Experience Untamed Wilderness in “Born to Be Wild”: Premiering on History TV18
Get ready for an exhilarating, heart-pounding journey that takes survival to extremes with Born to be Wild, a three-part adventure series premiering on Friday, 31st January 2025, 7:05 PM on History TV18. Hosted by the daring and dynamic adventurer Andrew Ucles, who has reached over 2 million people through his YouTube page, this show redefines wildlife exploration, bringing audiences face-to-face with some of the planet’s most untamed creatures in remote landscapes.
In this adrenaline-fueled series, Andrew Ucles, an Australian survivalist, animal expert, and filmmaker, pushes the limits of human endurance to bring viewers closer to nature’s wonders. Join him as explores the dense jungles of South America, the plains and wetlands of Africa, and the rugged outback of Australia. With just a handy cam and sheer grit, he gives viewers an up-close-and-personal look at wildlife and survival like never before.
Watch Andrew navigate the perilous Amazon rainforest in Peru as he braves this unforgiving “green hell” for a month. From dancing with an anteater, to discovering a venomous snake known locally as “The Landmine” and being bitten by a caiman in the river, he pushes the boundaries of his stamina, safety and sanity!
In Africa, Andrew sets out on a mission to find 12 animals in 7 days, including Africa’s Big Five, elephants, hippos and more! Journey headfirst into the Zambian wilderness with him, as he finds himself getting stalked by lions, in a close standoff with a spitting cobra, and being chased by elephants. How many times can he push his luck to come away unharmed in a battle with some of the most dangerous creatures?
And finally, join Andrew on an awe-inspiring journey across Australia’s harsh northern terrain, Arnhem Land, where survival means battling crocodiles and tracking feral buffalo. Will this remote, semi-arid landscape break him, or will he conquer Australia’s last frontier?
For Indian audiences fascinated by diverse ecosystems and wildlife, Born to Be Wild offers a riveting look at how similar human and animal survival instincts are. The series offers a blend of education and entertainment served with warmth, action and humour. At its heart, the show is about connecting with nature, understanding its fragility, and appreciating its raw beauty. Marvel at our wild planet, and realise the power of human determination, starting 31st January, on History TV18.
Genius Consultant Survey Examines Key Trends in Workforce Dynamics and Productivity
31st January 2025: – Genius Consultants, a leading Workforce Staffing and HR Solutions provider, has released its December 2024 Survey Report, offering a comprehensive analysis of workplace trends by evaluating the labour welfare and productivity of daily workplaces. The latest survey focuses on productivity, work-life balance, and the integration of employee-centric and employer-driven policies. The findings, based on responses from 1,132 employees and 1,011 employers, shed light on the evolving dynamics in workplaces across industries.
The survey reveals that organizations are making notable efforts to address employee needs, but there remain critical areas for improvement. 23% of employees report that their organizations frequently provide opportunities for skill development or upskilling, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of professional growth as a priority. However, 28% of employees feel these opportunities are provided only occasionally, while 27% state they are rare, suggesting a gap in consistent engagement. This highlights how upskilling and regular training is still not being emphasized by many organizations and the same is yet to be focused on.
Work-life balance have emerged as another focal point, with 31% of respondents indicating satisfaction with their organization’s efforts in this area. However, 23% feel that these efforts are inadequate, and 16% are unsure, highlighting the need for better communication and implementation of policies supporting balance. This sheds a light on the current scenario of the need for work-life balance that employees are demanding against the expectations of few organizations from their employees to put in higher work hours.
Regarding workplace safety, 40% of employees believe that their organizations are effectively addressing safety concerns, but 33% express dissatisfaction, citing insufficient measures. This emphasizes the critical need for robust safety protocols to foster a secure work environment.
When asked about productivity support measures such as tools and training, 30% of respondents report satisfaction, while 15% feel the support was insufficient, underscoring the importance of comprehensive and accessible resources.
Employers however, have expressed a commitment to productivity and welfare, though challenges persist in aligning policies with employee needs. Monitoring productivity have emerged as a key focus, with 35% of employers reporting effective systems to track and support employee output. However, 30% have admitted to gaps in these systems, while 16% are uncertain about their effectiveness, indicating room for optimization.
Labour welfare policies remain a priority, with 60% of employers emphasizing mental health initiatives, workplace inclusivity, and employee benefits. Nonetheless, 20% of employers have noted barriers in implementing these policies, including budgetary constraints and lack of organizational support.
