13, Dec 2023
Futurescape: Predictions Shaping Tomorrow’s Distribution Landscape

The distribution industry has undergone a tectonic transformation driven by automation, analytics, and cutting-edge innovations. In addition, advancements in last-mile delivery, smart warehouses, and a sharpened focus on sustainable practices are further reshaping business operations and customer experiences. Furthermore, technologies like blockchain and augmented reality offer transparency and enhanced product visualization. Therefore, collaboration with these new technologies is crucial for organizations to remain competitive, efficient, and capable of delivering exceptional experiences in the evolving distribution landscape.

  1. Automation revolutionizes supply chains
    The rise of automation, driven by robotics and artificial intelligence, will profoundly revolutionize and reshape supply chains. Smart warehouses with cutting-edge technologies, including autonomous vehicles, state-of-the-art automated picking systems, and advanced predictive analytics, will optimize inventory management, significantly reduce costs, and remarkably enhance operational efficiency. Therefore, deploying a best-in-class warehouse management system (WMS) is of utmost importance as it acts as a crucial link, seamlessly connecting your automation to your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, facilitating smooth and efficient operations.
  2. Advanced analytics and big data drive decision-making
    Looking ahead, the future of distribution heavily relies on harnessing the immense power of big data and advanced analytics, which play a pivotal role in shaping strategic decision-making processes. Forward-thinking businesses will utilize sophisticated predictive algorithms and real-time data analytics to make highly informed decisions, optimize inventory levels, accurately predict demand patterns, and deliver personalized customer experiences. To fully leverage these invaluable data tools, distributors should migrate their ERP systems to the cloud, enabling them to effectively deploy and capitalize on the transformative potential of advanced analytics and big data.
  3. Last-mile delivery revolution
    Last-mile delivery is on the verge of a transformational shift as pioneering delivery models emerge and gain widespread adoption. Cutting-edge technologies such as drones, autonomous vehicles, and delivery robots are poised to become commonplace, revolutionizing the final leg of the delivery process by offering unprecedented speed, exceptional cost-effectiveness, and unrivaled convenience as products are swiftly transported to consumers’ doorsteps. Additionally, the rise of crowd-sourced and shared delivery networks will further propel the efficiency and effectiveness of last-mile delivery, making it an increasingly prominent force in distribution.
  4. Sustainable and eco-friendly practices
    In response to mounting environmental concerns and an ever-increasing demand for ethically conscious products, the importance of incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly practices in distribution cannot be overstated. Forward-thinking businesses are proactively adopting and embracing environmentally friendly initiatives, such as green packaging, integrating electric vehicles into their fleets, and optimizing logistics routes to drastically reduce carbon footprints. By prioritizing sustainability, companies address environmental challenges and cater to a growing market segment that values eco-conscious products and distribution practices.
  5. The rise of direct-to-consumer (D2C) channels
    Direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales are poised to experience continuous and substantial growth, steadily bypassing traditional distribution channels altogether. Fueled by technological advancements, manufacturers actively leverage cutting-edge tools and platforms to establish an unprecedented direct connection with consumers. This direct link fosters personalized experiences, empowers data-driven marketing strategies, and grants manufacturers more control over brand messaging, brand-consumer relationships and customer loyalty.
  6. Blockchain revolutionizes traceability and transparency
    Blockchain technology’s revolutionary potential within the supply chain management realm could be genuinely transformative, offering unparalleled traceability and transparency. Distributed ledger systems powered by blockchain enable real-time tracking and monitoring of products throughout the entire distribution network. By effectively combating counterfeiting, substantially reducing instances of fraud, and ensuring the authenticity of goods, blockchain technology significantly enhances trust and accountability within the supply chain.
  7. Hyper-personalization and customer-centric experiences
    The future distribution landscape will be characterized by an unwavering dedication to customer-centricity fueled by the immense power of hyper-personalization. Leveraging advanced analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, businesses will possess the extraordinary ability to deeply understand individual preferences, enabling them to deliver meticulously tailored products, personalized offers, and unforgettable experiences that foster exceptional customer satisfaction and unparalleled brand loyalty.
  8. Augmented reality (AR) enhances product visualization
    Augmented reality (AR) emerges as a groundbreaking technology that plays an instrumental role in elevating the visualization of products and profoundly shaping consumer decision-making processes. As AR-enabled devices become increasingly prevalent, consumers can experience products virtually before purchasing. This transformative capability revolutionizes the online shopping experience, effectively bridging the gap between physical and digital realms and empowering consumers with unprecedented confidence and satisfaction.
  9. 3D printing enables distributed manufacturing
    The advent of 3D printing technology disrupts traditional manufacturing and distribution models by offering an array of unprecedented advantages. The remarkable capability to produce goods locally, precisely on demand, and with significantly reduced waste gives rise to the establishment of distributed manufacturing networks. This transformative shift leads to substantially shorter lead times and empowers businesses to deliver highly customized products tailored to individual consumers’ precise needs and preferences, effectively revolutionizing manufacturing and distribution.
  10. Collaboration and ecosystem integration
    As the distribution landscape unfolds, a profound transformation characterized by intensified collaboration and seamless ecosystem integration becomes increasingly prominent. Forward-thinking businesses recognize the immense value of forming strategic partnerships, engaging in data-sharing initiatives, and fostering close collaboration in critical areas such as logistics, inventory management, and fulfillment. This concerted effort enables seamless end-to-end operations, propelling businesses toward faster time-to-market, enhanced competitiveness, and unparalleled operational excellence.

