All posts by Neel Achary

Alumil Becomes 1st Greek Company Of Architectural Aluminium Systems To Achieve Cradle to Cradle Certified® Silver For Its Products

Navi Mumbai, 29th October 2025: Alumil Group – one of the global pioneers in designing and manufacturing of high-quality architectural aluminium systems has achieved a major sustainability milestone by becoming the first Greek company of architectural aluminium systems to receive the international Cradle to Cradle Certified® (C2C) Silver for a broad range of its products. The certification covers 34 systems, including curtain walls, sliding and hinged doors & windows systems and folding door system, among others. The accreditation affirms Alumil’s commitment to eco-responsible innovation. Through a thorough and complex evaluation process, Alumil received a Silver-level certification based on the five rigorous criteria including material health, product circularity, clean air & climate protection, water & soil stewardship and social fairness.

This landmark achievement offers Alumil India a significant strategic advantage, as its products are inherently aligned with the principles of Sustainable Building and Bioclimatic Architecture, delivering the high energy efficiency essential for modern green buildings.

“With Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification, Alumil is well-positioned to participate in high-specification projects seeking accreditation under LEED, BREEAM and other sustainability frameworks. The achievement aligns perfectly with the company’s vision in India to offer clients assurances of material safety, circular economy compliance and lowest possible environmental impact. It empowers us to partner with our clients in building a more sustainable future, offering proven, certified products that contribute to healthier buildings and a healthier planet. This is a significant step forward, not just for Alumil, but for the entire industry in the region,” says Mr Theodoros Axouristos, Managing Director, Alumil India.

Through this achievement, Alumil demonstrates that its architectural systems are not only high in performance and design but also safe for people and the environment. Since the certification, Alumil has continued to expand its green credentials through newer product launches, recycled-material initiatives such as Loop 80, and enhancements in energy efficiency and durability across its aluminium systems in India. These steps are part of Alumil’s vision to support sustainable built environments and align with global green building standards.

India, 29^th October, 2025: Riding high on the success of their viral hit ‘Bolo Bolo’, India’s first I-Pop girl group W.i.S.H. is back, this time reimagining one of Bollywood’s most loved anthems  “Desi Girl”. As expected, their latest single asks the timeless question, “Who’s the hottest girl in the world?” and delivers a sparkling, high-energy answer only W.i.S.H. could give.

A glamorous, bold, and unapologetically powerful reimagining of the song that ruled dance floors across generations, Desi Girl fuses nostalgia with a futuristic I-Pop edge. Produced by their mentor and acclaimed composer Mikey McCleary, alongside rising talent Parth Parekh, the track draws from Trinidad and Tobago’s Chutney Music and Baile Funk, giving it a fresh, global sound while keeping its desi heart intact.

“We grew up dancing to the iconic Desi Girl,” shares W.i.S.H. “It’s one of those songs that makes everyone light up. Vishal–Shekhar, Sunidhi Chauhan, Shankar Mahadevan, and Kumar are artists we deeply admire and have always been inspired by. Reimagining this classic and sharing it with the world felt both nostalgic and empowering. This one’s for everyone who’s proud of where they come from and isn’t afraid to own it.”

W.i.S.H. dropped the Desi Girl Music Video today, and it brings that spirit to life in full colour. From a glamorous nod to the OG’s iconic bulb-lit frame to cruising through Delhi in a convertible, W.i.S.H. blends everyday energy with pop-star shine. Shot in a mix of handy-cam intimacy and glam-pop sheen, the video captures the joy, freedom, and fearless fun of being a Desi Girl – W.i.S.H. style.

The original ‘Desi Girl’ from “Dostana”, the Priyanka Chopra Abhishek Bachhan John Abraham rom-com is written by Kumar, composed by Vishal–Shekhar and sung by Shankar Mahadevan, Sunidhi Chauhan, and Vishal Dadlani. The song released in 2008 and became an instant anthem, defining an era of modern Bollywood music.

Whether you’ve danced to the original or are discovering it anew, Desi Girl by W.i.S.H. promises to reignite the anthem for a new generation.

