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WTW outlines “New Trilemma” of challenges for Renewables-sector risk managers

NEW DELHI, 23 February 2023 — Renewables will remain the darling of the global energy transition, yet risk managers will face multiple challenges arising from a ‘new trilemma’. It comprises the convergence of:

• · The need for net-zero energy security,
• · unsettled global macroeconomics, and
• · rising demand for renewable energy in an era of squeezed supply of inputs.

This trilemma will escalate risk management and ESG as key issues for the renewables industry in the year ahead, according to Renewable Energy Market Review 2023, published today by WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking, and solutions company.

The Review, subtitled Geopolitics, inflation, and the energy transition – Where do renewables go from here? includes contributions from more than two dozen international experts and specialists. Together they provide a comprehensive and up-to-the-minute analysis of opportunity, risk, and insurance for the global sector, from floating solar in Asia to battery storage in Ireland. Throughout, the need to balance risk and opportunity in a changed economic, political, and social environment comes to the fore.

Contributing author Margaret-Ann Splawn, Executive Director of the Climate Markets & Investment Association, says: “Macro events and trends such as inflation, cost increases, security, and supply chains are impacting the renewable energy industry, making the current business environment a challenging one for risk managers. Several important steps will help them to assess their own vulnerabilities in the transition to Net Zero and protect themselves from current and future ESG and climate-related risks.” In her contribution, Splawn advises risk managers to:

1. 1. Understand their own ESG and sustainability position.
2. 2. Adopt a reactive risk-response view.
3. 3. Play a strategic role across the company.
4. 4. Work in concert with relevant stakeholders.

Despite the challenges, the renewable energy outlook in Asia remains promising, with significant capital injection expected into the sector. In particular, floating solar has gained traction and will play an important role in the energy transition of countries such as China, India, and South Korea. This also coincides with India’s shift towards alternative renewable sources and technologies such as Round the Clock (RTC), Battery Energy Storage Systems, and Wind Solar hybrid projects to meet its clean energy transition goals.

Renewable energy is a key growth area for insurers and premium rates are expected to increase. However, newer technologies could be met with reluctance and low-risk appetite from insurers due to their limited technical understanding and lack of historical loss data.

Ankush Gupta, Practice Leader – Renewable Energy, WTW says: “With the increase in Renewable Energy premiums, some large Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have started considering the possibility of a reinsurance program for their Solar portfolio. The Wind portfolio continues to be a non-preferred line of business, due to unfavorable loss ratios, OEM financial health, and the overall complexity in the nature of the operation. For non-traditional solutions such as Weather Derivate insurance cover and Module Performance Warranty, the market relies on reinsurers, with fronting by local partners. With lenders imposing a requirement for future-proofing these projects, we are seeing increased inquiries on these insurance covers.”

“The renewable energy sector in India has seen an influx of capital investment and for this trend to continue, the risk profile of the power plant must be satisfactorily managed during the entire life cycle of the project. As the sector grows to its full potential, the role of intermediaries and specialists becomes even more critical. WTW will continue to engage all key stakeholders in ensuring the right information and insight is made available to mitigate risk and minimize coverage restrictions.” adds Gupta.

Spectrum Metro Announces ‘Book Your Luck 2.0’ For Its Customers

Spectrum Metro has relaunched the second edition of its successful customer offer, “Book Your Luck 2.0 – Best Hua Behtar.” After the successful response received in the first edition, Spectrum Metro has announced that out of all the customers booking their retail spaces in Phase 2 of the project between February 10 and April 10, 2023, 125 lucky customers could grab exciting rewards. The offer would be applicable to all bookings, irrespective of plot sizes or prices. The rewards include valuables like a brand-new XUV. In addition to this, the investors will have a golden chance to win international holiday packages, electric bikes, iPhones 14, gold coins, LED TVs, air conditioners, and exciting gift vouchers.

Mr. Ajendra Singh, VP-Sales and Marketing, Spectrum Metro, said, “Spectrum Metro never misses an opportunity to unveil exciting offers to its existing and prospective buyers. “Book Your Luck 2.0 – Best Hua Behtar” is our strategy to present gratitude to our customers in the form of exciting gifts and vouchers on bookings. The results of the draw will be announced in April. The previous edition witnessed a massive response from buyers, and the same trend started emerging as soon as we launched the second edition. We are looking forward to having a long-term alliance with the customers and leaving them happy and satisfied with our offers and services.”

