Archives February 2024

Pune, 6th February 2024: The students of Ryan international Academy, Hinjewadi branch have recently launched a year-long campaign, “Reduce Reuse Recycle Plastic” marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability goals.

 The student-led campaign was kicked off with 43 students and 11 teachers and collected 1000 kg of plastic waste from Yashwin & Tinsel Town Societies. The students took part in door-to-door garbage collection campaigns in all major apartments in the neighboring areas and raised awareness on waste management.

 Ryan International Academy, Pune zone has collaborated with Poonawalla Foundation for the recycling of waste plastic for reuse. In association with the Municipality and Poonawala foundation, Eco and Gardening Club unit of the school is raising awareness about various types of plastic including recyclable, and reusable.

 Speaking about this campaign, Sonika Kochhar Girotra, Principal, Ryan International Academy, Hinjewadi branch said, “As a part of this campaign, the school aims in fostering a culture of responsible waste management and community service. Ryan International Academy believes in nurturing the students with eco-consciousness to positively impact the world”.

India, 6th February 2024: Landmark Group, a leading retail and ecommerce conglomerate in the GCC, has entered into a strategic partnership with Addverb, a global leader in robotic and automation solutions, to modernise its Fulfilment centre in Kuwait.

With an established legacy, Landmark Group has consistently pioneered consumer experiences across MENA, India and Southeast Asia.

The integration of Addverb’s cutting-edge automation into the group’s Kuwait fulfilment centre not only enhances operational efficiency but also reinforces Landmark Group’s standing as an industry leader dedicated to delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction through ongoing innovation and strategic partnerships. The fulfilment centre now features an innovative automation solution, including a fleet of Zippy, Addverb’s robotic sorters, with a system throughput of up to 1,000 sorts per hour. Additionally, the centre utilises Quadron, Addverb’s carton shuttles, each boasting a throughput of up to 100 crates per hour.

In this innovative collaboration, the order fulfilment process begins with careful categorisation of items into bulky & non-bulky category. Post this, an automated conveyor is used to transfer non bulky items to get it sorted via Zippy system and move to the pack station. Additionally, mechanisms are defined in system for integrating bulky & non-bulky items at pack stations.

Addverb takes pride in contributing to Landmark Group’s vision for a future-ready fulfilment centre. This partnership exemplifies Addverb’s commitment to pioneering intelligent automation solutions that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age.

“Creating an adaptive and agile supply chain is part of our supply chain vision. We are happy to collaborate with Addverb to elevate our Kuwait fulfilment centre operations,” said Pawan Kaura, Head Ecommerce Operations, Landmark Group. “The integration of warehouse automation not only enhances our operational efficiency but also ensures that our customers receive their orders accurately and promptly. This investment in automation aligns with our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and experiences.”

“Partnering with the Landmark Group fills us with immense pride. This synergy reinforces our commitment to delivering state-of-the-art automation solutions and amplifies our dedication to efficiency, reliability, and accuracy. Landmark Group brings a wealth of expertise and a legacy of excellence to this strategic partnership. This collaboration is a testament to the trust and confidence that industry giants place in Addverb.” mentioned Pieter Feenstra, CEO of Addverb EMEA.

India, 06 February 2024: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts unveiled its desk calendar for 2024 which has been designed in a unique partnership with Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association (MFPA), an international registered society of disabled artists who create art with their mouth or foot.

 Conceptualized with the theme ‘Coming together to do good at The Leela’, the calendar showcases beautiful artistic narrations of the twelve iconic panoramas of The Leela hotels, painted by twelve boundlessly talented and specially-abled artists from MFPA. Each month uncovers the extraordinary charm of fine art that transports, page by page, into the mesmerizing world of The Leela featuring grand architecture and verdant landscapes.

 Rooted in the timeless ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God’, The Leela has been on a continuous journey to redefine luxury through a lens of responsibility and sustainability. This collaboration highlights the brand’s commitment for contributing towards community development through meaningful partnerships.

