2, Feb 2024
Shriram Life Partners With Telangana Traffic Police for Road Safety Awareness
Hyderabad February 02, 2024: Shriram Life Insurance Company, the lead life insurer for Telangana in partnership with Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) and Cyberabad Traffic Police conducted a Road Safety and Financial Security and Insurance Awareness Event followed by a bike rally at Wipro Circle in Hyderabad.
The team at Shriram Life Insurance and the traffic volunteers displayed placards underscoring the importance of adhering to traffic rules, road safety, and financial security. The campaigners interacted with motorists and drivers, advising them on traffic laws and outlining the financial consequences of accidents, thus emphasising the need for insurance.
G. Ranaveer Reddy, ACP Madhapur Traffic Division conducted a road safety awareness session, emphasizing on the reasons for accidents and how they impact families and capsize their financial lives. Reddy led the event along with S. Rajasekhar Reddy, Inspector Gachibowli Traffic PS, Naved Khan, Co-Leader Traffic Forum at SCSC, and Keshav Bhandari from SCSC and Gachibowli Traffic PS Staff.
Representatives from Shriram Life Insurance including Ravi Kumar, Head of Compliance, and Sunitha Sambaraju, Head of Projects attended the event. It also included distribution of helmets to riders as well as a session emphasising the importance of helmets for safety and insurance for financial stability.
Sunitha Sambaraju, Head of Projects, Shriram Life Insurance said, “Road accidents take hundreds of lives every day according to India’s official road accident report. This points to the need for greater awareness among the public on the importance of safety as well as insurance. As lead life insurer for Telangana, we want to sensitize people on how accidents can render one’s family vulnerable. So the need for prevention and insurance plays a crucial role in people’s lives.”
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- By Rabindra
2, Feb 2024
Budget Reaction – SK Chaudhary, Founder Director, Safex Chemicals
SK Chaudhary, Founder Director, Safex Chemicals
“The decision to step up value addition in the agriculture sector, reduce post-harvest losses and boost farmers’ incomes by improving productivity is commendable. We believe that the move to help micro food processing enterprises via 2.4 lakh SHGs and individuals through credit linkages and promoting of public and private investment in a range of post-harvest storage solutions will not only give a fillip to faster growth but will also benefit domestic agri players.
Further, formulation of a strategy to achieve self-reliance in oilseeds is laudable since this will be backed by research on high-yielding varieties, value addition, deployment of modern farming practices, crop insurance and other measures.”
2, Feb 2024
Post-budget reaction of Mr. Prabhakar C, Director, Gopalan Group
Post-budget reaction on behalf of Mr. Prabhakar C, Director, Gopalan Group
“Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s interim budget speech today lays a commendable foundation for the final budget and the year ahead. The focus on agriculture, defense, infrastructure, and education demonstrates a clear commitment to India’s growth and well-being. While the specifics will be eagerly awaited in the main budget, the interim measures outlined paint an encouraging picture. The emphasis on strengthening rural infrastructure and enhancing productivity through schemes like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi is a welcome step that bolsters the backbone of our economy. Continued investment in infrastructure development creates employment opportunities and lays the groundwork for sustained economic progress.
Prioritizing the modernization of our armed forces is crucial for national security, and the budgetary allocation towards this objective sends a strong message and the proposed allocation for indigenous defense production aligns with the goal of self-reliance, a crucial aspect of national security. The government’s plan towards investing in education will sow the seeds of empowerment for our youth, further nurturing a future where a skilled generation will build a stronger India. While a holistic analysis awaits the final budget, this interim speech instills optimism for a future focused on development, security, and inclusivity. We eagerly await the final budget for a more comprehensive picture of the government’s vision for India’s future.”
2, Feb 2024
Puravankara announces total interim dividend payout of Rs 149 crores for shareholders
Mumbai: Puravankara Limited (BSE: 532891), one of India’s most trusted and admired real estate players, announced an interim dividend payout of Rs 6.30 per share for the financial year 2023-24 on 23,71,49,686 equity shares of face value of Rs. 5 each with a total dividend payout of Rs 149.40 crores. The dividend will be paid to those shareholders whose names stand on the Register of Members of the Company as of February 1, 2024.
