Archives March 2024

National, 12th March, 2024: Venture Catalysts, India’s first integrated incubator and largest early- stage investment firm, today announced its strategic investment in Attron Automotive, a trailblazer in precision-engineered motor and controller solutions driving the evolution of electric mobility. The company has raised Rs 4.75 crore in in Attron’s Seed funding round led by Anicut Capital and co-led by Venture Catalysts. Pontaq VC, and Yashovardhan Shah(Angel investor) have also participated in the seed round. The company will use the funds to fuel the company’s mission of revolutionising electric mobility with cutting-edge technology and innovation.

As the electric vehicle (EV) market experiences unprecedented growth, the global demand for motor and controller solutions is on the rise. The global EV motor controller market, valued at $7,730.9 million in 2021, is projected to reach $26,879.75 million by 2031. Concurrently, the EV motor market is expected to grow from $8.5 billion in 2022 to $56.95 billion by 2032, reflecting a surge in demand for electric vehicles and the critical role of motors and controllers in driving market expansion. Attron Automotive specialises in delivering precision-engineered technology that maximises efficiency, enhances vehicle performance, and fosters a sustainable future. With customisable and future-ready solutions, Attron is at the forefront of driving the paradigm shift towards electric mobility, offering superior performance and environmental consciousness in every ride.

The investment in Attron Automotive underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and driving technological advancements in the electric mobility landscape,” said Dr. Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Director & MD of Venture Catalysts. “Attron’s pioneering motor and controller solutions epitomise precision engineering, efficiency, and reliability, establishing new standards in the automotive technology sector. We are excited to partner with Attron on their journey to redefine electric mobility and shape the future of transportation.

Attron Automotive’s product portfolio includes precision-engineered motors and advanced controllers that optimize performance across electric mobility, industrial automation, and aerospace applications. With patented topology and cutting-edge materials, Attron’s motors deliver superior efficiency and reduced torque ripple, ensuring optimal performance in diverse environments. Meanwhile, Attron’s controllers offer seamless integration and adaptability, empowering clients with advanced features such as adaptive algorithms and real-time monitoring.

“The success of our recent fundraising efforts will play a pivotal role in propelling Attron Automotive forward. Instrumental in bringing our cutting-edge motor and controller solutions to market readiness, these funds will ensure that we deliver products of unparalleled quality and innovation. Additionally, we’ve utilized the investment to establish a production facility capable of small batch production, catering to our initial demand with a capacity of up to 100 units per month,” stated Mosam Ugemuge, CEO of Attron Automotive. “We are now setting up a new production facility with a capacity of 8000 units per month, enabling us to meet the rapidly growing demand for our motor and controller solutions, particularly in the two-wheeler and three- wheeler segments, spanning both passenger and load carrier categories,” he added.

Attron’s Seed funding round was led by Anicut Capital, with Venture Catalysts, Pontaq and Yashowardhan Shah as co-investors.

New Delhi, 12 March 2024: Big Bang Boom Solutions Pvt. Ltd. (BBBS), India’s fastest-growing defense sector start-up, has secured a significant order worth more than Rs 200 Crores from the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, for its cutting-edge anti-drone technology. This historic contract, the largest under the Indian Defence Exhibition (IDEX) initiative, and one of the largest signed by the Indian MOD with an Indian startup is a testament to BBBS’s unmatched expertise in deeptech products especially, anti-drone solutions.

The Indian Defence Ministry’s decision to place this order underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening its security infrastructure and investing in Atmanirbhar cutting-edge defense technology. Specifically, the anti-drone technology provides a game-changing response to the mounting threat posed by drones and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

“The focus of the iDEX programme is to foster an ecosystem of innovation and technology development in defense. It is our constant endeavour to engage with young innovators who can bring technologically advanced solutions for modernizing Indian Military. This order contracted to Big Bang Boom Solutions is a step in that direction and we are happy have young companies support the nations growth.” – Shri Vivek Virmani, COO, iDex MOD

“We are immensely proud of this milestone in our start-up journey and are grateful for the trust placed in our capabilities by the Indian Air Force and Indian Army through the aegis of iDex the MOD’s flagship innovation platform,” said Dr. R. Shivaraman, Director and CTO, BBBS. “Big Bang Boom is committed to serving our nation with the highest level of innovation and technology. The BBBS Anti-Drone Defense System is a testament to our commitment to innovation, and we are proud to contribute to the security and self-reliance of our armed forces.”, he further added.

