Category business

New Delhi, October 09, 2025 – FUJIFILM Corporation today announced the launch of the “FUJIFILM X-E5” (X-E5) in India. Priced at MRP INR 159,999 (Body only), the X-E5 becomes the latest addition to the X Series, combining outstanding image quality with a compact, and lightweight design.

The X-E5 is a lightweight and compact mirrorless digital camera, weighing approximately 445g*1, equipped with the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR”*2 sensor and the “X-Processor 5” high-speed image processing engine. X-E5 is the first in the camera series that features a powerful five-axis IBIS mechanism offering up to 7.0 stops in the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery*3. This makes it an effortless,” daily carry” that remains adaptable to the most challenging scenarios. For the first time in the X series, the camera features a top-plate crafted solely from machined aluminum. By combining sharp, flat edges with carefully curved surfaces, the top-plate delivers a smooth metallic texture and a high sense of rigidity, offering a premium feel when holding the camera. The new “Classic Display” mode*4 provides a clean viewfinder image with key information at the bottom of the frame. Combined with a body style that allows you to operate the dials and the lever with one hand, you can immerse yourself in image making with the camera to your eye.

Mr. Koji Wada, Managing Director, FUJIFILM India, said, “At FUJIFILM India, we are committed to delivering innovative products and solutions that embody our Group purpose of ‘Giving Our World More Smiles.’ By blending diverse ideas, unique capabilities, and extraordinary people, we aim to create solutions that bring joy and smiles to the world.’ With the launch of the FUJIFILM X-E5, we are bringing the perfect balance of classic design, modern innovation, and accessible performance ensuring that both enthusiasts and professionals can immerse themselves in the joy of photography.”

Mr. Arun Babu, Associate Director and Head of Digital Camera, instax™ and Optical Devices Division, FUJIFILM India, further added, “The FUJIFILM X-E5 is designed to resonate with the evolving needs of Indian photographers who value style, convenience, and uncompromised image quality. Its intuitive operation, elegant design, and immersive features such as the Classic Display mode and customizable film simulations make it a companion that elevates the creative journey. With this launch, we aim to inspire a new wave of creators across India to rediscover the essence of photography.”

The X-E5 retains the classic style of the X series while embodying an innovative design that pursues elegance. It is equipped with features and operability that inspire the joy of photography. Catering to a wide range of users, from photography enthusiasts to those using a digital camera for the first time, this camera offers the delight of owning a sophisticated tool and the excitement of immersing oneself in the world of photography. 

*1 Including battery and memory card

*2 X-Trans is a trademark or registered trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.

*3 Based on CIPA 2024 standards. Yaw/pitch/roll correction performance when equipped with FUJINON XF35mmF1.4 R lens (sold separately) 

*4 Only available on the EVF

Product Features

(1) A product design that embodies a classic yet highly sophisticated presence.For the first time in the X series, the top-plate is carved from a single piece of metal. The distinct tapered design on the rear of the top plate enhances the metallic texture while improving the operability of the dials, ensuring a seamless and comfortable shooting experience.

The newly designed Film Simulation dial features a precision-cut indicator window that minimizes the gap between dial and body for an exact finish. Additionally, you can individually set Film Simulation and image quality settings to the FS1-FS3 positions, allowing you to save your own FS recipes. 

• Refinement is central to every aspect of X-E5’s design. For example, the viewfinder and diopter adjustment control fit flush with the body. By refining vertical and horizontal elements, the design preserves the essence of a traditional camera while exuding a sophisticated presence. 
• A stylish rope-type shoulder strap is included. It complements the sophisticated camera design. 

(2) Features and operability that immerse you in the world through the viewfinder

• Equipped with a retro and minimalist “Classic Display” mode for the EVF, inspired by the old film cameras. The information on the EVF has been simplified as much as possible. Combined with a body style that allows you to operate the dials and the lever with one hand, you can immerse yourself in image making with the camera to your eye. 
• The X-E5 has a new Surround View function that displays the area outside the shooting range as a semi-transparent or line pattern according to the aspect ratio. While looking through the viewfinder, users can easily switch between these two modes using a lever, providing a shooting experience that is similar to an OVF, even though it is an EVF.
• A control lever is mounted on the front of the camera, offering customizable functionality such as switching VIEW MODE, changing aspect ratios, and adjusting the digital teleconverter magnification. This ensures exceptional operability and versatility.