The survey also reveals challenges in executing welfare initiatives, with 23% of employers stating implementation is moderately challenging, while 49% find it highly challenging due to resource limitations. Only 13% of employers consider implementation easy, pointing to systemic hurdles in workforce welfare.
Policy updates for improving productivity and welfare are reported by 50% of employers as occurring annually and 16% of employers have reported bi-annual implementation, demonstrating proactive efforts to adapt to changing workforce needs. However, 22% admit to infrequent updates, reflecting the need for more agile policy frameworks.
When enquired about the support provided by the local and state policies for labour & welfare and productivity, 33% of employers have confirmed being highly satisfied with the support followed by 15% who have expressed satisfactory feedback towards the local & state policies. However, while 37% remained neutral in expressing their views, 15% of the employers have voiced dissatisfaction towards the local & state labour welfare and productivity policies, highlighting the need to focus on the same.
Commenting on the findings, Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director of Genius Consultants, said, “These survey results serve as a wake-up call for organizations to intensify their focus on employee satisfaction and welfare. While there are commendable efforts in skill development and policy updates, there is much work to be done to ensure workplaces are inclusive, supportive, and aligned with evolving employee expectations. At Genius Consultants, we are committed to empowering organizations to achieve these goals and create thriving workplaces.”
The Digipoll Survey Report highlights the strides organizations are making to improve workforce engagement and productivity, while also uncovering critical gaps in implementation. It underscores the need for consistent upskilling, better work-life balance, and enhanced welfare policies to build resilient, future-ready workplaces.
Shri Rohan A. Khaunte Advocates for Youth Empowerment and Job Creation at IDEAS 3.0
Verna January, 2025: Padre Conceicao College of Engineering (PCCE), Verna, organized the IDEAS 3.0 – 2025 Intra College Project Competition on 24th and 25th January. This two-day event celebrated creativity and innovation with a showcase of projects blending science, innovative and cutting edge technology.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, along with other dignitaries including Mr. D.S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup and IT Promotion Cell; Mr. Neville Noronha, OSD to the Minister; Dr. Mahesh B. Parappagoudar, Principal of PCCE; and Fr. Agnelo Gomes, Director of Agnel Technical Education Complex.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the creativity and innovation showcased at IDEAS 2025, organized by Padre Conceicao College of Engineering. Technology is evolving and the forward-thinking approach displayed here highlights the potential of Goa’s youth to reach new levels of achievement with fresh ideas. Through our Startup and IT Policies, we are supporting students by providing financial assistance to promote their ideas. Special schemes have been introduced for girls, ensuring they have access to platforms that enable them to excel in innovation. As we work towards Viksit Bharat 2047, we are also focusing on building Digital India and Digital Goa. With strong connectivity and robust infrastructure, we are creating an environment where young minds like yours can build successful ventures right here in Goa. Our goal is to transform youth from job seekers into job givers, leveraging the opportunities in the field of technology. This can only be achieved by working together.”
Initially, 100 innovative ideas were pitched, and after several stages of shortlisting, PCCE selected 30 projects to be showcased at the event. Approximately 60 higher secondary and secondary schools have been invited, with around 48 projects being exhibited by school children from across Goa. Over the course of 30 days, students transformed their concepts into solutions, demonstrating the immense potential of Goa’s young minds. Some of the projects included Aero-Swift, GLS King, Hovercraft, and various other innovative applications of technology, reflecting the diverse creativity of these students.
In addition to the project exhibition, the event included four engaging competitions for school and higher secondary students: Science Expo, BGIM, AR/VR Cricket, and Brainiac Battle. Workshops on Design Thinking, Idea Generation, and Business Model Canvas were also held, offering participants valuable insights into entrepreneurship and business development. The two-day event served as a unique platform for students, faculty, and alumni to connect with mentors, investors, and industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience and insights into industry standards. Students were encouraged to incorporate sustainable goals into their projects, aligning their ideas with environmental issues and practical applications in daily life.
ZELIO E Mobility Partners with ECOFY to Enable Eco-Conscious Financing for Electric Vehicle Customers
Haryana, 31 January 2025: ZELIO E Mobility, a leading player in India’s electric two-wheeler market, has announced a strategic partnership with Ecofy, India’s first green-focused Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC). This tie-up aims to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible and affordable for customers across the country, enabling them to purchase ZELIO’s popular models, including the X-Men, Gracy, Eeva, and Mystery. The partnership comes shortly after ZELIO’s association with LoanTap, a leading online personal loan platform, further enhancing their financing options for customers.
