Category Archives: Business

Jaipur Rugs Joins Forces with Shyam Ahuja to Relaunch Iconic Carpet Brand Worldwide

24th January 2025, Delhi: Jaipur Rugs is proud to announce its acquisition of Shyam Ahuja, a luxury rug and fabric brand with over five decades of experience bringing exceptional Indian carpets to the world. Jaipur Rugs has acquired ‘the jewel in the crown’ of carpeting making through this deal that obtains both the personal collection of Shyam Ahuja and his entire design archive. It is a landmark opportunity that Jaipur Rugs intends to approach with respect and develop independently as a separate entity with its own supply chain.

Shyam Ahuja, the visionary who founded the luxury rugs and textile design brand in 1963, was then a successful businessman who recognized the potential of the flatwoven dhurrie as a woven canvas, and resolved to sell the textile in America, a market where he built a cult following amongst A-list designers. His name became synonymous with exceptionally crafted dhurries.

Shyam Ahuja’s brand remains an enduring symbol of quiet sophistication and understated elegance, celebrated for its distinctive designs, unparalleled quality and global aesthetic. He was the author of the definitive book, Dhurrie: Flatwoven Rugs of India. In his book, he mentions that the late Princess of Wales had her feet on one of his carpets in her confessional interview, while they also decorated the homes of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis and Gianni Versace.

Jaipur Rugs was established in 1978 by Mr. Nand Kishore Chaudhary, who saw the potential for hand- knotted carpets as a way to preserve India’s rich artisanal legacy while benefiting rural populations. His vision has created a global craft brand that is widely respected for its socially conscious business culture. Both Nand Kishore Chaudhary and the late Shyam Ahuja put artisans at the heart of their enterprise and communication.

“We are thrilled to have acquired the exceptional brand, Shyam Ahuja, with his legacy known for timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality. We have a shared vision for preserving and elevating the artisanal wealth of our country. The brand has an extremely strong emotional connection with so many customers and patrons around the world, which we will harness to revive the glory days of Shyam Ahuja and re-establish its unique positioning at the top of the market, globally,” said Yogesh Chaudhary, Director, Jaipur Rugs.

“I have long been an admirer of Shyam Ahuja and the cult status aura that surrounds the brand. His instantly recognizable dhurrie designs and sophisticated sensibility for color make for the richest design archive to curate from. It gives me immense joy to see Jaipur Rugs acquire the jewel in the crown – a sleeping beauty that we intend to revive with great respect. It’s an exciting moment in both our stories.” said Greg Foster, Artistic Director, Jaipur Rugs.

Kirana King Appoints Bollywood Actress Mahima Chaudhry as Brand Ambassador

Jaipur, January 24, 2025: Kirana King has announced the appointment of renowned and versatile Bollywood actress, Mahima Chaudhry as their new brand Ambassador. The actress is not only known for her contributions to the films but also she is widely recognized for her inspiring and empowering persona, and now she will be promoting the products of the Kirana Kingas the brand representative.

Managing Director and CEO of Kirana King, Mr. Anup Kumar Khandelwal, welcomed her, by stating “We are extremely proud to have Mahima Chaudhry as part of our brand. Her empowering and inspiring image aligns perfectly with the values of our company Kirana King. Through this partnership, we aim to bring a new sense of energy, trust, and quality to our customers.”

Mahima Chaudhry expressed her delight and said, “Kirana King is a reliable and competent brand that offers quality products at fair prices to the consumer. I feel privileged to associate with this brand, Kirana King and I do believe that it will bring rich experiences and products to the consumer”.

Kirana King is well known for its strong and reliable reputation among their customers and stakeholders. By associating with an esteemed celebrity like Mahima Chaudhry, the brand has strategized to evaluate its product offerings and strengthen its social impact in the market industry. Both Kirana King and actress Mahima Chaudhary are looking forward to this partnership as a significant step towards a new beginning and success.

Featured in several blockbuster films in her acting career, Mahima Chaudhary will be now feature in various advertising campaigns for Kirana King. This initiative will enable the brand to connect with its consumers more efficiently and gain deeper insights into their evolving needs.

Medhavi Skills University Teams Up with Indian Chamber of Commerce to Empower Education and Entrepreneurship

Mumbai/New Delhi, 23 January 2025: Medhavi Skills University (MSU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) during the North India Education Summit 2025. This partnership aims to address skill shortages in key sectors, enabling learners to acquire industry-relevant competencies and secure sustainable employment opportunities. It also seeks to inculcate an entrepreneurial culture and create sustainable opportunities across industries.

