Archives May 2025

IVPA President Sudhakar Desai Commends Bold Import Duty Cut to Boost ‘Make in India’ and Protect Refiners

By-Sudhakar Desai, President, Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA):

Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) welcomes the decision of the government to reduce the basic import duty on crude edible oil only from 20% to 10% while leaving the net refined oil duties unchanged at 35.25 percent. We thank the government for accepting the IVPA recommendation to increase the duty differential between crude and refined edible oil to 19.25%. It is a significantly bold move towards ensuring Make in India and also protecting the sector from influx of refined oils causing capacity injury to the vegetable oil sector. This move will not just strengthen the domestic refining capacities of Indian refiners but also ensure fair price to oilseed farmers and a fair price to the consumers. The persistent efforts of the IVPA to bring to the notice of the government the trade distortions from surge in edible oil imports under SAFTA have resulted in this historic and bold move.

According to IVPA data, imports of refined palm oil surged from 4.58 lakh MT during June–September 2024 to 8.24 lakh MT (representing about 30 % of total palm oil imports) in the period October 2024–February 2025. Additionally under Safta provisions of zero duty, refined oils have been glutting the Indian markets due to the huge  refined oil duty advantage neighbouring countries enjoyed .

Cathay Pacific and Sinopec join forces in a sustainable aviation fuel initiative

Cathay Pacific today announced it has entered into an agreement with China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) to refuel some of its flights departing from Hong Kong International Airport with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) produced and blended with conventional aviation fuel by Sinopec, demonstrating the expanding reach of SAF produced in the Chinese Mainland in the global SAF supply chain.

The airline uplifted a batch of SAF produced by the Sinopec Zhenhai Refining & Chemical Company (ZRCC) at Hong Kong International Airport in April. ZRCC is one of the leading SAF manufacturers in Asia to independently develop bio-jet fuel technology. This batch of SAF was converted from used cooking oil using the hydrotreated esters and fatty acids (HEFA) pathway. As part of the first batch of SAF exported by ZRCC to Hong Kong, it has been certified by International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) that it can reduce the lifecycle carbon emissions by about 80%, compared with conventional jet fuel.

What is SAF?

SAF is an alternative aviation fuel produced from waste materials or other non-fossil carbon sources. As demonstrated by this batch, SAF has the potential to significantly lower its lifecycle carbon emissions as compared with fossil fuels, helping address the environmental impact of passenger and cargo air transport. This agreement with Sinopec demonstrates the potential for further cooperation between the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong in the SAF supply chain.

Adoption of SAF from the Chinese Mainland

Cathay General Manager Sustainability Grace Cheung said: “Our purchase and use of SAF products from ZRCC goes beyond just a fuel uplift; it marks our initiative to expand the upstream and downstream value chain of SAF produced in the Chinese Mainland. Through cooperation with Sinopec, we hope to support greater adoption of SAF produced in the Chinese Mainland and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”

Last year, Cathay Pacific also adopted two batches of SAF from the Chinese Mainland, which were uplifted at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and London Heathrow Airport respectively.

Looking to the future

In recent years, the production and adoption of SAF has gained momentum across Asia.  Cathay Pacific is working closely with different partners with the aim to expand the use of SAF in Asia. In March 2025, Cathay Pacific reached an agreement with fuel supplier SK Energy, which will supply SAF to Cathay Pacific from 2025 to 2027 in South Korea. At the same time, Cathay Pacific will continue to draw on its own experience to support Hong Kong to scale up SAF usage with supportive policy, in order to further strengthen Hong Kong International Airport’s status as a leading international aviation hub.

Brother India Launches PT-E560BTVP Label Printer: A Durable and Advanced Label Printer for Professionals

Brother International India Pvt. Limited, a renowned japanese leader in printing and labeling solutions, is delighted to announce the launch of the PT-E560BTVP, a new label printer designed specifically for electricians and network professionals. This model replaces the PT-E550WVP, which has been a reliable choice for 15 years. Priced at INR 38,990, the PT-E560BTVP is available for purchase across India starting today.

