Airtel Shields 2.3 Million Users in Karnataka from Online Scams, Blocks Over 1.8 Lakh Malicious Links

Bengaluru/Mangaluru/Mysuru, June 11, 2025 — In a decisive move to curb the surge in digital frauds, Bharti Airtel has deployed an AI-powered fraud detection system in Karnataka, successfully blocking more than 1.8 lakh malicious links and protecting over 2.3 million users within the first 25 days of its launch.

Part of a nationwide rollout, the system is automatically active for all Airtel mobile and broadband customers. It continuously monitors links shared via SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, social media platforms, email, and web browsers. Using real-time threat intelligence, the platform analyzes over 1 billion URLs every day, blocking access to harmful content in less than 100 milliseconds.

For instance, if a user in Mangaluru receives a phishing message such as “Your package is delayed. Track it here,” Airtel’s system scans the URL immediately. If found suspicious, access is denied and the user is shown a warning: “Blocked! Airtel found this site dangerous!”— effectively neutralizing the threat before harm can occur.

“Airtel is committed to building a safer digital ecosystem for all users,” said Rajnish Verma, CEO – Karnataka, Bharti Airtel. “With our AI-driven solution, customers enjoy automatic, real-time protection from online scams without needing to take any action. This initiative reflects our proactive approach to securing Karnataka’s digital future.”

As one of India’s leading digitally connected states, Karnataka has witnessed a spike in cyber fraud—particularly in cities like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Belagavi, Chikkamagaluru, and Hassan. Scammers increasingly use phishing tactics, fake delivery notifications, and fraudulent banking messages to target unsuspecting users.

Airtel’s system functions silently in the background, requires no downloads or configuration, and is completely free of cost. The platform supports local languages, including Kannada, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness across the state’s diverse demographic — especially in rural or digitally less literate areas.

This initiative is part of Airtel’s broader national strategy, which has so far protected over 56 million users across India since its recent launch. The company continues to lead efforts in safeguarding digital users from evolving cyber threats.

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Montra Electric Unveils ‘SUPER CARGO’ Electric Three-Wheeler in Bengaluru; Promises Class-Leading Range and 15-Minute Full Charging

Bengaluru, June 11, 2025 – In a move set to transform the last-mile cargo transportation segment, Montra Electric, the electric mobility arm of the Murugappa Group, officially launched its all-new SUPER CARGO electric three-wheeler in Bengaluru today.

Designed to deliver high performance with maximum efficiency, the SUPER CARGO boasts a certified range of over 200 km and a real-world range of 170 km on a single charge. It is powered by a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, backed by a category-leading 5-year or 1.75 lakh km warranty. Prices for the vehicle start at INR 4.37 lakh (ex-showroom Bengaluru, post-subsidy).

A standout feature is the 15-minute 100% fast-charging option available on select variants, enabled through a partnership with Exponent Energy, ensuring higher uptime and utilization for logistics players.

The vehicle was launched by Mr. Jalaj Gupta, Managing Director, TI Clean Mobility Pvt. Ltd., in the presence of key company officials including Mr. Roy Kurian, Business Head – Last Mile Mobility, and Mr. Saju Nair, CEO – Small Commercial Vehicles.

Engineered for Performance and Versatility

The SUPER CARGO is equipped with an 11 kW electric motor delivering 70 Nm of torque and a 23% gradeability, making it capable of handling challenging terrains and heavy loads with ease. It features a 1.2-tonne gross vehicle weight (GVW) and is available in three cargo body configurations:

Tray deck

140 cu.ft. eCX d

170 cu.ft. eCX d+


Two high-performance quick-charge variants – Tray eQX and 170 cu.ft. eQX d+ – also offer the 15-minute charging feature.

The vehicle’s longest-in-class wheelbase, 6.2-ft load tray, and spacious cabin cater to various commercial needs. Built on a robust boron steel chassis, the SUPER CARGO is designed for enhanced durability and low downtime.

Safety and Efficiency Features

Montra’s latest offering includes front disc brakes, hill-hold assist, reverse assist, seat belt provision, regenerative braking, and multiple drive modes, contributing to improved safety and operational efficiency.

Leadership Commentary

“With the SUPER CARGO, we’re entering a critical segment that complements our broader electric mobility portfolio. It’s built to enhance earning potential while supporting a cleaner, sustainable future,” said Mr. Jalaj Gupta, MD, TI Clean Mobility Pvt. Ltd.



“This product is tailored for both fleet operators and individual entrepreneurs. Our 15-minute full charge feature is a key differentiator,” said Mr. Roy Kurian, Business Head – Last Mile Mobility, Montra Electric.



“Our collaboration with Montra Electric helps scale our rapid-charging ecosystem and meets the growing demand for efficient logistics solutions,” said Mr. Arun Vinayak, Co-founder, Exponent Energy.



Launch & Availability

The SUPER CARGO is now available for bookings across 90+ Montra Electric showrooms nationwide. Customers can choose from four vibrant colours: Chilli Red, Steel Grey, Indian Blue, and Stallion Brown.

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Education Meets Industry in Bengaluru: CII Champions Workforce Alignment Under NEP 2025 Vision

CII Continues Multi-City Industry-Academia Connect 2025 in Bengaluru, Ignites Dialogue on Future-Readiness of the Education Ecosystem

Bengaluru, 11 June 2025:
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) carried forward the momentum of its flagship Industry-Academia Connect 2025 at ITC Gardenia, Bengaluru, following successful editions in Delhi, Agra, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. The initiative is part of a nationwide effort to align academic institutions with the evolving needs of industry, building a future-ready talent pipeline.

