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The music industry is engulfed in sorrow as it mourns the passing of the legendary ghazal maestro, Pankaj Udhas, whose soulful melodies left an indelible mark on hearts worldwide. Renowned writer, director, and producer Sonu Tyagi, head of Approach Entertainment, had recently expressed his aspiration to collaborate with Udhas on a poignant ghazal project, envisioning a masterpiece that would transcend time.

Pankaj Udhas, hailed as one of the most influential voices in the world of ghazals, enchanted audiences with his emotive renditions and lyrical depth. His illustrious career spanning decades saw him redefine the genre, earning him accolades and adoration from fans across generations. Sonu Tyagi, known for his adept storytelling and poetic finesse, admired Udhas’s musical genius and sought to merge their talents in a collaboration that promised to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Amidst Udhas’s ailing health, Sonu Tyagi had reached out to Pankaj Udhas’s daughter, Nayaab Udhas, to discuss the possibility of continuing the collaboration. Despite the hurdles, Tyagi was determined to realize their shared vision and honor the legacy of the maestro.

Sonu Tyagi’s creative vision was to merge his poignant lyrics with Pankaj Udhas’s soul-stirring vocals in the timeless ghazal “क्या बात है शहर में, मयखाने बहुत है” (What a Sight in the City, Many Taverns Abound). The project, anticipated to be a poignant reflection of urban life’s complexities, now stands as a poignant reminder of the ephemeral nature of existence.

Grieving over shattered collaboration dreams, Sonu Tyagi reflects on the missed opportunity to blend his lyrical finesse with Pankaj Udhas’s unmatched musical prowess. Their collaboration was poised to be a testament to the enduring allure of ghazals, captivating audiences across generations. As the industry mourns the loss of Pankaj Udhas, Sonu Tyagi pays tribute to the maestro’s unparalleled talent and legacy. Despite the profound loss, Tyagi remains hopeful that Udhas’s timeless music will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come.

Sonu Tyagi’s commitment to honoring Pankaj Udhas’s memory underscores the enduring impact of the maestro’s musical legacy. While the collaboration dreams may have been shattered, the spirit of their artistic vision lives on, a poignant reminder of the transformative power of music in touching hearts and souls.

Sonu Tyagi is an award- winning writer/director and producer heading a film productions and celebrity management company, Approach Entertainment and a PR & Integrated Communications company, Approach Communications. He is also heading charitable spiritual organization Go Spiritual India which is working for spiritual awareness, philanthropy, spiritual tourism, spiritual media, spiritual events, organic, health, mental health and social causes.

Noida, March 1, 2024: Jakson Green, a leading new energy transition platform, announced today the signing of its first Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) for a utility scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power project. This agreement marks a significant milestone for Jakson Green, solidifying its position as a key Independent Power Producer (IPP) in India’s growing renewable energy sector.

The subject PPA originated from SECI’s Tranche XI auction for setting up grid-connected solar projects in India conducted last year. Jakson Green will be responsible for identifying suitable land, installing the project, and acquiring ownership, besides ensuring necessary approvals and connectivity with the ISTS network for supplying power to SECI. The project is expected to be operational within 18 months from PPA signing date, and the power procured by SECI for the period of 25 years has been provisioned to be sold to different discom entities in India. Besides commercial benefits for all stakeholders, the project is expected to generate clean energy sufficient to power close to one lakh households annually, contribute to the elimination of nearly 188,000 MT/year of carbon emissions, and create valuable job opportunities during both construction and operation phases.

“We are thrilled to initiate our collaboration with SECI starting with this project, first of many more to follow in times to come,” said Mr. Kannan Krishnan, Joint Managing Director of Jakson Green Private Limited. “This agreement reinforces our commitment to partnering with leading organizations to accelerate India’s clean energy transition. We are confident this project will significantly contribute to the nation’s renewable energy goals and create lasting value for all stakeholders.”

With this latest power pact inked, Jakson Green nears assets under ownership and development of nearly 1 GW, with further PPAs for sizeably large power assets to be signed over the next many weeks bolstered by a promising development pipeline.

Bengaluru, 1st March 2024 – MOGLU – ‘The Edgy Veggie Restaurant’, a premium establishment that celebrates vegetables in all their decadence and glory, opens its doors in central Bengaluru on 26th February. MOGLU, which takes fresh ingredients that are full of life and gives them the space to shine, stands poised to usher in a renaissance in vegetarian cuisine. Located at 1 Sobha on St Marks Road, this borderless vegetarian restaurant transcends the ordinary and emerges as a culinary beacon.

