Category Archives: News

Annapurna Finance, BII, and FinReach Sign Landmark Credit Guarantee for MSEs

14 September 2024: Annapurna Finance Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading Non-Banking Financial Companies and Microfinance Institutions (NBFC-MFI), has entered into a landmark partnership with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, and FinReach Solutions, a guarantee facilitation partner dedicated to enhancing credit availability to viable MSEs. This strategic alliance aims to empower India’s Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), which form the backbone of the country’s economy.

This partnership is particularly significant as it marks the first time a Development Finance Institution (DFI) has extended a credit guarantee to an NBFC-MFI in India. The agreement entails BII providing a first-of-its-kind credit guarantee to Annapurna Finance, with FinReach Solutions playing a pivotal role as the key enabler. The credit guarantee is expected to increase Annapurna Finance’s loan book by INR 100 crore, thereby enhancing its capacity to provide financial services to over 4,000 underserved MSEs, particularly in regions where traditional financial services are limited, such as Eastern India.

Mr. Gobinda Chandra Pattanaik, Managing Director of Annapurna Finance, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with British International Investment and FinReach Solutions represents a major milestone not only for Annapurna Finance but also for the broader financial inclusion landscape in India. The introduction of BII’s credit guarantee enables us to expand our reach to underserved micro and small enterprises, empowering them with the credit they need to scale their operations and achieve sustainable growth. These businesses, often located in regions with limited access to traditional financial services, are the backbone of our economy. Providing these enterprises with the means to grow will contribute to creating a more dynamic and resilient economy, enhance local livelihoods, and support sustainable development in their communities. We are excited to see the substantial impact this partnership will have on driving inclusive economic progress.”

The credit guarantee scheme is a financial arrangement under which BII partially guarantees the repayment of retail loans extended by Annapurna Finance to MSEs. This arrangement notably reduces the lending risk for Annapurna Finance, enabling the company to extend credit more confidently to businesses that might otherwise face challenges in accessing finance. As a result, this initiative will not only promote financial inclusion by improving access to credit but also support job creation, entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction by empowering small businesses to grow and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Mr. Gaurav Malhotra, Director and Head of Financial Services Equity at British International Investment, highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative, articulating, “The credit guarantee under our MSME Finance Guarantee program, developed in close collaboration with FinReach Solutions, is a pioneering effort designed to address the systemic challenges faced by micro and small enterprises in accessing finance. This initiative is not solely about mitigating risk for Annapurna Finance but also about creating a more inclusive financial ecosystem where underserved businesses can thrive. We are proud to partner with Annapurna Finance in this endeavour as it aligns perfectly with BII’s mission to promote sustainable and inclusive economic development. Facilitating greater access to credit allows these businesses to unlock new growth opportunities, contribute to the economy, and improve the livelihoods of countless families.

Ms. Suvalaxmi Chakraborty, Managing Director of FinReach Solutions, emphasized the broader impact of the partnership, asserting, “At FinReach Solutions, access to credit is seen as a fundamental enabler of economic empowerment, especially for micro and small enterprises that drive local economies. Our role in this partnership with Annapurna Finance and BII is to facilitate a credit guarantee program that not only addresses the immediate financial needs of these businesses but also contributes to building a more inclusive financial system in India. The innovative structure of this credit guarantee is a game-changer as it reduces the perceived risks associated with lending to smaller enterprises, allowing them to access the capital they need to grow and scale. We are confident that this program will set a new standard in the credit guarantee market, paving the way for future initiatives that will further empower underserved businesses across the country.”

