4th December 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India For years, plants have silently endured the struggles of busy lifestyles-overwatered ferns and parched succulents stand as casualties of human error. Enter FloraCare, a revolutionary Smart Pot designed by young innovator Arav Agarwal to transform plant care. Combining cutting-edge technology with sustainability, FloraCare ensures plants receive the precise care they need, making plant parenting effortless and enjoyable.

FloraCare’s journey has been groundbreaking. Leveraging IoT-powered soil sensors, it monitors hydration levels in real time, automatically watering plants when needed. Its debut has been met with success-recently, the first mass-produced batches were released, with three corporate clients placing orders for 120 units. This milestone underscores its potential to redefine how we care for our greenery, whether at home, in offices, or across large-scale horticultural operations.

The concept of mini gardens and organic produce is quite in vogue and professionals in urban areas are buying plants more than ever. But a lot of them do not know how to care for plants as each plant’s needs can vary. FloraCare is especially helpful for time when one travels for long vacations. In most cases, plants die from lack of care. But not anymore.

Beyond automation, FloraCare’s Wi-Fi-enabled app enhances the experience, offering users the ability to customize watering schedules, monitor soil conditions, and manage plants remotely. Its water-efficient design conserves resources, aligning with a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living. For urban dwellers, professional gardeners, and casual plant lovers alike, FloraCare is a game-changer-delivering healthier plants, reducing stress, and supporting sustainability.

Looking ahead, Arav plans to expand FloraCare’s capabilities with sensors for temperature, humidity, and sunlight, making it a comprehensive plant care solution. FloraCare isn’t just a product; it’s a vision for smarter, greener spaces. With its success and innovation, Arav bridges the gap between technology and nature, setting a new standard for modern plant care.

4th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, saw the launch of a nationwide accessibility audit campaign.

This significant initiative, led by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) in collaboration with the Association of People with Disability (APD), was marked by the signing of an MoU between the two organizations. Alongside celebrating outstanding contributions to the empowerment of persons with disabilities, the campaign emerged as a key highlight of the event.

The campaign will be powered by APD’s YesToAccess app, India’s first-of-its-kind AI-powered tool designed for accessibility audits. The app allows anyone-persons with or without disabilities-to assess the accessibility of public spaces. By simply taking a photograph of a structure using their phone’s camera, users can analyze features such as ramps, railings, accessible toilets, tactile pathways, and clear signage. The app generates real-time accessibility scores, which are made publicly available on an interactive map, helping to identify and promote barrier-free spaces across India.

Shri. Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, DEPwD, highlighted the significance of the campaign, stating, “The nationwide accessibility audit campaign is a key step under the Accessible India Campaign to ensure that public spaces become more inclusive and accessible for all citizens. By leveraging technology and empowering persons with disabilities to lead these audits, we are creating a foundation for a more equitable society.”

Unlike traditional accessibility audits that rely heavily on expert teams, the YesToAccess app makes the process inclusive and scalable by encouraging participation from citizens, school children, volunteers, and organizations. The app’s AI capabilities simplify audits while ensuring accurate data collection.

Mr. Jacob Kurian, Honorary Secretary & Trustee, APD, emphasized the importance of the app, saying, “YesToAccess is a cutting edge use of AI and cameravision to solve an intractable societal problem. It is a catalyst for community action to create a public good for use by the disabled. As an accessibility solution, it enables untrained but socially conscious individuals and communities to come together to map and improve accessibility in public spaces. This campaign is about removing the barriers that prevent the disabled from participating in society as full and equal citizens of our great nation.”

This initiative aligns with the goals of the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), which aims to remove physical, digital, and mobility barriers for persons with disabilities across the country. By leveraging AI, community engagement, and transparent data sharing, the nationwide accessibility audit campaign takes a significant step toward making India a truly barrier-free nation.

4th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Safex Chemicals, a leading player in the chemical industry, has successfully implemented SAP solutions across its global operations, marking a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey. This strategic initiative encompasses the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Business Analytics, and SAP systems, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its mission of “feeding the world.”

The implementation of SAP has revolutionized Safex Chemicals’ core operations, particularly in finance, supply chain management, and production. A notable achievement has been the successful deployment of SAP’s Ariba framework, which has automated supplier management and transitioned the company to a completely electronic requisitioning process. This advancement has significantly enhanced supplier collaboration while reducing resource costs and ensuring greater supply chain transparency.

