Bengaluru, March 17, 2025: Godrej Capital, the financial services arm of Godrej Industries Group, has launched Aarohi, an initiative to empower women beyond enabling credit. Aarohi will drive inclusive growth by expanding financial access, strengthening community initiatives, and increasing opportunities for women. It focuses on empowering women as customers, collaborating with channel partners, promoting inclusive hiring, and addressing well-being and representation.

With a goal to positively impact 100,000 women over the next five years, Aarohi aims to foster meaningful growth. To mark this expansion, Godrej Capital has launched a film that highlights the challenges women face and opens a dialogue to address them. Through unscripted stories, the film brings to light the biases women encounter in their career and financial decisions, showcasing those who have challenged norms, defied expectations, and redefined success on their terms.

Manish Shah, MD & CEO, Godrej Capital, added, “Aarohi is more than enabling credit; it’s a sustainable ecosystem where women can thrive as leaders and changemakers. Women’s ambitions are often shaped by societal expectations and met with challenges, but through Aarohi, we are building resilience and providing tangible opportunities. Whether a woman wants to work with us, partner with us, serve communities, or grow as a customer, Aarohi is here to support ambitions in every form.”

To further Aarohi’s mission, Godrej Capital, through its subsidiary, has partnered with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), a flagship initiative by NITI Aayog, to introduce Aarohi Loans with tailored financial solutions such as Home Loan, Loan Against Property, Business Loans, and Professional Loans for women borrowers. Designed to support all women, including first-time borrowers, Aarohi Loans offer simplified eligibility criteria and financial literacy programs to enhance accessibility. Ranging from INR 5 lakhs to INR 15 crores, Aarohi Loans ensure seamless access to funding with quick approvals, minimal documentation, and flexible terms.

Beyond financial inclusion, Aarohi is also integrated into CSR initiatives, driving sustained impact through community programs. A key focus is on building the financial capability of existing women-led MSMEs by addressing gaps through capacity-building programs in business management, financial literacy, market linkages, and the legal & regulatory framework. Additionally, the company is expanding opportunities within its channel partner network, having onboarded 250+ women channel partners and aiming to onboard more, fostering greater participation and growth.

Built to go beyond lending, Aarohi is an initiative designed to support women at every step, whether as employees, partners, community leaders, or customers. Godrej Capital is committed to enabling their ambitions in every form, providing the resources, networks, and opportunities needed to help them thrive. The company’s focus on diversity is reflected in its workforce, with women making up nearly 30% of the organisation, well above the BFSI industry standard. The initiative reinforces Godrej Capital’s commitment to create a more inclusive ecosystem, equip women with the resources, opportunities, and support needed to drive meaningful progress.

Mumbai, 17 March 2025: The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), a premier S&T organization under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), participated as the Startup Government Partner at the 18th Edition of TiEcon Mumbai – TiEcon Mumbai 2025, held at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC.

This year’s conference, themed “Dhanda First”, emphasized the transformative journey of India’s startup landscape, spotlighting its evolution from a thriving startup hub to a critical driver of economic growth. Discussions centered around fostering innovation, ensuring scalability, and enhancing resilience within India’s entrepreneurial sector.

Speaking at the event, Shri Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI, said, “India’s digital transformation, driven by Digital Public Infrastructure, is fostering inclusive economic growth and strengthening our global position. With 50% of startups now emerging from Tier 2 & 3 cities and a rising number of women-led enterprises, STPI remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs through its 67 centers nationwide.

 He further emphasized “Investments in AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors are crucial for long-term growth, and a shift from short term gains towards patient capital, J-curve investments is essential.”

 The event brought together key dignitaries, including Infosys founder Narayana Murthy, alongside industry leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs, who shared insights on India’s startup ecosystem, digital transformation, and economic growth. With over 3,000 participants, including 1,000+ founders, 500+ investors, 200+ corporates, and India’s Top 100 Big Bulls, the event served as a powerful platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaborations.

