Archives January 2025

Mumbai, India (January 20, 2025) – ASICS, a global Japanese sportswear brand, proudly marks the 20th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 as the official sports goods partner. This year’s marathon held on January 19th, Sunday showcased the growing enthusiasm for running in India, with over 60,000 on-ground runners and 5,000 virtual participants. The partnership further strengthened ASICS’s presence in the Western market and reinforced its commitment to encouraging active lifestyle and supporting runners of all levels.

The iconic sporting event Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 marks a monumental milestone with its 20th Edition in the city’s long-running association with fitness and running culture. As the official sports goods partner, ASICS is empowering participants with cutting-edge footwear and apparel designed to enhance their performance and elevate the overall marathon experience. From seasoned marathoners to first-time runners, ASICS continues to serve as the brand that propels athletes forward, ensuring they can achieve their personal bests.

ASICS celebrated the remarkable achievement of Sawan Barwal, who emerged as the winner for a half marathon showcasing exceptional performance at this year’s race. ASICS’s commitment to athletic excellence shines through the stellar performances of Sawan Barwal and Harmanjot Singh, who claimed the top two positions backed by the brand’s innovative equipment and continuous support. ASICS’ collaboration with Sawan Barwal, Harmanjot Singh, and Srinu Bugatha epitomizes the brand’s ethos of nurturing talent with innovative gear and unparalleled support, helping them unlock new milestones in their sports journey.

Commenting on this milestone partnership, Mr. Rajat Khurana, Managing Director of ASICS India and South Asia, said, “We are gratified to continue our association with the Tata Mumbai Marathon as the official Sports Goods Partner. This collaboration is a testament to ASICS’s dedication to promoting wellness and an active lifestyle through running. It’s also a great opportunity to engage with our brand athletes like Sawan Barwal, Harmanjot Singh, and Srinu Bugatha, to showcase our innovative performance gear that drives athletic excellence.”

Mr. Anil Singh, Managing Director of Procam International, added, “The partnership between the Tata Mumbai Marathon and ASICS represents a powerful collaboration in promoting athletic excellence and encouraging a culture of fitness across India. Together, we are committed to inspiring individuals to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle, while showcasing ASICS’s innovative sportswear that supports athletes at every level.”

ASICS’s remarkable growth in the running space across regions, solidifying its position as a preferred choice amongst athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. With a diverse range of products tailored with intelligent technology and innovations to meet the needs of runners through initiatives like the ASICS Running Club, brand aims to fostering a supportive and inclusive running community.

National, 20th January 2025: Season 3 of the DP World ILT20 has kicked off in spectacular fashion, 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.

Starting 27th January, brace yourselves to watch the culinary showdown of the year as Sony Entertainment Television brings viewers an exciting new reality show, “Celebrity MasterChef – Sabki Seeti Bajegi”. This season will air every Monday to Friday at 8 PM, featuring a star-studded lineup, including host Farah Khan, alongside celebrity chef judges Ranveer Brar and Vikas Khanna. Prepare to be entertained as Usha Nadkarni, Gaurav Khanna, Dipika Kakar, Tejasswi Prakash, Chandan Prabhakar, Archana Gautam, Nikki Tamboli, Rajiv Adatia, Abhijeet Sawant, Faisal Shaikh, and Kabita Singh trade their glamorous lives for aprons and chef’s hats, competing for the coveted title of Celebrity MasterChef.

Not just the stove but the atmosphere is also heating up as contestants fiercely fight for the top spot, each wanting to stay safe. The pressure of the high-stakes challenges is bringing out intense rivalries. Disappointment brewed when Nikki and Gaurav were paired for a challenge where only one dish could be presented to the Judges and Farah. Tension escalated as the duo disagreed on which dish to submit for tasting.

Adding to the drama, Nikki said, “Mujhe lagta hai mujhe jaana chahiye” while Gaurav insisted that his dish should be tasted, leading Nikki to dig her heels in and say, “I don’t want to take a risk”. When Farah counseled them saying don’t give up, Nikki and Gaurav spoke within a fraction of each other saying “Exactly” and Nikki taunted Gaurav saying, “Tum copy hi karte raho mera, kyu dala mujhe iske sath.”

