All posts by Sujata Achary

Mr. Tarun Sawhney, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, TEIL.

“The sugar industry is optimistic that Budget 2025 will address key challenges and pave the way for sustainable growth. A critical area of focus is the long-overdue revision of the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) for sugar, which has remained stagnant at Rs 31 per kg since 2019. Rising production costs and the increasing Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane necessitate a revision to Rs 39.14 per kg. Such a move will not only stabilize the financial health of sugar mills but also ensure fair and consistent returns for farmers, creating a balanced and resilient ecosystem.

Equally important is advancing India’s ethanol blending goals, as the country approaches the E20 target by 2025. Achieving this milestone requires a robust roadmap, including continued policy support, technological innovation, and infrastructure expansion. Meeting the 20% blending target by 2025 will require approximately 1,016 crore liters of ethanol, rising to 1,350 crore liters when accounting for other uses. To meet this demand, ethanol production capacity must reach 1,700 crore liters by 2025. Targeted subsidies of INR 35,000 crore to create an additional 770 crore liters of production capacity will play a pivotal role. A key expectation from the government is the approval of the anticipated ethanol pricing bill, proposing an INR 4-5 per liter price hike for the Ethanol Supply Year 2024-25. This increase is essential to incentivize ethanol producers and distilleries to enhance production in alignment with India’s blending targets. Linking ethanol pricing to the FRP of sugarcane through a formula-based mechanism could further ensure stability for all stakeholders in the value chain.

Furthermore, to establish the roadmap beyond E20 targets, the government should focus on aligning blending targets with domestic feedstock availability and securing a steady supply chain, utilizing surplus FCI rice until maize production meets blending requirements. Additionally, it should prioritize the development of flex-fuel vehicles and expand dispensing infrastructure to support various ethanol-blended fuel options effectively.

Investments in research and development are also crucial in ensuring India remains a global leader in biofuel innovation. Breakthroughs in 2G ethanol, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), and ethanol-to-hydrogen conversion technologies will keep India at the cutting edge of the biofuel sector. In parallel, India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 underscores the need for significant investment in renewable energy.”

Chef Ranveer Brar, known for his engaging cooking videos and signature style of storytelling, recently found himself the subject of a humorous tribute. A content creator, Srishti Kumar recreated Brar’s iconic cooking style in a reel that has taken the internet by storm, amassing over 3 million views, 175K+ likes, and 85K+ shares.

In the video, titled “Chef Ranveer Brar in his YouTube Videos,” she brilliantly mimics Brar’s charismatic style, with some famous dramatic flair. Opening with a humorous line, she says, “Toh ji paneer ki ek khasiyat hai ki ye dudh se banta hai.” The comment section was abuzz not only with enthusiastic reactions from Chef Brar’s fans but also with a special acknowledgment from the chef himself. Brar praised the creator, making the reel all the more iconic by commenting, “Sahi jawaab! 😀 Nailed it, Srishti.”

The reel playfully highlights several of Brar’s signature mannerisms, including his intense camera stares, thoughtful pauses, and insightful commentary. Kumar wraps up the video with a cheeky “Waah bhai waah. Chamak dhamak dekhiye,” encapsulating Brar’s iconic style.

With the fast-moving industry that keeps evolving, it is extremely important to keep up with the pace and stay one step ahead to leave a mark in the industry. AI-powered PCs are the ultimate work companions designed to supercharge productivity, simplify complex tasks, and make work life smoother. These smart machines don’t just process data at lightning speed; they adapt to your work style, freeing up your time for crucial tasks and planning. Irrespective of the work location, these AI PCs adapt to individual work styles and improve productivity in the long run. For corporates and business users looking for a lightweight, portable, secure device, offers a fantastic competitive advantage, here are 5 AI-powered PCs that have the potential to transform the way enterprises work:

ASUS ExpertBook P5 (P5405CSA)

The ASUS ExpertBook P5 is the first Copilot+ PC from ASUS for work. With the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra processors (series 2) and up to 47 NPU TOPS, this laptop powers on-device AI tasks effortlessly. At just 1.27kg and lasting up to 20 hours on its 63Whr battery, it’s perfect for when inspiration strikes at a coffee shop or a client’s office. With up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and 1 TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD storage, it delivers seamless performance for both everyday tasks and AI workloads. If you’re in a virtual meeting, and instead of jotting down notes, the ASUS AI ExpertMeet tool generates a real-time transcript, translates key points for a global team, and a lot more like noise cancellation. The 14” 2.5K 144 Hz display, MIL-STD 810H durability, and slim design make it perfect for mobile work. The built-in security features include Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and McAfee+ Premium. Sustainably built with recycled materials, the ExpertBook P5 combines portability, power, and innovation for professionals on the go.

