Archives January 2026

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India: Jan 29:  Biocon Biologics Limited, a fully integrated, global biosimilars company and subsidiary of Biocon Ltd., today announced that S&P Global Ratings has upgraded the Company’s long-term issuer credit rating to ‘BB+’ from ‘BB’, and revised the outlook to “Stable”. The rating on the senior secured notes issued by Biocon Biologics Global PLC has also been upgraded to ‘BB+’.

This positive development follows Biocon’s recent equity issuance to settle compulsorily convertible

preference shares (CCPS) issued to Viatris Inc.

S&P Global provided the following Rating Action Rationale: 

• Biocon has simplified its capital structure. The company reduced its outstanding structured debt liabilities, and a US$1 billion CCPS issued to Viatris has now been removed through a mix of equity share swaps and cash consideration. Biocon funded the cash payout through fresh equity of about US$460 million that it raised earlier this month.
• New product launches and favorable industry trends will support Biocon’s earnings. Pharmaceutical sector will continue to register healthy growth through 2027, especially for GLP-1s and treatment for oncology and rare diseases.
• Biocon’s financial policy underpins its credit strength. Biocon’s management remains committed to reverting its balance sheet position to levels before its acquisition of Viatris’ biosimilars portfolio. In November 2022, Biocon acquired Viatris’ biosimilar business for US$3.3 billion. The transaction pushed up the group’s debt-to-EBITDA ratio to about 7x in fiscal 2024 from about 2x in fiscal 2022.

S&P said that the stable outlook reflects its view that Biocon’s earnings will grow steadily over the next 12-24 months on the back of growing demand for generics and biosimilars in key international markets and new product launches, which will help the Company to maintain its improved financial position.

New Delhi,  Jan 29: Ramakrishna Electro Components Pvt. Ltd.  an Indian supplier of electronic components and solutions, unveiled its new corporate logo and refreshed brand identity today, marking the next phase of the company’s growth and strategic evolution.

The announcement was made at RK Partnership Day, Ramakrishna’s flagship industry event, which brought together over 80 principal suppliers and more than 150 customers from across the electronics and semiconductor ecosystem.

At the event, the company also outlined its 5-year growth roadmap, targeting INR 2,500 crore in revenue, while also sharing its longer-term target to build a INR 2,500 crore semiconductor distribution and solutions enterprise by 2030.

With India’s semiconductor consumption projected to reach USD 110 billion by 2030, driven by demand across electric mobility, defence electronics, industrial automation and energy infrastructure, Ramakrishna said it is preparing to move beyond the conventional distribution. The company aims to position itself as an integrated ecosystem partner by combining component distribution with design-led and supply-chain-driven solutions.

A key development of this transformation is the expansion of RKDH is Ramakrishna Design House, which will provide end-to-end design and system-level support. The initiative is expected to help customers accelerate product development, strengthen localized engineering capabilities, and enable closer collaboration with OEM and EMS partners. The company also outlined plans to invest in scalable and resilient supply-chain infrastructure to support India’s growing electronics manufacturing requirements.

“Our vision is grounded in purpose and powered by people. As we move forward, we will stay focused on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and meaningful impact for our customers, partners, and communities. By embracing innovation, accountability, and collaboration, we are not just preparing for the future we are shaping it. Together, we will continue to build an organization we are proud of and a legacy that endures.” said Mr Shivang Luthra, Managing Director of Ramakrishna Electro Components.

The company is expanding collaborations with global technology suppliers, covering joint market development initiatives, system-level innovation, and technology partnerships. In parallel, Ramakrishna is working on CSR-led initiatives focused on skill development and long-term ecosystem building, aligned with national priorities such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

RK Partnership Day further served as a platform for Ramakrishna to share its expansion plans across semiconductor distribution, displays, modules, electromechanical components, and integrated box-build solutions, while reinforcing its ambition to become a preferred solutions partner across high-growth technology sectors.

Strong participation and trust from suppliers and customers highlighted growing confidence in the company’s leadership and execution as India’s electronics and semiconductor ecosystem continues to expand.