The collaboration leverages the strengths of both institutions to design and implement initiatives that enhance education, innovation, and capacity building. Key objectives include identifying and addressing skill gaps in vital sectors, developing educational programs focused on entrepreneurship and innovation, conducting dissemination activities such as workshops, seminars, and exhibitions, implementing Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programs, reskilling, and upskilling initiatives to align with evolving industry needs, and establishing a strategic partnership to apply for government schemes and projects.

Speaking about the collaboration, Mr. Kuldip Sarma, Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor Medhavi Skills University stated, “This partnership with ICC represents a crucial step in aligning academia with industry demands. By leveraging ICC’s vast network and resources alongside MSU’s expertise in skill development, we aim to equip learners with in-demand skills. Our focus extends beyond technical proficiency to encompass critical thinking, creativity, ethical reasoning, and lifelong learning, ensuring our programs align with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020. The collaboration is happening at an exciting time as ICC celebrates its centenary year.”

Mr. Nikhil Kanodia, Chairman – Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Northern Region while expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, commented, “We are delighted to collaborate with Medhavi Skills University, an institution committed to advancing education and skill development. The expertise of Medhavi Group in the skilling domain is unparalleled. This MoU symbolizes a shared vision to address the dynamic needs of the industry and enable students and professionals to excel in an ever-evolving workforce. Together, we aim to promote, design, and develop educational programs on entrepreneurship and innovation.”

Through this MoU, MSU and ICC will jointly apply for government schemes and projects to maximize the impact of their collaborative efforts. The partnership will facilitate the sharing of knowledge and resources to strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems and ensure the delivery of quality skill development programs that meet international standards. This partnership underscores a unified commitment to empowering communities through education, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives, setting the stage for a brighter future for learners and professionals alike.

India Needs $1.7T Mining Investment for Energy Transition: Hindustan Zinc Chair

Chandigarh, January 24: India will need an estimated investment of US $1.7 trillion in its mining sector for energy transition, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc and Non-Executive Director Vedanta Limited has said. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Priya also stressed India’s unique potential to drive global energy transition. She added that while countries like the US, China, and the Middle East have extensively harnessed their natural resources to fuel their economies, India has explored less than 15% of its reserves. This presents a unique opportunity for India to unlock its resource wealth and contribute significantly to the global shift toward clean energy.

• Priya acknowledged the Indian government’s proactive measures in opening up the mining sector and said, “The Indian government is already taking steps in this area by launching the critical minerals mission and auctioning of critical mineral blocks. This has already seen Vedanta emerge as the preferred bidder for six blocks, paving the way for significant progress in this sector”. She also emphasized Vedanta’s commitment to sustainable mining by leveraging advanced technologies to ensure that mining operations have minimal or zero impact on the environment.
• “Our commitment to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050 is not just a goal—it’s a responsibility we hold toward future generations. I’m proud that three of our largest companies—Hindustan Zinc, Zinc International, and Cairn Oil & Gas—will reach this milestone within the next five years. By embracing renewable energy and deploying battery-operated vehicles, including fully battery-powered logistics by 2030, we’re proving that sustainability is not just essential for the planet but also the smartest path for long-term business growth. At Vedanta, we are committed to turning ambition into action”, she said.
• Detailing Vedanta’s plans and innovations in developing zinc-based batteries as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to lithium, Ms. Priya Aggarwal Hebbar said, “We are already conducting some pilots in this area. Hindustan Zinc, as the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, is collaborating with IITs and global institutions to advance this technology, which could disrupt the energy storage market by offering environmentally friendly solutions”.

She concluded by outlining Vedanta’s ambitious plans to double production across multiple verticals, including increasing zinc and silver output to 2 million tons annually, aluminium production to 4 million tons, and doubling oil and gas output through substantial capital investments.

Tiesto Set to Make a Grand Comeback to India with Three-City Tour

India, 24th January 2025- Get ready for a groundbreaking collision of sound, light, and unparalleled energy! India’s thriving electronic music community is about to experience a seismic event, as EVA Live, the country’s leading live entertainment powerhouse, presents an electrifying mainstage showcase by none other than the godfather of dance music, Tiësto. This February, the globally acclaimed DJ and producer will return to India after more than a decade, headlining the HSBC Presents Tiësto India Tour 2025, a spectacular three-city journey that promises to redefine the live music experience.

Fresh off their sold-out Bryan Adams tour, EVA Live continues to raise the bar in live entertainment. Tiësto, the Grammy-winning pioneer and multi-genre innovator, will step away from his famed Las Vegas residency to electrify audiences in Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The legendary DJ will kick off the tour at Backyard Sports Club, Gurugram, on February 13, 2025, light up NESCO, Mumbai, on February 14, and culminate with a grand finale at Terraform Arena, Bengaluru, on February 16.

