Bollywood's Darling Kiara Advani Takes a Paws-itive Turn, Unveiled as Drools Pet Food Ambassador on PAWCAST

Mumbai, 31st May 2023: Bollywood’s favourite young Superstar Kiara Advani has been roped in by Drools, one of India’s leading pet food brands, as the new brand ambassador. The versatile and bankable actor will represent the brand embodying the values and commitment to quality that Drools Pet Food stands for. Kiara also graced the inaugural episode of Drools' PAWCAST, where she delighted her fans as she engaged in a vibrant and entertaining conversation with the charismatic canine host of the show.

To generate excitement, Drools utilized its Instagram page to release a captivating teaser ahead of the announcement. In the teaser, the cute PAWCAST host, extends an invitation to a special guest to join the biggest-ever PAWCAST. While the video cleverly conceals Kiara's identity, her voiceover accompanies the invitation, expressing her excitement and gratitude for being invited as the first guest. This strategic approach sparked conversations and debates among Drools' followers, fueling speculation about the identity of the mystery guest.

Kiara is a pet lover herself which is clearly evident to the immense fan base of the actress through her social media. Banking upon the same, the brand has aptly roped in Kiara Advani. Speaking about this collaboration, Kiara Advani said, “I am absolutely ecstatic to join hands with Drools Pet Food. Being a devoted pet lover, I wholeheartedly recognize the significance of providing our beloved furry companions with optimal nutrition. Drools' unwavering commitment to quality and their profound passion for pets resonates with me deeply. Moreover, the experience of being the inaugural guest on Drools' PAWCAST was truly special, enabling me to connect with pet enthusiasts in a delightfully entertaining manner. I am eagerly looking forward to our exciting journey together."

"We are thrilled to have Kiara Advani as the brand ambassador for Drools Pet Food. Kiara's vibrant personality and passion for pets make her an ideal fit for our brand. With her association, we aim to strengthen our bond with pet owners and provide them with the best nutrition options for their furry companions. We are equally excited to announce the launch of our PAWCAST series, an exciting and unique platform that brings together fascinating guests for fun-filled and light-hearted conversations with our charismatic canine host. Having Kiara as our inaugural guest added an extra layer of excitement,” said Dr. Shashank Sinha, CEO & Veterinarian, Drools Pet Food Pvt Ltd.

Drools consistently endeavours to provide the best quality nutrition and products to pets. The brand understands the importance of a healthy and nutritious diet for a pet's growth hence their in-house team of vets and nutritionists formulate the product which then undergoes stringent quality checks to ensure superior quality food, specific to the growing needs of pets.

Kiara’s Teaser Link: https://rb.gy/x1uga

Drools Teaser Link: https://rb.gy/x1lp3

Drools PAWCAST Podcast: https://rb.gy/i08am

About Drools:

Drools, India’s only MNC pet food company was established in 2010 by Fahim Sultan and is the flagship brand of DROOLS PET FOOD PRIVATE LIMITED.  Set up in 2009 to focus on nutrition, health and welfare of pets, Drools was born to bridge a gap and ensure that all pets received the right kind of clean ingredients with wholesome balanced nutrition. The production of pet food for dogs and cats began in 2010 and Drools today, is one of the fastest growing pet food brands in South Asia with large product ranges developed with international quality standards. 

Export led growth has been a dominant paradigm for Drools and the company has seen exponential growth in the last decade. The first consignment of Drools Daily Nutrition Dry Dog Food and Dry Cat Food was exported to Sri Lanka in the year 2012 and then to Kathmandu, Nepal within the same year.

At present Drools exports to 22+ countries and some select countries in the African continents. What started as a bare minimum product line has now expanded to Premium Dog Food, Economy Brand Packs, Treats, Supplements in addition to Dry Dog and Cat Food.

SBI General Insurance adopts Strategic Initiatives to Drive Insurance Awareness and Penetration in Meghalaya

Meghalaya, 30 May 2023: SBI General Insurance, one of the leading General Insurance companies in India, has been identified by IRDAI as the lead insurer (Non-Life) for the state of Meghalaya, to improve insurance awareness & insurance penetration across the state. The initiative is intended to accelerate the implementation process of IRDAI’s mission “Insurance for All by 2047” in the state of Meghalaya through the State Insurance Plan and to ensure last-mile delivery of insurance services to the uninsured population of the state. The proposal by IRDAI is expected to have a significant impact on overall economic growth and financial stability. IRDAI has appointed HDFC Life & Niva Bhupa as Lead Insurers for Life and Health Insurance respectively along with SBIG for Meghalaya.

