ASPA Takes Anti-Counterfeiting Solutions Global, Strengthening International Presence
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ASPA Takes Anti-Counterfeiting Solutions Global, Strengthening International Presence

New Delhi, India – December 2nd, 2024—Puneet Maithani, Associate Director of Industry Affairs at the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA), delivered an insightful keynote titled ‘ASPA: Leading the Fight Against Counterfeiting and Ensuring Product Authenticity’ at the ASIA Security Conference & Exhibition in Singapore. The event is a prestigious event focused on anti-counterfeiting, trademark, and brand protection.

In his address, Puneet highlighted ASPA’s growing global presence and its strategic efforts to fight counterfeiting by promoting the innovative anti-counterfeiting solutions offered by its members internationally. He emphasized ASPA’s ongoing work to facilitate collaboration with international delegations, helping to align anti-counterfeiting initiatives globally and expand the reach of ASPA members’ advanced technologies.

Puneet Maithani

Puneet elaborated on ASPA’s core objectives, focusing on global collaboration with stakeholders to share best practices and foster awareness around the issue of counterfeiting. He also discussed how ASPA’s members actively contribute to the fight against counterfeiting with cutting-edge technologies such as security design, holograms, NFC/RFID, track-and-trace solutions, and blockchain, collectively safeguarding over 15,000 brands worldwide.

During his keynote, Puneet emphasized ASPA’s commitment to its four primary pillars: Awareness, Advocacy, Research, and Innovation. He spoke of the association’s successful efforts to raise awareness and educate stakeholders and the public, stressing the importance of proactive measures in tackling counterfeit goods. He highlighted ASPA’s panel discussions, webinars, and sector-specific forums, such as the Traceability & Authentication Forum, which facilitate direct collaboration with international delegations and strengthen global anti-counterfeiting efforts.

In addition, Puneet showcased ASPA’s significant research contributions, including the ASPA-CRISIL State of Counterfeiting Report, which provides valuable data and insights that inform strategies for combating counterfeiting, benefiting the Indian market and international communities.

Concluding his keynote, Puneet emphasized the invaluable benefits of ASPA membership, which provides organizations with access to the latest technologies, research, and a robust global network of experts. He reinforced that ASPA’s initiatives are helping to open up new international opportunities for companies to expand their reach and stay ahead of emerging counterfeiting threats.

The ASIA Security Conference & Exhibition is a premier platform for experts, brand owners, and policymakers to discuss the latest anti-counterfeiting, trademark protection, and brand security strategies. Puneet’s keynote highlighted ASPA’s growing international influence and critical role in promoting its members’ anti-counterfeiting solutions while fostering collaboration with global delegations to safeguard brands and products worldwide.

Infiniti Mall Malad Brings Enchanting Open-Air Movie Nights to December
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Infiniti Mall Malad Brings Enchanting Open-Air Movie Nights to December

Mumbai, 02 December 2024 – Infiniti Mall, Mumbai’s premium destination for luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment presents a nostalgic cinematic experience with open-air movie screenings scheduled for December 2024 at Malad featuring a curated selection of iconic films.

The cinematic magic begins with the screening of –

Sugar and Stars – A classic french masterpiece

Harry Potter Part 1 – An incredible movie where an orphan discovers he’s a wizard and faces dark forces in a magical world.

Harry Potter Part 2 – Magic and adventure await in this beloved sequel

The Holiday – A romantic comedy to warm your heart

Home Alone Part 1 – A timeless comedy about a kid’s ingenious defense of his home.

Home Alone Part 2 – The hilarious sequel to the original hit

Elf – a must-watch Christmas comedy filled with heartwarming laughs and festive charm.

Midnight In Paris – A whimsical and romantic journey through the City of Light

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani – A Bollywood masterpiece about friendship and love

Experience the magic of classic cinema all over again on the big screen, as these open-air movie screenings bring back timeless favorites in a nostalgic and enchanting way.

