Latest news with #SabyasachiDasgupta
News18
25-07-2025
- General
- News18
Tripura steps up efforts to save Indias last ape species
Agency: PTI Last Updated: Agartala, Jul 25 (PTI) The Tripura government unveiled a detailed action plan aimed at protecting the endangered Western Hoolock Gibbon — the only ape species found in India, in a major push for wildlife conservation. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to safeguard its fragile biodiversity and tackle the alarming decline in the gibbon population. Listed as 'endangered" on the IUCN Red List and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Western Hoolock Gibbon enjoys the highest degree of legal protection. Yet, its numbers have continued to decline over the years, largely due to habitat loss, hunting, and human-wildlife conflicts. Tripura, an ecologically rich state in the northeast, harbours one of the country's last remaining gibbon populations. These agile, tree-dwelling primates are known for their spectacular aerial swings across forest canopies and hauntingly melodic calls that echo through the jungle. But once-flourishing forests have shrunk and fragmented, leaving fewer safe spaces for them to thrive. A survey in 2005 recorded 97 individual gibbons across three forest patches in Tripura. That number has since dipped to 79, divided among 32 groups, officials said. Nationally, the gibbon population stood at about 12,000 two decades ago, but conservationists fear it may now be significantly lower. Tripura University's professor Sabyasachi Dasgupta, who is actively involved in the project, said establishing protocols for long-term population monitoring and restoring degraded forest habitats are part of the action plan. Training forest staff and law enforcement in wildlife protection, conducting ecological and behavioural research and promoting community awareness and participation in conservation are also the goals of it, he said. The gibbons of the state mainly live in protected areas such as Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in South Tripura, and forests in Gomati and Khowai districts. However, conservationists caution that without proactive steps to prevent further forest degradation, gibbons may vanish from the wild. 'We are emphasising the need to maintain cultural integrity while protecting the gibbons," Dasgupta said. 'Traditional methods like shifting cultivation are deeply rooted, but they often disrupt forest continuity. We need strategies that reduce ecological harm while respecting cultural traditions. Canopy connectivity is crucial for gibbon movement and survival," he added. Divisional Forest Officer of Gomati H Vignesh said gibbons have been spotted in the Amarpur subdivision, though accurate population data is still being collected. Bimal Das, the assistant conservator at Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, confirmed that eight gibbons are currently thriving within its core zone. Grassroots conservation campaigns are also underway, with NGOs and academics engaging communities living near forest fringes. These programmes aim to reduce human-animal conflict, especially incidents involving crop damage and encroachment, while highlighting the ecological role of gibbons, officials said. As awareness grows and conservation efforts gain momentum, environmentalists believe Tripura has the potential to become a model for gibbon preservation across the region, and a beacon of hope for India's only ape. PTI JOY SOM view comments First Published: July 25, 2025, 10:30 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Hindustan Times
05-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Hyundai sales surpass 1.1 million units for sunroof-equipped cars in just 5 years
Hyundai says 12 out of 14 models in its lineup in India offer the sunroof on select variants (Sabyasachi Dasgupta) Check Offers Hyundai Motor India has announced a new milestone with the automaker retailing over 1.1 million units, specifically of sunroof-equipped cars in the country. The South Korean auto giant achieved the landmark figure in just five years, a testament to the growing popularity of sunroofs among buyers in India. For customers looking at an aspirational purchase, the availability of a sunroof has been a major part of the buying decision. Every second Hyundai sold in India gets a sunroof Every second Hyundai car sold in India today comes equipped with a sunroof. The automaker says about 52 per cent of its domestic sales featured sunroofs. The contribution increased further to 54 per cent in the first half of the current calendar year (January - June 2025). Also Read : Hyundai Creta tops SUV sales in India for June 2025, marks 10 years in market Hyundai has now localised the panoramic sunroof in its cars making it easily accessible and more cost-effective to produce Commenting on the milestone, Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer - Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), said, 'This milestone is a strong reflection of the modern Indian customer's aspiration for premium experiences in everyday mobility. At HMIL, we have consistently worked towards democratizing global technologies and high-end features for a broader set of customers. Going forward, we shall continue with our commitment to shape the future of mobility, by blending cutting-edge technology and innovation and future-ready product offerings." 12 of 14 Hyundai cars in India get a sunroof At present, about 12 of 14 Hyundai cars come equipped with sunroofs. Hyundai recently introduced the feature in lower variants of its cars, democratising its availability. The auto giant says the brand has localised the panoramic sunroof in its lineup, making it more easily accessible and cost-effective to produce. Interestingly, the carmaker is also offering Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in its range, with nine of 14 cars equipped with the safety feature. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 05 Jul 2025, 11:02 AM IST
Hindustan Times
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Suzuki Fronx with Level 2 ADAS debuts in Indonesia. Is India next?
