Archives June 2024

National Youth Mental Wellbeing Summit Addresses Growing Mental Health Concerns in Children and Youth

28th June 2024  Bangalore, Karnataka, India Over 120 mental health practitioners, educators, parents, and mental health advocates gathered at the Royal Orchid Convention Centre in Yelahanka, Bangalore for the National Youth Mental Wellbeing Summit 2024, on June 1st.

Speakers and participants at the National Youth Mental Summit 2024, organized by Mindei on June 1 at Royal Orchid Convention Centre, Bangalore, discussed children’s and youth’s mental wellbeing

The Summit served as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, empowering attendees to navigate the complexities of child and youth mental health and equip them with practical strategies to support young minds.

Organized by Mindei, a mental health solutions startup dedicated to supporting young minds, the summit addressed the crucial role of various stakeholders in promoting positive mental and emotional well-being among children and youth.

Showcasing AI-Powered Solutions
Mindei co-founder Rishu Srivastava unveiled MindVoice, an innovative AI-powered mental health screening tool. MindVoice utilizes audio samples to detect signs of stress, fatigue, self-esteem issues, and other indicators of mental well-being in children and youth. The demo was very successful with the volunteer giving a ‘thumbs up’ to the results of the assessment.

Keynote Speech Highlights the Importance of Community Support
The event began with a powerful keynote address by Lakshmi Seshadri, CEO and Founder of MomPower360 and Ex-Mrs India Universe. Seshadri emphasized the critical link between a mother’s mental health and the mental well-being of her child. She highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive community for mothers to prioritize their own mental health.

While musician-composer-singer Abby V was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict with his album release, he sent a heartfelt video message detailing his own struggles with OCD and the value of seeking professional help.

The first panel, “Identifying and Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Schools,” shed light on the alarming reality of student mental health. Ms. Jyoti Mehta from QPR India presented the staggering statistic of over 35 student suicides per day, emphasizing the need for early intervention. Mr Naveen Anjo Tom, Deputy Principal at The International School, Bangalore, advocated for a respectful approach towards students and avoiding undue academic pressure. The other speakers were Dr Indrajit Thopte, a paediatrician and child psychiatry practitioner, and co-founder of Mindei, and Ms Reshma Sanjay, school counsellor at National Public School, ITPL Bengaluru.

The second panel focused on “Parenting for Mental Wellness.” Ms. Riddhi Doshi Patel, a child psychologist and parenting counsellor, underscored the significance of quality time and engaging in outdoor activities with children. Mr. Haider Jasdan, a leadership coach and psychotherapist, delivered a moving poem in Hindi stressing the importance of regular, meaningful connection with children. Ms. Gotha Hari Priya, a parenting educator also contributed her thoughts on the importance of allowing children to explore and build on their curiosity for as long as possible.

The final panel, “Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age,” explored the risks and solutions associated with technology use in children. Dr. Meghna Singhal, a trauma-informed psychotherapist, warned about the “3Cs” – content risk, conduct risk, and contact risk – arising from excessive screen time. Shreyas Mehta, CEO of The Little Gym India, championed the importance of physical activity as an alternative to screen-based entertainment. Ms. Richa Singh, CEO and Co-founder of Happinetz, introduced the concept of a “tech contract” – a set of ground rules between parents and children regarding technology use. Mohua Chinappa, a podcaster and a parent herself, spoke of the importance of building a trusted relationship with the children, so the parents can be aware of any form of digital bullying or other harms that the children might suffer.

Revolutionizing Dairy Packaging: Ball Corporation and CavinKare Introduce Retort Aluminum Cans for Milkshakes

28th June 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  In a significant step towards sustainable packaging solutions, Ball Corporation, a global leader in sustainable packaging, has announced its partnership with CavinKare, a pioneer in the dairy industry. Together, they are set to revolutionize dairy packaging by introducing retort two-piece aluminum cans for CavinKare’s popular milkshakes.

