5th June 2025: As the world collectively observes World Environment Day 2025, Merino Industries reflects and builds upon its deep-rooted focus on environmental leadership through meaningful actions, guided by its flagship Nirmal Program and a holistic sustainability vision that integrates planet, people, and progress.

At Merino, sustainability is deeply imbibed in its culture that informs everyday decisions. From rainwater harvesting to energy efficiency, soil health to circular waste management, the company’s approach is rooted in reverence for the five elements of nature Bhūmih (Earth), Apah (Water), Agnih (Fire), Vayu (Air), and Khang (Space) which together form the philosophical foundation of the Nirmal Program.

This nature-first mindset is backed by measurable action. Over 75% of Merino’s total energy now comes from renewable sources, largely through biomass and solar power, helping the company significantly reduce its carbon footprint. In FY 2024 alone, Merino reduced more than 75,000 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions a result of its continued shift away from fossil fuel dependency. Its water sustainability efforts follow the 5R principle: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Replenish, and Restore. More than 82,500 litres of water are recycled annually across Merino’s operations.

Merino’s relationship with the soil runs even deeper in the past year alone, the company produced 215 metric tons of nutrient-rich bio-manure and compost using agricultural waste like paddy straw, factory byproducts, discarded potatoes, and vermicomposting from its bamboo farms, all contributing to healthier farmlands and greener factory ecosystems.

Perhaps most heartening is how nature has responded to these efforts. At Merino’s manufacturing campuses in Hapur and Halol, various species of native birds have found refuge, turning industrial plants into thriving habitats. What began as afforestation now breathes life as a symbol of balance between industry and ecology.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Manoj Lohia, Director at Merino Industries Ltd., shared, “Sustainability, for us, is not merely a responsibility. Instead, it’s a way of life. With every tree planted, every litre of water saved, every emission avoided we’re investing in a future that’s abundant and inclusive. Through the Nirmal Program, we’ve created a culture that’s environment first. This World Environment Day, we stand by our belief that meaningful impact comes from daily choices, and that growth and green goals can and must coexist.”

Merino’s broader sustainability model also integrates economic and social dimensions. The company follows a Triple Bottom Line philosophy: Planet, People, and Profit – ensuring that profitability is balanced with environmental care and social responsibility. From supporting farmer livelihoods through agroforestry to producing clean, formaldehyde-reduced furniture-grade boards and composting organic waste back into the earth, Merino’s circular ecosystem is quietly leading by example.

On this World Environment Day, Merino Industries renews its pledge: to produce responsibly, consume mindfully, and leave behind a legacy backed by innovation, as well as regeneration.

05 June 2025, Gurugram, Haryana- Stride Green, a climate-tech focused asset financing and lifecycle management platform, has announced the successful raise of $3.5 million as part of its Seed Funding Round, led by Micelio Technology Fund, Incubate Fund Asia, and other strategic investors. This infusion of capital is set to bolster Stride Green’s mission to provide innovative, tech-enabled financing and leasing solutions tailored for India’s burgeoning clean energy transition sectors, such as electric mobility, battery storage, renewable etc. The funds will also be used to expand the team, bringing in critical expertise to strengthen capabilities and support future growth.

Founded by Ishpreet Gandhi & Vivek Jain, Stride Green is on a mission to empower sustainable businesses through innovative asset management and finance solutions and data-driven insights, driving the transition to a greener economy. In an industry where early-stage clean technologies are usually not able to find growth capital and scalability in operations, Stride Green is providing a novel, end-to-end leasing and financing platform that is impact-focused as well as operationally optimal. The company’s in-house technology facilitates real-time data analytics, intelligent alerts, and operational insights, enhancing asset performance and longevity.

Vivek Jain, Co-Founder & CEO, Stride Green, said, “At Stride Green, we’re driven by deep domain expertise and a clear purpose to develop innovative and scalable solutions for the climate-tech ecosystem. We are grateful to have eco-conscious, mission-aligned partners like Micelio and Incubate, whose support empowers us on our journey to deliver bespoke, high-impact solutions for a more sustainable future.”

