All posts by Sujata Achary

Chandigarh, February 21, 2025: The Minerals & Metals (M&M) business vertical of L&T secured an order from Hindalco for setting up an 850 KTPA (kilo tonne per annum) greenfield alumina refinery plant in Odisha. The scope of work includes engineering, procurement, construction & installation.

L&T has been associated with Hindalco for over three decades, playing a key role as an EPC contractor in their expansion programs across alumina, aluminum, and copper plants. The new order signifies Hindalco’s trust in L&T as a dependable partner to drive their ambitious growth plans.

M&M earlier secured an order for setting up an 8 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) Pellet Plant from a leading steel producer in India. The scope of work includes engineering, manufacturing, supply, construction & installation in collaboration with reputed technology providers.

“M&M has successfully commissioned several steel plants and alumina refinery projects, both greenfield and brownfield, across India and the Middle East. These new orders reaffirm L&T’s leadership in EPC steel plants and alumina refinery projects and are a testament to its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction,” said Mr D K Sen, Executive Committee Member & Advisor to the CMD, L&T.

L&T’s M&M vertical offers world-class end-to-end solutions in the EPC domain across sectors such as mining, minerals processing, industrial products, and material handling. Its product business provides cost-effective end-to-end solutions for industries such as mining, cement, steel, fertilizers, and ports.

Bengaluru, February 21st, 2025: The Bengaluru edition of the ‘My Music, My Rights: Creators Connect Programme’ by the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) witnessed an overwhelming response yesterday, as Bengaluru, known for its thriving independent music scene, welcomed music creators, independent artists, and industry professionals eager to gain crucial insights into the evolving music ecosystem. The event, hosted at the Indian Music Experience Museum, provided a dynamic platform for creators to deepen their understanding of IP rights, royalties, music publishing, and digital monetization strategies.

The session featured engaging panel discussions and expert-led presentations, equipping participants with actionable strategies to navigate the music industry. Industry leaders shared their expertise on critical aspects such as enhancing music production, leveraging YouTube’s potential, and exploring sustainable career opportunities in the creative economy.

Speakers included Karan Grover, Senior Director – India, Middle East & Africa, Dolby Labs; Santhosh Kumar (Vice President Think Music, Believe); Panimalar K (Rachō Publishing); Mr. Ujjwal Mukhia (Founder & CEO Artist Connect); Varun Murali (Guitarist at Swarathma, Music Producer and Founder The Red Music Box); Deepak Hariharan (Creative Director Paradox Studios) and Sangeetha Rajeev (Singer-Songwriter) and Mrs. Rumpa Banerjee, Head of Marketing, Communication & Member Relations at IPRS. The discussion offered invaluable perspectives on the business of music, guiding attendees on protecting their rights and maximizing their creative output.

Varun Murali, Guitarist at Swarathma, Music Producer, and Founder of The Red Music Box, shared his insights, stating, “The journey of an artist is as much about passion as it is about knowledge and awareness. Platforms like ‘My Music, My Rights’ provide artists with the essential tools and understanding to protect and monetize their creations, ensuring a more secure and thriving music career.”

Adding to this, Singer-Songwriter Sangeetha Rajeev remarked, “Music creators often focus solely on their art, but knowing how to safeguard and benefit from it is just as important. IPRS’s initiative is a game-changer, enabling artists to take charge of their rights and revenues in a rapidly evolving industry.”

Reflecting on the success of the event, Mr. Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS, expressed, “It’s immensely rewarding to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the creators today. The overwhelming response reinforces IPRS’s commitment to empowering music creators by educating them about their rights and the resources available to them. To see such a diverse group of creators come together to learn, share, and grow is inspiring. This initiative is all about fostering a culture where creators are empowered, and their contributions are acknowledged and rewarded.”

Bengaluru, with its rich musical heritage and vibrant community of independent artists, proved to be the perfect backdrop for the ‘My Music, My Rights’ initiative. Building on the momentum of this session, upcoming editions of ‘My Music, My Rights’ are scheduled for Chennai on 6th March, Lucknow on 26th March, and Patna on 9th April, continuing IPRS’s mission to empower music creators nationwide.

The Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) remains committed to safeguarding the rights of music creators, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to build sustainable careers while contributing to a more equitable and thriving music industry.

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE / Chennai, INDIA – February 21, 2025 – Global aviation software specialist Ramco Systems announced that it will implement its next-gen Aviation Software at Fly Vaayu. Fly Vaayu, which is part of the UAE-based Vaayu Group, is a cargo airline based out of Ras Al Khaimah.

