Small Steps to Achieve a Big Vision: iLEAD Revives Lifeline Hospital in Sundarbans
Kolkata, 5th July 2025: iLEAD is transforming healthcare in Sundarbans by reviving a closed hospital on Gosaba island, serving over 1 million people. This initiative combines education, healthcare, and innovation to bring hope and healing to the region.
Bridging Gaps with Purpose and Passion
iLEAD’s Department of Allied Health Sciences recently organized health camps, including thalassemia screening, blood donation drives, and optometry checkups. A local blood bank is also being established to ensure timely access to life-saving resources.
A Campus Comes Together
This project is a classroom for compassion, involving undergraduate and postgraduate students from Optometry, Critical Care Technology, Hospital Management, Media Science, and Interior Design. Students will participate in healthcare service training, hospital infrastructure beautification, and patient communication planning.
Designed for Dignity. The hospital’s redesign and upgradation are being undertaken by a reputed hospital architect. Modern medical equipment is being donated by the Agarwal & Goenka family.
A Model of Sustainable Service
The hospital will operate on a non-profit but sustainable model, managed by iLEAD’s healthcare team and trained students, supported by telemedicine experts and local health professionals. This ensures long-term, dependable, and affordable healthcare for Sundarbans.
Join the Movement
iLEAD invites everyone to contribute to this charitable healthcare center. If you are a hospital or a diagnostic centre going for upgradation you can donate your equipments and Machines having residual life.Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of people in Sundarbans. The hospital aims to emulate China’s Agent Hospital model, which has achieved a 10x increase in virtual consultations and diagnoses.
Empowering Healthcare Professionals
iLEAD’s Allied Health Sciences Courses offer specializations in Optometry, Critical Care Technology, Hospital Management, and Medical Lab Technology. These courses empower students to make a real difference in healthcare.
iLEAD is transforming healthcare in Sundarbans by reviving a closed hospital on Gosaba island, serving over 1 million people. This initiative combines education, healthcare, and innovation to bring hope and healing to the region.
Bridging Gaps with Purpose and Passion
iLEAD’s Department of Allied Health Sciences recently organized health camps, including thalassemia screening, blood donation drives, and optometry checkups. A local blood bank is also being established to ensure timely access to life-saving resources.
A Campus Comes Together
This project is a classroom for compassion, involving undergraduate and postgraduate students from Optometry, Critical Care Technology, Hospital Management, Media Science, and Interior Design. Students will participate in healthcare service training, hospital infrastructure beautification, and patient communication planning.
Designed for Dignity. The hospital’s redesign and upgradation are being undertaken by a reputed hospital architect. Modern medical equipment is being donated by the Agarwal & Goenka family.
A Model of Sustainable Service
The hospital will operate on a non-profit but sustainable model, managed by iLEAD’s healthcare team and trained students, supported by telemedicine experts and local health professionals. This ensures long-term, dependable, and affordable healthcare for Sundarbans.
Join the Movement
iLEAD invites everyone to contribute to this charitable healthcare center. If you are a hospital or a diagnostic centre going for upgradation you can donate your equipments and Machines having residual life.Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of people in Sundarbans. The hospital aims to emulate China’s Agent Hospital model, which has achieved a 10x increase in virtual consultations and diagnoses.
Empowering Healthcare Professionals
iLEAD’s Allied Health Sciences Courses offer specializations in Optometry, Critical Care Technology, Hospital Management, and Medical Lab Technology. These courses empower students to make a real difference in healthcare.
Mahindra to Commence Deliveries of BE 6 and XEV 9e Pack Two from End-July
Chandigarh, July 5, 2025: Mahindra’s Electric Origin SUVs have become the EV market leaders in India by value. Thanks to overwhelming customer trust and enthusiasm, one Mahindra electric SUV is sold every 10 minutes across the country.
Building on this remarkable momentum, Mahindra is commencing deliveries of Pack Two for its acclaimed BE 6 and XEV 9e eSUVs from end-July at a compelling price of ₹21.90 Lakh. Responding to strong customer feedback, Pack Two will now have a 79 kWh battery option alongside the existing 59 kWh variant, delivering real-world city ranges of 500 km and 400 km respectively.
