LAVA’s MYBHARATWITHLAVA Holi Edition Celebrates India’s Diversity
Mumbai, 24th March, 2025: Lava International Limited, enthusiastically concludes the Holi edition of brand campaign #MyBharatWithLAVA. The six-day campaign, held from March 12 to March 18, 2025, celebrated India’s vibrant cultural traditions, encapsulating the vivacity and spirit of Holi.
Engaging with 500k+ social natives, the campaign garnered 35K engagements and 470K views across social media platforms, striking a deep emotional chord with audiences. By going beyond colours, #MyBharatWithLAVA paid tribute to the diverse ways Holi is celebrated across the country, capturing the unique stories, rituals, music, and flavours that make each region’s festivities special.
One Country. One Festival. Many Colors.
The campaign brought together six regional influencers who highlighted hyperlocal traditions, from the spiritual intensity of Varanasi Holi and the symbolic Lathmaar Holi of Mathura-Vrindavan, to the ethereal Pushkar celebrations, the cozy charm of Sangla in Himachal, the colourful nostalgia of Rolls Royce Holi in Kolkata, and the ceremonial Holika Dahan in Jaipur.
The campaign, which took over social media during the festive week, sparked a wave of cultural pride and regional storytelling, reaching over 513K digital natives. The campaign also garnered 470K video views and saw active user participation in the hook step challenge.
The campaign’s centrepiece was a high-energy music video featuring all influencers, seamlessly blending regional Holi celebrations into a unified narrative. Conceptualized and executed by Social Panga, the video was set to an exclusive Holi anthem that sparked a nationwide trend with its catchy hook step. Released ahead of Holi, the song and dance challenge encouraged audiences to share their #MyBharatWithLava moments, driving massive engagement as people across India grooved to the beat and showcased their local traditions.
Reflecting on the campaign, Mr. Puravansh Maitreya, Head of Marketing, Lava International Limited, said, “With the Holi edition of #MyBharatWithLAVA, we wanted to showcase the many hues of India’s culture, rooted in local tradition but resonating with national pride. The response we received was heartening. Each story, each celebration, each video revealed the emotional depth and cultural richness of Holi across India. It was a celebration not just of colour, but of connection.”
Adding to this, Mr. Gaurav Arora, Co-founder of Social Panga, the creative agency behind the campaign, shared, “The idea behind #MyBharatWithLava was to create a campaign that felt as real and vibrant as India itself. The engagement we saw is proof that when a brand tells genuine stories, it creates connections that go beyond just a campaign—it builds a community.”
Popular digital creators including Udit, Lavish, Bipradev, Yashvi, Karan, and Shivani were at the forefront of the campaign, each producing immersive video content that blended storytelling with authentic regional expressions of Holi. Creators also hosted Lava smartphone giveaways, creating additional buzz and drawing audience participation.
The #MyBharatWithLAVA Holi Edition served as a powerful continuation of Lava’s mission to celebrate India’s unity in diversity—this time, through the lens of Holi. By documenting local flavours, rituals, and voices, the campaign added meaningful colour to the brand’s ongoing narrative of cultural pride and digital storytelling. The campaign wasn’t just another Holi campaign—it was a vibrant celebration of India’s cultural mosaic.
Wienerberger India Revolutionizes Façade Architecture with T-Brick
Bengaluru, Karnataka March 24 2025: wienerberger India, a leading provider of green building materials has recently launched T-Brick, a façade tile system that redefines the future of modern brick architecture with a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.
T-Brick Façade Tiles combine robust design, rich textures, with advanced dry cladding system to create a premium and sustainable brick architecture. With an extensive range of colors & finishes, architects and façade consultants can create visually stunning and impressive structures.
“T-Brick is a game-changer in the façade tiles industry,” said Mr. Monnanda Appaiah, Managing Director, wienerberger India. “Its unique blend of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability makes it the perfect choice for premium and sustainable architecture.”
T-Brick’s innovative design provides a faster, cleaner, and more secure installation process, saving time and money for builders and developers. Its unmatched durability and weather resistance ensure that buildings adorned with T-Brick tiles retain their elegance for decades.