The printer is crafted to assist professionals in creating clear and long-lasting labels for cables, panels, and equipment, combining a robust design with modern features. After considering user feedback, Brother has incorporated a Type-C charger (12V, 2.5A), Bluetooth connectivity, and an improved display to meet the demands of today’s workforce.

Brother has been a trusted name in printing technology for over 100 years, beginning as a sewing machine manufacturer in Japan in 1908. Now a global company, Brother is recognized for producing practical and reliable tools for professionals in various industries, from office settings to fieldwork. In India, Brother has earned a strong reputation for quality and innovation, consistently delivering products that are both functional and durable. The PT-E560BTVP reflects this dedication, offering a solution tailored to the needs of electricians, network installers, and telecommunications experts who require precise and dependable labels for their projects.

The PT-E560BTVP is built to withstand challenging work environments, featuring a textured grip to prevent slipping and a durable orange-and-black body that can endure tough conditions. Its upgraded carrying case can hold up to 16 tapes (12mm), a significant improvement over the previous model’s capacity of 5, allowing users to carry more supplies conveniently. The printer can create labels up to 24mm wide at a fast speed of 30mm per second (using a USB-PD adapter), and its bright, backlit screen ensures clear visibility, even in low-light settings. Additionally, six dedicated keys provide quick access to common labeling tasks, such as marking cables, patch panels, or faceplates, making the process more efficient.

Mr. Alok Nigam, Managing Director at Brother International India said “The PT-E560BTVP is a direct response to the changing dynamics of the industrial workspace, where speed, accuracy, and durability are no longer optional but they are mission-critical. Designed in consultation with industry professionals, this printer combines robust engineering with intuitive technology like Bluetooth connectivity, Type-C charging, and advanced labelling templates. At Brother, we are committed to not only keeping pace with the demands of electricians and network specialists but empowering them with tools that elevate their productivity in the field. This launch strengthens our long-term vision of leading India’s transition towards smarter, mobile-first infrastructure labelling”

The PT-E560BTVP also includes a convenient cutting feature that allows users to print multiple labels in a single strip, saving time for professionals working on electrical or network installations. With Bluetooth connectivity, users can link the printer to a smartphone or tablet using Brother’s Pro Label Tool app, or connect it to a computer via USB. The device supports printing QR codes, 2D barcodes, and logos, addressing modern labeling requirements.

Furthermore, it promotes environmental responsibility by supporting both disposable and rechargeable batteries and replacing extensive paper manuals with a concise guide and online versions in multiple languages. Offering a clear 180 dpi print quality, 14 font styles, and 476 symbols, this printer provides ample options for creating professional labels. Brother’s newest offering combines durability, efficiency, and eco-conscious design for today’s professionals.

Best 3 Co-Working firms that have become the go-to partner for Fortune 500 enterprises

As global enterprises, including Fortune 500 companies, shift toward more agile and cost-efficient workplace models, the demand for premium managed office spaces has seen a significant rise. These workspaces are no longer just about desks and meeting rooms—they’re strategic hubs designed to foster productivity, collaboration, and innovation. Companies are now partnering with managed workspace providers that offer fully customizable solutions tailored to their brand identity, operational scale, and evolving business needs. These providers are disrupting the traditional office leasing model by offering ‘space-as-a-service,’ allowing enterprises to scale quickly without the burden of capital expenditure or long-term commitments.

From tech-enabled environments with IoT integration to ergonomic designs that enhance employee well-being, these workspaces offer a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality. Smart infrastructure, energy-efficient systems, and digital tools—like mobile apps for room bookings and community engagement—have become standard. What truly sets these firms apart is their ability to co-create bespoke offices that reflect the culture and workflow of each enterprise. Located in prime business districts and supported by top-tier service, these managed spaces are becoming the preferred choice for corporations aiming to attract talent, boost productivity, and remain future-ready in an increasingly dynamic business landscape.

