Archives January 2025

“As we prepare for the upcoming union budget, it’s crucial to present strategic recommendations to bolster the Indian real estate sector. The introduction of a single window clearance system has already improved approval processes, reducing project timelines and costs. To further enhance the sector, we propose several key measures:

FDI Regulation Adjustments: Review FDI norms to attract domestic and foreign investments, enhancing developer liquidity.

Revising Input Tax Credits: Establish a favorable input tax credit regime to ease financial burdens on developers.

Streamlined GST: Adjust GST for under-construction properties to promote growth in commercial real estate.

Targeted Rental Housing Strategies: Improve rental housing availability to address urban challenges.

Public-Private Partnerships: Invest in infrastructure to enhance connectivity in tier-2 cities.

By implementing these recommendations, we can drive sustainable growth in the Indian economy.”

Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL), a leading power utility supplying electricity to a populace of around 9 million in North Delhi has announced a strategic partnership today with Tata Power EV Charging Solutions Limited (TPEVCSL) to develop public EV charging infrastructure across the parking sites of Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). The arrangement aims to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in Delhi, aligning with Tata Power-DDL’s vision of a Green Tomorrow and supporting India’s goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.

The Business Agreement was signed between Tata Power-DDL & Tata Power EV Charging Solutions Limited (TPEVCSL) in the presence of Senior Officials from both the organizations including – Mr. Gajanan S. Kale, Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Kiran Gupta- Chief-Customer Experience, Commercial, Govt Affairs, EAC & Consumer Litigation, Mr. Rashmikant – Head CS&KCG & Mr. Anurag Bansal- Head Legal from Tata Power-DDL and Mr. Virender Goyal (Head Business Development -EV Business), Mr. Deepak Jain (Regional Head- North) from Tata Power EV Charging Solutions Limited (TPEVCSL).

In line with MoP guidelines, as part of its initiative to expand public charging infrastructure in Delhi, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has made its public parking sites available to Delhi Discoms and PSUs, including Tata Power-DDL, for Supply, Installation, Testing, and Commissioning (SITC) of EV charging stations. TPEVCSL has finalized the parking sites and MCD has allocated these designated parking sites to Tata Power-DDL for a period of 10 years. Tata Power-DDL is also working closely with MCD to identify additional sites for the installation of EV charging stations.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Gajanan S Kale, CEO, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited said, “We are proud to collaborate with Tata Power EV Charging Solutions Limited (TPEVCSL) in this important initiative. This partnership highlights Tata Power-DDL’s expertise in delivering reliable and sustainable power solutions, as well as our commitment to advancing the EV ecosystem in the National Capital.

Shemaroo Umang is all set to bring to its audience a drama filled with power, betrayal, rivalry and twists like no other, as Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain. At the heart of the drama is Chaina, played by the talented Diksha Dhami lively, street-smart, clever, and full of surprises. As Chaina enters as the haveli as the youngest daughter-in-law, standing in her way is Chamkeeli, the cunning and ruthless eldest daughter-in-law, played by Ishita Ganguly. Chamkeeli is obsessed with control and power, and she’ll do whatever it takes to secure her position at the top. From lies and tricks to complex schemes, she’s willing to cross any line to stay in charge.

Chamkeeli’s thirst for power is unmatched. Every move she makes is calculated, and when she’s wronged, you better watch out—there’s no telling how far she’ll go to fight back. It’s this drive that makes her both a fascinating villain and an unforgettable character.

Ishita Ganguly, who plays Chamkeeli, shared her excitement about the role: “Chamkeeli is unlike any character I’ve played before—she’s fierce, determined, and believes her ruthless actions are completely justified to get what she wants. While the heroine is the heart of the story, it’s characters like Chamkeeli that truly bring it to life. You’ll love to hate her. At every step, Chamkeeli will create challenges for Chaina. What drew me to this role is how dark and bold Chamkeeli is. Unlike typical stories, this one stands out because of the fresh approach to the script and the challenging role it offers. As an actor, when you get a character like this, you can’t resist taking it on.”

The intense rivalry between Chamkeeli and Chaina is at the heart of Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, and as the two women battle for control- one with right intentions and the other with wrong, the show promises a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and unexpected twists.

