7, Feb 2024
Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Human Values in the Retail Sector; RAI Presents the First ‘Retail HR Tech Summit’
Mumbai, February 7, 2024: In an age characterised by swift technological progress and evolving consumer expectations, the retail sector finds itself at the nexus of innovation and human connection. On February 6, 2024, the Retailers Association of India organised the inaugural ‘Retail HR Tech Summit’ in Mumbai. This summit has been meticulously designed to provide a platform for Retail HR Leaders, offering them the prospect to address industry challenges and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
Speaking about the theme of the Retail HR Tech Summit, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India, said, “At the forefront of the Retail HR Tech Summit, our aim is to illuminate how technology can revolutionise HR practices within the retail sector. This inaugural event is not just a conference; it’s a crucial step towards understanding and harnessing technology to enhance recruitment processes, foster employee development, and cultivate a positive organizational culture. We are dedicated to exploring innovative solutions that empower HR professionals to build more efficient, people-centric, and culturally rich environments in their companies. This summit is a pivotal point for industry leaders to collaborate, learn, and shape the future of retail HR through technology.”
The summit’s highlight was the keynote address by R. Swaminathan, Chief People Officer, WNS. During the address, he expressed, “Technology is no longer merely a tool, but an active participant in our workplace, facilitating complex decisions and shaping business outcomes. We are at a juncture where the synergy between technology and human intelligence is crucial for creating sustainable and engaging experiences for our customers and employees. The first Retail HR Tech Summit is a testament to the evolving landscape where HR is harnessing technology’s enormous potential to drive organizational growth and success.”
The day long summit had various panel discussion with HR leaders deliberating on some critical discussion such as ‘The Art and Science of Selecting the Right HR Tech Solutions and Enablement Partners’, ‘Enhancing Retail Performance: Unleashing the power of HR analytics for organization Profitability’, ‘Upskilling and Reskilling in Retail: HR Tech for Continuous Learning’, ‘Nurturing Tech-Savvy HR Leadership: Strategies for Developing HR Executives in the Digital Era,’’ Nurturing Tech-Savvy HR Leadership: Strategies for Developing HR Executives in the Digital Era’, among others.
“The Retail HR Tech Summit is a beacon for innovation in HR technology. As a leading tech solutions provider, Apnatime Tech is proud to contribute to this transformative journey. We believe that the right technology can revolutionize the retail sector, making it more efficient, inclusive, and attuned to the needs of the modern workforce. Our goal is to develop solutions that not only address the immediate challenges but also pave the way for a more dynamic and adaptive retail environment,” said Nirmit Parikh, CEO, Apnatime Tech.
Retail HR leaders speaking at the summit included, Adhir Mane, CHRO – Corporate, Raymond; Harsh Aparanji, Chief HR Officer, Landmark Group, India; Raghvendra D Singh, Vice President – HR Platforms & Systems, Reliance Retail; Anjali Goel, Head HR, V-Mart Retail; Santosh Vuppala, Head – Analytics and Insights, Titan Company; Venkat Iyer, Head- People & Organisation (Retail), Puma Sports India; Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Chauhan, Director – HR, Pepe Jeans India; Parineeta Cecil Lakra, Country People & Culture Manager, IKEA India; Rohith Kumar, CHRO, Westlife Foodworld (McDonalds India – West & South); among others.
The summit commenced with recognition of digital milestones in the retail sector with the first edition of the ‘Retail HR Tech Awards 2024’. Championing the success included VMart, Metro Brands, IKEA India, Reliance Retail, Celio, Shoppers Stop, Spykar, 24Seven and Westlife to name a few.
- 0
- By Rabindra
7, Feb 2024
SunteckCity’s Luxurious Living Essence Captured by Dabboo Ratnani
Mumbai, February 7, 2024: Sunteck Realty, India’s leading luxury developer, collaborated with celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani, an Indian fashion and commercial photographer known for his annual calendar featuring Bollywood glamour, to capture the magnificence of its premium luxury project – SunteckCity situated in Oshiwara District Centre (ODC), Goregaon (W). The latest campaign ‘The Sky High Deck Residences’ aptly captures the grandeur of the higher floors that are built to perfection with wrap around Decks and French windows that offer beautiful scenic views.
