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May 12, 2025

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Tata Motors to empower customers in Chennai to unlock greater business profitability at DeshKaTruck Utsav

•       First-hand experience of Tata Motors’ latest range of trucks

• Expert guidance to optimise fuel efficiency, reduce total cost of operations, and boost profitability

Chennai, 18 September 2024: Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, is set to host Desh Ka Truck Utsav – an immersive daylong event in Chennai on 19th September 2024. The event is designed to empower the trucking community in Chennai with actionable insights and hands-on experience with Tata Motors’ latest range of trucks and value added services, all aimed at enhancing profitability and delivering a low total cost of ownership (TCO).

During the event, attendees will receive expert guidance on enhancing fleet performance, improving fuel efficiency, and achieving greater profitability. They will also benefit from in-depth vehicle demonstrations and insights into Tata Motors’ comprehensive after-sales support. This includes vehicle maintenance programs, fleet management solutions, annual maintenance packages, and 24/7 roadside assistance through the Sampoorna Seva 2.0 initiative – designed to equip customers with detailed information to drive long-term success with their fleets. Additionally, the company will honour also key customers for their partnership and support, making the overall experience more rewarding. 

Mr. Rajesh Kaul, Vice President & Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, sharedTata Motors is committed to understanding and addressing customers’ evolving needs. Desh Ka Truck Utsav offers a vital platform for us to engage directly with them, highlighting our latest digital solutions. The event allows us to not only showcase our robust truck range and value-added services, but also demonstrate their real-world impact on customers’ long-term profitability and success. Our cutting-edge solutions are designed to make customers’ businesses future-ready, ensuring they remain ahead in an evolving landscape. We look forward to interacting with our customers and partners to strengthen our collaboration and achieve shared success.”

Tata Motors offers the widest range of trucks, with cabin options including the LPT, Ultra, Signa and the Prima. The trucks are available with fully-built body options, designed to meet the diverse demands of goods movement, including market load, agriculture, cement, iron & steel, container, petroleum, chemical, water tankers, LPG, FMCG, construction, mining, and municipal applications among others. The range is equipped with Fleet Edge, Tata Motors’ connected vehicle platform for efficient fleet management. Engineered with advanced technology for durability and rigorously tested to meet specific customer needs, the vehicles are supported by Tata Motors’ extensive network. With over 2500 service points nationwide, including 220 in Tamil Nadu, the company ensures holistic support and the highest vehicle uptime.

Tata Motors showcases safe, smart and sustainable mass mobility solutions at Prawaas 4.0

Unveils the all-new Tata Ultra EV 7M for green intra-city mass mobility 

Chennai September, 2024: Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, showcased an impressive array of cutting-edge mass mobility solutions at Prawaas 4.0 – a 3-day biennial event highlighting safe, smart and sustainable integrated mass mobility solutions. The company unveiled an all-new Tata Ultra EV 7M – a zero-emission, intra-city electric bus designed and engineered to perfectly suit the requirements for urban mass mobility. Tata Motors also showcased a diverse range of passenger transport solutions including the Tata Magna EV, Tata Magic Bi-fuel, Tata Ultra Prime CNG, Tata Winger 9S, Tata CityRide Prime and Tata LPO 1822, all aimed at offering customized solutions in varied applications and duty cycles.

Tata Motors’ cutting-edge mobility solutions at Prawaas 4.0

• Tata Ultra EV 7M: All-new electric bus for urban commuting

• Magna EV: State-of-the-art intercity coach for comfortable long-distancetravel

• Tata Magic Bi-fuel: Designed to make last-mile transportation smarter with dual benefits of CNG and petrol

• Tata Ultra Prime CNG: Perfectly suited for school and staff transportation needs

• Tata Winger 9S: A spacious 9-seator luxury van ideal for travel & tourism

• Tata CityRide Prime: Next-generation intercity bus for unmatched travel experience

• Tata LPO 1822: A high performance, cost-effective bus chassis built for long-distance travel 

The all-new Tata Ultra EV 7M offers comfortable seating for 21 passengers and is perfectly suited to tackle narrow lanes and high-traffic urban landscapes with its easy manoeuvrability and ideal dimensions. It is powered by a 213kW electric motor and IP67-rated 200kWh Li-ion battery. It offers a range of up to 160 km in a single charge and comes with fast charging capability, enabling a full charge in just 2.5 hours. The fully electric drivetrain is complemented by advanced safety features, including an electronic braking system and electronic stability control. The bus is equipped with an Automatic Passenger Counter and boasts high safety and security standards with its Intelligent Transport System (ITS). Additionally, the Ultra EV 7M incorporates regenerative braking technology, further enhancing its efficiency and range.

