Godawari Electric Launches EbluCare App for EV Management
Raipur, 29th January 2025: Godawari Electric Motors, a prominent name in the electric vehicle industry, is proud to announce the launch of its innovative mobile application, EbluCare. Designed and developed entirely in-house, this cutting-edge app aims to simplify and enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience. The official launch took place on January 26, 2025, coinciding with India’s 76th Republic Day, and was unveiled by the company’s Managing Director, Mr. Siddharth Agrawal, Chairman, Mr. Bajranglal Agrawal and the I.T team of the company.
EbluCare is a zero-cost application that caters to the entire range of Godawari Electric Motors’ Eblu products, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and electric cycles. The app offers a seamless and intuitive interface, enabling users to log in effortlessly using their registered mobile number or chassis number. It provides comprehensive access to vehicle details and introduces a host of features designed to manage customer vehicles conveniently. With real-time ride tracking and turn-by-turn navigation, users can enjoy an enhanced driving experience. The app also includes real-time battery monitoring, ensuring users are always informed about their battery status and prepared for their journeys.
Another key feature of EbluCare is service management, which allows users to book service appointments, review service history, and stay up-to-date with maintenance schedules. The app also delivers timely notifications for important alerts and exclusive offers, keeping users engaged and informed. Furthermore, it provides detailed product information and warranty coverage at users’ fingertips. To further improve customer experience, EbluCare includes a feedback section where users can share their suggestions and experiences directly with the company.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Hyder Khan, Director and CEO, Godawari Electric Motors, said, “The launch of EbluCare marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards creating a more connected and user-friendly EV ecosystem. This in-house developed application is a testament to our commitment to innovation and unwavering dedication to enhancing the EV ownership experience for all our customers. We believe EbluCare will set new standards for EV owners’ interaction with their vehicles.”
EbluCare is now available for download on major mobile platforms. Godawari Electric Motors invites all Eblu product owners to explore this groundbreaking application and experience the future of electric vehicle management firsthand. With this launch, the EV maker continues to cement its leadership in the EV sector, combining technological innovation with a deep understanding of customer needs.
Augmont Expands SPOT Gold Platform with Lab-Grown Diamond Integration
January 29, 2025, India: Augmont, India’s largest gold trading platform announced that it has added Lab Grown Diamonds (LGD) to its existing online SPOT trading platform for precious metals catering to more than 5,000 jewellers across the country.
The enhanced SPOT 2.0 platform brings Augmont’s 17 years of precious metals trading expertise to the growing LGD sector. This addition represents an evolution of diamond trading infrastructure, particularly as India maintains its position as the world’s largest diamond cutting and polishing destination.
The platform enhancement introduces transparent pricing mechanisms and streamlined procurement processes for the LGD market inspiring confidence among key stakeholders. This strategic move is set to streamline the procurement for jewellers while establishing a transparent and efficient pricing mechanism for the rapidly growing LGD market in India.
Mr. Ketan Kothari, Director of Augmont Group, said, “Augmont has firmly established itself as India’s go-to destination for buying and selling gold. Building on this strong foundation, we are proud to have our own lab-grown diamond (LGD) platform on Augmont SPOT, addressing the surging demand in this rapidly growing industry. The platform will enable market pricing and delivery of these diamonds globally including USA, Europe, Gulf and East Asia’’
Mr. Aarav Bafna, Product Head (LGD), Augmont, said, “With the extended version of SPOT, we plan to set a benchmark for LGD pricing. The current LGD pricing model, based solely on discounts relative to mined diamonds, is fundamentally flawed and irrational. Augmont is here to transform that narrative. Just as we revolutionized gold trading and price discovery in India, we are now ready to redefine and reimagine the LGD market.”
SPOT offers a comprehensive and unified trading experience, enabling jewellers to source all their manufacturing requirements—including gold, silver, platinum, lab-grown diamonds, precious metal alloys, precious stones, and other essential materials—through a single integrated online platform. It also features real-time price discovery powered by advanced algorithms and market mechanisms, ensuring transparent and fair pricing. Quality assurance is a priority, with certification and verification processes for all listed diamonds. Built upon Augmont’s proven 17-year-old trading infrastructure, SPOT ensures seamless integration for a reliable and efficient trading experience.
