Author: Rabindra

MAHE to host 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change

Manipal, 14 September 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institute of Eminence, is set to host the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change on September 16-17, 2024, at its campus in Manipal, Karnataka. Since its inception in 2017, this conference has aimed to inspire students from Higher Education Institutions across India to contribute to their communities, while also celebrating the spirit of “Daan Utsav – the joy of giving week.”

This year’s conference theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change,” will focus on how students’ volunteering efforts during their academic years can transition into impactful corporate volunteering. The event will feature prominent speakers from leading corporates, and students from across India will present posters on unique community-giving ideas, enriching the conference discussions.

Dr. Jai Madaan Unveils Siddhhi Arts: Luxury Silver Artifacts with Spiritual Focus

New Delhi ,14th September 2024 – Dr. Jai Madaan, celebrated astrologer and spiritual thought leader, has officially launched Siddhhi Arts, a high-end luxury brand specializing in handcrafted silver artifacts. Co-founded with her daughter, Aarna Jai Madan, this new venture seeks to redefine the market for luxury home décor by blending the intrinsic value of silver with ancient Indian principles of Vastu and astrology. Siddhhi Arts is not only a luxury brand but also a response to a growing demand for meaningful, investment-grade products in an under-tapped segment of the silver industry.

The luxury home décor market has seen a sharp rise in demand for products that merge aesthetic appeal with functionality and spiritual significance. Consumers are increasingly looking beyond conventional luxury items to invest in pieces that carry deeper meanings—artifacts that serve as long-term investments and offer spiritual or cultural value.

“Today’s luxury buyers are seeking more than just beauty—they want meaning, longevity, and value. Silver has historically been considered a symbol of purity and prosperity in Indian culture, and Siddhhi Arts aims to bring this legacy into modern homes with artifacts that align with spiritual principles and add tangible value to living spaces,” said Dr. Jai Madaan.

Why Silver and Why Now?

The global silver market, valued at over $25 billion, is experiencing renewed interest due to its dual role as both a precious metal and a functional material for industrial applications. Unlike gold, which is seen primarily as a financial asset, silver has a broader application in industries ranging from electronics to sustainable energy. Silver’s affordability compared to other precious metals makes it an attractive investment, particularly in markets like India, where it is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.

In this context, Siddhhi Arts enters the market with a unique value proposition: offering artisanal silver pieces that not only serve as luxury home décor but also as enduring assets that can appreciate over time. Each piece is crafted from hallmarked silver, ensuring both authenticity and investment value.

“We are building Siddhhi Arts not just as a luxury brand but as a sustainable business model with significant growth potential. By blending quality craftsmanship with spiritual alignment, we aim to lead in a niche that bridges India’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. Silver, unlike other luxury materials, offers both aesthetic appeal and financial resilience. It’s a sustainable investment that balances beauty with long-term value—especially in a market where consumers increasingly seek products with lasting cultural significance and wealth preservation,” said Aarna Jai Madan, Founder of Siddhhi Arts.

The brand’s approach marries the enduring value of silver as a precious metal with its growing appeal as a sophisticated, design-oriented medium—creating a new category of luxury products that resonate on both an emotional and financial level.

With silver’s increasing role in global markets—spanning from industrial applications to investment-grade assets—Siddhhi Arts is strategically positioned to leverage this material’s versatility and growing demand. In an era where affluent buyers are prioritizing meaning, sustainability, and long-term value in their purchases, Siddhhi Arts is poised to modernize the silver sector by offering bespoke, artisanal products that not only enhance living spaces but also represent a savvy financial investment.

Fabindia Collaborates with Ministry of MSME to Empower India’s Artisanal Heritage Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme

New Delhi | September 14, 2024: Fabindia, India’s leading lifestyle brand known for its commitment to traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design, is proud to announce its strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) under the Central Government’s PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which was launched on September 17, 2023. This initiative is aimed at supporting India’s traditional artisans, including Potters, Carpenters, Boat Maker, Weavers, Armourer, Blacksmiths, Mason, Goldsmith, Locksmith, Sculptor, Stone Breaker, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Cobbler, Shoesmith, Tailor, Doll & Toy Maker, Barber, Garland Maker and other skilled craftsmen, by promoting their products and expanding their market reach.