 Speaking on this remarkable association, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said, “The understanding of luxury has evolved over time from being only material focused to being more enriching. As a true Indian luxury brand, we at The Leela recognize this shift and the profound impact it has on the communities around us. We are grateful to Mouth and Foot Painting Artists for their creative contribution in designing our annual calendar. It is not just impressive but rather inspiring to witness the art created by these differently-abled artists. We look forward to our association with MFPA and supporting their artists through various endeavours.”

 Mr. Bobby Thomas, Country Head, Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association, India, added, “We are delighted to have partnered with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts for their annual desk calendars and thank them for providing a platform for our artists to showcase their talent. It’s a matter of pride for us to have the work of our artists form a part of The Leela spaces. We hope that the guests of The Leela appreciate these paintings as much as our artists enjoyed creating them.”

 Know about the story behind every artwork of The Leela Calendar and the artist
who created it:

•   Pralay Dey, Foot Artist and member of MFPA since 2022, recreates the intricately crafted porte cochère at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, an architectural marvel inspired by the grandeur of the Mysore Palace.
• Associated with MFPA since 1988, senior Mouth Artist Ganesh Kumar presents an artistic rendering of the inner courtyard of The Leela Palace Chennai, with all its intricacies and beauty.
•  Nadeem Riyasat Ali Shaikh, Foot Artist at MFPA since 2008 depicts the architectural elegance of The Leela Palace Jaipur in its beautiful silver-domed splendour.
•  Kanmony S, Foot Artist and a relatively new member of MFPA has brought forth The Leela Palace New Delhi’s regal magnificence and contemporary luxury in her beautiful painting of the rooftop pool.
•  Sunitha Thrippanikkara, Mouth Artist and member of MFPA since 2004 pays tribute to the land of the Mewars with her exquisite depiction of the flower-laden outer courtyard at The Leela Palace Udaipur.
•  A member of MFPA since 1999, Foot Artist Swapna Augustine illustrates the serene beauty of The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, an urban paradise within the city’s largest integrated township.
•  Foot Artist Jagwinder Singh is a prospective National Para Cyclist who joined MFPA in 2020. He beautifully captures the contemporary elegance of The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi on his canvas.
•  An award-winning Foot Artist, Bandenawaz Badshah Nadaf is the talent behind the beautiful rendition of The Leela Gandhinagar, a modern hotel built atop the concourse of the Gandhinagar Railway Station.
•  Mouth Artist and member of MFPA since 2013, Srilekha Mandalapalli recreates the sophistication of The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, the best destination for urban luxury seekers.
•  Mouth and Foot Artist Manoj Bhingare does full justice to his degree in Fine Arts in creating this beautiful painting of The Leela Mumbai with its imposing structure amidst lush gardens.
•  Jesfer Pulikkathody, a Mouth Artist at MFPA since 2009 perfectly captures the rustic charm and luxurious detailing of The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel.
•  Foot Artist and member of MFPA since 2015, Vyshak K creates this stunning rendition of The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel showcasing its iconic location.

  The Leela is the essence of true Indian hospitality imbued with a distinct aesthetic that celebrates the country’s traditions, art, cuisine, artisanal craft, and culture and is rooted in its offerings of India’s rich legacy to all its esteemed guests. As the brand gears up to embrace the next phase of its growth trajectory, it continues to evolve and focus on experiential and conscious luxury while remaining true to its ethos of “Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God.”

Consolidated P&L Statement

Management Commentary:

Commenting on the performance of Q3 FY24, Mr. Trimaan Chandock,

Executive Director of BFIL stated: 

“We are happy to share our financial and business performance for Q3 FY24, we witnessed healthy revenue growth of 55.7% and revenue from operations stood at ₹1,470.75 Mn in Q3 FY24 compared to ₹893.92 Mn in Q3 FY23. This growth was led by our constant focus on client addition and continued demand for our products in the existing and new industries like railways, defense and heavy commercial vehicles. EBITDA grew by 72.1% and margins improved from 19.58% in Q3 FY23 to 22.24% in Q3 FY24 owing to increase in scale of operations and increased demand for heavier products which tend to yield better margins. PAT margins improved from 12.81% in Q3 FY23 to 17.31% in Q3 FY24.