Both battery options come comprehensively equipped with Mahindra’s advanced technology suite, including a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos, a full glass roof, Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (Level 2 ADAS), the triple-screen wide cinemascope in XEV 9e, and race-ready Digital Cockpit in BE 6 — seamlessly blending innovation, safety, and modern luxury. In addition, Mahindra is enriching BE 6 Pack Two with the premium sage leatherette interiors from Pack Three, complemented by an elegant ivory roof finish to further enhance the cabin’s spacious and sophisticated feel.
All waiting customers will have the opportunity to upgrade their bookings to the new Pack Two 79 kWh variant if desired, reaffirming Mahindra’s commitment to delivering flexibility and customer choice.
Starting from ₹21.90 Lakh, Pack Two underscores Mahindra’s promise to democratise premium electric mobility while staying true to its design and technology leadership. Supported by Mahindra’s robust service network spanning over 300 locations across India, customers can drive with complete peace of mind, anywhere the road takes them.
Clinic Dermatech- Consistently Awarded India’s No. 1 Skin & Hair Clinic, 3 Years in a Row
New Delhi, July 4, 2025: Clinic Dermatech has been recognised as India’s No. 1 Skin & Hair Clinic at the National Prestige Awards 2025, held at Radisson Blu, Dwarka. The award was presented by Ms. Esha Deol, who attended the ceremony as Chief Guest, along with several dignitaries and industry leaders.
This is the third consecutive year Clinic Dermatech has received national-level recognition. After being named the best skin and hair clinic by The Times of India for two years in a row, this latest award is another reminder of how committed the team is to delivering great results and helping people feel confident in their skin.
Over the years, Clinic Dermatech has become a trusted destination for people looking for real results and expert care. With more than 2.5 million sessions completed to date, advanced technology, and a team of skilled dermatologists, their clinics offer a wide range of treatments including laser hair reduction, anti-ageing solutions, skin rejuvenation, and hair restoration. The focus remains on delivering results through non-surgical treatments that are safe and comfortable. Clinic Dermatech has led the Laser Hair Reduction industry for 19 years, consistently delivering top-tier results with world-class technology and earning 95%+ client satisfaction, the highest in the category.
The National Prestige Awards are known for celebrating excellence across industries. For Clinic Dermatech, this win isn’t just reflective of its current standing but the growing role of aesthetic services in the broader health and wellness landscape.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Rajesh Singh, COO at Clinic Dermatech, said, “Winning the title of India’s No. 1 Skin & Hair Clinic three times in a row is more than an achievement, it’s a reflection of our consistency, our commitment, and the trust our clients place in us. In the world of beauty and wellness, consistency creates transformation. Wellness is the new luxury. Beauty is how it shines through. Our vision is clear- to keep this legacy alive, year after year.’’
With clinics across major Indian cities and a clear roadmap for further growth, Clinic Dermatech is defining what modern skincare and hair care should look like: personalised, science-led, and most importantly, focused on real people and safe, consistent results. As the demand for safe, effective and non-surgical aesthetic treatments grows, Clinic Dermatech remains dedicated to widening access while investing in innovation and talent.
This award is a recognition of the brand’s present and a signal of its direction in the years to come.
New Goa’s Modern Developments Harmonize with Its Rich Architectural Legacy
With Goa’s real estate sector attracting national and international attention, its architecture is experiencing a quiet revolution. Originally defined only by Portuguese-era residences, laterite stone walls, and long verandahs, Goa is experiencing an influx of new developments most of them guided by the impulse to preserve the essence of Goan design while accepting the demands of today’s residents and visitors. The state has emerged as a magnet for city professionals, NRIs, and hospitality investors who desire homes and spaces that blend cultural flavor with modern-day functionality.
Sunil Sisodiya, Founder & Chairman, Neworld Developers said, “This changing demand is transforming the way architects and developers design. Instead of replacing Goa’s visual and material heritage, numerous new projects today reinterpret it sensitively maintaining pitched tiled roofs, old courtyards, arched windows, and earth tones, but combining them with open-plan living, intelligent infrastructure, and sustainable elements such as solar integration and passive cooling mechanisms. The outcome is a built form that has a Goan sense of being but is solidly based on contemporary lifestyle requirements.”
The Emergence of Contextual Real Estate
The most fascinating thing about Goa’s real estate transformation is its increasing focus on contextual design particularly in sought-after belts such as Assagao, Moira, Aldona, and Siolim. In these pockets, homes are being conceptualized not to be noticed, but to be part of. Developers are hiring local artisans and using local materials such as red laterite, timber, and terra cotta tiles to make buildings merge with their environment. It’s not solely for aesthetics; it also provides climatic benefits. The use of courtyards promotes ventilation, deep verandahs minimize solar heat gain, and porous materials make buildings breathe in Goan tropical conditions.