ASUS ExpertBook B5 (B5404CMA)

The ASUS ExpertBook B5404 is powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor, up to 64GB DDR5 dual SO-DIMM memory, and Dual-SSD RAID support with up to 2TB capacity. It also features a dedicated Microsoft Copilot key for AI integration. With ultrafast 4G and WiFi 7 support, all packed into a slim 1.89cm all-metal body weighing just 1.29 kg, with MIL-STD 810H military-grade toughness. It will soon get the ASUS AI ExpertMeet tools, enhancing online meetings with AI-generated transcripts, translations, subtitles, noise cancellation, for enhanced productivity. It packs a 63WHrs battery ensures it lasts throughout the workday, a privacy shutter, TPM 2.0, RJ45 MAC binding, and more. ASUS includes an international warranty, covering the charger as well, and provides a dedicated service center for business users. Optional features like self-healing BIOS and image creation are available for added flexibility. For superior audio and video conferencing, the laptop features AI noise-canceling dual-array microphones and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, ensuring clear, high-quality sound. The Full-HD ASUS AiSense camera with motion tracking keeps you centered and enhances color and sharpness, indoors or outdoors.

HP OmniBook Ultra Flip

The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip is powered by the AI-enabled Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor, delivering exceptional performance and running the latest version of Windows. It features an optional 14-inch 2.8K OLED touch display with Intel® Arc™ Graphics, offering stunning visuals. With up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB SSD, it provides plenty of power and storage for seamless multitasking. The full-size, LED-backlit keyboard ensures comfort for all-day use. Equipped with a high-resolution 9MP IR camera with auto-switch HDR and AI capabilities, the OmniBook Ultra Flip guarantees top-quality video calls. For security, it includes HP’s industry-leading HP Wolf Security for enhanced protection. The device supports VRR 120Hz and up to 47 TOPS with AI NPU, while the audio is fine-tuned by Poly Studio for an immersive experience. With up to 21 hours of battery life, it offers long-lasting productivity for professionals on the move.

Dell Latitude 7450

The Dell Latitude 7450 is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with Intel vPro, offering a secure, high-performance, and energy-efficient platform perfect for AI-driven workloads. Its innovative three-tier multi-processing unit optimizes task distribution with a CPU for light AI tasks, a GPU for media and visual AI, and an NPU for more demanding operations. This smart architecture, paired with AI-powered Windows Studio Effects, enhances collaboration with features like video auto-framing and AI-eye tracking, taking meeting experiences to the next level.

Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen5

The Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen5 is powered by an Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 processor and an integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), delivering exceptional speed and performance. With Intel vPro® for enhanced data security and NVIDIA RTX™ graphics, it effortlessly handles demanding tasks like video editing and 3D modeling. Equipped with plenty of ports, fast memory, and advanced Wi-Fi, this laptop keeps you connected and productive on the go. Whether you’re an engineer, designer, or power user, the ThinkPad P14s Gen5 offers premium performance at an affordable price.

2025 is the year of smarter workspaces, and AI Laptop PCs are leading the charge. They don’t just follow commands—they think ahead, adapt to your needs, and free you from mundane tasks. Whether you’re drawn to ASUS’s innovative models or others in the lineup, these PCs redefine what it means to work smarter, not harder. Which one’s your pick?

Mumbai, 23rd January 2025: Over the last decade, India has witnessed an unprecedented expansion of its road infrastructure including expressways, a transformation that has not only improved connectivity but also reshaped the country’s real estate landscape. This infrastructural milestone has fuelled urban development, particularly in regions where improved connectivity has unlocked the potential for economic and real estate growth of cities. Colliers’ latest report, “Top 30 emerging cities of India” identified 8 micro markets across 30 cities in India.

