Archives November 2023

16^th November 2023, India: The Collectives for Integrated Livelihoods Initiatives (CInI), an Associate Organisation of Tata Trusts, has been conferred the prestigious 2023 Ashden Awards for ‘Powering Agriculture-Tackling hunger and poverty in the Global South’. With this, CInI stands as one of only eight organizations to have been awarded at the ceremony which took place at the Royal Geographical Society in London, on the 14th of November.

240 organizations applied for the 2023 Ashden Awards that have been supercharging climate pioneers for over two decades. CInI was one of seventeen applicants that reached the finals in September earlier this year, after a rigorous assessment and judging process, involving on-the-ground visits and inputs from specialists in the field.

Collectives for Integrated Livelihoods Initiatives (CInI), was established by sector experts along with Tata Trusts in 2007 to anchor the Central India Initiative which focuses on tribal communities in the central Indian tribal belt. CInI has been working with these communities, especially women, in the areas of agriculture and allied livelihoods, renewable energy, education, drinking water, sanitation and healthcare. CinI, through its aspirational Lakhpati Kisan program, has been striving to empower women in Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra and Gujarat to find and develop sustainable and viable allied livelihood practices that offer a consistent source of income for them and their families. This has enabled small and marginal farmers to move towards the ‘Lakhpati pathway’, systematically.

Speaking about this achievement, Mr Siddharth Sharma, CEO, Tata Trusts, stated, “Since their inception, Tata Trusts have dedicated themselves to improving the quality of life of underserved communities. In the last decade, CInI has played a vital role in contributing to this effort, revitalizing communities through a myriad of interventions across livelihood development, education, energy conservation and access to natural resources. CInI is honoured to have received global recognition at this year’s Ashden Awards, which stands as yet another endorsement of the exemplary work the team has delivered. The ultimate success, however, can be seen in the lives of over 100,000 farming households across four states in India that now have improved prospects and a better quality of life as a result of CInI’s dedication to the cause.”

Expressing his gratitude, Mr Ganesh Neelam, Executive Director, CInI, said, “Following the lead of our communities, CInI is committed to driving lasting positive change.  By focusing on a two-pronged approach through a Production Hub model under the Sustain Plus program and the Lakhpati Kisan initiative, CInI is dedicated to fostering economic security as well as addressing climate-related challenges in India’s tribal regions. Today, it has successfully demonstrated the integration of Decentralized Renewable Energy into agriculture and allied livelihoods through these Production Hubs. CInI is grateful to the Ashden jury for granting international recognition to our endeavors as we remain steadfast in our mission of truly ‘Powering Livelihoods’ across key identified regions.”

Ashden, a UK charity, has been spotlighting transformative climate solutions for more than 20 years through their Ashden Awards scheme. This year, awardees ranged from businesses to non-profits and local authorities. Ashden Award winners receive grants, global publicity, and connections to funders, investors, and partners that can help them create even more impact.

The finalists for all awards were judged by international specialists in each category and received financial and strategic support for their significant contributions in delivering innovative climate solutions.

– by Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

India’s battle against worsening air quality is reshaping its residential real estate landscape. As urbanization, industrialization, and population growth propel this environmental challenge, home buyers are increasingly seeking healthier living spaces.

The Heart of the Problem: City Centers

Indian city centers, notorious for their high pollution levels, suffer from several contributing factors:

Traffic Congestion: The bustling city centers, with their dense population and heavy traffic, lead to significant vehicular emissions.
Industrial Emissions: Proximity to industrial areas, often equipped with outdated pollution control technologies, exacerbates the problem.
Urban Heat Island Effect: A concentration of concrete structures and human activities amplifies city temperatures, increasing pollutant levels.
Lack of Greenery: The dearth of parks and green spaces in overdeveloped urban centers deprives these areas of natural air filters.

A Breath of Fresh Air: Suburban Shift

In contrast, the suburbs, with their lower population densities and abundant open spaces, offer a respite from urban pollution. Planned cities like Chandigarh, Navi Mumbai, and PCMC (Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation) exemplify the separation of industrial and residential zones, enhancing air quality in these outskirts.

In unplanned areas, the suburban paradise faces threats from rapid real estate development, potentially transforming green sanctuaries into urban-like polluted environments.