INFINITI MALL,  MALAD 

DATE

MOVIE

TIME

7th December 

Sugar and Stars (French Cinema) 

7 PM

14th December

Harry Potter Part 1

7 PM

15th December

Harry Potter Part 2

7 PM

21st December

The Holiday

7 PM

22nd December

Home Alone Part 1

7 PM

24th December

Home Alone Part 2

7 PM

25th December

Elf

7 PM

28th  December

Midnight In Paris

7 PM

29th  December

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

7 PM

Real Estate Dominates AIF Investments With INR 75,468 Cr in H1 FY25
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Real Estate Dominates AIF Investments With INR 75,468 Cr in H1 FY25

Mumbai, 2 December 2024: Over the last decade, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) have shown impressive growth in India, with a significant increase in the number of funds available. Out of all sectors, real estate stands out as the leading choice for AIF investments across the country.

Latest SEBI data compiled by ANAROCK Research indicates that out of a total of INR 4,49,384 Cr AIF investments made across sectors till H1 FY2025, real estate’s share was the highest at 17% – totalling nearly INR 75,468 Cr. Other sectors benefiting from AIF investments are IT/ITeS, Financial Services, NBFCs, Banks, Pharma, FMCG, Retail, Renewable Energy, and others.

Sectors Amt. Invested (INR CR)
Real Estate 7,54,68
IT/ITeS 2,78,15
Fin Services 2,57,82
NBFCs 2,15,03
Banks 1,82,42
Pharma 1,72,72
FMCG 1,16,80
Retail 1,13,79
Renewable Energy 1,06,72
Others 2,29,571
Total 4,49,384

anuj puri

Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group, says, “By the end of H1 FY25, total investments in the real estate sector via AIFs have risen from INR 68,540 Cr by FY 2024-end to INR 75,468 Cr. This is a significant10% growth in just half the financial year.”

Explosive Growth

AIF in India have seen substantial decadal increase in the number of funds available for investment. AIFs’ overall commitment raised rose by over 340% in the last six years – from INR 2,82,148 Cr in FY 2019 to INR 12,43,083 Cr in H1 FY2025, reflecting increasing appetite for alternative investment strategies.

Between FY2013 to FY2024, the commitment raised in AIF sector has maintained an impressive 83.4% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), signalling its growing importance in the broader investment landscape.

“A deep dive into the data reveals that the surge in AIF activity is largely driven by Category II AIFs, which include a mix of Real Estate Funds, Private Equity, Debt Funds, and Fund of Funds (FoF),” says Puri. “The data indicates that over the last five years, Category II AIFs have been responsible for nearly 80% of total AIF commitments, highlighting the dominance of these flexible and tailored investment vehicles.”

Traditionally, domestic investors have been the primary source of AIF funding. However, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) are also stepping up, especially in the case of Category II AIFs. In this category, FPIs now have an almost equal participation alongside domestic investors.

Tailored Real Estate Financing Solutions

A major trend within AIFs is the growing reliance on equity financing to bridge gaps in the real estate sector. With many real estate projects requiring significant working capital throughout their lifecycle, AIFs have provided a vital source of funding. These funds offer a customized capital stack that addresses the unique needs of real estate developers, helping to manage everything from construction to long-term project financing.

In the first nine months of CY24 alone, the real estate sector saw INR 28,560 Cr raised through private equity investments, according to ANAROCK Capital. Real estate accounted for 17% of total sectoral investments this year. INR 12,801 Cr were also raised via Qualified Institutional Placements (QIPs) within the same period – again, the 2nd highest among all the major sectors and comprising a 17% overall share.

When a Big Heart Hurts: The Story of How Kindness Wasn’t Enough
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When a Big Heart Hurts: The Story of How Kindness Wasn’t Enough

Bangalore, November 2024 – In a remarkable medical achievement, a team of cardio surgeons headed by Dr. Divakar Bhat at Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar in Bengaluru performed a complex open heart surgery on a 40-year-old Nepalese woman, saving her life after she suffered from severe heart complications due to rheumatic heart disease. The patient had undergone heart valve replacement surgery two decades ago, but her condition had recently worsened, with symptoms as severe breathing difficulties and swelling in her legs.