The historic agreement between Annapurna Finance, British International Investment, and FinReach Solutions exemplifies the profound impact that collaborative partnerships can have on social and economic development. Annapurna Finance, deeply embedded in delivering financial services to underserved populations, is uniquely equipped to harness this credit guarantee to reach thousands of micro and small enterprises throughout India. British International Investment, with its extensive expertise in impact investing and development finance, contributes not only financial support but also strategic insight to ensure the initiative’s success. FinReach Solutions, leveraging its proficiency in credit guarantee facilitation, bridges the gap between financial institutions and underserved market segments. Collectively, these organizations are advancing beyond mere support for individual enterprises; they are fostering the development of a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable financial ecosystem

Dyson announces Badshah as Dyson OnTrac headphones Ambassador for India

INDIA, September 2024: Dyson, the global technology company, today announced renowned artist and music icon Badshah as a Dyson OnTrac™ headphones ambassador for India. This collaboration commences with the highly anticipated launch of Dyson’s first high-fidelity, audio-only headphones: the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones on 23rd September 2024.

Ahead of the India launch, from today (i.e. 12th September 2024), the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones will be available to experience in select Dyson Demo stores. Customers can now also pre-register for the product via Dyson.in.

Ankit Jain, Managing Director, Dyson India said: “Dyson has huge ambitions to disrupt both the audio category and industry – evidenced by the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones, unveiled earlier this year. These headphones deliver exceptional sound quality through a high-performance design, underpinned by over 30 years of aero-acoustic research. To celebrate the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones launch across India, it is our great pleasure to announce our first Dyson OnTrac™ headphones Ambassador, Badshah. Known to many across the country, Badshah is an industry icon, known for both his unique blend of music, high fashion and appreciation of high-performing technology. We are delighted to welcome Badshah into the Dyson family.”

India’s Dyson OnTrac™ headphones Ambassador Badshah said: “Music is my life, and I believe in the power of exceptional sound. Dyson’s commitment to pushing boundaries fits perfectly with my own artistic approach. Their products are not only technologically advanced but also visually appealing, which perfectly aligns with my aesthetics and vision.”

Dyson’s commitment to innovation and design is evident in every product it launches. With the introduction of the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones and the creative association with Badshah, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the Indian audio market.

In addition to the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones, there will be an exciting line-up of three other new Dyson technologies that are planned across categories for a phased release starting this festive season. The new line-up includes two advanced hair styling tools – the Dyson Airwrap i.d.™ Multi-Styler and Dryer, the Dyson Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer, and Dyson’s first dedicated wet cleaner – the Dyson WashG1™ wet floor cleaner.

MAHE to host 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change

Manipal, 14 September 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institute of Eminence, is set to host the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change on September 16-17, 2024, at its campus in Manipal, Karnataka. Since its inception in 2017, this conference has aimed to inspire students from Higher Education Institutions across India to contribute to their communities, while also celebrating the spirit of “Daan Utsav – the joy of giving week.”

This year’s conference theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change,” will focus on how students’ volunteering efforts during their academic years can transition into impactful corporate volunteering. The event will feature prominent speakers from leading corporates, and students from across India will present posters on unique community-giving ideas, enriching the conference discussions.

Dr. Jai Madaan Unveils Siddhhi Arts: Luxury Silver Artifacts with Spiritual Focus

New Delhi ,14th September 2024 – Dr. Jai Madaan, celebrated astrologer and spiritual thought leader, has officially launched Siddhhi Arts, a high-end luxury brand specializing in handcrafted silver artifacts. Co-founded with her daughter, Aarna Jai Madan, this new venture seeks to redefine the market for luxury home décor by blending the intrinsic value of silver with ancient Indian principles of Vastu and astrology. Siddhhi Arts is not only a luxury brand but also a response to a growing demand for meaningful, investment-grade products in an under-tapped segment of the silver industry.

The luxury home décor market has seen a sharp rise in demand for products that merge aesthetic appeal with functionality and spiritual significance. Consumers are increasingly looking beyond conventional luxury items to invest in pieces that carry deeper meanings—artifacts that serve as long-term investments and offer spiritual or cultural value.

“Today’s luxury buyers are seeking more than just beauty—they want meaning, longevity, and value. Silver has historically been considered a symbol of purity and prosperity in Indian culture, and Siddhhi Arts aims to bring this legacy into modern homes with artifacts that align with spiritual principles and add tangible value to living spaces,” said Dr. Jai Madaan.

Why Silver and Why Now?