Integrated Townships – A Breath of Fresh Air

Addressing this dilemma, the real estate industry introduces integrated townships, a model designed to withstand the future’s environmental challenges.

– Greener Living Spaces: Emphasizing parks and gardens, these townships offer a greener environment.
– Minimized Vehicular Pollution: By housing schools, shopping areas, and recreational facilities, townships reduce the need for external commutes.
– Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Features like rainwater harvesting and waste recycling promote a sustainable living environment.
– Urban Heat Island Mitigation: Integrated township development plans include large green spaces, tree-lined streets, artificial water bodies, and renewable energy sources to combat heat build-up.

With a master plan locking in these benefits, integrated townships ensure that today’s green living also remains tomorrow’s reality.

Avoiding Choking Hazards – Tips for Aspiring Home Buyers

First and foremost, look at historical air quality data for different areas. This information is often available through environmental monitoring agencies or online air quality indexes. Use apps and websites that provide real-time air quality information to assess current conditions. While shortlisting locations, look for the availability of or at least proximity to green spaces. Opt for areas near parks, forests, or open spaces, as they typically have better air quality. Avoid locations near major highways, industrial areas, or other known pollution sources.

Also keep in mind that higher elevation areas often have better air quality due to reduced pollution levels.

Assess the quality of roads and public transport to ensure reduced traffic congestion and emissions. If possible, check the area’s infrastructure and development plans to understand what changes you can expect in the future that will cause potential changes in air quality. While inspecting the home you are interested in, check to see if it has a good ventilation system to filter out pollutants. Also bear in mind that energy-efficient homes often have better air quality due to well-sealed and insulated environments.

And finally, ensure that you also take personal measures to improve the indoor air quality. Plan to use indoor plants and ensure regular maintenance of HVAC systems to keep indoor air clean.

Conclusion

As air quality becomes a pivotal factor in home buying decisions, it’s crucial for buyers to prioritize features that ensure a pollution-free and healthy living space. By doing so, they can safeguard their and their family’s health while enjoying the comforts of modern living.

While integrated township living can be the smartest choice amid urban India’s rapidly deteriorating air quality profile, every home buying choice must be done with enough foresight and understanding. Today’s pristine environment may become tomorrow’s gas chamber. Ensure that your family can breathe easy – not only now, but also in the years ahead.

About the Author:

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in West Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in West Pune.

Sydney, 15th November: InfraBuild has successfully priced an aggregate principal amount of US$350 million in senior secured notes due in 2028. The bonds were priced with an annual coupon of 14.500% and an original issue discount of 2.000%. The issuance of the Notes is expected to close on or about 15 November 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. This reflects broader confidence in the continuing strength of Australia’s largest vertically integrated, electric arc furnace-based, long steel manufacturer. InfraBuild’s solid footing is also demonstrated by the financial and operational results for the financial year ending 30 June 2023 with $5,686 million in net revenue despite market conditions moderating.

These results also show a continued disciplined approach to safety and employee engagement, productivity improvements, innovation and customer service excellence. This supports InfraBuild’s strategic objectives including its ambition to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, which is key to InfraBuild’s sustainable growth strategy.

Sanjeev Gupta, Executive Chairman of GFG Alliance said, “This outcome represents a resounding endorsement of our performance. The quality and diversity of existing and new investors is a testament to the market’s confidence in our future. Our bond offering rewards our investors with strong returns and builds on InfraBuild’s excellent track record. It shows the Group’s financial and operational resilience enabling us to refinance and invest for the future, I would like to thank our team and all external advisors who have worked diligently to deliver this result.”

Francisco Irazusta, InfraBuild CEO said: “We are pleased with this outstanding result which reflects confidence in the solid performance of InfraBuild, from our dedication to safety, operating excellence, improving the customer experience, and delivering consistent and strong financial results. InfraBuild continues its disciplined momentum in our safety efforts, delivering the best experience to our customers, focusing on product and services innovation, and working towards our carbon neutral 2030 objective.”

Notes and legal information

The Notes will be guaranteed on a senior secured basis by InfraBuild and certain of its existing and future direct and indirect subsidiaries. The Notes will pay a coupon of 14.500%, semi-annually in arrear on 15 May and 15 November of each year, beginning on 15 May 2024. The Notes will mature on 15 November 2028. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Notes to (a) redeem the Company’s existing US$325 million 12.000% senior secured notes due 2024 and (b) pay fees and expenses associated with the foregoing transactions.