Patient Mahima (Name changed) had been living a healthy life post her first heart surgery. She began to experience recurrent breathing problems and fluid overload in the legs over the last three to four years. Despite optimal medical management, her condition continued to deteriorate. After additional research, it was found that her heart had grown to more than twice its typical size, with the right atrium measuring 10–11 cm and the left atrium at 7-8 cm. Moreover, the second heart valve was found to be severely leaking, while the original valve replacement was still functioning properly.

“Redo surgery in such cases is always a high-risk procedure, but with the advanced surgical techniques and technology we have, we were confident we could help her. The real challenge was not only in replacing the defective valve but in reducing the size of the heart, which had grown so large that it could lead to reduce heart function and cause severe implications” said Dr. Divakar Bhat, Consultant – CTVS Surgery, Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar, Bengaluru.

In order to reopen the patient’s chest, the surgical team carefully planned a redo sternotomy, which entailed replacing the sick valve with a new metallic one while maintaining the previously replaced valve. To reduce the enlarged heart, the surgeons employed a technique akin to folding a saree with precision stitches, reducing the heart’s size by half while maintaining its functionality. Despite the complexity and risks involved, the surgery was a success. The patient was discharged within days of the procedure. She made a swift recovery, with her breathing significantly improved and her leg swelling reduced.

“This case is especially rare, as rheumatic heart disease is becoming less common with modern medicine. However, when it does occur, it can lead to life-threatening complications like the one we faced here,” doctor added.

As a preventive measure, the team also placed an epicardial bipolar lead to address potential future issues such as heart block, a complication that could arise from the placement of the metallic valve. The patient, whose family had faced financial challenges, received financial assistance from various sources, ensuring that the life-saving surgery could proceed without delay, ensuring that the patient can look forward to a full, healthy life ahead.

Speaking on having undergone the heart operation for the second time successfully, patient Mahima said, “At first I was a little scared for the operation as it was happening for the second time for me. My husband’s boss where my husband works as a security guard assured about the hospital and doctors here and provided all the support to me. I was feeling so comfortable after the operation was done as I was able to see the smile on my Husband’s face. I did not know the details and complications of the operation but, the doctor was kind and made us feel so comfortable and I am feeling so good because he not only treated my heart but also made my heart feel good with the second operation”

Gautam Adani Stresses the Role of Technology and Sustainability at GJEPC’s 51st India Gem & Jewellery Awards
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Gautam Adani Stresses the Role of Technology and Sustainability at GJEPC’s 51st India Gem & Jewellery Awards

New Delhi, 2nd December 2024: The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) presented the coveted 51st India Gem & Jewellery Awards (IGJA) held in Jaipur, honouring the leading exporters of the gems & jewellery industry. GJEPC presented a total of 24 IGJ Awards: 14 – Industry Performance Awards; 7- Special Recognition Awards; 2 – Felicitation Awards; and 1- Bank supporting the Gems & Jewellery Industry Awards. This event was supported by Gold Partner, World Gold Council; Powered By GIA; with Gemfields and RMC as Associate Partners; and Vaibhav Global Limited as the Co-Partner.

IGJA

Business tycoon Shri Gautam Adani (Chairman, Adani Group) graced GJEPC’s 51st edition of the IGJ Awards as Presiding Guest. Representing GJEPC were Shri Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Nirmal Bardiya, Regional Chairman, Rajasthan, GJEPC; Shri Sabyasachi Ray, ED, GJEPC, and Shri Sachin Jain, Regional CEO – India, World Gold Council and Shri Gopal Kumar, Director and General Manager, Gemfields India Pvt. Ltd was also present along with the who’s who and doyens of India’s gem & jewellery industry.

While addressing a packed hall of diamond, gem and jewellery trade, Shri Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group, said, “Technology and sustainability are the twin pillars of our future. As we embrace the digital age, let’s ensure our growth is both innovative and responsible. Empowering and uplifting our skilled artisans and craftsmen with digital tools will propel our jewellery heritage to new heights. Ultimately, our youth are the architects of tomorrow. Let’s nurture their potential, and create an India that shines brightly on the world stage.”

