Adani Cement and CREDAI to Elevate Sustainable Urban Construction

New Delhi, 13 June 2025: Adani Cement and CREDAI (Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India) have entered an exclusive preferred partnership to advance sustainable and high-quality construction in India. The signing took place in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant, during the CREDAI Governing Council Meeting held in Panjim, attended by industry body office bearers and leading developers from across the country.

This strategic alliance brings together Adani Cement and the country’s apex body of private real estate developers, aiming to benefit both organisations and the broader construction industry. Under this collaboration, Adani Cement will leverage CREDAI’s nationwide network of 13,000+ developers to strengthen its B2B outreach, while CREDAI members benefit from Adani Cement’s industry-leading solutions.

Mr Vinod Bahety, CEO – Cement Business, Adani Group, stated: “Our exclusive partnership with CREDAI is a testament to Adani Cement’s commitment to nation-building through sustainable and innovative construction. By joining hands with CREDAI, we aim to accelerate the adoption of world-class cement products and green concrete solutions in India’s real estate sector. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of building a greener, smarter urban future – one where Adani Cement’s technical expertise and CREDAI’s on-ground experience come together to create stronger, safer, and more sustainable structures. We are excited to work closely with CREDAI members and support them with the best of our materials and R&D capabilities, ultimately delivering superior value to homeowners and contributing to India’s growth story.”

In practice, the industry body members will have the advantage of enhancing their project quality in various parameters, including:

  • Availability of Adani Cement’s Innovative Concrete Solutions: Availability of Adani’s diverse Ready-Mix Concrete (RMX) and advanced concrete solutions customised to varied requirements – from standard grades to specialised mixes. Notably, this includes Adani Cement’s green RMX range like ECOMaxX ultra high-performance concrete (UHPC), which offers the industry’s broadest range of green concrete with 30–100% lower embodied carbon content compared to conventional concrete. Self-compacting concrete (SCC), Jetsetcrete – high-strength concrete (HSC) and Coolcrete – thermally controlled concrete (TCC) are also included in the range. Such eco-friendly concrete options allow developers to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their projects without compromising on strength or performance. Adani RMX will soon announce Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for all their concrete grades via lifecycle assessment (LCA) carried out recently. Support and ease of availability for Adani’s RMX is rapidly growing with its increasing footprint through 101+ plants across the nation.
  • Specialist & Premium Cement Products: Benefit from Adani Cement’s wide range of specialist and premium cement brands, such as the flagship Ambuja Plus and ACC Concrete Plus, known for superior strength and durability. These high-performance products will help developers achieve greater structural quality and durability in their projects. It is noteworthy that around 30% of Adani Cement’s total trade sales come from its premium products.
  • GRIHA-certified Green Products: Ambuja’s range of innovative and blended cement products such as Ambuja Cement, Ambuja Plus, Ambuja Compocem, and Ambuja Kawach and ACC’s Suraksha, Concrete Plus, Gold, F2R, and HPC, are listed in GRIHA’s (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) green product catalogue. GRIHA is a national green rating system developed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India.
  • Advanced Additives & R&D Support: A broad array of advanced additives and admixtures developed through Adani Cement’s deep technical R&D capabilities will now be available for all CREDAI members. This includes proprietary innovations such as Alccofine – a micro fine mineral additive that enhances concrete strength and durability – among other cutting-edge products. Backed by Adani Cement’s state-of-the-art cement and concrete research facilities, these additives enable customised high-performance concrete solutions for complex construction challenges.
  • Technical Services: Adani Cement’s technical services team – part of its Adani Certified Technology (ACT) initiative – will closely engage with CREDAI developers to provide material consultancy, quality assurance, and on-site support. Knowledge Sharing initiatives including Concrete Talks on innovative materials and techniques will help further build the capabilities of CREDAI’s member engineers and construction professionals. By combining Adani Cement’s material expertise with CREDAI’s execution capabilities, the partnership is expected to raise the bar for construction quality, safety, and sustainability in upcoming projects.

