SIG Marks New Milestone with the Opening of Its First Aseptic Carton Plant in India
SIG, headquartered in Neuhausen, Switzerland, and a global leader in aseptic packaging and filling solutions, announces the grand opening of its first production plant for aseptic carton packs in India. completed in just 20 months in Ahmedabad, marks a major milestone for SIG as it strengthens its presence in one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing markets.
Designed with cutting-edge technology, the plant in the state of Gujarat has an initial annual production capacity of up to 4 billion aseptic carton packs, meeting the highest environmental standards while creating more than 300 local jobs. The plant will supply SIG’s growing filler base, which serves all leading dairy and non-carbonated soft drink players in India. The official opening ceremony, held in the presence of Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs Helene Budliger Artieda and a Swiss economic delegation, highlights the significance of this achievement for both SIG and the Indian-Swiss partnership.
India, the world’s largest milk market and a major juice-producing country, presents immense growth opportunities for aseptic packaging solutions. With less than 10% of its milk consumption packaged and a lack of cold chains, aseptic cartons are a safe, sustainable, and convenient solution, as they enable the long-term storage of nutritious food and beverages without the need for preservatives, energy-intensive refrigeration during distribution and storage. SIG’s new plant in India will ensure shorter delivery lead times, greater responsiveness to market demand, and enhanced support for the country’s dairy and non-carbonated soft drink producers.
Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs Helene Budliger Artieda applauded SIG’s commitment to India, stating: “India and Switzerland unite a friendship for more than 75 years. It is great to see how successfully SIG, a Swiss global player, is developing in India and it is a great honor for me to have the privilege of opening the new state-of-the-art packaging plant in Ahmedabad. This new plant reflects the fruitful partnership between India and Switzerland. It’s inspiring to see Swiss engineering at the heart of India’s food and beverage industry.”
“This new packaging plant is a testament to our commitment to India and its incredible growth potential,” said SIG CEO Samuel Sigrist. “We are proud to support our Indian partners with high-quality packaging solutions and fast, flexible filling technology. Our strong partnerships in this vibrant market are the foundation of our continued success.”
Since entering the Indian market in 2018, SIG has experienced rapid business expansion, achieving robust double-digit revenue growth in 2024. This new plant positions SIG to meet increasing demand efficiently while paving the way for future growth. The SIG Board of Directors has already approved plans to invest an additional €50 million in a local extrusion line, set to be operational by 2027.
Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager, India, Middle East and Africa at SIG: “The inauguration of our 10th global aseptic carton plant in India marks a significant milestone for us. Manufacturing the packages within the country will help us cater to the surging demand of customers and consumers more efficiently. It will also provide us with the opportunity to innovate and experiment with our designs and packages in line with market trends more conveniently.”
Vandana Tandan, Head of Market India and Bangladesh at SIG, added: “India is one of the most crucial dairy markets in the world, and over the years, the beverage processing industry has also witnessed remarkable growth. This presents an incredible opportunity for us to cater to customers with innovative and sustainable aseptic packages to meet the evolving needs of consumers. We look forward to increasing our reach within the country and neighboring regions.”
SIG’s investment solidifies its role as a key player in India’s packaging sector, contributing to the development of sustainable, innovative solutions for the country’s growing needs.
AI Data Centers in India Lean Towards Gas-Powered Solutions, Experts Explain
New Delhi, February 13, 2025: As India is fast emerging as a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital economy, the unprecedented technological advancements have ignited a massive demand of round the clock reliable power supply to operationalize data centers.
Addressing the challenge of robust demand of sustainable energy solutions, industry experts and policymakers huddled together for an insightful session on “Gas for AI Transition in India – GATI” held at the four-day India Energy Week 2025 which kickstarted at the Yashobhoomi in the national capital on Tuesday.
The session was participated by industry veterans, namely Swapan Kataria, CEO & Co-founder, Crown LNG, Rachit Mohan, APAC lead of data center leasing at JL, Akshay Wadhwa, Business Head-Gas, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Rajesh K Mediratta, MD & CEO, Indian Gas Exchange; and Kapil Kapoor, Country Leader, Google Distributed Cloud (India and South Asia). The panel discussion was anchored by Arun Anand, Author and Tech Columnist.