In terms of 9M performance, revenue from operations increased by 96.5% and stood at ₹3,986.85 Mn in 9M FY24 compared to ₹2,028.58 Mn in 9M FY23. EBITDA increased by 191.1% from ₹291.08 Mn in 9M FY23 to ₹847.36 Mn in 9M FY24, and margins improved to 21.25% from 14.35%. PAT increased by 176.2% and stood at ₹653.95 Mn in 9M FY24 compared to ₹236.74 Mn in 9M FY23, margins improved from 11.67% to 16.40% during the same period.

BFIL’s dedication to prioritizing customers and fostering growth has not only bolstered our market position but has also led to the cultivation of strong relationships with clients, positioning us as partner of choice for supplying critical components. A testimony of our client centricity is evident in our recent additions of 3 new OEM clients.

Further, the development of our newly acquired Mercedes Benz unit is also progressing well on expected timelines and the full fledged operations are expected to commence from Q4 FY24. This unit will enable us to produce heavier and more complex components having better realizations and margins. Currently the same is partly operational and is aiding us in achieving good revenue growth along with superior margins.

On the industry front, we are seeing immense opportunity in various sectors like defense, railway, sustainable green energy components, and commercial vehicles. To seize these opportunities, we are leveraging our strong inhouse R&D capabilities to expand our product offerings and the testimony to same is depicted by our broad product range. Furthermore, we are spearheading investments to transform into a more integrated company. These investments will enable to us to acquire new clients, expand our presence in untapped regions and enhance our product portfolio.

In summary, our readiness for the future is characterized by a comprehensive strategy that harmoniously blends different facets. This encompasses ongoing expansion of our capacities to meet anticipated demand, alongside the implementation of new technologies to improve operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, our dedication to pioneering innovation and careful cost management assures us to increase our prominence in the competitive landscape, paving the way for sustained revenue growth and enhanced profitability.

Management Guidance:

•  Revenue is expected to conservatively grow in the range of 40.0%-45.0% in FY24 over FY23, led by new customer addition in sectors like railway and defence.
•  EBITDA margins are expected to be in the corridor of 23.0%-24.0% in the upcoming quarter on the back of increasing scale of operations and efficiencies thereon

Mumbai, 6th February 2024 – Welspun Living Ltd, a leading player in Home Textiles, Flooring Solutions, and Advanced Textiles, announces the appointment of Mr. Sunil Duggal as an Independent Director, effective from January 31, 2024.

Mr. Duggal will serve his first term as an Independent Director for four years, ending on January 30, 2028. Mr. Duggal is an accomplished leader, with a Bachelor of Technology Hons. (Electrical Engineering) from BITS, Pilani, and a postgraduate diploma in Business Management (Marketing) from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta.

His extensive experience, spanning decades, includes a remarkable 17-year tenure as CEO of Dabur India Limited. He has also chaired and cochaired significant committees, such as Indo-Turkish JBC and FICCI Committee on Food Processing. Mr. Duggal has been recognized as FMCG CEO of the year thrice and was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award by the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta in 2019. His expertise will be invaluable to Welspun Living Ltd.

