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  • HDFC Bank’s Decision to Divest from HDFC Edu

    Implications for Investors and the Education Sector

    PUNE: The Board of Directors of HDFC Bank has approved the sale of a 100 percent stake in HDFC Edu to Vama Sundari Investments (Delhi) Private Limited, an HCL Group Company.

    This proposed divestment is under the direction of the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”) following the merger of erstwhile HDFC Limited with HDFC Bank Limited in July 2023.

    HDFC Edu was established with a vision and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on school systems nationwide through its professional services and support.

    The proposed divestment of HDFC Bank’s shareholding in HDFC Edu will not change or shift HDFC Edu’s commitment to enhancing quality school education. HDFC Edu will continue to work on its mission under the ownership of HCL Group. HCL Group is known for its strategic investments, innovation, and an experienced leadership team that consistently delivers outstanding educational outcomes. Its founder, Mr Shiv Nadar is a philanthropist who established the Shiv Nadar Foundation that runs VidyaGyan Schools, Shiv Nadar Schools, and Shiv Nadar Universities. Over the years, these institutions have established a reputation for innovation, quality education, and excellence. HCL Group’s reputation and principles align with the vision and mandate under which erstwhile HDFC Ltd set up HDFC Edu.

    V.S. Rangan, Executive Director, of HDFC Bank, said, “This divestment has been necessitated due to regulatory requirements for HDFC Bank. The divestment of HDFC Edu went through a long, comprehensive process involving scrutiny of potential acquirers based on a set of eligibility criteria such as financial health, relevant experience, etc., and alignment with the core educational values cultivated over the past decade by HDFC Edu. We are confident that HCL Group will uphold the exceptional standards of services that HDFC Edu has been providing to the HDFC Schools, providing a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for the students.”

    In his comments, Shikhar Malhotra, Director, of HCL Corporation and Trustee, of Shiv Nadar Foundation said, “With a legacy of three decades in education, HCL Group has a vision of establishing and nurturing educational institutions of excellence countrywide. We are delighted to be entrusted with the responsibility of upholding and enhancing the educational mandate of HDFC Edu. Our foremost commitment is to ensure continuity and stability for students, parents, and faculty. We will further nurture and grow an already thriving educational environment bequeathed to us while preserving the core values and educational excellence that define The HDFC Schools.”

  • Birthday Celebration of Amitabh Bachchan Takes a Digital Turn

    MUMBAI: As Bollywood’s living legend Amitabh Bachchan celebrates his 82nd birthday, fans and the entertainment industry alike are showering the iconic actor with love and admiration. Known for his unforgettable roles and unparalleled presence in Indian cinema, Bachchan’s birthday is nothing short of a national event. This year, however, the celebration takes a unique digital twist, thanks to Approach Bollywood.

    In a humorous and engaging digital campaign, Approach Bollywood draws inspiration from one of Bachchan’s famous dialogues, bringing his wit to the forefront. The campaign playfully imagines fans searching for Amitabh Bachchan with birthday cakes, while the superstar himself waits for them at Approach Bollywood. The message, delivered in Bachchan’s signature style, reads: “तुम लोग मुझे केक लेके ढूँढ रहे हो और मैं तुम्हारा यहाँ Approach Bollywood पे इंतज़ार कर रहा हूँ… किसी को कोई करोड़ नहीं मिलेगा… बस मुझे बर्थडे केक मिलेगा!”

    This clever campaign not only celebrates the actor but also invites fans to join in by downloading the Approach Bollywood Android App. With a nod to another iconic line from his film, the campaign adds: “आज मेरे पास Approach Bollywood की Android App है, तुम्हारे पास क्या है?” In doing so, the campaign successfully engages audiences, encouraging them to stay updated with all things Bollywood through the app.

    The Approach Bollywood Android App serves as the ultimate destination for Bollywood enthusiasts. Offering real-time updates on films, television, OTT platforms, and music, the app is designed to be a one-stop source for all entertainment news. Fans can dive into exclusive content, including stories on Amitabh Bachchan’s birthday, insights into his future projects, and behind-the-scenes coverage of the broader film industry.