Here are the top three firms disrupting the managed office space industry:-

Onward Workspaces

Onward Workspaces is a premium workspace provider that empowers businesses by delivering modern, flexible office environments designed to inspire productivity and collaboration. With locations strategically situated in major business hubs, Onward Workspaces is committed to creating dynamic, accessible, and resourceful environments tailored to the evolving needs of today’s businesses.

Synq.Work

Founded in 2018, Synq.work is one of the fastest-growing managed office space providers, utilizing technology, culture, and strategic management for a competitive edge. They focus on functionality and ergonomics to create immersive work environments that boost productivity and collaboration through advanced tech-enabled services. Synq.work offers highly customizable office spaces, providing tailored enterprise solutions for businesses of all sizes. Their facilities, designed for medium and large teams, use smart office technologies like IoT sensors and automation systems to optimize workforce utilization, reduce energy consumption, and enhance the overall experience. Additionally, Synq.work features a state-of-the-art app that allows members to book meeting rooms, connect with colleagues, and access exclusive events and discounts. High-speed internet and advanced IT infrastructure ensure seamless, secure connectivity with no dead zones and N+1 redundancy.

Skootr (Managed office spaces)

Skootr is India’s foremost ‘Premium Managed Office Space’ provider, where we co-create world-class workspaces & experiences for enterprises. With Grade A assets & best-in-class services, Skootr has become India’s go-to brand for bespoke offices amongst top international clients. Skootr offers ‘Space as a service’ wherein enterprises get the benefits of a hassle-free, fully customized, flexible office space without locking up growth capital in CapEx.

Spot Hires & Global Placements Dominate Pearl Academy’s Portfolio 2025

Bengaluru, May 30, 2025: Pearl Academy, India’s leading creative education institution, hosted Portfolio 2025, its flagship annual graduation showcase, at its Bengaluru Campus today.

The showcase highlighted a bold vision for the future, with students presenting cutting-edge, globally relevant projects that blended AI, sustainability, and disruptive design thinking across fashion, styling, interior, communication, textile, and product design.

The 2025 placement season saw four students secure international placements with Dubai’s Apparel Group, while multiple spot hires were made by top brands including Rocketium, Cap Gemini, Pernia Pop Up Shop, Christian LouboutinReliance Brands, TJX, J.J. Valaya, Ritika Mirchandani, Snapdeal, Live Space, Meres Benisant, etc. The placement season kicked off with offers from Pantaloons, Aparna Kaushik Designs, and labels like DYou and Ridhi Mehra, while recruitment processes with Sabyasachi Calcutta LLP, Asian Paints and Ethos are underway.

A Communication Design student from Pearl Academy has received a ₹26 LPA offer for the role of Product Designer from Rocketium, reflecting the institution’s consistent placement performance and growing relevance in the creative-tech space. Additionally, Pearl students are also launching their own ventures. Portfolio 2025 spotlighted this entrepreneurial spirit, reinforcing Pearl Academy’s role in nurturing both employability and enterprise.

Entrepreneurship also took center stage at the Pearl Academy School of Business, with six standout startups—including Shark Tank-featured Aignosis AI—pitching their ideas and receiving grants under Pearl Academy’s incubation program. These startups reflected the institution’s sector-agnostic approach, supporting ventures in fashion, AI, wellness, and beyond, open to both alumni and external innovators.

As part of its philosophy of deep industry integration, Pearl Academy also announced a partnership with EY India, a global leader in consulting, for its management programmes’ specialisation in Data Science and Business Analytics. Through this collaboration, EY India  will train Pearl School of Business students on mission-critical skills to achieve success in today’s business landscape, such as business intelligence and data visualisation through  Power BI and Tableau. All students enrolled in the new BBA and MBA programmes will also receive a certification from EY India, further enhancing their industry readiness and global outlook.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy, said, “Creativity is not just the ability to make—it is the courage to reveal, the instinct to question, and the will to transform. Each idea born in the classroom finds its voice in Portfolio, where imagination takes its first professional breath. This showcase is more than a graduation—it’s a declaration of possibility. To our graduating class: the world awaits your vision, your values, and your courage to shape what comes next.”