MOGLU, co-founded by Ankita Shree, an ex-IRS officer turned entrepreneur, and Dr. Kiran Narayanan, a computational physicist who switched to a culinary career at 40 after training at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York, crafts a cuisine that blends cross-cultural influences on a plate. Keeping food at its centre, it is a holistic experience curated and created by the couple over three years and bears their unmistakable signature. Chef-driven and vegetable-forward, it takes what nature offers at a given time of the year and elevates it with a bit of culinary magic. The restaurant launches under the banner of Mamacoco, a vegetarian-forward food and beverage group. MOGLU brings fun and complex vegetarian all-day dining to the city with breakfast, lunch, dinner, cafe, and zero-proof drinks offerings.

“Three things – more choice, better quality, and innovation, in our experience, are currently missing from the vegetarian dine-in segment. MOGLU is bringing to the city food that is inspired, creative, ingredient-driven, and generous. We serve sophisticated vegetarian food that can easily be a choice for a celebratory dinner for a vegetarian, meat-eater or a flexitarian!” says Ankita Shree, positioned as Managing Director at MOGLU.

Culinary Experience at MOGLU

With borderless at the heart of MOGLU’s philosophy, the food doesn’t pay allegiance to any particular cuisine but borrows the best from different culinary traditions to create modern plated dishes. Featuring a menu that evolves bi-annually, MOGLU offers its diners delightful new discoveries, making them want to return for more!

Indulge in signature dishes such as the Buratta with Green Beans & Toasted Lentils. This is a comforting dish where traditional South Indian parippu usli and vethakozhumbu are reinvented into a warm salad using lentil usli and ginger-tamarind sauce. The Barbecue Mushroom Burger – a lion’s mane mushroom barbecue burger with triple-cooked fries is another highlight on the menu. The hearty, meaty lion’s mane mushroom is grilled on a plancha, glazed with house hickory-smoked barbecue sauce and placed in double-raised potato burger buns made at the in-house bakery. The menu also features dishes like the Spinach Coconut Lentil Soup; Massaged Kale, Beets and Paneer Salad; Crispy Okra and Tamarind; Spaghetti Tempeh Bolognaise and more.

Dr. Kiran Narayanan, the Executive Chef at MOGLU, expresses his excitement around the launch.“MOGLU intends to celebrate vegetables by way of culinary art that plays on all of one’s senses. While we have kept many dish formats familiar (think tacos, burgers, steak and fries), we use cross-cultural techniques to make the dishes stand out with the vegetable as the centrepiece. Vegetarian food can be exciting if treated the right way, and that’s what we are committed to. We are ruled by one motto – if it’s on a MOGLU plate, it’s got to be delicious! In the immortal words of Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and George Calombaris – We are in the flavour business after all!”

Taking a culinary approach to mixology, MOGLU is pioneering a trend of non-alcoholic beverages. Cutting-edge techniques are combined with local flavours like kokum, jackfruit and cardamom to curate a range of in-house base liqueurs, like Campari and Jamaican Rum, which are then used to make delightful zero-proof drinks. Zero, as the menu is called, can be enjoyed independently as exquisite multi-layered drinks or as accompaniments to MOGLU’s borderless vegetable-forward cuisine. From zero-proof base spirits like Mezcal and Jackfruit Rum to the zest of fresh seasonal fruits and herbs, each element is meticulously chosen to infuse zing and punch into every sip, turning your dining experience into a flavourful tale. Some of MOGLU’s signature creations are the Limoncello, Venetian Campari Spritzer, Lychee Champagne, Amaro & Coke and more.

The Breakfast Special

Further to MOGLU’s lunch, dinner, and beverage offerings, the establishment invites you to a delightful morning ritual with an exciting breakfast spread. Encouraging all-day indulgence, taste their array of exquisite tartines, eggless omelettes crafted with egg substitutes and delectable pastries perfectly complemented by a curated coffee programme. MOGLU uses the GI-tagged Arabica beans which are sourced directly from the farmers in Kodagu. Enjoy some of the team’s favourites like the Labneh grape tartine, where succulent grapes meet creamy hung curd and honey. Explore the diverse eggless omelette selection using egg substitutes, featuring the Superfood Omelette with kale, paneer, and vegetables, served alongside Texas hash browns, made the authentic American way, and house sourdough toast. Don’t miss the classic Truffle and Mushroom Omelette for an indulgent twist. Elevate your coffee, tea, or herbal drink experience with the perfect accompaniment of Biscotti or a choice of three delectable chocolate truffle flavours.

Where Architecture and Gastronomy Converge

Nestled within the iconic 1 SOBHA, the restaurant is a captivating fusion of form and style. Its irregular polyhedron shape, overlooking St. Marks Road, sets the stage for an exquisite premium casual dining experience. With a generous 800 sq. ft. seating area accommodating 55 covers, the space features a lofty three-floor-high ceiling and expansive windows that bathe it in natural light, offering panoramic views of the lively street in front. Warm neutral shades of terracotta and beige create an earthy canvas for the holistic dining experience. Versatile seating options cater to both intimate dinners and group gatherings. The high ceiling, taller windows, and charming balconettes create a welcoming ambience with a subtle hint of Roman architecture. Eco-friendly paint on textured walls reflects the commitment to sustainable living. Archways, double-height chandeliers, and strategic lighting add an extra layer of sophistication, making it an upscale and visually appealing hangout spot adorned with greenery accents and curated artwork, ensuring a relaxing and refined experience.