Commenting on the unveiling, Mr. Anand S, Vice President and Head – Commercial Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors, said, Prawaas 4.0’s theme of safe, smart, and sustainable mobility perfectly aligns with our vision. This event provides us a unique opportunity to engage with stakeholders and showcase our cutting-edge solutions. We are proud to present a wide range of exhibits that offer customised solutions in their respective segments, including our latest offering, the Ultra EV 7M, in the electric bus space. This all-new model is perfectly suited for both metros and smaller cities, addressing the unique demands of our customers. Our participation in Prawaas 4.0 underscores our dedication to providing innovative, efficient and sustainable mobility solutions that ensure high earning potential and profitability for our customers.”

Tata Motors leads the charge in shaping the future of mobility with its clean and sustainable solutions across multiple powertrains and emission technologies. The company leads the market in electric buses segment, with over 2,900 e-buses deployed across India, covering an impressive cumulative distance of over 16 crore kilometres. Additionally, the company is a pioneer in advancing hydrogen fuel cell transport solutions within the country. With a wide range of alternate fuel powered vehicles, Tata Motors ensures lower operational costs and higher profitability for operators. Furthermore, Tata Motors enhances its solutions with Fleet Edge, a connected vehicle platform that leverages smart technologies to improve fleet management, vehicle uptime and safety.

Samsung Launches 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV with 4K Upscaling, AirSlim Design and Knox Security in India

  • The Crystal 4K Dynamic TV features advanced phosphor technology enabling customers to witness one billion shades of colour
  • The 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV provides advanced technology like 4K Upscaling, Dynamic Crystal Colour, Air Slim Design, Multi Voice Assistant, Q-Symphony, Crystal Processor 4K, Knox Security

Chennai – September 05, 2024 – Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today introduced the Crystal 4K Dynamic TV at a starting price of INR 41990. The premium television series elevates viewers experience by several notches, allowing them to witness the new era of home entertainment.

The 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV comes with advanced technology including 4K Upscaling, Air Slim Design, Dynamic Crystal Colour, Multi Voice Assistant, Q-Symphony, and Crystal Processor 4K amongst other features to deliver lifelike visuals. The new 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV  is powered by Crystal Processor 4K and the masterful 4K upscaling feature that elevates the picture quality to match up to near 4K display brilliance. Its Dynamic Crystal Colour technology delivers lifelike variations of colours, enabling consumers to see the subtle details of each shade. The HDR feature increases the range of light levels of the content being viewed, while the Contrast Enhancer feature ensures that it appears more natural and is incredibly detailed with layered contrast. The TV’s built-in Multi Voice Assistant allows consumers to enjoy a connected home experience by using either Bixby or Amazon Alexa.

“Young consumers today want a superlative audio-visual experience whether it is sports, OTT or other forms of home entertainment. The new Crystal 4K TV series sets a benchmark for contemporary households by providing a superlative TV viewing experience, further enhancing the proposition of smart and connected living. The Crystal 4K TV series, with its 4K upscaling capability, enhances content in standard resolution to match the stunning clarity of 4K displays, delivering lifelike picture quality while providing immersive sound capabilities with Q-Symphony and OTS Lite. Furthermore, the TV comes with Knox security which enables complete protection of users’ information,” said Viplesh Dang, Senior Director, Visual Display Business, Samsung India.

Additionally, with a mind-blowing sleek profile made possible with AirSlim Design, the 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV is an ambient entertainment portal that comes with a Samsung TV Plus service comprising free endless content with 300+ channels in India.