In order to increase insurance awareness & penetration, the SBI General Insurance Team led by Mr. Anand Pejawar, Dy. Managing Director and Mr. Mrigendra Lal Das, Senior VP & Mr. Piyush Kumar Singh VP and Mr. Alok Mohanty RH visited Shillong and organised a series of activities in Shillong on 23-24 May 2023.

The SBI General Insurance Team met the Chief Secretary Meghalaya, Shri Donald Phillips Wahlang, IAS, and briefed him on the State Insurance Plan for Meghalaya and the initiatives taken by the insurance companies. The Chief Secretary appreciated the Vision of IRDAI to have Insurance for All by 2047. He assured full support of the Government of Meghalaya and its machinery towards the good public cause.  

The SBI General Team also met Dr Vijay Kumar IAS, ACS(Finance) and discussed the road map to implement State Insurance Plan. He has readily agreed to depute one senior official from the Finance team as the Nodal Officer who would represent the Meghalaya Government in this. 

On 23 May, Mr. Pejawar also chaired a State Level Insurance Coordination Committee (SLICC) meeting in the presence of the non - life insurance companies operating in the state of Meghalaya. This has been crafted to align with the SLBC of the Banks for better coordination. A detailed strategy was chalked out for spreading Insurance Awareness & Penetration in the state of Meghalaya. Additionally, unanimously it was agreed to distribute the 11 districts of Meghalaya between the insurance companies (2-3 per district) to streamline the efforts. Regular SLICC meetings will be conducted every quarter to keep track of the progress and discuss if assistance is required from the State Government authorities. 

To create awareness among staff members of State Bank of India and Meghalaya Rural Bank (MRB) an RRB sponsored by SBI, SBI General Insurance conducted a workshop in Shillong Club to explain the concept and roadmap for Meghalaya State Insurance Plan. The workshop was attended by more than 100 staff members including Mr Amit Kumar, DGM(B&O) Shillong and Ms Tshering Diki, Chairman, Meghalaya Rural Bank.

Furthermore, SBI General Insurance conducted a workshop cum insurance awareness programme for Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) of E- Governance CEC. The workshop was attended by Mr Atul Mohan Head Insurance E-Governance CEC with Mr. Anand Pejawar DMD, Mr M. L. Das, SVP, among others. The agenda of the meeting was to outline a comprehensive plan for implementing grassroots activities in the state, with an aim of creating an enabling environment that promotes and nurtures the growth of the insurance sector and further boosts the economy in Meghalaya.  This was an initiative to promote and spread insurance literacy as a necessary life skill.

Mr. Anand Pejawar, Whole-Time Director & DMD, SBI General Insurance said, "Our partnership with the Government holds immense potential to make a significant impact on nation-building and on the vision of "Insurance for all by 2047”.  We believe that insurance is a powerful tool that empowers individuals and safeguards their future financially. Our commitment, as an insurance Company is to create awareness and ensure access to insurance for every citizen of Meghalaya. To achieve this, we have taken concrete steps in close collaboration with other non - life insurance companies operating in the state to drive insurance awareness in the state by leveraging our expertise and resources.”

He further added “We are confident that our collaboration by forming the SLICC on the state, we will create widespread awareness, enhance financial inclusivity, and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the state. This will further strengthen our efforts towards governments goal of making Meghalaya a 10-billion-dollar economy. Together, we will build a prosperous future for Meghalaya, where insurance becomes an integral part of its growth and progress.”

Photo Caption: (L to R) Mr. Piyush Singh Head – Rural, Agri & Micro Insurance (SBI General Insurance), Mr. Amit Kumar, DGM (B&O) State Bank of India, Mr. Donald Phillips Wahlang - IAS, Chief Secretary to the Govt. of Meghalaya and State Vigilance Commissioner, Mr. Anand Pejawar – Whole-Time Director (SBI General Insurance), Ms. Tshering Diki – Chairman, RRB Meghalaya,  Mr. Mrigendra Lal Das - Head Bancassurance Strategy & Partnerships (SBI General Insurance). 

About SBI General Insurance Company Limited:

SBI General is one of the fastest growing private general insurance companies, with the strong parentage of SBI. We, at SBI General Insurance, are committed to carry forward the legacy of trust and security; and have the vision to become the most trusted general insurer for a transforming India.

Ever since our establishment in 2009, our growth has been exponential in various aspects. We have expanded our presence from 17 branches in 2011 to over 141 branches pan-India. Till date, we have served over 34 crore customers. We have been awarded ‘Insurer of the Year’ in the non-life category at FICCI Insurance Industry Awards, for two consecutive years in 2020 & 2021. In 2022, recognized as the 'Best General Insurance Company of the Year' at the 'Third Emerging Asia Insurance Awards' organized by the 'Indian Chamber of Commerce'.

