Category Archives: Business

Accor Strengthens Presence in Eastern India with the Signing of Novotel Sambalpur City Centre

Commenting on the signing, Ms. Ranju Alex, CEO, Accor, South Asia said, “The signing of Novotel Sambalpur City Centre reflects Accor‘s continued commitment to expanding our presence across India‘s high-growth Tier II and Tier III cities. As regional economic centres continue to evolve, we see significant opportunities to introduce internationally recognised hospitality brands that cater to the changing needs of both business and leisure travellers. Sambalpur‘s growing industrial importance, improving infrastructure, and increasing demand for quality hospitality make it a strategic addition to our expanding portfolio in India.”

Commenting on the partnership with Accor, Mr Jasbir Singh Hura, Chairman, JAS Group said, “Partnering with Accor to bring the internationally recognised Novotel brand to Sambalpur is an important milestone for JAS Group and for the hospitality landscape of Western Odisha. This project reflects our long-term confidence in the region’s economic and tourism potential, as well as our commitment to creating world-class hospitality infrastructure in Sambalpur. We believe Novotel Sambalpur City Centre will become a preferred destination for business travellers, conferences, social celebrations and leisure guests, while contributing meaningfully to employment, tourism and the overall development of the region.”

boAt and Spotify Premium Partner to Deliver the Complete Music Experience

Gurugram, Aug 04: boAt, India’s No. 1 audio and wearables brand, today announced a strategic partnership with Spotify Premium to deliver a richer, more immersive music experience for listeners across India. Bringing together boAt’s premium audio technology and Spotify Premium’s uninterrupted listening experience, the partnership reflects a shared belief that music deserves to be experienced in its fullest form without interruptions or compromise.

As consumers increasingly seek experiences that combine great hardware with exceptional content, the collaboration aims to redefine everyday listening by pairing immersive sound with uninterrupted access to the music they love. Eligible boAt products will now come bundled with a four-month Spotify Premium subscription, free for the first 12 weeks, enabling users to enjoy ad-free music, offline listening and enhanced audio quality.

To mark the partnership, boAt and Spotify Premium have launched a digital campaign titled “HALF the Experience.” Built around the thought “HALF the quality. HALF the fun. HALF the experience,” the campaign playfully demonstrates how interruptions, poor-quality audio and generic listening devices can diminish the way music is meant to be experienced.

The campaign film opens at a seemingly full-blown concert, where everything is only half complete. Chaar Diwari becomes “Do Diwari,” the audience is asked to give “half a round of applause,” and the band performs with three-string guitars, half a drum kit and incomplete stage looks. The performance soon reveals what listening to music through generic headphones without Spotify Premium feels like: HALF the experience. The artist then pops out of the listener’s earphones and says, “Aise aadha-adhura gaana kab tak sunoge? Sunna hai toh poora sunno. Ab toh boAt ke saath Spotify Premium free hai, bro.” As the listener switches to boAt, the artist returns to the stage in full form, delivering the high-quality, uninterrupted music experience it was meant to be.

Commenting on the partnership, boAt spokesperson said, “At boAt, we have always believed that great music deserves a great listening experience. Over the years, we have worked to make premium audio accessible while building meaningful connections with artists, creators and music communities. Our partnership with Spotify Premium brings together two essential parts of that experience: immersive sound and uninterrupted music. Through ‘HALF the Experience,’ we wanted to communicate this in a way that is entertaining, relatable and rooted in how young India experiences music today.”

The partnership reflects boAt’s continued focus on creating experiences that extend beyond devices by bringing together technology, content and culture. By combining premium audio with one of the world’s leading music streaming platforms, boAt and Spotify Premium aim to deliver a more seamless and rewarding listening experience for music lovers across the country.

Eligible boAt customers can now enjoy a four-month Spotify Premium subscription, free for the first 12 weeks, with select products. The offer allows users to experience ad-free music, offline listening and high-quality audio alongside boAt’s award-winning audio devices.