This announcement comes at a pivotal time when India’s cement consumption patterns are undergoing a significant shift. Traditionally, individual home builders (IHBs) in the retail segment constituted the largest share of cement usage, accounting for roughly 60% of demand. However, rapid urbanisation and infrastructural growth have fuelled a surge in B2B demand – large real estate developments and public infrastructure projects are now driving cement consumption at an unprecedented pace. Government-led construction of highways, metro systems, and smart cities, alongside private sector high-rise developments, is contributing to the ‘non-trade’ segment’s momentum, gradually balancing the once IHB-dominated market.

In particular, the rise of high-rise and skyscraper construction is reshaping urban skylines and construction requirements. With India’s urban population projected to exceed 600 million by 2030, vertical development through tall buildings is becoming essential to meet the demand for urban space. These projects require specialised cement formulations and technical know-how to ensure safety and longevity at greater heights. Adani Cement’s deep knowledge and technical expertise in high-strength concrete and new-age building materials positions it as an ideal partner to support such ambitious vertical developments. From supplying concrete optimised for pumping to great heights, to advising on mix designs for faster setting and higher load-bearing capacity, Adani Cement’s experience will help CREDAI developers confidently undertake taller and more complex projects.

CREDAI’s leadership echoed similar optimism, noting that the partnership will empower its member developers with assured supply and advanced know-how from one of India’s top cement producers. With Adani Cement now contributing nearly 30% of the cement used in India’s housing and infrastructure projects, the tie-up ensures that CREDAI builders can directly tap into this robust supply chain and expertise. Both Adani Cement and the industry body expressed confidence that this synergy will propel quality standards, encourage sustainable practices, and expedite project completion times across the real estate industry.

 

United by Family, Divided by Age: HelpAge India report calls for strengthening intergenerational bonds

New Delhi, June 13, 2025 To mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15), HelpAge India launched the ‘Understanding Intergenerational Dynamics & Perceptions on Ageing’ report (India Intergenerational Bonds – INBO Report), a first-of-its-kind national study. Following the release, a panel discussion was held at the India International Centre with government, community, academic, and media stakeholders.

The national study was conducted across 10 metro & non-metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kanpur, Nagpur, and Madurai) covering both the youth & the elderly, belonging to SEC B and C urban households. It combined both the quantitative element along with qualitative Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) to explore perceptions, interactions, and emotional dynamics between youth and elders in urban India.

The study surveyed 5798 respondents, with the proportion of youth (18-30 years) – 70% and elders (60 years & above) – 30%. This study addresses the urgent need to understand emotional, relational, and psychological aspects of intergenerational ties in urban India.

This report offers both a heartening affirmation and a timely wake-up call. While respect for elders and family ties remain deeply cherished in India—with 86% of elders feeling valued—beneath the surface lies a quieter, more concerning disconnect. Many elders still feel emotionally distant, unheard, or excluded from meaningful engagement. Expressions like ‘We are told the plan, not asked’ reflect a perception-practice gap that must be addressed. Are we truly listening to our elders—or simply assuming we are? As India moves forward with its unique demographic advantage—home to the world’s largest youth population and a rapidly growing elder segment—we must build an age-inclusive society that goes beyond the youth or longevity dividend. The real opportunity lies in unlocking the power of ‘intergenerational value.’ Through intentional collaboration across generations—in caregiving, digital literacy, lifelong learning, and volunteering—we can transform ageing from a phase of isolation into one of shared purpose, where generations are bridged not just in proximity, but in vision and co-creation”, says Rohit Prasad, CEO, HelpAge India.

As of 2025, approximately 12% of the Indian population is aged 60 and above, a figure projected to rise to 19% by 2050. At the same time, India also holds the distinction of being home to the world’s largest youth population, with over 365 million individuals aged 15–29 years.

The report revealed that youth primarily associate elders as being “lonely” (56%), “dependent” (48%), but also “wise” (51%) and “respected” (43%), indicating a mix of empathy and admiration, along with the existence of stereotypical views.