Spectrum Metro is a high-street commercial project located in Sector 75, Noida, and shares door-step connectivity with Aqua Line’s Sector 50 metro station. “Book Your Luck 2.0 – Best Hua Behtar” is announced in retail stores in Phase 2 of the High-Street Commercial project.

Hisense India Introduces Next-Gen Smart ACs with Revolutionary Features

New Delhi, 23 February 2023: Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and appliances, is set to revolutionize the Indian market with its latest air conditioners, the IntelliPRO and CoolingXpert. These feature-rich ACs are packed with a wide range of features, such as a WIFI Voice Control, 5-in-1 Convertible Pro and many others, and also provide a 10-year warranty on the compressor. The IntelliPRO and CoolingXpert offer capacities ranging from 1 ton to 2 ton, with prices starting from Rs. 31,000/-, and are available at leading electronics stores across India.

Instilled with next-generation features, the new Hisense IntelliPRO comes with WIFI and voice control, easing up midnight remote hunting as it controls the temperature and modes with just a voice command. Equipped with a 4-way swing, the AC ensures uniform and consistent cool air throughout the room, making the user’s experience accessible and comfortable.

Unique features such as the sleep mode, which automatically changes the temperature, and the 5-in-1 convertible mode paired with an inverter compressor that adjusts energy usage save up to 36% on energy usage, making the home more environmentally friendly. Additionally, both ACs have 100% inner-grooved copper tubes that provide long-term use and excellent cooling efficiency for much-needed seasonal changes.

Supporting health in a harmful environment, both IntelliPRO and CoolingXpert come with a PM2.5 health filter that protects your health by filtering out harmful PM2.5 pollutants in the room, as well as an auto-clean mode that prevents mold, moisture, and dust from accumulating in the indoor unit, giving a strong and odour-free cooling home.

Stating on the launch, Mr. Steven Li, MD of Hisense India, said, “Hisense India is focused on bringing innovative and high-quality products in various categories to offer the best quality products and services to attract Indian customers. The launch of the IntelliPRO and CoolingXpert air conditioners is a continuation of this commitment and a step towards providing customers with unparalleled comfort and convenience at home. The AC’s features not only provide customers with a delightful experience but also help save energy and maintain a healthy home environment. We are excited and looking forward to bringing more world-class products in various categories.”

Next-Gen Hisense AC features include –

Wi-Fi & Voice Control

The IntelliPRO comes equipped with WIFI Smart controls, making it easy to operate the air conditioner from anywhere with your smartphone, tablet or with just voice using Google Assistant. The access-free benefit enables users to set temperature, change modes, set temperature, etc.

Health Filter and Auto Clean

IntelliPRO and CoolingXpert come with a PM2.5 health filter which protects your health by filtering out harmful PM2.5 pollutants in the room. Auto clean mode prevents mold, moisture, and dust from accumulating in the indoor unit, allowing the user to enjoy strong and odour-free cooling at home.

Quick Chill

Stepping in from a hot and humid environment the Hisense QSD technology brings Intelligent Inverter Compressor high speed running for a quick and effective chill on demand.

5-in-1 Convertible Pro

Both ACs have 5 modes which can be chosen depending on how much cooling power is needed. Starting from 50%, it goes up to 110% in quick time, giving a powerful and instant chill room.

Corrosion Shield

The Ac’s are equipped with indoor and outdoor unit’s hairpin coating technology and blue fins to prevent rust and ensure durability and longevity.

Smart Modes

Swap between different modes as per room requirement to make the most of your AC rather than fumbling between temperature and fan speeds. The AC automatically selects the best temp and fan speed based on that mode for best performance.

Stabilizer-Free Performance

Even at extreme temperatures, this air conditioner operates smoothly in voltage circumstances ranging from 140V to 290V. This saves the expense of purchasing a separate stabilizer.

100% copper & Eco-friendly Refrigerant

This air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser are composed of 100% inner-grooved copper tubing for improved operational safety, increased hardness, easier maintenance, long-term use and high-efficiency heat exchange. Air conditioner uses the R32 eco-friendly refrigerant, which emits fewer greenhouse gases and requires less refrigerant.

Smart Diagnosis

The smart diagnosis mode will show an error code for easy problem diagnosis and quick resolution. Offering a comfortable feel at home. Hisense ACs are a must-buy for the cool season knocking on the door.