The future of distribution promises exciting advancements and transformative changes that will reshape the industry. Ensuring your tech stack is robust enough to handle these new tools is critical. Embracing automation, leveraging big data and analytics, adopting sustainable practices, and harnessing emerging technologies will be crucial for businesses to stay competitive. By embracing these trends, wholesale distributors can unlock new opportunities, enhance efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences in the next decade and beyond.

13, Dec 2023
The 28th Edition Of The European Union Film Festival Culminates In Delhi On A High Note With An Overwhelming Response

New Delhi, December 13, 2023: The 28th edition of the European Union Film Festival (EUFF), organized by the EU Delegation to India in collaboration with EU Member States, concluded in Delhi amidst much excitement and fanfare from film enthusiasts as they experienced the finest in European Cinema. Spanning 10 days, the festival offered a curated selection of 28 movies from 27 EU countries and Ukraine in 25 languages across three venues – India Habitat Centre, Instituto Cervantes (Spanish Cultural Center), and The Goethe-Institut /Max Mueller Bhavan.

The festival concluded with the screening of three films on the last day – Kiddo, directed by Zara Dwinger from The Netherlands; Tori and Lokita, directed by Jean-Pierre Dardenne and Luc Dardenne from Belgium, and Oscar-nominated The Banshees of Inisherin, directed by Martin McDonagh from Ireland. With this, the curtains were drawn on the 28th Edition of the EU Film Festival in Delhi. The screenings throughout the festival witnessed an overwhelming response from the audience, with several full house shows across venues. The festival will next enthral the audience in Chennai from 19th to 28th January 2024.

During the festival, the audience got the opportunity to interact with European filmmakers and artists visiting the festival, including French actress Guslagie Malanda, Finnish director Hanna Marjo Västinsalo, Finnish producer Cyril Jacob Abraham, and Estonian director Anu Aun.

As the festival concluded in Delhi, Ambassador of the European Union to India, H.E. Herve Delphin, said, “End slap of the clapperboard for this year’s European Union Film Festival in Delhi! This 28th edition of the EUFF was a great window to the best European cinema: a glimpse of Europe’s rich culture through captivating stories. It was heartening to see the enthusiasm and interest of the public. This festival is a step towards creating a larger platform for cultural dialogue between the EU and India, celebrating our tradition of storytelling, and providing young people with a platform that helps them experience cultural exchange in a different light.”

Talking about the theme of the festival, he added: “This year, the festival celebrated women in cinema through the work of dynamic and independent women directors. We also had two directors and an actress from Europe visit the festival, stirring conversation about cinema and the role of women. It was in every sense seeing the world through a wider lens”. He called on the audience to stay tuned to the EUFF: “There is good news for Indian cinema lovers: the festival is not over! It now travels to Chennai, where the selection of EUFF will be on display from 19th to 28th January 2024.”