Ashish Puravankara, Managing Director, Puravankara Limited, said, “Our shareholders have remained steadfast in their support during the absence of dividend payouts in FY20 and FY21 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They continued to support business operations and facilitate the company’s growth initiatives. We have maintained strong sales and collections throughout the first nine months of the current fiscal year. With a lineup of upcoming launches in the coming quarters, we expect to add to the operating surplus, which has increased by more than 100%, upwards of Rs 900 crores. Our cash flow from operations for 9M FY24 stood at INR 2,826 crores, and the dividend ensures that the company continues to provide tangible returns to the shareholders on their investments.”
Commenting on the solid financial performance for 9MFY24, Abhishek Kapoor, Group CEO Puravankara Limited, said, “We are excited to announce the 125% dividend for our shareholders on the back of an excellent performance by the business. The decision was taken to maintain consistency as we had not paid dividends in previous financial years. We look forward to continuing this practice and thank our shareholders for their continued faith and support in us.”
During the first nine months of FY24, the company achieved the highest-ever customer collections, totalling Rs 2,515 crores, reflecting an enhancement in operating efficiencies. Cash flow from operations for 9M FY24 stood at Rs 2,826 crores, reflecting a notable increase of 35% for the same period in 9M FY23. Additionally, the operating surplus for 9M FY24 surged to Rs 965 crores, marking a substantial 101% rise from the same period in FY23. The company’s current cash balance stands at Rs 822 crores.
2, Feb 2024
Rekha Bade Delights Everyone by Bringing Lip-smacking Food
Actress Rekha Bade, known for her character Bhamini in the Shemaroo MarathiBana’s show ‘Sau. Pratap Manasi Supekar,’ skillfully portrays the role of Pratap’s aunt, a mother-like figure for him on screen. In contrast to her on-screen negative character, Bhamini, Rekha is admired for her warm and friendly nature off-screen. Tanvee Kiran, the lead actress of the show, has expressed her appreciation for Rekha’s delightful nature and the positive atmosphere she brings to the set. Tanvee particularly enjoys the generosity of Rekha, who often shares delicious food, enhancing the overall working experience.
In a recent interview, Tanvee Kiran, who plays the character of Manasi in the show, shared some insights about her co-actor Rekha Bade, who portrays her on-screen mother-in-law. Tanvee said, “Working away from home, my co-actors have become like a second family to me, and I share a beautiful bond with Rekha Bade. Though she plays a negative character in the show, in reality, she is genuinely a wonderful person to be around. Initially, I used to miss home-cooked meals, but now, thanks to my co-actor Rekha, that longing has faded away. She consistently brings in mouthwatering home-cooked delights for us, from incredible pickles to a variety of dishes like fish, chicken, parathas, idlis, and more. She goes the extra mile to make the working environment enjoyable.”
Rekha Bade not only brings the character of Bhamini to life with her skillful acting but also fosters a positive and enjoyable atmosphere on the set of ‘Sau. Pratap Manasi Supekar.’ Her knack for spreading joy and kind nature has made her a beloved figure among the entire cast and crew.
Stay tuned and watch ‘Sau. Pratap Manasi Supekar,’ every Monday to Saturday at 9:00 PM, exclusively on Shemaroo MarathiBana.
31, Jan 2024
Join the ‘Gen Next’ Virtual Design Festival 2024 for preparing your design skills
Aspiring designers gear up for an unparalleled design journey with the “Gen Next” Virtual Design Festival 2024, a groundbreaking collaboration between Collegedunia and AIDAT. Scheduled from January to June 2024, this innovative initiative brings together over 50 leading design colleges across India to redefine design education through an immersive and transformative experience.
Get ready to enter the world of design :
The festival offers a diverse range of opportunities for participants to enhance their skills and creativity:
1. 30+ Master Classes for College Readiness:
Immerse yourself in the wisdom of design gurus, industry titans, HODs, deans, and professors. These master classes are tailored to prepare participants for the challenges of college-level design education.