Dr. Agarwal’s Health Care Q1 profit rises 44.6 percent to INR 55 crore on record surgical facility additions

Chennai, Aug 04: Dr. Agarwal’s Health Care Limited opened FY27 with its strongest quarter on record. Revenue from operations grew 26.0% year-on-year to ₹614 crore, EBITDA rose 25.2% to ₹177 crore with margins resilient at 28.5%, and profit after tax surged 44.6% to ₹55 crore — profit growth outpacing revenue growth even as the Company absorbed higher greenfield investments.

Performance was anchored by the Company’s mature facilities, which grew revenue 16.3% year-on-year, alongside 91,082 surgeries performed during the quarter, up 15.5%. The Company commissioned 18 greenfield facilities — 1 tertiary, 15 secondary and 2 primary — including 16 surgical facilities, its highest-ever addition in a single quarter, taking the network to 304 eye care facilities across 10 countries. It plans to add another 42 facilities through the remainder of FY27, deepening its footprint across both established and emerging markets.

The Company’s growth strategy rests on two engines: sustained growth across mature centres, and accelerated greenfield expansion into under-served markets.

Commenting on the performance for Q1 FY2027, Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr. Agarwal’s Health Care Limited, said: “What makes this quarter significant isn’t just the growth — we delivered our highest-ever sequential revenue growth while simultaneously commissioning more surgical facilities than in any quarter in our history. At the heart of this momentum is something no metric captures — the deepening trust patients place in us, bringing us their own and their families’ eye care. Mature centres funding aggressive expansion is exactly our model working as designed. With 42 more facilities planned this year, we are building density in markets where quality eye care remains out of reach for many in need. Backed by strong execution capabilities and a healthy expansion pipeline, we remain firmly on track to achieve our growth objectives for the year.”

Schneider Electric and BSES Rajdhani Partner to Deploy India’s First Sustainable Pure Air RMU Pilot Project

Mumbai, Aug 4: Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, has partnered with BSES Rajdhani Power Limited  to deploy India’s first RM AirSeT 12kV Indoor Ring Main Unit  pilot integrated with T300 Field Remote Terminal Unit, enabling a more sustainable, connected, and future-ready power distribution network. By eliminating the use of SF6 gas and replacing it with pure air insulation, the deployment enables an estimated reduction of nearly 75 tons of CO2 equivalent emissions during the capex phase alone, marking a significant step toward cleaner and environmentally responsible grid infrastructure.

As Delhi’s peak power demand is projected to cross 9,000 MW amid rising urbanisation and growing cooling requirements, utilities are increasingly focusing on smarter and more sustainable grid infrastructure to ensure reliable power supply and support future energy needs. BRPL has been evaluating innovative medium-voltage switchgear technologies that can reduce environmental impact while improving operational reliability and network visibility. Schneider Electric deployed its SF6-free RM AirSeT 12kV solution, designed using pure air technology as an alternative to conventional gas-insulated switchgear. The deployment was further integrated with Schneider Electric’s T300 FRTU, enabling remote monitoring and control through BRPL’s SCADA network.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Deepak Sharma, Zone President – Greater India, MD & CEO, Schneider Electric India, said,

 “India’s power sector is entering a new phase of transformation where sustainability must become an integral part of every infrastructure decision. As the country works towards its energy transition goals, it is important that environmental considerations are embedded across the entire electricity value chain, including transmission and distribution networks. The shift towards cleaner technologies will be critical in building a power ecosystem that can support growing demand while advancing the nation’s decarbonization ambitions. This collaboration with BRPL reflects the kind of forward-looking action that will help shape the future of India’s energy infrastructure.”

Mr. Udai Singh – MD & CEO, Schneider Electric Infrastructure Ltd and VP, Power Systems, Schneider Electric India said,

 “As India advances its energy transition journey, the focus must extend beyond expanding generation capacity to building distribution networks that are sustainable, resilient, and digitally enabled. Utilities will play a pivotal role in enabling this transformation by advancing energy technologies that strengthen grid reliability, reduce environmental impact, and accelerate the adoption of SF6-free infrastructure. Our collaboration with BRPL reflects a shared commitment to accelerating grid modernization and creating future-ready infrastructure that can support India’s evolving energy needs.”