Featuring movies from 18 women directors, the festival celebrated Women in European Cinema and the art of storytelling from the woman’s perspective, observing the increased dominance of women’s participation in cinema. Along with the screening of these award-winning films that have received significant appreciation across some of the most prestigious global film festivals, the festival also hosted a panel discussion on Women in European Cinema featuring prominent panelists, including the curator of EUFF 2023 – Veronica Flora, Estonian Director – Anu Aun and Actress of the French film Saint Omer – Guslagie Malanda. The session was moderated by film scholar and film critic Sukhpreet Kahlon.

The festival also hosted a masterclass on New Frontiers in Filmmaking — a one-day intensive workshop with presentations, activities, and screenings inspired by anthropology, art-making, virtual reality, cultural heritage, scientific research, and more. The masterclass, organized in collaboration with UnBox, saw sessions by European and Indian filmmakers – Hanna Västinsalo (Finland), Savyasachi Anju Prabir (India), and Finnish filmmakers Cyril Abraham (Finland/India). The three filmmakers brought together unique experiences in producing shorts, features, and experimental work in South Asian and European regions.

A special section, BACHPAN, in collaboration with Smile International Film Festival for Children & Youth (Siffcy) – a Smile Foundation initiative, was curated by renowned film producer, distributor, and curator Jitendra Mishra. The workshop was attended by over 80 children from Delhi schools and the Smile Foundation. The BACHPAN session screened two specially curated films, She – Hero from Slovakia and Icarus and the Minotaur from Luxembourg. The children also had the opportunity to learn from masters in cinema about one of the most important aspects of film-making – storyboarding.

The ‘free for all’ festival was organized by the Delegation of the European Union to India, Embassies of EU Member States, and regional partners for an incredible cinematic experience with 28 films in 25 languages from 28 European countries. This year, the festival witnessed an excellent line-up of films that have won accolades at top film festivals worldwide, including Cannes, the Academy Awards, the Venice Film Festival, the Tribeca Film Festival, and IFFI, among others. Rich in genre, the EUFF brings some of the best stories and creators from Europe to the Indian audience.

The films screened at the on-ground EUFF 2023 were:

Breaking the Ice – Austria; Tori and Lokita – Belgium; Mother- Bulgaria; Murina- Croatia; The Man with the Answers- Cyprus; Ordinary Failures- Czech Republic; The Quiet Migration- Denmark; Walker on Water- Estonia; Palimpsest- Finland; Saint-Omer- France; Talking About the Weather- Germany; Listen- Greece; Preparations to Be Together for an Unknown Period of Time- Hungary; The Banshees of Inisherin- Ireland; The Eight Mountains- Italy; My Love Affair with Marriage- Latvia; Remember to Blink- Lithuania; Icarus and the Minotaur- Luxembourg; Carmen- Malta; Kiddo- Netherlands; The Perfect Number- Poland; Wolf and Dog- Portugal; Mikado- Romania; She – Hero- Slovakia; Riders- Slovenia; The Beasts- Spain; After Work- Sweden; Luxembourg, Luxembourg- Ukraine

13, Dec 2023
Virtue Worldwide Appoints Ayushi Saria as Associate Creative Director

Mumbai, 13th December 2023: Virtue Worldwide, the agency powered by VICE Media Group, has appointed Ayushi Saria as Associate Creative Director. This strategic move emphasizes Virtue India’s focus on bolstering their creative leadership with future-focused and culture-forward talent.

Virtue Logo

Ayushi’s professional journey is marked by a diverse background, with contributions ranging from impactful campaigns for COVID vaccinations at Aster Hospitals to the creation of engaging games for the Singapore Tourism Board during her tenure at Wunderman and Hungama. Before joining Virtue, Ayushi dedicated her talents to illustration, where she focused on projects centered around skin and body positivity. Notably, her international experience includes collaborations with esteemed clients such as Vicks, Red Lobster, Metamucil, and Heineken at Publicis New York.

Ayushi’s work has garnered widespread recognition and has been featured on prominent platforms like Design Taxi, Ads of the World, AdAge, and Brand Care. She has received accolades from Young Guns, New York Festivals, Art Directors Club, Applied Arts, and Summit Awards.

Hayden Scott, Creative Head at Virtue India, shared his thoughts on Ayushi’s appointment, stating, “Ayushi is a great example of the kind of exciting hybrid talent we want to grow at Virtue. She is a passionate advocate for design and a strong leader. I am certain her diverse skill-sets will help bring a wonderfully fresh perspective to our work. And did I mention, she’s also a damn nice person? I can’t wait to see how Ayushi helps shape Virtue India’s next growth phase.”