The Notes are being sold in a private placement only to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A and non-U.S. persons pursuant to Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, modified or re-enacted (the “Securities Act”), subject to prevailing market and other conditions. There is no assurance that the offering of the Notes will be completed or, if completed, as to the terms on which they are completed. The Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or unless pursuant to an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any other applicable securities laws. This press release is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any security, including the Notes. No offer, solicitation, or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements about future events, projections, forecasts and expectations that are forward-looking statements. Any statement in this press release that is not a statement of historical fact is a forward-looking statement that involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, past performance of InfraBuild and its affiliates cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance. InfraBuild and its affiliates make no representation or warranty (whether express or implied) and shall have no responsibility or liability on the accuracy and completeness of any of the forward-looking statements, and, except as may be required by applicable law, assume no obligations to supplement, amend, update or revise any such statements or any opinion expressed to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or in InfraBuild’s or it’s affiliates’ expectations, or changes in factors affecting these statements. Accordingly, any reliance you place on such forward-looking statements will be at your sole risk.

 15th November 2023 – Galgotias University, a prominent academic institution, recently undertook an environmental initiative titled “3G – Galgotias Goes Green.” This monumental effort resulted in the planting of over 10,000 trees within a span of just 48 hours. Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, the CEO of Galgotias University, the event witnessed extensive participation from students, faculty, and alumni, serving as a remarkable testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.

The initiative encouraged individuals to contribute to the cause by planting trees at their homes or offices and sharing geo-tagged pictures with the university. This collective effort not only contributed significantly to the local ecosystem but also fostered a sense of environmental responsibility.

To enhance engagement and transparency, Galgotias University developed a dedicated event website featuring live plant tracking and a timer countdown, allowing participants to witness the collective impact of their efforts in real time.

Mr. Nikunj Bihari, President of the Student Council at Galgotias University, played a pivotal role in mobilizing student participation. Alongside him, Ms. Naina Singh, Club Head of The Humanity Saviours, and Mr. Ayush Ranjan, Club Head of The Humanity Saviours, were instrumental in ensuring the event’s success.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, stated, ‘3G – Galgotias Goes Green’ event exemplifies our commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. It is heartening to witness the Galgotias community come together to make a positive impact on our planet. We believe that small individual actions, when combined, can lead to significant and lasting change.”

The success of “3G – Galgotias Goes Green” not only highlights the university’s dedication to environmental conservation but also serves as an inspiration to make a meaningful contribution to a greener and healthier planet.

Kolkata, 15th November, 2023: Captain Steel India Limited, India’s fastest-growing steel manufacturer, announced the appointment of Mr Abinash Mishra as its Chief Marketing Officer. Mr Mishra is renowned for his prowess in brand-building and value creation in the building materials industry, boasting an impressive tenure of over 24 years.

Prior to joining Captain Steel India Limited, Mr Abinash Mishra held key leadership positions at Dalmia Bharat Group, Lafarge Holcim, Pidilite, and JK Cement. His extensive background includes roles such as Head of Key Accounts, Head of Value Added Business, and Director of Sales for North Eastern Business Unit. A distinguished alumnus of IIT Bombay, Olin Business School, and KIIT University, Mr Mishra holds an M. Tech in Construction Engineering and an MBA in Marketing. Recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice for leadership, he is also an ambassador for The Management & Strategy Institute, USA.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Mishra has led high-performing sales and marketing teams, demonstrating excellence in both B2C and B2B segments. His innovative business models have consistently contributed to market share growth, profitability, revenue, and customer satisfaction across various sectors, including cement, White Cement, Microfine Cement, Construction Chemicals, Concrete, and Green value-added products.

“His deep expertise in the building material segment will elevate Captain Steel to a leading national platform, aligning with our vision for innovative products and winning markets with a value-added customer-centric approach”, said Mr. Avinash Agrawalla, Managing Director, Captain Steel India Limited.

“I am deeply honored by the trust and responsibility Captain Steel India Limited has entrusted in me. I eagerly look forward to steering this transformative change, working closely with the esteemed Board of Captain Steel India Limited”, said Mr Abinash Mishra.