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a visionary program initiated by the Government of India, seeks to empower traditional artisans across the country by providing them with financial support, skill development, and marketing assistance. The collaboration between Fabindia and MoMSME is focused on enhancing the marketing development activities of artisans registered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, enabling them to showcase their craftsmanship to a wider audience and boost their livelihoods.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration:

Market Integration: Fabindia will integrate artisan-made products into its retail network, offering them a platform to showcase and sell their goods across markets.
Capacity Building: Through training and skill development programs, Fabindia will assist artisans in honing their craftsmanship while incorporating modern design trends and technology to increase the commercial appeal of their products.
Branding & Promotion: Fabindia, with its robust marketing channels, will actively promote the products created by these artisans both online and offline, ensuring greater visibility and demand for authentic, handmade Indian crafts.
Sustainability and Preservation of Traditional Crafts: The partnership reflects brand’s ongoing commitment to preservation and fostering a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution towards artisans.

Commenting on the collaboration MoMSME and Fabindia Ltd said “The initiative is committed to preserving and promoting Indian craftsmanship and artisans by providing them with the tools, training, and platform they need to thrive in the modern marketplace. With this collaboration we are sure that it will not only empower artisans but also ensure their crafts receive the recognition and market access they deserve”

The partnership is expected to create a significant impact on the lives of artisans, helping them achieve market access and recognition for their work. Fabindia invites consumers and industry leaders to support this initiative by embracing products crafted by artisans and contributing to the growth of India’s artisanal heritage.

Continental’s Safety Components Surpass Major Production Milestone

Gurugram, September 14, 2024. Technology company Continental’s Gurgaon plant reaches a production milestone of ten million Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) and hundred million Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS), two components integral to the safety of a vehicle. The EBS portfolio comprises Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for passenger cars and Anti-lock Brake Systems (ABS) for both, passenger cars and 2-Wheelers. ESC guarantees directional stability and steerability of the vehicle whereas, ABS aims to avoid locking of the wheels and keeps the vehicle steerable during braking. Additionally, the signals from the WSS are required for control systems like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

 More than 1.3 million people die in road accidents worldwide every year. A further 50 million are injured. In India, 53 accidents and 19 deaths occur every hour, or an average of 1,264 accidents and 42 deaths daily due to road crashes, according to a Ministry of Road Transport and Highways report in 2023. To enhance road safety in the country, ABS technology was made mandatory in 2019, followed by a proposal for ESC in 2022 by the government.

 Sukhdeep Sandhu, Head of Safety and Motion, Continental Automotive India, said, “Safety is non-negotiable. At Continental, we have consistently brought relevant technologies to the market for our customers, helping make vehicles and thereby our roads safer. Our expertise in active and passive safety systems is a key driver in reducing the number of traffic-related fatalities, injuries, and road accidents”.

 “Localization is at the core of company’s strategy in India. Supported by legislations which have played a huge role in ensuring vehicular safety, we have been able to localize both production and R&D, ensuring greater value to our customers in the market. Customers in India are proactive in their adoption approach towards safety technologies”, he added.

 Continental has been pursuing a long-term strategy globally towards “Vision Zero” – a world without road fatalities, injuries and crashes, through technologies, components and systems and ongoing innovations, thus making a decisive contribution to greater road safety. Today the technology player, which is a Tier 1 supplier in the automotive market is also one of the largest manufacturers of WSS in India. Apart from catering to leading OEMs in India, these components are also exported to other Asian and European regions.

 Anudeep Garg, Head of the Gurgaon plant, Continental Automotive India said, “We are proud to achieve this milestone and continue to focus on localization. As a Tier 1 supplier, we follow global manufacturing standards and have adopted several advanced technologies to create a digital shopfloor. Additionally, industry 4.0 technologies enable us to not only maintain product quality and enhance efficiency but also to effectively streamline our supply chain. We aim to increase the manufacturing capacity of EBS and WSS in double-digit percentages in the next three years for both passenger vehicles as well 2- wheelers.”