Indonesia-spec Suzuki Fronx comes with bigger engines and more safety features over the India-spec model. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta) Check Offers The Maruti Suzuki Fronx crossover, which is based on the Baleno premium hatchback and sold through Maruti Suzuki's Nexa premium retail network after its launch in India in April 2023, has now made its way to the Indonesian market. While the Indonesian market-spec Fronx looks identical to the Indian market-spec model, in terms of design, there are some significant differences that set the two apart. The differences are in terms of features, engine choices and equipment levels. Besides that, another key fact is that this is the first time Fronx is being manufactured outside India. One of the key features on board the Indonesian market-spec Suzuki Fronx is that it comes equipped with a Level 2 ADAS suite, which has fuelled speculation that the Indian market-spec model too could receive the same technology in the coming months. However, Maruti Suzuki has not said anything officially. Also Read : Upcoming cars in India The made-in-India Fronx is currently sold in more than 70 countries globally, including on the continents such as Africa, Latin America. The Fronx was recently tested by Japan NCAP, where it scored a four-star safety rating. It received an overall 163.75 points out of a total of 193.8 points in the Japan NCAP crash test. The Fronx scored 79.42 points out of 85.8 points in the preventive safety performance test, while in the collision safety performance test, it scored 76.33 points out of 100 points. Watch: Maruti Suzuki Fronx SUV: First Drive Review The Maruti Suzuki Fronx in India is sold at a starting price of ₹ 7.54 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to ₹ 12.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Here is a quick look at the key differences between the India-spec and Indonesia-spec Fronx. Indonesia-spec Suzuki Fronx gets new colours The Indonesia-spec Suzuki Fronx is available in five different exterior colour choices compared to seven shades available for the India-spec model. The Indonesian market-spec model gets colours like Pearl Snow White, Cool Black, Savannah Ivory, Ice Grayish Blue and Metallic Magma Gray. On the other hand, the India-spec model gets Arctic White, Nexa Blue (celestial), Earthen Brown, Splendid Silver, Grandeur Grey, Opulent Red, and Bluish Black. Indonesian Fronx gets Level 2 ADAS suite The Suzuki Fronx in the Indonesian market gets a Level 2 ADAS suite, which ramps up the safety quotient of the crossover significantly, compared to the Indian Fronx. The ADAS suite onboard the Fronx gets features such as lane keep assist and rear cross traffic alert. Besides that, the Indonesia-spec Fronx gets six airbags as a standard feature, compared to two as standard in the Indian Fronx. Indonesian Fronx gets bigger petrol engines The Indonesian-market-spec Suzuki Fronx is significantly distinctive on the powertrain front compared to the Indian model. It gets two different 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines, compared to the 1.2-litre petrol motor available in the India-spec model. The 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine is available with transmission choices including a five-speed manual gearbox and a four-speed automatic unit. This engine churns out 102 bhp peak power and 138 Nm of maximum torque. On the other hand, the other petrol motor is a 1.5-litre K15C unit that generates 98 bhp peak power and 135 Nm torque. This engine is available with a five-speed manual gearbox and six-speed automatic transmission options. In India, the Fronx gets a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor. There is a petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain on offer with the same engine. Also, there is a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol motor on offer as well. Transmission choices for the India-spec Fronx are a five-speed manual gearbox, a five-speed AMT, and a six-speed automatic unit. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 24 Jun 2025, 10:53 AM IST
Hindustan Times
04-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Hyundai Verna gets a new SX+ variant starting at ₹13.79 lakh. Here's what it gets
The Hyundai Verna has been updated with a new SX+ variant. (Sabyasachi Dasgupta) Check Offers Hyundai has introduced a new variant for its Verna sedan, the SX+. The new Hyundai Verna SX+ is priced starting at ₹ 13.79 lakh (ex-showroom). The new SX+ variant of the sedan will be offered only with the 1.5 MPi engine mated with either of two transmission options, a manual and an iVT. The higher spec iVT variant is priced at a premium to the manual at ₹ 15.04 lakh (ex-showroom). Related watch: Hyundai Verna: First Drive Review Hyundai Verna: New features on SX+ The new variant of the Hyundai Verna gets multiple features that contribute to the in-cabin experience. A few of the features include a Bose 8 speaker system, leather seat upholstery, ventilated and heated front seats, front parking sensors, LED headlamps and more such modern conveniences. The Korean carmaker has introduced this new variant right after it released new variants for the brand's 7-seater SUV, the Hyundai Alcazar. Also Read : Hyundai Alcazar gets new diesel and DCT petrol variants starting at 17.86 lakh Hyundai Verna: Engine The Hyundai Verna is available with either a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine or a 1.5-litre turbo petrol unit. The 1.5-litre NA petrol engine is available with a six-speed manual gearbox and IVT, while it churns out 114 bhp peak power and 143.8 Nm of maximum torque. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine is available with a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed DCT unit as transmission choices. The turbocharged engine is capable of pumping out 157 bhp peak power and 253 Nm of maximum torque. Also Read : Hyundai announces discounts of up to ₹ 80,000 on Exter, i20, Venue and Grand i10 NIOS Commenting on the introduction of new Verna SX+ trim & Wired to Wireless Adapter, Mr. Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, " At HMIL, we are consistently driven by our vision of 'Progress for Humanity' and customer-centric innovation. The introduction of the new VERNA SX+ variant aligns with our goal to democratise premium features and elevate ownership experience for our customers." Hyundai Verna: Other features The Hyundai Verna features a massive panoramic display for infotainment as well as driver information. The 10.25-inch HD infotainment screen with support for 12 languages and the digital cluster with TFT MID are curved. There are two dashboard colour options - and there are two colour options - Black with Red accents in the turbo variant and Black and Beige for the non-turbo models. The Hyundai Verna also gets ventilated and heated front seats, and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. The Verna feature list also includes 64-light ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver seat and leather seats. It further gets ADAS level 2 features. These include Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Safe Exit Warning, among many others. Verna also offers six airbags. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 04 Jun 2025, 17:02 PM IST
Hindustan Times
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Auto recap, May 14: Discounts on Tata EVs, Volkswagen discounts and more
Here is your quick check on the biggest developments in the world of automobiles. Volkswagen Taigun shares its underpinnings with the Virtus. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta) Check Offers The automotive industry is progressing rapidly, posing difficulties in staying informed about all the latest updates. At HT Auto, we are dedicated to delivering the most relevant and timely information as it becomes available. Below is a concise overview of the key highlights from Wednesday, May 14. Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus discounts Volkswagen has announced benefits of up to ₹ 2.5 lakh for the Taigun Chrome whereas the Taigun Sport gets benefits of up to ₹ 2 lakh. Then there is the Virtus, the Chrome versions gets benefits of up to ₹ 1.90 lakh whereas the Sport trims are being offered with up to ₹ 1.35 lakh benefits. Volkswagen is also offering a scrappage benefit of up to ₹ 20,000. Also Read : Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus get benefits of up to ₹ 2.5 lakh. Check details Tata electric vehicles available with benefits the electric vehicle segment of Tata Motors, has introduced discounts reaching up to ₹ 1.86 lakh on its electric vehicle lineup, which includes the Tata Curvv EV, Punch EV, Nexon EV, and Tiago EV. This promotional offer is part of a celebration for achieving over 2 lakh EV sales. Under this initiative, the manufacturer is providing exchange benefits of up to ₹ 50,000, in addition to a complimentary home charger with installation. Customers will also receive six months of free charging, applicable only on Tata power chargers for the and models. Furthermore, options for zero down payment and 100 percent on-road financing are available. Special upgrade benefits are also extended to owners, Tata Motors passenger vehicle owners, and TATA Group employees. This offer can be accessed through GeM, CSD, and KPKB platforms, thereby offering additional opportunities for customers to benefit from these exclusive promotions. Also Read : Tata Curvv EV, Nexon EV, Punch EV and Tiago EV available with benefits of upto ₹ 1.86 lakh Jaguar Type 00 Concept India debut confirmed Jaguar, a division of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), is set to present the Jaguar Type 00 Concept in India on June 14, 2025. The company has announced that this concept model will be featured at an event in Mumbai as part of its global tour. Initially unveiled in Paris and subsequently in London, the electric GT concept is currently in Monaco and will soon travel to Munich and Tokyo before reaching Mumbai. Also Read : Jaguar Type 00 Concept India debut confirmed on June 14 Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape. First Published Date: 15 May 2025, 08:28 AM IST
