Category Archives: Business

Cotton Council International Unites Industry Leaders to Weave India-u.s. Cotton Trade Relations

Mumbai, 19th June 2024 – A Cotton Council International (CCI)-led media roundtable today promoted strategic India-U.S. textile trade partnerships and highlighted U.S. cotton as the preferred choice of imported cotton for Indian spinners. Tomorrow, June 19, a three-part “COTTON USA: Weaving Threads of Unity between the U.S. Cotton and Indian Textile Industry” event in New Delhi will explore this partnership in more depth.

“India’s textile industry is projected to grow to $350 billion by 2025, and as India is a key market for U.S. cotton, there is substantial opportunity to expand our cooperation,” CCI Executive Director Bruce Atherley said. “Our discussions today emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership in driving sustainable practices and economic growth in both countries.”

To further this agenda at its COTTON USA event tomorrow, CCI will meet with U.S. Embassy personnel then join five top Indian textile manufacturers, the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocolâ, Supima and other global cotton textile supply chain luminaries to discuss topics of mutual interest and chart a path of cooperation moving forward. The event will also feature a high-level panel discussion on “Celebrating Women’s Influence in the Fashion and Textile Industry.”

While India has picked up the pace in textile exports, registering a growth of 6.91% year-on-year in March, its ambitious target of $100 billion in textile exports by 2030 will require collaborative action and robust international trade pathways. The discussions today highlighted opportunities for synergy between U.S. cotton and Indian stakeholders and charted a roadmap for an efficient and profitable partnership between the U.S. and India that empowers Indian spinners, textile mills, and manufacturers to achieve these goals.

“India’s impressive textile manufacturing ecosystem is energized with expansion opportunities, and we at Supima are excited about the partnership prospects that can arise out of this growing industry,” Supima President and CEO Marc Lewkowitz said. “The increasing demand for premium quality verifiable SUPIMA® cotton highlights the need for scaling production to meet global needs.”

Peush Narang, CCI’s program representative in India and Sri Lanka, added, “Our valuable partnership with the Indian textile industry will propel both industries; by using U.S. cotton, Indian textile manufacturers can not only meet global quality standards but also enhance their competitive edge in the international market. Indian textile manufacturers are using high quality U.S. cotton fiber to create beautiful garments. And by using U.S. cotton, they also receive benefits of the entire COTTON USAÔ experience—including full traceability of the supply chain, the unique COTTON USA SOLUTIONSâ technical servicing program, and a package of services, data and intelligence—which no other cotton can provide.”

Anshul Pandey on how he learnt patience during Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: It was tough to sit for hours without getting any shots

They say, ‘Rejection is a part of life.’ While this holds true for all professions, it is an undeniable fact for actors. They often face rejection and failure. While many give up, some choose to push through and achieve their dreams. Actor Anshul Pandey, who recently amazed audiences with his performance in the Watcho Exclusives series ‘Flash,’ opened up about facing rejections, how he handles them, and the biggest lesson he has learned from his acting journey so far, especially during his time on the sets of ‘Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai’. The young actor also revealed whether he ever felt like giving up on his passion for acting.

Talking about managing rejections, Anshul shared, “I don’t dwell on rejection now because it’s something every actor faces more often than getting approvals. But when you do get that approval, that nod, it feels great. One day, someone might not cast me because they think I don’t look right for the part, and the next day, someone might not cast me because they think I look too good for it. But then, someday, they’ll cast me because they think I’m perfect for it. You never really know where things will work out—it’s all about being in the right place at the right time.”

The actor portrays the character of Vansh, a fashion photographer who carries some past baggage that leads to the twists and turns in the Watcho Exclusives series. While Anshul has usually played the boy-next-door in TV shows, he effortlessly played a grey character in Flash.

Discussing him wanting to give up on acting, Anshul said, “Yes, many times. In the entertainment industry, especially for actors, going to set and acting isn’t the only part of the job. There’s another aspect, which is learning to be patient. Firstly, you need patience when auditioning for the right part to come your way. Then, even when you’re on set, like for Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, where there were about 20 main cast members, there are fixed times for your shots. So, there are a lot of times when you’re just sitting in your makeup room waiting. I’m someone who’s naturally very impatient, so those initial years taught me a lot about patience. It was tough during those times when I was sitting for hours without getting any shots. But I had to understand that it’s not that nobody cares about me waiting; it just takes time dealing with so many actors and scenes.”

