Jan 6, 2024 | Uncategorized
With the belief that Sustainable Is Attainable, Tata Power, One of India’s largest integrated power companies, joined hands with ICICI Foundation, the CSR arm of ICICI Bank and its Group Companies, to launch ‘Project GhanVan’ – a visionary tree plantation programme aimed at fostering environmental conservation. The formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed as a part of the collaboration by senior officials of both the organisations. Over the next three years, the project plans to plant 2.5 lakh indigenous trees across 75 acres of fertile regions in the catchment areas of Tata Power Hydro locations at Bhivpuri, Khopoli and Bhira in Maharashtra, which is part of Western Ghats. This signifies a pivotal step towards a greener and more sustainable future.
As a part of the project, ICICI Foundation will support the initiative by executing plantation activity, installing solar water pumps with drip irrigation facility and maintaining them for a period of three years. It will also undertake special measures like trenching to help protect trees from forest fires. This collaborative effort unfolds in three phases which involves planting 50,000 local indigenous species, including Babul, Tok phal, Kinai, Reshim dhavada, Lakuch, Apta, Pivla Kanchan, Kadilimb, Undi, Kumbha, Bherli mahd, Bhokar selected based on climatic and topography conditions, to be planted on 15 acres. Project GhanVan prioritizes regional biodiversity preservation, leading to habitat conservation for native avifauna diversity. The project employs advanced methods, including using healthy 2-3-year-old saplings, drip irrigation, and rigorous monitoring until viability is established. Special measures are in place to protect against collateral damage such as grazing and forest fires, aiming for an impressive 90% survival rate. Beyond environmental impact, the project also creates employment opportunities for local communities for maintenance of the plantation sites, fostering sustainable development.
Dr. Praveer Sinha, MD & CEO at Tata Power, highlighted the company’s focus on sustainability, asserting, “Our ‘Sustainable Is Attainable’ movement epitomizes our steadfast commitment towards sustainable development. Our century old efforts have made substantial contributions to the conservation of native biodiversity in the Western Ghats. The partnership with the ICICI Foundation for Project GhanVan is a testament to our ongoing commitment to endorse impactful green initiatives, ensuring a positive influence on both the environment and local communities, paving the way for a sustainable future.”
Sanjay Datta, President, ICICI Foundation, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Tata Power to launch ‘Project GhanVan’, a tree plantation programme, that embodies our collective commitment to a sustainable green future. Over the years, ICICI Foundation, through its various afforestation initiatives, has planted nearly 26 lakh trees across the country. ICICI Foundation is poised to take forward ‘Project GhanVan’ on the back of its experience from large afforestation and ecological projects in 52 forests and national parks across the country.”
Project GhanVan resonates with Tata Power’s ‘Tree Mittra’ programme, a flagship virtual volunteering initiative by Tata Power, which encourages individuals to adopt, plant, and nurture trees, fostering environmental sustainability. This nationwide plantation drive has garnered participation from employees, families, customers, and stakeholders, resulting in the planting of 6 lakh native trees as part of the afforestation drive as of FY23.
Tata Power is dedicated to conserving biodiversity through multiple approaches that involve safeguarding wildlife and vegetation, as well as raising awareness among employees and local communities. By building waterholes for grassland creatures, studying the biodiversity potential of solar plants, and hosting webinars with specialist groups on subjects like elephant conservation, and river ecology, the organisation is devoted to minimising their environmental impact while also preserving biodiversity. Recently the company also received the prestigious UNDP Mahatma Gandhi Award for Biodiversity which underscores its commitment to sustainability through specific actions and initiatives in biodiversity conservation.
ICICI Foundation is committed to protect and nurture the environment to ensure sustenance of future generations. The Foundation’s key focus is towards activities for environment and ecology, healthcare, societal development and supporting sustainable livelihoods. It has been implementing several environment projects in the areas of tree plantation, sustainable forests, watershed management, and rainwater harvesting. ICICI Foundation has planted over 26 lakh trees till date. It has carried out interventions in 52 forest reserves by way of creating water bodies, habitat restoration, weed removal and protecting biodiversity.
