Includes new 2.0-litre diesel engine, new transmission and added features

Mumbai, (Ajay Rawal) : General Motors India today launched the all-new Chevrolet Cruze at a ceremony in Mumbai presided over by Lowell Paddock, President & Managing Director, General Motors India.   The new Cruze comes with a new 2.0-litre diesel engine which is the most powerful in its segment, along with a new manual transmission and added features. However, it maintains the nameplate’s coupe-like design proportions, comfortable interior and class-leading amenities.

“Cruze is the segment leader in India. It is also Chevrolet’s number one car across 140 countries. The car has received overwhelming response in India since its launch in 2009,” GM India President and MD Lowell Paddock told reporters here.

Three variants – the LT and LTZ with GM’s next-generation six-speed manual transmission and the LTZ with an automatic transmission – are being offered in seven exterior colors. The new Cruze goes on sale at Chevrolet dealers across India starting today.General Motors India today launched a completely new diesel variant of its premium sedan ‘Cruze’ priced between Rs 13.85 lakh and Rs 15.67 lakh (ex showroom Mumbai).

“The Cruze has received an overwhelming response from consumers across India, since its launch in 2009,” said Paddock. “We expect the newest member of the Cruze family to continue to exceed the expectations of car buyers and stand out against the competition in its segment. ”

New Diesel Engine

The new Cruze is powered by GM’s all-new FAM Z 2.0-litre diesel engine. It features a high-performance common rail fuel injection system and advanced electronically controlled variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with intercooler.

The engine provides maximum low-speed boost for high torque and power density with higher elasticity across the rpm range. The 16-valve DOHC engine generates peak power of 166 ps at 3,800 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm at 2,000 rpm, enabling the Cruze to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 9 seconds.

The engine also features direct injection with a solenoid injector capable of injecting very small quantities of fuel in extremely short intervals at pressures of up to 1,800 bar. The improved mechanical design of the cylinder head and valvetrain provides 180 bar of maximum in-cylinder pressure for increased power and torque.

A high-capacity EGR cooler along with a reduced compression ratio of 16.3:1 controls nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions without sacrificing high power density. A new cylinder head port design provides increased air flow and variable swirl control by incorporating Cobra-shape intake ports. This further improves performance and cuts emissions.

A two-piece oil pan with an acoustic metal lower section and a Balance Shaft Module (BSM) with twin counter-rotating balance shafts in the oil sump reduce noise, vibration and harshness. A chain drive camshaft with hydraulic chain tensioners ensures maintenance-free operation.

New Transmission and Features

The new engine in the Cruze is complemented by a new F-40 six-speed manual transmission that features a cable shift mechanism with hydraulic clutch operation. Its three-shaft design has gear ratios that are optimized to suit Indian driving preferences and conditions.

Among the new amenities are PEPS – Passive Entry Passive Start with Push button start/stop, which is now standard in all variants,  a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a power express driver up/down window with pinch protect,  clutch footrest and premium speakers. Front fog lamps, tilt & telescopic steering, chrome door handles and  Up-level smart screen are available on the LT variant.

A Proven Model

India is one of 140 markets that offer the Cruze. The Cruze led the Chevrolet brand with global sales of more than 180,000 units in the first quarter of 2012, a nearly 20 percent increase over 2011, making it the best-selling Chevrolet nameplate around the world.

“The Cruze is all about value, refinement and power-packed performance combined with an array of unique features,” said Paddock. “When you add it all up, it offers everything any discerning Indian car buyer could want in a sedan at a price point that represents uncontestable value for money. As a result, we expect the new Cruze to be a hit.”   We believe this vehicle is the right product for India right now because of its unique features and fine tuning that meet the requirements of local consumers as well as local climate and driving conditions. The all-new Cruze will allow GM to continue building on the Chevrolet brand’s success nationwide, he added.

To enhance the Chevrolet buying experience, GM India continues to expand its dealer network. It now has 279 sales points and 272 authorized service outlets across the country.

Mumbai (Ajay Rawal) : Gangar Eyenation, Mumbai’s most stylish eyewear retail chain, announced the launch of premium eyewear store at Colaba in South Mumbai.

                      This new store is a hot destination for the most distinctive and wide assortment of eyewear including sunglasses, usually available only in the International markets. From revered and iconic brands such as Ray Ban, Oakley, and Vogue to designer brands like Bulgari, Prada, Burberry, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana, you can find them all at this store. The brand Oliver Peoples will also be exclusively available at this store in Mumbai.