Sony Entertainment Television’s beloved game show, Kaun Banega Crorepati, is set to celebrate a remarkable milestone—25 glorious years of knowledge, of enabling dreams to become reality, and building moments that are life-changing. The grand celebration kicks off on January 20, with the “Gyan Ka Rajat Mahotsav,” promising nostalgia, excitement, and other unforgettable memories. To make this occasion even more special, the very first crorepati who made history, Harshvardhan Nawathe, joins this iconic episode, reliving his journey and sharing his incredible experience.

Kahani Jeet Ki, a brand-new segment on Kaun Banega Crorepati, brings inspiring stories of victory and transformation. And who better to begin this journey than the first-ever crorepati, Harshvardhan Nawathe! As he steps onto the iconic stage once again, he will be welcomed with a special video showcasing the historic moment when he became the first crorepati, reliving the magic that changed his life forever.

In a heartfelt conversation with Harshvardhan, the megastar Big B asked, “Maanyawar, how does it feel to sit on the hot seat once again?”To this, Harshvardhan replied with a smile, “Sir, this is an entirely new hot seat—it feels different. And for this grand celebration of knowledge, we have a silver jubilee and a silver hot seat. After so many years, being back here feels surreal. Even the set looks different now. Back then, the lighting was different too. Since this morning, I’ve been reliving the emotions of the day I first came here—the anticipation, the anxious wait for the show to start, and the excitement of meeting you, AB Sir. Everything feels the same even today. It’s like I’m back in time, waiting to hear you say, ‘Harshvardhan, the next question is on your computer screen.’ I’m truly reliving that magical day.”

Amitabh Bachchan then asked, “Do you remember what happened on the set when you were declared a crorepati? Of course, we saw in the video the grand shower of confetti, but what was the actual atmosphere like?” With pride, Harshvardhan responded, “I remember every single detail of that day, Sir, and I always will. A person’s identity is defined by their achievements, and for me, this platform was the turning point of my life. The audience felt like my extended family; they were as happy as I was. I still remember people coming up to me—I even gave my first autograph that day. At the time, I didn’t know how to give an autograph, so I signed it the way I did at the bank. Later, a friend advised me to create a unique signature. That’s when I truly realized something extraordinary had happened.”

Harshvardhan further shared another touching memory with Amitabh Bachchan: “One moment stands out vividly, Sir. After I won, during a break, your makeup artist Deepak Dada came for your touch-up, but you told him, ‘Wait, do Harshvardhan’s touch-up as well.’ I was stunned! The person who had been doing your makeup for 50 years was now being asked to do mine too. That was the moment I truly felt my life had transformed. There’s something else I’ll always cherish, Sir. After the show, you invited us for a personal meeting. We talked for a long time, and you gave me advice that I didn’t fully understand at the time but has stayed with me ever since. You said, ‘Harsh, you don’t know what you’ve done, and you must live your life responsibly from now on.’ Back then, I thought I’d just won a quiz show—nothing more. But the very next day, when the media frenzy began, I started to understand the weight of your words. Today, after all these years, I truly understand how valuable that advice was.”

Don’t miss this unforgettable journey of Harshvardhan Nawathe, KBC’s first crorepati, only on Kaun Banega Crorepati – Gyan Ka Rajat Mahotsav, starting 20th January, every Monday – Friday at 9:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television

Mumbai, January 20, 2025: Federal Express Corporation (“FedEx”), the world’s largest express transportation company, has launched FedEx Surround® in India, an advanced monitoring and intervention solution designed to redefine supply chain management. Built on near-real-time visibility, AI-powered predictive analytics, and advanced handling capabilities, FedEx Surround® provides businesses with unmatched shipment visibility, control, and reliability.

FedEx Surround® monitoring and intervention suite offers three service levels—Select, Preferred, and Premium—to cater wide range of industries including healthcare, aerospace, high-tech products, providing critical updates and interventions that ensure the integrity and timely delivery of sensitive shipments.

With FedEx Surround® monitoring and intervention, FedEx provides three key benefits to its customers:

· Flexibility and Control: Surround® dashboard provides near real-time global visibility and predictive analytics using AI, network sensors with add on SenseAware ID.

· Greater Value: Special handling code enhances operational capability, enabling prioritized boarding and handling, cold chain support and in and out of network intervention.

· Peace of Mind: 24×7 expert support ensures proactive monitoring and intervention with dedicated teams at hubs, ramps, and stations, including customized reporting for customers.