SunteckCity, replete with an impressive array of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its discerning residents, is already home to some popular Bollywood and television actors and fraternity, and social media influencers.
Speaking about choosing Dabboo Ratnani to shoot this campaign, Anupma Khetan, Customer Experience Evangelist, said At Sunteck, our commitment remains steadfast in offering an unparalleled blend of luxurious residences and a delightful lifestyle, showcasing exceptional Dabboo’s signature photography styles along with the glamour and panache of SunteckCity make it the perfect portrayal of luxury living.”
Expressing his thoughts behind the campaign shoot, Dabboo Ratnani expressed, “It’s truly a case where a picture speaks a thousand words, effortlessly conveying the opulence and splendour, I wanted to to showcase a distinctive lifestyle through my lens. The pictures are a representation of the lifestyle Sunteck wants its customers to live and enjoy every moment.”
SunteckCity, stands as a testament to the art of luxurious living, epitomizing refined elegance in the very heart of Goregaon (W). An ensemble of towers with the first habitable floor strategically raised offering an elevated view. Meticulous attention has been paid to the thoughtful design of each apartment, boasting spacious layouts and premium finishes that emanate an air of sophistication. These living spaces are complemented by expansive private Decks and French windows, serving as an extension of the luxurious interiors.
Sunteck Realty has consistently led the way in uncovering prime locations and enhancing their value through world-class development. The Oshiwara District Complex (ODC) is MMRDA’s ambitious project to create a vast mixed-use development in Mumbai. Sunteck is incredibly proud to set new standards for premium development within ODC, just as it has accomplished at BKC with ultra-luxury projects.
The Goregaon suburb in Mumbai has become a thriving centre of activity and a highly sought-after haven for prospective homeowners. Among the developments gracing the landscape of Goregaon West, SunteckCity shines brightly as a premium township offering a self-contained lifestyle and opulent residences. Within this expansive haven, residential towers, Sunteck 1st, 2nd and 4th Avenue, beckons discerning individuals to indulge in an exquisite living experience.
Strategically positioned in the heart of the Oshiwara District Centre (ODC), a commercial and residential hub, SunteckCity spans a vast expanse of approximately 23 acres.
SunteckCity boasts exceptional connectivity, strategically situated in close proximity to key transportation nodes such as S.V. Road, Ram Mandir Railway Station, and the Mrinaltai Gore (East-West) Flyover, seamlessly linking to the Western Express Highway. Additionally, it enjoys close access to the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road and is conveniently located just 10 kilometers from the Mumbai International Airport. Its adjacency to prominent corporate hubs like Nirlon and NESCO further enhances its strategic location within the area.
7, Feb 2024
SOCIAL introduces Nestlé India’s new plant-based range in their New Irresistible menu
Nestlé India has collaborated with SOCIAL, India’s favorite neighbourhood café, to test launch MAGGI Professional’s plant-based range. The products have been used to craft The New Irresistible Menu, that is available at 41 SOCIAL and 40 BOSS Burger outlets across Delhi (NCR), Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune and Chandigarh for three months.
The plant-based range has been especially developed for chefs and features two offerings – a burger patty and mince, alternatives to meat-based meals. The products provide similar sensorial attributes as chicken, with the familiar bounce and juiciness. They are a source of protein & fiber, and naturally free from cholesterol. The range caters to the evolving preferences of a young audience with global cultural exposure and mindful consumption habits.
At SOCIAL, the New Irresistible Menu, features a celebration of culinary innovation and delicious combinations such as Sensational Seekh #NotGuilty – Seekh and you shall find these impressive plant-based kebabs! Served with mint chutney and laccha onions; Chilli #NotChicken – we’ve put the chilli In chillin with this succulent plant-based chunks tossed in a finger-licking chilli sauce; and Garden Club Sandwich – super fulfilling and tasty club sandwich with veggies and plant-based treat.
At BOSS Burger, the new menu includes options such as The ImBOSSible Cheeseburger – a plant-based cheeseburger that’s so bold and blockbuster, it will go beyond craving; and the Crumb De La Avo Burger – crumbed patty topped off with smashed avocado – bold, creamy, tasty and planti-ful.