Bhubaneswar, Jan 29: To honor and celebrate excellence in public relations, IRPRA a prominent name in the PR industry has announced its list of awardee agencies and professionals for 2025. Advento Communications has been honoured with the Best Regional PR Award, earning a place among the top 20 PR agencies. The India’s Regional PR Awards (IRPRA) 2025, a prestigious platform recognizing outstanding achievement in public relations across regional India, proudly announces its list of winners. The awards were revealed on  January 2026, with the virtual ceremony on 17 January 2026, spotlighting the finest talent and innovation in regional communications. The complete details of the award and the list of winners are available at the link https://share.google/ksCv6O7UXtw94lsey 

Two eminent PR professionals from Odisha named Bijayeeta Tripathy and Pabita Mishra conferred with prestigious IRPRA 2025 Awards 2026 under 40 under 40 Awards category. Bijayeeta Tripathy awarded with Best Creative Entertainment Campaign and Pabita Mishra with Leading PR Campaign for Startups. On this occasion, Bijayeeta Tripathy stated, “We are committed to delivering the best PR services in Odisha.” On the other hand, Pabita Mishra said, “We are encouraged by the trust our clients have placed in us, recognizing us as one of Bhubaneswar’s leading PR agencies.”

IRPRA celebrates exceptional contributions by PR professionals and agencies that have demonstrated creativity, strategic excellence, and impact in their campaigns across diverse categories — from crisis communication and digital media to startup communication and rural outreach. 

 “We are thrilled to honor the remarkable work that reshapes how regional narratives are crafted and communicated,” Spokesperson of IRPRA. “The winners represent the next generation of PR excellence — driving innovation and meaningful engagement in their communities.” 

The esteemed jury panel for IRPRA 2025 comprised renowned experts in communications, media, and corporate public relations, including Archana Muthappa, Kavita Lakhani, Jyotsna Dash Nanda, Tanmana Rath, Smita Srivastava, and others who brought deep industry insight to the judging process.

India’s Regional PR Awards (IRPRA) 2025, under the banner of #40under40, celebrated and honored PR professionals who have made remarkable contributions to the field of regional PR over the past few years. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication, shaping the landscape of PR in India. We proudly announce the winners in various categories.

Mr. Abhishek Somany, Managing Director and CEO, SOMANY Ceramics

Natural gas constitutes one of the most critical input costs in ceramic tile manufacturing, yet it continues to remain outside the GST framework. This exclusion leads to a significant cascading tax impact, as manufacturers bear tax levies without access to input tax credit, thereby increasing production costs significantly. Bringing natural gas under GST would meaningfully improve cost efficiency and enhance the global competitiveness of Indian tile manufacturers. Additionally, despite tiles being a fundamental material in residential construction and housing-led infrastructure, they continue to be taxed at 18%. A rationalisation of GST on tiles to the 5 % slab would support affordable housing, stimulate demand and strengthen the domestic manufacturing ecosystem. We hope the upcoming Budget considers these measures to enable sustainable growth for the sector.

Mr Santosh Shah, MD of VYNA Electric

Strengthening Domestic Electrical Manufacturing Through PLI Support

“With India’s electronics PLI scheme disbursing over ₹21,500 crore so far and attracting ₹1.76 lakh crore in committed investment, we expect Budget 2026 to double down on support for domestic manufacturing. A modest reduction in import duties on raw materials and extension of incentives to components for lighting and switchgear would help companies deliver global-quality products at competitive prices. For consumers, this could mean access to safer, more durable home electrical solutions built for Indian conditions. For manufacturers willing to uphold strict quality, it would renew confidence in scaling up responsibly.

 Mr. Tushar Verma, EVP India & Subcon. REHAU India

As India prepares for the next phase of economic growth, the interiors and furniture sector stands at an important inflection point. Urban housing, commercial real estate, and renovation activity are together creating a strong, long term demand for better designed, more durable, and more sustainable interior solutions. The Union Budget has an opportunity to recognise this shift and support an industry that sits at the intersection of manufacturing, housing, and employment. The sector needs a stable and forward looking policy environment, one that encourages domestic manufacturing, simplifies the cost structure of essential inputs, and improves access to capital for the thousands of MSMEs who form the backbone of the interiors ecosystem. From designers and fabricators to component makers and installers, this value chain drives both innovation and livelihoods. A budget that strengthens housing, infrastructure, and small business financing will directly translate into healthier growth for interior solutions, helping Indian homes and workspaces move toward higher quality, safety, and long term value. That is where the real opportunity lies, for the industry and for the economy as a whole.