“At FedEx, innovation means solving real-world challenges with bold solutions,” said Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, vice president of Marketing and Air Network, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa (MEISA), FedEx. “Leveraging AI, machine learning, and data, we’re transforming how businesses navigate their supply chains, making them seamless, efficient, and resilient. FedEx Surround® empowers businesses to proactively address potential disruptions, enhance decision-making, and ensure peace of mind every step of the way.”

India, January 20th, 2025 – Kärcher India, a global leader in cleaning technology, is embarking on an ambitious journey toward transformative growth and innovation. Built on German-engineered precision, customer-centric solutions, and a commitment to sustainability, the company is poised to revolutionize cleaning standards across professional and consumer segments by 2025.

Key Focus Areas of Kärcher India’s Vision 2025:

· Strengthening Marketing: Utilizing targeted marketing strategies to enhance brand presence and deepen customer engagement.

· Streamlining Processes: Improving operational efficiency and providing seamless customer experiences through process optimization and digitalization.

· People-Centric Growth: Prioritizing employee development and strengthening workforce capabilities to achieve company goals.

· Addressing Market Opportunities: Identifying and capitalizing on untapped market potential to drive a proactive go-to-market strategy.

A Roadmap for Growth:

· Expanding Reach: Establishing five new branch offices to enhance accessibility and service delivery for a growing customer base across India.

· Empowering Through Training: Conducting over 1,000 hours of training monthly for employees, dealers, and customers, ensuring in-depth knowledge of Kärcher’s advanced technologies. Plans include establishing dedicated training centers and strategically located warehouses for increased efficiency.

· Diversified Offerings: Continued focus on product innovation and diversification, with plans to launch new machines, cleaning detergents, and rental solutions for high-demand sectors such as logistics, hospitality, and transportation. Kärcher’s expertise in facility management solutions is showcased by its maintenance of the award-winning Bangalore Airport.

· Digital Transformation: Embracing digital tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and boost efficiency. Expanding the channel partner network to strengthen its presence in key markets.

· Sustainability: Aligning with national initiatives like Swachh Bharat by deploying mechanized cleaning solutions in cities like Varanasi and Navi Mumbai. Prioritizing eco-friendly operations and products to minimize environmental impact.

· Localized Manufacturing: Exploring local manufacturing to customize solutions for Indian customers, and contribute to the Indian economy.

“As we look toward 2025, Kärcher India remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction,” said Jatinder Kaul, Managing Director of Kärcher India. “Our mission is to redefine cleaning standards through cutting-edge solutions, expanded reach, and active participation in initiatives like Swachh Bharat. With this vision, we are poised to make a meaningful impact across India.”

Hyderabad, January 2025: Chowrangee, a new-age platform for arts and culture for the city of Hyderabad, has announced its inaugural event Raag-o-Rang, a mesmerizing evening of music and drama to be held on January 24, at 6 pm, at Shilpakala Vedika in Hi-Tech City.

Performing at the event will be Sounak Chattopadhyay, an acclaimed and popular Hindustani vocalist known for his remarkable ability to fuse the most ancient traditions of Indian classical music with modern music genres such as Bollywood, Ghazals and Rabindranath Tagore. His repertoire for the evening will include a special tribute to Mohammad Rafi on the occasion of his birth centenary.

The evening also brings to Hyderabad, for the very first time, Arpita Chatterjee, a celebrated theatre personality who will act as Gauhar Jaan in the multi-lingual solo musical My Name is Jaan. More than a century ago, the courtesan Gauhar Jaan became a sensation as the first Indian musician to be recorded on a gramophone. The immense popularity of her recordings made her a multi-millionaire; however, her life was anything but easy. Later at the instance of Mahatma Gandhi, Gauhar Jaan raised and contributed funds for India’s freedom struggle.

To attend the event,

Raag-o-Rang Event Details:

Date: Friday, January 24, 2025, 6 pm sharp

Venue: Shilpakala Vedika, Hitech City

National, 20th January 2025: The Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society (TSCS) recently participated in the National Conference organized by the Federation of Blood Donor Organizations of India (FBDOI) and the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), held in Ahmedabad. The conference brought together delegates from across India, highlighting important discussions on blood donation and related health challenges.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Saya Abdelmalik, President of the International Federation of Blood Donors, who delivered the keynote address. Mr. Abdelmalik, from Algeria, emphasized the global importance of blood donation and encouraged further collaboration across borders.