We have a robust multi-distribution model encompassing Bancassurance, Agency, Broking, Retail Direct Channels and Digital tie-ups. The widespread network of distributors like 22437 plus SBI branches, Agents, other financial alliances, OEMs, and multiple digital partners enable us to extend our reach to the pocketed remote areas of India. We offer a bouquet of products spread across various lines of businesses that cater to customers across all segments like Retail, Corporate, SME and Rural, ensuring accessibility via digital as well as physical modes.

SBI General Insurance reported a 17.6% growth in Gross Written Premium (GWP) in FY 2022-23 and the GWP stood at Rs. 10,888 crore.

Gaming Poised to Emerge as a Viable Source of Income in India

~Study reveals 83% of respondents consider gaming as either a primary or secondary source of income~

India | 31^st May 2023: A first-of-its-kind study on online gamers in India has revealed the growing trend of gaming emerging as a career option in India and not just being limited to a means of entertainment. Based on the study, 83% of the respondents consider gaming as either a primary or secondary source of income, highlighting the paradigm shift towards gaming being a viable option that can be pursued professionally. Out of this, 39% consider gaming as a primary source and 44% as a secondary source of income. The study also highlights how gamers have been able to garner better earnings with improved skill sets, and practicing gaming has also encouraged them to take it up as a profession. This new gaming segment, Paid Competitive gaming (PCG), is poised to be one of the fastest-growing segments and is set to reach $16B by 2024, according to a recent report by Newzoo and MPL.

Another key insight revealed by the study shows how the popular mobile games played by Indians range across Puzzle, board games and adventure sports as the top choices across demographics and levels of engagement. While AAA games are the preferred choice for gamers aged 16-25, seasoned players gravitate towards Poker, Rummy, Carrom and Puzzles.

The study also delves deep into the attitude and preferences of gamers in India and shares important data on required skills, family and social support, professional gaming, and the impact of regulations. The study has been conducted by EPWA in collaboration with the Centre for Justice through Technology (CJT), Vinayaka Mission's Law School, and Research Foundation-DU Chennai. This qualitative study held in-depth interviews with casual and professional gamers, including online fantasy sports players, and esports professionals, including poker, from across the country.

Contrary to the negative behavioral attributes commonly associated with gaming, the study highlights how the world of online gaming focuses on dedication and commitment. These gamers spend 10-20 hours per week actively engaging in their craft. Interestingly, 77% of those who push the boundaries and achieve maximum gaming hours fall within the age range of 16-25. Success in online gaming also demands a set of essential skills like Analytical skills (97%), concentration (87%), and creativity (69%).

Family and social support prove to be diverse landscapes within the gaming community. While 71% of respondents initially encountered low family support, 17% experienced moderate backing, and only 12% experienced familial encouragement when venturing into online gaming. The study also highlighted how family and social support increases as gamers not only begin to earn from gaming but also display focus and commitment to continue to hone their skills.

Bringing out insights on the earning potential of professional gamers, the study shows how they rely on a diverse array of income sources ranging from Gamer contracts (51%), sponsorships (14%), streaming (5%), content creation (9%), and coaching (21%).

On the impact of regulations on the online gaming landscape, the study showcases concerns raised by the gamers highlighting how 89% feel high tax through GST & TDS has increased their cost of playing and may force them to seek a remedy through alternate platforms if GST is increased further. The criminalisation of players by state governments & absence of uniform regulations has also been reported as a key concern, with 62% of the gamers being affected by the approach taken by many state governments like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Assam. The study further delves into the social aspects and the resultant impact on online gamers. Lack of clarity on games of skill and games of chance has led to misconceptions and social stigma, especially for those who play professionally. 71% of the pool have reported low family support as a result of this.

Finally, the study also highlights the need for a conducive and certain regulatory framework to safeguard user rights and promote responsible gaming, ensuring the sector’s potential is realized.

About EPWA:

EPWA stands for Egamers and Players Welfare Association. It is a non-profit section 8 company registered in New Delhi, incorporated in 2021. EPWA is a membership-based players' collective organisation with a board of advisors and volunteers assisting in solving problems faced by skill-based online gamers in India. EPWA currently has around 15,000 members across India. ( www.epwa.in )

About CJT: The Centre for Justice Through Technology (CJT) is a research centre established by Vinayaka Mission’s Law School (VMLS) to help address challenges faced by our justice delivery systems & rights-based mechanisms. CJT's focus on justice includes issues such as access to courts, legal literacy, awareness & accessibility of constitutionally guaranteed rights, interaction with local governments, and citizenship rights, all within social, economic, and political justice.