Captain Steel India Limited is confident that with Mr Mishra’s leadership, they will continue their ambitious growth trajectory, innovations, and product leadership.

Jaipur, 15th November 2023: Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) managed by Accor announced the appointment of Mr Manuj Ralhan as the new General Manager.

With a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry and a proven track record of excellence, Manuj brings a dynamic and visionary leadership style to lead both these prestigious venues. He has put up a young, energetic and passionate team together in a very short span of time to create memorable experiences for guests of all segments and position Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre as the premier destination for events and accommodations in Jaipur.

Boasting a distinguished career spanning more than two decades within the hospitality industry, Manuj has honed his expertise through key roles at esteemed brands, including Four Seasons, Marriott International, Intercontinental Hotels, Shangri-La, Taj, and The Oberoi Hotels. Manuj is notably acclaimed for his proficiency in orchestrating successful pre-opening ventures across a spectrum of luxury, business hotels, and resorts, both within India and internationally.

Manuj holds a Diploma in Hospitality from the American Hotel and Lodging Association and completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management from the University of Bengaluru, a city he is intimately familiar with. Additionally, he holds a Cornell certification in Finance for Hotels and a Diploma from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Beyond his professional pursuits, Manuj is deeply passionate about experiential travel, prioritizes health and fitness, and savours the art of handcrafted gins, single estate teas, first origin coffees.

Commenting on his new journey, Manuj said, “I am honored to take on the role of General Manager for Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre. I am excited to lead this exceptional team and look forward to delivering outstanding experiences to our guests and creating memorable moments at this remarkable destination.”

The teams and management at Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre & Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre are excited to welcome Manuj and are looking forward to scale new heights under his able leadership.

Step into a world where a janitor’s extraordinary alter ego as a world-ranked gamer becomes the unlikely savior of humanity. In ‘Future Man,’ the gripping series unfolds as mysterious visitors from the future herald him as the linchpin to thwart an impending super-race invasion. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are introduced to an arsenal of cutting-edge gadgets and weapons that elevate the excitement and intricacy of the storyline. Here’s a glimpse into the riveting array of technology and armaments showcased throughout the series

Biometric Guns – In “Future Man,” biometric guns are firearms equipped with advanced recognition technology. These weapons only allow authorized users to operate them, usually by verifying their unique biological traits, such as fingerprints or DNA. These guns are portrayed with a humorous touch as they come with unexpected features, adding a comedic element. The show takes this concept to the next level, blending it with its comedic and futuristic themes.

Time-travel device – The series features time-travel devices that play a crucial role in the storyline. The characters use these devices to navigate through different time periods, creating a mix of historical and futuristic settings. The show explores the consequences and complexities of time travel, adding a layer of humor to the sci-fi concept. The show doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities and paradoxes associated with time travel, making it a central theme throughout the series.

Virtual Reality Stimulation – These Virtual reality simulations are a key element. The characters engage in immersive virtual experiences that go beyond typical gaming, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. These simulations often serve as a backdrop for various adventures and challenges, blending futuristic tech with the show’s comedic style. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from intense battles to unconventional scenarios. They serve as a dynamic storytelling tool, allowing the characters to navigate through imaginative and sometimes absurd situations.

The mop – The mop in “Future Man”! It’s not your ordinary cleaning tool in this series. The mop becomes a quirky and unexpected element, taking on a role far beyond its typical use. It’s a great example of how the show combines everyday items with its unique brand of humor and futuristic twists. Its evolution throughout the series adds an amusing and unexpected dimension to the narrative.

Herpes Sword – The “herpes sword” in the series is a unique and unconventional weapon. It’s a sword infused with herpes, and its purpose is not only to injure opponents physically but also to infect them with the virus. This adds a humorous and absurd element to the show’s action sequences, reflecting its comedic and irreverent tone. The weapon is a testament to the series’ willingness to embrace unconventional ideas for both laughs and creative storytelling.

