All posts by Sujata Achary

Gurugram, February 25, 2025: CarDekho Group, the auto-tech and fintech solutions provider, has officially announced its entry into the UAE market in partnership with Raya Holdings under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Replicating its Indian playbook, the company will now cater to the specific needs of the UAE market, aiming to ensure a seamless experience for car buyers, brands, and dealers alike.

CarDekho’s integrated ecosystem, encompassing advertising, lead management, and digital content solutions, aims to redefine the car-buying journey for UAE consumers. By bridging the gap between digital platforms and physical dealerships, CarDekho seeks to offer an efficient and personalized experience, which aims to cater to the evolving preferences of digitally savvy buyers in the region.

The UAE market presents an opportunity for CarDekho’s services, driven by a tech-savvy consumer base increasingly reliant on digital channels for automotive needs. CarDekho’s AI-driven insights and lead management systems will be tailored to meet these needs, aiming for a seamless integration of online and offline experiences.

Amit Jain, CEO and Co-Founder of CarDekho Group, shared, “What started in a Tier 2 city to empower customers across India, has now transcended borders. This marks a pivotal step in our journey to transform the global automotive ecosystem. Our expansion into the UAE, under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is pivotal in replicating our Indian business model internationally. This move also aligns with our commitment to contribute to the UAE’s ‘Vision 2030’ which focuses on sustainable transport and digital transformation. Supported by our teams, partners, and customers, we aspire to set new benchmarks and establish CarDekho as a prominent name in mobility and auto-financial space on a global scale.”

Anurag Jain, COO and Co-Founder of CarDekho Group commented, “Our expansion into the UAE reflects our commitment to harnessing technology to meet the evolving needs of car buyers. From lead management systems to AI-driven consumer insights, we aim for our platform to align with the preferences of UAE customers. By integrating innovation with market understanding, we aim to redefine the car-buying experience, empowering both consumers and businesses with solutions that are as intuitive as they are impactful.”

The UAE expansion builds upon CarDekho’s expansion in Southeast Asia, where it operates under the OTO brand in Indonesia, Carmudi, and Zigwheels in the Philippines. With the UAE launch, CarDekho aims to replicate this model by offering a range of services, while also exploring additional offerings such as auto insurance and extended warranties tailored to the local market.

Recent equity market volatility has significantly impacted India’s mutual fund industry, reflecting shifting investor priorities, fluctuations in equity investments, and changes in systematic investment plans (SIPs). While the closure of nearly 500,000 SIP accounts in January 2025 has raised concerns, investor confidence remains strong in large-cap funds and gold ETFs.

Rishabh Goel, MD, Tailwind Financial Services says “Despite these closures, SIPs continue to be a powerful tool for disciplined wealth creation, even in uncertain times. The stability of SIP contributions at Rs 264 billion highlights investors’ resilience and long-term commitment. The increasing preference for large-cap funds and gold ETFs indicates a strategic shift toward stability and inflation hedging amid market fluctuations.

SEBI’s recent initiatives, including sachet-sized SIPs starting at just Rs 250, are a game-changer for financial inclusion. Programs like Chhoti SIP, Tarun Yojana, and MITRA aim to lower entry barriers and encourage broader participation, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. These steps reinforce a long-term vision of democratizing investments and empowering investors across all segments.

Market volatility is inevitable, but history has shown that staying invested through cycles is key to long-term success. Corrections often present valuable buying opportunities, and investors who remain committed to their financial goals through systematic investments benefit from rupee-cost averaging. The recent market pullback—including a 12% drop in the Nifty and sharper declines in mid- and small-cap indices—underscores the importance of a well-diversified portfolio.

At Tailwind Financial Services, we advocate a balanced investment approach—continuing SIPs, prioritizing stability through large-cap funds, diversifying across asset classes, and exercising caution in high-growth but volatile segments. The future of wealth creation lies in patience, discipline, and informed decision-making. Investors who embrace these principles will navigate uncertainties with confidence and emerge stronger in the evolving financial landscape.”

Mumbai, India – February 25, 2025 – Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone manufacturer, hosted its landmark event, Garuda Ascend 2025, at The Taj Lands End in Mumbai on February 21, 2025. The event showcased the company’s future vision and was graced by the presence of MS Dhoni, its brand ambassador and investor. The key highlight of the event was the launch of two drones designed specifically for the defense sector.

