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Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India inaugurates New Red Wing Dealership in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh

Deoria, 29th April 2024: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), today proudly announces the grand inauguration of its new Sales & Service Red Wing outlet in Deoria, Uttar Pradesh – Aura Honda. The company’s latest Authorized Main Dealership (AMD) has the unique 4S setup which includes the industry norm of Sales, Service, Spare Parts and the 4th ‘S’ unique to Honda which is Safety Riding Promotion.

Aura Honda in Uttar Pradesh offers a complete range of scooters and motorcycles from HMSI. This includes four scooter models (Activa & Dio in 110cc scooters, Activa 125 & Dio 125 in 125cc scooters) and in the motorcycle category the company offers nine exciting models across 100-110cc (Shine 100, CD 110 Dream Deluxe & Livo), 125cc (Shine 125 & SP125), 160cc (Unicorn & SP160) and 180-200cc (Hornet 2.0 & CB200X) segments along with other special edition models.

Specially trained and customer-centric manpower of Aura Honda will deliver the best quality sales and after-sales ownership experience to valued customers. Making the safety of customers on roads a top priority, Aura Honda will empower new and existing two-wheeler riders on independent riding with Honda’s advanced riding simulators which are specially imported from Japan.

Second Batch Completes Literary Translation Course Supported by JCB Literature Foundation at Ahmedabad University

29th April 2024 New Delhi: Celebrating the graduation ceremony of its second batch of the Literary Translation, Creative Writing & Publishing course, the JCB Literature Foundation (JCBLF) and Ahmedabad University hosted a special alumni meet aimed at fostering connections, networking, and inspiring young minds as they venture into the world of publishing. The convocation ceremony featured a vibrant panel discussion with a diverse group of literary translators and publishers, each bringing their unique expertise to the forefront.

Moderated by Professor Tejaswini Niranjana, a distinguished Cultural Theorist and Translator, who also played a pivotal role in designing the course module, the panelists included alumni members of the Course- Divya Kalavala, translator and academician, Rinita Banerjee, editor, and Joshua Reddy, recognized for his expertise as a digital archivist. Also present were Srividhya Venkatesen, known for her prowess in content writing and translation, Sherwin Rodriguez, a skilled writer, and translator, and Bhumika Aggarwal, a freelance writer and translator. Adding to the enriching dialogue was Vijaysagar, a telecom engineer who found passion in translating Tamil literature, alongside Kritika Nautiyal, a dedicated translator.

The round table was followed by the convocation ceremony of the current batch, with addresses by Manish Tayal, Director, JCB Literature Foundation; Jerry Pinto, author, translator, and poet; and VK Karthika, Publisher, Westland Books.

Talking about the occasion, Manish Tayal, Director, JCB Literature Foundation, said- “Today is not just a milestone moment for the current graduating batch, but for us at the JCB Literature Foundation as well. It marks the day when 26 brilliant translators, writers, and potential publicists are on the verge of entering the publishing industry. With each batch, the chances of more and more books in English and in translation, coming from India, increases manifold, and that makes us hopeful.”

Pallavi Narayan, Director,Ahmedabad Writing Programme, Ahmedabad University, said-“The Post Graduate Diploma in Translation and Creative Writing is a unique programme in the Indian literary landscape. Combining theory and practice of translation, writing and publishing as its primary building blocks, the course provides a comprehensive and challenging syllabus between complementary skills in the online mode, with workshops and studios conducted offline on the Ahmedabad University campus. The student base is diverse and from all over the country, and for the new cohort, we are opening up the course to a limited number of international applicants as well. The Diploma is particularly suitable for the working professional, with classes conducted online twice a week–one on a weekday evening and the other on a weekend morning–and plenty of interesting writing and translation exercises given to the students combined with a solid theoretical base. Apart from the core team of instructors, guest faculty include award-winning writers, translators and publishers—some of the best and brightest in the country and, indeed, globally! And it is showing results, as our students have been translating books, being nominated for prizes and awarded fellowships, and, most importantly, building a literary community that will benefit not only them but the literary scenario in general.”

The event was followed by a cultural extravaganza ‘The Threshold’ – a musical dialogue featuring MD Pallavi, a multifaceted artist, and Bindhumalini, a singer and composer, exploring gender through tales of women across cultures and eras. Celebrating figures like Hypatia, Agnodice, Kharbaoucha, and Fanny Mendelssohn, alongside songs of Lalla, Lingamma, Neelamma, and more, Pallavi and Bindhu wove a captivating narrative, to wrap the evening.