The global silver market, valued at over $25 billion, is experiencing renewed interest due to its dual role as both a precious metal and a functional material for industrial applications. Unlike gold, which is seen primarily as a financial asset, silver has a broader application in industries ranging from electronics to sustainable energy. Silver’s affordability compared to other precious metals makes it an attractive investment, particularly in markets like India, where it is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.

In this context, Siddhhi Arts enters the market with a unique value proposition: offering artisanal silver pieces that not only serve as luxury home décor but also as enduring assets that can appreciate over time. Each piece is crafted from hallmarked silver, ensuring both authenticity and investment value.

“We are building Siddhhi Arts not just as a luxury brand but as a sustainable business model with significant growth potential. By blending quality craftsmanship with spiritual alignment, we aim to lead in a niche that bridges India’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. Silver, unlike other luxury materials, offers both aesthetic appeal and financial resilience. It’s a sustainable investment that balances beauty with long-term value—especially in a market where consumers increasingly seek products with lasting cultural significance and wealth preservation,” said Aarna Jai Madan, Founder of Siddhhi Arts.

The brand’s approach marries the enduring value of silver as a precious metal with its growing appeal as a sophisticated, design-oriented medium—creating a new category of luxury products that resonate on both an emotional and financial level.

With silver’s increasing role in global markets—spanning from industrial applications to investment-grade assets—Siddhhi Arts is strategically positioned to leverage this material’s versatility and growing demand. In an era where affluent buyers are prioritizing meaning, sustainability, and long-term value in their purchases, Siddhhi Arts is poised to modernize the silver sector by offering bespoke, artisanal products that not only enhance living spaces but also represent a savvy financial investment.

Fabindia Collaborates with Ministry of MSME to Empower India’s Artisanal Heritage Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme

New Delhi | September 14, 2024: Fabindia, India’s leading lifestyle brand known for its commitment to traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design, is proud to announce its strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) under the Central Government’s PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which was launched on September 17, 2023. This initiative is aimed at supporting India’s traditional artisans, including Potters, Carpenters, Boat Maker, Weavers, Armourer, Blacksmiths, Mason, Goldsmith, Locksmith, Sculptor, Stone Breaker, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Cobbler, Shoesmith, Tailor, Doll & Toy Maker, Barber, Garland Maker and other skilled craftsmen, by promoting their products and expanding their market reach.

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a visionary program initiated by the Government of India, seeks to empower traditional artisans across the country by providing them with financial support, skill development, and marketing assistance. The collaboration between Fabindia and MoMSME is focused on enhancing the marketing development activities of artisans registered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, enabling them to showcase their craftsmanship to a wider audience and boost their livelihoods.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration:

Market Integration: Fabindia will integrate artisan-made products into its retail network, offering them a platform to showcase and sell their goods across markets.
Capacity Building: Through training and skill development programs, Fabindia will assist artisans in honing their craftsmanship while incorporating modern design trends and technology to increase the commercial appeal of their products.
Branding & Promotion: Fabindia, with its robust marketing channels, will actively promote the products created by these artisans both online and offline, ensuring greater visibility and demand for authentic, handmade Indian crafts.
Sustainability and Preservation of Traditional Crafts: The partnership reflects brand’s ongoing commitment to preservation and fostering a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution towards artisans.

Commenting on the collaboration MoMSME and Fabindia Ltd said “The initiative is committed to preserving and promoting Indian craftsmanship and artisans by providing them with the tools, training, and platform they need to thrive in the modern marketplace. With this collaboration we are sure that it will not only empower artisans but also ensure their crafts receive the recognition and market access they deserve”

The partnership is expected to create a significant impact on the lives of artisans, helping them achieve market access and recognition for their work. Fabindia invites consumers and industry leaders to support this initiative by embracing products crafted by artisans and contributing to the growth of India’s artisanal heritage.