The event served as a platform to unveil several advanced technologies, with one of the most anticipated moments being MS Dhoni’s unveiling of the MV 1000 AMARAN Rocket Launcher Drone, developed in collaboration with SAS Greece. This drone marks a significant leap in defense technology, enhancing military capabilities with its advanced features and robust performance. MS Dhoni also unveiled Garuda Aerospace’s Land Mine Detection Drone, along with other innovative defense technology products, reinforcing the company’s commitment to national security by detecting metallic mines. Further highlighting Garuda Aerospace’s innovative spirit, he launched the first-ever Drones Aggregation App, developed in partnership with Cognizant, which aims to revolutionize the drone-as-a-service industry by making drone technology more accessible and efficient across various sectors. Additionally, Dhoni introduced India’s first Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) system, developed by Thales. It was introduced to India by Garuda Aerospace after an MOU was signed in August 2024. This pioneering system is designed to streamline drone operations and ensure safe, efficient airspace management across the country.

MS Dhoni also spoke about his decision to partner with Garuda Aerospace, sharing that his interest in drone technology began in 2022 when he observed the crucial role drones played in global conflicts. Recognizing their vast potential, he sought investment opportunities in the sector. When he came across Garuda Aerospace, he was impressed by its vision and innovative approach. More than just a brand ambassador, Dhoni decided to invest in the company, inspired by the passion and determination of Founder and CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash. He praised Agnishwar’s leadership, persistence, and the company’s drive to advance drone technology.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, expressed his gratitude to MS Dhoni, stating, “Garuda Ascend 2025 marks a pivotal moment in our journey. We deeply appreciate the support of Mahi Bhai, whose strategic insights have played a crucial role in our rapid expansion within the defense sector. He recognized the immense potential of the defense market and encouraged us to leverage our expertise, just as we have successfully done in the agricultural sector. With the steadfast support of our investors and partners, coupled with the unwavering dedication of our team, we are confident in our ability to lead the drone revolution, both domestically and internationally.”

The event also showcased Garuda Aerospace’s diverse range of drones, emphasizing their versatility across industries such as agriculture, defense, surveillance, and logistics. With over 300 guests in attendance, including representatives from venture capital funds, IPO bankers, private equity funds, family offices, and firms like KPMG, as well as partners such as Tata Elxsi and L&T. Garuda Ascend 2025 underscored the company’s commitment to technological excellence. The event reinforced Garuda Aerospace’s position as a leader in India’s rapidly evolving drone industry, particularly within the crucial defense sector.

New Delhi, February 2025 – Savorworks Coffee & Chocolate proudly welcomed Ducati riders to its café for the highly anticipated Ducati Delhi Spring Meetup on Sunday, February 23, 2025. This exhilarating gathering united Ducati enthusiasts for a day filled with high-octane adventure, valued community connections, and the indulgent flavors of Savorworks coffee and chocolate.

The event kicked off at 7:00 AM at DLF Downtown, Gurgaon, where riders revved their engines and set out on a scenic journey toward Greater Kailash 2. As the sun rose, Ducati riders embraced the thrill of the open road, bonding over their shared passion for performance and style.

Upon arriving at Savorworks, participants were welcomed into a cozy atmosphere that seamlessly blended excitement and relaxation. The gathering offered riders an opportunity to unwind and connect over an indulgent brunch featuring Savorworks’ signature coffee and handcrafted chocolates alongside a delectable breakfast.

A highlight of the day was the exclusive live chocolate-making sessions, where guests experienced the art behind some of India’s finest chocolates. Led by Savorworks’ talented chocolatiers, these interactive sessions allowed attendees to learn about the craft and taste delightful creations, enriching their appreciation for quality and craftsmanship.

Additionally, Ducati riders enjoyed coffee, Chocolate, and an exclusive beverage menu curated by the expertise, ensuring each guest had a memorable culinary experience aligned with Savorworks’ commitment to high-quality artisanal products.

“This collaboration reflects the shared passion for adventure, precision, and artistry that defines both Ducati and Savorworks,” said Paweena Withyasathien, Head Chocolatier and Co-Founder of Savorworks Coffee and Chocolate. “Together, we elevate the customer experience, building a community rooted in appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship and bold exploration.”