    Founder Sonu Tyagi, a renowned figure in the world of celebrity management and film production, shared his thoughts on the digital campaign, saying: “Amitabh Bachchan is not just a superstar, but a symbol of Indian cinema’s timelessness. As we celebrate his birthday, we wanted to do something unique that connects with fans while also offering them access to the latest updates in Bollywood. The Approach Bollywood app is the perfect platform for fans to stay engaged and celebrate alongside the legend.”

    As the world wishes the legendary actor a happy birthday, Approach Bollywood is offering fans a chance to be part of the festivities. With the Approach Bollywood Android App, users can access a wealth of information on their favorite stars and stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of Bollywood.

    Approach Bollywood is a division of the renowned Approach Entertainment Group, which operates an extensive network across key cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Gurugram, Kolkata, Goa, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad. The group also oversees Approach Bollywood, a specialized Bollywood Newswire and Content Dissemination platform. This unit distributes the latest Bollywood and entertainment news across various digital platforms, newspapers, magazines, TV channels, and apps, catering to a broad audience of industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Approach Entertainment Group is also home to the award-winning PR and Integrated Communications Agency, Approach Communications.

    Sonu Tyagi, the visionary leader of Approach Entertainment Group, is an award-winning writer, director, and producer with a profound spiritual inclination. With years of experience working alongside top advertising agencies and media houses across India, Tyagi’s expertise is further backed by his academic background, which includes a degree in Psychology and advanced courses in Advertising Management, Journalism, and Filmmaking.

    Beyond its commercial endeavors, Approach Entertainment is committed to philanthropy through its charitable spiritual organization, Go Spiritual India. This initiative is focused on promoting mental health, wellness, spiritual tourism, organic living, and supporting various social causes. The organization has recently launched its own Go Spiritual India News Magazine and is gearing up to introduce Go Spiritual India Web TV & OTT, further expanding its reach and influence in the spiritual and wellness domains.

  • Meningitis Prevention: Safeguarding Your Loved Ones with Knowledge

    PUNE: Meningitis is a serious vaccine-preventable infection holding significant health concerns, particularly for children. World Meningitis Day aims to raise awareness and drive global efforts to defeat this disease, promoting the lifesaving potential of early detection and its prevention through vaccination.

    With over 2.5 million cases reported globally each year, meningitis represents a severe health crisis, as nearly 70% of those who succumb to this disease, are children under the age of five. Meningitis is the swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord (the meninges) and is usually caused by a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Clinical features of patients with meningitis vary depending on the cause, disease course (acute, sub-acute, or chronic), brain involvement (meningoencephalitis), and systemic complications (e.g., sepsis). Common symptoms of meningitis are neck stiffness, fever, confusion or altered mental status, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Less frequent symptoms are seizures, coma, and neurological deficits (for example hearing or vision loss, cognitive impairment, or weakness of the limbs).

    India ranks amongst the top three countries with the highest number of meningitis-related deaths. Amongst the three pathogens causing Acute Bacterial Meningitis, Neisseria Meningitidis accounts for a high case fatality rate of upto 15% despite treatment and up to 50% when untreated. Studies have shown an increase in the incidence of Neisseria Meningitidis causing Acute Bacterial Meningitis, in Indian children < 2 years.

    Dr.Amit Nigade, Consultant Pediatrician & Neonatologist, Cloudnine Hospital Kalyaninagar, Pune emphasizes “The neurological damage caused by meningitis is often irreversible, making vaccination critical for those most at risk, including young children and people with compromised immune systems. Vaccination not only prevents infection but also saves lives by stopping the disease before it can do long-term harm. It’s a vital step in safeguarding the health of our most vulnerable.“

    To combat this deadly disease, the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends a meningococcal vaccine a 2-dose schedule between 9-23 months and a single dose above 2 years who are at increased risk of this disease.