Talking about the partnership, Suresh Narayanan, Chairman & Managing Director, Nestlé India said, “We are delighted to announce our partnership with SOCIAL, to pilot MAGGI Professional’s new plant-based range through a limited period menu. This is a part of our commitment to offer more food choices to our valued consumers, both in home and out of home. We are confident that the chefs would enjoy cooking with this range and create novel dishes for their consumers.”
Commenting on the initiative, Riyaaz Amlani, Founder & Managing Director, Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are thrilled to embark on this culinary journey with Nestlé which brings together the culinary expertise of SOCIAL and the innovative plant-based range from Nestlé India. The New Irresistible Menu is not just a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional dining experiences, but it also signifies a significant step towards a more sustainable, conscious, and innovative approach to dining. We believe this collaboration will redefine the possibilities of plant-based dining in India, and offer our guests a novel, sensory symphony of flavours.”
Guests can now try The New Irresistible Menu at select SOCIAL outlets 27th January 2024 onwards, and for delivery on BOSS Burger via DotPe, Swiggy and Zomato.
*SOCIAL outlets featuring The New Irresistible Menu:
| City | Outlet |
| Mumbai | Capital SOCIAL |
| Colaba SOCIAL | |
| Versova SOCIAL | |
| Goregaon SOCIAL | |
| Khar SOCIAL | |
| Vikhroli SOCIAL | |
| Carter Road SOCIAL | |
| Powai SOCIAL | |
| Vashi SOCIAL | |
| Thane SOCIAL | |
| Chembur SOCIAL | |
| Malad SOCIAL | |
| Dadar SOCIAL | |
| Wadala SOCIAL | |
| Nesco SOCIAL | |
| Ghatkopar SOCIAL | |
| Delhi NCR | Dwarka SOCIAL |
| Nehru Place SOCIAL | |
| Cyber Hub SOCIAL | |
| Vasant Kunj SOCIAL | |
| Noida SOCIAL | |
| Saket SOCIAL | |
| Hauz Khas SOCIAL | |
| Aero City SOCIAL | |
| Civil Lines SOCIAL | |
| IFC SOCIAL Gurgaon | |
| Sector 85 SOCIAL | |
| Bengaluru | Whitefield SOCIAL |
| Churchstreet SOCIAL | |
| Koramangala SOCIAL | |
| Sarjapur SOCIAL | |
| Indiranagar SOCIAL | |
| New Bel Road SOCIAL | |
| Hebbal SOCIAL | |
| Pune | Viman Nagar SOCIAL |
| FC SOCIAL | |
| The Mill SOCIAL | |
| Koregaon Park SOCIAL | |
| Chandigarh | Sector 7 SOCIAL |
| Elante SOCIAL |
Boss Burger outlets featuring The New Irresistible Menu:
| City | Outlet |
| Mumbai | Lower Parel |
| Versova | |
| Vashi | |
| Bandra Kurla Complex | |
| Carter Road | |
| Colaba | |
| Thane | |
| Goregaon | |
| Chembur | |
| Vikhroli | |
| Powai | |
| Wadala | |
| Dadar | |
| Malad | |
| Nesco | |
| Ghatkopar | |
| Khar | |
| Worli | |
| Delhi NCR | Nehru Place |
| Dwarka | |
| Noida | |
| Vasant Kunj | |
| Cyber Hub | |
| Saket | |
| Hauz Khas | |
| Aero City | |
| Civil Lines | |
| Gurgaon | |
| Sector 85 | |
| Bengaluru | Koramangala |
| Sarjapur | |
| Indiranagar | |
| New Bel Road | |
| Hebbal | |
| Pune | Viman Nagar |
| FC Road | |
| Dhole Patil Road | |
| Koregaon Park | |
| Chandigarh | Sector 7 |
| Elante |
7, Feb 2024
Atmastco Limited to open its SME IPO in February 2024
7th, February 2024: ATMATSCO LIMITED, a leading Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company, is pleased to announce the opening of its Initial Public Offering (IPO) for subscription in February this year. Headquartered in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, the company is offering 73,05,600 equity shares, comprising 54,80,000 equity shares as a fresh issue and 18,25,600 equity shares through an Offer for Sale (OFS). ATMATSCO LIMITED will be listed on the NSE EMERGE.