Purple Finance Strengthens Capital Base with INR 39 Crore Fundraise from Intellect Money Finvest

Mumbai, 29th October, 2025: Purple Finance Limited, a Mumbai-based non-banking company (NBFC), has announced the approval of a INR 39 crore capital raise through the private placement of 1 crore equity share warrants, each convertible into one equity share at a price of INR 39 per share.

The Finance Committee, authorized by the Board of Directors, approved the issuance on a preferential basis, with Intellect Money Finvest Private Limited participating as the sole investor. 

Commenting on the development, Mr. Amitabh Chaturvedi, Executive Chairman and Executive Director, Purple Finance Limited, said “This fundraise will strengthen our Capital Base and help us accelerate our disbursement goals.

This strategic fundraise marks a significant milestone for Purple Finance, reinforcing its commitment to building a resilient, growth-oriented financial institution and supporting its future expansion plans.”

Gold Medal Triumphs at the Asian Indoor Championships

The recent Asian Indoor Championships highlighted the extraordinary talents of Indian athletes, culminating in significant gold medal accomplishments. Tajinderpal Singh Toor, a prominent figure in shot put, delivered an outstanding performance, clinching gold in the men’s shot put event. Toor showcased his immense strength and skill, achieving a personal best that not only marked a personal milestone but also solidified his standing among the elite in Asian athletics. His triumph serves as a testament to the rigorous training and dedication that athletes in India are demonstrating on larger platforms.

Equally impressive was Jyothi Yarraji’s commendable victory in the women’s 60m hurdles. Yarraji’s explosive speed and agility enabled her to outpace her competitors, securing a gold medal with a remarkable time that underscored her status as one of Asia’s premier hurdlers. This achievement represents not only a personal victory for Yarraji but also a significant boost for women’s athletics in India, inspiring the next generation of female athletes to pursue their dreams in a competitive landscape.

Harmilan Bains also shone brightly in the championships, triumphing in the women’s 1500m event. Her strategic pacing and determined finish allowed her to attain a personal best, showcasing her potential to excel further in her athletic career. Bains’ gold medal reinforces the idea that Indian long-distance runners are rising to new heights, contributing to the country’s growing reputation in middle-distance events.

Additionally, Ankita Dhyani’s impressive performance in the women’s 3000m secured her a silver medal. Dhyani’s effort reflected a high level of competitiveness, indicating the strength of women’s middle-distance running in India. The contributions of these athletes at the Asian Indoor Championships not only enhance India’s standing in athletics but also inspire fellow sportsmen and sportswomen to reach for excellence.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Major Athletics Events in India

The future of athletics in India is poised for significant progression, particularly with the upcoming 2026 Asian Indoor Championships to be held in Tianjin, China. This event is anticipated to be a pivotal moment for emerging Indian athletes. With the nation’s deepening commitment to sports, these championships offer a platform for Indian competitors to demonstrate their burgeoning talents. The Asian Indoor Championships are crucial not only for India’s rising athletic prowess but also serve to enhance the visibility of athletics on the international stage.

In addition to the 2026 championships, India has set its sights on hosting prestigious events, notably the 2028 World U20 Championships. The preparations for this event signify India’s ambition to elevate its status in global athletics. Hosting international competitions will enable the country to showcase its commitment to fostering talent at the grassroots level. The influx of young athletes from diverse backgrounds aligns with the broader objective of nurturing sporting abilities across India, ensuring the nation’s representation on world platforms is both substantial and significant.

Moreover, discussions around potentially hosting senior World Athletics Championships in 2029 or 2031 reflect a strategic vision for the country’s athletics landscape. Such initiatives would necessitate advancements in infrastructure, including stadium enhancements and athlete training facilities. The implications of hosting these events extend beyond immediate benefits; they promise long-term impacts on sports tourism, local economies, and the overall development of athletic communities.

In conclusion, as India gears up for these monumental events, the focus remains not only on competition but also on the broader upliftment of athletics within the nation. These developments highlight the potential for India to emerge as a formidable player in the international athletics arena, fostering a culture of sporting excellence.