Young adults, especially those aged 18–24, share strong emotional bonds with their grandparents—particularly in multigenerational households. Interestingly, youth living apart often hold more positive perceptions of ageing, showing that distance doesn’t always mean disconnect. Despite lifestyle differences and digital immersion, youth and elders largely agree on the family’s central role in elder care. Youth acknowledge the generation gap but are willing to bridge it—volunteering to talk to lonely elders, assist with errands, and support digital inclusion. They want educational institutions to help them understand ageing and organize intergenerational activities. And while elders may sometimes feel undervalued, they still want to spend more time with youth, feel uplifted after meeting them, and prefer living in family. That’s the complexity to collectively address —by strengthening the positives and consciously addressing the gaps.” says Ms. Anupama Datta, Policy Research & Advocacy, HelpAge India.

Media greatly influences youth perceptions of the elderly, with 80% saying portrayals affect their views—often showing elders as wise and caring, but also dependent or comic.

 HelpAge is advancing an intergenerational approach through its #GenerationsTogether initiative—connecting youth and seniors via digital empowerment, volunteering, and shared learning. Recognizing media’s influence on youth perceptions of ageing, we will collaborate with media, industry, and stakeholders to promote age-positive narratives.” says Prateep Chakraborty, COO, HelpAge India.

 Key highlights of the report:

  • In non-metro cities, youth and elders report stronger traditional values and intergenerational bonds, but also greater fears about aging and wider perceived generation gaps.
  • In terms of proximity to elders, a notable difference in score, is seen between metro city youth (62.52) and those in non-metro cities (65.18), with the latter showing stronger expressions of respect, possibly due to more traditional or community-oriented value systems.
  • The overall ‘Value and Respect’ score among youth is 63.59 (out of 100), reflecting a broadly positive outlook on older adults and their societal role. Youth in non-metros score higher (65.18) than metro counterparts (62.52), indicating deeper respect, likely linked to community-oriented values.
  • Youth mostly interact with grandparents (49%) and parents (45%), while elders connect primarily with sons (50%) and grandsons (40%), underscoring the family’s central role.
  • Although 88% of intergenerational communication is face-to-face, the digital divide persists. While 71% of elders use basic phones, only 41% have smartphones. Just 13% use the internet or social media, and only 5% access services like online banking or health apps. Notably, 14% of elders use no digital tools.
  • Barriers to digital adoption include 66% of elders finding technology confusing and 51% fearing errors. Youth serve as key enablers, with 54% of children and 52% of grandchildren acting as digital guides. Yet, youth perceive elders as disinterested (78%) or forgetful (66%), while elders cite youth’s lack of patience (71%) and fast explanations (49%).
  • Both groups agree that youths’ busy schedules hinder interaction (elders: 76%, youth: 74%). Youth (25%) feel more judged & scrutinized during interactions than elders (22%). A “generation gap” is acknowledged by both (youth: 51%, elders: 45%).
  • Disparities exist in perceived support: elders report high youth assistance with ATM withdrawals (55%) and health insurance (40%), while youth underreport their contributions (23% and 18%, respectively). While 29% of youth claim they offer no financial support, only 6% of elders say they receive none.
  • On health, there’s strong mutual support: 81% of elders and 82% of youth believe youth should accompany elders to doctors, and 65% from both sides support help with medication and home care.
  • Both generations share similar fears for old age: loneliness (youth: 69%, elders: 68%)poor health (67% vs. 61%), and financial insecurity (62% vs. 58%). They agree that financial security (elders: 70%, youth: 72%) and good physical and mental health are key to a fulfilling old age.
  • The desire to live with family remains strong88% of youth expect to live with family when old, and 83% of elders currently do or plan to — reinforcing the enduring importance of family-based living.