The proceeds from the IPO will be used for Working Capital requirements and repayment of loans in order to become a provider of technology solutions in the EPC sector to improve efficiency on existing and new contracts. The profit so generated from the EPC sector will be utilised towards the production of defence systems until September 2024 through its subsidiary Atmastco Defence Systems Private Limited.
With ongoing projects worth over Rs. 720 crores, the company has become consistently profitable over the last three financial years. The company recorded a remarkable 156% increase in revenue in FY 2022-23 as compared to the previous financial year. The key promoters of the company are Mr Subramaniam Swaminathan Iyer, Mr Venkataraman Ganesan and Ms Jayasudha Iyer, who have more than three decades of experience
Mr Subramaniam Swaminathan, Chairman and Managing Director, said, “I am proud of our company’s legacy since 1988, marked by more than 90 completed contracts and a flourishing order book of more than Rs 700 crore. With a pan-India presence, an annual capacity of more than 24,000 tonnes and a dedicated workforce of more than 250 employees, we are a mainstay in our industry. Our commitment to excellence and scale makes us one of the country’s leaders in installed capacity.”
Referring to the company’s ESG initiatives, Mr Subramaniam Swaminathan added, “About 75–80% of the company’s main power requirement is met through solar energy. The company is transforming the ERC environment by improving the technology and focusing on the ERC tech platform.”
Mr. Swaminathan Vijay Chander Iyer, Director of a wholly owned subsidiary of Atmastco Defence Systems Private Limited, commented: “We are honoured to partner with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through a technology transfer licencing agreement. This partnership is an indication of our commitment to enhancing technological capabilities in the field of defence materials. In this journey, we are ready to harness innovation and drive progress to ensure that our production fits seamlessly into our common goals of improving national security.”
Mr. Vijay Chander Iyer further said, “In 2020, we established Atmastco Defence Systems Private Limited to manufacture world-class bulletproof jackets, helmets and full body protectors for the military, including specialised protection gears for women defence personnel. We aim to provide the best possible protection for our defenders.”
ATMATSCO LIMITED boasts valued customers including the Ministry of Railways and major companies in the energy and steel sectors.
The lead manager of the issue is Affinity Global Capital Market Private Limited, while Cameo Corporate Services Limited will act as registrar for the issue. The Draft Prospectus (DP) has already been approved by the National Stock Exchange and the Company is planning to open the issue anytime soon.
7, Feb 2024
Usha’s Cool Touch Electric Kettle – The Perfect Buy for the Chic ‘n’ Smart!
The timeless charm of iconic pale pink never goes out of style and that’s exactly the sentiment for all the diehard romantics the Usha Cool Touch Electric Kettle caters to. So, this Valentine’s Day, if you are looking for something special that’s a blend of chic and practical, it’s this quaint pretty kettle that will tug at the right heartstrings. This delightfully beautiful kettle is sure to infuse a dash of quirk to any kitchen, making it an indulgence for yourself or loved ones.
This kettle makes for a perfect companion for swiftly and safely boiling water for coffee, tea, or any other hot beverage. Its exterior remains cool to the touch, even during operation, prioritizing user safety and eliminating the risk of accidental burns.
Featuring a sleek and modern design with an ergonomic handle and spout to facilitate effortless pouring, this kettle not only introduces fresh colour but also adds a contemporary quotient to your kitchen. Made using premium material, the 1.8L electric kettle is both durable and efficient. The stainless-steel build ensures longevity, and the rapid-boil technology guarantees minimal waiting time for your favourite hot beverages.
So, elevate your kitchen experience with Usha’s Cool Touch Electric Kettle – a perfect blend of style and functionality. And you don’t really need a Valentine’s Day as an excuse to buy this, that’s how pretty it is.
7, Feb 2024
Sintex, a Welspun World Company Secures PVCO Pipe Technology, Inks Exclusive Partnership
New Delhi, 7 Feb 2024 — Sintex, a Welspun World company signed a definitive agreement with leading European supplier Rollepaal under which Rollepaal will supply its state-of-art high quality PVCO pipes manufacturing lines exclusively to Sintex in India. With the signing of this agreement, Sintex is set to write a new chapter in PVCO pipes manufacturing in India with the already well established cutting-edge technology for PVCO products.