“Dipali Goenka, CEO & MD of Welspun Living, on the appointment of Sunil Duggal said, I am delighted to welcome Sunil Duggal to Welspun’s Board of Directors. His extensive experience, particularly in steering Dabur’s success, aligns seamlessly with our commitment to elevating Welspun’s B2C journey. As we embark on this transformative phase, his consumer-centric perspective and experience in building strong consumer connections resonates perfectly with Welspun’s vision. His insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and cater to the evolving needs of our audience. Together, we are poised to strengthen Welspun’s position in the market, combining our passion for quality with Sunil’s wealth of experience. I look forward to working with him

Joining as an independent director with Welspun Living, Mr. Duggal added, “As an Independent Director, I am truly excited to contribute my experience and knowledge to Welspun Living’s diversified brand portfolio, fostering growth and ensuring success. The company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability is truly inspiring, aligning seamlessly with my values. I am eager to embark on this exciting journey, working collaboratively to further elevate Welspun Living’s impact in the industry.”

aunch of another elegant smartwatch, NoiseFit Grace. Designed to meet the discerning tastes of modern women, the NoiseFit Grace blends beautiful aesthetics with advanced functionality. It sports a cut dial design and sleeker size with metallic build and link strap, that exudes a fashion quotient, making the smartwatch look all classier from dusk to dawn. A perfect accessory for every look,  the NoiseFit Grace is available in three elegant colour options – Metal Silver, Rose Gold, and Jet Black,  The product can be availed from  Flipkart, and the brand’s website,  gonoise.com.

Women can immerse themself in the aesthetics of the smartwatch supported further with a 1.1-inch AMOLED Always on Display and 600 nits brightness for clear viewing experience at all times. With a resolution of 360*360 pixels, every detail comes alive on your wrist. The NoiseFit Grace is an example of timeless elegance that positions itself well according to the use case value for women. Women can enjoy an organized and productive experience throughout the day with an AI voice assistant, Bluetooth Calling and an in-built calendar. The smartwatch enables quick access to dial pad and recent call logs with storage for  up to 10 contacts for quick calling.

The latest smartwatch offers a diverse range of features for both productivity and health monitoring. With the Noise Health Suite™ women can effectively monitor essential health metrics such as heart rate, SpO2, sleep patterns, and stress levels, among others. On the other hand, the integrated Productivity Suite keeps daily reminders and weather forecasts easily accessible. The IP67 water and dust resistance ensures durability in varying environments. The NoiseFit Grace provides four smartwatch menu styles besides a battery backup of up to 4 days. It further helps customers with 100+ watch faces and sports modes each alongside pairing seamlessly with the NoiseFit App for enhanced productivity.

Product Specifications

NoiseFit Grace

Delhi, 6th February2024: Ambrane, a leading Indian electronics and wearable manufacturer, proudly introduces the AeroSync Quad Wireless Charger cum Powerbank, a trendy 4-in-1 charging solution designed and developed entirely at Ambrane’s manufacturing facility, in alignment with the government of India’s “Made in India” initiative. Launched on Amazon, Flipkart, and Ambrane’s website, this innovative power companion is available for just ₹1999.

Experience the AeroSync Quad, your 4-in-1 charging maestro! Wirelessly charge your earbuds and smartphone using 5W wireless base, power up on the go as a portable wireless power bank (15W), connect instantly for a wired charging power bank (22.5W max), and elevate your device in style with the versatile mobile charging stand – choose between horizontal or vertical charging. Its chic and portable design makes a bold fashion statement and ensures travel-friendly functionality. It’s all the charging solutions you need, bundled into one lifestyle accessory.

Equipped with a robust 10,000 mAh lithium-polymer battery, the AeroSync Quad guarantees a worry-free lifestyle, providing multiple charges for smartphones. Tailored for Qi-enabled devices, its cutting-edge BoostedSpeed™ technology delivers an impressive 22.5W through Type-C and USB Charging outputs, supporting Quick Charge 3.0 and Power Delivery. It further boasts 15W for wireless output and a 5W base wireless output, ensuring efficient and speedy charging sessions. Additionally, the power bank showcases rapid self-charging through a 20W fast input via the Type-C port. The AeroSync Quad is designed to elevate the charging experience with its advanced features and exceptional performance.