With modules for CAMO, Maintenance Planning, Line Maintenance, Supply Chain Management, and Finance & Accounting, Ramco Aviation Software will provide Fly Vaayu with an integrated platform that will streamline its operations, enhance process efficiencies, and improve productivity. The implementation will also be rolled out at Pradhaan Air Express, India’s youngest cargo airline, and a strategic investment of the Vaayu Group.

Mr. Mujahid Hussain, Chief Information Officer, of  Fly Vaayu, said, “We were looking for a solution that would help us scale our operations and serve our customers with a robust digital infrastructure. Ramco Aviation Software’s extensive functionalities and its adaptability would augur well for the customer offerings that Vaayu plan to offer. We are confident that Ramco’s latest technology will offer us a technological edge for our growing business.”

Fly Vaayu plans to build RAK into a regional cargo hub by offering its capacity to forwarders, importers, exporters, transhippers, e-commerce players, last-mile providers, and charterers. It will operate on routes to Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Fly Vaayu took delivery of its first A320-200P2F in Oct 2024. It is the first A320 freighter registered in the Middle East and the first A320P2F conversion completed at the ST Aerospace (Guangzhou) Aviation Services facility.

Speaking on the development, Nipun Anand, Founder and CEO, of Pradhaan Air Express, said, “We are pleased to have chosen Ramco’s proven software that would give Pradhaan a sustainable competitive advantage. Its AI-based solutions would enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer service—key factors in the competitive air cargo market.”

Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Customer Officer – Aviation, Aerospace & Defense, Ramco Systems, “We are thrilled to join forces with Fly Vaayu and Pradhaan Air Express to support them in their expansion journey to emerge as the leading cargo airlines. Equipped with the latest technology stacks around artificial intelligence and machine learning, Ramco Aviation Software has been helping organizations digitally transform their business. We look forward to a long and fruitful association with Fly Vaayu and Pradhaan Air Express.”

Ramco Aviation Software is trusted by 24,000+ users to manage 4,000+ aircraft globally. With 90+ Aviation organizations onboard, Ramco is the solution of choice for top Airlines, 3rd party MROs, large Heli-Operators, leading Defense organizations, and major Urban Air Mobility companies around the world. Available on the cloud, Ramco Aviation Suite provides accessibility with ‘Anywhere Apps’, significantly accelerating organizational efficiency and agility. Ramco is changing the paradigm of enterprise software with Artificial Intelligence solutions, intelligent voice-enabled user experience, and advanced features such as digital task cards, offline maintenance capability, conversational chatbots, HUBs,s, and cognitive solutions.

Mumbai, February 21, 2025 – Moneyboxx Finance Limited, which provides business loans to micro and small entrepreneurs in rural and semi-urban India, reported 30.08% growth in profits in 9M FY25 at INR 6.53 crore, compared to INR 5.02 crore in 9M FY24. Profit growth was supported by strong 56% YoY growth in AUM to INR 837 crore as of Dec’24, driven by branch expansion and productivity of vintage branches.

In Q3 FY25, Moneyboxx accelerated its strategy of geographic diversification and secured lending expansion. The company moved towards establishing a pan-India presence by launching operations in key southern states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. In line with this expansion, its strategic focus on secured lending yielded strong results, with secured loans accounting for 38% of AUM in Q3 FY25—more than doubling from 17% in Q3 FY24. With a target of ~45% secured lending share by March 2025, Moneyboxx continues to enhance its portfolio resilience and growth trajectory.

With the equity funds received in Q2 FY25, net worth increased by 57% to INR 264.5 crore, and CRAR improved to 35.76% compared to 28.28% in Mar’24, resulting in strong capital adequacy. The company is supported by 33 lenders, including 12 banks and recently onboarded Indian Overseas Bank, Bajaj Finance, Nabkisan Finance, and Suryoday Small Finance Bank.

Highlights of Q3 FY25 Financial Results

Building a national franchise with a focus on secured lending: The company expanded operations to 160 branches across 12 states as of Dec’24 compared to 86 branches in 8 states in Dec’23. Geographic and product diversification improved with entry into the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu in 9M FY25, and an increasing share of secured lending, which more than doubled from 17% of AUM in Q3 FY24 to 38% in Q3 FY25.

AUM grew by 56% to INR 837 crores as of 31-Dec-24 compared to INR 536 crore on 31-Dec-23, led by branch expansion and higher productivity of branches having 36+ months of vintage.