Directed by Shaurya Singh, “Flash” on Watcho Exclusives is a gripping series following Vansh Kundra, a talented portrait photographer, drawn into mystery during a routine shoot with enigmatic Aksha Chauhan. In a lavish yet eerie penthouse, unexpected events challenge Vansh’s reality. Unveiling lies and secrets, “Flash” gradually reveals Aksha’s true identity and sinister forces, keeping viewers enthralled. Available exclusively on the Watcho App, “Flash” delivers a thrilling experience that will leave you wanting more.

Trippy Tequila: Where Nights Come Alive in Gurugram

Gurugram, 19th June 2024: If you’re looking to dive into an extraordinary nightlife experience, the streets of Sector 66, Gurugram are about to get all kinds of trippy. Nestled on the first floor of M3M International Finance Center, Unit Number R2101-2105, Tower B, Sector 66, Gurugram, Trippy Tequila is your new go-to spot for an unforgettable evening.

Welcome to Trippy Tequila

Indulge in the extraordinary at Trippy Tequila, where amazing food and drinks await you! Come for the flavors, stay for the fun. This gastropub, the brainchild of serial entrepreneur Luv Dhingra—who is also the founder of Metallicz Media, Lost Lemons, Only Neon, and Brand Lab—embodies modern club charm and offers a delectable journey for the senses.

The Vibe and Ambiance

From the moment I stepped into Trippy Tequila, I felt like I had entered a nocturnal playground. The entrance, a trippy tunnel, set the tone for an electrifying night ahead. The vibe was palpable, with a buzzing crowd all geared up to get their party mode on. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just out for a memorable night, Trippy Tequila provides the perfect backdrop.

The cozy ambiance blends seamlessly with attentive service, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for both casual gatherings and intimate dinners. The interior decor is modern yet warm, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.

Crafted Cocktails and Expert Mixologists

What’s a night out without some fantastic cocktails to kick things off? Trippy Tequila’s expert mixologists are at your service, ready to whip up refreshing cocktails and unique concoctions that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your spirits. I had the pleasure of trying a few signature cocktails crafted by their bar specialist, Manish Singh. Each drink was a masterpiece, blending flavors in ways that were both surprising and delightful.

A Culinary Journey Around the World

Trippy Tequila is not just about the drinks and the dance floor; it’s also a culinary journey that takes you around the world. Their menu boasts an impressive array of dishes to satisfy your late-night cravings.

PhonePe Payment Gateway Launches Referral Program

Bengaluru, 19th June 2024: The PhonePe Payment Gateway today announced the launch of its referral program. PhonePe PG Partner Program is designed for anyone helping a business grow online. As a referral partner, they can refer their clients to accept online payments from their customers and accelerate business growth. The program offers businesses one of the most competitive commission rates in the industry, which is applicable for every transaction helping significantly boost their referral earnings.

Businesses can join the PhonePe PG Partner Program to offer their merchants best-in-class payment solutions. This partnership boosts credibility and helps businesses become the preferred vendor for clients, fostering trust and fueling business expansion. The program is open to various businesses, including developers and digital agencies to technology platforms like ERP, CRM, and SaaS companies. Partners benefit from scheduled monthly payouts, exclusive invitations to events hosted by the PhonePe PG, and a dedicated account manager to assist with any queries. Technology partners will receive additional support, including technical assistance for seamless integration with their products.

Speaking on the launch of the program, Ankit Gaur, Head PhonePe Payment Gateway & Online Merchants, said, “With the launch of PhonePe PG Partner Program, we are reaffirming our dedication to empowering businesses through cutting-edge payment solutions and rewarding partnerships. We’ve already witnessed over 10x growth in adoption of our referral program since launch. With this initiative, we seek to empower merchants to utilise cutting-edge fintech solutions and offerings to enhance the success of their online business.”