BBBS’s Vajra Sentinel System is a state-of-the-art solution designed to detect, track, and neutralize drones at extraordinary ranges. It utilizes passive RF sensor technology to eliminate false alarms, and its sensor and jammer combination meets stringent mil standard specifications for durability and reliability. It has a number of state-of-the-art tech improvements such as AESA radar and kamikaze drones which can be upgraded on demand by the user.

The system’s core sensor built around artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision algorithms enables precise identification, classification and location identification of drones. Additionally, its sophisticated decision making matrix enables autonomous decision-making for countermeasures such as signal jamming and other counter measures.

“This is a significant milestone for us. Our product pipeline and mix for the next 10 years are robust and the team is rearing to go. We have already started discussions on repeat orders and export opportunities. We will now reopen our doors to financial players who can come along in this next leg of nation building,” said, Praveen Dwarakanath, CEO, BBBS

BBBS will commence execution of the order immediately, with a focus on timely delivery, comprehensive training, and unwavering support to the Indian Air Force and Indian Army to ensure seamless integration of this vital technology into their defense strategies.

The contract was handed over to Dr. R. Shivaraman, Director and CTO, BBBS in the presence of Shri Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister, Shri Ajay Bhatt, (Minister of State for Defence), Shri Giridhar Aramane (Defence Secretary), Shri Anurag Bajpai (Additional Secretary of Defence Production and CEO DIO), Chief of the Defence Staff (General Anil Chauhan) and the Chief of the Air Staff (Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari) by AVM George Thomas, ACAS Plans, on behalf of Indian Airforce and Col. Mahesh, Col CD – 7, on behalf of Indian Army.

Tembo Global Industries Ltd proudly announces its accreditation under the esteemed UL (United Laboratories Inc.) and FM (Factory Mutual) certifications for fire and safety regulation. UL and FM certification is widely recognized as a hallmark of superior quality and safety standards in the industry. This notable achievement solidifies Tembo’s position as a trusted provider of pipe hangers and support systems, reaffirming its commitment to adhering to the highest standards of safety and quality in the industry.

UL and FM certifications, established by renowned American standards organizations, represent the pinnacle of excellence in fire safety regulations and product testing. By securing these certifications, Tembo Global Industries Ltd demonstrates its unwavering dedication to delivering fire engineering products of exceptional quality and reliability.

The rigorous testing processes involved in obtaining UL & FM certification ensures that the company’s products are thoroughly evaluated for compliance with industry regulations and standards. Incorporating pipe hangers and support systems into the scope of UL & FM certifications underscores Tembo’s holistic approach to fire safety solutions. These essential components play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of piping systems, particularly in environments where fire hazards are a concern.

Speaking about the certificate, Mr. Sanjay Patel, Managing Director, Tembo Global Industries Limited, says, “American quality standards are the most stringent to achieve, securing UL & FM certification for our pipe hangers and support systems is a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence and safety. At Tembo, we prioritize the highest international standards of manufacturing practices in engineering industries to provide our customers with products they can trust.”

By achieving UL & FM certification, Tembo Global Industries Ltd not only demonstrates compliance with rigorous manufacturing standards but also underscores its dedication to fire safety regulations. Through meticulous testing and adherence to industry-leading practices, Tembo ensures that its pipe hangers and support systems meet and exceed the expectations of customers worldwide.

Tembo Global Industries being listed under UL & FM certification marks a significant achievement and underscores its dedication to maintaining the highest quality in its products. Customers can trust that products bearing the UL & FM certification have undergone rigorous testing and meet stringent safety requirements.

