Category Archives: Business

Myntra Street Luxe Welcomes HUEMN: A Game-Changer in Urban Fashion

Bengaluru, 2 April 2025: Myntra has announced the launch of HUEMN, one of India’s most popular avant-garde fashion labels, on Myntra Street Luxe. Renowned for its bold visual storytelling, handcrafted luxury, and unconventional silhouettes, HUEMN’s arrival on Myntra underscores the platform’s commitment to strengthening its portfolio, while the designer fashion label becomes more accessible to Myntra’s premium fashion-forward audience across the country.

Designed for those who see fashion as a powerful form of self-expression, the collection features 80+ styles including oversized T-shirts, shirts, sweatshirts, handcrafted pieces, and versatile outerwear that embody HUEMN’s signature aesthetic. HUEMN’s latest launch showcases some of its most defining designs, featuring key elements from the Mud collection, the Blood capsule— an artistic exploration of the beauty of life and death— and the Diversity collection. This release also includes HUEMN’s most recognisable visual identities, such as the HUEMN Gorilla, which has become synonymous with the brand’s bold storytelling, and the HUEMN Devil, a powerful representation of rebellion and individuality. Additionally, the Lay’s x HUEMN collaboration, a tribute to the universal love and connection people share with their favorite potato chips, will be available on Myntra Street Luxe, symbolising both comfort and the joy of indulgence. The centerpiece of the collection is the latest HUEMN x Shreyas Iyer drop, meticulously designed to enable seamless movement both on and off the field.

Speaking on the launch, Jayanti Ganguly, VP, Category Management, Myntra, said, “HUEMN is a pioneer in India’s evolving luxury streetwear movement, and we are thrilled to bring its bold, handcrafted designs to Myntra Street Luxe. As streetwear continues to gain momentum, this addition to the portfolio strengthens our commitment to bringing more luxury offerings to our fashion-forward customers. The collaboration will be an extension of HUEMN’s vision, as Myntra enables them to reach a wider audience across the country.”

HUEMN’s design philosophy is deeply anchored in craftsmanship and storytelling. The brand collaborates with skilled artisans to integrate traditional techniques into contemporary silhouettes while partnering with specialists to develop innovative, unprecedented forms, shapes, and textures. Gender fluidity is fundamental to HUEMN’s approach— each piece is crafted for movement, comfort, and self-expression, transcending conventional distinctions of fashion.

Pranav Misra, Co-Founder and Creative Director, HUEMN adds, “HUEMN is proud to join forces with Myntra, a platform that shares our passion for innovative, fashion-forward designs. This association marks a significant step in our mission to champion diversity and inclusivity in Indian fashion, breaking away from traditional norms and making high fashion more accessible to all. We believe fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, transcending age, size and background. We’re excited to have Myntra customers join the HUEMN community, and we look forward to empowering more individuals to express themselves unapologetically through our designs.”

Streetwear in India has been witnessing an increasing demand. From hip-hop and skate culture to homegrown street styles, the rise of socially conscious, community-led fashion is shaping the way young India dresses today. With over 30 streetwear brands like Extra Butter, BAPE, By Parra, Casablanca, Gramicci, Real Bad Man among others, Myntra Street is tapping into this culture, marking a significant step in the platform’s expansion of trend-driven fashion.

CaratLane Brings the Universe to Jewellery with Stunning Sol and Luna Festive Editions

Mumbai, 2nd April, 2025: CaratLane – A TATA Product, India’s leading omnichannel jewellery retailer, simultaneously marked the debut of two exquisite collections—Sol & Luna—inspired by nature’s celestial wonders in their truest and most brilliant form. The collection launches, perfectly timed for the auspicious occasions of all the regional New Years and Akshaya Tritiya, beautifully capture the significance of new beginnings with their intricate designs.

Saumen Bhaumik, CEO & MD – CaratLane, remarked, “At CaratLane, we’re committed to making stunning jewellery. This festive season, we’re bringing 2 distinct collections – Sol and Luna, deeply symbolic of blending celestial grandeur embraced with prosperity and auspiciousness. Sol, the dawn of your brilliance is a tribute to new beginnings and endless possibilities. Inspired by the moon’s ever-changing beauty, Luna is a tribute to every phase of you. These collections perfectly reflect our vision of high-jewellery craftsmanship and everyday elegance, designed to be effortlessly wearable at accessible price points.”

