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TechnoSport Targets Eastern India for Growth; Opens Brand Outlets in Kolkata & Asansol

National, 16 September 2025: TechnoSport, India’s fastest growing activewear brand, has announced its strategic focus on Eastern India as the next engine of growth, with the launch of two Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) in the region, at Mani Square Mall, Kolkata, and Sentrum Mall, Asansol.

The openings mark a decisive step in TechnoSport’s retail expansion journey, taking its EBO count to 21 stores nationwide. Backed by strong momentum, with EBO revenues doubling year-on-year and stores recording an 83% conversion rate on footfalls, the brand is on track to achieve its ₹600 crore revenue target for FY 2025-26.

The Kolkata launch was graced by Indian footballer Pritam Kotal, underscoring the brand’s deep association with sports and athletes. Spanning 1714 sq. ft., the Kolkata outlet delivers a modern, stylish retail experience and houses TechnoSport’s complete range of high-performance activewear designed specifically for Indian conditions. The launch was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a lively Zumba session, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere. 

Speaking on the launch, Puspen Maity, CEO, TechnoSport, said, “The timing of this launch couldn’t be better, as we step into the auspicious period of Durga Puja and the festive season. The East is a strategically important market for us, and customer insights have guided our plans to open more demand-led outlets in the region. We are cheerful and confident about replicating our success here. Our newly opened Kolkata outlet is designed to bring a fresh shopping experience that allows people to truly connect with the brand, explore our latest innovations, and experience the quality of products that support their active lifestyles. It will also serve as a vibrant hub for fitness enthusiasts, young consumers, and lifestyle-conscious customers in the city.”

Along with expansion, the brand is also creating jobs in the region and boosting the local economy. The decision to expand into East India also leverages the region’s abundant skilled workforce, reinforcing the company’s mission of creating both economic and social impact. Earlier, TechnoSport signed a landmark MoU with the Government of Odisha, announcing a ₹100 Cr investment in a state-of-the-art activewear manufacturing facility. This initiative is expected to generate employment for over 1,000 workers and will be part of a world-class industrial estate. 

These outlets offer a sleek, contemporary retail experience and features TechnoSport’s full range of high-performance activewear engineered for Indian conditions. The collection showcases cutting-edge in-house fabric innovations like Cotflex, known for its 4-way stretch and memory function, Techno Dry for quick-drying performance, and Matpiq, which combines a soft hand feel with a subtle matte texture. Technologies such as TECHNOCOOL+, TechnoGuard for antimicrobial protection, and UPF 50+ sun protection further enhance comfort, hygiene, and durability, making each apparel ready for both intense workouts and everyday wear.

Avaada Commissions 11 Solar Plants in Yavatmal Under MSKVY 2.0

Avaada Group rolls out 11 solar plants in Yavatmal district under MSKVY 2.0; empowers farmers with reliable & green energy

Mumbai, September 15, 2025: Avaada Group, a diversified energy conglomerate, has marked the beginning of a new era in its quest to redefine sustainable innovation with the commencement of 11 solar power projects in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra. The projects, which come under the purview of Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY), will enable the company to bring reliable, green energy directly to the fields.

The projects inaugurated include a 4 MW plant in Kinhi village, 3 MW in Baldi, another 3 MW in Dongarkharda, 2 MW in Bansi, 2 MW in Patan, 5 MW in Mhasola, 2 MW in Galwa, 4 MW in Pathrad, 4 MW in Parjana, 3 MW at Sawargaon, and 3 MW at Sarfali. A total of around 14,893 farmers will benefit from these solar projects for their agriculture activities across nearly167 villages.

This initiative echoes the themes from the evocative documentary Sun to Soil | Avaada’s Story of Light, Land & Lives, which vividly brings to life the transformation powered by solar energy in rural Maharashtra.

Mr. Vineet Mittal, Chairman of Avaada Group, said: “We are honoured to partner with the Government of Maharashtra in this transformative journey. The Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana 2.0 is a model for how clean energy can directly uplift rural communities. This project is a testimony to Hon’ble CM’s visionary leadership, bringing reliable solar power to farmers and contributing to both rural development and India’s green energy mission.”

As a part of the expanded vision to provide sustainable agriculture in Maharashtra, Avaada Group is executing over 1,132 MW of solar power projects across key districts including Nashik, Pune, Sangli, Yavatmal, Ahmednagar, and Beed. These deployments illustrate the depth of Avaada’s commitment to MSKVY 2.0 and rural energy transformation.

Building on the original scheme launched in 2017, the upgraded MSKVY 2.0 aims to solarise 30% of agricultural feeders by undertaking 7,000 MW of decentralised solar projects (0.5–25 MW) strategically located near high-agriculture-load substations.

The MSKVY 2.0 scheme boasts of several benefits not just to farmers but for overall economy and rural administration besides benefitting the environment.