2. Showcase Talent in 30+ Design Contests:
Participants can shine on the national stage by participating in design contests that encourage creativity and transcend conventional boundaries.
3. Connect with Design Icons for Career Guidance:
Exclusive sessions with design luminaries offer invaluable insights, providing personalized career guidance and shaping the creative destiny of aspiring designers.
4. 30+ Virtual Workshops for Expertise:
Dive into specialized workshops that promise hands-on learning, honing skills, and transforming participants into design maestros. These workshops provide practical learning experiences.
5. Brainstorm to Explore Design Horizons:
Stimulating sessions encourage out-of-the-box thinking, pushing the boundaries of design exploration and fostering innovation.
6. Personalized Prep: Choose 5+ Sessions/Month:
Tailor your learning experience by selecting a minimum of 5 sessions per month based on your interests, ensuring a focused and impactful learning journey.
How to Enroll:
Step 1 : Choose Your Sessions:
Select a minimum of 5 sessions per month via a user-friendly Google Form shared through email.
Step 2 : Complete the Registration Form:
Step 3 :Fill in your details to secure your front-row seat, ensuring you don’t miss this groundbreaking event.
Step 4 : Receive Confirmation:
Upon enrollment, receive a confirmation along with access details delivered straight to your inbox.
Step 5 : Participate in Contests:
Register to unleash your design prowess in monthly contests and showcase your creative genius.
AIDAT – Transformative Design Platform
In addition to the Virtual Design Festival, AIDAT introduces the All India Design Aptitude Test (AIDAT), India’s 1st National Level Design Entrance Exam. AIDAT serves as a transformative platform facilitating applications for prestigious design academics at nationally acclaimed universities. It provides a wealth of resources, including reading materials, design news, industry awareness, counseling, and invaluable career guidance.
Renowned universities participating in AIDAT offer a diverse array of diploma, bachelor, and master degree programs, making it the ultimate choice for design aspirants seeking excellence in various specializations.
Edinbox – Diverse Entrance Exams
Edinbox, a pioneer in education-focused media, goes beyond AIDAT to offer diverse entrance exams catering to various interests, including AIFSET, GMCET, and AIPMCET. These assessments open doors to global opportunities by collaborating with South Asian universities, providing aspirants with a pathway to higher education tailored to their passions.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of the most transformative design journey at India’s “Gen Next” Virtual Design Festival 2024. Join a community where creativity knows no bounds, and the future of design education is redefined!
31, Jan 2024
PECUC Sparks National Conversation: Preserving the Future and Bringing Leaders Together to Protect Youth from Tobacco
New Delhi, January 31, 2024: People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a well-known non-governmental organization, in association with ‘Coalition of Tobacco Free Odisha’ organised a National Consultation on Safeguarding Future on January 30, at the Deputy Speaker Hall, Constitution Club of India, Delhi, in an important effort to stop the growing problem of youth tobacco use.
The title of the event, “Safeguarding Future: Protecting Youth from Tobacco,” was to provide a venue for inclusive collaboration between youth ambassadors, civil society organizations, healthcare professionals, and members of parliament. The primary objectives were to tackle pressing issues of youth tobacco use and to develop all-encompassing strategies for protection and prevention.
Prominent oncologist Dr. Ranjeet Kar illuminated the significant harm that tobacco causes to one’s health by highlighting its correlation with a range of cancers and other illnesses that not only affect individuals but also effect everything from female infertility to cardiac arrest.
Advocate Ranjeet Singh emphasized the youth’s dual position as both the problem and the solution. He underlined the necessity of strict laws, such as prohibiting the sale of single sticks and hukka bars. Mr. Singh exhorted the younger generation to speak up for change and be instrumental in changing the way society views tobacco.
A number of Parliamentarians took an active part in the conversations. Mahesh Sahu, Member of Parliament, underlined that, in light of the enormous medical expenses linked to tobacco-related illnesses, both the central and state governments must work together to reduce tobacco usage.