Sol—crafted in 18KT yellow gold, SIFG diamonds & special-cut yellow gemstones—is inspired by the golden hues of sunrise and its reflection on the horizon. The designs embody the dawn of brilliance, marking an auspicious start to every journey, symbolising fresh opportunities captured through the brilliance of diamonds.

Luna, on the other hand, is inspired by the ever-changing phases of the moon, metaphorically representing the different sides and transformative journey of its wearer. Crafted in 18KT gold, the intricate diamond-studded designs capture the moon’s serene yet powerful aura, symbolizing elegance, resilience, and transformation. Luna is a timeless addition to any jewellery collection, embodying the essence of life’s cyclical changes.

To mark the launch of Sol & Luna, CaratLane is making a strong impact with a high-visibility campaign, ensuring these collections reach a wide audience. As an associate sponsor of the IPL, exclusively with Star Sports HD and JioHotstar, the brand is making a bold statement by showcasing its designs to millions of viewers. This is further amplified by strategic OOH ads in key markets and newspaper ads across The Times of India publication, ensuring maximum visibility and impact.

From Ideas to Empires: How VCs Are Shaping India’s Startup Landscape

New Delhi, April 02, 2025: As a part of the world’s largest startup event, Startup Mahakumbh, an exclusive dinner program is being hosted on April 4, to synergize the efforts of the venture capitalists (VCs) – Limited Partners-General Partners (LPGP) with India’s startup ecosystem.

This exclusive gathering will be graced by the Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal and dignitaries from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Shri Amardeep Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT, Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, Chairman along with other eminent leaders including Shri Manoj Mittal, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and key stakeholders from the venture capitals, the startups and ‘Organizing Committee’ members of the Startup Mahakumbh.

Talking about the exclusive program, Dr. Arvind Gupta, Startup Mahakumbh Organizing Committee Member and Head of the Digital India Foundation, said, “With the Startup Mahakumbh poised to be a game-changer for the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem and the LPGP being its vital, this program will serve as an essential touchpoint for fostering meaningful investor-startup collaborations.

He added, “Initiatives like Fund of Funds for Startups have revolutionized India’s startup ecosystem. Under PM Narendra Modi ‘s vision, our domestic VCs are now powering incredible innovators from tier 2-3 cities which is enabling Bharat’s startups to truly lead India’s techade.”

The Indian government, through the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) scheme, provides financial support to startups by contributing to the capital of SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), with a corpus of Rs.10,000 crore. Through this initiative, Rs. 11,688 cr. has been committed through 151 AlFs, catalyzing a capital pool of around Rs.91,000 cr. which clearly reflects the great success of this program.

The Limited Partners (LPs) are institutional investors such as pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and family offices that provide capital to venture capital (VC) firms, while General Partners (GPs) are the fund managers responsible for investing this capital into high-potential startups.

In recent times, India’s venture capital sector has seen unprecedented growth, with record-breaking funds raised and increasing foreign investment. The country’s VC ecosystem has played a transformative role in fueling innovation, creating jobs, and driving economic growth, with top investors backing deep-tech, fintech, AI-driven enterprises, and green energy startups. This influx of capital is helping Indian startups expand beyond domestic markets and positioning them as global players.

FY25 Highlights : NTPC records 438.6 BU of Total Generation, Up By 3.88% YOY

NTPC Ltd, India’s largest integrated power utility, has achieved remarkable growth in its operational performance during the financial year 2024-2025 with a significant increase in total power generation by 3.88% as compared to the previous financial year (FY24).

The NTPC Group recorded a total generation of 438.6 Billion Units (BU) in FY’25, surpassing the previous financial year’s generation of 422.2 BU. These accomplishments reinforce NTPC’s commitment to delivering reliable and affordable power to the nation.

In addition to this, NTPC Group also made substantial strides in expanding its installed capacity. During FY25, the Group successfully added 3,972 MW of capacity, bringing its cumulative installed capacity to around 80 GW by the end of FY25.

Apart from operational capacity of approx. 80 GW, additional 32 GW capacity including 15 GW Renewable capacity is under construction. The company is committed to achieve 60 GW of Renewable Energy capacity by 2032.

Along with power generation, NTPC has also ventured into various new business areas including e-mobility, battery storage, pumped hydro storage, Waste-to-Energy, Nuclear, Green Hydrogen solutions etc. and participated in the bidding for power distribution of Union Territories.

NTPC Ltd. is India’s largest integrated power utility, contributing 1/4th of the power requirement of the country. With a diverse portfolio of thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power plants, NTPC is dedicated to delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to the Nation. The company is committed to adopting best practices, fostering innovation, and embracing clean energy technologies for a greener future.