                        Capitalizing on its expertise in the eyewear category, Gangar will provide its customers a shopping experience that is complete with a carefully planned assortment, chic in – store environment and the expert service that will make the eyewear shopping experience -
rewarding and truly exceptional. Gangar’s new store at Colaba is a part of a national chain
of Exclusive Stores, which are the preferred shopping destination for world renowned
premium brands of eyewear.

                    Gangar Opticians Pvt. Ltd., known for innovation and commitment to exceptional eye care, has been serving the needs of trendy Mumbaikars for the past 35 years and this store
is their 31st addition in Mumbai. With this opening, Gangar is all set to strengthen their
presence even further in the upper lifestyle segment. Since Colaba is a VVIP area with a lot
of defence personnel and their families staying in the vicinity, the demand for premium and
luxury brands are bound to be high. Also, as premium brands like Ray Ban are favourites
with youth; this store will surely cater to their needs.

                At their Colaba store, Gangar will also offer advanced digital eye check-up facilities and
as always endeavour to bring error-free eye care using technology that conforms to the highest international standard for the customers.

                    Commenting on the launch Mr. Ashutosh Vaidya, National Sales Head, Luxottica India, said, “We are thrilled to be a part of such innovative initiatives in India, that make
consumers experience great quality as well as contemporary fashion and lifestyle. These
exclusive stores are for the modern consumers who want to feel privileged and are
looking for an extraordinary experience with a special range of products and service that is
personalized and as well as indulgent.”

                       Adding to the same Mr. Pragnesh Gangar, Director – Marketing, Gangar Optician Pvt. Ltd. says “We are very positive that this store will soon become the style destination of Colaba and look forward to further such additions to Gangar.”

India’s first new tax filing initiative

50 ATFs to be launched in 6 metros

Bangalore, (GNS) : Taxsmile.com Pvt Ltd introduces Automated Tax filing (ATF) machine, which is one of the multiple channels aimed at facilitating tax filing in the neighborhood of the tax payer and operating ATF is as simple as doing a transaction at a bank ATM. Any person can file income tax return on his own at any of the 50 ATF machines being set up across six metros.  At the launch press conference, Former Test Cricket Captain Anil Kumble unveiled the ATF.

Taxsmile is the first Indian company with its own tax preparation and filing website and is also an e-Return Intermediary (ERI) authorised by the Income Tax department. With the latest ATF initiative, Taxsmile offers tax payers Multiple Channels of Tax filing. Taxsmile’s online e-filing is an improved and hassle-free method of tax filing through the Internet where individuals can file online Tax Returns with or without a digital signature, while the Mobile tax filing allows you to just click and file. The Mail & File is another mode of Tax filing through mails. This new initiative and introduction of ATF by Taxsmile is yet another milestone to help individuals file income tax returns.

National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) has the vision of making all government services accessible to the common man in his/her locality through common service delivery.  As a contribution to this cause, Taxsmile has introduced ATF to enable the customers for Income Tax return preparation and e-filing. ATF will revolutionize the Tax return preparation process and e-filing at Corporate Campuses, Shopping malls and Café outlets in various metros and IT Hubs.

For the last 5 years, Taxsmile has been constantly innovating, with a mission to help the tax payers to achieve e-governance vision of making Tax filing services accessible through multiple channels. An inter-connected, inter-operable, efficient, transparent and accountable government, with services reaching every citizen irrespective of geography, region or accessibility will create a phenomenal impact at the grass root level in the rural and semi-urban areas.

Announcing this launch, Kalaivani Chittaranjan, CEO & Executive Director eMudhra Consumer Services Pvt Ltd said, “In addition to return preparation, ATF also has an option for consumers to view computation, update Tax Payments and e-file Income Tax returns. Through ATF, Taxsmile will support filing of Income Tax returns for Individuals who are not required to maintain books of accounts and/or get them audited”.

On this occasion, Vishal Davda, Executive Director Taxsmile said, “The current Direct Tax ecosystem either through statute or through benefits like faster refunds, encourages tax payers (assesses) to take the online route in relation to their return filing. The recent change mandates all tax payers with Income more than 10 lakh Rupees have to e-file their returns. They can now just visit nearest ATF kiosk, scan their documents and leave the rest to Taxsmile”.

Chief Guest Anil Kumble said, “To make any eGovernance initiatives successful, the participation and contribution of enablers such as Taxsmile.com with various initiatives to move towards e-filing and reduce carbon footprint is very essential. For many tax payers with limited or no access to Internet to be able to manage their Tax related e-filings on their own, ATF is a welcome initiative from Taxsmile.com”.

Taxsmile has devised the ATF system to cater to these tax payers for their Income Tax return at any location convenient to them. Thus, with ATF in place, consumers no longer need to worry about waiting for Tax Professionals or worry about Internet connections. They can just visit the nearest ATF, scan their documents and leave the rest to Taxsmile. They can also authorise Taxsmile to e-file your return using the ATF.

