JSW Infrastructure announces Q3 FY25 results

Chandigarh, 29 January 2025: JSW Infrastructure Limited (the “Company”), a part of the JSW Group and India’s second-largest private commercial port operator, today announced its results for the third quarter and period ended 31st December 2024.

Key Highlights for Q3 FY25

  •  Revenue of ₹1,265 Crore, up 24% YoY
  •  EBITDA of ₹670 Crore up 20% YoY
  •  PAT of ₹336 Crore up 32% YoY
  •  Strong Balance Sheet, well positioned to pursue growth

 Net Debt to EBITDA (TTM*) of 0.4x

 Cash and Cash equivalents of ₹4,845 Crore

Consolidated Financial Performance Q3 FY25

During the quarter, the Company handled cargo volumes of 29.4 million tonnes which is higher by 5% over the last year. The volume increase was driven by the increased capacity utilisation in the coal terminal at Paradip, contribution from PNP port and Liquid Storage Terminal, UAE. The growth was partially offset by lower cargo volumes in the Iron Ore terminal at Paradip.

The increase in the third-party volume was stronger with 31% year-on-year growth and the share of Third Party in the overall volumes stood at 49% vs 39% a year ago.

The higher volume and integration of the recently acquired Navkar Corporation translated to 24% year-on-year growth in the total revenue which stood at ₹1,265 Crore. EBITDA increased to ₹670 Crore (+20% yoy) with a robust margin of 52.9%. Consequently, PAT stood at ₹336 Crore, reflecting a growth of 32%.

Key Business update

  •  Overall Capacity enhancement to 174 mtpa from 170 mtpa

 Mangalore Coal Terminal: The cargo handling capacity increased to 8.1 mtpa, from 6.7 mtpa.

 PNP port: The capacity increased to 8mtpa from 5mtpa on the back of dredging activities while the Environmental Clearance (EC) is in place for 19mtpa.

  •  Interim operations commenced at JNPA (Liquid Terminal): At JNPA, the company obtained approval from the relevant authorities to commence interim operations. It handled nearly 90,000 tonnes of liquid edible oil during November and December 2024. Similar efforts are underway to secure approvals for interim operations at the Tuticorin Dry Bulk Terminal.
  •  Low Risk on ESG: The global ESG risk rating agency, Morningstar Sustainalytics, has rated JSW Infrastructure Limited as “Low Risk” on ESG. This rating from a globally regarded agency confirms our belief, ability, and commitment to manage ESG risks as part of our overall business strategy.

Growth Strategy

As previously announced, the company has embarked on a growth plan to increase its cargo handling capacity to 400 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) by FY 2030 or earlier, up from the current capacity of 174 mtpa. To achieve this, it has outlined a comprehensive capital expenditure (capex) plan of ₹30,000 crores.

Additionally, the Company has increased its total capex guidance to ₹39,000 crores, with an additional ₹9,000 crores earmarked for expanding its logistics segment. This expansion aims to build on the Navkar acquisition to develop a robust pan-India logistics network for last-mile connectivity.

The Company is targeting a top line of ₹8,000 crores for its logistics segment, with a 25% EBITDA margin, resulting in industry-leading Return on Capital Employed (ROCE). With a strong balance sheet, the Company is well-positioned to pursue both organic and inorganic growth without compromising its leverage ratios.

Explore Rajasthan’s Culture and Wildlife at Club Mahindra Bharatpur

Chandigarh, January 29, 2025: Set against the enchanting backdrop of Rajasthan’s wilderness—the land of maharajas and majestic forts—Club Mahindra Bharatpur offers a serene retreat that seamlessly blends relaxation, adventure, and royal charm. Nestled within a restored heritage property, the resort spans 40 acres, with 22 acres dedicated to thoughtfully designed facilities. Easily accessible via well-connected road highways, Club Mahindra Bharatpur is the perfect destination for road trips, whether for a daycation or a weekend getaway. It is conveniently located for travelers from Delhi, Mathura, Agra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, travelers from Gujarat and Maharashtra can reach the resort via direct flights to Agra and Jaipur. Ensuring a seamless journey, the nearest airport is in Agra, while Bharatpur Railway Station is just a short drive away. Jaipur Airport, located approximately 200 km from the resort, offers another convenient travel option. With its serene beauty and royal charm, the resort is an ideal escape for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Bharatpur offers a delightful experience throughout the year. For those looking to extend their journey, Club Mahindra nearby resorts such as Club Mahindra Saura Hotel Agra, Nature Resort Jaipur, and Club Mahindra Jaipur—perfect stopovers to enhance your stay in Bharatpur.

