Dhanuka Group Chairman Conferred Lifetime Achievement Award by Entomological Society of India

Recognizing his extraordinary contribution towards Indian farming community, Dr. Ram Gopal Agarwal, Chairman, Dhanuka Group has been accorded the Lifetime achievement award by the Entomological Society of India (ESI). This decoration underscores Dr. Agarwal’s significant role in shaping a brighter future for Indian agriculture, characterized by increased productivity, profitability, and social standing for farmers.

The section committee of ESI had recommended bestowing upon the Lifetime achievement award to the Dhanuka Group chairman considering his deep commitment, strong conviction, philanthropic engagement, and high degree of professionalism in his continuous quest for making India’s agriculture vibrant as well as for making farming a dignified profession with increased livelihood and heightened social status. 

In a ceremony at Gandhi Krishi Vignan Kendra (GKVK), Bengaluru, Dr. R. G. Agarwal received the award in the presence of Dr. S. V. Suresha, Vice Chancellor of University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bengaluru, Dr. S. N. Sushil, Director, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Dr. S. N. Puri, Chief Patron, ESI, Dr. V. V. Ramamurthy, President, ESI and many other esteemed scientists and students of entomology from the various agricultural universities. 

Dr. R. G. Agarwal has dedicated 55 years of his profession to the cause of National prosperity through a vibrant agriculture sector. A renowned philanthropist, his legacy of altruism touches countless lives across domains. His benevolence extends across various domains, exemplified by the establishment of three schools in Rajasthan, Ashrams for spiritual well-being in Vrindavan, a Charitable dispensary at Govardhan, and a waiting hall at AIIMS among others. 

Honoured by the recognition, Dr. R. G. Agarwal expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the ESI. In his award speech, he underlined the critical roles played by agricultural scientist in own journey. Dr. Agarwal also emphasized the need for the innovative solutions for the farmers for better crop yield, thus ensuring higher income for them. On the occasion, Dr. Agarwal has also announced a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh for the Scientists (Entomology) for exceptional achievements in the area of research & development, which will start from next year. The scientist will be selected by the committee formed by ESI. 

Dr. Agarwal has also been a recipient of several coveted awards and recognition including the National Safety Award (thrice); Lifetime Achievement Award by CHAI, FICCI, and many more.

Ambuja Cements Proposes Setting up a 4 MTPA Cement Grinding Unit in Godda, Jharkhand

Ambuja Cements, one of India’s leading cement manufacturing companies and part of the diversified Adani Group, proposes to establish a state-of-the-art cement grinding unit with an investment of Rs. 1000 Cr in Motia Village of Godda district in Jharkhand, post requisite approvals with a capacity of 4.0 MTPA.

The project is planned in close proximity to Adani Power (Jharkhand) Limited, as part of a comprehensive approach to disposing of fly ash in an environmentally safe manner and contributing to the circular economy. The project exemplifies Ambuja Cements’ commitment to sustainable practices and reflects its dedication to fostering inclusive growth in Jharkhand. The unit will generate direct and indirect employment for over 2,500 individuals, significantly contributing to the economic and social progress of the state.

Ambuja Cements already operates two cement plants in Jharkhand with a combined capacity of 6 MTPA. The proposed expansion demonstrates the Company’s confidence in the region’s potential for growth and development.

Mr. Ajay Kapur, CEO, Cement Business, said, “With our proposed investment in this new cement grinding unit, we intend to achieve a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding our presence and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. We believe that Jharkhand holds immense potential in terms of resources, infrastructure, and skilled manpower, making it an ideal location for this project. We look forward to working closely with the state to ensure the successful implementation of this project. Ambuja Cements is proud to be a part of Jharkhand’s growth story, and we remain committed to creating value for our shareholders, customers, employees, and the community at large.”

The project underscores Ambuja Cements’ commitment to innovation, sustainability and growth and highlights its synergy with Group companies to transform Jharkhand into a thriving business-friendly state. It will not only boost the local economy but also aid the state government’s efforts towards infrastructure development. Ambuja Cements remains committed to creating employment opportunities and contributing to the socio-economic development of the communities in which it operates.

DPIs poised to propel India towards $1 trillion digital economy by 2030: Arthur D. Little-Nasscom Report

Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) are poised to propel India towards a $1 trillion digital economy by 2030, helping the country to become a $8 trillion economy, according a Nasscom-Arthur D. Little report titled, “Digital Public Infrastructure of India – Accelerating Indias Digital Inclusion.