Colliers conducted a comprehensive parameter-based analysis matrix to evaluate the growth drivers of emerging cities. This matrix was developed using five key parameters: physical infrastructure, social infrastructure, demographic growth, economic development, and real estate dynamics. Cities with a well-established ecosystem and strong future growth potential, driven by development initiatives from both government and private sectors, achieved higher scores in the assessment. The analysis highlights the next set of 30 cities with significant growth potential beyond India’s well-established cities. Among the emerging cities assessment, Nagpur emerged as the top performer, followed by Jaipur and Lucknow, all three of which are anticipated to establish a strong presence in India’s real estate market in the coming years.

“The expansion of expressways not only improves commuting but also promotes urban growth. It supports economic development, encourages the creation of integrated townships and social infrastructure, and boosts tourism. These factors collectively drive demand for real estate in the region, making it a promising investment opportunity for investors and homebuyers alike. This is the best time to invest in land within the micro-markets of emerging cities along expressways, with expected returns of up to 5.2X over the next decade,” says Swapnil Anil, Managing Director, Advisory Services, Colliers India.

Expressways as growth catalysts

Expressways serve as major catalysts for the economic growth of emerging cities. The development of expressways, highways, and feeder routes under ambitious initiatives such as the Bharatmala Pariyojana has been pivotal in this transformation. This growing network has unlocked previously inaccessible or underdeveloped areas, creating significant opportunities for real estate development. As a result, land prices and demand for residential, commercial, and industrial spaces have surged in these locations.

Expressways like the Yamuna Expressway, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and Dwarka Expressway exemplify how improved infrastructure can transform surrounding areas into real estate hotspots. This trend highlights a broader pattern across India, where the construction of new expressways is directly linked to land price appreciation and urbanization. Enhanced accessibility attracts businesses and investments while increasing the appeal of residential and commercial spaces, triggering a ripple effect of development.

Colliers has analyzed eight major expressways, including the Nagpur-Mumbai Expressway (Samruddhi Mahamarg), Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, Jaipur-Delhi Expressway, Meerut-Delhi Expressway, Delhi-Chandigarh Expressway, Delhi-Agra (Yamuna Expressway), Bhopal-Indore Expressway, and Lucknow-Agra Expressway (Purvanchal Expressway), along with the cities and their impacted micro-markets. This analysis reveals that the operationalization of the 701 km Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway has positioned Nagpur at the top of the list among these 30 emerging cities for investment in India. With an expected return of 5.2x by 2035, Nagpur has become one of the most sought-after investment destinations.

By Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Spiritual Leader, Yoga Master, Author,  Columnist & Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendra

Winter brings with it cold temperatures and a natural shift in energy, often leaving our bodies more vulnerable to seasonal illnesses. Yoga, with its holistic approach to wellness, can be a powerful ally in supporting your immune system during this time. By integrating movement, breathwork, and relaxation into your routine, you can fortify your body and mind against seasonal challenges.

Warming Up Your Practice
Begin your yoga practice with gentle movements to prepare your body for deeper poses. Roll your shoulders in slow circles, stretch your neck from side to side, and rotate your wrists and ankles. These simple actions improve blood circulation, ease stiffness, and bring warmth to your muscles.

Energize with Sun Salutations
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) is an ideal sequence for winter practice. This flowing series of movements generates inner heat, enhances circulation, and energizes the body. Begin with 3-5 rounds at a slow pace, synchronizing your breath with each movement. This flow not only awakens your physical body but also promotes mental clarity and focus.

Immune-Boosting Yoga Poses

Specific yoga poses can directly support and enhance immune function. Incorporate these into your routine:

•  Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): This gentle backbend opens the chest and stimulates the thymus gland, a key player in immune health. Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips. Hold the pose for 5-8 breaths while maintaining steady breathing.
•  Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani): This restorative pose aids lymphatic drainage and calms the nervous system. Sit close to a wall, lie back, and extend your legs up the wall. Stay in this pose for 5-10 minutes, focusing on slow, deep breaths.
•  Forward Fold (Padahasthasana): This standing forward bend soothes the nervous system and brings fresh blood flow to the sinuses and throat. Fold forward from the hips, letting your head hang heavy. If needed, bend your knees for comfort.
•  Twisted Chair Pose (ParivrttaUtkatasana): Twists are excellent for detoxification as they massage internal organs. From a bent-knee chair pose, twist your torso to one side. Hold for 3-5 breaths before switching sides.