Ball Corporation

As quoted by Manish Joshi, Commercial Director at Ball Beverage Packaging Asia, “Dairy & Dairy Alternatives have been an integral part of India and are forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.1%(1) by 2028. Our focus is on the Ready-To-Drink segment which is expected to grow faster due to unique flavor offerings for consumers to choose from. Ball India has invested in the capability to produce retort aluminum cans specifically tailored to the demands of the dairy market. This expansion of our portfolio underscores our dedication to both product innovation and sustainability, allowing a wide variety of flavored dairy products to be packaged in our aluminum cans.”

Retort Aluminum cans are carefully designed to withstand the rigorous retort process, ensuring the preservation of flavor, nutrients, and freshness of dairy products. Moreover, these cans align perfectly with the modern consumer’s on-the-go lifestyle.

Mallikeswaran KG, Business Head of the Beverages Division at CavinKare, expressed excitement about this strategic collaboration, stating, “CavinKare is thrilled to embark on this journey towards sustainable packaging options with Ball Corporation. Our transition to aluminum cans underscores our commitment to delivering superior quality products while minimizing our environmental footprint.”

In anticipation of a favorable reception from consumers in all target markets, CavinKare’s initiative to introduce its diverse milkshake flavors – Badam, Gulkhand, Rajbog, and Rabri – in convenient aluminum can packaging is anticipated to align effectively with changing consumer preferences for on-the-go consumption and convenience. With these products readily available across multiple channels, their broad accessibility is set to cater to a wide range of consumer segments.

Two-piece aluminum beverage cans offer a range of benefits that make them highly advantageous for packaging applications. Firstly, two-piece cans are lightweight and hence reduce transportation costs. Aluminum cans protect against light and oxygen, ensuring optimal freshness, quality, and integrity of the product.

Mallikeswaran KG reiterated, “Our transition to aluminum cans reflects our dedication to making responsible choices that benefit both our consumers and the planet. We recognize the importance of sustainability in today’s world and actively moving towards achieving a 100% commitment to more sustainable packaging as we are focused on staying at the forefront of eco-conscious innovation.”

Bestselling Author Ashwinder R. Singh Launches His Third Book, Master Commercial Real Estate

28th June 2024 Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Ashwinder R. Singh, acclaimed for his insightful contributions to real estate, launches his third book, “Master Commercial Real Estate”. This comprehensive guide delves into the complexities of investing in the commercial real estate market, offering valuable insights for both novice and seasoned investors. Building on the success of his previous bestsellers, “The A to Z of Residential Real Estate” and “Master Residential Real Estate”, this new volume solidifies Singh’s reputation as a thought leader in the industry.

Bestselling Author Ashwinder

Singh’s earlier works have garnered immense popularity among homebuyers, channel partners, developers, real estate investors, and professionals. His latest book addresses the growing commercial real estate sector, an area poised to become one of the most significant investment opportunities of our time.

“Through my books, I aim to give back to the industry by sharing my first-hand experiences. I aspire to be an agent of change, encouraging a holistic view of the real estate sector that aligns with personal, societal, and national goals. My books are uniquely illustrated, featuring eye-catching designs and offering pioneering perspectives on the real estate industry. They cater to real estate professionals, investors, real estate enthusiasts and students alike,” says Ashwinder R. Singh, Author, Co-Chair of CII’s NR Committee of Real Estate, and CEO, Residential at Bhartiya Urban.

“Ashwinder R. Singh has once again set the standard for excellence with ‘Master Commercial Real Estate’. His comprehensive insights elevate our understanding and pave the way for pioneering developments in the commercial sector,” comments Boman Rustom Irani, Chairman and MD, Rustomjee Group and President, CREDAI (National).

“With ‘Master Commercial Real Estate’, Ashwinder R. Singh completes his insightful trilogy into the real estate universe. His meticulous research and clear narrative provide a roadmap for both seasoned and aspiring real estate professionals,” says Sanjeev Dasgupta, CEO of CapitaLand Investment India.

“In ‘Master Commercial Real Estate’, Ashwinder R. Singh offers a masterclass in market dynamics and strategic investment, proving indispensable for anyone serious about succeeding in this complex industry,” states Ramesh Nair, CEO – Mindspace, REIT.

