Air India group airlines increase connectivity to Surat to 21 weekly flights; launch Surat-Bengaluru as a new route
National, January, 2023: AIX Connect, a subsidiary of Air India, announced the launch of daily direct flights connecting Surat, Gujarat with Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata, and connecting itineraries to Bhubaneswar, Kochi, Guwahati, Goa, Hyderabad, Ranchi, Bagdogra, Lucknow, Chennai, Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, Srinagar starting March 03, 2023. The addition of Surat, Gujarat, lays the foundation of the airline’s expansion plans in the region. The launch fares are ₹4,499 for Surat-Bengaluru, ₹4,299 for Surat-Delhi and ₹5,499 for Surat-Kolkata. Bookings can be made through the airline’s website www.airasia.co.in, mobile app and other major booking channels. Members of the Tata NeuPass rewards program can look forward to earning NeuCoins with every booking.
AirAsia India will begin operations to and from Surat, with 21 weekly flights at convenient times. Surat is the second largest city of Gujarat and is known for its diamond-cutting and polishing industries. Surat is a thriving commercial center with a rich history and culture and offers a range of business opportunities, as well as a variety of tourist attractions, including temples, museums, gardens, and more.
AirAsia India currently operates in two union territories and thirteen states, including Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Assam, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Manipur. The airline is committed to providing convenient and affordable travel options.
Talking about the launch of the new destination, Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer, AIX Connect, added “We are excited to announce our network expansion in the west of India, to Surat, Gujarat. The city has shown a robust demand for business and SME travel, and we believe it has great potential for future growth. We will be offering 21 weekly direct flights connecting Surat with Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata, providing our guests with convenient and enjoyable travel experiences.”
Flights commence from 03 March, 2023 and are open for booking for the below routes:
Sl. No
From
To
Departure
Arrival
Frequency
1
Bengaluru
Surat
14:25
16:15
Daily
2
Surat
Bengaluru
16:45
19:00
Daily
3
Delhi
Surat
08:20
10:00
Daily
4
Surat
Delhi
11:00
12:40
Daily
5
Kolkata
Surat
13:55
16 :30
Daily
6
Surat
Kolkata
17:05
19:40
Daily
The airline remains committed to driving operational excellence and an enhanced guest experience with pioneering digital and marketing initiatives like cloud-tech powered in-flight experience hub AirFlix, its award-winning website and mobile app, AI-powered conversational chatbot Tia, and integration with innovative service providers to enable products like FlyPorter baggage delivery services, and seamless Single Sign-On, profile management and personalisation built on the Tata NeuPass loyalty program.
On National Youth Day (January 12), environmental expert Supriya Patil recommends five ways in which young people can serve the environment
The enormous impact of young activists like Greta Thunberg on the conversation around climate change is undeniable. Greta was just 15 when she started the weekly strike, ‘Fridays for Future’ and her evolution into an international advocate who in 2019 was named as one of the world’s most influential people by Time magazine, demonstrates the power of a lone, determined young person. There are many young change makers in India also who are working towards the 2030 agenda for sustainable development put forward by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015. But can India, with its large youth population, do more?
Environment expert Supriya Patil who works with social organisation Grow-Trees.com has a few suggestions about how more youngsters can contribute to the fight against climate change.
Consume and waste less
Heedless consumption generates enormous waste and as per CNN’s December 2022 report, India has more than 3,100 landfills, with the biggest standing at 65 metres. These landfills let out methane gas, a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Buying reusable cups, cutlery, bags, and recyclable products and setting up compost bins will reduce the emission of methane and improve carbon sequestration in soil. Young shoppers can also patronise thrift stores and speak up for the planet on their social media sites.
