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Maharashtra: 2 killed as luxury car hits motorcycle in Pune, minor held

The News Mill

The News Mill 19 May 2024 1:48 pm

Pune Accident: 2 bike riders killed by speeding Porsche driven by builder's juvenile son; Bystanders thrash driver, video goes viral

Pune Accident (Google Trends): In a tragic Pune accident, two bike riders lost their lives when a speeding luxury Porsche, reportedly driven by the son of construction company owner Vishal Agarwal, collided with their motorcycle. The incident occurred around 3.15 am in Kalyani Nagar. A viral video showed bystanders assaulting the driver, who was later handed over to the police. Authorities are investigating the case.

The Economic Times 19 May 2024 1:28 pm

17-Year-Old Crashes Speeding Porsche Into Bike In Pune, 2 Killed: Cops

Two people were killed after a luxury Porsche car, driven by a minor, crashed into their motorcycle in Pune's Kalyani Nagar on Sunday, police said.

NDTV 19 May 2024 1:25 pm

Bank of Maharashtra tops among PSU banks in business growth in FY24

NEW DELHI, May 19: State-owned Bank of Maharashtra recorded the highest growth rate last fiscal in terms of total business and deposit mobilisation among public sector lenders at a time when most banks are facing difficulty in achieving double-digit growth. The Pune-headquartered lender has registered a 15.94 per cent rise in the total business (domestic) in FY24, followed by the countrys largest lender State Bank of India (SBI) with 13.12 per cent growth, according to published financial numbers of the [] The post Bank of Maharashtra tops among PSU banks in business growth in FY24 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 19 May 2024 12:56 pm

2 killed as sports car rams bike-borne couple in Pune

killed as sports car rams bikeborne couple in Pune

India Today 19 May 2024 12:25 pm

2 persons killed as luxury car hits motorcycle in Pune

2 persons killed as luxury car hits motorcycle in Pune Two persons were killed when a speeding luxury car driven by a juvenile hit their motorcycle in Maharashtra's Pune city on Sunday, police said. The accident took place at around 3.15 am in Kalyani Nagar and a case was registered against the 17-year-old car driver under relevant provisions, they said. A group of friends after a party at a restaurant in Kalyani Nagar was returning home on their motorbikes. When they arrived at the Kalyani Nagar junction, a speeding luxury car hit one of the motorcycles following which its two riders fell from the vehicle and died on the spot, as per the FIR. After knocking down the duo, the car crashed into the roadside pavement railings, it said. A video surfaced on social media wherein a group of people was seen thrashing the driver as he tried to come out of the crashed car. The deceased have been identified as Anis Awadhiya and Ashwini Costa, as per the FIR. A case was registered against the car driver at the Yerawada police station under various Indian Penal Code sections, including 279 ('rash driving or riding on a public way), 304A (causing death of any person by doing any rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide), 337 (causing hurt to any person by doing any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others), and provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.

devdiscourse 19 May 2024 11:22 am

Pune Shocker! Man pierces wifes private parts with nails, puts a lock on them over suspected affairs, throws away key

The Pimpri-Chinchwad police have arrested a man who pierced his wife's private parts with iron nails and placed a lock on them.

Web Dunia 19 May 2024 11:05 am

Fire in Air India Express flight from Bengaluru to Kochi results in emergency evacuation

An Air India Express flight from Bengaluru to Kochi had a fire near its right engine, leaving Pune-based passengers stranded. Passengers, including Piyano and Jose Thomas, experienced panic after hearing a loud noise post-takeoff. The Airbus A320, with over 175 passengers, returned to Bengaluru for an emergency landing at 11:15 pm. Passengers evacuated via emergency slides with some minor injuries.

The Times of India 19 May 2024 9:14 am

Billboard collapses in Pune due to strong winds; horse injured, vehicles damaged

The incident comes days after a giant illegal billboard in Mumbais Ghatkopar area collapsed on a petrol pump, killing 16 persons and injuring 75

The Hindu 19 May 2024 8:53 am

Pune Hoarding Collapse: Maharashtra , Ghatkopar Case ?

Maharashtra Hoarding Collapse: ... (Pune Hoarding) ... ...

NDTV 19 May 2024 8:22 am

Horse injured, vehicles damaged as billboard collapses in Pune due to strong winds

Horse injured, vehicles damaged as billboard collapses in Pune due to strong winds A horse was injured and a few vehicles were damaged after a hoarding collapsed due to strong winds in Maharashtras Pune city, police said. The billboard crashed to the ground between 5 pm and 6 pm on Saturday outside a wedding hall near Kavdi Pat toll booth on the Pune-Solapur Highway, an official said. The incident comes days after a giant illegal billboard in Mumbais Ghatkopar area collapsed on a petrol pump due to gusty winds and unseasonal rains, killing 16 persons and injuring 75. Citing preliminary information about the incident in Pune, the police on Saturday said the hoarding collapsed due to strong winds and it fell on a horse, and a few vehicles, including one brought by a band party, outside the Gulmohar Lawns wedding hall. The injured horse was rescued and taken for treatment, the official said.

devdiscourse 19 May 2024 8:20 am

Formation of low-pressure to help monsoon advance: IMD

The Times of India 19 May 2024 5:41 am

Two women duped of 53L in task fraud

The Times of India 19 May 2024 5:03 am

Mega block on Pune-Mum eway disrupts vehicular flow

The Times of India 19 May 2024 5:01 am

6 loot gold ornaments worth 21 lakh from Wanowrie store

The Times of India 19 May 2024 4:57 am

Retired cop loses tip of thumb in quarrel

The Times of India 19 May 2024 4:54 am

PCMC to upgrade sewage & effluent treatment plants

The Times of India 19 May 2024 4:51 am

Farmer from Shirur cheated of 69 lakh

The Times of India 19 May 2024 4:35 am

3 injured, vehicles damaged as illegal hoarding collapses near Pune due to heavy rain

Illegal hoarding collapse near Kavdipat Bridge in Loni Kalbhor, Pune, injured three men and a horse. Business partners from Kharadi installed hoarding on land owned by Sanjay Kamthe. Victims included Sanket Pardeshi's horse, treated by Dr Jadhav, as confirmed by Senior Inspector Chavan.

The Times of India 19 May 2024 4:31 am

AI Express flight catches fire at Bengaluru, 'all passengers safe'

An Air India Express flight from Bengaluru to Kochi made an emergency landing at Bengaluru airport due to fire detection. All passengers are safe. The pilot and crew successfully landed the flight after detecting fire, originating from a flight from Pune. Eyewitnesses from the rear side reported seeing a flash of fire, with a woman passenger alerting the cabin crew.

The Times of India 19 May 2024 2:28 am

Shirur farmer cheated by investment firm for Rs 69 lakhs

The Times of India 18 May 2024 11:26 pm

Days After Mumbai Tragedy, Billboard Collapses Outside Pune Wedding Hall

A horse was injured and a few vehicles were damaged after a hoarding collapsed in Maharashtra's Pune city on Saturday evening, the police said.

NDTV 18 May 2024 11:24 pm

Horse injured as billboard collapses in Pune due to strong winds

Horse injured as billboard collapses in Pune due to strong winds A horse was injured and a few vehicles were damaged after a hoarding collapsed due to strong winds in Maharashtras Pune city on Saturday evening, the police said. The billboard crashed to the ground outside a wedding hall near Kavdi Pat toll booth on the Pune-Solapur Highway between 5 pm and 6 pm, he said. The incident comes days after a giant illegal billboard in Mumbais Ghatkopar area collapsed onto a petrol pump due to gusty winds and unseasonal rains, killing 16 and injuring 75. Citing preliminary information, the police said the hoarding gave way due to strong winds and fell on a horse, and a few vehicles, including one brought by a band party, outside the wedding hall Gulmohar Lawns. The injured horse was rescued and taken for treatment, he said.

devdiscourse 18 May 2024 10:09 pm

Smartworks expands office space in Pune

Located in Balewadi, in close proximity to Balewadi High Street, the centre will offer easy access to a diverse range of recreational options