Hikvision India Introduces Eco IP Video Door Phone Series to meet evolving security and communications needs

Hikvision India has Introduced the Eco IP Video Door Phone(VDP) DS KIS302 P Series to meet the evolving security and communications needs in the market. VDP products address a crucial part of the security, communications and convenience needs in both residential and business sectors. They have evolved over time alongside the rapid development in technologies created for better and safer living environments.

The Eco IP VDP Kit with 1 IP indoor station and 1 four-wire HD door station. It has a User-friendly control with a convenient touch screen. It offers convenient management via the Hik-Connect mobile client. It has more cost-effective. Easy installation as the doorbell requires no exclusive power supply.

The transition from analog to IP technologies
The VDP market is witnessing a significant transition from analog to IP. Traditional analog systems feature relatively poor audio and image quality and limited functionality. For example, they cannot be accessed using a mobile app or networked management systems. Although analog systems are often a more economical option, more manufacturers and installers have recommended their customers shift to IP-based VDPs for their wider range of capabilities – including higher image resolution, mobile control, remote operation, and a series of smart functions.

IP VDPs bring a new level of convenience
Mobile control
IP VDPs let owners receive calls, play video, and open locks from anywhere through just a simple touch. For example, people often receive calls on their mobile devices for package deliveries or other services when they’re not at home. IP VDPs, however, allow users to give temporary access remotely to those who need it, just using a simple mobile application. This is more convenient and much safer than manually giving out passwords or key cards.

User-friendly interfaces
IP VDPs commonly provide a user-friendly screen with a clearly visible interface, simple touch interaction, intuitive operation, and multi-functional information display (e.g., weather, news, announcements, etc.). These easy-to-use features help get modern consumers accustomed to using IP VDPs since they operate very similarly to mobile phones.

High image quality
Compared to purely analog solutions, IP VDPs provide excellent imaging with higher resolutions and wider field of view. Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and night vision are also supported to help users see clearly despite challenging light conditions, such as direct sunlight or high contrast environments during the day and darkness in the evening and night time.

IP VDPs provides excellent imaging with higher resolutions and wider field of view
All-in-one management
IP VDPs also offer opportunities for integration with other security systems, such as video and alarms. A unified control center ensures all-in-one linkage among various devices and systems and facilitates convenient device operation and management, improving security for businesses and homeowners.

Enter Hikvision
Hikvision’s IP VDPs serve a wide range of scenarios including apartment buildings, single-family homes, and SMB offices. In residential applications, these advanced VDPs combine a better user experience with elegant design to suit any decor, as well as a touch-friendly screen for easy operation. Users can remotely open doors and talk to visitors by simply tapping the Hik-Connect mobile app on their smartphone or tablet.

For Business applications, Hikvision’s IP VDPs enhance safety levels and management efficiency with strong integration capabilities. Hikvision’s All-in-One Indoor Station Series controls and manages all Hikvision access control, video security, and alarm devices through the built-in Hik-Connect app. The product series can also be converged with third-party applications to satisfy customized or personalized needs.

Valley Insurance Agency Alliance Promotes TJ McCoy

McCoy was promoted to Personal Lines Manager for Alliance’s sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management

(St. Louis, Mo., Feb. 23, 2023) Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois, recently promoted Thomas “TJ” McCoy IV to Personal Lines Manager for VIAA’s sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management, one of the largest family owned and operated independent insurance agencies in the bi-state region,

McCoy’s responsibilities include managing and overseeing the agency’s personal lines service team. He also will service a high net worth book of business, as well as assist in the training and best practice standards supervision of eight team members.

McCoy previously served as a Personal Lines Service Coach for VIAA. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wisc. McCoy holds licenses for both Life Insurance, as well as Property & Casualty Insurance. He is actively involved in the community and is a member of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Gateway Chapter for Tomorrow’s Leaders.

“TJ has been a tremendous asset to our alliance, so we look forward to all he will accomplish at our sister company,” said VIAA’s co-founder Henry Powers. “TJ is a leader who has built strong relationships throughout his career, and we are proud to have him at the helm of our growing personal lines team.”

Founded in 1991, Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. Founded in 2006, sister company Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member for the Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA), a $11 billion national alliance. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.powersinsurance.com or www.viaa4u.com.

LoveChild partners with Myntra, forays into Face Category with the launch of ‘Shaadi’ inspired Blushes and Highlighters

Mumbai, 23 February 2023: LoveChild, the cosmo-wellness and beauty brand by multi hyphenate entrepreneur & actor Masaba Gupta, has launched the perfect beauty pick-me-up this wedding season for flushed cheeks and contoured cheekbones! Adding to its existing products categories like lipsticks, eye makeup, skincare, fragrances and wellness, the brand is now stepping into the face makeup category with a splendid new range of products to reinforce the brand’s commitment to growing their portfolio with inclusive products.