 With its “in the market, for the market” approach, the entire value chain from R&D to design and production is localized. This way Continental is focusing on enabling easy access to safety products by adapting globally proven technologies to suit the local market. Wide-scale production offers economy of scale and ensures cost advantage, thereby contributing to increased democratization of safety features in vehicles across segments in India.

 Major steps to localize safety components began in 2016, when Continental set up assembly lines in Gurugram for Antilock Brake Systems (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems for 2 wheelers and passenger cars. In 2018, the technology company commenced production for ABS and ESC Electronic Control Units (ECU) at its Bangalore plant. In the subsequent year, the company achieved the production milestone of one million ABS and ESC ECUs at its Bangalore plant, and in 2020, reached a milestone of 50 Million Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) at its Manesar plant. Additionally, Continental entered into a joint venture with Japanese firm Nisshinbo Holdings in 2022, to localize machining for valve blocks for Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) in India. All of these highlight the company’s commitment to manufacturing in India.

 Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

 The company has been present in India for close to 50 years through technology partnerships (Continental Tires since 1974) and joint ventures for its various businesses. Today, the tier 1 automotive supplier, tire manufacturer, and industrial partner operate across India – with about 10,000 employees across 12 locations, including six plants that cater to the Indian market and a Technical Center that supports Continental’s global R&D activities.

FEF and Dharmatic Entertainment Collaboration Unveiled at the 3rd FEF Annual Gala

Mumbai, September 2024: The Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) and Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., the digital content arm of Dharma Productions, announced an exciting new alliance during the 3rd FEF Annual Gala on September 05. The conference, held at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, was attended by prominent figures & FEF Stakeholders including, Mr. Akshay Kumar, Mr. Karan Johar, Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, Mr. Vinod Dugar, Ms. Manju Yagnik, Ms. Sonali Dugar and Ms. Apoorva Mehta.

  The 3rd Annual Gala focussed on the shared vision of FEF and Dharmatic Entertainment to merge fashion with creative storytelling, aiming to nurture innovation and create new opportunities for emerging fashion entrepreneurs. The alliance of FEF and Dharmatic is poised to explore what lies ahead in this exciting new chapter.

 This collaboration comes shortly after the announcement that Mr. Karan Johar, Indian filmmaker, television personality, and the Founder and Managing Director of Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., has individually joined FEF as an investor and promoter. Johar’s involvement with FEF shows his commitment to transforming the fashion industry by addressing the challenges faced by professionals in the sector.

 Mr. Karan Johar commented on the initiative, “Fashion is more than just a visual statement; it’s a narrative that reflects our identity, heritage, and aspiration. At Dharmatic, our focus has always been on telling stories that resonate with people. This partnership with FEF is an interesting opportunity to bring fashion-driven narratives to life, combining our storytelling expertise with FEF’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent in the fashion industry. Having recently joined FEF as a promoter, I’m even more looking forward to the potential this collaboration holds. Together, we are set to create content that is impactful, setting new trends and inspiring the next generation of fashion innovators.”

 Mr. Apoorva Mehta, CEO and Managing Director of Dharmatic Entertainment, noted, “The fusion of fashion and creativity is redefining the boundaries of what’s possible. At Dharmatic, we believe in collaboration as a force to drive innovation, and this partnership with FEF is proof to that vision. By merging fashion’s artistic expression with novel ideas, we aim to inspire new trends and elevate the profiles of emerging talent in the fashion industry.”

 “Fashion has the unique power to shape culture and express individuality,” said Bollywood star Mr. Akshay Kumar. “This collaboration is a step towards setting trends that resonate with people and spark conversations about creativity and self-expression. I’m excited to see how this initiative combines innovation and fashion to make a lasting impact.”

Sharing his excitement and emphasising the business perspective, business magnate and Chairman of RJ Group, Mr. Ravi Jaipuria stated, “This partnership is a perfect blend of creativity and entrepreneurship. At FEF, our goal has always been to back ventures that have the potential to disrupt and redefine industries. Dharmatic’s expertise in storytelling combined with FEF’s focus on nurturing fashion entrepreneurs is a winning formula. This collaboration will help build sustainable business models that can adapt and flourish in the ever-evolving market.”

