GEF India launches 10 Litre Multi-Use Jar of Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil

HYDERABAD: 12th October 2023: Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited (GEF India) today announced the launch of their new reusable 10 litre multi-use jar of Freedom Refined Sunflower oil. This new 10 Litre SKU is the latest addition to the Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil offerings. Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil is currently available in various pack sizes like 200ml, 500ml pouch, 1-Litre pouch, 500 ml PET bottle, 1 Litre PET bottle, 2 Litre PET bottle, 5 Litre HDPE jar, 10 Litre Multi-Use jar, 15 kg tin, 15 Litre tin and 15 Litre HDPE jar. The new SKU was launched by Ms. Suma Kanakala, Famous Anchor & Tollywood Actress along with Mr. P Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, GEF India, and the management of GEF India.

The new reusable 10-Litre multi-use jar of Freedom Refined Sunflower oil has been specially designed keeping in mind the requirements of the modern-day consumer and a growing trend of using environment friendly products that can be reused. The new reusable multi use jar has been introduced to offer convenience to the families. Its convenient and contemporary design, with a tamper proof lid, and an easy pour technology make the jar easy to handle. It is an ideal choice for the present-day woman who is looking at intelligent choices to save time, space and avoid spillage and storage issues. After the consumption of edible oil, the new multi-use jar can be used to store the kitchen essentials.

Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil is the No. 1 selling brand in the sunflower oil category in India. The market size for Sunflower Oil is over 50,000 tonnes in AP & Telangana. Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil is the market leader in the category with market share of 36% in Telangana and 67.5% in Andhra Pradesh (as per Nielsen IQ data Q2 2023). GEF India has 3 state-of-the-art-refineries in Andhra Pradesh, 2 in Kakinada and 1 in Krishnapatnam. The company is coming up with a refinery in Telangana which should get commissioned soon. Besides the current operations in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Odisha, the company is expanding the presence in Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, GEF India said, “We are a consumer-focused organization and are constantly assessing consumer requirements. We are happy to introduce the new reusable 10 Litre multi-use jar of Freedom Refined Sunflower oil, to provide an elegant and convenient SKU for the present-day customer. We hope this new convenient reusable multi use jar is liked by our patrons and used for storage after the oil is consumed. ‘Freedom’ is a value for money brand, with innovative packing designs, for our consumers providing them the ‘Freedom to eat, Freedom to enjoy.”

RPG Group announces the appointment of Anant Goenka as the Vice Chairman of the Group

New Delhi, October 12, 2023: RPG Group, one of India’s leading business conglomerates, announced the appointment of Anant Goenka to the position of Vice Chairman of the diversified group.

In addition to his new role, Anant Goenka will continue to serve as the Vice Chairman of CEAT and Zensar Technologies. This move strengthens the leadership at the group headed by Harsh Goenka, ensuring stability and continuity in the long term for the group, which is acclaimed for its corporate governance and people friendly value system.

Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Group said, “Anant’s extensive experience, driving CEAT towards performance excellence over the past decade, will play a pivotal role in shaping the next wave of growth for the RPG Group. This era is defined by rapidly evolving technology and I believe Anant has the requisite skills and business instincts to herald change and make a difference in the way we adapt to technologies, markets and consumers.”

A highly accomplished professional, Anant brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to being the Vice Chairman of CEAT and Zensar technologies, Anant led CEAT as Managing Director & CEO through a highly transformative 10-year period. Under his leadership, the market capitalization of the company grew significantly by over 20 times.

A graduate from the Wharton School and an MBA from Kellogg School of Management, Anant began his career in Unilever and RPG group company KEC International before joining CEAT. His leadership played a pivotal role in CEAT’s historic achievement of winning the prestigious Deming Grand Prize making it the first tyre brand in the world to receive this coveted accolade of business excellence.

Anant Goenka’s remarkable achievements have earned him recognition as “India’s Under 40 Business Leader” by CEO Forum in 2020, “GQ: 50 Most Influential Young Indians” in 2018, and “Next Generation Business Leader of the Year” by Forbes in 2017. He was also named among “India’s 40 under 40 Business Leaders” by the Economic Times-Spencer Stuart. He has also served as the Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ATMA).

Speaking on the announcement, Anant Goenka said, “It is an honour and a responsibility that I will cherish and I hope to contribute towards the growth and competitiveness of our diverse businesses. Our fundamental value system, our governance standards and our quest for happiness will remain the guardrails within which we will continue to operate.”

Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum (BBF) Presents India Investor Show 2023

Mumbai, India – October 12, 2023 – The Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum (BBF) proudly presented a virtual event, ‘India Investor Show 2023,’ on October 10, 2023, catering to both Indian and global investors. This event was held under the auspices of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA).

The event is part of the celebration of the World Investor Week 2023 led by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) and hosted in India by SEBI.

“BBF’s India Investor Show 2023” took place from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm Indian Standard Time (IST) and garnered extensive support from the major Indian Market Infrastructure Institutions, including BSE, NSE, MSE, MCX, NCDEX, INDIA INX, NSE IX, CDSL, NSDL, ICCL, NSE Clearing, and MCXCCL, as well as knowledge partners NIFM and NISM.

In the context of World Investor Week 2023, the theme of the event, ‘India Investor Show 2023,’ carries particular significance as it focuses on aligning policy frameworks and regulations with the needs of investors. The program successfully united policymakers, industry leaders, and investors on a common platform to engage in discussions, and deliberations, and to chart the future course of financial markets. Distinguished speakers shared their knowledge and perspectives, catering to both market intermediaries and investors.

The inaugural session featured the honourable Mr. G. P. Garg, Executive Director of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) as the Guest of Honour, along with Dr. Dipesh Shah, Executive Director (Development) of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). The event also welcomed the eminent Mr. Nilesh Shah, Group President & Managing Director of Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company (KMAMC), who discussed “Indian Capital Markets 2025 – the road ahead.” This was followed by speeches from other industry stalwarts. Furthermore, the event included speakers from the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) and India International Exchange (India INX).

Kishor Kansagra, Chairman of the Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum (BBF), underscored the significance of ‘BBF’s India Investor Show 2023’ within the context of World Investor Week 2023, stating, “As we celebrate World Investor Week 2023, ‘BBF’s India Investor Show 2023’ holds paramount importance. This event serves as a vital platform where discussions on policy frameworks and regulations align with the evolving needs of investors. We are pleased to have organized an event that successfully united key stakeholders, paving the way for the future of financial markets.” In the spirit of BBF World Investor Week celebrations, Kansagra acknowledged the fundamental role that investors play in shaping the financial landscape, saying, “This week, we celebrate their dedication, curiosity, and resilience. Together, we stride forward towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all investors.”

Experiences that Jammu offers to every kind of traveller

The culturally rich, topographically diverse and naturally stunning Jammu offers a variety of experiences for all kinds of travelers, be it the adventure junkies, the nature lovers, the foodies or the history buffs.

This gem is a paradise with its unfiltered views of the majestic Pir Panjal range, its natural bounty of lush green hills alive with a variety of flora and fauna, its ancient temples, its local handicrafts and delectable cuisines. At the heart of Jammu lies a small, pretty hill station called Patnitop nestled amidst picturesque meadows and surrounded by pristine mountains, that will make your visit all the more special.

Here are five experiences in Jammu that deserve a spot on the itinerary of your next visit:

For the history and heritage buffs

Since the 2nd century AD, Jammu has built a rich heritage that has enriched its economic, cultural, architectural and social history. Some of its ancient structures like the Amar Mahal Castle, that is built like a French Chateau on a hill overlooking the river Tawi continue to attract travellers for the view it offers and for its architectural excellence. The palace is now converted into a museum making it ideal for a visit by both history buffs and architects! The Bahu Fort, built around 3,000 years ago, is another structure worth a visit. It houses a temple dedicated to the presiding deity of Jammu – Goddess Kali.The Vaishno Devi temple and the Raghunath Temple draw hordes of pilgrims to the region throughout the year.

For lovers of nature and crisp, mountain air

Patnitop is a dream destination for those who love to be surrounded by nature’s bounty! From taking long walks along unexplored mountain trails to trekking, skiing during winter, camping, paragliding, or taking a dip in its natural hot springs, Patnitop is a haven for nature lovers. When here, visit the Skyview by Empyrean property spread across 22 acres that perfectly blends premium hospitality, adventure, nature and luxury! A ride aboard the Skyview Gondola also known as India’s first ‘green gondola’ is a must-do, so add it to your itinerary. This is one of the highest CEN-certified gondolas in Asia covering 2.8 km in flat 10 minutes! A gliding, ariel view of Patnitop on this ropeway will make you appreciate its natural beauty even more.