The Ducati Delhi Spring Meetup exemplified the synergy between these two brands, uniting riders and enthusiasts in a celebration of quality, innovation, and shared values. This partnership not only strengthens community ties but also sets the stage for future collaborations that inspire and engage.

GURUGRAM, February 25, 2025 – The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences has created a haven of tranquility with its latest offering, Aujasya Cafe. This thoughtfully curated space brings to life the hotel’s vision of holistic wellness, where every meal serves as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern nutritional science. The café, named after the Sanskrit word for vitality, emerges as a natural extension of the hotel’s celebrated wellness program, offering guests a taste of The Leela’s commitment to authentic, mindful living.

Aujasya Cafe, located in the Spa Lobby creates the perfect finale to every wellness journey. The guests stepping out of their revitalizing spa treatments or invigorating fitness sessions can extend their pursuit of well-being through thoughtfully crafted creations that speak the language of nourishment. The cafe’s wholesome menu caters to every dietary preference while staying true to its roots in balanced nutrition; From superfood combinations to soulful herbal brews, Aujasya Cafe’s menu is a testament to mindful eating. What sets this space apart isn’t just its nutritious offerings—this space’s atmosphere is an extension of The Leela’s wellness philosophy, where vitality and energy flow not just from what’s on the plate, but from the entire experience of being present in a place designed for restoration. The café stands as an ode to The Leela’s deeper understanding of wellness and sustainability – one that recognizes that true nourishment comes not just from what we eat, but from how we experience our food.

“The Aujasya Café at The Leela Ambience Gurugram is our latest offering for discerning guests seeking the transformative power of wellness—designed to harmonize the body and rejuvenate the soul. Located next to the Spa, the Café presents a curated selection of wellness and nutrition-focused culinary delights, perfectly complementing our global spa treatments, including signature Leela therapies. Furthering our commitment to sustainability, The Leela Gurugram has commissioned its organic farm in Gurugram and launched a hydroponic Greenhouse at the hotel to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables”, said Mr. Shridhar Nair, Senior Vice President & General Manager, The Leela Ambience Gurugram.

The menu starts with their SuperFoods featuring the signature Seasonal Mushroom and Thyme soup at just 145 calories, where earthy cremini mushrooms meet a delicate chevre cheese tart. Health-conscious diners can savor the filling of Thar Quinoa salad, where slow-roasted ash gourd and baby spinach present a perfect blend of local ingredients. The assortment further continues with Small Plates like Himalayan Earth Bowl, bringing together bean tofu and organic beets on a bed of red rice kedgeree, while desserts like the Bitter Chocolate Orange Pave offer sweetness without guilt, featuring a silky whipped ganache at a modest 192 calories. The beverage selection transforms fresh, local ingredients into wellness elixirs, including the 69-calorie ABCG press (apple, beetroot, carrot, ginger) and the 28-calorie De Toxify Me blend. Heartier options like the Green Apple Smoothie and Blueberry & Chia Seed Smoothie, along with traditional wellness drinks such as Turmeric Ashwagandha and Paradise of Kashmir, complement the prized Hardoor Estate Coorg coffees.

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences welcomes everyone to experience Aujasya Cafe; Start your day with an energizing smoothie or treat yourself to guilt-free desserts – there’s something special for every moment. Whether you’re stepping in after a spa treatment, meeting friends for lunch, or simply taking a quiet moment for yourself, Aujasya Cafe turns every meal into a special experience. Your mindful experience at Aujasya Cafe awaits!

Hyderabad, February 25th, 2025: The Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs (COWE), is hosting the prestigious Women’s International Summit on Entrepreneurship (WISE) & B2B Expo 2025, on February 28th and March 1st, 2025, at the Engineering Staff College in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India. WISE is a transformative event empowering women entrepreneurs by providing a platform for networking, learning, and collaboration. This premier event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, global trade representatives, and women entrepreneurs. The goal is to foster cross-sector collaborations, technological innovations, and sustainable business growth.

This prestigious event, funded under the International Cooperation Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, will highlight the critical role women entrepreneurs play in driving India’s economy. Women-led enterprises contribute significantly, representing 20% of MSMEs, employing over 23% of the workforce, and accounting for nearly 13.5 to 15% of the GDP.

The theme of the event, “Innovation, Sustainability, and Cross-Border Collaboration”, underscores the significance of adopting cutting-edge practices, promoting eco-friendly initiatives, and cultivating international alliances to empower women entrepreneurs in a rapidly evolving business landscape, fostering their growth and success.

