and I cant wait to get this bike home.”  

 

 

A fresh new design

The entire design of the Tuono 457 is new, and has grown from a blank sheet, upon which Aprilia’s designers have sketched the pared-back lines and compact surfaces of a true naked bike – an evolution of the stylistic language that makes all Aprilia bikes instantly recognisable and utterly unique. The full LED front light cluster retains the characteristic triple headlight that typifies all Aprilia models, interpreted here in an innovative manner, with a small lower spoiler – a homage to that on the legendary Tuono 1000 R twin-cylinder which also reflects the design of all Aprilia road bikes in the range, where the application of advanced aerodynamic solutions is clear to see.

 

The new tank shape expresses a sense of sportiness and has an ergonomic design which is specifically conceived to match the wide handlebar, for a dynamic, fun ride.

 

Also new is the design of the side panels and tailpiece, which echo the essential styling of the Tuono 457. The rear light cluster is also full LED, while the twin-cylinder engine with load-bearing function is intentionally left uncovered, highlighting its uniqueness in this category, as is the twin-beam aluminium frame. The decision to locate the exhaust system under the engine also contributes to the clean look of the bike, whilst also providing greater freedom in terms of the positioning of the passenger footrests. The saddle, which is 800 mm from the ground, is tapered at the sides to aid the rider when placing a foot on the ground; the passenger seat is roomy, while the single-seat tailpiece is available as an accessory.     

 

Top-level power/weight ratio

The Tuono 457 is crafted around the ultra-modern 457 cc twin-cylinder engine which has just been introduced on the RS 457, the jewel in Aprilia's technological crown.

It is a liquid-cooled, parallel front twin-cylinder engine with double camshaft timing and four valves per cylinder, which has a maximum power output of 35 kW (47.6 hp) at 9,400 rpm and a torque of 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm, 82% of which is already available at 3,000 rpm. The bike offers record levels of performance for a front twin-cylinder with this engine size.

 

This latest-generation engine is extremely compact and light, helping to achieve best power/weight ratio, the key priority for Noale's designers: indeed, the bike’s dry weight is just 159 kg. The specific layout of the engine was selected to optimise lightness and compactness as far as possible, leaving plenty of freedom when designing the chassis; the engine also has a load-bearing function, with the swingarm mount incorporated into the rear.

 

Aprilia's twin-cylinder engine draws on the experience gained with the super-powerful 1100 cc V4 engine fitted on the RSV4 and later on the 659 cc twin-cylinder engine fitted to the 660 range.

Aprilia's technicians have worked to optimise the overall dimensions, fully integrating the cooling circuit and the blow-by recovery circuit into the engine, enabling external piping to be eliminated.

The crankcase is split horizontally into two parts, in order to further reduce bulk and make the structure more robust.

 

Various solutions have been used to minimise internal friction: the cylinders are offset by around 6.5 mm from the crankshaft, reducing friction during the piston thrust; the countershaft and the water pump work on roller bearings instead of bushings, and the piston pins undergo a  DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) surface treatment. Finally, the gearbox uses roller cages instead of bushings – the same as on Aprilia's V4 engines – and in addition, it boasts a new patented lubrication solution, with a system integrated into the axles of the shift forks. The cam axles of the 4-valve/cylinder twin camshaft timing system, driven by a lateral chain, are hollow and use calibrated cups – which help to reduce inertia – in order to move the valves. The oil-bath multi-disc clutch is power-assisted, and has an anti-hopping system. Unlike the RS 457, the final drive train of the Tuono 457 is shorter as a result of the adoption of a crown wheel with an extra tooth, which enables even greater responsiveness at every touch of the electronic Ride-by-Wire multimap throttle.

 

The chassis: absolute lightness and agility

The new Tuono 457 benefits from Aprilia's invaluable, winning expertise, gained through years of competing, and is the only bike in its segment with an aluminium frame.