At MOGLU, the joy of dining isn’t just about savouring a good meal. it’s about being surprised and delighted and experiencing the joy of discovering something new with each meal. All of this against the backdrop of impeccable service and the unmistakable warmth of heartfelt hospitality. It is a harmonious blend of the perfect ambience, great music, and impeccable service, where each ingredient adds to the symphony of the MOGLU experience.

The Packaging Films Food Market is a vital segment within the broader packaging industry, primarily concerned with the production and distribution of films used for packaging food products. These films serve a multitude of purposes, including preserving freshness, extending shelf life, enhancing visual appeal, and ensuring food safety. With the growing demand for convenience foods, increasing consumer awareness about food hygiene, and stringent regulations regarding food packaging, the packaging films food market has witnessed significant growth in recent years. Manufacturers in this market continuously innovate to develop films that meet the evolving needs of the food industry while adhering to sustainability standards, according to Persistence Market Research

Market Growth Factors:

Several key factors contribute to the growth of the Packaging Films Food Market. Firstly, the rise in disposable incomes and changing lifestyles have led to an increased preference for packaged and ready-to-eat foods, driving the demand for packaging films. Additionally, growing concerns regarding food safety and hygiene have prompted manufacturers to invest in advanced packaging solutions that offer better protection against contamination and spoilage, further fueling market growth. Moreover, technological advancements in film manufacturing processes, such as the development of barrier films and active packaging materials, have enabled better preservation of food products, thus driving market expansion. Furthermore, stringent government regulations pertaining to food packaging, including labeling requirements and safety standards, have compelled manufacturers to invest in high-quality packaging films, contributing to market growth. Lastly, the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions and the increasing adoption of biodegradable films are expected to further propel the growth of the Packaging Films Food Market in the coming years.

Market Opportunities:

The Packaging Films Food Market presents several enticing opportunities for both existing players and new entrants in the industry. One significant opportunity lies in catering to the rising demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions. With increasing consumer awareness about environmental issues and the adverse effects of plastic pollution, there is a growing preference for biodegradable and compostable packaging films. Companies that can innovate and offer such environmentally friendly alternatives stand to gain a competitive edge and capture a larger market share.

Another promising opportunity within the Packaging Films Food Market is the growing trend of premiumization in food packaging. As consumers become more discerning, they are willing to pay a premium for products that offer superior quality, aesthetics, and convenience. This trend opens avenues for manufacturers to develop high-end packaging films with advanced features such as enhanced barrier properties, interactive packaging, and innovative designs that enhance the visual appeal of food products. Capitalizing on this trend can enable companies to differentiate their products and command higher prices in the market.

Furthermore, the increasing focus on convenience and on-the-go consumption presents an opportunity for packaging films tailored to single-serve and portion-controlled packaging formats. With busy lifestyles and the rise of snacking culture, there is a growing demand for packaging solutions that offer convenience, portability, and portion control while maintaining product freshness and quality. Companies that can develop packaging films optimized for such applications, such as easy-to-open seals, resealable closures, and microwaveable films, can tap into this burgeoning market segment.

Additionally, the rapid growth of e-commerce and online grocery shopping represents a significant opportunity for the Packaging Films Food Market. As more consumers opt for online purchasing of food products, there is a need for packaging films that ensure product integrity during transit and storage. Solutions such as tamper-evident films, protective barrier films, and packaging optimized for efficient shipping and handling can address the unique requirements of e-commerce food packaging, creating opportunities for innovation and market expansion.

Market Trends:

The Packaging Films Food Market is witnessing several prominent trends that are shaping the industry landscape. One significant trend is the increasing adoption of sustainable packaging materials. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, driving demand for packaging films made from renewable sources or those that are recyclable or biodegradable. This shift towards sustainability is prompting manufacturers to invest in innovative materials and manufacturing processes to meet these evolving consumer preferences.

Another notable trend is the rise of convenience packaging solutions. With busier lifestyles and changing consumption patterns, there is a growing demand for packaging films that offer convenience features such as easy-to-open seals, resealable closures, and portion-controlled packaging. Manufacturers are responding by developing films that enhance the convenience and usability of food packaging, catering to the needs of modern consumers.

Furthermore, there is a trend towards premiumization in food packaging. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for food products that offer superior quality, aesthetics, and branding. This trend is driving demand for packaging films with advanced features such as high-end graphics, tactile finishes, and interactive elements that enhance the visual appeal and perceived value of packaged foods.