# Endless Trade Possibilities on Display for Two Weeks in Delhi

14th Nov, 2023, New Delhi: On November 14, Pragati Maidan opens its doors to the India International Trade Fair, where 5,000 exhibitors converge to showcase the rich tapestry of India’s trade culture. Partnered by Kerala and Bihar, the fair spotlights states like Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh under the theme ‘Vasudhai Vakutumbakam: United by Trade,’ orchestrated by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

*Kerala Pavilion: Tracing Trade Heritage from Muziris to Vizhinjam Port*
Chief Secretary Dr. V. Venu inaugurates the Kerala Pavilion, a 624-square-foot testament to Kerala’s trade history, featuring Muziris heritage and the recent achievement of Vizhinjam port. With 44 stalls narrating the state’s commercial evolution, the pavilion aims to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase Kerala’s ethnicity and culture.

Business to Business Focus: Opening Nov 14–18, Public Welcome from Nov 19–27

Running from November 14 to 27, the fair dedicates the first five days exclusively to business visitors, creating a B2B atmosphere. Ticket prices range from Rs 500 for adults during business days to Rs 80 for weekdays during general public visitation.

Aiming to foster local entrepreneurship, the fair promises a vibrant showcase of India’s trade diversity at Pragati Maidan.

This year, let us celebrate Children’s Day not just as a moment in time but as a commitment to the timeless potential of every child.

We should prioritize the underprivileged and do our best to uplift them with access to quality education, skilling, and mentoring that will create pathways to their success. With this in mind, Embassy Group’s outreach efforts have been designed to address all aspects of a student’s lifecycle, including the pre-school years, health and well-being, extracurricular activities, and finally, helping them join the burgeoning workforce.

Together, we have the power to orchestrate change, ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has a chance to compose their own future. Our outreach should not merely be a gesture but a source of opportunities, resonating with the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

It is essential not only to build their capacities but also to provide them with employment opportunities. By weaving job opportunities into the fabric of our outreach goals, we can transform the lives of the next generation.

14th November 2023: : PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India has accomplished a landmark of opening 10 Screens across 2 new multiplexes with 6-Screens in Mumbai and 4-Screens in Bhubaneswar today. The launch of these cinemas aligns with its strategy of screen roll in key markets targeting new demographics. The company consolidated its presence in Western India with 345 screens in 76 properties and 138 screens in 36 properties in Eastern India.

The new 6-screen multiplex, Maison INOX is a unique luxury boutique property at Jio World Centre, Mumbai’s new iconic landmark destination in the central business district, Bandra Kurla Complex.
The cinema with a seating capacity of 790 audiences includes 2 Insignia screens, 1 IMAX screen and 3 regular screens. An artistic masterpiece, the cinema is the paradigm of luxury, offering a bespoke entertainment experience with best in technology equipped with the most advanced 4K Laser Projection System, Dolby Atmos Surround Sound and Next-Gen 3D Screens. In the state of Maharashtra, PVR INOX has presence across 15 cities with a screen portfolio of 260 screens in 53 properties.

The 4-screen multiplex located at Utkal Kanika Galleria Mall, Bhubaneswar is the first cinema in the city featuring all 4K Laser screens. It has a total seating capacity of 682 audiences featuring comfortable plush last row recliners and equipped with the best-in-class theatrical solutions including 4K Laser projection, Dolby 7.1 immersive audio and Next-Gen 3D screens. In the state of Odisha, PVR INOX has presence across in the cities of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Rourkela with a screen portfolio of 29 screens in 7 properties.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Ajay Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited, said, “Right at the start of the festive season with a robust content line up, we are proud to open 10 screens in two different regions of our country with their unique set of audiences. PVR INOX strives to develop cinemas as social spaces and ideal out-of-home entertainment destinations with a view to make them more experiential and immersive to meet the growing aspirations of consumers with their unique movie going preferences’’.

At Maison INOX, Mumbai, guests would be able to live the luxury at Insignia auditoriums with superb screening and sound systems, plush leather recliner seats featuring micro adjustable neck rest, butler-on-call and fine dining experience within the theatre. On the other hand, they can experience the larger-than-life movie-watching in IMAX with Laser.

‘We are delighted to announce the launch of 2 new properties in the West and Eastern regions of our country. Lack of out of home entertainment options in India and increasing number of malls are aiding the footprint of multiplexes and PVR INOX is expanding its multiplex presence in these malls to provide more options to consumers to watch movies on the big screen”, said Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Executive Director, PVR INOX Limited.