Plant more trees
The Youth of today should maximize the use of technology to their advantage and support organisations that enable people to plant from the comfort of their homes. Grow-Trees.com as one such organisation here which is planting millions of trees across India and creating urban forests to improve poor Air Quality Index. In 2019, Grow-Trees.com also conducted environment awareness and plantation programs with the Youth Development Society of Sikkim (YODESS)
Support sustainable agriculture
A 2022 UNEP article notes how sustainable agriculture uses 56 per cent less energy and creates 64 per cent fewer carbon emissions. Young consumers can support organic farm to table practices, buy local produce, learn more about indigenous farming traditions and even start their own community kitchen gardens to help reduce food miles. Community gardening projects in urban areas, also help in improving the air and soil quality and nourishing the micro-climate.
Consume more plant-based food
A 2014 Oxford University study states that “people who eat meat are responsible for almost twice as many dietary greenhouse-gas emissions per day as vegetarians and about 2.5 times as many emissions as vegans”. Vegans refrain from consuming eggs, dairy and any product that exploits animals. Veganism is not just a fad but a mindful choice that can contribute enormously to the health of the planet. Following a vegan diet can also help preserve habitats, prevent livestock emissions, and stabilise oceans as the meat industry pollutes the marine ecosystem.
Follow energy-efficient practices
Youth can take the lead in advocating energy-efficient practices at their homes, educational institutions, and workplaces. This includes switching off the lights and fans when not in use, curtailing water wastage, using energy efficient gadgets, installing solar panels etc. Supporting sustainable businesses, investing in green initiatives and sensitising others to the need to conserve and preserve the environment can also make a huge difference to the well-being of the planet.
Smt Locket Chatterjee along with the team of Hon’ble MPs, Chairpersons and officers from Lok Sabha Secretariat arrived Sikkim today.
The four-day visit is primarily a study visit of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs and the Public Distribution System(PDS) in Gangtok.
The team was accorded a warm welcome at Rangpo Tourist Facilitation Centre by Mrs Deepa Rani Thapa, Secretary,Food and Civil Supplies Department, Mr.Jigmee Wangchuk, Additional Secretary,Food and Civil Supplies Dept., Mr. John Gurung, Deputy Secretary,Home Department and FCI Deputy Manager V.Chakma along with government officials from concerned departments.
The visiting members comprised Smt Locket Chatterjee, Chairperson, Shri Anil Firozia(M.P), Shri Rajendra D. Gavit (MP), Shri Khagen Murmu(MP), and Smt. Himadri Singh(MP), Shri Rajmohan Unnithan( MP), Mr Ve.Vaithilingam(MP) and Shri Sakaldeep Rajbhar(MP).
The visit also had officials from Lok Sabha Secretariat, Dr.Vatsala Joshi(Director),Dr Mohit Rajan(Deputy secretary), Shri Dong Lianthang Tonsing(Under Secretary), Smt Sonia Walia,(Pvt Secretary).
Thereafter the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs and the Public Distribution System(PDS) along with officials were escorted to FCI, FSD Rangpo depot.
The Chairperson in her visit to the godown enquired about the stock, procurement and transportation of grains including fortified rice and wheat.
FINAL SCORE: INDIA: 373/7 (50 OVERS) SRI LANKA: 306/8 (50 OVERS)
For India, Virat Kohli hit his 73rd international and 45th ODI hundred as he scored 113 runs off 87 balls.
Apart from Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma scored 83 runs off 67 balls and Shubman Gill scored 70 runs off 60 balls.
Umran Malik was the pick of the Indian bowlers. Umran finished with figures of 8-0-57-3. Further, Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets and Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal picked one wicket each.
For Sri Lanka, captain Dasun Shanaka was the top scorer. He scored unbeaten 108 runs off 88 balls.
Mangan, January 10, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang under the banner “Governance at the Doorstep”, met with the public of Dzongu Constituency at Namprikdang, Forest Guest House.
Chief Minister, at the outset briefed the public where he mentioned that the public meeting is being done to have direct contact with the citizens to understand their grievances and address their issues.
The meeting witnessed huge amount of public gathering from the Dzongu Constituency, wherein orderly manner was maintained to provide a stage for public to voice their concerns.