Niranjan Bishi ,MP emphasized the need of raising awareness among children enrolled in school while endorsing the effort to rid Odisha of tobacco use.
While appreciating PECUC’s efforts, Sulata Deo, Member of Parliament, suggested stringent laws along with strengthening COTPA and strict vigilance of sale of tobacco products close to colleges and schools.
Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, Manas Padhy, Nikki Malik, Sashmita and other Youth Ambassadors of different states suggested to increase the legal age of tobacco usage to 21,raise the price of tobacco and outlawing the sale of single stick .
Sujeet Kumar, Member of Parliament, said, ” We need stringent law.We also need to work at ground level towards this as we are in direct contact with the people .
Bhubaneswar Kalita, Member Rajya Sabha, praised PECUC’s initiative and suggested a multipronged strategy to establish a tobacco-free India that includes laws, levies, public health initiatives, and community campaigns.
Muzibullah Khan, Member of Rajyasabha Odisha, said that smoking has become a fashion among youngsters. Foremost, the parents should guide their children about its repercussions. We all need to work together for bringing desired change.
Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC welcomed the guests and moderated the event. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC, thanked everyone for coming, especially the young people, for supporting the effort and a tobacco-free society as the event came to an end.
31, Jan 2024
Blu Attic’s Harmonic House Journey: Live Performance at Dishkeyaun on February 3rd
Blu Attic, is all set to grace Dishkeyaun with a captivating performance. Blu Attic is known for crafting harmonically rich music, with a special emphasis on diverse house music genres, including Deep, Melodic, Soulful, and Organic House.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 3rd February, as Blu Attic takes the stage at Dishkeyaun, starting at 9 PM. It promises to be a night filled with mesmerising beats and unforgettable vibes. Don’t miss out on this musical journey!
So, mark your calendars and get ready for a night of fantastic music and positive energy as Blu Attic graces the stage at Dishkeyaun. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of house music or just looking for a memorable night out, this event promises to deliver a memorable experience.
Where: Dishkeyaun
When: 3rd February, Saturday
Time: 9 PM onwards
Contact: +91 6364-467375
Address: 2nd level, Forum Rex Walk, Brigade Rd, B Block, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
31, Jan 2024
Highest ever quarterly EBITDA of Rs. 151 cr., up 19.8% YoY
New Delhi, January 31, 2024, SIS Ltd. (NSE: SIS, BSE: 540673), announced its Unaudited Financial Results for the quarter ended December 31st, 2023.
Key Consolidated Financials at a Glance:
| Rs. cr. | Q3 FY24 | Q3 FY23 | Y-o-Y | Q2 FY24 | Q-o-Q |
| Revenue from operations | 3,073.4 | 2,904.3 | 5.8% | 3,073.6 | 0.0% |
| EBITDA | 151.4 | 126.4 | 19.8% | 144.5 | 4.8% |
| EBITDA % | 4.9% | 4.4% | 4.7% | ||
| Adjusted Profit after
taxes* |
79.1 | 67.9 | 16.5% | 84.2 | -6.0% |
| Adjusted Profit after
taxes % |
2.6% | 2.3% | 2.7% |
· Segmental revenues are as follows:
- Security Solutions India: 1,318 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 1,203 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs.
1,302 cr. in Q2FY24
- Security Solutions International: 1,245 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 1,219 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs. 1,259 cr. in Q2FY24
- Facility Management Solutions: 525 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 497 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs.
528 cr. in Q2FY24
Return Ratios: ROE of Q3 FY24 was 2%
Cash Conversion – OCF/EBITDA on a consolidated basis was 7% for the quarter.
Business Updates:
Security Solutions India: The Security Solutions India business continued its growth momentum with 9.5% YoY growth and 1.2% QoQ growth in revenue for the quarter, and reached Rs. 1,318 Cr. Major wins during the quarter came from the BFSI, Energy, Retail, Healthcare, and Hospitality sectors. EBITDA margin continues to improve to 6.1% in Q3 FY24, up from 9% in Q3 FY23. Our Alarm Monitoring and Response company, VProtect, is now servicing over 21,000 connections.
