All posts by Sujata Achary

Bengaluru, February 6, 2025 — Wabtec Corporation announced today the winners of the company’s 2024-25 “Exceed 3.0 Campus Challenge” in India. In its third edition, the challenge provided these aspiring professionals an opportunity to showcase their creative capabilities and align them with the dynamic, complex realities of the railroad industry.

“The Exceed Campus Challenge provides an ideal biennial platform to cultivate tomorrow’s thinkers and doers,” said Dr. Sujatha Narayan, Senior Vice President and Regional Leader for Wabtec Corporation in India. “The winning teams demonstrated the innovative spirit, technical acumen, dedication, and passion necessary to succeed in the rail industry.”

The Exceed 3.0 winning team represented VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology), Bhopal, and showcased innovative concepts for ‘Decoding, Categorizing and Graphical Representation of Errors with their Frequency’. The first runner-up was from Gati Shakti Vishwavidyala, Vadodara who presented ‘Automated Train Scheduling and Routing’. The two-second runners-up were from Cummins College of Engineering for Women, Pune who proposed ‘Safe Siding of Trains’, and VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology), Chennai who proposed ‘Application of Computer Vision for Rail Infrastructure Inspection’.

These winners for the pan-India contest were among 150 teams and more than 500 students from 70 institutes. Of the 150 teams, eight qualified for a final round and presented projects to the leadership at Wabtec India Technology and Engineering Centre in Bangalore. The top 3 finalists won a total cash price of Rs.2.75 lakh.

“Our campus outreach program has been growing over the past years,” said Anup Kumar Pal, Senior Director of Human Resources for Wabtec Corporation India. “Every version of the Exceed Campus Challenge is an opportunity for prospective employees to learn about how Wabtec is solving Transportation problems in India and across the world. We like ideas that have a larger impact beyond the rail industry. “

Wabtec requested applications for the challenge in August 2024. The challenge was open to students in their first year of college through the final year of their Ph.D. The topics posed for this contest covered a diverse range of subjects, such as interdisciplinary innovations in mechanical and software engineering, explorations of cutting-edge technologies like robotics & advanced software development, and alternate fuels and associated safety aspects, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, condition monitoring, vision enhancement, hydrogen-powered locomotive, and braking performance.

Sudhindra Holla, Director of India & SAARC at Axis Communications

“The Union Budget 2025 sets a transformative agenda that aligns with our vision for secure and smart urban environments. With a focus on urban development and agriculture, the budget’s initiatives, such as the PM Dhan Dhyan Krishi Yojana aimed at enhancing crop yields, are crucial for fostering resilience in our food supply chains. This directly supports the security of critical infrastructure by ensuring stability in essential services.

The focus on youth empowerment and women’s welfare through targeted programs opens avenues for integrating advanced surveillance technologies. As we transition to a more digital economy, Axis Communications is dedicated to utilizing cutting-edge surveillance systems that enhance public safety and ensure robust data protection.

The proposed regulatory reforms will also play a vital role in creating a conducive environment for innovation in security technologies. As we look forward, we believe that these budgetary measures will not only strengthen India’s security landscape but also pave the way for sustainable growth in smart city projects across the nation.”

Umbergaon, Gujarat, February 04, 2025: DOMS Industries Limited (‘DOMS’), a Company focused on manufacturing and marketing a diversified product offering associated with the growing years of kids, children, and young adults, announced its Financial Results for the Q3 & 9M FY2025.

ConsolidatedPerformanceHighlights–Q3(Y-o-Y)

•  RevenuefromOperationsforQ3’FY25grewby34.9%to₹501.1crascomparedto₹371.6cr in Q3’FY24.
•  EBITDA for Q3’FY25 grew by 26.7% to ₹ 87.9 cr as compared to ₹ 69.3 cr in Q3’FY24. EBITDA margin for Q3’FY25 stood at 17.5% as compared to 18.7% in Q3’FY24.
•  PATforQ3’FY25grewby39.8%to₹54.3crascomparedto ₹38.8crinQ3’FY24.PATmargin
  forQ3’FY25roseto10.8%ascomparedto10.4%inQ3’FY24.