Chandigarh, 22 January 2025: Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 has kicked off spectacularly, delivering a thrilling start that has left cricket fans around the world on the edge of their seats. Renowned cricketing superstars like Kieron Pollard, Tim Southee, Sunil Narine, Sam Curran, Andre Russell, Nicholas Pooran, and many others have already begun to light up the tournament with their exceptional skills and electrifying performances. Season 3 of DP World ILT20 is broadcast live on ZEE’s 15 linear TV channels, OTT platform ZEE5, and its syndicate partners’ TV and digital networks.

Speaking to Harbhajan Singh, Ashish Sehgal, Chief Growth Officer – Digital & Broadcast Revenue at Zee Entertainment Enterprises, expressed ambitious goals for the league, stating: “Season 2 was a landmark achievement where we set a benchmark, reaching 220 million viewers. For Season 3, our goal is to make it even bigger and better, and we truly believe it’s happening—right from the very first match.”

Speaking about ZEE’s legacy of creating engaging content, he added: “At ZEE, nurturing and fostering new talents is in our DNA, as demonstrated by properties like Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and other successful ones. Season 3 is already showing massive potential, and we’re aiming to nurture this 3-year-old property into a HUGE success. In just three years since its inception, the tournament has seen tremendous growth, and we are confident it will continue to reach new milestones in the future.”

Harbhajan Singh, a veteran of the game with over 711-international wickets across formats in his illustrious 18-year career, has been an integral part of the ILT20 since its inception. The 44-year-old also featured in the eminent commentary panel across both seasons. On the other hand, Shoaib Akhtar, who has 444 international wickets for Pakistan, has also joined the ILT20 for the second season of the competition and will continue in his role as ambassador.

Cricket fans can watch this action-packed tournament on ZEE’s most widely distributed and viewed 15 linear TV channels: &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD and &Flix HD.

The third season of the DP World ILT20 will run from 11 January to 9 February 2025. All 34 matches will be played across three venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Desert Vipers, Dubai Capitals, Gulf Giants, MI Emirates and Sharjah Warriorz.

Chandigarh, 22 January 2025: Jupiter International Limited, a leading manufacturer of photovoltaic solar cells and provider of solar power solutions, has secured an order worth over ₹3 crore from the West Bengal Khadi & Village Industries Board (WBKVIB). The project involves the supply, installation, and maintenance of rooftop grid-connected Solar PV power plants across 23 locations in West Bengal.

With a cumulative capacity of approximately 0.5 MW, the project is set to be completed within 365 days from the commencement date. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and contribute to the state’s efforts to lower carbon emissions.

This project reinforces Jupiter International’s commitment to providing sustainable energy solutions and advancing India’s renewable energy goals. By focusing on rooftop solar installations, the company continues to drive the transition to cleaner energy and strengthen its position as a leader in the solar sector.

National, 22nd January 2025: IIHMR University, a leading health management research university in India, proudly hosted the inaugural program for the fourth cohort of its Master of Public Health (MPH) (Executive) 2024–26 and Master of Hospital Administration (MHA) (Executive) 2024–26 programs.

The event marked the beginning of an academic journey for 50 professionals from Executive Master of Public Health and 17 professionals from Executive Master of Hospital Administration, aiming to enhance their expertise in public health and hospital administration while continuing their careers. Showcasing rich diversity, the eMPH batch has 25 female and 25 male candidates, and the eMHA batch has 9 female and 8 male students.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. PR Sodani, President, IIHMR University, shared, “With a rich legacy of 40 years in healthcare management education, we are deeply committed to empowering professionals with the skills, knowledge, and leadership capabilities required to drive transformative change in healthcare systems. The Master of Public Health (Executive) and Master of Hospital Administration (Executive) programs are tailored to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector, enabling professionals to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the new cohorts and encourage them to embrace this journey of growth.”

Reflecting a diverse cohort of professionals eager to contribute to the evolving landscape of healthcare management, the programs witnessed participation from diverse backgrounds. Making a majority 23 candidates of the eMPH program were from government organizations, followed by 22 candidates from private hospitals, consultancies, etc. and 5 participants from NGOs. Whereas, the eMHA had 12 participants from private hospitals, consultancies, etc. and 5 from government organizations.