Infused with the goodness of nourishing oils and skin loving ingredients, Highlighted Nakhre and Band Baaja Blush are formulated keeping all Indian skintones and undertones in mind. Inspired by the joy of self-love and the grandeur of Indian weddings, these products bring to life the energy and vibe of such celebratory moments through the packaging design. All formulations and shades are tailor-made for every mood and occasion, paving their way to strengthen the makeup category at LoveChild.

In a bid to penetrate the ever-evolving and dynamic beauty segment, LoveChild has partnered with leading e-commerce destination, Myntra Beauty, to launch the all–new Highlighted Nakhre highlighter palettes and Band Baaja Blush crème blushes. With 1400+ brands and 75,000+ products, the Beauty and Personal Care category has been one of the fastest growing categories on Myntra and continues to rampantly scale its scintillating selection of international, domestic as well as D2C brands with an emphasis on catering to the various need states and niches of consumers.

Commenting on the association and new launches, Masaba Gupta (Founder, of LoveChild) said “These two new launches are my current favourite beauty products – nothing like a good highlighter and some blush! Each shade has been curated to suit everyone from a light skinned girl to the brown kudi! With immense love from across the country, this time around we have partnered with Myntra to drive discoverability for the brand across the country & to emerge as a powerful player in the beauty segment. I am thrilled to kick off this association & what better way to enter the face makeup category with ‘band,bajaa & a 100 watt glow!

Touching upon the addition of Lovechild’s new range on Myntra, Sharon Pais, Chief Business Officer, Myntra said said, “We are excited to be Lovechild’s destination of choice as they step into the face makeup category with the launch of their stellar highlighter palettes and crème blushes. Youth icon Masaba Gupta’s signature style truly reflects in the products that are poised to strike a chord with our thriving base of beauty enthusiasts looking for high-quality, conscious and trendy make-up and wellness choices at accessible price points. Myntra Beauty has been witnessing an uptick in demand in the makeup and wellness category and we are certain that Lovechild’s new launches are set to elevate our portfolio, further strengthening our relationship with our shoppers.”

‘Highlighted Nakhre’ is available in 2 exciting palettes ‘Chandni’, which is specifically formulated for fair to medium complexions and ‘Sitara’, specifically formulated for dusky skintones. These palettes are each priced at INR 1,800 each. These luxurious highlighters melt like butter on your cheeks, thanks to their special cream to powder texture. Its unique 3D rainbow reflection leaves you with a 100 watt glow so you always ‘Slay the Spotlight’. This wedding season, show some nakhre, and get ready to shine bright, the Chandni and Sitara way.

‘Band Baaja Blush’ is a range of highly pigmented creme blushes, available in 6 vibrant shades that are suitable for all Indian skintones. The never seen before shades include ‘Bubblegum Baraat’, ‘Shocking Sharbat’, ‘Lal Lal Land’, ‘Cinnamon Choli’, ‘Brown Kudi’, and ‘Peach Puchka’ and are priced at INR 750 each. Made with nourishing oils and infused with HA, Squalene and Shea Butter, these blushes give you a dewy finish with a long lasting matte effect.

Beauty is also a top-performing category on Myntra’s live commerce proposition, M Live with 100% engagement rates being witnessed across its sessions coupled with a significant growth in its live streaming traffic too. LoveChild’s Founder, Masaba Gupta will also be participating in a M Live to interact with her beloved fans and beauty enthusiasts alike on 22nd February as she showcases the brand’s latest launches ‘Highlighted Nakhre’ and ‘Band Baaja Blush’ which shall be simulcasted on Myntra Studio, Myntra’s Instagram page, Myntra Beauty’s Instagram page, Lovechild’s Instagram page and Masaba’s Instagram page.

All LoveChild products are PETA certified, vegan and cruelty-free, and are available online at lovechild.in, Myntra Beauty and at House of Masaba stores across India.

“Launch of ‘FUND CITY’ by NAREDCO at Finance Conclave to Bolster Real Estate Investment”

New Delhi, 23 Feb 2023: The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) announced to unveil the ‘FUND CITY’ on the sidelines of the upcoming NAREDCO Finance Conclave to be held at New Delhi on 3rd February. The Fund City is a consortium of Fund Houses, Banks, specialized funds, and other financial institutions. The Fund City will work in partnership with NAREDCO to address the financial requirements of the real estate sector in India.