Suhasini Rao (Centre for Justice Through Technology):”  With this study, the CJT & its research team delve into the legislative and regulatory environment of online gaming and esports in India. One of the first looks into the world of online sports and gaming from the player’s perspective, this study aims to provide insightful context for legislative action. As the realm of online gaming and esports expands, it is necessary to listen to all voices in the ecosystem. This study is a depiction of the reality of online gaming and esports from the point of view of those at the very heart of it - that is, gamers themselves”.  

Club Statement: FC Goa confirm departure of 7 first-team players

Mumbai, May 31, 2023: FC Goa can confirm the departures of seven first-team players - Anwar Ali, Redeem Tlang, Makan Chothe, Hernan Santana, Marc Valiente, Lenny Rodrigues and Nongdamba Naorem - following the end of their contracts with the Club on May 31, 2023.

The Club would like to thank each of them for their contributions, love and support throughout their tenure.

Ali returns to Delhi FC following the completion of his 18-month loan deal that saw him joining the Gaurs’ ranks in January 2022. The center-back featured in all 30 of the Indian Super League (ISL) games that the Men in Orange played since then, across two seasons.

Chothe and Tlang both registered nearly 40 appearances each for FC Goa, across the ISL, Durand Cup and the Super Cup. The duo were also a part of the team that played in the AFC Champions League in 2021, which was also the first instance of an Indian club at the apex of club football in Asia.

Valiente joined FC Goa last summer but saw his playing time come to a premature end due to an injury midway through the 2022-23 season. Santana, who was roped in by the Gaurs as his replacement, featured for them in seven games since.

Rodrigues bids adieu to the Gaurs for the second time, having first played for them between 2018 and 2021 before rejoining the team in January this year. He has made 60 appearances overall for the Goan outfit, winning the Super Cup and the Hero ISL League Winners’ Shield with them in 2019 and 2020, respectively.

Another former World Cupper, Naorem signed for the Gaurs in August 2021 following stints with Indian Arrows, Kerala Blasters and ATK Mohun Bagan. He made 12 appearances for the Men in Orange, in the 2021-22 season of the ISL.

FC Goa wishes each of them good luck in their future endeavors.

About FC Goa

FC Goa is a professional football club based out of Goa that competes in the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). Nicknamed the Gaurs, FC Goa has been one of the most consistently successful teams in the ISL - reaching 4 semi-finals and 2 finals in 9 seasons.

Heading into the 2023-24 season of the Hero ISL, FC Goa hold the record for the most goals, joint-most golden boots and most number of playoff appearances (6 in total) in the history of the competition.

In 2020, FC Goa also became the first team from India to qualify for the league stages of the AFC Champions League, by virtue of winning the first-ever Hero ISL League Winners Shield in the 2019-20 season.

The Gaurs’ trophy cabinet is further adorned by the 2019 Super Cup, the 2018-19 Goa Pro League, the 2020 Goa Police Cup and the 2021 Durand Cup.

Co-owned by Mr. Jaydev Mody, Mr. Akshay Tandon and Mr. Virat Kohli, FC Goa is one of the few Indian Clubs to have a complete youth development ecosystem. Its U13, U15, U17, U18, U20 and Developmental Teams compete at the highest levels in Goa and India.

Character posters for The Night Manager 2 | Disney+ Hotstar

Anil Kapoor- Social caption and tags 

Instagram

The king has returned to his Lanka, and he ain’t ready to lose  

The saga continues!  #HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on @disneyplushotstar

@anilskapoor @adityaroykapur @tillotamashome @sobhitad @banijayasia @deepak30000 @rajeshchadha @banijaygroup @sandeipm @picsofpinks @mrinalinni @shyamrathi1411 @abbasasohail @the_ink_factory_ @simoncorn @tess_mon @castingchhabra @jasper_ben @anikrverma @Shridhar_raghavan @akshatghildail @saswatachatterjeeofficial @ravibehl @ishantanus @iamsameerchand @sainisjohray @nmadhusudan @imakankshaa_11 @iam_faiyazshaikh @aristamehta @akashdeep25 @shrenik_arora  @reshlamba @samcsmusic @yatrikdave

Twitter:

The king has returned to his Lanka, and he ain’t ready to lose  

The saga continues!  #HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on  @disneyplusHS

@AnilKapoor #AdityaRoyKapur @TillotamaShome #SobhitaDhulipala @banijayasia @deepak30000 @imrc_rajesh  @banijaygroup @sandeep_modi @priyankaghose13  @Mrinalini_J #ShyamRathi #SohailAbbas @TheInkFactory @simoncornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra @akashdeep25 #AniketVerma #ShridharRaghavan #AkshatGhildail #saswatchatterjee #RaviBehl #Shantanu #SameerChand #SainiJohray #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #SamCMusic #YatrikDave

Facebook:

The king has returned to his Lanka, and he ain’t ready to lose  

The saga continues!  #HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on  @disneyplushotstar

@anilskapoor @adityaroykapur @tillotama.shome.1  @SobhitaDhulipalaOfficial @banijayasia #DeepakDhar #RajeshChadha  @banijaygroup @sandeep.modi #PriyankaGhose #MrinaliniJain #ShyamRathi #AbbasASohail @inkfactoryfilms #SimonCornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra #Yatrikdave #ShridharRaghavan @shantanu.srivastava.777 #sameerchand #JagdishRajpurohit #SainiSJohray @Saswataofficial #RaviBehl @anik.verma.18 #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #AkshatGadail #SamCMus

Aditya Roy Kapur - Social caption and tags 

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Ab shuru hogi raja ke pehredar ki kahani!

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on @disneyplushotstar

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Twitter:

Ab shuru hogi raja ke pehredar ki kahani!

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on  @disneyplusHS

@AnilKapoor #AdityaRoyKapur @TillotamaShome #SobhitaDhulipala @banijayasia @deepak30000 @imrc_rajesh  @banijaygroup @sandeep_modi @priyankaghose13  @Mrinalini_J #ShyamRathi #SohailAbbas @TheInkFactory @simoncornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra @akashdeep25 #AniketVerma #ShridharRaghavan #AkshatGhildail #saswatchatterjee #RaviBehl #Shantanu #SameerChand #SainiJohray #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #SamCMusic #YatrikDave

Facebook:

Ab shuru hogi raja ke pehredar ki kahani!

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on @disneyplushotstar

@anilskapoor @adityaroykapur @tillotama.shome.1  @SobhitaDhulipalaOfficial @banijayasia #DeepakDhar #RajeshChadha  @banijaygroup @sandeep.modi #PriyankaGhose #MrinaliniJain #ShyamRathi #AbbasASohail @inkfactoryfilms #SimonCornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra #Yatrikdave #ShridharRaghavan @shantanu.srivastava.777 #sameerchand #JagdishRajpurohit #SainiSJohray @Saswataofficial #RaviBehl @anik.verma.18 #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #AkshatGadail #SamCMusic

 Sobhita Dhulipala -Social captions and tags

Instagram

It’s a true test of loyalty and relationships. What new twists await?

Find out what happens next   

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on @disneyplushotstar

@anilskapoor @adityaroykapur @tillotamashome @sobhitad @banijayasia @deepak30000 @rajeshchadha @banijaygroup @sandeipm @picsofpinks @mrinalinni @shyamrathi1411 @abbasasohail @the_ink_factory_ @simoncorn @tess_mon @castingchhabra @jasper_ben @anikrverma @Shridhar_raghavan @akshatghildail @saswatachatterjeeofficial @ravibehl @ishantanus @iamsameerchand @sainisjohray @nmadhusudan @imakankshaa_11 @iam_faiyazshaikh @aristamehta @akashdeep25 @shrenik_arora  @reshlamba @samcsmusic @yatrikdave

Twitter:

It’s a true test of loyalty and relationships. What new twists await?

Find out what happens next   

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on  @disneyplusHS

@AnilKapoor #AdityaRoyKapur @TillotamaShome #SobhitaDhulipala @banijayasia @deepak30000 @imrc_rajesh  @banijaygroup @sandeep_modi @priyankaghose13  @Mrinalini_J #ShyamRathi #SohailAbbas @TheInkFactory @simoncornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra @akashdeep25 #AniketVerma #ShridharRaghavan #AkshatGhildail #saswatchatterjee #RaviBehl #Shantanu #SameerChand #SainiJohray #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #SamCMusic #YatrikDave

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It’s a true test of loyalty and relationships. What new twists await?

Find out what happens next   

#HotstarSpecials #TheNightManager Part 2 streaming 30th June only on @disneyplushotstar

@anilskapoor @adityaroykapur @tillotama.shome.1  @SobhitaDhulipalaOfficial @banijayasia #DeepakDhar #RajeshChadha  @banijaygroup @sandeep.modi #PriyankaGhose #MrinaliniJain #ShyamRathi #AbbasASohail @inkfactoryfilms #SimonCornwell #TessaInkelar #JasperBen @castingchhabra #Yatrikdave #ShridharRaghavan @shantanu.srivastava.777 #sameerchand #JagdishRajpurohit #SainiSJohray @Saswataofficial #RaviBehl @anik.verma.18 #NMadhusudhan #Akankshaa #FaiyazShaikh #AristaMehta #Akashdeep #ShrenikArora #reshLamba #AkshatGadail #SamCMusic

Binge on some of the finest action films with Flix Guns and Bullets

Mumbai, 31^st May 2023: Lights, Camera and Action! Well, &flix has taken this quite literally. The channel, this Sunday will bring a binge of some of the best action films from Hollywood. Known for its collection of the biggest blockbusters, the channel is loved by people across regions and age groups. Therefore, to cater to this audience, this Sunday, the channel has its best collection lined up on its property- Guns and Bullets. This Sunday afternoon, skip the outside and tune in to &flix from 8:30 AM.