The agreement to this effect was signed between Mr. Ashish Prasad, CEO, Sintex, and Mr Henk Hoven, CEO, Rollepaal in presence of Mr. BK Goenka, Chairman of Welspun World.
Rollepaal, renowned for its expertise and high quality standards in machine manufacturing will provide Sintex with RBlue extrusion lines for PVCO Pipes. Rollepaal’s patented RBlue extrusion lines are designed to enhance efficiency and productivity in manufacturing highest quality PVCO Pipes for potable water applications while minimizing production costs in line with world class standards. Rollepaal has affirmed its ownership of the requisite technology and technical know-how, positioning Sintex to deliver top-tier products to its consumers.
Commenting on the deal, Mr. Ashish Prasad, CEO of Sintex said “Sintex has been synonymous with providing water solutions for 50 years and has been at the forefront of innovations in this segment with many industry-firsts’ breakthrough technologies. The securing of cutting-edge PVC-O technology through our exclusive partnership with Rollepaal marks the next significant leap for our company.” He further added, “This deal is significant step towards our commitment to enhance India’s ability as a country to build water infrastructure faster and in a resource efficient manner.”
Mr. Henk Hoven, CEO of Rollepaal said, “Rollepaal is happy to partner with Sintex in their PVC-O journey. We proudly support them in achieving their vision. This agreement underscores our long term presence and commitment to the Indian market.”
Indian government’s focus on providing tap water supply through schemes like Har Ghar Jal Yojana & Jal Jeevan Mission is leading to an increased demand for plastic pipes owing to their excellent resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-term safety of water supply system. According to industry estimates, the PVC pipes industry in India is poised to grow at CAGR of 14.18% by 2029. Sintex aims to play a key role in this growth by infusing technological advances to upend the standards in building segment in India, beginning with PVC-O pipes.
Welspun World, a US$ 3 billion diversified conglomerate with a strong presence in textiles, steel, line pipes, and flooring solutions, acquired Sintex, a leading manufacturer of water storage tanks and other plastic products through its flagship company Welspun Corp Limited.
7, Feb 2024
ONGC signs Cooperation Agreement with TotalEnergies
Bangalore | 07February 2024: On the occasion of India Energy Week 2024, ONGC signed a Cooperation Agreement with TotalEnergies to carry out methane emissions detection and measurement campaigns using TotalEnergies’ pioneer AUSEA (Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications) technology.
The Cooperation Agreement was signed by Country Chair of TotalEnergies in India Dr. Sangkaran Ratnam, and ONGC Director (Exploration) Sushma Rawat on 6 February 2024.
ONGC has been inviting international technology partners to help reduce its methane emissions in India by 2030, while TotalEnergies has decided to share its AUSEA technology in an effort to pivot the whole industry towards zero methane emissions by 2030. Both companies are party to the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), global industry initiative launched at COP28.
ONGC joins a growing list of national companies who have signed cooperation agreements with TotalEnergies for the use of AUSEA including Petrobras in Brazil, SOCAR in Azerbaijan, Sonangol in Angola and NNPCL in Nigeria.
One-of-a-kind technology by TotalEnergies, the AUSEA gas analyzer is mounted on a drone, and was developed by TotalEnergies and its R&D partners. Consisting of a dual sensor capable of detecting methane and carbon dioxide emissions, AUSEA identifies their source at the same time. This technology marks a step change in methane emissions detection and measurement compared to traditional techniques. By allowing access to hard-to-reach emission points, on all types of industrial facilities, both offshore and offshore, AUSEA is reputed as one of the most accurate technologies in the industry.
“Our industry’s priority in the fight against climate change is to slash methane emissions from operations. Aiming for zero methane emissions by 2030 is our collective ambition as signatories of the OGDC at COP28. We are pleased to collaborate and make our AUSEA technology available to ONGC, in India, to detect, measure and eventually reduce methane emissions on their own assets”, said the Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies Patrick Pouyanné.