Supported by the JCB Literature Foundation, this Programme provides a combination of skills in Literary Translation, Creative Writing, and Publishing. It is curated as a combination of online courses, offline workshops, and hands-on studios to help students acquire skills as literary translators, creative writers, and publishers.Aimed at enhancing the skills of practicing translators, and writers, the program also offers industry mentorship to better equip them for roles in publishing, advertising, and editorial fields. Participants gain exposure to cultural and literary history methodologies, enriching their professional development.

Royaloak Furniture on Expansion Spree, launches its 169th Store in Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh, Bhimavaram, 29th April 2024: Royaloak Furniture, India’s renowned furniture brand, has further solidified its presence in Andhra Pradesh with the inauguration of a new store in Bhimavaram. With this, the brand marks an impressive 169th store opening in the country. The grand opening ceremony was honored by the esteemed presence of Mr. Vijai Subramaniam, Chairman of Royaloak Incorporation Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Mathan Subramaniam, Managing Director, Royaloak Incorporation Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Grandhi Srinivas, Honorable MLA & Government Whip, Bhimavaram Constituency, and Mr. Koyye Moshenu Raju, Chairman of Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council. This expansion underscores Royaloak’s commitment to providing quality furniture solutions to the people of Andhra Pradesh.

The grand launch event also witnessed guests from the Royaloak team, including Mr. Vijai Subramaniam, the Chairman of Royaloak Furniture, Mr. Mathan Subramaniam, Managing Director, Mr. Kiran Chhabria, the Franchise Head, Mr. Angara Nagendra Babu, State Head – AP & TS, Mr. Thammaiah Kotera, Head – VM & NSO, as well as Mr. Suryaa, Franchise Manager.

Set against the backdrop of spirited melodies of drums performed by the local band, the guests exuded enthusiasm as they orchestrated a magnificent grand launch event. The distinguished guests were warmly embraced into the festivities, signifying an extraordinary beginning to this thrilling new chapter.

Covering an impressive 18000 square feet, this store boasts an extensive array of furniture for every part of the home, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and more. Bhimavaram’s residents can now discover a wide variety of both stylish and functional furnishings. Royaloak is a go-to destination for all home furnishing needs, that offers sofas, beds, dining tables, chairs, recliners, mattresses, interior decor items, and a comprehensive selection of office and outdoor furniture, all conveniently located in their neighborhood. This store adds to the brand’s presence in Andhra Pradesh making it 14 stores in the region.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Vijai Subramaniam, Chairman, Royaloak Furniture said, “Today marks an exceptional day for the entire Royaloak team as we continue to grow, celebrating the inauguration of our 169th store. We are genuinely excited about our expansion in Andhra Pradesh, especially with our latest store launch in Bhimavaram. This underscores Royaloak’s dedication to providing top-quality furniture at accessible prices to our valued customers. I extend my best wishes to the franchise owners as we eagerly anticipate serving customers and assisting them in finding the ideal pieces to complete their dream homes”.

The store boasts a carefully curated and exclusive ‘Country Collection,’ showcasing the finest and most unique furniture selections from countries such as the United States, Italy, Malaysia, and India. Through its dedicated standalone stores, Royaloak aspires to elevate the aesthetic appeal of homes with its modern, luxurious, and budget-friendly furniture offerings. The brand has been fulfilling the lifestyle requirements of its expansive customer base, exceeding 10 million individuals.

With a network of over 200 immersive retail outlets nationwide, Royaloak has established a robust presence in more than 116 key locations, including Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, New Delhi, Bangalore, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, Guwahati and Kochi.

Celebrating Earth Month & Brightening Futures, Innova Solutions Donates Solar Panel System to The Earth Saviours Foundation

INDIA – April 27, 2024 – Innova Solutions, a global digital transformation solutions provider, today joined The Earth Saviours Foundation to commemorate the installation of a 10KVA solar panel system donated by the Innova Foundation to provide power for the NGO’s elderly residents.

Established by the late Shri Ravi Kalra, The Earth Saviours Foundation has long been dedicated to serving the underprivileged, providing a sanctuary for mistreated animals, and making every possible effort to protect the environment. Since 2008, the organization has taken in the elderly and vulnerable, and today, around 1,300 people reside permanently within the NGO’s shelter homes located at Bandhwari Village and Mandawar Village, Distt. Gurugram, Haryana.