Recommendations by HelpAge India:

  • Schools based intervention – Include ‘Age Sensitization’ programmes or curriculum in schools, so the foundation for an age friendly & age inclusive society is set early in life, fostering empathy and age-respect. Government should consider creating a National Intergenerational Engagement Mission for the purpose.
  • Intergenerational care – encourage youth-based community care programmes, and the immensely critical role in enabling and facilitating care system and networks for elders. Elder Care Centres in urban and rural areas with youth volunteers. Under its CSR program, corporate to encourage and incentivise young employees to participate in such activities as volunteers and support informal caregivers via HR policies.
  • Sensitization awareness drives & campaigns using popular media, to transform mindsets towards being more age sensitive, caring towards elderly and as importantly valuing potential seniors have in productively contributing and co-creating. A public Awareness Campaigns Against Ageism would be very useful
  • Digital inclusion through Youth-Led programmes, creating opportunities for connection, bonding & learning between generations, where tech-savvy youth are paired with elders for digital literacy support. Corporates to play a role in organizing training intergenerational workshops, giving digital devices and encouraging their teams to develop elder friendly features in digital devices and apps.

 

Father’s Day Gift Picks: Elevate His Wellness with Smart Self-Care Essentials

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect opportunity to show our dads how much we appreciate them. This year, move beyond the predictable and explore gifts that truly resonate with his passions, self-care, and overall well-being. Whether he’s a tech enthusiast, a wellness advocate, or simply enjoys a quiet moment of relaxation, we’ve got you covered.

India’s first Raw Whey protein isolate formulated to improve muscle strength & endurance. Our ultra-pure, fast absorbing Whey protein powder delivers 31g protein per scoop, 15.4g EAA, and 7.1g BCAA, with 4 Billion CFU of probiotics & digestive enzymes for a gut-friendly dose of goodness without any bloating. The unflavoured formula is instantized for a smooth, light texture—perfect for fueling workouts, recovery, and daily nutrition.

The scientifically formulated men’s multivitamin with 23 essential nutrients, superfoods, and vegan DHA Algal oil in a convenient capsule. Tailored for a busy lifestyle, the 8-hour time release technology supports optimum energy, immunity, cognition, and focus all day long.

The Regenerative Bitter Cleansing with Kali Mitti Fresh Daily Tikta face wash is packed with bitter actives of kali mitti (black clay), detoxifying activated charcoal & more, it offers deep cleansing and purifies blood and sub-dermal tissues, leaving skin glowing, supple, and clear. A 100% natural, chemical-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free facewash.

Fresh Ayurvedic hair mask made with 17 powerful herbs for deep conditioning, hair fall control & hair growth boost. Vit-C, amino acids, antioxidants & nutrients rich Fresh Hibiscus flowers, leaves, neem, curry & more are slow heat infused overnight in pure butters & cold pressed oils to boost collagen, stimulate strength & deep nourish follicles for healthy, strong hair growth.

Large Caps Outperform Small Caps Amid Mixed Sectoral Performance in Q4 of FY 24-25: Equirus Securities

MUMBAI,  June 13, 2025: –Large-cap companies demonstrated stronger earnings growth compared to their mid and small-cap counterparts, with overall EBITDA and Earnings surpassing expectations in the last quarter of fiscal 24-25 according to an analytical report issued by leading brokerage firm Equirus Securities.

While the popular discourse has been around earnings cuts the report reveals that the universe of 270 leading stocks analysed indicates a robust performance, with EBITDA and Earnings exceeding estimates by 4% and 5% respectively. This translated into a year-on-year (YoY) growth of 6% in EBITDA and 4% in Earnings. Revenue remained largely in line with expectations, registering a 5% YoY increase.

A deeper dive into the market capitalization segments reveals a clear divergence:

  • Large Caps (54 companies) within the Equirus Universe reported a healthy 6% YoY earnings growth.
  • Mid Caps (68 companies) experienced a more modest 2% YoY increase.
  • In contrast, Small Caps (148 companies) saw a significant 16% YoY decline in earnings.

This disparity underscores a flight to quality or a consolidation trend favoring larger, more established entities in the current economic environment.