Continental’s Safety Components Surpass Major Production Milestone

Gurugram, September 14, 2024. Technology company Continental’s Gurgaon plant reaches a production milestone of ten million Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) and hundred million Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS), two components integral to the safety of a vehicle. The EBS portfolio comprises Electronic Stability Control (ESC) for passenger cars and Anti-lock Brake Systems (ABS) for both, passenger cars and 2-Wheelers. ESC guarantees directional stability and steerability of the vehicle whereas, ABS aims to avoid locking of the wheels and keeps the vehicle steerable during braking. Additionally, the signals from the WSS are required for control systems like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

 More than 1.3 million people die in road accidents worldwide every year. A further 50 million are injured. In India, 53 accidents and 19 deaths occur every hour, or an average of 1,264 accidents and 42 deaths daily due to road crashes, according to a Ministry of Road Transport and Highways report in 2023. To enhance road safety in the country, ABS technology was made mandatory in 2019, followed by a proposal for ESC in 2022 by the government.

 Sukhdeep Sandhu, Head of Safety and Motion, Continental Automotive India, said, “Safety is non-negotiable. At Continental, we have consistently brought relevant technologies to the market for our customers, helping make vehicles and thereby our roads safer. Our expertise in active and passive safety systems is a key driver in reducing the number of traffic-related fatalities, injuries, and road accidents”.

 “Localization is at the core of company’s strategy in India. Supported by legislations which have played a huge role in ensuring vehicular safety, we have been able to localize both production and R&D, ensuring greater value to our customers in the market. Customers in India are proactive in their adoption approach towards safety technologies”, he added.

 Continental has been pursuing a long-term strategy globally towards “Vision Zero” – a world without road fatalities, injuries and crashes, through technologies, components and systems and ongoing innovations, thus making a decisive contribution to greater road safety. Today the technology player, which is a Tier 1 supplier in the automotive market is also one of the largest manufacturers of WSS in India. Apart from catering to leading OEMs in India, these components are also exported to other Asian and European regions.

 Anudeep Garg, Head of the Gurgaon plant, Continental Automotive India said, “We are proud to achieve this milestone and continue to focus on localization. As a Tier 1 supplier, we follow global manufacturing standards and have adopted several advanced technologies to create a digital shopfloor. Additionally, industry 4.0 technologies enable us to not only maintain product quality and enhance efficiency but also to effectively streamline our supply chain. We aim to increase the manufacturing capacity of EBS and WSS in double-digit percentages in the next three years for both passenger vehicles as well 2- wheelers.”

 With its “in the market, for the market” approach, the entire value chain from R&D to design and production is localized. This way Continental is focusing on enabling easy access to safety products by adapting globally proven technologies to suit the local market. Wide-scale production offers economy of scale and ensures cost advantage, thereby contributing to increased democratization of safety features in vehicles across segments in India.

 Major steps to localize safety components began in 2016, when Continental set up assembly lines in Gurugram for Antilock Brake Systems (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems for 2 wheelers and passenger cars. In 2018, the technology company commenced production for ABS and ESC Electronic Control Units (ECU) at its Bangalore plant. In the subsequent year, the company achieved the production milestone of one million ABS and ESC ECUs at its Bangalore plant, and in 2020, reached a milestone of 50 Million Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) at its Manesar plant. Additionally, Continental entered into a joint venture with Japanese firm Nisshinbo Holdings in 2022, to localize machining for valve blocks for Electronic Brake Systems (EBS) in India. All of these highlight the company’s commitment to manufacturing in India.

 Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

 The company has been present in India for close to 50 years through technology partnerships (Continental Tires since 1974) and joint ventures for its various businesses. Today, the tier 1 automotive supplier, tire manufacturer, and industrial partner operate across India – with about 10,000 employees across 12 locations, including six plants that cater to the Indian market and a Technical Center that supports Continental’s global R&D activities.

FEF and Dharmatic Entertainment Collaboration Unveiled at the 3rd FEF Annual Gala

Mumbai, September 2024: The Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) and Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., the digital content arm of Dharma Productions, announced an exciting new alliance during the 3rd FEF Annual Gala on September 05. The conference, held at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, was attended by prominent figures & FEF Stakeholders including, Mr. Akshay Kumar, Mr. Karan Johar, Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, Mr. Vinod Dugar, Ms. Manju Yagnik, Ms. Sonali Dugar and Ms. Apoorva Mehta.