On the mass public meeting, HCM provided medical assistance and government services to those in need.
The meeting also had the presence of Minister Shri Sonam Lama, Minister Shri Samdup Lepcha, MLA Dzongu Shri Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, Chairmans , Political Secretary to HCM, Additional Political Secretary to HCM North, Zilla Adakshya Mangan, Zilla Up- Adakshya Mangan, Secretaries , D.C Managn, A.D.M Managn, ADC (Dev) Mangan, ADC (Dev) Chungthang, SDMs, BDOs, Officers & Officals, Councillors and Panchayats.
“G-20 is not just a diplomatic event, but it should be turned into a historic event of public participation where one can witness the spirit of ‘AtithiDevoBhava’”: PM Modi at PravasiBharatiyaDiwas in Indore
Gangtok, January 2023, Various G20 events across the country captured the interest and imagination of the citizens as the first Finance Track meeting of 2023 got underway in Kolkata on the 9th of January. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar celebrated the 17th PravasiBharatiyaDiwas with members of the India diaspora in Indore while the University of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala organized a special G20 themed University Connect event.
The City of Joy, Kolkata, held the 1st Meeting for the Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) under the Finance Track of India’s G20 Presidency from 9th-11th January 2023. Day 1 of the meeting consisted of a symposium on Unlocking the Potential of Digital Public Infrastructure for Advancing Financial Inclusion and Productivity Gains, where Queen Maxima of the Netherlands delivered the keynote address. Panel discussions were held on the topics of Leaving No One Behind: The Role of Digital Public Infrastructure in Financial Inclusion & Productivity Gains and Digital Financial Ecosystem based on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): A Policy Perspective. Besides, an exhibition on “Digital innovations for Financial Inclusion” showcased India’s achievements and efforts in advancing digital financial inclusion, financial system infrastructure, emerging technologies, and achievements in various stakeholders such as Public Sector Units, Public Sector Banks, Fintech companies, etc. A cultural outing followed the meetings in the evening on a river cruise where the G20 delegates experienced the scintillating heritage of Bengal.
Meanwhile, the Day 2 of the 17th PravasiBharatiya Divas Convention 2023, held at the street food capital of India, Indore, witnessed a sensational keynote address from India’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, who also inaugurated the first-ever digital PravasiBharatiya Divas exhibition on the theme ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’- Contribution of Diaspora in Indian Freedom Struggle. Speaking about India’s G20 Presidency in Indore, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that “G20 is not just a diplomatic event, but it should be turned into a historic event of public participation where one can witness the spirit of ‘AtithiDevoBhava’”. He also went on to describe that “the skill, values and work ethics of Indian youth can become the engine of global growth.”
The session also witnessed welcome remarks from India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, along with an address from Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Besides, the meeting witnessed special addresses from dignitaries such as Mr. ChandrikapersadSantokhi, the president of the Republic of Suriname, and Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the president of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. India’s G20 Sherpa Shri Amitabh Kant and G20 Chief Coordinator Shri HarshvardhanShringla also addressed India’s diaspora during a town hall session and gave an overview of India’s G20 Presidency. Besides, the release of the commemorative postal stamp ‘SurakshitJaayen, PrashikshitJaayen’ and two plenary sessions on the topics of the Role of Indian Diaspora in promoting Indian Healthcare Eco-system in Amrit Kaal: Vision @2047 and Leveraging the soft power of India – Goodwill through craft, cuisine & creativity were also conducted.
Besides, God’s own country, Kerala, also adorned the colours of India’s G20 Presidency as it welcomed the University Connect programme on the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future” at the University of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram. The interesting lecture series to engage the youth minds of the country was hosted by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) in line with the upcoming 1st Health Working Group Meeting under the Sherpa Track of the Indian G20 Presidency which would be held at Thiruvananthapuram on 18th-20th January. The lecture series witnessed addresses from key speakers, such as former ambassador T.P Sreenivasan on the topic of the ‘Indian Presidency of G20’ followed by remarks from prominent speakers.