Enhanced by OTS Lite, this TV series lets consumers feel the on-screen motion as if it is real. The elevated Adaptive Sound technology analyses all content scene-by-scene in real time, making it more dynamic and amplifying the intended effects. The Crystal 4K Dynamic TV also features the Q-symphony which uniquely allows the television and soundbar speakers to operate simultaneously for better surround effects without muting TV speakers.

Delivering a truly unparalleled immersive content viewing experience, the Crystal 4K Dynamic TV is equipped with multiple innovative audio technologies.

4K Upscaling

The 2024 Crystal 4K Dynamic TV features powerful 4K Upscaling technology, allowing viewers to enjoy their favorite content with enhanced detail and vibrant colour, even if the original content is of a lower resolution. This technology upscales the picture quality to closely match up to the 4K resolution, providing a more immersive viewing experience.

Dynamic Crystal Colour

Samsung’s Dynamic Crystal Colour technology offers a vivid and lifelike picture with a wider range of one billion shades of colours. This feature enhances the visual experience by taking it to the next level with advanced phosphor technology, delivering more accurate and richer colours that make every scene more realistic and engaging.

Samsung TV Plus

Samsung TV Plus offers free live TV and on-demand content, providing a wide range of entertainment options without any additional cost of subscriptions, or the hassle of setting up apps, cables or set-up boxes. With over 100 channels available, consumers can enjoy diverse programming from news to sports to movies and more.

Air Slim Design

The Crystal 4K Dynamic TV boasts an Air Slim design, featuring a sleek and slim profile that blends harmoniously and seamlessly with any room decor. This minimalist aesthetic enhances the modern look of any living space while delivering a superior viewing experience.

Knox Security

Knox securely provides cross-cutting protection to user data and services from Samsung’s Smart TV devices to online platforms and services. Now users can indulge in a secure and optimized TV experience.

SolarCell Remote

The SolarCell Remote is an eco-friendly innovation that is made with recycled material and charges using sunlight or indoor light, eliminating the need for disposable batteries. This sustainable approach reduces environmental impact while providing a convenient and reliable remote-control experience.

Multi Voice Assistant

With built-in support for Bixby and Amazon Alexa, the Multi Voice Assistant feature allows users to effortlessly control their TV and other smart home devices using voice commands. This functionality enhances convenience and offers a connected-home, hands-free experience.

Crystal Processor 4K

Equipped with the Crystal Processor 4K, the new TV provides enhanced picture quality with precise colour mapping. This powerful processor ensures that every shade of colour is displayed as intended, offering a lifelike 4K resolution for all content.

Contrast Enhancer

The Contrast Enhancer feature automatically adjusts the contrast settings across different parts of the screen, ensuring a more dynamic picture. By enhancing the depth and colour contrast, this feature delivers a more lifelike and three-dimensional viewing experience.

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

The Crystal 4K Dynamic TV also offers HDR technology that elevates the on-screen picture with rich darks and bright lights. Allowing viewers to see more visual detail in both dingy and over-exposed scenes, this feature brings out true-to-life colours and textures, making every frame more vivid and immersive.

Q-Symphony

The intelligent feature of Q-Symphony enables the TV’s built-in speakers and a connected soundbar to work together simultaneously, creating a richer and perfectly orchestrated surround sound experience. This feature ensures that viewers enjoy dynamic audio that complements the high-quality visuals, without muting the TV speakers.

OTS Lite

Object Tracking Sound Lite (OTS Lite) technology delivers a dynamic 3D sound experience by tracking the movement of on-screen elements and producing sound from the corresponding locations using multi-channel speakers. This feature enhances the audio quality of movies and shows, making the audio experience as captivating as the visual.

Adaptive Sound

The Adaptive Sound feature optimizes the audio output based on real-time scene analysis, providing the best sound experience for every type of content. This technology dynamically adjusts the sound settings to match the scene, enhancing the overall impact of the audio.

Pricing & Availability

The latest Crystal 4K Dynamic TV is available in 43-inch and 55-inch screen sizes at a starting price of INR 41990.

The Crystal 4K Dynamic TV is available on Samsung’s official online store Samsung.com & exclusively on Amazon.in

Fade-proof your fragrance: Easy tips to smell fresh all day long

Ready to turn heads with a fragrance that leaves a lasting impression? We get it – between India’s energetic pace and extreme weather conditions, keeping your scent going strong can be a challenge. But don’t let anything dampen your fragrance game. We’re here to equip you with insider secrets to unlock a captivating aroma that stays with you from the first rays of dawn till the last whispers of dusk.