Market Challenges:

Despite the promising growth prospects, the Packaging Films Food Market also faces several challenges. One of the primary challenges is the increasing regulatory scrutiny and compliance requirements. Manufacturers need to navigate complex regulations related to food safety, labeling, and environmental sustainability, which can increase costs and pose logistical challenges. Adhering to these regulations while maintaining competitiveness in the market is a significant challenge for industry players.

Another challenge is the volatility of raw material prices. Packaging films are primarily made from petroleum-based plastics, and fluctuations in crude oil prices can impact production costs. Moreover, the growing demand for sustainable packaging materials has led to increased competition for bio-based and compostable raw materials, further adding to price volatility and supply chain risks.

Additionally, there is a challenge associated with technological advancements and innovation. While innovation is crucial for staying competitive in the market, it also requires substantial investment in research and development. Keeping pace with rapid technological changes and meeting evolving consumer demands for new features and functionalities can strain resources and pose challenges for smaller players in the market.

Latest Developments:

In recent developments within the Packaging Films Food Market, there has been a notable emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in research and development to create packaging films from renewable sources such as plant-based materials or recycled plastics. Additionally, advancements in recycling technologies and processes are enabling the development of more sustainable packaging options, further driving innovation in the industry.

Furthermore, there have been significant developments in barrier films technology. Barrier films play a crucial role in extending the shelf life of packaged food products by protecting them from moisture, oxygen, and other external factors. Recent advancements in barrier film technology have led to the development of high-performance films with improved barrier properties, allowing for longer shelf life and better preservation of food quality.

Moreover, there is a growing trend towards digital printing in food packaging films. Digital printing offers several advantages, including shorter lead times, cost-effectiveness for short print runs, and greater flexibility in design customization. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting digital printing technologies to create eye-catching and personalized packaging designs that resonate with consumers and differentiate their products in the market.

In the bustling world of showbiz, connections come in all shapes and sizes. friendships often bloom in the unlikeliest of places. Actress Sonal Singh, known for her role as Bhakti in Zee TV’s “Kyunki… Saas Maa Beti Bahu Hoti Hai,” has a unique best friend who’s not from the glitzy sets of her show, but rather a tiny, feathered companion—a sparrow!

Sonal shares a special bond with a sparrow she fondly calls Chirpy. Despite the glamorous world she inhabits on screen, Sonal finds solace and companionship in the company of this little bird. Their friendship blossomed unexpectedly, but the bond they share is pure and heartwarming.

Talking about their unconventional friendship, Sonal said, “After a hectic day of shooting, coming home to her brings me so much peace. She’s not just a pet; she’s like family to me. We do everything together – pray, celebrate, eat, and even watch TV shows. Unlike some friendships I’ve had before, the bond I share with her has changed me for the better. She’s brought me immense joy and made me see relationships in a new light. Honestly, my day doesn’t feel complete without her. She’s more than just a buddy; she’s my rock, my confidante, always there for me. In this crazy world, she gives me moments of calm and reminds me of the beauty in simple things.”

She further added, “Humans may come and go, but she’s always there, brightening up my life with her cheerful presence. She listens to my worries, shares in my happiness, and never asks for anything in return. Her friendship is pure and unconditional, showing me the value of simplicity and companionship. In a world where relationships can be complicated, her friendship is a reminder that love and support can be found in unexpected places if we’re open to them.”

Sonal Singh, known for her role as Bhakti in Zee TV’s “Kyunki… Saas Maa Beti Bahu Hoti Hai,” is currently captivating audiences alongside Manasi Joshi Roy, Navika Kotia, Himanshu Soni, and Lakshya Khurana. Her talent has earned her recognition in various television shows, including Star Plus’ “Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?,” Sony TV’s “Mere Sai,” &TV’s “Ganga,” and Colors‘ “Devanshi.” She’s also made her mark on Sony TV’s “C.I.D” and “Crime Patrol.” Moreover, Sonal has contributed to Gujarati projects like “Dikri Vahal No Dariyo” and “Lakshmi Sadaiv Mangalam.”

Mumbai, 1st March 2024: Amidst a surge in the talent pool of young professionals, apna.co – India’s leading jobs and professional networking platform – yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), a visionary building tools to give access to students as being the official partner for AiCTE, aiming to transform the job placement landscape for college graduates of within the nation’s burgeoning workforce despite their geography.

This strategic partnership ensures that any fresher graduating from an Engineering, Diploma or Management institute will gain access to placement services independent of their college or city. With an extensive user base of 5 crore users and over 5 lakh employers, apna.co emerges as a fitting platform for AICTE to collaborate with. With this strategic collaboration, apna.co intends to enable job opportunities for Engineering and Management Graduates by connecting them with employers.

The MoU was signed in the esteemed presence of the Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in the Government of India, Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Secretary Higher Education Shri K Sanjay Murthy, UGC Chairperson, Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar and NCVET Chairperson, Dr. Nirmaljeet Kalsi and other dignitaries.

