Global Clean Energy Push Accelerated at RD20 and Mission Innovation Leaders Session

6th December 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India The Leaders Session on the second day of ‘The 6th RD20 Conference’ brought together global policymakers, researchers, and thought leaders to discuss collaborative pathways for clean energy transitions. Hosted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), this is the first time the conference is being held outside Japan, highlighting India’s leadership in global energy innovation. Organised in partnership with the Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) of Japan, the session emphasised innovation, partnerships, and actionable strategies for achieving global energy goals.

The session commenced with a Welcome Address by Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, and an Opening Address by RD20 Chair, Mr Kazuhiko Ishimura (AIST), who remarked, “Research is becoming serious year on year. Because of this there is a great expectation of carbon neutrality to be accelerated. We expect leaders to have deep dive sessions advancing the discussions towards achieving carbon neutrality.” Representatives from the Indian government, MNRE and the Japanese government (METI, MOE, MEXT) also extended their welcome messages. The plenary presentation was delivered by Mr Takashi Naruse from NEDO.

Shri Sudeep Jain, Additional Secretary, Minister of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) in his opening remarks thanked Japan for giving India the opportunity to host the RD20 conference. “The 6th RD20 conference in India highlights the importance of collaborative R&D in addressing global challenges. India has made significant progress in renewable energy, with a vision to reach 77% renewable energy by 2047. The country is also investing in R&D to support its growing manufacturing hub for renewable energy equipment.” Speaking on the Honourable Prime Minister of India’s vision on sustainability, green energy and renewable energy, he added, “Our Prime Minister has a vision which goes beyond the current generation, to looking at several generations ahead.”

The Leaders Session featured key discussions on India’s energy transformation. The subsequent plenary lecture by Mr Abhay Bakre, Mission Director, MNRE, focused on the ‘Role of Clean Hydrogen in India’s Energy Transition: Opportunities and Challenges.’ Mr Bakre noted, “The sustainability goals for energy transition are to achieve the target of net zero by 2070, non-fossil electricity generation capacity to reach 500 GW by 2030 and emission intensity of GDP to reduce by 45%. The two basic pathways for energy transition are electricity and hard-to-electricity. Hydrogen comes up with the most promising pathway for decarbonising the hard-to-electricity sectors.”

Other highlights included updates on RD20 activities and technical sessions, with presentations by Dr William Tumas (NREL) and Dr Haruhiko Obara (AIST). The updates covered Action Committee progress, RD20 Summer Schools, and reports from the Tokyo symposium and COP29. Key outcomes from the 2024 RD20 Technical Sessions were presented by co-organisers Mr Pierre Sierre Combe, CEA and Mr Mark Ruth, NREL, (Technical session I); Dr Sanjukta Subudhi, TERI; Mr David Harris, CSIRO and Mr Randy Cortright, NREL (Technical session II); and Dr Myriam Merad, CNRD and Dr Alberta Carpenter, NERL (Technical session III), including advancements in sustainable biofuels, biochemicals, and hydrogen technologies, alongside updates on future workshops and technical barriers to hydrogen implementation.

A significant segment of the session was dedicated to discussing opportunities for collaboration between RD20 and Mission Innovation (Clean Energy Ministerial and G20), a global initiative aimed at accelerating clean energy innovation to achieve net-zero emissions.

Dr Michio Kondo (AIST) introduced opportunities for collaboration between RD20 and Mission Innovation that highlighted the perspectives put forth by the different participating countries and institutions. Dr Kondo emphasised, “RD20 has huge potential to support and collaborate with G20 Working Groups from technology point of views, techno economic aspects and lifecycle assessments in carbon neutral technologies.” He also mentioned, “To enhance the cooperation amongst G20 members and to accelerate the implementation of common goals towards energy transitions, RD20 could contribute to the RIWG/G20 through South African member, CSIR, in the upcoming G20 in South Africa in 2025.”

Ms Helen Fairclough from Mission Innovation elaborated on the initiative’s global significance, stating, “Mission Innovation is a global initiative catalysing a decade of action and investment in research, development, and demonstration to make clean energy affordable, attractive and accessible for all. This will accelerate progress towards the Paris Agreement goals and pathways to net zero.”