Speaking from the solar panel ribbon cutting event , Pradeep Yadlapati—President of Innova’s APAC SBU and India Head—stated, “We are thrilled to partner with The Earth Saviours Foundation to bring renewable energy solutions to Indians in need. This initiative is a testament to Innova’s ongoing commitment to giving back to communities—not only in India but around the world. By providing sustainable power through solar energy, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of The Earth Saviours’ residents while also promoting environmental sustainability in the region.”

In addition to its donation of the solar panel system, the Innova Foundation has worked alongside The Earth Saviours Foundation for several years, including sponsoring meals each day for the organization’s residents.

Commenting on these initiatives, Nita Sardana, Chief Impact Officer at the Innova Foundation, stated, “At the Innova Foundation, we believe in fostering holistic solutions to address the needs of the communities we serve.

Our collaboration with The Earth Saviours Foundation is just one vibrant example of our multifaceted approach to transformative social impact. From vaccinating 1,300 girls in the region against cervical cancer to our adoption of several local schools in need of renovation, we are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals in India and beyond. This solar panel donation represents our ongoing commitment to sustainability and community welfare, aligning with our mission to create lasting change. Working together, hand-in-hand, we can help create a brighter future for all.”

Vyomini Social Enterprise Conducts Workshop on Menstrual Health and Hygiene for Female Workers at Hero MotoCorp

27th April, 2024 – Vyomini Social Enterprise, a pioneer in women’s empowerment, commenced its mission to enhance menstrual health and hygiene awareness among 100 female workers at Hero MotoCorp with a two-day workshop held at their facility. During the two days of the workshop, female workers were informed about personal hygiene, toilet etiquette, sustainable sanitation, menstrual waste, etc.

While strides have been made to increase female participation in the workforce, menstrual hygiene remains a pressing concern. This workshop is a pivotal step towards reaching the women employed in the automobile industry. The industry has recently witnessed an influx in women employees, there is a pressing need to maximise their growth through comprehensive nurturing and education, enabling them to fully realize and unleash their true potential. Thus, Vyomini reached out to them to conduct open conversations on menstrual health.

Vyomini’s approach of 3A, Awareness, Accessibility and Affordability of the Menstrual Hygiene Management has been at the core of their initiatives towards reaching hundreds and thousands of women to empower and educate them on menstrual health.

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, boasts over 1,500 women employees, including technicians and engineers, is taking necessary measures to encourage more female employees. Difficulty in working during menstruation, hesitant to address their issues, infrastructural problems, and taboo around menstruation can hinder both their health and work efficiency.The workshop aspires to empower women by equipping them with the knowledge and tools to manage their periods safely.

Prachi Kaushik, Founder and Director of Vyomini Social Enterprise, renowned as the pad woman of India, ensures that VYOMINI not only focuses on manufacturing pads but also contributes to strengthening sanitation infrastructure comprehensively. Sharing her opinions, she emphasized, “The automobile industry has long been perceived as a man’s world, but with conscious efforts from companies like Hero MotoCorp, this narrative is changing. According to UNICEF reports, while 180 million people menstruate every month worldwide, the awareness levels are significantly low. Many women have never had a proper conversation about menstruation and its impact on health. To address this gap, Vyomini has adopted innovative methods, including interactive Q&A sessions and audio-visual tools, making the workshop engaging and impactful.”

The workshop delved into physiological details, dispelled myths and taboos surrounding menstruation, discussed the ill management of menstrual health and its impact on reproductive health, and highlighted the importance of sanitary napkin usage. What set these sessions apart was their interactive nature, fostering open one-on-one discussions that provided a safe space for participants to share challenges and ask questions.

Himadri Speciality Chemical Reports 97 percent growth in in PAT to 410 Crores in FY24

27th April 2024, Kolkata: Himadri Speciality Chemical Limited reported results for the quarter and year ended 31st March 2024.

Highlights of the quarter (Standalone Financials) :

Announced a brownfield expansion of a new speciality carbon black line of 70,000 MTPA (increasing the total speciality carbon black capacity to 130,000 MTPA making it world’s largest speciality carbon black capacity at single site) at an estimated capex of Rs 220 crores which is scheduled to be operational within 18 months.
· Revenue stood at ~Rs. 4,185 Crs in FY24