By bridging the talent gap and leveraging apna.co’s extensive network, the groundbreaking partnership has created a pre-placement tech stack. It stands out as the go-to platform right from the start, providing essential features like an AI-based resume builder and comprehensive assistance for students in navigating job and career exploration with the AI-aided interview preparation facility.

Under the MoU, apna.co will offer design, development and upkeep of the AICTE Career Portal for 5 years. The platform is poised to revolutionize opportunities for graduating students, providing them access to a wide array of both Indian and international job opportunities, including internships for current students. Tailored for aspiring job seekers, the platform will also include an AI-based resume builder, real-time notifications for new opportunities and community engagement through specialized affinity-based groups on apna.co. Additionally, by Q3 of 2024, the portal will introduce AI-aided interview preparation and salary assessment by leveraging apna.co’s broad network to provide actionable insights and benchmark salary trends across industries.

Prof. Rajive Kumar, Member Secretary AICTE commented, “The association of AICTE with apna.co will provide opportunities to the students particularly in the rural areas in preparing their CV, identifying the skill gaps as per the market needs and getting employment not in the country but also across the globe. Students will also get internship opportunities in the best of the companies. apna.co will provide all such opportunities to the students free of cost. I appeal to the institutions to disseminate and encourage the students to take advantage of these opportunities.”

This strategic alliance marks a significant milestone in apna.co’s mission to empower professionals and bridge India’s talent gap. By democratizing access to career opportunities and providing tailored support to students, apna.co and AICTE are set to reshape the future of college placement in India.

Nirmit Parikh, Founder & CEO of apna.co, commented, “In today’s dynamic job landscape, we are committed to building the future of India by enabling its youth to excel in the national and the global workspace. We at apna.co believe that India’s youth will not only meet but lead the charge in shaping the future of the global workforce and plan to address the challenges faced by India’s youth in navigating the complex job market. We are humbled to be partnering with AICTE. This initiative is envisioned to empower fresh graduates and job seekers with the platform needed to kick-start their careers and meet professional ambitions.”

Talking about the partnership, Karna Chokshi, Chief Business Officer of apna.co, said, “With this groundbreaking collaboration with AICTE, we aim to not just enhance job placement opportunities but also foster a generation of empowered professionals. With features like AI-driven tools for resume building and interview preparation on our career portal, we are not only addressing immediate challenges but also laying the groundwork for their sustained success in the long run. Our partnership with AICTE will not only not only bridge the talent gap but also cultivate a workforce that will drive innovation, productivity, and growth across industries, both nationally and internationally.”

1st March 2024– SVKM’s NMIMS Bengaluru hosted the 11th edition of TEDx Bengaluru. This year’s theme, “Rhythm of Revelation: Where Chance Encounters Brilliance,” explored the intriguing concept of how unexpected connections and serendipitous moments can lead to amazing discoveries and accomplishments.

 In the 15 th year of its memorable journey, NMIMS Bengaluru has garnered several accolades over the years, including recognition as one of India’s top 15 private schools of business management. The institution has consistently shown a commitment to academic excellence and innovation, helping it earn a reputation for nurturing future leaders and encouraging interdisciplinary learning.

  TEDx Bengaluru has been a flagship event at NMIMS Bengaluru, with each edition showcasing thought-provoking ideas and inspiring narratives from eminent speakers. Past editions of TEDx Bengaluru have received widespread acclaim for inviting well- known people as speakers, promoting intellectual discourse and sparking meaningful conversations on a diverse range of topics.

 The diverse and versatile lineup of participants at the 11th edition of TEDx Bengaluru brought unique perspectives that resonated deeply with the event’s theme, “Rhythm of Revelation: Where Chance Encounters Brilliance.”

 Mr. Vinay Kamath, a seasoned journalist currently serving as the Senior Assistant Editor at The Hindu Business Line, is known for his insightful reporting and analytical prowess in business journalism. Having traded a degree in MBA to become a journalist, he spoke about embarking on writing a book on Titan, a TATA Group company. “It was a revelation that the founding of such a big company was a journey of several accidental and serendipitous moments,” he said.

 Dr. Chella Pandian Pitchai, Global Head DEI & Leadership Development, Biocon Biologics, has 25 years of diverse experience in the field of Biotechnology and dons the hats of an executive coach, a life coach and a certified health coach. He spoke about his addiction to finding NBV – ‘the next best version’ and the techniques of achieving it. He shared, “I researched by interviewing people across generations. It is a continuous process. After talking to several people, I came up with a formula called TEDASK – Talent, Energy, Demonstration, Attitude, Skill, Knowledge – it is about bringing all these things together, being self-inclusive, self-competent and self-conscious, self-coach to achieve the next best version.”