30.08% growth in net profit during 9M FY25: Total Income grew by 72% to INR 147.09 crore in 9M FY25 compared to INR 85.55 crore in 9M FY24, in line with growth in AUM. Declining opex trajectory paused at 12.6% of average AUM during 9M FY25 compared to 12.7% in FY24 due to significant branch expansion and lower-than-expected AUM growth. Net interest margin remained stable, and Pre-provision operating profits doubled to INR 9.59 crore in Q3 FY25 from INR 4.65 crore in Q3 FY24, however, credit costs increased to INR 9.35 crore in Q3 FY25 from INR 1.96 crore in Q3 FY24, limiting the growth in profit after taxes. PAT declined in Q3 FY25 compared to Q2 FY25 due to an increase in credit cost, mirroring the industry trend. The Company posted a profit after taxes of INR 6.54 crore during 9M FY25 compared to INR 5.02 crore in Q3 FY24.

Intensified Collection Efforts and Strong Capital Adequacy: The unsecured loan industry witnessed an increase in delinquencies starting Q1 of FY25 owing to various factors, including, subdued rural economic growth, general elections, erratic weather (heatwaves, floods in certain areas) and high indebtedness in certain segments. In line with the overall industry trend, the Company experienced an increase in delinquency, and consequently, higher credit costs in FY25 year-to-date. Gross NPA (on-book) increased to 5.60% of AUM as of 31.12.2024 compared to 2.78% as of 30.09.2024. Net NPA (on-book) increased to 2.88% as of 31.12.2024 compared to 1.41% as of 30.09.2024.

Commenting on the results, Deepak Aggarwal (Co-CEO & CFO) said, “Remarkable progress was made during the year on various strategic fronts – pivoting to secured lending, geographic diversification with entry into South India, and gaining strong support from lending partners and equity investors. With a sound business model focused on 3 P’s (People, Processes, and Product), a strong balance sheet, and focused collection efforts, we remain confident of successfully navigating the current credit cycle.”

The company also strengthened its capital position by announcing an equity raise of INR 175.8 crore (INR 91.08 crore received in Sep’24 and balance INR 84.72 crore receivable by Mar’26) which provides adequate cushion. With the fundraising, net worth increased from INR 169 crore as of Mar’24 to INR 265 crore as of Dec’24 and an expected capital infusion of INR 84.72 crore on warrants conversion will increase the capital base to over INR 350 crore. The capital adequacy ratio remained healthy at 35.76% and the debt-to-equity ratio was low at 1.78 times as of December 31, 2024. Moreover, increasing focus on secured lending (50% of disbursements in Q3 FY25 and 38% of AUM as of Dec’24) and improving geographic diversification with a presence in 12 states spread across India is expected to yield stability in asset quality going forward.

Dr. J V Srinivas, Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Aster RV Hospital

Bones make up the structural support for the body, allowing one to move freely, protecting the vital organs from injuries, and storing minerals like calcium. Maintaining good bone health is crucial particularly as you age, as it minimizes the risk of osteoporosis – a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to breaking from minor falls or injuries. However, these 5 lifestyle factors deteriorate bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Alcohol –

Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact bone health by interfering with the bone remodeling process, leading to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures; this happens primarily by inhibiting the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone, while also disrupting the balance between bone formation and resorption, resulting in bone loss over time.

Soda –

Soda, particularly cola, can negatively impact bone health by potentially decreasing bone mineral density and increasing the risk of fractures due to the high phosphoric acid content which interferes with calcium absorption in the body, leading to a calcium imbalance and potential bone loss.

Excessive salt consumption –

Consuming too much salt raises the risk of osteoporosis and weakens bones. This is because it can result in a negative calcium balance by increasing the quantity of calcium excreted in urine. essentially, consuming too much salt can “wash” calcium out of the bones through the kidneys.

Smoking –

Smoking slows the healing process by lowering blood flow to the bones, muscles, and joints. The creation of osteoblasts, the cells that make bones, is slowed down by nicotine in cigarettes. Smoking impairs the body’s absorption of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Smoking can alter the hormone balance, particularly that of estrogen, which is crucial for bone growth and maintenance.

Poor diet habits –

A poor diet lowers calcium and vitamin D levels which can impair bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Furthermore, excess sugar raises cortisol levels, which have been connected to osteoporosis. A diet weak in protein will increase the risk of bone loss. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can impair your body’s capacity to absorb calcium.