Security Solutions International: The Security Solutions International business recorded a revenue of Rs. 1,245 Cr. for the quarter which is a 2.1% YoY growth (1.6% in constant currency) and -1.1% QoQ growth (-1.3% in constant currency). This growth was primarily driven by new wins in the Mining, Education, Manufacturing, Retail, and Real Estate The EBITDA margin for Q3FY24 was 3.9% compared to 4.0% in Q3FY23. EBITDA margins was impacted by the downsizing of a contract by one customer and the loss of one contract in Australia.
Facility Management Solutions: The Facility Management Solutions segment continued its growth momentum with 5.6% revenue growth YoY and -0.5% growth QoQ for the quarter, reaching revenues of Rs 525 Cr. for the quarter. Major wins during the quarter came from Real Estate, Education, Government, Manufacturing, and Healthcare. The EBITDA margin for Q3FY24 improved to 4.3% from 4.0% in Q3FY23 due to the shedding of low-profit contracts and overhead
Cash Logistics Solutions: The Cash Logistics segment continues its strong revenue growth with 7% growth YoY and 3.9% growth QoQ for the quarter, driven by new wins in cash in transit (CIT) business. The Q3 FY24 EBITDA was Rs. 27 cr., an increase of 24.0% YoY, and Q3 FY24 EBITDA margin was 16.6%. New innovative solutions revenue growth is 60% in Q3 FY24 YoY.
Commenting on the performance, Mr. Rituraj Kishore Sinha, Group Managing Director said,
“SIS reported the highest ever quarterly EBITDA at ₹151.4 cr. EBITDA margins of Security Solutions – India segment are back to pre-COVID levels. The Cash Joint venture business, which is the second largest cash logistics business in the country, reported its highest quarterly revenue and EBITDA margin in Q3 FY24”
31, Jan 2024
Architectural brilliance takes centre stage! Unveiling AD India’s 100 honourees
Mumbai, 20th January 2024: AD India, the ultimate design authority published by Condé Nast India, hosted its annual architecture and design event, AD100. In association with Asian Paints and supported by AXOR, NEYTT and National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), the annual list selected by Architectural Digest rounds up the best 100 design studios and architectural practices from India and the subcontinent. The winners were honoured at an exclusive event held at NCPA Mumbai, India’s premier cultural institution. The NCPA hosts more than 700 events each year in the fields of music, dance, theatre, film, literature and photography making it India’s largest and most holistic performing arts centre. AD was delighted to host AD100 2024 at this iconic building to celebrate excellence in design, architecture, and innovation in India. This year, the AD100 trophy, designed by Case Design, is produced by a radical new Goa-based firm called SolarPunk Futures with sustainable material and processes, and colour by Asian Paints.
Over the years, AD100 has become the most talked-about event in the industry that pools together a diverse range of talent: from the most revered names from the realms of architecture, and interior and landscape design to the tastemakers shaping the creative culture of the country. AD revealed the names of the 100 firms who have been working tirelessly to carefully restore heritage buildings and create intimate residential spaces, impactful public buildings, and lush landscapes. This year as well, AD casts a wider net in search of talent outside of the siloes of Mumbai and Delhi, looking more actively for excellence from other cities and towns, including Ladakh, Chennai, Pune, Goa and Kozhikode. Diversity and inclusivity are key to our storytelling at AD.
The AD100 list was meticulously researched and handpicked by the AD team. The exclusive evening witnessed the attendance of some of the most renowned mavens from the fields of interiors, architecture, culture, art, fashion and design.