The PG referral program was launched at a grand event called Confluence in Ahmedabad. The event saw sessions led by Ankit Gaur, Head of PhonePe Payment Gateway, followed by networking opportunities. The event centred on knowledge exchange. Potential referral partners actively participated in discussions, sharing solutions for the common challenges businesses face when accelerating their online growth.

To join the program, just visit the PhonePePG Partner Program page and register. Post registration, a PhonePe representative will assist with the KYC and onboarding process. Upon completion of the process, merchants will receive a referral link via their registered email, enabling them to start referring clients and earning commissions immediately.

20th SAS Plugfest Demonstrates Successful Collaboration and Innovation Among Industry Leaders

Santa Clara, CA, June 19, 2024 –The SNIA STA forum (STA) today announced completion of the twentieth Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) Plugfest, showcasing the collaborative and innovative spirit of industry-leading companies around 24G SAS. The plugfest brought together eight SAS equipment manufacturers in Austin, Texas, and was co-located with SNIA Regional SDC Austin for the first time. Test results were audited by an independent engineering consultant.

“SAS continues to demonstrate remarkable longevity in the data storage market, thanks to its significant installed base, robust performance, and scalability. A key factor contributing to SAS’s continued importance is these plugfests, ensuring interoperability and reliability of SAS devices,” remarked Don Jeanette, Vice President, TRENDFOCUS. “STA plugfests facilitate rigorous testing and help to identify and resolve potential issues early. This collaborative approach not only boosts confidence in SAS technology but also drives innovation, ensuring that SAS remains a dependable choice for enterprise storage solutions.”

The SAS Plugfest featured multiple testing suites encompassing essential features such as basic link up, power management, managed cables, and timers. The event ended with large topology builds, mixing SAS components from all participating vendors. The event identified an issue with managed cables, and through systematic testing, participants resolved these challenges swiftly, reaffirming the effectiveness of collaborative problem-solving within the industry.

One of the key takeaways from the event was the practical application of addressing varying interpretations of the standard, emphasizing the importance of plugfests in ensuring seamless compatibility and interoperability across diverse systems and implementations. The successful testing of several large topology builds highlighted the scalability and robustness of SAS technology. Furthermore, the seamless operation of 100m active optical cables underscored the reliability and efficiency of SAS infrastructure, running exactly as intended.

Cameron T. Brett, Chair SNIA STA Forum Board of Directors, expressed his satisfaction with the event, stating, “This was the first in-person interoperability event since 2019, and was necessary to cooperatively test several significant standard updates and how they have been implemented by SAS manufacturers. Through collaborative efforts and meticulous testing, we’ve not only resolved challenges but also paved the way for continued innovation in the SAS ecosystem.”

The following companies attended the plugfest, underscoring a commitment to advancing SAS technology:

AIC Inc.
Amphenol Corporation
Broadcom Inc.
ConnPro
KIOXIA
Microchip Technology
Samsung
Teledyne LeCroy Corporation

As companies continue to push boundaries and explore new frontiers, collaborative events like the plugfest remain instrumental in continuing SAS’s long history of reliability, interoperability, backward compatibility, and investment protection.

The Third Edition of the Cigar Smoking World Championship is Back in India

19th June 2024: The Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) is back with its third season, promising an exhilarating experience for cigar aficionados across the globe. Building on the resounding success of previous editions, this year’s championship is set to be more intense and captivating, with qualifiers and finals hosted again directly by the official partner the India Cigar Club in Delhi on June 30, 2024.

A Legacy of Passion and Excellence

The CSWC was conceived out of a profound passion for cigars and the camaraderie that comes with sharing this passion among like-minded enthusiasts worldwide. The inaugural event in November 2010 was a significant milestone, attracting 42 guests and 17 participants from six different countries, and it marked the beginning of a journey to unite cigar lovers globally. This year marks the 15th Anniversary of the Cigar Smoking World Championship

The Championship Returns to India

The upcoming season promises to elevate the experience further, with the India Cigar Club hosting the Indian qualifiers in June 2024. The co-founders, Raahuul Kapoor & his siblings have been instrumental in fostering a vibrant cigar community since the club’s inception in August 2012. Their dedication has turned the India Cigar Club into the largest independent cigar portfolio across the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent.