“Congratulations to Ashwinder on crafting yet another indispensable resource. ‘Master Commercial Real Estate’ is a testament to his unwavering commitment to enriching our professional landscape with knowledge and foresight,” adds Ashwani Awasthi, Managing Director, RICS South Asia and RICS School of Built Environment.

“Ashwinder R. Singh’s latest book is not just a publication—it’s a cornerstone of commercial real estate wisdom. ‘Master Commercial Real Estate’ is essential reading for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of the industry,” says Dr. Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, Founder & President, of NAREDCO MAHI.

Bisleri and TERI Launches a Pioneering Study on ‘Water Credits’ Poised to Transform Water Conservation Initiatives

28th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Bisleri International, India’s leading mineral water brand along with TERI School of Advanced Studies has launched an innovative study titled “Water Credits: Impact-Adjusted Virtual Water Footprint”. This collaborative effort sets a benchmark for the beverage industry’s commitment to water conservation.

The study aims to establish a framework for water credits, akin to carbon credits, to promote sustainable water management. Unlike carbon emissions, water savings require a localized approach, factoring in variables such as rainfall and consumption at a watershed level.

Commenting on the significance of the study, Angelo George, Chief Executive Officer, Bisleri International, stated, “At Bisleri, we take immense pride in being a water-positive company, replenishing more water to the ground than we extract. By facilitating discussions and contributing to framework development, the study will drive the realization of water credits as a practical solution. We are grateful to Prof. Dr. Arun Kansal and Ms. Garima Kaushik of TERI School of Advanced Studies for developing a toolkit adaptable across industries to estimate the water footprint. This report underscores our shared commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.”

The study evaluates the overall water footprint of the beverage industry, offering a comprehensive understanding of water consumption across its entire value chain. The findings will be shared with the Government of India to facilitate meaningful discussions and framework development, advancing the concept of water credits to become a reality.

“The establishment of water credits is crucial, particularly in light of India’s increasingly stressed water resources. Our unwavering dedication to promoting sustainable practices underscores our commitment to safeguarding our precious water resources for generations to come” he further concluded.

Last year, the Prime Minister launched the ‘Lifestyle for Environment’ (LiFE) initiative, aimed at fostering individual and community actions to preserve the environment, with rewards to be traded like carbon credits. Given India’s strained water resources, ‘water credit’ has been proposed as one of the key areas in the LiFE initiative, highlighting the significance of establishing water credits to alleviate pressure on India’s water resources.

Bisleri International remains committed to fostering sustainable practices and environmental conservation, leading the charge towards a greener, water-positive future.

Brixton Motorcycles Austria, KAW Veloce Motors, India to Revolutionize India’s Urban Mobility with Model Line-up, Revealed

28th June 2024  Pune, Maharashtra, India KAW Veloce Motors Pvt. Ltd., India, part of the esteemed KAW Group, has announced a strategic partnership with Brixton Motorcycles Austria, a brand under the Austrian family business KSR Group GmbH, to bring an exciting range of stylish and affordable motorcycles to the Indian market. This partnership aims to meet the growing demand for unique and quality two-wheelers in India, leveraging both companies’ extensive experience and strong family legacies in the manufacturing and retail industries.

Brixton Motorcycles Austria, KAW

The partnership between Brixton Motorcycles Austria and KAW Veloce Motors Pvt. Ltd., India is motivated by India’s status as one of the largest motorcycle markets globally. With a focus on delivering products that stand out in design, quality, and riding pleasure, both companies aim to provide exceptional after-sales service through a vast dealer network across major Indian cities. The collaboration has been in the works for nearly two years, with a shared commitment to catering to the unique preferences of Indian consumers.

KAW Veloce Motors plans to introduce four Brixton models in India by the upcoming festive season: Crossfire 500X, Crossfire 500XC, Cromwell 1200 and Cromwell 1200X. These models embody Brixton’s unique selling points, including Retro-inspired designs, affordability, urban riding suitability, and customization potential. Brixton’s emphasis on stylish design, competitive pricing, and urban practicality sets them apart in the Indian market, appealing to a broad range of riders.