The speakers explored strategies to position India as a global AI data center hub while emphasizing around the nation’s climate goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Swapan Kataria, CEO & Co-Founder, Crown LNG, highlighted the need for a diversified energy approach: “AI-powered data centers demand uninterrupted energy supply. Gas-based power plants provide a sustainable bridge by offering lower emissions, flexible ramp-up capabilities, and round-the-clock energy security, making them a crucial part of India’s clean energy transition. Gas remains a crucial transition fuel in India’s clean energy journey, providing stability while renewables scale up. We are committed to boost gas infrastructure and willing invest to meet the demand of power that the country with 1.4 billion requires. A well-developed gas ecosystem will ramp up energy security and support industrial growth. India must capitalize on gas’s potential to achieve a balanced and sustainable energy mix.”
With AI adoption surging across industries, data centers are expected to witness exponential growth. According to industry projections, global data center power demand will increase by 160 percent by 2030, largely driven by AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing. This surge necessitates a resilient energy infrastructure that balances power scalability with sustainability.
India’s ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2070 and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 45 percent by 2030 underscore the urgency for cleaner energy alternatives. Gas-based power plants present a viable solution, ensuring lower carbon footprints while facilitating the integration of renewables like wind and solar.
The event is organised amidst global echoing of the Paris AI Summit 2025 focusing on its transformative role in several sectors for public good.
Daum’s Launch in Hyderabad: Sudha Reddy Hosts an Elegant Affair at Mon Amour Palace
Hyderabad, India: February 2025: Hyderabad’s elite art and design aficionados and connoisseurs gathered together at the glamorous Mon Amour Palace to host the much-anticipated launch of Daum in Hyderabad. Luxury French crystal giant Daum. The event is being hosted by Sudha Reddy, prominent philanthropist, businesswoman, and fervent art patron.
Daum, founded in 1878, is famous for its pâte de verre technique, a rare and intricate glassmaking process that has made the brand unique in the world of luxury crystal art. With a legacy of collaborating with some of the greatest artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, Daum’s masterpieces are cherished by collectors and art aficionados around the world. The Hyderabad launch marks a milestone, bringing the brand’s exquisite craftsmanship to a discerning Indian audience.
The evening was graced by an elite guest list that included prominent art collectors, architects, and design experts, all of whom were mesmerized by Daum’s extraordinary creations. Among the notable attendees were Pinky Reddy, Kamini Saraf, art connoisseur Anju Modi, and architect Supraja Rao. Attendees were treated to a showcase of the brand’s finest pieces, each reflecting a timeless fusion of artistry and craftsmanship.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudha Reddy said, “Art has always been a part of my life, and I really appreciate the brand’s commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship while innovating at the same time. Bringing this heritage brand to Hyderabad is truly special, as I believe the city’s connoisseurs will appreciate the sheer beauty and intricacy of these works.”
Launch evening celebrated creativity and luxury; in Daum’s India chapter, exciting things to look forward to. It all came together like an unbreakable mosaic while evening went along over specially crafted conversations, delicious fine hors d’oeuvres, and immersed art experience in a manner so befitting a glamorous and wonderful brand as Daum.
Indeed Reveals the Top Job Trends for 2025 in India
Bangalore, 13 February: For years, India’s job market has been synonymous with tech—software engineers, data scientists, and AI specialists have dominated hiring trends. But in 2025, Architects lead the top spot.
Indeed, the global matching and hiring platform today announced its annual list of the Best Jobs for 2025 in India. Architects are now the most in-demand professionals in the country, with an 81% increase in the share of jobs posted YoY and an average annual salary of ₹1,495,353. The ranking, based on job postings, salary trends, and growth potential, highlights how India’s rapid urbanization, infrastructure boom, and push for sustainable construction are reshaping hiring priorities. As metros expand, smart cities take shape, and companies invest in energy-efficient office spaces, architects are at the centre of this transformation.
“For the first time in years, a non-tech role has topped our Best Jobs list,” says Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales at Indeed India. “India’s growing cities, new commercial hubs, and booming real estate are driving demand for architects who can design the future.”