(3) Powerful in-body image stabilization and advanced features for expanded creative possibilities

The detection accuracy of the gyro sensor has been improved, and we also adopted a new algorithm that enhances responsiveness to camera shake. Thanks to the latest technologies, the camera realizes 5-axis compensation performance of up to 7.0 stops at the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery. The compact body is equipped with powerful image stabilization, allowing for comfortable shooting across a wide range of scenarios.

• The camera features a digital teleconverter function that allows 1.4x and 2.0x zoom levels. Equipped with the high-resolution “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR” sensor, it enables zooming with minimal loss of image quality, making it versatile for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
• The rear tilting monitor can be flipped upward and forward facing up to 180 degrees, which can accommodate a wide variety of compositions, from high to low angle, as well as selfies.
• The X-E5 is capable of shooting in 6.2K/30P resolution. It features a tracking AF function during video recording, ensuring high-quality and smooth footage.

(4) Equipped with a high-performance sensor and high-speed image processing engine to achieve high image quality and high-performance AF

• The fifth generation of the X series is equipped with the back-illuminated 40.2 megapixel “X-Trans™ CMOS 5 HR” sensor. The latest image processing algorithms deliver high resolution while maintaining a high signal-to-noise ratio. 
• Because the improved pixel structure allows more light to be captured efficiently, ISO 125, which was the extended sensitivity in the previous model*5 can be used as the normal sensitivity. In addition, the electronic shutter can be set to a shutter speed of 1/180000 sec. at the fastest, achieving highly precise control of exposure time.
• The X-E5 features an AI-based subject detection AF, developed using deep learning technology to detect animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones*6. 
• The latest AF predictive algorithm provides high tracking performance for moving subjects and high precision AF in low-contrast environments.

India, 9th october 2025: This Diwali, Flipkart went beyond its Big Bang Diwali Sale and the campaign message of “Yeh Diwali Smartphone Wali” to deliver something far more meaningful, transforming not just how people upgrade their lives, but where they live them.

In a heartfelt extension of its campaign narrative that celebrates how a smartphone upgrade can elevate everyday life, Flipkart took this message to the streets of Dharavi, Kamathipura, and Malvani, bringing real-world transformation to communities often overlooked.

Armed with brooms, lights, and a sense of purpose, Flipkart volunteers turned neglected lanes into festive spaces filled with colour and joy. Through cleanliness drives, beautification efforts, health camps, and the distribution of hygiene and feminine care kits, they ensured that the celebration reached every corner. Flipkart partnered with sociowash, to bring this vision to life, turning the campaign from a concept into real-world impact on the streets of Mumbai.

“Going on ground was tougher than expected, the people were full of apprehensive emotions, as no one had done this for them before. We painted 5,000+ houses, cleaned streets and their smiles made it all worth it. It was truly a transformative experience, not just from a campaign standpoint, but from an impact standpoint as well.”

• Shubham Chawla, Youthbeat Business Head, SW

We started with a vision of adding impact and value 10 years ago. After hearing the joy and gratitude the campaign brought to the team and people of the area, it reminded me why we started this journey. Truly grateful for what we were able to achieve with the brand

• Raghav Bagai, Founder, SW

What began as a campaign about upgrading lifestyles evolved into a movement about upgrading lives, showing that the true spirit of Diwali lies in illumination that goes beyond our screens and homes.

With this initiative, Flipkart reminded us that the smartest upgrade this festive season was not just technological, it was human

PVR INOX SETS THE STAGE WITH INDIA’S FIRST-EVER LUXURY DINE-IN CINEMA AT BENGALURU’S M5 ECITY MALL

National, 09 October, 2025: PVR INOX, after recently opening its newest 8-screen multiplex at M5 ECity Mall, Bengaluru, is introducing India’s first dine-in cinema—a first-of-its-kind experience where blockbuster films meet gourmet dining. This format transforms the cinema into a lifestyle destination, giving audiences the freedom to enjoy chef-curated meals in-seat, without stepping out of the auditorium or even purchasing a movie ticket.