Purchasers are reacting favorably to this story. While buying second homes or villas with hospitality in mind, they are focusing on identity rather than bling. A home that is reminiscent of a Goan village house instead of one lifted from an urban metro is likely to appeal to today’s mindful investor. Indeed, homes are increasingly being sold on the basis of their heritage-driven architecture and local finesse. This change has created a real estate segment in which tradition is both a design language and a market differentiator.
Fusion of Culture and Commerce
“Tourism has long been the hub of Goa’s economic narrative, and now it is impacting real estate in unforeseen ways. Travelers increasingly demand experiential stays over cookie-cutter hotels, and this has precipitated a proliferation of heritage-style villas as well as culturally authentic homestays. These developments, commonly in restored or revivalist structures, are intended to provide something beyond comfort—they provide story. They mirror the ground that they occupy and the neighborhood they are in. This need, in turn, makes developers create through a design-first, culture-aware process.” Mr Sisodiya added.
Public heritage areas such as Fontainhas in Panaji still act as points of reference—reminding the market what architectural continuity is about. Culture festivals, walking tours, and conservation operations within these precincts are not only saving Goa’s aesthetic heritage but also influencing modern development throughout the state.
Ultimately, the future of Goa’s real estate is not nostalgia versus newness—it’s about intersection. By embracing architectural design that honors history while meeting current demands, Goa is establishing a real estate paradigm that is unique in India: one that develops profitably, aesthetically, and responsibly. The state’s changing skyline might be evolving—but its heart remains roots-deep within its past.
Department of ITE&C Distributes Laptops to Tribal Students at Sanguem Empowerment Camp
Sanguem, July 4, 2025: Supporting the Government of Goa’s inclusive governance drive, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C) under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte spearheaded digital inclusion efforts at the Awareness & Benefit Saturation Camp held in Sanguem, as part of the nationwide “Dharti Aaba Janbhagidari Abhiyan” — India’s largest tribal empowerment campaign led by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
As part of the initiative, the Department of ITE&C distributed 22 laptops to meritorious students from Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) communities for the academic year 2023–24, empowering them with tools for education and digital learning.
Organised by the Directorate of Tribal Welfare, the camp brought together multiple state departments to deliver welfare schemes, health services, and digital support directly to tribal citizens.
The camp was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, and Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant. The dignitaries marked the occasion by lighting the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the beginning of the event. The gathering was also graced by several other dignitaries, including Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Ho’ble Minister for Social Welfare; Shri Ramesh Tawadkar, Hon’ble Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly; and Shri Ganesh Gaonkar, MLA of Sanvordem Constituency and Chairman of GTDC, among others.
The Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C) highlighted how technology is being used to promote inclusive development across tribal regions of Goa. The department showcased its digital initiatives aimed at expanding access, including free laptops for meritorious ST/SC students, ICT training for youth and homemakers under the ITKC Program, and the Goa Online and Gramin Mitra platforms that collectively provide over 200 essential e-services across the state. Officials also shared updates on the Har Ghar Fibre and BharatNet 3.0 efforts, which are expanding 4G and broadband infrastructure in rural areas, enabling better access to education, employment, and public services.
In addition, the department set up a stall at the camp, where officials engaged in one-on-one interactions with community members, explaining various digital schemes, government e-services, and the long-term benefits of digital literacy.
Beyond digital empowerment, the camp provided free health screenings and on-site welfare support, including, Free routine screenings, breast and TB check-ups, dental assessments, and PMJAY health card registrations were conducted on-site, creating an integrated service delivery model that prioritizes both connectivity and care.
This initiative forms part of the national observance of 150 years of Janjatiya Gaurav, honouring the heritage, resilience, and contributions of India’s tribal communities.
The success of the event reaffirmed Goa’s commitment to tribal welfare, inclusive growth, and digitally enabled governance, paving the way for a more connected and empowered future.
Artha Global Makes First India Investment with INR 700 Cr Private Credit Deal
GIFT City, July 4, 2025 : Artha Global Opportunities Fund, one of the largest Category III Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) operating out of GIFT City, has announced its debut private credit investment in India. The fund has invested INR 700 crore to fund the completion of Phoenix Triton, a 2.8 million square feet commercial real estate project located in Hyderabad’s thriving financial district.