State-Level Poets Unite at Shrimant Publication’s 4th Anniversary Book Launch Celebration

Pune, – Shrimant Publication proudly marked its 4th anniversary with a grand literary event held at Cummins Hall, Patrakar Bhavan, Pune on 27th March, 2025. The event featured the launch of three new books and a relaunch of a fourth book, insightful panel discussions, and a state-level Kavi Sammelan (poetry gathering), making it a remarkable celebration of literature and creativity.

The event was graced by a distinguished panel of guests, including Chief Guest Dr. A. N. Rasankute (President-Konkan Region, Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Parishad) and Guest of Honour Dr. Alka Naik (Vice President-Konkan Region, Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Parishad). They were joined by Vallabh Gadade (Shrimant Sir), founder of Shrimant Publication, along with author Prakash Kadam and compilers Sameer Gudhate and Kanchan Nikumbh.

The celebration was expertly anchored by Ganesh Tanpure of Shrimant Publication and co-anchored by Siya Kulkarni, who guided the audience through the various segments of the program with professionalism and warmth.

Three highly anticipated books by Prakash Kadam (Jeevan Ek Saapshidicha Khel), Sameer Gudhate (Beyond the Horizon) and Kanchan Nikumbh (Ansuni Kavitaye) were launched during the event, showcasing the diverse literary talent nurtured by Shrimant Publication. Alongside the book launch, another distinguished author, Dr. Alka Naik’s Samarpan was relaunched, who alongside others, shared her experiences and perspective on her literary journey.

Following the book launch, a Kavi Sammelan brought together poetic voices from across the city. In a unique twist, participating poets were selected through a chit-based draw, ensuring an inclusive and spontaneous platform for emerging and established poets alike.

In addition to the book launches, the event featured a special exhibition outside the hall curated by Kanchan Nikumbh, displaying artistic frames and bookmarks. Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase publication books by Shrimant Publication.

Reflecting on the journey of the past four years, the event served as a tribute to esteemed authors, respected mentors, diligent employees, and cooperative collaborators who have contributed to the success of Shrimant Publication.

The celebration brought together literary enthusiasts, poets, authors, and readers across the city, underscoring Shrimant Publication’s motto: “We Are Here To Serve The Literature.”

India’s No.1 Choice: Muthoot Finance Leads Financial Trust Rankings for 9th Straight Year

New Delhi, April 01, 2025: Muthoot Finance, India’s largest gold loan NBFC, has once again been recognized as India’s No.1 Most Trusted Financial Services Brand for 2025 by TRA’s Brand Trust Report. This remarkable achievement marks the 9th consecutive year since 2016 that Muthoot Finance has received this prestigious recognition, reaffirming its legacy of trust, reliability, and excellence in financial services.

TRA’s Brand Trust Report is one of the most credible studies on brand trust in India. The 2025 edition is based on extensive primary research conducted across 16 cities and over 6,000 hours of fieldwork. The study meticulously evaluates consumer perception and trust-based brand behaviours to identify India’s Most Trusted Brands.

Muthoot Finance has consistently set industry benchmarks through its customer-centric approach, cutting-edge digital transformation initiatives, and responsible lending practices. With a strong focus on financial inclusion, the company ensures seamless access to credit for individuals and small businesses across urban and rural India. It adheres to the highest standards of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and transparency, fully aligning with regulatory guidelines and industry best practices. By prioritizing ethical lending, data security, and customer education, Muthoot Finance remains committed to providing secure, hassle-free, and affordable financial solutions, reinforcing its legacy of trust and financial empowerment across the country.

Mr. Alexander George Muthoot, Joint Managing Director, Muthoot Finance, said:

“It is an honor to be recognized as India’s No.1 Most Trusted Financial Services Brand for the 9th consecutive year. This achievement reflects our deep-rooted commitment to serving customers with integrity, transparency, and innovation. Trust is the foundation of our business, and this recognition strengthens our resolve to continue empowering individuals and small businesses with easy access to credit, ensuring their financial well-being and growth.”

At Muthoot Finance, we have always prioritised the needs of our customers by offering them reliable, compliant, and digitally advanced financial solutions. Being recognized as India’s most trusted financial brand yet again is a testament to our customer-first approach and the relentless efforts of 40,000+ dedicated Muthootians across the country. We remain committed to delivering value-driven services while upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and regulatory compliance.”