 Adding their views, Mr. Vagish Pathak, Chairman & Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund said, “We are excited to join hands with Dharmatic Entertainment. This partnership is in line with our mission to support and elevate the fashion industry by providing a platform for innovation and growth. With Karan Johar already onboard as an investor & promoter, this collaboration is a natural extension of our shared vision. By combining our strengths, we are poised to create a dynamic ecosystem that will enable fashion entrepreneurs to thrive, offering them the resources, mentorship, and exposure they need to succeed in this competitive landscape.”

 Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse in creative content, recognized for its high-quality, engaging, and diverse offerings that appeal to a global audience. This collaboration with FEF marks the beginning of a new chapter where fashion meets creative media, creating a vibrant platform for fashion entrepreneurs to shine.

Friday the 13th: Perfect for Spine-Chilling Thrillers like The Buckingham Murders and Knives Out

What would you do if the person you trusted most turned out to be your greatest enemy?

If the idea of twists, turns, and suspense sends your heart racing, you’re in for a treat. Murder mysteries and revenge thrillers have an uncanny ability to keep us on the edge of our seats, making every minute of watching (or listening) feel like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Whether you’re into high-octane dramas or psychological slow burns, this list has something for every thriller enthusiast. Get ready to dive into a world of dark secrets, shocking betrayals, and spine-tingling plots.

1. The Buckingham Murders
Releasing September 13th, 2024

Bollywood queen Kareena Kapoor Khan stars as Jass Bhamra, a detective grappling with personal trauma while investigating a disturbing murder in The Buckingham Murders. Set against the gloomy, suspense-filled backdrop of Buckinghamshire, Jass is not just fighting external forces but her own demons. As she digs deeper into the case, long-buried secrets resurface, blurring the lines between her personal and professional life. Expect a thrilling, heart-wrenching performance as Kapoor takes on one of her most emotionally intense roles yet.

2. Aarya – Ek Revenge
In Aarya – Ek Revenge, Aarya Raghuvanshi grows up in an orphanage, unaware of her royal lineage. Her life takes a sharp turn when her mother, Rajeshwari, reveals a dark secret that sends Arya on a journey of vengeance. As she seeks to uncover the truth about her identity, she encounters a world of deception, betrayal, and dangerous enemies. The story’s twists and turns, paired with Arya’s relentless determination, make this audio series a perfect pick for revenge thriller lovers. Tune in to Aarya – Ek Revenge on Pocket FM for an immersive, high-stakes drama.

3. Knives Out
Knives Out boasts an ensemble cast with Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, the charmingly eccentric detective hired to solve the mysterious death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (played by Christopher Plummer). Every member of the Thrombey family, from Ransom Drysdale (Chris Evans) to Marta Cabrera (Ana de Armas), seems to be hiding something. As Blanc unravels the puzzle, audiences are kept guessing until the very last frame. The combination of humor, mystery, and unexpected revelations makes Knives Out an instant classic in the murder mystery genre.

4. Aaj Ka Hero
In Aaj Ka Hero, Vikrant is a 21-year-old man recently released from jail after serving three years for a crime he got caught up in. Upon his release, he learns that his girlfriend Shruti has betrayed him in ways he could never have imagined. Heartbroken and seeking revenge, Vikrant’s life takes a shocking turn when an unexpected event threatens to change everything. The series explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and justice, all while maintaining a gripping, fast-paced narrative. Listen to Vikrant’s journey on Pocket FM and unravel the mystery for yourself.

5. Mindhunter
Set in the 1970s, Mindhunter follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview some of the most dangerous serial killers in history. The show dives deep into the minds of infamous criminals like Ed Kemper and Charles Manson to understand what makes them tick. Based on real-life events, Mindhunter offers a chilling insight into criminal psychology and the FBI’s early efforts at profiling serial killers. The dark, unsettling atmosphere makes it a standout in the murder mystery genre.

6. Sacred Games
One of India’s most acclaimed TV series, Sacred Games centers around Sartaj Singh (Saif Ali Khan), a down-and-out police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a notorious gangster. After receiving a mysterious phone call from Gaitonde, Sartaj is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving the criminal underworld and the highest levels of power in India. With its intense plot, complex characters, and mix of crime, politics, and revenge, Sacred Games is a must-watch for anyone craving a powerful, layered thriller.

