The SmartBus.AQI service on the Pune–Nagpur route was formally flagged off in Pune in the esteemed presence of Mr. Shripad Bhagwat, Inspector of Motor Vehicles, RTO Pune, along with senior leadership from IntrCity SmartBus. The flag-off marked a significant milestone in IntrCity’s clean-air travel initiative, underscoring the company’s commitment to enhancing health, safety, and comfort standards in intercity bus travel.

Manish Rathi, Co-founder & CEO, IntrCity SmartBus, said, “Pune is a key intercity travel hub, with strong demand for long-distance routes such as Pune – Nagpur. With SmartBus.AQI, we are addressing an often-ignored aspect of travel – air quality inside the bus. Our goal is to ensure that passengers can travel long distances while breathing cleaner, safer air throughout the journey.”

IntrCity’s internal studies found that in-cabin air pollution on intercity routes can be 2–3× higher than WHO-recommended limits. To address this, the company partnered with Respirer Living Sciences, an award-winning ClimateTech firm, to equip SmartBus.AQI with continuous air purification and monitoring systems. Pilot runs maintained PM2.5 levels at around 40 µg/m³ for over 90% of the journey – significantly cleaner than typical outdoor air in major Indian cities.

Passengers travelling on the Pune–Nagpur corridor can easily identify these buses at the time of booking by the “IntrCity SmartBus.AQI” tag on the IntrCity app or website, which signifies advanced onboard air-quality control systems. During the journey, passengers will also have access to real-time AQI and PM2.5 readings, displayed on board and in the app, ensuring complete transparency.

The Pune–Nagpur launch builds on IntrCity’s earlier rollout of SmartBus.AQI across high-pollution North India routes, with more corridors to be added in subsequent phases. IntrCity has consistently introduced category-first innovations such as onboard washrooms, boarding lounges, digital check-ins, and trained Bus Captains with SmartBus.AQI, the company, extends this innovation to clean-air travel.

IntrCity has also introduced a dedicated SmartBus.AQI microsite (), where travellers can explore the technology, understand how air purification works, and learn more about this clean-air initiative.

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Dr. Bhagawan Pawar, Deputy Director of Health Services, Pune Circle, inaugurated the event as the Chief Guest. Delivering his keynote on “Air Quality Challenges, Health Impacts, Actions & Future of Pune,” Dr. Pawar outlined his department’s ongoing efforts to address air quality challenges across the region.

“Recognising the seriousness of the problem, we have strengthened air quality monitoring and data integration in partnership with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and SAFAR (IITM Pune) to ensure real-time data is available for both citizens and decision-makers,” he said.

He highlighted initiatives such as public awareness campaigns in schools and communities to educate people about precautions during high-pollution days, discouraging open burning, and promoting behavioural change. The department, he noted, has enhanced healthcare preparedness through special respiratory clinics, wider availability of nebulisers and inhalers, and training for doctors to identify pollution-related health issues early. Coordination with PMC, PCMC, and the Zilla Parishad continues to focus on dust control at construction sites and strengthening waste-segregation systems.

“Looking ahead, our vision is clear – to make Pune a model city for clean air and healthy living,” Dr. Pawar added. “Our success will depend on collective participation. Government, industry, academia, and citizens must work together, combining technology, research, and awareness to build a cleaner and healthier future. Clean air is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right essential for the future of our children.”

The conference underscores that indoor air quality is no longer a niche concern –  it directly impacts public health, workplace productivity, and community well-being. With India’s rapid urbanisation and rising pollution levels, IAQ India 2025 has emerged as a national platform connecting science, policy, and design to drive collective action.

Delegates are engaging in sessions that address the urgent need for cleaner indoor environments through knowledge exchange, technology showcases, and collaborative frameworks aligned with India’s health and sustainability goals. Alongside the conference, visitors can explore innovations in air purification, ventilation systems, sensors, and smart building management solutions showcased by leading companies and research institutions.