The resort features 60 premium rooms, including Hotel Units, 1-Bedroom, and 2-Bedroom accommodations. Each room is thoughtfully designed to capture the elegance of Rajasthan’s traditional architecture, drawing inspiration from the grandeur of Rajasthani royalty and its rich cultural heritage. Dining is a delight at Spice, the resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant, offering authentic Rajasthani delicacies like Dal Baati Churma, Laal Maas, and Gatte Ki Sabzi, alongside global flavors. Signature experiences include the Avadeeb Theme Dinner, featuring dishes such as Avadeep Nikari and Fish Ka Sami, with Jasnandi Fish and Mohan Thali completing the feast.

For a truly unique dining experience, couples can savor a romantic meal under the stars in a serene and tranquil setting, surrounded by the enchanting ambiance of Rajasthan. For those seeking a lively atmosphere, Cheers Bar provides the perfect backdrop to unwind, offering an impressive selection of beverages. After relishing the delightful culinary experiences, guests can dive into a variety of indoor and outdoor activities at the Happy Hub. Whether it’s participating in an engaging cooking session with the chef, enjoying a game of table tennis , Pool table, carrom, chess Ludo, archery , arts and carfts , e cycling or exploring the serene nature trails, there’s something for every interest and age. For those looking to unwind, the Svaastha Spa provides a haven of relaxation with a range of soothing Western therapies designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Guests can also take a refreshing dip in the inviting swimming pool, perfect for relaxation or family fun. The resort ensures a well-rounded experience, balancing adventure, wellness, and leisure.

Nestled near the UNESCO-listed Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, the resort offers a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal times to witness the vibrant local birdlife. Guests can enjoy the unique experience of observing birds from two glass hides, providing an intimate view of a variety of species, including the Grey Hornbill, Laughing Dove, Grey-Headed Canary Flycatcher, and many more. From October to March, the sanctuary comes alive with migratory birds, offering a spectacular sight for nature lovers. The resort also organizes guided tours to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, home to over 370 species of birds. Within the resort, guests can join guided nature walks led by expert naturalists. The sight of over 100 peacocks and their chicks roaming freely in the resort premises adds a magical charm to these walks.

For a deeper connection to Rajasthani culture, guests can enjoy a vibrant Rajasthani puppet show, showcasing the region’s traditional art forms. The guest can embark on an e-cycling adventure and ride through scenic paths lined with greenery or take the e-cycle to the sanctuary for an eco-friendly and immersive experience. Adding to Bharatpur’s cultural charm is the vibrant Brij Mahotsav, celebrated in March just before Holi. This grand festival, dedicated to Lord Krishna, showcases colorful folk dances, soulful songs, and mesmerizing Raas Leela performances, offering an unforgettable glimpse into Rajasthan’s cultural richness. Nearby attractions further enhance the allure of this destination. Explore the Bharatpur Palace and Museum, the historic city of Fatehpur Sikri, the spiritual towns of Vrindavan and Mathura, the architectural splendor of Agra, and the world-famous Taj Mahal. Together, they make for a perfect drive cation experience, blending history, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you seek a tranquil retreat, an adventurous escapade, or an immersion into the royal heritage of Rajasthan, Club Mahindra Bharatpur promises an unforgettable journey. With its perfect harmony of nature, tradition, and unmatched hospitality, this resort creates memories to cherish forever.

Hatsun Agro Acquires Milk Mantra for Strategic Dairy Expansion

Mumbai, January 29, 2025: Hatsun Agro Product Ltd (HAP), India’s leading corporate dairy company, is happy to announce the completion of the acquisition of Milk Mantra Dairy Private Limited, and its innovative dairy brand “Milky Moo” known for its quality commitment in milk procurement and sales. This strategic takeover strengthens HAP’s presence in the Eastern Indian dairy market and underscores its mission of delivering fresh, high-quality dairy products to customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Srikumar Misra, Founder of Milk Mantra, shared: “Milk Mantra has always been about building a purpose driven dairy foods brand, whilst pioneering an ethical milk sourcing model, empowering farmers, and ensuring superior quality dairy products for our consumers. Acquisition by Hatsun Agro Product Ltd is a natural progression of our vision to scale our impact and innovation across a broader market. HAP has visionary leadership and has extensive resources that will further elevate the value delivered to consumers and farmers alike. We are happy for the future of Milky Moo, and our ecosystem in this transformative transaction, not just for Odisha but beyond.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. R.G. Chandramogan, Chairman of Hatsun Agro Product Ltd, stated: “With Milk Mantra, HAP is now present beyond our strong position in South & West India, now establishing a robust presence in Eastern India. Odisha is a prosperous cow milk belt, and a growing economy. We are excited that a strong brand Milky Moo is added to our stable of brands like Arun, ibaco, Hatsun and Arokya. We are committed to expanding and growing the dairy landscape in Odisha. Logistically, it also gives scope to strengthen markets like northern Andhra, West Bengal and adjoining States, where Arun Ice Cream is already present.