Whether you prefer the visual drama of movies and TV shows or the immersive storytelling of audio series, these six recommendations are guaranteed to satiate your curiosity for suspense and intrigue. From the mind-bending mysteries of Knives Out and The Buckingham Murders to the edge-of-your-seat thrillers like Aaj Ka Hero and Mindhunter, this list offers a variety of stories that will keep you hooked until the very last second.

So, if you’re looking to dive into the world of murder mysteries and revenge thrillers, start with these picks, and you won’t regret it!

Labourhome Powers Livelihood of 700 Construction Worker Families Through Ola Electric Two-Wheeler Factory Project

India, 14.09.2024 — Labourhome, a trailblazing end-to-end workforce management enterprise, proudly announces its pivotal role in constructing Ola Electric’s largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility in Hosur, the largest of its kind in Asia. This landmark project not only advances India’s electric vehicle sector but also underscores Labourhome’s commitment to enhancing the lives of construction workers and their families.

Labourhome was instrumental in sourcing and deploying over 700 skilled workers, generating more than 240,000 man-days of employment for the EPC Construction Agency appointed by OLA Electric for the Project. This achievement reflects the company’s dedication to providing stable and meaningful employment opportunities in large-scale infrastructure projects.

The company’s commitment extended beyond employment to include comprehensive support for workers’ welfare. Labourhome ensured stable employment, provided secure accommodations, and offered healthcare support, directly benefiting 700 construction worker families.

Mr. Jaishankar, Project Director for the EPC Construction Agency, commented, “The Ola Electric project is one of the largest EV two-wheeler factories in Asia, and its successful completion in record time is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of our partners. Labourhome’s role in managing the workforce was crucial to our success. Their commitment to providing skilled labor and ensuring worker welfare significantly contributed to this landmark project’s timely and successful completion.”

“We are honored to contribute to this transformative project and make a positive impact on the lives of 700 construction worker families,” stated R.Vinoth Kumar, Founder of Labourhome.” Our collaboration with OLA Electric Project highlights our capacity to manage large-scale workforce deployments and our unwavering commitment to improving workers’ lives.”

Labourhome‘s involvement in the Ola Electric two-wheeler factory project underscores its role as a key player in supporting major infrastructure projects while enhancing the livelihoods of workers and their families.

One notable impact of Labourhome’s efforts is the story of Ravi, a construction worker who experienced significant improvements in financial stability because of which he was able to provide his children education for the first time.

Labourhome‘s effective workforce management was crucial in maintaining the project’s timeline and efficiency. By ensuring a steady flow of skilled labor and focusing on worker welfare, Labourhome helped minimize delays and ensured the smooth execution of key project phases.Hereby, Labourhome has not only significantly improved the livelihood of these workers and their families but also managed to complete the OLA Electric EV Two Wheeler factory project in a timely manner.

Gully Fest Announces Second Edition – A Victory Lap Of Indian Hip Hop

India, 14th September 2024 – Gully Fest, India’s first premier hip-hop music festival, is set to make a resounding comeback on October 26-27 at Nesco Center, Mumbai.

Spearheaded by multi-platinum hip hop trailblazer DIVINE (Vivian Fernandes) and his music conglomerate Gully Gang, the aspirational festival became an overnight sensation within the hip hop community upon its debut in 2018. Today, it not only serves as a reminder to how DIVINE has painstakingly imprinted hip-hop in the cultural consciousness of India but also serves as a testament to the success of all the burgeoning artists that followed thereafter in his footsteps.

This year’s edition promises to be one of the grandest homecoming celebrations spotlighting Indian hip hop’s triumph, originating from the streets to dominating mainstream popular culture. With a tagline of ‘Hip-Hop Mere Gully Mein’ (meaning hip-hop in my hood), the 2-day festival will pay homage to the evolution and rise of the genre, acknowledging its humble roots and commemorating its undeniable impact as a thriving cultural movement. This year’s theme revolves around the idea of varsity and university culture, and how these influences have shaped the style and standpoint of artists and hip-hop enthusiasts for generations.