 

To achieve the very best compromise between rigidity and weight, the shapes of the chassis were optimised using Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), along with a host of on-road development sessions. The resulting layout is devoted to maximum lightness, which ensures the dynamic behaviour and the characteristic front-axle feel common to all Aprilia bikes. The chassis is forged from two lateral aluminium beams, bolted onto the steering head and at the rear; the engine functions as a load-bearing element – a solution inspired by the highly successful engine on the 660 road range – which enables the creation of a compact, light and rigid structure. This solution delivers the best power/weight ratio in the category. In order to allow the chassis to fully express its superb handling and precision to the full, cutting-edge suspensions have been selected, and the calibration of the latter delivers maximum fun and the best possible control in every situation. The fork with 41 mm stems and 120 mm travel has a preload adjustment setting, and the rear shock absorber (with 130 mm travel), which supports the asymmetrical steel swingarm, is adjustable too.

 

The braking system features a pair of ByBre callipers (the front of which has a radial mount) which operate with two steel discs:320 mm at the front and 220 mm at the rear.

 

The system is assisted by a Bosch two-channel ABS system with dual-mapping, available either on both wheels or only on the front. The 17-inch rims fit tyres measuring 110/70 at the front and 150/60 at the back – perfect for emphasising the spectacular agility that the features of the chassis deliver.

 

Electronic control systems for safety and fun

The electronic equipment of the Tuono 457 continues Aprilia’s technological tradition, and is the most comprehensive in this category, developed with the dual goal of enhancing riding fun and ensuring maximum safety under all conditions. The Ride by Wire system – which Aprilia introduced first, both in MotoGP with the futuristic RS Cube, and in mass production with the Shiver – boasts three Riding Modes that adjust the power and torque delivery and the traction control, which can be set to three levels as well as disengaged. The Aprilia Riding Modes are also conceived to make life in the saddle easier: the rider simply selects the mode best suited to their riding style or situation in order to enjoy the optimal engine management and traction control settings.

 

The three Riding Modes are as follows:

ECO: the power delivered by the engine is progressive, while the traction control intervention level is set to medium (Level 2). Perfect for longer journeys and for day-to-day riding.

SPORT: the perfect mode for sporting riding, with a more prompt, dynamic power delivery from the engine and less invasive traction control (Level 1).

RAIN: a riding mode designed for use in low-grip conditions and on wet tarmac.

The power delivery is very smooth, whilst the traction control is set to maximum (Level 3) for total safety when accelerating.

 

The ATC (Aprilia Traction Control) system can always be adjusted, regardless of the Riding Mode selected, including whilst riding, by using the handy UP and DOWN buttons on the left-hand command block. In all Riding Modes, the ABS is set to the maximum level, and is engaged on both wheels. The ABS can be disengaged from the rear wheel when the bike is stationary, by pressing and holding the Riding Mode button, in order to maximise the sporty ride when on the track, for example.

The catalogue of dedicated accessories also includes the AQS system: Aprilia Quick Shift, the bi-directional electronic gearbox, for super-fast gear changes without having to close the throttle or use the clutch, which is also available when downshifting.

 

The Tuono 457 equipment also includes the cutting-edge TFT 5” colour instrument panel as standard, as well as the practical, intuitive back-lit commands on the handlebar. The Aprilia India app is another addition that further extends the functionality of the instrumentation: this multi-media platform enables the rider to connect their smartphone to the bike with Bluetooth connectivity. The system offers a connection protocol which minimises smartphone battery consumption, and includes both the Infotainment system – for managing the voice assistant, calls and music via the intuitive handlebar controls – and the navigation function, which enables the rider to view pictogram directions directly on the instrument panel after setting the travel destination on the associated smartphone.

 

Versions and colours

 

The Aprilia Tuono 457 comes in two different graphic versions. The Piranha Red livery boasts the classic colours of Aprilia's history – black and red – which serve to highlight the sporty nature of the Tuono 457. The second graphic version is called Puma Gray and features more sober colours, grey and white, which lend the Tuono 457 a more urban look.