Jan 6, 2024 | Uncategorized
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (“NIIFL”), a collaborative investment platform for international and Indian investors, anchored by the Government of India, today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed, Mr. Sanjiv Aggarwal as Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of NIIFL.
The appointment follows a search process, conducted by NIIFL’s Board of Directors.Mr. Aggarwal has significant experience in the infrastructure and energy sectors. He joined Actis, a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure, in 2008, where he became a partner in 2010. He has till recently been responsible for Actis’ energy investments in Asia including India. Before joining Actis, Mr. Aggarwal worked with Citigroup and ANZ Investment Bank in the Indian energy and infrastructure sectors.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Aggarwal said, “I am privileged to have the opportunity to guide NIIFL at such an exciting time in the company’s journey with its unique positioning in India and its growth potential. I am committed to building on NIIFL’s strong track record and look forward to working with NIIFL’s talented team to invest in India’s very strong growth story and create value for our stakeholders.”
Mr. Aggarwal’s appointment will be effective in February 2024, and he succeeds Mr. Rajiv Dhar, who has served as interim CEO & MD since May 2023. The Board of Directors of NIIFL extends its gratitude to Mr. Dhar for his exceptional leadership during his interim term. His contributions have been fundamental in maintaining the continuity and success of NIIFL’s operations. Under his leadership, NIIFL made significant strides, launching its first bilateral fund, the India-Japan Fund with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), collaborating with the U.S. government on a multi-billion dollar green transition fund, and paving the strategy for successor funds.The Board welcomes Mr Aggarwal in his new role and looks forward to steering NIIFL into a new era of innovation and growth.
Jan 6, 2024 | Uncategorized
CoverYou, as one of India’s most trusted, fastest-growing, leading providers of comprehensive insurance solutions, a licensed insurance broker authorized by the IRDAI today has entered into a partnership with Indian Dental Association (IDA), an independent and recognized voice of dental professionals in India.
As a testament to CoverYou’s commitment to providing unparalleled insurance services, this collaboration aims to cater to the specific needs of the dental community. The partnership allows IDA members to access a wide range of insurance products designed to safeguard their professional and personal well-being.
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
Professional Indemnity Insurance: CoverYou will offer tailor-made professional indemnity insurance solutions, addressing the unique risks faced by dental professionals in their practice.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans will be available, ensuring IDA members and their families receive top-notch healthcare coverage and financial protection.
Motor Insurance: CoverYou’s extensive range of motor insurance products will provide IDA members with options that align with their preferences and needs.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Deepanker Mahajan, Co-Founder & CEO, CoverYou said, “We are delighted to join forces with the Indian Dental Association, an esteemed organization dedicated to the advancement of dental professionals. This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering top-notch insurance solutions that cater to the unique needs of the dental community. We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship, ensuring the peace of mind and security of Indian Dental Association’s members.”
Dr. Ashok Dhoble, Hon. Secretary General, Indian Dental Association, shared their enthusiasm and said, “The collaboration with CoverYou is a significant step in ensuring our members receive comprehensive insurance coverage. This strategic partnership aligns with our commitment to creating awareness as well as supporting the well-being of dental professionals, allowing them to focus on providing optimal oral health for all.“
Jan 5, 2024 | Uncategorized
Adani Gangavaram Port the deepest and the most modern port in the country as a part of their CSR program inaugurated several community infrastructure projects in the nearby villages. The initiatives include a sports ground facility at Dibbapalem Village and an Open Air Gym & Childrens park at Gangavaram Villages. The facilities were inaugurated by Shri Nagireddy Tippala, Member of the Legislative Assembly from Gajukawa constituency along with Mr. BG Gandhi, CEO, Adani Gangavaram Port & Mr. Anil Balakrishna, Adani Foundation. A cultural program was organized by the students of Adani Evening Education centers to welcome the guests.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Nagireddy Tippala, MLA from Gajukawa constituency, Andhra Pradesh mentioned that the initiatives and the infrastructure being created by the Adani Foundation & the port under their CSR scheme are commendable. He expressed hope that the community engagement by the Adani Gangavaram Port continues to benefit the students and the villages.