During the conference, Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President – Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society, was honored by the Indian Red Cross Society Ahmedabad for his organization’s outstanding contributions to improving the lives of individuals affected by Thalassemia. Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal’s leadership and the society’s tireless efforts in raising awareness, providing care, and offering support to thalassemia patients.

“The recognition by the Indian Red Cross Society reflects the incredible efforts made by our team and the dedication of our volunteers and medical professionals,” said Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal. “We are committed to continuing our work and expanding our initiatives to provide better care and treatment for individuals with Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease.”
The National Conference served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and future action plans to address the challenges faced by blood donors, patients, and healthcare providers in India.

Winter brings a crisp chill and the joy of cozy moments, but it also ushers in dryness that can leave your skin parched and uncomfortable. The secret to keeping your skin hydrated and glowing during this season lies in layering your bathing essentials the right way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a winter-proof bathing ritual that locks in moisture and keeps your skin soft and nourished all day long.

Choose a Hydrating Shower Gel

For a nourishing winter shower experience, choose a shower gel enriched with moisturizing ingredients like glycerine, shea butter, or natural oils. ITC Fiama Happy Naturals Yuzu & Bergamot Shower Gel is an excellent choice, offering deep hydration while enveloping you in a warm, soothing aroma. With 97% natural origin content and skin conditioners, it leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and beautifully nourished, making it the perfect companion for colder months.

 ITC Fiama brand ambassador Sara Ali Khan said, “Winter is the season I turn to for comfort, seeking solace in products that provide the warmth and nourishment my skin craves. Amid the chill, there’s nothing that embraces me quite like a luxuriously warm shower. My essential for this is the ITC Fiama Happy Naturals Yuzu & Bergamot Shower Gel. It’s my go-to at-home spa experience, infusing each bath with a touch of serene indulgence that leaves my skin deeply hydrated and perfectly moisturized throughout the season”.

 Indulge in a lukewarm shower

Let your winter morning start with a bathing routine with a lukewarm shower to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Hot water, while tempting in the cold, can lead to dryness and irritation. A gentle, lukewarm shower helps retain moisture, providing the perfect base for your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients from your shower gel or body wash, leaving you feeling hydrated and refreshed.

Apply a rich body lotion or cream
Immediately after drying, seal in the moisture with a thick body lotion or cream. Choose one enriched with hyaluronic acid, cocoa butter, or ceramides. These ingredients provide long-lasting hydration and reinforce the skin’s barrier.

Mist for a finishing touch
For an elegant and refreshing finish, spritz on a hydrating body mist that leaves your skin delicately scented and subtly moisturized. Products like Fiama’s Yuzu & Bergamot Perfume Mist not only infuse your routine with a burst of uplifting fragrance but also provide a gentle hydration boost, ensuring your skin feels soft and revitalized throughout the day.

Mumbai / New Delhi, 20th January 2025: The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), today commences the 13th edition of the Auto Summit 2025, the biennial flagship convention transformed to be an annual show in sync with Bharat Mobility the Global Expo. The summit, themed “Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility,” provides an overview of the Indian retail automobile industry. The event was attended by senior government officials and prominent figures from the Indian automobile industry, reflecting the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the sector.

The FADA Auto Summit, widely recognized as the “Maha Kumbh” of the Indian automobile retail industry witnessed the presence of Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister for Heavy Industries, Government of India, who graced the event as the Chief Guest. Joining virtually, Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, addressed the gathering as the Guest of Honour.

FADA Auto Summit serves as a prestigious platform bringing together manufacturers, government officials, dealers, industry analysts, academia, and thought leaders. It also enables comprehensive discussions on the evolving dynamics of auto retail and services, emerging business opportunities, and strategic visions for the industry’s future. This year Auto Summit 2025, featured over 75 distinguished speakers across 20 sessions, offering an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange insights, and explore sustainable growth strategies during the event.