By 2030, DPIs will significantly enhance citizens’ efficiency and promote social as well as financial inclusion, the report said. Mature DPIs such as Aadhaar, UPI, and FASTag have witnessed exponential adoption by 2022, the next 7-8 years offer an opportunity for further scalability, reaching even the most remote segments of the population.

India’s massive economic transformation has been powered by DPIs that have facilitated the development of necessary government services & platforms and these in turn have powered market innovations in both public and private sectors, and enabled creation of inclusive ecosystem.

Brajesh Singh, President, Arthur D. Little India, said, “India leads globally in developing DPIs, driving societal transformation through inclusive digital adoption and substantial contributions to the Indian economy. Our analysis indicates that mature DPIs have generated a value of $31.8 billion, equivalent to 0.9% of India’s GDP. By 2030, this economic value is projected to increase to approximately 2.9%-4.2% of GDP, considering both direct and indirect impacts.”

“DPIs hold vast potential in revolutionising the entire Indian economy and the world and paints a hopeful picture of an interconnected, open, inclusive world with infinite possibilities, empowering each and every one across the globe,” he added.

India is currently the global leader in developing DPIs, using it to implement widespread adoption of digital payments, data-sharing infrastructures, bolstering domestic businesses and spurred entrepreneurship in the country. This has been due to the relentless support by the government and enabled by the IT intellectual capital and start-up ecosystem, a combination which has made DPI a success.

Existing digital entities will evolve to deliver superior user experience, utilizing new age tech of AI, Web 3 and others. Aadhaar is expected to continue to be a major contributor as use cases expand to broader range of services.

The foundation of this digital revolution has been strengthened by the DPIs or India Stack, enhancing the ability of the country to use digital technologies at a population scale to change the society. DPIs form the cornerstone to shape this “tech-ade” and ultimately drive the “India@47” growth path.

Godrej Interio’s ‘HomeScapes’ Study reveals Indians want ‘Me-Time’ at home

In the fast-paced and dynamic landscape of modern India, a notable shift is occurring in the way people approach their homes, as revealed in the ‘HomeScapes’ study conducted by Godrej Interio, a business of Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group. The research highlights the distinct manifestation of individuals’ personalities and values in their preferences for home decor, emphasising the inherent link between homes and personal growth.

The findings of the report unveiled intriguing aspects of changing consumer behaviour, shedding light on the significance of personal space and its connection to individual growth highlighting how an increasing number of Indians are actively seeking ‘Me-Time’ within the confines of their homes. With more Indians working trying to balance their work and home, ‘personal time’ is becoming more of a luxury. As per the ‘HomeScapes’ study, more Indians are now looking to get ‘Me Time’ where they can unwind in their personal space at home. The report also stressed on the fact that personal space/corner is the first thing that an increasing number of Indians think of when planning to buy their own homes. In fact, about one in every three respondents in both Mumbai (37%) and Kolkata (31%) and more than a quarter of the respondents in Bengaluru (27%) admit that their personal space where they can indulge in a solitary activity in peace is the first thing, they visualize in their first home.

Commenting on the trend Swapneel Nagarkar, Senior Vice President & Business Head, Godrej Interio, “The ‘Homescapes’ research underscores the profound emotional bond between individuals, their families, and their homes. Our study explores the sentiments of consumers regarding a crucial aspect of their existence—their homes as a reflection of their lives. The survey data highlights a shift towards prioritizing both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that homes are not only efficient and well-organized but also inviting and elegantly decorated. At Godrej Interio, we take pride in creating furniture that goes beyond visual appeal, offering features tailored to complement the modern Indian lifestyle. Our furniture becomes an integral part of one’s home and lifestyle, embodying both style and practicality.”

Furthermore, the study reveals that Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Mumbai are the top three cities looking for refuge in their homes from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. About 33% of the respondents claim that their home is their sanctuary to unwind, get ‘me-time’, sleep, meditate, indulge in ‘self-care’, spend time in their balcony garden, etc. with more than half of respondents in Kolkata (56%), 40% of respondents in Bengaluru, and 39% Mumbaikars claiming this. The study further states that 44% of respondents have added a balcony garden or a mini-garden at home in the past two to three years. About half of the respondents – 46% claim that they have started a new work-out or yoga routine at home. Additionally, 56% of participants expressed a desire to revive the tradition of enjoying morning tea or coffee in their favorite chair, either on the patio or in the living room.