Tembo Global Industries Ltd. stands as an industrial powerhouse, specializing in manufacturing and fabricating metal products crucial for Pipe Support Systems, Fasteners, HVAC, and more, serving industrial, commercial, and OEM sectors. With expertise in ductile pipes, HDB pipes, and MS plates fabrication and installation, our seasoned team caters to diverse customer needs, offering tailored solutions at competitive prices without compromising quality. Serving a wide array of industries including Oil & Gas, Steel, and Mining, Tembo Global Industries Ltd., founded in 2010 and listed on the national stock exchange in 2018. Originally renowned as international suppliers, they have successfully ventured into the domestic market, further cementing their reputation as a versatile and innovative industry leader.

Bangalore, India – March 12, 2024 – Over 1000 women, took part in ‘Woman-athon’, a special walkathon to celebrate Women’s Day 2024, with the aim to promote women’s health and empowerment. The event was conducted by Dr. Lakshmi Roopesh, accomplished dentist, MD, Dental Den, Ranjitha Janardhan, Senior Educationist and Jayanthi Janardhan- Director- Ajji Mane Events, in partnership with Trilife Hospital. 1000 women from diverse backgrounds came together in East Bangalore’s Kalyan Nagar to participate in the Woman-athon. The event commenced at 7:00 AM, with participants enthusiastically embarking on a 3-kilometer journey towards better health and empowerment. During the Woman-athon, participants benefited from free General Random Blood Sugar (GRBs) tests and diet counselling video consultations provided by Trilife Hospital. Additionally, heavily discounted pap smear and bilateral mammography tests were offered to promote early detection and prevention of women’s health. Prior to the walkathon, a professional warm up Zumba session was conducted for the women by Dr.Tushita Roy, a fitness enthusiast who is the Senior Manager, Marketing and Branding, Trilife Hospital.

Dr. Lakshmi Roopesh shares her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “This is the second edition of Woman-athon and this overwhelming response demonstrates the collective commitment of women towards prioritizing their health and well-being. It was truly inspiring to witness women of all ages and fitness levels come together to celebrate their strength and resilience. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to making the event a resounding success”.

Dr. Shafiq, AM, Co-Founder, and CEO of Trilife Hospital, said, “Woman-athon not only encouraged women to embrace fitness as a routine activity but also provided invaluable insights into preventive healthcare. The aim of the event is to drive positive change in the community. The fact that we had over 1000 women participating in this event is testimony that they are conscious about their health and fitness. We are proud to have been part of an initiative that promotes women’s health and empowerment.”

Safety measures were diligently implemented throughout the route, with an ambulance equipped with a team of paramedics and doctors accompanying the walkathon. Water stations and marshals were strategically stationed along the route to ensure participants’ well-being. Trilife Hospital also provided participants with T-shirts, medals and certificates. Ovum and Silverline Diagnostics were also partners in the event.

Falmec Shelf Cookerhood by Hafele

Hafele’s Falmec Luxury Appliances are a perfect balance between state-of-the-art technology, elegance and attention to detail. The new Elements collection transcends the usual boundaries of aspiration, transforming the fundamental function regarding the quality of the environment and everyday life into a modular, innovative, multifunctional structure that is fully integrated into the kitchen.

Shelf cookerhood incorporates a very thin suction element in a shelf structure of only 100 mm thickness, equipped with a removable vane to increase smoke suction capacity. This element with hood function can be enhanced with additional modules to create a versatile hanging furniture system on the wall. Winner of the 2023 Germany Design award, this innovative cookerhood is the icon of concept, high quality of design, innovation and accessibility.

Join us at Indiawood 2024, as we showcase our new product introductions and, to experience our new brand claim “Maximising the value of space together”. Discover our extensive product offering that exudes multi-functionality, enhances aesthetics, boosts convenience and adds value to your overall interior space.