The platform addresses the growing demand for lab-grown diamonds, which have gained significant market share due to their sustainable nature and competitive pricing. SPOT is expected to handle substantial trading volumes, reflecting India’s dominant position in the global LGD polishing industry.
As per the Commerce Ministry’s data, India polishes almost 98% of all lab-grown diamonds in the world in 2022.
As per the EY report, the demand for Lab-Grown Diamonds is rising across the world, and its global market size is growing at 8.64% CAGR to touch $39.3 billion by 2028. And the Indian lab-grown diamond jewellery market, which was valued at around $300 million in 2023, is set to increase to $1.2 billion by 2033.
Hyderabad Welcomes Omnicom’s Fourth Center of Excellence as Company Expands in India
29th January 2025, India – Omnicom (NYSE: OMC) today announced it has expanded its Global Solutions Centers of Excellence with the opening of a campus in Hyderabad. This follows Omnicom opening campuses in Bengaluru, Chennai and Gurugram in April 2024. The continued investment in India underscores Omnicom’s commitment to broadening its footprint in the rapidly growing market, leveraging the country’s rich talent pool, and persistently driving innovation to further enhance client services across the organization.
The Hyderabad campus will accommodate Omnicom’s expanding footprint and global client solutions capabilities. With expertise in areas such as media, technology, digital commerce, marketing science, market research, creative services and business support services, Omnicom’s Global Solutions Centers will support our agencies around the world, driving more value and efficiencies for our clients.
Omnicom’s four India campuses have newly designed, state-of-the-art offices offering dynamic and collaborative work environments. They are home to a team of over 5500 professionals with expertise spanning media, data and analytics, creative, digital commerce, marketing technology, and artificial intelligence. These centers of excellence empower and provide resources to Omnicom agencies worldwide, driving unparalleled value and efficiency for clients.
Vishal Srivastava, CEO of Annalect India and Omnicom Global Solutions, emphasizes, “Our integration into the new center of excellence underscores Omnicom’s unwavering commitment to harnessing top-tier talent and pioneering global solutions to deliver exceptional client services. This state-of-the-art collaboration hub is where brilliant minds will continue to converge to revolutionize the marketing landscape, driving innovation and excellence at every turn.”
Mr. Gaurav Mathur, CEO Credera India GDC, said, “Omnicom’s expansion in Hyderabad highlights India’s unmatched talent and innovation potential. At Credera India, we are proud to connect advanced technologies and creative excellence to deliver transformative solutions for our global network. Hyderabad’s dynamic ecosystem and skilled workforce will further strengthen our ability to drive unparalleled value and impact for clients worldwide.”
Shakti Pumps (India) Limited Continues Remarkable Performance in Q3 & 9M FY25
Indore, Madhya Pradesh (India), 29 January 2025 – Shakti Pumps (India) Limited (SPIL), announced the financial results for the quarter and nine months ended 31st December 2024.
Shakti Pumps (India) Limited Chairman, Mr. Dinesh Patidar, commented on the company’s performance, “I am pleased to share that our company has earned the prestigious “Great Place to Work” certification, a testament to our strong and motivated team, which has contributed to the company’s consistent growth. The company has delivered strong overall financial performance led by increased execution of orders and operational efficiencies, which also resulted in significant margin expansion.
The order inflow continued to gain momentum, resulting in a robust outstanding order book position of around Rs. 20,700 Mn (inclusive of GST) as on 31st December 2024, which is to be executed within a year. During the quarter, the company received a Letter of Empanelment of 25,000 pumps amounting to Rs. 7,543 Mn (inclusive of GST) under the Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Scheme in Maharashtra; and an order of 3,174 pumps from Haryana Renewable Energy Department (HAREDA) amounting to Rs. 1,163.6 Mn (inclusive of GST). With the diversification of orders beyond the PM KUSUM Scheme like Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Scheme, we remain confident about our growth prospects.