With this takeover HAP will start with a sizeable market share, wide distribution & procurement network and 2 strategically located processing facilities in Odisha with the Milky Moo brand’s established strong market presence.

Cybersecurity in the AI Era: Protecting a Hyperconnected World

By: Mr. Ashutosh Upadhyay, Founder, Cognio Labs

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern finance and cybersecurity, artificial intelligence stands at a fascinating crossroads. Like a guardian angel equipped with quantum-speed processing power and superhuman pattern recognition abilities, AI offers unprecedented protection. Yet, this same power harbors potential for sophisticated deception and attack. For auditors and accountants, understanding this duality isn’t just academic—it’s becoming a critical professional necessity.

The Protective Shield: How AI Safeguards Systems

The days of sample-based auditing are fading into history. Modern AI systems analyze every transaction in real-time, identifying anomalies that would take human teams months to uncover. Consider a recent case at a global manufacturing firm: an AI system detected a complex accounts payable fraud scheme by identifying subtle patterns in seemingly legitimate vendor payments—patterns invisible to traditional audit procedures.
In fraud prevention, AI systems are revolutionizing detection capabilities. Neural networks don’t just match known fraud patterns; they predict new ones. A European bank recently prevented a massive fraud attempt when its AI system detected anomalous patterns in international wire transfers that appeared legitimate but deviated microscopically from established business relationships.
Security protocol automation has evolved from convenience to necessity. AI-driven continuous monitoring adapts in real-time to emerging threats, learning from every transaction, login attempt, and data access pattern to build an increasingly sophisticated understanding of normal versus suspicious behavior.

The Dark Side: AI as a Weapon

However, this same sophistication that makes AI an effective guardian also makes it a formidable weapon in the wrong hands. Criminals now deploy AI systems to create nearly undetectable fraudulent transactions that mirror legitimate patterns. In a striking example, an AI-generated deepfake voice recently convinced a bank manager to authorize a $35 million transfer by perfectly mimicking a trusted client’s voice and speech patterns.
The rise of polymorphic fraud schemes—attacks that constantly evolve to evade detection—represents a new frontier in financial crime. These AI-driven systems automatically adjust their patterns based on success and failure, learning from each attempt to become more effective. Traditional rule-based fraud detection systems increasingly struggle against these adaptive threats.

Professional Implications: The New Frontier

This technological arms race has profound implications for audit professionals. The traditional sampling approach to audit evidence is becoming obsolete. Today’s auditors must understand:

– How AI models make decisions and what constitutes appropriate evidence
– The potential for AI systems to be compromised or manipulated
– The importance of maintaining professional skepticism even with AI-generated conclusions
– Methods for validating AI model outputs
– Techniques for documenting and justifying AI-assisted decisions

Future Outlook: Evolution of Professional Judgment

The future of auditing lies not in replacing professional judgment with AI, but in augmenting it. Tomorrow’s auditors must be as comfortable evaluating AI systems as they are analyzing financial statements. This includes developing expertise in:

– AI model validation techniques
– Risk assessment of AI-generated conclusions
– Documentation standards for AI-assisted auditing
– Ethical considerations in AI deployment

Conclusion
The AI safety net in financial security is neither inherently good nor evil—it is a sophisticated tool whose impact depends entirely on its deployment and monitoring. For audit professionals, the challenge extends beyond learning to work with AI systems to developing the wisdom to know when to trust them and when to question their conclusions.
In this new landscape, professional scepticism remains your most valuable asset. As AI systems become more sophisticated, the ability to question, validate, and understand their conclusions becomes not just valuable, but essential for professional survival. The future belongs not to those who simply embrace AI, but to those who understand both its promise and its perils.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

MapmyIndia Q3FY25 Revenue Up 24.5%, EBITDA Up 15.7%

New Delhi, India, 29th January 2025: C.E. Info Systems Ltd. (“MapmyIndia”), India’s leading advanced digital maps and deep-tech products and platforms company, announced today its financial results for the Third Quarter and Nine months of FY2025 ended on 31st December 2024.