The event showcased 26 STPI-nurtured startups, each pioneering groundbreaking innovations across diverse sectors. Among them, SparshMind Innovations is transforming healthcare with empathetic, tech-driven solutions; Sequretek IT Solutions Pvt Ltd is fortifying cybersecurity through AI-powered threat management; Alo Agritech Pvt Ltd is revolutionizing sustainable farming via its platform Kheti-Badi, connecting consumers with organic farmers; and Masterwork E Pvt Ltd is redefining education and skill development with immersive XR technology. These startups exemplify India’s growing innovation ecosystem, driving impactful change across industries.

With its continued focus on deep-tech innovation, ecosystem-building, and policy support, STPI remains committed to fostering India’s next generation of entrepreneurs, strengthening the startup landscape, and positioning the country as a global hub for technological excellence.

17th March 2024 – Hettich, one of the leading global manufacturers of furniture fittings, is pleased to announce the inauguration of its newest state-of-the-art Experience Centre in Indore. Strategically located in the same city as Hettich’s advanced manufacturing plant, this new Experience Centre serves as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation, quality and premium customer engagement.

This Experience Centre, which reflects the elegance and sophistication of Hettich’s world-class products, offers guests a sumptuous, hands-on look at the brand’s high-end hardware and furniture fittings. Its design, which was influenced by the flagship Mumbai Experience Centre that launched last year, exudes elegance and modernity, providing an unmatched combination of style and functionality.

Every last detail, from the sleek aesthetics to the interactive displays, is meticulously crafted to provide an upscale, welcoming environment for customers, architects, interior designers, and furniture manufacturers alike.

This Experience Centre, which features an impressive selection of Hettich’s premium furniture fittings, architectural door hardware, furniture lights and built-in appliances, is a place where innovation and luxury merge. In addition to upgrading the beauty and practicality of modern living and business spaces, this opulent environment fosters innovation and teamwork in authentic contexts.

Commenting on the inauguration, Andre Eckholt, Managing Director of Hettich India, SAARC, Middle East, and Africa, stated: “The launch of our Indore Experience Centre underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering magical interior solutions. This is more than simply another showroom – it is a space offering an unforgettable lifestyle experience for both consumers and industry professionals, allowing them to engage with our premium products in an environment that strongly reflects our brand’s luxury and innovation.”

17 March 2025, Mumbai: Mahanagar Gas Limited, one of the largest city gas distribution (CGD) companies in India, recently participated in Oil, Gas & Power World Expo 2025 in Mumbai. The 13^th edition of this international integrated energy tradeshow had participation from across the energy ecosystem and allied sectors.

As a part of the expo, Mr. Ashu Shinghal, Managing Director, Mahanagar Gas Limited participated in a high-impact panel discussion on “City Gas Distribution: Growth Challenges & Pitfalls” where he highlighted the immense scope for investment, innovations and growth in natural gas sector and discussed challenges like high reinstatement charges, and infrastructure development in rural areas, as well as the need for uniform policy for the CGD sector. The panel, moderated by Mr. Abhinandan Dutta, Director, One Consulting Fuels & Resources Strategy & Operations, PwC India, also featured distinguished leaders – Mr. Sandeep Jain, Executive Director (Gas), Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Mr. Kapil Jain, Executive Director, Marketing (Retail LNG), GAIL Limited, Mr. Rajesh KC Dwivedi Area Head, Govt. & Institutional Business, HDFC Bank.

Commenting on MGL’s participation at Oil Gas & Power World Expo 2025, Mr. Ashu Shinghal, Managing Director, Mahanagar Gas Limited said, “Platforms like Oil, Gas & Power World Expo are instrumental in bringing the industry together and opening dialogue for innovation and overall development of the energy sector. As one of the pioneers in City Gas Distribution, Mahanagar Gas Limited remains committed to expanding the reach of sustainable energy solution and fostering innovation. Our participation reflects our commitment, alongside the industry, to shaping policies, embracing new technologies, and collaborating with stakeholders to drive the sector’s growth.”

Mahanagar Gas Limited’s exhibit at the event featured their leap into Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Electric Vehicles (EV), Indigenous battery cell manufacturing for Electric Vehicles (EV) and Compressed Biogas (CBG) along with their diverse sustainability initiatives.