With a focus on community and diversity, the festival will provide a platform for both established artists and emerging talent, ensuring that the genre’s diverse voices are authentically represented. This edition’s billing will feature international hip-hop icon Pusha T as a headliner, alongside the festival’s founder DIVINE. Joining the iconic heavyweights will be a roster of talented Indian artists, including Gully Gang All Stars, Prabh Deep, Lisa Mishra, Sambata, Yashraj, Gravity, Bombay Bassment, Reble, DJ Proof, DJ Kan-i, OG Shez, and Beatraw x D-Cypher.

DIVINE comments, “It really was all a dream, to see how far we’ve come as a movement, to see so many take up the mic & a pen, to see how our music has travelled so far and wide in India & beyond. Gully Fest is a celebration of that, we want to bring down global rap icons to India, to highlight the best of Indian Hip-Hop and to platform upcoming artists.”

Besides the standout music performances, attendees can also look forward to engaging in immersive experiences. The festival venue will feature a variety of installations and experience zones, including a graffiti wall, skate ramp, interactive boombox and year book photo booth at its second edition.

While the festival kicks off in Mumbai this year, it’s set to expand to various cities across India next year, ensuring the continued momentum of the movement.

Dwayne Johnson: Asking for Help is a Superpower Ahead of Moana 2

Disney’s animated musical adventure Moana created a stir worldwide upon its release in 2016. The film was critically acclaimed for its stellar visuals and coming of age storyline alongside sensational music that resulted in multiple accolades including victory at the Billboard and Grammy Award. Eight years later, Disney now returns with the much anticipated sequel – Moana 2, promising another adventure that will lead viewers on the path of self discovery. The film takes place in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, where a young woman named Moana embarks on a daring journey to save her people. Beyond the serene shores of her island home, she encounters the charismatic demi-god Maui, voiced by the iconic Dwayne Johnson. Their adventure, filled with mythical creatures and breathtaking landscapes, is more than just a quest for treasure; it’s a profound exploration of self-discovery, courage, and the importance of asking for help.

Sharing her deep connection with her debut role, actress Auli’i Cravalho opened up in a recent interview. “Moana and I have gone on similar journeys,” the Hawaii native notes. “In that first film, I was so excited to go beyond the reef and be flown to Burbank, Calif. I’d never been to Burbank, and that was the coolest thing ever. Moana was also taking her first tentative steps onto the canoe and feeling what it was like to leave her home. She and I have both felt the growing pains of leaving home and the big celebration of coming back and seeing how our families have changed. I still see so much of myself in her strength and vulnerability.”

Dwayne Johnson, who voices demi-god Maui, similarly sees Moana and Cravalho as inextricable from each other. “She is such an anchor of our film and represents the embodiment of so many elements of our movie,” he comments. Further adding on to the complexities of his character, Johnson reflects, “The idea of asking for help is actually a superpower. Masculinity, to me, is not being tough. It’s not being a badass. Powerful masculinity is having the confidence to look inside and say, “This is what I’m feeling, and it’s okay. Here’s my chest. I’ll gladly rip it open to someone who can help me.”

Johnson’s personal experiences have shaped his understanding of this message. Growing up an only child and facing the pressures of professional wrestling, he learned to keep his emotions bottled up. However, after losing several friends to suicide, he realized the power of vulnerability. “When I got to Maui, I was like, “Okay, I know who this is,'” he continues, “this guy who is very presentational, who puts on a show, who loves to hold court, sing and dance, and make people feel good. But there’s a lot that’s brewing deep down that, eventually, he is going to have to contend with because it’s like a ball that you’re holding underwater. Eventually, you’ve got to let the ball go, and it’s going to explode.”

By discussing these issues and representing them through Maui, Johnson hopes to inspire others to seek help when needed. “It’s an important moment for people to see that you can be strong, you can be big, you can be independent, but it’s okay to ask for help,” he adds. “When you do finally ask for help, the universe and your loved ones have a way of meeting you halfway. Even the strongest of people need help.”

SMEStreet Hosts “Revival Roadmap for Struggling or Sick MSMEs” Webinar – Key Insights and Strategic Interventions

New Delhi, September 14, 2024 – SMEStreet recently concluded its insightful and forward-looking webinar titled “Revival Roadmap for Struggling or Sick MSMEs – Trends, Data, and Strategic Interventions.” This event, moderated by Mr. Faiz Askari, Founder and Chief Editor of SMEStreet, brought together industry experts, policymakers, and consultants to discuss actionable strategies for reviving MSMEs struggling in today’s volatile economic environment.