The Ecofy financing scheme offers a host of benefits for ZELIO E Mobility’s dealers, providing them with tools to boost sales and engage with customers effectively. Customers can enjoy low-interest rates, a quick approval process, and customizable EMI options, making EV purchases more accessible. The entirely digital and paperless financing process allows for a smooth, hassle-free loan application, setting it apart from traditional methods. Additionally, the accessibility of the Loan & EMI Monitoring App ensures customers stay informed and in control of their repayment schedules.
Mr. Kunal Arya, Co-Founder and Managing Director of ZELIO E Mobility Ltd., stated, “As the demand for electric two-wheelers rises, many customers are seeking affordable financing options to manage the upfront cost of these vehicles. Our partnership with Ecofy directly addresses this need by offering flexible and competitive financing plans, making electric two-wheelers more accessible. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to promoting sustainable mobility and providing customers with a seamless path to adopting eco-friendly transportation solutions.”
ZELIO E Mobility is committed to ensuring that its dealers have the resources they need to successfully promote and explain ECOFY’s financing options. Dealers will undergo specialized training programs to fully understand the financing products and assist customers in navigating the application process. Digital tools such as QR codes will simplify loan access, and dedicated field support will be available to address any questions. Marketing materials, including brochures and posters, will help dealers communicate the financial and environmental benefits of eco-friendly purchases effectively.
To further incentivize customers, special promotions and limited-time offers will be available under the ECOFY financing scheme. These promotions include lower interest rates, extended loan tenures, and waived processing fees, all designed to encourage more people to make the shift to electric two-wheelers. ZELIO E Mobility also plans to monitor the success of its partnership with Ecofy through several key performance indicators, including sales metrics, customer satisfaction, and dealership performance.
Since its inception, ZELIO E Mobility has established itself as a frontrunner in the electric two-wheeler market. With a customer base of over 200,000 riders and more than 273 dealerships, ZELIO is rapidly growing its presence across India. The EV two-wheeler brand is focused on expanding its market share and reaching more customers, with plans to increase its dealership network to 400 locations by March 2025.
CIO CHOICE 2025 Celebrates IceWarp as the Most Trusted Brand in Enterprise Email
Mumbai, India – January 31, 2025 – IceWarp has been recognized with the CIO CHOICE 2025 Honor and Recognition as the most Trusted ICT Brand by CIOs and Digital Leaders in the Enterprise Email category.
Now in its 13th year, CIO CHOICE continues to be the most prestigious and only discovery recognition platform, honoring ICT brands for their excellence in product and service innovation, customer-centric approaches, and efficient delivery, selected based on the stated preferences of CIOs and ICT Decision Makers.
This distinguished recognition was bestowed at the exclusive CIO CHOICE 2025 Red Carpet Night, produced by CORE Media, with KPMG as the Knowledge Partner.
This year’s event brought together over 400 CIOs and Digital Leaders from across the country, making it a truly remarkable gathering of industry influencers.
CIO CHOICE is known as the ‘Seal of Trust,’ given to ICT brands by the very CIOs and Digital Leaders who rely on them.
The winning brands are selected through a unique pan-India voting platform, where CIOs and Digital Leaders nominate and vote for their most trusted and preferred brands, based on their firsthand experiences and top-of-mind recall. A distinguished Advisory Panel of seasoned CIOs from various industry sectors oversees and guides the entire process, ensuring its integrity and credibility.
This year’s advisory panel consisted of 10 distinguished CIOs and Digital Technology leaders:
- Aasish Kshetry, CIO & VP – IT, Asian Paints
- Dheeraj Sinha, EVP and Global CIO, Sun Pharma
- Jyothirlatha B, CTO, Godrej Capital
- Narendra Sonawane, SVP, Global Head, IS, Infosys
- Ramesh Narayanaswamy, CTO, Aditya Birla Capital
- Rohit Kilam, CTO, HDFC Life
- Rucha Nanavati, CIO, Mahindra Group
- Subhash Kelkar, CIO, BSE
- Vinod Sivrama Krishnan, CDIO, Essar Capital
- Vishal Bhatia, CDO, Canara Bank
Anoop Mathur, Founder of CORE Media said “Congratulations to IceWarp for earning the prestigious CIO CHOICE 2025 Trust Seal. This recognition is a true reflection of the brand‘s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to enterprise customers. The trust bestowed upon IceWarp by India’s CIOs and Digital Leaders, amidst shifting consumer trends in a dynamic economy, is truly commendable. In a time where technology propels business advancement, the CIO Choice accolade solidifies IceWarp‘s position as an industry pioneer.”