The project marks a significant milestone for India’s utility sector. For the first time in the country, RM AirSeT 12kV Indoor RMUs were sourced from Schneider Electric’s SBMV global plant, while the FRTU integration was carried out at the company’s MVI plant in India. This enabled greater customization and flexibility in line with BRPL’s operational requirements. To support the deployment, Schneider Electric facilitated specialized training for Indian teams at its AMT Hungary plant to strengthen expertise in RM AirSeT technology and FRTU integration.

BRPL official said,

 “At BRPL, we are continuously exploring technologies that strengthen network reliability while supporting our sustainability commitments. The deployment of Schneider Electric’s RM AirSeT solution with integrated FRTU is an important step in that direction. This pilot has given us valuable insight into how SF6-free and connected technologies can support the future evolution of distribution networks in India.”

The RM AirSeT 12kV solution integrated with T300 FRTU delivers both sustainability and operational advantages. The technology also removes concerns around SF6 leakage during operations and eliminates the need for SF6 recovery and recycling at end of life, while offering a robust, reliable, and longer-lasting alternative to conventional RMUs.

This deployment reflects Schneider Electric’s continued commitment to supporting India’s grid modernization journey through sustainable and digitally enabled technologies. The BRPL pilot is expected to serve as a strong reference for future large-scale adoption of SF6-free medium-voltage solutions across the Indian utility market.

AAEON’s 2026 Customer Satisfaction Survey Prize Winner Announced

Taipei, Taiwan – Aug 4:To help understand key market needs and maintain its customer-centric approach to delivering both high-quality products and efficient support for its customers, award-winning edge AI solutions provider AAEON (Stock Code: 6579) provides its customers with an annual satisfaction survey.

The questionnaire, which is a vital source of feedback regarding everything from the company’s product quality to its technical support and logistical efficiency, saw the company receive a 92.8% satisfaction rate among responders. Even with this positive outcome, AAEON continues to evaluate and improve its operations to achieve its goal of providing a world class, agile approach to addressing customer needs.

AAEON is delighted to announce that of the survey’s 113 entrants, one lucky customer will receive the grand prize of a Garmin Venu® 4 Advanced Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch.

The winner of 2026’s grand prize is Ms. Tang of Suzhou Hailiko Automation Equipment Co., Ltd.

AAEON would like to thank all of its customers that took the time to complete the survey, as it grants valuable insight into how AAEON can provide customers with the best possible service. AAEON looks forward to continuing its push to innovate and bring industry-leading solutions to market going forward.

Citizens of Udaipur Invited to Join ‘Rang De Udaipur’ at Urban Square Mall to Paint One of the City’s Biggest Tricolour Canvases

Aug 04: Urban Square Mall will serve as the venue for Rang De Udaipur, a community-led campaign that invites citizens from across the city to collectively paint one of Udaipur‘s largest Indian tricolour installations. The completed 300-foot-long and 18-foot-high tricolour will be unveiled at Urban Square Mall on August 15, celebrating the city’s unity, creativity, and patriotism.

Began on August 3, citizens from all walks of life including students, resident welfare associations, educational institutions, business communities, healthcare professionals, artists, and families are invited to participate by contributing their brushstrokes to this one-of-a-kind public artwork. The tricolour will be assembled between August 11 and 14 before its grand unveiling on Independence Day.

More than an art installation, Rang De Udaipur is envisioned as a celebration of collective pride and participation, giving every citizen an opportunity to leave their mark on a shared symbol of the nation. Every brushstroke will represent the spirit of Udaipur and the values of unity, freedom, and togetherness that define Independence Day.

Speaking about the initiative, Nandini Taneja, CEO, Bhumika Enterprise, said, “Rang De Udaipur is a celebration of the people who make Udaipur special. Through this initiative, we hope to transform a simple act of painting into a shared expression of pride, unity, and patriotism. By inviting citizens from every walk of life to contribute to a single artwork, we aim to create not just a landmark installation, but a lasting memory of what our city can achieve when it comes together. We are delighted that Urban Square is serving as the venue for this community-led celebration and look forward to welcoming thousands of participants to be part of this unique tribute to the nation.”