Pranayama for Immunity

Breathing exercises (pranayama) are particularly beneficial during the winter months:

• Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana): This practice clears nasal passages and reduces stress. Close your right nostril with your thumb, inhale through the left nostril, then close the left nostril and exhale through the right. Repeat for 5-10 rounds, alternating sides.
•  Warming Breath (Ujjayi): Create a soft ocean-like sound at the back of your throat as you breathe deeply. This technique generates internal heat while filtering the air you inhale.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

Winter is a season of introspection and rest. End your practice with calming poses and meditation:

•  Corpse Pose (Savasana): Lie flat on your back, arms and legs relaxed, and cover yourself with a blanket to stay warm. Rest here for 5-10 minutes, allowing your body to absorb the benefits of your practice.
•  Meditation: Spend a few quiet moments focusing on your breath. Regular meditation lowers stress hormones, which can otherwise weaken your immune system.
• Practical Tips for Winter Practice
•  Practice during the warmest part of the day.
•  Keep your yoga space warm but ventilated.
•  Wear layers you can remove as your body warms up.
•  Have a blanket nearby for relaxation poses.
•  Stay hydrated before and after your practice.

Consistency is Key

A consistent yoga practice is more impactful than a lengthy session. Even 15-20 minutes daily can strengthen your immune system. Adjust the intensity of your practice based on your energy levels—if you’re feeling under the weather, focus on gentle poses and breathing exercises.

Holistic Winter Wellness

Yoga is just one component of a healthy winter routine. Combine your practice with:

•  Adequate sleep for physical recovery.
•  Nourishing, warming foods that fuel your body.
•  Time spent in nature, even if brief.
•  Social connections to uplift your spirit.

By aligning your yoga practice with winter’s unique demands, you can create a strong foundation for health and well-being. Movement, breathwork, and relaxation come together to balance your body, strengthen your immune system, and keep you resilient during the season’s challenges.

by Samer Hasn, Senior Market Analyst at XS.com

Gold continues its remarkable advance for the third consecutive day, reaching its highest level since October of last year, near $2,764 per ounce.

Gold’s gains come amid the weakness of the US dollar as the market reassesses the future of the upcoming trade war, in addition to the prevailing uncertainty about the future of the global economy with the escalation of this tension and the lack of a near horizon for settling the ongoing wars.

Where the new US President Donald Trump renewed his threats to impose tariffs on China and Europe next February. This is likely to deepen the state of uncertainty in those countries about the ability of their economies to confront this trade war, especially amid the state of weakness that the global economy is suffering from.

Various surveys anticipate this trade escalation and reveal the prevailing state of uncertainty. The ZEW Economic Sentiment index in Germany recorded a weaker-than-expected reading in January. How the report revealed the continued decline in economic expectations due to the ongoing recession, inflationary pressures, weak household spending, and uncertainty about the political and economic reality with the return of Trump. However, European stock indices continued.

Despite the prevailing concerns about tariffs, we still see signs of the possibility of negotiating to prevent a comprehensive trade war around the world. The Chinese foreign ministry said that it seeks to strengthen stable and sustainable relations with the United States, and this was a follow-up to steps described as conciliatory that had appeared during Trump’s inauguration with the presence of the Chinese Vice President. Experts believe that these signs, in addition to Trump’s talk about his hesitation regarding imposing tariffs on all countries, indicate an intention to negotiate to improve trade terms and obtain a suitable deal, in addition to fears of consequences for the United States itself, according to what was reported in Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times. This is what causes the US dollar and Treasury yields to weaken, which opens the way for gold to advance further.

These factors seem to contradict each other, as on the one hand there are concerns about the consequences of tariffs and on the other hand, we see signs of the possibility of negotiating favorable terms for all parties away from onerous tariffs. In any case, we should focus on what Trump does, not what he says.

As for the likely path of monetary policy in the United States, despite what we have talked about, the markets have not changed their expectations about the pace of interest rate cuts this year. The Fed is still not expected to cut rates before next June, according to CME FedWatch Tool figures.

Delhi, 23 January 2025: Agilus Diagnostics, India’s largest and most trusted diagnostic network, announces a ground-breaking achievement in genomic testing with its industry-leading 3-day turnaround time (TAT) for test results in myeloid malignancies.