Tech & data roles still dominate the list
While AI continues to dominate conversations around the future of work, foundational technology roles play a critical part in ensuring that the technology ecosystem remains robust, secure, and scalable. From Data Engineers and Data Analysts who manage and decode vast datasets to Site Reliability Engineers and Technical Consultants who maintain system stability, these jobs are essential in keeping businesses agile, efficient, and future-ready. With organizations prioritizing operational efficiency and resilience, professionals in these tech roles are not only shaping India’s tech industry but also paving the way for long-term digital transformation.
Mr. Kumar adds “As India enters 2025, —tech remains dominant, but fields like architecture, project management, and urban planning are gaining ground. The demand for professionals who can design, build, and sustain India’s growth story is higher than ever.”
Methodology:
Indeed compiled this list by including jobs with an average base salary for full-time roles in India and growth in the share of postings from 2023 to 2024.
ISDM Opens Doors for Aspiring Leaders with PGP in Development Management Admissions
New Delhi, 13 February 2025 – The Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has announced the commencement of admissions for its flagship Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP-DM) for the 2025 cohort. As India’s social sector continues to face a glaring leadership gap, ISDM’s program offers a pathway for aspiring changemakers to step into impactful roles across the country’s diverse social sector landscape.
Recent studies, highlight a growing need for trained professionals who can balance mission-driven goals with operational efficiency. Unlike traditional management programs focused on corporate growth, ISDM’s PGP in Development Management blends rigorous academics with experiential learning. It equips individuals with strategic planning, financial management, and policy engagement skills—preparing them for leadership roles in social purpose organizations, philanthropy, and impact-driven enterprises.
The PGP-DM is a unique 11-month program that integrates management principles with the complexities of social impact, ensuring students emerge as professionals equipped to navigate the challenges of today’s world with empathy, strategy, and resilience. With a 100% placement rate and partnerships with over 350 leading organizations, ISDM graduates have gone on to work with Save the Children, ICICI Foundation, Reliance Foundation, CSRBox, Dr Reddy’s Foundation, Lend A Hand India, PRADAN and many other social purpose organisations.
Ravi Sreedharan, the Founder of ISDM, remarked, “At ISDM, we have been working on Talent, Knowledge and Practice of Development Management in India for the last 10 years. Today, as a leading institution for Development Management in the country, our students from the first 7 batches have been grabbed by the sector as reflected by 100% Campus Placements with the highest average salaries in the sector. Today, the alums of ISDM are working in India and elsewhere in International, National and Local Social Purpose Organizations besides several who have started their own social enterprises. Our aspiration is to produce a cadre of Development Management professionals with the required knowledge, attitude and skills to solve the most complex problems facing society and the planet”.
Through initiatives like the Realising India field immersion, where students engage directly with grassroots realities, and mentorship opportunities with industry veterans, ISDM ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges. ISDM’s approach to education is deeply personal and transformative, encouraging students to reflect inward, challenge preconceived notions, unlearn outdated beliefs, and embrace new perspectives, forming a strong foundation for meaningful change.
Aspiring leaders ready to make a difference can now apply for the 2025 intake. This program is a perfect opportunity for individuals who are ready to step into roles that require courage, creativity, and a strong sense of responsibility toward the greater good. Detailed information and the application form are available on ISDM’s website.
Adidas Expands Its Star Power by Adding Rishabh Pant as Brand Ambassador
New Delhi, 12th February 2025 – adidas today announced a multiyear partnership with Indian Cricket team star, Rishabh Pant. With this announcement, Pant joins adidas’ elite athlete roster which includes- Jude Bellingham, Noa Lyles, Kuldeep Yadav, Nikhat Zareen, Sumit Antil, Manika Batra and more. Known for his resilience and never give up attitude, Rishabh Pant is one of Indian cricket’s leading names, loved by fans across generations. Pant resonates commitment and self-belief, which reflects in his game on the pitch, inspiring others around him.
adidas has a rich history of iconic partnerships with cricket legends from India, including Sachin Tendulkar and, more recently, Rohit Sharma, who has been a long-time partner with the brand. Now, Rishabh Pant is ready to carry the legacy forward as adidas names him its newest partner. Having been an adidas athlete from 2016 to 2019, Pant now makes a return to the 3 stripes as the brand looks to further strengthen its presence in the world of cricket.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mr Neelendra Singh, General Manager, adidas India, said, “At adidas, we have always stood by athletes through every step of their journey—supporting them in their moments of triumph and resilience alike. Rishabh’s fearless spirit, determination, and unwavering commitment to the game make him a true embodiment of what adidas stands for. We are excited to welcome him back to the adidas family and support his continued success.”