Key Features of T-Brick:
- Unique and sleek design with extensive range of finishes and colours
- Advanced dry cladding technology for faster, cleaner, and more secure installation
- Unmatched durability and weather resistance for long-lasting elegance
- Sustainable and eco-friendly, integrating seamlessly with green building practices
- Special designed installation board makes the system unique
- Ideal for premium projects, T-Brick can be used in few, exclusive places
“We are committed to providing sustainable and innovative building solutions,” added Mr. Appaiah. “T-Brick is a testament to our dedication to excellence and our passion for revolutionizing the facade industry.”
With T-Brick, wienerberger India aims to revolutionize the façade architecture industry with a luxurious and sustainable building solution. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence makes T-Brick an ideal choice for architects, builders, and developers seeking to create iconic and eco-friendly structures.
Continental India Wins Multiple Awards at ACMA Excellence Awards 2024
Gurugram, India, March 24, 2025: Continental’s Gurgaon Plant won the ACMA Excellence Award 2024 for “Excellence in Digitalization” and secured Certificate of Merit for “Excellence in Manufacturing” and “Excellence in Export”. The 59th edition of ACMA Excellence Awards & 10th AMF Technology Summit recognizes the outstanding achievements in quality, innovation, and sustainability within the automotive component supply chain. The awards are a testimony to Continental’s digitalization and continuous improvement, along with its commitment towards localization in manufacturing.
ACMA honored the outstanding accomplishments and efforts of a large number of automotive component makers, who took home awards across different categories. This honor acknowledges Continental’s years of hard work in manufacturing and operational excellence and will further advance the company’s global competitiveness.
Thrilled by the achievements, Prashanth Doreswamy, President and CEO, Continental India said, “This recognition validates Continental India’s efforts towards operational excellence and digitalization. These awards are an attestation to the company’s commitment to innovation, process excellence, and digital transformation in manufacturing. Guided by our ‘in the market, for the market’ approach, we remain focused on localization, sustainability, and global competitiveness, driving us forward as we contribute to the future of mobility. At Continental, we continuously strive to set new benchmarks in technology, further strengthening our position in the evolving automotive landscape. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our team at the Gurgaon plant for their dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.”
Anudeep Garg, Head of the Gurgaon Plant, Continental Automotive India, said, “We are grateful for the recognition and are immensely proud. These achievements underscore Gurgaon Plant’s commitment to Industry 4.0 adoption, process optimization, and global competitiveness. The recognitions serve as a testament to our team’s dedication to digital innovation, cutting-edge manufacturing practices, while expanding our global reach. With these accolades, we continue to strengthen our position as an industry leader, setting new benchmarks in operational excellence and technological advancement. I extend my gratitude to our team for their relentless pursuit of excellence and to our partners for their continued support in this journey.”
Digitalization Efforts at Gurgaon Plant
Continental has embraced the digitalization and automation of diverse processes in pursuit of creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem. Right from the production line to top management, the company believes in promoting the culture of meritocracy. Symbolic of a smart factory, the Gurgaon Plant has incorporated cutting-edge technologies like Augmented Reality (AR), 3D Printing and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems).
These technologies help in providing a fast response, reduce downtime and result in the reduction of manufacturing costs as they also support inhouse manufacturing of some spare parts. Tools like MES and e-Jidoka support automated reporting, enhanced quality of the products and big data analysis. These technlogies have been seamlessly integrated into the shop floor of the Gurgaon Plant. These innovations enhance operational efficiency, ensure compliance with quality standards, maintain precision and consistency, and foster a high level of transparency across the manufacturing process.
Anudeep further added, “The Gurgaon Plant represents our dedication to localization in manufacturing, reinforcing our commitment to building a globally competitive and future-ready ecosystem.”
Covestro Completes Modernization of Dormagen TDI Plant
Covestro has successfully completed the modernization of its TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate) plant in Dormagen. At an event with around 60 invited guests from politics, business, and staff, including North Rhine-Westphalia Environmental Minister Oliver Krischer, Covestro officially commissioned the plant and announced its new target for increasing energy efficiency in production.
“The successful completion of this project shows that climate protection and competitiveness can go hand in hand,” says Dr. Philip Bahke, Head of the North Rhine-Westphalia Site Network. “The modernized plant sets new standards in energy efficiency and underlines our path toward climate-neutral production. In light of persistently high energy costs, the project significantly strengthens the competitiveness of TDI production in Europe. My special thanks go to the entire project team, who professionally implemented this complex modernization during ongoing operations.”