India’s clean-tech sector has witnessed a surge in investments, surpassing China in clean technology funding during the third quarter of 2024, with deals worth approximately $2.4 billion. This momentum underscores the country’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Stride Green is enabling this shift by equipping eco-conscious businesses with the tools to boost operational efficiency, cut emissions, and scale sustainable solutions across the clean energy value chain.

Rajeev Ranka, Partner, Incubate Fund Asia, said, “We are very excited to partner with Stride Green to co-create the new age green financing and asset management platform to meet the needs of the evolving energy sector, electric mobility, and financial Institutions. StrideGreen, Ishpreet, and Vivek have been at the forefront of creating scalable new age financing products, very glad to support their vision and join the journey.”

Stride Green is poised for geographical and technological expansion, aiming to broaden its presence across new regions and diversify into emerging verticals within the climate technology sector. This growth strategy reflects the company’s dedication to scaling sustainable solutions and driving innovation in the clean energy ecosystem.

Alok Chauhan, Principal, Micelio Technology Fund, added, “At Micelio, we have held a strong belief that the transition to clean mobility requires specialized financing infrastructure that can evolve with innovation. Stride Green‘s tech-first platform addresses a critical gap between traditional financing and clean mobility’s unique needs—helping unlock significant capital for the sector. We’re excited to support this ecosystem-focused approach that aligns perfectly with our portfolio’s mission to advance the clean mobility ecosystem through strategic technology investments.”

5th June 2025: Shree Cement continues to set new industry benchmarks in sustainable manufacturing with over 60% of its total electricity consumption now met through green power. The company’s renewable energy capacity has grown to 582 MW, cementing its position as a front-runner in low-carbon cement production. The recent commissioning of a 60.3 MW solar plant in Jodhpur adds significant momentum to its green transition.

With a sharp strategic focus on climate-resilient operations, Shree Cement is aggressively investing in renewable infrastructure, making sustainability a central pillar of its growth strategy. This commitment has been consistently demonstrated through large-scale deployment of solar energy, wind power and waste heat recovery systems across its manufacturing units.

Commenting on the milestone on World Environment Day, Mr MM Rathi, Joint President – Power Management, Shree Cement said, “We are building a future-ready enterprise rooted in sustainability, innovation and performance. Our transition to green power is not just a business imperative it is a long-term commitment to a cleaner, more responsible future. Through this journey, we aim to set new benchmarks for the entire cement industry.”

The company has integrated green energy solutions into every aspect of its value chain from sourcing and production to packaging and logistics. The aim is not only to reduce carbon footprint but also to ensure long-term energy security and operational resilience. This transition is further supported by data-driven energy management systems that improves efficiency and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

The company’s sustainability efforts have earned it prestigious recognition including a CareEdge ESG 1 rating and the title of “Industry Mover” in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025, reflecting its leadership in ESG performance.

Bhubaneswar , 4th June 2025: In celebration of Raja Parba, Odisha’s most loved festival honouring womanhood, Smart Bazaar, a leading retail destination by Reliance Retail, has rolled out a host of unmissable festive offers and in-store engagement activities to bring the true spirit of Raja to life.  The celebrations were marked with a special event at the Smart Bazaar store in Bhubaneswar, graced by Ms. Surabhi Sen, Chief Marketing Officer – Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, along with a popular celebrity guest Lipsa Mishra Acharya & Riya Dey, who together unveiled the festive offers and inaugurated the Raja activities.

