23, Jan 2025
Essar Renewables, Maharashtra Gov’t Ink MOU for 2GW Green Energy

Ankur Kumar

Chandigarh, January 23, 2025: Essar Renewables Ltd (ERL), Essar’s venture into the green energy sector, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. The MoU paves the way for Essar Renewables’ proposed investment in the state, with plans to develop 2 GW of renewable energy capacity for its green mobility initiative.

Under the terms of the agreement, Essar Renewables will invest approximately ₹8,000 crore in a mix of round-the-clock renewable energy projects, primarily aimed at supporting the Electric Vehicle truck charging ecosystem of Blue Energy Motors and Greenline.

This investment is expected to generate direct employment for over 2,000 individuals, contributing to the state’s transition to green energy and economic growth.

The proposed projects are slated to commence in the fiscal year 2026-27.

Commenting on the partnership, Ankur Kumar, CEO, of Essar Renewables said, “We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with the Government of Maharashtra. This collaboration represents a crucial milestone in our renewable energy projects and also establishes us as a formidable player in the sector.”

Prashant Ruia, Director, Essar, added, “As we navigate the global energy transition, this partnership with the Government of Maharashtra is a critical step in reshaping the future of sustainable energy for green mobility. With our investment in renewable energy and green mobility solutions, we are driving the state’s growth while positioning India as a global leader in the green economy.”

The partnership aligns with Essar Renewables’ ambitious goal of surpassing 8 GW of renewable energy capacity over the next five years.

23, Jan 2025
Ashok Leyland partners with ESAF Small Finance Bank for providing Vehicle Finance facilities

Ashok Leyland

Chandigarh, 23rd January 2025: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with ESAF Small Finance Bank to enter into a strategic vehicle financing partnership for its customers. This MoU will enable both Ashok Leyland and ESAF Small Finance Bank to offer customized financial solutions to the customers.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Viplav Shah, Head – of LCV Business, Ashok Leyland, and Mr. George Oommen – Business Head – of General Loans & Mobility Loans, ESAF Small Finance Bank in the presence of Mr. Amandeep Singh, President- of LCV, IO, PSB & Defence, Ashok Leyland. Under this partnership, ESAF Small Finance Bank will provide end-to-end financial solutions to the customers of Ashok Leyland. The partnership will focus on meeting customer needs by providing vehicle loans with convenient monthly repayment plans tailored to their preferences.

Mr. Amandeep Singh, President- LCV, IO, PSB & Defence, Ashok Leyland said, “At Ashok Leyland, we are dedicated to continuously enhancing our customers’ experience and delivering greater value. With the combined strength of ESAF Small Finance Bank and Ashok Leyland, our customers will now have access to comprehensive financing solutions with specially curated easy repayment plans”.

Mr. Viplav Shah, Head-LCV Business, Ashok Leyland said, “Ashok Leyland Light Commercial Vehicle Business is delighted to partner with ESAF Small Finance Bank to provide attractive financing solutions to our customers. This strategic partnership will strengthen Ashok Leyland’s market position. Driven by innovative technology, our products offer an unmatched total cost of ownership, ensuring optimal profitability for our customers. We are steadfast in our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that exceed customer expectations.”

Mr. George Oommen — Business Head – General Loans & Mobility Loans, ESAF Small Finance Bank said, “We are delighted to join forces with Ashok Leyland to provide commercial vehicle owners access to seamless financing solutions customized to their needs. At ESAF Small Finance Bank, our mission has always been to empower businesses and individuals with financial solutions that drive growth and prosperity. This partnership with Ashok Leyland allows us to extend our commitment to financial inclusion by supporting commercial vehicle customers with accessible and customized financing options. Together, we aim to enable entrepreneurs and businesses to achieve their goals while contributing to economic growth and community development.”