· EBITDA increased by 55% to ~Rs. 632 Crs in FY24 YoY

· PAT increased by 97% to ~Rs. 410 Crs in FY24 YoY

· Recorded highest-ever sales volume, EBITDA and PAT

· Debt Free with positive net cash balance

Commenting on the results and performance, Mr. Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEOof Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd said: “We are delighted to announce that the Company has become debt-free with positive net cash balance as a result of our relentless focus on disciplined capital deployment and working capital utilization. We also take pride in announcing that the Company has achieved highest ever Sales, EBITDA, and PAT. This performance is a direct result of our strategic initiatives and our team’s tireless efforts to drive innovation and excellence in everything we do. We are in for very exciting times with strong growth coming from our existing businesses as well as significant progress being made on new businesses. Our volumes have increased consistently with all round growth in products and launch of new product line of speciality products. Our vision to focus on speciality and high value added products over years has led to consistent and sustainable increase in profitability. Coupled with our initiatives on operational efficiency, yield improvements and competitive value proposition to customers, we have laid down a strong foundation for sustainable performance. To support the growth and increasing market demand, we are announcing a brownfield expansion of a new speciality carbon black line of 70,000 MTPA (increasing the total speciality carbon black capacity to 130,000 MTPA making it world’s largest speciality carbon black capacity at single site) at an estimated capex of Rs 220 crores which is scheduled to be operational within 18 months. Our research and project execution of battery materials continue as per plan. We have a strong pipeline of innovative products in development with our research team relentlessly pursuing our vision of playing a critical role in LiB value chain. Building on this momentum, we have acquired a 40% stake in Invati Creations Private Limited (Invati). Our partnership is built on a shared vision to transform the Lithium-ion battery industry by significantly enhancing its storage efficiency, charging speed, and battery lifespan. Together, we aim to make a substantial impact on meeting the world’s growing energy demands. To further accelerate our growth trajectory, the board has approved the allotment of warrants on a preferential basis to promoters and other non promoter investors (including employees), which will primarily be utilized as growth capital for our new greenfield projects, including the Cathode Active Material manufacturing capex, the turnaround of Birla Tyres, and other brownfield expansions. This investment will enable us to drive innovation, enhance our product offerings, and strengthen our position in the market. Sustainability remains the cornerstone of our business and our operations. Over the past year, our dedicated efforts have propelled us forward, allowing us to make significant progress in every facet of sustainability. We are happy to share that we have joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) as a direct signatory. This demonstrates our alignment with global sustainability principles and our commitment to upholding ethical business practices on a globalscale. We are pleased to announce that the board has recommended a dividend of 50% to the shareholders of the Company. We are confident that these developments will propel us towards a sustainable and profitable future, and we look forward to continuing to deliver value to our stakeholders.”

India Assist Expands Its Travel Assistance Services Franchise Model in the Enchanting Land of Jammu and Kashmir

In a significant stride towards enhancing traveller experiences, India Assist, the pioneer in real-time travel assistance services, has announced the expansion of its franchise model to the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir. Collaborating with key travel agents across prominent areas, this strategic move aims to provide seamless and reliable travel assistance to explorers, tourists, and travelers, ensuring their journeys through the mesmerizing valleys and mountains of Kashmir are truly memorable.

The franchise model has been initiated in several pivotal areas, including Srinagar, Anant Nagar, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Budgam, Kupwara, Kulgam, and Bandipora. This expansion marks India Assist’s dedication to extending its unparalleled assistance services to those who seek to discover the captivating beauty and cultural richness of Kashmir.

“We are thrilled to bring India Assist’s travel assistance services to the enchanting land of Jammu and Kashmir,” said Harish Khatri, Founder and Managing Director of India Assist. “Our mission has always been to provide unwavering support to travellers, ensuring their journeys are not only smooth but also enriched with local insights and assistance whenever needed. With this expansion, we aim to create a seamless and immersive travel experience for those who choose to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir.”

India Assist’s unique franchise model empowers local travel agents to collaborate and provide their clients with access to real-time support, local expertise, and personalized assistance. This partnership ensures that travellers can hover around with confidence, knowing that they have a reliable support system at their fingertips.

As the world opts for the Himalayan mountains and the valleys for travel, the expansion of India Assist’s franchise model in Jammu and Kashmir comes as a beacon of hope for both local businesses and travellers seeking unparalleled experiences. The collaboration between India Assist and the key travel partner in the region promises to redefine the way tourists explore the scenic wonders of Kashmir.