The Future of Pharma and MedTech: Key Trends to Watch in 2025
The pharmaceutical (Pharma) and medical technology (MedTech) industries are evolving rapidly, driven by technological innovations, shifting regulatory landscapes, and changing patient needs. Here are some of the top trends to watch in 2025:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Integration
Drug Discovery & Development: AI and ML are accelerating drug discovery, identifying promising drug candidates faster and at lower costs by analyzing vast amounts of data to predict molecular behavior.
Personalized Medicine: AI tools help tailor treatments based on individual genetic profiles, improving efficacy and minimizing side effects.
Diagnostic Tools: AI-powered imaging and diagnostic systems are enhancing the accuracy and speed of disease detection, especially in fields like oncology and cardiology.
2. Sustainability and Green Practices
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Both Pharma and MedTech companies are focusing on reducing their environmental impact by transitioning to biodegradable, recyclable, and eco-friendly packaging for drugs and medical devices.
Sustainable Manufacturing: With growing attention on reducing carbon footprints, the focus is shifting toward green chemistry and sustainable manufacturing processes in drug and device production.
3. Regenerative Medicine & Cell Therapies
Stem Cell Research: Advances in stem cell therapies are opening new possibilities in the treatment of chronic diseases, injuries, and age-related conditions.
Gene Editing: Technologies like CRISPR are becoming more refined, offering potential for curing genetic disorders and personalizing treatments.
Tissue Engineering: The development of bioprinted tissues and organs, along with other regenerative techniques, may reduce organ shortages and provide alternatives to traditional organ transplants.
4. AI-Driven Healthcare Robotics
Surgical Robots: Robots are becoming more precise and minimally invasive in surgeries, leading to faster recovery times and fewer complications. Robotic surgeries and automated assistance tools are expected to see widespread adoption.
Robotic Caregiving: Robots designed to assist elderly or disabled individuals with daily tasks are gaining traction, improving quality of life and reducing caregiver burden.
5. Telemedicine & Remote Patient Monitoring
Post-Pandemic Growth: Telehealth remains a key trend, with many healthcare systems adopting it as a permanent feature. Remote consultations, monitoring, and follow-up care are streamlining healthcare delivery.
Wearables & IoT Devices: Wearables that track vital signs, glucose levels, heart rate, and other metrics will continue to grow, offering real-time data that can be used for early intervention.
Virtual Clinical Trials: The use of telemedicine and remote monitoring in clinical trials enables a wider pool of participants, reduces costs, and allows for quicker recruitment and data collection.
6. Advanced Diagnostics & Point-of-Care Testing
Non-Invasive Tests: Advancements in diagnostic tools, including liquid biopsies and home diagnostic kits, allow for non-invasive testing to detect diseases earlier, such as cancers, heart conditions, and infections.
Point-of-Care (POC) Devices: Devices that provide real-time diagnostic results at the point of care, such as in clinics, pharmacies, or even at home, are expected to become more advanced and accessible.
7. Digitization and Data Analytics in Pharma
Big Data in Pharma: Data analytics is becoming essential in understanding patient outcomes, streamlining drug development, optimizing manufacturing processes, and enhancing supply chain management.
Real-World Evidence: Real-world data is being used to better understand drug efficacy and patient outcomes beyond controlled clinical trials, leading to more informed regulatory decisions and treatment plans.
8. Mental Health and Digital Therapeutics
Mental Health Focus: There is growing recognition of mental health conditions, particularly in the context of the post-pandemic world. Digital therapeutic solutions, such as apps and online platforms for managing conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD, are gaining prominence.
Psychiatric Digital Health: Digital tools for therapy and medication management, along with advancements in neurostimulation devices and wearables, will shape mental health care in 2025 and beyond.