In response to her new role, Ayushi Saria, the newly appointed Associate Creative Director at Virtue India, commented, “I’ve always been fascinated by culture and how brands become a part of this in a progressive and meaningful way. To have the opportunity to work at a place that’s powered by culture – it’s incredibly exciting. To work with some very unique and talented people, even more so.”

13, Dec 2023
University of Sydney fosters bilateral climate solutions in India

13th December 2023 – University of Sydney researchers and the Asia Society India Centre last week convened a roundtable to explore opportunities for climate action in India and Australia.

Discussions were led by distinguished speakers including Nishtha Singh from the Asia Society Policy Institute, Ambika Vishwanath of Kubernein Initiative, and Prof Deanna D’Alessandro, Director of the University of Sydney’s Net Zero Initiative.

A diverse consortium of researchers, industry leaders, academics, and NGOs attended and identified strategic bilateral collaboration opportunities between Australia and India.

India and Australia grapple with similar obstacles related to fossil fuel dependency, escalating energy demands, and emissions from the agricultural sector. The roundtable underscored priority areas for bilateral partnership, highlighting renewable energy technology, critical minerals, hydrogen initiatives, and transitioning from hard-to-abate sectors, marking a united effort to fortify clean energy relations.

Topics discussed included technology, encompassing the exchange of expertise on renewables, baseload technology, the circular economy, and the co-utilisation of land for Agrivoltaics. Incentives and policy insights examined aspects of carbon markets, pricing mechanisms, water management plans, and the streamlining of regulatory processes.

Addressing the concept of a just transition involved tackling diverse impacts across states, integrating indigenous knowledge, and facilitating job transitions to renewable sectors.

“India and Australia are remarkably similar in terms of the structures of our energy systems – perhaps two of the most closely related countries globally,” said Professor Penelope Crossley from the University of Sydney’s Law School. “This means that knowledge sharing is critical. We need to learn from one another, de-risk investment and accelerate progress.”

“We will never have a perfect solution for decarbonization,” said Dr Rashneh Pardiwala, Founder and Director, Centre for Environmental Research and Education, India. “But we cannot wait until we have all the knowledge. We need action to create knowledge and confidence through experience.”

“Adaptation is more costly than prevention – we urgently need to improve our energy efficiency, reduce our demand for unsustainable resources, and mitigate emissions,” said Nadir Godrej, Managing Director, Godrej Industries and Chairman of Godrej Agrovet, who attended the roundtable. “A key driver for change in India is corporate social responsibility.” –

The roundtable concluded by outlining actionable steps, including deeper exploration of priority areas, collaborative mechanisms transcending country-level agreements, and fostering inclusive engagement across sectors to expedite progress. Participants will reconvene in 2024 to advance its work program.

13, Dec 2023
Auto Industry Performance of November-2023

Monthly Performance: November 2023

 Production: The total production of Passenger Vehicles1, Three Wheelers, Two Wheelers, and Quadricycle in November 2023 was 22,28,743 units

 Domestic Sales:
• Passenger Vehicles2 sales were 3,34,130 units in November 2023.
• Three-wheeler sales were 59,738 units in November 2023
• Two-wheeler sales were 16,23,399 units in November 2023.

 Commenting on sales data of November 2023, Mr Vinod Aggarwal, President, SIAM said, “All segments of the automobile industry witnessed robust growth during the festival season which ended in the first part of November. For the month, Passenger Vehicles sales grew moderately and Two-Wheelers and Three-Wheelers segments posted high double-digit growth. Commercial Vehicles sales matched last year’s levels. Supported by strong economic growth, Industry is optimistic in ending the year 2023 on a high note and expects the trend to continue into 2024.”

 Commenting on November 2023 performance, Mr Rajesh Menon, Director General, SIAM said, “Passenger Vehicles posted the highest ever sales in the month of November 2023 of 3.34 Lakh units, albeit with a growth rate of 3.7%, in the backdrop of a high base last November. ThreeWheelers reported significant growth of 30.8%, compared to previous year, posting sales of about 0.60 lakh units in November 2023, just below the peak of November 2017. Two-Wheelers also reported sales of about 16.23 Lakh units with high growth of 31.3%, compared to November 2022 and is also slightly below the peak to November 2018.”