Joining the occasion, Mr. Kamadeva Mohanty, Chief Operating Officer – Reliance Retail Ltd – Value Format, also shared his thoughts on the significance of Raja Parba. “Raja Parba is a tribute to the strength, grace, and resilience of women. At Smart Bazaar, we are proud to honour this tradition by creating a vibrant, inclusive, and joyful shopping experience especially for women. From thoughtful offers to in-store activities, our celebration is dedicated to making every woman feel special and valued during this auspicious time,” said Mr. Kamadeva Mohanty.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Surabhi Sen added,

“Raja Parba is a celebration of tradition, festivity, and the spirit of womanhood. At Smart Bazaar, we’re committed to bringing unmatched value and festive joy to our customers with curated offers, engaging activities, and a complete shopping experience.”

Celebrate Raja Parba with exclusive offers at Smart Bazaar that bring joy to your shopping experience. When you shop for fashion worth ₹999 or more, you can get a designer shopping bag for just ₹99. Spend ₹999 or more and take home a Philips Hair Dryer for only ₹599. Plus, enjoy a flat 20% discount on ladies’ kurtas priced at ₹499 and above. Add a festive touch to your beauty routine with special deals on Sugar Pop cosmetics, featuring essentials like nail paints and kajals at exclusive prices. Smart Bazaar also ensures your kitchen is ready for the celebrations with unbeatable grocery deals—Loose Sugar at ₹44.50 per kg, Loose HMT Kolam Rice at ₹51 per kg, Loose Tur Dal Economy at ₹99 per kg, and Good Life Jeera Sar Rice at just ₹40 per kg (26 kg pack; terms and conditions apply). Enhancing the festive atmosphere, the store is adorned with vibrant Raja-themed décor and features a dedicated activity zone, creating an immersive and joyful experience for families and shoppers alike.

  

     By – Shankar Rajaram, Area Sales Director – Industry, INDO Region, Grundfos 

04 June 2025: On World Environment Day

“As industries evolve, sustainability must lead the way. At Grundfos, we believe that the future of manufacturing is defined not just by efficiency but by responsibility—reducing resource consumption, minimising emissions, and preserving the planet for generations to come.

Water and energy are the lifeblood of industry, yet their overuse puts immense strain on our environment. It is time for a shift—from consumption to conservation, from waste to reuse, and from outdated methods to innovative, sustainable solutions.

Our intelligent solutions help industries optimise energy and water use, ensuring that every drop and every watt counts. By integrating smarter technologies, we empower businesses to achieve their production goals while reducing their environmental footprint. The path to sustainability is not just a choice—it is imperative.

On this World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to driving change, enabling industries to make sustainability not just an ambition but a measurable reality. Together, we can build a future where progress and environmental stewardship are in harmony.”

 

 

3rd June 2025: India’s sneaker and streetwear culture has exploded in recent years, fueled by a growing community of enthusiasts, global collaborations, and an increasing demand for exclusive releases. Sneakerheads and fashion-forward shoppers are constantly on the lookout for limited-edition drops, rare collectibles, and premium streetwear brands that blend performance, style, and culture. Whether you’re hunting for hyped collaborations, timeless classics, or emerging streetwear labels, several multi-brand retailers across India offer an extensive selection of sneakers and apparel to help you stay ahead of the trends. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to shop for exclusive sneakers and streetwear in India.

1) VegNonVeg: VegNonVeg was one of the first sneaker boutiques in India to bring global brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and Puma under one roof. They regularly stock limited-edition collaborations, making them a go-to for sneaker collectors. With flagship stores in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, and an extensive online store, their collection is accessible to sneaker enthusiasts across India. More than just a retailer, VegNonVeg plays a crucial role in shaping India’s sneaker culture, blending streetwear with artistic and cultural influences, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both hype and heritage in their footwear.

2) Culture Circle : Culture Circle offers a curated selection of sneakers and streetwear from global brands like Yeezy, Jordan, Essentials, and Fear of God. Known for its sneaker raffles and exclusive drops, the store is a go-to destination for fashion-forward shoppers looking to stay ahead of the latest trends. With a strong online presence and retail stores in Mumbai and Delhi, Culture Circle provides access to limited-edition footwear and apparel, making it a key player in India’s growing sneaker and streetwear scene.