The Hindu Businessline 18 May 2024 6:19 pm

In Pune, app launched for doctors home visits

The Indian Express 18 May 2024 1:03 pm

Vodafone to prioritise 4G network growth over 5G; to spend Rs 55,000 crore

NEW DELHI: Even as other telecom service providers have been rolling out 5G, Vodafone Idea Limited (Vi), the countrys third-largest telecom operator, is still prioritising expanding its 4G networks. The telco on Friday announced that it will spend Rs 55,000 crore in the next three years in capex, and focus on 4G expansion. The capex will be spent on expansion of 4G coverage by rolling out more sites, capacity growth in 4G where sites have been deployed already. The third will be 5G where rollout must be started afresh and then there will be enterprise Our topmost priority is expanding 4G coverage, which is the only reason why we continue to lose customers, that capex will be fairly accelerated. The rest will happen as traffic grows, said Akshaya Moondra, Vodafone Idea CEO in its fourth quarter FY24 investor call. The telco has been losing its subscribers to the competitors for not investing in its network and improving 4G services. As per TRAI data, Vi has lost 16.25 million subscribers in the first 11 months of FY24. However, it earlier said the subscriber depletion is not due to not launching its commercial 5G services but not having a proper 4G network. Vi is the only private telco, other than Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio that is yet to come up with commercial 5G launches. The telco has only launched 5G networks in the country to meet Minimum Rollout Obligation to avoid penalties from the Department of Telecommunication (DoT). It has so far launched 5G in 4 circles - Maharashtra (Pune), Delhi, Chennai and Punjab to meet minimum rollout obligation. It will soon launch its 5G services in Bihar and Mumbai but not commercially.

The New Indian Express 18 May 2024 10:42 am

Muthalapozhi harbour action-taken report is incomplete: Minority panel

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Against the backdrop of the increasing number of accidents and deaths at Muthalapozhi harbour , the Kerala State Minority Commission held a special sitting on Friday to take stock of the situation. The commission expressed dissatisfaction with the reports submitted by the deputy director of the fisheries department, the executive engineer of the harbour engineering department, the Anchuthengu coastal station officer on behalf of director of the fisheries department, the secretary of fisheries and the port department, the district collector and the chief of coastal police. Rise in boat accidents sparks safetyconcerns at Muthalapozhi harbour in Kerala Around seven studies were conducted on the rising number of accidents and deaths at Muthalapozhi since the establishment of the harbour. We sought to know about action taken by the fisheries department and other government agencies based on those reports. They submitted an incomplete report, a commission official said. The commission also found grave discrepancies in the number of deaths reported by coastal police and fisheries department. According to the fisheries department, there had been 27 deaths at the harbour, while the number with the coastal police authorities is 23, the official added. Observing that the reports are partial and incomplete, commission chairman A A Rashid directed the concerned departments to come up with a comprehensive report before the next sitting on May 28. The panel had taken up suo motu the perilous situation at Muthalapozhi harbour. The state government had roped in Pune-based Central Water and Power Research Station to conduct a detailed study of the situation at Muthalapozhi harbour and come up with solutions. The agency proposed a `164-crore project, including extension of the breakwater at Muthalapozhi. Though the state government submitted the report to the Centre for approval under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) scheme, no response has been forthcoming.

The New Indian Express 18 May 2024 9:17 am

Air India Express passenger detained for false bomb threat at Bengaluru airport

BENGALURU: An Air India Express flyer from Bengaluru to Pune has been booked and detained for creating panic by providing a false threat about a bomb concealed in his check-in bag during security checks at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). A Non Cognisable Report (NCR) has been booked against Rajeshkumar Beniwal after the airline filed a complaint at the police station inside the airport premises. An NCR refers to a document in which the police cannot take any action without a warrant given by the court. According to airport sources, the incident occurred in front of counter no E9 in Terminal 2 around 9 pm on Thursday. Beniwal, a resident of Hisar district in Haryana, was scheduled to fly by flight no 15 821 which had a departure time of 11.05 pm. A source said, The bags were being handed over by passengers at the airlines check-in counter for screening when the flyer Beniwal blurted aloud that there was a bomb in his bag. The airline staff immediately alerted the security agencies at the airport, a source said. The flyer was isolated and his bags subjected to intense scrutiny and his statement was found to be a fake one. He was detained and not allowed to board the flight. Assistant Manager, Aviation Security of Air India Express, Ganesh Umapathy approached the police station and filed a complaint. A case has been booked against the flyer under IPC Section 505 (1) (B) which deals with intent to cause or likely to cause fear or alarm to the public or against the interest of public tranquility. Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport An Air India Express statement said, A passenger scheduled to fly with us on 16th May claimed that there was an explosive device in his bag during check-in. In line with standard protocols, he was handed over to airport police in coordination with the Central Industrial Security Force. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to threats to the safety and well being of our staff or guests. This is the second hoax bomb threat complaint filed at the police station within a fortnight with an FIR booked against an anonymous person who sent an e-mail about bombs to explode in Terminal 1 and many flights. The terminal manager of T1 had filed the complaint on May 2.

The New Indian Express 18 May 2024 6:55 am

79 independents among 131 Muslim candidates in LS fray

The Times of India 18 May 2024 6:02 am

Happy Streets back in Kharadi tomorrow morning

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:57 am

Road digging on though deadline over

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:47 am

DGCA team to probe Air India mishap in city

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:36 am

Container truck runs over trader at Katraj Chowk

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:35 am

Two teens injured in billhook attack

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:30 am

Quick Heal looks to expand overseas biz, increase hiring

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:22 am

Man booked for duping 5 women over job promise

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:21 am

One held as cops crack ragpickers murder case

The Times of India 18 May 2024 5:15 am

Remove risky billboards on highways

The Times of India 18 May 2024 4:46 am

Bizman loses 1.2 crore to online share trading con

The Times of India 18 May 2024 4:45 am

Duo posing as cops cheat 3 workers from UP of 33,000

The Times of India 18 May 2024 4:23 am

Man held for mutilating, locking up wifes genitals

The Indian Express 17 May 2024 11:32 pm

Last rites of former army officer Kale killed in Gaza conducted in Pune

Pune, May 17: The last rites of Colonel (retd) Waibhav Anil Kale, a former Indian army officer who was killed in Rafah region of Gaza earlier this week while working with the United Nations (UN), were performed here on Friday with full state honours. The mortal remains of the 46-year-old former infantry officer were flown [] The post Last rites of former army officer Kale killed in Gaza conducted in Pune appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 17 May 2024 11:14 pm

Youth chased, killed in Kothruds Dahanukar colony, 5 held

The Indian Express 17 May 2024 11:03 pm

Two years after arrest, Pune builder Avinash Bhosale gets bail from HC in Yes Bank-DHFL scam

The Bombay High Court has granted bail to Pune-based builder Avinash Bhosale in a corruption case linked to Yes Bank and DHFL, currently under investigation by the CBI. Bhosale, arrested in May 2022 and currently in judicial custody for medical treatment, was granted bail by Justice N J Jamadar, who directed him to deposit a surety of Rs 1 lakh. The CBI alleges that Bhosale received kickbacks from Yes Bank co-founder Rana Kapoor in exchange for diverting funds. Yes Bank, under Kapoor, disbursed Rs 3,983 crore to DHFL, deemed proceeds of crime. DHFL then sanctioned loans totaling Rs 2,420 crore to three Radius group concerns, led by businessman Sanjay Chhabria.

The Economic Times 17 May 2024 10:37 pm

Last Rites Of Ex Army Officer Killed In Gaza Performed In Pune

The last rites of Colonel (retd) Waibhav Anil Kale, a former Indian army officer who was killed in Rafah region of Gaza earlier this week while working with the United Nations (UN), were performed here on Friday with full state honours.

NDTV 17 May 2024 10:14 pm

Fraudsters dupe Pune businessman of Rs 1.2 crore

The Indian Express 17 May 2024 7:39 pm

BMW drives in X3 xDrive20d M Sport Shadow Edition at Rs 74.90 lakh

Pune: BMW, Indias second biggest German luxury car maker, has introduced a special edition of the X3 to boost sales in the fiercely competitive luxury car market in the country. The new BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport Shadow Edition, which rivals the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Audi Q5, is priced at Rs 74.90 lakh at the Delhi showroom. The Shadow Edition gets blacked-out exterior elements, and subtle updates to the upholstery. Customers can also customize their X3 with the Black Edition Package, which includes an M Performance rear spoiler, M Side Strip in Frozen Black & M side logo in high-gloss black. On the interior, the special edition X3 gets Sports Seats, an M leather steering wheel, Vernasca leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof and a Welcome Light Carpet.The SUV is also equipped with a 3-zone automatic climate control system, a head-up display and ambient lighting with six settings. The BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport Shadow Edition is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine that produces 190 HP and 400 Nm of torque. The engine is mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission and BMWs xDrive 4-wheel drive system.The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 7.9 seconds with a top speed of 213 km/h.