India’s Ambitious Bid for Global Recognition in Athletics

India’s commitment to enhancing its global standing in athletics is becoming increasingly visible, particularly through its bids to host significant international sporting events. This ambition is driven by a combination of improving infrastructure, bolstered administrative capabilities, and past successes in organizing major competitions, such as the Asian Athletics Championships and the National Games. These factors not only contribute to India’s readiness but also reflect a broader strategy for establishing the nation as a prominent destination for global track and field competitions.

The physical infrastructure has seen marked improvements, with modern stadiums and state-of-the-art training facilities being developed in various regions. Cities like Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, and Pune have emerged as potential hosts, benefiting from investment aimed at upgrading sports venues to meet international standards. This investment resonates with a growing emphasis on athletics within the country and represents a significant step towards attracting global events.

Furthermore, the administrative framework within Indian athletics has evolved to manage these large-scale events effectively. Organizations such as the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) have played a pivotal role in streamlining processes and ensuring compliance with international norms. Their experiences in orchestrating successful events have instilled confidence among sports authorities worldwide and improved India’s reputation on the global athletics map.

These concerted efforts highlight India’s intention to foster a thriving sports culture that can yield numerous benefits for its athletes. Hosting international events not only boosts local economies but also provides invaluable exposure for Indian competitors, enhancing their skills and experiences on a global scale. As India continues on this path of ambition, the potential to cultivate its identity as a hub for athletics is increasingly manifest, promising a brighter future for its sports landscape.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Indian Athletics

The recent achievements of Indian athletes at the Asian Indoor Championships signify a pivotal moment in the country’s sporting history. This remarkable performance not only showcases the prowess of the athletes but also underscores the potential for India to emerge as a key player in the global athletics arena. As India sets its sights on hosting more international athletic events, such aspirations are pivotal for enhancing the visibility of Indian athletics on the world stage. The hosting of such prestigious competitions can serve as a catalyst for improving athletic infrastructure, thereby attracting international attention and investments in sports facilities.

Investment in the right resources and training can further fortify the capabilities of Indian athletes. Fitness centers, state-of-the-art training facilities, and access to expert coaching are essential for nurturing talent and laying a solid foundation for future champions. By strategically focusing on these aspects, India can create an environment conducive to achieving excellence in athletics and greater participation from the youth.

Moreover, the burgeoning sporting culture, characterized by increased grassroots participation and government support, provides a solid base for the future of athletics in India. Encouraging young athletes through various programs and initiatives can propel the nation to new heights in competitive sports. This momentum generated from recent successes at championships not only inspires upcoming athletes but also fosters a community of sports enthusiasts, raising public interest in athletics.

In summary, as India looks forward to shaping its athletic identity, the recent accomplishments serve as both a foundation and a source of inspiration. The potential to host international events reflects the commitment to elevating the nation’s status in the sporting community, paving the way for a vibrant future in athletics.

India, 29th October, 2025: Shankar Mahadevan hits a high note of luxury with his latest ride – the MG M9, The Presidential Limousine. The ace composer and singer, known for his soulful tunes and powerhouse performances, has brought home MG SELECT’s flagship luxury marvel that’s all about elegance, innovation and presence. The MG M9 perfectly mirrors Mahadevan’s dynamic persona, a seamless fusion of tradition and technology, creativity and class. With its plush interiors, commanding design and state-of-the-art features, this limousine embodies statement on wheels.

Aimed at reimagining indulgence and sophistication, the MG M9 caters to discerning individuals who appreciate luxury with purpose. Its Presidential Seats with 16-way adjustment, eight massage modes, heating and ventilation, and yacht-style dual sunroof create a serene environment that harmonizes comfort and design, much like Mahadevan’s own artistry. Ambient lighting and Cognac brown leather interiors elevate every journey, while intelligent armrest controls and flexible storage add effortless convenience.