Adani further added, “Innovation and sustainability are not just trends but the foundation for the future of the gem and jewellery industry. From advanced manufacturing techniques to smart wearables, technology is revolutionizing the jewellery industry, offering endless opportunities for customisation and connection. The gem and jewellery industry must embrace change, challenge the status quo, and adapt to evolving consumer needs to remain a global leader.”

Shri Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC addressing the audience said, “Think big, innovate relentlessly, and embrace technology—the future of India’s gem and jewellery industry is brighter than ever. With robust retail growth, projects like the India Jewellery Park in Mumbai, Jaipur’s Gem Bourse, and the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC are transforming the landscape. Supported by visionary government policies and FTAs, our industry is poised to scale new heights. Together, we can position India as a global leader in gems and jewellery, setting benchmarks for innovation, excellence, and sustainability.”

Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, added, “The gem and jewellery industry demonstrated incredible resilience by achieving $32 billion in exports last year, despite facing numerous challenges. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the award winners who have been instrumental in leading this remarkable achievement and inspiring the industry to greater heights.”

Shri Sachin Jain, Regional CEO – India, World Gold Council said, “”This is our time, our era. The next ten years belong to India. As an industry, we aim to emotionally connect with consumers, especially the younger generation, through modern approaches. We are also committed to supporting our Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’ transitioning India from a developing to a developed nation. We are collaborating with the government to define gold’s role in this journey, preparing for milestones in 2030, 2035, and beyond. IGJA is a celebration of remarkable achievements and the people behind them.”

Shri Sriram Natarajan, MD, GIA India said, “The Indian gem and jewellery industry holds immense significance for our nation, contributing substantially to exports, GDP, and employment. This success has been achieved in a remarkably short time through the entrepreneurial grit and global business acumen of business families, supported ably by the government, GJEPC, banks, and institutions like GIA and others. The industry thrives on healthy competition to bring out the best and demonstrates unparalleled collaboration when united by collective strength. With IGJA, we celebrate the entrepreneurs, their families, employees, and all contributors to this success. Congratulations to all the IGJA award winners on this well-deserved recognition.”

Shri Pramod Agrawal, Chairman, Derewala Industries Ltd. won the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The selection criteria this year included export performance, value addition, employment generation and investment in R&D among other parameters. In recognition of the business excellence demonstrated by companies that are helping to strengthen ‘Brand India’, GJEPC not only felicitate industry players for their exemplary performance, but also recognizes entities such as banks which play a key role in the growth of the sector.

Since its inception in 1973, the IGJA has been an emblem of excellence in the gem and jewellery industry, recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that propel the industry forward. Every year, IGJA honors the best of the best, showcasing the pinnacle of achievement in the gem and jewellery sector. This prestigious ceremony celebrates companies and partners whose contributions have made the industry a shining example of export excellence. IGJA has evolved over the years to embrace new categories, including social responsibility, innovation, and entrepreneurship, reflecting the dynamic nature of our industry.

Dilli Haat Hosts ‘Master Creation ki Biradari’ Handicraft Expo
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Dilli Haat Hosts ‘Master Creation ki Biradari’ Handicraft Expo

New Delhi: The much-awaited ‘Master Creation ki Biradari’ Handicraft Festival began at Dilli Haat, INA Market, New Delhi. The event will run from December 1 to December 15, 2024. Organized by the Ministry of Textiles, this festival celebrates India’s rich handloom and handicraft heritage while empowering artisans and weavers. This unique festival features an exquisite […]

The post Dilli Haat Hosts ‘Master Creation ki Biradari’ Handicraft Expo first appeared on Business News Week.

The Oberoi Concours D’Elegance Named ‘Breakthrough Event’ in London
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The Oberoi Concours D’Elegance Named ‘Breakthrough Event’ in London

New Delhi, 2nd December 2024 – The Inaugural Oberoi Concours d’Elegance 2024 achieved a landmark recognition by being awarded the prestigious ‘Breakthrough Event of the Year’ at the International Historic Motoring Awards 2024, held in London. This accolade celebrates the Oberoi Concours outstanding contribution to the global historic motoring community, underscoring India’s rising prominence in […]

The post The Oberoi Concours D’Elegance Named ‘Breakthrough Event’ in London first appeared on Business News Week.