Solar rooftop presents a promising opportunity, bolstered by government initiatives like “PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana” which is backed with an investment outlay of Rs. 750 Bn. We foresee significant opportunities with the government focusing on integrating renewable energy solutions with agriculture, for the betterment of farmers, as well as to their meet their sustainability objectives.
We have strategically diversified our business model by entering the manufacturing of Electric Motors & Controllers for Electric Vehicles. In the EV space, we are progressing with pilot orders from OEMs, and this could unlock a significant opportunity for us in the future. Our export business has also delivered a strong performance, as it grew by 58% YoY to Rs. 3,119 Mn in 9MFY25.
To conclude, we foresee a bright future, with all our strategic initiatives poised to strengthen our market position and foster future growth.”
Key Financial Highlights of the Quarter (Consolidated):
Particulars (Rs. Mn) | Q3FY25 | Q3FY24 | YoY | Q2FY25 | QoQ | 9MFY25 | 9MFY24 | YoY |
Revenue from Operations | 6,488 | 4,956 | 30.9% | 6,346 | 2.2% | 18,509 | 7,615 | 143.1% |
EBITDA | 1,544 | 710 | 117.6% | 1,487 | 3.8% | 4,390 | 941 | 366.6% |
EBITDA Margin | 23.8% | 14.3% | 948 bps | 23.4% | 36 bps | 23.7% | 12.4% | 1,136 bps |
Profit Before Tax | 1,415 | 628 | 125.5% | 1,385 | 2.2% | 4,056 | 708 | 472.4% |
Profit After Tax | 1,040 | 452 | 130.2% | 1,014 | 2.6% | 2,981 | 521 | 472.8% |
PAT Margin | 16.0% | 9.1% | 692 bps | 16.0% | 5 bps | 16.1% | 6.8% | 927 bps |
Basic EPS (Rs.) | 8.7 | 4.1 | 111.1% | 8.4 | 2.6% | 24.8 | 4.7 | 425.4% |
Financial Highlights:
Q3FY25
- Revenue from Operations grew by 30.9% YoY to reach Rs. 6,488 Mn in Q3FY25, from Rs. 4,596 Mn in Q3FY24
- EBITDA at Rs. 1,544 Mn, up from Rs. 710 Mn in Q3FY24, a growth of 117.6% YoY. EBITDA Margin at 23.8% in Q3FY25 expanded significantly by 938 bps from 14.3% in Q3FY24, attributed to higher execution of orders and economies of scale
- PAT witnessed a growth of 130.2% to reach Rs. 1,040 Mn this quarter, as compared to Rs. Rs. 452 Mn in the corresponding quarter of previous fiscal. PAT Margin expanded to 16.0% as compared to 9.1% in Q3FY24
9MFY25
- Revenue was reported at Rs. 18,509 Mn in 9MFY25, as against Rs. 7,615 Mn in the same period of previous fiscal year
- EBITDA grew to Rs. 4,390 Mn in 9MFY25, as compared to Rs. 941 Mn in 9MFY24. EBITDA margin expanded to 23.7% as compared to 12.4% in 9MFY24
- PAT at Rs. 2,981 Mn, witnessed a remarkable YoY growth, as compared to Rs. 521 Mn in 9MFY24. PAT Margin expanded to 16.1% in 9MFY25 from 6.8% in 9MFY24
PINQ Polka’s “I O Me” Campaign Highlights the Beauty of Being True to Yourself
January 29, 2025, New Delhi: Redefining intimate care for Indian women, PINQ Polka, the premium intimate hygiene and lifestyle brand, unveils its powerful new campaign, “I O Me.” This unapologetic anthem celebrates individuality, inclusivity, and the freedom to embrace oneself without filters, limits, or labels.
Through “I O Me,” PINQ Polka calls on women to shed societal expectations and reclaim their narratives. The TVC, with its bold and rhythmic script, encapsulates this ethos:
“No explanation, no excuse. Ye people pleasing kya hai, girl? I am my own muse; this story is mine here to slay and shine.” The campaign’s empowering message is amplified by visuals that represent women of diverse backgrounds, and journeys, united in their self-love and confidence.