 The event culminated in a graduate fashion show at the campus, celebrating each student’s unique design voice. Every collection told a distinct story of inspiration, innovation, and disruption—revealing the technical skill and conceptual thinking behind their creations. More than a showcase, this presentation highlighted their evolution into industry-ready designers, embodying Pearl Academy’s commitment to nurturing tomorrow’s creative leaders. The immersive experience was brought alive by interactive workshops and installations encouraging dialogue between academia and industry. Students gained vital industry exposure and networking opportunities, connecting directly with potential employers, collaborators, and mentors.

With real-time mentorship from industry leaders, exposure to global opportunities, and a platform that merges creativity with enterprise, Portfolio 2025 once again proved why Pearl Academy remains a frontrunner in shaping India’s creative economy.

AIGF Applauds Meta’s Revised Ad Policy Enabling Regulated RMG Advertising in India

India, 30 May, 2025:  The All India Gaming Federation (AIGF) has welcomed Meta’s updated advertising policy, which now allows real money gaming (RMG) operators in India to advertise on its platforms in a regulated and responsible manner. As per the new guidelines announced on Thursday, RMG advertisers must obtain Meta’s written permission before running ads, and such advertisements cannot be targeted at individuals under the age of 18. This move marks a significant step towards legitimizing and streamlining RMG advertising in India, aligning with industry calls for clearer and more accountable digital practices.

Lauding the Meta’s move, Roland Landers, CEO, All India Gaming Federation (AIGF) “We welcome Meta’s significant shift in its advertising policy towards greater clarity and compliance for Real Money Gaming (RMG) advertisers. The new framework is a major step forward in aligning global platform policy with India’s regulatory and legal realities. It ensures that only authorized, responsible operators can access Meta’s ad inventory while protecting users especially minors from exposure to unregulated gaming content.

“As the oldest and largest industry body for online skill gaming in India, AIGF has long championed self-regulation and legality in gaming. For nearly a decade, we have run the most exhaustive voluntary skill game certification process in the country, rooted in legal validation and integrity. We are pleased that Meta now recognizes AIGF issued certificates as valid proof for legal and skill-based classification of games.”

Mr. Landers further added “This milestone reflects the impact of sustained industry platform dialogue and positions India’s legitimate gaming sector for more responsible and structured growth in digital advertising environments.”

The Bharat Nutrition and Lifestyle Classroom: Nurturing the Future Champions of Bharat

When Luke met our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji at the NXT Conclave 2025, the conversation turned to health—not just as a personal matter, but as a national priority. He spoke with urgency and clarity: a healthy economy depends on healthy citizens. And true change begins at the grassroots—with our children, our schools, and the everyday choices that shape a lifetime of well-being.

Luke Coutinho 

That’s where this movement was born.

Last month, in honour of that vision, we launched the Bharat School Menu and Lifestyle Plan—a free, monthly initiative to bring balanced, local nutrition to school cafeterias across India. Since its launch, we have had schools, teachers, parents, and kids embracing it; institutions have also added it to their curriculum. 

Today, we take that commitment a step further.

This month, Team Luke introduces The Bharat Nutrition and Lifestyle Classroom—a free, live educational sessions created for children between the ages of 7 and 10, open to all parents, teachers, tutors, caregivers, and schools across India, every weekend, the first set of sessions starting from May 31st and June 1st. (in English and Hindi respectively)

These aren’t just lectures about nutrition and food. They’re living classrooms on a 360-degree approach to better living, one step at a time.

What makes this classroom different?

  • It’s free, accessible, and inclusive.