The eMPH and eMHA cohorts brought a wealth of professional experience and maturity to the program, with an impressive average of 10 years and 9 years of work experience, respectively. Reflecting their seasoned backgrounds, the participants had an average age of 38 years for the eMPH cohort and 37 years for the eMHA cohort, showcasing a balanced blend of expertise and readiness to excel in the evolving field of healthcare management.

Chandigarh, 22 January 2025: Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a leading player in India’s renewable energy sector and a subsidiary of Tata Power, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (OREDA Limited), the state’s nodal agency for renewable energy, to accelerate rooftop solar adoption among residential customers. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding Odisha’s renewable energy footprint by implementing the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana (PMSGY).

Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, manages power distribution in Odisha through its four DISCOMs in partnership with the State Government. The scheme will be implemented through the DISCOMs which will play a pivotal role in bringing solar energy to households.

The MoU was signed by Shri Saidutta Biplab Keshari Pradhan, CEO, OREDA Limited, and Dr Praveer Sinha, CEO&MD, Tata Power in the presence of the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri K.V. Singh Deo and Shri Manoj Ahuja, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Odisha.

This collaboration aims to accelerate solar energy adoption through enhanced public awareness and seamless implementation of accessible and affordable solar energy solutions across Odisha. TPREL, which will be listed as one of its preferred solar partners by OREDA, will play a pivotal role in this adoption by ensuring reliable and hassle-free solar solutions with lifetime care. The company along with OREDA and its financial/banking partners will lead targeted awareness drives at high-footfall locations such as airports, malls and railway stations. To strengthen community engagement, the company will also develop educational materials on renewable energy benefits, conduct sessions for local vendors, and foster local technical expertise by training rooftop installation and maintenance staff.

Public education will remain a central pillar, supported by the creation and dissemination of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to emphasize the advantages of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Odisha is pioneering the solar revolution as the state with the highest solar subsidies in the country which significantly reduces the financial burden on the consumer and enables easy adoption.

Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD, Tata Power, said, “This collaboration with OREDA underscores Tata Power’s enduring commitment to the state and its people. We are proud to support the PM Surya Ghar Yojana and are aligned with the state government’s vision of mainstreaming solar power.”

OREDA Limited will collaborate with TPREL on the promotion of public awareness campaigns on various platforms, provide guidance to government agencies, and conduct regular reviews to ensure the initiative’s success. The initiative will begin by focusing on key cities—Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Paradip, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Balasore and Rourkela and gradually expand state-wide.

Shri Saidutta Biplab Keshari Pradhan, Chief Executive Officer, OREDA Limited added, “Odisha is blessed with vast solar energy potential that must be harnessed effectively to meet the state’s growing energy demands sustainably. Our partnership with Tata Power is a significant step in the same direction. With Tata Power’s expertise and OREDA’s resources, we will accelerate the adoption of renewable energy, empowering consumers and contributing meaningfully to the state’s energy goals.”

Over the past few years, Tata Power has played a pivotal role in transforming Odisha’s energy landscape by managing power distribution operations across all four DISCOMs—TPCODL, TPWODL, TPSODL, and TPNODL—under a public-private partnership model.

With a strong commitment to renewable energy adoption through advanced technology and collaborations with state and central agencies, the company is fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem aligned with India’s net-zero goals.

By-Mr. M. P. Taparia, Managing Director, The Supreme Industries Limited, said

Plastic Pipe Systems business growth continues to be adversely affected due to adverse PVC resin prices scenario and demand from infra spend not picking up as envisaged. Considering better demand in the second half of the year in the segments served by the Company, the Company had earlier envisaged 16-18% volume growth for the current year for the Plastic Piping System. The business fared poorly in the third quarter as PVC prices in open market were quite low compared

to domestic producer prices and due to extended winter rainfall in South India and some Eastern states. The Company expects good demand from Agri and Housing segments for the last quarter. The entire distribution pipeline has de-stocked seeing the continued fall in prices. As the prices have reached a low level, the Company expects good demand going forward in the current quarter. The Company also expects some improvement in infra sector demand, as this being the last quarter of the financial year.

The international PVC prices have stabilized at a low level. The local makers are adjusting their price close to import parity. However, there was a move from local producers to impose Anti-Dumping duty on import of PVC suspension grade resin. The decision from the Finance Ministry is awaited. Thus the PVC resin price trend remains in uncertain arena. Thus, Company is not in a position to give specific volume growth guidance. However, as several brownfield expansion of capacities are in place, the Company with its large portfolio of SKUs in this system is expected to grow 3% to 4% more than the Country growth in plastic Pipe System during this year.

