CHENNAI PLUS

Inauguration of the ICC (A Centre for autism children) art exhibition will take place on 2nd April 2025 at 10 am at Indradhanu Curative Centre, Mahalingapuram, Nungambakkam, Chennai.  This event, titled "Where Colors Speak and Souls Shine," is designed to honor Autism Awareness. Indradhanu Educational Trust believes that every child is a masterpiece in progress, fostering creativity and expression through Waldorf education. Established in 2003, the ICC provides holistic education and therapy for children with developmental challenges. April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, is a time to celebrate and understand these children's unique perspectives.  The exhibition features their art as a reflection of their emotions and stories. For more details, contact +91 9840276231 or +91 7845840410.

In an effort to celebrate the accomplishments of women in STEM fields, the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre held a significant meeting in the city today. The event brought together prominent figures from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, creating a strong platform to highlight the journeys of women leaders. Surgeon Vice Admiral Aarti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services, was the Chief Guest, emphasizing the need to acknowledge women’s leadership in vital scientific areas. The gathering included distinguished practitioners from fields like Oncology, Physics, and Atomic Energy. The meet featured several events, including a panel discussion on supporting women in STEM, a fireside chat on the impact of physics and technology in healthcare, and a roundtable on tech entrepreneurship in healthcare and science. These activities provided a comprehensive view of women’s contributions to innovative areas. Dr. Manjula Rao, Consultant in Breast Surgical Oncology an...

The Supreme Court of India has temporarily stopped the Allahabad High Court's decision that stated certain actions against an 11-year-old girl, like grabbing her breasts and dragging her, did not count as attempted rape. The Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) praised this action as vital for protecting children's rights. The Supreme Court accepted a petition from Just Rights for Children Alliance (JRCA), allowing them to represent the victim in this case. The JRCA, a network of over 250 NGOs dedicated to child protection, will fight to ensure justice and protect the victim's dignity. A. J. Hariharan, the director of ICWO, emphasized their support for any child facing injustice and noted the Supreme Court's sensitivity to children's rights through its intervention. He pledged to work hard to secure justice for the girl and combat issues like child marriage and sexual abuse. The Supreme Court criticized the High Court's ruling as "shocking and ins...

  Lava International Limited, a top Indian smartphone maker, is celebrating 16 years of providing innovative and affordable technology. To celebrate, it is launching the first Lava anniversary sale, a one-day event with great discounts on smartphones, smartwatches, and audio products.  The sale starts on March 30th, 2025, on Lava’s website, Amazon, and Flipkart, featuring limited-time offers on best-selling items.   A special flash offer will allow the first 100 buyers to purchase the AGNI 3 smartphone and Prowatch V1 smartwatch for just Rs. 16. The AGNI 3 will be available at 12:00 PM, and the Prowatch V1 at 7:00 PM. This sale marks Lava's commitment to innovation and providing high-quality, Made-in-India technology.

A restoration project by Amazon India at Yamare Lake, located in Yamare Village, near Sarjapur Road in greater Bengaluru area, is expected to increase the water volume of the lake from less than one acre to 21 acres once completed. Working with Say Trees, a local environmental organization, Amazon plans to replenish more than 270 litres of water annually, with the objective to benefit the local community. Once finalized, this project will help Amazon make progress toward its plan to return more water to communities in India than it uses by 2027 . Amazon and SayTreesare working towards restoring Yamare Lake, which has experienced significant degradation, partly due to its past use as a waste disposal area . Rejuvenation efforts aim to expand the water body from its current size of 0.6 acres to approximately21 acres. This project aims to not only transform Yamare Lake into a thriving ecosystem, but also significantly improve water availability and groundwater infiltration , with the g...

The Construction business of Godrej Enterprises Group is playing a key role in strengthening Mumbai's intra-city transportation network, by manufacturing and supplying over 3,500 precast concrete sacrificial slabs for the Temporary Access Bridge (TAB) and 500 precast concrete tub components for sacrificial form work. Each precast concrete sacrificial slab is designed to meet the high standards of strength and durability. This project reflects Godrej’s trusted expertise in delivering solutions for large-scale infrastructure that are innovative, and also sustainable. By integrating eco-friendly practices into core engineering processes, Godrej continues to help shape India’s urban future with sustainable choices that balance progress with environmental responsibility. Anup Mathew, Executive Vice President and Business Head, Construction Business of Godrej Enterprises Group, who said, "We are committed tohelp accelerate India's infrastructure growth by delivering innovative a...