More Efficient Processes for More Sustainable Products
The modernized plant consumes 80 percent less energy than conventional processes, achieving a CO2 reduction of 22,000 tons per year. This is made possible by a new reactor weighing over 150 tons (330,700 lbs) and almost 20 meters (65.6 feet) high, which uses the generated reaction energy for steam production. Covestro started the modernization in summer 2023. In total, the project installed over 3.5 kilometers of new pipelines, around 14 kilometers of cables, and hundreds of new equipment, valves, and monitoring instruments in the plant.
“In Dormagen, we operate Europe’s largest TDI production plant. With the successful modernization, we can now offer our customers TDI with an even better carbon footprint,” explains Dr. Christine Mendoza-Frohn, Head of Sales Performance Materials for the EMEA and LATAM regions. “This supports our customers in achieving their own sustainability goals and strengthens our position as a reliable partner for climate-neutral and circular solutions.”
New Global Energy Efficiency Targets Presented
During the event, Covestro also presented its new, ambitious energy efficiency target for global production. The company targets a 20 percent reduction in CO2 emissions from energy use per ton of product by 2030 compared to 2020, underlining the central importance of energy efficiency as a lever for achieving operational climate neutrality by 2035. The Dormagen TDI plant, with its annual capacity of 300,000 tons, serves as a prime example of the successful transformation of existing production facilities toward greater energy efficiency.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) has supported this modernization through its federal funding program for energy and resource efficiency.
The Sweet Secret Behind Your Favourite Baked Treats
By: Rima Rao is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Consultant.
Baked goods aren’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—they’re tiny bundles of joy that bring comfort, energy, and delight to your day. But have you ever wondered what makes your cupcakes so moist, your muffins so tender, or your croissants so perfectly flaky? Among the many ingredients that contribute to these irresistible qualities, there’s one unsung hero: palm oil.
You may not bake with palm oil directly, but chances are it’s already a part of your daily diet. As the world’s most widely consumed vegetable oil, it quietly works its magic in countless packaged products on supermarket shelves. When it comes to baking, palm oil stands out for its efficiency, versatility, and ability to elevate everything from flaky pastries to golden loaves of bread.
Why Bakers Stand by Palm Oil
Palm oil is more than just another ingredient—it’s the cornerstone of quality in baking. Its semi-solid nature and stabilising beta prime polymorphic form make it ideal for creating smooth textures and aerated batters. This means it traps air bubbles in mixtures, helping cakes rise to perfection while ensuring the soft, tender crumb.
A key advantage of palm oil is its ability to blend seamlessly into recipes without altering flavours. At the same time, it extends the shelf life of baked goods by preventing unwanted flavour changes, thanks to only a trace amount of linolenic acid. This makes it an excellent choice for ensuring freshness over time.
Beyond functionality, palm oil’s unique properties contribute to superior results. It promotes beta prime crystallisation, forming fine fat crystals that create smooth, creamy textures. Its high palmitic acid content enhances aeration in fat-sugar mixes, ensuring light and fluffy baked treats. These features make palm oil indispensable for bakers who value consistent quality.
The Science of Success
Studies reveal that palm-based fats (PBF) outperform alternatives like lauric-based fat (LBF) and sunflower oil (SFO) in baking. The results showed PBF to be the best sample due to the suitable properties such as concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acid, volume, texture, and colour properties of the cake. PBF also offers a balanced mix of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, giving cakes texture, colour, and shelf stability.
Research shows that palm oil’s unique composition contributes to desirable cookie textures, with a softer bite linked to higher proportions of saturated fatty acids and smaller microstructure sizes. These findings underscore why palm oil remains a staple for professional bakers worldwide.
A Healthier Choice
For those seeking healthier alternatives, palm oil offers a smarter solution. Unlike partially hydrogenated fats, notorious for harmful trans fats, palm oil is naturally trans-fat-free due to its semi-solid nature that eliminates the need for chemical hydrogenation.
What’s more, palm oil is packed with nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants, it’s not just a functional ingredient but also a wholesome addition that enhances the flavour and texture of baked treats while supporting overall health. With these advantages, palm oil has earned a place in the recommendations of nutritionists, who advocate its use in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
1st Perioperative Medicine Conclave Begins at AIG Hospitals
Hyderabad, March 24, 2025...The two-day Perioperative Medicine Conclave which began on Saturday at AIG Hospitals, Gachibowli concluded on Sunday evening. It is its first edition of the conclave. It was organised jointly by Society of Perioperative Physician Anaesthesiologists (SOPPA) and AIG informed Dr Sunil T Pandya, a member of SOPPA and Chief, Dept. of Anaesthesia, Perioperative Medicine & Critical Care, AIG Hospitals.