    If your child is aged 9 months and above, ensure they receive a vaccine against Invasive Meningococcal Disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also launched a roadmap aimed at eliminating bacterial meningitis epidemics by 2030, endeavoring to reduce vaccine-preventable cases by 50% and deaths by 70%.10 As we observe World Meningitis Day, let us commit to protecting our children and communities. Taking proactive steps today can save lives tomorrow, ensuring a healthier future for all.

  • UGRO Capital Surpasses INR 10,200 Crore AUM in Q2 FY25

    Record Growth in Net Loans, Micro Enterprises, and Co-Lending Volumes Highlight UGRO’s Commitment to MSME Lending

    MUMBAI: UGRO Capital, a leading DataTech NBFC focused on MSME lending, today announced its robust performance for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 (Q2 FY25), marking significant milestones in its journey towards becoming a leading MSME-focused lender. The company has reached a total AUM of INR 10,200+ crore, growing from INR 2,970 crore in March 2022, underscoring its accelerated growth trajectory and investment in data tech infrastructure.

    During Q2 FY25, UGRO Capital achieved several lifetime highs in key performance metrics:

    Record Loan Originations: UGRO recorded its highest-ever quarterly net loan originations of INR 1,970+ crore, a remarkable 72% increase compared to INR 1,146 crore in Q1 FY25.

    Micro Enterprises Lending Surge: UGRO’s Micro Enterprises Loan vertical saw origination of INR 450 crore, more than doubling from INR 209 crore in the previous quarter. This growth reflects the company’s expanded branch network, now at 210 branches, including 46 new micro-branches added during the quarter.

    Co-Lending Milestones: UGRO achieved its highest quarterly co-lending volume of INR 600+ crore, up from INR 337 crore in Q1 FY25, with its co-lending partnerships expanding to 9 banks and 7 NBFCs. The company’s off-book AUM now stands at approximately 44%.

    Strengthened Borrowing Profile: The company also mobilized its highest-ever borrowings, raising over INR 1,100 crore in Q2 FY25, up from INR 375 crore in Q1 FY25, ensuring a well-diversified liability profile.

    Commenting on these achievements, Shachindra Nath, Founder, and Managing Director of UGRO Capital, said, “Our performance in Q2 FY25 marks a significant leap forward, driven by our unwavering commitment to providing innovative, data-driven financial solutions for MSMEs across India. Since our inception, we have raised over INR 900 crore in 2018, INR 340 crore in 2023, and INR 1,265 crore in 2024. With a robust network of 210 branches and a dedicated workforce of around 3,500 employees, we are poised to accelerate our efforts, particularly in the Micro Enterprises Loan segment. As we continue to grow, our focus remains on empowering MSMEs, encapsulated in our core belief – MSME Accha Hai – to unlock even greater opportunities for growth and development across the sector.”

    In addition to its financial achievements, UGRO Capital received a rating upgrade from India Ratings to ‘IND A+/Stable’ (long-term) and ‘IND A1+’ (short-term), further solidifying its position in the market. The company was also honored with the ‘Best Fintech Lender of the Year’ award at Financial Express India’s Best Banks Awards, presented to Mr. Shachindra Nath by Hon’ble Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs, Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman.

    The business updates reflect UGRO Capital’s ongoing commitment to transforming MSME credit in India through technological innovation and strategic partnerships. These updates are subject to management review and have not yet undergone a limited review by the auditors.

  • Volkswagen Passenger Cars India Delivers 131 Vehicles in Hyderabad


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    HYDERABAD: Volkswagen India has announced mega-deliveries of its most loved cars in Hyderabad, Telangana. Celebrating the auspicious occasion of Navaratri, the brand delivered 131 cars to its customers, showcasing the trust and excitement surrounding Volkswagen. This mega delivery underscores the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional customer experiences and highlights its strong acceptance in the Telangana market.With the festive season well underway in India, Volkswagen has been committed to driving customer excitement through its annual festive extravaganza – Volksfest that entails exciting offers and customer benefits for a limited period of time. With a strong heritage of over one and a half decades in India, the brand has continued to deliver exceptional cars that epitomize the thrill of driving. With Volksfest 2024, the brand has taken the festivities closer to where customers are, with curated activities and event zones across malls in 14 major metropolitans of India. 