Ashok Leyland today offers a comprehensive range of trucks and buses to meet the full spectrum of commercial vehicle needs, from intercity light commercial vehicles to long-haul trucks and a wide variety of buses. Ashok Leyland’s vehicles ensure safe transport and driver-friendly options. As a pioneer in technological innovations within the truck and bus segment, Ashok Leyland is fully equipped with a range of buses powered by alternative fuels, dedicated to reducing pollution and promoting an eco-friendly transport system in India.

mpo slot
23, Jan 2025
Spin, Win, Repeat: Slot Online Strategies for Beginners

Slots are among the most popular and exciting games in online casinos. Their simple mechanics, vibrant graphics, and potential for big wins make them an irresistible choice for many players. However, while slots are primarily games of luck, beginners can still adopt some strategies to enhance their experience and improve their chances of success. You can try games like mpo slot.

If you’re new to the world of slot online, it’s important to understand the basics before diving into the thrilling world of spinning reels. In this article, we’ll explore some effective strategies and tips for beginners to make the most out of their online slot journey.

1. Understand How Slots Work

Before diving into any strategies, it’s crucial to understand how online slots function. Unlike table games such as blackjack or poker, slots are purely based on chance. Each spin is independent of the previous one, and outcomes are determined by a Random Number Generator (RNG). This means there’s no surefire way to predict or control the results of a spin.

Key Elements of a Slot Game:

  • Reels and Paylines: Most slots have 3 to 5 reels, and paylines are the lines across which symbols must align for a payout. Some slots have hundreds or even thousands of ways to win (known as “ways-to-win” systems).
  • Symbols: Different symbols trigger various outcomes, such as standard payouts, free spins, or bonus rounds.
  • Wilds and Scatters: Wild symbols substitute for others to form winning combinations, while scatter symbols often trigger special features like free spins.
  • Return to Player (RTP): The RTP is a percentage that shows how much a slot pays back over a long period of time. Higher RTP means better odds in the long run.

By familiarizing yourself with these key elements, you can make informed decisions when choosing which slot to play.

2. Choose the Right Slot Game for You

When it comes to online slots, there’s no shortage of options. From classic fruit machines to modern video slots with immersive storylines and features, selecting the right game is an important first step. Here’s how to narrow it down:

Factors to Consider:

  • RTP (Return to Player): As mentioned earlier, RTP is a critical factor in choosing a slot. Games with higher RTPs generally offer better long-term payout potential. Look for slots with RTPs of around 95% or higher.
  • Volatility: Slots vary in volatility or variance, which refers to the frequency and size of payouts. Low volatility slots pay smaller amounts more often, while high volatility slots offer larger but less frequent payouts. Choose one based on your risk tolerance.
  • Bonus Features: Some slots offer more bonus features than others, such as free spins, multipliers, or interactive mini-games. These features can significantly increase your chances of winning.
  • Themes and Graphics: It’s important to choose a game that you enjoy playing. If you’re a fan of movies, mythology, or adventure, pick a themed slot that resonates with your interests.

Tip:

Try out a few different slots with low stakes before committing to a higher bet. This gives you a sense of the gameplay and features without risking too much.

3. Manage Your Bankroll Wisely

One of the most important aspects of playing slots (or any casino game) is effective bankroll management. Even though slots are luck-based, you can still control how much you wager and how long you play, which can help you make the most out of your sessions.

Set a Budget:

Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start playing. This is your bankroll, and once you’ve hit this limit, stop playing. If you’re on a winning streak, it’s tempting to keep going, but always stick to your predetermined budget.

Bet Size:

Choose a bet size that fits your bankroll. For beginners, it’s recommended to start with small bets. This allows you to play for longer periods and increases your chances of landing a bonus feature or big win.

Use Betting Strategies:

While you can’t control the outcome of each spin, you can control your bet sizes. Many beginners use a betting strategy to help manage their bankroll. One common approach is the flat betting strategy, where you bet the same amount on every spin. This helps you maintain a consistent wager throughout the game.

Tip:

If you hit a win, consider setting aside a portion of the winnings before continuing. This can help prevent spending it all too quickly.

4. Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions

Most online casinos offer various bonuses and promotions to attract new players and keep existing ones engaged. These offers can provide extra spins, bonus cash, or special rewards, which can enhance your gameplay and potentially increase your chances of winning.