  The 3rd Annual Gala focussed on the shared vision of FEF and Dharmatic Entertainment to merge fashion with creative storytelling, aiming to nurture innovation and create new opportunities for emerging fashion entrepreneurs. The alliance of FEF and Dharmatic is poised to explore what lies ahead in this exciting new chapter.

 This collaboration comes shortly after the announcement that Mr. Karan Johar, Indian filmmaker, television personality, and the Founder and Managing Director of Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., has individually joined FEF as an investor and promoter. Johar’s involvement with FEF shows his commitment to transforming the fashion industry by addressing the challenges faced by professionals in the sector.

 Mr. Karan Johar commented on the initiative, “Fashion is more than just a visual statement; it’s a narrative that reflects our identity, heritage, and aspiration. At Dharmatic, our focus has always been on telling stories that resonate with people. This partnership with FEF is an interesting opportunity to bring fashion-driven narratives to life, combining our storytelling expertise with FEF’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent in the fashion industry. Having recently joined FEF as a promoter, I’m even more looking forward to the potential this collaboration holds. Together, we are set to create content that is impactful, setting new trends and inspiring the next generation of fashion innovators.”

 Mr. Apoorva Mehta, CEO and Managing Director of Dharmatic Entertainment, noted, “The fusion of fashion and creativity is redefining the boundaries of what’s possible. At Dharmatic, we believe in collaboration as a force to drive innovation, and this partnership with FEF is proof to that vision. By merging fashion’s artistic expression with novel ideas, we aim to inspire new trends and elevate the profiles of emerging talent in the fashion industry.”

 “Fashion has the unique power to shape culture and express individuality,” said Bollywood star Mr. Akshay Kumar. “This collaboration is a step towards setting trends that resonate with people and spark conversations about creativity and self-expression. I’m excited to see how this initiative combines innovation and fashion to make a lasting impact.”

Sharing his excitement and emphasising the business perspective, business magnate and Chairman of RJ Group, Mr. Ravi Jaipuria stated, “This partnership is a perfect blend of creativity and entrepreneurship. At FEF, our goal has always been to back ventures that have the potential to disrupt and redefine industries. Dharmatic’s expertise in storytelling combined with FEF’s focus on nurturing fashion entrepreneurs is a winning formula. This collaboration will help build sustainable business models that can adapt and flourish in the ever-evolving market.”

 Adding their views, Mr. Vagish Pathak, Chairman & Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund said, “We are excited to join hands with Dharmatic Entertainment. This partnership is in line with our mission to support and elevate the fashion industry by providing a platform for innovation and growth. With Karan Johar already onboard as an investor & promoter, this collaboration is a natural extension of our shared vision. By combining our strengths, we are poised to create a dynamic ecosystem that will enable fashion entrepreneurs to thrive, offering them the resources, mentorship, and exposure they need to succeed in this competitive landscape.”

 Dharmatic Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse in creative content, recognized for its high-quality, engaging, and diverse offerings that appeal to a global audience. This collaboration with FEF marks the beginning of a new chapter where fashion meets creative media, creating a vibrant platform for fashion entrepreneurs to shine.

Friday the 13th: Perfect for Spine-Chilling Thrillers like The Buckingham Murders and Knives Out

What would you do if the person you trusted most turned out to be your greatest enemy?

If the idea of twists, turns, and suspense sends your heart racing, you’re in for a treat. Murder mysteries and revenge thrillers have an uncanny ability to keep us on the edge of our seats, making every minute of watching (or listening) feel like a puzzle waiting to be solved. Whether you’re into high-octane dramas or psychological slow burns, this list has something for every thriller enthusiast. Get ready to dive into a world of dark secrets, shocking betrayals, and spine-tingling plots.