This conference has brought together perioperative physicians (anaesthesiologists), from around the globe, to explore the evolving field of perioperative medicine, which focuses on the comprehensive care of surgical patients, from preoperative assessment through postoperative recovery, either as day care procedures or in the Surgical Critical Care.
This is for the first time a conference on perioperative medicine was conducted as said by Dr.Sunil T Pandya, chief of Anaesthesia, perioperative medicine and critical care at AIG hospitals.
The meeting was opened by the director of AIG Hospital Dr G.V. Rao along with SOPPA office bearers.
Perioperative medicine is increasingly recognized as a critical component of patient care, aiming to optimize outcomes by managing medical conditions throughout the surgical journey.
This multidisciplinary approach not only improves patient safety but also enhances overall surgical success, felt many speakers who spoke during the conclave
The Advisor of SOPPA, Dr.Manimala Rao emphasised the expanded Role of the anaesthesiologist as perioperative Physician. Dr N. Satyanarayana, President of SOPPA and Dr Raja Nursing Rao, Secretary SOPPA reiterated Dr. Manimala’s views. Anaesthesiologists are invisible doctors and now they seek their due recognition.
All the office ears of SOPPA felt that Anesthesiologists though are highly skilled and play a very crucial in patient safety, are often ignored, and less recognized than their peer physicians because they work behind the scenes, their role is often misunderstood, and they don’t have the same level of public-facing interactions as surgeons or primary care doctors. Anesthesiologists are as competent doctors as their physician colleagues are
The Conclave had a Live Workshop on Advanced RA Blocks; Tee & Advanced; and Haemodynamic Monitoring. It had Specialty Symposiums; Dialogue with Specialists, Walk the talk with experts, Clinical Pathways, Patient Safety & Satisfaction metrics, Panels, interactive sessions & Many more
Hinduja Foundation’s Jal Jeevan Restores 5 Trillion Litres Helps 5 Million
Mumbai, March 24, 2025: On the occasion of World Water Day, the Hinduja Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the 110-year-old Hinduja Group, today announced it has positively impacted 5 million (50 lakh) people across 4,000+ villages in 18 states and Union Territories, a significant milestone under its flagship Jal Jeevan initiative.
According to the 2025 report by the Observer Research Foundation (reference), the nation faces a decline in per capita water availability, projected to decrease from 1,486 cubic meters in 2021 to 1,367 cubic meters by 2031. Large-scale interventions are crucial to ensuring sustainable water access. In response, the foundation has implemented diverse initiatives to tackle this pressing challenge.
The Foundation’s Water Steward initiatives, recognized by all Hinduja Group companies, has led to the restoration of a staggering 5 trillion litres of water covering nearly 4 million (40 lakh) acres of agricultural land.
Furthermore, the Foundation has successfully revived 100 lakes, constructed and rehabilitated 20,000 open wells, installed 765 check-dams to enhance groundwater recharge, and provided 1.2 billion litres of safe drinking water. Additionally, 4,000 rooftop rainwater harvesting systems have been established, making a tangible difference in water-stressed communities.
“Water security is one of India’s most pressing challenges, with demand projected to double by 2030,’’ said Paul Abraham, President, Hinduja Foundation. Commenting on the milestone, Mr Abraham added, “At Hinduja Foundation, we champion community-driven, sustainable solutions that build long-term resilience. Jal Jeevan is more than just a water initiative—it empowers communities to thrive. Water Stewardship is Hinduja Foundation’s champion cause. Under Jal Jeevan, our water mission is building climate resilience, rejuvenating agriculture and securing livelihoods across India. Our interventions span from groundwater recharge and urban lake restoration, afforestation and Himalayan spring rejuvenation.”
The foundation’s efforts extend to promoting access to safe drinking water through rooftop harvesting structures, reducing the burden on women in rural areas and fostering women empowerment and livelihood opportunities. Restoration of water bodies to replenish groundwater and create water storage capacity is also a key focus. Large-scale watershed and spring shed management, coupled with support for wadi cultivation, sprinkler, drip, and micro-irrigation systems, further contribute to water conservation.