    The brand has also launched the much-awaited Virtus GT Line and Virtus GT Plus Sport in October this year. Both new variants of the Virtus personify customer aspirations in an aesthetically enhanced avatar with a distinctly styled black theme. Along with this, the brand has also introduced an enhanced feature package for the Taigun GT Line while reinvigorating the line structure with the introduction of a new Highline Plus variant for both India 2.0 cars, thereby giving customers more for less with a highly accessible price point. 

  • Maharashtra Cultural Centre Launches ‘Stage Is All Yours’

    Maharashtra Cultural Centre Launches ‘Stage Is All Yours’ Empowering the Next Generation of Experimental Theatre

    PUNE: Every artist dreams of showcasing their talent on a professional stage with all the necessary facilities, ensuring a rich experience for both the performer and the audience. However, experimental artists often face financial constraints, making it difficult to achieve this regularly. To address this challenge, Maharashtra Cultural Centre, in collaboration with Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash, has introduced ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ a special initiative that will provide experimental artists with access to the Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash at minimal charges. This initiative was announced by Maharashtra Cultural Center’s Secretary- Rajesh Deshmukh.

    Sharing more details about the initiative, Deshmukh said, “Many artistic groups from Pune and beyond aim to perform in professional spaces. Their requirements vary depending on the type of art form, whether it’s a musical performance, dance, recitation, or visual arts. Financial limitations often pose a hurdle. With ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ we aim to support and encourage experimental artists by offering them an affordable platform at Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash, located at Tilak Road’s Hirabaug Chowk.”

    The initiative has already received a positive response from experimental artists. A few performances are scheduled to take place in the coming month including the Kathak Institute, Nadarup, which will present ‘Choreography Kaleidoscope’ on October 21.

    Alongside ‘Stage Is All Yours,’ Maharashtra Cultural Centre is also launching a literature-focused initiative called ‘Rasarth,’ which will feature discussions on literature, recitations, and artist interactions. It will be held on the third Friday of every month at Shriram Lagoo Rang Avakash and open to the public free of charge, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Fox Petroleum Group Plans to Transform the European Private Banking Scene Through Strategic Acquisition

    NEW YORK, NY: Fox Petroleum Group, a global leader in oil and gas with 17 direct branches and 47 joint ventures, has officially entered into a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with L.A Business Consultancy Ltd, based in Cyprus. This agreement signifies Fox Petroleum’s intent to explore the strategic acquisition of Astrobank Public Company Limited, a European private bank.

    The NDA, signed in September 2024, outlines a confidential framework for discussions and the exchange of information between the parties. Fox Petroleum Group, represented by its Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. Ajay Kumar (PhD), is working closely with L.A Business Consultancy Ltd, whose expertise in structuring mergers and acquisitions (M&A) will be pivotal in the deal.

    This acquisition marks Fox Petroleum’s expansion into the European financial sector. The goal is to leverage Astrobank’s robust platform for the Group’s further growth in global energy investment through its investment arm, Fox Capital and Investment.

    The confidentiality of the discussions is protected under the terms of the NDA, ensuring that the acquisition is carefully negotiated and executed with discretion. Both parties have committed to a No-Shop Period of six months, during which Fox Petroleum will not engage with any other party on a similar transaction.

    Dr. Ajay Kumar stated, “This acquisition aligns with our strategy to diversify Fox Petroleum’s portfolio and strengthen our financial services capabilities globally. We are excited about the potential to collaborate with Astrobank and leverage their expertise and market presence in Europe.”

    Further details will be disclosed once both parties move toward finalizing the acquisition, subject to regulatory approval and financial due diligence.

    About Fox Petroleum Group: Fox Petroleum Group operates globally in oil and gas with diversified investments in energy, infrastructure, and financial services. With operations spanning six countries, including the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Kenya, and Russia, Fox Petroleum is committed to innovation, growth, and excellence in the sectors it serves.