All brownfield expansions at various locations of Plastic Piping Systems are progressing smoothly. The Company is well positioned to cater to increased demand of its product with increased available capacity. The company has reached to annual capacity of 8,20,000 M.T. as on 31st December 2024 and with completion of all the expansion plans undertaken in hand, total installed capacities of the Piping System Business Vertical shall reach 9,00,000 M.T. per annum by the end of FY 24-25.

Three new greenfield plants for Plastic piping division at Jammu, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh shall be taken up for execution in the coming financial year. Land at all the three places is in Company’s possession and detailed plans for products and capacities are being worked out. Equipment have arrived for PP silent pipe system which shall be launched in technical collaboration with M/s. Poloplast Gmbh of Austria during 1st quarter of FY 25-26. The newly introduced PERT Piping System and PE single wall corrugated pipes are witnessing encouraging response. Plans to increase SKUs in Bath fittings and sanitaryware segment are progressing well and till now the division has reached to 629 SKUs, from 421 SKUs at the beginning of the year. The company is servicing 40 different application based systems and continue to explore more value added systems.

The Company continues to remain focused to invest and enlarge the product basket in its piping business and to increase the range of value-added products. The company now has a SKU basket of 14234 numbers in Piping System Business Vertical. The Company has placed orders for all necessary equipment and the work on civil construction has started at its new site at Kanpur Dehat in U.P. for making Windows. In the first phase, Company has planned to put entire window making facilities at Kanpur and cater to customers in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and NCR. The Company expects to launch and supply Windows in the first half of 2025-26.

The business of Cross Laminated Film is showing improved performance with better capacity utilization. The division has also participated in institutional business and bagged good orders which are under execution. Resultantly the division expects about 20% volume growth in this business segment for the year with improved profitability. Trials have been successfully carried out for the newly developed Cross Plastic Film and samples thereof have been sent to laboratory for testing & certification as well as to potential customers for their evaluation.

The Company continues to expand its range and has introduced various new models of chair & cabinet in its furniture segment. 12 new models have been introduced in the first nine months of FY 24-25. The division continues to add showrooms to improve awareness of its range of premium products. Total No. of showrooms has reached 337 by end of December’24 from 308 as on 31st March’24. Focus on strengthening distribution channel and adding more retail outlets is continued.

In the Industrial Component division, business conditions remain moderate. However, Company expects demand scenario to further improve in sectors of home appliances & white goods which constitutes larger part of this business. It is also working to expand its customer base and develop the business in new sectors. With the revival in the business scenario of various appliances customers, the division expects better prospects going forward.

The Material Handling Division remains focused on introducing new products and also investing in new machines and moulds. Injection moulded pallets are seeing good growth and division continues to add new products in its range of pallets and dustbins. Presently the entire range of pallets are being manufactured at one location in Maharashtra. Going forward, the division plans to increase Pallet’s manufacturing locations and likely to commence from March 25. Equipment for Bubble Guard Board shall arrive by end of first quarter of FY 25-26 and likely to be in production during July-September quarter. The division continues to strive to enlarge its customer base and product portfolio paving the way for moderate growth.

Composite LPG cylinder division continues to cater to existing overseas customers and also participates in various export enquiries. Supplies against new LOI received for 10 Kg. cylinders from Indian Oil corporation Limited (IOCL) are taking place regularly and shall be completed by February 2025. The division expects to receive orders for further quantities in continuation of existing LOI. Work on standard design of 14.2 kg. Cylinder for all Oil Marketing Companies (IOCL, BPCL & HPCL) is under progress and expected to generate good business during FY 25-26 and thereafter. Commercialization of newly developed CNG Cylinders is likely to happen during January-March quarter of this year.

The Protective Packaging Division has enhanced its capacity utilization and its focus on developing customized solutions is working well. The division is continuously increasing its fabrication capacities in various geographies to cater to increased demand. Expansion activities undertaken are progressing well and shall be fully in place by end of FY 24-25. Negotiations for a suitable location for a new greenfield site near the port in the western region, to cater to export opportunities and domestic demand, has been initiated and likely to be concluded by first quarter of FY 25-26.