Notable water body restoration projects include the Nilgiri Wellington Wetland (in collaboration with the Indian Army), Restoration of ponds at the State Reserve Police Force in Pune, Stepwells like the 1,000-year-old heritage stepwell Hauz Shamshi in Delhi, the historic Makarba Tank in Ahmedabad, Rani Moosi Sagar in Alwar, and Nawalkha Bawri in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The foundation is also actively engaged in afforestation efforts across India.
The Hinduja Foundation’s spring restoration project has been recognized by NITI Aayog as a vital solution for the restoration of rivers originating from mountainous regions and by the UN CEO Water Mandate 100 basin program for its support of the Ganga basin.
Hinduja Foundation remains committed to expanding water conservation efforts, empowering communities, and advocating for responsible water management policies. By leveraging the expertise of Hinduja Group companies, the Jal Jeevan initiative continues to drive transformative change in water-stressed regions, ensuring a more water-secure future for India.
Hinduja Foundation’s Jal Jeevan programme is currently active in 18 states of India namely Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Odisha to name some.
To illustrate the scale of the Hinduja Group Jal Jeevan program’s achievements since 2018:
- Recharged enough groundwater to fill 507 million water tankers
- Dispensed safe drinking water to the tune of 51 million jerry cans of 20 litres each
- Revived land for agriculture equivalent to 2,36,000 football fields
- Increased water holding capacity equal to 52466 Olympic-sized swimming pools
Hindustan Zinc Recycles 18 Billion Litres of Water Saving 1 Lakh Households
Udaipur, 24th March 2025: Ahead of World Water Day, Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC), India’s largest and the world’s second largest integrated zinc producer, announces the recycling of more than 18 billion litres of water in FY24 roughly equivalent to the annual water usage of nearly 1 lakh households in Rajasthan. Operating in Rajasthan, one of the India’s most water stressed regions, Hindustan Zinc remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable water management, reinforcing its position as a 2.41 times water positive and zero liquid discharge (ZLD) company. The company has maintained a zero liquid discharge approach that ensures process water & effluent is treated, recycled, and reused, significantly reducing its reliance on freshwater while eliminating liquid discharge.
As the world’s most sustainable metals and mining company, Hindustan Zinc’s approach to water conservation encompasses operations and community led water stewardship initiatives. Ahead of World Water Day, Hindustan Zinc unveiled major water management initiatives in progress at operations and community level across various districts of Rajasthan. The company is set to inaugurate a 4,000 kilolitres per day (KLD) Zero Liquid Discharge plant at Rampura Agucha, home to the world’s largest underground zinc mining operations in the coming week. The company has maintained a zero liquid discharge stance and with this new facility, alongside existing zero liquid discharge plants at Zinc Smelter Debari, Dariba Smelting Complex, Chanderiya Lead Zinc Smelter, and Zawar Group of Mines – across its operations in Rajasthan – further propels the company’s vison of responsible water management.
Speaking on the occasion of World Water Day, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “At Hindustan Zinc, we recognize that water is the foundation of a sustainable future. Our water stewardship approach extends beyond operational efficiency to ensuring long-term water security for both communities and industries. As a 2.41 times water-positive company, we are actively replenishing and fortifying water resources. By embedding sustainable water management at the core of our strategy, we continue to demonstrate that industrial growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”
Beyond its operational commitments, Hindustan Zinc is driving large-scale community water initiatives to enhance groundwater recharge and improve rural water access. At Agucha, in Bhilwara district, Hindustan Zinc has undertaken pond renovation work covering Agucha panchayat. This project will revitalise the biodiversity around villages, enhance the availability of water and positively impact nearly 25,000 people. In Rajsamand district, the company has undertaken pond deepening activity for 4 ponds covering 4 villages that is benefitting more than 10,000 people by collectively augmenting the capacity of these ponds by 55,000 m3 or 55 million litres. Plans are in place to extend this initiative to two more ponds in the next fiscal year. In Chanderiya, Hindustan Zinc launched a lift irrigation scheme benefiting over 100 farmers, supporting cash crop cultivation across 50 acres, ensuring efficient water usage for sustainable agriculture.
As a pioneer in sustainable water management, Hindustan Zinc has established Udaipur’s first sewage treatment plant (STP) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, a pioneering initiative in Rajasthan that treats 60 million litres of wastewater daily. This initiative plays a crucial role in keeping the lakes of Zinc City Udaipur free from polluted water while supplying treated water to Hindustan Zinc’s operations via a state-of-the-art pipeline network. This reduces freshwater consumption significantly.