  • Fox Construction’s Vision for Smart Cities and Luxury Resorts

    NEW YORK NY: Fox Construction, a subsidiary of Fox Petroleum Group, is proud to unveil its ambitious plans for the development of luxury resorts and Smart Cities in multiple global locations. The projects, funded by a consortium of six international banks and five private capital firms, will redefine the future of urban living and luxury hospitality. The entire project is guaranteed by Fox Petroleum Group and will be implemented over a 15-year timeline, with an IPO planned for December 2027 and completion of all developments by 2030.

    Luxury Resorts: Canada, the US, and Kenya Fox Construction will develop high-end resorts in Canada, the United States, and Kenya. These resorts will embody cutting-edge design, comfort, and eco-sustainability, providing unmatched luxury experiences in prime locations. The resorts will integrate local cultural elements into their architecture and design, ensuring a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition.

    Smart Cities: Canada and Australia In its most groundbreaking venture yet, Fox Construction will be building Smart Cities in Canada and Australia, designed to transform urban living through advanced technology and sustainable practices. The cities will boast a range of unique features aimed at making life easier and more affordable for residents:

    Indigenous Power Supply: Utilizing renewable energy sources to ensure a self-sustaining power grid for each Smart City. Power Backups and Gas Based Power Plant to run the city and water treatment plant.

    Free, eco-friendly transportation through a network of Green Buses within a smart city. These buses will operate on renewable energy, providing residents with an efficient, zero-emission transportation solution, ensuring easy and sustainable mobility within the city at no cost to its inhabitants.

    Affordable Manpower for Household Chores: Ensuring the availability of cost-effective, skilled labor to assist with daily tasks for each home, to make life easy.

    Moving Gas Stations: Residents will have the convenience of door-to-door refueling services for their vehicles, with an optional 30-day credit facility.

    Affordable Housing Plans: Houses will be available through a 25-year installment plan with just 2% yearly interest, making homeownership accessible to all.

    Smart Intercom and Online Tuition: Each home will be equipped with an advanced intercom system, and children from nursery to PhD levels will have access to online tuition from world-renowned educators, completely free of charge.

    Comprehensive Education System: The Smart City will house educational institutions from Nursery to PhD level, ensuring that residents can access world-class education within their community.

    As part of the Smart City’s comprehensive plan for resident welfare and security, affordable insurance plans will be mandatory. Each resident will contribute just $1 per month for medical insurance for each member of the household, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. Additionally, $10 per month will cover home insurance, protecting properties against unforeseen events, and $1 per month for road and safety insurance, guaranteeing secure and well-maintained infrastructure. $2 monthly for staff group insurance who will be working day and night to make smart city smartt living These low-cost insurance options are designed to provide peace of mind and ensure that all residents are well-protected at minimal expense.

    Architectural Vision by Italian Mastermind Masilio The architectural planning and design will be led by the renowned Italian architect Masilio, who will adapt his designs to each specific location, blending local culture with futuristic living. Canada is expected to start planning and implementation by the end of 2024.

    Funding and Financial Structure The projects will be backed by a consortium of six banks and five private capital firms, further cementing the financial robustness of the venture. Fox Petroleum Group will guarantee the funding, ensuring the project’s smooth execution over the next 15 years.

    Visionary Leadership Dr. Ajay Kumar, PhD, Chairman and Managing Director of Fox Petroleum Group, commented on the project, saying, “Fox Construction is poised to revolutionize urban living with Smart Cities that combine technology, sustainability, and affordability. These cities will not only provide homes but create entire ecosystems where residents can thrive. Our resorts will bring luxury living to new heights, reflecting our commitment to excellence and innovation.”

    With project completion expected by 2030, Fox Construction is setting the stage for an IPO in December 2027, marking the company’s long-term vision of reshaping cities for the future.

  • Indian Navy Collaborates with Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance to Safeguard Naval Civilians


    In Photo: Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Chief of Personnel, and other senior personnel from the Indian Navy. Also present were Mr. Amit Jaiswal, Chief Distribution Officer – Proprietary Sales Force, and his team from Bajaj Allianz Life.

    PUNE: The Indian Navy, on 08 October 2024, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with one of India’s leading private life insurers to provide life insurance solutions to the civilian personnel of the Indian Navy. As part of this collaboration, Bajaj Allianz Life will offer a variety of life insurance products, ensuring comprehensive coverage at affordable rates.