1. The Buckingham Murders
Releasing September 13th, 2024

Bollywood queen Kareena Kapoor Khan stars as Jass Bhamra, a detective grappling with personal trauma while investigating a disturbing murder in The Buckingham Murders. Set against the gloomy, suspense-filled backdrop of Buckinghamshire, Jass is not just fighting external forces but her own demons. As she digs deeper into the case, long-buried secrets resurface, blurring the lines between her personal and professional life. Expect a thrilling, heart-wrenching performance as Kapoor takes on one of her most emotionally intense roles yet.

2. Aarya – Ek Revenge
In Aarya – Ek Revenge, Aarya Raghuvanshi grows up in an orphanage, unaware of her royal lineage. Her life takes a sharp turn when her mother, Rajeshwari, reveals a dark secret that sends Arya on a journey of vengeance. As she seeks to uncover the truth about her identity, she encounters a world of deception, betrayal, and dangerous enemies. The story’s twists and turns, paired with Arya’s relentless determination, make this audio series a perfect pick for revenge thriller lovers. Tune in to Aarya – Ek Revenge on Pocket FM for an immersive, high-stakes drama.

3. Knives Out
Knives Out boasts an ensemble cast with Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, the charmingly eccentric detective hired to solve the mysterious death of crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (played by Christopher Plummer). Every member of the Thrombey family, from Ransom Drysdale (Chris Evans) to Marta Cabrera (Ana de Armas), seems to be hiding something. As Blanc unravels the puzzle, audiences are kept guessing until the very last frame. The combination of humor, mystery, and unexpected revelations makes Knives Out an instant classic in the murder mystery genre.

4. Aaj Ka Hero
In Aaj Ka Hero, Vikrant is a 21-year-old man recently released from jail after serving three years for a crime he got caught up in. Upon his release, he learns that his girlfriend Shruti has betrayed him in ways he could never have imagined. Heartbroken and seeking revenge, Vikrant’s life takes a shocking turn when an unexpected event threatens to change everything. The series explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and justice, all while maintaining a gripping, fast-paced narrative. Listen to Vikrant’s journey on Pocket FM and unravel the mystery for yourself.

5. Mindhunter
Set in the 1970s, Mindhunter follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview some of the most dangerous serial killers in history. The show dives deep into the minds of infamous criminals like Ed Kemper and Charles Manson to understand what makes them tick. Based on real-life events, Mindhunter offers a chilling insight into criminal psychology and the FBI’s early efforts at profiling serial killers. The dark, unsettling atmosphere makes it a standout in the murder mystery genre.

6. Sacred Games
One of India’s most acclaimed TV series, Sacred Games centers around Sartaj Singh (Saif Ali Khan), a down-and-out police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a notorious gangster. After receiving a mysterious phone call from Gaitonde, Sartaj is drawn into a dangerous conspiracy involving the criminal underworld and the highest levels of power in India. With its intense plot, complex characters, and mix of crime, politics, and revenge, Sacred Games is a must-watch for anyone craving a powerful, layered thriller.

Whether you prefer the visual drama of movies and TV shows or the immersive storytelling of audio series, these six recommendations are guaranteed to satiate your curiosity for suspense and intrigue. From the mind-bending mysteries of Knives Out and The Buckingham Murders to the edge-of-your-seat thrillers like Aaj Ka Hero and Mindhunter, this list offers a variety of stories that will keep you hooked until the very last second.

So, if you’re looking to dive into the world of murder mysteries and revenge thrillers, start with these picks, and you won’t regret it!

Labourhome Powers Livelihood of 700 Construction Worker Families Through Ola Electric Two-Wheeler Factory Project

India, 14.09.2024 — Labourhome, a trailblazing end-to-end workforce management enterprise, proudly announces its pivotal role in constructing Ola Electric’s largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility in Hosur, the largest of its kind in Asia. This landmark project not only advances India’s electric vehicle sector but also underscores Labourhome’s commitment to enhancing the lives of construction workers and their families.

Labourhome was instrumental in sourcing and deploying over 700 skilled workers, generating more than 240,000 man-days of employment for the EPC Construction Agency appointed by OLA Electric for the Project. This achievement reflects the company’s dedication to providing stable and meaningful employment opportunities in large-scale infrastructure projects.