Sectoral Performance Insights: Excluding Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), the Equirus Universe reported EBITDA and Earnings growth of 5% and 3% YoY. The ex-BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) sector delivered even higher growth, with 7% and 6% YoY in EBITDA and Earnings respectively. Sectors such as Retail, Pharma, Capital Goods, and Consumer Durables exhibited high operating profit growth. Conversely, FMCG, Infrastructure, IT, and Auto sectors reported lower growth.

Q4 FY 24-25

Large Caps

Mid Caps

Small caps

YOY Earnings growth in %

6

2

-16

Top performing Sectors under Equirus universe

Q4 FY 24-25 Revenue growth in %

Q4 FY 24-25 PAT growth in %

Autos

8

1

Auto ancillaries

13

2

Cement

9

10*

Chemicals

10

46

Consumer Durables

19

31

Healthcare

12

13

Internet

48

37

Lagging sectors under Equirus universe

Q4 FY 24-25 Revenue growth in %

Q4 FY 24-25 PAT growth in %

Building Materials

6

-18

Consumer Staples

6

-7

Industrials

6

2

Earnings Per Share (EPS) Updates: Around 28% of companies saw EPS upgrades for FY26, driven primarily by strong performance in sectors like Capital Markets, Chemicals, Defence, Metals, and Textiles. In contrast, Consumer Durable, FMCG, and Building Materials sectors experienced EPS downgrades, indicating potential headwinds in these segments.

Outlook: Looking ahead, Equirus Securities offers a cautiously optimistic outlook. While some sectors may continue to face challenges from pricing pressures, input costs, and demand volatility, strategic initiatives like cost savings, new product introductions, and market expansion efforts are expected to support overall profitability and growth. The performance of Large Caps reinforces their resilience in a dynamic market, suggesting continued stability in the near term.

BIMTECH Shines at UN Headquarters; Students Win PRME Global Students Sustainability Awards 2025

Mumbai, 13th June 2025: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), a leading AACSB accredited business school in India, is proud to announce that its student team has emerged as the Global Winner of the PRME Global Students Sustainability Awards 2025, held at the United Nations Headquarters, New York. The team “BIMTECH – UFE” comprised of Neer Soni, Arunojya Vatsa, and Deval Kambaliya, and was mentored by Dr. Reeti Kulshrestha, Faculty, Sustainability and Responsible Business at BIMETCH.

This prestigious recognition by Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), a United Nations initiative, celebrated the excellence of impactful sustainability-oriented student organizations whose work aligned with the Seven Principles for Responsible Management Education and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The winning team was awarded USD 2000, sponsored by Marketplace Simulations, to support their ongoing and future local sustainability initiatives.

Expressing delight, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director BIMTECH, shared, “It is an extremely proud moment for us to witness that our faculty and students are being recognised at global and reputed platforms. This memorable achievement proves that for us sustainability is not just a subject to be studied but a purpose to be lived. Moments like these motivate us and act as a testament that we as an institute are moving in the right direction. I congratulate the awardees and hope for many such unforgettable moments in the future.”

The BIMTECH-UFE team excelled through a rigorous six-month multi-stage evaluation process. Organized by Marketplace Simulations, one of the rounds also included playing a simulation competition with other teams to run a sustainable enterprise for five weeks, which not only required the students to utilize their problem-solving skills, but also strategic and decision-making skills and above all, a sustainability-oriented mindset. Progressing from a regional winner, South and Central Asia to making it to the global Top 5, then the Top 3, and then finally it culminated in the selection as the Global Winner.

Inspired by its founders Late Basant Kumar Birla and Sarala Birla, BIMTECH has pioneered innovative programs like PGDM, PGDM-International Business (IB), PGDM-Retail Management (RM), and PGDM-Insurance Business Management (IBM), nurturing individuals into global leaders. BIMTECH is amongst the Ivy League of Top Globally Recognized B-Schools that excels in management education, supported by its globally placed robust alumni network of over 8000 individuals.