Every child—whether from a government school, private institution, or homeschooling setup—can join these sessions. No login barriers, no price tags.

  • It’s conducted in both English and Hindi.

Saturday sessions will run in English, and Sunday sessions in Hindi, starting 31st May and 1st June 2025. Over time, we aim to add more regional languages.

  • It’s built on our ‘small wins’ approach.

Our philosophy is simple: big change begins with small, daily action. Each class will equip children with one or two doable practices—whether it’s eating a colorful plate, walking barefoot on grass, putting the phone away during meals, or offering gratitude before sleep. These tiny habits build emotional and physical resilience over time.

  • It’s aligned with the PM’s vision of ‘Make in India, Heal in India’.

Just like the Bharat School Menu and Lifestyle Plan we launched earlier this year, this classroom is our way of backing that vision with action. We’re not just talking about healthy children—we’re helping raise them, one school, one class, and one family at a time.

These sessions will cover:

  • Nutrition that’s simple and local
  • Movement and play for strength and joy
  • Rest and sleep as healing tools
  • Emotional wellness and kindness
  • Social media and screen time awareness
  • Cultural values and leading by example

The idea behind these sessions is to make learning fun yet impactful through playful Q&As, interactive quizzes, storytelling, and real-life conversations., Children will learn how to take action—not just absorb information. Because it’s not enough to teach kids about vitamins and food groups. We need to show them how small, consistent choices—getting good sleep, chewing mindfully, moving their bodies, expressing emotions, and using social media wisely—can change how they feel, think, grow, and live.

“We will teach children how to take knowledge and put it into action, in the field of nutrition, in the field of exercise and movement, sleep, mental health, emotional health, and the use of social media. We encourage all schools, all parents, and all children to be part of these sessions.” Luke Coutinho 

As inspired by our Honourable Prime Minister’s vision, this initiative is deeply rooted in the belief that India’s health solutions lie within her own soil, kitchens, and communities. Our commitment to Make in India, Heal in India begins with education—nutrition, lifestyle, and values that start young and ripple outward.

Our trained nutritionists and lifestyle experts, who have years of experience with child wellness and working across schools, will guide these sessions with care, clarity, and fun. Eventually, every session will be recorded and made downloadable, so schools and parents can revisit them at their own pace.

We’ve always believed that transformation begins with small wins. Through these weekly sessions, our goal is not to overwhelm but to empower. Each class will offer children one clear, practical takeaway they can act on. 

Registration is now open across all our platforms.

We encourage schools, hostels, families, and community centers to sign up and spread the word. Let’s make this a true people’s movement—for a healthier, stronger Bharat.

The future isn’t built on fear. It’s built on knowledge, action, and the quiet confidence of a child who knows how to care for their body and mind.

This is our offering. This is our service.

We look forward to walking this path with every school, every child, and every parent who wants to be part of a better tomorrow.

Ashok Leyland Secures Order for 250 State-of-the-art Trucks from M/s Patanjali Parivahan Private Ltd.

Chandigarh, 30 May 2025: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, today announced that it has bagged a prestigious order to deliver state-of-the-art trucks to M/S Patanjali Parivahan Private Ltd., a key logistics player. This milestone marks a significant step in strengthening the partnership between the two companies and reinforces Ashok Leyland’s position as a trusted mobility provider.

To mark the commencement of deliveries, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, President – MHCV, Ashok Leyland handed over the keys to the first batch of trucks to Shri Ram Bharat Ji – Founder Patanjali Parivahan Private Ltd., in the presence of senior executives from both organisations.

Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, President – MHCV, Ashok Leyland said, “We are thrilled to deliver the first batch of 1916 haulage trucks to Patanjali Parivahan Private Ltd. This partnership reflects their trust in our brand and products, reinforcing our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers in the dynamic commercial vehicle sector. Our relationship with Patanjali began in 2014 with the addition of 20 trucks, marking the foundation of a strong and growing collaboration. As Ashok Leyland continues to expand and lead in the commercial vehicle industry, collaborations like these pave the way for a more efficient and progressive logistics sector. The company remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and offering cutting-edge technologies and outstanding customer experience.”