Exciting and engaging action thriller films Sniper 2 and Sniper 3 will run back-to-back from 8:30 AM. Starring Tom Berenger in the titular role, the two parts of the Sniper franchise are packed with the best moves and thrilling story turns. At 2:30 comes the Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott and Ella Balinska starrer Charlie’s Angels. Three talented, tough and attractive women working as private investigators in the city of Los Angeles fight to save the world from a dangerous technology developed by a young systems engineer. Agent Game brings a dangerous game of spies in which no one is safe. Harris, a CIA interrogator at an Agency black site, finds himself the target of a rendition operation after being blamed for an interrogation gone horribly wrong. As the team tasked to bring Harris in begins to question their orders, the stakes are raised higher. Now, it's up to Harris and his newfound allies to uncover the truth and turn the tables. The Marine 5: Battleground will also run at 6:30 PM and S.W.A.T.: Under Siege will follow at 11:30 PM.

Along with the above-mentioned films, audiences can also watch Bullet Train starring the handsome hunk Brad Pitt and win a trip to Japan by answering a few simple questions about the film.

This Sunday, witness the best action binge only on &flix

3i Infotech Designated an Aspirant in Everest Group’s PEAK Matrix® Assessments on Application Automation Services 2023

Mumbai, May 31, 2023 — 3i Infotech Limited (BSE: 532628, NSE: 3IINFOLTD), a global Information Technology company, committed to accelerating business transformation, was named an ‘Aspirant’ by Everest Group in its PEAK Matrix® Application Automation Services Assessment  2023.

As application automation has become essential for enterprises looking to enhance their technology stack and stay competitive in the contemporary market space, Everest Group researched and assessed several application automation service providers based on their annual RFI process for FY23-24, interactions with leading application automation service providers, ongoing analysis of the automation industry and client reference checks. Following this, 3i Infotech was named an ‘Aspirant’ among 25 other major contenders.

Speaking on the win, Mr. Thompson P. Gnanam, Managing Director, and Global CEO, 3i Infotech said, “We are grateful for the win as we continue to stay committed to our goals of building a diverse portfolio by investing in and enhancing our partnerships with the leading technology providers. We have also taken significant initiatives in building a strong resource pool with advanced skillsets through the launch and expansion of our Centre(s) of Excellence. And as we move forward, we will also drive a keen focus on the market impact and vision and capability of our cutting-edge solutions to help industries seamlessly in their automation and transformation processes”.

The report noted that 3i Infotech has developed meaningful solutions and has the potential to create comprehensive service portfolios and delivery capabilities.

About 3i Infotech 

3i Infotech Limited incorporated in 1993 and headquartered in Mumbai, India, provides information technology services and software solutions. Since its inception the company has 25+ years of experience in delivering business value to its clients across multiple industry verticals. 3i Infotech has emerged as a leading name in propelling the current wave of digital transformation initiatives, with deep domain expertise across BFSI, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, and Government sectors.

It operates through three key segments, (i) Enterprise Services (includes ADMS, ISMS, Testing, Classic BPS, MVS etc.), (ii) Professional Services (includes Human Capital Mgt. Services) and (iii) Digital Business Services (includes IT & Digital Consulting, Application-Automation-Analytics (AAA), Digital Infrastructure Management Services (Digital IMS), CloudFirst, Oracle COE, Global Command Centre (GCC), Cyber SOC, Digital BPS, Cognitive Computing Services, 5G Lab as Service, Private 5G, IoT, Cyber Security Services, Secured Access Service Edge (SASE), AgriTech, Telecom Media Entertainment (TME), Edge Computing, Edge Analytics, NuRe Campus, FutureTech, etc.)

The Company has over 6000+ employees and over 500+ clients across the globe.

Website: https://www.3i-infotech.com/

Pre RBI Policy expectation quote by Pankaj Pathak, Fund Manager- Fixed Income, Quantum AMC

Quote :

We expect the RBI to maintain a status quo on rates. Most likely, we have already seen the last rate hike in February and the RBI will remain on an extended pause on policy rates in foreseeable future.  