MSME Sector: A Pillar of India’s Economy

The importance of MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) to India’s economic framework cannot be overstated. Contributing around 30% to the nation’s GDP, 45% to manufacturing output, and 40% to exports, MSMEs are essential for driving growth and creating jobs. Yet, this sector has faced severe challenges in recent years due to economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures.

Six Key Takeaways from the Webinar:

The Extent of the MSME Crisis:
The webinar shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by MSMEs, with data indicating that 30-35% of MSMEs are financially distressed and 12% have downsized or ceased operations since 2020. The panel emphasized the need for urgent interventions to avoid further closures.

Identifying Early Warning Signs:
Mrs. K Krishnaveni, Managing Director of Mahalearning Education Pvt Ltd, highlighted key indicators such as declining revenues, rising debt, and cash flow constraints as critical red flags for businesses. She urged MSMEs to act promptly when these signs appear to prevent worsening financial instability.

Mrs K Krishnaveni also emphasized, “Businesses must act as soon as these warning signs are observed. Procrastination in addressing these issues often results in the situation worsening and leads to severe consequences like insolvency or bankruptcy.”

Mrs K Krishnaveni, also highlighted several key indicators:

Declining Revenue & Profit Margins: A consistent drop in sales and narrowing profit margins indicate that a business is losing its competitive edge or failing to meet market demand.

Cash Flow Constraints: The inability to meet short-term obligations, delayed payments from clients, or an over-reliance on credit are common signs of financial strain.

Rising Debt Levels: Over-leveraging, especially without a corresponding increase in revenue, makes businesses more vulnerable to market fluctuations.

Operational Inefficiencies: Wasteful processes, outdated technologies, or mismanagement of resources can erode productivity and profitability over time.

Financial Restructuring Trends:
Shri Subir Paul, National President of ICCSTWE, discussed emerging trends in debt management, including One-Time Settlement (OTS) programs and debt restructuring, which offer a lifeline to struggling MSMEs. He also emphasized the role of equity infusion to help reduce debt dependency.

Banker’s Behaviour and Perspective Towards Tribal Entrepreneurs

Mr Paul pointed out that there is also a need to realign our thoughts and practices towards the banking experience of tribal entrepreneurs. “MSMEs from remote parts, mostly owned by tribal origin entrepreneurs often complaints for their banking experience. The branch level experience of business owners who visits the bank for MSME loan etc often quoted that their banking needs are unnderserved as the bank manager is not so welcoming. This situation must change. Bankers must consider that their behaviour towards MSMEs can motivate or demotivate them to do business. This is a major hurdle for economic upliftment of tribal economy. I urge top evel bankers to look into it and ensure that the bank managers should also be motivated food supporting the MSMEs who are coming from tough backgrounds such as tribal.”

Government Support Schemes:
Dr. Raj V Siddiqui, Chairperson of Uday Khanij Industrial Cooperative Society Ltd, elaborated on government initiatives like the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) and the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS). These schemes have been pivotal in providing liquidity and collateral-free credit to MSMEs.

Turnaround Strategies by Specialists:
Case studies presented by Dr. Raj V Siddiqui illustrated how expert interventions, including digital transformation and operational audits, have helped MSMEs regain profitability and realign with market demands.

A Strategic Path Forward for MSMEs:
The webinar concluded with a comprehensive roadmap for MSME revival, stressing the importance of strategic evolution over mere financial relief. Faiz Askari noted, “The revival of MSMEs hinges on their ability to adapt and innovate. By leveraging the right tools and strategies, MSMEs can thrive despite challenging circumstances.”

A Successful Initiative for MSME Empowerment

The “Revival Roadmap for Struggling or Sick MSMEs” webinar aligns with SMEStreet’s mission to empower MSMEs with the knowledge and resources needed for long-term success. The interactive Q&A session further enhanced the value of the event, allowing MSMEs to engage directly with experts and find tailored solutions to their challenges.