SILA Pioneers a Movement to Change How India Sees Cleanliness Workers
Mumbai, 31 January 2025: SILA, a leading player in facility management and real estate services, has teamed up with Schbang to launch a ground-breaking campaign that challenges societal perceptions of housekeepers. This initiative encourages audiences to reflect on their behaviours and biases, driving home the importance of treating housekeeping staff with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Despite the societal acknowledgment of housekeepers’ contributions, genuine respect often remains superficial. SILA and Schbang’s campaign seeks to disrupt this cycle by illuminating everyday hypocrisies and encouraging people to align their actions with their words.
The key component of this effort is a thought-provoking film ‘Sachh Hi Swachh Hai’ put together by Schbang. The narrative centers on a professional who, while fervently advocating for cleanliness workers in a work conference, unintentionally exposes his own prejudices at home. He is forced to consider his behaviour after having this epiphany, which results in the moving message:
“Swachh Banane Se Pehle Hume Sach Banna Hoga.”
The film emphasizes SILA’s continued commitment to transforming lives, as the company has already trained and employed over 27,000 Facility Management professionals in 125 cities across India.
Instant Payouts Now Available in India: Runa Enhances Cross-Border Payment Solutions
Runa, the leading global fintech infrastructure for the next generation of payouts experiences, today announced its expansion into India, opening access to the country’s $8.9 billion gift card market. With this expansion, Runa allows its business customers the ability to easily send instant, domestic and cross-border payouts to consumer recipients in India, dramatically reducing the traditional barriers of cost and complexity.
India’s rapid digital payment transformation—expanding at a notable rate of 44% CAGR by transaction volume from 2017 to 2024—paired with a surge in cross-border consumer transactions, which grew by 121% in the last nine months of 2024 alone, has created a strong demand for alternative consumer payout solutions.
By unlocking access to India, Runa emerges as a strategic partner for companies looking to tap into India’s thriving gift card sector for consumer disbursement, rewards, recognition and incentives. With the Indian market growing by 15.3% year over year, Runa enables companies to simplify regulatory compliance, reduce foreign exchange risks, and provide flexible funding options when sending funds to Indian recipients.
“We’re proud to bring Runa to India, where digital payments and gift cards are transforming how people connect and transact,” said Aron Alexander, CEO of Runa. “India’s fast-growing market is full of opportunity, and we’re here to help businesses effortlessly join one of the world’s most exciting economies and connect with millions of new consumers.”
Through Runa’s technology, businesses can now deliver instant payouts via an expansive network of thousands of global and leading Indian merchants, including e-commerce giants like Amazon, Flipkart, Shoppers Stop and popular digital wallets like Amazon Pay. Runa’s customers benefit from:
- Real-Time Payouts: A streamlined solution for instant payments, eliminating the delays and costs associated with traditional cross-border transactions.
- Flexible Funding & Foreign Exchange Options: Mitigation of capital control risks and seamless transactions without the need to hold Indian Rupees.
- Built-in Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive handling of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, GST regulations, and data protection requirements.
- Extensive Merchant Network: A single integration granting access to top Indian and global merchants.
The expansion comes at a pivotal time, as The International Trade Administration reports that India is experiencing a digital payments revolution and e-commerce boom, fueled by rapid smartphone adoption, 650 million users in 2024, and internet connectivity extending to more than 950 million people.
“Runa has done all of the heavy lifting to pave the way for us to launch in India, sourcing popular merchants and alleviating the hassles and compliance challenges,” said Mike Bowles, Senior Director of Operations at Augeo Marketing. “We’re looking forward to launching our program into the Indian market.”
Praj announces Q3 FY25 results: Revenue at Rs. 8,530.279 million, PAT at Rs. 411.044 million
Performance Review for Q3 FY25 – Consolidated:
- Income from operations stood at Rs. 8,530.279 million (Q2 FY25: Rs. 8,161.920 million; Q3 FY24: Rs. 8,286.226 million)
- PBT is at Rs. 588.220 million for the period (Q2 FY25: Rs. 744.419 million; Q3 FY24: Rs. 919.217 million)
- PAT is at Rs. 411.044 million (Q2 FY25: Rs. 538.310 million; Q3 FY24: 704.143 million)
- Order intake during the quarter Rs.10,530 million (Q2 FY25: 9,210 million; Q3 FY24: Rs. 10,370 million)
Performance Review for 9M FY25 – Consolidated:
- Income from operations stood at Rs. 23,683.613 million (9M FY24: Rs. 24,477.138 million)
- PBT is at Rs. 2,121.444 million for the period (9M FY24: Rs. 2,544.371 million)
- PAT is at Rs. 1,791.161 million (9M FY24: Rs. 1,914.548 million)
- Order intake Rs. 28,620 million (9M FY24: Rs. 32,010 million)
Commenting on the Company’s performance, Mr. Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, Praj Industries said, “Our performance this quarter reflects resilience of the business in face of challenges on account of global volatility and uncertainty in the economy. On the strategic vectors, the company continues its positive journey as reflected in growing order book as well as constitution of orders in favour of increasing international business. Initial delays in readying the Mangalore facility have impacted the planned business activity for the GenX business in the current year, which we expect to recover as we move forward through the next financial year.”