Key Consolidated Financial Highlights for Q3 and 9M FY25:

Particulars (Rs Cr) Q3 FY25 Q3 FY24 YoY % Growth 9M FY25 9M FY24 YoY % Growth
Revenue from Operations  114.5 92.0 24.5% 319.7 272.5 17.3%
Total Income 123.9 103.6 19.6% 348.8 298.3 16.9%
EBITDA 41.7 36.0 15.7% 122.0 114.4 6.7%
EBITDA Margin (%) 36.4% 39.0% 38.2% 42.0%
PAT 32.3 31.1 4.0% 98.6 96.2 2.5%
PAT Margin (%) 26.1% 30.0% 28.3% 32.0%
Cash & Cash Equivalents (including financial instruments) 603.8 516.1 603.8 516.1

Commenting on the Q3 and 9M FY25 results, Rakesh Verma, Chairman & Managing Director, MapmyIndia, said “In Q3 FY25, we successfully operationalized the joint venture with Hyundai Autoever in Indonesia, marking an important step in expanding our global footprint. As part of our long-term strategy, both the Mappls App and the Mappls brand will continue to be the integral part of the organization.

On the financial front, our revenue for Q3 FY25 reached ₹115 crore, showing a 25% YoY growth. Over the first nine months of FY25 (9M FY25), our revenue grew to ₹320 crore by 17%, up from ₹273 crore during the same period last year.

In terms of profitability, our EBITDA for Q3 FY25 was ₹42 crore, yielding a margin of 36%, compared to ₹36 crore in Q3 FY24 at 39%. For the first nine months of FY25, our EBITDA stood at ₹122 crore, with a margin of 38%, as compared to ₹114 crore and 42% margin recorded in the same period last year. We will continue to prioritize the Mappls App as a key strategic asset while we will calibrate the costs associated from Q4 onwards. Our Profit After Tax (PAT) for the first nine months of FY25 was ₹99 crore, up from ₹96 crore in 9M FY24.

In Q3 FY25, Consumer Tech & Enterprise Digital Transformation (C&E) revenue surged by 39% to ₹65 crore, while Automotive & Mobility Tech (A&M) revenue had a steady growth of 9% to ₹49 crore. In the first nine months of FY25, our A&M revenue grew by 16% YoY, while our C&E revenue saw a 19% increase. Our Map-led business delivered a very strong 33% growth to ₹87 crore in Q3 FY25, while the IoT-led business had a growth of 4% during the quarter due to delays in some anticipated business. However subscription services grew 31% year on year for the quarter. Our continued focus to build IoT-led business with higher margin subscription revenue has resulted in the IoT-led EBITDA margin to grow from 8% in 9M FY24 to 12% in 9M FY25.

Our efforts in the previous quarters culminated in securing a major deal with one of the largest global social media networks across all their app platforms in India, as well as significant wins in the burgeoning quick commerce space and BFSI vertical, which had a strong positive impact on our C&E business. We also made significant strides in customer acquisition and deepened relationships with existing clients through upselling and cross-selling initiatives. This included notable go-lives and project wins across various sectors, such as automotive, fleet management, tech startups, traditional corporations, government and defence.”

IBIS Styles Mysuru Bolsters Leadership Team to Boost Guest Experience

Mysuru, 28.01. 2025– Ibis Styles Mysuru,is proud to announce the appointment of three key leaders to its management team. These seasoned professionals bring extensive expertise and a unified vision to enhance guest experiences and optimize operational efficiency.

The new appointments include Suresh Kumar as Food and Beverage Manager, Nadeem Z. Desai and Shiva Prasad as Front Office Manager and Housekeeping Manager respectively. Together, they bring a collective vision and diverse skill sets to enhance the hotel’s reputation for excellence.

Suresh Kumar, Food and Beverage Manager

Suresh Kumar brings over two decades of expertise in food and beverage operations, having served in pivotal roles such as complex hotel Banquet Manager for Novotel & ibis Bengaluru Outer Ring Road and Restaurant Manager at Taj Hotels. His accomplishments include menu engineering, cost control, and business planning, all aimed at delivering world-class dining experiences. An awardee of the IHC London and IIHM International Hospitality Day Award 2023, Suresh’s dedication to employee development and service excellence aligns perfectly with the hotel’s ethos.