Attendees can anticipate gaining valuable insights on current market trends, developing strategic networking skills, and acquiring practical business strategies through engaging keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, and hands-on workshops specifically designed to empower women entrepreneurs for success in the global marketplace. The summit aims to provide a platform for women to showcase their businesses, connect with potential partners, gain valuable insights from experts in various industries, and establish enduring partnerships that drive sustained growth and success in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Ms. Lalitha Aluri (5th from Left), National President, COWE; flanked by (L-R) Ms. Neeraja Reddy, National Secretary-1, COWE; Dr Rumana Sinha Sehgal, Member, COWE; Ms. Soudhamini P, Founder Director, COWE; Ms. Jyotsna Cheruvu, National Secretary-2, COWE; Ms. Sandhya Reddy, Founder Director, COWE; Ms. Uma Ghurka, Founder Director, COWE; Ms. Shylaja Reddy, Founder Director, COWE & Ms. Suman Kumar, Founder Director, COWE; briefing media about the prestigious Women’s International Summit on Entrepreneurship (WISE 2025), being hosted by COWE as part of its 20the Anniversary, at a press conference today at Hotel Plaza.

This event will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Verma, as the Chief Guest, adding prestige to the opening ceremony. The event will also be graced by Shri Sridhar Babu, Minister for Industry and Commerce, Govt of Telangana, and Smt. Konda Surekha, Minister for Environment and Forests, Govt of Telangana, as Guests of Honor. This inaugural session will mark the beginning of a transformative platform, emphasizing the role of technology in driving global opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Shylaja Reddy, Founder and Director, of COWE; said, that COWE has come a long way in the last twenty years, it is a pan India organization to empower women, with 1800 life members in 12 Chapters with a footprint across Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, UP, Uttara Khand, West Bengal, Haryana.

Ms. Uma Ghurka, Founder Director, COWE; said, we realised two decades ago that women needed lot of support and encouragement from each other and that’s how we formed COWE, we started with Entrepreneur Development Programs, we enlightened the women on how to set up and run and enterprise. We helped women to build a customer base, we started trade carnivals, where got stalls for women at highly subsidised rates and they got an opportunity to showcase their products and win customers. We conducted International Expos and several women had an opportunity to gain exposure, venture abroad and broaden their horizons. We help women farmers to increase their income, we set up day care centres for children of working women.

Ms. Sandhya Reddy, eminent speakers and entrepreneurs from abroad are attending, to enlighten us various aspects for being a successful entrepreneur.

Ms. Soudhamini P said, we educate and help women to avail Government schemes available for women entrepreneurs. We introduced ‘Zero effect and Zero defect’ scheme to ensure and enhance the quality of the products women entrepreneurs produce. We are replicating the successful models in other states for the benefit of women there.

Ms. Lalitha Aluri, National President, COWE; the Women’s International Summit on Entrepreneurship, will during the two days create awareness among women entrepreneurs about sustaining and emerging technologies and global opportunities in these and other entrepreneurial fields. This prestigious International conference is coinciding with the twenty glorious years of COWE. During the Conference we will have eight panel discussions on topics like e-vehicles, emerging technologies, rural to global, we are hosting a B2B with buyer seller matching, there will be 40 buyers including PSUs, Software and other big companies and 70 sellers participating. Over 108 women entrepreneurs will be felicitated for their accomplishments at the valedictory.

Ms. Neeraja Reddy, National Secretary-1, COWE, said, we allocated time from 9 am to 10 am for students to interact with the eminent speakers and gain insights, through a question and answer session.

Ms. Jyotsna Cheruvu, National Secretary-2, COWE; the emphasis today is on protection of environment, and this Conference will share valuable insights on energy conservation and sustainability among the entrepreneurs. This Conference is open for all entrepreneurs to attend. We are also laying thrust on digitising of SMEs, for data protection and related aspects. Also we are focusing on circular economy of reusing, recycling the materials, how to do these businesses. A discussion on how do startups grow beyond incubation is also part of the conference.

Usha Paliath, CEO, COWE, the unique aspect of the Conference is have the procurement teams from 40 companies like NMDC, Apollo Hospitals, BRAHMOS, Indian Army, Indian Railways. Entrepreneurs can showcase their products on 121 basis, also learn about their procurement processes and take it forward.