Kolkata, March 11th 2024: The Institute of Leadership, Entrepreneurship And Development (iLEAD) proudly announces its latest accolade of winning ‘Gold’ in the category of ‘Excellence in Green Tech and Sustainable Practices’ award, received at the Economic Times’ TechEDU India Awards 2024 held in Mumbai. iLEAD was selected among the top 3 finalists, alongside Assam Downtown University and JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (Mysuru) under this esteemed category. The official tabulator of the prestigious award had been Ernst & Young (E&Y). This recognition underscores iLEAD’s commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness both within its campus and the broader community.

At the heart of iLEAD’s mission lies a dedication to promoting sustainable practices among its students and the surrounding community. From the inception of its fully sustainable green building, constructed entirely with upcycled and recycled materials, to innovative initiatives like ‘Waste Billionaire,’ iLEAD continues to lead by example in the realm of environmental stewardship.

The ‘Waste Billionaire’ initiative stands as a testament to iLEAD’s innovative approach to sustainability. By transforming discarded items into upcycled and recycled products, such as shelves crafted from old refrigerators and sofas fashioned from bicycle tires, iLEAD not only reduces waste but also fosters economic growth within the community by providing employment opportunities.

“iLEAD’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond physical initiatives to encompass educational endeavors as well. As the sole institution offering sustainable fashion and interior design courses in Kolkata, iLEAD is pioneering a new generation of environmentally conscious professionals. Additionally, the publication of the book ‘Waste- A Great Untapped Business Opportunity’ by Mr. Pradip Chopra underscores iLEAD’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of sustainability. Furthermore, our community engagement efforts, such as the eco-friendly Durga Puja celebration at Maitri Sangha last year featuring an idol crafted from discarded automobile parts, exemplify our holistic approach to sustainability”, said Ms. Pragya Chopra, Executive Director iLEAD.

“We are deeply honored to receive the ‘Excellence in Green Tech and Sustainable Practices’ award from The Economic Times TechEDU India Awards 2024,” remarked Mr. Pradip Chopra, Chairman of iLEAD, who is at the helm of these sustainable initiatives. “This recognition validates our ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into every facet of our institution and empower future leaders to embrace environmental responsibility”, he said.

As iLEAD continues to set the standard for excellence in green technology and sustainable practices, the institution remains steadfast in its commitment to driving positive environmental change and inspiring future generations to embrace sustainability as a core value.

Mumbai, March 12, 2024 – In a bold initiative to celebrate Women’s Day 2024 and extend the spirit throughout the year, Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited proudly announces the launch of the “#SheVentures” initiative. Guided by a visionary leader, Sheetal Bhalerao, the Chairperson and Managing Director of Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited, an empowering initiative has been taken to support self-reliant women nationwide. This initiative aims to foster strength and confidence among women in various aspects of their lives, addressing their diverse needs. Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited, under her guidance, is actively involved in driving this effort, demonstrating a commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowered society for women.

The initiative is centred around empowering women who wish to earn on their own, learn business skills, and contribute to their families’ better livelihoods. Wardwizard Foods and Beverages is committed to training 10,000 women in the art of creating delectable dishes using their QuikShef/Snack Buddy products.

Sheetal Bhalerao, Chairperson, and Managing Director of Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited, expressing her enthusiasm, said, “Empowering women has always been a core value for us. With the “#SheVentures” initiative, we aim to not only provide skills but also foster a community of strong, self-reliant women who contribute to the growth of our nation. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowered society.”

Wardwizard Foods and Beverages will conduct thorough and comprehensive training sessions, guiding women on the preparation of delightful meals with QuikShef/Snack Buddy products. The initiative encourages home chefs to explore the potential of cloud kitchens, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. The company further extends its support by aiding home chefs in getting listed on popular food delivery apps and aggregators, offering guidance on essential FSSAI licensing, and assisting with other necessary compliances.