Nadeem Z. Desai, Front Office Manager

A seasoned professional with over a decade of experience, Nadeem Z. Desai has a proven track record with hotels such as ibis Bengaluru Hebbal, Grand Mercure Mysore, and Taj West End. With expertise in pre-opening planning, staff training, and guest service protocols, Nadeem is a graduate of the Global Leadership Program by Accor Academy. His strategic approach to technology integration and budget management will play a vital role in enhancing operational efficiencies and guest experience.

Shiva Prasad, Housekeeping Manager

With an illustrious career spanning renowned hotels such as Novotel Mumbai International Airport, Grand Hyatt Kochi, and Novotel Hyderabad Airport, Shiva Prasad is known for his exceptional leadership in pre-opening operations and upholding impeccable cleanliness and hygiene standards. A recipient of the prestigious Accor Emerging Leaders Program 2020 and the Best Pre-Opening Employee Award at Novotel Mumbai, Shiva is committed to fostering teamwork, ensuring operational excellence, and driving guest satisfaction.

Speaking on the new appointments, Ganeshram Iyer, the Hotel Manager of ibis Styles Mysuru said, “We are thrilled to welcome Shiva, Suresh, and Nadeem to the leadership team. Their vast experience, innovative approaches, and passion for excellence will undoubtedly strengthen our commitment to providing unforgettable guest experiences and operational brilliance.”

ibis Styles Mysuru continues to set new benchmarks in the hospitality industry, and the addition of these dynamic leaders underscores its dedication to delivering personalized services and memorable stays.

Khallal: A Journey Through Love, Loss, and Silence Stuns Delhi Audience

New Delhi— Checkmate Production took the stage by storm with the debut of its deeply evocative drama Khallal, directed by Nikki Narulaa, at Akshara Theatre, New Delhi. This soul-stirring production explored the delicate intricacies of a 15-year marriage, weaving a compelling narrative of passion, betrayal, separation, and the haunting silence that emerges in relationships once full of love and connection. With its seamless blend of Urdu, Shayari, and Ghazals, Khallal struck an emotional chord with audiences, making it a powerful experience for anyone who has loved, lost, or grappled with the complexities of letting go.

At the core of Khallal is the poignant story of Amir and Amayra, a couple navigating the painful dissolution of their long-standing bond. Through masterful storytelling, the production delves into the fragility of love, the weight of regret, and the silence that replaces intimacy when relationships unravel.

Performed in two shows at 4:00 PM and 6:30 PM, Khallal left an indelible impact on a packed audience of over 200 attendees. Tickets sold out quickly, with many unable to secure seats, highlighting the production’s immense popularity and appeal.

A Stellar Cast Brings Khallal to Life

The success of Khallal lay in its deeply immersive performances by a talented cast, whose chemistry and intensity transported the audience into the lives of its characters:

  • Amir, portrayed with remarkable depth by Tahsin Zahid, embodied a man torn between remorse and longing. Zahid’s powerful performance highlighted the vulnerability and complexity of a character grappling with the consequences of his actions.
  • Amayra, played by the graceful Nikki Narulaa, served as the emotional anchor of the story. Her portrayal of a resilient woman confronting heartbreak resonated profoundly with audiences, showcasing the strength required to endure silence and loss.
  • Ayaan, brought to life by Baskar Krishna, added intrigue and nuance to the narrative. As a subtle yet pivotal force in the unraveling of Amir and Amayra’s relationship, Ayaan enriched the story with complexity and depth.

The seamless chemistry between the actors heightened the emotional intensity of the production, making Khallal an unforgettable experience. Through their performances, the echoes of a love once vibrant but now lost took center stage, leaving the audience deeply moved.

A Remarkable Debut

As its inaugural production, Khallal established Checkmate Production as a significant new presence in the theater community. The drama was lauded for its impeccable direction, masterful performances, and an atmospheric interplay of sound and visuals that brought the story’s emotional essence to life.

Looking Ahead

With Khallal, Checkmate Production has set a high bar for future endeavors. This houseful debut production not only left a lasting impression on its audience but also demonstrated the company’s potential to deliver more thought-provoking and artistically rich performances.