The campaign has been conceptualised and is being led by Urban Skechers, one of Udaipur‘s most recognised community art groups, known for bringing together citizens through large-scale creative initiatives. Supported by a team of artists and volunteers, Urban Skechers will guide participants throughout the painting sessions and oversee the creation and installation of the landmark tricolour ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.

Ikonic Me Brings High-Speed Cleaning to Modern Barbers with the Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector

Aug 4: Ikonic Me, a pioneer in modern self care innovation,launches Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector, a cordless 2-in-1 high-speed air blower and powerful mini vacuum cleaner in one. Designed for hairstylists and barbers to instantly clear hair and residue from clippers and tools, it’s equally effective for home and tech users, pet owners, and even car interiors, it is the ultimate compact high-performance cleaning tool that easily blast dust from electronics or suck up hair with the rechargeable design and washable HEPA filter.

Available in grey colour, it has an extreme turbo power that helps experience instant, professional-grade cleaning. This compact device delivers a high-velocity air stream to blast away stubborn dust, debris and crumbs in seconds, both in blower and vacuum modes that cleans faster. Engineered for versatility, Ikonic Me Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector features a complete precision nozzle kit with  Wide Nozzle for fast and general surface dusting and drying, a Narrow Crevice Nozzle for cleaning corners, keyboards and hard-to-reach spots, and a dedicated Vacuum Suction Nozzle designed to maximise suction for deeper cleaning. The device also offers customisable speed control, allowing users to adjust the airflow and suction intensity from Max to Min speed settings. For heavy debris, one can use it in high power while for delicate electronics go for low power. 

Further enhancing its functionality, Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector includes a Washable HEPA-Grade Filtration System that traps fine particles such as dust, pet hair and ash. The reusable filter is designed to be highly effective and help remove 99.7% of airborne particles. Powered by up to 45 minutes of continuous runtime, it quickly recharges in approximately 2.5 hours through a universal fast USB-C charging port.

Speaking about the launch, Rayed Merchant, Director, SSIZ International Pvt. Ltd., said,

“At Ikonic Me, we continue to develop innovative solutions that combine performance with everyday convenience. The Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector has been designed as a versatile cleaning tool that addresses a wide range of professional and personal cleaning needs. By combining high-speed airflow, precision vacuum functionality and a portable cordless design, it offers a convenient solution for maintaining workspaces and everyday essentials.”

As consumers increasingly look for compact, multifunctional devices that simplify everyday tasks, the Ikonic Me Sonic Jet Fan Dust Collector offers a practical solution designed for modern lifestyles, making everyday cleaning faster, smarter, and more convenient in one thoughtfully designed device.

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Expert Shares E-Bike Safety Tips for Kids and Teens

In suburban neighborhoods and city streets across the U.S., electric bikes, or e-bikes, have seen a massive surge in popularity among children, adolescents, and adults.

While e-bikes may look similar to traditional bicycles, their internal electric motors enable them to reach high speeds of 28 miles per hour and in some cases more—comparable to the speed of a motorcycle. This can be convenient for travel and exciting for young riders, but can also lead to serious injuries if riders don’t follow the proper safety precautions.

Helen Arbogast, PhD, MPH, leads the Injury Prevention Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. She has seen the number of e-bike-related injuries triple since last summer, with the largest number of crashes in kids ages 14 to 17 and increasing injuries among kids as young as 11 years old. She answers key questions about e-bike safety for families with kids or teens.

What are the most common e-bike injuries?

The most common injuries we’re seeing are the ones that are most jarring. They’re motorcycle-type injuries—concussions, fractures, internal traumas, traumatic brain injuries—that should not be the reality for young children.

The main reasons for these injuries are riding e-bikes at high speeds and riding in busy traffic. Many kids are not yet prepared to be riding e-bikes this fast in high-traffic areas, where accidents can easily occur. E-bikes are much heavier than traditional bicycles and are significantly harder for young riders to manage.

In June of 2025, we saw 10 kids with e-bike injuries at CHLA. In summer 2026, we’re seeing about one a day. At some hospitals in the South Bay, where e-bikes are especially common, doctors are seeing three to four times that number of injuries.