 Ms. Malavika Harita, the CEO of Brand Circle, who excels in communication, brand strategy, and corporate training, has 41 years of experience in her field. She mentors at NSRCEL and other incubators nationwide. She elaborated on her theory of conscious serendipity, saying, “Serendipity is a very fashionable term today and according to me we should be able to take advantage of both beautiful and awful serendipitous moments which come our way.”

 Dr. Sharon Rajkumar, founder of Happiest Health Line, is a passionate advocate for holistic wellness. With a background in nutrition and fitness, she established her brand to empower individuals to achieve optimal health and happiness. Talking about the significance of happiness, she revealed, “Happiness evangelism is a responsibility we all carry, especially for leaders of organisations in the VUCA environment.”

 Meanwhile, Mr. Girish Nagpal, CEO of Metroride India, is a seasoned entrepreneur and public transportation advocate known for his contributions to the development of efficient metro systems and an advocate for sustainable urban mobility. Speaking about the topic, ‘Tough times make you tougher’, he related his own story of trials and tribulations and how he overcame them. “When quitting is not an option, the circumstances and people will align to give you the new life of your dreams,” he said.

 Mr. Prasanna Mysore, a Law postgraduate and Gold Medalist, has a rich career spanning from independent counsel to key roles in big corporations. Speaking about revelations in his life, he said, “In life, you will encounter a fork and will have to choose. You have to be a judge of your capabilities to see if you can stand up to the unknown challenges your decision may entail.”

 Together, these speakers brought to light the role chance encounters and luck play in shaping individual journeys and progress.

  Dr. Narayani Ramachandran, Campus Director of NMIMS Bengaluru, expressed her pride in hosting the event and commended the hard work of the student PR team, and faculty members in making it a resounding success. She added, “It is important to bring together diverse voices and the best of ideas from prominent members of the society to inspire innovation and collaboration and NMIMS Bengaluru has been doing it for the past decade. The presence of such eminent speakers at today’s event is a reflection of NMIMS Bengaluru’s longstanding connection with the industry and experts in their respective fields.”

National, 1st March 2024 – Hero Vired- a leading learntech start-up by the Hero Group, has announced the launch of its special scholarship initiative- #EmpowerHer, aimed at providing special benefits to women learners, ahead of International Women’s Day. Throughout March, Hero Vired will be offering a 25% scholarship to women learners across all programs. The initiative underscores Hero Vired’s commitment to fostering gender equality and promoting equal opportunities for women in education and in the workforce.

These scholarships will be applicable for program batches starting in the months of March and April 2024. The scholarship will be applicable across all courses & programs offered by Hero Vired, ranging from its Product Management and Data Analytics programs to Extended Reality (AR +VR) and its Gaming & E-sports programs. Being a completely digital offering, applicants can visit the Hero Vired website to review the eligibility requirements & complete the application form on the website. On completion of the course, learners will receive a digital scholarship certificate, in addition to the program completion certificate.

Hero Vired witnessed a remarkable jump in women participation across its cohorts, growing from 5% in 2021 to ~20% in its recent batches. With this initiative, Vired aims to further strengthen this ratio, especially in its Tech & Future Tech program, fostering diversity and inclusion.

Despite comprising 36 percent of India’s tech workforce, women face a significant drop in representation as they ascend the corporate ladder, as per data from Nasscom[1]. As per Skillsoft 2023’s IT Skills and Salary report[2], among technology professionals with at least 26 years of experience- 15% of men hold executive-level positions compared to only 4% of women in similar positions. Hero Vired’s #EmpowerHer scholarship aims to address this concerning gender gap in leadership roles, and foster career growth for women to help them break through these barriers.

Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Mr. Akshay Munjal, Founder and CEO, Hero Vired said, “By launching this special scholarship initiative for women learners, we aim to break down barriers and create a more inclusive learning environment while celebrating and empowering women. We are catalyzing positive change and building a more balanced workforce of the future. Our diverse course offerings across various domains ensure that women can choose a path that aligns with their interests and career goals.”

Over the past year, there has been a steady increase in women’s participation in the workforce. The 2022-23 Periodic Labour Force Survey[3], released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation on October 9, 2023, revealed a significant 4.2 percentage point increase in the Female Labour Force Participation Rate, reaching 37% in 2023. This trend aligns with the rising demand for upskilling programs, enabling women to transition into new career trajectories and seize enhanced job opportunities. Through this initiative, Hero Vired seeks to support women at all stages of their careers, from entry-level professionals to aspiring leaders, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

Bengaluru, March 1st, 2024: The Roadster Life Co, the 11-year-old and one of the most-loved, and sought-after brands available on Myntra, has launched its new brand campaign, ‘trends with benefits’. The campaign features the brand’s new ambassadors, ace stand-up comedian, Zakir Khan, and Bollywood diva, Jacqueline Fernandez, and highlights its trend-first fashion offerings.