Deccan Chronicle 17 May 2024 6:56 pm

My rollercoaster journey from a Ford Fiesta to Mercedes-Benz GLC 300

BHPian sudiptaadhya recently shared this with other enthusiasts.PrologueBackground As a kid, I have always loved cars. Every time I saw a nice car - I would instinctively say ig car or ed car, even before I could speak complete sentences. At school and while growing up, I would look at the fancy cars of my schoolmates or family friends and drool over them with the feeling mera number kab aayega. Back in those days, a new Maruti 800 or new Santro was perfectly within the definition of a fancy car for me. Talk about the theory of relativity! Go Fida After I started working, I had to get a car. And damn - Ford's advertisements were just so out of the world. The Go Fida ad was something that I would have seen hundreds of times, always dreaming how I would zoom in on a Ford Fiesta like Abhishek. So in 2010, when I saw an ad on the office board about someone selling their Fiesta 1.4 ZXi to relocate abroad, I went and bought it immediately. However, the itch of getting a bigger and better car continued, so in 2011 I upgraded to the more powerful next-generation Fiesta 1.6 ZXi, and then in 2013 to the all-new global Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Titanium with the kinetic design. This one was such a hoot to drive - and when Ford announced its plans to exit India, I was heartbroken. In 2017, I decided to upgrade again, this time by leveraging the lease plan from work. With Ford on the way out, I decided to bite the bullet and get a Skoda Rapid, despite the after-sales nightmare stories. Unfortunately, it turned out to be precisely how people said; every time it went to the service center - it came back with a new problem. When the lease ended in 2020, I was happy to return the car. Bitten by the SUV Bug In 2020, when it came to selecting a new car, I was busy looking for another sedan. Few cars were as thrilling to drive as the last Fiesta. However, suddenly, I happened to see a red Jeep Compass, and it was love at first sight. The silent yet powerful petrol engine, combined with a fantastic DCT transmission, and luxurious interiors was enough to ensure that I booked it right away. And boy - did it make me completely forget the Fiesta - this car gave me so much happiness munching miles endlessly. Life Throws a Curveball In 2021, certain events were happening in my personal life, and I was hitting rock bottom. It was challenging to accept what had happened, so I spent a lot of time trying to erase memories, both physically and mentally. Suddenly in mid-2022, without any warning, during an evening drive, the Compass threw up a myriad of errors and slowed to a crawl. Somehow I managed to crawl back home - all of this was due to a single malfunctioning ABS sensor. Jeep, in the meanwhile, suddenly decided to dishonor the warranty, as there was one delayed service during Covid. It was ridiculous, but a good excuse to also erase the memory of the Compass - I called Cars24 and in 2 days the car was gone. Bringing Home the Tucson Selecting a new car was a whole new challenge - there were very few cars in the 40L space. I fell in love with the Skoda Superb and was almost about to book the car, but in comes the news of Skoda retiring the Octavia and the Superb. One day, a colleague suggested taking a look at the Hyundai Tucson. The Tucson usually looked like a small car in photos, so I wasn't interested, but still decided to go and take a look. And it was once again, very surprisingly, an Ah My God moment. The car looked enormous in the flesh, was so much fun to drive, and so incredibly luxurious. Once again - I took the plunge and booked the car, only to know that delivery would probably take 6 months due to the considerable demand. A few days later, suddenly another Hyundai dealer called, as I had been enquiring about the Kona. When they heard about my Tucson booking, they said that they had a blue car arriving in 2 days that they could allocate to me as the intended buyer was facing issues with the loan. Lo and behold - in September 2022, I had my Tucson, and it was delivered faster than anyone else! Driving the Tucson was always a happy moment, and we did some outstanding drives with our extended family to the Nilgiris, and countless fond memories! Life Throws Another Curveball In November 2022, I had to travel to New York for an assignment for 3 months. Post Covid, this was the first time I was traveling, and so I was very excited. Additionally, it would also be a good break to forget about the last curveball or so I thought. However, on the second day of my trip, I had a significant Medical Incident, which was suspected to be related to long-covid or the vaccine. It took me 5 months to get back on my feet before I could return to India. Life happens ------------------------------------In Comes the BlizzardThe New Life In March 2023, after 5 nightmarish months, I was finally back home. My perspective on life had changed - I was no longer willing to wait patiently for what I wanted in life. In August 2023, I decided to quit my job at one of the world's most well-known banks to take up another offer. In doing so, I had to relocate to Chennai, leaving behind my home of 14 years. Fast-forward to November 2023, while Pandal hopping during Durga Puja in Chennai, I saw a Merc on display. And suddenly, it dawned on me that I had to experience that too, especially when life gives no guarantees. Very soon, I decided to sell my Tucson (which was not an easy decision - I loved her) and get the German beauty. The Ultimate Driving Machine So I decided to visit the BMW showroom on OMR, and immediately fell in love with the 6GT. Oh boy - what a looker she is! The long curvy silhouette, the leather seats and the air suspension just blew me off my feet. But that's where the fun ended - everything went downwards from there: Customer Treatment - We went to their main showroom on GST Road, and we took my father's i20. We were made to wait for a long time, it seemed that everyone's attention was focused on an iX delivery. Then they said that the 6GT signature version was out of stock. We wanted to see the x5 - we got a very brief feature review, and no one wanted to tell us the price. Peasant treatment? Inconsistent Discounts - While the 6GT was getting very attractive discounts in Bengaluru and Mumbai, the Chennai dealership, due to their monopoly, refused to match them at all. Bargaining for me is like rubbing nails on a blackboard or going to the dentist for scaling - I just can't! And it seemed very unfair that I would pay around 10 lakhs more for the same car! Final Nail in the Coffin - For a while they kept on saying that they would give me a very attractive price for my Tucson. One Wednesday, I was ready to book and had my chequebook ready, when the BMW sales people came to my office. They quoted 50% for the Tucson. When I shook my head in dismay, they asked me to wait while they called someone on the phone. After 15 minutes of waiting, they offered 25,000 more. Seriously? I walked out Side note: BMW finally agreed to match the best price I received for my Tuscon, but it was too late. The last episode left such a horrid feeling that I was unwilling to go back to the dealership! Burmester Blows My Mind In between all this, I decided to visit the Merc showroom, and I was surprised at how welcome they made us feel. The security person rushed to help us come out of our i20, and the sales consultant Mr. Vinoth, patiently showed us all the cars. He continuously kept on saying - sir, you don't have to buy from us, just experience all our cars and then decide. The car that I liked best in the showroom was the GLC. It was a brand-new model (not a lifecycle impulse / LCI) on a new global platform, looks like a mini S class from the inside, has the best-in-class tech, and is as fast as the six-cylinder 6GT 630d (despite having 4 cylinders). However, what blew me off was the Burmester music system - it is just out of the world and no other German car comes close. I have a Bose, Sony, and Samsung home theatre at home(s), and this was way better. Additionally, one of the interesting things that I learned about Mercedes was that the pricing and discounts are controlled centrally and dealers cannot decide. Therefore, everyone pays the same for the car and all bookings must be made online directly with the brand. My aged parents were also with me, and they were immediately taken to the Mercedes Cafe and treated to amazing beverages and snacks. The warm welcome was very impressive, but at that time we were still leaning towards the 6GT or the x5. After the horrid haggling experience with BMW, I called up Mr. Vinoth the same evening and asked him how much he would offer for my Tucson. He quoted a price that, I thought, was fair, and I booked my GLC 300 online immediately. Here Comes the Blizzard - GLC 300 The next day, Mr. Vinoth (the sales consultant) and Ms. Sheeba (showroom head) came over to our house to complete the paperwork and give another test drive. They brought the GLC and the C-Class, and were very generous that we could drive any or both cars and for however long we wanted to. I took the car to ECR, floored the pedal, and was floored myself. The crazy acceleration (0-100kmph in 6.1secs), confident braking and straight-line stability were impressive. Moreover, it's an All-Wheel-Drive SUV that one can confidently take to the hills, rough patches, off-roads, and not break a sweat. In less than a week, the car arrived from Pune, and we did a quick PDI followed by registration formalities. Bringing Her Home The delivery was a very regal event at the iconic VST Titanium Showroom at Thousand Lights in Chennai. We had a wonderful cake cutting, along with professional videography and lots of fun with the entire crew. Star Trail Events We were invited to 2 Star Trail events over the following months. The first one was a lunch event at **Intercontinental Hotel, ECR, Chennai** followed by the unveiling of the new A class. The second one was an off-roading expedition at **The Farm, OMR, Chennai** where we were treated to some outstanding food and got to drive some expensive cars off-road. I got a chance to drive the GLS through the rocky terrain, and it climbed steep slopes with more agility than a tiger. Even for a moment, one wouldn't feel the massive size of the car while navigating the peaks, which was beyond impressive. A feat of engineering! After Sales Service While purchasing the car, I had also included Star Ease Compact Plus package for 4 years and an extended warranty for the fourth year. In the past few months, the car had 2 trips to the service centre - one for the 30-day service and the other for the 80A fuse box replacement (as a part of the recall campaign). Both the times, the car was picked up from home, and washed and returned like new after the service. The entire process was coordinated extremely well by Mr. Satish (CRM) and Mr. Agasiya (Service) with continuous updates and accommodating any requirements. Needless to say - everything (including the car detailing) was free of cost. Of all the brands that I have owned - the after sales service of Mercedes has been the best, by a long shot! Unintentional Testing of the Build Quality On the first day of the new year, we went out towards ECR but were caught in a long traffic jam, where people were trying to squeeze into every gap possible. In between all of this, a Polo GT decided to suddenly speed up and rear-ended me. As the car shook violently from the impact, in my mind, I was already picturing the rear bumper and tail lights breaking and requiring a long stay at the service centre. I will let the video describe this. When I reached home, I was surprised to see that there wasn't even a scratch on the car. I checked 5 times over to make sure that I was missing nothing - and indeed there was nothing! Build quality 10/10 Pondicherry Trip We decided to do a weekend trip to Pondicherry and see the sun and sands. We decided to take the GST Road to allow the car to stretch its legs and also use the advanced DISTRONIC cruise control system. The car is indeed a hoot to drive, and getting 13kmpl despite occasional hard acceleration was easy. As a side note, the recommended fuel is 95 Octane and the ideal is 97 Octane, as this is a high-compression engine. I was initially using Shell Premium (which is 91 Octane) but then started using XP100 / Speed97 and the smoothness and acceleration impact is night and day. Other Interesting PointsADAS: All my ADAS functions (emergency braking, lane keep assist etc) are always switched on and kept on the **_medium_** setting. I did the same in my Tucson and I feel it makes me a better driver - I always keep sufficient gap from the vehicle in front. I believe I would prefer being rear-ended rather than hit a vehicle or pedestrian myself - there have been numerous instances when people and kids dash in front of the car out of nowhere.Kitna deti hai: I get around 9kmpl in the city under normal driving conditions, and around 13kmpl with occasional hard accelerations.------------------------------------EpilogueSpecial Thanks To The VST Titanium Crew: This is the same group that meets film stars and other celebrities (you can see plenty of videos on YouTube) as they deliver cars like Maybach, AMG, and other expensive vehicles. Yet, they gave us (i.e., Hyundai i20 guests) the same warmth and welcome as they do to the stars - this amply demonstrates the maturity of the brand and the incredible culture of the group. Through the sales process and for the Star Trails events after that, they were very inclusive with my aged parents, sparing no opportunity to make them feel welcomed and comfortable. Special thanks to Ms. Sheeba (head), Mr. Vinoth (the most fantastic and talented sales consultant), Mr. Vignesh (Insurance), Ms. Shanti (CRM), Mr. Satish (CRM), and Mr. Agasiya (Service). Mercedes India & Mr. Santosh Iyer, CEO: Thank you for building the brand for the last 15 years, the aspirational value and recognition of the star are unparalleled. I grew up seeing so many Mercedes videos that made me dream and build a future, that I probably couldn't have, without all that inspiration. We are proud to be called different names... Rebels, Radicals, Renegades! Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Team-BHP 17 May 2024 6:45 pm