For those who missed this remarkable show, the hope remains that Amir and Amayra’s story will return to the stage, giving more theater enthusiasts an opportunity to witness this exceptional production.

Taneira’s Brand Film Celebrates Craftsmanship with Usha Uthup & Mrunal Thakur

Chandigarh, 28th January, 2025: Taneira, a TATA product has unveiled its first-ever brand campaign, a strategic initiative designed to reinforce its core promises of Trust, Authenticity, Purity, Craftsmanship, Diverse Indian Weaves Under One Roof. The campaign features the legendary Usha Uthup, well-known for her deep love for sarees, alongside the graceful Mrunal Thakur. Together, they bring alive the brand’s dedication to preserving and promoting the textile heritage of the country while empowering consumers to make informed choices. The campaign highlights the timeless elegance of handwoven sarees and the stories they carry, reaffirming Taneira as the ultimate destination for those seeking sarees unequivocally rich in both tradition and trend.

The film unfolds within a vibrant Taneira store, where Mrunal Thakur is seen draping a stunning pure silk saree and seeking the ‘expert’ opinion of Usha Uthup. What follows is an interaction laced with playful exchanges that are a slice of everyday life and resonates with every ardent saree shopper. Their conversation adds a touch of charm while addressing common concerns that many consumers have, from choosing the right fabric to gauging the authenticity of a saree. Through a series of delightful moments, the film underscores the unique qualities of Taneira Sarees, such as pure silk credentials, proudly certified with the Silk Mark tag, to their intricately handwoven designs crafted by master artisans from across the country. It brings to life the enduring allure of these pieces while reassuring consumers that Taneira offers transparency, authenticity, and craftsmanship they can trust.

Sharing her thoughts on this campaign, singer Usha Uthup expressed, “For me, sarees are not just a part of my attire, they are a part of my personal identity. Taneira’s commitment to preserving the art of saree weaving while embracing contemporary design interpretations mirrors my own values of celebrating cultural legacy and individual expression. It is truly special to be involved with a brand that celebrates the timeless beauty of sarees, while making them accessible to women who value both style and meaning in their wardrobe.”

At the heart of the narrative lies the breathtaking ‘Mor design’ Banarasi saree, adorned with over a hundred intricately woven peacocks. This masterpiece spotlights Taneira’s ability to bring unique yet timeless designs to life through unmatched craftsmanship of India’s weaving traditions.

Uthup added, “This partnership feels like a natural extension of my long-standing love for sarees and my passion to support artisans whose craft deserves to be cherished and shared with the world”.

Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira, said “At Taneira, our goal is to offer authenticity with transparency, all at a price that reflects value, while telling the stories of the hands that painstakingly bring each piece to life. We are dedicated to celebrating the seamless blend of heritage and modernity, and this campaign embodies that vision by bringing to life the rich legacy of Indian textiles at the heart of what Taneira represents. It has been an honor to collaborate with a legend like Usha Uthup and the very gracious Mrunal Thakur to tell this story and inspire a deeper connection with the artistry behind every Taneira saree”.

Speaking about the association, actress Mrunal Thakur said, “It has been my pleasure to be a part of this campaign with Taneira and a living legend, Usha Uthup Ma’am. Over the past year, my collaborations with Taneira have been truly enriching. Not only have I been privileged to experience their differentiated designs, but also the diverse crafts they embody. Every collaboration has deepened my appreciation for the sarees and stories they tell. This campaign perfectly captures that journey and feels incredibly meaningful as it aligns with my own fashion philosophy”.

Puneet Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy South – “Taneira set out to showcase its value propositions to both new saree enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs. We asked ourselves some tough questions: Can a brand withstand the scrutiny of the most knowledgeable customers—those who might know as much, if not more, about sarees than we do? While Mrunal has long been the elegant face of Taneira, the real triumph was bringing on the iconic Usha Uthup, the undisputed goddess of sarees in India. This dynamic duo infused our story with charm, entertainment, and emotion, offering a compelling spin on the essence of our value propositions.”

ACC demonstrates remarkable performance in Q3 FY’25

Chandigarh, 27 January 2025: ACC Limited, the cement and building materials company of the diversified Adani Portfolio today announced a steady financial performance during the third quarter and nine months (9M) of FY’25 ended December 31, 2024. The performance comes on the back of volume growth, cost optimisation and improved efficiency parameters.