“The SAP integration aligns perfectly with our global expansion strategy and long-term mission” said Mr. Piyush Jindal, Group Director at Safex Chemicals. “By digitizing and streamlining our core processes, we have gained the bandwidth to focus on innovation and market leadership. The implementation has already enabled the launch of our E-commerce platform ‘Golden Farms,’ bringing us closer to end consumers.”

The transformation has addressed previous challenges such as fragmented data management and manual processes, replacing them with automated, real-time data processing systems. This has resulted in improved inventory management, enhanced budget tracking, and more accurate reporting across all departments. The centralized system has particularly benefited Safex’s international operations by facilitating seamless collaboration among global teams and ensuring consistent data management in cross-border operations.

This digital transformation is expected to significantly impact both customers and stakeholders. Customers will benefit from faster response times and improved product availability, while stakeholders will gain from enhanced transparency and more informed decision-making capabilities. The advanced data infrastructure established through SAP has also laid the foundation for future innovations in AI and ML, positioning Safex Chemicals for continued growth and technological advancement in the chemical industry.

4th December 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India   Minda Corporation Limited has received the President’s National Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities 2024 under the category “Divyangjano Ke Liye Sarvashrestha Niyokta” (Best Employer for Persons with Disabilities). The award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

Speaking on the recognition, Ms. Sarika Minda, Chairperson, Spark Minda Foundation, said, “This award is a testament to our collective commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and is a finest expression of ‘Mobility for Everyone’. At Minda Corporation, we believe that inclusion is not just a responsibility but a way to create a more equitable society. Through Saksham, we aim to inspire others to join this journey of breaking barriers and fostering opportunities for all.”

The award recognises Spark Minda Foundation’s (100% Subsidiary of Minda Corporation Limited) flagship initiative, Saksham. Aligned with the foundation’s vision, this initiative has positively impacted the lives of over 21,000 PwDs by addressing their mobility, education and employment needs. To date, over 1,200 PwDs have been employed across Spark Minda factories.

Spark Minda Foundation has also established permanent centres for the empowerment in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. These centers provide skill training, assistive aids, and livelihood opportunities to PwDs. In addition, annual camps are organised in regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.

To enhance its impact, Spark Minda Foundation has collaborated with more than thirty-five government bodies, NGOs, and organisations to provide employment and skill training for PwDs across India. Through Saksham, PwDs are also supported with assistive aids such as prosthetics, orthotics, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs, enabling them to lead more independent lives.

The President’s Award adds to Spark Minda Group’s achievements, including recognitions from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) and the CII-ITC Sustainability Award.

4th December 2024 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Cupid Breweries and Distilleries Limited (BSE: 512361), (formerly known as Cupid Trades & Finance Limited), on occasion of successful listing of its shares on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) with the open market price of Rs. 24.45 under the Scrip ID “CUPIDALBV”, as per BSE Order dated November 28, 2024, which is a very significant milestone in the Company’s journey.

With ‘SPIRIT’ to Create Wealth as Passion, Focus on Sustainable Growth, Brand Development, Expanding Product Reach Across National & International Markets, well-articulated Business model, Offering the Best Quality AlcoBev Products, Produced in house with World Class Equipments, to Up-lift the “SPIRIT” of Cupid alcobev Consumers with Blended Spirits of Consistency, Continuity and Commitment.”

Promoters:

Mr. Erramilli Venkatachalam Prasad, Promoter, Chairman cum Managing Director brings decades of experience in management and operations in the brewing and distillery sectors. His leadership is set to drive the Company’s vision of becoming an industry leader.

Dr. Lily Bhagvandas Rodrigues, Promoter Director, she being a professional practicing doctor, physician & Diabetologist brings a wealth of expertise in clinical research activities, complementing the strategic focus of the Company.

Mr. Erramilli Rishab, Promoter Director, brings a fresh perspective to the team with his strong academic background in engineering and a passion for innovation and excellence. His addition further strengthens the leadership’s commitment to driving the Company’s success.

Leadership Team:
Mr. Samavedam Sri Venkata Rajeswara Rao, Director is a highly skilled professional with extensive expertise in capital structuring and financial planning, setting up new units, and securing external commercial ratings.

Mr. Parag Mitra, Director brings invaluable insights from his 30 years of extensive experience in Brewery Industry

4th December 2024 India, Delhi | Madeira, Portugal The Postcard Hotel proudly secured the title of ‘World’s Leading Emerging Boutique Hotel Brand 2024’ at the prestigious World Travel Awards held in Madeira, Portugal. The brand was also awarded ‘World’s Leading Boutique Beach Hotel 2024’ for its oceanfront property, The Postcard on the Arabian Sea, Karnataka.