This year’s championship will see participation from prestigious international brands, including S.T. Dupont, Cuervo y Sobrinos, Sibling Cigars, Rocky Patel, Boveda, Avian Concierge, Sula Wine, and Excedo Luxuria. The event will celebrate the art of slow smoking, where competitors aim to smoke their cigars as slowly as possible without breaking the ash or burning the cigar band. The last smoker standing wins the competition. The competition will be supported by the Rocky Patel India Distributor Cigar Conexion

Danfoss India launches New Gen Intelligent drives – iC2 and iC7 in Pune and Mumbai

Danfoss, a preferred decarbonization partner of India, proudly launched its latest innovation in energy-efficient technology – the iC2 and iC7 intelligent variable frequency drives, which are predominantly used in several industry sectors.

In the presence of Danfoss India’s esteemed partners – Flotech, Softcon, 3A Industrial Automation, Trupti Automation, Innodrives, Alpha Automation, Thermax, Reiter, VSI, Thyssen, Glatt, Wilo, Reliance, and Sugar End Users Pandurang, the company launched its new-gen intelligent drives at a special launch event in Pune & Mumbai, attended by over 500 customers, showing the industry anticipation and interest in the new cutting-edge solutions.

At the core of Danfoss India’s mission lies sustainability, and the new iC2 and iC7 drives are engineered to operate motors at optimal speeds, leading to substantial energy savings and operational efficiency. The new technology is strategically positioned to address the evolving needs of sectors like Food and Beverage, Sugar and Ethanol, Power, HVAC, industrial machinery, water and wastewater treatment, conveyors, and any other systems that benefit from precise motor control. The applications were demonstrated at the launch event through four live Demo stations equipped with iC7, iC2, IoT, and Condition Monitoring.

Mr Ravichandran Purushothaman, President, Danfoss India, said, “Maharashtrahas consistently been one of the shining growth regions for Danfoss Drives. With over two decades of strong business relationships with our customers, we have defined new trends within Energy Efficiency & Decarbonization. Together with our Partners and customers, this launch has once again raised the bar and set new industry standards with our iC7 & iC2 Technology Platforms which defines the next level in Efficiency, Motor Control, Security & Reliability for several key industry applications.”

iC2 is an all-round drive that can improve efficiency by 40% and supports IM, IPM, and SPM motors. It is easy to operate with a digital controller and is efficient, compact, and easy to install in pumps, fans, material handling, textile production, and more. It is an easy retrofit for VLC Micro Drive FC51.

iC7 automation gives the best energy-efficient solutions to optimize applications from process control to packaging. This is the world’s first secure-by-design AC drive that has a strong security feature to safeguard the drive and data integrity. It brings digital, optimized, versatile, and easy-to-use experience for demanding industrial applications.

Mr. Mandar Vaijanapurkar, Head of Drives, Sales, Marketing, and services, said, “I am overwhelmed to witness the shift in VFD technology and be a part of the launch of our newcyber secure and highly sophisticated ‘Intelligent Converters’, the IC series of Danfoss Drives. The grand launch of our iC2 and iC7 drives opens new industry dimensions in energy efficiency and automation. By partnering with leading automation experts and bringing together a diverse group of customers, we have laid the groundwork for widespread awareness and adoption of these innovative drives, which helps India take positive strides in energy efficiency.”

Goldi Solar has achieved the ‘Top Performer’ Kiwa PVEL performance ranking

Surat, Gujarat, 19th June 2024: Goldi Solar, India’s most quality-conscious solar brand, has added another quality benchmark to its growing list of independent certifications and achievements by achieving the ‘Top Performer’ Kiwa PVEL performance ranking for the year 2024 — an elite classification attained by only 50 manufacturers globally. This recognition further solidifies Goldi Solar’s reputation for manufacturing excellence and reinforces its position as India’s fastest-growing, quality-conscious solar brand.