 Bengaluru, 17^th March 2025: Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd (ROHL) has launched two new properties under the Regenta brand in the coastal town of Colva, Goa bringing the total number of ROHL properties in the city to six. Regenta Baywatch Resort and Regenta Beach House, the twin properties, a short walk from Colva Beach, combine modern architecture with contemporary elegance, offering guests convenience, comfort, and an immersive experience of the region’s unique cultural essence making them an ideal choice for corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions.

Regenta Beach House, a charming coastal retreat that offers a stunning private beach with picture-perfect ocean vistas is poised to become the go-to destination for events that demand the ultimate in style, sophistication, and beachfront charm be it weddings, corporate events or any other grand celebrations. Nestled on the breathtaking shores of pristine Colva beach, the property offers a wide range of event spaces including a beachfront setting of up to 1000 guests. The 18-key property features a variety of rooms and suites including ocean facing rooms. Ensuring a diverse culinary experience to the guests, the property houses several dining options including ‘Cibo Sano,’ a specialty restaurant on the property serving a curated selection of healthy and guilt-free menu and ‘Salty Breeze,’ a seaside restaurant that presents a picturesque view of the ocean and exudes a calming ambience while the guests indulge in a meal.

While on the other hand, with 133 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites Regenta Baywatch Resort offers a unique blend of minimalist aesthetics and contemporary architecture that embodies ROHL brand’s signature elegance and simplicity. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a terrace restaurant and a bar. Those seeking a relaxed holiday can unwind at the pool or at the in-house spa at the property. The resort also boasts a host of banquet halls and outdoor lawns making it an ideal venue for social celebrations and weddings.

As one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, Goa welcomed approximately 10 million visitors in 2024 alone. The new ROHL properties provide seamless access to Sernabatim Beach, Colva, and several other picturesque shorelines while offering unmatched hospitality. The close proximity between these 2 properties makes it ideal for them to accommodate requirements of bigger groups travelling for any special celebrations or ceremonies.

Speaking on the announcement, Arjun Baljee, President of Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., “Building on our 15+year legacy in Goa, ROHL is proud to announce the launch of two new signature properties that will further solidify our commitment to elevating the state’s hospitality landscape and delivering unparalleled guest experiences. With their unique locations and superior amenities, we’re confident that these two hotels will carve out a distinct presence in Goa’s thriving market especially for weddings and MICE events. We’re excited to collaborate with Mr Ajit Patel to bring this vision to life.”

Ajit Patel, Director of HARP Resource Pvt Ltd and Prudential Landmark Pvt Ltd, said, “We are thrilled to partner with ROHL, a trusted name in the hospitality sector.  We are confident that Regenta Baywatch Resort and Regenta Beach House will not only elevate Goa’s tourism appeal but will also set new benchmarks in the industry catering to all kinds of guests.”

New Delhi, India – 18th March 2025 – Asort, India’s pioneering co-commerce platform, continues to redefine economic empowerment by fostering self-reliance and financial independence among entrepreneurs and small business owners. By integrating technology with a community-driven model, Asort provides individuals with the tools, resources, and support needed to build sustainable businesses. The platform serves as a gateway for aspiring entrepreneurs, allowing them to participate in the retail and lifestyle industry without the financial constraints of traditional business setups.

Asort’s unique ecosystem empowers individuals by offering extensive training programs, mentorship from industry experts, and access to a diverse range of high-quality lifestyle products. The platform operates on a collaborative commerce model that enables people to establish their businesses without requiring large capital investments. By eliminating traditional barriers to entry, Asort is democratizing entrepreneurship, making it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities who may not have had such opportunities before.

At Asort, we believe in creating opportunities that empower individuals to take control of their financial future. Our platform is not just about selling products; it’s about nurturing entrepreneurial talent, fostering financial independence, and building a community of self-reliant business owners,” said Mr. Roshan Singh Bisht, Co-Founder & CEO, ASORT.com. “Through our initiatives, we are committed to driving inclusive growth and contributing to India’s vision of an economically self-sufficient society. By equipping individuals with business knowledge, digital tools, and a support network, we enable them to transform their aspirations into thriving businesses.”