For families and big groups celebrating festivals or occasions

Jammu’s rich and diverse cultural history makes it a very vibrant and colourful destination to celebrate festivals or occasions with family and friends. These gatherings showcase some of Jammu’s best local cuisines, culture and handicrafts. The Bahu Mela is celebrated twice a year from March to April and from September to October at the Bahu Fort that is lit up to perfection for the occasion. The Jhiri Mela is celebrated in October and November brings together farmers of the region to honour the farmer Jitu Baba, who laid down his life for his fellow men. The three-day Purmandal Mela festival is held during Shivratri.

Navratra Festival in Jammu region is famous for its celebration in Katra, the base camp of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. Though the yatra to the shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is a round-the-year event, the one undertaken during the Navratras is considered the most auspicious. A large number of tourists pay their obeisance to the deity during this period.The festival is celebrated twice in a year- during the Sharadiya Navratri, Chaitra Navratri

For the Foodies

Jammu offers a variety of cuisines inspired by its multicultural legacy making it a much sought-after destination for the foodies. Here, you can relish the customary local Dogra cuisine that includes the famous Kashmiri Pulao (it’s a Kashmiri dish), Khatta Meat, the much-loved sweet Patisa or the Kalaadi, a processed cheese prepared only in the region.

The other traditional dishes that are a must-try in Jammu Region are Morel (Gushi) Palov, Madra (lintel cooked in curd), Oria (Potato/Pumpkin in mustard sauce), Maani, Khameera, Katha Meat (Sour Mutton), Shasha(raw mango chatni), Kasrod and Timru-di-Chatni,Shiri Pulav, and Mitha Bhat (Sweet Rice) among others.

For desserts, Jammu offers dishes like Chocolate Barfi, Sund Panjeeri, Patisa for food lovers You cannot overlook the street food of Jammu comprising Gol Gappas, Kachaalo, Gulgule, and Rajma Kulche.

In Jammu, every kind of traveller will find their sweet spot, so make sure you do your research well in time before you head to the region and make your bookings so you don’t miss out on any of the unique experiences the region offers.

Planet Smart City manages 1 billion Litres of Water in Pune

Pune, 12th October 2023: Planet Smart City, a leading global player in the affordable and aspirational housing market integrating Proptech and ESG-compliant solutions in real estate developments, has added another feather to its cap. The Proptech solutions company has helped manage 1 billion litres of water across 15,000+ households in Pune.

As Punekars are grappling with the ongoing water crisis in Pune brought on by the dwindling water resources, and rapid urbanization, Planet Smart City’s Planet SIM emerges as the innovative solution of the hour. Developed by its Digital Business unit, Planet SIM collects data to understand consumption patterns and identify outliers to trigger corrective action. The deployment of the platform in over 60 societies has resulted in substantial water and energy savings.

Commenting on this achievement, Mr. Marco Pilia, Managing Director India at Planet Smart City, stated, “Planet Smart City is dedicated to establishing affordable housing communities that prioritize environmental consciousness. Since the initial deployment of Planet SIM in Pune’s residential societies a year ago, we have successfully managed over 1 billion liters of water, resulting in significant reductions in utility costs for societies. With our innovative solution, each society has achieved substantial annual savings in terms of water usage, manpower and electricity, leading to both significant financial benefits and a noteworthy reduction in our collective carbon footprint.”

“Upon close examination of water consumption trends in Pune’s residential societies, we’ve noted the water requirement ranges from 300 to 600 liters per household per day. Traditionally, these societies have been responsible for managing their water resources independently. However, following the implementation of Planet SIM, we have the potential to decrease society water usage by an impressive 20 to 25 percent This monumental achievement not only signifies our commitment to sustainable water management but also has a cascading effect on overall power consumption. Through this initiative, we’ve successfully achieved a notable reduction in overall power consumption, ranging from 8 to 10 percent.” Added Mr. Mukund Deogaonkar, Director India Business, Planet Smart City.

Planet Smart City’s Planet SIM aims to reach hundreds of societies before the end of 2023. Owing to the ongoing water crisis in Bengaluru, the digital unit is ready to expand its offerings to the Silicon Valley of India.