ConsolidatedPerformanceHighlights–9M(Y-o-Y)

•  RevenuefromOperationsfor9M’FY25grewby23.9%to₹1,403.9crascomparedto ₹1,133.4crin9M’FY24.
•  EBITDAfor9M’FY25grewby32.2%to₹260.2crascomparedto₹196.8crin9M’FY24.
• EBIDTAmarginfor9M’FY25roseto18.5%ascomparedto17.4%in9M’FY24.
•  PAT for 9M’FY25 grew by 43.9% to ₹ 162.3 cr as compared to ₹ 112.7 cr in 9M’FY24. PAT margin for 9M’FY25 rose to 11.6% as compared to 9.9% in 9M’FY24.

OperationalHighlights

•  Rewarded for Export Excellence: Awarded third time consecutively Top Exporter Award for being No. 1 Exporter for the Year 2023-24 by the Pen & Stationery Association of India, underscoring Company’s role as a frontrunner in the Indian Export market
•  RecognizingEmployeeExcellenceandGrowingTogether:Torewardhardworkandtoretain &motivatetalent,Companyapprovedgrantof117,045stockoptionsunderEmployeeStock Option Plan 2023 to eligible employees during Q3’FY25
•  Empowering Sustainable Future: Successful installation of 1 MW Solar Plant at Umergaon Manufacturing Facility
•  OngoingCapacityExpansiononTrack:44+acresgreenfieldexpansioninfullswingand

possessionoffirstbuildingformachineryinstallationinQ3’FY26

•  UniclanHealthcareacceleratingGrowthInitiatives
•  LaunchofDOMSCo-brandedDiapers:CommerciallaunchofDOMSWowper–co- branded range of diapers by Uniclan Healthcare
• Successful installation of third diaper production lineat the existing facility wideningcapacity to 65 crore diapers per annum
• Mostofrequisitepre-approvalsfromauthoritiesinplaceenablingin-house

manufacturingofwetwipesbyendof Q4’FY25

 CultivatingandNurturingCreativeExcellence:AMARIZ–Company’sFineArtRange,partners withPlazaArtistAssociationattheiconicArtPlazaGallery,KalaGhoda,Mumbaitoempower emerging artist and provide them platform to showcase their work

Commenting on the results and performance, Mr. Santosh Raveshia, Managing Director, DOMS Industries Limited said:

“Despite the tepid market conditions and festive season in India as well as globally, we continued on ourconsistentgrowthtrajectoryduringQ3’FY2025.Ourstrategicinitiativeshaveplayedapivotalrole infuellingthisgrowth.ThesuccessfulacquisitionofUniclanHealthcare,whichleadourentryintoBaby Hygiene products, coupled with our timely expansion of capacities across various product categories, have all contributed positively to our quarterly performance.

Company’smanufacturingcoststructurebroadlyremainedstableinQ3FY’25,withinputpricesholding steady,resultinginconsistentgrossmarginsonasequentialbasis.ConsolidatedEBITDAforthequarter grew 26.7% Y-o-Y and 2.2% sequentially. However, there was a slight margin compression of approximately120 bps Q-o-Q which was primarily driven by increased employeeexpenses,stemming fromadditionalhiringtosupportproductioncapacityexpansionandimpactofESOPgrantstoreward employees. Furthermore, we witnessed an increase in selling and distribution expenses primarily on account of consolidation of Uniclan Healthcare. As a result of these factors, Company’s consolidated EBITDA margin stood at 17.5%, as on expected lines, but higher than our targeted range of 16-17%.

Going forward, we remain cautiously optimistic in the near term, on improvement in demand conditions with tailwinds from the upcoming back to school season, growing emphasis on education and increased Governments’ spending in this sector, contributing to the growth momentum. Our strategicprioritiesremainunchangedwithfocusondeliveringconsistentandprofitablevolumegrowth through expanding our production capacities, investing in our brands and strengthening our supply chain, positioning ourselves for sustainable long-term growth.

Lastly, I would like to appreciate the unwavering dedication and relentless efforts of our entire team and channel partners, who have worked tirelessly to drive this growth and excellence. Further, we extendourheartfeltgratitudetoourvaluedconsumersforembracingourproducts.Theirunwavering support fuelsourpassionand inspires ourteamtoinnovate, design,anddeliver high-qualityproducts to meet the evolving needs of our consumers.”