Delivering the Conference Keynote, Mr. Vikram Murthy, Conference Chair, AHRI India Representative & Director, Univac Environment Systems, spoke on “Air Quality at Crossroads: Bridging Public Health, Policy, and Urban Development.” He emphasised the growing air quality challenges in Indian cities and their direct impact on productivity and well-being.

“Air quality must be treated as a cornerstone of sustainable urban growth,” Mr. Murthy noted, calling for integrated policies that connect healthcare, building standards, and urban development.

Co-Conference Chair, Mr. Ashish Rakheja, Fellow ASHRAE, ISHRAE, and Sr. Fellow IGBC; Managing Partner, AEON Consultant, highlighted the deep interlinkage between ambient and indoor air quality. “Most Indian cities experience hazardous levels of PM2.5, NOx, and other pollutants that infiltrate indoor spaces. The lack of enforceable IAQ standards and public awareness leads to unhealthy buildings that fail to protect occupants,” he said.

Mr. Rakheja stressed the need for a multi-pronged approach integrating design, technology, and policy – including filtered mechanical ventilation, low-emission materials, and real-time IAQ monitoring. Post-COVID learnings, he added, have further reinforced the value of ventilation and purification in shared spaces.

Mr. Vanshaj Kaul, Director, Eurovent India, remarked, “IAQ India 2025 is dedicated to promoting healthier, smarter, and more sustainable indoor environments. Clean indoor air is vital to our comfort, productivity, and long-term health. I applaud the organisers for bringing together experts and innovators to drive collective action for cleaner air and a better future.”

Day One of IAQ India 2025 focused on Air Quality, Public Health, and Policy Frameworks, while Day Two will explore Design, Technology, and Operational Excellence.

Organised by Thermal Control Magazine, the event represents a landmark effort to mainstream IAQ as a national agenda, aligning with India’s broader sustainability and public-health missions.

IAQ India 2025 reaffirms that clean indoor air is not merely a comfort parameter — it is a cornerstone of human well-being and sustainable urban living.

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Gurugram, August 21, 2025 – Kenstar, one of the most trusted brands in India for nearly three decades, today announces the launch of its exclusive range of India’s first 5 Star BEE Rated Energy energy-efficient air Coolers in Gurugram, Haryana. The new range of Coolers comes along with an unmatched peace of mind, offering a 5-year warranty. This state-of-the-art innovation powers Kenstar’s “The Power of 5” campaign, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, while delivering uncompromised cooling performance and strengthening customer trust.

At Kenstar, innovation is not just about technology; it’s about enhancing lives, fostering trust, and creating lasting value for customers. This new range of Air Coolers combines energy efficiency with cutting-edge technology, ensuring superior cooling performance while saving on electricity bills. Along with the power of 5, the coolers come equipped with BLDC Maxx Technology, Quadra Flow Technology for powerful air delivery, Hydro Dense Mesh Honeycomb Cooling Pads for enhanced cooling and durability & Heavy Duty & Double Ball Bearing Motor for robust performance and longer life.

Speaking on the occasion, Sunil Jain, CEO – Kenstar, said, “The newly introduced BEE 5-Star rated Kenstar coolers range is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability and resonates with our Government of India’s vision of a greener and energy-efficient tomorrow. At Kenstar, we believe that true success is measured not by the milestones we achieve, but by the smiles we bring to those we serve. Each appliance we design is crafted with precision, quality, and a promise to enhance everyday living. The Power of 5 perfectly embodies our dedication to bringing together an unmatched Performance along with best-in-class Efficiency, Uncompromised Quality, exceptional Durability, and a promise of Reliability to every home we serve.”

Santosh Bhamre, National Sales Head – Kenstar, said, “We are thrilled to introduce India’s first 5 Star rated air cooler range. This achievement will further strengthen our customers’ confidence, enabling them to make a more informed buying decision. This recognition, along with 5 5-year warranty, is a real endorsement of Kenstar’s commitment to delivering technological innovation, superior energy efficiency, and products that are competitively priced without compromising on quality.”