CEAT, a leading Indian tyre manufacturer, today announced the launch of three advanced tyre innovations for its Sport Drive range, further strengthening its presence in the ultra-high performance and luxury four-wheeler segment. With these launches, CEAT becomes the first Indian tyre manufacturer to produce Run-Flat tyres and 21-inch ZR-rated tyres capable of handling speeds greater than 300 KMPH with CALM Technology, marking a significant milestone in India's automotive manufacturing capabilities. Tested rigorously at leading international automotive facilities in Germany, CEAT’s latest offerings adhere to the highest standards of performance and safety. Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Mr. Arnab Banerjee, MD and CEO, CEAT, said: "Under the new SportDrive range of tyres, CEAT with the launch of ZR-rated tyres, CALM Technology and Run-Flat tyres,strengthens its position as a premium, technology-driven brand. These innovations reflect our commitment to enhancing safe...

A restoration project by Amazon India at Sai Reddy Lake, located near Hyderabad, is expected to triple the water volume of the lake once completed. Working with Say Trees, a local environmental organization , Amazon plans to replenish close to 300 million litres of water annually, with the objective to benefit the local community. Once finalized, this project will help Amazon make progress toward its plan to return more water to communities in India than it uses by 2027 . Amazon and SayTreesare working toward restoring Sai Reddy Lake, which has experienced significant degradation, partly due to its past use as a waste disposal area. Rejuvenation efforts aim to expand the acreage of the water body three-fold, from the existing 10 acres to33acres. This project aims to not only transform Sai Reddy Lake into a thriving ecosystem, but also significantly improve water availability and groundwater infiltration , with the goal of b enefiting both the environment and surrounding communities...

HCLTech and Western Union have formed a strategic partnership to promote innovation in the financial services industry. HCLTech becomes Western Union's largest preferred partner, focusing on several key areas: (i) Transition to a platform operating model: Western Union will use HCLTech's AI-powered solutions, FENIXAI and AI Force, to move to a more agile and scalable platform-centric model. (ii) Accelerate platform and channel transformation: HCLTech's digital, cloud, and AI solutions will improve Western Union’s capabilities, providing seamless and innovative customer experiences, while enhancing decision-making and infrastructure. (iii) Leverage expertise in digital engineering: HCLTech will help reimaging Western Union’s technology, implement full stack observability and automation, and boost efficiency with AI-assisted methods for a robust future-ready environment. (iv) Expand technology footprint in India: The partnership will lead to an advanced technology cen...

With summer starting and temperatures rising, Godrej & Boyce, part of Godrej Enterprises Group, has launched its new air conditioner (AC) range, which includes various capacities, energy ratings, and technologies. Following a 2X growth in the category this year, the brand aims for a further 50% increase in sales this summer. The new lineup builds on last year's nature-inspired Vogue series, now featuring wood and marble finishes, and offers aesthetically pleasing designs. The brand is also entering the commercial AC market with Tower and Cassette ACs designed for large residential and commercial spaces. Godrej's portfolio includes more options in the 5-star AC range and high cooling capacity models. The company is particularly focused on smart ACs this year, introducing the Godrej SmartAC range with AI technology, IoT connectivity, and WiFi-enabled controls, all designed to improve user convenience. This range will be promoted through a comprehensive marketing campa...

The Union Government's recent Budget announcement has increased disposable incomes, encouraging consumption growth in India. With no tax on income up to ₹12. 75 lakh under the new tax regime starting in FY26, consumers will have more money to spend, boosting demand in various sectors. This creates a unique opportunity for investors as India's consumption-driven growth accelerates.   In response to this opportunity, Tata AIA Life Insurance has launched two funds aimed at different consumer groups: the Tata AIA Life Tax Bonanza Consumption Fund and the Tata AIA Life Tax Bonanza Consumption Pension Fund. The Consumption Fund allows consumers to benefit from increasing consumption trends while ensuring financial security, combining wealth creation with protection for loved ones. The Pension Fund, available through Tata AIA's unit-linked pension solution, is designed for those looking to grow savings for retirement, offering long-term growth to build a reliable retirement fund...