The event will feature 2 tracks. The conference track focuses on industry insights, while the dedicated B2B EXPO track is designed to facilitate direct business interactions and collaborations for attendees.

WISE 2025 features expert-led sessions covering essential growth areas for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), providing in-depth insights and strategies for business development. Building Digital Culture for SMEs will explore Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain technology, Robotics, and Data Security. The session will include insights from experts in cybersecurity, technology, and blockchain innovations. Sustainable Technologies & Global Opportunities will highlight Electric Mobility (E-Mobility), Renewable Energy sources, and Energy Efficiency. The session will feature experts discussing sustainable transportation, renewable power sources, and efficient energy usage. The Future of E-Mobility in India session will discuss industry standards, export potential, and women’s role in the sector, with insights from Mr. Tarun Agarwal (Maruti Suzuki), Dr. Shailendra Saroj (International Federation of Electric Vehicle Association), and Mr. Mohamed Omar Badran (GIZ, Germany). Gearing up SMEs for Global Supply Chains will focus on preparing businesses for market demands, ensuring compliance with regulations, and enhancing scalability for growth. The session will be led by Mr. Sudhakar Budaraju, a former Joint President of the Adani Group. Government Schemes & Digital India will provide insights into ONDC, TEAM, and GEM, featuring Mr. Kulkarni (FIEO) and Mr. Ravi Verma (GEM).

B2B Expo

WISE 2025 connects women entrepreneurs with Corporate & PSU procurement teams, supporting the Public Procurement Policy for MSEs, which mandates 3% procurement from women-owned businesses. The expo features structured B2B meetings that foster partnerships, investments, and collaborations. Additionally, it paves the way for sustainable business growth, innovative ventures, and strategic alliances that propel women entrepreneurs towards greater success. Participants gain direct access to corporate buyers, business growth opportunities, an exclusive listing in COWE’s B2B Directory, and capacity-building support through training programs on business development, leadership, and skilling. Participants also benefit from networking events and workshops tailored to their needs.

The Valedictory Session & Shakti Awards will conclude the second day with a grand celebration, honouring 108 successful women entrepreneurs from across India. This event will also mark 20 years of COWE’s impactful journey. The session will be inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Tummala Nageswar Rao, Minister of Agriculture, Telangana, known for his unwavering support for women entrepreneurs, and graced by Guest of Honor Ms. Vijyalakshmi Gadwal, Mayor of GHMC, a key advocate for women’s empowerment initiatives. This event will recognize outstanding entrepreneurial achievements of women while celebrating two decades of empowering women in business.

The Press Conference was addressed by Board of Directors Ms. Shylaja Reddy; Ms. Suman Kumar; Ms. Uma Ghurka; Ms. Sandhya Reddy; Ms. Soudhamini P and Ms. Madhu Tyagi; National Managing Committee Members Ms. Lalitha Aluri, National President; Ms. Neeraja Reddy, National Secretary-1 and Ms. Jyotsna Cheruvu, National Secretary-2.

Mumbai, February 25, 2025: Gensol Engineering Limited (BSE: 542851, NSE: GENSOL), a leading player in India’s renewable energy sector, has signed a non-binding Term Sheet for an INR 350 crore strategic transaction involving the sale of its US subsidiary, Scorpius Trackers Inc., to a major Renewable Energy Solutions provider in the US. The deal includes the transfer of exclusive and global Intellectual Property (IP) rights (except India) for Scorpius Trackers’ advanced solar tracking technology.

This transaction underscores Gensol’s strategy to monetize high-value assets, unlock capital from its subsidiaries, and reinvest in its core growth areas, strengthening the company’s financial position. The deal will be completed in two tranches, with full closure expected by March 2026, subject to due diligence, customary approvals, and closing conditions.

The proceeds from this transaction will be strategically redeployed to expand Scorpius Trackers’ operations in India, fuel solar EPC business growth, and support Gensol’s broader clean energy initiatives. This reinvestment aligns with the company’s long-term vision to enhance cash flow and strengthen the balance sheet, ensuring sustained value creation for shareholders.

Anmol Jaggi, Chairman & Managing Director, Gensol Engineering Limited. “This deal is a testament to the inherent value within Gensol’s subsidiaries and the strength of our innovation-driven approach. The monetization of Scorpius Trackers’ US business enables us to reinvest in high-growth opportunities in India while strengthening our financial position. This marks a significant milestone in our journey to enhance shareholder value and accelerate our leadership in renewable energy.”