This is a growing problem, but there are many steps we can all take to address it.

At what age can kids ride e-bikes?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission- Opens in a new window advises that children under age 9 should not operate e-bikes, and children ages 9 through 12 should not operate any motorized product with a maximum speed higher than 10 miles per hour.

I always err on the side of safety, so I would recommend that no child below age 12 should be riding anything motorized. Some children are more mature and responsible at an earlier age than others, and parents know their kids best. But even the most responsible child under 16 does not have the skill set to traverse high-speed e-bikes around vehicles since they do not yet have driving experience and are not yet familiar with all road traffic safety rules.

Still, we know that e-bikes are common among middle schoolers and even elementary school-aged children. There’s a lot of peer pressure when kids have friends with e-bikes and they want one too. As a parent, you may have to make hard decisions about whether your child is ready for an e-bike.

How can kids ride e-bikes safely?

For families who choose to get e-bikes, there are a few important things to remember:

Start with a traditional bike. An e-bike should never be your child’s first bike. Your child should have lots of experience riding a traditional bicycle with adults and on their own before riding an e-bike.

Remember also that there’s a lot of peer pressure when kids have friends with e-bikes and they want one too, but as a parent, you may have to make hard decisions about whether your child is ready for an e-bike.

Learn the e-bike classification system. The 3-class system categorizes e-bikes by their speed and features, like whether they’re equipped with pedal assist technology only or have a throttle, like a motorcycle. It’s also helpful for parents to ride an e-bike themselves to better understand their weight and power, and to know which type would be best for their child.

Choose a helmet made for e-bikes. The law requires all e-bike riders 17 or younger to wear a helmet. But most families with e-bikes allow their children to use traditional bicycle helmets, which are only crash-tested up to 14 miles per hour. These helmets cannot withstand the crash forces that a child would encounter on a high-speed e-bike.

Instead, children need a helmet with an NTA 8776 certification, a safety designation developed specifically for e-bike riders. I also highly recommend a helmet equipped with MIPS, or multi-directional impact protection system. These helmets are crash-tested for speeds up to 28 miles per hour and can help prevent traumatic brain injuries in high-speed crashes. This applies to tandem riders on e-bikes too, who might sit behind their friends on a bike. Everyone should wear an NTA 8776 helmet when riding an e-bike.

Make sure your child can be seen. If your child rides in the evenings or near traffic, equip their e-bike with the proper lights and reflectors to ensure they are visible.

Avoid distractions while riding. Many e-bike accidents involve distractions—such as from phones or passengers. . If your friend is sitting behind you on your e-bike and talking in your ear or trying to show you a video on their phone while you’re riding, that is a recipe for disaster.

Ride with your child. Riding together helps your child learn the  rules of the road, how to judge speed and proximity of cars and pedestrians, and predict a driver’s move, which is an experience-based skill that takes time to develop.

Are there e-bike safety classes for kids?

Yes. CHLA’s Injury Prevention Program hosts e-bike safety events and bike rodeos at local schools, where kids can bring their bikes and learn safe riding practices. We also provide sample helmets and educational materials.

Families can also access online resources. Here in Southern California, cities like Huntington Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Redondo Beach, where we’re seeing the highest number of e-bike riders, are working with their local police departments to develop online safety trainings that teach young people about speed and road safety rules.

CHLA is also working with other trauma centers, health departments, and law enforcement to develop policies aimed at preventing e-bike accidents. For example, some high schools require students to complete an online safety course before they can park their e-bike on campus.

How can pedestrians avoid e-bike accidents?

Proximity and speed have everything to do with injury. If you’re encountering other people on e-bikes, move slowly or stay still to help prevent a collision. E-bikes are heavy and tricky to maneuver in tight spaces, so dense crowds are where collisions are more likely. It’s also important to be aware of what’s in your peripheral vision so you can see e-bikes approaching well in advance.

Avoiding distractions in areas with lots of motorized traffic is as important for pedestrians as it is e-bike riders. If you need to check a message on your phone, move to the edge of the street or sidewalk and stop, so you are not in the path of an e-bike or vehicle.