Kiehl’s Launches the Clearly Corrective Triple Acid Pre-Serum in India

Kiehl's Peel .JPG

India, 26th May 2025 – Kiehl’s introduces its newest skincare innovation – the Clearly Corrective Triple Acid Pre-Serum, a gentle yet powerful solution for those looking to refine skin texture, reduce the appearance of pores, and reveal brighter, more radiant skin.

Formulated with an 8% triple acid blend and Copper Gluconate, this lightweight pre-serum targets three layers of the skin to renew, clarify, and smooth from within. It delivers a +41% improvement in skin smoothness and is clinically tested to be gentle enough for daily use.

Powered by Advanced Ingredient Technology

  • 3% PHA: Exfoliates the surface for a hydrated, radiant glow

  • 0.18% BHA: Penetrates mid-layers to reduce oil, unclog pores, and minimise their appearance

  • 5.5% AHA: Stimulates cell turnover to reveal newer, healthier skin

  • Copper Gluconate: Calms and soothes for balanced, comforted skin

The Ultimate Skin-Clarifying Duo
For even better results, pair the Triple Acid Pre-Serum with the brand’s cult-favorite Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution. Together, they work synergistically to visibly brighten, refine, and even out skin tone.

Gentle. Effective. Everyday.
With its dermatologically tested formula, the Triple Acid Pre-Serum offers all the benefits of exfoliation, without compromising the skin barrier, making it a revolutionary new step in your daily skincare routine.

Clearly Corrective  Triple Acid Pre-Serum will be available at Kiehl’s stores and on Nykaa from 1st June 2025
 
Please let us know if you need any information on the same! 
Looking forward to hearing from you.  

This Father’s Day, Gift the Power of Skincare with Aminu’s Daily Care Set

This Father’s Day, ditch the usual mugs and wallets—gift your dad something he truly deserves: a skincare ritual that matches his strength and dependability. Introducing the Daily Care Set by Aminu, a two-step powerhouse thoughtfully crafted for men who tackle long days with unwavering grit.

The daily care set (CPS & ES).jpg

Designed to deliver maximum impact with minimal effort, this expertly curated set includes two high-performance essentials:

  • ???? Copper Peptide Serum (30ml): A multi-tasking marvel that strengthens the skin barrier, smooths fine lines, and restores a natural, healthy glow.

  • ????️ Eye Serum (10ml): Formulated with potent peptides, this lightweight serum reduces puffiness, dark circles, and signs of fatigue for refreshed, brighter eyes.

Infused with science-backed botanicals and advanced actives, Aminu’s Daily Care Set is the ideal upgrade for your dad’s daily routine. It’s more than skincare—it’s self-care, simplified.

DGT and Shell India Launch EV Green Skills Program to Empower Youth

Mumbai, 13 June 2025: The Directorate General of Training (DGT), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with Shell India, has launched a Green Skills and Electric Vehicles (EV) training program aimed at equipping students and faculty with future-ready capabilities in green energy and e-mobility. This initiative will be implemented by Edunet Foundation, training partner of Shell, across select Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Delhi-NCR, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

Under the DGT–Shell India collaboration, green skill training will be delivered through a structured multi-tier model across select NSTIs and ITIs. In the first phase, the program includes a 240-hour advanced EV Technician course at 4 NSTIs, a 90-hour job-oriented EV skills course at 12 ITIs equipped with Shell-supported labs, and a 50-hour foundational green skills module at additional ITIs without physical labs. The curriculum, jointly developed by Shell, Edunet Foundation, and DGT, covers EV systems, diagnostics, battery technology, digital tools, and safety protocols. The initiative also includes Training of Trainers (ToT) for over 250 instructors, certification co-branded by Shell and DGT, and structured placement support to enhance industry readiness.

A key highlight of the initiative is the establishment of specialised EV skill labs within select ITIs and NSTIs. These labs are designed to offer hands-on training and expert-led sessions aligned with industry standards. Beyond lab-based learning, the program also provides placement support and co-branded certifications to successful participants, enhancing their employability in the green energy and EV sectors.