While the deal transfers global IP rights (excluding India) to the US entity, Scorpius Trackers Pvt. Ltd., India, remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Gensol Engineering, continuing to focus on the Indian market. Scorpius India will retain its IP for Indian projects, ensuring continued innovation and market leadership in one of the world’s fastest-growing solar markets.

Shailesh Vaidya, CEO, of Scorpius Trackers, added, “This agreement positions Scorpius Trackers for rapid growth in the US market while allowing us to retain our market focus in India. The partnership will strengthen our technology presence globally and enable us to capitalize on the immense growth potential in India’s solar sector.”

Gensol Engineering’s strategic approach to subsidiary monetization reinforces its capital-efficient growth strategy, ensuring value realization from high-potential assets. With a diversified portfolio spanning solar EPC, tracker technology, electric mobility, and energy storage, Gensol remains committed to scaling operations, enhancing profitability, and driving long-term shareholder returns.

-Achintyakumar Sengupta’s Acclaimed Literary Work To Be Televised For The First Time –

Kolkata, 25th February 2025: Aakash Aath, one of Bengal’s leading General Entertainment Channels (GEC), has launched the 9th series, Prothom Kodom Phool, in their popular television show, Sahityer Shera Somoy. Prothom Kadam Phool is a famous literary work of celebrated novelist, Achintyakumar Sengupta and the series is on air from 17th February 2025.

The story of Prothom Kodom Phool is based in the era of 1970 when the modernism hit transformation was slowly gripping the society imparting revolutionary changes in the life and ways of people. The novel is an impressive anecdote of two young hearts tied closely with infinite affection and the fanciful dreams that they slowly nurture.

“Though written a decade ago, Prothom Kodom Phool was quite ahead of its times in context and still has a deep significance. This literary masterpiece has been earlier brought on the big screen by two legendary artists Soumitra Chattopadhyay and Tanuja. On the television screen, it is for the first time Aakash Aath is presenting such an enriched work in Sthe Ahityer Shera Somoy series. Reviving the characters and the pictures of the society of long bygone days is a challenging task for everyone but we hope both Souvik Banerjee and Soumi Banerjee and the entire team of Prothom Kodom Phool under the aegis of Bijoy Jana, will do absolute justice to their respective roles,” said Ms. Priyanka Bardia, Director, Aakash Aath.

The series will narrate the journey of two university students Kakoli and Sukanta, whose love blossoms against societal constraints, culminating in marriage. But as the golden shimmer of romance fades, they confront the weight of responsibilities, societal expectations, and the eternal conflict between personal aspirations and traditional roles.

The heart-breaking changes in the phases of their relationship gradually make them realize the real value of compassion and the reality of life’s journey which demands sacrifice and immense strength apart from the mere fantasies of love.

Directed by Bijoy Jana, Prothom Kodom Phool casts actors, Soumi Banerjee as Kakoli, Souvik Banerjee as Sukanta, Debjit Roy as Boren, Purbaasha Roy as Binota, Saurav Pal as Dipankar, Jibesh Bhattacharya as Bonobehari, Dipti Rai as Gayitri, Samajita Bhattacharya as Mrinalini, Samir Charit as Bhupen, Aniee Sen as Bijoya, Abhishek as Hemen, Debasish Mukherjee as Prashant, Puja Sarkar as Bandana, Moumita Panja as Basanti, Santu Biswas as Samir and Pralay Sana as Santu.

New Delhi, February 25, 2025 – The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), through the Directorate General of Training (DGT), formalized a Flexi-MoU with Subros Limited, a leading thermal solutions company in India. The exchange ceremony took place in the presence of the Hon’ble Minister, SDE (I/C), marking a significant boost to industry-aligned skilling in the automotive sector.

This Flexi-MoU’s primary objective is to provide youth with industry-aligned skills in the Automotive Air-condition Manufacturing Trade, enhancing their employability while addressing workforce shortages in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. Under the Flexi-MoU, Subros Limited, as the Industry Training Partner (ITP), will identify skill gaps, develop tailored course curricula, provide necessary training infrastructure—including classrooms, workshops, and equipment—and ensure hands-on learning through industry exposure. Additionally, Subros Ltd. will facilitate trainee selection, while DGT will ensure assessments and certification of the candidates. Subros Limited will also ensure placement opportunities for at least 50% of successful candidates. The MoU will provide an opportunity for youth to acquire skills in the automobile and manufacturing industry through a ‘Learn and Earn’ approach consisting of a mix of theoretical and on-the-job training, enhancing their employment potential.