Mr. Ajay Kapur, Whole Time Director & CEO, ACC Ltd, said, “Our Q3 results demonstrate our strategic focus on driving growth through higher volumes, cost optimisation, and enhanced efficiencies. With strong demand for our premium cement products, and our commitment to excellence on all parameters in line with our ESG leadership, we are leveraging innovation and sustainability to maintain our competitive edge and maximise stakeholder value. We are well-poised to achieve sustained profitability and capitalise on our strategic vision set forth for our business.”

Operational Highlights

  • The engines of efficiency drive, cost initiative and investments to overhaul all plants has delivered phenomenal results on overall cost reduction and volume improvements.
  • All business KPIs like volumes, efficiencies, cost and capex have shown healthy improvements, reinforcing cost leadership journey.
  • Volume increased by 21% YoY supported by increase in trade volumes and higher premium product volumes (11% YoY), ensuring market leadership.
  • Optimised Fuel Basket, with use of low cost imported petcoke improved linkage and captive coal consumption and synergies with Group companies have resulted in 10% reduction in Kiln fuel cost Rs. 1.86 to Rs. 1.68 per ’000 Kcal.
  • Thermal value reduced from 739 kCal to 732 kCal, expect further improvement in coming quarters.
  • Logistics costs reduced by 9% @Rs 939/ton, driven by efficiency improvement journey (Secondary lead reducing by 3 Km, direct dispatch up by 7 pp @51%). Through various freight negotiation initiatives, road PTPK has decreased by 6% YOY. This is going to be further reduced with roll out of initiatives viz. wheeler rationalisations, BCFC rakes etc.
Particulars (YoY) Q3 FY’25 9M FY’25
Sales Volume

(Clinker & Cement)

Growth of 21% YoY, at 10.7 Mn T, highest ever volume in a quarter Growth of 15% YoY, at 30.3 Mn T, highest ever volume in nine months
Kiln Fuel

Cost

Reduced by 10%

(Rs. 1.86 to Rs. 1.68/’000 kCal)

Reduced by 15%

(Rs. 1.95 to Rs.1.67/’000 kCal)

Green Power as a % of power Consumption Increased by

5.7 pp to 18.7%

Increased by

2.2 pp to 15.6%

AFR consumption in Kiln Increased by

0.4 pp to 9.6%

Increased by

1.9 pp to 10.4%

Financial Highlights

  • Highest ever revenue in Q3 Series over last 5 years at Rs. 5,927 Cr, driven by higher trade sales volume (up by 11%) and premium product as % of trade sales at 32%.
  • Higher volume along with improved operational parameters resulted in growth in all business parameters.
  • Operating EBITDA at Rs. 1,116 Cr, EBITDA margin at 18.8%.
  • Cash & Cash equivalent at Rs. 2,526 Cr, with highest ever Net Worth at Rs. 17,816 Cr, up by Rs. 1,091 Cr during the current quarter
  • EPS (Diluted) at Rs. 58.0 during the quarter.

Financial Performance for the Quarter ended December 31, 2024:

Particulars UoM Q3 FY’25 Q3 FY’24
Sales Volume

(Cement and Clinker)

Million

Tonnes

10.7 8.9
Sales Volume
Ready Mix Concrete
Million M3 0.71 0.66
Revenue from Operations Rs. Cr 5,927 4,914
Operating EBITDA & Margin Rs. Cr 1,116 905
% 18.8 18.4
Rs. PMT 1,038 1,017
Other Income Rs. Cr 648 86
Profit before Tax Rs. Cr 1,477 729
Profit after Tax Rs. Cr 1,092 538
EPS (Diluted) Rs. / Share 58.0 28.6

Financial Performance for nine months ended December 31, 2024: 

Particulars UoM 9M FY’25 9M FY’24
Sales Volume

(Cement and Clinker)

Million

Tonnes

30.3 26.4
Sales Volume
Ready Mix Concrete
Million M3 2.00 2.07
Revenue from Operations Rs. Cr 15,696 14,550
Operating EBITDA & Margin Rs. Cr 2,231 2,225
% 14.2 15.3
Rs. PMT 737 841
Other Income Rs. Cr 879 373
Profit before Tax Rs Cr 2,245 1,874
Profit after Tax Rs. Cr 1,651 1,392
EPS (Diluted) Rs. / Share 87.7 73.9

ESG Updates

  • 200 MW Solar Power at Khavda started, will lead to reduction in power cost in upcoming quarters.
  • Committed to Net Zero by 2050, with ACC and Ambuja Cements being the only 2 cement companies in India undergoing Net Zero target validation from SBTi.
  • Became member of United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a global initiative to implement universal sustainability principles.
  • Undertaken noteworthy initiatives on renewable power, water conservation, circular economy, TSR, tree plantation along with high share of blended cement in product mix.
  • Created societal value for over 1.22 lakhs people by contributing to fields like healthcare, education, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
  • Range of innovative products, including ACC ECOMaxX, ACC AEROMaxX, and ACC Coolcrete, continues to expand, adding to the wide array of eco-friendly options.