The dine-in concept at M5 ECity Mall is built around the idea that cinema should be more than a film—it should be a complete evening of entertainment, food, and comfort. Guests can choose from a range of curated in-house F&B brands, each designed to enhance the cinematic journey:

• Crosta serves artisanal pizzas and baked delights, crafted with premium ingredients and care, inspired by Italian craftsmanship and modern urban cafés.
• Cine Café presents coffees, teas, and bite-sized treats in a café-style environment, creating a social hub for moviegoers before and after shows.
• Dine-In elevates cinema-going into a luxury hospitality experience, combining in-seat gourmet meals with films for a seamless entertainment journey.
• Steamestry offers healthy, light, and flavourful steamed delicacies, inspired by Asian dim sums and modern wellness dining trends.
• Wokstar specializes in quick, stir-fried Asian comfort food served hot and fresh, drawing inspiration from vibrant street food culture.
• In-Between offers wraps, burgers, sandwiches, and bowls for a quick yet satisfying meal, perfect for snacking between shows.
• Frytopia focuses on fun, indulgent fried foods with bold flavors, ideal for sharing and enhancing the movie experience.
• Dogfather serves creative, flavour-loaded hot dogs, turning a casual snack into a gourmet cinema treat.
• Local Street highlights regional flavors, bringing authentic local cuisine to the multiplex and ensuring there is something for every palate.

From the moment guests enter, the space encourages a social and lifestyle experience. Lounge-style foyers with café seating allow visitors to relax before or after a film, making it as much a destination for food lovers and friends as it is for movie enthusiasts. In-seat dining within the auditorium ensures that premium meals can be enjoyed without missing a moment of the movie, turning each screening into a fully immersive experience.

At the heart of this property is Youthification, PVR INOX’s future-ready approach for young, digital-first audiences who seek more than just films. This concept brings together gaming zones, kids-first formats, lounge-style foyers, and curated food experiences, creating a destination where cinema becomes a lifestyle. Whether it is enjoying interactive VR/AR stations, relaxing in CLUB – luxury auditorium, or exploring innovative dining options, every element is designed to connect with today’s audiences in meaningful ways.

Mr. Ajay Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited “With the launch of our new multiplex at M5 ECity Mall, we are inviting audiences to experience cinema in an entirely new way. From India’s first dine-in auditorium restaurant to immersive technology and thoughtfully curated food experiences, this property brings everything our guests love under one roof. It is a space designed to celebrate films, lifestyle, and shared moments—making every visit a unique and memorable experience”

Mr. Aamer Bijli, Lead Specialist – Innovation, Film Marketing & Digital Programming, PVR INOX, added, “With M5 ECity Mall, we wanted to reimagine what a cinema can be. This is not just about watching films, it is about spending time well—sharing a meal, gaming with friends, relaxing in lounge spaces, and enjoying the best technology on screen. By bringing India’s first dine-in auditorium restaurant and a range of unique food formats under one roof, we are creating a destination where entertainment, dining, and lifestyle come together seamlessly.”

Beyond the food, the multiplex is equipped with state-of-the-art cinema technology. Every auditorium features Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby 7.1 surround sound, and 4K Laser projection. The Big Pix auditorium houses a large 4K Laser projection system integrated with RealD 3D, delivering visuals at a scale and clarity that few theaters can match and the Samsung ONYX LED screen takes the Dine-In experience even further. Luxury auditoriums like CLUB combine next-level comfort with advanced technology, creating spaces where the audience can fully lose themselves in the story on screen.

By combining innovative dining, immersive technology, and thoughtful design, the M5 ECity Mall multiplex is changing the way people experience cinema. It creates a destination where the audience can choose how they want to enjoy their time—whether it is a luxurious in-seat meal, a casual coffee and snack, or a night out with friends exploring multiple F&B formats.

This launch marks PVR INOX’s 580th screen in South India and adds to its total of 1,763 screens across 355 properties in India and Sri Lanka. With this dine-in cinema, PVR INOX continues to set a new standard, redefining the movie-going experience for the next generation.