Structured as a four-year non-convertible debenture (NCD), this investment introduces a pioneering variable return model directly linked to the project’s sales performance. With a floor and cap interest rate, the returns mirror the project’s revenue cycles, effectively easing cash flow pressures on the developer while offering attractive upside potential for investors.
“As we debut the first private credit investment from our over Rs 5000 crore Artha Global Opportunities Fund we are bringing to the market innovative structures that solve for real world business challenges faced by Indian entrepreneurs. This structured funding for this Phoenix Global Spaces project will provide last-mile financing for a high-quality project nearing completion,” said Sachin Sawrikar, Managing Partner, Artha Bharat Investment Managers IFSC LLP.
The legal framework and documentation for the transaction were managed by AZB & Partners, while BSR & Co (KPMG India) advised on tax structuring.
This investment forms part of Artha Global’s three-pronged strategy, which includes:
- Investing in distressed assets in India and globally,
- Providing private credit to profitable Indian businesses requiring flexible capital, and
- Active PE-style investments, including venture debt.
Phoenix Global Spaces, a key player in Hyderabad’s real estate sector for over 24 years, claims a commanding 40% market share. Its latest development, Phoenix Triton, is set on a 3.15-acre site and will feature a G+41 floor LEED Gold-certified tower designed to appeal to modern corporate occupiers. The project incorporates smart technologies, double-height lobbies, landscaped gardens, and sky lounges with panoramic views. Other planned amenities include a Clubhouse, Sports Arena, Business Centre, 100% power back-up, and 24×7 water supply supported by rainwater harvesting and sewage treatment systems. Once completed, Phoenix Triton is expected to emerge as a premier address for Grade-A office space, reinforcing Hyderabad’s status as a top-tier business hub.
“With our deep networks in India we look forward to connecting global capital pools with entrepreneurs with innovative value creating propositions that reinforce India’s attraction on the global stage,” said Sawrikar. The transaction highlights Artha Global’s commitment to supporting real-economy businesses with bespoke capital structures that align with project realities.
Artha Global Opportunities Fund was the first distressed asset Category III AIF registered as a Foreign Portfolio Investor (FPI) with SEBI to relocate from Mauritius to India. Today, it stands among the top 10 fund managers in GIFT City by AUM, office footprint, and employee strength.
With this investment, Artha Global signals a new era in India’s private credit landscape—one that combines innovative structuring with sectoral insight to create solutions that are both growth-enabling for entrepreneurs and rewarding for investors.
Dalmia Bharat celebrates 4thEdition of DSP Expert Rath Shilpkar Samman during Rath Yatra 2025
Puri : Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL),India’s leading cement manufacturer, celebrates the 4th Edition of the DSP Expert Rath Shilpkar Samman. During the ongoing Rath Yatra festivities taking place from 27thJune to 5thJuly 2025, the annual celebration forms a key part of the company’s flagship initiative ‘Saluting the Expert’. DSP Expert Rath Shilpakar Samman, recognizes the exceptional craftsmanship of distinguished shilpakars, thereby acknowledging them too as true experts in their respective field of Rath making and craftmanship.
Continuing its long-standing commitment to Odisha and its rich cultural heritage,this year, Dalmia Bharat felicitates four master shilpkars, Raghunath Subudhi, Ramesh Mohapatra, Babana Maharana and Kartik Bhoifor their exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to this sacred tradition.The selection of these honored artisans is undertaken by a respected Jury comprising veteran craftsmen and cultural experts. This esteemed Jury is headed by none other than the Head Shilpkars- Shri Vijay Mahapatra, NurusinghaMahapatra, and Narayana Maharana ensuring that only the most deserving artists true custodians of the craft—are recognized.
A key highlight of this year’s edition is the distribution of around 1,000 miniature Rath replicas to the children of Dealers and Channel Partners, spreading awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage among the younger generation. In addition, Dalmia Bharat is producing a short film that captures the inspiring journeys of the honored shilpkars, bringing forth the legacy for wider audiences, their skill and EXPERTISE, dedication, perseverance and a sense of devotion towards the service of the Lord
Importantly, Dalmia Cement remains the only brand to honor the shilpkars in front of the sacred Rath, creating a moment of pride and reverence for the artisans in the very space their craftsmanship adorns. This also reflects the brand’s thoughtful approach to honoring diverse cultures and traditions across regions, with a special regard for Odisha state that has long held significance for the brand Commenting on the occasion, the company spokesperson said, “At Dalmia Bharat, we believe that true expertise lies in preserving tradition with pride. The Holy Rathas is a living symbol of Odisha’s art, devotion and a true manifestation of Odia craftsmanship. Through the DSP Expert Rath Shilpkars Samman, we salute the silent heroes who have shaped this century old tradition .Our connection with Odisha is deep-rooted, and this initiative reflects our continued commitment to the people and heritage of the state.”