Mumbai, January 2025 – Moxy Mumbai, Andheri West – Marriott International’s vibrant lifestyle brand – is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Inder Yadav as the Director of Finance. With over 18 years of extensive experience in financial management within the hospitality industry, Inder brings a proven track record of excellence and innovation to this key leadership role.

Inder Yadav’s impressive career spans leading global hotel brands, including Marriott International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and The Westin Hotels & Resorts, where he has honed his expertise in financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and operational excellence. His commitment to driving financial efficiency and implementing robust internal controls has earned him recognition for enhancing profitability and aligning business goals with long-term organizational vision.

In his most recent role as Assistant Director of Finance at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, Inder played a pivotal role in streamlining financial operations, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and introducing efficient systems that significantly improved financial discipline and performance. He also collaborated closely with senior management to deliver strategic insights through financial analysis and forecasting, contributing to the hotel’s sustained success.

Inder’s previous experience includes serving as Assistant Financial Controller at The Westin Hyderabad and Hilton Bangalore Embassy Golf Links, where he led multi-disciplinary teams to achieve excellence in financial reporting, cost control, and statutory compliance. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and deliver innovative solutions has been instrumental in driving growth and optimizing performance at every stage of his career.

Inder is well-versed in advanced financial tools, including SAP, Oracle, and Cognos, and holds a Master’s degree in Financial Management (MFM) from Mumbai University. His technical expertise, coupled with his ability to foster cross-functional collaboration, aligns seamlessly with Moxy Mumbai’s dynamic and forward-thinking ethos.

As Director of Finance at Moxy Mumbai, Inder will oversee the hotel’s financial strategy, ensuring operational efficiency while driving profitability. His strategic vision and hands-on approach will play a crucial role in positioning Moxy Mumbai as a leading destination for modern travelers while maintaining the brand’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences. Inder Yadav’s leadership marks an exciting chapter for Moxy Mumbai, as the hotel continues to set new benchmarks in style, service, and operational excellence.

Hyderabad, India – Feb 04, 2025 – nSure Healthy Spine proudly announces the adoption of an advanced data-driven Musculoskeletal Health Technology Platform in exclusive partnership with Nordic Health Finland. The state-of-the-art biomechanically optimized exercise therapy devices for Spine, Shoulder, Hip & Knee Health will be incorporated at upcoming India’s 1st Center for Spine and Sports Health (CSSH) located at Kotak Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, Hyderabad, India.

As part of a strategic collaboration to introduce cutting-edge spine and sports health technology platform in India, nSure Healthy Spine has recently hosted Technology Inventors from Nordic Health, Finland – Mr. Arno Parviainen and Mrs. Sirkka Parviainen at CSSH, Hyderabad. Their visit marks a significant milestone in integrating advanced assessments, targeted muscle-strengthening training programs for Injury prevention, and preventive musculoskeletal care solutions, aimed at enhancing the performance and well-being of athletes and individuals seeking proactive health management.

With Finland being one of the top innovative health technology ecosystems, the expertise of Nordic Health leadership has become instrumental in training our team to leverage advanced technology effectively and deliver world-class care at CSSH, Hyderabad.

During the visit, Mr. Arno and Mrs. Sirkka conducted comprehensive training & educational programs for the nSure Healthy Spine team. The sessions focused on the clinical use of biomechanically optimized exercise therapy devices to ensure precise assessments and evidence-based exercise therapy programs. Throughout the training sessions, they emphasized the latest techniques in movement health, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement, to make our team remain at the forefront of spine and sports health.

Being enthusiastic about the collaboration, Mr. Arno, CEO of Nordic Health Finland and expert in movement and rehabilitation technology, stated, “The integration of this technology at nSure Healthy Spine is going to be a game-changer for spine and sports health in India. We are excited to support the team in utilizing these cutting-edge solutions and assisting athletes with injury prevention and performing better.”

Mrs. Sirkka, a specialist in preventive healthcare, added, “This technology is not just about rehabilitation but also about proactive-driven preventive spine & musculoskeletal (MSK) care. By focusing on muscle strength and functional movement, we are helping individuals prevent injuries and enhance their overall well-being.”

nSure Healthy Spine’s CEO, Naresh Kumar Pagidimarry, highlighted the long-term vision behind this collaboration, stating, “Bringing this revolutionary technology to India is a testament to our commitment to advancing spine and sports health. With the guidance of Arno and Sirkka, I am positive that our team is equipped with world-class knowledge and expertise catering the best possible care to the clients in need.”