Manesar, Jan 29: Montra Electric part of the Murugappa Group, has achieved a significant milestone in India’s clean mobility journey by becoming the first heavy-duty electric truck manufacturer in the country to receive certification under the Government of India’s PM E-DRIVE Scheme. Marking this achievement, the company has also delivered the country’s first PM E-DRIVE–certified electric heavy truck, Rhino 5538 EV 6×4 Tractor trailer, to UltraTech Cement Limited, India’s largest cement and ready-mix concrete company, reinforcing its commitment in advancing growth of electric vehicles.

The milestone was commemorated in the presence of Shri Arun Murugappan, Chairman-Montra Electric  Jalaj Gupta MD-Montra Electric Shri Sathia Raj, Chief Procurement Officer, UltraTech Cement Limited, underscoring the significance of this achievement for India’s clean mobility ecosystem.

This move is expected to expedite the adoption of electric heavy-duty trucks across India’s logistics, mining, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors by significantly improving the business case for electrification. By enabling large fleet operators and industrial customers to transition away from conventional fuels without compromising on performance, uptime, or economics, the certification marks a decisive step towards cleaner, more efficient, and future-ready freight movement.

The first PM E-DRIVE–certified Rhino 5538 EV was flagged off and handed over to UltraTech by Shri Arun Murugappan.

The INR 10,900 crore PM E-DRIVE scheme has an out lay of Rs 500 crore dedicated for e-trucks, translating into a direct customer benefit of up to INR 9.6 lakh per vehicle for the Rhino 5538 EV. The incentive improves long-term fleet economics by lowering operating costs, reducing fuel price volatility exposure, and supporting compliance with evolving sustainability and emission norms.

Commenting on the occasion, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy,  Union Minister for Heavy Industries, said, 

“The PM E-DRIVE scheme is a testament to the growing prowess of Indian innovation in the heavy-duty electric vehicle segment. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, we are committed to decarbonizing our logistics and making India a global hub for EV manufacturing. Electric trucks are pivotal to our Net Zero goals, and by fostering a self-reliant ecosystem through such certifications, we are driving the spirit of Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat.

We are very happy to see our Prime Minister’s vision coming to life with the 1st PM E-Drive certified heavy duty electric truck from ‘Montra Electric’ getting delivered today.”

Commenting on the milestone, Arun Murugappan, Chairman, Montra Electric (TI Clean Mobility Private Limited), said,

 “Decarbonising freight is one of the most critical challenges in India’s energy transition. We are grateful to the Government of India and our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for introducing forward-looking and progressive policy frameworks such as the PM E-DRIVE Scheme, which represent a welcome and transformative step in accelerating this shift, particularly in heavy commercial vehicles where emissions intensity is high.

At Montra Electric, we are proud to contribute to this national mission by delivering technologically advanced, reliable, and scalable electric M&HCV solutions that can drive meaningful and lasting change in India’s mobility ecosystem.”

Designed specifically for Indian operating conditions, the Rhino 5538 EV Tractor trailer range is available in 6×4 and 4×2 Tractor trailer variants. The Rhino 5538 EV 4×2 Tractor trailer offers both battery swapping and fixed battery options, six-minute battery swaps, a 282 kWh LFP battery delivering 380 HP and 2000 Nm torque, and a range of nearly 198 km under standard test conditions. These capabilities make the Rhino 5538 EV well-suited for high-utilisation, fixed-route, and hub-to-hub applications across ports, mining operations, cement logistics, steel plants, and long-haul freight corridors—segments that contribute significantly to India’s freight emissions footprint.

With heavy-duty trucks accounting for a disproportionate share of freight emissions, the PM E-DRIVE–certified Rhino 5538 EV represents a critical lever in India’s journey towards net-zero and cleaner industrial growth. Montra Electric plans to work closely with customers, policymakers, and ecosystem partners to accelerate the deployment of electric heavy-duty trucks across India’s core economic sectors.

Jan 29: Cathay Cargo has successfully transported approximately 60 elite showjumping horses from Europe to Hong Kong for the Longines Hong Kong International Horse Show, scheduled to take place at AsiaWorld-Expo from 30 January to 1 February 2026.