26% stake transfer to Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd. completed

Board Appoints Mr. Toshinara TOKOI, and Mr. Hideaki NOMURA as Max Life Insurance Directors

New Delhi, (GNS) : Max New York Life Insurance, the largest non bank promoted private life insurer today announced the completion of  26% of its stake transfer to Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd. a MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings. The transfer was made after obtaining the requisite approvals from Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), The Reserve Bank of India and Competition Commission of India earlier this month. The company will now be named MAX LIFE INSURANCE Co. Ltd. subject to regulatory approval. The new brand name further strengthens the trust and consumer confidence in the Max India brand.

The company also announced the appointment of Mr. Toshinara TOKOI, and Mr. Hideaki NOMURA into the Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd. Board Of Directors as representatives of Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd. Mr. Toshinara TOKOI has more than 30 years’ experience in insurance industry which encompasses expertise in the fields of planning, sales production, underwriting of marine insurance as well as governance and administration of international business operations. Mr. Hideaki NOMURA has 26 years’ of experience in financial industries, including insurance, banking and investment banking. He has been instrumental in establishing Mitsui Sumitomo’s presence in the Asian local insurance businesses.

The stake transfer successfully culminates the all cash transaction announced in May 2012 which resulted in MS&AD paying Rs. 2,731 crore (US$ 535 million) for 26% stake in Max New York Life, making it the 2nd largest foreign investment in the Indian Life Insurance sector. The transaction values Max Life at Rs. 10,504 crore (US$ 2.1 billion). The consideration offered by MS&AD reflects the strong confidence in Max New York Life and its superior performance, as demonstrated in 2011 when the company’s standing rose from 7th to 4th position in the Indian Private Life Insurance league tables, gaining 247 basis points market share in a highly competitive space. Post transaction, Max India’s majority stake of 70% has remained unchanged.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr Analjit Singh, Chairman, Max India Limited, said, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Toshinari TOKOI, Assistant Director, Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd. and Mr. Hideaki NOMURA as the representative Directors from Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance on Max Life Insurance Board. For the next stage of Max Life Insurances growth and development, we view Mitsui Sumitomo as an ideal partner. I am confident that the rich experience, financial strength and risk management expertise of Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance, coupled with our inherent strengths of people and processes we have an even brighter growth journey in years to come.”

According to Mr. Rahul Khosla, Managing Director, Max India Limited, “Max India has a vision of being the “Most admired corporate for service excellence” and Max Life insurance will be in the forefront of all our efforts in making our vision come true. Life insurance is the most profitable business in Max India’s portfolio and forms about 80% of group revenue. We are committed to this business and will continue to nurture it.”

Rajesh Sud, CEO & Managing Director, Max New York Life, said, “We are delighted that Board members of Max India and Max New York Life Insurance have approved the transition to the next phase of our growth in today’s board meeting. From a consumer standpoint, the transition will be seamless and we remain strongly committed to our strategy of serving the long term savings and protection needs of our customers. Over the years we have built a financially strong and stable company based on solid foundations and are confident of a sustained profitable growth as we continue to differentiate in the market place basis our advice based sales, comprehensive product portfolio, diversified distribution model and a customer centric approach at every touch point.”

Speaking on the occasion, Yasuyoshi Karasawa, President, Chief Executive Officer, Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd., said “Max India is one of India’s most admired companies with a well recognized brand and a deeply experienced management team. MNYL is the best possible life insurance company that we could have partnered with for our entry into the Indian Life Insurance space and we are excited about the growth possibilities given the demographic dividends and the domestic demand”

New Delhi , (GNS) : India today called on Islamabad to take a lenient view and release death row convict Sarabjit Singh whose release was mistakenly announced and corrected almost five hours later by the Pakistan Government.

“We have always taken up the unfortunate case of Sarabjit Singh who has spent 20 years in prison. This is a good time for the Government of Pakistan to take a lenient, a humanitarian view. I can very well understand the agony his family must have gone through. I also appeal to the government of Pakistan to release all Indian nationals who have completed their prison terms,’’ said External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna during a breakfast interaction with mediamen.

While diplomats were stoic after reports filtered in from Pakistan on June 25, 2012  evening about Islamabad’s plans to release Sarabjit Singh, Mr. Krishna immediately welcomed the decision with his office not bothering to get a confirmation from the Indian mission in Islamabad.

Mumbai, (Ajay Rawal) : Atos, an international IT services company today announced that its Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for India, Mr. Murli Menon, who is also Group Chief Security Officer (CSO) for IMEA region was honored as one of the Top 100 CISOs in India. The award recognizes his efficiency in strategizing and implementing effective security framework for enterprise clients worldwide addressing their most complex Information Security challenges related to off-shoring.