Shri Ram Bharat Ji Founder, Patanjali Parivahan Pvt Ltd said, “We have complete trust in the quality and performance of Ashok Leyland trucks. Their outstanding after-sales support ensures seamless operations for us, while their growing service network further enhances our capabilities. This delivery represents more than just new trucks—it signifies a deepening partnership aimed at advancing logistics efficiency. With Ashok Leyland’s dedication to innovation and our forward-thinking approach to transportation, we look forward to continued success on the road.”

Patanjali Parivahan Pvt Ltd, a leading logistics player, is one of the fastest-growing transport businesses in North India, with a fleet of approximately 1,000 trucks has placed a substantial order to Ashok Leyland’s trucks, reaffirming its trust in the brand’s cutting-edge technology, reliability, and superior service support. The first batch of 25 units of 1916 haulage trucks were delivered today, marking the beginning of this extensive fleet expansion.

This milestone reinforces Ashok Leyland’s leadership in the commercial vehicle sector, underscoring its dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and industry excellence.

NSE Academy partners with IMA, USA, to advance Management Accounting education in India

NSE Academy Limited (NAL), a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange, has partnered with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA®), USA, one of the largest and widely respected global associations dedicated to advancing the management accounting profession, in ushering a new era of management accounting education in India.

NAL and IMA will now jointly offer certifications and training programs focusing on modern skills for management accounting professionals. As part of the workforce readiness and workforce development initiative of NSE Academy, this initiative aims to build a talent pipeline equipped with specialized knowledge in management accounting through globally-recognized IMA certifications.

NAL and IMA will introduce pathway programs for accounting professionals and aspirants, seamlessly integrating IMA certifications including, CSCA® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis), IMA Sustainability Business Practices Certificate™, and the IMA FMAA™ (Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate).

Accessible through the NSE Knowledge Hub, NAL and IMA will offer IMA Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses for finance practitioners in India in the fields of Data Practices, Cybersecurity, and Analytics. The goal of these joint programs and IMA certifications is to provide in-depth knowledge in management accounting, strategic decision-making, and financial analysis relevant to workplace situations, preparing professionals for future challenges in the field. The partnership will also open engagement avenues for the management accounting community in India, advocating for global best practices and encouraging ongoing professional development.

IMA President and CEO, Mike DePrisco, said: “IMA is proud to partner with NSE Academy in a shared mission to shape the future of accounting and finance in India. Professionals in India will now be able to gain access to a robust portfolio of continuing professional education courses and the opportunity to earn globally recognized certifications from IMA, including the FMAA and the CSCA. Together, NSE Academy and IMA are empowering the next generation of accounting and finance leaders with the knowledge and skills to thrive—both locally and around the world.”

Mr. Abhilash Misra, CEO of NSE Academy Ltd., stated: “We are thrilled to partner with IMA. This partnership aims to address the increasing talent demand and emerging career opportunities in the domain of finance and accounting, fulfilling the skills gap and providing top-tier education and certifications to organizations and universities in India. We continue to work in advancing our objective of cultivating talent for the future and enhancing India’s expanding influence in the global economy.”

Hungama Digital Media joins forces with Bhamla Foundation and BMC to unveil Tik Tik Plastic 3.0 — a star-driven campaign to #BeatPlasticPollution

Continuing its endeavour to drive thought-provoking conversations around environmental conservation, Hungama Digital Media, in association with the Bhamla Foundation and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), launched the third edition of the impactful green initiative — Tik Tik Plastic 3.0. The campaign was unveiled at a live press conference in Mumbai, which was marked by the esteemed presence of Ajay Devgn, Rohit Shetty, Sharvari Wagh, Imtiaz Ali, Bhushan Gagrani, Asif Bhamla, and Neeraj Roy.  This year, the initiative brings together a formidable creative force to spotlight the devastating effects of plastic pollution through a hard-hitting short film anchored in the official theme — #BeatPlasticPollution, which was also launched at the event.