Building on the success of last year’s event, Cathay Cargo’s specialist teams executed a highly coordinated logistics operation to transport the equine athletes on a 12-hour journey from Liège, Belgium—a central European hub with a well-equipped cargo airport and stabling facilities—to Hong Kong International Airport. The horses travelled aboard a chartered Boeing 747 freighter, whose spacious main deck and temperature-controlled environment provide optimal conditions for safe and comfortable long-haul transport, ensuring the horses arrive calm, healthy, and competition-ready.

Commenting on the operation, Dominic Perret, Director Cargo, Cathay, said: “Transporting world-class equine athletes is both a privilege and a significant responsibility. We understand the pressures riders and owners face ahead of elite competition, which is why our focus is to eliminate travel as a source of stress. Our proven expertise in live animal logistics has driven year-on-year growth in this segment, and supporting an event of this calibre further reinforces our position as a trusted partner for high-stakes animal transport.”

Reimagining the live animal transport experience

As global demand for live animal cargo continues to grow, Cathay Cargo’s approach extends beyond transportation alone. Its Live Animal solution is anchored in three core principles:

• Creature comfort: IATA-compliant travel stalls ensure adequate space, ventilation, and safety.

• Charting the right path: Optimised routing minimises stops and transit time, reducing stress for the animals.

• Flying with trust: Industry-leading IATA CEIV Live Animals certification ensures the highest standards of animal welfare.

Each flight is supported by dedicated human expertise. The horses benefit from priority ground handling and slow-speed tarmac transfers. During the flight, CEIV-certified crew continuously monitor and adjust cargo-hold temperature and airflow, while professional grooms accompany the horses throughout the journey, providing hands-on care and constant supervision.

Jo Peck, Event Director at HPower International, said:

“For an international event of this scale, the stakes are exceptionally high. There is no room for uncertainty when transporting elite equine athletes. That’s why we are delighted to partner with Cathay Cargo for the second consecutive year. Their meticulous care, deep understanding of horses, and world-class cargo discipline provide invaluable assurance, allowing riders and organisers to focus entirely on delivering a successful event.”

Cathay Cargo is the first airline in Asia to achieve IATA’s CEIV Live Animals certification, reflecting its deep expertise in managing complex, high-value animal shipments across multiple species.

The successful delivery of these elite showjumping horses once again underscores Cathay Cargo’s leadership in live animal logistics and its continued partnership with one of Asia’s most anticipated international equestrian events.

Bangalore, Jan 29: Cervical cancer is often silent, undetected, and devastating. But what if the story could be changed? What if prevention was within reach—right now?

Cervical cancer: A preventable crisis

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India, responsible for nearly 20% of all female cancer cases. The good news is that 90% of these cases are preventable with timely vaccination and screening. Yet, fewer than 2% of women between 30–49 have ever been screened. This isn’t due to a lack of concern, but because many women lack the access, awareness, and support to act early. The solution is simple, taking an HPV (Human Papillomavirus vaccine) in advance as a preventive measure.

Prevention Starts with Early Action

What if families could act before cervical cancer even has a chance? Tata AIA Health Buddy empowers families to take control of their health. With easy access to HPV vaccination as part of Health Buddy benefits, our consumers can ensure they are protected from cervical cancer, that too at discounted rates. Tata AIA removes the hassle of external appointments and complicated procedures, enabling families to act when it matters most.

Sujeet Kothare, Chief of Products, Marketing, Corporate Communications & Business Mid Office, Tata AIA Life Insurance said,

 “Cervical cancer remains a significant threat to women’s health in India, but prevention is within our control. Taking proactive steps, such as the HPV vaccination, can help protect future generations. At Tata AIA, we are committed to empowering women with the tools they need to live healthy lives. Through our Tata AIA Health Buddy benefits, we offer exclusive discounts on HPV vaccinations, reinforcing our dedication to the well-being of the communities we serve. Together, we can make a lasting impact in the fight against cervical cancer.”

More than just Vaccination: Comprehensive support at every step

Cervical cancer prevention is just the beginning. Tata AIA Health Buddy is designed to support families throughout their health journeys:

• Doctor Consultations: Easy access to expert advice when needed.
• Health Check-ups: Regular monitoring to stay ahead of health needs.
• Medical Second Opinions & Case Management: Dedicated support for families during critical health challenges.
• Extra Savings: Discounts on prescribed medicines and lab tests.

