Category Archives: Business

India’s Semiconductor Sector to Witness Significant Growth in Women’s Participation by 2030

Amid India’s fast-growing semiconductor sector—expected to reach USD 79.20 billion by FY2031, the global industry is poised to become a trillion-dollar market by the end of the decade. This growth presents unprecedented opportunities for talent, with the Indian semiconductor sector projected to generate 1 million jobs by 2026. However, reaching this scale demands a more inclusive workforce as the industry cannot thrive alone as a male-dominated field. Women’s participation will be essential in propelling its growth and innovation.

Currently, women comprise just a fourth of India’s 220,000-strong chip design and engineering workforce, but this figure is expected to surpass 30% by 2027. Despite this, men continue to dominate key semiconductor roles. For instance, in the Chip Semiconductor Fabrication, men and women engage stands at 60:40 (men to women); Chip Design is at 70:30, ATMP (Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging) stands at 80:20, and so forth. The gap extends to leadership as well—men hold 93%-95%% of leadership roles in the sector, while women account for only 5%-7% at the top levels. Bridging this divide is essential for building a sustainable and diverse semiconductor ecosystem in India.

This gender gap in India’s semiconductor sector can be bridged through upskilling programs, pay parity, and inclusive employee benefits such as maternity leave, career break support, flexible work options, and project-based roles. Commenting on this gap, Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services added, “There is a need for both mindset and infrastructural shifts to increase the participation of women. This implies that gender-neutral policies and equal opportunities need to be prioritized. Additionally, Infrastructural shifts in the form of worker housing, healthcare facilities, and efficient transport will also play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining skilled workforce. Collaboration between the government and private sector will be key in building safe, sustainable, and worker-friendly environments. As India accelerates its electronics manufacturing ambitions, integrating women into the design and manufacturing ecosystem will be essential.”

Organic Tattva Marks Women’s Day with Meaningful Campaign: ‘Woh Ghar Se Nikalti Hai Ghar Banane’

New Delhi, India – March 10, 2025 — Organic Tattva, a leading brand in organic food, launched a powerful Women’s Day campaign, “Woh Ghar Se Nikalti Hai Ghar Banane,” a tribute to women across various walks of life who, through their hard work and determination, are building homes both in their professional lives and within their own families. The campaign, a heartfelt montage, showcases women in different roles, emphasizing that no matter the nature of their work, each woman is tirelessly contributing towards creating a better home, a better world.

Kriti Mehrotra, Co-Founder of Organic Tattva, emphasized the essence of the campaign:

 “At Organic Tattva, we understand the daily balancing act women undertake. As a woman entrepreneur myself, I recognize how difficult it is to be expected to excel at work and at home simultaneously, without much acknowledgment. This campaign is our small, but powerful way to honour those efforts. It’s a reminder that whether we’re managing a team, running a business, or managing a home, we are building something meaningful every single day. It’s time the world recognizes that.”

The campaign has been conceptualized and delivered by Maximus Collabs, an innovative advertising agency, with women co-founders who understand the complex emotions of working women today. The montage highlights how women, regardless of their profession, bear the burden of societal expectations and guilt, but always rise above it—creating safe, loving homes in every capacity they serve.

Manisha Singh, Co-Founder of Maximus Collabs, shared her thoughts on the campaign:

 “As women, we constantly face the challenge of balancing professional aspirations with the pressures of being the pillar of our homes. The societal narrative often makes us feel guilty for working, yet we persist. This campaign is a reflection of that resilience. Every woman is a force that creates and nurtures, whether she’s a teacher, a doctor, an entrepreneur, an armed force, a cleaner or a homemaker. She doesn’t stop; she doesn’t give up. This is the real story we wanted to tell—one of strength, sacrifice and perseverance.”

The campaign aims to shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of women and to celebrate their courage, strength and determination to make a difference, both in their homes and in the workplace. Organic Tattva, a company that advocates for holistic well-being, is proud to support women in all their roles—nurturing families while fostering their careers.