For the past 29 years, Kenstar has been delivering products that combine quality, innovation, and reliability, bringing joy into customers’ lives. With this latest launch, the brand continues its commitment to creating appliances that not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of Indian households.

With a legacy built on trust, quality, and consistency, Kenstar’s latest innovation reaffirms its leadership in the home appliance space. The launch of the Power of 5 Air Coolers is another milestone in the brand’s journey to bring joy, comfort, and efficiency into homes across India. Designed to cater to the varied customers’ needs, the extensive cooler range combines style, functionality, and innovation, setting a new benchmark in cooling solutions.

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Modern lifestyles often leave our bodies struggling—sedentary habits, poor diets, and limited fresh air have replaced the active and wholesome ways of the past. Through witty dialogue and visually striking contrasts, the campaign delivers a powerful yet simple message: reclaiming your health doesn’t require drastic measures, just a return to the basics.

#ReclaimYourHealth presents an entertaining yet educational video series featuring personified organs sharing their experiences in contemporary language. With scenarios such as a heart doing a TikTok dance versus slumped in a chair and lungs taking deep breaths in nature versus constricted by phone screen glow, the campaign highlights vital but often overlooked aspects of everyday health.

Health isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a family issue that impacts communities and ultimately affects society at large. While modern conveniences have improved many aspects of life, the campaign encourages viewers to reconsider the health trade-offs we have unconsciously accepted.

Speaking about the campaign, Saibal Biswas, SVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Partnerships, MediBuddy, said, “Reclaiming your health doesn’t require complex interventions—just simple choices like moving more, eating better, and breathing fresh air. Knowledge is power, and every mindful, conscious decision brings us closer to a healthier life. This World Health Day, let’s go beyond awareness. Let’s shift our focus from temporary fixes to lasting, meaningful change. Let’s reclaim our health.”

The campaign emphasizes that reclaiming health doesn’t require complex interventions—just returning to basics like moving more, eating better, and breathing fresh air.

This campaign was conceptualized and produced by MediBuddy’s in-house creative team. The campaign video, titled #ReclaimYourHealth, is 1 minute 14 seconds in duration. The video will be amplified across all social media platforms.

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INDIA: Inviting flyers to curate their flight inclusions and take off on frictionless journeys in resonance with its brand proposition of ‘Fly As You Are’, Air India Express announced the launch of special Xpress Lite fares, available exclusively on the airline’s award-winning mobile app and website airindiaexpress.com. Xpress Lite fares enable guests who prefer traveling without check-in baggage to make the most of fares that are lower than regular fares. Xpress Check-In enables flyers to avoid queues at counters and baggage belts and comes with a complimentary +3 kg cabin baggage allowance in addition to significantly discounted pre-booked prices for +15 kg and +20 kg check-in baggage allowances to ensure the maximum flexibility and convenience for guests booking on Xpress Lite fares.

In addition to the standard cabin baggage allowance of 7kgs, guests traveling on Xpress Lite fares can pre-book an additional 3kg cabin baggage complimentary during booking or subsequently in the ‘Manage’ or ‘Check-in’ sections of the airline website or mobile app. In case guests require check-in baggage services later, they can also conveniently opt to pre-book additional ‘check-in baggage’ allowances at significantly discounted rates for 15 kg and 20 kg excess baggage slabs. Guests can also purchase check-in baggage services at the airline’s counters at the airport.

Speaking about the launch of the new Xpress Lite fares, Ankur Garg, Chief Commercial Officer, of Air India Express, said, “The launch of Xpress Lite fares heralds what we hope will be a new way to fly in India, extending a proposition already popular amongst flyers across the world, including international airlines flying to and from India. It underscores our dedication to continuing to push the envelope, introducing best-in-class offerings for Indian flyers, offering frictionless journeys, and reaffirming our brand ethos of ‘Fly As You Are’. Xpress Lite Fares across our domestic and international network have the potential to redefine convenience in air travel while delivering exceptional value.”