Commenting on the pact, ONGC Chairman and CEO Arun Kumar Singh said “In line with our collective ambitions as signatories of the OGDC at COP28, ONGC is scouting for new technologies to reduce its methane emissions by 50 % by 2027 and by 80% in 2030 compared to 2020. The introduction of the AUSEA technology will further strengthen our efforts to achieve zero methane emissions by 2038.”
TotalEnergies, a pioneer in slashing down methane emissions. After halving its methane emissions from its operated sites between 2010 and 2020, TotalEnergies set ambitious targets to step up its efforts and reduce methane emissions by a further 50% by 2025 – with the ambition to reach this target a year early, in 2024 – and by 80% in 2030, compared to 2020.
TotalEnergies is also committed to promoting the United Nations Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0) framework with other national and international oil companies. The Company has now held the OGMP Gold standard status for the three years in a row.
7, Feb 2024
Trend of Kamanewala Ghar on the rise in India
The travel bug has caught the imagination of the Indian people and we are seeing the highest figures recorded ever, in the last two to three years. Domestic tourism is seeing a steep growth trajectory as compared to foreign tourism. Travel entails huge cost and now people have realized that hotel stay contributes to a major portion of these costs. Investing in a Resort Home is the new trend that is fast catching the attention of people, where you earn attractive and regular monthly rental income from your property, with zero maintenance and at the same time also enjoy a vacation at your resort home during the year.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to this trend of letting your home earn for you. The new generation of Indians are looking at investments that give the highest returns in the shortest time frame, whilst they can still enjoy a vacation with the family; that too, a paid one.
Further elaborating on this concept Dr. Sachin Chopda, Managing Director, Pushpam Group said, “We have been running a campaign which we have aptly coined “Kamanewala Ghar” – which means a house that earns for you. This allows the investor to retain ownership of his property, earn attractive returns with zero maintenance cost, in addition to holidaying at the resort for a certain number of days in a year. So, in short, he is on a perpetual holiday with absolutely no cost to him. Most importantly, this property becomes an asset to him as it appreciates over a period of time. So, maybe after a few years down the line, if he decides to sell it, he stands to earn huge profits from the sale.”
India’s second & holiday homes, once believed to be trophy assets for the selected few, are now increasingly becoming mainstream. The market is presently sized north of USD 2.1 billion and is growing at a commendable rate of 23.6%, as per a recent research.
Investment in a resort home is a pragmatic decision that an investor makes as it offers assured and significant returns in the short and long term. Most resort homes are low cost investments but with high appreciation value. These resort homes are professionally managed wherein the investor has no maintenance cost to bear, but only stands to gain from his investment, from day one; with benefits accrued, over a period of time.
Tourism in India has got a major boost due to a number of large infrastructure projects that have improved connectivity within the country. This has resulted in people not hesitating to enjoy a holiday or even invest in a resort home of their liking, as they can now travel much faster and with greater ease, to reach their holiday destination.
Beach tourism is the most popular among places visited by tourists across the world. For people living in Mumbai and Pune, Alibaug is panning out to be the most sought-after holiday destination for a short weekend break. It is popular as it is situated on the scenic Konkan coastal town of Alibaug; just a few hours’ drive from Mumbai and ninety minutes’ drive from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. The inauguration of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) is having a significant impact on the investment landscape for resort homes in Alibaug. This 22 km-long sea bridge has dramatically shortened the travel time between Mumbai and Alibaug by about 45 minutes, making it a highly attractive investment destination.
Pushpam Group, a major player in resort homes, is developing a resort home in Alibaug named Balibaug. It is being designed, inspired by Bali’s temples and palace architecture. This resort will consist of 2 &3 BHK luxury villas with private pool and gardens, open shower, terrace Jacuzzi, international standard interiors, sloping roofs, decorative crowns and other Balinese elements. In addition, the resort will have 20 plus amenities like 3 restaurants, spa, banquet hall, party lawn, gym, etc. The resort will employ green practices like rain water harvesting system, EV Charging station in addition to Wi-Fi facility and generation backup for its residents.
In conclusion, we can safely conclude that an investment in a resort home is a rational one, looking at the immense potential that it provides to investors and home buyers alike, over the years ahead.