The “Woh Ghar Se Nikalti Hai Ghar Banane” campaign is a heartfelt expression of gratitude towards every woman who, despite societal pressures, works hard and creates homes in every sense of the word. Organic Tattva and Maximus Collabs hope that this campaign will inspire others to appreciate and empower women, not just on Women’s Day, but every day.

Novotel Hyderabad and HICC Take Major Leap Towards Eco-Friendly Future with Solar Energy

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) & Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), known for their commitment to sustainable hospitality, have taken a significant step in environmental responsibility by installing a cutting-edge solar power system. With 1,818 solar panels spread across 48,904 square feet, this state-of-the-art installation boasts a capacity of 1000 KWp, generating an impressive 4,000 units per day and 1,460,000 units annually—accounting for 50% of HICC’s energy consumption.

Harnessing the power of renewable energy, this initiative is set to reduce CO2 emissions by 1,022 tons per annum. The investment of INR 2.6 crores into this sustainable energy system is projected to yield savings of INR 1.17 crores annually, with an outstanding return on investment (ROI) of just 2.22 years. This milestone aligns with the property’s long-term vision of integrating eco-friendly solutions into its operations, reaffirming its role as a leader in responsible hospitality.

The solar panel installation is part of a larger sustainability framework that Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and HICC have been actively developing. With 287 rooms and a sprawling 65,000 sq. ft. pillar-less convention centre, the property stands as a beacon of sustainable hospitality, driven by its commitment to green practices.

“The installation of our solar power system is not merely about adopting renewable energy; it signifies a deeper commitment to pioneering a greener future for our industry, our city, our country, and our planet,” Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC. “Sustainability is at the core of everything we do, reflecting Accor’s global ethos of responsible hospitality. By embracing innovative solutions, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also setting a benchmark for sustainable operations in the hospitality sector.”

NHCC is the first hotel in the region to adopt atmospheric water generation technology with O by Aria Life Water, which extracts and remineralizes water from the air, reducing dependence on groundwater. Additionally, the implementation of a dual solar power and water heating system allows the property to generate electricity while heating 4,000 liters of water daily, contributing to substantial energy conservation. Food waste management is another key area where NHCC has made significant progress, with the use of Orbisk technology to track and optimize food consumption, reducing overall waste.

Reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality, NHCC & HICC have earned the prestigious Green Key Certification, an internationally recognized eco-label. By reducing reliance on conventional energy sources, NHCC & HICC aim to contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy movement while maintaining the highest standards of guest experience.

Shriram MF’s ‘SamayKeSaathRotation’ Video Aims to Boost Financial Awareness Among Investors

Mumbai, 10th March 2025: Just like cricket, investing is all about timing, strategy, and smart decisions. Shriram Mutual Fund (MF) continues to simplify complex investment concepts through its investor education and awareness initiative. As part of its commitment to empowering investors, Shriram MF has launched a new educative video under the #SamayKeSaathRotation campaign, making sector rotation easier to understand and implement.

Why #SamayKeSaathRotation Matters

Market trends change, and staying ahead requires smart portfolio adjustments. Many investors struggle with knowing when to shift their investments, often holding onto underperforming sectors for too long. This campaign breaks down sector rotation into an easy-to-follow process, helping investors make informed decisions and align their portfolios with changing market conditions.

Cricket Meets Investing: A Winning Strategy

The newly released video draws a compelling parallel between cricket and investing. It features two friends watching a match, where one expresses frustration over his stagnant portfolio. He soon realizes that just as a cricket team rotates its players for optimal performance, investors must also rotate sectors in their portfolios to keep their investments aligned with market trends. The message is clear—timing and strategy are key to staying ahead in both cricket and investing.