Amazon India announced its highest-ever reduction in seller fees to support lakhs of small businesses selling on Amazon.in from across the country. In a move aimed at further boosting growth of sellers on Amazon.in, the company has introduced zero referral fees on over 1.2 crore products that are priced below ₹300. Referral fees is a commission that sellers pay to Amazon for each product sold. The zero referral fees apply to more than 135 product categories.  Amazon has also brought in a simplified flat rate for sellers using external fulfilment channels like Easy Ship and Seller Flex, with national shipping rates now starting at ₹65, down from ₹77. While Easy Ship is a fulfilment channel where Amazon collects packages from a sellers’ location and delivers them to customers, as part of Seller Flex, Amazon manages a portion of the sellers’ warehouse as an Amazon fulfilment center. Additionally, the company has reduced the weight handling fees for lightweight items under 1 kg b...

The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) Academy has released its new report, ‘AdNext: The AI Edition,’ during the ICAS Global Dialogues Summit in Mumbai. This report analyzes the effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the advertising sector in India, highlighting its influence on how brands interact with consumers, enhance campaigns, and customize experiences. The research was completed by Parallel HQ, a design tech company, with support from Google and Games 24X7. The study is part of ASCI Academy's initiative funded by major companies, including Diageo, Hindustan Unilever, Mondelez, Nestle, Cipla Health, Coca-Cola, Colgate, Pepsico, P&G, Kenvue, Bajaj Auto, and Dream Sports. It includes insights from over 27 experts from various fields such as brands, agencies, legal, academia, regulators, and tech innovators. The report uses both primary and secondary research, including focus groups and interviews, to provide a detailed perspective on the advantages and ...

Interio, a top furniture brand in India under the Godrej Enterprises Group, is expanding its presence in institutional, healthcare, and education furniture in Chennai and the southern region. The usage of office space in Tamil Nadu is expected to reach 100 million square feet by 2026. Interio plans to take advantage of trends like wellness at work, flexible spaces, and ergonomic furniture. The company has generated ₹ 100 crore in revenue from Chennai in the last 10 months and aims to focus on social office furniture to meet the rising need for dynamic and hybrid workspaces. Sameer Joshi, Senior Vice President and Head of B2B Business at Interio, highlighted the significance of the southern market, noting that the Indian commercial real estate market is growing, particularly in Chennai. About 12-13 million square feet of premium office space is projected to be added by 2026. The southern region remains a key focus for Interio due to rapid urbanization and changing furniture needs in o...

  22 March 2025: On World Water Day 2025: 'Preserving Glaciers,' Grundfos reaffirms our commitment to water security and UN SDG 6. Glaciers are critical—feeding rivers, supporting communities, and regulating climate. As these ice masses melt, cities worldwide must become flood-resilient while addressing drinking water challenges. As a leading provider of pumping solutions globally, Grundfos calls for meaningful partnerships to protect these vital water sources. Together, we must ensure glaciers continue their essential role in regulating the water cycle, bringing us closer to true water security for future generations.

Cancer rates are rising globally, with colorectal (bowel) cancer being a type that affects the large intestine. Colon cancer usually starts as small clumps of cells in the lining of the large bowel and may not cause symptoms for a long time. By the time symptoms arise, the cancer is often advanced.  Dr. Shyam Varadarajulu, Senior Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai; Dr. Mo Thoufeeq, Senior Consultant and GI Endoscopist, South Yorkshire Endoscopy Network Chair; Dr. K R Palaniswamy, Senior Consultant and Head, Apollo Hospitals Chennai; Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Group; Dr. P Basumani, Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai; and Dr. Kartik, Consultant at Apollo Hospital, Chennai, along with other doctors were present on the occasion. Symptoms of bowel cancer include diarrhea, constipation, changes in stool shape, urgency to pass stools, blood in stools, tummy pain and bloating, weight loss, and anemia with weakness. Early detection of colon cancer ca...

On World Happiness Day, LG Electronics India Limited released a report called the 'Life is Good Survey,' in partnership with NielsenIQ. This report, based on responses from 1,313 people in eight major Indian cities, examines what makes urban Indians happy and optimistic. It shows a strong link between personal relationships, achievements, and happiness.   Key findings from the survey include that 54% of urban Indians associate moments of happiness with spending quality time with family and friends, while 45% specifically connect happiness with family bonding. Additionally, career success is important, as 49% tie a good life to professional achievement. Among working individuals, 64% find happiness in a good work-life balance. Health is also crucial, with 54% of respondents believing good health leads to happiness. The survey highlights that 39% of Gen Z (ages 18-24) find joy in digital and social media connections.   The survey also notes challenges, with 40% citing workpl...