The first film, titled Earthing’, stars Ajay along with Sharvari, while the second one, ‘Pyasa’, features Ajay Devgn in a solo role. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, both short films aim to spark dialogue, encourage behavioural change, and catalyse meaningful climate-conscious action. As the official digital partner of Tik Tik Plastic 3.0, Hungama Digital Media will distribute the films across various digital platforms.

This edition of the campaign is also supported by partners including Godrej Industries Group and Ravin Group, whose commitment to environmental sustainability has been instrumental in expanding the impact of this movement

Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner of BMC, highlighted the need for community involvement and said, “This campaign exemplifies the power of collaboration between public institutions, private enterprises, and international organizations like UNEP to address urgent environmental challenges. Mumbai generates a significant portion of plastic waste annually and managing this requires active community participation. By promoting awareness and encouraging eco-friendly habits, we can reduce plastic usage and protect our soil, plants, and environment. Together, through initiatives like this, we can build a cleaner, greener Mumbai that sets an example for cities across India and the world.”

Ashish Shelar, Minister of Cultural Affairs, Maharashtra, said, “The Bhamla Foundation continues to champion environmental causes in impactful and innovative ways. I congratulate the entire team for their tireless efforts — from securing CSR funds to organizing beach clean-ups and launching initiatives for students. The BMC is committed to supporting and advancing such meaningful work. The concept of ‘Earthing’, along with its music, storytelling, and message, must resonate across the nation. We also aim to create more open spaces in Mumbai that can serve as the city’s lungs, contributing to a healthier, greener future.”

 Commenting on his association, Ajay Devgn, Bollywood actor and Global Ambassador of World Environment Day 2025, said “The environment is not just a global concern; it’s a personal responsibility that affects every individual. I chose to be part of this campaign because it emphasizes simple yet powerful actions we can take to protect our planet. Initiatives like eliminating plastic from our daily lives are essential steps toward a cleaner and greener future. By addressing pressing issues like plastic pollution, we can collectively strive to beat plastic pollution and create a sustainable world. I firmly believe that collective action can lead to meaningful change, and I’m honored to lend my voice to this vital movement.”

Asif Bhamla, Chairman of the Bhamla Foundation, called for actionable change and mentioned, “Driving actionable change requires mobilizing entire communities, and public-private partnerships like our collaboration with BMC and Godrej Industries Group are key to making a real difference. While behavior change remains a challenge in our country, simple communication paired with effective calls to action can truly land the message. For example, replacing single-use plastic bottles with sustainable alternatives and protecting soil, plants, and the broader environment are small but vital solutions that together help restore balance and sustain life on Earth. Through these films, we aim to revive sustainable lifestyles and inspire a collective shift toward environmental balance.”

Sharing his views on this year’s campaign, Neeraj Roy, Founder & Managing Director, Hungama Digital Media, said, “We are proud to continue our partnership with the Bhamla Foundation for Tik Tik Plastic 3.0. With Imtiaz Ali’s compelling storytelling and the involvement of celebrated actors like Ajay Devgn and Sharvari, we believe this campaign serves as a powerful call to action. By leveraging digital reach and cinematic influence, our goal is not only to raise awareness but also to inspire behavioural change that contributes to a more sustainable future.”

Following the film releases, Tik Tik Plastic 3.0 will roll out a series of impactful on-ground initiatives to promote sustainable living. These include afforestation drives, composting workshops, beach clean-up events, a green cyclothon to advocate land restoration, and awareness installations across Mumbai. The campaign will also extend to educational institutions and key stakeholders such as UNEP IndiaMCGM, and MoEFCC, reinforcing the message of conservation and community action beyond World Environment Day.