Branding and Technical Services

  • Partnered with the Gujarat Giants in Pro Kabaddi League Season 11, one of India’s premier sports leagues.
  • ACC Certified Technology implemented at 37,214 customer sites, making their homes stronger.
  • Trained 10,300+ Contractors under various skill upgradation workshops with 3,300+ plant visits, aimed at deeper understanding of our products.
  • Launched thematic Ad films for Durga Puja and Diwali reflecting the festive fervour of our customers and partners.
  • Various knowledge sharing technical events conducted for 6,300+ construction professionals.

Digitalisation

  • Launched ‘RewardsConnect’, a rewards hub loyalty portal, enabling pan-India online reward point redemption for contractors.
  • Deployed OT Security Monitoring solution for real-time monitoring of OT systems strengthening cybersecurity.
  • Completed Asia’s largest legacy SAP upgrade to Suite on HANA.
  • Implemented Electronic Proof of Delivery system, improving invoicing efficiency and reducing processing/documentation cost.

Outlook

The cement sector experienced modest growth of 1.5-2% during H1 FY’25. Looking ahead, cement demand is expected to rebound in Q4 FY’25 as construction activity accelerates in the infrastructure and housing segments. The pro-infra and housing Budget 2025, along with increased government spending on infrastructure and construction activities, is anticipated to further support this growth. Cement demand is projected to grow in the range of 4-5% for FY’25.

Achievements

  • Gold at the Arogya World Healthy Workplace Awards 2024.
  • IconSWM-CE Excellence Award 2024 for excellence in co-processing and AFR.

Republic Day Sale Trends by Unicommerce

28th January 2024,Mumbai: During the year’s first online sale event, the Republic Day sale, Unicommerce witnessed over 16 mn transactions processed by marketplaces and D2C brands through its platform over the 14-day event, which started on the 13th of January 2025.

The top performing categories during the sale period were health & pharma with over 80% YoY order volume growth, followed by home decor with 35% growth and beauty, wellness & personal care recording a 16% growth in volumes as compared to the sale period last year. This surge reflects the enthusiasm of consumers at the very start of the year.

Driven by compelling deals and marketing campaigns, marketplaces observed a notable 16% year-on-year (YoY) growth in order items during the period. In contrast, D2C brand websites saw a modest YoY growth of over 5% during the same period.

A large share of the demand was from towns like Lucknow, Jaipur, Patna, Coimbatore, Surat, Kolar, Alwar, Rohtak, Kamrup and Gandhinagar.

Products that attracted higher demand and recorded significant growth included makeup products, home decor & furniture items and travel accessories. While tier-1 and metropolitan cities led growth across toys & baby products and gaming accessories, tier-2 and tier-3 towns saw higher demand for perfumes & deodorants, and health devices.

The share of prepaid orders in e-commerce continues to rise across tier-2, tier-3 cities and beyond regions. During this year’s sale period, the market share of prepaid orders in the fashion and accessories category grew from 23.9% to 25.1%. Similarly, the health & pharma category witnessed higher prepaid orders with their share rising from 8.4% in 2024 to 14% in 2025. The volume of prepaid orders across beauty, wellness and personal care also grew from 20.7% to 21.4% in 2025.

With the rise of regional warehousing across smaller suburban towns and the growing adoption of technology in these regions, the e-commerce industry is unlocking connectivity, reaching previously untapped areas. This, in turn, supports brands and e-commerce platforms to fulfil consumer demand across the hinterland of Bharat.

As of Q2 2025, Unicommerce serves 3600+ clients including D2C brands, retail and e-commerce companies as well as logistics provider firms. With 260+ technology & partner integrations, the company has achieved an annual transaction run rate of 850+ million order items managing 8800+ warehouses and 3150+ omni-enabled stores across geographies. Shipway by Unicommerce, the company’s logistics automation arm, enables automated shipping for faster fulfillment, serving more than 12,000+ online brands.