Looking ahead, Brixton Motorcycles Austria and KAW Veloce Motors, India have outlined a two-phase expansion plan. In phase one, they are setting up a manufacturing facility in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, with an annual production capacity of over 40,000 units. The goal is to introduce the existing Brixton motorcycle range, with engine capacities ranging from 500cc to 1200cc. Phase two will see joint development of products specifically for the Indian market at Brixton’s Austria Design Center, alongside expanded manufacturing capabilities. Brixton Motorcycles Austria and KAW Veloce Motors unveil the first set of Brixton Motorcycles Austria launching in India this festive season, hinting at a new era of urban mobility with MotoHaus-inspired outlets. Experience a blend of heritage, technology, and accessible luxury as we bring a new era of motorcycling to key cities including Pune/PCMC, Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Cochin, Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vapi, and Panjim.

KAW Veloce Motors’, India long-standing experience in the manufacturing sector has significantly shaped their approach to motorcycle production, ensuring high standards of quality and innovation. Enthusiasts can also look forward to upcoming models from Brixton Motorcycles, such as the Storr 500, an adventure touring bike set to be globally launched in November and subsequently in India.

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in bringing high-quality, stylish, and affordable motorcycles to Indian riders, underlining the commitment of both KAW Veloce Motors and Brixton Motorcycles Austria to excellence and innovation in the two-wheeler industry, all under the visionary MotoHaus initiative.

Founded in 1962, the KAW Group has been a cornerstone of the manufacturing industry, providing essential machinery and spares for sugar mills and agro machinery globally. Their profound expertise, combined with a deep understanding of the automotive retail sector, paved the way for the inception of KAW Veloce Motors Pvt. Ltd. (KVMPL), India. Spearheaded by the fourth-generation leader, Mr. Tushar Shelke, KVMPL’s vision is to introduce renowned global two-wheeler brands to India, starting with Brixton Motorcycles, Austria.

Brixton Motorcycles, Austria, part of the KSR Group GmbH, is an Austrian family business with a rich history of over 25 years. The Kirschenhofer brothers, descendants of Otto Petermichl who founded a trading company in 1916, have transformed the business into an international entity known for producing affordable and stylish motorcycles. Their motorcycles, inspired by classic designs and integrated with modern technology, have gained significant popularity in Europe and Asia, particularly among younger riders and urban commuters.

Inspiring Ingenuity: The Apollo University Rolls Out B. Pharmacy Degree, Cultivating the Next Frontier in Pharmacy Advancements

28th June 2024  Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India  The Apollo University, recognised for its dedication to excellence in education and innovation, is proud to launch its new undergraduate programme: Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharma). This latest addition to the university’s academic offerings showcases a significant milestone in its mission to hone future leaders in the pharmaceutical industry.

 Apollo University Rolls

With the worldwide demand for skilled experts in the field of pharmacy surpassing unprecedented heights, The Apollo University, an initiative by the Apollo Hospitals Group, understands the urgency to equip students with in-depth knowledge and expertise mandatory to flourish in this dynamic and pivotal sector. The B.Pharma programme has been carefully designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, drug formulation, and regulatory affairs, making sure that they are well-versed in tackling the challenges as well as opportunities of the modern pharmaceutical domain.

“Apollo Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, aka AIPS, is emerging as one of the leading pharmaceutical institutes to train individuals displaying competency in the pharmaceutical sector to meet the requirements of the ever-growing healthcare sector.” “AIPS is aiming to groom the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists, researchers, and academicians. Here, we believe that creating good pharmacists begins with cultivating compassion, respect, and academic integrity.”

“We are committed to delivering quality pharmacy education in order to develop students who will be professionally, intellectually adept and socially responsible. We believe that we shall continue receiving cooperation from all concerned to produce skilled, knowledgeable and responsible pharmacists who will make significant contributions to the field of the healthcare system,” quoted by Dr. K. Bhaskar Reddy, Professor & Dean.

The B. Pharma is a 4-year programme at Apollo University stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, which integrates theoretical knowledge with experiential learning and training opportunities. Students will have direct access to contemporary laboratories, cutting-edge research facilities, and industry partnerships that will scale up their learning experience and ensure their smooth transition into the workforce. The Apollo Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences is allowed by the Government of Andhra Pradesh for an intake of 60 students, of which 35% of seats are Government quota seats for the year 2023-2024.