6, Feb 2024
Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council
National, 5th February 2024: Come and fall in love with Design once again this Valentine’s Day! The Year’s biggest Wearable Artworks & Crafts Design Fest will be celebrated at The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council’s Artisan Design Jewellery Awards 2024 on 12-13 February at the Ice Factory, Ballard Estate in South Mumbai. Among many design themes, ‘Jewellery as Art’ will take centre-stage at the two-day event held on the eve of Valentine’s Day to celebrate people’s love and passion for art, design and jewellery. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) is the apex body of trade in India, supported by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
The final judging round for the 7th edition of The Artisan Awards 2024, Powered by GIA, was held on 22nd January, 2024. Of the 20 captivating and well-finished jewellery pieces, the jury picked out 6 winners from the two unconventional themes of The Artisan Awards 2024: ‘Unusual Materials’ and ‘Objet Trouvé.’ This edition of The Artisan Awards received more than 600 entries from around the world including India, Canada, USA, Bahrain, Egypt, Dubai, and Pakistan.
The largest-ever congregation of luminaries and aesthetes from the world of Arts, Crafts & Design; curators, art gallery owners and patrons; art school teachers, deans and students; socialites, celebrities, connoisseurs, architects, painters and sculptors; along with jewellery designers (experienced and young) will grace GJEPC’s Artisan Jewellery Awards 2024 gallery showcase at Ice Factory. The discussions will revolve around two exciting and unconventional themes ‘Unusual Materials’ and ‘Objet Trouvé’ of the 7th edition of GJEPC’s The Artisan Jewellery Awards 2024.
The first theme, ‘Objet Trouvé’ (Found Objects) explores art crafted from visible yet frequently altered objects that are atypical yet serve as art materials due to their non-art function.
A ‘found object’, whether it’s natural, man-made, or even just a fragment, is preserved due to an inherent connection by the artist. It can be treated as a work of art in itself, and as a muse for inspiration.
The idea was to design a piece of jewellery that depicts the essence of ‘Objet Trouvé’ by taking an object of your past and reimagining it in a modern form. Examples of ‘found objects’ could include vintage poker chips, antique coins, collected shells, vintage Venetian glass beads, buttons, and beachcombed shells.
The second theme, ‘Unusual Materials’ encouraged designers to create a dialogue between the familiar and the unexpected by combining contrasting materials with at least 50% precious materials. Unusual materials could include cement, titanium, wood, porcelain, bamboo, slate, meteorite, glass, recycled plastic, leather and more.
Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, stated, “GJEPC’s vision extends beyond the conventional, aiming to redefine the landscape of jewellery design. Through the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards competition, India seeks to elevate itself and position as the global premier design hub, aligning with the government’s campaign of Design in India. Through this design competition, GJEPC reaffirms its commitment to encourage an environment that will nurture the creative spark within designers.”
Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotion & Marketing, GJEPC, adds, “Each year, we strive to introduce a distinctive theme, challenging participants by collaborating with curators to elevate their engagement. Over the past seven years, the Artisan Awards have assumed increasing significance globally, with India recognising them as the most coveted accolade. This prestigious award serves as a driving force, inspiring designers, budding students, and manufacturers to create thematic jewels at the highest echelon. The quality of production within this thematic framework is truly remarkable.”
The esteemed jury comprised Alice Cicolini, renowned UK jewellery designer; Biren Vaidya, Managing Director, The Rose Group; Payal Singhal, Fashion Designer; Apoorva Deshingkar, GIA India – Senior Director of Education and Market Development; and Toktam Shekarriz, Dubai-based jewellery designer.
The technical jury comprised of Devinder Layal (Jewellery Artiste and educationist), Meenal Choksi (Head of Design, Moksh Fine Unseen Jewellery); Sushama Kalzunkar Sawant (PD & Merchandising Head, Dia Gold Creations); Janki Choksi (Founder, Janki Choksi Designs); Gunjan Sapra (COO & Head of Department, Jewellery Designs, International Institute of Gemology, and a GIA Instructor) to honour the best and most talented jewellery designers.