Awareness is the key to staying safe, and our team in Injury Prevention is doing all we can to make sure you have the right information to remain safe at all times.

Ahmedabad to Host NRAI’s Biggest-Ever 5th Food Delivery Summit, Bringing Together India’s Restaurant & Food Delivery Ecosystem

Hyderabad, Aug 4: The National Restaurant Association of India, the voice of the Indian restaurant industry, will host the fifth edition of the NRAI Food Delivery Summit on 20 August 2026 at The Forum – Hotel & Convention, Ahmedabad. Presented by Petpooja and supported by Coca-Cola, Janshakti, ITC Master Chef and Prasuma, the summit is set to be the largest edition in its history, bringing together over 5,000 restaurant owners,over 70 industry leaders, over 1,500 brands and delegates from over 30 cities across India. The summit will convene the country’s leading restaurateurs, food delivery platforms, technology providers, cloud kitchen operators, policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs to deliberate on the trends, innovations and opportunities shaping the future of India’s restaurant and food delivery ecosystem.

Centred around the theme “Automate to Dominate: Tech Powers Growth,” the summit will explore how AI, automation and digital technologies are transforming restaurant operations and food delivery. With India’s food services market projected to grow from nearly USD 90 billion in 2025 to USD 150 billion by 2030, restaurants are increasingly embracing technology to enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiency and drive sustainable growth. Against this backdrop, Ahmedabad, with its thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and rapidly evolving organised restaurant landscape, provides an ideal setting for industry leaders to discuss the business models, innovations and technologies shaping the sector’s next phase of growth.

Over the last four editions, the NRAI Food Delivery Summit has evolved alongside India’s rapidly transforming restaurant and food delivery ecosystem. Launched in Mumbai  with a focus on cloud kitchens during the post-pandemic recovery, the summit expanded in Pune  to examine the evolving delivery economy and food aggregators, while Bengaluru  spotlighted technology, automation and sustainability. New Delhi  shifted the conversation towards innovation, collaboration and the future of food delivery. Building on the momentum of these four successful editions, the fifth edition in Ahmedabad will centre on “Automate to Dominate: Tech Powers Growth,” bringing together industry leaders to explore how AI, automation and digital technologies are shaping the next phase of growth for India’s restaurant and food delivery ecosystem.

Sagar Daryani, President, National Restaurant Association of India  and CEO & Co-founder, Wow! Momo Foods, said,

 “India’s food delivery ecosystem has evolved significantly over the past few years, creating new opportunities for restaurants while also introducing new operational and business complexities. As the industry enters its next phase of growth, it is essential for restaurant operators, technology partners and ecosystem stakeholders to come together, exchange perspectives and collectively shape solutions that drive sustainable growth. The fifth edition of the NRAI Food Delivery Summit builds on the momentum of previous editions by creating a platform to discuss how AI, automation and technology can enable restaurants to become more efficient, resilient and future-ready.”

Chef Aanal Kotak, Chapter Head, NRAI and Founder, The Secret Kitchen (India & Global), said,

 “Gujarat has always had a strong entrepreneurial culture, and over the years Ahmedabad has evolved into one of the country’s most vibrant food destinations, with a restaurant ecosystem that continues to innovate and cater to changing consumer preferences. Hosting the fifth edition of the summit here reflects the city’s growing importance within India’s food and hospitality landscape. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from across the country for meaningful discussions that will help shape the future of restaurants and food delivery in India.”

The summit will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside conversations and networking sessions led by some of the most influential voices from India’s restaurant and food service ecosystem, including Mr. Sagar Daryani, President, NRAI and CEO & Co-Founder, Wow! Momo Foods; Mr. Pranav Rungta, Vice President, NRAI and Founder & Director, Churchgate Hospitality Pvt. Ltd.; Ms. Aanal Kotak, Chapter Head, NRAI Ahmedabad – Founder, The Secret Kitchen ; Mr. Sameer Khetarpal, Managing Director & CEO, Jubilant FoodWorks Ltd.; Mr. Ankit Chona, Managing Director & Founder, Hocco Ice Creams; Mr. Ankush Grover, Global CEO, Rebel Foods; Mr. Zorawar Kalra, Vice President, NRAI and Restaurateur; Mr. Gurpreet Singh Tikku, Founder, Mister Tikku; and Mr. Gaurav Kanwar, Founder & CEO, Harajuku Tokyo Café, among other industry leaders. Discussions will explore AI-driven transformation, evolving consumer behaviour, operational excellence, entrepreneurship, emerging business models and the innovations shaping the future of India’s restaurant and food delivery ecosystem.