The Government of India has been actively advancing Green Energy and Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption in line with its net-zero ambitions. Flagship initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme have played a pivotal role in accelerating EV uptake, enhancing infrastructure, and offering targeted incentives. Complementing these national efforts, states like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have introduced their own EV policies to fast-track the transition to electric mobility, foster local ecosystems, and generate green jobs. These developments underscore the growing demand for a skilled workforce in the green energy and EV sectors.

As the apex national body for vocational training, DGT will play a crucial role in this initiative by mobilizing students and trainers and supporting the institutional ecosystem to ensure alignment with national education and skill development standards.

Speaking on the importance of this initiative, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE and Minister of State for Education, said, “Our collaboration with Shell India reflects the government’s deeper commitment to aligning skilling with sustainability. Green energy, electric mobility, and the broader climate transition are not just environmental imperatives—they represent a generational opportunity for India to lead through innovation, talent, and enterprise. This initiative is part of our larger vision to create a workforce that is not only job-ready, but climate-ready. We are equipping young Indians with the skills to shape—and not just participate in—the global green economy.”

Smt. Trishaljit Sethi, Director General, Directorate General of Training (DGT), MSDE stated,

“This partnership with Shell India is a focused step in bringing cutting-edge training infrastructure and industry-relevant curriculum into our ITIs and NSTIs. By integrating Electric Vehicle technologies into vocational training, we are ensuring that our students gain hands-on experience aligned with real-world demand. With joint certification, trainer upskilling, and placement support built into the program, this initiative will significantly strengthen the employability of our youth in the green mobility sector.” 

Speaking on the partnership, Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson, Shell Group of Companies in India & Senior Vice President, Shell Lubricants, Asia-Pacific, said, “At Shell, we aim to support local communities by enabling future employment opportunities. Equipping youth with green energy skills is an important step towards building a lower-carbon future. Through our collaboration with DGT and Edunet Foundation, we are providing students with practical and future-ready expertise in green energy and electric mobility. This initiative empowers young people to thrive in an evolving energy landscape and contribute towards India’s net-zero ambitions”.

This collaboration between DGT and Shell India is a robust move in preparing India’s youth for careers in the future green economy. By offering a comprehensive curriculum, specialized labs, and industry support, the initiative will equip students with hands-on skills and certifications, enhancing their employability and positioning them to lead in a sustainable, innovation-driven future.

CREDAI and Adani Cement Join Forces to Accelerate Sustainable, High-Quality Construction in Indian Real Estate

New Delhi, June 13th, 2025: In a landmark move to reshape the future of Indian real estate, the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI), the apex body representing over 13,000 private real estate developers across 20 states and 230 city chapters, has announced a strategic partnership with Adani Cement, one of India’s leading cement manufacturers, to champion sustainable and high-quality construction practices across the country.

This announcement was made at CREDAI’s Governing Council meeting, held in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, and CREDAI leadership. The partnership with Adani Cement is part of a broader three-pronged initiative that also includes the launch of the Green India Council and a dedicated Skilling Council—both aimed at building a future-ready, environmentally conscious, and professionally equipped real estate sector.

As CREDAI’s preferred partner, Adani Cement  will provide its industry-leading portfolio of premium and GRIHA-certified products, including green concrete solutions, advanced additives, and technical services. This collaboration will empower CREDAI members to elevate construction quality, safety, and sustainability across projects nationwide. Adani Cement will also offer on-site technical support and knowledge-sharing programs to upskill engineers and construction professionals within the CREDAI network.

The newly formed Green India Council marks a transformative step in CREDAI’s sustainability agenda. The Council will oversee a wide spectrum of green initiatives, including a  large-scale reforestation initiative, starting with the restoration of 9,000 acres of land across various blocks of Nashik District, Maharashtra, aimed at converting barren landscapes through reforestation and significantly increasing the green cover.