The main aim of Fund City is to address the funding requirements of stalled as well as new real estate projects across all segments of real estate development in the country. The Fund City also consists of investment bankers and consultants who will analyze and assist in the processing of these stalled or new project funding.

Fund City is very similar to the TV show Shark Tank, with a group of fund houses eager to invest. Developers seeking funding must apply to Fund City, and proposals will be selected by fund houses on a first-come, first-served basis. The pressure of peers will encourage quick completion of selected proposals.

Fund City’s main objective is to secure funding for all stalled, stressed and new projects without any discrimination of size , geography or stage The terms and conditions of funding will be determined by the relevant fund houses and project promoters. Our aim is to assist in completing projects without imposing any specific conditions. Most projects have a positive cash flow upon completion, although negative cash scenarios can occur in rare cases. In such situations, promoters and home buyers may negotiate an arrangement with specific escalation terms, while ensuring definite returns to the lending funds.

NAREDCO Fund City provides new project financing through a specialized approach in order to support deserving real estate projects. Leveraging a network of banks and fund houses, the organization focuses on identifying projects that can create value for stakeholders such as developers, investors, and end-users. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by the real estate sector, NAREDCO Fund City offers customized solutions that cater to the specific requirements of each project, utilizing their expertise to make it happen.

NAREDCO Fund City aims to disburse funds to a significant number of projects and promoters to bring them out of the red. The Fund City also aims to rescue a significant number of home buyers, repay and close a considerable number of loans, and close indirect liabilities. The Fund City will also aim to encourage entrepreneurship in the real estate sector, ease of business, and increase the happiness quotient.” Said Mr. Rajan Bandelkar, President, NAREDCO

“The launch of NAREDCO Fund City is expected to have a great impact on the Indian economy, employment market, organizing the unorganized market, creating CAT A developers of all sizes, working as a financial think tank and encouraging best practices. The Fund City will also reduce the cost of funds for projects, which will impact an increase in profits or reduction of sales prices for buyers and become competitive.” Mr. Sathish Kumar, Chairman, NAREDCO Finance Committee

Developers of all sizes, across all tiers of cities, will have access to Fund City. This initiative is poised to bring about a revolution in the Indian real estate market, with significant secondary and cascading positive effects.

Getting funds from Fund City will be a simple process, with just a single-sheet application needed to express interest from the fund houses. Within 7 days, funds will provide their expression of interest, and once promoters have completed all the necessary formalities, the full process of allocation by the chosen fund house will typically be completed within 30 working days. NAREDCO Fund City has a committed group of banks and fund houses, with more expected to join soon. The full group of fund houses will be shared after the conclave. This initiative is a win-win for all stakeholders, including bankers, builders, government, and most importantly, home buyers. NAREDCO Fund City aims to revitalize the real estate sector and contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.

South Indian Bank CEO and Managing Director Mr. Murali Ramakrishnan awarded – ‘Business leader of the year’

Mumbai: At a glittering ceremony held in Taj Lands’ End, Mumbai, ET Ascent bestowed Mr. Murali Ramakrishnan, MD, and CEO, of South Indian Bank, with the ‘Business Leader of the Year award. It was the 21st global and the sixth Indian edition of the recognition.

ET Ascent’s ‘Business Leader of the Year award is a singular platform to recognize leaders for their transformational leadership. Over the years, it has felicitated leaders who have succeeded in making a difference in their organizations during challenging circumstances. Mr. Ramakrishnan was awarded recognition for his role in captaining the restructuring of the bank and putting it on a course of growth. His accomplishments at South Indian Bank have been hailed by various stakeholders of India Inc.

Mr. Ramakrishnan expressed his joy at the event by saying, “I am pleased to receive acknowledgment for the collective action that our organization has worked in achieving. Our dedication and passion have propelled us to realize the corporate objective. I sincerely appreciate the support my team has given me to create a successful transformational journey. I thank the organizers and jury for recognizing me with the prestigious title.”

South Indian Bank went through a transformation in the last two years after Mr. Murali Ramakrishnan had taken charge as CEO of the bank. He started the journey by formulating a ‘6 C’ strategy towards achieving the bank’s vision of `Profitable growth through quality credit’. The 6 Cs were: (a) Capital adequacy (b) CASA (c) Cost to Income ratio (d) Competency building (e) Customer focus (f) Compliance. This led to the successful turnaround of the company in terms of its profitability and he believes, it is a continuous process.