In addition to academic coursework, students enrolled in the B. Pharma programme will have an impeccable opportunity to indulge in internships, co-op placements, and research projects that will provide real-world experience and intensify their understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. The industry-centric curriculum also emphasises the value of ethics, professionalism, and social responsibility, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the values and skills needed to make impactful contributions to society.

As the pharmaceutical industry is constantly evolving and expanding, The Apollo University remains devoted to the next generation of pharmacy professionals to fulfil the challenges and opportunities of the future.

First-Time Voters Show Strong Engagement and Optimism in 2024 Elections

28th June 2024 Delhi, India  In an unprecedented look into the minds of India’s first-time voters, a recent survey by MyResearch, a public opinion firm led by Ranabir Sen, a market research veteran, sheds light on the sentiments and behaviors of these young citizens as they navigate their inaugural participation in the democratic process. Conducted across the Top 6 metros in India, this survey highlights a vibrant, hopeful, and highly engaged segment of the electorate.

A Demographic Snapshot The survey included a balanced representation of genders, with 48% female and 52% male respondents. Equally split between those still in education or not working (50.5%) and those employed either full or part-time (49.5%), these young voters bring diverse perspectives to the polling booths.

Election Day: A Tapestry of Emotions Election Day stirred a mix of emotions among first-time voters:

  • Pride: The predominant feeling, with 22% of respondents expressing pride in participating in the country’s governance.
  • Hope: 18% felt optimistic that the election results would bring about positive changes.
  • Ritualistic/Ceremonial Feelings: 20% viewed the day as a significant traditional event.
  • Anxiety: 9% experienced nervousness about the outcomes and their implications.
  • Doubt: 8% harbored doubts about the fairness or impact of the election.

Engagement in the Campaign Process First-time voters demonstrated a keen interest in the election process, marked by high levels of media consumption and participation:

  • Media Engagement:
  • 80% watched campaign commercials.
  • 65% sought information through social media.
  • 56% watched candidates’ speeches.
  • 48% viewed candidates’ interviews.

Direct Participation:

  • 28% attended rallies or yatras.
  • 30% created or pasted campaign posters.

Despite their enthusiasm for staying informed, fewer engaged in direct campaign activities, suggesting constraints such as time or opportunity might limit their involvement.

  • Belief in the Power of Elections The survey reveals a robust belief in the efficacy of elections among first-time voters:
  • 81% believe elections matter and can lead to significant changes.
  • 65% are confident that their vote can significantly influence the future direction of the country.

Perception of Government Responsiveness The majority of first-time voters feel valued by the government, yet a notable minority remains skeptical:

  • 75% believe the government cares about their opinions.
  • 24% feel that the government does not care about what people like them think.

Reactions to Potential Election Outcomes First-time voters display a mature approach to the election results:

  • 34% would feel disappointed if their chosen candidate lost, but an equal percentage would remain calm and accept the outcome.
  • Very few express extreme reactions, such as anger or depression, indicating a general readiness to respect the democratic process.

A Hopeful Yet Cautious Electorate Overall, the sentiments of first-time voters in India’s 2024 elections paint a picture of an engaged, hopeful, and responsible young electorate. While pride and optimism are the dominant emotions, the presence of anxiety and doubt highlights areas for improvement in the electoral process. Ensuring greater transparency and responsiveness from government institutions could further strengthen the faith and participation of these young voters in the democratic process.

Conclusion First-time voters are not just passive participants but active contributors to the democratic process, eager to make their voices heard and influence the future. By addressing their concerns and fostering a more inclusive environment, electoral and governmental institutions can harness the full potential of these young citizens, ensuring a vibrant and dynamic democracy.

Hundreds of Cleft Affected Individuals Connect at Smile Train’s Flagship Event, Cleft Con India 2024

28th June 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused NGO, successfully hosted Cleft Con India 2024, the third annual gathering of cleft-affected individuals in India. Cleft Con India is an open and unbiased community platform for individuals with a cleft and their families to come together to share experiences, and learnings and inspire each other. Held in Chennai, this year’s event, with the theme “Face to Face” celebrated resilience and bold personal stories.