Sharing her perspective on Brazil, Ms Rachel Martins Henriques, Technical Consultant, Brazil, highlighted, “The intersection of the CEM and RD20 emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices among nations to overcome common challenges in clean energy deployment.” Sharing her views on the Mission Innovation policies on bio-refineries in Brazil, she said, “The National Biofuel Policy (RenovaBio) aims to increase the addition of anhydrous ethanol to gasoline and biodiesel to diesel B, with certified production capacity of ethanol, biodiesel, and biogas by 15% March 2025. The ‘Fuels of the Future’ programme aims to reduce carbon intensity, evaluate energy-environmental efficiency, and stimulate innovation.”

Mission Innovation, a global initiative dedicated to accelerating clean energy innovation, is committed to addressing climate change, making clean energy more affordable, and creating green jobs and economic opportunities. With a focus on reinvigorating global efforts in clean energy research and development, Mission Innovation engages researchers, innovators, and the private sector to drive breakthroughs in clean energy technologies, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster sustainable economic growth.

Mission Innovation and RD20 have partnered to advance collaboration on critical clean energy areas, including clean hydrogen and smart grid technologies. This partnership, underscored during the Leaders’ session of RD20, seeks to bring together Mission Directors and Steering Committee members from both initiatives to foster dialogue, identify shared objectives, and develop actionable strategies for clean energy transitions. Through joint sessions and workshops, the collaboration aims to explore innovative solutions that address global energy challenges and promote a shared vision for accelerating clean energy advancements.

With a robust agenda and contributions from leading experts, the RD20 Leaders Session marked a significant milestone with a reaffirmed commitment to international collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable and clean energy solutions.

GRIHA Summit 2024 Inaugurated: Paving the Way for Sustainable Solutions in Building Industry

6th December 2024 New Delhi, Delhi, India  The 16th GRIHA Summit, the annual flagship event organized by GRIHA Council, commenced today in New Delhi, with a focus on the theme “Accelerating Climate Action in the Built Environment”. The Summit brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to explore innovative approaches for sustainable urban development and climate resilience in the construction and infrastructure sectors, addressing the challenges of climate change.

This year’s theme underscores the critical role of transitioning the built environment towards sustainability as a cornerstone of effective climate action. As the 2030 deadline for global climate commitments nears and the 2050 target for decarbonizing the building and construction sector looms large, the summit provides a platform to explore opportunities for climate-resilient development, breaking the cycle of rising heat, energy demand, and carbon emissions.

The GRIHA Summit also aligns with India’s aspirational vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, a comprehensive roadmap that integrates sustainable urban development with the nation’s goals of economic growth, social progress, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

In her opening address, Dr Vibha Dhawan, President, GRIHA Council, and Director General, TERI, stated, “As a comprehensive platform, this summit facilitates deliberation on the interdependence of various stakeholders in building inclusive, climate-resilient infrastructure. Our overarching aim is to unite everyone in recognizing the vital role each individual and organization plays in combating climate change. As I often say, each stakeholder—each one of us—is contributing to the climate, for better or worse.”

Welcoming the gathering, Mr Sanjay Seth, Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, GRIHA Council and Senior Director, Sustainable Infrastructure Programme, TERI emphasized, “Every building, every design, and every choice we make has the power to redefine the future of our planet. Accelerating climate action in the built environment is not just a goal—it is our collective responsibility to shape a sustainable future for generations to come.”

In his Inaugural Address, Shri Abhay Bakre, Mission Director, National Green Hydrogen Mission, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, said, “The building sector stands out as one of the most promising sectors to act as an enabler of achieving our sustainability goals. GRIHA Council’s effective solutions and recommendations address critical issues of climate change which aligns with the national and global climate action goals. Builders, professionals, and stakeholders worldwide should aspire to achieve the benchmarks set by GRIHA ratings to drive sustainable practices.”