Benefits to Farmers:

The scheme ensures reliable, uninterrupted electricity supply to farmers during the day for irrigation pumps thereby eliminating the need for night-time irrigation, which is inconvenient and often unreliable due to load shedding. The switch to solar energy significantly reduces their electricity bills and fuel & maintenance costs from small local diesel generators leading to lower operational expenses thereby increasing their overall financial stability.

Consistent daytime power enables efficient irrigation and the use of modern farming tools, which in turn help farmers with better crop planning leading to higher yields. Moreover, farmers can earn an additional income by leasing their barren land for the installation of solar project. By eliminating night-time irrigation, the scheme reduces the physical hardship and safety hazards farmers face, such as accidents or encounters with wildlife.

Benefits to Economy & Administration:

The shift to solar power for agriculture helps reduce the subsidy burden on distribution companies (DISCOMs) and the state government. It also reduces the burden on DISCOMs by providing cheaper solar power during day time which helps in balancing peak demand, lowering procurement costs and reducing reliance on costly power purchases from conventional sources translating into better financial sustainability for the utilities and more affordable electricity for consumers.

Decentralised solar projects installed near agricultural substations minimise the energy lost during transmission over long distances besides stimulating the local economy.

Benefits for the Environment:

By replacing conventional fossil fuel-based power sources with solar energy, the program is expected to reduce Maharashtra’s carbon footprint and help meet climate goals. Farmers benefit indirectly as the shift to solar energy promotes clean energy, reduces pollution and supports long-term environmental sustainability, which is crucial for agriculture. The scheme also encourages more efficient water and energy use among farmers

Global Saraswati Sanman 2025 Successfully Concludes in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, 15th September 2025: The First-Ever Global Saraswati Sanman 2025, organized by Shree Lohana Mahaparishad, concluded with resounding success at the AUDA Auditorium, Karnavati Club Road, Shela, Ahmedabad. The full-day event witnessed an overwhelming participation of students, professionals, educators, and dignitaries, making it a landmark celebration of academic excellence within the Lohana community.

A Gathering of Eminent Guests

The event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister of Education & Tribal Development, Government of Gujarat Dr. Kuberbhai Dindor & Pujya Dr. Gyanvatsal Swami, Spiritual Leader, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, as Chief Guest. The grand ceremony was further enriched by the august presence of Dr. Harshad Patel, Hon’ble MLA, Sabarmati, Ahmedabad

Honoring 192 Achievers Across Diverse Fields

In its maiden edition, the Global Saraswati Sanman recognized:

– 178 outstanding students excelling in board examinations, university gold medals, Ph.D., professional degrees, and civil services
– 10 exemplary teachers who have dedicated their careers to nurturing young minds
– 4 leading Lohana-run institutions (including two universities and two schools) for their contribution to education

The awardees represented multiple states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal, truly making it a national celebration of Lohana talent and dedication to knowledge.

Sponsored & Supported By

The initiative was made possible with the generous support of:
• Khimji Bhagwandas Charity Trust
• Shri Pramodbhai Karia Family and Ravin Group of Companies
• Shri Bimalbhai & Shri Baijubhai Kantaria Family (Elgon Kenya Group)

Supported by:
• Smt. Smitaben & Shri Janakbhai Thacker
Purpose and Impact
The event highlighted the timeless values of knowledge, service, and dedication, aiming to inspire the next generation of learners while strengthening the academic spirit of the community.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Satish Vithlani, President & Managing Trustee of Shree Lohana Mahaparishad, said:
“The Global Saraswati Sanman 2025 marks a new chapter in our mission to recognize and encourage academic brilliance. Our community’s strength lies in education, and this event is a tribute to every achiever who makes us proud.”

Organized with Visionary Leadership

The event was successfully executed under the guidance of:
– Shri Satish Vithlani, President & Managing Trustee, Shree Lohana Mahaparishad
– Dr. Nirav Thakkar, Chairman, Education Committee

Delhi Grooves to Support Building a Permanent Home for Abandoned Elders at Jashn-e-Qawwali

 Delhi, 15th September 2025 – Over 650 Delhiites came together for a soulful music, dance, and compassion at Jashn-e-Qawwali 2025, a fundraising concert organized by Wishes and Blessings, NGO at Kamani Auditorium on 12th September evening. What began as a traditional qawwali event quickly turned into a lively celebration, as attendees joined in, clapping, singing, and dancing in support of building a permanent Mann ka Tilak, a home for neglected, abandoned and abused elders.

The spotlight was on the world-renowned Niazi Nizami Brothers, torchbearers of the Hapur Gharana and resident qawwals of the Nizamuddin Auliya Dargah. Their soulful renditions such as – Chaap tilak, Khwaja mere Khwaja, Kali Kali Zulfon Ke, Hasta hua Noorani chehra, and Dama Dam Mast Kalandar, that filled the auditorium with energy, creating a “Dance Qawwali” experience that blurred the line between performers and audience. Cheers of “once more” and thunderous applause brought them back on stage for a spirited encore.