This initiative aims to plant over 10 lakh trees using scientific and community-based methods, reaffirming the real estate sector’s role as a steward of India’s environmental future. The Green India Council will also support urban forest creation, greening of public spaces, and adoption of green building standards nationwide. As part of its mandate, the Council will provide government-approved certifications to encourage developers with sustainable practices across the industry.

As one of India’s largest employment sectors, real estate plays a vital role in national growth. However, persistent skill gaps across the workforce can impact efficiency, project timelines, and on-site safety. Building a skilled workforce will be pivotal to realizing India’s 2047 vision. Recognizing the sector’s need for skilled labor, CREDAI has launched the Skilling Council, an initiative aimed at creating a future-ready workforce, with active participation from its state chapters and member developers to drive large-scale upskilling across regions. With a goal of training of large number of workers over the next five years, the Council will roll out targeted programs across 25 cities, beginning with 16 key hubs including Ahmedabad, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR (Noida), Mumbai, Nashik, Visakhapatnam, Trivandrum, Jaipur, Bhiwadi, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Raipur. Backed by CSR contributions, the first phase aims to train over 15,000 workers, with the rollout set for mid-July 2025.

Speaking on these initiatives, Mr Shekhar Patel, President, CREDAI said,  As India progresses toward becoming a developed nation, building a Viksit Bharat demands that the real estate sector leads with responsibility and purpose. The launch of the Green India Council and Skilling Council marks a decisive step toward integrating sustainability and workforce development into the core of our industry. These initiatives reflect CREDAI’s commitment to a built environment that drives economic growth, protects the environment, and uplifts communities. We are committed to collaborate with partners like Raah Foundation and Adani Cement to advance this mission. Together, we aim to foster a future-ready real estate ecosystem that champions innovation, inclusivity, and climate responsibility.”

Gifts on the Clock: Last-Minute Picks That Your Dad Will Love

Left your Father’s Day shopping to the eleventh hour? You’re not alone – and you’re not out of options either. If you’re looking to skip the generic and gift your dad something truly thoughtful (and useful), we have rounded up some quick yet impressive picks that are sure to win hearts. If he’s capturing memories, staying cool on the go, or hitting the road with confidence, these smart, last-minute finds strike the perfect balance between function and flair. This Father’s Day, show him you know exactly what he needs – even if you decided it just in time.

1. For the Dad Who Keeps His Cool – Nuuk BFF Hand Fan

The Nuuk BFF Personal Hand Fan with IceTouch™ is made for dads who are always on the move – whether it’s road trips, airport waits, or sightseeing under the sun. With a powerful 13,000 RPM motor, IceTouch™ technology that cools the fan surface to 5˚, and a foldable, travel-ready design, it’s his personal breeze, wherever the journey takes him. Add a personal touch with an engraving of his name – or just “Dad.” A travel essential that’s cool, compact, and completely his.

2. For the Road-Tripping Dad – Qubo Dashcam Pro 3K with Sony Starvis 2

For the dad who loves his drives as much as his gadgets, the Qubo Dashcam Pro 3K with Sony STARVIS 2 makes for a thoughtful and practical Father’s Day gift. Whether he’s cruising through cityscapes or exploring winding highways, this dashcam captures every moment in stunning 3K clarity – even in low light or challenging conditions like tunnel exits and nighttime traffic. Built to handle India’s extreme weather with its heat-resistant supercapacitor and offering storage support up to 1TB, it’s the perfect companion for his car – keeping him safe, prepared, and always in control behind the wheel.

3. For the Dad Who Frames Every Moment – FUJIFILM Instax Mini 41

Stylish, classic, and effortlessly fun – the FUJIFILM Instax Mini 41 is the perfect gift for dads who enjoy making memories tangible. With its sleek black-and-silver design accented by a bold touch of orange, this analog instant camera doubles up as a fashionable companion. It features Automatic Light Adjustment for perfectly lit photos in any setting and a Close-up Mode for crisp selfies and detailed shots. Whether he’s clicking candids at a family brunch or snapping keepsakes on the go, the Mini 41 brings every moment to life – instantly.