Author: Neel Achary

Leadership Transition at Skoda Auto Volkswagen India with focus on the Local Talent

Mumbai: Monday, 05 May 2025: Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) today announced a key leadership transition with the appointment of Mr. Ashish Gupta as Brand Director of Škoda India, effective 1st May 2025. Mr. Ashish Gupta, currently Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, takes over from Mr. Petr Janeba, who concludes his successful tenure in India and returns to Škoda Auto, Czech Republic. Mr. Janeba, who has been a part of the Škoda family since 1999, played a crucial role in strengthening the brand’s positioning and driving customer-focused growth strategies during his time in India.

Mr. Ashish Gupta brings with him over two decades of automotive industry experience, including more than 12 years with the Volkswagen Group in various roles across functions, including 5 years at the helm of the Volkswagen brand in India. In his new capacity, Ashish will focus on accelerating Škoda’s growth strategy, deepening customer trust, expanding network strength, and building a sharper, more resonant brand presence in India.

Mr. Nitin Kohli, currently responsible for Sales and Operations at Audi India, will assume the role of Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger cars as of 1st May 2025. He has over 25 years of experience in automotive sales, including over 12 years with Škoda Auto Volkswagen India. With expertise in business development, strategic planning and cross-functional collaborations, Nitin is poised to take the Volkswagen brand to new heights in India.

The above changes are a strong testament to the company’s commitment to recognising and nurturing homegrown talent, while empowering leaders who understand the evolving dynamics of the Indian market.

Piyush Arora, CEO & Managing Director, SAVWIPL, said, “The changes in leadership reflects our continued commitment to localisation and development of capabilities within our Indian organisation. Empowering strong Indian leaders remains a core element of our growth strategy, ensuring we stay agile, relevant, and better aligned with the evolving needs of our customers and the business environment. With their deep market insight and strategic acumen, Ashish and Nitin are ideally positioned to lead brands Škoda and Volkswagen into the next phase of growth in India. At the same time, I would like to thank Mr. Petr Janeba for his valuable contribution during his time with SAVWIPL and wish him all the best in his future role.”

Jan Bures, Board Member and Executive Director, Sales, Marketing & Digital, SAVWIPL, said, “Ashish and Nitin have consistently delivered impact with agility and customer-centric thinking. Their appointment is not just a leadership change—it signals a broader shift in how we are building resilient, future-ready teams from within India. We are confident that both Ashish and Nitin will bring renewed energy and direction to the India journey of brands Škoda and Volkswagen.”

The Cost Benefits of EVs – Empowering India to Go Electric

Chennai, 05.05.25: Electric vehicle (EV) ownership in India is gaining momentum, driven by the clear cost advantages it offers over traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Despite the slightly higher initial acquisition cost, the long-term benefits make EVs a smart choice for buyers seeking sustainable and cost-effective mobility solutions. TATA.ev leads the charge in bringing price parity between EVs and comparable ICE models. With lower running and maintenance costs, EVs are the future and redefining the economics of car ownership.

 According to the VAHAN data, the electric passenger vehicle segment has seen a remarkable surge, with retail sales reaching over 89,000 units in CY 2024, marking a 22% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects a broader trend in the EV market, which saw a total of 19 Lakh units sold, representing a 27% overall increase. Besides its economic benefits, this rising consumer interest in EVs is also driven by the expanding support from both manufacturers and government initiatives.

 The Financial Edge of EVs
A closer examination of the costs associated with EV ownership reveals substantial savings across multiple fronts. The total acquisition cost for models like the Nexon.ev is becoming increasingly competitive, as battery prices continue to decline. When compared to equivalent petrol, diesel, hybrid, and CNG vehicles, the Nexon.ev offers a favorable cost proposition, making EVs more accessible to a broader range of consumers.

 Beyond the initial purchase, the ongoing cost benefits of EVs become even more apparent. Charging an EV is substantially more economical than fueling an ICE vehicle. Additionally, lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts further enhance the appeal of EVs as a cost-effective option. The integration of rooftop solar systems adds another layer of savings, allowing EV owners to achieve zero cost mobility and reduce energy costs by utilizing renewable energy for charging, making the shift to electric mobility even more advantageous.

IN10 Media Network Announces Leadership Expansion Across its Digital Platforms to Bolster Content and Business Synergy

MUMBAI, 5th May 2025: As part of its strategic vision, IN10 Media Network has announced expanded mandates for two of its key leaders across DocuBay and EPIC ON.

Samar Khan, who has been the Chief Executive Officer at Juggernaut Productions, will now also take on the additional role of Chief Content Officer for both DocuBay and EPIC ON. In this expanded capacity, he will lead the creative vision and content strategy for both platforms, further strengthening their distinct storytelling identities.

Sourjya Mohanty, currently the Chief Operating Officer at EPIC ON, will now additionally take on the responsibility of Chief Operating Officer at DocuBay. With this dual mandate, he will oversee and lead business and operational functions across both platforms.

 Together, they will focus on deepening synergies across IN10’s digital content ecosystem while positioning both platforms at the forefront as a premier destination for fresh, relevant, and globally resonant digital platform.

Speaking on the leadership elevation, Aditya Pittie, Managing Director, IN10 Media Network, said:

 “Samar and Sourjya’s expanded roles reflect the confidence we have in their leadership and vision. In today’s rapidly evolving ecosystem, success lies at the intersection of strong content and sound strategy. At IN10 Media Network, we are committed to building a future-ready digital content business—one that is driven as the premium destination of documentaries and other is for the fictional storytelling excellence. This leadership realignment is a key step in advancing that mission and solidifying our position in the digital media landscape.”