Types of Bonuses:

  • Welcome Bonuses: Many online casinos offer a sign-up bonus for new players. This can include a deposit match or free spins, which can extend your playing time.
  • Free Spins: Some slots offer free spins as part of a promotion. Free spins allow you to spin the reels without using your own funds, giving you the chance to win without risking your balance.
  • Loyalty Rewards: If you plan on playing regularly, look for casinos that offer loyalty programs. These reward you with points or bonuses for every bet you make, which can be redeemed for free spins, cash, or other perks.

Tip:

Always read the terms and conditions of any bonus or promotion, as they often come with wagering requirements. Ensure you understand how to use these offers effectively.

5. Know When to Stop

One of the best strategies for any casino game is knowing when to stop. Slots can be thrilling, but it’s important to recognize when you’ve reached your limits, whether it’s in terms of time or money spent.

Setting Time Limits:

If you’re on a winning streak, it’s easy to get carried away. Similarly, if you’re losing, you might want to keep playing to “make up” for your losses. Both are risky behaviors that can result in losing more than you intended. Set a time limit for your session, and if you reach it, walk away.

Cash Out Your Winnings:

When you hit a big win, take some time to assess the situation. It might be a good idea to cash out part or all of your winnings rather than continuing to play. This ensures you leave the game with something in your pocket, rather than risking it all on the next spin.

6. Practice with Free Slots

Many online casinos offer demo versions of their slots that you can play for free. These demo games are a great way to familiarize yourself with the mechanics, features, and bonuses of a slot without risking your money.

Benefits of Playing Free Slots:

  • Learn the Game: Get comfortable with the game’s rules, paylines, and bonus features.
  • Experiment with Betting Strategies: Test out different betting strategies without the pressure of losing real money.
  • Understand Game Mechanics: Free slots allow you to explore features like wilds, scatters, and multipliers without any financial risk.

Tip:

While playing free slots is fun, keep in mind that you can’t win real money from demo games. Use them as a tool to learn and practice before committing to real-money play.

Conclusion: Spin Smart and Enjoy the Ride!

While slots are largely games of chance, beginners can still implement strategies that maximize their enjoyment and increase their chances of success. By understanding the mechanics, managing your bankroll, choosing the right game, and taking advantage of bonuses, you can enhance your online slot experience.

Remember, the key to enjoying online slots is having fun, and it’s important to gamble responsibly. With these strategies in mind, you can start spinning, winning, and repeating—while making the most out of every spin!

22, Jan 2025
Noida’s Retail and Commercial Real Estate Market on the Rise in 2025

The retail and commercial real estate in Delhi-NCR achieved a landmark year in 2024, driven by record leasing volumes, reduced vacancy rates, and rising rental values. Among the various cities, Noida solidified itself as one of India’s most sought-after destinations with retail leasing surging by 12–15% and attracting brands and investors. Over the years, its well-planned infrastructure, strategic location, and dynamic economic growth have attracted global and domestic players to establish a foothold in the region. The city’s commercial real estate, steered by rapid urbanization, economic progress, and ever-evolving business needs, has shown a remarkable growth graph in 2024.

According to the Mordor Intelligence report, the Indian commercial real estate market size is estimated at USD 40.71 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 106.05 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 21.10% during the forecast period (2024-2029). Amid this growth, Noida has been displaying all signs of delivering a strong growth trajectory in 2025.

Besides, experts highlight that over the past five years, Noida’s enhanced connectivity and extensive infrastructure development have been key drivers of its real estate boom. The city has witnessed a surge in multinational corporations setting up IT hubs and data centers, while the ongoing development of the Noida International Airport in Jewar underscores its potential to attract both global and domestic players. Infrastructure projects such as the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, Yamuna Expressway, and metro extensions have further enhanced accessibility, reducing travel time for commuters and businesses.