From supporting artisans and honoring traditional craftsmanship to enabling livelihoods and driving sustainable growth, the company continues to cement its bond with the people of the state.
Pani Puri Vendor’s Son Overcomes Odds to Join IIT Roorkee
Kalyan, Maharashtra, 3rd July, 2025: Harsh Gupta, a 19-year-old student from Kalyan, has secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, defying extreme financial hardship, academic setbacks, and a debilitating medical condition. His journey reflects not only his resilience but also the transformative role played by Motion Education, Kota, in nurturing talent from underprivileged backgrounds.
Harsh comes from a modest background, his father is a roadside pani puri vendor and the family of six resides in a small two-room chawl in Thane district. With limited resources and little exposure to competitive exams, Harsh first learned about IITs only after completing his Class 10 board exams during the COVID-19 pandemic. By the time he joined Motion Education, the Class 11 syllabus was nearly complete, and he struggled to catch up academically.
Despite his efforts, he failed his Class 11 exams a setback that led to criticism from relatives and self-doubt within the family. However, Motion Education stood by him, providing structured academic support and personal mentorship to help him reset and rebuild.
In the midst of his preparation, Harsh was diagnosed with Rectal Prolapse, a painful and recurring medical condition. This significantly disrupted his studies, requiring repeated hospital visits and extended rest periods. Even during these difficult times, Motion’s faculty, particularly RRD Sir, Head of the JEE Division, offered unwavering emotional and academic guidance.
Despite his health and personal loss, including the passing of close relatives just before major exams, Harsh remained focused. In his second attempt at JEE Advanced, after taking a drop year and re-enrolling at Motion Education, he achieved success and earned admission to IIT Roorkee. He had also scored 98.9 percentile in JEE Main.
“There were moments when I was physically and emotionally exhausted. But Motion never gave up on me. They believed in me even when I lost belief in myself,” said Harsh. His story is a powerful example of Motion Education’s student-first approach and its mission to support aspirants from all walks of life not just academically, but holistically.
Led by renowned educator NV Sir (Nitin Vijay), Motion Education has once again reaffirmed its leadership in competitive exam preparation with outstanding results in JEE Advanced 2025. Showcasing academic excellence at the highest level, 6 Motion students secured ranks within the Top 100, 23 featured in the Top 500, and 47 achieved ranks within the Top 1000—a powerful testament to the institute’s focused pedagogy, expert mentorship, and student-first approach.
Of the 6,332 Motion students who appeared for the exam, 3,231 qualified, resulting in a qualifying ratio of 51.02%—more than double the national average. This compares sharply with the national statistics: out of approximately 1.9 lakh students, only 45,000 (23.68%) qualified.
These exceptional outcomes highlight Motion Education’s robust academic ecosystem and its commitment to setting new standards in the coaching industry.
Autism & Society: How Misconceptions Hurt More… Than the Condition
Dr. Sindhu M.V., Consultant – Paediatrics & Paediatric Intensive Care, Aster RV Hospital
Autism affects 1 in 100 children in India. The Indian Academy of Paediatrics estimates that approximately 3% of India’s population is on the autism spectrum. But myths, stigma, and lack of awareness continue to cloud public understanding. It’s time to change that. Every child is unique — but some experience and respond to the world differently. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one such condition that influences how a person thinks, communicates, and relates to others.
What is Autism & Why is it Called a Spectrum?
Autism is not a disease; It is a neurodevelopmental condition. The brain of an individual with autism develops differently, affecting social interaction, communication, behavior, and how they perceive the world. The term “spectrum” is used because no two people with autism are the same. Some may face significant challenges in speaking or socializing, while others may live independently and excel in specific areas. Understanding autism is just the first step but how can parents, teachers, or caregivers know if a child might be on the spectrum? It all begins with noticing the early signs.