The MG M9’s 13-speaker premium sound system with subwoofer and amplifier delivers an immersive acoustic experience, transforming every drive into a private symphony. Offered in Pearl Lustre White, Metal Black, and Concrete Grey, the limousine commands attention with its bold trapezoidal grille, split LED headlamps, waterfall-style taillights, and poised stance on 19-inch ContiSeal™ tyres.

Built with ultra-high strength steel, the M9 prioritizes safety with 7 airbags, Level 2 ADAS, and 5-star EURO NCAP and ANCAP ratings. Powered by a 90-kWh NMC battery, it offers a range of 548 km* and charges from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes, delivering 245 PS of power and 350 NM torque, a driving experience that is as dynamic as it is silent. The MG M9 is available for experience and booking across 14 SELECT Experience Centres in 13 key cities.

BPCL Inks Strategic Alliances with OIL, NRL and FACT, to Drive Growth Across Refining, Petrochemicals, and Green Energy

Hyderabad, 29th October 2025: Sri B. Shafiullah, IFS., Secretary, Telangana Minorities Residential Educational Institutions Society in a press statement today stated that, the Telangana Minorities Residential Educational Institutions Society (TGMREIS) organized “UDAAN 2025 Soaring Beyond Dreams Towards Excellence”, a grand felicitation ceremony to honour the outstanding achievements of TGMREIS students who have secured admissions in prestigious professional courses such as MBBS, BDS, IIT, and NIT.

The event was held at Kumram Bheemu Adivasi Bhavan, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, in the esteemed presence of Sri Adluri Laxman Kumar, Minister for Minority Welfare, Government of Telangana, Janab Mohammed Ali Shabbir Sahab, Advisor to Government, and Janab Mohammed Faheemuddin Qureshi Sahab, Vice Chairman & President TGMREIS and Janab B. Shafiullah Sahab, IFS., Secretary to Government, Minorities Welfare Department & Secretary TGMREIS.

A total of 50 meritorious students were felicitated at the ceremony  including 11 students who secured admissions in IITs and NITs, 36 students in MBBS, and 3 students in BDS courses. As a token of appreciation, the achievers were presented with laptops, certificates, and mementos in recognition of their hard work and perseverance.

During the event, the TMREIS TIMES  A Newsletter of TGMREIS was also released, which is serving as a communication bridge between the institution, students, staff, and the parents. The Institutional Manual and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were also launched, designed to ensure uniformity, efficiency, and accountability across all TGMREIS institutions.

The event concluded with an inspiring note that “UDAAN 2025” stands as a beacon of hope, excellence, and empowerment, symbolizing the success and aspirations of TGMREIS students across Telangana.

DCM Shriram Limited announces strategic acquisition of four salt works to strengthen raw material security for Chemicals Business

New Delhi, October 29, 2025: DCM Shriram Ltd., a leading diversified conglomerate with businesses across Chemicals, Vinyl, Agri, and Building Materials, today announced that its Board has approved the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire 100% stake in four companies engaged in the production of industrial salt for a total purchase consideration of ₹175 crore.

Two of these entities — M/s Manek Salt Works and M/s Shree Raj Salt & Chemical Works — are located in Dahej, (about 70 km from the Company’s Jhagadia (Bharuch) Chlor-Alkali complex), while M/s Devjagan Salt Farm Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Maruti Salt Farm Pvt. Ltd. are situated in Jambusar, approximately 110 km from the Jhagadia Complex. Together, these salt works span over 1,077 acres and have a combined capacity of 2.1 lakh MT of washed industrial salt per annum, equivalent to around 13% of the Company’s annual salt requirement.

This acquisition will mark an important step toward backward integration, strengthening the raw material supply chain for DCM Shriram’s Chemicals Business — a key driver of the Company’s growth and profitability.

Mr. Ajay Shriram, Chairman & Senior Managing Director, and Mr Vikram Shriram, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, said:“Salt is a critical raw material for our Chemicals Business, and this acquisition will address a long-standing strategic vulnerability in our supply chain. With rising demand for industrial salt across multiple end-use industries and increasing competition for coastal land from other sectors such as renewables, securing access to these salt works at Dahej and Jambusar will be a timely and forward-looking step. The acquisition will ensure raw material security, optimize logistics costs, and further strengthen our integrated chemical value chain.”