13, Dec 2023
Moon Tree Cafe At Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur Hosts Exquisite “Thai Food Festival”

Moon Tree Cafe at Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur announces its highly anticipated event, the “Thai Food Festival.” The festival features an exclusive menu curated by Chef Pembba Tsiring and his experienced team from Mumbai, boasting an impressive 30 years of expertise in Thai cuisine.

The festival is scheduled to take place from December 8th to December 17th, 2023. This culinary event promises to be a delightful journey celebrating the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Thai cuisine. Drawing inspiration from the varied culinary traditions of Thailand and acknowledging the significance of neighboring South Asian countries, the festival aims to showcase the richness and depth of Thai flavors.

Chef Pembba Tsiring

“A fusion of distinctive flavors in Thai cuisine reflects the culinary richness and cultural significance shared among South Asian countries. Our team, led by the experienced Chef Pembba Tsiring, aims to showcase this fascinating interplay of flavors through a meticulously curated menu that captures the essence of Thai delicacies,” said Chef Kishan Gunjal, Executive Chef, Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur.

Renowned for its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, Thai cuisine will be authentically represented at Moon Tree Cafe. The specially crafted menu includes signature items such as Som tam Salad, a refreshing and vibrant papaya salad, and Satay, grilled skewers served with a rich and aromatic peanut sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Guests can also savor the bold and distinct taste of Tom Yum Soup, experience the richness of Thai Curries, enjoy the classic stir-fried Pad Thai Noodles, and conclude their culinary journey with delightful desserts like Sticky Mango Rice and banana Fritters.

Moon Tree Cafe, Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur

Guests can embark on a culinary expedition as Moon Tree Cafe presents the Thai Food Festival, allowing them to indulge in the rich and diverse flavors of Thailand, expertly crafted for connoisseurs, ensuring a wonderful and memorable experience.

Date: 08th – 17th Dec

Venue: Moon Tree Café, Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur.

Time: Available Full day.

13, Dec 2023
Today Global Developers Unveils Navi Mumbai’s First ‘E-Motion’ Homes, Redefining Lifestyle Living

Navi Mumbai, December 13, 2023: Today Global Developers, a leading name in the Navi Mumbai real estate market, has launched its first ‘E-Motion’ homes at its latest project, Codename Belle Vue, set to revolutionize the concept of Lifestyle Homes in Navi Mumbai.

 At the project’s core is a profound thought: “We understand your emotions like no one else.” The ‘E-Motion’ homes are conceptualized to cater to the aspirations of a forward-thinking segment of homebuyers seeking large-sized apartments within a secure gated community. The 3BHK homes launched at Belle Vue go beyond being just residences; they are a collection of personalized experiences that offer a unique blend of moments and small memories that set the mood, all made possible through the enchantment of lights, music, and window-motorised curtains.

 Each ‘E-Motion’ home leverages mood-inspired Smart Home Automation technology to inspire individual moods and lifestyles. Whether for parties, work, or spiritual contemplation, ‘E-Motion’ homes capture and customize the various moods, placing families at heart. The 3BHK homes primarily cater to young homebuyers who appreciate innovation and seek a fresh approach to Lifestyle Homes.

 Commenting on the campaign launch, Mr. Bhavesh Shah, Joint Managing Director-Today Global Developer, said, “At Today Global Developers, we firmly believe that the essence of life is happiness, and our ‘E-Motion’ homes are a testament to this belief. We’ve harnessed the power of technology to curate happiness through experiences that evoke positive emotions. What truly sets these homes apart is our ability to tailor solutions based on the emotions of our customers. Homebuyers can customize experiences to match their mood patterns, effectively addressing their emotional needs. We are thrilled to unveil these transformative homes and are confident that we will revolutionize the Navi Mumbai real estate market by offering these ‘E-Motions’. It’s a game-changer that not only meets but surpasses the emotional needs of our homebuyers, setting a new benchmark for Lifestyle Homes in the region.”

Today Global Developers has seamlessly merged technology with emotions in creating these ‘E-Motion’ Homes. Homebuyers can customize and create unique experiences that suit their moods through voice assistance and motion-sensing device control, automated mood lighting, musical device control systems, and the most advanced keyless security system with app-based notifications.