Transforming Broken Tiles into Trendsetting Style Somany Ceramics collaborates with K.R. Mangalam University

Gurugram, 27 April 2024 : SOMANY Ceramics Ltd., a leading name in the ceramic industry, collaborated with K R Mangalam University on World Design Day, April 27th, 2024 on a project titled “Transforming Broken Tiles into Trendsetting Style,” this innovative initiative is aimed at promoting recycling of waste tiles into pieces of art and captivating murals, fostering a culture of sustainability while addressing waste reduction. Over 20 talented architecture students showcased their art and technical expertise in repurposing discarded tiles into breathtaking works of art, serving as a testament to their commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Anshuman Chakravarty, Head of Marketing at Somany Ceramics, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, “We are happy that future architects of India are having a passion for recycling and sustainability. We in Somany Ceramics have always been a pioneer in promoting sustainability in our products, infact our entire production of tile adhesive is done through waste tiles. We as citizens also need to sensitize our communities on reducing construction waste and debris and look for recycling and reuse. We are thankful to the K. R. Mangalam University management and students for partnering with us for this initiative and promoting the thought of artistic reuse of waste tile and supporting environment sustainability”

We are collaborating with Somany Ceramics Ltd. on an art installation project to celebrate World Design Day. This collaboration provided students with a unique opportunity to apply their design skills in a real-world context. Through this tile art projects, students gained hands-on experience in sustainable design practices while making a positive impact on the environment said Dr. Tanaya Verma, Dean of the School of Architecture and Design at K.R. Mangalam University.

The SOMANY Ceramics and K R Mangalam University collaboration was a resounding ode to the power of partnerships in driving positive change. By utilising the creativity and innovation of students, the initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of recycling and inspire future generations to become responsible stewards of the environment.

EaseMyTrip ties up with Adani Digital Labs to offer exclusive duty-free shopping benefits

Mumbai, April 27, 2024: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading travel tech platforms, has entered into a strategic collaboration with Adani Digital Labs (ADL) for seamless access to duty free shopping directly from its platform, providing travellers with a convenient and luxurious experience as part of their travel planning. Customers can access this service through pre-order directly via the airport services page on the EaseMyTrip website through the link: https://easemytrip.adanione.com/duty-free.

Currently available at seven major international airports across India, including Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram, the service offers an exclusive range of products with additional discounts, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Sharing his thoughts on the partnership, Mr Nishant Pitti, CEO of EaseMyTrip, said, “At EaseMyTrip, our core philosophy has always been to prioritise customers’ needs and enhance their travel experience. This partnership is a stride towards reinforcing our commitment as we aim to be the greatest facilitator of travel in the nation. By integrating the convenience of duty free shopping across multiple airports into our platform, we are not just simplifying shopping but also empowering Indian travellers with smarter, more rewarding solutions.”

The spokesperson from Adani Digital Labs emphasized on the potential of this collaboration, saying, “This partnership signifies our vision of providing travellers with seamless experience across all touchpoints. This new-age duty free integration on EaseMyTrip’s platform will make it more convenient for Indian travellers. We are poised to shape the future of travel commerce in the digital age, leveraging on this strategic alliance to drive growth and innovation in the industry.”

RenewX 2024 Kickstarts with a Focus on Renewable Energy and Sustainable Solutions

Hyderabad, 27th April, 2024: The eighth edition of RenewX, a pioneering trade expo dedicated to renewable energy, began today at the Hyderabad International Trade Expositions Centre (Hitex). This two-day event, taking place on the 26th and 27th of April, brings together industry leaders, innovators, and policy-makers to showcase the latest technologies and discuss the future of sustainable energy solutions.

Speaking about their participation, Mr. Gyanesh Chaudhary, Chairman & Managing Director of Vikram Solar Limited, emphasized the critical role of renewable energy in addressing global climate challenges. He stated, “As the world grapples with the ever-present challenge of climate change, securing a clean and sustainable energy future is no longer a possibility, but an imperative. In this critical juncture, renewable energy offers a beacon of hope. We are delighted to be participating in the Renew X Exhibition & Conference this year. This premier event provides a valuable platform for showcasing advancements in renewable energy and sustainable mobility, fostering collaboration between industry leaders.”

Vikram Solar, known for its commitment to innovative and accessible solar solutions, views RenewX as a perfect opportunity to reveal their latest advancements in solar technology. “At Renew X 2024, we are excited to unveil our latest innovations in solar energy technology, engage in meaningful discussions with industry experts on critical challenges, and explore potential partnerships to accelerate the clean energy transition,” added Mr. Chaudhary.

The expo aims to facilitate a collaborative environment where key stakeholders can work together towards a greener and more sustainable future, aligning with the Government of India’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.

“Together, with the collaborative spirit embodied by Renew X, we can build a cleaner and more secure energy future for India and the world,” concluded Mr. Chaudhary.

RenewX continues to be an essential platform for networking, exchanging ideas, and driving innovation in the renewable energy sector. The event promises to be a catalyst for change, inspiring all attendees towards achieving more sustainable energy solutions.