The Performance Packaging Division continues to utilize its capacities optimally and work on improved product mix and post extrusion value added products with minimal investment. Export opportunities remain the focus area for better value addition.

Looking at the business outlook and opportunities, the Company has planned and committed the highest capex (including carry forward commitments) of around Rs. 1500 Crs. Total cash outflow towards capex has been Rs. 718 crores during first nine months and is likely to reach around Rs. 1000 crores for the year. Entire Capex outflow shall be funded from internal accruals.

Chandigarh, January 22, 2025: Infrastructure company PNC Infratech has received in-principle approvals from NHAI to transfer 100% stake held by it in two subsidiaries (SPVs) for the Bundelkhand and Khajuraho road projects to the KKR-backed Highways Infrastructure Trust.

With this, the PNC-KKR deal is on track for closure by 31st March 2025 as PNC Infratech is in the process of fulfilling the conditions precedents (CPs) for the transaction. One of the major CPs under the deal included a change in control approvals from the highway authorities and no objection certificates from the lenders to the projects, according to a person aware of the development.

PNC has now obtained a change in control approval from NHAI for 8 of the assets, and the approvals for 2 more assets are expected by January 2025, NOCs have also been obtained almost from all the lenders, said the person quoted above.

Till January 20, PNC has secured approvals from the NHAI for the following eight highway assets, as per its stock exchange filings between November and January:

The Company shall be able to close the deal for 10 of the 12 assets by the close of this financial year, comprising ~85% of the total deal value. The deal for the remaining 2 assets will be completed by H1FY26, said the person quoted above.

The divestment is aligned with the Company’s strategic objective of recycling the capital invested in operating road assets to leverage the ambitious growth vision that the Government of India has outlined for this sector.

PNC Infratech Limited and PNC Infra Holdings Limited a wholly-owned subsidiary of PNC Infratech Limited had executed definitive agreements on January 15, 2024, with the KKR-backed Highways Infrastructure Trust (HIT). It involves divestment of 12 of the PNC’s road assets, comprising 11 National Highway (NH) Hybrid Annuity mode (HAM) assets and 1 State Highway BOT Toll asset with approximately 3,800 Lane Kms in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Rajasthan.

National, 22 January 2025: Third Wave Coffee, a coffee-first QSR brand, has appointed Akshat Arora as its new Marketing Director. With over a decade of experience in marketing and brand strategy, Akshat brings a proven track record of driving growth, strengthening brand equity, and creating meaningful consumer connections. His addition to the leadership team is poised to drive innovation, enhance customer engagement, and accelerate the brand’s growth in India’s dynamic specialty coffee sector.

In his new role, Akshat will spearhead initiatives to enhance brand resonance, expand digital outreach, build consumer engagement through offline and online channels, and strengthen the brand’s competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market. His appointment comes at an exciting juncture as Third Wave Coffee celebrates the milestone of opening its 125th cafe and continues its expansion across India, reinforcing its leadership in the specialty coffee sector.

Sharing his views on how this appointment strengthens the brand’s leadership team, Rajat Luthra, CEO, of Third Wave Coffee, said, “We are delighted to welcome Akshat to the Third Wave Coffee family. His extensive experience and innovative approach to business strategies make him an invaluable addition to our team. Given the opportune stage, the brand is at, we look forward to partnering with him as we embark on the next phase of our journey. We are confident that Akshat’s leadership will elevate our marketing strategies and deepen our connection with coffee enthusiasts nationwide.”

Akshat Arora, Marketing Director, Third Wave Coffee, added, “Third Wave Coffee has already defined India’s coffee culture with its specialty coffee offerings and customer-first approach. I am excited to join this remarkable journey and contribute to the brand’s next phase of growth. My focus would be on creating a deeper preference for the brand and driving brand love as we continue to innovate and grow. Together with the team, I am committed to strengthening the brand’s legacy of transforming how India experiences coffee”.

Before joining Third Wave Coffee, Akshat had contributed to the growth of several other renowned brands like Tim Hortons, Bisleri and Jaguar Land Rover. With more than 14 years of experience he has successfully navigated competitive markets across various sectors. With over 125 outlets across 10 cities and plans to grow further, Third Wave Coffee remains committed to leading India’s specialty coffee market by prioritizing quality, consistency, and community engagement.