The genomic testing market in India is experiencing rapid growth, driven by advancements in technology, increasing awareness, and the rising demand for personalized medicine. Currently valued at approximately USD 150 million, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 15% in the next five years. Genomic testing is transforming cancer diagnostics by revolutionizing targeted therapy and personalized medicine. By providing actionable insights into an individual’s unique genetic profile, it enables clinicians to identify specific mutations, tailor treatment plans, and select therapies that offer the highest efficacy. As the future of cancer diagnostics, genomic testing empowers early detection, precise interventions, and better disease management, marking a significant shift in how cancer care is delivered. With these advancements, Agilus Diagnostics’ cutting-edge offerings place it at the forefront of this expanding market. By delivering unparalleled speed and precision, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for genomic testing in India, establishing itself as a leader in the space.

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is revolutionizing genetic testing by enabling precise, comprehensive analysis of genetic variations, empowering clinicians with actionable insights for personalized patient care. While genomic testing has traditionally been a lengthy process, often taking weeks to deliver results, Agilus Diagnostics has set a new benchmark by delivering individualized reports—meticulously crafted by expert molecular pathologists—in just three days (for myeloid malignancies). This rapid turnaround ensures faster clinical decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes and setting us apart as leaders in precision diagnostics.

The Myeloid Genomics Testing and Precision Assay is designed to offer faster, more precise insights into cancer and myeloid disorders. The Myeloid Genomics Testing covers 79 genes, including those linked to inherited risks, to detect key genetic changes like mutations and fusions. This enables personalized treatment recommendations for conditions like Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN). Reports are reviewed by expert pathologists and include internationally recognized risk assessment tools and therapy suggestions tailored to the patient.

The Genomic Profiling Precision Assay provides comprehensive genomic profiling for cancers like lung, colon, breast, and melanoma by analyzing 50 critical genes. It identifies mutations, amplifications, and fusion genes, offering actionable insights for targeted treatments. With optimized panels for tissue and blood samples, the test ensures accurate results within 2 days for liquid biopsy samples and 7 days for tissue block samples, making it a powerful tool for precision medicine.

“Our 3-day genomic testing initiative for myeloid malignancies addresses one of the biggest challenges in precision oncology —Time. With this breakthrough, Agilus Diagnostics is not only setting a new industry standard but also transforming patient care by enabling faster diagnoses and treatment,” said Dr. Anand K, Managing Director & CEO of Agilus Diagnostics.

Currently, the labs in the genomic testing space often take up to 2 -3 weeks to deliver results for myeloid malignancies, which can delay critical clinical decisions. In contrast, Agilus Diagnostics’ rapid testing approach significantly shortens the diagnostic timeline, reducing hospital visits and enhancing the patient experience.

Driving Global Standards in Genomic Testing

Agilus Diagnostics’ commitment to speed and precision extends beyond technological advancements. The company ensures that every report is individualized, with expert molecular pathologists meticulously interpreting results. This personalized reporting approach ensures that physicians receive not just data but clinically actionable insights that support timely and effective patient management.

Agilus Diagnostics is setting new benchmarks in genomic testing, aligning with global standards in personalized medicine. The combination of advanced technology, rapid turnaround times, and expert oversight positions the company as a leader in precision diagnostics. By offering unparalleled speed, accuracy, and patient-focused care, Agilus Diagnostics reaffirms its commitment to bringing world-class diagnostic services to India.

“With our advanced genomic testing capabilities, we aim to provide clinicians with the tools they need to make timely, informed decisions. This not only improves outcomes but also sets a new benchmark for the healthcare industry in India,” added Dr. Anand K.

Agilus Diagnostics’ industry-leading solutions continue to pave the way for innovations in healthcare, ensuring that Indian patients have access to cutting-edge diagnostic services that meet global standards.

Mumbai, 23 January 2025: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is thrilled to announce the India tour of the CRF450 Rally, the ultimate off-road machine & Team Honda Racing Corporation’s weapon of choice for the legendary Dakar Rally. The CRF450 Rally will be on display at Honda BigWing Topline dealerships and Adventure Camps across India, giving enthusiasts and motorsports fans a unique opportunity to experience Honda’s championship-winning spirit up close.