 

Aprilia Tuono will also offer following accessories:

 

Aprilia has developed a broad range of original accessories for the Tuono 457 range, designed to enhance the character of the bike and improve both comport and functionality.

Part
QUICK SHIFTER UP/DOWN
ANTITHEFT (to be used with Sr No 3 as pair)
ELECTRONIC ANTITHIEF INSTALLATION EQUIP.
PASSENGER SEAT COVER MATT BLACK
COMPLETE USB SOCKET
FRONT BRAKE PADS SINTERED
HELMET CABLE LOCK
OUTDOOR VEHICLE COVER – WATERPROOF
FORK SLIDERS
TPMS
ADJUSTABLE BREAK LEVER
SHORT MUD GUARD	Coming Soon
EXTENDED WINDSHIELD	Coming Soon

 

Pricing, after sales and service:

The Aprilia Tuono 457 is priced at INR 3,95,000 (ex-showroom, Maharashtra) and is open to bookings at www.shop.apriliaindia.com at INR 10,000. Test rides and deliveries will commence from the first week of March 2025 from select Aprilia India dealerships across India.

 

The Aprilia Tuono 457 commits to a similar after-sales and service promise as the RS457 and offers:

–       3 Year warranty, best in segment

–       First 3 complimentary services*

–       Road side assistance

 

 Keep following Aprilia India’s website and social media handles to know more.

***

 

 

• Offers flexible SIP options (daily, weekly, or monthly) for young professionals and first-time investors looking for adaptable investment opportunities
• Aims to empower merchant partners to make their first investment, helping them build long-term wealth for their business
• Paytm pioneered QR code payments in India, driving the shift to mobile payments – now, it aims to bring the same transformation to the investment sector

 

Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and pioneer of QR codes, Soundbox, and mobile payments, has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Paytm Services Private Limited (PSPL), an AMFI registered mutual fund distributor, ARN-114595, is now making it easier for millions of Indians to invest in their future. In partnership with SBI Mutual Fund, India’s largest asset management company, Paytm has launched the JanNivesh ₹250 SIP, in line with the Government of India’s vision for a Viksit Bharat by enabling financial inclusion and empowering citizens to invest in their future. This initiative, launched today by SEBI Chairperson Smt. Madhabi Puri Buch and SBI Chairman Shri C S Shetty, enables users to begin their investment journey with just ₹250, making financial growth accessible to all.

 

The JanNivesh SIP initiative is aimed at empowering citizens to contribute towards India’s financial and economic growth. It offers individuals a simple, affordable entry into wealth-building through small, regular investments, facilitating participation in key financial instruments with just ₹250. Additionally, it provides flexible SIP options – daily, monthly, or weekly contributions – to suit varied financial needs and preferences. This step is pivotal in encouraging financial literacy, economic inclusion, and supporting the Viksit Bharat journey.

 

The company aims to empower Paytm's merchant partners by offering them the opportunity to make their first investment, helping them build long-term wealth for their business. This initiative is designed to improve their financial stability and contribute to the broader vision of financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Paytm is committed to supporting the growth of its merchant partners and strengthening the financial foundation of their businesses.

 

D.P Singh, DMD & Joint CEO, SBI Mutual Fund said, “We have launched the JanNivesh ₹250 SIP, a key initiative that brings us closer to our goal of promoting financial inclusion. Through our partnership with Paytm and other Fintech players, we are offering millions of Indians an easy and flexible entry point to begin investing in their future. This is an important step in our shared vision for a Viksit Bharat, where every citizen has access to wealth-building opportunities.”

 

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO – Paytm said, “We are excited to participate in the Government of India’s Viksit Bharat vision with the launch of JanNivesh ₹250 SIP on Paytm, in partnership with SBI Mutual Fund. The mutual funds market currently has over 100 million investors, and we are thrilled to be part of the journey towards expanding this to 300-400 million mutual fund investors. This initiative, with its simple and low-investment amount SIP options, allows millions of Indians to start investing and contribute to the nation’s economic growth. We extend our gratitude to SBI and SEBI for making this vision a reality.”