Amid the joy, the evening never lost sight of its purpose. Since 2018, Mann ka Tilak has provided shelter, food, medicine, and counselling to abandoned senior citizens who have been neglected, abused and later abandoned by their own family. Limited space, however, restricts the number of elders the home can serve. All funds raised during the event will help establish a larger, permanent facility, ensuring that every elder can live with dignity, care, and love.

Dr. Geetanjali Chopra, Founder of Wishes and Blessings, shared a heartfelt message with the residents, who were special guests, “It doesn’t matter if your own blood has abandoned you—we will never abandon you.” 

“As we complete the fourth edition of this fundraiser, the proceeds will directly contribute towards building a permanent home for the elderly residents of our old age home-Mann Ka Tilak. We are deeply grateful to the Niazi Nizami Brothers for their support and to everyone who attended and contributed to this cause” added Dr. Geetanjali.

The success of Jashn-e-Qawwali underscores Wishes and Blessings NGO’s unwavering commitment to creating a meaningful difference in the lives of marginalized communities and exemplifies the power of music to inspire social change.

“Music has the power to bring people together, and it gives us immense joy to know that our music performance is contributing to a meaningful initiative.” shares Niazi Nizami Brothers troupe.

By the end of the evening, one message resonated throughout the auditorium: Together, we can create a home that will outlast us all and will serve the elders for generations to come.

The event was supported by – District by Zomato platform, Uniparts India, Mark Exhaust Systems Limited, PowerSpack Automotives, AIMIL ltd., Roadzen Technologies, Ena J Singh fine jewellery. 

SG Pipers Announce Player Retentions Ahead of Hockey India League Season 2

Bengaluru, 15th September: SG Pipers have unveiled a formidable list of 17 retained players ahead of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2025 auctions, showcasing a balanced mix of Indian stars as well as international stalwarts. The retained roster underlines the franchise’s commitment to nurturing domestic talent while strengthening global pedigree across all positions. The SG Pipers coaching staff worked closely with the Director of Hockey, Padma Bhushan Sreejesh PR, to finalize the list of retained players.

The Pipers have also completed the acquisition of the Welsh International Jacob Draper, who has been traded in from Team Gonasika after appearing in all 10 games last season.

The full list of retained players is given below:

1. Tomas Santiago, Goalkeeper, Argentina
2. Pawan, Goalkeeper, India
3. Jarmanpreet Singh, Defender, India
4. Varun Kumar, Defender, India
5. Rohit, Defender, India
6. Manjeet, Defender, India
7. Gareth Furlong, Defender, Wales
8. Shamsher Singh, Midfielder, India
9. Jacob Draper, Midfielder, Wales (Trade)
10. Rajkumar Pal, Midfielder, India
11. Ankit Pal, Midfielder, India
12. Kingson Singh, Midfielder, India
13. Ky Willott, Midfielder, Australia
14. Tomas Domene, Forward, Argentina
15. Aditya Lalage, Forward, India
16. Sourabh Anand Khushwaha, Forward, India
17. Dilraj Singh, Forward, Indi

The retained players delivered memorable moments for fans last season as well as on the international stage. Two-time Olympic medallist Shamsher Singh returns as a symbol of resilience and belief. Jarmanpreet Singh will bring solidity to the defence, fresh from playing a vital role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 triumph. Varun Kumar, a bronze medallist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, will further strengthen the backline with his pace and aggressive tackling. Rajkumar Pal offers a proven ability to stay calm under pressure—a trait he showcased on multiple occasions, including penalty shootout goals against Team Gonasika last season and against Great Britain at the last Olympics. Argentine goalkeeper Tomas Santiago adds further pedigree between the posts.

Speaking on the squad’s balance after the retention, Padma Bhushan Sreejesh PR, Director of Hockey at SG Pipers, stated, “Retaining the core men’s team was crucial. Last season, missing six key players disrupted our rhythm. This time, the retained squad knows each other well and brings the hunger and attitude needed for a strong season. With Olympic medallists like Shamsher, Jarman, Rajkumar, and Varun alongside hungry youngsters, we have a balanced mix of experience and ambition. The seniors will lead by example, the juniors are eager to prove themselves, and we will complete the squad thoughtfully with the expertise of our coaches.”

The Pipers will also benefit from the leadership of newly appointed men’s team Head Coach Tim Oudenaller. Oudenaller is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest coaching minds and boasts a proven track record of building successful squads in the Dutch Hoofdklasse and the Euro Hockey League. Working in tandem with Sreejesh, an icon of Indian Hockey, the coaching and leadership group will provide both strategic vision and mentorship as the franchise prepares for the upcoming season.

Looking forward to coaching the team, Head Coach Tim Oudenaller said, “The players we have retained will bring balance, depth, and ambition qualities that can take us far this season. Together with the management, I truly believe we have the foundation to challenge for the title.”

Having set the tone with their early moves, the Pipers now head into the HIL Auction with clarity on what it will take to round off the squad.