Expanding its community impact, Hindustan Zinc has undertaken a large-scale artificial groundwater recharge project in Bhilwara district, spanning four blocks. Through desilting of ponds, strengthening embankments, and constructing 358 recharge shafts across 84 ponds, the initiative has created a groundwater recharge potential of 87 lakh cubic meters (or 8700 million litres)—a critical intervention in Rajasthan’s arid landscape. Hindustan Zinc’s community development initiative also includes providing potable drinking water in Rajasthan that has ensured supply of nearly 4 million litres of safe water to communities through water ROs (reverse osmosis plants) and water ATMs.
At Rajsamand the company has also launched a first-of-its-kind Jal Sakhi initiative that fulfils the triple goal of women empowerment, entrepreneurship and availability of clean water wherein this women-led enterprise has provided clean water to nearly 50,000 people by operating the water ATMs for the community. Additionally, Hindustan Zinc has also supplied over 15 million litres of water to more than 20 water-scarce villages in FY24 across Rajasthan through tankers. According to community members, the availability of the potable drinking water has marked a decrease in water-borne diseases like cholera, typhoid, dysentery etc.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024. The company also launched EcoZen Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc, produced using renewable energy, that has a carbon footprint about 75% lower than the global average. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition for a sustainable future.
GI Mahotsav Products from 15 States at PHDCCI Exhibition at Dilli Haat
PHDCCI is organizing a three-day GI Mahotsav: Promoting India’s Heritage through GI Products an initiative by the Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India from 21st to 23rd March 2025. The event features products from 15 states, with diversified range of GI-certified products, including Bengal Kantha, Kashmir’s Pashmina, MP’s Maheshwari Sarees, Chamba Rumal, Kangra Painting, Madhubani Painting, Black Pottery, Mysore Soap and Agarbathi, Kannauj Perfumes and many other traditional artisan products from different regions.
On this occasion, a conference of stakeholders including senior officials from the Government participated and addressed the exhibitors.
This GI Mahotsav marks a significant milestone in promoting GI Products of our country’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential. Through collaborative efforts, the event has brought together artisans, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to showcase the diverse range of Geographical Indication (GI) products, highlighting their unique qualities and traditional craftsmanship.
With a focus on empowering local producers, the exhibition is providing a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and business opportunities, fostering growth and recognition for India’s GI sector.
Dr Rashmi Singh, Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K in her inaugural address mentioned that she herself is a great proponent of GI products and complimented PHDCCI & the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, for organising this GI Mahotsav which has provided an excellent opportunity to the GI product manufacturers from all over the country to showcase and market their products.
She added, that this sector is relatively new, and not many people are aware of GI products. In the beginning, it is crucial to promote these schemes through conferences as it help raise awareness. She also stressed that with time the environmental sustainability, local economy, and social responsibility also increase among the people of India through such initiatives. It is not just about buyer-seller interactions but also about promoting and preserving indigenous products, and Art & the culture of the country.
Prof. (Dr) Unnat P. Pandit, Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM), RoC, GI & SICLDR, DPIIT, MoC&I, Govt. of India in his address informed that as a GI registrar, it is truly a privilege to witness the exhibition of diversified GI products and interact with them. He discussed that it has been 20 years since the GI Act was enacted, and so far, 650 GI products have been registered. He emphasized that GI is India’s cultural heritage and identity and is a significant community intellectual property right.
The increased promotion of GI products will directly contribute to better sustainable livelihoods for artisans. He further highlighted that efforts are being made to bring GI products into every household through the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative and the GeM portal. He urged collective efforts to take India’s cultural heritage forward as part of the vision for a developed Bharat.
Dr Ranjeet Mehta, CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI welcomed the dignitaries and participants and mentioned that India is proud of an incredible variety of GI-tagged products across multiple sectors. These include traditional textiles, handicrafts, agricultural goods, and food products, each deeply tied to the culture and heritage of their regions. The GI system provides protection against unauthorized use of regional product names and ensures that producers are rewarded for their quality and craftsmanship.
Mr Vinod Karwa, Chair, MSME Committee PHDCCI, appreciated the Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India for giving PHDCCI this opportunity to host this 3 day GI Mahotsav, bringing together the artisans and manufacturers of GI products from across the country.