The company’s commitment extended beyond employment to include comprehensive support for workers’ welfare. Labourhome ensured stable employment, provided secure accommodations, and offered healthcare support, directly benefiting 700 construction worker families.

Mr. Jaishankar, Project Director for the EPC Construction Agency, commented, “The Ola Electric project is one of the largest EV two-wheeler factories in Asia, and its successful completion in record time is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of our partners. Labourhome’s role in managing the workforce was crucial to our success. Their commitment to providing skilled labor and ensuring worker welfare significantly contributed to this landmark project’s timely and successful completion.”

“We are honored to contribute to this transformative project and make a positive impact on the lives of 700 construction worker families,” stated R.Vinoth Kumar, Founder of Labourhome.” Our collaboration with OLA Electric Project highlights our capacity to manage large-scale workforce deployments and our unwavering commitment to improving workers’ lives.”

Labourhome‘s involvement in the Ola Electric two-wheeler factory project underscores its role as a key player in supporting major infrastructure projects while enhancing the livelihoods of workers and their families.

One notable impact of Labourhome’s efforts is the story of Ravi, a construction worker who experienced significant improvements in financial stability because of which he was able to provide his children education for the first time.

Labourhome‘s effective workforce management was crucial in maintaining the project’s timeline and efficiency. By ensuring a steady flow of skilled labor and focusing on worker welfare, Labourhome helped minimize delays and ensured the smooth execution of key project phases.Hereby, Labourhome has not only significantly improved the livelihood of these workers and their families but also managed to complete the OLA Electric EV Two Wheeler factory project in a timely manner.

Gully Fest Announces Second Edition – A Victory Lap Of Indian Hip Hop

India, 14th September 2024 – Gully Fest, India’s first premier hip-hop music festival, is set to make a resounding comeback on October 26-27 at Nesco Center, Mumbai.

Spearheaded by multi-platinum hip hop trailblazer DIVINE (Vivian Fernandes) and his music conglomerate Gully Gang, the aspirational festival became an overnight sensation within the hip hop community upon its debut in 2018. Today, it not only serves as a reminder to how DIVINE has painstakingly imprinted hip-hop in the cultural consciousness of India but also serves as a testament to the success of all the burgeoning artists that followed thereafter in his footsteps.

This year’s edition promises to be one of the grandest homecoming celebrations spotlighting Indian hip hop’s triumph, originating from the streets to dominating mainstream popular culture. With a tagline of ‘Hip-Hop Mere Gully Mein’ (meaning hip-hop in my hood), the 2-day festival will pay homage to the evolution and rise of the genre, acknowledging its humble roots and commemorating its undeniable impact as a thriving cultural movement. This year’s theme revolves around the idea of varsity and university culture, and how these influences have shaped the style and standpoint of artists and hip-hop enthusiasts for generations.

With a focus on community and diversity, the festival will provide a platform for both established artists and emerging talent, ensuring that the genre’s diverse voices are authentically represented. This edition’s billing will feature international hip-hop icon Pusha T as a headliner, alongside the festival’s founder DIVINE. Joining the iconic heavyweights will be a roster of talented Indian artists, including Gully Gang All Stars, Prabh Deep, Lisa Mishra, Sambata, Yashraj, Gravity, Bombay Bassment, Reble, DJ Proof, DJ Kan-i, OG Shez, and Beatraw x D-Cypher.

DIVINE comments, “It really was all a dream, to see how far we’ve come as a movement, to see so many take up the mic & a pen, to see how our music has travelled so far and wide in India & beyond. Gully Fest is a celebration of that, we want to bring down global rap icons to India, to highlight the best of Indian Hip-Hop and to platform upcoming artists.”

Besides the standout music performances, attendees can also look forward to engaging in immersive experiences. The festival venue will feature a variety of installations and experience zones, including a graffiti wall, skate ramp, interactive boombox and year book photo booth at its second edition.

While the festival kicks off in Mumbai this year, it’s set to expand to various cities across India next year, ensuring the continued momentum of the movement.