Alice Cicolini said, “As a jewellery designer, the prospect of an award process like this is truly invigorating. I find great excitement in witnessing competitions that encourage designs using more unconventional materials and explore global trends. The freedom afforded to India’s young designers through these themes is commendable and inspiring. Personally, there are a couple of pieces from today that stand out to me as not only intriguing designs but also impeccably crafted.
“Having worked in India for nearly two decades, I can attest that it stands as one of the most extraordinary nations for jewellery production, boasting incredible craftsmanship. Witnessing the remarkable work emerging from this country is always a source of excitement. Moreover, it is refreshing to see young jewellery designers break free from traditional constraints, allowing their imaginations to take flight—an approach actively encouraged by institutions like this one. Design, being a commercial art form, requires assurance that there is a market for innovative work.”
Payal Singhal was fascinated by the exploration of innovative materials and the creation of pieces that could endure for generations. Reflecting on India’s design and manufacturing talent, Singhal noted, “The Artisan Awards showcase a remarkable standard. The ability to work with challenging materials and produce versatile, aesthetically pleasing, and finely crafted jewellery is a testament to the high level of expertise present in our country. The innovation displayed at the awards reinforces my belief that India possesses superior capabilities in terms of design, quality, and finishing.
“As for elevating jewellery into wearable art, initiatives like The Artisan Awards play a crucial role. By encouraging designers to view jewellery as an artistic expression rather than just ceremonial or status symbols, we encourage a shift towards wearable art. Supporting and motivating young designers and jewellery brands to embrace this perspective will contribute to the evolution of jewellery as a form of artistic expression rather than merely a complement to attire or a symbol of status.”
6, Feb 2024
An Upgrade to Retinol: Kriti Sanon with Unveils Next-Gen Formula
6th February 2024, India-wide release: HYPHEN, a high-performance skincare brand born out of the collaboration between industry leader PEP Technologies and Celebrity Entrepreneur Kriti Sanon, is making waves in the personal care industry with its diverse product portfolio. Renowned for simplifying skincare routines by hyphenating the power of nature and the potency of science, HYPHEN has now introduced the Retinal Reset Serum. Marking the brand’s first launch of the year, the Serum, available in 0.05% and 0.1% Encapsulated Retinal variants, stands as an unprecedented breakthrough in the Indian skincare industry.
What sets HYPHEN’s Retinal Reset Serum apart in a world where retinol has made its mark?
HYPHEN’s Retinal Reset Serum contains encapsulated Retinal, which acts up to 30% faster than regular retinol! The Serum is crafted meticulously with a unique blend of potent natural ingredients like Bakuchoil and Plant Stem Cells, along with active ingredients like Dipeptides, 2% Squalane, 10% Cica extracts, 7% antioxidant blend, and advanced scientific formulations to reset your skin’s clock and boost collagen production, promoting firm and radiant skin! The Serum is available in two variants, catering to both beginners and those accustomed to Retinoids:
0.05% Retinal Cream Serum Beginner – For someone just starting their retinoid journey, this is a gentle yet lightweight, non-sticky serum that reduces fine lines, preventing any early signs of ageing while boosting collagen up to 80% for firm skin, It also hydrates & soothes your skin with a high percentage of soothing natural ingredients
0.1% Retinal Cream Serum Pro – For people who have already been using retinoids, this serum is more potent and effective! It acts rapidly on minimising fine lines, preventing any early signs of ageing while boosting collagen up to 80% for firm skin. It also hydrates & soothes your skin with a high percentage of soothing natural ingredients
Having understood the pulse of the current generation, HYPHEN recognised the need to incorporate retinoids into skincare routines as early as the 20s. And acknowledging the evolving skincare needs of today’s discerning consumers, Kriti Sanon, Co-founder & Chief Customer Officer of HYPHEN, responded to the growing demand for Retinal over Retinol with the Retinal Reset Serum. She expressed, “Using retinoids in my night routine has been a game changer for me in the past 3 years! We at HYPHEN are excited to have created the Retinal Reset Serum with 0.05% & 0.1% Encapsulated Retinal. Unlike traditional Retinol, Retinal acts 30% faster, promising unparalleled benefits like an 80% boost in collagen while firming your skin, reducing fine lines, and so much more. If you haven’t started your Retinoid journey yet, it’s never too late to hyphen it to your routine!”