Lastly, G20 was the theme of the International Kite Festival held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from the 8th to the 14th of January, 2023. The G20 nations took part in the festival, attempting to achieve a Guinness World Record for the maximum number of kite enthusiasts from various countries flying kites simultaneously. The kites with the G20 logo soared in the skies of Gujarat. An immense gathering of people taking selfies was also seen near the special G20 photo booth that had the G20 logo along with the theme of “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
Cult favouritereturns on popular demand; in-restaurants from 10th January
Siliguri, 2023:This new year just became happier, as KFC announced the return of Chizza. Yes, you heard that right! Thecult favKFC Chizzais back with a bang, promising to be the biggest blockbuster of 2023. Bringing together the 2 things foodies loves most – chicken and cheese – KFC Chizza is sure to leave you drooling! The product is all set to make a comeback on popular demand after it received immense love by KFC fans over the years, thanks to its flavorful taste and the shockingly delicious crust. What crust you ask? Well, it’s KFC’s crispy chicken on top, and more crispy chicken at the bottom, that has made it a fan favourite.
The all-chicken, no crust Chizzaconsists of two zinger fillets of crispy chicken, topped with delectable pizza sauce, molten cheese, a smattering of onionsand mixed peppers, finished with an herb sprinkle. Trust us, this irresistible crispiness and cheesy pull, will leave you wanting more! Starting at INR 299/-Chizza will be available across all 600+ KFC restaurants 10th January onwards.
The delectable Chizzacomes withKFC’s 5X Safety Promise of Sanitization, Screening, Social Distancing, and Contactless service with Vaccinated teams. All surfaces and frequently touched areas in a restaurant are regularly sanitized, team members and riders are screened regularly for their temperatures. You can get your favChizzain a completely contactless & safe manner – through delivery, takeaway, KFC to your Car/Bike and during dine-in. All dine-in and takeaway orders also come with the added promise of Express Pickup, where orders are readied for pick-up within 7 minutes, failing which, customers are offered a complimentary piece of Hot & Crispy chicken. Chizza and other KFC favorites can also be ordered on the all-new convenient KFC app, available on Google Play and the App Store.
So, what are you waiting for?Chizza, the crispy cheesy delight is back at a KFC near you. Order now and feel the cheesy ‘pull’.
With its powerful performance and unmatched toughness, Toyota Hilux is a testament to Toyota’s world-class engineering andexceptional on & off-road prowess
• Powered by 2.8 L Four Cylinder Turbo–Diesel Engine &isavailable in 6-Speed Automatic and Manual Transmissionoptions
• Top safety features such as 7 SRS Airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TC) Electronic Systems to keep vehicle control under adverse weather & road conditions
• All variants equipped with 4X4 drive capabilities along with many first-in-segment features such as Drive modes options (Power & Eco), Tire Angle Monitor & Front Parking Sensors for a smooth drive
• Utmost passenger comfort on the interiors with Leather Seats, Dual Zone Fully Automatic Temperature Control, Smart Entry & Auto Head Lamps
• Eight-inch infotainment table style screen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay provides entertainment and seamless connectivity technology
• Aiding customer convenience, bookings can be placed both online (www.toyotabharat.com) as well as at the nearest Toyota dealership
Siliguri, Jan 2023: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the opening of bookingsfor its iconiclifestyle utility vehicle – The Hilux. Needless to mention, since its launch in early 2022, the Hilux has received overwhelming customer response, appreciatedfor its great styling, and driving comfort.
Owing to Hilux’s high demand and various factors impacting the supply, the bookings for legendary Hilux wastemporarily halted. However, with today’s announcement, the order taking for the much-celebrated global legend have commenced at the dealer outlets as well as on-line bookings are accepted.