Ms Martine Aamdal Bottheim, Deputy Head of Mission and Minister Counsellor, The Royal Norwegian Embassy, in her special address highlighted Norway’s commitment to supporting sustainable solutions. She remarked, “Global discussions now focus on transitioning to zero carbon buildings, adopting circular economy principles, and enhancing urban climate resilience. The GRIHA summit is very relevant from this global perspective.” She further highlighted the excellent collaboration between Norway and India in the area of blue economy, circular economy, renewables, food security, research, and higher education.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between GRIHA Council and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Ministry of Education, Government of India, to promote sustainability in KVS schools. The MoU was formalized by Shri Deepesh Gehlot, Joint Commissioner, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Ms Shabnam Bassi, Deputy CEO & Secretary, GRIHA Council and Director, Sustainable Buildings, TERI. The partnership aims to transform KVS schools into green and sustainable campuses by implementing the GRIHA for Existing Schools rating system. This initiative will actively engage both teachers and students, fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices within the school ecosystem.

Mr Sumit Bidani, Chief Executive Officer, Knauf India, in his special remarks, underscored, “Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is an absolute necessity. We believe innovation is key, which is why we are actively exploring advanced materials and solutions to tackle the challenges of climate change.”

Furthermore, an exhibition titled ‘Sanchay’ was also inaugurated by the eminent dignitaries. It showcases two exhibitions - one highlighting the advancements in industry trends that are propelling a paradigm shift in sustainable materials and technologies, while the other features live models from an architectural design competition that traverses through the evolution of architectural features over time.

The occasion marked the unveiling of two key publications by the GRIHA Council- GRIHA V 6.0, and ‘Shashwat – Let Nature Be’, the Council’s annual magazine. GRIHA V. 6.0 integrates user feedback, market insights, and practical considerations to set new benchmarks for resource efficiency. This upgraded framework evaluates the development and operational efficiency of green buildings while assessing their economic feasibility, furthering the agenda for sustainable construction practices.

During the inaugural session, GRIHA award ceremony was also held wherein the GRIHA 5-star and 4-star Rated Projects were felicitated. Winners of the SHAPE Design Trophy were also awarded, which was organized on 8-9 November 2024 in collaboration with Vellore Institute of Technology and ZEMCH Network.

The first day of the summit featured thought-provoking discussions and deliberations on critical topics such as policy advocacy for a sustainable future, strategies for managing urban heat, biophilic architectural designs, and energy transitions. These sessions brought together leading industry experts, policymakers, academicians, and representatives from government and private institutions to explore actionable pathways for a climate-resilient built environment.

Tackling Burnout: Happiest Health Offers Free Trial of Wellbeing Services for Corporate India

6th December 2024 Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  Corporate India is facing increasing concerns over employee burnout, prompting organizations to seek effective wellness solutions. In response, Happiest Health has introduced a holistic wellbeing program, offering a 30-day complimentary experience to help companies address this critical issue. This program aims to enhance both physical and mental health, fostering a more balanced and productive workforce.

As stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and long work hours take a toll on corporate India, alarming health statistics paint a sobering picture with 30% of the population affected by diabetes or pre-diabetes and obesity rates climbing. Simultaneously, mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and workplace burnout are becoming increasingly prevalent, eroding employee productivity and satisfaction.

India’s workforce is amidst a wellness crisis. This reality underscores the need for organizations to invest in the physical and emotional wellbeing of their employees.

HappiZest by Happiest Health offers a comprehensive solution to help businesses address these growing challenges. By encouraging good lifestyle choices, the program focuses on achieving a healthier lifespan through exercise, meditation and healthy nutrition.

Why Choose HappiZest?

Holistic Focus: Covers physical, mental, social, and financial wellbeing.

Disruptive Pricing: Affordable plans for businesses of all sizes.

Arvind Krishnan,

Arvind Krishnan, President & CEO, Wellness Business, Happiest Health, said, “The alarming rise in lifestyle diseases and mental health issues among India’s workforce highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing. At Happiest Health, we believe that a healthier, happier workforce is the foundation of a thriving organization. With our HappiZest program, we aim to provide companies with the right tools to address these challenges by fostering physical, mental, social, and financial wellness. By offering a 30-day free trial, we’re not just delivering a solution but inviting organizations to join a movement towards sustainable and impactful employee health.”

What sets HappiZest apart is their holistic and innovative approach to corporate wellness, combined with disruptive pricing that makes it accessible to businesses of all sizes. The program is built to address the multi-dimensional aspects of employee wellbeing, from stress management and financial health to fostering strong social connections and improving lifestyle choices.