These services aren’t just about convenience—they’re about giving families the tools to make informed decisions and the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are supported at every step of the way.

Real benefits for the Whole Family

Health decisions affect the entire family. Whether it’s a mother, wife, sister, or daughter, caring for loved ones is a shared responsibility. With Tata AIA Health Buddy, the whole family has access to crucial health services, empowering them to stay healthy. And it’s not just policyholders who benefit; Tata AIA extends these services to nominees and family members as well.

Shifting the Focus: Life Insurance that cares about Health

What if life insurance was about more than just financial protection? What if it was about proactive care, early action, and long-term health management? Tata AIA is shifting the paradigm. With Tata AIA Health Buddy, the company is not only protecting families’ financial futures—it’s helping them stay healthy, stay informed, and take charge of their well-being every step of the way.

Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director, Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA), participated in a high-level roundtable on “Net Zero Emissions: Environmental, Economic and Social Implications – Role of Oil and Biofuels in the Transition” at India Energy Week 2026 in Goa.

Highlighting India’s rapid progress in clean energy, Shri Das noted that the parallel scaling of renewable energy and alternative low-carbon fuels is already delivering tangible outcomes. Initiatives such as ethanol blending are reducing import dependence, lowering emissions, and enhancing energy security, collectively steering the country towards a Viksit Bharat. He emphasised that this integrated approach is aligned with India’s development-first pathway to achieving Net Zero by 2070 and its commitment to install 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. With India’s per capita electricity consumption still less than one-third of the global average, he stressed the importance of a phased, realistic, and growth-oriented energy transition.

Shri Das further underscored that oil and gas will continue to play a critical transitional role across transport, petrochemicals, and industry, ensuring energy security and price stability. He added that biofuels offer a scalable decarbonisation pathway by leveraging existing infrastructure while simultaneously supporting rural livelihoods.

He also highlighted that India’s clean energy expansion represents one of the largest nation-building opportunities globally, generating significant demand for engineers, financiers, data specialists, and project managers. A just, affordable transition—supported by reskilling initiatives and strong domestic manufacturing—will be essential to maximise social and economic benefits.

Concluding his address, Shri Das stated,

“Oil, gas and biofuels are not obstacles but enablers of a systematic transition. IREDA remains committed to ensuring that India’s climate ambitions are supported by accessible and affordable green finance.”

In addition, the CMD, IREDA, contributed to the CEO Roundtable on “Global Green Hydrogen and its Derivatives Offtake,” where he emphasised that scalable financing mechanisms and coordinated policy support are critical to accelerating the development of India’s green hydrogen and green ammonia markets. He noted that speed and skill, backed by strong policy frameworks, can position India not only as a major manufacturing hub for green hydrogen but also as a significant global export hub.

New Delhi, Jan 29: Punjab & Sind Bank marked the 77th Republic Day of India with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour across its offices, reaffirming its steadfast commitment to the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution of India. The celebrations reflected the Bank’s deep respect for India’s democratic ethos and its enduring legacy of service to the nation.

At the Bank’s Corporate Office, the celebrations commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by Shri Swarup Kumar Saha, Managing Director & CEO, in the presence of senior management, officers, staff members, and invited guests. The solemn flag-hoisting ceremony was followed by the singing of the National Anthem, instilling a strong sense of unity and national pride among all present.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Swarup Kumar Saha highlighted the significance of Republic Day and reiterated Punjab & Sind Bank’s unwavering commitment to nation-building, inclusive growth, customer-centric banking, and service excellence. He also commended the dedication and collective efforts of the Bank’s employees in strengthening its contribution to India’s economic development.

The celebrations were further enriched by a stirring military band performance, adding grandeur and patriotic spirit to the occasion. Reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, a plantation drive was also organised as part of the event.

A vibrant cultural programme followed, featuring performances by Bank employees and their children, celebrating India’s rich cultural diversity. Special group dance performances by Amrit Saini Academy emerged as a key highlight of the celebrations and were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Chief General Manager, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to all participants, performers, and organising teams for making the celebration memorable. The event concluded with a brunch, fostering camaraderie and togetherness among employees.

Punjab & Sind Bank continues to uphold the spirit of the Constitution and remains committed to serving the nation with integrity, dedication, and excellence—where service truly remains a way of life.