The survey was conducted with 2822 Indians living across 7 cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai and Lucknow.

Club Mahindra partners with The Marmara Şişli Resort in Turkey to provide its members with holiday options in Istanbul.

Club Mahindra, the flagship brand of Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Limited (MHRIL), has expanded its footprint in Turkey by partnering with an exquisite resort in Istanbul- the melting pot of rich culture and history. With this partnership Club Mahindra members will now have access to the charming and elegantly styled resort in Turkey – The Marmara Şişli. This strategic partnership underscores Club Mahindra’s dedication to offering memorable and enhanced holiday experiences to its valued member base.

 

The Marmara Şişli, located in Istanbul’s vibrant Şişli district, offers modern luxury and convenience with sophisticated accommodations, exquisite dining, and state-of-the-art facilities. Seamlessly blending contemporary design with Turkish hospitality, this upscale property is centrally positioned for easy access to cultural landmarks, bustling markets, and upscale shopping, making it an ideal choice for indulgent stays in the heart of Istanbul. Conveniently situated within 40 km of the nearest Istanbul Airport and approximately five km (15 minutes) from the nearest jetty Beşiktaş, The Marmara Şişli provides accessibility to popular sightseeing locations, including the 6th-century Byzantine structure of Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, the UNESCO World Heritage Blue Mosque, the lavish Topkapi Palace, and the architectural masterpiece of Dolmabahçe Palace. Members can now book the resort through the Club Mahindra website, App, and customer care number.

 

As part of Club Mahindra’s commitment to providing an extensive range of holiday options, members can explore 25+ International destinations. With access to a diverse portfolio, including the most sought-after destinations such as Dubai, Vietnam, Singapore, Turkey, Indonesia, and Abu Dhabi Club Mahindra ensures a global network of vacation choices for its members.

 

Further, in alignment with the trend of experiential holidays, Club Mahindra offers over 2000+ experiences, such as the Happy Hub, where members can bond with their families over numerous activities. The most popular experiences include cooking with a chef, jumping fish tour, ziplining, jeep safari, a meter-long tea, and many more.

CarLelo (A Capri Loans Venture) unveils new brand identity at Women Premier League 2024

CarLelo (A Capri Loans Venture), a digital new car-buying platform, today announced the launch of its revamped brand identity at the onset of the Women Premier League 2024. The company’s fresh logo, accompanied by the tagline “Nayi Car? Hum Hain Na, Yaar,” echoes CarLelo’s core proposition and strongly resonates with the changing nature of the online new car buying industry. This solidifies the company’s commitment to consumer-centric values and empowers the aspirations of an evolving audience in the changing landscape of India.

In a strategic move to align with the dynamic automotive landscape and meet heightened consumer expectations, CarLelo has also taken a significant step to sponsor the UP Warriorz in the upcoming WPL 2024. This collaboration presents an opportunity for the company to launch nationwide with a mega sport like cricket. Positioned on the lead arm of the players, CarLelo is featured as a principle partner for the team. As part of this sponsorship, CarLelo logo will be prominently visible on the Jersey of the UP Warriorz  during the WPL 2024 matches.

CarLelo’s tagline encapsulates its role as one of the first only new car-buying platforms in India, a comprehensive solution for all aspects of new car purchase, and the preferred online platform for new car buyers looking for convenience and transparency. The new logo, with its forward-looking, and sharp look, is designed to appeal to a customer seeking a one-stop destination, where they can seamlessly browse and compare cars, connect with multiple dealers, get easy test drives and make informed decisions.

Mr. Gaurav Aggarwal, CEO and Founder, CarLelo (a Capri Loans Venture) expressed, “We embarked on this transformation journey to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. This brand refresh is a deeper expression that strengthens the connection with customers, providing them with the confidence to chart their path to a successful new car purchase. We believe that the partnership with UP Warriorz in WPL offers a great opportunity to connect with audiences across India and drive significant awareness and preference for our brand. We intend to leverage the association by highlighting our key offerings & services via a fresh approach for the category.”

With this new brand identity and strategic partnership with the UP Warriorz Team, the company reaffirms its position as a trailblazer in the automotive industry, driving positive change and inclusivity to provide a seamless and convenient new car buying experience.