Speaking on the occasion Adani Gangavaram Port Limited management said” These initiatives are progressive steps undertaken by Adani Gangavaram Port as part of the community infrastructure and welfare education initiative. The port has created infrastructure at schools over the past year and established a Computer center at ZPHS, Gangavaram. Adani group believes in empowering the younger generation with education, skills, and create a healthy environment for overall growth for long term benefit to the society.”
Jan 5, 2024 | Uncategorized
The Changemaker Awards, hosted by Bharti Foundation recently, brought together corporates and individuals who have undertaken initiatives and/or are working on projects focused on creating a better world for the current and future generations. Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Co-Chairman at Bharti Foundation (Vice Chairman, Bharti Enterprises), Ms. Mamta Saikia, CEO at Bharti Foundation, Lt. Col. Vijay Chadda, Member of the Governing Board of Bharti Foundation, Mr. Akhil Gupta, Vice-Chairman at Bharti Enterprises, leaders from Bharti Group Companies and partner organisations, along with supporters and volunteers of the Foundation graced the occasion.
This year, the awards received 85 nominations under 6 award categories ranging from Employee Engagement for Bharti Group Companies, Social Initiatives – National & International to Individual Philanthropy – National & International. The nominations boast of positive impact made on society through strategic, innovative, and sustainable practices in various sectors – education, environment, healthcare to livelihood, sports, etc. This year’s winners include:
Individual Philanthropy National:
- Popat Chandu Rasal from Sterlite Technologies Limited planted more than 20,000 indigenous trees in Aurangabad, Maharashtra in 2022-23 alone
- Sathyanarayana K from HP Inc. has been volunteering for hunger mitigation in children and enabling better infrastructure in Government Schools in Bangalore, Karnataka.
- Another winner from HP Inc., Arundhati Bhattacharya, volunteered for IAHV (International Association for Human Values), positively impacting 200+ women through mental well-being classes and counselling sessions.
- Sudarshan Bengani from Airtel Payments Bank Limited for his regular contribution towards community services such as blood donation, supporting bird hospitals, food donation and supporting children from slums.
- Poornima Kapoor from Bharti Airtel Limited won Special Jury award in the for supporting students from economically challenged background with limited access to quality education, career opportunities and guidance.
Social Initiative National:
- Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation for their project Medical PODS, conceptualised for regions where health infrastructure is in deficit.
- Signify Innovations India Limited’s project, ‘Khel Jyoti,’ encourages sports in rural areas by providing safe and well-lit spaces for children.
- Avaya India Pvt. Ltd. for their initiative ‘Road to Career,’ providing skill-building opportunities and increasing employability of marginalized youth and adolescents.
- Indus Towers’ ‘innovative project, ‘Digital Transformation Van’ under their flagship CSR program ‘Saksham’, has brought digital literacy on wheels to isolated and disadvantaged groups in rural and urban parts of India.
- ECI Telecom India Pvt. Ltd.’s initiative ‘Right to Education for Every Child’ supports capacity building of school run by a grassroot NGO, benefitting more than 2,000 underprivileged students.
- Ericsson India Pvt. Ltd. won Special Jury Award in the category for its initiative, ‘Ericsson’s Centre of Excellence,’ that addresses skill gaps in Telecom Industry through training students on 5G and emerging technologies along with ensuring their job placements.
Employee Engagement Award (recognising efforts of Bharti Group Companies towards volunteering and payroll giving towards supporting education for underprivileged children from rural parts of the country):
- Bharti Realty engaged 100% employees through payroll giving for the noble cause for more than 3 years in a row.
- Del Monte Foods continuously engaged with Bharti Foundation and encouraged more than 80% its employees.
- 60% employees from Beetel Teletech Ltd. participated in payroll giving program.