Key Developments:
- The Board at its meeting held today, approved an appointment of Mr. Ashish Gaikwad as Managing Director- Designate for period of 5 years with effect from 3rd February 2025 in order to ensure smooth transition as Mr. Shishir Joshipura (CEO & Managing Director) will be completing his tenure on 30th June 2025.
- India’s First National Highway constructed using Bio-Bitumen Developed byPrajwas inaugurated Hon’ble Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari. Roads constructed with lignin-based bio-bitumen, blended at 15% can achieve a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to conventional fossil-based bitumen.
- Prajboard has approved formation of JV with BPCL for setting up CBG plants across India. BPCL board has already approved this in their board meeting earlier this month.
- Received a significant international order to set up 50 KLPD Molasses to Ethanol plant in Tanzania, Africa.
Praj Industries Limited: Praj, India’s most accomplished industrial biotechnology company is driven by innovation, integration and delivery capabilities. Over the past four decades, Praj has focused on the environment, energy, and agri-process industry, with 1000++ customer references spanning 100+ countries across all 6 continents. BioMobility® and Bio-Prism® are the mainstays of Praj’s contribution to the global Bioeconomy. The BioMobility® platform offers technology solutions globally to produce renewable transportation fuel, thus ensuring sustainable decarbonization through circular bioeconomy. The company’s Bio-Prism® portfolio comprises of technologies for the production of renewable chemicals and materials, promises sustainability, while reimagining nature. Praj Matrix, the state-of-the-art R&D facility, forms the backbone for the company’s endeavors towards a clean energy-based Bioeconomy. Praj’s diverse portfolio comprises Bio-energy solutions, Critical process equipment & modularization, Breweries, Zero liquid discharge systems and High purity water systems. Led by accomplished and caring leadership, Praj is a socially responsible corporate citizen.
APSEZ PAT grows 32%, crosses Rs 8,000 crores
Ahmedabad, 31 January 2025: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) today announced its results for the quarter and nine months ending 31st December 2024.
Particulars (Rs Cr) | Q3 FY25 | Q3 FY24 | YoY | 9M FY25 | 9M FY24 | YoY |
Cargo (MMT) | 113 | 109 | 4% | 332 | 311 | 7% |
Revenue | 7,964 | 6,920 | 15% | 22,590 | 19,814 | 14% |
EBITDA1 | 4,802 | 4,186 | 15% | 14,019 | 11,820 | 19% |
PAT2 | 2,518 | 2,208 | 14% | 8,038 | 6,089 | 32% |
“I am excited to share the fantastic momentum we have achieved during 9M FY25, driven by exceptional execution across 3 key areas of our business – market share gains coupled with volume-price mix increase, traction in logistics vertical, and operational efficiencies along with technology-led gains. On the logistics front, in line with our commitment earlier in the year, we launched a new trucking platform, which is being integrated across the rest of the logistics value chain and will make us a true integrated Transport Utility. We have also upgraded our FY25 EBITDA forecast to Rs 18,800-18,900 crores. Moreover, it is incredibly gratifying to be recognized by S&P Global CSA as one of the Top 10 companies globally in the transport industry. This prestigious recognition reflects our focus on imbibing sustainability across our operations,” said Mr. Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director & CEO, APSEZ.