World Travel Awards is the most prestigious and sought after award programme in the global travel industry. To be voted a World Travel Award winner is an accolade which many strive for. The glittering event saw a confluence of influential figures and top-tier brands from the global travel and tourism industry. The success of a new Indian luxury hotel brand at the World Travel Awards underscores India’s reputation for hospitality excellence and highlights India’s growing influence in the global hospitality scene. The Postcard Hotel’s triumph at the World Travel Awards signifies the country’s ability to not only preserve its cultural essence but also offer world-class services that cater to the discerning needs of modern travellers.

“We are humbled at the honour of having the brand and one of our hotel’s recognised on a global, coveted stage yet again, celebrating the finest in the industry. To feature amongst other iconic, industry defining, hotel brands is a privilege and the recognition confirms we are on the right path of building something truly spectacular”, shares Kapil Chopra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Postcard Hotel. Celebrating the wins and thanking World Travel Awards, Kapil adds, “This prestigious recognition is a testament to our teams passion, dedication and heartfelt efforts to deliver extraordinary experiences for all our guests.”

The sentiments expressed by Kapil, encapsulate The Postcard Hotel’s unwavering dedication to excellence and their commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences across their expanding portfolio. The recognition of ‘World’s Leading Emerging Boutique Hotel Brand 2024’ underscores The Postcard Hotel’s emergence as a trailblazer in the boutique hotel landscape.

Being awarded ‘World’s Leading Boutique Beach Hotel 2024’ highlights the captivating charm of The Postcard on the Arabian Sea. Located on the picturesque Maravanthe Beach, a couple of hours away from the city of Mangalore, the hotel epitomises the brand’s philosophy of providing guests with unforgettable, tailor made experiences, coupled with unrivalled hospitality and attention to detail. The oceanfront sanctuary eases guest into relaxed indulgence along a stretch of sand, and pristine waters, where guests can immerse themselves in tranquillity and luxury, embraced by the serenity of the Arabian Sea’s shoreline.

The brand continues to redefine the South Asian hospitality landscape and has just opened North East India’s only luxury hotel, The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, spread across 1440 acres of tea gardens close to Tezpur, Assam; aiming to invite discerning guests to experience the finest tea hotel in India and explore Assam’s cultural and culinary diversity.

4th December 2024 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) located in Chennai, celebrated its 15th Annual Convocation. The ceremony was graced by the Honorable Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Shri Om Birla as the chief guest.

In the event, Chief National Coach for the India national badminton team – Padma Bushan Pullela Gopichand, Founder and CEO of Naturals Salons – Mr. C. K. Kumaravel and acclaimed film star Mr. S.J.Suryah was honored with an honorary doctorate by the Chancellor Dr Ishari K Ganesh. More than 5000 attendees witnessed the grand event.

In his convocation address, Shri Om Birla commended the university’s remarkable journey under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ishari Ganesh, for his excellence in the field of education, entrepreneurship, sports development and film industry. Shri Birla highlighted Dr. Ganesh’s exceptional leadership in shaping Vels University into one of Tamil Nadu’s most respected educational institutions, emphasizing the forward-thinking approach that has led to the creation of multiple centers of excellence at the university.

“As I look at the graduates before me today, I see not just students, but future leaders, dreamers, and doers. You are the pillars of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India), and the responsibility now lies upon you to lead our nation into the 21st century,” said Shri Birla.

He also paid tribute to the legacy of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India from Tamil Nadu, who taught the importance of humility and integrity. Shri Birla expressed his confidence in the graduates’ ability to contribute to the nation’s progress and congratulated the awardees for their remarkable achievements.

The ceremony also witnessed the conferral of honorary doctorates to three distinguished individuals, recognizing their exceptional contributions to their respective fields:

Mr. S.J.Suryah – Acclaimed director, actor, producer, lyricist, and singer, honored with an honorary doctorate for his 25-year career in the film industry. His debut in Vali and continued success in South Indian cinema were celebrated as major milestones in his journey.

Mr. Pullela Gopichand – Celebrated badminton coach, awarded an honorary doctorate for his invaluable contribution to Indian badminton. Mr. Gopichand’s mentorship of athletes like Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu, as well as his efforts in promoting the sport, earned him national recognition, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.