IIM Sambalpur Hosts 10th Edition of Its Annual Business Conclave Marmagya

Sambalpur, 28th October, 2025: In alignment with Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur (IIM Sambalpur), one of India’s leading management institutions, hosted the 10th edition of its flagship annual business conclave, MARMAGYA 10.0. The theme for this year’s conclave was “Navigating Businesses in a Multipolar World: Ideas for Viksit Bharat 2047.”  IIM Sambalpur is taking a milestone step with this event to inspire students to develop adaptive and globally relevant leadership skills while guiding businesses to collaborate with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The event was graced by Abhishek Naidu, Global Head of Operations at Google, as the Chief Guest, Atul Kharate, Chief Operating Officer at Indian Oil Adani Ventures, as the Guest of Honor, and Vardhaman Agarwal, Director at EY, as the Keynote Speaker.

The conclave brought together students, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders from across the country, reflecting IIM Sambalpur’s commitment to fostering an Atmanirbhar Bharat through innovation, leadership, and collaboration. It also saw participation from senior representatives of leading organizations such as Google, EY, Indian Oil, Adani Ventures, Aditya Birla Group (UltraTech Cement), HCL Tech, ZOHO, Cushman & Wakefield, and several other prominent companies, highlighting its role as a premier platform for exchanging ideas and shaping the future of Indian business.

In his inaugural speech, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 can be achieved through three models. First, increasing women’s participation in the workforce which  is essential for economic growth , as highlighted by Claudia Goldin’s ( Nobel-laureates in Economics 2023). Second, inclusive model of governance  institutions,  highlighted by  Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson & James A. Robinson, ( Nobel-laureates in Economics 2024). Third, innovation- and technology to create   fresh ideas, and creative transformation which is vital for a sustainable economy by Joel Mokyr, Philippe Aghion & Peter Howitt  (Nobel-laureates in Economics 2025)

Over the past decade, each edition of Marmagya has reflected the core of the business world, bridging the gap between academia and industry. From deep insights and strategic partnerships to operational excellence, this event provides a premier platform to foster the Make in India initiative.

On the transformative potential of AI, Chief Guest of the event, Abhishek Naidu, Global Head of Operations, Google, stated, “AI can empower education in underprivileged communities. IIM Sambalpur deserves praise for being the first IIM to integrate Data Science and AI into its curriculum.”

Guest of Honor, Atul Kharate, COO, Indian Oil Adani Ventures, remarked, “In the coming decade, India is set to become the third-largest crude oil processor, supplying petrochemical products globally. Growth in heavy industries and MSMEs is shaping a sustainable, strong economy.”

Keynote Speaker, Vardhaman Agarwal, Director, EY, said, “Marmagya is more than a business conclave- it is a leadership laboratory anchored in Innovation, Integrity, and Inclusiveness. IIM Sambalpur is shaping not just managers, but nation builders.”

This year, Marmagya began with an announcement where IIM Sambalpur introduced the Incubation Hub and Alumni Incubation Scheme as part of the Curtain Raiser for Marmagya 10.0 in Delhi, promoting entrepreneurial activities across the country. Over the past decade, the annual business conclave has evolved into a premier platform that brings together more than 26 visionary speakers and over 1,000 participants across various domains, including marketing, finance, operations, consulting, and technology reinforcing IIM Sambalpur’s core pillars of Innovation, Integrity, and Inclusiveness.

India, 28th October, 2025: The Captain of Ports Department, Government of Goa, marked a strong presence at the inaugural Goa State Session of India Maritime Week 2025, themed “Blue Meets Green: Goa’s Model for Sustainable Maritime Development.” The session, held at NESCO, Mumbai, convened national leaders and global industry experts to advance dialogue on innovation, sustainability, and partnership in India’s maritime sector.