Harsh Gupta, CEO, Sundream Group, says, “Noida’s surge in premium retail and Grade A office spaces, reflects the city’s evolving urban landscape and growing consumer aspirations. Iconic retail developments have become central attractions, offering a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Further, the rising disposable income and changing lifestyle preferences of Noida’s residents have fueled this retail transformation. Meanwhile, corporates are increasingly favoring Noida for its excellent connectivity and modern infrastructure. Thus, we expect the city will continue scaling new heights in 2025, attracting businesses and retailers looking to tap into a forward-looking and thriving urban ecosystem.”

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108 says, Noida’s commercial real estate sector is entering a golden era, fueled by robust infrastructure development and the strategic efforts of the government. With the region witnessing an influx of multinational companies, Noida has become a key destination for global business expansion. The ongoing projects like Noida International Airport in Jewar and metro extensions have significantly enhanced connectivity, making the city an ideal location for commercial and retail growth. Amidst this flourishing ecosystem of opportunities, we envision catering business interests and investors, setting the stage for transformative growth across both office and retail spaces

Moreover, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards curated shopping environments that combine luxury with convenience. Additionally, the influx of professionals and expatriates has further elevated the demand for high-end retail offerings, making Noida a magnet for top-tier domestic and international brands.

Ajendra Singh, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, at Spectrum@Metro, says, “Noida’s growing retail market reflects the city’s transformation into a hub for high-street shopping and premium malls. We’ve observed a growing demand for retail destinations that offer more than just shopping. Customers seek integrated experiences that combine luxury, entertainment, and convenience. With rising disposable incomes and a shift toward experiential lifestyles, malls have become social and cultural landmarks. As Noida’s excellent connectivity and modern infrastructure further enhance its appeal, we believe this growth will continue making it a hotspot for leading brands and discerning shoppers.”

Mr Saurav Sharma, Director Sales, Trisol RED, says, “Noida’s commercial real estate landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, aligning with global standards to meet the needs of businesses in a competitive environment. Investors are drawn to the city’s lucrative opportunities in both retail and office spaces, due to its strategic location and massive infrastructure development. In 2025, we believe Noida’s commercial real estate will sustain this momentum and continue becoming a hub of innovation and commerce, offering businesses a platform for growth in one of India’s most dynamic markets.

Therefore, as Noida strides confidently into 2025, its retail and commercial real estate market stands as a testament to the city’s transformative journey. Driven by enhanced infrastructure, strategic location, and rising consumer aspirations, Noida has established itself as a dynamic ecosystem for businesses and investors alike. From high-street retail and premium malls to Grade A office spaces and co-working hubs, the city offers opportunities that cater to evolving market demands.

22, Jan 2025
Avg. Flat Sizes Up 7% in Top 7 Cities in 2024, NCR Sees Highest 29% Jump

Mumbai, 22 January 2025: Despite the significant rise in housing prices across cities in 2024, homebuyers continue their quest for bigger living spaces. Latest ANAROCK data shows that average flat sizes in the top 7 cities rose by 8% annually in 2024 – from 1,420 sq. ft. in 2023 to 1,540 sq. ft. in 2024. Back in 2019, the avg. flat sizes in these cities was 1,145 sq. ft., indicating a whopping 34% 6-year jump.

ancrock

“A deep-dive into the data shows that at 29%, NCR saw the highest annual growth of average flat size – from 1,890 sq. ft. in 2023 to 2,435 sq. ft. in 2024,” says Anuj Puri, Chairman – ANAROCK Group. “This surge is primarily attributable to the increased new luxury housing supply in the region over the last one year. Developers here are closely tracking and responding to demand, which is why NCR has seen significant new supply in the >INR 1.5 Cr price bracket. Size is one of the key defining characteristics of luxury homes.”

Of the total 36,735 units launched in 2023, the luxury segment comprised a 40% share. In 2024, this segment accounted for 70% of the 53,000 units launched in the region. NCR’s affordable housing segment saw its supply share drop by another 13% in the last one year – from 24% in 2023 to 11% in 2024.