By leveraging digital transformation and innovative business models, Asort is helping bridge the gap between ambition and opportunity. The platform leverages data-driven insights, social commerce, and e-learning modules to empower entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. Additionally, Asort’s supportive community-driven approach fosters collaboration among its members, encouraging knowledge-sharing and peer learning to further accelerate business success.

With a growing network of independent entrepreneurs, Asort is not only enhancing financial stability for individuals but also contributing to India’s broader economic growth by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. Through its innovative approach, Asort is proving that financial independence is within reach for those who dare to dream and take charge of their future.

Kering and Gucci are delighted to announce the appointment of Demna as the House’s new Artistic Director, starting in early July 2025. 

Demna, Artistic Director of Balenciaga since 2015, has redefined modern luxury, earning global recognition and cementing his authority in the industry.

François-Henri Pinault, Chairman & CEO of Kering, stated: “Demna’s contribution to the industry, to Balenciaga, and to the Group’s success has been tremendous. His creative power is exactly what Gucci needs. As I thank him for everything he has accomplished over the past 10 years, I look forward to seeing him shape Gucci’s new artistic direction.”

Francesca Bellettini, Kering Deputy CEO in charge of Brand Development, said: “Demna’s profound understanding of contemporary culture, coupled with his extensive experience in conceiving visionary projects, has established him as one of the most influential and accomplished creatives of his generation. His appointment as Artistic Director is the perfect catalyst to reignite Gucci’s creative energy. I look forward to the collaboration of Demna and Stefano as they lead Gucci into a new era of success.”

Stefano Cantino, CEO of Gucci, said: “I have always admired Demna’s creative approach, that is both unique and powerful. His ability to honor the iconic legacy of a brand while embracing a modern sensibility is extraordinary. With Gucci’s strengthened foundations as a springboard, Demna will lead the House towards renewed fashion authority and enduring cultural relevance.”

Demna said: “I am truly excited to join the Gucci family. It is an honor to contribute to a House that I deeply respect and have long admired. I look forward to writing together with Stefano and the whole team a new chapter of Gucci’s amazing story.”

March 17,2025:In today’s rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape, the ability to manage high-volume logistics operations efficiently and effectively is more critical than ever. Supply chain disruptions, changing customer expectations, and rising costs are just a few of the challenges that logistics managers face daily. To navigate these complexities, companies are increasingly turning to integrated technology solutions that can streamline processes, improve decision-making, automate tasks, and enhance customer service levels.

Logistics Management Magazine and Hikvision have jointly released a new white paper to explore the transformative power of open and collaborative systems in logistics. The white paper shares insights into how integrated technology ecosystems can help organizations break down data silos, improve end-to-end visibility, and achieve significant operational efficiencies.

• Disparate systems lead to inefficiencies

In the modern logistics landscape, traditional on-premises legacy systems often struggle to communicate with each other, resulting in data silos, manual interventions, and poor visibility across the organization. These issues are particularly pronounced in e-commerce, where accurate and timely insights have become more important than ever for logistics and supply chain operations.

• Integration is the solution

To address these and other challenges, smart organizations are using more integrated solutions that break down silos. By connecting different systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Yard Management Systems (YMS), and Video Management Systems (VMS), companies can achieve a unified view of their end-to-end supply chain.

• Real-world applications

The white paper provides practical examples of how integrated logistics solutions have helped e-commerce and high-volume logistics parks. For instance, integrated parcel tracking solutions have enabled warehouses to determine responsibility for damage and lost items, reducing the cost of compensation. Yard management systems, integrated with transportation management platforms, use AI to recognize license plates and container numbers, ensuring the orderly movement of vehicles at the gate, loading dock, and yard.

Discover how open and collaborative systems help organizations adapt to the ever-evolving logistics landscape, ensuring a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced market.