He further added that in our globalized world, protecting and promoting our GI products isn’t just a matter of cultural pride; it’s a strategic economic imperative. These products carry with them centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and distinctiveness that set them apart in the international markets.
Mr D P Goel, Co- Chair, MSME Committee, PHDCCI, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of MSME for their unwavering support and emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to nurturing and promoting the GI ecosystem in India. He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in harnessing the full potential of GI products to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Dr H P Kumar, Advisor, PHDCCI and Former CMD, NSIC highlighted the various government schemes and policies that have been initiated to promote new business enterprises and facilitate MSMEs to grow and build sustainable businesses. He further explained about the different schemes like the Start Up India, Stand up India and Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Program (PMEGP), among others, which are very progressive.
Dr R K Bharti, Joint Director, HOO, MSME-DFO, Okhla, New Delhi, Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India highlighted the importance of intellectual property rights and GIs which bring together cultural heritage and traditional art from different regions. He mentioned that the Ministry of MSME is providing various support services for the promotion of the GI product and this GI Mahotsav is a part of the Ministry’s initiative. He invited the participating GI units to contact his office for any assistance required may be required by them. A detailed presentation on the schemes of Ministry of MSME was also made by Mr Sunil Kumar, Asst. Director, Ministry of MSME.
The conference was also addressed by Dr S S Acharya, CMD, NSIC who briefed about MSMEs initiative to help the MSME sector through credit, marketing and their digital platforms. He offered to extend NSICs support services to GI participating units for their technology development and building competitive strengths in the global market.
The inaugural day witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, artisans, and enthusiasts alike. The GI Mahotsav continues with an exciting line up of panel discussions, workshops, cultural performances, and networking opportunities.
Tata Motors Teams Up with Vicky Kaushal for Passenger and EV Range
Mumbai, March 21, 2025: Tata Motors, India’s leading automotive manufacturer, today announces its association with Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal for its Passenger and Electric Vehicle range. Known for his versatile roles and dedication to breaking conventions, Vicky’s journey aligns perfectly with Tata Motors’ values of innovation, excellence, and progress.
Vicky’s rise to stardom has been driven by perseverance, authenticity, and a willingness to take on challenging roles—qualities that align perfectly with Tata Motors’ vision of shaping the future of mobility. As Tata Motors continues to push the boundaries of automotive design, performance, and technology, Vicky’s partnership underscores their shared commitment to breaking norms. From his modest beginnings to becoming one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actors, Vicky’s journey mirrors Tata Motors’ own evolution and innovative spirit. Together, Tata Motors and Vicky Kaushal are elevating India’s presence on the global stage—Tata Motors by setting new industry standards and Vicky by showcasing Indian talent to the world stage.
While Vicky will play a key role across multiple brand initiatives, this collaboration will kick off with a campaign for the all-new Tata Curvv, this IPL season. Titled ‘Take the Curvv’, the campaign showcases how the Curvv is more than just a car—it’s a statement of boldness, self-belief, and following your heart. It’s about embracing life’s twists and turns. In a market dominated by predictable, feature-focused messaging, the boldest move is to take the curve when everyone else is driving straight.
Announcing the exciting new collaboration, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “At Tata Motors, we are constantly pushing boundaries and setting new standards of excellence. As we lead the transformation of the passenger and electric vehicle landscape, we are proud to welcome Vicky Kaushal, whose values align with ours—authenticity and positive disruption. Both Vicky and Tata Motors share an unwavering pride in India. As one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the country, Tata Motors is committed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, creating world-class vehicles designed and engineered for Indian consumers, just as Vicky Kaushal takes immense pride in representing Indian cinema and culture globally. With innovation at the core of our brand, the ‘Take the Curvv’ campaign celebrates individuals who choose to carve their own path. We are confident that this one of a kind association will be loved by our customers and his fans alike.”
Elated at joining the Tata Motors family, Vicky Kaushal expressed, “I am thrilled to make my foray into the world of cars with Tata Motors – a home grown brand that has redefined how India travels. Tata Motors’ unwavering legacy, coupled with its relentless commitment to innovation and disruption, perfectly reflects my own passion, making this partnership a natural choice. The ‘Take the Curvv’ campaign is the perfect launchpad for this association as it embodies the spirit of breaking barriers by following your heart, taking the road less travelled and coming out even stronger. I look forward to collaborating on ground-breaking projects with the Tata Motors family and share our story with the world.”