“Chronically space-constrained MMR saw the lowest average flat size growths in this six-year period,” adds Puri. “The average flat size in MMR was 784 sq. ft. in 2019 and increased by 8% to 849 sq. ft. in 2024. From 2020 onward, the average size in MMR was the highest in 2024, at 849 sq. ft.”

Among the top 7 cities, NCR recorded the highest average flat size at 2,435 sq. ft. in 2024, followed by Hyderabad with 2,103 sq. ft.
Average flat sizes in the other southern cities – Chennai and Bengaluru – were 1,445 and 1,660 sq. ft. respectively in 2024.
Kolkata’s average flat size stood at 1,149 sq. ft. while in Pune, it was 1,135 sq. ft in 2024.

Notably, average flat sizes across the top 7 cities are rising despite significantly increased property prices. The 6-year trend indicates a significant jump in average flat sizes post-COVID, and this is driven by actual demand. Flat sizes are increasing because of significant and consistent traction in the luxury segment.

City Highlights

The six-yearly trend of average flat sizes in the top 7 cities shows an overall 34% rise – from 1,145 sq. ft. in 2019 to 1,540 sq. ft. in 2024. In the last one year, there has been a 8% jump, with Hyderabad the only city to see flat sizes decrease in this period.

  • In NCR, the average flat size increased by 95% in the last six years – from 1,250 sq. ft. in 2019 to 2,435 sq. ft. in 2024. In the last one year, there was a 29% rise in the region. In 2023, the avg. flat size in NCR was 1,890 sq. ft. In both periods, NCR saw the highest jump among all the top 7 cities.
  •  In MMR, avg. flat sizes remain the lowest among the top 7 cities, at 849 sq. ft. in 2024. There has been an 8% increase in 2024 against 2019 (when it was 784 sq. ft.) In the last one year, the region saw the avg. flat size rise by 7%.
  •  In Hyderabad, the average flat size rose 24% in this six-year period – from 1,700 sq. ft. in 2019 to 2,103 sq. ft. in 2024. Contrastingly, between 2023 and 2024, Hyderabad was the only city to see the average flat size decrease (by 9%).
  • Bengaluru saw a 30% six-yearly jump – from 1,280 sq. ft. in 2019 to 1,660 sq. ft. in 2024. Between 2023 and 2024, the city saw a 12% rise.
  • In Kolkata, the avg. flat size saw a 15% increase in six years – to 1,149 sq. ft. in 2024 from 1,000 sq. ft. in 2019. In 2023, the avg. flat size was around 1,124 sq. ft., denoting a modest 2% yearly rise in 2024.
  • In Pune, the avg. flat size saw a 25% six-yearly increase – to 1,135 sq. ft. in 2024 from 910 sq. ft. in 2019. In the last one year, there has been a 4% jump in avg. flat sizes in the city.
  • Chennai saw a 31% jump in the last six years – from 1,100 sq. ft. in 2019 to 1,445 sq. ft. in 2024. In the last one-year period, the city saw a 15% jump in avg. flat size.
22, Jan 2025
ISBmantra’s Specialised Coaching Services Designed for a Successful Admit to the Indian School of Business

Hyderabad, January 22, 2025: ISBmantra is a prominent provider of specialised consulting and coaching services for candidates applying to various programmes at the Indian School of Business (ISB). With an 80% interview to admit conversion rate, ISBmantra is geared up to provide detailed assistance to candidates in successfully applying for the newly launched ‘Post-Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders’ (PGP YL) at ISB, Hyderabad. The PGP YL is a globally competitive programme aimed at catering to candidates with 0-2 years of work experience who want a management degree.

“In an exciting development, the newly launched PGP YL programme accepts CAT scores and now CAT takers too can apply for the programme. Out of the 3 lakh CAT takers, ISBmantra anticipates over 5,000–7,000 applicants vying for just about 100 PGPYL seats, making it critical for candidates to differentiate themselves and enrol for the programme,” said Prashant Tibrewal, the Founder of Alum-n-i, and a Founding Member of ISBmantra and AdmitSquare Consulting. “Admissions trends show that top programs increasingly value holistic profiles. Our coaching methods align with these shifts, ensuring candidates present themselves as strong, well-rounded professionals during the interview and selection process.” Tibrewal added.

ISBmantra understands that applicants often grapple with identifying and articulating their key stories, and navigating the interview process. They struggle to select experiences that align with ISB’s expectations of leadership, impact, and innovation. Limited word counts make it challenging to present stories with depth and clarity while maintaining focus on the applicant’s unique role. ISBMantra addresses these challenges through a structured yet personalized approach with in-depth brainstorming sessions, clear articulation of narratives, and comprehensive interview preparation.

  • In-depth Brainstorming: Help applicants uncover overlooked achievements and align them with ISB’s evaluation parameters. For instance, an applicant managing government projects, may be able to highlight their ability to navigate bureaucracy while driving measurable outcomes.
  • Clear Articulation: Train applicants refine the storytelling process to ensure clarity, conciseness, and impact, helping them articulate their role, challenges faced, and the significance of their contributions.
  • Interview Preparation: Through mock interviews and feedback sessions, empower them enhance their confidence and fine-tune responses to project their strengths effectively.

With 12 years of experience, ISBmantra is unique with its Mentor-Consultant Model, which combines the expertise of former ISB admissions officers with industry-specific consultants. This approach leverages insider knowledge and relatable guidance to craft compelling applications that emphasize leadership, impact, and academic readiness. In addition to application support, ISBmantra also offers personalized interview preparation with a 50% refund guarantee – thus ensuring a risk-free process for applicants.

ISBmantra has consistently delivered exceptional results, with around 10% of ISB’s class annually, comprising of the candidates coached by ISBmantra. This remarkable success is driven by the robust team of former ISB admissions officers and 40+ ISB alumni from various industries. By leveraging this expertise, ISBmantra ensures that every part of the application process is strategic, personalized, and impactful.

22, Jan 2025
Ashirvad by Aliaxis and Jadavpur University Join Forces to Revolutionize Water Management

Kolkata, 22, 2025 – Ashirvad by Aliaxis, India’s leading provider of plumbing and water management solutions, has announced a collaboration with Jadavpur University, one of India’s most renowned institutions, to advance water management solutions. This three-year partnership, supported by a project funding initiative from Ashirvad by Aliaxis, aims to address critical water management challenges while equipping students with hands-on experience and insights from industry leaders.

The initiative will operate under an open innovation framework, inviting students to engage with real-world problem statements provided by Ashirvad’s experts. The project will focus on enhancing the efficiencies of water treatment processes and exploring innovative approaches to tackle existing challenges in sustainable water management. A key focus area will be advancing next-generation materials that address both environmental concerns and the increasing demand for cost-effective, high-performance piping solutions.

Dr. Shireesh Pankaj, Vice- President, Innovation, Research & Development at Ashirvad by Aliaxis, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with Jadavpur University underscores our shared commitment to driving innovation in water treatment technologies and providing students with valuable hands-on learning experiences. Through this initiative, we aim to explore advanced polymer and material breakthroughs for next-generation plumbing solutions and enhance water recycling efficiencies which contribute to a more sustainable future with water preservation. At Ashirvad by Aliaxis, we believe that cross-collaboration through industry-academia partnerships fosters fresh thinking, enabling us to tackle current challenges while preparing for future global demands. We are honored to collaborate with Jadavpur University, which is globally recognized for its groundbreaking research and interdisciplinary excellence. Together, we aim to strengthen the innovation pipeline and nurture talent that will shape the future of industrial advancements.”

Prof. Bhaskar Gupta, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Jadavpur University stated that “This Letter of Intent will go a long extent to build up mutual confidence between industry and academia. Such collaboration is the call of the future, which will greatly help in nation building through end used innovative research.”

Prof Amitava Dutta, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Jadavpur University shared, “I am extremely excited about the scientific and technical collaboration between Jadavpur University and Ashirvad by Aliaxis in the areas of mutual interests. I am sure that this will generate many opportunities of collaborative research and will remain as a landmark of translational research in the country. I wish the collaboration to grow in the future.”

22, Jan 2025
Frido Promotes Community Empowerment with Focus on Women’s Inclusion and Economic Development

India, 22nd January 2025: Frido, a pioneer in ergonomic solutions for over a decade, proudly celebrates its remarkable growth while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to community development. With its roots firmly planted in India, Frido is not only transforming lives through its innovative products but also through impactful initiatives that empower local communities and promote sustainable economic growth.

Frido’s success began with its impactful work in regions like Talegaon, where it created significant economic opportunities. Today, the company directly employs 300 individuals and indirectly supports over 1,000 people from various communities. By the end of 2025, this support is projected to extend to over 2,500+ individuals directly and indirectly across India, reflecting Frido’s dedication to driving nationwide empowerment and resilience.

Frido

Frido’s forward-thinking initiatives are redefining opportunities for local women by addressing key barriers to employment and enabling them to play an active role in their families and communities. Recognizing the need for inclusivity and accessibility in the workforce, Frido has introduced a unique model by renting large spaces in villages like Sathegaon, allowing women to manage packaging tasks close to their homes. This setup eliminates the need for women to travel elsewhere for dispatching the products as Frido’s team oversees the entire logistics process. By undertaking final value-added services (VAS) and receiving regular weekly payments, these women not only earn a reliable income but also develop essential skills. This initiative enhances their financial independence and fosters social empowerment, enabling them to balance professional contributions with household responsibilities seamlessly.

Sarpanch Varsha Swapnil Navegane of Sathegaon highlighted the transformative impact of Frido’s initiatives, saying, “This initiative has been a game-changer for our community. Our youth now have meaningful job opportunities right here, eliminating the need to migrate to cities like Pune and Mumbai. Women, too, are stepping into the workforce, contributing to their families’ well-being and driving a wave of positive transformation across our villages.”

In addition to these efforts, Frido has partnered with a women empowerment- focused NGO to foster skill development and inclusivity. The collaboration promotes stitching and packaging skills among women, equipping them to take on diverse roles in the workforce. This initiative not only boosts employability but also drives gender equality, creating a ripple effect of positive change across communities.

Ganesh Sonawane, Co-founder of Frido, emphasized the company’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment, “True success lies in the impact we create beyond the balance sheet. At Frido, we believe in empowering individuals—not just through jobs, but by unlocking potential and nurturing self-reliance. Every initiative we undertake is a step toward shaping a more inclusive, resilient future—where communities grow stronger, and lives are transformed.”

Frido’s initiatives are a testament to the company’s belief that sustainable growth is deeply intertwined with the well-being of the communities it serves. By fostering economic opportunities, promoting skill development, and championing gender equality, Frido is building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

22, Jan 2025
Aukera Marks Expansion with HSR Showroom and Fireside Chat on Lab-Grown Diamond Jewellery Featuring Abhirami

Bangalore, 22nd January 2025: Aukera, one of India’s leading lab grown diamond jewellery brands today launched its newest store in HSR Layout, Bangalore. As part of the expansion celebrations, Aukera hosted an enlightening fireside chat featuring acclaimed South Indian actress Abhirami (Divya Gopikumar) and Lisa Mukhedkar, Founder and CEO. The discussion revolved around the theme “Making Choices- Why Choose Lab Grown Diamonds” and delved into dispelling the myths around lab grown diamond jewellery.

The newly opened store is located at a prominent shopping street in HSR Layout making it an ideal choice for shoppers. In line with other stores, the new store’s retail design seamlessly reflects the brand’s ethos of elegance and sophistication with a clean and minimalistic decor that further complements the beauty of the store. Offering a collection of over 1000+ unique designs, the store showcases an array of solitaire engagement rings, bridal jewellery, necklaces, earrings, and more that not only cater to a diverse set of customers but seamlessly blend exceptional design with international craftsmanship setting a new benchmark for aspiration and trust in grown diamonds jewellery category. With this new store Aukera now has 8 operational stores spread across Bangalore and Hyderabad.

Speaking at the launch, Lisa Mukhedkar, Co-founder and CEO of Aukera, said, “It has been our single-minded focus to be at the vanguard of the pathbreaking evolution of grown diamonds jewellery. Aukera’s vision to inspire women to make choices and reject compromise, is single mindedly committed to design and craftsmanship, offering women the highest standards of jewellery. We are delighted to have Abhirami, who epitomises choice and rejects compromise in everything she does. The launch of this new store is not only a testament to our growing trajectory but it also reaffirms our vision of seeing more and more women choosing quality, purity and design – and turning their back on compromised diamonds.

Growing ethical concerns regarding traditional diamond mining practices have contributed to the rising popularity of lab-grown diamond jewellery. During the Fireside chat between Lisa Mukhedkar, Founder and CEO of Aukera, and actress Abhirami on the topic “The Truth Behind Grown Diamonds: What Every Consumer Should Know”, the actress shared her own transformative shift from traditional mined diamond jewellery to grown diamonds jewellery after being aware of social and unethical impacts of mining. The fireside chat also served as a platform for the duo to start an open dialogue on how the jewellery industry can benefit from a greater understanding and acceptance of grown diamonds.

Actress Abhirami said, “I’m deeply inspired by Aukera’s vision and purpose, as it aligns perfectly with my personal values. It was an absolute delight to engage in a candid conversation with Lisa, who is passionately driving Aukera’s mission to enlighten consumers about the realities of grown diamonds which are far from the myths doing the rounds in the industry.”

22, Jan 2025
APAC Brands Can Unlock Engagement Opportunities with RCS, According to Infobip Research

India, 22nd January 2025: Global cloud communication platform, Infobip has unveiled a new report titled ‘RCS: A New Era of Customer Engagement,’ which highlights research by IDC on the transformative potential of Rich Communication Services (RCS) in the Asia-Pacific region. The research reveals how a global smartphone user base of 5.1 billion presents new opportunities for brands to deliver personalized, interactive, and secure messaging experiences through RCS, particularly in countries such as Indonesia (146.3 million users), Malaysia (28.6 million users), Philippines (60.4 million users), India (653.1 million users), and Singapore (6.4 million users). With iOS now supporting RCS, brands can reach a broader audience with rich, engaging content directly on users’ mobile phones.

As businesses increasingly adopt digital communication channels, the need for secure messaging has become critical with the rise in phishing attacks in 2024. With India, Japan, and Australia ranking among the top 10 most targeted countries, RCS helps businesses protect their customers from falling victim to phishing. By integrating verified sender IDs and brand logos, which add a vital layer of legitimacy to messaging campaigns, this security feature of RCS ensures that customers can easily distinguish authentic messages from malicious ones.

Beyond security, RCS empowers brands to deliver contextually relevant communication throughout the customer journey, fostering long-term customer value and loyalty. By 2029, the report predicts that 60% of G2000 firms will shift from traditional KPIs like sales and profit to experience-oriented metrics, such as customer journey analytics and omnichannel engagement. The effectiveness of RCS is already evident. In India, fintech platform BankBazaar saw an 80% higher click-through rate with RCS compared to SMS, which further increased to 130% with the use of GIFs. This innovation has doubled customer response rates and established RCS as a core component of their marketing strategy. Similarly, Niva Bupa, a leading insurance provider in India, achieved a 75% ROI and improved customer retention with RCS.

Ivan Ostojic, Chief Business Officer, Infobip, said, “As RCS becomes widely available on both Android and iOS, it is transforming the way brands interact with their customers. Highly personalized interactions have proven to be effective, with response rates several times higher than traditional communication channels, underscoring the value of tailoring communication to individual needs. With RCS, businesses can engage directly with customers through the native messaging app, delivering a more personalized and seamless experience.” He added, “RCS is not just a messaging channel but a vital component of a brand’s omnichannel strategy. In today’s competitive digital landscape, it empowers brands to build trust, drive engagement, and foster lasting relationships while meeting evolving customer expectations.”