This recognition is a testament to Goldi Solar’s ongoing commitment to precision, durability, and customer satisfaction. Sixteen different Goldi Solar modules were highlighted in the Kiwa PVEL Module Reliability Scorecard, contributing to the ‘Top Performer’ ranking. Specifically, four modules were recognized for their performance in TC (thermal cycling), DH (damp heat), PID (potential-induced degradation), and LID+LETID (light-induced degradation and light-and-elevated temperature-induced degradation) tests. Additionally, twelve modules were recognized for their performance in LID+LETID tests.

Excited to receive the recognition, Capt. Ishver Dholakiya, MD & Founder, Goldi Solar, stated, “We are a quality-driven company, renowned globally for our flawless customer satisfaction, superior products, and substantial investment in R&D and advanced technologies. Achieving the ‘Top Performer’ status in Kiwa PVEL’s Product Qualification Program validates our unwavering commitment to our customers. This accolade underscores our dedication to using cutting-edge technology and rigorous testing to support our contributions to the solar revolution.”

As the leading independent lab for data-driven results and performance standards in solar panel manufacturing, Kiwa PVEL is a vital verification source for organizations dedicated to enhancing the quality and durability of their products. It has become the solar industry’s most trusted reference for PV module reliability and performance insights.

Tristan Erion-Lorico, Kiwa PVEL, VP, Sales and Marketing commented, “Manufacturers undergoing Kiwa PVEL’s Product Qualification Program testing rely on our data for ensuring they are producing modules of significant reliability,” “We are proud to know that our tests are a crucial component in helping a company like Goldi mitigate risk, maintain quality, and meet the expectations of its clients from around the gold. We congratulate Goldi for being a first time Top Performer in the PV Module Reliability Scorecard.”

Tata Technologies, Microsoft, Tata Motors Launch InnoVent Hackathon for Engineering Students, Focused on Generative AI

New Delhi, India, 19th June 2024: Tata Technologies, a global product engineering and digital services company, announces the launch of the 2nd edition of Tata Technologies InnoVent hackathon in collaboration with Microsoft and Tata Motors. This collaborative initiative aims to engage engineering students across India, providing them with a platform to showcase their creativity and innovations that address the challenges faced by the manufacturing industry. This year’s hackathon focuses on Generative AI-enabled innovations that deliver value across the product development value chain, including product engineering, manufacturing, and customer experience.

Tata Technologies will empower the top project team/s with the innovation tools and technologies needed to develop scalable innovations. The Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) from Tata Technologies will mentor and guide the top-performing project team/s to scale their projects. Microsoft will offer top team/s complimentary access to Azure resources and project mentoring through the Azure community, while Tata Motors will help define real-world challenges and support the commercialization of top projects. The hackathon is open to 3rd and 4th year engineering students across India and encourages inclusive participation, inviting entries from women engineers and differently-abled team members, thus reinforcing its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The evaluation process will consist of three stages: initial reviews, virtual Proof of Concept (PoC) presentations, and final demonstrations. Projects will be assessed based on diversity, novelty, feasibility, and impact. The top three winning teams will receive cumulative cash prizes worth INR 4.5 Lakhs, along with paid internship opportunities at Tata Technologies. More details of the InnoVent program is available at https://www.tatatechnologies.com/innovent/ and the last date for project submission Is 31st July 2024.

Reflecting on the 2nd edition of Tata Technologies InnoVent, Mr. Warren Harris, MD and CEO of Tata Technologies, stated, “Tata Technologies InnoVent embodies our commitment to engineering a better world for our youth. Through our collaboration with Microsoft and Tata Motors, we aim to provide young innovators with a platform to develop novel solutions leveraging Generative AI and help them translate their ideas to life. The 1st edition of InnoVent was a success and we are already piloting a few innovations with our customers. I am excited to see the innovative projects that will come from this year’s hackathon.”

Ms. Himani Agrawal, Country Head – Azure, Microsoft India and South Asia, commented on the collaboration, “Microsoft looks forward to collaborating with Tata Technologies for the InnoVent Hackathon, empowering the next generation of innovators. By providing a scalable Gen AI Azure environment and access to the wider Azure community, we aim to help students accelerate the development of their innovations. We look forward to the impact of this collaboration.”