Expressing his thoughts, Rishabh Pant, shared, “I am excited to be partnering with adidas, a brand I truly admire. I believe we have a shared vision of inspiring athletes and people at large, to trust themselves and never give up while marching towards the goal. I’m looking forward to this journey with adidas, empowering the next generation of athletes and making a meaningful impact in the world of sports.”
With a history of working with top athletes across sports, including cricket, football, athletics, and tennis, adidas continues to be at the forefront of sporting excellence. The addition of Rishabh Pant to its athlete lineup further solidifies adidas’ continued dedication to sports and its commitment to fuelling the aspirations of the country’s young and aspiring athletes.
Navneet Education Limited Debuts ‘Navneet AI,’ Paving the Way for Intelligent Learning
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: Navneet Education Limited, a leader in the education sector, is excited to announce the launch of Navneet AI, an innovative platform designed to empower teachers with easy access to knowledge and resources. Leveraging Navneet’s extensive catalogue of educational materials, Navneet AI’s tools will help teachers deliver lessons more effectively by offering an interactive, user-friendly platform to create quizzes, homework, PPTs, Flashcards, summaries, and more.
For decades, teachers and students across India have relied on Navneet’s renowned educational resources, including the popular Navneet Digests, comprehensive workbooks, Navneet 21 Most Likely Question Sets, Pre-Primary and various Children’s books. Navneet AI is based on 50,000+ Navneet resources and delivers interactive output to make classes more engaging and effective. By equipping teachers with a powerful tool to enhance classroom experiences, Navneet Education aims to bridge traditional educational resources with modern technology.
“Our goal with Navneet AI is to make learning resources more accessible and adaptable to the needs of today’s educators,” said Devish Gala, Director – Branding, Marketing and Sales at Navneet Education Limited. “By integrating digital technology with trusted content, we support teachers in their mission to inspire young minds. Navneet AI represents our commitment to staying current with technological advancements and catering to evolving educational demands.”
Harshil Gala, CEO TopTech, Navneet Education Limited says, “With Navneet AI, we are revolutionizing the ways education is delivered, making learning more interactive and engaging for both teachers and students. At Navneet, we have always been at the forefront of innovation in education, and with this tool, we are taking a bold step towards the future, where technology empowers educators and enhances student learning outcomes like never before.”
Navneet AI is India’s first custom education model. In a world where generic AI chatbots are being marketed as study assistants for students, Navneet has deliberately chosen to create a platform designed specifically to support teachers. It operates on a multi-agent architecture, where each specialized agent plays a key role in shaping the output. These include the Curriculum Alignment Agent, Content Structuring Agent, Visual Design Agent, Assessment Creation Agent, Quality Verification Agent, and others, working together to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness in educational content.
This ensures strong alignment with educational standards and provides a solid foundation for effective learning. All of this is made possible by leveraging Navneet’s trusted content, built over six decades. This innovation is backed by years of expertise and experience, making it both groundbreaking and cost-effective, from innovation to delivery.
Navneet Education Limited will also host a series of workshops, titled ‘Q&AI’ with Navneet AI to introduce the platform to educators and guide them in maximising its potential. The workshops aim to provide hands-on experience, answer teachers’ questions, and ensure educators feel confident using the platform to enrich their teaching methods.
As the education landscape continues to evolve, Navneet is proud to offer teachers a digital assistant with tools that combine its legacy of academic excellence with the promise of digital innovation. With Navneet AI, the company reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of learning in India, blending tradition with technology to create a brighter, smarter classroom experience.