The video’s core message revolves around three simple steps to Smarter Investing:

• Samjho – Understand sector cycles
• Dekho – Observe market trends
• Badlo – Adjust and rotate investments wisely

Kartik Jain, MD & CEO of Shriram AMC, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “Many investors find it challenging to identify the right time to shift their portfolios. Through #SamayKeSaathRotation, we aim to simplify the concept of sector rotation, empowering investors to make timely and well-informed decisions. Just as a cricket team rotates players to optimize performance, investors must adapt their portfolios to evolving market conditions to stay ahead.”

TiE Mumbai to Recognize Trailblazers at the ‘Hall of Fame’ Awards during TiEcon 2025

March 10, 2025, Mumbai – The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Mumbai is set to host the much-anticipated ‘Hall of Fame’ Awards at TiEcon 2025, a premier event that recognizes exceptional contributions to entrepreneurship, investment, corporate leadership, and public service. This will be held on March 12, 2025, at the prestigious Jio World Convention Centre. BKC – India’s largest and first state of the art Conference and Exhibition center. These prestigious awards will recognize and honor outstanding entrepreneurs, investors, investment bankers, corporates and government change agents who have significantly impacted the Indian and global economic ecosystem.

 The Chief Guest for the TiE Mumbai’s Hall of Fame Awards will be Mr. N. R. Narayana Murthy – Founder, Infosys, who will grace the occasion and celebrate the remarkable achievements of innovators and wealth creators.

 Speaking about the awards, Ranu Vohra, President of TiE Mumbai, said, “Entrepreneurship is the backbone of India’s economic growth, and it is essential to recognize and celebrate the pioneers who are driving meaningful change. TiE Mumbai’s ‘Hall of Fame’ is a tribute to those who have dared to innovate, build, and create lasting impact in India and beyond.”

 “The TiE Mumbai Hall of Fame Awards celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and the trailblazers who redefine industries, create opportunities, and inspire future generations. As we honor these visionaries, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and impactful change in India’s entrepreneurial landscape.” said Apoorva Sharma, President Elect, TiE Mumbai and Co-Founder, Venture Catalysts & 9Unicorns.

 Mohit Joshi, CEO, Havas Media Network India, added “At Havas Media Network India, our partnership with TIE has been built on a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and driving meaningful conversations within the business ecosystem. Over the years, we have collaborated on initiatives that spotlight innovation, leadership, and growth, and we are thrilled to continue this association. This year, as the Hall of Fame partner at TIE Mumbai, we look forward to further strengthening our engagement and contributing to a platform that recognizes and empowers visionary entrepreneurs.”

 This year’s awards will recognize high achievers and visionary individuals and institutions that have driven innovation, disrupted norms, and generated impactful value, contributing to economic and social progress.

Categories of Recognition

 TiE Mumbai will present awards across various categories, including –
• ⁠⁠Pioneering Unicorn Investor – Recognizing visionary investors who have played a key role in funding and nurturing startups that have achieved unicorn status
• Catalyst of Startup Ecosystem and Innovation – Celebrating individuals who have significantly contributed to fostering a thriving startup culture through mentorship, funding, or policy advocacy.
• Pioneer in Building India’s Investment Ecosystem – Honoring leaders who have been instrumental in creating a robust investment framework, facilitating capital flow into promising startups and high-growth ventures.
• Big Bull – Startup Pioneer Investor – Acknowledging investors with a sharp eye for identifying game-changing startups early on and supporting their journey
• Transformative AI Startup in Customer Service – Recognizing a startup that has revolutionized customer interactions through cutting-edge AI-driven solutions,
• Startup Power Couple – Celebrating a dynamic duo who have jointly built or significantly contributed to a thriving startup
• Resilient Turnaround Company – Recognizing a remarkable journey in overcoming challenges, demonstrating resilience, and successfully revamping its business model for sustained growth.
• Igniting the Tech Scene in Mumbai – Honoring startups, that have played a pivotal role in positioning Mumbai as a key technology and innovation hub.
• High-Growth Catalyst Investor – Acknowledging investors who have actively fueled high-growth startups, accelerating their scale-up journey with strategic investments and guidance.
• Innovator in Logistics Excellence – Celebrating a startup or company that has introduced groundbreaking innovations in logistics, improving customer experience.
• Startup Catalyst Investor – Honoring investors who have consistently backed early-stage startups, providing them with the necessary capital, mentorship, and industry connections to scale successfully.