Mumbai, 21 February 2025: CCI Group, India’s leading 4PL Integrated Logistics and Supply Chain Company, announces an additional investment of approximately ₹640 crore in the development of a Grade-A logistics park spanning 20 lakh square feet in Phase 2, Polivakkam, Chennai. This follows the company’s earlier investment of ₹250 crore in Phase 1, reinforcing its commitment to expanding world-class logistics infrastructure in the region.

With this latest investment, CCI Group has now allocated a total of ₹890 crore towards the Polivakkam logistics hub, positioning it as a key player in India’s Warehousing and Supply Chain ecosystem.

This expansion is strategically structured into two segments, Phase 2A, a standard requirement facility set to be operational by mid-2025, and Phase 2B, dedicated to built-to-suit (BTS) solutions tailored to industry-specific needs.

With Chennai emerging as a key logistics and supply chain hub in South India, this modern facility will cater to a diverse range of Industries, including E-commerce, Automotive, FMCG, and Manufacturing. Built to global standards, it will feature FM2 flooring for enhanced load-bearing capacity and seamless goods movement, automated shutters, and passive air ventilation ensuring six air changes per hour for improved air quality.

The facility is thoughtfully designed to provide optimal space utilization, enabling clients to efficiently plan their heavy-load racking systems and high-clearance bays, ensuring operational efficiency across various sectors. While the facility does not include pre-built temperature-controlled zones, they can be customized under the Tenant Improvement Scheme (TIS) to meet specific requirements. Designed for flexibility, the facility will operate on a plug-and-play model, allowing businesses to quickly deploy and scale operations with ease.

As part of CCI Group’s commitment to sustainability, the facility will integrate a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to treat wastewater, which will be reused for gardening and flushing needs. Additionally, Solar Power systems will be installed as a step towards green energy, reducing reliance on conventional power sources. Built-in skylights will further enhance energy efficiency by maximizing natural lighting.

For enhanced safety, the facility will be integrated with advanced fire protection systems, including hydrants, sprinklers, and fire alarms.

Currently, CCI Group is serving over 1,000 clients across diverse industries such as E-commerce, Retail, Chemical, FMCG, Healthcare & Pharma, and Automotive. With 48 years of industry expertise, the company has built a strong nationwide presence across 48 cities, managing more than 15 million square feet of owned warehouses and logistics parks. Its operations are driven by a skilled workforce of over 1,000 professionals and a fleet of 1,200+ vehicles. Moreover, CCI has also expanded its footprint globally, operating in over 105 countries, while maintaining a significant presence at more than 20 airports and seaports across India.

With this investment, CCI Group reinforces its commitment to expanding its logistics infrastructure while prioritizing efficiency, sustainability, and future-ready solutions for India’s growing supply chain needs. Speaking on the announcement, Naresh Sharma, Managing Director, of CCI Group said,” Polivakkam is a key hub in CCI’s long-term expansion plans. The region is steadily becoming a logistics hotspot due to its proximity to the Sriperumbudur-Oragadam industrial cluster. By establishing this new facility, CCI Group wants to attract industries reliant on high-quality storage facilities and also strengthen the economy in the region. This expansion not only enhances our logistical capabilities but also underscores our unwavering commitment to provide scalable and flexible solutions to clients that align with global standards.”

Mumbai, 21 February 2025 – The Executive Director of Fineotex Chemical Limited, Mr. Sanjay Tibrewala, has been appointed as a Co-opted Member of CHEMEXCIL for the term 2024-26. This prestigious recognition underscores his expertise, leadership, and contributions to the chemical industry.

With extensive experience in the chemical sector, Mr. Tibrewala will play a key role in advising and supporting CHEMEXCIL’s initiatives to address industry challenges and drive export growth. His insights will be instrumental in shaping policies and strategies that strengthen the sector’s global competitiveness.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Sanjay Tibrewala, Executive Director of Fineotex Chemical Ltd. said, “I am honored to be a part of CHEMEXCIL as a Co-opted member. The chemical industry plays a pivotal role in India’s economic growth, and I look forward to working closely with industry stakeholders and the government to foster a conducive business environment and drive sustainable progress. The chemical industry is evolving rapidly, and I am eager to contribute my expertise to support strategic initiatives that will enhance export growth and strengthen India’s position in the global market.”

CHEMEXCIL (Basic Chemicals, Cosmetics & Dyes Export Promotion Council) is a set up by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. It serves as a crucial interface between the chemical industry and policymakers, working to create an enabling environment for export growth and industry development. The Council invites distinguished professionals to provide strategic guidance in achieving its objectives.