This trial allows organizations to explore the benefits of a structured wellness initiative without any upfront cost. The program is designed to seamlessly integrate into workplace routines, ensuring that employees can easily adopt healthier practices.

Gaurav Loomba Joins Truecaller as Senior Director, Public Affairs to Strengthen India Operations

6th December 2024 Bangalore, Karnataka, India Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, has appointed Gaurav Loomba as India’s Senior Director of Public Affairs. Gaurav joined Truecaller following a distinguished career as the AVP of Government and Public Affairs at Paytm, and he has also held positions at the National Payments Corporation of India and ICICI Bank. This appointment comes close on the heels of another seasoned industry veteran, Seema Jindal, joining from Bharti Airtel. Seema leads Truecaller’s Public Affairs mandate on the telecom business.

With two decades of experience in financial services and digital payments, Gaurav was instrumental in fostering relationships with government and industry associations on policy and regulatory reforms in the sector, as well as managing CSR and ESG initiatives.

At Truecaller, Gaurav will work closely with government agencies to lead the implementation of a public affairs strategy that secures necessary regulatory and policy support for Truecaller’s sustained growth and innovation in India.

Gaurav

Speaking on his new role, Gaurav said, “I am pleased to announce my appointment as the Senior Director of Public Affairs at Truecaller. In this role, I will be tasked with enhancing the organisation’s engagement with government ministries and agencies. My primary objective will be to develop and implement strategies that ensure comprehensive policy and regulatory support, thereby reinforcing Truecaller’s commitment to the Indian market. “

Truecaller stays committed to India by continuing to expand the Public Affairs mandate in its largest market with over 383 million users. Gaurav will report directly to Kari Krishnamurthy, Truecaller’s Chief Commercial Officer.

Welcoming Senior Director of Public Affairs, Kari Krishnamurthy, Chief Commercial Officer at Truecaller, said, “Gaurav Loomba’s leadership in Public Affairs marks a pivotal step as we deepen our focus on India, our largest market. His regulatory expertise and ability to cultivate meaningful stakeholder engagement will strengthen our partnerships and advance our strategic goals in telecommunications.”

Empowering Emerging Cities: Sushil Sharma’s Bold Plan to Transform India’s Startup Landscape

6th December 2024 Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India Sushil Sharma, a visionary leader and CEO & Founder of Marwari Catalysts, is on a mission to redefine the landscape of India’s startup ecosystem by empowering entrepreneurs beyond the country’s major cities. With a deep commitment to transforming the narrative around innovation in Tier II and III cities, Sushil works closely with founders, understanding their unique challenges and aspirations. He does not just advocate for growth in these regions; he lives in them, embodying his belief that these cities hold untapped potential for creating the next wave of successful startups.

Sushil Sharma entered the industry by investing in startups, facing a few setbacks early on but refusing to quit. Over time, he evolved from a struggling founder to an angel investor, now recognized as the most influential name in the startup ecosystem.

Marwari Catalysts: A Hub for Scalable Growth

Marwari Catalysts, India’s fastest-growing Startup Accelerator & Rajasthan’s biggest Ecosystem Player, has established itself as a powerful player in fostering innovation and scaling businesses. As Rajasthan’s first SEBI-approved CAT-1 AIF, it provides unparalleled resources and mentorship to help startups with established revenue after histories grow 10X to 100X. With a team that includes successful founders, industry experts, and professionals who have been instrumental in building unicorns, Marwari Catalysts offers startups the support they need to become formidable ventures. The organization bridges the gap between traditional businesses and new-age ventures, creating opportunities for mutual growth.

Global Reach and Mentors with Skin in the Game

Under Sushil’s leadership, Marwari Catalysts supports a diverse portfolio of over 90+ startups and 500+ co-founders clubs, connecting them with international markets in the US, UK, and the Middle East. This global outlook helps entrepreneurs from smaller towns tap into opportunities across the globe.

One of the accelerator’s key strengths lies in its pool of mentors, who not only offer expert guidance but also have a stake in the startups they support. This hands-on involvement nurtures accountability and drives growth. “Our mentors have skin in the game; they understand the challenges firsthand and provide tailored guidance to our founders,” says Sushil. The success of Marwari Catalysts is evident in its track record, where successful exits significantly outnumber failures, proving its reliability as an accelerator.