Recognizing the automotive industry’s contribution to the Indian economy, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister for Heavy Industries, Government of India, said, “The 13th Auto Summit is a pivotal moment for India’s automotive sector, focused on the theme “Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility.” Safety remains a core priority, with an emphasis on enhancing road safety standards, integrating advanced driver-assistance systems, and improving infrastructure. Achieving this requires collaboration among manufacturers, dealers, policymakers, and consumers to reduce accidents and protect lives. Efficiency is also at the forefront, as evidenced by the 9% growth in vehicle sales in 2024, reaching 26.1 million units. This growth reflects the industry’s focus on cutting-edge technologies that streamline manufacturing and enhance customer experiences across all segments.”

He further added, “Sustainability is now a necessity. In 2024, electric vehicle (EV) sales surged to 14,08,245 units. Together, these efforts, supported by FADA and the government, are positioning India as a global leader in safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility, ensuring the sector meets both consumer needs and global challenges like climate change and road safety.”

Hon’ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, stated that, “The Indian automobile sector is witnessing a remarkable transformation, growing from ₹7 lakh crore to ₹22 lakh crore, now surpassing Japan globally, and becoming the fastest-growing economy in the world. As the 5th largest economy, India is on track to become the 3rd largest, backed by its immense skilled and youth workforce. The country’s potential in raw materials, especially at reasonable rates, positions us to lead in industries ranging from 2Ws and tractors to alternative fuel options.”

He further added, “India is not just leading domestically and now has a strong foothold in the international market, with 50% of the two-wheeler segment being exported. The focus on clean, sustainable energy—ranging from ethanol and biodiesel to hydrogen and electric—underscores our commitment to a greener future. As we work towards reducing our dependency on fossil fuels, we’re creating employment opportunities for millions, with the automobile sector alone poised to generate up to 4 crore jobs. The industry’s future looks promising, with a competitive edge driven by research, innovation, and the focus on quality. We are committed to making India an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, achieving self-sufficiency, while also positioning ourselves as global leaders. Initiatives like the pilot project in Nagpur for ropeway cable cars and flash-charging buses highlight the industry’s focus on cutting-edge technology for urban mass transport. The potential for growth is enormous, as we continue to expand both the domestic and export markets. With strong research, investment in institutions like IITs, and a robust focus on sustainability, India is well on its way to being a global powerhouse in the automobile sector.”

FADA President Mr. C S Vigneshwar said, “As we gather today at FADA’s 13th Auto Summit, it is inspiring to reflect on the significant progress our industry has made in shaping India’s automotive landscape. Over the past year, the sector has displayed remarkable resilience, achieving a 9% growth in vehicle retail. This success highlights the strength of consumer confidence and the dedication of all stakeholders in the ecosystem. This year the theme of the summit, ‘Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility,’ underscores the collective responsibility we share to shape an automotive future that is not only technologically advanced but also mindful of our environmental and societal obligations. As vehicle penetration increases, it is essential that we prioritize road safety, enhance operational efficiency, and accelerate our transition to sustainable mobility solutions. These are not just goals but imperatives for the industry to thrive and for India to emerge as a global leader in mobility.”

He further added, “The successful implementation of FAME I and II, along with the ongoing PM eDrive initiative, are crucial steps in India’s journey towards cleaner and greener vehicles, and FADA remains committed to supporting these efforts.”

At the 13th edition of the Auto Summit, Mr. Saugato Bhowmik Director CPG & D2C Automotive Meta India along with Mr. Kartick V Nagpal President, Rosmerta Group were present sharing the views & vision for the Indian Automobile industry. Their participation highlighted the growing role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of mobility, further enriching the summit’s focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

The event, themed “Safe, Efficient & Sustainable: Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility,” was thoughtfully designed to underscore the importance of these aspects for the sector. It featured lively discussions on the critical challenges facing the Indian automobile sector, fostering collaboration and actionable strategies to align with India’s vision for a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.

ANNEXURE 1

Inaugural Session : 9:30 AM to 10:20 AM

The inaugural session commences with the Presidential Address by Mr. CS Vigneshwar, President, FADA, outlining the event’s goals. Key highlights include the unveiling of two pivotal reports: Future of Auto Dealerships: Safe, Efficient & Sustainable and META India’s Shift Gears: A Guide to Driving Demand for India’s Automotive Industry. The session will also honor Mr. John K Paul, Past President, FADA, with the Exemplary Contribution Award, followed by an address by Mr. H. D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Heavy Industries. Keynote speeches from Mr. Saugato Bhowmik and Mr. Kartick V Nagpal will offer additional insights, concluding with a Vote of Thanks by Mr. Sai Giridhar, Vice President, FADA.