Mr. Sanjay Tibrewala’s inclusion in the CHEMEXCIL as a Co-opted member not only reinforces his leadership but also further solidifies Fineotex Chemical Ltd.’s position as a key contributor to industry growth, regulatory advancements, and innovation. The company remains committed to sustainability, global expansion, and excellence in the specialty chemicals sector.

Mumbai, February 21, 2025: KYN, (Know Your Neighbourhood), a leading neighborhood discovery and connectivity app, by KYNHOOD technologies has appointed Lavina Rodrigues as the Assistant Vice President of Brand Communications, effective immediately.

In the new role, Lavina Rodrigues will work closely with the leadership and founding members to define KYN’s go-to-market and communication strategy. With over 9 lakh downloads post its launch in February 2024, KYN is a bootstrapped startup that has witnessed rapid growth within a short period of one year. With ambitious growth and expansion plans, KYN is looking to scale new heights and expand its marketing efforts with Lavina playing a significant role in strengthening the brand’s narrative.

Gayathri Thyagarajan, CEO and Founder of KYNHOOD TECHNOLOGIES extends her heartfelt congratulations to Lavina Rodrigues for driving the brand to even greater heights in her new leadership role.

Lavina Rodrigues has more than 15 years of multi-dimensional experience in the field of B2B marketing, public relations, corporate communication,s and internal communications spanning diverse sectors like Tech, Media, Travel, Hospitality, entertainment, and financial services. She has a proven track record in employer branding, leadership communications, and building thought leadership. Lavina has held senior positions in Cleartrip, Collinson, Everymedia Technologies, PVR Limited, and Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.

Lavina Rodrigues is a distinguished alumna of Kingston University, London having completed her Master of Science in Marketing, after a graduation degree in commerce fromthe  University of Mumbai.

Pune, India, February 21, 2025 – Bollywood icon Shraddha Kapoor has taken a bold leap into the world of business by joining PALMONAS, India’s pioneering demi-fine jewelry brand, as a Co-founder. In a major boost to the brand’s expansion plans, PALMONAS secured ₹1.26 crore in funding for a 1% equity stake from prominent Shark Tank India Season 4 investors Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, and Ritesh Agarwal, Founder of OYO. The funding was successfully secured by the brand’s founders, Amol Patwari and Pallavi Mohadikar.

PALMONAS’ pitch on Shark Tank India Season 4 captivated both Namita Thapar and Ritesh Agarwal, leading them to invest ₹1.26 Crore for a 1% equity stake. As one of the most influential investors on the show, both have been instrumental in mentoring and funding disruptive Indian startups. Their backing of PALMONAS signals strong confidence in the brand’s potential to revolutionize the demi-fine jewelry industry.

The pitch on Shark Tank India Season 4 was intense and challenging, but both sharks saw the unwavering commitment, enthusiasm, and vision of the founders. Recognizing their passion and the brand’s immense potential, both the sharks decided to invest ₹1.26 crore, reinforcing PALMONAS’ mission to redefine the demi-fine jewelry industry. This investment will drive PALMONAS’ expansion plans, scaling offline retail operations with exclusive experience stores in key metropolitan cities. Additionally, the funding will accelerate international expansion, targeting high-potential markets such as the US, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where the demand for demi-fine jewelry is rising. A portion of the investment will also be allocated toward technological advancements, particularly AI-driven personalization, to help customers discover jewelry tailored to their style and preferences. With this infusion of capital and strategic backing, PALMONAS is poised to redefine the demi-fine jewelry industry and establish itself as a leader in the affordable luxury segment.

Actor and Co-founder of PALMONAS Shraddha Kapoor said: “Jewellery should be like your second skin—something you don’t have to overthink. Whether it’s stacked minimal rings or bold silver chokers, Palmonas is for everyone who loves expressing themselves without limits. PALMONAS is making luxury jewelry affordable and accessible, and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this journey. With the support of the Shark Tank India platform, we are set to redefine the way India wears jewelry.”

Co-founder of PALMONAS Amol Patwari on securing the Investment said, “Securing this funding on Shark Tank India Season 4 from Namita Thapar and Ritesh Agarwal is a testament to the immense potential of PALMONAS. Pallavi and I have worked relentlessly to build a brand that resonates with consumers, and this investment will allow us to push our boundaries further. With Shraddha Kapoor now as a Co-founder, we are poised to accelerate our growth and make premium jewelry accessible to a wider audience. The trust in our vision reinforces our commitment to bringing high-quality, stylish, and affordable demi-fine jewelry to every household.”