  Godrej Jersey, a leading dairy company in South India, has launched its 3x3 Leapfrog Strategy for the fiscal year 2026. This strategy focuses on expanding the company's product line, increasing market penetration, and improving consumer experiences through ongoing innovation. The main products under this strategy are Badam Milk, Paneer, and Curd, positioning Godrej Jersey as a key player in the value-added dairy sector.   The strategy has three key objectives: - Increase Household Penetration: Encouraging more families in Andhra Telangana (APT) to try their value-added products. - Market Expansion: Widening access to Badam Milk and Paneer in regional markets of APT. - Product Innovation: Focusing on continuous development of value-added products to adapt to changing consumer needs.  CEO Bhupendra Suri stated that the growth strategy for FY26 is based on emerging categories. The 3x3 Leapfrog Strategy is expected to enhance offerings, speed up market expansion, ...

MakeMyTrip, India's top online travel platform, has launched 'Collections', an AI-based feature aimed at simplifying the process of finding hotels and homestays. With over 86,000 domestic accommodations available in more than 2,000 cities, users often find it challenging to choose the right place to stay. 'Collections' addresses this issue by using Generative AI and traveler insights to organize lodging options into themed categories, making it easier for users to find accommodations that suit their preferences and needs. The system analyzes past searches, booking habits, and customer reviews to provide personalized recommendations based on the unique charm of each destination and the traveler's interests. Examples of themes include Beach Paradise and Luxury Retreats in Goa, as well as Wellness and Adventure retreats in Coorg. The feature improves its suggestions by continuously learning from user interactions, adapting to individual preferences. For instance,...

Amazon India has launched a three-year program called “Entrepreneurship for Enablement” aimed at helping 30,000 women and young people learn how to start their own businesses and manage finances. This program is in partnership with ACCESS Development Services, an organization focused on sustainable livelihoods. The initiative, co-created and funded by Amazon, will take place in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. A launch event on March 20, 2025, in Gurugram included important stakeholders who discussed the entrepreneurial landscape.  The program specializes in women's entrepreneurship and aims to offer business development training and support to 3,000 entrepreneurs through mentorship programs. It will also provide digital literacy training, focusing on smartphone use for 24,000 participants, and digital payment training for 22,000 individuals. The initiative seeks to help establish 1,200 new businesses, with 80% expected to reach INR 1 lakh in annual revenue by their thi...

The Appliances business of Godrej & Boyce, part of the Godrej Enterprises Group, has reinforced its commitment to consumer-driven innovation with the introduction of its Food and Microbiology Lab. This dedicated facility allows Godrej to scientifically study food behaviour, preservation techniques, and hygiene factors, ensuring that its appliances are designed to truly serve the needs of Indian consumers. Trusted by millions of Indians, Godrej is committed to insight-driven innovation. This facility stands as a testament to that legacy, seamlessly blending scientific research with real-world consumer needs to develop appliances that cater to modern lifestyles, evolving dietary habits, and health-conscious choices. Managed by a team of food scientist and microbiologist, and overseen by the Head of Innovation for the Appliances Business, the lab is dedicated to pioneering solutions that enhance everyday living. The Food & Microbiology Lab supports categories like Refrigerato...

Apollo Hospitals has launched the Apollo Joint Preservation Program in India, aimed at transforming joint care within its network. This initiative focuses on early intervention and personalized treatment to help people maintain their mobility and confidence while promoting proactive joint health. The launch featured Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Brett Fritsch, an Orthopaedic Surgeon from Sydney, and other senior doctors from the Orthopaedic Department.  The program provides comprehensive care tailored for patients experiencing joint pain, arthritis, inflammatory conditions, and ligament injuries. It encourages active and healthy lifestyle choices to reduce discomfort and avoid invasive procedures as much as possible. At the launch, Dr. Sangita Reddy expressed congratulations to the team, highlighting that the program is designed for the comfort of patients of all ages. Many may not know about available treatment options for joint pain or de...

Atlas Copco Group has opened a new manufacturing facility in Talegaon, Pune, covering about 270,000 sq. ft. This advanced plant will produce air and gas compressors and systems, including CNG, biogas, hydrogen compressors, air dryers, N2 and O2 generators, and medical filters and accessories. The facility's opening in 2023 shows the Group’s dedication to innovative solutions and high-quality products for the local market.  Built on Industry 4. 0 principles, the facility uses smart manufacturing technologies and focuses on sustainability. A 1. 3 MW rooftop solar system and grid supply will provide around 80% of the energy needed for operations. It features rainwater harvesting and advanced cooling systems. With strong support for research and development, the facility includes various testing capabilities for current and future production needs.  The company holds ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, and ISO 50001 certifications, ensuring high quality, safety, environmental, and e...