Known for his ability to seamlessly evolve and captivate fans across generations, Tiësto will deliver a mesmerizing two-hour set that bridges the past and future of electronic dance music. Expect a high-energy celebration of his iconic soundscape, blending classic trance and progressive house anthems with cutting-edge productions, all brought to life with breathtaking visuals, state-of-the-art sound systems, and jaw-dropping stage design. This is not just a concert; it’s a sensory odyssey.

Speaking about his return to India, Tiësto said, “I’m beyond thrilled to return to India after 10 years! The incredible energy and passion of the people here are unlike anything else. Gurugram, Mumbai, Bengaluru – get ready to party with me because this is going to be unforgettable! India has always held a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to experience that magic once again.”

Deepak Choudhary, Founder & Managing Director, EVA Live shared his excitement, “Tiësto is more than an artist – he’s a phenomenon, a visionary, and a symbol of global music culture. His return to India is a momentous occasion that underscores the evolution of the Indian EDM landscape. This tour isn’t just about music; it’s about creating memories, celebrating connection, and elevating the cultural pulse of the nation. We’re proud to be the driving force behind this iconic experience.”

Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India added, “We are delighted to present the ‘Tiësto India Tour 2025’, a reflection of our commitment to curating extraordinary experiences for our customers. Tiësto’s return is not just a musical event; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and innovation. We are honored to be part of this journey that embodies the vibrant energy of India’s electronic music scene.”

53 Percent Favor Advanced Tech in Home Security: Godrej Survey

Chandigarh, 24 January 2025: Ahead of National Tourism Day, the Happiness Survey conducted by the Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group, stated that 53% of respondents prioritize advanced technology in Home Security. This underscores a growing consumer preference for innovative and smart security measures that ensure peace of mind while traveling.

National Tourism Day underscores tourism’s significant contribution to India’s economy, with the sector set to become the third-largest domestic travel market by 2027. In 2024 alone, the sector generated over INR 25,010 crore in foreign exchange. As travel increases, securing homes has become a top concern for travelers seeking peace of mind while away. While adopting advanced security, tech remains the top priority, the survey also reveals that 50% of homeowners prefer ease of use whereas 44% prefer reliability as an important factor. These findings highlight the growing demand for smart, user-friendly security systems that ensure seamless protection.

Commenting on the findings, Mr. Pushkar Gokhale, EVP and Business Head, Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprise Group, said, “The findings from our Happiness Survey reinforce the evolving mindset of consumers who are increasingly adopting smart and advanced security solutions to protect their homes while they travel. In today’s interconnected world, where tourism is on the rise, ensuring home security through technologically advanced solutions not only provides physical protection but also contributes to overall well-being. At Godrej, we remain committed to empowering our customers with home security solutions that integrate seamlessly into their daily lives and enhance their overall sense of safety and happiness.”

National Tourism Day serves as a reminder of India’s rich cultural and natural heritage, while highlighting the increasing role of travel in modern lifestyles. With more individuals exploring both domestic and international destinations, the need to protect homes and valuables in their absence has never been greater. Addressing this growing concern, the Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprise Group offers a wide range of products, including AI-enabled surveillance cameras, intrusion alarm systems, and video door phones, empowering homeowners with remote monitoring capabilities and proactive security alerts.

The Happiness Survey gathered insights from 2,400 respondents across 12 major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Chennai, providing a holistic view of consumer preferences and security needs.

IIFL Fintech Fund Series – II Successfully Raises Rs 200 Crore from HNIs, UHNIs and Family Offices

IIFL Fintech Fund, India’s leading early-stage fund dedicated to the fintech sector, today said that it has successfully closed its second fund IIFL Fintech Fund – Series – II after raising Rs 200 crore from India’s top family offices, UHNI and HNI investors as it aims to invest in the next generation Fintechs of India including in the generative artificial intelligence space.

IIFL Fintech Fund was set up in 2021, to invest in early-stage Fintechs that IIFL as a group could collaborate with as well. Over the last three years, the Series – I of the fund boasts of 14 investments made across various segments in fintech. The portfolio comprises – Legality, FinBox, DataSutram, Finarkein Analytics, Finvu, Trendline, Insurance Samadhan, Xtracap Finance, Castler, Vitra.Ai, EasyRewardz, Multipl, Riskcovry, TrustCheckr (sold to True Caller).

The portfolio has delivered a 22.5X revenue growth, in the last three years, 40% of the portfolio is EBIDTA positive, and the fund boats of 0% write-off/Deadpool.