Centre for Spine and Sports Health Pioneers Preventive Spine Care with ‘Her Healthy Spine’ Program for Women

Hyderabad, March 08, 2025: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Center for Spine and Sports Health (CSSH), a unit of nSure Healthy Spine, launched ‘Her Healthy Spine’ an exclusive one-of-its-kind preventive health program focusing on women’s spinal health for the first time in India, which is enabled by state-of-the-art Musculoskeletal (MSK) health technology platform at Kotak Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy. As part of the launch, the Spine and Sports Health Center hosted an exclusive panel discussion on women’s spinal health.

Among the 3,000+ clients assessed for spine health at the CSSH, we found that nearly 75% of women are suffering from spine-related problems. It underscored the urgent and tailored care for women’s spine health. To address this at the earliest, CSSH has launched ‘Her Healthy Spine’, a long-term initiative to raise awareness and empower women to take charge of their spinal health. As part of the event, CSSH hosted an exclusive panel discussion at the Kotak Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy on 05th March and shed light on the critical issue of spinal health among women. The event, held in celebration of International Women’s Day, brought together experts from various fields to discuss the often-overlooked challenges women face regarding spinal well-being.

Moderated by Dr. Sushmitha Sundar, Head of Life Sciences Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH), the panel featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

– Kiranmai Pendyala, Head of Human Resources and Site Administration at Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) India;

– Sangeetha Rani Gummi, Managing Director of iCatch Communications India Ltd;

– Dr. Vedha Sampath, Early Stage Investor in Healthcare Tech and Life Sciences;

– Mrudula Korada, Asian Track & Field Medalist and Income Tax Officer; and

– Swapna Arelli, Technology Lead at Infosys Ltd Hyderabad

Opening the discussion, Kiranmai Pendyala highlighted how women’s spinal health often takes a backseat due to multiple factors, ranging from lack of awareness to lifestyle choices. “Women, by nature, tend to prioritize family and work over their own well-being. Many are unaware of the gradual damage they inflict on their spines due to prolonged sitting, incorrect posture, and hormonal changes during pregnancy and post-maternity. If we do not take preventive action today, the problem will escalate tomorrow,” she explained. She stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to help women recognize early warning signs and take proactive measures.

Adding to the discussion, Sangeetha Rani Gummi reflected on the grueling work schedules in the media industry, emphasizing how irregular hours and constant stress contribute to spine-related ailments. “Many of us dismiss back pain as a temporary discomfort, but over time, it turns into a chronic issue. A spine assessment should be as routine as an annual health check-up, yet it remains an afterthought for most working professionals,” she noted. She encouraged women to seek regular spinal evaluations and corrective interventions to prevent long-term complications.

Dr. Vedha Sampath pointed out that while women’s healthcare has seen significant advancements over the past decade, spinal health still doesn’t receive the specialized attention it requires. “Women tend to ignore their bone density and spinal strength until a serious issue arises. What we need is a cultural shift where spinal health is prioritized as early as adolescence. Simple practices like maintaining good posture, engaging in strength-building exercises, and undergoing routine check-ups can go a long way in preventing spinal disorders,” she advised.

Sharing her experience as an athlete, Mrudula Korada emphasized that spinal health is not just a concern for working professionals but also for sportspersons. “During my career, I suffered multiple injuries, and I’ve seen how easily spine-related issues can cut short an athlete’s journey if not addressed in time. Back then, awareness was limited, but today, we have better diagnostic tools and treatment options. The key is for athletes, especially women, to be proactive in managing their spinal health,” she explained.