 Homes with ‘E-Motions’ is the company’s response to the growing demand for spacious layouts and unique experiences within gated communities. Inspired by internal research, this technological marvel from Today Global Developers is poised to redefine Lifestyle Homes in Navi Mumbai. The company has partnered with “AHA” Homes to enhance the offerings in these homes.

 While ‘E-Motion’ homes are positioned as a premium customized solution exclusively accessible to 3BHK buyers, Today Global Developers is committed to making these innovative solutions accessible and affordable for a broader range of customers. For Today Global Developers, ‘E-Motion’ homes aren’t just another project but an emotional revolution that will forever transform how people perceive Lifestyle Homes in Navi Mumbai, setting a new standard for modern living.

 About Today Global Developers – With a prestigious 20-year legacy sculpting Navi Mumbai’s skyline, Today Global Developers has firmly engraved its name as a paramount player in the real estate realm. The group has seamlessly woven the  tapestry of quality residential and commercial projects into the fabric of Navi Mumbai, punctuating its journey with on-time project deliveries. In recent years, Today Global Developers have become the coveted choice among discerning homebuyers. To date, the illustrious Today Global Developers has flawlessly delivered over 20 projects and has an impressive 20 lakh square feet under construction, aiming to usher in 5,000 new homes within the next seven years.

 Navi Mumbai has undergone a transformative evolution, fuelled by the emergence of critical ongoing and forthcoming infrastructure ventures, making it the preferred haven for prospective homeowners. With unwavering experience and unassailable expertise, Today Global Developers envisions projects that meet and transcend customer expectations. The group’s foundational ethos orbits around pursuing “Happiness and Prosperity” for all, materializing through meticulously designed spaces that breathe life into their projects. At the helm of this visionary journey stands Mr. Bhadresh Shah, the Promoter Director, who embarked on this odyssey with a mere seed capital of Rs. 50 lakhs. Today, the group stands poised to reach an astounding annual turnover of over Rs. 450 Crores by the end of the current financial year.

13, Dec 2023
The Quest to Find India’s Next Unicorn Begins as Prime Video Unveils the Trailer of the Original Reality Series Mission Start Ab

MUMBAI, India — December 13, 2023 — Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today unveiled the captivating trailer of its upcoming Original competitive reality series – Mission Start Ab. The series has been conceptualized as part of Prime Video’s partnership with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Mission Start Ab is a first-of-its-kind series that celebrates innovative, grassroots ideas.

The show meticulously evaluates 10 early-stage founders and entrepreneurs under the mentorship of three distinguished investors – investors Kunal Bahl (co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital), Anisha Singh (founder of She Capital, founder, and ex-CEO, MyDala), and Manish Chowdhary (co-founder WOW Skin Science).

During the course of this competition, the competing founders also face challenges featuring prominent faces from the business and entertainment world such as Ritesh Agarwal (OYO), Rohit Shetty (Filmmaker), Riyaaz Amlani (Impresario Entertainment Hospitality), Zeenah Vilcassim (Zomato Live Entertainment), Nilesh Kothari (Trifecta Capital) and Saikiran Krishnamurthy (xto10x Technologies). Executive Produced by Indrajit Ray and directed by Srimanta Sengupta, this Endemol India production is written by Bhavesh Mehta, and hosted by Masaba Gupta and Cyrus Sahukar.

The series is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide on December 19. Mission Start Ab is the latest addition to the Prime membership. Prime members in India enjoy savings, convenience, and entertainment, all in a single membership for just ₹1499/ year.

Enthralling, engaging, and inspiring, the trailer of Mission Start Ab, introduces audiences to the three top investors along with ten extraordinary early-stage founders. Each founder confronts formidable challenges that test their entrepreneurial mettle. Promising a ‘deal of a lifetime’ for the winner, the trailer heightens anticipation for the series launch on December 19 enticing viewers to discover the last-standing founders and potentially witness the birth of India’s next Unicorn.

“India is a land of billion-plus dreams, and these dreams encapsulate infinite possibilities. Mission Start Ab is a series that aims to fuel the dreams of an increasingly entrepreneurial India,” shared Aparna Purohit, head of Originals, India & Southeast Asia, Prime Video. “At Prime Video, we are committed to telling stories that are rooted, relatable, and designed to entertain, inspire and provoke. Mission Start Ab goes beyond storytelling; it embodies the very essence of dreams, aspirations, and brilliance scattered across the length and breadth of India. As storytellers, we believe there is nothing more compelling or inspiring than the stories of resilient individuals using their unwavering grit, determination, and tenacity to achieve success. The core philosophy of Mission Start Ab aligns with Prime Video’s overarching vision of serving as a catalyst, actively contributing to the economic growth and development of the nation. We are confident that audiences, not only within India, but across 240 countries and territories will be inspired and entertained by it.”