Mr. Sven Patuschka, Chief Technology Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, remarked on the launch of the hackathon, “Generative AI is revolutionizing product design for enhanced customer experiences. We are excited to partner with Tata Technologies for the InnoVent Hackathon to foster innovations addressing real-world challenges. By mentoring and supporting promising projects, we aim to inspire future engineers to drive automotive innovation. I look forward to witnessing the pioneering solutions and meeting the finalists on Demo Day.”

Mr. Santosh Singh, EVP & Global Head of Marketing and Business Excellence of Tata Technologies, expressed his enthusiasm on the launch of InnoVent 2024, “InnoVent offers young engineering students a platform to leverage technology, upskill and innovate solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges in the manufacturing industry. This year’s focus on Generative AI highlights its transformative potential for the future of manufacturing and the importance of nurturing fresh ideas from young minds. We are particularly excited to see contributions from women and differently abled innovators, as this reflects our deep commitment to inclusivity and our efforts towards engineering a better world for all.”

Yash Soni-Janki Bodiwala to Malhar Thakar-Puja Joshi: A look at Dhollywood’s Beloved On-Screen Couples

Romance is an integral part of everyone’s lives, making the romantic genre in films one of the most popular. Not all on-screen couples can spell magic, but there are a few who become evergreen, often paired in multiple movies. These certain onscreen duos have captivated audiences with their chemistry and charm, whether through romantic pairings or comedic tandems. They have not only brought characters to life but also etched themselves into the hearts of viewers. Let’s take a delightful journey through the top 5 most-adored onscreen duos in the Gujarati entertainment industry, celebrating their memorable performances and the magic they create together on screen.

Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi

Malhar Thakar and Puja Joshi dazzle as an enchanting on-screen pair in Gujarati cinema. Their chemistry in films like “Lagan Special” and “Veer – Isha Nu Seemant” has left a lasting impact on audiences. Whether portraying romantic leads or shining in ensemble casts, Malhar and Puja captivate with their effortless rapport and undeniable charm. Catch their latest film “Lagan Special” streaming on ShemarooMe, where their fabulous chemistry unfolds. If you haven’t already, tune into ShemarooMe now to experience their cinematic wonders.

Pratik Gandhi- Bhamini Oza.

Pratik Gandhi and Bhamini Oza have not only captivated audiences as an onscreen couple but also as a real-life couple. Their endearing chemistry has consistently won hearts, radiating immense positivity and love. Even after marriage, they continued their collaborative journey in films, collaborating on several projects. In films like “Bhavai” and “Shimmy,” their onscreen presence continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing their seamless blend of professional and personal camaraderie.

Hitu Kanodia and Mona Thiba

Hitu Kanodia and Mona Thiba epitomize on-screen chemistry in Gujarati cinema. Their real-life romance adds an extra layer of charm to their performances. Renowned for their seamless chemistry, they have starred in iconic films like “Sajan Tane Mara Sam,” “Vahurani,” “Mota Bha,” and “Janmdata.” Their ability to portray a range of emotions while maintaining a palpable connection on screen has made them inseparable.

Mamta Soni and Vikram Thakor

Mamta Soni and Vikram Thakor, the dynamic duo of the Gujarati film industry, shine with their scintillating onscreen chemistry. Their films like “Ek Vaar Piyu Ne Malva Aavje,” “Premi Jhukya Nathi Aney Jhukshe Nahi,” and “Maa Baapna Aashirwad” are box office hits, alongside standout performances in “Rasiya Tari Radha Rokani Rannma” and “Kaun Halave Limdi Ne Kaun Jhulave Peepli.” With their undeniable charm and script selection prowess, they continue to dominate Gujarati cinema, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting their next collaboration.

Yash Soni and Janki Bodiwala

Yash and Janki, known as one of the most endearing couples from ‘Chhello Divas’, starred together as Pooja and Nikhil, delivering a memorable romantic portrayal. Their song ‘Kehvu Ghanu’ became a smash hit, leaving fans clamouring for more. They also reunited in Krishnadev Yagnik’s film ‘Nandi Dosh’, where Raunaq Kamdar joined them on screen once again.