Business

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has announced a significant product update for its Glanza hatchback, aiming to consolidate its position in India’s competitive premium hatchback segment. The move comes at a time when consumer preferences are shifting toward vehicles offering enhanced safety and personalization. All variants of the Toyota Glanza will now feature six airbags as standard—an upgrade likely to appeal to safety-conscious urban buyers. Alongside this, TKM has rolled out a limited-time ‘Prestige Package’—available till July 31, 2025—which includes chrome-styled accessories, illuminated door sills, rear lamp garnishes, and a rear skid plate. These value additions are designed to increase buyer appeal without drastically impacting cost. The Glanza, powered by a 1.2-litre K-Series...

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has strengthened its footprint in Northeast India with the launch of a new dealership, Gargya Toyota, in Guwahati. The facility, inaugurated today, aims to meet the rising demand for mobility solutions and enhance customer accessibility in the region. Located at GS Road, Dispur, the 5,100 sq. ft. 1S (sales) outlet will offer Toyota’s full product lineup, including the Innova Hycross, Fortuner, Hilux, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Camry Hybrid, and Vellfire. The dealership also houses Toyota U-Trust, enabling buying, selling, and exchange of used vehicles. Speaking at the inauguration, Arun G Nair, VP & Chief Representative – East Region, TKM, said, “The Northeast holds immense market potential. This new facility brings us closer to our customers while ensur...

slice small finance bank (slice SFB), headquartered in Assam, has reported a significant 20.7% increase in its deposit base across the state over the past year, alongside the creation of over 400 local jobs. This strong growth highlights the bank’s expanding footprint in Assam and the broader Northeast, bolstering financial inclusion and economic development in the region. The bank is opening new branches in Wokha (Nagaland), and Bawngkawn and Serchhip (Mizoram), while modernizing several branches across Assam to offer a digital-first, customer-friendly experience. Tailored especially for rural households, women-led ventures, and new digital users, these centres aim to bridge financial access gaps. Local entrepreneurs and MSMEs have benefited from easier credit access, faster disbur...

The Indian Express Group, in collaboration with the Lodha Foundation, has launched Screen Academy — a not-for-profit initiative to support the dreams of young Indian filmmakers. Aimed at students with exceptional talent but limited financial means, the Academy will offer fully-funded postgraduate fellowships at top film schools including FTII Pune, SRFTI Kolkata, and Whistling Woods International Mumbai. With celebrated names like Guneet Monga, Payal Kapadia, and Resul Pookutty on board, the Academy promises not only financial aid but also mentorship, internships, and access to industry networks. The revival of the prestigious Screen Awards will also be managed by the Academy, ensuring credible recognition for artistic excellence. This initiative holds immense potential. With a grow...

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched a limited-period ‘Prestige Package’ for the Urban Cruiser Hyryder. The package, available from July 2025, includes 10 premium dealer-fitted accessories such as body cladding, hood emblem, and chrome garnishes—designed to enhance the SUV’s visual appeal, protection, and road presence. The Urban Cruiser Hyryder continues to set benchmarks with its self-charging strong hybrid electric powertrain powered by a 1.5L TNGA Atkinson cycle engine and an electric motor. With its silent operation, high fuel efficiency, and multiple drive options including mild-hybrid and AWD variants, the Hyryder has become a preferred choice among urban buyers. A  gateway to the eastern Himalayan region, the Hyryder has seen steady growth in demand, especi...