Kia launches leasing options for Sonet, Seltos & Carens

Kia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Orix to launch its new ownership program - Kia Lease. As part of Kia Lease, the company is offering monthly subscription plans for the Sonet, Seltos and Carens. In the first phase, Kia Lease has been launched in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru and Pune. Customers can lease a Kia vehicle without any initial down payment for a period of 24 to 60 months. The monthly charges also include maintenance and insurance costs. At the end of the lease period, customers will have the option to return and upgrade to a new car.All-inclusive minimum monthly lease prices:Sonet - Rs 21,900Seltos - Rs 28,900Carens - Rs 28,800

Team-BHP 17 May 2024 6:30 pm

Kia Launches 'Kia Lease' Program in India, What's Special For You?

Kia has introduced 'Kia Lease' in India to enhance the car ownership experience. This new initiative, launched in partnership with ORIX Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, aims to simplify the process of owning a Kia vehicle. The 'Kia Lease' program offers flexible leasing options ranging from 2 to 5 years with different mileage plans. Initially available in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Pune, this initiative makes it easier for customers to access Kia cars. Customers can opt for this leasing program without an initial down payment. The lease covers maintenance, insurance, and addresses resale concerns. At the end of the lease term, customers can choose to return the vehicle or upgrade to a new model. Here are the minimum monthly lease prices for Kia vehicles under this program: Sonet: INR 21,900 Seltos: INR 28,900 Carens: INR 28,800 Kia aims to strengthen its market presence and provide better customer service through this new initiative. They will offer dedicated leasing staff and customer support to ensure a smooth experience for 'Kia Lease' customers. Kia's entry into the leasing market in India is expected to bolster its brand reputation and create new sales opportunities. By partnering with ORIX Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, Kia aims to provide a hassle-free ownership experience, where customers can enjoy driving their preferred Kia vehicle without worrying about maintenance, insurance, or depreciation. This move aligns with Kia's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, offering a convenient alternative to traditional car ownership that is becoming increasingly popular among consumers. How Mahindra XUV300 Aiming to Lead Compact SUV Segment, Challenge Brezza and Nexon Mahindra XUV 700 EV spotted during testing, new design details revealed

News Track 17 May 2024 6:27 pm

EC Issues Notice to BJP Candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay for Remarks Against Mamata Banerjee

Kolkata: Former High Court judge and BJP candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay has received a show cause notice from the Election Commission over his improper, undignified remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.The Election Commissions action came after the Trinamool Congress (TMC) filed a complaint against Gangopadhyay, accusing him of making denigrating statements that reflect indecent behaviour and a misogynistic mindset. The TMC quoted a speech by Gangopadhyay in which he said, Mamata Banerjee, how much are you being sold for? Your rate is 10 lakhs, why? Because you're getting your makeup done by Keya Seth? Mamata Banerjee, is she even a woman? I keep wondering sometimes. These remarks were allegedly made during a public meeting in Haldia on May 15.The TMC condemned Gangopadhyays comments as vulgar and uncouth, stating that they were completely beyond the bounds of decency and morality. They argued that his remarks not only lacked decorum but also showed blatant disregard for the dignity of West Bengal's only lady Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee. The Election Commission, in its notice, described Gangopadhyay's comments as improper, injudicious, beyond dignity in every sense of the term, in bad taste, and a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. The Commission has requested a response from Gangopadhyay by May 20. Swati Maliwal Case: FM Sitharaman Urges Kejriwal to Speak Out and Apologize North Korea Test-Fires Missiles Day After US-South Korea Fighter Jet Drill Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe

News Track 17 May 2024 6:10 pm

Sarah Moin's Remarkable ICSE Success Despite Multiple Disabilities

Lucknow: Despite facing multiple physical disabilities, Sarah Moin of Lucknow has achieved an impressive 95% in her ICSE Class 10 exams. Born with visual impairment and gradually losing her hearing after Class 3, Sarah's journey has been marked by determination and a thirst for knowledge. Her parents, Julie Hamid and Moin Ahmad Idrisi, recount the challenges Sarah has overcome with divine guidance. They sought specialized treatment for her and continued her education at home using Braille materials. Recognizing her potential, Christ Church College, Lucknow, offered her admission to a special class led by dedicated teacher Salman Ali Qazi, where she thrived alongside other differently-abled students. With the assistance of the Orbit Reader, a unique device combining a book reader, note-taker, and Braille display, Sarah accessed her textbooks, which were scanned and converted into digital files. Overcoming communication hurdles, she utilized technology and innovative methods, such as drawing words on her family's hands and deciphering alphabet formations with her mother's guidance. Sarah's remarkable scores - 99 in geography, 97 in chemistry, 92 in biology, and 89 in physics - underscore her dedication and resilience. Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of inclusive education, dedicated teachers, and technology in enabling individuals with disabilities to pursue their dreams. Despite her challenges, Sarah aspires to a career in science, aiming to develop technology for the visually impaired, propelled by her unwavering determination and the support of her family and educators. Swati Maliwal Case: FM Sitharaman Urges Kejriwal to Speak Out and Apologize North Korea Test-Fires Missiles Day After US-South Korea Fighter Jet Drill Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe

News Track 17 May 2024 6:10 pm

Kia Partners With Orix To Launch Vehicle Lease Programme In India

The first phase of the initiative has been launched in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru and Pune, it added.

Bloomberg Quint 17 May 2024 5:43 pm

Air India Flight Cancelled After Hitting Luggage Tractor At Pune Airport

Air India flight to Delhi cancelled after hitting luggage tractor at Pune airport, leaving 200 passengers stranded for 6 hours.

Bloomberg Quint 17 May 2024 4:17 pm

Vijayawada Doctor's Timely CPR Saves Young Boy's Life

Vijayawada: A young boy's life was saved thanks to the swift action of a doctor who witnessed the incident. Six-year-old boy suffered an electric shock and lost consciousness. His parents rushed him to the nearest hospital. Fortunately, Dr. Nannapuneni Ravali, who happened to be in the vicinity, noticed the commotion. Dr. Ravali, immediately began performing CPR on the boy. The doctor's life-saving efforts continued for seven long minutes before the boy regained consciousness. The child was then shifted to a private hospital for further treatment. After being kept under observation for 24 hours, he made a full recovery and was discharged. Reports indicate the boy is now in good health. The incident took place on May 5 at Ayyappanagar in Vijayawada.

Deccan Chronicle 17 May 2024 4:08 pm

Our goal is to spread awareness: EMotorads Aditya Oza on the brands marketing strategy