Mr. C. K. Kumaravel – Founder of Naturals Group of Beauty Salons, honored for his entrepreneurial achievements. With over 700 stores worldwide, Kumaravel has transformed the beauty industry and strives to empower women entrepreneurs through his initiatives.

Distinguished University Leadership
The ceremony was also attended by other esteemed leaders of the university, including: Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, Vels Group of Institutions, Dr. A. Jothi Murugan, Pro Chancellor (Planning and Development), Dr. Arthi Ganesh, Pro Chancellor (Administration).

New Delhi, Delhi, India Applied Electro Magnetics Pvt. Ltd. (AEM), a leading MSME specializing in Manufacturing of Defence and Railways solutions, has secured multiple significant orders from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratories, including the Instrument Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), and Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL). Additionally, AEM has bagged orders from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), further solidifying its position in the industry.

With a current order book valued at over INR 58 crore, AEM continues to serve prominent Government and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) such as the Indian Air Force, Indian Railways, Bharat Electronics Limited, Central Electronics Limited along with reputed private companies such as Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Alpha Design Technologies Limited etc.

Founded nearly five decades ago, AEM faced financial challenges that led to its admission into insolvency proceedings in 2017. However, the company’s turnaround began in April 2019 when the new management, led by Directors Sharad Maheshwari and Dhruv Maheshwari, presented a resolution plan approved by the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Since then, AEM has demonstrated remarkable growth, consistently increasing its topline and bottom line year-on-year.

AEM’s success is driven by a team of 110 highly skilled professionals, including 35 engineers dedicated to research and development. The team, comprising graduates from premier institutions like IITs, brings extensive experience from organizations such as Airbus Defence, DRDO, Mahindra Defence, L&T Defence etc. “As we continue to witness growing demand from our customers, we are actively expanding our team by bringing in talented professionals to ensure we deliver exceptional service,” said Dhruv Maheshwari, Director of AEM.

“Our focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions has been pivotal in driving our growth,” said Sharad Maheshwari, Managing Director of AEM. “We are confident in achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 25% year-on-year.”

With a robust order book, a skilled workforce, and a clear vision, AEM is poised to continue its upward trajectory, contributing to India’s self-reliance in defense and railway technologies.

4th, December 2024, Bangalore: Namma Yatri, India’s leading open mobility app, in partnership with EnAble India, has announced the nationwide launch of its “Purple Rides” service, extending accessible auto and cab services to Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kochi, and other cities across India. Following a successful rollout in Bangalore, this initiative aims to revolutionise mobility for persons with disabilities (PwDs) by combining accessibility with empowerment.

Purple Rides, a collaborative effort by Namma Yatri and EnAble India, integrates driver training programs, app customisations, and driver assistance systems to meet users’ unique needs with visual, hearing, and physical impairments. Features such as ride profile customisations ensure every journey is comfortable and empowering for PwDs.

In Bangalore, the Purple Rides auto service has completed over 2.36 lakh trips, generating ₹3.44 crore in earnings for drivers and serving a user base of 1.53 lakh individuals. With 2.32 lakh drivers trained to provide accessible services, Purple Rides has set a benchmark for inclusive transportation, which is now being expanded to cab services in new cities.

By offering both auto and cab services, Purple Rides addresses mobility challenges faced by PwDs in urban and semi-urban areas. This strategic expansion brings the vision of inclusive transportation to a national level, empowering PwDs with safe, reliable, and accessible travel options.

“This launch is a milestone in our journey to make mobility accessible to all,” said Shanti Raghavan, Founder & Chief Enabler at EnAble India. “Together with Namma Yatri, we are building a future where transportation is inclusive, affordable, and empowering.”

Purple Ride’s impact is already evident in Bangalore, where its auto service has highlighted the demand for accessible transport while generating significant earnings for drivers. The nationwide expansion promises to amplify this success, bringing meaningful change to the lives of PwDs across India.

“Namma Yatri empowers me with thoughtful app customisations and caring drivers,” said Anisha, a visually impaired Purple Rides user in Bangalore. “Every ride feels like a step toward true independence.”

“Being able to assist individuals with disabilities brings immense satisfaction,” shared Basavaraj, a driver associated with Purple Rides. “It’s about making a difference in someone’s life.”

This expansion underscores the transformative potential of community-driven initiatives like Purple Rides. By integrating technology, training, and empathy, Namma Yatri and EnAble India are not just providing rides, they are redefining the landscape of inclusive mobility across India.