Early Signs & Diagnosis Early detection is key. Parents and caregivers should watch for signs typically emerging between 12 to 24 months.
Common early signs include:
• Delayed speech or language development
• Limited eye contact
• Lack of interest in social interaction
• Repetitive behaviour (like hand-flapping, spinning)
• Sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures.
If you notice these signs in your child, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean something is ‘wrong’ — it simply means your child may need extra support.
The next step is to consult a developmental specialist, or child psychologist who can assess your child’s behaviour and guide you further. There are no blood tests or brain scans to confirm autism. Specialists use tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) or the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) for diagnosis. Causes & Debunking Myths. The question many parents ask is — Why? Science does not point to a single cause.
Research indicates that autism results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Family history, certain gene mutations, advanced parental age, or complications during pregnancy may increase risk. Recent research has shown that the “amygdala” — the part of the brain involved in processing emotions – develops differently in autistic children. This may partly explain why they struggle with social cues or emotional connections. However, scientists caution that the amygdala is just one piece of a much larger puzzle.
Autism is not caused by one single brain difference. It involves multiple areas and complex neural networks. Understanding autism helps shift the conversation from “what’s wrong” to “how can we better support and understand.”
Debunking Common Myths:
• Vaccines don’t cause autism. Many studies have proven this is false
• Parenting isn’t to blame. Autism isn’t caused by neglect or lack of love.
• Autism isn’t a disease or contagious. It can’t be “cured,” but the right support can help.
Cosmo First Invests in KARO®IV to Boost Specialty Film Capabilities
Mumbai, 3rd July, 2025: Cosmo First Ltd, a leading manufacturer of specialty films, announced the procurement of Brückner Maschinenbau’s state-of-the-art KARO®IV laboratory stretching machine, positioning India amongst global leaders in film technology development. This strategic investment aligns with the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative of reducing dependency on imports and advancing India’s manufacturing capabilities. This initiative also strengthens Cosmo First’s position among an elite group of global film manufacturers with advanced R&D capabilities.
The KARO®IV technology will significantly enhance India’s capabilities in specialty film development by minimising development time and costs for films designed for specialised applications. It will enable domestic development of niche film applications which are currently being imported and support in-house development of proprietary film technologies, enhancing self-reliance in high-performance flexible packaging. The technology will allow Cosmo First to conduct extensive research and development, accelerating R&D timelines through cost-effective laboratory-scale testing before moving to production trials.
“The KARO®IV will transform how we approach film development in India,” said Mr Kulbhushan Malik, Business Head, Cosmo Films, the flagship company of the Cosmo First group. “By enabling precise testing of films in both sequential and simultaneous stretching modes, we can now develop new film recipes and evaluate properties at a fraction of the cost and time previously required. This technology represents a significant leap forward in our ability to innovate. It opens doors for collaboration with academic institutions, supporting talent development in polymer science and reinforcing India’s position as a serious player in the global R&D landscape.”
The KARO®IV features high stretching ratios from 1.01 x 1.01 up to 10 x 10, heating capability up to 400°C with up to 3 independent heating modules, an advanced EPC control panel with programmable test sequences, and state-of-the-art measurement equipment for stretching forces, displacement, and temperatures. The machine is equipped to handle a wide range of film types, including BOPP, BOPET, and BOPA, with consistent and accurate control over test film processes. The technology positions India to compete at the highest levels of specialty film innovation. Key competitive advantages include faster prototype-to-market cycles compared to traditional development methods, enhanced ability to develop eco-friendly, mono-material films aligned with circular economy goals, and the capability to partner with global brands for co-development of advanced film solutions.
The Indian packaging industry, historically, has lacked advanced lab-scale film stretching systems that could accurately simulate commercial production conditions, as most Indian manufacturers rely on full-scale production lines for R&D, making innovation costly and less agile. Additionally, the packaging industry is facing a regulatory and consumer pressure to shift from non-recyclable multi-material plastics to recyclable mono-material films. The installation will address significant gaps in India’s packaging innovation infrastructure.
Cosmo First recently commissioned a new BOPP line taking its BOPP production capacity up by approx. 40% to 2,77,000 MT per annum. The investment in KARO®IV reinforces Cosmo First’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing by enabling rapid development of recyclable films, addressing India’s growing environmental concerns. It allows for testing of new barrier coatings, laminates, and formulations that meet recyclability targets and supports the creation of domestic expertise in advanced polymer science through potential academic collaborations.