With a vast network of over 7,000+ branches, Muthoot Finance is the flagship company of The Muthoot Group, which has 20 diversified business divisions, serving over 2.5 lakh customers daily, enabling them to meet their financial needs with ease. Muthoot Finance’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its customers- it is also a ‘Great Place to Work’ certified for the 4th consecutive year by the Great Place to Work Institute.

Exclusive Travel Benefits: Paytm Travel Pass Brings Insurance, Discounts and More

Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), India’s leading payments and financial services distribution company and pioneer of QR codes, Soundbox, and mobile payments, has introduced the Paytm Travel Pass, a subscription-based offering designed to provide significant savings and convenience for frequent flyers and business travellers. The Pass includes free cancellations, travel insurance, and seat discounts worth up to ₹15,200, making it a cost-effective choice for travellers.

The Paytm Travel Pass offers complimentary benefits applicable four times, making it ideal for those who travel frequently. It includes free domestic flight cancellations, ensuring no money is lost if travel plans change, along with travel insurance coverage for providing protection against baggage loss, flight delays, and other unexpected disruptions, enhancing the overall travel experience.

The pass also includes a ₹150 discount on seat selection for domestic flights, allowing travellers to choose their preferred seats for added comfort. Whether selecting a window seat for the view or an aisle seat for extra space, this benefit enhances the overall travel experience. With a three-month validity, the pass provides flexibility for multiple trips, helping travellers avoid fluctuating fares and cancellation fees.

Vikash Jalan, CEO – Paytm Travel said, “We aim to capture the growing segment of frequent flyers and business travelers by offering cost savings, flexibility, and added travel security. With the Paytm Travel Pass, domestic travellers can benefit from seat discounts, free cancellations, and travel insurance, ensuring greater financial flexibility and peace of mind. This initiative aligns with our vision of providing innovative solutions that enhance the overall travel experience.”

Laundry Made Smarter: Samsung Introduces AI-Driven Bespoke Vented Combo

India, GURUGRAM – April 1st 2025: Samsung Electronics today announced the addition of the Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo1 — an All-in-One Washer and Electric Dryer with a 7-inch AI Home touchscreen – to its lineup of Bespoke AI Laundry appliances. The combined unit eliminates the need to transfer laundry between washing and drying, while also bringing fast drying performance and intelligent functionality that makes laundry remarkably convenient.

Samsung has continued to innovate in the laundry room to offer consumers a wide array of washer and dryer models for spaces of all sizes and layouts. The Bespoke AI Laundry Ventless Combo was a standout in 2024, as it raised the bar for all-in-one washer-dryers by eliminating the common performance sacrifices associated with the format. The new Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo builds on its innovation and success, giving consumers another stylish and convenient space-saving option.

“At Samsung, our mission is to create smart home solutions that make life easier, more efficient and more sustainable, elevating home space to the next level in both performance and style,” said Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “The Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo brings exceptional time-saving efficiency to the laundry room in a compact all-in-one solution.”

Convenient, Time Saving Functionality

The Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo is a powerful model that washes and dries clothes completely in a single machine in just 68 minutes2 when using the Super Speed cycle. Its roomy 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity drum lets users do more laundry in a single load, and its vented design uses the internal heater and fan to move hot air through clothes and vent out moisture, ensuring clothes are always dried quickly and thoroughly. For even more convenience, the Vented Combo can simply swap out the currently installed washer and electric vented dryer.

And with Samsung’s AI Bubble™ technology, users can enjoy clean clothes, cycle after cycle. Water, air and detergent combine to create a cleansing foam that seeps into fabrics for an effective wash. To tackle tough stains without spending time pretreating them, the Steam Wash cycle comes into action. The drum releases steam to thoroughly saturate every item in the load and ensure an effective deep clean.

Effortless Operation

Like the other products in Samsung’s Bespoke AI Laundry lineup, the Vented Combo automates the process of washing and drying clothes, streamlining laundry routine and making it faster, easier experiences. Its intuitive 7-inch AI Home display is simple to use and gives a quick access to the Combo’s settings for effortless operation. And for those busy moments when the user is multi-tasking or has their hands full, convenient Voice Control capabilities let them give commands to turn the Combo on or off, access settings and more.3

Samsung’s AI Opti Wash & Dry™ technology uses powerful AI sensors to detect soil levels and fabrics, automatically adjusting settings as needed during the cycle to deliver a better wash and dry.4 For added convenience, the Flex Auto Dispense System automatically dispenses up to 47 loads5 of detergent — or users can choose to split the compartment, so it dispenses up to 34 loads of fabric softener and 25 loads of detergent. And when the clothes are finished drying, the Auto Open Door pops open, allowing leftover moisture to evaporate, preventing unpleasant, musty odor so clothes are fresh and dry when taken out.