Renowned for its denim heritage, The Roadster Life Co has evolved into a brand synonymous with exploration, adventure, and daring pursuits. As a brand with a celebrated legacy and loyal customer base, it’s now poised to elevate its offerings to meet the increasingly trend-first demands of fashion-forward consumers in both metro, as well as tier 2 and tier 3 markets, thus connecting with the evolving needs of its existing and new customers. Introducing three key concepts – Neo Core, Road Trip Ready, and UtilityxStreet – The Roadster Life Co will bring a monthly dose of trendy selection to Myntra’s platform. These styles will span across key categories including men’s casual wear, women’s western wear, casual footwear, and accessories, curated for both everyday moments and special occasions, enabling shoppers to stay on top of the fashion game. ‘Trends with Benefits’ encapsulates the brand’s commitment to providing affordable access to the latest trendy fashion from the brand at an affordable price. The promise extends beyond mere style, and includes ‘benefits’ of empowering individuals to elevate their fashion quotient, boost confidence, and help them unleash their limitless potential.

The choice of stand-up comedian Zakir Khan and Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez as brand ambassadors brings a unique blend of relatability and fashion credibility to the brand and aligns with its latest positioning. As his first fashion brand endorsement, Zakir offers relatability, as someone who has made it big from humble beginnings. He is able to connect with fans across the country, enjoying massive clout on social media and a strong fan base. Known for her glamorous and stylish fashion, Jacqueline adds an authority of fashion to the brand. As the first woman brand ambassador

for The Roadster Life Co, she embodies the perfect fit for the brand, synonymous with her fashion choices – trendy yet comfortable, stylish yet practical. With this, The Roadster Life Co aims to tap into both of their wide fan base while playing an instrumental role in making trendy and branded fashion accessible to them.

The two brand films along with multiple 10-15-seconders featuring Zakir and Jacqueline drive home the message of the brand injecting confidence and charisma into an individual’s persona through trend-first fashion, while highlighting the latest affordable trendy fashion for everyday and special occasions across men’s casual wear & women’s western wear at an affordable pricing.

Bengaluru, March 1, 2024: In line with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of transparency, we are pleased to release the Adani portfolio’s results, credit, and ESG compendium. It offers insights into the quarterly and trailing twelve-month (TTM) financial performance of the portfolio, reinforcing our dedication to providing clear and detailed information to stakeholders and the public.

The performance of the past 12 months reveals the strength of the Adani portfolio that can thrive under diverse external circumstances. With surging cashflows from consistently rising profits and conservative leveraging, the portfolio is well-poised to propel strategic investments on an unprecedented scale.

Portfolio Performance for Q3 FY24 and Dec 23’ Trailing-Twelve-Months

• Record growth: With a record quarterly EBITDA growth of 63.6% YoY, the TTM EBITDA as of 31 December, 2023 reached INR 78,823 crore (USD 9.5 Bn) — 2.5x FY21 EBITDA.
• Core infrastructure: The growth was powered by the highly stable core infrastructure platform. Growing at 35.5%, it generated INR 66,208 crore (USD 8 Bn) — 84% of portfolio EBITDA.
• Ratings: Domestic and international rating agencies, including S&P Global and Moody’s, have upgraded or positively revised the outlook for all key portfolio companies.
• Conservative leveraging: The portfolio continues to remain conservatively leveraged with i) Net Debt to EBITDA as low as 2.5x; ii) Debt coverage of 2.1x; and iii) Gross Assets to Net debt at 2.5x — as on 30 September, 2023.
• Liquidity position: High liquidity is maintained with a healthy cash balance of INR 44,572 crore (USD 5.4 Bn) — at the end of 31 December, 2023.
• Market access and investments: Higher ratings and healthy cash flows have allowed continued market access, facilitating substantial investments in the year-to-date (1 April, 2023-31 December, 2023). During this period, various portfolio companies have drawn funds worth INR 91,290 crore from various sources, including international and domestic banks, and others.

Financial performance for Q3 FY24 and Dec 23’ TTM                                                           (in INR crore)

(Utility= Adani Power Limited + Adani Green Energy Limited + Adani Total Gas Limited + Adani Energy Solutions Limited | Transport= Adani Ports And Special Economic Zone Ltd|  AEL: Adani Enterprise Limited |)

Business-wise highlights:

 Incubator

Adani Enterprises (AEL)

The emerging infrastructure businesses, including the ANIL ecosystem (green hydrogen ecosystem), airports and roads, have picked up momentum over the past few quarters and now contribute 45% of AEL’s total EBITDA. Another emerging business, green energy-powered data center, is also progressing well. The 500 KTPA copper smelter, built to support captive as well as external copper demand from the renewable industry, is ready for commissioning.

• ANIL: Received COD certification from the Solar Energy Corporation of India for setting up electrolyzer manufacturing.
• Solar module sales have more than doubled due to higher exports.
• The wind turbine generator (WTG) business, with an order book of 142 sets, has already produced 15 sets and delivered 7 since commissioning.