Bringing in a perspective from the IT sector, Swapna Arelli highlighted how women in technology often struggle with spinal health post-pregnancy. “Many women return to work without paying attention to the strain pregnancy places on their spine. The combination of long working hours, poor ergonomics, and lack of physical activity only worsens the situation,” she remarked. She emphasized the importance of nutrition, exercise, and corporate wellness programs in supporting women’s spinal health, urging companies to take employee well-being more seriously.

The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where attendees discussed preventive strategies, ergonomic solutions, and the role of AI-driven healthcare in personalized spinal care. Speaking on behalf of CSSH, a proactive purpose-driven, AI-powered PhyGital platform focused on preventive spinal health, Naresh Kumar Pagidimarry, CEO and Co-founder of CSSH, expressed the organization’s commitment to empowering women with the knowledge and tools needed to take charge of their spinal well-being.

“Our goal at CSSH is to bridge the gap between awareness and action. Women’s spinal health is not just an individual concern—it affects families, workplaces, and communities. By integrating cutting-edge technology with personalized care, we are ensuring that spinal health solutions are accessible to all,” Naresh Kumar Pagidimarry stated.

Himalaya Wellness Celebrates Women’s Empowerment with the Launch of the 1derwoman Project

Bengaluru, 08 March 2025: This International Women’s Day, Himalaya Wellness, India’s No.1 face wash brand, proudly announced the launch of the Himalaya 1derwoman Project, an initiative dedicated to empowering young girls to rise above challenges and aspire to be #1 in their chosen fields.

To bring this vision to life, Himalaya partnered with the 2024 WPL champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Women’s Team, providing aspiring young cricketers with an exclusive training and mentorship session led by their sporting idols. The Himalaya 1derwoman Project aims to bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity by connecting young girls and real-life female role models, particularly in sports and other fields. Through mentorship, access to resources, and tangible long-term support, the initiative is set to inspire and nurture the next generation of women leaders and athletes.

As part of the launch event, 15 young female cricketers from a Bengaluru-based cricket academy were invited to a special training session with RCB’s top players, including Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Shreyanka Patil, and other team members. More than just a coaching experience, the session served as a transformative mentorship platform, where these young athletes had the privileged opportunity to interact with successful female role models in sports—a field where women’s visibility has historically been limited. Beyond skill building, the session was about building confidence, instilling self-belief, and showing these aspiring athletes that they belong on the field just as much as anyone else. Recognizing that financial limitations often restrict access to sports, Himalaya Wellness has also sponsored cricket kits for these young players, ensuring they have the tools to pursue their passion.

Commenting on this initiative, Rajesh Krishnamurthy, Business Director, Himalaya Wellness, said, “We believe every girl has the potential to be a trailblazer, a leader, a wonder woman in her own right. For over 25 years, Himalaya has been the most trusted skincare brand for young women in India, standing by them through every challenge—big or small. This initiative is particularly close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how the right mentorship and encouragement can transform lives. Through the 1derwoman Project, we want to inspire young girls to dream big, break barriers, and pursue their ambitions with confidence.”

Expanding its reach beyond this event, Himalaya Wellness is set to take the Himalaya 1derwoman Project to over 500,000 girls across schools in India this year, equipping them with the resources and encouragement needed to chase their dreams.

Ragini Hariharan, Marketing Director for Beauty and Personal Care at Himalaya Wellness, added, “Confidence and the right support can transform a young girl’s aspirations into reality. Growing up, I’ve always believed in the power of role models and how they shape our dreams. The Himalaya 1derwoman Project is not just about mentorship—it’s about creating a movement that empowers young girls to see themselves as future leaders and achievers. Through this initiative, we aim to provide them with the guidance, opportunities, and inspiration they need to break barriers and achieve their full potential.”