Mr. Prakash Bulusu, Joint CEO, of IIFL Capital Services Limited said, “We have seen very good response from HNIs, UHNis, and family offices for our IIFL Fintech Fund Series – II. Considering that India’s fintech is the only segment that is expected to grow 11X vs Indian online retail and Indian consumer tech where the expected growth is 3X and 5.8X respectively, the interest received for the fund was palpable.

“With our deep connection with India’s top wealth creators, we understand their niche investment needs in alternative fund management space. This helps us to give curated offerings like the IIFL Fintech Fund, which continues to attract investor eyes for its successful track record and investment philosophy.”

Mehekka Oberoi Kohli, Fund Manager, IIFL Fintech Fund said, “Our objective in IIFL Fintech Fund – Series – II is to continue to focus on identifying future market leaders in each of the segment that we would invest in. Through our series – I, we have been able to set up a track record which boats of winners like – Leegality (market leader in document signing infra), Finvu (highest market share in account aggregator space), Trendlyne (most used stock market analytics platform), FinBox (fastest growing embedded finance platform) among others.”

“Through our Series – II, there is a special focus on generative AI in financial services space. Generative AI is picking up pace, and is likely aid further aid the growth of the financial services space. Backed by the over three decades of experience of our group in financial services space, we are better poised to identify the winners.”

Opportunities in Indian Fintech ecosystem is significant as financial services penetration in India remains low. The gap between major economies and India across segments – insurance, lending, neo-banking, mutual fund assets is anywhere in the range of 3-5X. This gives enough headroom for growth in Indian Fintech space.

Erba Transasia Launches State-of-the-Art Hematology Analyzer in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh

Hyderabad, January 24th, 2025: Erba Transasia Group, India’s No. 1 In-vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Company and among the leading global IVD players focused on emerging markets, today introduced Erba H7100 – its advanced Haematology Analyzer at a Clinical Symposium held in Hyderabad on the theme “Need for High-End Haematology Analyzers to tackle current challenges faced by clinical laboratories.” Dr. Swati Pai – Consultant Hematopathologist, Manipal Hospitals, delivered the keynote address, joined by an expert panel that included Dr. Suseela Kodandapani, Senior Consultant Pathologist, Head – Pathology and In-charge – Clinical trials, Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital & Research Institute; Dr. Parag Patil, Associate Professor, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Deputy Medical Superintendent, AIIMS; Dr. Faiq Ahmed, Senior Consultant Pathologist, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital & Research Institute; Dr. Shrikant Pankanti, Senior Consultant Pathologist and Laboratory Director, CARE Hospitals and Dr. Anuradha Sekaran, Director and Head – Pathology & Molecular Pathology, AIG Hospitals.

 There has surge in cancer cases in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, especially for women with breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers being more prevalent. While, the men are commonly affected with head and neck cancers, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. This underscores the need for advanced haematology analyzers.

 Equipped with fluorescence flow cytometry technology, the Erba H7100 offers a 70-parameter range, including Reticulocytes, Immature Platelet Fraction (IPF), and Immature Granulocytes (IG). These parameters are essential for diagnosing and treating conditions such as anaemia, thrombocytopenia, infections, inflammation, and blood cancers.

 Dr. Swati Pai remarked: “The southern state of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh’s diverse population and unique health concerns require precise diagnostic solutions which the Erba H7100 fulfils. This analyzer is a step forward in addressing diagnostic gaps, especially for underserved communities battling hereditary disorders like thalassemia.”

 The Erba H7100 is a breakthrough in haematology diagnostics, redefining the field by enabling rapid, reliable insights for clinicians and enhancing diagnostic accuracy and research capabilities.

 Commenting on the launch, Suresh Vazirani, Founder Chairman, Erba Transasia Group, said: “Our commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation is exemplified in Erba H7100 Haematology Analyzer which stands out with its unique capabilities, providing an extensive panel of clinical and research parameters. Its cost-effective and minimizing reagent usage is ideal for large and medium-sized labs, corporate hospitals and B2B labs. We are confident Erba H7100 will revolutionize haematology diagnostics, providing clinicians with the tools they need to drive better outcomes.”

 Elaborating further, Vijay Kumar, CCO and Country Head, Transasia Bio-Medicals Ltd said: “Erba H7100 set itself apart with a throughput of 90 tests per hour for CBC+diff and 70 tests per hour for CBC+Diff+retics. Fully automated, it can become a 2X system by adding additional units and samplers. Its Mentzer Index feature helps differentiate between Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) and Beta Thalassemia while its Optical Platelet (Plt-O) feature addresses challenges like pseudo-thrombocytopenia in haematological analysis. Optical platelet count reduces the spurious count and is useful in correcting spurious low platelet counts in EDTA-PTCP patients. By addressing many challenges that labs and pathologists face, we help healthcare professionals offer to patients, the best possible care.”