“ I O Me’ is about breaking free from societal constraints and owning your narrative unapologetically. This campaign is a movement,” said Ms. Manveen Ssharma, Founder at PINQ Polka. “At Pinq Polka, inclusivity isn’t just a value; it’s the foundation of everything we do. We design products for all shapes, all sizes, and all stories. We believe every woman deserves the freedom to be her true self.”
PINQ Polka understands that intimate hygiene is deeply personal. By crafting products that prioritise comfort, functionality, and the unique needs of Indian bodies, the brand champions inclusivity in a way that truly matters. The campaign tagline, “Own Your Vibe,” resonates as a universal call to celebrate individuality, confidence, and freedom. Aligned with Pinq Polka’s core mission, the campaign reflects the brand’s belief that self-love and self-care are essential pillars of confidence and well-being.
The “I O Me” campaign will feature digital, social media channels igniting a wave of self-expression and self-love. PINQ Polka is a promise to empower women to live authentically, embrace their imperfections, and take charge of their narratives.
Challenges in Implementing Process Safety Management in Indian Industries
By Mr. Varun Kumar Bhaliya, Senior Consulting Engineer, Sigma-HSE (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Process Safety Management (PSM) is a critical framework for ensuring the safe operation of industries that handle hazardous materials. In the Indian industrial landscape, characterized by rapid growth and diverse manufacturing sectors, the adoption of PSM has become increasingly important. Despite its recognized significance, several challenges hinder the effective implementation of PSM across Indian industries.
One of the foremost challenges is the lack of awareness and understanding of PSM principles among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These organizations, which form a significant portion of India’s industrial base, often lack the resources and technical expertise needed to adopt comprehensive safety frameworks. The emphasis in such enterprises is frequently on cost-saving measures, which can lead to the neglect of process safety protocols. This results in heightened vulnerability to accidents and compliance failures.
Another significant issue is the aging infrastructure and outdated technology prevalent in many Indian industries. Facilities built decades ago may not be designed to handle the complexities of modern industrial processes or the stringent requirements of contemporary safety standards. Retrofitting such facilities to meet PSM guidelines can be a costly and time-consuming process, often deterring companies from undertaking necessary upgrades.
Regulatory challenges further compound the problem. While India has laws like the Factories Act, the Environment Protection Act, and Hazardous Waste Management Rules, their enforcement is inconsistent. Insufficient inspection capabilities and resource constraints within regulatory bodies lead to poor oversight, allowing non-compliance to persist. Moreover, a lack of integration between various safety regulations can create confusion, making it difficult for industries to adopt a unified approach to process safety.
The informal e-waste recycling sector and small-scale chemical manufacturing units, in particular, face unique challenges. Workers in these sectors are frequently exposed to hazardous substances without adequate protective measures. Limited regulatory attention and the absence of structured safety training programs exacerbate the risks in such settings.
Another barrier to effective PSM implementation is the cultural attitude toward safety in many organizations. Safety is often viewed as a regulatory obligation rather than an integral component of operational excellence. This mindset leads to a reactive rather than proactive approach to safety, with organizations addressing safety issues only after incidents occur. Leadership commitment to fostering a safety-first culture is often inconsistent, further undermining efforts to embed PSM within organizational practices.
Workforce training and competency development are additional hurdles. While larger organizations may invest in employee training programs, smaller enterprises often lack the resources or incentives to do so. Even in organizations where training is provided, it may not be comprehensive enough to address the complexities of process safety. This results in gaps in workers’ ability to identify hazards and respond effectively to emergencies.
Financial constraints also play a crucial role in limiting PSM adoption. Implementing process safety measures often requires significant investment in technology, infrastructure, and training. For industries operating on thin margins, such expenditures are perceived as burdensome, leading to the prioritization of short-term gains over long-term safety.