UNIQLO Warms Up Delhi Metro with HEATTECH Campaign for the Winter Season
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UNIQLO Warms Up Delhi Metro with HEATTECH Campaign for the Winter Season

As Delhi embraces the winter season, UNIQLO has launched a captivating HEATTECH branding campaign on the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro. Running from 1 December to 31 December 2024, this innovative campaign features eight carriages of the metro train wrapped in bold HEATTECH visuals, educating customers on the brand’s thermal wear, HEATTECH. This commute also signifies the celebration of warmth and cutting-edge technology of this winter must-have!

uniqlo

HEATTECH, known for its advanced fabric technology that converts body moisture into heat, is a must-have winter wardrobe essential. This campaign serves as an exciting introduction to the warmth and comfort of HEATTECH, ensuring that commuters from Gurgaon and Delhi are ready to embrace the season in style.

The metro wrapping spans the Yellow Line, from Samaypur Badli to HUDA City Centre, covering key high-traffic stations such as Rajiv Chowk, INA, and Sikanderpur. With this takeover, UNIQLO continues its mission to deliver functional, innovative LifeWear tailored to local needs, just in time for the colder months.

RBI MPC to Hold Key 3-Day Meeting to Review Economic Conditions and Set Monetary Policy
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RBI MPC to Hold Key 3-Day Meeting to Review Economic Conditions and Set Monetary Policy

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is scheduled to hold a crucial 3-day meeting to review the country’s economic conditions and decide on key monetary policy measures. This meeting, which is set to take place in December 2024, will focus on assessing inflation trends, economic growth prospects, and global financial developments. The outcome of the meeting will have significant implications for interest rates, with the committee considering whether to adjust the repo rate to manage inflation and stimulate growth. The MPC’s decisions will be closely watched by businesses, investors, and policymakers, as they guide the RBI’s approach to balancing price stability with economic recovery in the post-pandemic era.

Mr. Ashwani Dhanawat, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, Shriram General Insurance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has maintained its rates since FY24 to manage inflation, supported by robust growth. However, recent Q2FY25 GDP data indicates a slowdown in consumption and investment, which has reduced the policy space. Although growth is anticipated to improve in H2FY25, it is likely to fall short of the RBI’s 7.4% target.

Inflation risks have escalated, with October’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) exceeding the target range. While food inflation remains high, there has been some disinflation in vegetables. Core inflation continues to be subdued, reflecting a negative output gap. Medium-term inflation is expected to ease, with FY26 inflation likely closer to 4%.

Given the weaker GDP data, a rate cut in December would be prudent. This move could provide the necessary stimulus to bolster economic activity. Additionally, liquidity tightness persists, suggesting that continued pressures could arise if outflows persist. A rate cut could help alleviate these pressures and support overall economic stability.

Mr. Ajit Banerjee President & Chief Investment Officer, Shriram Life Insurance Company Ltd.

“The outcome of the next MPC meeting, scheduled between December (4 and 6), is being eagerly awaited to watch which way the MPC is going to take a decision on policy rates against the backdrop of CPI inflation rising beyond MPC’s target inflation band (of 2-6 %) and key heat map indicators signalling economic growth slowing down. RBI’s view on inflation control has been focussed upon taming the inflation in a more durable pattern so that economic growth can be more sustainable and broad-based after the rate cutting cycle starts and inflation is brought under control. The Q2 GDP growth numbers, going to be announced on 29th November, are likely to be less than the Q1 GDP growth numbers of 6.7%.

The deceleration in GDP growth has been primarily driven by slow pace of Central Government and State Government capex in Q1 and Q2 of FY25, which was propelling the GDP growth in the last two financial years. To add to this, we have also seen excessive heat, erratic monsoon and an extended shradh period also playing a spoiltsport. Further, urban consumption levels for essential items started coming down more acutely in H1 of FY25 and rural consumption levels have just started showing green shoots which would help in augmenting the GDP growth to a certain extent in H2 of FY25. The Central government has also started disbursing funds to states for capex and other welfare schemes, which, in turn, should lead to an increase in consumption at the ground level. Therefore, H2 of FY25 would show a slight uptick in GDP growth as compared to H1.

Hence, keeping all of the above in mind, the case in point here is, would RBI start its rate cutting cycle in this MPC? Our in-house view is RBI would main status quo on the policy rates in the coming MPC meeting but would give clear indication in the governor’s post-policy statement on the path the MPC would like to take on the policy rates going forward. We are also seeing huge stress on the MFI segment and the financially less endowed urban population, who are highly leveraged now. At this stage, if the rate cutting is done and guards are held loose, a larger asset bubble can get created. Apart from that, the RBI would also like to see trade and monetary policy with the new government in the US, what would they adopt, and what can be the potential ramifications for India and decide its course of action if felt necessary.”

Mr. Nirav Choksi, CEO and Co-Founder of CredAble

 “The RBI’s MPC meeting this week is set to convene at a time of heightened public concerns owing to economic challenges, high inflation, and geopolitical tensions. There is a strong likelihood that the MPC will decide to retain the repo rate at 6.5%. Maintaining the current repo rate will be beneficial to FinTechs that are offering affordable credit to cash-flow-tight sectors like Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). By carefully adjusting interest rates and monitoring liquidity, the central bank can strike the right balance between price stability and economic momentum.”

Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist, Bank of Baroda

“The credit policy has largely been on expected lines. The GDP forecast has been lowered against the background of a low Q2 growth number announced by the NSO last week. Based on forecasts for the next two quarters, a number of around 7% has been projected. The inflation projection has been increased to 4.8% which is mainly due to food inflation being high. The RBI has also raised the flag that core inflation can increase as several manufactured and service industry products have witnessed increase in costs and hence prices. However, given a more benign forecast of 4.5% inflation for Q4, there is a good chance of a reduction in repo rate in the next policy.

The RBI has addressed concerned issues on liquidity by lowering the CRR which will coincide with the advance tax flows and quarter end requirements. This will ensure stable liquidity and bond yields for the month. The RBI has also sounded assuring on the forex side given the reserves which can buffer against any shocks. The market reaction in terms of bond yields and stock indices have been largely neutral to these announcements. We can expect an impact on yields once the CRR funds get released in the market.” – Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist, Bank of Baroda

Siddhartha Sanyal, Chief Economist and Head of Research, Bandhan Bank

The liquidity support in today’s policy was need of the hour and there were widespread expectation about the same. The CRR cut will inject large quantum of liquidity almost immediately. One feels going ahead, it might be important for RBI to continue monitoring banking system liquidity condition closely and continue to provide support for durable liquidity in order to support growth in credit to the productive sectors of the economy.

The revision in RBI’s growth and inflation forecasts are in line with expectations. The RBI reiterated their confidence about better growth momentum in the second half of the financial year. Importantly, the central bank continues to be more confident about stronger momentum in rural India.

With recent trend in macro data, forecasts and the RBI’s latest guidance, February remains a live meeting as regards further monetary easing, contingent upon softening in inflation dynamics, and better stability on the currency front.

Skoda Auto India Launches Value Pricing for Kylaq Models, Opens Bookings Today
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Skoda Auto India Launches Value Pricing for Kylaq Models, Opens Bookings Today

Mumbai, December 2, 2024 – Škoda Auto India’s first-ever foray into the sub-4m SUV segment, the Kylaq, is now out with its entire range of variants and pricing. The Kylaq will come in four variant options – Classic, Signature, Signature+ and Prestige. The SUV has a starting price of INR 7.89* lakh for the Kylaq Classic trim. The top-of-the-line Kylaq Prestige AT will be on sale at INR 14,40,000 lakh. Moreover, the first 33,333 customers will get a complimentary 3-year Standard Maintenance Package (SMP). Bookings for the Kylaq open today at 4pm with deliveries to begin on January 27, 2025. Kylaq has seen a great response already, with over 160,000 expressions of interest across Kylaq hand-raisers, Kylaq Club members and dealer enquiries.

skoda kaylak

Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India said, “The all-new Kylaq marks the advent of a New Era for the Škoda brand in India. Škoda Kylaq will be a gamechanger not just for us, but for the segment, and will democratise European technology on Indian roads, alongside redefining the customer experience. We have announced the best-in-segment ownership experience for the first 33,333 customers. Kylaq has generated tremendous excitement and buzz through 2024, which reached its peak at the world premiere in November. This SUV comes with global design cues, unmatched driving dynamics, uncompromising safety, a host of features, a spacious and functional interior which is matched by value pricing across the range. We are confident that Kylaq will further our goal of entering newer markets, bringing new customers into the Škoda family and strengthening our brand presence in India.”

Options galore

The Kylaq is available with a choice of two transmissions, four variants and seven colours at launch. It is powered by the high-performance, efficient and reliable 1.0 TSI engine, producing 85kW of power and 178Nm of torque, with the option of a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic. Customers can choose between four variants – Classic, Signature, Signature+ and the top-of-the-line Prestige. There are seven colours on offer – Tornado Red, Brilliant Silver, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Lava Blue, Deep Black and the Kylaq exclusive Olive Gold.

Classic value

Even with the Classic variant, which constitutes the entry point into the Kylaq and the Škoda family, customers get six airbags and over 25 active and passive safety features as standard. Safety like Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, six airbags, tilt and reach adjustment for the steering wheel, head restraints and three-point seat belts for all five seats, electric mirrors, rear Park Distance Control, driver’s dead pedal, automatic speed sensitive central locking, and full LED lighting are standard among other features.

Signature in detail

While the Classic is heavily equipped with safety and convenience, the Kylaq’s Signature variant adds features like tyre pressure monitoring, Cruise Control, R16 Alloys, wired Android Auto and Apple Carplay, cooled glovebox, USB-C sockets, a 17.7cm (7-inch) Škoda Touch Infotainment System, Multifunctional Steering Wheel, adjustable rear AC vents and more.

Signature+ furthers value

The Signature+ offers nearly everything you’d expect from a top-of-the-line variant while offering the value of a mid-variant. The much sought after Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay is available in this variant, as is the 25.6cm (10.1-inch) Škoda Touch Infotainment System. This trim also offers the 20.32cm (8-inch) Virtual Cockpit for the driver. Also available are a rear-view camera, Climatronic climate control system, Automatic headlamps, Hill-Hold Control, a sustainable Bamboo-fibre infused dashboard pad, electrically folding exterior mirror with car-lock among others.

Prestige at the top

The top-of-the-line Prestige is the Kylaq for customers who want every feature in their SUV. This top-drawer variant of the Kylaq is equipped with an electric sunroof with anti-pinch technology, R17 dual tone alloy wheels, auto headlamps and wipers, LED foglamps with cornering function, Škoda Crystalline LED Projector Headlamps, Ambient Interior lighting in addition to other features. Like the first-in-segment six-way electrically adjustable front seats with seat ventilation. Also, while all variants from the Signature and up have the option of a six-speed torque converter automatic, the Prestige offers steering-mounted paddle-shifters for spontaneous manual gearshifts.

Segment-best ownership

In addition to this wide array of variants offering a balance of value and technology with no compromise on safety, the first 33,333 customers who book the Kylaq will receive a complimentary 3-year Standard Maintenance Package. This package effectively brings the maintenance cost of the Kylaq down to Rs 0.24 per kilometre making it the vehicle with the lowest maintenance cost in its segment.

In addition, the Kylaq also offers a 3-year/100,000kms whichever earlier, standard warranty. Along with this, Kylaq also offers six-year anti-corrosion warranty as standard across the range. This SUV, like the Kushaq and Slavia, is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. It was developed jointly by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an eye on low maintenance costs, while retaining Škoda’s traditional qualities of dynamics and safety.