 

How to Set Up Your JanNivesh SIP on Paytm:

1. Open the Paytm App and tap on the JanNivesh SIP icon in the 'Do More with Paytm' section.
2. Choose your preferred investment frequency—Daily, Weekly, or Monthly.
3. Select the investment amount, starting from ₹250, that you wish to contribute towards your SIP.
4. Click on “Proceed” and enter your PAN details when prompted.
5. Complete your SEBI-mandated KYC steps by providing the required details.
6. Review your SIP details and proceed to set up UPI Autopay mandate for seamless payments.
7. Once the UPI Autopay mandate is successfully set up, your SIP will be registered.

 

Your investments will then be processed automatically based on your selected frequency. This streamlined process ensures a hassle-free way to invest and grow your wealth with JanNivesh SIP on Paytm!

 

Paytm’s collaboration with JanNivesh ₹250 SIP is set to transform India’s investment landscape, driving financial inclusion and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. Just as Paytm pioneered QR code mobile payments and revolutionized the payment sector, it now aims to bring the same level of innovation to the investment space. This initiative aligns with the government’s Viksit Bharat vision, offering millions of Indians an accessible, affordable way to start investing and contribute to India’s future prosperity.

StockGro, India’s leading investment advisory and knowledge platform dedicated to enhancing financial literacy, is proud to announce its collaboration with Zomato, India's food ordering and delivery platform, to help Zomato's delivery partners manage their finances better. The collaboration aims to empower Zomato's delivery partners with valuable tools and essential knowledge to manage their earnings and enhance their financial well-being effectively.

Through this initiative, Zomato has collaborated with StockGro to empower delivery partners with financial literacy through tailored education sessions. These sessions will be available in multiple local languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Kannada, and more, allowing delivery partners from across the country to access the content easily. The sessions will cover essential topics like budgeting, saving, investing, and future planning. This aligns with Zomato's commitment to empowering 1 million gig workers by increasing their earning potential and financial stability through upskilling, partnerships, and benefit programs, enabling them to build financial stability and achieve their goals.

As part of this initiative, StockGro has successfully conducted 10 high-impact financial literacy sessions across Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Bangalore, equipping 1000+ delivery partners with essential financial skills. By covering budgeting, saving, investing, and future planning, these sessions have empowered delivery partners to take control of their earnings, build financial security, and plan for a stable future. This initiative marks a crucial step in enhancing financial well-being within the gig economy, helping delivery partners make informed decisions that directly impact their livelihoods and long-term prosperity.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Ajay Lakhotia, Founder & CEO, StockGro said, “At StockGro, we believe that financial literacy is a key driver of long-term personal growth. We are excited to collaborate with Zomato to empower delivery partners with the knowledge and skills they need to make smarter financial decisions. This collaboration will not only improve their financial security but also enable them to build better futures for themselves and their families.”

“At Zomato, our delivery partners are the backbone of our business, and we are committed to building a more supportive environment for them. Through this collaboration with StockGro, we aim to empower the delivery partners with the necessary tools to take charge of their financial journey, helping them make informed decisions and secure a healthier financial future,” said Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Zomato.

 

·         The 21,700 Rkm submarine cable will connect India to Singapore and France (Marseille) crossing Egypt, enhancing India’s connectivity to the world

·         SEA-ME-WE-6 to bring a whopping 220 TBPs of global capacity to India

 

Bharti Airtel Limited (“Airtel”), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, landed the new SEA-ME-WE 6 (Southeast Asia-Middle East-West Europe-6, or SMW6) in Chennai. The company had already landed the cable in Mumbai on December 30, 2024.