The Indian E-bike market size is estimated at USD 27 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 60.93 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 17.68% during the forecast period (2024-2029), as per a report by Mordor Intelligence. The report also suggests that an estimated 79.16 % of students and wage workers in the urban regions utilise bicycles for daily commuting and benefits such as time-saving and cheap maintenance. In this market, the electric cycle brand EMotorad aims to spread awareness and to be easily found during the search process. Recently, the brand garnered attention with its viral campaign featuring cricketer MS Dhoni, where Dhoni appears to be singing to the tunes of Bole Jo Koyal . The video goes back to a viral meme from 2019, where a Dhoni look-alike danced to the same song. Aditya Oza , Chief Marketing Officer of EMotorad says, Our goal was to create something organic that the world would love and spread quickly, ensuring recognition would come faster. This collaboration not only elevated the brand's visibility but also resonated with a wide audience across various age groups and income brackets. Overall, Oza mentions that it has reached close to 200 million views across the internet, including YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. So much so, the brand has experienced a growth rate of over 370% in India during FY24, with its customer base now exceeding 100,000 globally. The brand has strategically positioned itself to cater to diverse consumer segments, from teenagers to health-conscious individuals and commuters. In conversation with Social Samosa, CMO Aditya Oza sheds light on the brand's approach to reaching out to consumers and the role of content in their marketing strategy. With a focus on creating engaging and relatable content, EMotorad aims to build trust and awareness among potential buyers, ultimately influencing their purchasing decisions. Oza shares the objective behind its campaigns, its attempt to reach out to the younger generation through relatable content, raising brand awareness and not wanting to become a one-off success in marketing. Edited Excerpts: Let's talk about EMotorad's latest campaign with MS Dhoni. Could you share the idea behind the campaign, the research that went into it and the objective behind the same? There were a few reasons why we got MS Dhoni on board. We know we are creating a new category in the market. To create a category, you need to identify all the domains your audience belongs to. For us, it is not just one single domain. Teenagers are a big part of our audience, as are health seekers. In todays world, cycling should be recycled, and its a significant part of our audience. We see a lot of interest from Tier III and Tier IV towns and from the B3 income group and below. At seven paise per kilometre, it's a great way to commute, especially since scooters today amount close to Rs. One lakh. We thought there had to be something more affordable, and our product is available at around Rs. 24,000, which is a good price point. Given the diversity of our audience, we wanted someone who could speak to all of them and hold value across different segments. Most Bollywood celebrities and cricketers don't have the universal appeal we needed. They either dont resonate with all markets or income classes. Then the idea of onboarding MS Dhoni came up. Initially, we didn't have the budget to pull this off, so we re-evaluated our approach. MS Dhoni ticked all the boxes for us. Our journey has been similar to his; starting in 2020, no one would have bet on a company making electric cycles out of India. We are fortunate to have visionary investors who believe in us. MSs journey from Ranchi to living the dreams of billions was a perfect value match for us. When we connected with him, we realized he is not just a celebrity but someone who genuinely shares our values. Many celebrities have a different persona off-screen, but MS was different. His down-to-earth nature and genuine interest in our vision made him the perfect fit. Fortunately, he came on board not just as someone to endorse our brand but also as an investor who believes in our vision. Now its our time to prove him right and achieve bigger things. Could you share how this has actually helped you reach the audiences? Frankly, with MS Dhoni, you see so many brands working with him recently. There are so many brands he works with, and he seems to fit with almost any brand. We knew MS would get the job done for us, but we wanted to do more. The idea was to leverage his ability to drive organic reach. For example, Candy Crush saw record-breaking downloadsthree and a half million in one dayjust because MS was seen playing it, without any brand association. This demonstrates the deep connection he has with the audience. Our goal was to create something organic that the world would love and spread quickly, ensuring recognition would come faster. However, we also wanted to ensure our message reached the right audience. The idea was to create something appealing to everyone, even without knowing the context of what was happening. How far did this ad reach on social media or otherwise? We saw some impressive numbers from the content we put forward. On Instagram, we reached around 18 million views, on YouTube, we hit a million views. Our YouTube following grew from about 1,000 to 25,000, which is fantastic for us. This tremendous growth shows the impact were making. We noticed significant engagement from shares as well. The content travelled far beyond our initial reach. When we accounted for it, the ad reached over 180 million views. People modified and shared different partssometimes just the singing part, other times the core message. The idea was to create content people love, and they indeed made art out of it. Overall, we believe our content has reached close to 200 million views across the internet, including YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. We even trended on Twitter for a day. All these pieces came together very well, and were grateful to everyone who shared and engaged with our content. Thank you for making it possible. Considering the campaign has been launched during IPL and has managed to get people talking, how does the brand plan to further build upon this? When we started our journey in 2020, we had a monthly marketing budget of just 20,000 rupees. Today, we couldn't even hire someone for a third of that amount. The reality is that our challenge was finding that one opportunity to make an impact. When we got it, I told the team that we weren't going to play it safe. We needed to take risks, as our jobs were on the line. We aimed to do the best we could and try the most random things. If we failed, at least we wouldn't regret not giving it a shot. We have experienced people in marketing and guidance from consultants and investors with the biggest brands. Despite their advice to create something concrete with long-term value, we decided to do something quirky and fun, delivering what the internet really wants. It was a bold move, but we believed in it. If it didn't work, we'd accept the consequences, but we didn't want to think that way. We wanted to try. This approach helped us, and now the message to the team is that we don't want to be known for just one great campaign. Hitting one out of one is great, but we need to keep delivering quality. People will start to have expectations from us, and we need to meet them. We have more exciting things coming up, including another collaboration with MS Dhoni in a couple of weeks. Our goal is to continue creating impactful campaigns with smart spending and to keep doing this over time. Well be attempting more innovative things, especially during key seasons. Considering the campaign has raised awareness about the brand, how do you plan to increase your marketing budget? I think our marketing budgets might not make sense in this context because we are not just an India-based entity. We are the biggest exporter of electric cycles from India. In the easy-to-ride category, there arent many exporters from India. Many importers and a few companies are exporting in significant numbers, but we do a lot of exports. Our budget process starts with identifying our top-line goals across segments, including India B2C, international B2B, and our presence in markets like Australia, Europe, and Japan. Japan operates in a distributor model, while we have a B2C capacity in other regions. First, we determine the overall target and then allocate a percentage to marketing. In marketing, we prioritise targets and reasons, identifying key markets. India is one of our top priority markets, along with our white-label B2B business in Europe. We then segregate the budget accordingly. The numbers vary, and we adjust the budget based on market performance and strategic targetswhether to grow the market or capture market share. India is a market we plan to grow, while in Europe, we aim to increase our market share. Different objectives require different priorities, so if certain markets need more budget, we reassess and adjust as necessary. Does the brand plan on associating with different sports tournaments? I think it all boils down to the kind of spends you want to make and the ROI youre getting. While IPL has valuable properties, they require heavy spending. Today, we want to explore different strategies rather than just sponsoring a few spots. We have participated in a couple of IPL matches, but we want to scale up at the right time. For now, we are still experimenting with various approaches and dont want to allocate all our budget to one area. Hopefully, in the future, we can expand our IPL involvement, but today, we are focused on trying out different things. What is your target audience, and which geographic regions do you focus on? Could you share the thought process behind the campaigns launched by the brand for the different age groups you are targeting? When it comes to our target audience, a few segments have worked well for us so far. Anyone in the market for a bicycle would find our product cooler and end up choosing us, even if it requires spending a bit more. Teenagers are becoming a fast-growing market for us. The word of mouth travels very well among teenagers. I remember when I was young, having a geared cycle was a big deal. If one person in the group had it, everyone wanted it. That kind of word of mouth doesnt happen as much with other age groups. Another target group is those seeking a bicycle for both health and commuting. For instance, someone working in an office all day might use the throttle to ride to work without sweating and then pedal home for exercise. Theres also a group using it for health and lifestyle, who enjoy long rides for fitness. We also see value for money as a key factor. For Rs. 24,000 and seven paise per kilometer, our product makes a lot of sense for this segment. Additionally, we are focusing on younger age groups. We are finalising a product for children under eight or nine years old so they can start riding our bikes early and later upgrade to larger models. I noticed your campaigns have made use of internet culture with memes and Gen Z lingos playing key roles. A similar theme follows your social media. How does social media contribute to reaching out to the target audience? Do you utilise the power of influencers in your marketing strategy? How has it helped? Influencers are a critical part of our strategy for two main reasons: spreading awareness and being discovered. Many people, when considering an electric cycle, enter search mode to figure out which one to buy. Our goal is twofold: first, to spread awareness, and second, to be easily found during the search process. We aim to build trust with consumers as they research their options. When we collaborate with influencers, we ensure that the content is engaging and showcases the joy our product can bring to daily commutes. For example, one of my favourite campaigns was the Daddy of all E-cycles campaign with actor Upendra Limaye. He brought an authentic and joyful portrayal to the campaign, both on and off the camera. In our marketing efforts, we strive to create content that we, as consumers, would enjoy. Our philosophy is to produce memorable and impactful content. We aim to be in people's consideration when they decide to make a purchase, rather than pushing them to buy. While performance marketing and down-funnel strategies drive conversions, our awareness campaigns are about making a lasting impression. The goal is to ensure that when consumers are ready to buy, they think of us first. Can you talk about the mediums you use to promote your brand and products? We've tried and tested various channels, conducting trials at minimal cost to assess effectiveness. For instance, we've experimented with outdoor advertising, newspapers, radio, and even participated in cyclathons like India's first electric cycle event in Bangalore. We also leverage influencers, Google ads, and performance ads on e-commerce channels, which are crucial for driving conversions. While we've explored many channels, we believe there's still a long way to go in fully utilizing print, radio, and outdoor media. These avenues are yet to be fully incorporated into our campaigns, but we may include them with a cautious approach in the future. Digital is a platform where we can easily adjust and stop if something isnt working. That's the main reason behind our focus on it. Today, were seeing results because its such a targeted niche market. However, as our product line and market grow, we believe that expanding to other mediums may offer a better return on investment. What is your current market share and how do you plan on expanding your presence? Our current market share is significant, as we are the highest-selling electric cycle brand in India, both online and offline. We have around 12 E-bike outlets in cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, and others, which contribute significantly to our sales. While offline sales fluctuate and are challenging to quantify precisely, our online presence is dominant. During Diwali, we held a market share of close to 58% overall in the online space. However, this isn't necessarily good news for us, as it indicates that other brands are not doing enough to grow the market. Our goal isn't just to gain more market share but to expand the market itself. We want to make the pie bigger for everyone to have a stake. We encourage other players in the category to invest in spreading awareness and contributing to the growth of the electric cycle market. Electric cycles offer a fantastic commuting option for various purposes, such as office and school commutes. They are suitable for different members of the family and don't require licenses or registration. It's time for other players in the category to invest in raising awareness and promoting the benefits of electric cycles. The brand was launched only in 2020 and has already reached a global audience. What research did EMotorad conduct before going global? We didn't need to conduct much research before starting our electric cycle brand in India. At that time, many would have dismissed the idea, but we recognised a global product-market fit (PMF). India has a history of adopting products over time. Trends that originated in the West eventually make their way to India. We understood that our product had a global PMF, so we weren't just targeting the Indian market; we were aiming for a broader audience. This approach proved to be a game-changer for us. By focusing on building a product that met European, US, and Japanese standards, we ensured quality. Although this increased our production costs, it resulted in fewer issues compared to traditional bicycles. Electric cycles require specialised maintenance, and not every local mechanic can handle them. This was a key learning for us and other legacy players in the industry. We knew that if we could manufacture high-quality electric cycles, they would find buyers globally and in India. Our success in the early days stemmed from having a superior product, which also attracted industry professionals to join us in our journey. Aditya, how did your experience handling leadership positions in Dubai, Abudhabi, India, Spain and Canada, help in marketing in different regions? Regardless of where and how you work, understanding the core consumer is crucial. Fortunately, in Dubai, people from all over the world come to work, so I had the opportunity to closely interact with Europeans and Australians, who were more numerous than other nationalities. Ultimately, understanding the consumer and their preferences is key. If you're unfamiliar with a market, you have to rely on research and talking to people to gain insights. For example, when we explored the Japanese market, my co-founder Rajib and I travelled there, spoke to numerous people, and relied on translators to navigate conversations. Understanding a market like India, where you have an edge due to familiarity with the consumer, is advantageous. However, being unfamiliar with a market can also offer a different perspective that others may overlook. Regardless of your experience, starting research from the ground up and talking to consumers is essential. Trusting your instincts and experimenting while learning from peers and accessing resources online are valuable tools in marketing today. What are some trends you've noticed in the two-wheeler segment, and how does EMotorad shape its marketing based on this trend? There's a great influx of startups entering the electric two-wheeler segment, and they seem to be dominating the market more than legacy brands. Another trend is that legacy brands are also preparing to enter the market with their own electric two-wheelers. Looking ahead, India's growth extends beyond its borders. It's not just about meeting India's needs; it's about exporting quality electric scooters and cycles to the world. Just as India manufactures a significant percentage of the world's iPhones, we should aim for a similar position in the electric two-wheeler market. Now is the time for India to demonstrate its capabilities to the world. Startups are moving at a rapid pace, and there's a need for legacy companies to join in. Bajaj, for instance, has made significant strides with its electric vehicles, particularly in Africa and South America. It's time for all of us to come together and showcase our potential on a global scale. Instead of just competing within the Indian market, we should aim to capture a larger share of the global market. Could you walk me through the brand's short-term and long-term marketing goals for the next two years? We view each year as a milestone in our marketing journey, with numerous short-term goals to achieve. Our long-term marketing objective is to establish electric cycles as a desirable brand, not only in India but also internationally. Short-term goals include establishing a market presence in India across various segments and providing excellent value for money in B2B partnerships. We aim to collaborate with significant clients and are currently in discussions for international distribution, particularly in the US. Additionally, we have technical goals related to sales targets and marketing spend. While these targets are in place, our overarching goal is to build a brand that resonates with people and makes electric cycles a preferred choice for transportation.