Globally, the Hilux sales havesurpassed 20 million units winning hearts of many discerning customers from over 180 countries. Through more than five decades and eight generations, the Toyota Hilux has created extraordinary experiences and an unbreakable bond with those who desire awesome drives, whether they are on business or with their families.
Hilux’s global reputation as a powerful performer is attributed to its rigid Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform. It is the same platform (body-on frame chassis construction) that underpins the Fortuner which has been a runaway success in India and across many countries.
Toyota Hilux is aimed to fulfil the needs of customers seeking anawesome lifestyle utility vehicle that is best suited,not only for off-roading adventure drives on tough terrains, but also for everyday city use.Furthermore, this versatile machine,is perfectly suited for multiple purpose usagesthat can cater to new emergingbusiness customers be it campervan, farming,defense, mining, construction, rescue van, etc.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Atul Sood, Vice President of Sales and Strategic Marketing – Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “It gives us immense pleasure to announce that we have begun the bookings for Hilux – an iconic vehicle which has been accepted by generations world over. Our desire is to excite our customers with lifetime experiences to fulfil their aspiring needs by providing greatermobility choices. We are confident that the globally celebratedHilux will continue to set new standards of unmatched toughness &awesomeness in India market to suit varied lifestyle utility requirements be it personal or business.
We at Toyotatruly understand that for who owns Hilux, the purpose of life is to do more than the normal, to be able to go on adventures, to be able to make memories and to utilise every opportunity and go forth. It is as much function as it is form. It is as much utility as it is exploration to lead a complete life, full of memories. With our flagship model Hilux, we aim to call on our valued customers to do everything they wish to, to Live a Fuller Life.
As a brand that continuallyevaluates market trends andevolving preferences, we recognize the increasing aspirationfor a rugged, sturdy lifestyle utility vehicle and the Hilux ticks all the right boxes. Being a fine example ofworld-class engineering with unparalleled safety, and best-in-class comfort, Hilux is perfectly channelled to aid seamless mobility in difficult road conditions.We strongly believe thatour patrons will carry on the legacy of this vehicle on Indian terrains, for many years to come.”
The Hilux with its powerful powertrain system of 2.8 L Four Cylinder Turbo-Diesel Engine, is available in option of 6- Speed Automatic and 6-Speed Manual Transmission. All the variants of Hilux are equipped with 4X4 drive capabilities along with many first-in-segment features such as Drive modes options (Power & Eco), Tire Angle Monitor & Front Parking Sensors for a smooth drive. In addition to a variety of remarkable features coupled with a robust engine, the Hilux also offers exceptional endurance, low maintenance cost, and great practicality for a variety of usage purposes. Furthermore, the Hilux’s water wading capability of 700mm makes it suitable for driving through Indian trails, setting new standards in its off-road capability.
Further, to supplement the amazing experience of Hilux, we are much excited to offer the specialised range of accessories for adventure-oriented customers’, truly reflective of the design concept. These range of recommended accessories will amplify the versatility of the Hilux. To know more about such accessories, we urge the customers to visit and explore at their nearest Toyota touchpoints.
The details of the Ex-showroom Price (grade-wise), are as follows:
Grades
4*4 MT Standard
4*4 MT High
4*4 AT High
Ex-showroom Price
Rs. 33,99,000/-
Rs. 35,80,000/-
Rs. 36,80,000/-
Bookings for the Toyota Hiluxopened today.Customers can make their bookings online onwww.toyotabharat.comor also visit their nearest Toyota dealership.With Toyota’s virtual showroom, now the customers can seamlessly get a 360-degree external and internal views, check out all the available variants and colours and experience the key features as well.
