Archives February 2025

Ranen Banerjee, Partner and Leader, Economic Advisory, PwC India

“The new RBI Governor and the MPC delivered the widely accepted 25bps policy rate cut with policy stance as neutral leaving room for it to take further actions in its next meeting. The MPC would have got comfort from the expectation of moderating food inflation and under check core inflation giving an inflation estimate for FY26 at 4.2%. It has delivered the required monetary policy support to the economy and this combined with the consumption boost from the tax relief announced in the budget should give momentum to demand and push the FY26 growth rate to the higher end of the 6.3% to 6.8% growth range anticipated in the Economic Survey.”

Kolkata, 10th February 2025: Guru Nanak Institute of Hotel Management (GNIHM), an educational initiative of JIS Group, in association with The Yuva Tourism Club and The Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, hosted “AMALGAM 2025 – Flavours & Folk Dances of India,” a dynamic celebration of India’s rich culinary legacy and vibrant traditional dance forms. The event highlighted the institution’s strong commitment to excellence in Hospitality, Hotel Management, and Catering Technology, offering an inspiring platform for students and professionals to demonstrate their creativity and expertise. The occasion was made even more special by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Celebrity Chef Kunal Kapur, Renowned Actor Parambrata Chatterjee, and Renowned Actress Mimi Chakraborty, whose star power and charm added a touch of glamour to the festivities.

“AMALGAM 2025 – Flavours & Folk Dances of India” showcased a wide range of food stalls, offering a variety of delicious dishes, desserts, and refreshing drinks, all infused with the diverse and rich flavours of India. Guests set off on a culinary exploration, enjoying the authentic tastes of regional Indian delicacies. The event also featured spellbinding performances of traditional folk dances, which brought the country’s cultural heritage to life with the vibrant energy of India’s artistic traditions.

This lively celebration was not just about food and entertainment—it was a tribute to India’s vast cultural diversity. It served as a platform to honour the creativity and talent within the fields of hospitality and culinary arts, bringing together students, professionals, and cultural enthusiasts to unite in the spirit of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.

On the occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, said, “AMALGAM 2025 is an opportunity to continue our commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow in hospitality and tourism. This event excels beyond simply showcasing culinary artistry and folk traditions – it serves as a catalyst for students to unlock their creative potential and connect with the diverse cultures that shape our world. Our vision is to build a platform where individuals could be empowered to challenge norms and emerge as innovators in the hospitality industry.”

Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Director, JIS Group, said, “AMALGAM 2025 is more than just a celebration; it is an embodiment of India’s rich and varied cultural tapestry. The event celebrates the passion and skill in fields like Hospitality, Hotel Management, and Catering Technology, creating a space where people from all walks of life could come together to embrace unity, cultural diversity, and collective creativity.”

by Mr. Pankaj Kalra, CEO, of Essar Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Limited

“Under the guidance of new Governor Mr. Sanjay Malhotra, RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points, is a move that signals a supportive approach toward sustaining economic growth. This reduction, after nearly five years, will help ease borrowing costs and provide much-needed liquidity to key sectors. For the oil and gas industry, a lower interest rate environment will encourage investment in exploration, infrastructure, and energy transition projects, ensuring a stable and efficient energy ecosystem.”

Enclosed below is the RBI monetary policy reaction quote by Mr. Srinivasan Vaidyanathan, Operating Partner, Essar Capital.

“We welcome RBI’s decision to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points. Led by RBI’s new Governor Mr. Sanjay Malhotra, this rate cut is a timely and strategic move that will provide much-needed momentum to India’s investment cycle. By lowering borrowing costs, this decision will not only support business expansion but also create an environment conducive to long-term capital deployment across key sectors. For investors and businesses alike, a neutral monetary stance, stable inflation, and a projected 6.7% GDP growth signal confidence in India’s economic trajectory.”

What makes Jaideep Ahlawat such a fantastic performer? Whether playing a menacing antagonist or a layered protagonist, he is unmatched. As his birthday on February 8 approaches, it is just about time to revisit his finest works across audiobooks, films, and web series. From his voice work in ‘Baby Doll’ on Audible to the chilling portrayal in ‘Paatal Lok’ on Amazon Prime, there’s no shortage of content to immerse yourself in. And with his upcoming Audible Original ‘Marvel’s Wastelanders’ and film ‘Jewel Thief’ this year, there is even more to look forward to.