65. ii) Airports:At the seven operational airports, passenger movement has increased 23% YoY in the first nine months to 65.6 million; they are now tracking an annual figure of 85 million.

• The greenfield Navi Mumbai airport is well on track to start operations by December 2024.
• Phase I of City Side Development (CSD) has started across 98 acre at five airports.
• 57% of the electricity consumed by portfolio airports was from renewables.

iii) Roads: 4 out of 10 projects are more than 60% completed in line with the target schedule.

 iv) Data center:18 MW Noidagreen data center is now operational. Under construction pipeline stands at 112+ MW.

Energy & Utility Platform

Adani Green Energy (AGEL): Operational renewable capacity has increased to 9,029 MW after the commissioning of 551 MW at the Khavda renewable energy park. It will be the world’s largest RE park after 30 GW is developed over the next five years; this can power over 16 million homes and create 15,200 jobs every year.

• AGEL was ranked amongst the top 3 global solar PV developers as per the Mercom Capital Group.
• Successfully delivered the refinancing plan for USD 750 million Holdco notes due in September 2024 by providing a cash deposit in the Senior Debt Redemption Account (SDRA).
• INR 9,350 crore (USD 1.125 Bn) fund infusion by the promoter entity and USD 300 million investment by strategic partner TotalEnergies has positioned AGEL well to achieve its 45 GW target by 2030.

Adani Energy Solutions (AESL): Successfully operationalized the critical Khargar Vikhroli Transmission Line to connect Mumbai to the national grid, taking total network to 20,422 ckm.

• Adani Electricity Mumbai, a distribution subsidiary of AESL, supplied 35% renewable power in the total electricity mix to the city — one of the highest amongst all global mega-cities. GHG emission intensity at 38.32% was lower than FY19.
• For the distribution business, AESL is exploring new geographies like Navi Mumbai in Maharashtra, Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh, and Mundra in Gujarat.
• The transmission business orderbook stands at USD 2.4 Bn (INR 17,000 crore) after receiving letter of intent for new projects for renewable power evacuation – Khavda Phase-III Part A and KPS-1 (Khavda Pooling Station) Augmentation.
• The new business of smart meters has a pipeline of 21.1 million meters, with contract value of INR 25,000 crore (USD 3 Bn) in Andhra Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Adani Total Gas Limited (ATGL):Pipeline network increased to 11,712-inch km, PNG connections to 7.79 lakh, and EV charging stations to 329. A total of 45 new CNG stations also added.

Transport & Logistics Platform

Adani Ports & SEZ (APSEZ): Domestic cargo handled grew 23% YoY — 2.5x India’s growth, achieving a record volume of 311 MT for the first nine months. It is on track to beat the annual volumes guidance.

• The share of non-Mundra domestic ports in volumes has now increased to 56%.
• Vizhinjam port berthed three vessels in the quarter, and is targeting commissioning in Q4 FY24.
• The Dhamra LNG terminal commenced operations.
• APSEZ sold 49% stake in the Ennore port container terminal to MSC.
• The logistics business delivered the best quarter till date, while adding 23 rakes, Loni and Valvada ICD, and warehouses at NRC and Indore.
• 14% of domestic ports now consume renewable power.

Adjacencies

Adani Cements: Added 15% or 8.6 MTPA capacity, taking total capacity to 77.4 MTPA (76.1 MTPA under Ambuja and 1.3 MTPA under AEL). This also includes the successful acquisition of Sanghi Industries (capacity of 6.1 MTPA) and Asian Concretes & Cements (1.5 MTPA – earlier owned 49%).

• Synergies with Adani Portfolio resulted in 90% rise in operating margins. EBITDA/ton is now at USD 1322/ton against USD 695/ton in the corresponding period year ago.
• Ambuja, an Adani cements and building materials company, has committed a significant investment of INR 6,000 crore (USD 720 mn) for renewable power projects, targeting a capacity of 1,000 MW, primarily for captive use.

ESG updates for Q3 FY24 and Trailing Twelve Months

• AGEL was ranked first in ESG assessment with an improved score for the second consecutive year.
• AGEL recorded as water positive for all operational power plants > 200 MW. AESL is 100% water positive for all transmission assets, and Ambuja is 13.1x water positive.
•  In the CDP ratings for 2023, all Adani portfolio companies achieved a rating between ‘A’ and ‘B’, a testament of strong adherence to the highest standard of ESG practices. AESL has  improved ratings from ‘D’ to ‘B’ — a two-level jump. In a significant achievement, AGEL moved up two ranks to the leadership category. With this, four Adani portfolio companies, including APSEZ, AGEL, Ambuja and ACC are now in the leadership category.
• Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram international airports received Environmental Excellence Awards for their strong commitment to sustainability and outstanding practices in waste recycling, water management, energy efficiency and reduction in gas emissions.