Rural India, home to 63.64% of the population, faces persistent challenges despite its economic contributions. Limited access to clean water, sanitation, education, electricity, and livelihoods remain significant issues. UNICEF reports only 49% of rural households have piped water, with poor sanitation causing 60% of deaths from infectious diseases. Additionally, 85% of small farmers earn less than INR 20,000 per month, underscoring the pressing livelihood crisis.

In an effort to address these pressing issues regarding basic infrastructure and economic security, Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation (HHSIF), the philanthropic arm of Honeywell India, has partnered with Swades Foundation to implement a participatory rural development model that empowers local communities. This partnership, which was established in FY 2021-22, introduced targeted community-centric interventions to address water and power access, sanitation, sustainable farming, and women’s skill development to reshape lives across Nashik and Raigad districts of Maharashtra. The joint efforts over the period of three years have directly impacted 40,000+ lives and have improvised numerous rural families with financial stability.

Prashanth Balarama, Senior Director, Communications and CSR, Honeywell India, said, “At Honeywell, we believe that true corporate responsibility goes beyond business metrics – it is about creating meaningful and sustainable change in the communities we serve. Our ongoing initiatives in the Nashik region, in partnership with Swades Foundation, reflect our commitment to holistic rural development. Through targeted interventions in infrastructure, livelihood, and skill development, we are working hand-in-hand with local communities to create pathways for long-term prosperity. This engagement is an opportunity to showcase how strategic CSR can empower rural landscapes, transforming lives and building resilient, self-sustaining ecosystems.”

Through the implementation of 11 drinking water projects, the initiative has provided tapped drinking water to over 2,500 individuals across 650+ households. The water schemes involve identifying reliable sources, building reservoirs and pipelines, and installing pumps to ensure consistent water access at home. Local village committees are trained to maintain the infrastructure, ensuring its sustainability for years to come. Complementing this, over 1,700 households now have toilet blocks, and sanitation infrastructure has been improved in three schools, benefiting students with access to clean drinking water and functional toilets. Notably, the efforts have declared 30 villages open defecation-free (ODF) while fostering the creation of Nigrani Samitis, or sanitation committees, to ensure continued maintenance and appropriate use of sanitation facilities.

The clean energy initiative has expanded significantly, with solar lighting installations benefiting 4 aanganwadis and 3 schools. The introduction of solar water pumps for 100 farmers has addressed challenges stemming from irregular electricity supply, leading to improved crop yields, diversification, and the possibility of second and third harvests annually. This initiative has not only stabilized incomes but has also enabled farmers to earn an additional INR 50,000 per acre each year. Extending this impact to the larger community at village level, Honeywell has The impact extends to approximately 2,000 households through the strategic installed 1,470 solar lights across homes, streets, and community spaces, providing clean energy access.

The initiative has positively impacted 1500+ farmers through donation of 63,000 saplings for orchard plantation. Affordable saplings and training programs have empowered farmers to earn financial security, with the potential to earn over ₹2 lakhs annually from larger plots.

To create secondary sources of income, 524 women have been supported through goat-rearing initiatives, while 156 households have benefitted from dairy, fishing, and mini flour mill-related opportunities. These programs offer an additional annual income of INR 20,000 to INR 25,000. Rural youth skilling has also been a significant focus, with over 600 youth upskilled in the last three years in trades like welding, plumbing, and electrical work, ensuring steady monthly incomes. Scholarships have also been provided to 43 marginalized students, reinforcing the commitment to educational empowerment.

Looking ahead, Honeywell and Swades Foundation are committed to building on their successes and deepening their impact in rural India. In FY25, the initiative is being expanded to 10,000 additional rural community members in Nashik. Together, they jointly aim to continue empowering communities by providing access to vital resources and opportunities for their long-term and equal growth.

Details of some of the key beneficiaries:

Water and Sanitation (WATSAN)

Beneficiary of the drinking water supply scheme

A village transformed: Tap water brings relief to Junafatwadi: In Junafatwadi, Igatpuri, Punaji Devram Korade’s story is just one of many. Before the intervention, families across the village struggled to fetch water from distant sources, as there was no tap water available in their homes. The scattered nature of the households made it difficult for the government to provide water connections. Due to Honeywell’s water scheme, the entire village now has access to tap water. This simple yet impactful change has saved countless hours for farmers like Punaji, enabling them to dedicate more time to their work. The tap water has not only improved health and hygiene but has also brought a renewed sense of convenience and happiness to the community.