On receiving the award, Mr. Murli Menon, CISO Atos India said, “As experienced industry insiders we take careful consideration of the business needs and drivers of our clients to ensure that we provide a holistic security solution with maximum security assurance, which gives flexibility and value for money. This award is recognition for our commitment to information security and technology practices and we are honoured to accept it and appreciate CISO’s recognition.”

Mumbai, (Ajay Rawal) : Dr. Manisha Kayande files a complaint against the Teachers Constituency candidate- Kapil Harsihchandra Patil for breaching the code of conduct for the election on 2^nd July. Kapil Patil is distributing his own ballot papers stating the names of the candidates, different from the sequence given by the Election Commission.

The sample paper given by the Election Commission has Dr. Manisha Kayande’s name on the 6^th position where as the papers being distributed by Kapil H. Patil has her name on the 10^th position. Dr. Manisha Kayande argues that “The Election commission has yet to print and distribute the final sample forms and how can Kapil Patil create his own forms and distribute? This is a breach of the code of conducts for this election. If such false forms are being submitted then the possibility of bogus voting also arises. I have lodged a complaint at the Konkan Bhavan office. A follow up is being done for taking proper action.”

Mr. J M Abhyankar, President, Maharashtra Rajya Shikshak Sena mentioned that “We have written a letter to the Election commission in this matter. As of now no action has been taken and I doubt if any action will be taken against him.”

Dr. Manisha Kayande is the only woman candidate contesting this election that will be held on 2^nd July 2012. Recently Mr. Uddhav Thackeray, Executive President, Shiv Sena has announced its support for the upcoming election. Aditya Thacheray, President, Yuva Sena has also announced of their support. Apart from this, various teachers unions and education institutes are backing her. Some of the support groups comprise of Borivali Education Society, Gokhale Education society, Shailendra Education society, Matruchhaya Education society, Shakti seva sangh and Vidya Bhushan Shikshan Sanstha, Shikshak Sena, and Greater Mumbai Shikshak Association. Prof. Dr. Manisha Kayande has been in the field of education for past 25 years and has done a commendable job across this period. Currently, she is a professor at MD College from past 18 years.

Initiative aimed at transforming science and math education in classrooms

Highlights:

• Karnataka becomes the first state to adopt the Intel^® Future Scientist program
• The Program aims to inspire a spirit of inquiry among students and fosters research and innovation in schools across Karnataka
• 4 Specially Designed Vehicles embark on a Vigyan Yatra to reach out to 7 districts across Karnataka and train 500 teachers and 5000 students through this initiative

Bangalore, (GNS) : Intel India today announced the launch of Intel^® Future Scientist program in the state of Karnataka, aimed at enabling the next generation of innovators to have a solid   ground in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The Program is designed to help science teachers present their curricula from an inquiry-based perspective to help foster a spirit of research and innovation among their students.

Through this Program, Intel India aims to reach out to seven districts across Karnataka training 500 teachers and 5000 students. Four specially designed Mobile Science Vans are being sent on a Vigyan Yatra to reach out to all Science Centers through colleges of education in the state. These vehicles, specially designed to attract on-lookers with science exhibits, on board scientists and science material are expected to tour 3 days in every district conducting science workshop for the students.  – The vehicles will cover seven districts including – Bangalore Urban, Belgaum, Chitradurga, Gulbarga, Jamakhandi, Mangalore and Mysore. These districts will be covered over seven weeks impacting 500 teachers and 5000 students directly.

In a statement here today, Mr. Vishweshwara Hegde Kageri, Honorable Minister for Primary & Secondary Education, Government of Karnataka said, “For any emerging knowledge economy like ours, science education at all levels remains a crucial factor. Igniting the right spirit for science at an early age, coupled with skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving makes a successful researcher or an innovator to address the problems of the modern society. Intel’s initiative with Karnataka Vigyan Yatra will support schools across the state to strengthen inquiry based learning, encourage curiosity and innovation in the classrooms.”

The Program consists of seven modules that are delivered over two days of training comprising inquiry-based learning, facilitating scientific inquiry, from the classroom to the science fair. It will help science teachers present their curriculum from an inquiry-based perspective to help foster a spirit of research and innovation among their students.

“A strong math and science foundation coupled with skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving are crucial for success in the knowledge economy. Not only do global learners create global leaders, but the world’s future depends on education focusing on creative and innovative STEM learning. Promoting and nurturing science education, through inquiry based approaches, at all levels is the primary goal of this Program,” said Dr. Praveen Vishakantaiah, President, Intel India.