 

These cable landings were completed by SubCom, a leading supplier of subsea fiber optic cable data systems responsible for the engineering, manufacture and installation of SEA-ME-WE-6.The 21,700 Rkm submarine cable system connects India to Singapore and France (Marseille) crossing Egypt through terrestrial cables. With this, Airtel has further enhanced its network presence with diversified capacity in the submarine cable system globally.

 

Sharat Sinha, Director & CEO – Airtel Business, said, “At Airtel we strive to provide the best in class services to our customers and this new investment and milestone would further improve our secure, diverse and scalable global network. We are delighted to further strengthen our global connectivity by landing one of the largest cable systems into our facilities. This complements our existing network strength of 400,000 Rkms across 50 countries. This also underlines our commitment to address Digital India’s growing demand for global connectivity & data with additional routes, diversity and capacity.”

 

The cable landing, both in Mumbai and Chennai, will be fully integrated with Airtel’s data centre arm, Nxtra by Airtel, at its large facilities in the respective cities with an aim to enable global hyperscalers and businesses in the country to seamlessly access international connectivity and data centre services.

 

As a key member of the consortium of the SEA-ME-WE-6 cable system, Airtel has investment in the core cable and has additionally co-built a private network of four Fiber Pairs between Singapore, Chennai and Mumbai. This cable system will bring a whopping 220 TBPs of global capacity to India.

 

Airtel’s global network spans five continents. The company has investments in 34 cables globally with some of the recent ones including 2Africa, Southeast Asia-Japan Cable 2 (SJC2) and Equiano. Apart from these cables that connect India to key regions like APAC, Europe, the Middle East and US, Airtel’s global subsea network investments also include large cable systems like i2i Cable Network (i2icn), Europe India Gateway (EIG), IMEWE, SEA-ME-WE-4, AAG, Unity, EASSy, Gulf Bridge International (GBI) and Middle East North Africa Submarine Cable (MENA Cable) amongst many others.

A Launchpad for Entrepreneurs and a Catalyst for Global Innovation

Register now to unlock growth, funding &future opportunities!

Registration is now open for the highly anticipated second edition ofStartup Mahakumbh, the world’s largest startup event, set to take place from April 3 to 5, 2025. Building onthe success of its inaugural edition, thisyear’s event will spotlight India’s growing leadership in global innovation and entrepreneurship. With industry leaders such as Aman Gupta, Co-Founder & CMO, boAt Lifestyle, Peyush Bansal, CEO & Co-Founder, Lenskart, Padma Shri Prsahant Prakash, Founding Partner at Accel Ventures, Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO, Zerodha Investments, among other notable CXOs already part of the organizing committee, Startup Mahakumbh promises to be a game-changing platform driving collaboration and empowering entrepreneurs to build the future of the startup ecosystem.

With over 3,000 startups, 500+ investors, and industry leaders from 50+ countries, the event will create unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and growth. The event will feature cutting-edge technologies across industries and a variety of activities, including, knowledge tracks on funding, scaling, and technological advancements, and networking zones for collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors.

The event will offer attendees a range of activities, from high-impact pitching sessions to thought-provoking workshops and discussions on the latest industry trends.Startups looking to exhibit their innovations can register for Startup Pods, which are available for both Indian and international participants. Indian startups can secure a Startup Pod for INR 30,000 per pod, which includes two complimentary delegate registrations and a listing in the event’s e-directory. For international startups, the cost is USD 375 per pod, with the same entitlements.

Additionally, Attendees can also avail Gold and Silver Delegate Passes, each with exclusive benefits. For Indian participants, the Gold Pass (INR 12,000) includes priority registration, delegate kit, premium seating, event access, breakout sessions, VIP lunch for 2 days, access to the Gold Lounge for networking, and the B2B portal. The Silver Pass (INR 5,000) offers standard registration, delegate kit, event access, breakout sessions, complimentary lunch for 2 days, and access to the B2B portal. For international participants, the Gold Pass is for USD 150, and the Silver Pass is for USD 60, with similar benefits as the Indian passes. The first 300 Gold and 500 Silver registrations are eligible for these offers.