White Paper Presentation : 10:25 AM to 10:35 AM

Mr. Harshvardhan Sharma, Head of Auto Retail Practice at Nomura Research Institute Consulting & Solutions Pvt. Ltd., delivered a presentation on the findings of a comprehensive white paper. This session will provide key insights into emerging trends, challenges, and strategic recommendations for the auto retail industry, offering stakeholders actionable guidance to navigate the evolving market dynamics effectively.

Keynote Address : 10:35 AM to 10:45 AM

Mr. Sumit Bali, Country Head for Retail Assets & Debt Management at YES Bank Ltd., delivered the keynote address, focusing on the financial landscape of the auto dealership ecosystem. His insights will explore opportunities for capital optimization, address challenges in debt management, and provide strategic frameworks to drive financial sustainability in the sector.

Guest of Honour Address : 10:45 AM to 11:15 AM

The Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari, delivered the Guest of Honour address, emphasizing the government’s commitment to road safety and sustainable mobility. The address will highlight pivotal initiatives, policy frameworks, and technological advancements aimed at building a robust and eco-friendly transportation infrastructure, supporting India’s vision for a progressive and sustainable future.

Recognition of Excellence : 11:15 AM to 11:20 AM

In this segment, Mr. Rajeev Chaba, CEO Emeritus of JSW MG Motor India, was honored for his remarkable contributions to the automobile industry. The recognition celebrates his visionary leadership and dedication to advancing trade and innovation, which have significantly shaped the sector’s growth trajectory.

Announcement of FADA’s New Two-Wheeler Vertical : 11:20 AM to 11:25 AM

Mr. Pradeep Agarwal, Treasurer of FADA, announced the launch of FADA’s dedicated Two-Wheeler Vertical. This initiative marks a strategic milestone in addressing the opportunities and challenges of the two-wheeler segment, demonstrating FADA’s commitment to fostering growth and innovation within this key market.

Anchor Panel 1 – Safety First: Building a Safer Future for Indian Roads and Vehicles : 12:00 PM to 1:25 PM

The panel focuses on key safety initiatives and innovations essential for improving road safety and vehicle standards in India. Panelists include industry leaders such as Mr. Diego Graffi (Piaggio Vehicles), Mr. Mohan Savarkar (Tata Motors), Mr. Munish Dayal (SK Finance), Mr. Rajinder Singh Sachdeva (VE Commercial Vehicles), Mr. Ranjivjit Singh (Hero MotoCorp), Mr. Sumit Bali (YES Bank), Mr. Tushar Dhimar (SBI General Insurance), and Mr. Ashish Pande (FADA MP). The discussion, moderated by Mr. Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor of Autocar India, will address innovations, policies, and collaborative efforts required to build a safer transportation ecosystem in India.

Concurrent Workshops : 12:10 PM – 1:25 PM

Workshop I: Women in FADA (WiF) – Driven by Courage
Prominent women leaders, including Ms. Kavita Himatsingka, Mrs. M. Radha Harshavardhan, Dr. Ranjana Bansal, and Ms. Pema YK Loyi, will share their experiences and challenges in the automotive world. Moderated by Mrs. Rashmi Kale, the session highlights women’s impact in the industry.

Workshop II: The Next Generation Riding the Automotive Wave
Young leaders Mr. Abhishek Goel and Dr. Elisha Thanawala will discuss their vision for the future of the automotive industry. Moderated by Mr. Rishabh Sanghi, this session focuses on the next generation of industry professionals.

Workshop III: Meta Hyperlocal Strategies
Meta India experts will explore data-driven tools to drive local automotive demand and enhance digital engagement for dealers.

Workshop IV: Self-Assessment Health Check for Auto Dealers
Mr. Hemal N. Thakkar from CRISIL will guide dealerships on performance metrics, providing insights into improving efficiency and competitiveness.

Partner Showcase: Madhus Garage Equipment Pvt Ltd : 02:25 PM to 02:30 PM
Presented by Mr. Nikhil B, Deputy Managing Director of Madhus Garage Equipment Pvt Ltd. The segment highlights the company’s latest innovations in garage equipment solutions designed to enhance service efficiency and workshop operations.