Half a Decade of Transformative Impact at Sachin Tendulkar Foundation

Chandigarh, January 24, 2025 – Marking half a decade of serving the less-privileged and the needy in ways that enable them to believe and take the lead, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF) held a close-knit celebration in Mumbai on January 22nd, 2025 at The Bombay Club. Tributes and acknowledgments from friends, family, well-wishers, and non-profit partners, paved the event as STF reaffirmed its commitment to ensure better living with primary focus areas of health, education, and sports for children.

The theme of the evening, “Shine Brighter Together” shed light on the Foundation’s core idea of impacting lives, especially children through sports, health, and education.

For Sara Tendulkar, who recently donned the mantle of Director at the Foundation, the evening was her first official engagement. Stepping on the path shown by her parents at such a young age, Sara brings in a fresh perspective of connecting with the youth and helping them take flight with their aspirations.

Reflecting on her family’s commitment to bettering lives and the transformative potential of the Foundation’s initiatives, Sara said, “Growing up, I was always inspired by my family, who shaped my understanding of the power of giving. I had the opportunity to witness the Foundation’s work and see the spark of hope that lights up in the lives of not just the children but entire families. Over the last five years, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation has touched over a hundred thousand young lives, and that’s a hundred thousand reasons to keep going. I am grateful to everyone who believed in us and stood by our side to make this journey possible.

“As Director, I cannot wait to build on what my parents started and make sure that every little dream gets noticed and nurtured. I look forward to this journey as we light up a world of possibilities for children who are the future.”

A short film introduced the guests to the Foundation’s work. The audience were enlightened on the continued dedication of the Tendulkars and STF towards a shared dream of empowering the young dreamers, through strategic partnerships. The work done by the 15+ NGO partners who STF collaborates with was acknowledged and applauded.

Coldplay’s Chris Martin was in attendance and engaged in a Tête-à-tête, on stage with Sachin Tendulkar. Pressing on the Foundation’s journey, Sachin Tendulkar shared, “When I walked back to the pavilion one last time, I had an inkling in my mind that my innings was far from over. Anjali and I had this vision to do something to ease living for the less privileged and give young dreamers some assistance to believe in themselves and take flight. We realized that the germination of the idea was easier than implementing it. Eventually, STF came into being and now we’ve traversed half a decade of doing our bit. The journey is in full swing and with Sara leading the way now, I am confident that STF will continue to transform million dreams into reality and give wings to the doers.”

Starting with a humble vision of connecting with people and assisting them in realizing their full potential, STF is at the threshold to expand its sports-for-development initiatives multi-fold, so that millions more children and youth across the corners get benefitted. The futuristic vision looks at creating more advanced infrastructure in rural areas, strengthening healthcare access for children through collaborations with local hospitals and authorities, and introducing innovative education programs aimed at bridging opportunity gaps and skill development. By merging the core vision with a new zeal, STF aims to make the next decade a decade of fulfilling ‘billions of dreams.’

SOTC Travel Strengthens Retail Network with Openings in Vasant Kunj and East Delhi

Mumbai, 24 January 2025: SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, expands its franchise outlets in Delhi’s Vasant Kunj and East Delhi region. The new additions expand SOTC’s network strength to 10 in the NCR region, reiterating the Company’s strategic focus on expanding its footprint in the region.

The NCR region is an important source market for the Company’s holiday business within Delhi and its surrounding catchments witnessing strong demand. SOTC Travel’s new franchise outlets are strategically situated at prime locations to serve both leisure and business segments.

The Vasant Kunj and East Delhi outlets offer end-to-end travel solutions with an array of services, including International and domestic Holidays (Group tours, Personalised Holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value-Added Services like Travel Insurance, etc.

Rakesh Bawa – Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited said “With a legacy of over 75 years in pioneering group escorted tours, we at SOTC Travel continue to lead the way in understanding the evolving needs of the Indian traveller. We firmly believe that ‘No one understands the Indian traveller better than SOTC. Vasant Kunj and East Delhi are emerging as key source markets with strong demand. We’re excited to open two new outlets, expanding our network to 10 locations. Centrally located, these stores will help us target key segments like families, millennials, business owners and Gen Z. Our holiday experts at Vasant Kunj and East Delhi extend a warm welcome to our customers and look forward to co-curate and plan a memorable holiday.”