Elaborating on the role that series like Mission Start Ab can play in furthering the growth of India’s startup ecosystem, Shri Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India said, “I am extremely happy to see Prime Video has developed episodes on the storyline shared by Office of PSA for future startups to learn through OTT on skill sets required to lead as founders of startups. Scalable capacity building can be achieved through such breakthrough interventions.”

“Entrepreneurship is an intense, transformative journey, and I’ve witnessed this through the lens of being a founder, mentor, and investor,” said Kunal Bahl, co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital. “The startup sector in India buzzes with brilliant minds and innovative ideas that have immense potential to accelerate our nation’s economic growth. To catalyze their success, we need a robust ecosystem that provides them with the necessary resources, support, and guidance. This is where Mission Start Ab steps in, marking a significant leap towards building a stronger foundation of knowledge and support for our aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. Each of the 10 founding teams on the show represents the youthful energy and diverse talent of our nation, embodying not just skills but an insatiable hunger to succeed against all odds. I am elated to be a part of this journey, sharing my experiences and insights, and acting as a guide and mentor to these passionate individuals who are scripting their own stories of struggle and triumph across India.”

“When people look at a founder’s life, especially a successful founder’s life, people assume it is an easy ride. But founder life is hard, and everyone needs to work crazy hard on each little thing. Having been a founder for most of my life, I deeply respect founders who can stick to their values and show grit.” said Anisha Singh, founder of She Capital, founder and ex-CEO, of MyDala “Mission Start Ab is unlike any other startup show – it is a boot camp that gives a bird’s eye view into the real ‘founder’s life’.

The best part about it is that you get to see how Bharat’s start-up ecosystem and founders have evolved. They are building from Bharat for Bharat and from Bharat for the world. I am thrilled to be part of a series that shows just how cool these founders are, and how the pressure they deal with on the show makes them diamonds.”

“Mission Start Ab is not just another reality series, it is a potential gamechanger for the Indian startup economy,” said Manish Chowdhary, co-founder WOW Skin Science. “It offers deep insights into the kind of challenges and opportunities our innovators face, and at the same time, what the investor community looks for, while evaluating investment in a startup. I am immensely proud to be a part of such a pathbreaking show and grateful to Prime Video for this unique opportunity. As investors, incubators, and mentors, we cannot reach out to every aspiring entrepreneur, but with this show, every budding entrepreneur will have a better insight into the right measures they need to take to grow in their space.”

13, Dec 2023
Electric Excavators Light up the Future at the Tata Hitachi Pavilion at EXCON 2023

Bengaluru 13th December’23: Tata Hitachi, a frontrunner in the construction equipment industry, inaugurated its pavilion at Excon 2023 (The largest Construction Equipment Exhibition in South Asia), under the theme of “Aao Kartavya Nibhaye, Chalo Desh Banaye.”

Leveraging the platform of EXCON, this theme reinforces Tata Hitachi’s commitment to fostering a sense of duty and collective responsibility towards nation-building through technologically advanced machines and innovative solutions.

This commitment is also embodied in Tata Hitachi’s demonstrated obligation towards environmental sustainability. In line with this, Tata Hitachi displayed technologically advanced futuristic electric machines that included the ZAXIS 55U-6EB (Electric Battery) and India’s first indigenously developed E Electric concept mini excavator.

Tata Hitachi also launched four new products, along with 2 new attachments at EXCON 2023:

Newly Launched Machines:

Newly Launched Attachments:

1) EX 210LC PRIME

1) Vibro Ripper

2) ZAXIS 220LC ULTRA

2) Drum Cutter

3) EX235 LC-VR

4) ZAXIS 490H ULTRA

Also, on display were ZAXIS 140H ULTRA, EX130 PRIME, and EX70 PRIME with AC cabin; SHINRAI PRO 49HP and SHINRAI POWER-4 four-wheel drive backhoe loaders; the country’s only Hydrostatic Wheel Loader TL340H PRIME; 5-Tonne Class Wheel Loader ZW225; and other EX Series and ZAXIS Series range of Hydraulic excavators. Tata Hitachi’s support solutions on display will include a range of attachments and genuine spare parts, and an array of service offerings.