Individual Philanthropy International: Harifidy Rakotobe (Airtel Madagascar S.A.), Michael Opwonyo (Airtel Uganda Ltd.) and Anne Njeri (Airtel Kenya Networks Limited)
Besides, Airtel Nigeria, Airtel Kenya Networks Limited, Airtel Tanzania Limited, Airtel Networks Zambia PLC and employees from various Airtel circles in India received the award for their exemplary contribution towards Sustainable Development Goals.
Ms. Mamta Saikia, CEO of Bharti Foundation, expressed her thoughts the Changemaker Awards, stating, “At Bharti Foundation, we believe in the power of transformative practices that are sustainable. Changemaker Awards stand as a testimony of the collective efforts of individuals and corporates in creating a positive impact on society through their exemplary work. Their commitment towards corporate social responsibility serves as an inspiration for others in various industries.”
Established in 2008, the Changemaker Awards extend acknowledgment to the commendable efforts of individuals at national and international level besides corporates towards Sustainable Development Goals. The award provides a common platform for applicants to showcase their work in community transformation, environmental initiatives and volunteering programs, thereby making a meaningful difference in the society.
Jan 5, 2024 | Uncategorized
Gems & jewellery industry belongs to Mumbai as Mumbai accounts for 72% of the annual USD 37 bn of exports, proclaimed Dr. Devendra Fadnavis, Hon. Dy. Chief Minister of Maharashtra, while inaugurating the largest-ever IIJS Signature & IGJME 2024 twin Exhibitions organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO Goregaon.
For the first time ever, the New Year’s first top-of-the-line design centric jewellery trade show IIJS Signature (India International Jewellery Show Signature) along with the India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo (IGJME) is being held at two venues in Mumbai: Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, Goregaon (5-8 January)and JIO World Convention Centre, BKC (4-7 January).
Dr. Devendra Fadnavis was accompanied by Shri Uday Samant, Hon. Minister of Industries, Govt. of Maharashtra at the inauguration ceremony in the presence of Ms. Reshma Lakhani, Director General, DGEP; Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, De Beers; Shri Sunil Nayak, CEO, Reliance Jewels; Mr. Vipul Shah Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Shri Nirav Bhansali (Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC); Shri Sabyasachi Ray (ED, GJEPC), along with the doyens of international & Indian diamond, gem & jewellery sector.
While speaking at the IIJS Signature, Dr. Fadnavis said, “Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has set a target of USD 75 bn for gem & jewellery exports by 2030. This will be possible with the pivotal role played by the apex body GJEPC, which has instrumental in making India one of the biggest international players in the global gems & jewellery industry. Maharashtra Government has worked closely with GJEPC to complete the new Common Facility Centre (CFC) at SEEPZ in just 17 months and this will allow gem & jewellery exporters especially MSMEs to have hassle free shipment, paper work and facilitate ease of doing business. Maharashtra Government and GJEPC have collaborated for the new India Gems & Jewellery Park at Navi Mumbai and this initiative will also help achieve export target. Jewellery Park will create new ecosystem in gems & jewellery industry wherein Maharashtra will preserve its status as ace exporter and set new records in gem & jewellery exports. Indian jewellery has been part of the global trade since time memorial not is just economic but also an emotional investment. As India prospers and economy and industry expands, Maharashtra will continue to make new investments. Maharashtra Govt. is working tirelessly to help gem & jewellery entrepreneurs in key parameters such as ease of doing business and cost of doing business. As Maharashtra targets to become USD 1 trillion economy, we shall continue to collaborate with GJEPC to create unique institutions such as the Bharat Diamond Bourse, which symbolises unique ecosystem. And whenever GJEPC wishes to create any new ecosystem, the natural and first choice has to be Maharashtra.”
Maharashtra’s Industries Minister Uday Samant urges GJEPC to develop indigenous gem & jewellery industry in rural India.