The Bengaluru chapter witnessed robust participation from over 60+educators and industry leaders representing sectors including Information Technology, Hospitality, Gaming, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Chemicals, and Pharmaceuticals. The initiative, aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2025, will next travel to Mumbai and Chennai.

The day-long engagement featured high-impact panel discussions, sectoral insights, and a strong emphasis on synchronizing curriculum design with real-world industry demands. The consensus among participants was clear: India’s education system must evolve in tandem with industry expectations to ensure students are not just qualified, but job-ready.

Key speakers included:

Mr. Sougata Roy Choudhury, Executive Director – Skills, Affirmative Action, IR, CII

Mr. Nilesh Mitra, Vice President – Talent Management, ITC Hotels

Mr. Anish Dhiman, Programme Head, CII Institute of Hospitality

Mr. Harish Nachmani, Head of Didactic, Festo India Pvt. Ltd.

Mr. Kanav Mata, Director and Regional Head (South Asia, Myanmar & Middle East), EHL

Mr. Victor Sundararaj, Associate Vice President, Infosys Limited

Dr. M. Dharma Prasad, CEO & Chief Scientist, Prosetta Bioconformatics


Quoting the India Skills Report 2025, Mr. Sougata Roy Choudhury highlighted that only 54.81% of Indian graduates are employable. He added, “This disconnect between education and employment is a growing concern for students and the economy alike. The Industry-Academia Connect initiative is a strategic intervention to close this gap by fostering collaboration and co-creation of future-ready talent.”

Mr. Nilesh Mitra emphasized the need for agility in the service and hospitality sectors. “With industry dynamics evolving rapidly, the CII Institute of Hospitality is committed to delivering talent with both technical skills and service excellence. Our training ecosystem is designed to meet real-world expectations from day one.”

Echoing the call for synergy, Dr. M. Dharma Prasad noted: “In the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical skills is critical. Our sector’s future relies on academia and industry working hand-in-hand to develop innovation-ready professionals.”

The CII Industry-Academia Connect 2025 aims to engage over 600 educators and industry leaders across India, building stronger bridges between classrooms and boardrooms to secure the country’s economic future through collaborative learning and workforce development.

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Devotees Participate in Mass Satyanarayana Vrat at Rayara Mata; “Dasavani” Musical Program Scheduled on June 12

Bengaluru, June 11: On the auspicious occasion of Pournami (Full Moon Day), a special mass Sri Satyanarayana Vrat was conducted at the Nanjanagudu Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mata in Jayanagar 5th Block, Bengaluru. The event was held under the blessings of Paramapoojya Sri Sri 1008 Subudhendra Teertha Swamiji and the guidance of the Matha’s senior administrator, Shri R.K. Vadindracharya.

The Vrat was performed with devotional fervor by priests Shri Nandakishoracharya, Shri Pramodacharya, and Katti Raghavendra Acharya. Devotees and volunteers participated in large numbers, taking a vow (sankalpa) and offering prayers for the welfare of society (Loka Kalyana). After the rituals, they received prasadam and sought the blessings of Sri Hari, Vayu, and Guru.

As per information shared by Shri Nandakishoracharya, the next major devotional event at the Mata will be held on Thursday, June 12, at 5:30 PM. A Dasavani (Haridasa musical recital) will be presented by Shri K. Sudhakar Shetty and Dr. Rameshchandra and team in the divine presence of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy.

The Mata administration has invited all devotees to attend the program and receive the spiritual blessings.

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‘Avala Hejje’ Short Film Festival 2025 to Spotlight Women Filmmakers in Kannada Cinema

‘Avala Hejje’ Short Film Festival 2025 to Spotlight Women Filmmakers in Kannada Cinema
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Bangalore International Centre (BIC), Bengaluru

BENGALURU:
The ‘Avala Hejje’ Short Film Festival 2025, an exclusive platform dedicated to celebrating women directors in Kannada cinema, will take place on Saturday, June 14 at the Bangalore International Centre. Organized by Gubbivani Trust, the event has witnessed an overwhelming response with around 60 entries from women filmmakers across Karnataka – ranging from a 14-year-old budding talent to a Kannadiga woman based in the United States.

A panel of distinguished judges, including Sunayana Suresh, Madhu Daitota, Sanjotha Bhandari, Shwetha Priya Nayak, Gouri Neelavar, Akhila Vidyasandra, Pooja Sudheer, and Poornima Malagimani, carefully curated the final nine short films to be screened at the festival. These selected films include:

Selected Films:
Cake Walk, Pushpa, Solo Traveller, How Are You?, Online, Ubhaya, The Last Happy Customer, Unheard Echoes, and Neerellavu Teertha.

The event will conclude with an award ceremony in the presence of renowned filmmaker D. Suman Kittur, who will announce the winners and present the awards.

Awards Include:

‘Avala Hejje Award’ for Best Short Film with a cash prize of ₹1,00,000

Special Jury Mentions with cash prizes of ₹10,000 each


Speaking ahead of the event, Malavika Gubbivani, Founder Trustee of Gubbivani Trust, said:
“This festival is more than just a film screening – it’s a movement that gives space to women’s stories, voices, and perspectives. It’s a platform to encourage gender sensitivity and equity in visual storytelling.”



Festival Director Shanthala Damle added:
“When there are no women behind the camera, on-screen portrayals of women risk becoming shallow or stereotyped. Our goal is to empower and amplify the voices of women creators.”



The press meet also featured Usha Sampathkumar, Head of the Film Committee, and Navyashree, Design and Internship Coordinator, who elaborated on the festival’s vision and preparation.

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