Women from all corners of the nation are invited to register on the dedicated website, where they will be personally contacted by the Wardwizard team for city-wise training sessions. In a gesture of support, the company will supply the first orders on credit, relieving home chefs of financial pressures and allowing them to concentrate on building their businesses until they start generating income.

As a token of recognition for their efforts, participants will be presented with certificates from Wardwizard, underscoring the value and validation of their contributions to the culinary landscape and their communities. Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited through this initiative set to make a lasting impact, inspiring women to take charge of their destinies and create a brighter future for themselves and their families.

India, 12th March 2024: ASICS, a Japanese sports performance brand along with its brand athlete, Rohan Bopanna comes together to amplify the global brand campaign, ‘Move Your Mind with ASICS’. Rooted in ASICS’ timeless philosophy of “Sound Mind, Sound Body,” this campaign celebrates the transformative power of movement as a gateway to holistic well-being. ASICS believes in the transformative potential of movement to elevate spirits and mental well-being. The company asserts that engaging in physical activity can lead individuals to a more positive psychological state. ASICS emphasizes that this principle applies universally, irrespective of one’s athletic prowess or background.

This campaign aims to inspire people from all walks of life to experience the uplifting effects of movement by joining ASICS in their journey towards physical and mental wellness.

Bopanna’s rise to World Rank 1, not only reaffirms his status as a true champion but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work and dedication one could achieve the aspired goals.

Known for his passion, grit and performance, Rohan Bopanna has reimagined the sport and showcased that anyone can achieve their optimum best with commitment and technology driven approach – towards right guidance, strong mental and physical balance and most importantly the right gear.

With this campaign, ASICS also launches, the French Blue Pack collection with Rohan Bopanna that include favourites of Rohan and other Tennis players worldwide, Gel-Resolution 9, Solution Speed FF 3 and Pro Fit Tech Apparel. In ASICS’ tennis collection, fit and performance are combined with advanced technologies and materials to create tennis shoes tailored to match one’s playing style.

Excited about the launch of the campaign, ASICS brand athlete Mr. Rohan Bopanna said “For me, movement has always been key to unlocking my true potential. Having the opportunity to partner with a brand like ASICS which shares this philosophy, is incredibly exciting. Their dedication to providing athletes with the right equipment has been instrumental in my journey, both on and off the court. Together, we strive to inspire others to recognize their potential and embrace movement as a pathway to self-discovery.”

Commenting on the launch of the brand campaign, Mr. Rajat Khurana Managing Director – ASICS India and South Asia said, “For many years now, ASICS has been on a mission to influence as many athletes as possible to experience the uplifting impact of movement on the mind as a way of achieving their physical goals. Through this campaign featuring ASICS Brand Athlete Rohan Bopanna, we aim to embolden sportsmen to embrace choices that expand their horizons, encourage personal movement in order to achieve their ultimate goals.”

12 March 2024: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is proud to conclude the second edition of the Honda Manesar Half Marathon – Run for Road Safety with a stellar success. Flagged off from HMSI’s Global Resource Factory at IMT Manesar in Gurugram, Haryana, it took place on
10th March 2024. This event was organized to amplify awareness about road safety, aligning with the company’s global vision to realize zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050.

In pursuance of its vision to be a ‘Company which society wants to exist’, HMSI is dedicated towards fulfilling its social objectives. The Honda Manesar Half Marathon served as a powerful platform, bringing together over 6,000 enthusiasts to run for the noble cause of road safety. There were three categories of participation: 5km fun run, 10km run & 21.1km Half Marathon. The route was carefully curated in the IMT Manesar area to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Renowned bollywood actor Jimmy Shergill graced the occasion as the celebrity guest. Participants not only contributed to a safer road environment but also won exciting prizes. Top achievers were awarded the coveted Shine 100 & stylish Dio 110. Additionally, there were cash rewards as well to acknowledge their remarkable achievements. To add an element of excitement for all participants, a thrilling lucky draw was conducted, and one fortunate individual walked away with the grand prize – Honda CB350.