Archana Jahagirdar, Founder & Managing Partner at Rukam Capital, expressed, “It is more than just an event; it’s a catalyst for change. This year, the focus on emerging sectors and innovative technologies will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs to bring transformative solutions to the forefront, helping India solidify its position as a global startup hub.”

The second edition of Startup Mahakumbh promises to be a landmark event in the global startup calendar, bringing together the brightest minds in innovation and creating a space for new ideas and partnerships to flourish.Register Now to be part of this groundbreaking event and contribute to shaping the future of global entrepreneurship, before slots run out.

For more details and to register, visit www.startupmahakumbh2025.com.

Cancer treatment, while life-saving, can sometimes have a profound impact on a patient’s fertility. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, common treatments for various types of cancer, may significantly affect a patient’s reproductive organs, leading to infertility. However, with advancements in medical technology, there are various fertility preservation options available for patients, allowing them to plan for the future.

Dr. Madhulika Singh, IVF Specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF, Prayagraj emphasizes “Fertility preservation is an important consideration for cancer patients before undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or radiation that may impact reproductive health. Options for preserving fertility include egg, sperm, or embryo freezing, which allows individuals to store their reproductive cells for future use.”

Egg and sperm freezing are among the most commonly used fertility preservation methods. These procedures involve collecting and freezing reproductive cells before the cancer treatment begins, giving patients the possibility of using these cells to conceive later. Embryo freezing, which involves fertilizing eggs and then freezing the embryos, is another option, particularly for couples.

For women, ovarian tissue freezing has emerged as a viable method for preserving fertility. This technique involves removing and freezing ovarian tissue, which can later be re-implanted or used for in vitro fertilization. Hormone therapy may also be an option to protect the ovaries during chemotherapy.

“For women, ovarian tissue freezing or hormone therapy may also be considered. In some cases, fertility-sparing surgery can be an option depending on the type and stage of cancer. After treatment, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF or IUI can help individuals achieve pregnancy. Discussing these options early with a fertility specialist ensures that patients can make informed decisions about their future fertility,” adds Dr. Madhulika.

Fertility preservation requires careful planning and early consultation with specialists, as the optimal timing for these procedures often depends on the cancer treatment schedule. Couples facing infertility after cancer treatment have options such as IVF and IUI, which can help them achieve successful pregnancies.

Given the advancements in fertility preservation, cancer patients now have more hope for their future reproductive health, allowing them to plan families after treatment.

In recent years, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) has become a popular option for couples seeking to build their families. Advancements in technology, higher success rates, and better patient care are contributing to a surge in IVF treatments across the country. As the landscape of fertility treatments evolves, more patients are turning to IVF, which offers a reliable solution to infertility challenges.

“More patients are choosing IVF as a family-building solution due to advancements in technology, higher success rates, and improved patient care. Fertility clinics are enhancing the overall IVF experience by offering personalized treatment plans, greater transparency, and compassionate support throughout the journey. With innovations like genetic screening, embryo freezing, and egg banking, patients have more options than ever to ensure the best chance of success. Clinics are also focusing on reducing the emotional and financial stress of treatment, providing counseling, financing options, and follow-up care to create a holistic and supportive environment for each patient,” says Dr. Madhulika Singh, IVF Specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF, Prayagraj.

One of the primary reasons IVF has gained popularity is due to significant advancements in fertility technologies. The use of genetic screening has allowed doctors to assess embryos for potential genetic disorders, significantly increasing the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. Innovations such as egg banking and embryo freezing further provide patients with flexible options for family planning.

IVF clinics are also addressing the emotional and financial challenges that come with fertility treatments. Many now offer counseling services to help patients cope with the stress, while financial options and packages make treatment more accessible. Comprehensive follow-up care ensures that patients receive continuous support throughout the entire process.

With all these improvements, IVF is no longer viewed as a last resort, but as a dependable and empowering family-building option for many couples.