Feed Burner 17 May 2024 4:06 pm

Air India plane hits luggage tractor at Pune airport

A Delhi-bound Air India flight had to abort its take-off and was later cancelled after it hit a luggage tractor trolley while taxiing for departure at the Pune airport, airline sources said on Friday.

Rediff 17 May 2024 3:27 pm

Now, Zomatos New Feature Allows Its Users To Make Healthier Choices

Days after Zomato expanded its priority delivery services to Delhi, Hyderabad and Pune, the foodtech giant has now rolled out

inc42 17 May 2024 3:23 pm

Air India Plane Scrapes Luggage Tractor, Cancels Flight from Pune

Air India Plane Scrapes Luggage Tractor, Cancels Flight from Pune A Delhi-bound Air India flight had to abort its take-off and was later cancelled after it hit a luggage tractor trolley while taxiing for departure at the Pune airport, airline sources said on Friday. The incident occurred around 4 pm on Thursday, they said. There were around 200 passengers on board the flight and following the incident, they got stranded at the airport for around six hours, the sources said. Air India said passengers were refunded their full fares and offered complimentary rescheduling. Those with onward international connections were accommodated on flights operated by other carriers, it said. The airline also said that an investigation into the incident has been initiated. Shahab Jafri, a passenger on board the aircraft, said that the flight was scheduled to depart at around 4 pm. ''While taxiing towards the runway for a takeoff, the plane hit a tractor trolley. After the incident, we remained on board for about an hour. The pilot informed us about the incident and subsequently, we were deboarded,'' he said. After persistent inquiry, the passengers were informed about alternative flight arrangements, Jafri said. ''We were stranded at the airport for almost six hours, between 4 pm and 9.55 pm,'' he added. Refreshments were provided to the passengers by around 7.30 pm after they followed up the matter with the airline staff, he said. ''The passengers experienced significant inconvenience. Some passengers had connecting flights, and they must have missed those flights undoubtedly,'' Jafri said. Eventually, their flight departed at 10.20 pm and landed in Delhi around 12.20 am. In its official statement, Air India did not provide details about what exactly happened, and said that there was an incident related to one of their aircraft, which was to fly from Pune to Delhi, at the time of its pushback. ''The aircraft was held back for checks. All passengers were offloaded safely and the flight was cancelled. Passengers were eventually refunded their full fares and offered complimentary rescheduling. Those with onward international connections were flown to Delhi by other carriers. An investigation into the incident has already been initiated,'' it stated.

devdiscourse 17 May 2024 3:10 pm

Be careful if there is swelling in these 5 organs, from stomach to legs, it could be a sign of fatty liver

When it comes to our health, paying attention to subtle signs can often be crucial. One such sign that often goes unnoticed is swelling in various parts of the body. While it might not seem alarming at first glance, swelling in certain organs could actually be indicative of a serious underlying condition, such as fatty liver disease. Understanding Fatty Liver Disease Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells. This buildup of fat can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, which can ultimately impair its function. Fatty liver disease is commonly associated with excessive alcohol consumption (alcoholic fatty liver disease) or as a result of other factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, or high levels of fats in the blood (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD). Signs of Fatty Liver Disease While fatty liver disease often presents with no symptoms in its early stages, there are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate its presence. One such sign is swelling in various organs of the body, including the stomach, legs, and other areas. 1. Abdominal Swelling One of the most common signs of fatty liver disease is abdominal swelling. This swelling, often referred to as ascites, occurs when fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. As the liver becomes inflamed and its function is impaired, it may struggle to produce enough albumin, a protein responsible for maintaining fluid balance in the body. This can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the abdomen. 2. Leg Swelling Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, known as edema, can also be a sign of fatty liver disease. As the liver becomes less efficient at removing toxins and waste products from the blood, fluid can accumulate in the lower extremities, leading to swelling. 3. Swollen Spleen The spleen, an organ located under the rib cage on the left side of the abdomen, can also become enlarged as a result of fatty liver disease. When the liver is unable to function properly, it can cause an increase in pressure within the veins of the abdomen, a condition known as portal hypertension. This increased pressure can lead to enlargement of the spleen. 4. Swollen Gallbladder Fatty liver disease can also affect the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile produced by the liver. In some cases, fat accumulation in the liver can lead to the development of gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder, resulting in swelling and discomfort in the upper right abdomen. 5. Swollen Liver In advanced stages of fatty liver disease, the liver itself may become swollen and enlarged. This can cause discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located. Swelling of the liver, known as hepatomegaly, is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal tenderness. Seeking Medical Attention If you experience swelling in any of these organs, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. While swelling alone may not necessarily indicate fatty liver disease, it can be a warning sign of underlying health issues that require evaluation and treatment. In conclusion, swelling in various organs such as the stomach, legs, spleen, gallbladder, and liver can be indicative of fatty liver disease. Understanding these warning signs and seeking timely medical attention can help in the early detection and management of this potentially serious condition. Peaceful Protests in Mizoram Against Govt's India Border Myanmar Border Decision FM Sitharaman Pitches Indias Future as a Developed Economy at CII Business Summit Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe

News Track 17 May 2024 2:05 pm

Tow Truck Scrapes Air India Plane Just Before Takeoff At Pune Airport: Report

An Air India plane bound for Delhi experienced a collision with a tug truck while taxiing towards the runway at Pune Airport yesterday. The incident occurred when around 180 passengers were onboard.

NDTV 17 May 2024 1:49 pm

The risk of blood pressure increases in summer, know the causes of high BP and ways to prevent it

In summer, the combination of heat and humidity can lead to dehydration and increased sodium loss through sweating, both of which can raise blood pressure. Increased Salt Intake: Sneaky Culprit During summer, people often consume more processed and fast foods, which are high in salt. This excess sodium intake can elevate blood pressure levels. Alcohol Consumption: Summer Socials and BP Summer festivities often involve alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration and temporary spikes in blood pressure. Reduced Physical Activity: The Sedentary Summer Warmer temperatures may discourage physical activity, leading to weight gain and increased blood pressure. Stress: Summer Vacation Blues Contrary to popular belief, summer vacations can sometimes be stressful, whether it's planning, traveling, or dealing with family dynamics, which can elevate blood pressure. Ways to Prevent High Blood Pressure in Summer Stay Hydrated: Beat the Heat Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance, especially when spending time outdoors in the sun. Mind Your Salt Intake: Read Labels Be mindful of your sodium intake by reading food labels and opting for fresh, whole foods instead of processed or packaged ones. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Sip Smart If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated. Stay Active: Beat the Sedentary Trap Find fun ways to stay active during the summer, such as swimming, hiking, biking, or even gardening, to help manage weight and lower blood pressure. Manage Stress: Summer Zen Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or simply spending time outdoors in nature to promote relaxation and lower blood pressure. Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Know Your Numbers Regularly monitor your blood pressure, especially during the summer months, and consult with a healthcare professional if you notice any significant changes or concerns. FM Sitharaman Pitches Indias Future as a Developed Economy at CII Business Summit Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe Indian Entrepreneurs Shine on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia List , Who Are They?