Beneficiary of household toilet block construction

Yashwant’s shelter of safety: Living in a forested area, Yashwant Kashinath Khade and his family faced daily dangers from wild animals, snake bites, and the added hardships of the monsoon season. With a modest income from farming and labor, building a safe sanitation facility seemed impossible. As a part of the sanitation support he received from Honeywell, Yashwant now feels secure and protected. His family no longer fears venturing into unsafe areas, even during the rains. This support has brought them comfort, dignity, and peace of mind in their challenging environment.

Beneficiary of water & sanitation at school

Transforming education through WATSAN: At Shriram Vidyalay in Wasali, Igatpuri, poor water and sanitation facilities once posed significant challenges. The damaged infrastructure was unusable, impacting students’ health, hygiene, and attendance. With school water station and sanitation units supported by Honeywell, the school now boasts functional WATSAN facilities. School teacher Mr. Kadam says, “Students feel healthier, happier, and safer, leading to a noticeable increase in enrollment and attendance.” This transformation has not only improved hygiene but also renewed the spirit of learning in the school.

Non-Farm Livelihoods & Skilling

Beneficiary of youth skilling

Bhaskar’s leap toward self-reliance: Bhaskar Vishnu Korde, a 32-year-old from Mohmal Wasti, Igatpuri, has skillfully transformed his life through the Electrician Skilling & Placement program by Udyogwardhini, with support from Honeywell. Now self-employed, Bhaskar provides electrical repair & installation services within a 4-5 km radius of his village, earning an additional average INR 20,000 monthly alongside his farming income. His hard-earned savings have enabled him to invest in a tractor and fund his children’s education. Bhaskar’s story is a testament to the power of skill-building in creating sustainable livelihoods and brighter futures.

Beneficiary of goat rearing

· Meena’s journey to sustainable livelihood: In the picturesque village of Wasali, Igatpuri, 33-year-old Meena Balu Korade embarked on a journey to transform her life through the Goatery program. Starting with a 1+1 goat unit, provided as part of the initiative, Meena adopted the best practices she learned during her training. Her dedication has paid off, with her herd now growing to four healthy goats. By implementing advanced care techniques, Meena ensures her goats are thriving, becoming a role model for her community. Today, Meena not only contributes to her family’s income but also inspires others in Wasali to embrace sustainable and impactful livelihoods. Her story reflects the power of training, determination, and opportunity to spark meaningful change.

· Keshav’s path to prosperity: In Wasali village of Igatpuri, 37-year-old Keshav Mangalu Kachare has transformed his future through the Goatery 1+1 program supported by Honeywell. Starting with just two goats, Keshav’s herd grew to seven, including his original goats. Equipped with training, he not only mastered goat care but also learned how to set competitive sale prices. This knowledge paid off when he earned ₹51,000 by selling five goats at fair market rates.Keshav’s success stands as a testament to the power of skills, knowledge, and determination. He now dreams of expanding his goatery and inspires others in his village to believe in sustainable livelihoods.

Beneficiary of dairy farming

· Shobha’s way to progress: Shobha Vishnu Pawade, a resident of Wasali village in Igatpuri, supports her family of five with determination and hard work. Through Honeywell’s support, she received one cattle, which has since birthed a calf. With 8 liters of daily milk production, Shobha now earns INR 40,000 annually after expenses. Her earnings have been reinvested into building a better home and improving farming activities, bringing stability and growth to her family’s life. Shobha’s journey is a shining example of how support and perseverance can transform lives.

· Bhorabai’s path to empowerment: Bhorabai Popat Khade, a 36-year-old from Waghwadi, Igatpuri, supports her family of six with determination and hard work. With Honeywell’s support, she received one cattle, which later gave birth to a calf. Producing 9 liters of milk daily, Bhorabai earns ₹50,000 annually after expenses. She has used this income to invest in building a better home and supporting her children’s education. Her journey reflects how small opportunities, when embraced with dedication, can lead to significant and lasting change.

Clean Energy

Solar lights in the community

Lighting the path: A safer Jadhavwadi: In Jadhavwadi, Igatpuri, the installation of solar street lights through Honeywell has transformed the community. Before the intervention, the roads were pitch dark at night, leading to safety concerns, including snake bites. Lakshman Pichad, a member of Kalsubai Gav Vikas Samiti Indore, says, “Thanks to the solar street lights, we no longer face the risks of traveling in the dark.” The increased visibility has made the roads safer, significantly reducing accidents and ensuring peace of mind for the entire community. The lights have not only brightened the village but also improved the quality of life for everyone.