Champion Mirabai Chanu Unveils MMTC-PAMP’s ‘Virasat’ Recycled Gold Coin to Celebrate India’s 80th Year of Independence

New Delhi, Aug 04: Marking the 80th year of India’s Independence, MMTC-PAMP, India’s only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery gold and silver refiner, today officially launched ‘Virasat– Celebrating 80th Year of India’s Independence,’ a limited-edition 10g commemorative gold coin crafted entirely from 999.9+ pure recycled gold, at Taj Mansingh, New Delhi. The coin was unveiled by Champion Mirabai Chanu, Olympic silver medallist and three-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, who also became the first recipient of the commemorative edition in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to Indian sport and her role in inspiring millions of Indians.

Fresh from creating history by becoming the first Indian weightlifter to win three consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medals, Mirabai Chanu embodies the spirit of resilience, perseverance and excellence that has shaped India’s journey over the last eight decades. By presenting the inaugural Virasat coin to one of India’s most celebrated sporting icons, MMTC-PAMP pays tribute not only to the nation’s achievements but also to the individuals whose dedication continues to elevate India’s standing on the global stage.

Crafted in 10 grams of 999.9+ fine (24K) recycled gold, the coin features a premium minted finish and is presented in MMTC–PAMP’s tamper-proof packaging with certified purity authentication. Limited to only 8,000 pieces, the exclusive edition coin will be available through MMTC-PAMP retail stores, authorised channel partners and the company’s website.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Samit Guha, Managing Director & CEO, MMTC-PAMP said, ” As India celebrates the 80th year of Independence, Virasat is our tribute to a nation that continues to inspire the world through its resilience, innovation and achievements. We are honoured to present the first Virasat commemorative coin to Mirabai Chanu, whose remarkable journey embodies the determination and excellence that define modern India. Just as MMTC-PAMP is committed to building a more responsible and self-reliant precious metals ecosystem through sustainable practices such as gold recycling, Mirabai‘s relentless pursuit of excellence reflects the same spirit of commitment and dedication towards the nation. Through Virasat, we celebrate not only India’s glorious past but also the people who continue to shape its future.” 

The launch reflects MMTC–PAMP’s commitment to responsible sourcing while supporting the Government of India’s broader efforts to reduce dependence on imported gold, conserve foreign exchange, and advance the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

India remains one of the world’s largest consumers of gold and imports over 90 per cent of its annual requirement. As demand for precious metals continues to rise, responsible recycling has emerged as a critical pillar in building a resilient and self-reliant ecosystem. By refining and reintroducing existing gold into the formal economy without compromising purity or quality, MMTC-PAMP is helping create a more sustainable supply chain while reducing dependence on imports. India’s gold imports touched nearly US$72 billion in FY2025-26, highlighting the growing importance of strengthening domestic recycling infrastructure.

The launch of Virasat further reinforces MMTC–PAMP’s long-term commitment to creating an organised ecosystem for precious metals recycling in India. The company currently operates 17 gold recycling stores across the country and continues to expand responsible recycling infrastructure to make recycling more accessible and transparent.

Earlier this year, MMTC-PAMP also introduced the industry’s first organised buyback programme for silver coins, bars and jewellery across select retail stores in India. The initiative enables consumers to securely sell their silver holdings through an organised channel while encouraging recycling and supporting a more circular economy for precious metals.

As India enters its ninth decade of Independence, Virasat– Celebrating 80th Year of India’s Independence stands as a timeless tribute to the nation’s remarkable past, dynamic present and sustainable future. More than a commemorative collectible, the coin celebrates the enduring values of resilience, innovation and responsibility that continue to define India’s progress.