3) Brandman Retail: Brandman Retail specializes in introducing premium international footwear brands to the Indian market, making high-quality, performance-driven, and lifestyle-oriented sneakers more accessible to Indian consumers. Their collection includes brands like New Balance, Timberland, GFore, On Running, Jansport, Rockport, Saucony, and Sperry, offering a diverse range of sneakers suited for both athletic performance and everyday wear. With stores in Delhi, Gurugram, Ahmedabad, Dehradun, and Jalandhar, along with locations in other key cities across India, Brandman Retail continues to expand access to premium global sneakers through select retail partners and online platforms.

4) Superkicks: Superkicks has cultivated a strong community of sneaker enthusiasts by offering a selection of sneakers from brands like Converse, Reebok, Nike, and Vans. Known for its exclusive collaborations with artists and designers, Superkicks blends sneaker culture with creativity, making it more than just a retail space. With stores in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune, along with a robust online platform, they provide sneaker lovers across India with access to both classic staples and limited-edition drops.

5) Crepdog Crew (CDC): Crepdog Crew, or CDC, is a go-to destination for both retail and resale sneakers, offering sneaker enthusiasts access to rare and hard-to-find pairs from global brands like Nike, Adidas,Jordan, and Yeezy. In addition to sneakers, CDC also features homegrown streetwear labels alongside international brands like Cactus Plant Flea Market, Drew House, and Essentials, making it a well-rounded platform for streetwear lovers. With stores in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, along with availability through their online platform, CDC has cemented its place in India’s growing sneaker and streetwear culture.

6) Mainstreet Marketplace: Mainstreet Marketplace is one of India’s largest sneaker resale platforms, specializing in rare and out-of-stock pairs from top global brands. Their collection features coveted collaborations like Off-White x Nike, Travis Scott x Air Jordan, and Supreme releases, making it a trusted destination for sneaker collectors. With stores in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, along with a verified online marketplace, Mainstreet provides sneaker enthusiasts with a secure platform for trading and reselling highly sought-after sneakers.

These retailers are at the forefront of making premium sneakers and streetwear more accessible in India. Whether you’re looking for high-performance sports shoes, everyday streetwear staples, or rare collectibles, these platforms offer a range of options to match different styles and preferences.

June 3, 2025: Renault India, wholly owned French carmaker Renault Group, today announced the launch of Renault Discovery Days, a thrilling nationwide campaign running from June 6 to June 16, 2025. Under the initiative, Renault India is inviting customers to visit Renault showrooms across country and discover an exciting range of vehicles, now available with retrofit CNG options, along with never-before offers designed to maximize customer delight and accessibility.

Renault Discovery Days will turn showrooms into vibrant hubs of activity over two consecutive weekends, with thematic carnivals, immersive consumer events, and engaging experiences designed to connect with automotive enthusiasts, families, and first-time buyers alike.

During this limited-time celebration, Renault is rolling out special offers on the popular RXT, RXT+ and RXZ variants, which includes:

·         Attractive NRFSI 0% rate of interest across the entire Renault line-up

·         50% waiver on NRFSI processing fees

·         Exchange benefits up to ₹40,000

·         Additional loyalty and segment benefits for existing Renault customers and those upgrading within the Renault family

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Francisco Hidalgo, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Renault India  said, “We’re thrilled to introduce Renault Discovery Days to the Indian market, a campaign that drives product discovery, unmatched consumer offers, and experiential showroom interactions. Through this initiative we aim to reignite the passion for Renault, showcasing the innovation in our range and rewarding the loyalty of our customers with tangible, meaningful benefits. Whether you’re drawn to our stylish city hatchbacks, our adventure-ready SUVs, or our eco-friendly retrofit CNG options, we are there to extend an exceptional Renault experience to our consumers.”

With a wide selection of vehicles engineered for India’s dynamic roads, combining smart design, fuel efficiency, and advanced features, customers can book their test drives, explore exclusive offers, and make the most of the Discovery Days benefits before June 16.