Layer your fragrance: Layering is the secret to a long-lasting scent. Begin with a scented body wash or shower gel, followed by a scented body lotion. This creates a fragrant base that helps your perfume adhere better to your skin, making it moisturized as well. When you finally spritz on your perfume, the scent will be more pronounced and enduring.

Target your pulse points: To maximize the longevity of your perfume, apply it to your pulse points—areas where your skin is naturally warmer and can diffuse the fragrance more effectively. These include your wrists, neck, behind your ears, and the inside of your elbows. A light mist on your hair can also ensure you leave a trail of your delightful scent as you move.

Reapply as Needed: Lastly, don’t hesitate to reapply your perfume when needed. A quick spritz can rejuvenate your scent and keep you feeling fresh and confident. Make sure you apply sparingly to avoid overwhelming those around you.

Choose the perfect scent: The journey to an enchanting scent begins with selecting the perfect perfume. Use a fragrance that complements your personality and suits the occasion. For a refreshing and invigorating aroma, try ITC Engage l’amante Aqua,  it has fresh fragrance, and its green lavender notes are ideal for keeping you feeling revitalized throughout the day

According to fragrance expert Nikita Dumbani, understanding different fragrance notes is important for the longevity of the perfume. She further explains “Creating a fragrance that stays throughout the day involves understanding the science of scent diffusion. It is important to understand the fragrance notes, as it helps intensify the fragrance according to one’s preference. Furthermore, by layering them and targeting pulse points where warmth enhances diffusion, and occasionally reapplying, you ensure your scent stays vibrant from morning to night.”

Embrace these simple steps, and discover a world where your fragrance makes a statement, no matter what your day brings. With a little know-how and the captivating allure of a scent like ITC Engage l’amante Aqua, you’ll be turning heads and leaving a trail of confidence wherever you go.

Dale Carnegie Expands South India Presence with New Franchise in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu, 4th September 2024: Dale Carnegie India, the global leader in professional development and leadership training, in partnership with Walchand PeopleFirst Limited (WPFL), proudly announces the launch of its new franchise in Tamil Nadu. This strategic expansion into one of India’s most vibrant economic regions underscores Dale Carnegie India’s mission to empower professionals and organizations with the skills needed to excel in today’s competitive business landscape.

The new franchise, led by Omnia Professional Ventures and guided by Sanjeev Nair, a seasoned leader with over 24 years of experience in the healthcare industry, is poised to transform the professional development landscape in Tamil Nadu. Nair’s deep understanding of the region’s economic and cultural nuances uniquely positions the franchise to address the specific needs of Tamil Nadu’s diverse industries, including technology, manufacturing, automotive, and more.

“Tamil Nadu, with its vast reservoir of talent, serves as a catalyst for transformative leadership and innovation across the nation,” said Pallavi Jha, Chairperson and Managing Director of Walchand PeopleFirst and Dale Carnegie Training India. “By bringing Dale Carnegie’s 112-year legacy across 86 countries to Tamil Nadu, we are looking forward to building human capital that will propel India’s next growth wave. Our focus is on cultivating a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, essential for strengthening economic resilience. With the expertise and dedication of our seasoned team, we are fully ready to set new benchmarks for professional and personal achievement.”

“Tamil Nadu, with its vast reservoir of talent, stands as a catalyst for transformative leadership and innovation across the nation,” said Pallavi Jha, Chairperson and Managing Director of Walchand PeopleFirst and Dale Carnegie Training India. “By extending Dale Carnegie’s 112-year legacy across 86 countries to Tamil Nadu, we aim to build human capital that will drive India’s next growth wave. Our commitment is to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, which are crucial for strengthening economic resilience. With the expertise and dedication of our seasoned team, we are fully prepared to set new benchmarks for both professional and personal achievement.”

Dale Carnegie’s new Tamil Nadu franchise will offer a comprehensive range of training programs, including leadership development, communication mastery, sales effectiveness, public speaking, and human relations. These programs are designed to equip individuals and organizations with practical, hands-on skills that drive measurable results.