And with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, users can also get end-of-cycle alerts and remotely start, stop or delay the Combo from their mobile phone, using the SmartThings app.

Innovations To Improve Energy Efficiency

The Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo is engineered for seamless sustainable living. As an ENERGY STAR® Certified washer-dryer, it has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for delivering energy efficiency along with the latest in technological innovation.7

SmartThings Energy allows them to monitor power consumption and estimate their monthly electricity bill for improved control over their energy usage.8 They can also turn on AI Energy Mode9 to have the Vented Combo automatically optimize its energy consumption and reduce usage by up to 30%.10 The Vented Combo is also equipped with Samsung’s Less Microfiber™ cycle setting, which allows users to gently clean synthetic textiles while reducing 39% of microfibers released into the ocean.11

Strengthening India’s Glass Industry: AGI Greenpac to Expand Capacity by 25% with New Plant

India, April 1st, 2025: – AGI Greenpac Limited, India’s largest manufacturer of container glass, today announced setting up of a state-of-the-art greenfield, high-output and high-efficiency manufacturing plant in Madhya Pradesh with capital expenditure outlay of ~₹700 Crore. This expansion will increase the company’s container glass manufacturing production capacity by ~25% to meet the rising demand for high-quality glass packaging products.

The new plant, designed with a planned daily production capacity of 500 tonnes, will produce commercial glass for key sectors including alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, and food. AGI Greenpac anticipates commencing commercial production within 24 months. The timeline demonstrates the company’s commitment to efficient project execution and rapid market responsiveness.

Madhya Pradesh provides AGI Greenpac a strategic advantage through its central location, robust infrastructure, and readily available raw materials. These combined benefits will significantly enhance AGI Greenpac’s container glass production capabilities and support its strategic expansion across India.

Commenting on the investment, Mr. Sandip Somany, Chairman and Managing Director of AGI Greenpac Limited, stated, “Madhya Pradesh’s favorable business environment and strategic location aligns with our growth strategy. This state-of-the-art plant will enable us to meet the rising demand for tailored glass packaging solutions, providing our customers with enhanced quality products and will further expand our share in the Indian container glass market.”

The facility will expand AGI Greenpac’s geographical spread, integrating advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainable practices, demonstrating the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and long-term growth. This expansion strengthens the company’s manufacturing footprint, complementing its existing glass plants in Telangana.

Energy Milestone: Bajel Projects Commissions Key 400kV Transmission Lines for a Stronger Grid

Mumbai, 1 April 2025: Bajel Projects Limited, a Bajaj Group company and a leader in power transmission and distribution solutions, has announced the successful commissioning of two significant 400kV transmission line projects including Raipur Pool – Dhamtari (CKT-I & CKT-II) and Navsari – Magarwada (CKT-I & CKT-II). With proven expertise, the firm has executed both power projects under challenging conditions.

Commissioned on March 22, 2025, the Raipur Pool – Dhamtari transmission line spans 88.65 km. It involved the supply and installation of specialised 400kV Dwarf Towers, enabling seamless execution in space-restricted locations. Despite numerous challenges such as Right-of-Way constraints, waterlogged areas, and high-voltage crossings, the project was delivered seamlessly.

Similarly, the Navsari – Magarwada transmission line, spanning 44 km commissioned for Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. (PGCIL), achieved an outstanding 1.5 million safe man-hours last week. The project, delivered ahead of schedule, maintained the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and safety despite complex terrain and stringent optimisation criteria.

Commenting on the success Mr. Rajesh Ganesh, MD and CEO, of Bajel Projects said, “Our proficiency in EXECUTION positions us as a trusted partner for our customers as we ensure efficiency, quality and safety at every stage. With the latest technology, best-in-class practices, and a relentless pursuit of progress, we shall continue to set new benchmarks.

He added, “The two projects are part of our continuous commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainable EXECUTION in power transmission for furthering the energy sector in India.”

As India accelerates its transformation capacity, the projects aim to strengthen the power grid and its ability to support increased power flows. It plays a vital role in helping India achieve its ambitious target of adding 1,274 GVA of transformation capacity by 2032. This is in line with the National Electricity Plan (Transmission) by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA).