Category Archives: Business

SNG & Partners Collaborates with Singapore-based ESG Firm Snowkap

26th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  SNG & Partners, a full-service law firm with offices in India and overseas has announced a strategic alliance with Snowkap, a Singapore-based ESG firm with a presence in the Middle East and India, to blend legal acumen with ESG excellence and together deliver a complete suite of ESG+L services and solutions. The intent is to provide organizations with a comprehensive understanding of the baselines, risks, and opportunities including legal exposures, associated with ESG. Aiming to empower businesses to stay ahead of the compliance curve, and at the same time integrate ESG+L into business strategy, this collaboration will go beyond diagnostics to provide holistic and sustainable solutions to corporate ESG challenges, which are based on the deep industry knowledge and sector-specific bespoke ESG+L frameworks.

SNG & Partners has meticulously analyzed over 4,000 ESG-related data points from Indian laws and statutes. By integrating this extensive knowledge with Snowkap’s advanced ESG analytics and data capabilities, this collaboration has developed a comprehensive platform that is ready to support global organizations in their sustainability journey.

The partnership will provide a range of sector-agnostic services focusing on Manufacturing & Consumer Businesses and Financial Institutions. Leveraging their tech-enabled products and managed services, the partnership will assist businesses with Carbon Accounting, Supply Chain GHG Analysis, Product Carbon Footprint, ESG Reports, Supply Chain ESG Analysis, Pre-Deal Assessments, and Post-Deal ESG Monitoring.

Commenting on the synergy, Rajesh Gupta, Chairman of SNG & Partners shared, “The collaboration between SNG & Partners and Snowkap marks a significant milestone in our journey towards driving sustainable business practices. By combining our legal expertise with Snowkap’s advanced technological solutions, we are poised to offer unprecedented support to organizations striving to meet their ESG goals. This synergy will undoubtedly be a game changer, setting new standards for innovation and accountability in the ESG sector. This goes beyond mere compliance as it will position companies to become ESG leaders, not just in India, but on the global stage.”

Adding to the above, Rajesh Patel, Co-founder & CEO and Giri Krishnaswamy, Co-founder of Snowkap jointly shared, “Partnering with SNG & Partners allows Snowkap to expand our reach and impact within the ESG landscape. Together, we will disrupt traditional methods and introduce cutting-edge tools and strategies that empower businesses to achieve greater transparency and sustainability. This combination is not just a strategic alliance; it’s a transformative force that will reshape the way ESG commitments are approached and fulfilled across industries.”

The team from SNG & Partners who will be assisting Rajesh Narain Gupta in this collaboration include Associate Partner Jahnavi Dwarkadas, Senior Associate Rachit Munjal, and Associate Manan Pant. The team from Snowkap who will be working with Rajesh Patel and Giri Krishnaswamy will include Principal Sustainability Architect Martin Malmros and VP – Sustainability Ambalika Gupta.

Red FM’s Guthli Returns Campaign: Collects 1 Million Guthlis

26th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  India’s leading private radio and entertainment network, Red FM, is thrilled to announce the success of ‘Guthli Returns’—a five-week campaign across Maharashtra and Gujarat in collaboration with Mission Mango. The initiative aimed to save farmers and empower them to secure their future through mango cultivation.

Guthli Returns was a movement based on collecting mango seeds, turning them into saplings, and donating them to farmers below the poverty line. Listeners actively participated by visiting our stations or sending their contributions via courier. The Rotary Club of Mumbai pledged an additional 1,500 seeds to the initiative. An eight-month pregnant woman in Thane and Mahim organized 50 volunteers to contribute 5,000 seeds. RJ Malishka and listeners traveled to Murbad to engage with farmers, hosted by the agriculture department.

A group in Nashik sent a tempo with 1 lakh seeds, significantly boosting our collection efforts. Schools and colleges contributed thousands of seeds. Brands like Madhuban restaurant and Meetha by Radisson Hotels joined the cause, promising 3000 and 5000 seeds respectively. The Municipal Commissioner of Navi Mumbai adopted the campaign, promising widespread participation and an additional 1 lakh seeds.

Speaking on the announcement, Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO, of Red FM, and Magic FM, said, “As the name speaks for itself, ‘Guthli Returns’ was a Red FM initiative to give back to the farmers. Urban life might have distanced us from our agricultural roots but ‘Guthli Returns’ as a campaign had several touchpoints. We had aimed to bridge the gap between urban life and rural life, evoke responsibility in citizens of India, secure the future of farmers, and save our beloved national fruit mango from becoming extinct. We are beside ourselves to report that with the support of Indian citizens, we have been able to make a tangible difference in saving farmers and their livelihoods and mangoes. We are immensely proud of the nation for pouring in Guthlis and working for a greater cause together and towards social change.”

Music composer Devi Sri Prasad Announces Indian Music Tour; Fans are Excited

26th June 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  Devi Sri Prasad (DSP), the renowned Music Director in the Indian Film Industry, has announced his much-awaited India Tour, marking a triumphant return to his home country after a series of successful music tours across the globe. The announcement, made via his official social media channels on June 21, 2024, has sparked excitement among his fans nationwide.

Teasing his followers with a cryptic post inviting guesses about the first city on the tour, DSP’s announcement coinciding with World Music Day has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm from his devoted fanbase. Known for his dynamic and powerful compositions that have defined a career spanning over 25 years, DSP’s tour promises to be a celebration of his legendary journey.

Having garnered acclaim and numerous awards in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi cinema, including the prestigious Nandi Award for ‘Attarintiki Daredi’ and a National Award for ‘Pushpa: The Rise,’ DSP is celebrated not only as a Music Director but also as a versatile singer, lyricist, and choreographer. His music blends diverse sounds seamlessly, captivating audiences worldwide and earning him the moniker of ‘Rockstar’.

Produced and managed by ACTC Events, DSP’s India Tour is poised to be a resounding success, set to resonate deeply with fans as they come together to celebrate his iconic career and timeless hits. Eagerly anticipated by fans who await the opportunity to sing, dance, and revel in the magic of his blockbuster albums live on stage, DSP’s tour is expected to create lasting memories and cement his legacy as a music icon.

S&P Global India Ranked as One of India’s 100 Best Companies to Work for the 4th Consecutive Year

26th June 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  S&P Global India has been recognised as #47 among India’s Top 100 Best Companies to Work For 2024 by the Great Place to Work Institute. This achievement marks the company’s fourth year of ranking in the top 100, and second consecutive year in the top 50 among leading companies in the country.

Commenting on this milestone, Nilam Patel, Managing Director, India Operations, S&P Global, said, “We are elated and honoured to be ranked as one of India’s Top Companies to Work For in 2024. This esteemed recognition among the Top 50 is a testament to the exceptional individuals who contribute to making S&P Global India a great place to work. We have been continuously working on creating a culture where our colleagues feel like they have an opportunity to create a meaningful impact together.”

S&P Global’s mission to Accelerate Progress is driven by its core values of Discovery, Partnership, and Integrity, which empower its workforce to build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment. The company’s ‘People First’ philosophy has a strong focus on leading people with care and empathy, ensuring the well-being and development of its people.

Speaking on the recognition, Tanuj Gupta, VP & Regional People Lead, India & APAC, S&P Global, said, “We at S&P Global are honoured to receive this recognition from Great Place To Work for the fourth year in a row. This recognition motivates us to stay focused on our mission and continue to excel as one of India’s Best Companies to Work For by prioritizing the well-being and development of our people.”

Currently, S&P Global India has a strength of over 14,000 people located across its offices in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Gurugram, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Noida and Indore.

Smile Train’s Transformational Impact on Cleft Care Across India Highlighted in ‘Quality of Life and Impact Report’ Released in Lucknow

26th June 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India   Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused NGO, released an in-depth assessment report today showcasing the transformative impact of Smile Train’s cleft care interventions across the country in a twenty-year period. Compiling data collected by consulting firm KPMG. The report deployed three research methodologies to get a holistic view of the social impact of Smile Train’s programs supporting cleft care over two decades. The report also highlights the USD 16 Billion impact created in India through Smile Train’s investment in cleft treatment since 2000.

Since 2000, Smile Train has supported more than Seven Lakh cleft surgeries across India. The key findings from the study reinforce that Smile Train’s program in India is aligned with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national priorities. It demonstrates the positive impact of Smile Train’s support in improving access to cleft treatment, enhancing hospital infrastructure, and positively influencing patients’ quality of life. All respondents indicated that Smile Train India’s support was crucial in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with clefts and their families.

• 70% of parents stated that they lacked financial resources to access cleft treatment without a Smile Train’s support.
• 100% of parents stated that the Smile Train helped reduce financial burden and improved access to cleft treatment.
• 100% of parents acknowledged that information on cleft and its treatment helped them understand their child’s condition.
• Awareness created by Smile Train helped parents change the perception of their family members towards cleft.
• Parents’ stress and tension reduced considerably after interacting with qualified doctors who treated their children.
• 79% of parents reported that cleft treatment received via smile train has greatly benefited their child.
• 60% of individuals with clefts had difficulty eating certain foods and drinking liquids before cleft surgery.
• After treatment, 83% of individuals with clefts reported no difficulty in facial functions like eating and drinking.
• 77.6% partner doctors agreed that the number of individuals seeking cleft treatment increased after support provided by Smile Train.
• 96% doctors interviewed highlighted effective outreach created by Smile Train India to cater to individuals with clefts belonging to remote areas.
• 100% doctors agreed that the hospital staff is adequate in numbers to treat the increased number of individuals with clefts. The doctors interviewed on average conduct 278 cleft surgeries in a year.
• 82% of doctors surveyed confirmed that they have received training from Smile Train India. On average, the doctors spent 20-25 days a year in training related to cleft treatment. This helped to enhance their knowledge and expertise in cleft treatment.

Susannah Schaefer, Executive Vice Chair, President & CEO of Smile Train, stated, “As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Smile Train’s founding as a global nonprofit, I want to take a moment to reflect on two-and-a-half decades of remarkable achievements. Since inception, our goal has always been to provide comprehensive and sustainable cleft care. To commemorate this milestone, we commissioned two significant studies: an Economic Impact Study to analyze our work’s impact on the global economy, and the India-specific Quality of Life and Impact Report to understand how our support has impacted the lives of individuals with clefts and their families. The findings underscore the importance of our work and the need to continue expanding our reach to underserved communities as well as create a sustainable cleft infrastructure with critical partnerships and training.”

Speaking at the occasion, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President, and Regional Director – Asia, Smile Train said, “We are immensely proud to present Smile Train India’s “Quality of Life and Impact Report,” which encapsulates 20 years of our transformative work and its profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, including the medical community. This report marks a significant milestone in our unwavering commitment to equitable cleft care across India. The findings highlight Smile Train’s pivotal role in bridging gaps in cleft care, from improving medical infrastructure to supporting underserved communities.”

Cleft is a gap in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate) and is a facial birth difference that affects one in 700 babies. An untreated cleft condition not only leads to facial differences in appearance, but health challenges related to eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking. Many children with clefts get bullied in schools and colleges and end up living in isolation.

Capgemini in Collaboration with NSEZ Launches First-of-its-kind Center of Excellence in Skilling for Youths in Noida

26th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Capgemini, in collaboration with Noida Special Economic Zone (NSEZ), announces the launch of a first-of-its-kind integrated Center of Excellence in Skilling in Uttar Pradesh. The state-of-the-art center includes facilities such as classrooms, a computer lab, a counseling area, and a science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) lab equipped with Coding, Tinkering*, and Robotics facilities for government schoolteachers and students, creating a conducive learning environment. This collaboration aims to help incentivize skill development and digital literacy in India by reaching out to unemployed and vulnerable youths and providing them with advanced training in new technologies such as Generative AI, robotics, Fintech, and more.

Capgemini will offer curated short-term and long-term courses in advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning to 1000 young aspirants annually, enhancing employability in Information Technology (IT), Information Technology Enabled Services (IteS) and Fintech sectors. The demographic encompasses individuals aged 11 years and above, with a specific focus on socially and economically marginalized communities, as well as women and youths with special needs, aiming to foster digital inclusion.

Commenting on the launch Ashwin Yardi, CEO – of Capgemini in India said, “At Capgemini we believe that technology has the capabilities to revolutionize societies. We see immense potential in India’s employment-seeking younger generations. As a responsible technology company, we aim to equip youths from marginalized communities with the right digital skills, enabling them to boost their career prospects and leverage cutting-edge technology. This initiative, aligned with the country’s digital inclusion vision, will prepare India’s young people to take up opportunities in the new world shaped by technology evolution.”

The center adopts a 360-degree intervention approach, guiding individuals through their career journey. This is further complemented with Capgemini certification and live industry projects for enhanced exposure. The center aims to place the trained students with leading recruiters, enabling sustainable careers in aspirational jobs. It also serves as a platform for entrepreneurship support, encouraging students and youth to ideate and innovate.

This collaboration between Capgemini and NSEZ is further strengthened by the contribution from several other partners including SAP, nasscom foundation, YES Foundation, SRF Foundation, AADHAR, EduBridge, and The Innovation Story.

JK Cement Boosts Production Capacity with the Addition of New Grinding Unit at Prayagraj

26th June 2024 Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India  JK Cement, a leading Indian manufacturer of grey cement and prominent global white cement producer, today announced the commissioning of a new grinding unit at its Prayagraj Plant in Uttar Pradesh. This significant milestone, achieved in under ten months, strengthens JK Cement’s commitment to meet the growing demand for cement and solidify its position as a key industry leader.

The Prayagraj Plant is a 2 MTPA Clinker Grinding unit project which will increase the overall capacity of the organization from the present 22 MTPA to 24 MTPA. This strategic move allows the company to efficiently cater to the burgeoning demand for cement across Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

The Prayagraj grinding unit is equipped with cutting-edge German technology, ensuring high energy efficiency and reducing input and fixed costs. This strategic expansion positions JK Cement to cater to the evolving needs of a diverse customer base across key markets.

The Eastern Uttar Pradesh market for cement is significant, driven by the region’s rapid infrastructure development. The government’s heavy investment in infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and buildings, is expected to continue fueling growth. JK Cement’s strategic move into this market leverages its expertise and resources to meet the increasing demand, solidifying its position as a key player in the industry.

Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd., said, “We are thrilled to launch this new grinding unit at Prayagraj, which marks a significant milestone in our expansion strategy. As India accelerates its infrastructure development to sustain robust economic growth, we are continually scaling our capacities to cater to escalating demands from the infrastructure, housing, and construction sectors. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and contributing to the socio-economic development remains unwavering. We anticipate that these endeavors will not only foster our growth but also actively contribute to the overall development of the region and the nation.”

Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Deputy Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd., added, “Our relentless pursuit of excellence has led us to this momentous occasion. Cementing our market foothold emerges as a paramount objective, seamlessly harmonizing with our overarching vision of achieving sustainable and profitable expansion. This strategic addition not only ensures our steadfast role in nation-building but also ushers in an array of employment opportunities within the state. We are committed to operational brilliance and innovative contributions, amplifying growth and progress on both regional and national horizons.”

Presently, JK Cement operates two functional units in the state of Uttar Pradesh, situated in Aligarh and Hamipur with a capacity of 1.5 MTPA and 2 MTPA respectively. Designed with cutting-edge technologies, the project is expected to generate substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing significantly to the local economy and fostering regional growth.

JK Cement’s commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability is evident in the design and operation of the new grinding unit. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and adheres to the highest environmental and safety standards. This strategic expansion reinforces JK Cement’s position as a leading cement manufacturer in India, poised to meet the growing demands of the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Chinese Wok Rewards 50+ Top Performers with Thailand Trip

26th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Chinese Wok, India’s largest desi Chinese food chain, recently organized a reward trip to Thailand for over 50 employees as a part of its commitment to recognize and reward its top-performing team members. This five-day adventure, held on May 6th, 2024, aimed to strengthen team spirit, foster camaraderie, and celebrate the employees’ incredible impact on the company’s success.