Overview of TKM
Company name
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited
Equity participation
Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan): 89%, Kirloskar Systems Limited (India): 11%
Number of employees
Approx. 6,000
Land area
Approx. 432 acres (approx.1,700,000 m2)
Building area
74,000 m2
Total Installed Production capacity
Up to 3,10,000 units
Overview of TKM 1st Plant:
Established
October 1997 (start of production: December 1999)
Location
Bidadi
Products
InnovaHycross, Fortuner manufactured in India. Vellfire imported as CBU
Installed Production capacity
Up to 1,00,000 units
Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:
Start of Production
December 2010
Location
On the site of Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited, Bidadi
− 72 cities already enjoying the World’s Most Advanced Network, Jio True 5G
− Jio users to enjoy Unlimited 5G Data with up to 1 Gbps+ speed, at no additional cost
Siliguri, January 2023: Reliance Jio today announced the launch of its True 5G services in Siliguri,taking the total number of True 5G cities to 72. Jio True 5G is rolling out at a rapid pace and is the only 5G service to be present in majority of these cities, providing Jio users transformational benefitsoftechnology.
Jio users in these cities will be invited to the Jio Welcome Offer, to experience Unlimited Data at up to 1 Gbps+ speeds, at no additional cost, starting today.
Commenting on the launch, a Jio Spokesperson said, ”We are happy to announce the launch of Jio True 5G in four more cities. Jio is the operator of choice for users in Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab and the most loved technology brand, and this launch is a testament to Jio’s continued commitment to the people of these states.
We are proud to honour our commitment of offering a world class network that is growing at a rapid pace. Jio True 5G will equip the people in these stateswith infinite growth opportunities in the areas of tourism, manufacturing, SMEs, e-governance, education,healthcare, agriculture, automation, artificial intelligence, gaming, and IT. We are grateful to the State Governments and administration teams for their continuedsupport in our quest to digitize these regions.”
Jio plans to launch its True 5G services in every town, taluka of India by the end of December 2023.
Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, today marked a significant leap forward in offering sustainable mobility solutions for intra-city cargo transport by commencing deliveries of the all-new Ace EV,India’s most advanced, zero-emission, four-wheel small commercial vehicle.The first fleet of the revolutionary Ace EV was delivered to leading e-commerce, FMCG and courier companies, and their logistics service providers: Amazon, Delhivery, DHL(Express &Supply Chain), FedEx, Flipkart, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health, MoEVing,Safexpress andTrent Limited.
The new Ace EV, unveiled in May 2022 and co-developed in rich collaboration with its users, has successfully completed stringent real-world market trials. Supported by a diligently curated ecosystem, the Ace EVcomes with a holistic solution for hassle free e-cargo mobility and 5-year comprehensive maintenance package. Its robust performance with 100% uptime received an overwhelming response from customers. The Ace EV’s supporting ecosystem includes development and deployment of charging infrastructure,setting up of dedicated Electric Vehicle Support Centres for maximum fleet uptime, deployment of Tata Fleet Edge – the next-gen optimal fleet management solution, support of Tata UniEVerse, the proven enabling eco-system of relevant Tata Group companies, andpartnerships with the country’s leading financiers for availing funding.
Flagging the first fleet of Ace EVs,Mr.Girish Wagh, Executive Director,Tata Motors, said,“The introduction of the Ace EVs on Indian roads marks a big step forward in the journey towards zero-emission cargo mobility.The holistic solution co-created with our partners effectively caters to a variety of intra-city distribution needsand delivers a superior value proposition to all stakeholders.We are grateful for the trust and support of our customers. Their encouraging response to Ace EV inspires us to accelerate our endeavour of sustainable mobility and support the nation’s net-zero aspirations.”
The Ace EV is the first product featuring Tata Motors’ EVOGEN powertrain that offers an unparalleled certified range of154 kilometres. It delivers a safe, all-weather operation with an advanced battery cooling system and regenerative braking system to boost the driving range. The vehicle allows regular and fast charging capabilities for high uptime.It is powered by a 27kW (36hp) motor with 130Nm of peak torque, to ensure highest cargo volume of 208 ft³ and grade-ability of 22% allowing easy ascend in fully loaded conditions. The Ace EV’s container is made of lightweight, durable materials that perfectly suit the requirements of e-commerce logistics.
