Ola Cabs, one of India's leading ride-hailing companies, has announced its departure from Google Maps in favor of its own Ola Maps. Going a step further, Ola aims to save Rs 100 crore annually and increase control over its technological processes by shifting away from Microsoft Azure as well. With the launch of Ola Maps, users can expect new features such as street view and 3D maps, while businesses can leverage the Ola Maps API on Krutrim Cloud. This transition to in-house solutions showcases Ola's commitment to innovation and self-reliance.
Indian ride-hailing giant Ola has made a significant switch to its in-house Ola Maps for managing their ooperations. This move is expected to save the company Rs 100 crore annually. Ola's co-founder and Chairman, Bhavish Aggarwal, announced that the new app will be equipped with advanced features such as street view, NERFs, indoor images, 3D maps, and drone maps. Additionally, Ola is also focusing on ramping up its presence in the electric vehicle market with the construction of a battery cell gigafactory in Tamil Nadu.
The Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Pravati Parida, has urged media houses to refrain from spreading misleading news and speculation about the Subhadra Yojana, a scheme still in the draft stage, which promises to provide Rs 50,000 to women within 100 days. With the BJP government recently coming into power in the state, there is a lot of anticipation and eagerness among potential beneficiaries. However, Parida has emphasized the need for responsible reporting and cooperation with the government in accurately informing the public about the details and eligibility criteria for the scheme. She also shared updates on other initiatives such as a tree-planting campaign and preparations for rural tourism.
Ola Cabs founder-CEO Bhavish Aggarwal announced the company's full exit from Google Maps and shift to its own in-house mapping service, Ola Maps. The move, made in response to Microsoft-owned LinkedIn removing Aggarwal's post, will save Ola Rs 100 crore annually. Aggarwal also highlighted Ola Maps' upcoming features and integration into its electric two-wheelers. He further stressed the need for India to have its own technology stack, including AI models, cloud infrastructure, and data centers, to lead the AI revolution and ensure data sovereignty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Delhi-Faridabad Metro Line which extends the existing Green Line to Indraprastha. This will provide hassle-free and affordable travel for around two lakh daily commuters between Delhi and Faridabad. The total cost of the project is approximately Rs. 2,500 crore, with contributions from the Haryana government, the Centre, and Delhi Metro. This nine-station elevated corridor is 95% indigenously built, providing a safe, quick, and sustainable transport option for residents. The Haryana Chief Minister has expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for this development, and also announced plans for connecting Gurgaon with Faridabad via Metro.
Bajaj Auto, one of the leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has launched the world's first CNG motorcycle, the Freedom 125. With an ex-showroom price starting at Rs 95,000, the bike offers the ability to toggle between petrol and Compressed Natural Gas powertrains. According to the company, the bike has a range of 330 km and can run 200 km on one full tank of CNG. The launch was attended by Rajiv Bajaj, MD of Bajaj Auto, and Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways. This launch is expected to provide riders with a 50% reduction in operational costs.
The mega-hit sci-fi mythological film "Kalki 2898 AD" has become the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2024, surpassing all expectations by earning over Rs 700 crore within the first 8 days of its release. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the film is on track to dethrone Hrithik Roshan's Fighter and cross the coveted Rs 1000 crore mark, making it one of the most successful films of all time. With positive reviews from both audiences and critics, "Kalki 2898 AD" is a must-watch for all science fiction lovers.
Bajaj Auto, India's top two-wheeler manufacturer, is all set to launch its highly-anticipated dual-fuel motorcycle, named the Freedom 125. The bike, which runs on both CNG and petrol, is expected to cut running costs by half, making it a cost-effective option in the 100cc-125cc segment. The automaker plans to offer two variants - a regular model and a premium model, with the latter featuring additional features and color options. With an aim to target customers with a monthly income of Rs 30,000-35,000, Bajaj Auto is likely to price the bike competitively while equipping it with a range of features.
Mumbai was overwhelmed with crowds and traffic as fans flocked to the streets to welcome the Indian cricket team after their recent victory at the T20I World Cup. The Mumbai police had previously advised fans to reach the designated areas before 4.30 pm to witness the scheduled victory procession, but despite their efforts, roads leading to the Wankhede stadium were closed due to the influx of private vehicles. The police department has taken extra precautions to ensure crowd management and traffic control, while the film "Kalki 2898 AD" starring Prabhas has also made headlines, reaching the Rs 700 crore milestone in just one week at the box office. Despite other hit films in the industry, this sci-fi flick has emerged as the most successful Indian film of 2024.
A shocking claim by a fan of Sidharth Malhotra created a stir on social media this week. The fan alleged being cheated of Rs 50 lakh in the name of the actor's wife, Kiara Advani. Reacting to these claims, Sidharth took to Instagram to clarify that neither he nor his family or supporters are involved in any fraudulent activities. He urged his fans to be cautious and not fall for such traps, assuring them that their safety and trust are of utmost importance to him. Meanwhile, the fan has shared their experience of being scammed and losing a large sum of money to save the actor from imaginary threats.