Expressing his excitement Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex Group India Ltd. said “We are proud to introduce GUESS’s automatic timepieces to India for the very first time a perfect fusion of global design, fine craftsmanship, and individual expression. This iconic launch reinforces our commitment to offering dynamic and stylish timepieces to Indian consumers.”

“This is an exciting new chapter for GUESS Watches we’re launching elevated 21-jewel automatic movements into the spotlight, combining visible mechanics with bold fashion statements. From skeleton dials to open-heart details, these self-winding, battery-free timepieces elevate our standing with authentic watchmaking substance, powered by motion and wrapped in unmistakable GUESS style. A watch is a cultural signal—now more than ever—and our Automatics show we’re leading the fashion conversation with substance and style.” Brett Gibson, President & Chief Commercial Officer, GUESS Watches

Bengaluru, October 8th, 2025: ICICI Bank and Visa announced the launch of the Corporate Sapphiro Forex Card, a prepaid forex card designed to empower India’s entrepreneurs and corporate leaders travelling abroad for work. This first-of-its-kind card for business travellers integrates the flexibility of a prepaid forex card powered by Visa Infinite offerings, curated lifestyle benefits, unmatched convenience and value for frequent travellers.

The Corporate Sapphiro Forex Card offers premium travel and lifestyle benefits, a first-time offering on a corporate prepaid forex card linked to the Bank’s current account.  The exclusive benefits valued at over INR15,000 includes two complimentary visits to international airport lounges, ‘Meet and Assist’ services that enable business travellers to have a seamless airport experience and exclusive travel and lifestyle discounts. The card offers the freedom and convenience of loading and transacting in 15 currencies. It also offers zero cross-currency mark-up charge, allowing customers to conveniently travel across the globe, even if they load only one currency on the card. The welcome kit comes with two cards a primary and a replacement card. The replacement card acts as a back-up just in case the primary card is misplaced.

Entrepreneurs and sole proprietors having current account with the Bank can now apply, activate and load the card digitally and instantly through InstaBIZ, the Bank’s business banking app. It will shortly be available for employees of large corporates. This makes ICICI Bank the only bank in India to offer an end-to-end digital journey for business banking customers in the forex card space. The feature to apply, activate and load the card will shortly be available on Corporate Internet Banking.

Speaking about the new card, Mr. Vipul Agarwal, Head – Cards & Payment Solutions, ICICI Bank, said, “We are delighted to partner with Visa to expand our range of forex cards into a new category of premium forex card for business travellers. As the Indian businesses and corporates expand internationally, we envisage the need for a premium forex card linked to the business account with exclusive features. The digital journeys on InstaBIZ and Corporate Internet Banking will enable business travellers to apply, load and manage their cards on the go. Accordingly, this India-first innovation of the Corporate Sapphiro Forex Card is tailored for business owners and brings attractive benefits from Visa Infinite platform to a prepaid forex card, for the first time in Asia.”

Speaking at the launch, Shruti Gupta, Head of Commercial and Money Movement Solutions, Visa India and South Asia, said, “We are delighted to partner with ICICI Bank to launch the Corporate Sapphiro Forex Card. This partnership reiterates the commitment of Visa and ICICI Bank towards innovation in business payments and curated customer experiences. This prepaid forex card offers a unique blend of flexibility, control, and Visa’s infinite benefits, backed by the reliability, security, and worldwide acceptance of Visa.”

Key benefits for business travellers:

• Travel redefined:
  • Two complimentary international airport lounge visits
  • Meet & Assist services for smooth airport experiences
  • Complimentary international eSIM card offered by Visa
• Three ATM fee waiver every month on cash withdrawals
• Unmatched value: zero cross-currency markup for transparent and cost-effective global transactions
• Digital experience:
  • Instant application and activation via InstaBIZ
  • Real-time loads for uninterrupted usage
• Exclusive privileges: Preferential rates and offers with top global hotel chains and airlines

India, October 08th, 2025: PhonePe, today unveiled its next-gen SmartSpeaker – the PhonePe SmartPOD at the Global Fintech Fest 2025. The new hybrid device is designed to meet the evolving payment needs of both merchants and the customers. Its launch at the industry event, highlights PhonePe’s commitment to developing practical solutions for Indian merchants. Manufactured in India, the SmartPOD is the first PhonePe solution that combines the best features of the SmartSpeaker and traditional Point of Sale (POS) devices into a single, cost-effective device.