The Thailand trip included exciting activities like island hopping, exploring vibrant temples, and indulging in delicious Thai cuisine. Employees also participated in engaging team-building exercises that fostered collaboration and communication.

A special highlight of the occasion was the formal Certificate Distribution and Award Ceremony. This esteemed event served as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and achievements of our top performers. During the ceremony, a spirit of appreciation and accomplishment permeated the atmosphere as each recipient was presented with their certificate or award.

Speaking about the trip, Aayush Agrawal, Founder of Chinese Wok, said, “At Chinese Wok, we believe in creating a positive and motivating work environment that values our employees. This trip was a way to show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication. We are incredibly proud of our team and the positive impact they have on our company’s success.”

Chinese Wok encourages companies to replicate and expand their unique company culture and commitment to employee engagement.

To witness the camaraderie firsthand, one can check the behind-the-scenes excitement on their social media pages, and see how Chinese Wok prioritizes employee well-being.

SolarCraft Brings Solar Power to Cal-West Locations in San Rafael and Petaluma

Novato, CA, June 25, 2024 –Together, the solar photovoltaic systems at Cal-West’s San Rafael and Petaluma sites are expected to generate nearly 60,000 kWh per year. This will offset approximately 90% of Cal-West’s electricity usage from the utilities, replacing it with clean, sustainable solar energy.

The newly installed solar panels are expected to offset 42 metric tons of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) every year. This is equivalent to removing over 107,000 miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle, saving 97 barrels of oil, or the carbon sequestered by 49 acres of trees in one year.

The owners of Cal-West Rentals display their commitment to sustainability with strategic solar energy investments. They began with their sister company, Encore Events Rentals, and now have solar installations at three locations, all by SolarCraft. By prioritizing renewable energy, Cal-West not only reduces its carbon footprint but also exemplifies responsible business practices, setting a high standard for environmental stewardship in the industry.

Sooper Dooper Kids Clothing Partners with Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi to Launch a Kindness Movement Empowering Children

25th June 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Sooper Dooper Kids, a purpose-driven ecommerce children’s clothing brand has received an undisclosed sum of funding from Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Dedicated to fashion with a purpose, Sooper Dooper Kids caters to children aged 5 to 12, introducing the “One Purchased = One Donated” initiative, promising to spread joy and opportunity to underprivileged children across India.

Their inaugural collection features premium printed 100% cotton tees, crafted for comfort, breathability, and durability. Adorned with whimsical characters brought to life through cutting-edge Direct to Garment printing technology, each piece is a testament to their dedication to quality and creativity.

Founder Nevil Darukhanawala, emphasizes, “Wanting to leave behind a kinder and more inclusive world for my 9 year old daughter Ariana is what inspired me to launch the Sooper Dooper Kids impact platform where all parents and children can participate in making the dream of a better world come true. At Sooper Dooper Kids, fashion is not just about wearing; it’s about caring and sharing too.”

The partnership with Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s mission to inspire kindness and compassion, empowering children to witness the transformative impact of their choices on peers in need.

“We are thrilled to unite with Sooper Dooper Kids in our quest to spread joy and opportunity to children in need,” expresses Her Highness Sheikha Arwa Al Qassimi. “Acts of kindness, no matter how small, have the power to brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity. By nurturing kindness, inclusivity, generosity, and the spirit of giving back, we empower young minds to believe in their ability to effect change in the world.”

Sooper Dooper Kids distributes the donated t-shirts using a network of organizations and charities that are already supporting and working with underprivileged kids living in the streets, rural areas and cities. The brand is committed to full transparency and each donated item is verified and available for everyone to follow the impact journey and stories.

“We invite parents and children alike to embark on this journey of spreading kindness and making a difference,” urges Darukhanawala. “Together, we can build a world where kindness, inclusivity, and generosity reign supreme.”

For more information about Sooper Dooper Kids and it’s transformative initiatives, please visit www.sooperdooperkids.com.