The key thing to watch in the upcoming monetary policy would be the RBI’s policy stance. Till the last year, the monetary policy was ultra-accommodative with the policy repo rate significantly below their normal levels and banking system flooded with liquidity. Now, the repo rate at 6.5% is very close to its long-term average. Liquidity is still in surplus, but it has come down to a level which can be taken as close to normal and as non-inflationary. So, there is a strong case for the RBI to retire the phrase “withdrawal of accommodation”.

I think, RBI’s decision on stance will be more dependent on manging market’s perception than inflation and liquidity outlook. The fear is that the change in stance could be taken as a declaration of victory over inflation and could hamper the transmission of earlier tightening which is required to keep inflation under check. At this juncture, the RBI cannot be seen as getting complacent on inflation.

Currently, the bond market is positioned with some expectation of stance change from “withdrawal of accommodation” to “neutral”. In our opinion, this policy decision should not have any material impact on the bond market though there could be minor fluctuation in yields depending on policy stance and language. 

Quote on Anti-tobacco warnings for OTT programmes soon, health ministry to amend rules - Abhishek Malhotra - Managing Partner at TMT Law Practice

 

The quote Starts from here:  Attributed to Mr. Abhishek Malhotra (Managing Partner, TMT Law Practice)

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has issued a notification today to amend and introduce the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Rules, 2023 (Rules)

The Rules require the publishers of online curated content i.e., OTT platforms to feature “health sports, messages and disclaimers” (Disclaimers) in all forms of online curated content that feature smoking in any manner, whether it be a film, series, ad, or any other form of on-demand audio-visual content, in order to proactively create awareness amongst its viewers about the harmful effects of smoking.

The Rules contain exhaustive requirements for featuring the Disclaimers, which includes prescribed durations, placement, and other such elaborate requirements. The form and manner of the Disclaimers have been prescribed in great detail as well, including ensuring parity between the language of the content and the Disclaimer to ensure localization for all viewers, and effective reception of the larger message against harms of smoking. If found non-compliant, the Ministry may take suo-moto action or act on complaints against publishers.

To ensure effective compliance with the Rules, the Ministry has provided with a buffer period of 3 (three) months.

The entertainment industry has always been plagued with smoking sequences to amp-up the coolness quotient of the characters, whether it be a protagonist or antagonist.  The Rules will likely bring about a substantial change, to how content is created and the manner in which it is viewed. However, the Ministry must be cognizant of the fact that the online curated content largely depends on user engagement, while in good consciousness, it is important to inform the viewer in a better manner, the Rules may also prove to be difficult to comply with.

For all content that may be in production or postproduction, as on date, the Rules will certainly entail all-nighters for the post-production teams to be able to make these edits !

Please find below the profiles of Mr. Malhotra and TMT Law Practice for your kind perusal.

Abhishek Malhotra

Managing Partner, TMT Law Practice

Abhishek Malhotra is the Founding Partner of TMT Law Practice. A seasoned lawyer with an excellent track record, he has two decades of experience in areas such as Intellectual Property, Commercial Dispute Resolution and the subject areas of Technology, Media & Telecommunications. Abhishek is a member of State Bars of California (USA) and Delhi (India).

Abhishek has advised clients on minimizing legal risks and devising strategies for safeguarding against criminal and civil liability. He holds expertise in prosecution /defense of suits, proceedings and appeals relating to infringement of intellectual property rights as well as commercial litigation concerning employment, information technology and competition issues. He also has sound proficiency in drafting and negotiating agreements, especially on intellectual property and related fields, including media, information technology, broadcasting and pharmaceuticals.

During the past 13 years of establishing TMT Law Practice, Abhishek has advised clients across industries, including luxury brands, information technology, media, hardware equipment manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and broadcasting. He has given opinions on the creation, maintenance, management and enforcement of IP rights, including prosecution of trademarks and copyright in India. He is sought by clients for advice on Commercial Contracts, Government Advisory, Criminal Matters, Land Acquisition and Property matters. Furthermore, he has also been guiding them on public policies & Regulatory Frameworks

Abhishek has provided inputs to the Government of India on issues of copyright, data privacy, satellite communications, etc. A graduate of the National Law School at Bangalore University, he completed LLM from Franklin Pierce Law Center, Concord, USA. He is a frequent guest speaker at the Indian Institute of Information Technology. In 2009, he was the Chairperson of the INTA Annual Conference on strategies for brand owners in the BRIC countries in Seattle.

Abhishek advises several think-tanks, and associations in the field of Technology, Media & Telecommunications.

With over 200 B2G meetings in a single day, the roadshow woos investors to Northeast

 

Mumbai, 29th May 2023: The Northeast Investors Roadshow held today by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) received interest with over 200 business- to- government (B2G) meetings being organised in a single day. Besides a significant number of investors, the event also saw key policymakers and government officials from North East grace the occasion.