This new model is an upgrade from earlier smartspeakers that supported audio alerts for UPI payments. The SmartPOD is designed to facilitate merchants who primarily accept UPI payments but are losing out on sales opportunities because they lack a cost-effective way to accept payment through cards. This device is the suitable solution, helping them capture those missed sales and cater to a wider range of customers with a single, all-in-one, cost-effective payment solution. The seamless integration of these payment methods such as cards and QR codes, ensures a smoother, more convenient experience for both the users and merchants. 

Speaking on the launch, Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat, Chief Business Officer Merchant Business at PhonePe, stated, “We are excited to be launching the SmartPOD at the Global Fintech Fest. While our earlier smartspeakers made QR code-based payment acceptance reliable and seamless for our merchant partners, the SmartPOD goes a step further by enabling card acceptance through these cost-effective devices. It’s an ideal upgrade especially for smaller merchants who have a growing need to accept all forms of digital payments in an affordable manner and allows consumers across the country to be able to use their cards even at the smallest of merchants in their vicinity. We are elated to partner with our smaller merchant partners and equip them with solutions which may help in putting their business at par with their larger counterparts and helps them to tap opportunities to expand and grow their business.” 

The SmartPOD includes all the popular features from SmartSpeaker 2.0, including celebrity voice confirmation, 4G network, fast charging, etc. The device accepts card payments from all major networks, including Mastercard, Visa, RuPay, and American Express, with support for both Near Field Communication (NFC) tap and Europay, Mastercard, and Visa (EMV) chip transactions (dip & pay). To further improve the customer experience, the SmartPOD features a customer-facing display to show the transaction amount and a merchant-facing display for an easy amount entry. It also comes with a keypad for PIN entry and supports e-charge slips for all card transactions, ensuring a secure and efficient payment process. 

All PhonePe’s device solutions will be available across markets offering merchants the flexibility to choose a device that best suits their specific needs. This multi-tiered approach ensures that businesses of all sizes can find a cost-effective solution to manage their in-store digital payments. 

Fifteen years back, cell phones were looked at mostly as things for calls, messages, and easy searching. Now, they are the center of world fun. In 2025, more than 82% of web use comes from phone gadgets, by global tech write ups. Folks now depend on cell phones for films, music games, sports news and even money tasks. The change shows how these tiny tools have turned into strong lifestyle items.

Why mobile platforms dominate in global entertainment usage

Phones are the easiest way to get content. With just some taps, users can change from watching a live cricket game to playing a fun mobile game or seeing the new movie. Sites like CroreBet show this shift by giving fun that fits right into mobile lives. This change means that phones are not just for talking but doors to whole worlds of activity.

Entertainment categories that are thriving in mobile ecosystems

Various kinds of fun now stay in smartphones, often taking the place of old ways. The most liked groups include:

• Lots of folks: More than 1.3 billion͏ people all over the world see Netflix; YouTube, or some other similar apps on their phones.
• Mobile gaming: Global revenue surpassed $120 billion in 2024, with India and Southeast Asia as the fastest-growing markets.
• Music apps: Spotify and similar services account for 75% of global music streaming time.
• Sports and live updates: Instant match highlights, fantasy sports, and betting apps dominate in cricket and football markets.

This variety explains why users spend over 4.5 hours per day on average glued to their phones.

Case study: How Indian youth use smartphones for all-in-one fun

Consider Rohan, a 22-year-old student from Mumbai. He uses his smartphone to attend online classes in the morning, stream movies in the afternoon, and play cricket fantasy leagues at night. Instead of owning multiple devices, his phone provides everything he needs. Rohan spends around 35 hours per week on mobile entertainment, which reflects national statistics. In India, over 700 million smartphone users now treat their devices as complete lifestyle hubs.

Features that keep smartphones ahead of other entertainment devices

Phones have a lead since they mix many services in one tool. Things that help them stay on top are:

• 5G link for easy, fast watching and playing game.
• Big-quality screens giving movie-like watching on small screens.
• Joined pay systems like UPI for fast online deals.
• Extra reality (AR) parts make games into deep fun.
• Handy fun, joy that moves with you anywhere.