During his address, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt of India said, “India is rapidly cementing its position as a global hub for automobile and manufacturing excellence, driven by innovation and a dynamic skilled workforce. To sustain this momentum, MSDE, through DGT, has partnered with Subros Limited under the Flexi MoU Scheme—an initiative designed to equip our youth with future-ready skills. This collaboration will provide hands-on training in automobile air-conditioning, ensuring alignment with evolving industry needs. By fostering such industry-academia partnerships, we are not only bridging the skill gap but also building a workforce that is agile, globally competitive, and prepared for the next phase of industrial transformation. As India advances towards a future shaped by smart manufacturing and sustainable mobility, initiatives like this will be instrumental in driving our skilling revolution and reinforcing our leadership on the global stage.”

Subros Limited, established in 1985 as a joint venture with Denso Corporation and Suzuki Motor Corporation, has grown into a premier manufacturer of automotive air conditioning systems and components. Their extensive infrastructure, coupled with a dedication to research and development, makes them an ideal partner for providing hands-on training and fostering industry best practices.

The Flexi-MoU scheme, designed to strengthen industry connections and impart industry-relevant training, fosters partnerships between industry and training providers to ensure practical, tailored skilling programs aligned with specific workforce requirements. It addresses the skills gap by equipping trainees with the necessary skills for employment and enables industries to customize programs and ensure placement for at least 50% of successful trainees. The scheme supports the Skill India Mission, with this MoU joining 11 other operational MoUs, including those with Maruti Suzuki, NMDC Chhattisgarh, Suzuki Motors, and Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. A significant focus is on skilling Agniveers, with DGT committed to this initiative, having already enrolled 1,05,000 and offering 85 NSQF compliant courses.

The Flexi-MoU scheme, revised in June 2024, empowers enterprises to collaborate with DGT to deliver training programs that are closely aligned with industry needs. This flexibility extends to course content, duration, and admission criteria, enabling industries to develop tailored skilling initiatives.

New Delhi, 25 February 2025: NTPC Limited, a Maharatna company of India, and EDF India Private Limited, owned by Électricité de France SA, a French multinational electric utility company owned by the Government of France, have signed a non-binding Term Sheet and collaborated to develop (including construction), own, operate and maintain pumped storage project(s) and/or any other hydropower project(s) or Hydro Project(s) bundled with other Renewable Energy projects and explore opportunities in distribution business.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Federico D’Amico, CEO (EDF India) and Shri J C Kakoti, GM-Hydro Engineering (NTPC) in the presence of Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD (NTPC), and Mr Luc Rémont, Chairman and CEO (EDF France). The MOU signing ceremony was graced by Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Ministry of Power, GOI). Mr. Patrick Charignon, Executive Vice President, APAC (EDF), Shri Goutam Deb, RED-Hydro (NTPC), Ms Sangeeta Kaushik, ED-Corporate Planning (NTPC) and senior officials from NTPC and EDF were also present on the occasion.

After the signing of the term sheet on 23rd February 2025, during Elecrama 2025, NTPC and EDF propose to form a JVC with 50: 50 Partnership after requisite approval from the Government of India.

This JVC will undertake such Project(s) on its own and/or may create JV and Subsidiaries (“Project SPV”) for undertaking such Project(s) within India and neighboring countries. Considering their domain expertise and resources, both NTPC & EDF are poised to contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy landscape, driving innovation and fostering environmental stewardship, and will leverage its expertise for tailormade offers, driving the decarbonization and global performance of electrical systems.

NTPC Ltd. is India’s largest integrated power utility, contributing one-fourth of India’s power requirements, and has an installed capacity of over 77 GW, with an additional capacity of 29.5 GW under construction, including 9.6 GW of renewable energy capacity. The company is committed to achieving 60 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2032.

With a diverse portfolio of thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power plants, NTPC is dedicated to delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to the nation. The company is committed to adopting best practices, fostering innovation, and embracing clean energy technologies for a greener future.