“The visit of Nordic Health experts reinforces nSure Healthy Spine’s dedication to integrating the latest advancements in medical technology. This initiative is set to elevate Hyderabad’s standing as a hub for cutting-edge spine and sports healthcare, benefiting athletes, professionals, and individuals seeking to enhance their quality of life,” Naresh Kumar added.

Mumbai, Maharashtra – February 04- Arcil, one of India’s leading asset reconstruction companies, has once again reinforced its commitment to community development with its latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in partnership with FUEL (Friends Union for Energizing Lives). The project aims to empower underserved youth by providing access to cutting-edge educational resources and skill development opportunities.

As part of this initiative, Arcil supported the establishment of the state-of-the-art computer lab at the FUEL Business School. This facility is designed to provide hands-on training in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, addressing the critical gap between industry demands and academia. The initiative is expected to impact over 1000 youth in the next five years, equipping them with future-ready skills and enhancing their employability. This project also includes a strong focus on women’s empowerment, with at least 45% of participants being underserved girls

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Pallav Mohapatra, MD, and CEO of Arcil, emphasized the company’s dedication to community development, stating, “Investing in the education and skill development of our youth is a step towards building a stronger, self-reliant future. Through this collaboration with FUEL, we aim to create opportunities for underserved communities and foster an ecosystem of innovation and growth. This partnership underscores Arcil’s ongoing efforts to contribute positively to society by empowering the next generation with the skills and resources needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market.”

FUEL has been a pioneer in implementing education and skill development projects, impacting over 12 lakh underserved students across India. With this initiative, FUEL’s vision of bridging the skill gap takes a significant leap forward. “We deeply appreciate Arcil’s invaluable support in empowering underserved youth. Together, we look forward to extending this partnership to our upcoming Skill Tech University, which aims to transform the lives of youth from marginalized communities through cutting-edge education and skill development,” said Ketan Deshpande, Founder-Chairman of FUEL.

Arcil’s CSR efforts continue to align with its vision of fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits reach the grassroots of society.

Mumbai, February 4th, 2025 – Gozoop Creative Digital, the creative arm of the integrated marketing powerhouse Gozoop Group, is thrilled to announce the latest campaign for Simply Fresh, one of India’s leading cooking oil brands from the BN Group. This exciting partnership highlights a key milestone in Gozoop Creative Digital’s journey, emphasizing the agency’s fast-track growth through integrated creative campaigns and diverse brand mandates.

Gozoop Creative Digital launched – Jaisa Ghar Waisa Cooking Oil for Nutrica, another brand of the same group. Again a category-breaking piece of work in the industry. With the Simply Fresh mandate, it has deepened the relationship with the group. With #RakhoIraadeFresh – the agency has positioned the brand ‘Simply Fresh’ as a category disruptor. Taking a cue from BN Group’s philosophy of Building a Nation, the campaign focuses on heroes who build our nation every day.

Gozoop Creative Digital was also responsible for refreshing the brand identity of BN Group last year and the relationship has only evolved and strengthened. Building on an ongoing collaboration, the agency developed a comprehensive 360-degree strategy to amplify Simply Fresh’s mission of nation-building through “Fresh Iraade.” This vision came to life with the #RakhoIraadeFresh campaign, which aimed to crowdsource inspiring heroes and provide them with a platform to share their stories. By spotlighting untold stories of changemakers, the campaign encouraged individuals to reconnect with their purpose and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Its category-breaking 60-second storytelling stood out, blending emotional resonance with a compelling narrative that seamlessly embodied Simply Fresh’s vision of inspiring societal change.

Gozoop Creative Digital’s responsibilities for Simply Fresh encompass digital marketing, social media engagement, TV commercials, print advertisements, influencer collaborations, in-store promotions, and OTT advertising, all aimed at strengthening the brand’s identity and fostering a deeper connection with its audience.

Kiran Giradkar, CMO, of BN Group, stated, “Rakho Iraade Fresh’ campaign has been a result of Gozoop’s passion for authentic storytelling and deeper understanding of our vision. We hope this campaign will create a strong emotional connection with our audience and drive meaningful conversations. We are excited to introduce a few more IPs to amplify Simply Fresh’s mission of inspiring societal change.”