Commenting on the launch, Sanjeev Nair, the Franchise Owner for Tamil Nadu, said: “It is a privilege to bring Dale Carnegie’s transformative methodologies to Tamil Nadu, a state renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and industrial diversity. Our mission is to empower professionals here to unlock their full potential, fostering innovation and excellence that will resonate across industries.” In addition to its core training offerings, the Tamil Nadu franchise will integrate services from WPFL’s Walchand Plus verticals, including Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, education and skilling programs, and HR consulting. These complementary services will provide a holistic approach to professional and organizational development, ensuring that businesses in Tamil Nadu have the tools to maximise their potential.

Tata Motors registered total sales of 71,693 units in August 2024

  • Total CV Sales of 27,207 units, -15% YoY
  • Total PV Sales of 44,486 units, -3% YoY

Chennai, September 1, 2024: Tata Motors Limited sales in the domestic & international market for August 2024 stood at 71,693 vehicles, compared to 78,010 units during August 2023.

  • Domestic Sales Performance:
CategoryAugust 2024August 2023% change (Y-o-Y)
Total Domestic Sales70,00676,261-8%
  • Commercial Vehicles:
CategoryAugust 2024August 2023Growth (Y-o-Y)
HCV Trucks7,1169,000-21%
ILMCV Trucks4,9655,207-5%
Passenger Carriers3,4102,98614%
SCV cargo and pickup10,37313,555-23%
CV Domestic25,86430,748-16%
CV IB1,3431,3291%
Total CV27,20732,077-15%

Domestic sale of MH&ICV in August 2024, including trucks and buses, stood at 12,008 units, compared to 13,506 units in August 2023.

Total sales for MH&ICV Domestic & International Business in August 2024, including trucks and buses, stood at 12,708 units compared to 14,016 units in August 2023.

  • Passenger Vehicles:
CategoryAugust 2024August 2023Growth (Y-o-Y)
Total PV Domestic (includes EV)44,14245,513-3%
PV IB344420-18%
Total PV (includes EV)44,48645,933-3%
EV (IB + Domestic)5,9356,236-5%

Includes sales of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited, both subsidiaries of Tata Motors Limited.

Meril Introduces New Edge Suture: A Benchmark in Surgical Precision

Chennai, 31 August 2024 – Meril, a global leader in advanced medical solutions, has
announced the launch of its latest innovation, the New Edge Suture. Designed to elevate
surgical performance, the New Edge Suture embodies precision, strength, and reliability,
setting a new benchmark in suturing technology.
This solution by Meril is meticulously engineered to meet the rigorous demands of Open,
Laparoscopic and Robotic surgeries. It is crafted from high-grade alloy and offers
exceptional tensile strength and flexibility for reliable performance. Its patented point
design and silicon multi-coating ensure smooth tissue penetration with minimal trauma,
while the ribbed design provides superior grip minimising needle breakage and enhancing
surgical precision and control. Additionally, thread elongation improves knot security,
reducing the risk of post-operative complications.
Speaking on the development, Mr Vivek Shah, CEO, Meril, stated, “The New Edge Suture is
a testament to our commitment to advancing surgical care in India and across the globe. By
integrating cutting-edge technology with superior engineering, we have developed a product
that not only meets the highest standards of precision but also delivers tangible benefits to
hospitals and healthcare providers. We are confident that, as we progress, New Edge Suture
will become indispensable in the pursuit of surgical excellence.”
The introduction of the New Edge Suture brings multiple advantages to hospitals and
surgical teams. Its enhanced durability and precision help reduce operating time and
minimise the risk of complications, leading to improved patient satisfaction and better
utilisation of surgical resources. For doctors, this means a more intuitive and efficient
suturing experience, which can lead to reduced fatigue and enhanced focus during lengthy
procedures. This reliability translates to fewer instrument failures, enhancing the overall
safety and effectiveness of surgeries.
Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Avanish Saklani, Professor Colorectal and Robotic
Surgery, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, stated – “Meril’s New Edge sutures are poised to
revolutionize surgical care by setting a new standard in precision and strength. I am
confident that this innovation will help reduce complications and reoperations, leading to
more favourable patient outcomes and lower overall costs. Surgeons will benefit from
enhanced efficiency as these advanced sutures streamline procedures and facilitate faster
recoveries. This breakthrough represents a significant leap forward in surgical technology.”