News Track 17 May 2024 1:35 pm

Tension in married life, definitely do this work on Mohini Ekadashi on 19th May

Mohini Ekadashi, a sacred Hindu festival celebrated on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha, holds great significance in Hindu mythology. It commemorates the divine appearance of Lord Vishnu in his enchanting form as Mohini, the female avatar, to resolve conflicts and restore harmony among gods and demons. Significance of Mohini Ekadashi Mohini Ekadashi is believed to bestow blessings for marital harmony and happiness. Devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and seek the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi to overcome marital discord and strengthen the bond of love and understanding between spouses. Tension in Married Life: Common Challenges Marriage, often perceived as a sacred union, is not devoid of challenges. Couples may encounter various issues that can lead to tension and strain in their relationship. Some common challenges include: Communication Breakdown: Ineffective communication can lead to misunderstandings, resentment, and conflicts between partners. Financial Stress: Financial pressures, debts, and disagreements over money management can strain marital relationships. Lack of Intimacy: Emotional and physical intimacy plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy marriage. A lack of intimacy can lead to feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction. Parenting Conflicts: Differences in parenting styles, disciplinary measures, and decisions related to children can cause friction between spouses. Work-Life Balance: Balancing career responsibilities with family obligations can create stress and tension, impacting marital harmony. Trust Issues: Trust is the foundation of a strong marriage. Betrayal, infidelity, or dishonesty can erode trust and lead to turmoil in the relationship. Cultural Differences: Cultural clashes, differing beliefs, and traditions can pose challenges for couples in multicultural marriages. Navigating Tension on Mohini Ekadashi Amidst the challenges of married life, Mohini Ekadashi offers an opportune moment for couples to rekindle their love, strengthen their bond, and seek divine guidance for resolving conflicts. Here are some practical tips for navigating tension on this auspicious day: **1. Fasting Together: Observing a fast together on Mohini Ekadashi can be a symbolic gesture of unity and devotion. It fosters a sense of solidarity and reinforces the commitment to support each other through thick and thin. **2. Prayer and Meditation: Spend time together in prayer and meditation, seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi for marital harmony and peace. Reflect on your relationship and express gratitude for the love and companionship shared. **3. Open Communication: Take this opportunity to engage in open and honest communication. Express your feelings, concerns, and aspirations to your partner. Listen attentively and empathetically to understand their perspective. **4. Quality Time: Set aside distractions and dedicate quality time to bond with your spouse. Engage in activities that you both enjoy, such as cooking together, taking a leisurely walk, or watching a movie. Focus on nurturing your emotional connection. **5. Conflict Resolution: Address underlying issues and conflicts in a constructive manner. Practice active listening, empathy, and compromise to find mutually acceptable solutions. Seek professional guidance if needed to navigate complex issues. **6. Express Affection: Express your love and appreciation for your partner through gestures of affection, kindness, and appreciation. Small acts of thoughtfulness can strengthen the emotional bond and reignite the spark in your relationship. **7. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Let go of past grievances and forgive each other for mistakes or misunderstandings. Embrace forgiveness as a pathway to healing and reconciliation. Cultivate a spirit of understanding, empathy, and acceptance. Conclusion Mohini Ekadashi serves as a reminder of the divine grace and the power of love to overcome obstacles and restore harmony in married life. By observing this sacred occasion with devotion, openness, and sincerity, couples can embark on a journey of renewal, growth, and mutual support in their marital journey. Peaceful Protests in Mizoram Against Govt's India Border Myanmar Border Decision FM Sitharaman Pitches Indias Future as a Developed Economy at CII Business Summit Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe

News Track 17 May 2024 1:23 pm

Air India flight with 180 passengers from Pune collides with tug truck before takeoff

The aircraft, carrying around 180 passengers, suffered damage to its nose and a tyre near the landing gear. Despite the collision, all passengers and crew on board are reported to be safe, an airport official said.

The Hindu 17 May 2024 1:15 pm

Go Digit IPO sails through on last day of bidding; all categories fully booked

The Pune-based Go Digit General Insurance is selling its shares in the price band of Rs 278-272 apiece. Investors can apply for a minimum of 55 shares and its multiples thereafter.

Business Today 17 May 2024 1:12 pm

Peaceful Protests in Mizoram Against Govt's India Border Myanmar Border Decision

In Mizoram, large numbers of people participated in rallies organized by the Zo Re-Unification Organisation (ZORO) on Thursday. The protests were against the government's recent decision to fence the India-Myanmar border and revoke the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between the two countries. The peaceful rallies took place in Zokhawthar and Vaphai villages, located in Champhai district near the Myanmar border. L. Ramdinliana Renthlei, the general secretary of ZORO, reported that thousands of men and women joined the protests. As a result of the rallies, government offices and schools in the bordering villages remained closed for the day. Mizoram shares a 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar's Chin state, and the Mizos have strong ethnic, cultural, and linguistic ties with the Chin-Zomi-Kuki community of Myanmar. Both the ruling and opposition parties in Mizoram, along with civil society organizations such as the Young Mizo Association and student bodies, have vehemently opposed the government's decision. They argue that fencing the border and lifting the FMR will disrupt the close ties between the ethnic communities of the two countries. The protests reflect the deep concern among the people of Mizoram regarding the potential impact of the government's decision on their socio-cultural ties with Myanmar. The decision to fence the border and scrap the Free Movement Regime has sparked widespread discontent and fear among the residents of Mizoram. Many fear that the move could disrupt their longstanding relationships and trade with neighboring communities across the border. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential impact on cross-border livelihoods and the overall peace and stability in the region. As the protests continue to gain momentum, voices from various sectors of society are urging the government to reconsider its decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with the affected communities to find mutually beneficial solutions. Delhi Police Busts Ring Trafficking Rohingyas from Myanmar Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe Indian Entrepreneurs Shine on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia List , Who Are They?

News Track 17 May 2024 1:10 pm

Air India flight dodges tug tractor collision at Pune airport, passengers safe

New Delhi: An Air India flight, with 180 passengers onboard for Delhi, narrowly avoided a collision with a tug tractor as it was taxiing towards the runway at Pune Airport, an airline official said on Friday. The incident occurred on Wednesday at Pune airport. The plane sustained damage to its nose and a tyre near Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 May 2024 12:38 pm

Air India Flight collides with tug tractor at Pune Airport

The used stun grenade appears to have been left behind after a drill conducted by security agencies dealing with VVIP security in the last week of September. (Photo: PTI/File) The used stun grenade appears to have been left behind after a drill conducted by security agencies dealing with VVIP security in the last week of September. (Photo: PTI/File) Hyderabad: Air India flight had a collision with a tug tractor while taxiing towards the runway on May 16 at Pune airport. The incident took place when around 180 passengers were the on-board a Delhi bound flight. The aircraft, carrying around 180 passengers, suffered damage to its nose and a tyre near the landing gear. Despite the collision, all passengers and crew on board are reported to be safe, an airport official told ANI. No injuries were reported, passengers were deplaned and arrangements were made for an alternative flight, whereas the aircraft had some damages. According to reports, the tug truck struck the plane during the taxiing process. The tug truck is used for manoeuvring the aircraft on the ground. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an enquiry with regard to the collision of the aircraft.

Deccan Chronicle 17 May 2024 12:29 pm

Air India flight collides with tug truck before takeoff at Pune airport: Report

Air India flight collides with tug truck before takeoff at Pune airport Report

India Today 17 May 2024 12:15 pm

Air India Flight Collides with Tug Truck at Pune Airport, Passengers Safe

An Air India flight heading to Delhi faced an unexpected incident at Pune Airport yesterday when it collided with a tug truck while preparing for takeoff. The flight, with approximately 180 passengers on board, suffered damage to its nose and a tire near the landing gear. Despite the collision, all passengers and crew on board are safe, according to an airport official. Emergency procedures were swiftly put into action to ensure everyone's safety. The incident led to immediate deplaning of passengers, who were then accommodated on an alternative flight to Delhi. Airport authorities have confirmed the collision and assured that the situation was handled promptly. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the collision. Initial findings suggest that the tug truck, which is used to maneuver the aircraft on the ground, struck the plane during the taxiing process. The investigation will focus on operational protocols and any potential lapses that may have led to the incident. Despite the disruption caused by the incident, airport operations continued without significant delays. The affected aircraft underwent a brief period of inspection and repairs and has since been cleared for further flights. The collision occurred as the Air India flight was taxiing towards the runway, just before takeoff. Airport officials ensured that the affected aircraft was promptly taken out of service for thorough inspection and repairs. Fortunately, this did not cause major disruption to airport operations, and the flight schedule resumed its normal course after the incident. Passengers were reassigned to another flight to Delhi, and authorities are working to prevent similar incidents in the future by closely examining the circumstances that led to the collision. India-Cambodia Direct Flight Service Set to Take Off on June 16 Bangalore Rain Causes Flight Diversions: 9 Flights Rerouted to Chennai Strong Winds and Rain Cause Disruption Across Mumbai and Neighbouring Areas

News Track 17 May 2024 12:10 pm

Air India flight with 180 passengers collides with tug tractor at Pune Airport

According to reports, the aircraft sustained damage to its nose and a tyre near the landing gear as a result of the collision. Despite the impact, all passengers and crew members were confirmed to be safe by an airport official with no casualties reported.

Business Today 17 May 2024 11:44 am