Finally, the challenge of adapting global PSM frameworks to the Indian context cannot be overlooked. Standards like OSHA’s PSM guidelines and the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS) framework are often seen as complex and resource-intensive. Adapting these frameworks to suit the operational realities of Indian industries requires innovation and collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and safety experts.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. A stronger regulatory framework with consistent enforcement is essential to drive compliance. Awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives can help SMEs understand the importance of PSM and build the skills needed for implementation. Investments in modern infrastructure and technology, supported by government incentives, can facilitate safer operations. Finally, fostering a culture that prioritizes safety at all levels of the organization will be crucial in ensuring that PSM becomes an integral part of Indian industries.
Fateh Education Announces India-wide Fairs for Study Abroad Aspirants
New Delhi; 29 January 2025: Fateh Education, a leading study abroad consultancy specializing in the UK and Ireland has announced the dates of its highly anticipated ‘Fateh Education Fair 2025.’ Starting on late January, the fair will continue till 15th Feb, covering multiple cities nationwide. The objective is to help students and parents get unparalleled opportunities and a chance to meet representatives of different universities and explore the prospect of studying abroad.
The fair will enable counsellors and university representatives to guide students with a personalised approach to ensure that they have the right tools to conquer their dreams. Fateh Education fairs are tailored events which allow students and universities to interact with each other in a highly organised process. There is also a keen focus on crowd management and communication which ensures that quality counselling takes place.
Education Fair Schedule:
- Chennai: February 1, Hyatt Regency
- Bangalore: February 2, Taj MG Road
- Pune: February 8, Hyatt Regency, Viman Nagar
- Mumbai: February 9, ITC Maratha
- Delhi: February 15, Le Meridien, New Delhi
Students are welcome to have one-on-one conversations with university delegates, get insights into diverse courses, seek guidance on the eligibility and application processes, and get any assistance that they might need to start their study-abroad journey.
Speaking about the Education Fairs, Mr. Suneet Singh Kochar, CEO, Fateh Education said, “We are very excited to meet students across the country. Our fairs are designed very carefully by Fateh Education’s team to bridge the gap between students and universities, ensuring students are well-equipped to make informed decisions about their future. These education fairs embody our mission and commitment towards providing students with the right resources to make informed decisions on the career path, destination, course and university.”
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Embarks on Groundbreaking Educational Infrastructure Project in Vijayapura
Bengaluru, 29th January 2025: In a significant step towards fostering educational empowerment in rural Karnataka, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today marked a significant milestone with the successful ground-breaking ceremony for its comprehensive educational infrastructure development project in Vijayapura. The prestigious event was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Karnataka, Dr. M. B. Patil, alongside senior leaders from TKM, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs, and Mr. Roshan, General Manager.
This ambitious initiative is a testament to TKM’s unwavering commitment to community development through sustainable and inclusive education. The project is designed to significantly enhance the capacity and infrastructure of six key educational institutions across the Vijayapura district by 2026, creating a lasting impact on the educational journey of over 2,500 rural students. By focusing on holistic development, the initiative aims to provide these students with an enriched learning environment and the resources needed to thrive academically and personally.
The project scope includes the construction of 26 new classrooms, ensuring safe, spacious, and conducive learning spaces for students. In addition to infrastructure development, the initiative focuses on improving the overall capacity of these institutions, enabling them to accommodate more students while fostering an enhanced learning experience. The six targeted institutions benefiting from this initiative are:
- Government Degree College, Mamadapura
- Government PU College, Arjunagi
- KPS Mamadapura
- Government High School, Bolchikalakki
- Government High School, Hebbalahatti (RMSA)
- Government High School, Kanamuchanal
Beyond classrooms, the project is designed to address critical infrastructure needs by enhancing key facilities. This includes the construction of fully equipped kitchens to support mid-day meal programs, ensuring improved hygiene and sanitation through the provision of washrooms across all institutions, and distributing essential furniture to existing classrooms, with the initiative already underway and progressing steadily toward completion.