Tata Hitachi’s presence at EXCON 2023 reaffirms the company’s position as an industry leader dedicated to driving innovation and shaping the future of construction equipment by introducing cutting-edge technology, innovative solutions, and sustainable practices.

Mr Nitin Gadkari Hon'ble Minister of Road Transport & Highways, unveiling India's First Electric Excavatori

Commenting on Tata Hitachi’s participation, Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director at Tata Hitachi, said, “Our customer-centric philosophy, people, and processes have stood us in good stead in our journey of over 60 years. It is this ethos that has enabled us to build one of India’s largest customer-facing networks in the excavator segment. In recent years, we have also bolstered our portfolio with Backhoe Loaders and Wheel Loaders to enable us to better service the customer as a one-stop solution provider.”

Speaking about the protptype electric excavators on display at the pavilion, he said, “These state-of-the-art machines are a demonstration of the technical prowess of Tata Hitachi and our parent company Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) in addressing emergent market requirements. At the same time, this also fulfills our environmental obligations to ensure that development and progress do not come at the cost of a sustainable future for coming generations.”

With regard to Tata Hitachi’s continuing commitment towards nation building, he added, “Tata Hitachi’s showcase at Excon 2023 will not only spotlight its advanced machinery and technological innovations but will also emphasise the responsibility of industry leaders as harbingers of change. Echoing this spirt is our avowed philosophy of ‘Aao Kartavya Nibhaye, Chalo Desh Banaye.’ This slogan transcends boundaries and unites people under the common goal of nation-building, fostering a sense of pride, unity, integration, and responsibility towards our beloved country.”

13, Dec 2023
Visionary leader Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund and India Fashion Awards, Honored with Zee Real Heroes Award

New Delhi, 13th December 2023- Sanjay Nigam, the founder of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund and India Fashion Awards, is celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the fashion industry. Acknowledging his outstanding achievements, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister, Mr. Anurag Thakur, presented Mr. Nigam with the prestigious Real Heroes Award during a glittering ceremony on December 11th, 2023.

Mr. Sanjay Nigam is a successful entrepreneur; who is also a visionary leader and a dedicated advocate for the growth, creativity, and inclusivity of India’s fashion industry. His remarkable initiatives, unwavering commitment, and philanthropic contributions make him a luminary figure driving positive change in both the business and social spheres.

This award comes as a recognition of Mr Nigam’s leadership which has been instrumental in fostering a paradigm shift in the field of fashion by nurturing and bringing forth numerous stalwarts onto the global stage.

Photo- Visionary leader Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund and India Fashion Awards, Honored with Zee Real Heroes Award

On receiving the award, Mr. Sanjay Nigam said: “This acknowledgment validates our collective commitment to nurturing indigenous talent. As we continue to champion the cause of fostering homegrown brilliance, let us collectively empower, create, and elevate. The future of fashion lies in the hands of those who not only dream but dare to turn those dreams into reality,”

“Aligned with the ‘Make in India’ ethos, the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund transcends being merely a financial support system; it stands as a catalyst for dreams, an incubator for innovation, and a guiding light for the resilient youth of our nation. Through the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), our mission is to ignite inspiration within the upcoming generation of fashion enthusiasts, encouraging them to have faith in their craft and actively contribute to the global evolution of style,” he added.

Mr. Nigam has undertaken a noteworthy endeavor known as the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF). Commencing with an initial investment of Rs 20 crores for its inaugural season, this groundbreaking initiative is committed to empowering individuals in the fashion and lifestyle sectors. Notably, FEF has grown into a 200-crore property, underscoring its significant impact on propelling India’s fashion industry to unprecedented levels of success.

Held at the ITC Maurya in New Delhi on December 11, 2023, the event honored leaders like Para Athlete Sheetal Devi and Architect Nikhil Sompura. Celebrities including Parineeti Chopra and Rajkumar Rao added star power, making the celebration of real heroes more glamorous. Distinguished dignitaries, including Smriti Irani, Union Cabinet Minister for @MinistryWCD and @MOMAIndia, and Anurag Thakur, Minister of Information & Broadcasting elevated the event’s prestige.