So, if you’re a fan of his craft, it is the perfect time to hit play and celebrate his brilliance!

Marvel’s Wastelanders: Hawkeye

Thirty years after the villains wiped out Earth’s greatest heroes, the once-legendary Hawkeye (Jaideep Ahlawat) is a broken man—blind, bitter, and forced to relive his darkest day for paying audiences. But when his estranged teenage daughter Ash (Prajakta Koli) shows up, burning with a vengeance of her own, he’s pulled back into a deadly mission: to hunt down those responsible for his friends’ deaths. As father and daughter set out on this brutal path, old wounds resurface, and the fight for justice turns deeply personal. Experience the thrill, emotion, and powerhouse performances in this gripping Hindi Audible Original!

Baby Doll

Baby Doll is a gripping podcast with an intense revenge tale starring Richa Chadha and Jaideep Ahlawat at the forefront. With Jaideep Ahlawat as the ruthless Balwant Rana, the story dives into a gripping chase for justice, set against the raw and unforgiving backdrop of the countryside. As Baby fights against the odds, the lines between power and vulnerability blur, making every moment tense and unpredictable. A story of resilience and revenge, this podcast is a must-listen for those who love bold, intense storytelling.

Paatal Lok, Season 2

Jaideep Ahlawat returns as Inspector Hathi Ram Chaudhary, bringing his signature grit and depth to an even more gripping season. This time, the weary yet relentless cop finds himself entangled in the high-profile murder of Jonathan Thom, a case that drags him to the remote corners of North-East India. As he battles powerful forces and his demons, Hathi Ram is pushed beyond his limits to pursue justice that’s as personal as perilous. With Jaideep’s commanding presence, the series delivers another masterclass in slow-burning tension at its core.

Gangs of Wasseypur, Part 1

This film takes us through decades of ruthless power struggles and family revenge in the coal-rich region of Wasseypur. Jaideep Ahlawat, as Shahid Khan, brilliantly sets the stage by delivering a spectacular performance that lays the foundation for the explosive drama to unfold. As Shahid’s son, Sardar Khan (Manoj Bajpayee), takes the reins, we’re drawn into a world of political manoeuvring, family loyalty, and bloody vengeance. Jaideep Ahlawat’s portrayal of a man caught between personal vendettas and the brutal realities of survival makes this film a must-watch, which stays with you long after the credits roll.

Maharaj

Set in pre-independence Bombay, this film follows a progressive thinker and social reformer, Karsan (Junaid Khan) who confronts the blind faith practices of his community and his fiancée Kishori’s (Shalini Pandey) devotion to the Maharaj (Jaideep Ahlawat). As Karsan uncovers the dark truths behind the Haveli’s practices, including the exploitation of women, he risks everything to expose the revered religious leader’s evil intentions. With Jaideep Ahlawat’s powerful portrayal of the manipulative Maharaj, the series brings social reform, intense emotion, and a battle for justice to the forefront.

An Action Hero

Maanav (Ayushmann Khurrana), a popular action hero, finds himself embroiled in a deadly chase after a confrontation with local politician Vicky turns fatal. Fleeing to the UK, Maanav discovers that Vicky’s vengeful brother, Bhoora (Jaideep Ahlawat), is hot on his trail, determined to make Maanav pay for his brother’s death. As the tension escalates, Maanav must navigate a series of confrontations and twists, including a terrifying encounter with a ruthless terrorist! An interesting watch, this film is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.

Hyderabad: 10th February, 2025: On his visit last month to the Maha Kumbh Mela, Gautam Adani had said that his son’s wedding would be conducted in a “simple and traditional way.” Staying true to his word, and also ending all rumours and speculation that his son Jeet Adani’s wedding would be a lavish and spectacular affair, the billionaire industrialist not only kept the wedding simple but also donated INR 10,000 crore. This distinctive wedding gift from one of the richest men in the world will be channelled into various social causes.