AeroSync Quad comes with an extensive 180-day warranty and is BIS certified, assuring quality and reliability. Embodying the spirit of a tech-savvy lifestyle, the AeroSync Quad is designed to support charging with cases less than 5mm in thickness, offering hassle-free functionality.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Ashok Rajpal, Director of Ambrane India, expressed, “AeroSync Quad transforms spaces by clearing away cable chaos, creating a tidy, organized zone. Whether at your desk or outdoors, this 4-in-1 charging device delivers both wireless charging and power bank convenience. It simplifies your charging routine, bringing a touch of elegance to your living space – the ultimate solution for all your charging needs!”

Incorporating a unique multi-layer charging protection technology, AeroSync Quad ensures the safety of both the power bank and connected devices. Compatible with all USB-A or Type-C chargeable devices, the power bank offers versatility in charging needs. Smart LED indicators provide real-time insights into usage and charging status.

Praised for its innovative design, AeroSync Quad seamlessly combines wireless charging, a wired power bank, and a versatile stand. Its compact design and multifunctional features make it a must-have for streamlined and efficient charging, receiving positive acclaim from tech enthusiasts and reviewers alike.

The recent RBI’s directive to Paytm Payments Bank may have caused confusion, users must know that the Paytm app is working and will keep working as usual beyond Feb 29th, 2024 also. They can continue using services on the Paytm app without interruption, such as QR code, Soundbox, Card Machine, online payments, among others.

 Given below are some frequently asked questions, which will clear the confusion among users regarding the Paytm app and Paytm Payments Bank.

 Can I continue to use Paytm to do recharges and pay my bills?

Yes, absolutely! You can continue using Paytm App for all your bill payments and recharges, like always. Rest assured, Paytm continues to support a wide range of payment options for your convenience.

 Can I continue to avail all other services on Paytm App such Movie ticket bookings, financial services etc?

All other services on Paytm App are unaffected, you can continue to use them on Paytm as usual, now and beyond Feb 29th, 2024.

 Can I continue to use UPI on Paytm app?

Absolutely! You can continue using UPI services on your Paytm App without any interruption. You can make QR code payment across stores, online payments and send money.

Will Paytm QR work as before?

Your Paytm QR is exactly the same as before. Please continue using Paytm QR to accept fast, secure, and safe payments without any worries. All Paytm devices and services are operating as usual.

 Will SoundBox and Paytm Card machine work as before?

Yes, our offline merchant payment network offerings like Paytm QR, Paytm Soundbox, and Paytm Card Machine, are working exactly as earlier. You can accept payments with ease on them. Do not worry, your money is safe with us.

 Can I continue to use Paytm Payments Bank Wallet?

Yes, you can continue to use Paytm Payments Bank Wallet services. Please note that you will not be able to add money to your Paytm Payments Bank Wallet after Feb 29th, 2024. However, there is no restriction on usage of existing balance from your wallet even after Feb 29th, 2024.

The inauguration was conducted by the Hon. Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, at The National Gallery of Modern Art in collaboration with the Museum of Sacred Art (MOSA) Belgium, presented the “SHAKTI: Fair and Fierce” exhibition, curated by Sushma K. Bahl. The event took place at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, . The exhibition was presented by Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director-General of NGMA, New Delhi, and Martin Gurvich, Director of MOSA, Belgium. Minister Meenakshi Lekhi emphasized that the exhibition paid homage to India’s artistic heritage, highlighting the enduring power of women’s strength, creativity, and the beauty inherent in their creative expressions. The diverse artworks on display showcased significant embroidery traditions from various regions of India, including Rabari from Kutch, Chamba Rumal from Himachal Pradesh, Kantha from West Bengal, Sujini and Khatwa from Bihar, and Pashmina from Kashmir. Minister Lekhi encouraged all to participate in this cultural celebration, expressing that the presence of attendees would contribute to the depth and vibrancy of the acknowledgment of ‘Nari Shakti in the Amrit Kaal.’ The exhibition was open to the public until 31 March–

Shark Tank India Season 3 started premiering on January 22, 2024, showcasing a diverse array of pitches and narratives from emerging entrepreneurs. With a lineup of 12 Sharks in the latest season, the pool of guidance and support for aspiring entrepreneurs has doubled up, promising enhanced mentorship and opportunities.