Strategic highlights
- Started Trucking Management Solution (TMS), a technology platform that acts as a transformational marketplace + fulfilment solution to streamline supply chain for customers
- TMS offers an easy-to-use marketplace interface, handles end-to-end trucking workflows, can be seamlessly integrated with client systems, enables real-time tracking, and includes analytical tools for pricing and operational insights. TMS incorporates SLA-based fulfilment assurance across a wide range of fleet options, including full-load and partial-load shipments
- Closed Gopalpur and Astro Offshore transactions worth over Rs 4,600 crores
- Signed 30-year concession agreement to manage container terminal at Dar es Salaam Port, Tanzania
- Vizhinjam port commenced commercial operations, post extensive trials. During the trial period, the port handled 70+ vessels and 147,000+ containers
- Commenced O&M operations at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port’s Netaji Subhas dock
- Placed India’s largest order for eight harbour tugs with Cochin Shipyard. The contract value is estimated at Rs 450 crores and deliveries are scheduled to begin in December 2026 and continue until May 2028
Operational highlights
- APSEZ clocked 332 MMT (+7% YoY) cargo volume in 9M FY25 led by growth in containers (+19% YoY), liquids and gas (+8% YoY) and dry and dry bulk cargo (iron ore, limestone, minerals, coking coal, etc.), partially offset by decline in imported non-coking coal
- All-India cargo market share for 9M FY25 stood at 27.2% (up from 26.5% in FY24). Container market share for 9M FY25 stood at 45.2% (up from 44.2% in FY24)
- Logistics continued to demonstrate momentum with growth across container volume (0.48 Mn TEUs, +9% YoY), bulk cargo (16.1 MMT, +13% YoY) and container volume handled at MMLPs (3,33,419 TEUs, +19% YoY)
- During November ’24, Mundra handled 396 vessels and executed 845 vessel movements, making it the highest ever monthly achievement by the port. Mundra port also exported a record breaking 5,405 cars in a single consignment during the month
- Gangavaram port launched container terminal operations with the inaugural EXIM vessel call of MV Synergy Keelung
Financial highlights
- Operating revenue grew by 14% YoY to Rs 22,590 crores. Ports revenue increased by 11% YoY to Rs 17,172 crores; Logistics revenue increased by 22% to Rs 1,852 crores
- EBITDA (excluding forex) increased 19% to Rs 14,019 crores. EBITDA margin increased to 62% (from 60% during 9M FY24).
- FY25 EBITDA guidance revised to Rs 18,800-18,900 crores
- APSEZ continues to maintain excellent financial discipline – net debt to TTM EBITDA stood at 2.1x (vs 2.3x in FY24)
- ICRA Limited reaffirmed the credit rating of long-term – fund based/non-fund-based limit and non-convertible debentures as [ICRA] AAA; stable and commercial paper as [ICRA] A1+
- India Ratings & Research reaffirmed the credit rating of non-convertible debentures and bank loans (long-term) as IND AAA/Stable and commercial paper and bank loans (short-term) as IND A1+
- S&P Global Ratings reaffirmed its rating at BBB- and revised outlook to “Negative” during the quarter. Moody’s Ratings reaffirmed investment grade rating ‘Baa3’ and revised its outlook to negative during the quarter
- Fitch Ratings reaffirmed APSEZ rating at BBB- and placed the long-term foreign-currency issuer rating and US dollar senior unsecured bonds on Rating Watch Negative during the quarter
ESG highlights
- APSEZ was ranked among the Top 10 global transportation and transportation infrastructure companies in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA – scores as of 31st December), with a score of 68 (out of 100)—three points improvement over last year. APSEZ is now placed in the 97th percentile within the sector, improving from the 96th percentile in 2023.
- APSEZ was ranked among the Top 12 companies in transportation infrastructure by ISS ESG and was awarded ‘Prime’ status for the first time (making APSEZ equity and bond instruments eligible for responsible investments)
- APSEZ is targeting Net Zero by 2040. The company is on track to add 1,000 MW of new renewable capacity
- Krishnapatnam port received the 18th ICC Environment Excellence Award 2024 in the Platinum category demonstrating commitment to sustainability and responsible practices
Awards and accolades
- Mundra port received the ‘Shipping Terminal of the year Award’ at the 11th International Samudra Manthan Awards 2024
- Mundra port received ‘Port of the year – containerized cargo’ at the EXIM Star Awards 2024
- Mundra port was recognized at the Kutch Business Excellence Award 2.0 for excellence in infrastructure development and collaborative CSR projects
- Krishnapatnam port won the ‘Sustenance Organization Award’ at the QCFI Tirupati Chapter Meet. This award recognizes commitment to quality and continuous improvement
- Ocean Sparkle was awarded ‘The Maritime Standard Excellence Award’ at the Esteemed Star of the Industry Awards
- Ocean Sparkle was named as ‘Best Employer of Offshore Fleet’ at the Seajob Indian Anchor Awards 2024