The success of the Honda Manesar Half Marathon underscores the commitment of HMSI towards promoting road safety and fostering a healthier community. HMSI extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, Government authorities of Haryana, Industry association of IMT Manesar and various industries situated in IMT Manesar who contributed to the resounding feat of the Honda Manesar Half Marathon. The entire proceeds from this event will be donated for the road safety cause.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, said “We are thrilled to host the successful second edition of the Honda Manesar Half Marathon – Run for Road Safety. It was not just a race, but a movement towards creating safer roads for everyone. Honda is committed to making a positive impact on road safety, and this marathon is a testament to that commitment. I thank all the participants for making this event a great success and let us all take pledge with determination to create a safer and more responsible society.”

Bengaluru, 12, March 2024: The fact that the insurance sector in India is poised to experience exponential growth over the next two decades with a combination of both opportunities and challenges was the underlying opinion of eminent industry speakers at the Bangalore Chamber of Industries and Commerce (BCIC) Insurance Summit 2024. They were also of the opinion that while regulators have articulated a vision that by 2047 there should be insurance for all, how technology can be used to solve this distribution problem is also something that regulators need to work on.

Delivering the Keynote address, Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar, Chairperson and Managing Director, Kirloskar Systems Pvt Ltd, and Chairperson, Toyota Tsusho Insurance Broker India Ltd., said “In the dynamic landscape of India’s insurance industry, we find ourselves at the crossroads of opportunity and challenge. The escalating cyber and various other risks underscore the urgency for the insurance sector to evolve. Projections suggest that affluent households with annual incomes of over thirty lakhs that can afford a good comprehensive health insurance policy will go from 2.6% today covering 37 million individuals to 11% in 2031 covering one 160 million individuals and 26.3% in 2047 covering 437 million people based on purchasing power. India’s health insurance market is expected to approach that of the US by 2031 and perhaps surpass it by 2047. If India is to grow at the pace required over the next 3 decades, its manufacturing sector will need to expand over 14 times. Between the growing infrastructure and new manufacturing plants and machinery, another tremendous opportunity in engineering insurance beckons. It also calls for our industry to reinvent itself before big tech, armed with increasingly powerful artificial intelligence, disrupts the industry. With a commitment to governance and societal well-being, the Indian insurance sector has the potential to redefine its purpose, emerging as a vital catalyst for national progress. I believe the insurance industry could match the growth of the overall economy at the least.”

Mr. G Srinivasan, Ex CMD, New India Assurance, said, “The general insurance sector in India is poised for tremendous growth and is expected to expand at around 18% to 20% for the next 20 years, till India reaches global levels of insurance penetration. Currently the insurance penetration in India is among the lowest in the world. An average Indian spends hardly about ₹900 on insurance, both life and nonlife put together and in general insurance probably only about ₹200. Some of the reasons for this is the lack of awareness about the concept of insurance, how insurance could be a mitigation tool for individuals, families and businesses and lack of awareness of the products. Clearly with increase in growth, increase in standard of living, increase in disposable incomes and awareness about the need for insurance, the average spend of an Indian citizen on insurance will clearly increase in the coming years. It is important for individuals to make insurance work for them. For this they need to understand exclusions and obligations and must give maximum information to get risk better rated. Cost of insurance should not be the criteria for insurances but rather one should examine the product, the claim payment attitude and value adds in terms of risk management. It is also important to understand the claims procedure.”

In his opening remarks, Dr. S. Devarajan, President BCIC and Sr. Vice President, TVS Motor Company said, “Risk should be viewed not just as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation. Integrating insurance into risk management strategies is crucial for sustainable development. The insurance sector stands at a pivotal and critical juncture, where its evolution is not just necessary but imperative for facilitating economic growth and resilience.”

BCIC Insurance Summit 2024, also witnessed addresses on cyber insurance, D&O liability lines, Marine Insurance, Trade Credit Insurance, and a panel discussion. The event was attended by over 250 delegates from the insurance, brokerage and BFSI sectors.