Mumbai, 17th February 2025: Zero1 Fest 2025, the world’s first and only festival dedicated to money and wealth, made a triumphant return to Bangalore, drawing an exclusive audience of 3,000 attendees to Chamara Vajra. Designed as a groundbreaking platform for unfiltered conversations on money, investing, and financial success, the festival brought together some of the sharpest minds in business, finance, and innovation.

With the theme ‘Big Money Moves,’ Zero1 Fest 2025 delivered an electrifying mix of thought-provoking discussions, high-powered networking, and immersive experiences. Industry stalwarts like Nithin Kamath, Nikhil Kamath, Suniel Shetty, Parul Gulati, Prateek Singh, Karthik Rangappa, and Kailash Nadh took center stage, sharing deep insights into wealth creation and financial growth strategies. Adding to the excitement were stellar performances by Raftaar and Lisa Mishra, along with a stand-up act by Kenny Sebastian, making the festival a truly unforgettable experience.

Beyond thought-provoking conversations, the festival featured dynamic, hands-on experiences that transformed finance into an engaging and interactive journey. Attendees participated in gamified financial challenges, storytelling spaces, and exclusive workshops designed to unlock new perspectives on money management. One of the biggest highlights was the Zero1 Rewards Program, where attendees earned points through various activities and redeemed them for limited-edition Zero1 merchandise.

Reflecting on the festival’s success, Prateek Singh, Founder & CEO, LearnApp & Zero1 by Zerodha, said, “Zero1 Fest 2025 surpassed all expectations! The energy, the conversations, and the caliber of attendees reaffirmed our belief that discussions around money and wealth need to be more open, engaging, and empowering. This festival is not just an event—it’s a movement redefining how we think about finance. We definitely created a pop culture moment in the world of wealth and finance, making financial conversations more exciting and culturally relevant than ever before.”

Zero1 Fest has solidified its reputation as one of the most sought-after events in India. Last year, over 22,000 people applied, yet only 800 secured a pass—a testament to its exclusivity and impact. This year, the festival maintained its invite-only format, ensuring a premium and high-value experience for each attendee.

A joint venture between LearnApp and Zerodha, Zero1 remains committed to making finance accessible, engaging, and culturally relevant. Zero1 Fest 2025 further strengthened this vision, bringing together a thriving community of thinkers, investors, and changemakers passionate about financial success.

Mumbai, March 17, 2025 – The formal inauguration of the new operations office at Kanakia Wall Street, Andheri East, Mumbai, is the establishment of Fine Acers, an illustrious name in the domain of branded resorts and luxury real estate investment. This expansion is in line with the aspirations of the company of engaging with the emerging demand for lifestyle-oriented investments while strengthening its foothold in India, which is pacing up with the other growing real estate markets.

While reflecting on the expansion, Dinesh Yadav, Founder of Fine Acers, said, “Fine Acers is redefining the luxury real estate industry in India by amalgamating hospitality and private ownership. Our growth in Mumbai stands witness to the increasing demand for high-quality lifestyle-centric investments that infuse not just premium living experience but also assured returns for our investors. The thinking around branded resorts is evolving, and Fine Acers is at the forefront of this worldwide movement so that our investors gain unparalleled value and benefits.”

“We expect our property in Goa will be in great demand from West Indian market” he further added.

Fine Acers’ investment model offers a proposition that is attractive and secure. The operational model is sales-leaseback and guarantees a minimum fixed return of 7% on one’s investment. Apart from the security of investment, select lifestyle perks include complimentary venue reservations at luxury resorts for destination weddings and a certain number of stay days at selected locations.

Basically, branded resorts are properties developed in association with established lifestyle and hospitality brands that precisely fulfill this demand by providing opulent amenities, striking architecture, and internationally recognized affiliations. This confluence of luxury, assured monetary worth, and investment appreciation makes branded residences a high-demand real estate asset class within India. Investors are moving from standard property purchases to curated lifestyle experiences that promise good returns, demonstrated by the rise of branded residences and resorts that many sales-leaseback options have heralded. These developments form the future of India luxury real estate.

Meanwhile, expanding into Mumbai further strengthens Fine Acers’ leadership in this burgeoning environment, giving investors a rare opportunity to capitalize at the intersection of luxury living and wealth creation.