Speaking about this dynamic partnership, Amyn Ghadiali, Country Head – India, Gozoop Creative Digital said, “At Gozoop Creative Digital, we believe that communication must drive business impact. Our philosophy to Break the Box ensures we create work that matters. Working on the Simply Fresh campaign has been a fulfilling journey, anchored in a shared vision to grow the brand through meaningful communication, showcasing our commitment to crafting brand stories that inspire while delivering tangible results. We look forward to helping Simply Fresh unlock new avenues of growth and success.”

The Simply Fresh is the second major campaign launched by Gozoop Creative Digital from the BN Group, following Nutrica. Gozoop Creative Digital is excited to nurture the partnership, driving forward their mission to building nation as a corporate philosophy of BN Group

Pune, India – Feb 4, 2025 – Praj Industries, a global leader in bioeconomy solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ashish Gaikwad as Managing Director-Designate, effective February 3, 2025. This transition marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey.

Mr. Gaikwad will succeed Mr. Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, who will complete his tenure on June 30, 2025. To ensure a seamless transition, Mr. Gaikwad will work closely with Mr.

Joshipura and the leadership team over the coming months, ensuring the continuity of Praj’s strategic priorities.

Mr. Gaikwad brings over 34 years of experience in industrial automation, digitalization, process technology, renewable energy transition, artificial intelligence, and autonomous manufacturing. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Electrical & Electronics from BITS Pilani, India. Before joining Praj Industries, he successfully led Honeywell Automation India Ltd. as Managing Director for over seven years. Throughout his career at Honeywell, he held diverse leadership positions spanning India, Southeast Asia, Asia Pacific, and the USA, with expertise in project engineering, sales leadership, strategy, business management, and corporate governance.

Commenting on the appointment, Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Ashish Gaikwad to Praj Industries. His deep industry expertise and global leadership experience will be instrumental in driving our innovation-led growth strategy. Under his guidance, Praj will continue to advance its vision of a sustainable bioeconomy.”

Mahesh Babu, CEO of SWITCH Mobility

“India’s FY25-26 budget targets economic growth with a 4.4% fiscal deficit and income tax cuts, including exemptions for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh boost disposable income, consumer spending benefiting sectors like commercial vehicles with higher logistics demands. The budget also simplifies duties and taxes to support MSMEs, startups, and entrepreneurship.”

The exemption of customs duties on lithium-ion batteries and critical minerals such as cobalt, zinc, and lead represents a crucial step in reinforcing India’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. This move will enhance the competitiveness of the EV industry, helping it to grow more rapidly and become a key player in the global market. It accelerates India’s progress toward Aatmanirbharta in clean energy and sustainable mobility solutions. These measures are expected to reduce the overall cost of EVs, making them more affordable for consumers, which directly supports the government’s ambitious target of achieving 30% EV adoption by 2030.”

Mr. Baba Kalyani, Chairman & MD of Bharat Forge Ltd.

“ The budget presents a strong focus on the inherent strengths of the Indian economy and key economic drivers of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The 3M’s that bring me cheer are – Middle Class, MSMEs, and Make in India!

•  A big boost to the salaried middle class will accelerate economic growth
•  Revised Classification and Exports push to help Indian MSMEs go global!
•  Focussed attention on ‘Make in India’ in HiTech and labor-intensive industries will attract investments.

I also welcome the launch of the Manufacturing Mission, the Exports Promotion Mission, and the Nuclear Energy Mission.

Initiatives such as Cancer Care Centers in every district across the country will further modernize the Healthcare and Medical Infrastructure across the country.

Special development measures to boost agriculture productivity, self-reliance in pulses, and leveraging ‘India Post’ to deliver financial services are expected to drive Rural Growth.

What is noteworthy is a special mention of revamping the Bilateral Investment Treaty Model – a sign of following an India First model amidst heightened global volatility.

The hallmark of successive governments under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister has been continued thrust on ease of doing business, fiscal prudence, and investment-led growth.

Today’s Budget continues to deliver on these three levers, and I am confident that these initiatives collectively signal a robust blueprint for India’s progressive and inclusive development.”- Baba Kalyani, Chairman & MD, Bharat Forge Ltd.