These traits make phones unchangeable next to TVs, laptops or game systems.

Why smartphones will remain the future of entertainment

The coming step of͏ phone making will look at smart thinking and deep tech. AI-led custom choices already shapes music lists, game tips, and film ideas. At the same time AR and VR tools are being put into devices to let users feel shows, sports games, or even casino-like fun as if they are really there.

Final thoughts on smartphones as all-in-one entertainment devices

Phones have grown into full fun spots. They let folks watch films, play games, listen to tunes and chat in one spot. Many studies and real-life stories make clear that phones aren’t just extra – they are the main way of joy around the globe.

Photo by Adrienn:

The Indian manufacturing sector is currently in the midst of a historic acceleration, transforming from a traditional industry into a cutting-edge global powerhouse. This industrial surge isn’t accidental; it’s the direct result of a new generation of visionary business leaders who are aggressively injecting capital, technology, and strategic thinking into production. These individuals are moving beyond simple assembly, focusing on high-value products, embracing sustainability, and building global supply chains that redefine the meaning of ‘Made in India’. This list highlights the 10 key visionaries of this revolution, leaders whose decisions today will determine India’s standing as a dominant industrial force on the world stage tomorrow.

Gautam Adani (Adani Group)
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, is a key architect of modern Indian infrastructure and manufacturing capacity. His vision directly fuels the ‘Make in India’ mission by focusing on large-scale, capital-intensive manufacturing. The group is rapidly expanding its footprint across logistics, ports, thermal power, and perhaps most visionarily, green energy manufacturing (solar panels, wind turbines, hydrogen). Adani’s strategic approach involves vertically integrating the supply chain, from mining raw materials to generating power and then building infrastructure to transport goods.

Anand Mahindra (Mahindra Group)
Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, is leading one of India’s most diversified manufacturing enterprises, spanning automotive, farm equipment (world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume), and aerospace. His vision is defined by a commitment to innovation, design-led manufacturing, and technological disruption. Under his leadership, the group has become an aggressive adopter of electric mobility, launching a dedicated line of EVs and investing heavily in future-ready platforms. He also champions smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 adoption within their plants to enhance quality and efficiency.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Biocon)
As the Executive Chairperson of Biocon and Biocon Biologics, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is a visionary force who essentially pioneered modern biotechnology manufacturing in India. She built Biocon from a garage startup into a global biopharmaceuticals leader, focusing on affordable innovation in complex products like biosimilars and insulins. Her impact is twofold: establishing India’s competence in high-precision, regulated manufacturing that meets global quality benchmarks (FDA, EMA), and driving the core principle of access and affordability for critical medicines. She champions scaling up India’s R&D-led manufacturing capability, moving beyond generic drugs to proprietary and novel biological products, thereby positioning India as a “Pharmacy of the World” in a sustainable and technologically advanced manner.

Nikhil Nanda (JHS Svendgaard Laboratories Ltd.)
Nikhil Nanda, the Managing Director of JHS Svendgaard Laboratories Ltd., is a significant figure in India’s rapidly evolving FMCG contract manufacturing space, particularly in oral, personal, and hygiene care. Starting primarily as a toothbrush manufacturer, Nanda’s vision was to transform JHS into a comprehensive, end-to-end manufacturing partner for leading national and international brands. Under his leadership, the company diversified into high-volume production of toothpaste, mouthwash, and other FMCG categories, often as a key supplier for major Indian brands like Patanjali and Dabur. His strategic focus is on high-volume, high-quality contract manufacturing, including an export-oriented unit, which is vital for bolstering India’s consumer goods manufacturing base and expanding the country’s footprint in the global personal care market.

Salil Parekh (Infosys)
As the CEO and MD of Infosys, Salil Parekh is a visionary shaping the future of manufacturing not by producing goods, but by digitalizing the process. His contribution lies in leveraging Infosys’s global IT expertise to implement Industry 4.0 solutions for major global and Indian manufacturers. His vision involves using technologies like AI, IoT, cloud computing, and digital twins to create ‘smart factories’ that enable predictive maintenance, optimized supply chains, and superior product quality. Parekh is instrumental in repositioning Indian manufacturing as a digital-first, data-driven sector. By partnering with manufacturers across automotive, aerospace, and chemicals, he is directly accelerating India’s digital transformation journey, making its production processes globally competitive in the era of smart industry.