As Honda embarks on this India tour, the company reaffirms its commitment to motorsports and its pursuit of excellence. The Honda CRF450 Rally, a champion born for the toughest terrains, will traverse key cities in India, including Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Indore, and Gurugram. The tour will take place from January 2025 to March 2025, and it is aimed at igniting the spirit of adventure and performance that defines Honda’s DNA.

Speaking about the announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, of Sales and Marketing, at Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are delighted to bring the CRF450 Rally to India, a country with a growing passion for motorsports and adventure biking. With this tour, we aim to bring the essence of world-class rally racing closer to our customers, inspiring the next generation of motorsports enthusiasts. The CRF450 Rally is not just a motorcycle – it is a symbol of Honda’s relentless pursuit of excellence and dominance in motorsports. We recently completed a showcase in the city of joy, Kolkata, and received an overwhelming response from enthusiasts. This tour is our way of sharing Honda’s Dakar-winning legacy with Indian enthusiasts and inspiring everyone to push boundaries and realize the power of dreams.”

The CRF450 Rally has been a symbol of Honda’s engineering excellence, with a remarkable record of success in some of the world’s most grueling rally events. Since its debut in 2013, the motorcycle has undergone continuous improvements based on valuable insights gained from rigorous competition. Most recently, Honda achieved a runner-up position at the prestigious 2025 Dakar Rally, reaffirming its leadership in global motorsports. There was a double celebration in Saudi Arabia with a second consecutive Dakar Rally double podium for Monster Energy Honda HRC as Tosha Schareina & Adrien Van Beveren took second and third place at the 47th edition of the world-famous motorsport event.

‘The Dakar’ has tested man and machine to the extreme since its inception in 1978. Honda’s first victory came in 1986 on an NXR750, which was followed by three consecutive wins up to 1989. The Dakar has been won three times by Honda in Saudi Arabia. Ricky Brabec was victorious in 2020, giving Honda its first victory in 31 years. Kevin Benavides claimed top honours in 2021 and Brabec scooped his second victory at the Dakar in 2024 – where Monster Energy Honda Team’s riders won eight out of the 13 stages. The World Rally Raid Championship sees competitors battle dunes, riverbeds, and navigational tests in a variety of countries including Abu Dhabi, Mexico, Argentina, and Morocco.

Honda has established itself as a powerhouse in motorsports since its debut at the Isle of Man TT races in 1959, driven by founder Soichiro Honda’s vision to lead in technology. Over the decades, Honda has consistently participated in and triumphed across various motorcycle and automobile races globally. In 2024, Honda achieved significant victories, including winning the Dakar Rally and the Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race. Despite challenges in MotoGP, Honda remains committed to enhancing its performance and competitiveness. In 2025, Honda will continue its legacy of excellence, with a focus on innovation and sustainability, striving for victories in major championships and supporting its riders and drivers in their pursuit of success.

By Clelia Cecilia Angelo, Founder & CEO, Surya Brasil

Winter is the time when most of us suffer from dry, brittle, frizzy hair. Due to the cold weather, the moisture of the hair depletes, leading to all these problems apart from hair fall as the roots weaken. Harsh chemical-based hair care products are a big factor that adds to more problems, and often just simply shifting to natural, vegan, and organic products cuts down most of these problems.

Henna that has been used to cover the greys is also a great way to provide hair and scalp with nutrients. It is a natural source of Vitamin E and tannin; thus, it is being used as a hair mask as well to soften hair. It works as an excellent conditioner, and also curbs down the frizz, and makes hair stronger. Henna cream, or premixed henna is also now available in the market which makes the henna application process mess-free with its easy-to-use applicator. Those who have been using chemical-based conditioners to make hair smooth will find henna to be more useful, as it has multiple benefits and no side effects.

Henna cream also balances the pH of the scalp while calming down the sebaceous glands thus curbing extra oil production that makes hair oily. Henna is rich in anti-oxidants and protein, supplying the hair follicles with much needed nutrients and strengthening them. Regular application of henna also curbs dandruff. Moreover, you are saved from exposure to cancer-causing chemicals such as ammonia and its byproducts- Diethanolamine, Triethanolamine and Ethanolamine. EDTA, Gluten, PPD, GMOS, TEA, resorcinol, hydrogen peroxide, paraben, DEA, sulphates are also found in harsh chemical-based hair dyes. Switching to henna cream will save you from their harmful effects.