While thanking Dr. Devendra Fadnavis for his support and vision, Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “Now, with the Jewellery Park coming up in Navi Mumbai with the support of Maharashtra Government, our industry is getting ready to bring in more investments from abroad. The Jewellery Park brings with it several government-backed advantages. It’s a one-stop-shop with the Single Window Clearance for government approvals under the Maitri Policy, making processes smoother and faster. Additionally, the State Government has offered relief in power tariff and electricity charges, among other benefits. These initiatives significantly ease the path for businesses, ensuring efficiency and reducing operational costs, ultimately fostering a thriving environment within the park.”
Talking about the mega CFC in SEEPZ, Mumbai, Shri Shah said, “GJEPC, with the support of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a Mega CFC at SEEPZ in Mumbai, which will be launched soon. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the manufacturing capacity of the industry, foster technological advancements, and provide comprehensive skill development opportunities.”
Shah said, “The Indian gem & jewellery industry shares our beloved Prime Minister’s dream of becoming a US dollars 5 trillion economy by 2030 and be a first world nation by 2047. To take part in that Sankalp to be Viksit Bharat, our goal is to reach USD 75 billion exports by the year 2030 and USD 100 billion by 2047. Maharashtra is already a big player in the Indian gem and I am sure that Maharashtra will continue to be leading exporters from the country as we set higher goals.”
Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive VP, De Beers, said, “As seen here at IIJS Signature, India truly inspires and Indian entrepreneurship and their drive and passion is infectious. As India progresses towards becoming the largest economies of the world, massive infrastructure investment is changing face of country rapidly and supporting economic development, nurturing businesses and enhancing people’s lives.
“India’s sustainable growth provides optimum environment for business and facilitates innovation to shine. India’s fast growing global stature is the heartbeat of the new global economy. New exciting opportunities are emerging with industrialisation, urbanisation and consumption. The world is eyeing India’s affluent middle class segment of 30 mn households as potential customers. This will lead to increased spending on fashion jewellery. The gem & jewellery industry in India is also maturing.
The diverse & distinct worlds of natural diamonds and Lab Grown Diamonds (LGDs) have started to diverge. Natural diamond is unique miracle rare and breath-taking beauty. They symbolise precious enduring love ties across generations, deepest human emotions and the most profound connections humans could have – real diamonds are the most desired cherished and richly symbolic objects in the world. LGDs do not have the qualities or symbolism of natural real diamond. G7 sanctions are major concern to everyone in global trade and industry has to speak as one voice in a collective and collaborative way. Diamond industry is cyclical and the industry should be optimistic for the next wave.”
The 16th edition of GJEPC’s IIJS Signature will witness 30,000+ visitors (including international buyers) from 800 Indian cities and 60 countries. The show boasts of 1,500+ exhibitors occupying 3,000+ stalls across a sprawling 1.25 lakh sq. mt. of exhibition area.
Shri Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC, requested Dr. Devendra Fadnavis to consider GJEPC’s plea of land for building residences for workers near the India Jewellery Park and first of its kind Gem & Jewellery University in the country.
“The IIJS Signature show alone is set to enable a staggering Rs. 35,000 crore worth of business. When considering the collective impact of all three IIJS shows, the total business generated will amount to an impressive Rs. 1.25 lakh crore. This establishes the IIJS as a truly unparalleled platform within the global gems and jewellery industry, added Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC.
GJEPC has successfully enlisted the IIJS Signature 2024 Exhibition under the “Procurement and Marketing Support” scheme of the Ministry of MSME. The scheme provides financial assistance to micro and small enterprises for participating in domestic and international trade fairs and exhibitions. As a result, the eligible exhibitors can now avail themselves of a grant of ₹1.50 lakh each, which will help them cover costs and enhance their visibility and competitiveness in the global market.
Additionally, GJEPC has introduced a dedicated section for luxury connoisseurs and couture jewellery buyers called “The Select CLUB” at IIJS Signature 2024 in the Jio World Convention Centre. This exclusive section allows Couture jewellery manufacturers to showcase their extensive collection of high-end, exclusive jewellery designs to a curated audience