“Shark Tank Indian Season 4 wasn’t just about raising funds—it was about showing India what demi-fine jewelry is and why it matters. This is just the beginning. This funding marks an exciting new chapter for PALMONAS. Amol and I are dedicated to expanding our product range, strengthening our digital and retail presence, and investing in innovation. Having Shraddha Kapoor on board gives us an incredible advantage in connecting with a wider audience. Additionally, Namita and Ritesh’s mentorship and expertise add to our strength. We are ready to take PALMONAS to the next level and redefine the demi-fine jewelry industry in India,” says Founder Pallavi Mohadikar of PALMONAS.

In just two years, PALMONAS has gone from a disruptive idea to India’s most exciting jewelry brand—and the momentum isn’t slowing down. With 5 retail stores launched in just 3 months and backing from Shark Tank India Season 4 investors Namita Thapar and Ritesh Agarwal, the brand is expanding rapidly. With this fresh infusion of funds, PALMONAS also is gearing up to dominate the demi-fine jewelry market, offering contemporary, high-quality, and affordable pieces for the modern consumer. The brand will focus on expanding its collections, enhancing customer engagement, and leveraging Shraddha Kapoor’s influence to reach a wider audience.

Chandigarh, 20 February 2025: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, received the Mother Teresa Award for Corporate Citizen of the Year 2024 at an event held at Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA). The award and citation were presented to the CSR team of Ashok Leyland by Dr. Palanivel Thiagarajan, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Digital Services, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Established in 1998, the Mother Teresa Award for Corporate Citizen is a prestigious honor that recognizes organizations demonstrating exceptional social responsibility, a commitment to community welfare, and a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Highly regarded across India’s corporate sector, this award celebrates companies that go beyond business imperatives to create a lasting and meaningful impact on marginalized communities.

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, of Ashok Leyland said, “At Ashok Leyland, we see corporate social responsibility as an integral part of our business philosophy. Our commitment to nation-building goes beyond manufacturing world-class vehicles, as we strive to uplift communities, protect the environment, and drive meaningful change. Receiving the Mother Teresa Award is a great honor and a reaffirmation of our efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive future. Our Road to School and Road to Livelihood programs continue to make a meaningful impact, now reaching over five lakh students. This year, we proudly welcomed 92,000 new students, and we are set to expand further by adding another 1,00,000 students in FY26, reinforcing our commitment to education and empowerment.”

Mr. Balachandar NV, CSR, and Corporate Affairs, Ashok Leyland said, “Our CSR initiatives focus on holistic and long-term impact, aligning with our vision of creating a better society. This award is an encouragement for us to continue driving positive change through education, healthcare, environment sustainability, and skill development. We remain very proud of our ‘Road to School’ project, an initiative that takes education to the last mile and focuses on holistic child development enabling them to realize their full potential. For us, ‘Road to School’ is far more than just a CSR program; it represents a company-wide commitment to driving real, meaningful change in the lives of students.”

Road to School (RTS), Ashok Leyland’s leading CSR initiative in collaboration with the Learning Links Foundation, strives to bridge educational disparities among students in rural and underserved areas attending government schools across India. The Road to School Program envisions fostering the holistic development of children from government schools in remote areas. It supports both academic and co-curricular growth, encompassing health, hygiene, physical and emotional well-being, and sports. RTS program is aligned with the United Nations Global Sustainable Development Goals on improving the quality of education, scholastic and co-scholastic development including sports, and art education, and promoting good health and well-being amongst underserved children from government schools.

Started in the year 2015 with 36 Schools in Shoolagiri and Anchetty in Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu, the Road to School program has made significant strides in improving learning levels across 7 states mapping about 2505 schools impacting around 4,81,121 Students in Government Primary, Upper Primary and High Schools (2nd to 12th Std.). Ashok Leyland is dedicated in its mission to impact 1 million students, ensuring every child in India has access to quality education. With a commitment to nurturing this vision, the company aims to make a lasting difference in the educational landscape in India.

The company’s CSR initiatives span multiple domains, including education, healthcare, road safety, skill development, and women empowerment. Additionally, Ashok Leyland actively champions environmental sustainability through afforestation projects, water conservation efforts, and initiatives aimed at reducing the carbon footprint.

This prestigious award reinforces Ashok Leyland’s dedication to creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all. The company remains steadfast in its mission to drive both economic growth and social development, making a meaningful difference in society that transcends business objectives.