The strategic execution of the project began with the supply of furniture to existing classrooms, and construction activities have been initiated at the Government Degree College, Mamadapura, and Government High School, Kanamuchanal. The remaining institutions are slated for development in the upcoming financial year. With completion targeted by 2026, this transformative initiative is set to become a model for public-private collaboration in the education sector, inspiring similar efforts across the state and beyond.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. M. B. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Karnataka, expressed his appreciation for TKM’s proactive role in community development, “Quality education is the cornerstone of sustainable growth and societal transformation. Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure in Vijayapura is commendable. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of students but also lays the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for the region. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact this project will have on thousands of young minds.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs – Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe in the power of education to drive meaningful change. Our initiative in Vijayapura is part of our larger vision to create sustainable communities by bridging educational gaps. By providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and essential facilities, we aim to empower students to unlock their full potential. We are grateful for the support from the Government of Karnataka and remain committed to completing this project by 2026, impacting thousands of young lives positively.”
This project aligns with TKM’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, focusing on education, environment, and community development. By addressing critical infrastructure challenges such as inadequate classrooms, poor sanitation, and lack of proper kitchen facilities, TKM is fostering an environment where students can pursue their education without basic hindrances.
Tata Steel Reaffirms Commitment to Odisha’s Growth at Utkarsh 2025
Chandigarh, January 29, 2025: Tata Steel today reaffirmed its long-term commitment to be a significant partner in Odisha’s growth story by showcasing its investments and outcomes at the Utkarsh Odisha 2025 Conclave, a two-day mega event in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Tata Steel has set up a dedicated pavilion at the ‘Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025’, showcasing its pioneering efforts in innovation, sustainability, and socio-economic development. The pavilion highlights Tata Steel’s initiatives in advanced manufacturing, infrastructure development for green industries at the Gopalpur Industrial Park, features and expansion plans for Subarnarekha port, and the Company’s contributions to the ‘Make in India’ vision. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) also showcased its story in the pavilion.
T V Narendran, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Steel, said: “In the last decade, Tata Steel has made around $10 billion of investment in Odisha. We have not only built a new steel plant from scratch in Kalinganagar but also acquired and turned around assets like Neelachal Ispat and Bhushan Steel, contributing to our 11 million tonnes capacity in the state. We expect to add another 10 million tonnes over the next decade. Odisha’s geological richness, large coastline, committed workforce, and ever-supportive government have made the state Tata Steel’s largest investment destination in India.”
Tata Steel’s participation in the mega event comes at a time when the Company is pushing ahead with its Phase II of expansion at its Kalinganagar operations. The Kalinganagar plant in Jajpur district, commissioned in 2015-16 with an initial capacity of 3 MTPA, is undergoing a ₹27,000 crore expansion to increase capacity to 8 MTPA. This expansion, expected to generate ~8,000 jobs, will enable Tata Steel to manufacture high-quality Advanced High Strength Steels (AHSS) for the Indian automotive market, significantly reducing the nation’s reliance on imports.
Tata Steel’s recent investments in Odisha also include the acquisition and restarting of Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited (NINL) plant in 2022. Further, the Meramandali plant in Dhenkanal district, acquired in 2018, is also a significant asset in the Company’s manufacturing portfolio. Formerly Bhushan Steel, this facility currently produces 5.6 MTPA. Tata Steel is currently working on the next phase of expansion at its Kalinganagar plant, Meramandali plant, and NINL unit.
Tata Steel’s Industrial Park at Gopalpur, Ganjam, is making strides in onboarding new industries. The Park has attracted investments worth ~32,000 Crores, majorly in the renewable sector including green hydrogen and solar cell & module manufacturing. Tata Steel’s Ore, Mines & Quarries (OMQ) Division continues to drive innovation and sustainability in mining.
Tata Steel recognises the importance of giving back to the communities in which it operates. The Tata Steel Foundation has undertaken numerous initiatives across 27 of Odisha’s 30 districts, focusing on education, healthcare, and livelihood development. These programmes have positively impacted 2.38 million lives in surrounding areas in FY24 alone. The Company also supports sports development, including its Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High-Performance Centre in Bhubaneswar and grassroots programmes reaching over 9,100 children and youth. Together with the Tata Archery Academy and Tata Steel Adventure Foundation, Tata Steel provides high-performance sports training across multiple disciplines.