Participants at the third edition

One of the key highlights of the event was the presence of the actor, Ashwin Kkumar who shared his powerful story of overcoming challenges due to his cleft and building his own identity as an actor. Ashwin is a well-known Tamil and Telugu movie actor, known for his role in films like Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru, Jacobinte Swargarajyam, Aaraattu, and Captain Miller. Ashwin Kkumar shared, “Being a part of Cleft Con India 2024 has been an enriching experience. As someone who has overcome the challenges of living with a cleft, sharing my story on this platform has been incredibly empowering especially as I used to be aware of Smile Train for many years as a renowned cleft community, I wanted to make it possible to be a popular talented personality and aspired to be an inspiration to my fellow cleft warriors. And this is SURREAL. I hope my journey inspires others with a cleft to embrace their uniqueness and find strength in their struggles. Together, we can build a community that celebrates resilience and supports each other through thick and thin.”

Speaking at the event, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director – Asia, Smile Train said, “Cleft Con India is an extraordinary platform for cleft-affected individuals to showcase their remarkable stories and inspire others. This year’s theme ‘Face to Face’ has brought together some inspiring individuals who have quite candidly shared their emotions and journeys with the community. Through this platform, Smile Train fosters a vibrant community where every individual feels seen, heard, and genuinely supported. I take immense pride in seeing the way this community is growing. This event has been pivotal in uniting us and highlighting the profound impact of empathy and solidarity.”

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Divvya Dnesh and Asha Dinesh, Co-founders VedaEarth Lounge and trustees Ashraya Hastha Trust, Dr. Saranya Jayakumar, Educational Psychologist, Instagram influencers Tanya Mittal and Dimple Arora, Sirat Co-founders Ashim Garg and Sakshi Kothari, Educator and Life Coach Priya Venugopal and many cleft-affected individuals who have earned their positions with hard work and determination. Unfiltered conversations and panel discussions on topics of interest highlighted the emotional, medical, and social aspects of living with a cleft, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care, inclusivity, and acceptance.

With over 35,000 children born with clefts in India each year, many face bullying and isolation due to their facial differences. If left untreated, cleft can lead to difficulties in eating, hearing, speaking, and breathing. However, timely medical interventions can dramatically transform their lives, allowing them to thrive physically, socially, and emotionally. Smile Train works with a network of 120+ medical partner hospitals in 30 states and Union Territories in India to support 100%-free and quality cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care for children in need. The NGO continues to expand its network of medical partners, donors, and supporters via its sustainable model of cleft care.

Events like Cleft Con India are crucial in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting acceptance, while also highlighting the importance of early medical intervention and continuous support for individuals affected by clefts.

India-Australia Rise Accelerator Program, Supported by NITI Aayog, SORR INDIA Drives Blue Economy with Bold Initiatives on World Ocean Day 2024

28th June 2024 Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar, India On World Ocean Day 2024, SORR INDIA, a leader in the sustainable blue economy, organized a series of events at Swaraj Dweep (Havelock), Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The organization integrates coastal communities through its “Go Green for Planet Blue” initiative. SORR is part of the India-Australia “Rise Accelerator” program, supported by NITI Aayog and CSIRO. Led by Commandant Pradeep Kumar Kushwaha (Retd.), CEO & Country Head, SORR INDIA promoted diving among young girls, highlighting the theme “Take Action – Catalysing Action for Our Ocean and Climate”.

SORR INDIA Drives Blue

Celebrated swimmer and lifesaver, Ms. Saachi Gramopadhye, alongside dive master trainee Ms. Anusha Kayastha, removed marine litter under the supervision of PADI instructor Saw Powdethey at Scubalove Dive Centre. To raise awareness, SORR INDIA distributed 100 packets of biodegradable sanitary napkins to women divers and participants. The “Every Day is an Ocean Day” campaign was launched, pledging to provide a year’s supply of biodegradable sanitary napkins to 365 girls, promoting SDGs 3 and 14.

Commandant Pradeep Kumar Kushwaha emphasized the integration of modern science-based tools to enhance the campaign’s efficacy. “Modern science-based tools such as data analytics, machine learning, drones, etc., will be deployed to enhance the efficacy of the campaign besides training at least 100 fishermen by next World Ocean Day 2025 in each coastal state to become qualified Ocean Warriors to work in the Blue Economy Sustainability drive and steer the New Oil campaign further,” he stated.

SORR INDIA’s ambitious projects aim to deploy sustainable oil recovery and remediation systems across India’s water bodies, in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard, ports, and shipping industries. This initiative not only aims to clean water bodies but also to create better livelihoods for coastal communities, supporting India’s Net Zero goals. Robert Manning, General Manager of SORR Australia, applauded the team’s success and emphasized global collaboration in line with SDG 17.

Commandant Pradeep Kumar Kushwaha further noted, “SORR INDIA is the shining example of the first cohort of the RISE accelerator program, wherein SORR Australia will be the technology partner supporting SORR INDIA with green tech to manufacture customized pollution response solutions based on the concept of a circular economy with zero landfill at the end of life. SORR INDIA will manufacture not only for local but also global customers, enabling India to become a leader in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) under the Government of India’s flagship program SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region.”

With these bold steps, SORR INDIA is set to transform the “Planet Blue”, making it a cleaner, more sustainable place.

Globally, approximately 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste are dumped into aquatic ecosystems annually, including oceans, rivers, and lakes. This amount equates to about 2,000 garbage trucks of plastic being dumped into these water bodies every day. In the context of India, the country is one of the significant contributors to ocean plastic pollution. Alongside other Asian countries, India accounts for a large portion of the mismanaged plastic waste that eventually ends up in the ocean. Mismanaged plastic waste tends to be higher in low-to-middle-income countries due to inadequate waste management infrastructure.

Amrut Acclaimed as World’s Best Sweeps 5 Gold Medals at International Spirits Competition

28th June 2024 Bangalore, Karnataka, India Amrut Distilleries marks its top positioning by winning 5 Gold medals at the prestigious International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2024, held at London, UK in the “World Malt Category”. International Spirits Challenge’s 29th edition saw participation from brands from across the world ranging from Scottish, Irish, and Japanese single malts. Showcasing unmatched excellence, innovation, uniqueness, and craftsmanship, Amrut Distilleries has bagged a record Five Gold medals this year, a record for an Indian distillery. This achievement puts Amrut at the pinnacle of representing Indian distillers at a global forum. The total international accolades for the house of Amrut adds up to a whopping 350, a feat no Indian distiller has achieved. The brand love and cult following has propelled Amrut to become India’s most favorite and awarded brand in the world, reaffirming its status as a luxury premium producer of fine spirits.

The Show stopper and star of the ISC 2024 was AMRUT FUSION, India’s most-awarded single malt having won 40+ accolades at a global forum. Fusion is renowned for its rich and complex profile, which earned the prestigious GOLD medal and will contest in the trophy category. This esteemed recognition highlights the exceptional quality and artistry poured into every drama. Pundits laud Fusion as the “CROWN JEWEL” of all Indian single malts

Mr. Rakshit Jagdale, MD, Amrut Distilleries

Amrut Distilleries has achieved GOLD medals for the following outstanding products:

  1. Amrut Fusion Single Malt
  2. Amrut Amalgam Malt
  3. Amrut Nativity Indian Single Malt – Travel Retail Exclusive
  4. Amrut Indian Single Malt Cask Strength
  5. Amrut Peated Single Malt

Mr. Rakshit N Jagdale, MD, Amrut Distilleries, “These accolades highlight the distillery’s dedication to innovation and excellence in production. Our sustained efforts over the last two decades have borne fruits as Amrut is being cherished and applauded across the globe. Truly remarkable to have witnessed not one but indeed 5 products from our portfolio bag the top honors which is a testament to the unmatched diversity in our portfolio of single malts.”

A senior leader at ISC was quoted, “Amrut Distilleries P Ltd has had a strong year in this year’s challenge, achieving five gold medals within its exclusive Indian malt range. The ISC was delighted to see such a positive result in the blind tasting, as receiving a gold medal is a fantastic achievement, and a testament to the quality of the spirits entered.”