Chanda Kochhar Opens Up in ‘Journey Unscripted’
Mumbai, February 12th, 2025 – Chanda Kochhar, a visionary leader and one of the most influential voices in India’s corporate landscape is set to launch her much-anticipated podcast, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’. This YouTube series, premiering on 13th February 2025, brings forth insightful conversations with trailblazers from diverse fields, capturing the moments of grit and grace that have shaped their journeys.
“As someone having navigated an unconventional journey, I believe in the power of real and candid conversations to inspire and connect,” said Chanda Kochhar. “Every experience, whether planned or unplanned, shapes who we are, and through this series I hope to bring out the defining moments that make each journey truly extraordinary.”
Executed by The Salt Inc., the series offers a refreshing take on unfiltered conversations, inviting viewers to reflect on their own paths while drawing inspiration from remarkable individuals. Neena Dasgupta, CEO and Co-Founder of The Salt Inc., said, “Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ is about conversations that are real and relatable. Chanda Kochhar’s engaging presence and keen perspective bring out the essence of each guest’s journey in a way that is both inspiring and heartfelt. We are excited to be a part of this show and it is fascinating to see how meaningful conversations bring amazing insights.”
The series kicks off with a leading Indian entrepreneur – the founder and chairman of a Fortune India 500 company, whose journey sets the stage for an engaging lineup of distinguished guests. Whether through stories of perseverance, unconventional choices, or bold ambitions, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ offers viewers an opportunity to connect with real-life experiences that inspire and resonate. With its blend of candid conversations and compelling narratives, the series is a must-watch for those seeking insights, motivation, and a deeper understanding of the journeys of personalities from diverse fields. The first episode of the series will air on YouTube on 13th February 2025, making these insightful conversations accessible to a wide audience.
South Indian Bank Clinches 5 Awards at the 20th Annual IBA Technology Awards
New Delhi, 12 February 2025: South Indian Bank (SIB), well known for its novel contributions in banking technology, was recognised at the 20th edition of the Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024. The awards reflect SIB’s commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric digital solutions.
The Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024, were part of the Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations, organised by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). The awards recognise organisations that have brought in transformational changes in their businesses by adopting modern digital solutions. At a glittering ceremony on January 24 in Mumbai, SIB was declared the winner in the category of ‘Best Tech Talent & Organization’. Additionally, SIB received a special mention in the categories of ‘Best Digital Sales, Payments & Engagement’, ‘Best IT Risk Management’ and ‘Best Fintech, & DPI Adoption’. Moreover, the Bank was adjudged runners-up in the ‘Best Financial Inclusion’ category.
Mr. P R Seshadri, MD & CEO, South Indian Bank, expressed joy at the achievement, “We are honoured to receive these prestigious recognitions from the IBA yet again. These awards underscore our commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, drive financial inclusion, and ensure secure digital transactions. The awards acknowledge our efforts toward nurturing talent and building a strong tech team. It encourages us to continue our drive of continuous innovation, uncovering novel banking solutions for all our stakeholders, while also affirming our position as a forward-thinking financial institution.”
Cyient DLM to Begin Production for Boeing Under New Contract
Hyderabad, February 12, 2025: Cyient DLM, an integrated partner for design-led manufacturing, has signed a production contract with Boeing Global Services (BGS) for precision-machined parts and assemblies, marking a key milestone in their partnership.
This precision machining project awarded to Cyient DLM by BGS highlights Cyient DLM’s growing capabilities in delivering high-precision components to the aerospace sector.
Anthony Montalbano, CEO, Cyient DLM, said, “This contract with Boeing is a significant achievement for Cyient DLM, showcasing our advanced manufacturing capabilities and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are honoured to collaborate with Boeing, a global leader in aerospace, and we look forward to strengthening this relationship by consistently delivering products that meet the highest industry standards.”
Cyient DLM’s achievement underscores its position as a trusted partner in the Aerospace and Defense sector. The company is among the first AS9100C aerospace-certified electronic manufacturing facilities and the first in India to obtain the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) certification for Circuit Card Assembly (CCA).
With over 30 years of experience, Cyient DLM specializes in manufacturing prototypes, small-batch production, box builds, and complete sub-assemblies and assemblies involving precision machining and detailed integration. The company also excels in additive manufacturing (3D printing) for proof-of-concept designs, design verification, and functional testing.