    Highlighting the importance of the occasion as part of activities for the ‘Year of Naval Civilians,’ Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Chief of Personnel, appreciated the life insurance solutions offered by Bajaj Allianz Life, which have been specifically tailored to meet the needs of Indian Navy civilians.

    Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, said, “It is indeed a proud moment for all of us at Bajaj Allianz Life, to have an opportunity to offer life insurance services to the Indian Navy Civilians. In line with the Indian Navy’s 2024 – Year of Naval Civilians – we will commence our operations for the Naval Civilians. I believe it will also be a huge step towards taking the benefits of life insurance to many more Indians and taking critical steps towards bridging the insurance penetration gap within our country. We will ensure we deliver only the most effective and seamless solutions to the Indian Navy.”

    Bajaj Allianz Life’s offerings under this partnership include a range of life insurance solutions to meet the varied life goals of the civilians associated with the Indian Navy. Educational seminars and sessions will be conducted to help Indian Navy civilian personnel understand the importance of term insurance and adequate life insurance coverage to secure their life goals. The Company will also introduce unique processes catering specifically to the unique needs of naval civilians.

  • NEW NISSAN MAGNITE LAUNCHED AT PROVINCIAL NISSAN PUNE

    PUNE: Nissan Motor India Pvt. LTD. has Launched a New Nissan Magnite that was unveiled by Shri Prakash Bhegde, Shivsena Bhor Assembly Organizer & Shri. Sandip Amale, Sarpanch Ghotwade Mulshi in presence of Rajdeep Bose, Area Sales Manager-NMIPL, Mukul Borkar, Area Manager-Service NMIPL, Jitendra Patil GM Sales, Vishal Kamble AGM Sales Provincial Cars LLP. The new Nissan Magnite combines a bold road presence, a redesigned premium exterior and interior design, and 20+ Segment-First features in India. The New Magnite directs attention with a bigger & bolder redesigned “Honeycomb” grille, and higher ground clearance giving it a prominent stance. At the same time, the interior design boasts a more premium appeal with a sharp leatherette finish.

    The new Nissan Magnite offers enhanced safety with a reinforced body structure, and 40+ Standard Safety Features including six Airbags, Electronic Stability Control, a Traction Control System, and Hydraulic Brake Assist. Now available in 18 Variants across 4 Powertrain Options: 1.0L Petrol MT & EZ-Shift and 1.0L Turbo Petrol MT & CVT.New Nissan Magnite comes with LED bi-projector headlamps, LED lightsaber-style turn indicators, Best-in-class Rear knee room,  Best-in-class ‘couple distance’ (shoulder room in the front row)New Nissan Magnite LED Tail Lamp with 3D Honeycomb Gradient Effect (Best-in-Class), LED L-shaped Daytime Running Lights, LED fog lamps, 205 mm ground clearance, LED fog lampsBest-in-class turning radius (5.0m), 360 leather pack – Seat Upholstery, Door trim, Wrapped Dashboard, Functional roof rails with 50kg load bearing, Best-in-class 19L+ Cabin storage space, 336L to 540L Expandable Boot Space with Standard 60:40 seat split.

    The new Nissan Magnite comes with 12 Exciting colors Dual Tone:- “Sunrise Copper Orange & Black, Blade Silver & Onyx Black, Flare Garnet Red & Onyx Black, Vivid Blue & Onyx Black, Pearl White & Onyx Black”.

    Mono Tone: Sunrise Copper Orange, Flare Garnet Red, Onyx Black, Blade Silver, Storm White, Pearl White, Vivid Blue.

    The new Nissan Magnite launched at a Special Introductory Price of INR 5.99 *Lakhs.

    For Test Drive & Details, Please Visit or Call M/s.PROVINCIAL CARS LLP,25/A/26/A, Shed No 3, Baltuka Estate Bangalore, Mumbai Hwy, near Ryan International School, Bavdhan, Pune, Maharashtra 411021 Contact No.8767807707/9763728928