In addition to Xpress Lite fares, Air India Express offers a range of services designed to enable guests to enhance and tailor their travel experience such as over a dozen Gourmair hot meals, the AirFlix in-flight experience hub, FlyAhead services for seamless flight changes on the same day, Xtra Seat and Xtra Carry-On offering guests an additional 3 kg or 5 kg cabin baggage allowance.

With the airline’s International Connecting Baggage service, the airline offers guests traveling on its network and connecting internationally with any airline the convenience of pre-booking excess baggage at a significant discount.

Air India Express is rapidly introducing new aircraft with premium services on a hybrid fleet, including aircraft with business-class configuration on a growing number of routes, a luxurious experience that includes wider seats with even more legroom, Gourmair hot meals, and Xpress Ahead priority services.

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Air cooking is a culinary game-changer that offers a contemporary and exciting approach to meal preparation. By harnessing the power of hot air circulation, air cooking significantly reduces cooking time, minimizes oil usage, and retains the authentic flavors of your favorite foods. This not only makes cooking more efficient but also promotes healthier eating habits, making it a must-have addition to any modern kitchen.

The Dual Air Fryer, with PowerDuo technology, allows simultaneous cooking of two different foods using various methods. It offers preset cooking options and 11 programs for beginners, along with temperature control, overheat protection, and a glass window with interior lighting for easy cooking.

The Air Fryer Oven simplifies cooking with its 10-in-1 preset function and 12-liter capacity. It comes with accessories like a rotisserie fork, oil drip tray, and rotisserie skewer set, making it suitable for large gatherings or families.

The Fry Cook combines air frying, baking, roasting, pressure cooking, slow cooking, and steaming in one appliance. BERGNER’s Speed Sense technology speeds up cooking by 70%, and it has a 12-level safety system for worry-free cooking.

These state-of-the-art air-cooking appliances launched by BERGNER offer an unprecedented level of culinary versatility. They come with an array of preset cooking functions and customizable modes, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes in a healthier and more convenient way.

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Mr. Sanjay Jadhav, CEO, of Sterling Generators Private Limited, said, “We are happy to collaborate with Pi Green Innovations for their RECD technology. This collaboration provides an excellent opportunity to expand and enhance the product offerings we offer to our customers. The newly launched RECD is highly efficient in improving air quality and provides a viable solution for our customers to meet the PM compliance requirement, as per pollution control board norms.“

The RECD is installed after the DG exhaust (muffler/silencer), and no modifications to the engine/DG set are required. What sets this technology apart is its ability to transform the separated particulate matter/byproduct and reuse it as a high-value raw material in paints, dyes, and toners for laser printers and copiers as well as in a vulcanization process to treat rubber, thus eliminating the need for disposal and secondary contamination. The product is weatherproof and needs minimal maintenance with a simple, efficient, and sturdy construction that provides constant performance and long operational life.

Mr. Irfan Pathan, Founder & CEO, of Pi Green Innovations, said, “We are honored and proud to partner with a prestigious brand like Sterling Generators. This partnership not only gives a boost to the DG retrofit (RECD) industry in India but also adds impetus to Pi Green’s vision of A Pollution Free Tomorrow.“

Sterling Generators Private Limited was set up in 2005 as a single-point DG power solution provider. It is one of the largest players in the auxiliary power segment in the 250 to 4000 KVA range. The manufacturing facility at Silvassa boasts of being Asia’s largest genset integrator and is ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and BS OHSAS certified by Germanischer Lloyd Gmbh, Germany. Sterling gensets are widely used in Realty, Infrastructure, Telecom, Construction, Retail Outlets, Commercial complexes, Hotels, Hospitals, and Small and Medium enterprises.