Henna cream when mixed with Brazilian herbs such as Babassu oil, Jaborandi, Guarana, Malva, Jua, Aca etc can give smooth hair and result in gorgeous colors like copper, black, brown, burgundy and blonde. The color stays on for about 10 washes, and all you need to do is color the root growth. One can use henna cream as often as needed, without any mandatory gap. Infact, post coloration products that are gentle on the hair will enable you to ensure that the color stays longer.

In fact, use a natural, vegan, and organic shampoo that is devoid of sulphates, parabens, and harsh chemical dyes and is loaded with herbal extracts and fruits from India and Brazil’s biodiversity. You can pair it with a conditioner that contains nourishing components such as Amazonian vegetable oils and butters and rice protein. To ensure your hair have a beautiful finish, make sure that the shampoos and conditioners are free of mineral oil, silicones, synthetic fragrances, and chemicals.

Another habit that must be changed is, washing hair with warm or hot water, especially during winter. During the winter, we all enjoy taking lengthy, hot baths since it feels like the best way to beat the chill. Hot water, on the other hand, can cause dry skin and further damage to the hair. It causes brittle hair and flaky, itchy skin on the scalp. This might also result in dandruff that is obstinate and does not go away. It is actually advisable to wash your hair with cold water and an organic, natural, and vegan shampoo. A relaxing hot oil massage to improve the blood circulation helps the scalp to absorb these nutrients in a better way. Small changes along with the goodness of henna cream will make sure that your hair thrive this winter and are ready to take on the challenges that life throws at you.

Chandigarh, January 23, 2024: The Energy Solutions business of the Godrej Enterprises Group, has announced its strategic focus on driving significant investments towards power infrastructure projects supporting India’s clean energy drive. Aligning with the company’s broader vision of “Nation Building” to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy solutions, the business will prioritize Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh for its Power Infrastructure and green energy projects. With a strong focus on these states, Godrej Enterprises Group seeks to play a key role in building power infrastructure for renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and supporting the country’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power by 2030. The business is targeting to grow at a CAGR of over 20% in the next 3-5 years, driven by its growing portfolio of Extra High Voltage Power Transmission Projects up to 765kV and strategic investments in solar power and green energy infrastructure.

Raghavendra Mirji, Executive Vice President & Business Head, Energy Solutions business of Godrej Enterprises Group said, “As the world accelerates its transition to clean energy, India’s ambitious climate goals are setting the stage for an unprecedented shift. At Godrej Enterprises Group, we are proud to contribute to this movement through our strategic investments in Power Infrastructure projects across key states. These states are key to India’s ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based power by 2030. Through our innovative solutions & capabilities, we aim to reduce carbon emissions, foster energy independence, and play a leading role in shaping India’s energy landscape for the future.”

Maharashtra, one of the states in focus, has already seen a major boost in renewable energy initiatives. Godrej Enterprises Group recently commissioned a 25MW AC solar project in Dhule, in partnership with the Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Limited (MahaGenco). The business is executing one of the largest greenfield 765/400kV GIS in Maharashtra.

Gujarat has set a target to achieve 50% renewable energy capacity by 2030, and in line with this goal, GEG is executing a 765kV GIS & 400kV GIS substation projects in Khavda. Madhya Pradesh state also aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewables by 2030, with a focus on solar. In line with this vision, GEG has already commissioned a 12.5MWp rooftop solar project at a textile facility in Madhya Pradesh, covering over 1 million square feet, making it one of the largest installations in India and the largest in Madhya Pradesh.

Godrej has successfully commissioned over 5.2 MW of rooftop solar projects for an automobile company in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and multiple rooftop installations exceeding 2 MW for real estate companies and malls in Gurgaon, Haryana. Additionally, it is executing large-scale greenfield 765kV AIS substation projects to evacuate power from renewable energy source from a GW-scale solar parks, reinforcing its commitment to advancing India’s renewable energy infrastructure both in Haryana and Rajasthan.

The scope of work will encompass the design and construction of solar power plants and the creation of substations up to 765kV to ensure efficient evacuation of renewable energy. The business plans to undertake major power infrastructure projects in the five states mentioned above, which are contributing majority of the RE projects in India. GEG’s Energy Solutions’ business unit will contribute not only to the installation of solar power plants but also to the construction of high-voltage substations, with transmission capacities designed to evacuate more GW scale renewable projects.