“Asian Paints has always been a fervent supporter of design, Indian craft, and architecture. We take pride in endorsing the AD100, honouring the zenith of creative achievement. We applaud the artisans whose meticulous craftsmanship infuses life into every creation and proudly unveil the new INK Jaipur collection – an extraordinary blend of bespoke and diverse embroidery, screen, and block printing techniques, shaping a new era of artistic expression to take Indian design to new paradigms.”– Amit Syngle, Managing Director & CEO, Asian Paints Ltd
“I am absolutely thrilled to host this year’s AD100 at the beautiful and historic NCPA in Mumbai. It is an honour that I get to witness and participate in the excellence that is the AD community. This year’s list features the usual suspects who churn out brilliant projects consistently and also 13 new names from across the country doing revolutionary work. A massive congratulations to everyone who made it to the list! I am also happy to share that the trophies this year are made out of 100% sustainable material and processes. These special pieces are a representation of the partnership between Asian Paints, SolarPunk Futures, Case Design, and of course AD.”- Komal Sharma, Head of Editorial Content, AD India
Each year, at AD100, AD recognizes the works of a handful of architects and designers pushing the boundaries of creative excellence, while remaining true to their roots. Each of the projects celebrated are deeply informed by both their context and site, but moreover, they create new spaces for the public to build connections, have enriching experiences and find a community.
- Andagere Architects for the Samrakshan project | Vernacular Architecture
Based on the outskirts of Bangalore, Andagere Architects, an AD100 firm, led by Ajith Andagere run a project called Samrakshan India designed for the preservation and conservation of vernacular architecture in rural India. Under this project they research, document, refurbish and update rural homes in their original form and materiality. Often families prefer to simply raze these homes to the ground because it’s easier to build modern new concrete and glass structures, but Andagere takes the difficult route, one that is sustainable and also preserves a heritage way of life.
- Prabhakar Bhagwat for Parimal Gardens, Ahmedabad | Public garden and landscaping
The genesis of the Parimal gardens can be traced back to the 1950s when Ahmedabad thrived as a center of art and culture. Most recently, it was redesigned in August 2022 by Prabhakar Bhagwat, an important Indian landscaping firm, under the Pratiti Initiative, (funded by a local pharmaceutical major, Torrent). Elements from the original design are retained, including a bougainvillea arbour, fountains, and the lake, and new features include seating along the outer periphery, an art installation, a meditation pavilion, a gymnasium, a pet park, and an amphitheatre. Parimal Gardens masterfully emphasize a deeper bond between the garden and the city, and how important it is for our major cities to have a public, green space right in the heart of the metropolis.
- SNK | Somaya & Kalappa Consultants for Cathedral and John Connon School Fort, Mumbai | Restoration
Adding to SNK’s already illustrious restoration portfolio is their most recent work for the Cathedral and John Connon School at Thomas House (erstwhile Kodak House) in Mumbai’s Fort neighbourhood. Cathedral School is a very respected school of South Bombay with a strong alumni. As the student population grew over the years, the school’s management, instead of building an entirely new school, took on the challenge to restore Thomas House, a 19th-century neoclassical structure across the street from their existing building, and transform it into a school. This project reflects the adaptive reuse of a load-bearing brick-and-stone composite structure from a bank to a school. “This will hopefully be a catalyst for upgradation of all other heritage structures along the DN Road streetscape in the historically rich and dense Fort precinct,” says Brinda Somaya.
AD100 HALL OF FAME
| HALL OF FAME | ||
| SR. NO | NAME OF FIRM | NAME OF PRINCIPAL ARCHITECTS |
| 1 | Adil Ahmad | Adil Ahmad |
| 2 | Architect Hafeez Contractor | Hafeez Contractor |
| 3 | Kavita Singh Interiors | Kavita Singh |
| 4 | Matharoo Associates | Gurjit Singh Matharoo |
| 5 | Matra Architects | Verendra Wakhloo |
| 6 | MICD Associates | Channa Daswatte, Murad Ismail |
| 7 | Nozer Wadia Associates | Nozer Wadia |
| 8 | RMA Architects | Rahul Mehrotra, Robert Stephens, Nondita Correa Mehrotra, Payal Patel, Romil Sheth |
| 9 | Studio Mumbai | Bijoy Jain |
| 10 | Vikas Dilawari Architects | Vikas Dilawari |
| 11 | Pinakin Patel | Pinakin Patel |