Borosil unveils the superb stainless steel lunch box set Desh ka Dabba for rural India

Gurugram, 5th May, 2025— Borosil, a leading name in kitchenware and consumer products, launched its new range of stainless-steel lunch boxes—a thoughtful addition to the Indian rural kitchen designed to keep the meals fresh, warm, and full of flavour—at a special event held at ITC Grand Bharat, Gurugram. Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi unveiled the lunch box with steel containers, a water bottle, and a lunch bag.

Specifically designed to cater to the needs of rural communities across India, it’s not just a lunch box—it’s a daily companion to your workplace for your ‘Ghar ka Khana.’ There’s something special about a home-cooked meal—the taste, the warmth, and the comfort it brings, especially during a long day at work. Light in weight, strong in build, leak-resistant lid, and easy to clean, the Superb Stainless Steel Lunch Box keeps your food safe, warm, and neatly packed while commuting. It has enough space for a full meal, keeping the food items organized and separate — dry sabzis, dals, and rice can all be packed without leaks or spills.

Ms. Barnali Shankar, AVP – Marketing, Borosil Ltd., added, “Food from home has a comfort of its own. Designed for real-life Indian kitchens, this lunchbox is more than just a container—it’s a daily reminder of home-cooked comfort, no matter where your day takes you. It is a celebration of both practicality and sentiment. Keeping this simple joy in mind, every ‘Desh ka Dabba’ is a gentle reminder for those who go out each day carrying a home-packed meal with love every day. And we’re proud that this product is made in India and built for our rural kitchens, families, and daily lives.”

At the launch event, Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi said, ”As someone who travels often, I know how important it is to carry good food that stays fresh, spill-free, and neatly organized when traveling long distances. From the first bite, you know—the food is just the way you packed it. Hot rotis, fresh sabzi, and the same familiar taste. That’s what makes this lunch box special. Made for Indian meals and made with care, this lunch box keeps your meals wholesome and your mood happy, even on the busiest days.”

Baroda BNP Paribas Gilt Fund Celebrates 23rd Anniversary; Crosses Rs1,500 Crore AUM with Over 4X Growth for Investors

Mumbai, May 05, 2025: Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund, one of India’s leading asset management companies, is commemorating the 23rd anniversary of its flagship fixed income offering — Baroda BNP Paribas Gilt Fund with a dual milestone of surpassing the ₹1,500 crore in Assets Under Management (AUM) mark, underlining growing investor confidence in long-duration government bond strategies.

Since inception, the Baroda BNP Paribas Gilt Fund has delivered consistent long-term returns, transforming an initial investment of ₹10,000 into ₹41,919.60 as of March 31, 2025 — an over four-fold increase. Over the past 12 months alone, the scheme’s regular plan has provided an impressive 9.61% return, making it a preferred choice for investors seeking low-risk, long-duration debt investments with capital appreciation potential.

Managed by Gurvinder Singh Wasan, CFA, Senior Fund Manager and Prashant Pimple, Chief Investment Officer – Fixed Income at Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund, the scheme primarily invests in high-quality, risk-free government securities and State Development Loans (SDLs). The fund takes strategic duration calls to capture potential gains from expected RBI interest rate cuts, making it an ideal option for investors looking to benefit from a falling interest rate environment. With the latest RBI monetary policy changing its stance to accommodative from neutral, schemes such as these, are well positioned to benefit from the capital appreciation that will result from the RBI cutting repo rates.

“We expect to run a portfolio duration close to the duration of the benchmark 10-year G-Sec security. This is based on our view that rates can come down lower given inflation adjusted real rates are still in positive zone. The portfolio of the Baroda BNP Paribas Gilt Fund is positioned to actively benefit from the spreads between G-Secs and SDLs as well as from our expectations of softening of the yield curve led by positive fundamentals for India’s bond markets,” said Prashant Pimple, Chief investment officer Fixed income, Baroda BNP Paribas Asset Management (India).

The fund maintains zero default risk, ensuring stable and secure returns. It’s growing AUM and consistent performance reaffirm its position as one of the best gilt mutual funds in India.

Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery Unveils Elegant Lightweight Jewellery Collection for Mother’s Day

Archana Aggarwal Timeless Jewellery introduces an exclusive collection of lightweight jewellery, designed to honour the enduring love and quiet strength of Mothers. These delicate yet meaningful pieces reflect the effortless elegance and timeless bond shared between a mother and her loved ones.

The collection embodies the essence of motherhood, gentle yet powerful, subtle yet unforgettable. Each piece is crafted for everyday wear, offering comfort without compromising on sophistication. From dainty diamond pendants to minimalist floral inspired designs, the jewellery serves as a daily reminder of a mother’s unwavering presence.

Among the highlights is the Petal Symphony necklace, a delicate floral diamond set in white gold, symbolizing a mother’s everlasting affection. The Eternal Radiance studs capture the beauty of nature, much like a mother’s nurturing spirit, while the Blush Charm slim bracelet in Ruby wraps around the wrist like a comforting embrace.

Archana Aggarwal, Founder & Creative Designer, shares, “A mother’s love is both tender and profound, much like the jewellery we create. This collection is designed to be as wearable as it is sentimental, allowing mothers to carry love with them in every moment.”