Abhishek Ashat, General Manager, Face Care at Himalaya Wellness, said, “Skincare is more than just a routine—it’s about confidence, and confidence fuels ambition. With the Himalaya 1derwoman Project, we are going beyond products to actively support young girls in their pursuit of excellence. By combining our expertise in personal care with a commitment to mentorship, we are enabling them to put their best foot forward—whether on the field or in life.”

Pratheep Kumar, Media Manager at Himalaya Wellness, added about Himalaya’s association with RCB on the project “RCB has always been our trusted partner for years. With RCB’s vision of empowering young women in sports, which is in coherence with the Himalaya 1derwoman Project’s vision, we felt this would be the best way to launch the first step of our initiative.”

Rajesh V Menon, Chief Operating Officer, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said, “We are proud to extend our partnership with Himalaya Wellness for the Himalaya 1derwoman Project. At RCB, we believe in nurturing talent and creating opportunities to pursue their dreams in sport. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to empowering women in sports, and we are thrilled to continue supporting a program that provides mentorship, inspiration, and tangible support to the next generation of female athletes.”

Hindustan Zinc Leads the Industry with 25% Women in Workforce, Plans for 30% Participation

Udaipur, 7th March 2025: In a landmark achievement ahead of International Women’s Day 2025, Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, has reached 25% women representation in its workforce, a milestone aptly termed ‘25 on 25’. This milestone reinforces the company’s commitment to gender diversity in the traditionally male-dominated industries of metals, mining and heavy engineering. Furthermore, Hindustan Zinc remains on track to achieve 30% women representation by 2030, aligning with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Hindustan Zinc’s gender diversity ratio surpasses industry benchmarks, positioning it ahead of several global and domestic peers in metals & mining. Notably, Hindustan Zinc is home to India’s first women underground mine managers and has established the country’s first and second all-women underground mine rescue teams.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson – Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “For any business to thrive, equal representation is not just important – it’s essential. A truly successful organization values every voice and ensures that diverse perspectives shape its future. At Hindustan Zinc, we take pride in championing gender diversity in the traditional metals and mining sector. Today, over 700 talented women are driving our transition toward a low-carbon economy, breaking barriers and redefining industry norms. Our vision is ambitious yet clear – to significantly accelerate this momentum and achieve 30% diversity within the next five years. The growing number of women choosing careers in mining and metallurgy is a testament to this shift – one fueled by our industry-first, people-centric policies and a wealth of opportunities designed for holistic professional growth. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in Hindustan Zinc’s DNA. We are committed to building a workplace where every individual—regardless of gender – has a voice, access to opportunities, and the support to excel.”

As the metals, mining & manufacturing sector emerges as a key driver of India’s economic transformation, Hindustan Zinc is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that empowers women at every stage of their careers. What is truly unique is the company’s ability to provide rich job content to its employees across high-growth businesses. Employees enjoy the best of both worlds – the stability of a global conglomerate with the agility of a start-up. Talent mobility across functions allows them to explore diverse roles and seamlessly transition across different domains. Progressive workplace policies, such as spouse hiring policy, physical & mental health leaves, year-long sabbaticals for childcare, flexible-working hours, monthly no-questions-asked leaves for women further enhance opportunities, ensuring that gender is never a barrier to career advancement. The company is also integrating women in backshifts (up to 10 PM) across mines and plants beyond the general shift timings, ensuring women have access to equal career growth opportunities available to their male counterparts.

Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as Industry 4.0, digitalization, robotics, and automation, Hindustan Zinc is revolutionizing operations, eliminating manual intervention, and dismantling outdated perceptions of the sector being physically demanding. The company’s digital mines, featuring tele-remote underground mining (where underground mining equipment is operated remotely from the surface) and real-time analytics, provide exciting and inclusive career pathways for all. This has resulted in more than 34% women joining Hindustan Zinc through campus recruitment drives in FY24, making Hindustan Zinc the top choice for women in metals.