Dr. Somashekhar S P, Chairman – Medical Advisory Board, Aster DM Healthcare – GCC &
India, Global Director – Aster International Institute of Oncology – GCC & India, Lead
Consultant – Surgical & Gynaecological Oncology & Robotic Surgeon, HIPEC & PIPAC Super-
specialist, “Using Meril’s Absorbable Sutures (Polyglactin 910) for subcutaneous closures
has been a game changer. The New Edge Sutures offer exceptional smoothness, reliable
tensile strength, and a predictable absorption rate, all while minimising tissue reaction. It’s a
product I trust for consistent results.”
Meril will continue to invest in cutting-edge innovation that improves precision and
efficiency, ushering in a new era of advanced healthcare solutions. By spearheading this
advancement, Meril reaffirms its dedication to improving patient outcomes and supporting
the global healthcare community.

EXPRESS AVENUE MALL CELEBRATED THE 14TH ANNIVERSARY….


Chennai, 1st September 2024: Chennai’s favourite and most sought-after shopping and entertainment landmark, Express Avenue Mall, celebrated the 14th Anniversary with extravagant events over a long weekend starting from August 30th Friday to September 01, Sunday.
Patrons were treated to trendiest of activities, leaving each with lasting memories.
The first day was marked with a truly distinctive experience for all, through a Fashion Show with the theme Hero'. Young and stunning models showcased most glamorous collections from brands at EA - ranging from haute couture to street style - there was something for every fashionista. The evening was followed by EA Retailers Awards, which honoured the accomplishments of leading retail brands, significant stakeholders and emerging players. On Saturday and Sunday there was array of events, with special mention on the excitement experienced by children from a city NGO, who were treated at the interactive gaming zones at EA, such as Time Zone, Playn’ Learn and Craash. They were also treated to snacks and sumptuous meals.


K-Pop live performances by a local band set the stage alive with music, dancing, and entertainment for all ages. A local K-Pop band performed live at EA, setting the stage alive with music, dancing, and entertainment for all ages.
Audiences witnessed an incredible performance by the band which truly had impactful moments.
Ms Kavita Singhania, MD of Express Infrastructure Pvt Ltd., thanked the retailers and patrons during this milestone occasion – “Express Avenue looks forward to another fantastic year of bringing joy, fashion, and community together and we thank our valued shoppers, for being a part of this journey with exclusive experiences!”
Visit www.expressavenue.in for more event schedules and follow the social media platforms for latest announcements.

Meril expands its healthcare education network with opening of Satellite Academy in Kochi

Meril, a global medical technology and education leader, has expanded its healthcare education network by launching the Meril Satellite Academy in Kerala’s port city, Kochi. This move reinforces the company’s dedication to advancing surgical standards and empowering healthcare professionals in India and worldwide.

In the fast-changing world of medicine, continuous learning and hands-on training are vital for healthcare providers. Recognizing this necessity, Meril Satellite Academies aim to balance theoretical learning and practical implementation, offering professionals a platform to enhance their skills and engage in global collaboration. Positioned within Kerala’s robust healthcare infrastructure and its emphasis on quality patient care, the Kochi Academy is strategically placed to meet the educational needs of healthcare professionals in Southern India.

The new academy is equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including advanced simulators and robotic systems, providing participants with an immersive, hands-on learning environment. The academy features lecture rooms, state-of-the-art audio-visual systems, and specialized simulation spaces, offering the right blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training.

In a state of jubilation, Manish Deshmukh, Chief Marketing Officer of Meril, said, “We believe that accessible, high-quality medical education is key to advancing patient care, and the new Meril Satellite Academy in Kochi is a critical part of that mission. By offering professionals in South India access to state-of-the-art technology and immersive training, we ensure they remain at the cutting edge of medical advancements. Our commitment is to provide healthcare professionals with the resources they need to succeed, and this academy is a step forward in that journey.”

Meril’s educational network already includes two prominent academies: the Vapi Academy in Gujarat, serving as the central hub for Meril’s global educational initiatives, and the Delhi Academy, which caters to healthcare professionals in Northern India with specialized training programs and advanced facilities. The company has ambitious plans to expand further its educational reach with the upcoming launch of new academies across the globe, including locations in Madrid (Spain); Philadelphia (USA); Seoul (South Korea); Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia); and Kolkata, (India).

Through these academies, Meril reinforces its dedication to providing top-tier medical education, equipping healthcare professionals globally to excel in patient care and introducing innovations in surgical practices.

For more details, visit https://www.merillife.com/meril-academy

RAI’s Chennai Retail Summit 2024 Drives Strategic Innovation in aTransforming Retail Landscape.


Chennai, August 28, 2024: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) held a landmark
‘Chennai Retail Summit 2024’ at the renowned ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, drawing
together leading decision-makers and industry frontrunners from across the Indian
retail sector. This year’s summit, centred on the theme “Changing World of Retail”
provided an engaging platform for retail executives and service providers to explore
emerging trends, share insights, and refine strategies in an ever-evolving retail
landscape.
The summit featured a stellar lineup of speakers, including Chockalingam S, Co-Founder
& Director of Opn Advertising Pvt. Ltd.; Balachandar R, Director of Junior Kuppanna; C K
Kumaravel, Co-Founder & CMD of Naturals Salon; Saurabh Kumar, CEO – Retail at
Kaleesuwari Group; Gautam Saraogi, CEO of Go Fashion (India) Ltd. (Go Colors); and
Madhumitha Udaykumar, Co-Founder & COO of The Indus Valley. Each speaker brought
a wealth of knowledge and experience, offering valuable insights into the challenges and
opportunities faced by the retail industry today.
Speaking about the Chennai Retail Summit, Kumar Rajagopalan – Chief Executive
Officer, Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “Chennai Retail Summit highlights
the strength of Chennai as a market that was one of the earliest adopters of the chain
store model in India. Retailers from the region —across Tier 1 to Tier 3—have successfully
navigated the complexities of modern retail while staying true to their cultural roots. In an
industry marked by critical shifts such as time poverty and the growing demand for
hyperlocal solutions, the region’s ability to retain tradition while embracing
modernisation sets it apart. As consumers increasingly prioritise convenience and
personalized experiences, retailers must pivot their strategies to meet these evolving
needs. The ability to adapt quickly and innovate in response to these changes is what will
define success in this dynamic market.”
Sonali Lalvani, CEO, Toniq Retail Brands, said, “The modern retail environment
demands agility and an in-depth understanding of consumer behaviour. As retail shifts
from traditional brick-and-mortar to omnichannel experiences, brands that prioritise
seamless customer journeys and personalized interactions will thrive in this
competitive market.”
Anand Bharadwaj, Co-Founder, Sweet Karam Coffee, said, “In today’s retail
landscape, it’s not just about selling a product; it’s about creating a story that resonates
with consumers along with the right value-added experiences. As we see a shift toward
local and authentic preferences, brands that can harness the power of tradition with a
contemporary twist and blend it with modern retail practices will find themselves
leading the way.”

C K Kumaravel, Co-Founder & CMD, Naturals Salon:
The future of retail lies in the ability to innovate using technology while staying true to
your brand’s core values. In the beauty and wellness sector, this means continuously
evolving our services to meet the changing needs of our customers while maintaining
the essence of what makes us unique. The key is to listen, adapt, and always put the
customer first.
Madhumitha Udaykumar, Co-Founder & COO, The Indus Valley, said, “Indians are
more likely to choose a healthy product over an unhealthy one, with an increasing
preference for toxin-free and safe options. This shift accompanies a trend toward
premiumization. Thankfully, today’s customers are very vocal about their needs. For
retailers, this means a significant opportunity to expand their sales pie and increase
gross margins by introducing these new-age offerings driven by customer demand.”
The Chennai Retail Summit 2024 once again underscored RAI’s commitment to
supporting the growth and advancement of the retail sector, offering a vibrant forum
for industry leaders to collaborate, innovate, and drive the future of retail in India.