Addressing the First Mumbai Investor Roadshow, Shri Lok Ranjan, Secretary, Ministry of DONER, said, “With the investor interest in the region, the North East region has achieved several industrial landmarks. The central and state governments and facilitators such as DoNER have together discussed several investible opportunities with businesses. Our interactions with businesses have revealed several welcoming and proactive experiences around North East.”

He further added, “efforts are being made to invest and develop the entrepreneurial spirit of the Northeast region. The progress of the trilateral highway between Bangladesh and India will further enhance the prospects of integration. We are receiving significant support and contributions from various stakeholders. Logistics has been given due attention, and sectors such as food processing, IT, and solar energy have been capitalized upon. From the Ministry of DoNER's perspective, we view these initiatives as proactive steps eagerly embraced by investors."

Senior government officials from North Eastern states, the Ministry of DoNER, and officials from FICCI (Industry Partner), EY (Knowledge Partner), and Invest India (Investment Facilitation Partner) guided investors through new age avenues. Senior officials from North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), North Eastern Council (NEC), North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFI), and North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) also provided crucial insights during the Investor Roadshow. The event saw keen participation from leading industry associations, Global Investors and Entrepreneurs.

Present during the roadshow were Shri Lok Ranjan, Secretary, Ministry of DONER and Shri Harpreet Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of DONER, Mr Ranjit Barthakur, Chairman, FICCI North East Advisory Council who deliberated on the abundant trade and investment potential of Northeast India. Shri Harpreet Singh, welcoming investors to the North East Roadshow in Mumbai, said, “The North East region is a compelling business and industrial destination. Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has referred to it as a growth- engine driver of the country. The region is a gateway to South East Asian markets and evenbeyond.”

He further added, “We have identified several priority and marquee sectors such as Agriculture, food-processing and allied sectors; Education and Skill Development; Healthcare and medicine; Power generation; Textiles handicrafts and handloom; IT and IT enable services; tourism and hospitality sector. Many states in the North East region have set up empowered committees on industrial and investment development after the DoNER’s roundtables in the North East state capitals. There is considerable ease of doing business and industrial assistance provided by the central and state governments which should facilitate investors keen to start a business in the region.”

The North East provides immense opportunities for enterprises keen on double-digit organic growth. Some of the top business houses that participated include names such as Dabur, Patanjali, Amul, Parle Agro, Pepsi Co, ITC, Britannia, Hindustan Unilever, Sun Pharmaceuticals, JSW Energy, Indian Oil, Adani Ventures, Mahindra Holidays and many more.

During the media briefing, key government officials and state representatives addressed queries on a wide variety of topics. On the aspect of entrepreneurship, officials explained how start-ups in the Northeast could leverage several programs such as Assam's Nest, an incubator program to assist start-ups. Among start-up initiatives, the Entrepreneur Development Scheme in Mizoram saw 60% of start-up assistance to women-led businesses found critical mention. Investors and the media were also appraised of successful programs instituted by Arunachal Pradesh (Mission and Investment Park) and Nagaland.

Elaborating on the start-up and business culture, Shri Ranjan added, "The central and state governments realise the potential of start-ups. Agencies like the North East Development Finance Corporation have gained success by handholding start-ups. At the ministry also there are a number of requests for start-ups which we have supported through unique incubation programs. We are also in the stages of a new system which should help start-ups avail required support and assistance from the ministry."

North East is a strategic gateway to South East Asian economies. Each of the eight states in the North East offers a significant business advantage to investors. Sikkim, known for being the country's first fully organic state, has also observed a spurt in pharmaceutical businesses. Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura too have seen an uptick in investor interest particularly in the Tourism sector. In states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Nagaland, investment avenues such as power generation, biotechnology, natural resources, and eco-tourism have gained significance in recent years. The North-eastern states recently hosted G20 meetings as well.

The Northeast region is crucial to India’s economic target of a five trillion-dollar economy. Significant government investments in capacity building have been observed in the region recently. Through special schemes and packages, such as the Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) Scheme, Social and Infrastructure Development Fund (SIDF), PM-DevINE scheme and more, clearly, the focus is on building rapid, robust and sustainable development in the region. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, recently referred to the North Eastern region as ‘Ashtalakshmi’ or eight goddesses of wealth.

The North East Global Investors Summit is a flagship campaign instituted by the Ministry of DoNER. As part of the Northeast Global Investor Summit, successful Investor Roundtables have been organised across Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Meghalaya and is scheduled to be organised in other North Eastern states. Similar to Mumbai, the Ministry is expected to organise Investor Roadshows in Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Dhaka (Bangladesh) in the run-up to the lead investment summit in New Delhi later this year.

To visit the Northeast Global Investor Summit, click here to the website To understand business opportunities in North East, click here