Goa’s strategic coastal position and commitment to eco-friendly maritime growth put the state at the forefront of India’s “Blue Growth with Green Responsibility” vision. Under the guidance of Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Chief Minister and leadership of Shri Digambar Kamat, Hon’ble Minister for Captain of Ports Department, Public Works Department and Legal Metrology Goa unveiled transformative plans including major investments in port infrastructure, green shipping, and advanced maritime technologies.

In his address at the main inaugural ceremony, Dr. Pramod Sawant remarked that the theme “Blue Meets Green” perfectly embodies Goa’s maritime journey “a model for rapid, sustained development in harmony with the environment, waste-free waterways, and carbon-neutral shipping ecosystems”

Key Announcements and Highlights

Key announcements at the State Session included the launch of the Goa Maritime Waterways Infrastructure Development Vision Document and the signing of several MoUs. Notably, INR 200 crore was allotted for National Waterways projects in Goa by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), and a INR 3,500 crore agreement with Atlantic Pacific LNG was signed for establishing an LNG facility at Mormugao Port.

In this context, the Chief Minister expressed deep gratitude to the IWAI, stating, “With this allocation, the pace of infrastructure development in the waterways of Goa will be clearly visible.”

Additionally, the launch of a 2MW solar power plant at Mormugao Port and the construction of a floating marina were announced, reinforcing Goa’s pledge to renewable energy and future-ready coastal infrastructure.

The State also reiterated its position on the existing MoU with IWAI, emphasizing that the mutually agreed MoU signed on 10 January 2025 remains valid till January 2030 and adequately safeguards Goa’s jurisdiction and rights over its waterways.

The Government of Goa advocated for the exchange of the previously signed MoU and same was done alongwith a Letter of Allotment for INR 200 crore for the development of Goas Inland waterways.

Goa’s Holistic Maritime Agenda

As elaborated by Shri Digambar Kamat, Hon’ble Minister for Captain of Ports Department, Public Works Department and Legal Metrology Goa, in his special address, the Government of Goa has initiated wide-ranging reforms to transform the state into a maritime model for India:

• Establishment of the Goa Maritime Board: The forthcoming Goa Maritime Board Bill will unify the management of all port and maritime-related activities statewide, ensuring streamlined governance and modernization across coastal and inland waterways. 
• Cruise & Ferry Infrastructure: A new international and domestic cruise terminal is under development at Mormugao Port, along with a new terminal building at Panaji Port, and seven permanent jetties across Goa, complemented by 40 floating jetties under National Waterways. Feasibility studies for interstate ferry routes such as Goa–Mumbai and island development with submarine tourism are also underway.
• Shipbuilding & Ship Repair Promotion: In alignment with the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Goa plans to facilitate green fuel-based vessels, hybrid propulsion systems, and single-window clearance for shipyards. The state is exploring participation in the INR 69,725 crore central package to revitalize shipbuilding and maritime clusters.
• Green Fuel Transition: Goa is preparing a strategic action plan for green ports and waterways, with infrastructure for bunkering, storage, and transport of alternative fuels like green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol.
• Skilling & Maritime Education: The establishment of the Goa Institute of Maritime Excellence (GIME), in collaboration with Ganpat University, will upgrade maritime education with advanced simulators, workshops, and professional training. Ganpat University has sanctioned INR 50 crore for these programs, ensuring Goa becomes a talent hub for maritime professions.
• Support for Fisheries & Marine Tourism: At the heart of Goa’s maritime progress are its fishing communities. The state announced investments in modern fishing vessels, solar-powered cold storage, aquaculture development, and marine tourism initiatives such as underwater cruises, sea-plane operations, and ropeway-linked nautical tourism.

Towards a Sustainable Future

Goa’s vision for maritime progress aligns with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and the national mission for Viksit Bharat 2047. As Dr. Sawant said, “Goa’s maritime story is one of transformation from heritage to high technology, from local to global, and from blue to green.”

The Captain of Ports Department expressed gratitude to dignitaries, technical experts, and industry partners whose contributions are helping shape Goa’s path toward becoming India’s most sustainable maritime state.

Goa’s model now stands as a benchmark for coastal states across India — blending tradition, technology, and responsible growth to build a globally competitive maritime economy.