Dr. Kavita Bhardwaj, Head of Exploration – Hindustan Zinc Limited, shared her experience, stating, “At Hindustan Zinc, talent—not gender—defines success. The company’s inclusive culture, strong mentorship, and leadership opportunities have empowered me to take on diverse and challenging roles, giving me the confidence to push boundaries and excel in ways I never imagined.”

Sakshi Gupta, member of India’s First All-Women Underground Mine Rescue Team & Assurance Manager, added, “Women are no longer just participants in change we are leading it. Mining, once considered a male-dominated field, is now witnessing a revolution. At Hindustan Zinc we are not just given opportunities; we are encouraged to innovate, break barriers, and redefine the future of metals. The culture of support and empowerment has enabled us to challenge conventions and set new industry benchmarks.”

Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to inclusion extends beyond employment. The company’s world-class townships, located near its plants, provide modern amenities such as schools, hospitals, daycare centres, creches, places of worship, and sports and recreational facilities, fostering a vibrant social life for employees and their families.

Beyond direct employment, Hindustan Zinc’s social impact initiatives are driving economic independence for women in rural communities. Through Zinc Kaushal Kendra, over 500 women have been trained in science-based vocational courses like nursing and electrical work, enhancing their employability and financial independence. Additionally, the company’s Sakhi initiative nurtures women-led micro-enterprises, empowering women entrepreneurs in rural Rajasthan by facilitating e-commerce sales for their products.

Hindustan Zinc, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The company holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024, reflecting its operational excellence, innovation, and leading ESG practices. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition for a sustainable future.

Future Generali India Insurance Inaugurates ‘Shakti’ in Kochi, Pioneering an All-Women’s Branch

Kochi, March 7, 2025: Future Generali India Insurance Company (FGII) is delighted to announce the inauguration of its first all-women’s branch in Kochi, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to empowering women in the workforce and enhancing customer service through gender inclusivity.

The branch, located on the 5th Floor of Pulikkal Estate, M.G. Road, Kochi, was inaugurated by Mr. Anup Rau, MD & CEO of Future Generali India Insurance, in the presence of senior leadership including Ms. Ruchika Varma, Chief Marketing, Customer and Impact Officer; Mr. Ramit Goyal, Chief Distribution Officer; Mr. Akshay Kashyap, Chief People and Organization Officer; Officer; Ms Ritu Sethi, Chief Internal Audit Officer; Mr Ashish Lakhtakia, General Counsel, Chief Regulatory Affairs & Company Secretary. The event marks a key achievement in the company’s long-term vision of fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment while providing top-tier insurance solutions to its customers cutting across various sections of society.

‘Shakti’, as the name suggests, symbolizes strength, resilience, and empowerment and the branch resonates the company’s commitment to fostering an environment where women lead with confidence and drive meaningful impact in the financial services sector.

Located in the heart of Kochi, the pioneering branch will be powered by an exceptional team of 12 women—with plans to onboard even more in the coming months. The dedicated all-women “shakti” sales team will provide expert insurance solutions while paving the way for greater representation of women in the industry. Moving forward, FGII plans to scale this model by expanding similar branches across other key cities, reinforcing its commitment to an equitable workplace.

Speaking at the inauguration event of the all-women’s branch in Kochi, Anup Rau, Managing Director and CEO, Future Generali India Insurance Company Ltd. said, “At Future Generali India Insurance, we have always believed that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are not just values but catalysts for meaningful change. On this International Women’s Day, I am immensely proud to announce another step in our DEI journey—the launch of ‘Shakti’, our first-ever all-women branch in Kochi, Kerala. Our dedicated all-women “Shakti” sales team will provide expert insurance solutions while paving the way for greater representation of women in the industry. We hope this initiative inspires more women to pursue careers in insurance and financial services, nurturing the next generation of women leaders at FGII.”