Sources close to him said that Gautam Adani’s cause list for his sizeable donation has been shaped by his social philosophy of Service is devotion, service is prayer, and service is God itself.| The larger part of his donation is expected to go into funding massive infrastructure initiatives in healthcare, education and skill development. These initiatives will focus on giving all sections of society access to a network of affordable world-class hospitals and medical colleges, affordable top-tier K-12 schools and advanced global skill academies with assured employability.

On the occasion of the wedding of his younger son, Gautam Adani posted on X (formerly Twitter):

With the blessings of the Supreme Father and Lord, Jeet and Diva have today entered the sacred bond of marriage.

This marriage took place today in Ahmedabad, surrounded by loved ones, following traditional customs and with a spirit of good fortune.

It was a small and extremely private ceremony, and due to this, we were unable to invite all our well-wishers, for which I sincerely apologize.

I humbly ask for your love and blessings for Diva and Jeet from the bottom of my heart.

Interestingly, in the tweet, he addressed his daughter-in-law as “daughter Diva”. At the Belvedere Club in Ahmedabad’s Adani Shantigram township this afternoon, Jeet Adani married Diva, daughter of diamond trader Jaimin Shah. According to family insiders, the wedding was a simple affair, with the usual religious rituals followed by a traditional Gujarati ceremony attended only by close relatives and friends. Conspicuous by their absence were politicians, business leaders, diplomats, bureaucrats, film stars, entertainers and other celebrities.

Jeet Adani currently serves as Director at Adani Airports, managing six international airports and overseeing the building of a seventh in Navi Mumbai. Jeet is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Just two days before the wedding, Gautam Adani announced ‘Mangal Seva’, a program to support newly married women with disabilities. To begin with, every year, 500 such women will be provided financial assistance of INR 10 lakh each. Jeet Adani met 21 newly married divyang women and their husbands to launch this initiative.

At Prayagraj on 21 January, when asked by reporters at the Maha Kumbh if his son’s wedding would be a “Maha Kumbh of celebrities” as was being widely speculated, Gautam Adani had said, “Definitely not. We are like common people. Jeet came here to take Ma Ganga’s blessings. His marriage will happen in a simple and traditional way.”

Gautam Adani’s exemplary gesture of “Seva Over Self” on his son’s wedding day has set an example. By choosing to support social causes, he has redefined the essence of celebrating personal milestones by introducing a thoughtful, community-focused approach that creates an impact transcending the public display of wealth

New Delhi, 10 February 2025 – This Valentine’s Day, Bakingo, a leading online bakery, is spreading love in its most delicious form by launching its “Layers of Love” campaign. Bakingo’s desserts are crafted with layers of flavours, emotions, and memories, honoring the beauty of relationships. From classic favourites to unique fusion creations, each dessert reflects the intricacy behind crafting it.

To bring this vision to life, Bakingo’s Valentine’s collection features an exquisite range of desserts, each reflecting the essence of love in its many forms. From rich, multi-layered cakes symbolizing deep connections to delicate pastries representing tender moments, every creation is designed to make celebrations more meaningful. Just as love is built over time with shared laughter and memories, Bakingo’s desserts focus on precision and the finest ingredients, ensuring every bite is a celebration.

Commenting on the campaign, Mr Himanshu Chawla, Co-founder, Bakingo, said, “At Bakingo, we believe that love isn’t just about the grand gestures, it’s about the little moments that create lasting bonds. With ‘Layers of Love,’ we wanted to translate those emotions into delightful desserts that tell a story in every layer. Whether it’s our top-selling heart cakes or a personalized desserts, we want to be a part of every celebration and make Valentine’s Day extra special for our customers,”.

With “Layers of Love” Bakingo continues its tradition of making every celebration sweeter and special, ensuring that love is cherished in its most flavourful form.

The vehicles were launched by the company’s Senior President – Marketing, K. Vijayvardhan Rao.

Telangana, February 9, 2025 : My Home Industries has taken another significant step forward in bulk supply by introducing heavy trucks and trailers. These vehicles were launched at the company’s new plant in Srinagar, Mellacheruvu, in the Suryapet district. The launch event was flagged off by the company’s Senior President – Marketing, K. Vijayvardhan Rao. The fleet includes 14 Wheels Trucks – 100 (30 MT capacity); 16 wheels Trucks – 100 (Bulk 35 MT capacity) & Trailers – 50 (Bulk 41 MT capacity)

These vehicles are expected to enhance the services provided by My Home Industries and strengthen its position in the market. They will play a key role in enabling the company to supply products to customers quickly and on time. With India’s logistics sector rapidly growing, this move by My Home Industries will play a critical role in strengthening infrastructure development.

The parent company of My Home Industries, the My Home Group, operates from its headquarters in Hyderabad. The group has established a strong presence across diverse industries, including cement, real estate, construction, power, media, and education.. Over three decades, the group has earned the people’s trust by providing valuable services. Directly and indirectly, the group has created employment opportunities for over 10,000 people. The group has customers across various regions and sectors in India. Known for its commitment to quality in products and services and adherence to business standards, My Home Group has established its uniqueness. Dr. Rameshwar Rao Jupally, a visionary and philanthropist, is the founder of this organization, and under his leadership, the company continues to progress. Under the dynamic leadership of Jupally Ranjith Rao, Managing Director, My Home Industries Private Limited is experiencing significant growth and expanding its reach.

Chandigarh, 8 February 2025: Raymond Limited (the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its 100% owned step-down subsidiary, Ten X Realty West Limited, has signed a Joint Development Agreement of a prestigious residential project in the prime location of Mahim West, Mumbai.

This landmark project is estimated to have a revenue potential of approximately Rs. 1,800 crore and marks the Company’s second venture in this sought-after area of Mumbai. This also represents the 5th project undertaken by the Company outside of its existing developments in Thane, underscoring its strategic expansion within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This project will be the second residential project that the company will be developing in Mahim West, Mumbai.

This significant development aligns with Raymond Limited’s growth strategy to capitalize on opportunities within the dynamic MMR real estate market. The project is poised to contribute substantially to the Company’s future growth and solidify its presence as a key player in the region. With the addition of this project, the Gross Development Value of Real Estate projects of the company will be close to Rs. 35,000 crores

Mumbai, 8th February 2025: The Life Insurance Council has released updated industry business numbers for January 2025, revealing positive trends in key areas. New business premiums (NBPs) underwritten by Indian life insurers have achieved a YTD growth of 7.78% compared to the same period last year. YTD collections grew from ₹283833.52 Crs to ₹305912.09 Crs this year. The life insurance industry saw individual single premiums growing by 16.26% on a Y-o-Y basis, closing at ₹4127.67 Crs for Jan’25, with YTD growth at 14%. Individual non-single premiums reached ₹10632.32 Crs, growing by 10.52% in Jan’25, and YTD collections settled at 14% higher than the corresponding period last year.

This strong performance can be ascribed to the fact that life insurers are increasingly focusing on encouraging first-time life insurance buyers to buy essential life insurance solutions, contributing to the 12.07% growth in combined individual premium collections for the month of Jan’25 and 14% growth on a YTD basis.

The life insurance industry in India has been making significant strides forward by expanding access to insurance and making an effort to reach out to areas and segments of the country’s population that were previously underserved when it comes to their insurance needs. Towards this end, life insurers added more than 872055 individual life insurance agents, with an overall 4.82% growth in cumulative agent count. Still, the sustained pace of agent addition is being complimented by the high speed of digitization by life insurers, paving the way for additional gains in insurance penetration that should provide a significant boost to new business premiums in FY25 and beyond.

FADA President, Mr. C S Vigneshwar on January’25 EV Performance

“Electric Vehicle retails continued their strong trajectory in January’25, reflecting growing consumer acceptance and robust OEM commitment to clean mobility. The recent Bharat Mobility Global Expo strongly reflected this shift, with the spotlight firmly on green-energy vehicles and industry determined to accelerate the shift toward green energy. With over 30–35 new EV launches expected this year, we anticipate a notable rise in market share across all segments—from two and three-wheelers to passenger and commercial vehicles. The future for electric mobility looks exceedingly bright and we believe it will play a pivotal role in shaping India’s automotive landscape in the months to come.”