India and Afghanistan, both countries are source of inspiration to each other: His Excellency Farid Mamundzay, Afghanistan Ambassador in India

Hyderabad, February 23, 2023…..An interactive meeting on Exploring Business Opportunities with Afghanistan was held in the city at FTCCI on Wednesday. His Excellency Farid Mamundzay, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in India was the Chief Guest.

Other dignitaries who graced include Mr. Qadir Shah, Counselor (Head of Trade Office) Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Mr Sayed Mohammad Ibrahimkhil, Acting Consul General, Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Mr Sediqullah Sahar, Education Attaché Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, FTCCI President Mr. Anil Agarwal, Ms Khyati Nirawane, CEO of FTCCI, Mr. Chakravarthy AVPS, Chair of- International Trade & Business relations Committee

It was jointly organized by The Federation of Telangana Chamber of Commerce and Industry(FTCCI) and the World Trade Center.

Addressing a gathering composed of trade, travel, import, and export professionals, community looking at export opportunities and FTCCI members. His Excellency Farid Mamundzay asked India and Telangana to look at Afghanistan as a potential future for bilateral trade. India is a natural trade destination he said. .

Five hundred plus Afghanistan students are studying in Telangana in Osmania, Maulana Azad National Urdu University, JNTU, and The Central Institute of English and Foreign Languages. Hundred plus are studying at Osmania University alone. Telangana is contributing to the soft development and capacity building of our youth. Thank you for hosting them, he said.

Later Sediqullah Sahar, Education Attaché Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan added that Afghani students prefer India for their higher education. We have over 60,000 Alumni who studied in India in the last twenty years. Nearly 10,000 alumni are from Telangana alone. Telangana is the top choice destination for many students in Afghanistan, he added.

Continuing to address, the Ambassador said, we have deep-rooted history between the two countries. And, also with Telangana. That is the reason why we opened a second Consulate in India at Hyderabad. This is very significant, he said.

The ambassador said the first provisional Government of India was a provisional government in exile established by Raja Mahendra Pratap from Kabul in Afghanistan. We stood against British, he said. Thirty years after that event India got its Independence. India and Afghanistan, both countries are a source of inspiration for each other. We are an extension of India. We have a 1900-year-old Mandir and it is located in Kabul.

Speaking further he said the purpose of my maiden visit is to tell the business community more about Afghanistan. The current trade between both countries is about Rs 12000 crore. India exports more to Afghanistan than we do to India. We export dry fruits, precious stones, semi-precious stones, spices, saffron, and others. India exports Pharma products, textile chemicals, and others. With increasing ties the trade potential can be doubled in a couple of years, he told the gathering

We need help in mining from India. We seek time investment from Indian companies. Our mining is worth over $ 3 trillion US dollars. We also need investments in infrastructure projects, and solar plants, the ambassador shared.

He said that air connectivity between the two nations needs to be improved. Currently, we have two weekly flights, from Delhi to Kabul. We want air connectivity between Hyderabad and Kabul, he said.

I know you are all worried about political stability in Afghanistan. Trade continuity is a sign of stability. In the last 19 months, not a single incident happened which should worry the business community. Our currency is also stable despite inflation. We also offer to export high-quality coal, and base metals to India. We can help India with raw materials and you can give the finished material to us. Amritsar is just 700 km away from Afghanistan. We are not very far away. We are very close to India. We must boost trade relations, the ambassador said.

Nearly 20,000 people in Afghanistan are suffering from Cancer. And 16000 people out of 20,000 die from late diagnosis and lack of medicine. I recently visited Tata Memorial in Mumbai to explore how we can help our people. The market for pharma products is about $ 1 billion US. It is a big market worth exploring, he told Indian pharma companies more so the ones in Hyderabad

Giving his opening remarks, Mr Anil Agarwal, President of FTCCI invited the Afghanistan Government to be part of the growth story of Telangana. Afghanistan is an important trade partner of India. He also urged them to participate in the Industrial Innovation Technology Expo to be held in June.

Ms Khyati Narawane, CEO of FTCCI said the 106 years old chamber provides market access to its members on international trade.

Mr. Chakravarthy AVPS, Chair of the International Trade & Business relations Committee said Afghanistan should have been what Singapore is today. Because it is 1000 times more potent than Singapore.

Let us rewrite history by reconnecting Afghanistan with the people of the rest of the world. He also requested His Excellency Farid Mamundzay, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in India to address the safety and security concerns that people have about Afghanistan.