Partner Showcase: Vodafone Idea Business – 02:30 PM to 02:35 PM
Presented by Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Executive Vice President – SME Business at Vodafone Idea. Mr. Mehta discussed how Vodafone Idea’s business solutions cater to the automotive sector, helping companies streamline operations with robust connectivity and data management systems.

Partner Showcase: SpareCare – 02:35 PM to 02:45 PM
Mr. Naveen Chauhan and Mr. Harish Kothari, Co-Founders of SpareCare, presented their innovative solutions that help dealerships manage spare parts and service operations, driving efficiency and improving customer satisfaction.

Anchor Panel 2: Efficiency in Motion – Streamlining Operations & Customer Experience : 02:45 PM to 04:00 PM

The panel will explore how automotive businesses can streamline operations and enhance customer experience. Industry leaders will discuss operational efficiency in parts and service, innovations in customer engagement, and the role of digital tools in transforming the customer journey. Panelists include Mr. Anil Kumar Dhingra (Ashok Leyland), Mr. Gurbinder Singh Dhillon (Orbitsys Technologies), Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar (Kia India), Mr. Rajesh Kaul (Tata Motors), Mr. Saugato Bhowmik (Meta India), Mr. Nalinikanth Gollagunta (Mahindra & Mahindra), Mr. Ashutosh Varma (Hero MotoCorp), and Mr. Ajay Agarwal (GO Auto Pvt Ltd). The session will be moderated by Ms. Aditi Shah (Reuters).

Concurrent Sessions :

Workshop V: FADA Academy: Accelerating Excellence (02:45 PM to 04:00 PM) highlights FADA Academy’s achievements and future plans for skill development. The session begins with a welcome address by Mr. Manish Raj Singhania, Chairman of FADA Academy. Mr. Arindam Lahiri, CEO of ASDC, inaugurated the Technical Skill Training Centres. Ms. Geetika Vig from Meta India will discuss the META Blueprint Program, while Mr. Raman Kumar Sharma from ASDC will cover “Management by Dashboard.” Prof. BK Panigrahi from IIT Delhi shared insights on advanced certification programs, and Dr. Sunil Anand and Mr. Pranjal Maheshwari will talk about on-the-job training.

Workshop VI: From Junk to Jumpstart (02:45 PM to 03:20 PM) delve into how vehicle scrappage schemes are revitalizing the retail sector. Mr. Laxminarayan Mishra, Deputy Secretary – Transport, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, presented the government’s vision for vehicle scrappage, while Mr. Nitin Chitkara, CEO of Meta Materials Circular Markets, highlights the role of the circular economy in vehicle disposal. Mr. Kartick V Nagpal and Mr. Sourabh Agarwal will discuss how scrappage impacts dealerships.

Workshop VII: New Business Opportunities for Dealerships by Sun Mobility (03:20 PM to 04:00 PM) explore the emerging opportunities for dealerships in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Mr. Ashok Agarwal, CEO of Sun Mobility, will discuss how battery swapping technology is driving new business models for dealerships in the EV sector.

Keynote Address : 04:40 PM to 04:45 PM
Mr. Girdhar Bagri, Country Head – Supply Chain Finance, Business Banking, HSBC India, will present a keynote address on supply chain innovations and how they are transforming the automotive industry.

Concurrent Sessions :

Workshop VIII: Bodyshop Management KPIs: Key Parameters to Improve Profitability (04:45 PM to 05:20 PM) focuses on the key performance indicators that bodyshops should focus on to enhance profitability. Mr. Vivek Sahai, Sales Manager – Vehicle Refinish, India & Sri Lanka at Akzo Nobel, leads this session, providing valuable insights into how bodyshops can optimize operations and improve their bottom line.

Workshop IX: Shift Gears in Auto Retail: Unlock Value with an IPO (05:25 PM to 06:00 PM) explores the potential for automotive businesses to unlock value through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Mr. Aaditya Gutgutia, Executive Director at DAM Capital Advisors Limited, Mr. Suraj Malik, Founder & CEO of Legacy Growth, and Ms. Garima Misra, FADA Executive Committee Member & Managing Director of Group Landmark, shared their expertise on navigating the IPO process and the benefits it offers to auto retail businesses.

The session concluded with a Felicitation of Partners followed by a Vote of Thanks.