With DEI firmly rooted in the DNA of the organisation, FGII has been undertaking several measures to create a benchmark not just as an inclusive insurer and inclusive employer but also as an inclusive corporate citizen. As an inclusive insurer the company has been customising solutions to address every conceivable homogeneous group, however small. As an inclusive employer, it has been empowering women in leadership roles and operational excellence, not only to foster a stronger workforce but also enhance its ability to serve its customers with greater empathy and understanding.

“The inauguration of the all-women’s branch reinforces our commitment to building an inclusive future, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. As part of our ongoing efforts, we will continue to create more opportunities for women employees to showcase their sales and leadership skills,” Rau said.

For a country the size of India, where women comprise roughly half of the nation’s population, at around 49 per cent, less than one-third, or only about 30%, are covered under health insurance between 2019-21, as per data fetched from the National Family Health Survey India report. Around 34.20 per cent of women are covered under life insurance, IRDAI’s annual report 2022-23 suggests.

Understanding the need gap, the company had launched a comprehensive health insurance plan “HEALTH POWHER” to address the various needs of women across the different stages of their lives last year. Now the launch of this all-women’s branch is not only a reflection of Future Generali’s progressive approach to gender diversity but also demonstrates its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for women in the insurance industry. The branch aims to break barriers and establish a benchmark for other organizations to follow. With an all-women team leading the operations, the Kochi branch is poised to enhance the customer experience, provide specialized insurance solutions, and strengthen engagement with the local community.

The establishment of this all-women’s branch also underscores Future Generali’s resolve to expand its footprint in key regions, contributing to the company’s broader goal of providing accessible and inclusive insurance services across the nation. This milestone represents a growing trend within the company to drive innovation, inclusivity, and operational excellence across all levels of its workforce.

The company recently celebrated a significant milestone in its DEI journey of having 1% representation of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in its workforce by launching a limited-edition collectible – ‘It’s a Onederful World’. Nearly 22 per cent of the company’s PwD hires are women, once again underscoring its efforts to build a workplace that is inclusive in every sense.

New Delhi Welcomes Nespresso’s First Boutique, Offering Coffee Lovers an Unmatched Experience

Bengaluru, March 7, 2025 – Nespresso, the pioneer in premium portioned coffee, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its first boutique at Select Citywalk Mall, Ground Floor, Saket, New Delhi. This launch marks a significant milestone in Nespresso’s global expansion following its initial entry into India in late 2024.

The new boutique offers coffee enthusiasts an immersive experience, showcasing Nespresso’s iconic range of high-quality coffees and state-of-the-art machines. Consumers can explore and savor a variety of coffee blends, receive personalized recommendations from trained coffee specialists, and learn about Nespresso’s commitment to sustainability.

Philipp Navratil, CEO of Nespresso, said: “The launch of the Nespresso boutique in Delhi is a testament to our commitment to the growing coffee culture in India. I’m very proud of this important milestone, which will help us bring Nespresso’s unforgettable taste to Indian coffee lovers. We believe that every cup of Nespresso coffee tells a story of quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. With this new space, we invite coffee lovers to immerse themselves in an unparalleled sensory journey, where they can explore our diverse range of exceptional blends and innovative machines.”

Speaking on the expansion, Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director of Nestlé India, stated: “Coffee culture in India is evolving rapidly, and we are delighted to bring our globally renowned expertise and the premium and unique experience of Nespresso. Launching Nespresso in India reflects our quest for excellence and commitment to deliver world-class coffee experiences to Indian consumers. As India’s coffee culture continues to develop, we are excited to introduce an aesthetically befitting space where coffee connoisseurs can savor the brand and discover the extraordinary.”

Nespresso and Nestlé India are pleased to announce that its official distribution partner in India is Thakral Innovations Pvt Ltd, covering the full range of Nespresso coffee products across all channels.

Nespresso has been sourcing high-quality green coffee from India since 2011 and collaborates directly with around 2,000 coffee farmers in the country through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program. This initiative focuses on improving coffee quality, farm productivity, and sustainability, reflecting Nespresso’s commitment to creating a positive impact throughout the coffee value chain.