Sterling Generators’ launch of the innovative Retrofit Emission Control Device (RECD) in collaboration with Pi Green Innovations is a significant step towards a greener tomorrow. The RECD’s ability to capture Particulate Matter (PM) from the engine exhaust with more than 70 percent efficiency and transform it into a high-value raw material is a game-changer in the industry. Sterling Generators’ commitment to finding cleaner, more efficient solutions for customers and the planet is commendable.

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Hendrickson (a Boler Company) forayed into India in 2006 through a Joint Venture with Tata AutoComp Systems and in 2011 incorporated a 100% subsidiary named Watson & Chalin India Pvt Ltd to expand its manufacturing footprint for truck and trailer products and serve as a manufacturing base to support global customers in Europe, Middle East, and Asia.

Hendrickson presently has sales and distribution facilities and/or state-of-the-art manufacturing and research and development centers in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Romania, France, Poland, Turkey, India, China, Japan, Thailand, Australia, and New Zealand. With its manufacturing facilities for truck and trailer axles and suspensions, Hendrickson is committed to delivering cutting-edge products tailored to the local geography and terrain in India.

Expressing his delight about the launch of these innovative products in India, Matthew Joy, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Hendrickson, states, “Today, we are excited to introduce these innovative Ride Solutions for trailer applications in India, with the goal of serving and supporting the industry’s evolving needs. Every day, millions of Hendrickson suspension systems and components worldwide carry loads of freight and raw materials, showcasing our commitment to providing durable, lightweight, and high-performing suspension systems and components. Our global presence and dedication to delivering products and services that benefit manufacturers, fleets and owner-operators worldwide are key factors in our success. Our tagline, ‘The World Rides on Us’ encapsulates our brand’s spirit and reflects our 110- years of innovation” added Joy.

Richardo Martin, Vice President of International Operations, adds, “Over the years, we have become a force to reckon with in the industry. Our entrepreneurial attitude fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging all our associates to discover, invent, and modernize. This philosophy enables us to create state-of-the-art products and establish ourselves as an industry leader. We work closely with fleets and truck and trailer manufacturers worldwide, collaborating on new product development. In addition to our innovative products, we provide extensive technical support and training services to ensure the proper installation, operation, service, and maintenance of Hendrickson equipment and aftermarket components. Our ‘Innovation Built In’ philosophy extends throughout our global network of operations and employees. We are committed to serving the transportation industry with cost-effective ride solutions that enhance productivity and profitability”.

Hendrickson India’s commitment to innovation and advanced technology is evident in the unique features and patented technologies incorporated into their products for Trucks and Trailers. As Mohit Khosla, Whole-time Director & Chief Executive Officer for India & Middle East, states, “We are happy to introduce these cutting-edge products in the Indian market. In India, we are committed to continual improvement, ensuring customer trust and safety. We have gained the trust of OEMs, fleets, and owner-operators, thanks to our advanced innovative patented technologies. We are rapidly transitioning into India’s leading axle and suspension system manufacturing company for truck and trailer applications. With the introduction of our new Air and Mechanical Suspensions, we reaffirm our dedication to delivering rugged, high-performance, and cost-effective solutions. These products offer outstanding ride quality and control for various types of trailers on Indian roads, including flatbeds, containers, tankers, bulkers, sidewall trailers, and tip trailers. These suspensions will be manufactured locally as part of the Make in India initiative of the Government of India and will be the lightest systems in the market offering unmatched payload and operating efficiency advantages to their customers. Especially designed and applicated to the Indian terrain, these suspensions exemplify our unwavering commitment to excellence and our mission to drive technology, design, and innovation in the commercial transportation industry.

The Indian market currently witnesses an annual demand of about 40,000 trailers, with mechanical suspensions accounting for about 70% of the market share. The migration to air suspensions has commenced and will gain momentum as the road infrastructure continues to grow and customer expectations demand the adoption of new technologies.

To cater to this growing market, Hendrickson in India is introducing a dual brand strategy of bringing premium products under the Hendrickson brand and cost-effective, locally manufactured products under the Watson & Chalin brand. These options will offer solutions to a wide base of customers all having different business challenges that need to be addressed.”

Hendrickson Severe Duty Suspension (HSDS®):  Premium Suspension Delivering Rugged Performance and Outstanding Reliability with Un-matched Ride Quality for Indian Roads

Since its introduction in 2011 on Indian roads, the HSDS® system has been a premium and trusted solution for various heavy-duty trailer applications, including flatbed, containers, tankers, bulkers, sidewalls, and tip trailers. The HSDS® system incorporates a very lightweight design, enabling the highest payloads and offering maximum reliability and durability. The HSDS system comes in capacities varying from 12T to 14T for the Indian market.

The HSDS system uses a Tyre Inflation and Deflation System (Tiremaax Pro), which increases tyre life by maintaining optimal tyre pressure without human interface. This feature significantly reduces operational costs and increases productivity.

With long recommended service intervals, the HSDS® system minimizes vehicle downtime. The HSDS® system incorporates premium shock absorbers and large-diameter air springs, providing superior suspension performance, stability, and load-carrying capability. These components contribute to a comfortable and controlled ride.

The HSDS system uses patented Tri-FUNCTIONAL bushings, which play a vital role in providing ride stability and ride quality. By enhancing durability and minimizing wear, these bushings contribute to the bottom line of customers by reducing maintenance costs.

TA 14 – Heavy Duty Air Suspension

The TA 14 Heavy Duty Air suspension is designed for Indian applications keeping in mind the Indian road conditions and the changing face of infrastructure in India.  This suspension comes in Top and Low Mount variants offering numerous options to the customers based on their application requirements. This suspension is the lightest suspension system amongst its peers in the market and offers higher payload capability. 

Its technologically advanced design coupled with state-of-the-art manufacturing processes (including friction welding and robotic welding) results in a superior ride quality for drivers and minimum vibrations to cargo. The TA 14 Heavy Duty Air Suspension offers high reliability, and durability contributing to reduced vehicle downtime, minimum maintenance requirements, and best-in-class operational efficiency. This suspension system features dynamically balanced brake drums, enhancing tyre life and ensuring optimal braking performance.

This suspension has been applicated to operate in the harshest of operating conditions and is suitable for various applications including flatbeds, containers, tankers, bulkers, sidewalls, and tip trailers.

Single Axle – Heavy Duty Trailer Axle

The Single Axle is a high-quality axle designed for Indian and global markets. This Single Axle can be coupled with any Air and Tandem or Tridem Mechanical Suspension system, providing a reliable solution for various applications.

The Single Axle is manufactured using a high-strength alloy steel tube, ensuring better durability and long service life. The Single Axle uses friction welded spindles (a manufacturing practice only adopted by Hendrickson and Watson & Chalin in India for Trailer axles) which results in the lowest weight and superior product life. This Single Axle comes with AIS 113 certified brake liners, meeting industry standards for braking performance and ensuring safer operation.

The Single Axle uses a patented dust filter technology for extended wheel end life, and dynamically balanced brake drums for increased tyre life. It includes an outboard drum for easier servicing and heavy-duty bearings for reliable performance in demanding conditions.  

MS 16 – Heavy Duty Mechanical Suspension

The MS 16 Heavy Duty Mechanical Suspension is rated at 16T capacity and is designed to meet the diverse needs of on-road and off-road applications offering exceptional load-carrying capability and performance. The MS 16 Suspension is available in tandem and tridem configurations and features a heavy-duty leaf spring assembly. Its robust construction ensures optimal performance and durability.

The MS 16 Suspension is manufactured with cost-effective, locally manufactured, high-quality components such as equalizers with thicker side plates and highly durable polyurethane bushes in the torque arm. These features contribute to low maintenance costs, reduced downtime, and increase operational efficiency.

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