Sunil Vachani (Dixon Technologies)
Sunil Vachani, the Founder and Chairman of Dixon Technologies, is a key leader in India’s burgeoning Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) sector. His vision directly aligns with the ‘Make in India’ and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, focusing on making India a global hub for electronics manufacturing. Dixon is a giant in contract manufacturing for LED TVs, washing machines, mobile phones, and lighting products. Vachani’s strategy is to rapidly scale up capacity, adopt Industry 4.0 techniques, and maintain global quality standards to attract international brands away from traditional manufacturing destinations.

Jayant Davar (Sandhar Technologies)
Jayant Davar, the Co-Founder, Co-Chairman, and Managing Director of Sandhar Technologies, is a prominent name in the automotive components manufacturing space. His vision is focused on being a Tier-1 global supplier by excelling in diverse product lines, from door handles and locking systems to mirror assemblies and sheet metal components. Davar’s strategy involves heavy emphasis on global acquisitions and technology transfers to bring world-class manufacturing processes and R&D capabilities to India.

Sanjiv Puri (ITC Limited)
Sanjiv Puri, the Chairman and Managing Director of ITC Limited, is driving the transformation of one of India’s most diversified conglomerates with a massive manufacturing footprint in FMCG, paperboards, and agri-business. His vision centers on ‘Triple Bottom Line’ performance, economic, environmental, and social. He is implementing a strategy of hyper-localization and sustainability in manufacturing, ensuring that ITC’s supply chains and production facilities are deeply integrated with local communities and operate with a lower carbon and water footprint. This commitment to responsible manufacturing, coupled with aggressive investment in digitalization and advanced analytics for supply chain optimization, is setting a key trend for India’s large-scale FMCG manufacturing to be both profitable and planet-friendly.

Baba N. Kalyani (Bharat Forge)
Baba N. Kalyani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge, is a pioneer in India’s heavy engineering and defense manufacturing. His vision has transformed Bharat Forge from a local forging company into a global leader in forging and engineering, serving complex sectors like automotive, aerospace, and oil & gas worldwide. His key contribution is proving India’s capability in precision, high-stress component manufacturing. Kalyani has relentlessly pushed for advanced metallurgy, R&D, and adoption of state-of-the-art machinery to achieve global cost and quality leadership.

Pawan Munjal (Hero MotoCorp)
Pawan Munjal, the Chairman and CEO of Hero MotoCorp, leads one of the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers. His vision for Indian manufacturing is centered on global expansion and sustainable mobility. While dominating the mass-market internal combustion engine segment, Munjal has significantly accelerated Hero MotoCorp’s shift towards the future by investing in electric vehicles (EVs) under the brand VIDA. He is driving the modernization of the manufacturing process using digital technologies and automation to maintain cost leadership while improving quality. His strategy includes establishing manufacturing and assembly bases in international markets and building a global supply chain, thereby taking Indian-designed and engineered vehicles to the world and solidifying India’s position as a global automotive manufacturing center.

Mumbai, 07 October 2025: Kia India, a leading premium carmaker, today announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of Mr. Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Mr. Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

In his new role as CSO, Mr. Park will lead Kia India’s sales strategy, prioritizing sustainable growth, boosting operational efficiency, and expanding the brand’s market reach. With 28 years of international automotive experience, he has held key leadership roles at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA), and India.

As CBO, Mr. Cho will be responsible for crafting comprehensive business strategies, production planning, export logistics, leading cross-functional teams, forging strategic alliances, and ensuring operational excellence. With over 32 years of leadership experience, Mr. Cho has served in multiple global roles across Australia, the UK, and Europe.

Mr. Sunhack Park, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Mr. Joonsu Cho, Chief Business Officer, Kia India, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.

With this transition, Kia reinforces its commitment to India with a strong leadership team, driving innovation, and sustaining its growth trajectory in the Indian automotive market.