Amit Jain, the Founder and CEO of CarDekho, has been an integral part of this journey since Season 2, offering investment and mentorship to ventures spanning various sectors. Amit’s commitment to nurturing and empowering young entrepreneurs has been a cornerstone of his involvement. His investment decisions are often guided by a shared ethos of determination, creativity, and sustainability. The same was seen in the very first episode of Shark Tank India Season 3 where Amit saw a connection between himself and the sustainable business philosophy of The Honest Home Company founder Mayank Sisodia.

In Season 3, Episode 8 of Shark Tank India, Amit’s dedication to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs was evident in his interaction with Anuva Kakkar, the founder of Tiggle. Acknowledging the importance of fostering an ecosystem that uplifts visionary entrepreneurs like Kakkar, Amit said, “Magar iss show par aakar maine aap jaise entrepreneur ko support nahi kiya toh mere yahan aane ka faida hi nahi.” Tiggle, which offers vegan and dairy-free ready-to-make hot chocolate mixes, represents a promising player in the rapidly evolving market landscape.

Among the ventures Jain backed in the previous season are notable names like Mopp India, Licksters, Maisha Lifestyle, Ekatra, and Gladful, showcasing his diverse portfolio and unwavering commitment to driving innovation and success in the Indian startup ecosystem.

Read about Amit Jain’s learnings from the three pitches below:

Tiggle:

The episode started on a sweet note with Anuva Kakkar, founder of Tiggle, pitching her brand that sells ready-to-make hot chocolate mixes. Her pitch was solid, the packaging was on point, and the chocolate tasted really good. Plus, being vegan and dairy-free, Tiggle is catering to a fast-growing market and has a bright future, even more so if they focus more on targeting their products to kids, in my opinion.

Anuva’s story was also inspiring. It was inspiring to hear her bootstrapped story. This is how I feel any startup story begins, with the founder trying to find product market fit. She started from a small room and sold her first batch with a steel jar in hand at a bustling Gurgaon metro station within 40-50 minutes. It showcased the demand and appeal of Tiggle and her ambition. She lives the dream of every entrepreneur – turning their passion into a startup.

I definitely appreciated Anuva coming prepared with precise unit economic data and dressed to match her brand! Her grip on her numbers was just amazing to see. I love such founders with this level of attention to detail. Glad I partnered with Peyush and sealed the deal with Tiggle. It’s a bet on Anuva’s entrepreneurial passion to create not just good products but a good culture – be it a team of 9 or 9000, her strong potential, and a delicious future for Tiggle. Because like always, Pehle Banda, Phir Dhanda!

WYLD:

Next came WYLD, a Visa-powered social currency card, founded by IIT-B alumni, offering cashback for Instagram posts. I loved their idea, especially gestures like customised cards that read ‘Founder Member’, but I think execution is key. They had the right partnerships in place, and their algorithms for assigning “WYLD scores” seemed great. I loved the way they solved working capital by getting money to pay cashback from brands in advance.

I appreciate the founders, their love for tech and their ambitions – they were young, adaptable, and loaded with energy. Namita and Anupam saw the potential too. I gave them an offer, but they went ahead with Anupam’s offer. It will be interesting to see them turn those influencer dreams into reality. I wish them all the best.

Upliance.ai:

Lastly, we had Upliance.ai, an AI-powered personal cooking assistant. Now, I love AI & innovation, but this one wasn’t for me because I found the AI bit missing. While the technology and patented recipes were interesting, the price point and lack of market fit raised questions. It’s great that they have a feedback system in place, but is it enough to justify the cost? The limited market and slow growth raised more questions.

AI is surely going to be a game-changer, but it needs to solve real problems and offer value at a reasonable price. Upliance.ai has to cover some distance to get there. I do hope they adapt and get there eventually!

Overall, the episode was a mixed bag of promise, treats, tech and more. And that’s the beauty of Shark Tank. Stay tuned for more Shark Tales!