Several startups from Marwari Catalysts have made waves on Shark Tank India, securing funding and receiving immense appreciation from the Sharks. In Season 1, Nuskha Kitchen impressed with its health & wellness solutions; in Season 2, Jaipur Watch Company showcased its bespoke luxury craftmanship; and in Season 3, TURMS stood out with its NanoTech approach. These success stories highlight Marwari Catalysts’ knack for nurturing impactful startups.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Inclusivity is a core tenet of Marwari Catalysts, with women entrepreneurs making up 35% of its portfolio. Sushil believes that women are key to creating a resilient and innovative India. He advocates for equal access to mentorship and resources for women, creating a more equitable business ecosystem. “Women entrepreneurs are critical for building a stronger, more diverse startup landscape,” he emphasizes.

Resilience Through Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but it also showcased the resilience of startups in Tier II and III cities. Entrepreneurs in these regions leveraged digital transformation to find new avenues for growth, positioning themselves for long-term success. “Startups in Tier II and III cities were already well-positioned for resilience,” Sushil notes. “The pandemic opened doors for them, particularly with the rise of AI, IoT, and remote work solutions.”

Building a Global Startup Ecosystem

Marwari Catalysts, founded in Rajasthan, has expanded its reach and influence globally. Today, it serves as the backbone of India’s startup ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with the resources they need to thrive on the world stage.Sushil envisions Marwari Catalysts as a key player in bringing global startups to India through reverse engineering, creating a bridge between Indian entrepreneurs and international markets. “We aim to position Indian startups as key players on the world stage,” he asserts, underscoring his vision of India becoming a global economic powerhouse.

A Future of Limitless Possibilities

Sushil Sharma exemplifies how immense potential lies beyond India’s metropolitan cities. From small-town roots, he has risen to lead the fastest-growing startup accelerator in India, reflecting his commitment to creating an environment where talent can flourish. “Creating value is essential for building meaningful relationships, and collaboration is the most powerful growth strategy,” he explains.

As the Indian startup ecosystem continues to evolve, Sushil Sharma’s efforts to empower entrepreneurs from smaller towns are helping shape an innovative future without boundaries. Through Marwari Catalysts, he is laying the foundation for an inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial landscape, where talent from India’s tier 2 and 3 cities converges to create lasting impact.

Sports for All: Elpro Sports Fest 2024 Celebrates Student Unity and Athletic Excellence

Elpro Sports Fest 2024

6th December 2024 Pune, Maharashtra, India The Elpro Sports Fest is an annual celebration of sports and teamwork at Elpro International School, aiming to inspire students and promote holistic development through active participation. This year, the festival, held from 16th November to 2nd December 2024, was bigger and better, engaging students from Grades 1 to 12 in a wide range of individual and team sports of their choice. The event ensures 100% participation, allowing every student to compete, learn, and have fun through sports.

The idea of inviting celebrated sports personalities like Nitesh Kumar and Lakshya Sen was to motivate students by introducing them to real-life role models who exemplify perseverance, discipline, and excellence. The festival kicked off with a motivational opening ceremony featuring Nitesh Kumar, India’s Paralympic Badminton champion. His incredible story of resilience and success inspired everyone in attendance, setting a positive tone for the weeks ahead.

Throughout the fest, students participated in a variety of sports, including cricket, football, badminton, long jump, throwball, and more. The unique aspect of the Elpro Sports Fest is its inclusivity—ensuring that every student, regardless of grade or skill level, takes part in at least one individual and one team sport, based on their preferences.

The closing ceremony on 2nd December was equally inspiring, featuring Lakshya Sen, India’s rising badminton star. His journey from a young athlete to an international sensation motivated students to dream big, work hard, and pursue their goals with passion and determination. The ceremony also honored the winners of various events and acknowledged the hard work of all participants, organizers, and volunteers.

Dr. Vohra said, “The Elpro Sports Fest is about much more than winning medals. It’s about participation, growth, and building confidence in our students. We are proud to create a space where every child can explore their potential, work in teams, and develop a lifelong love for sports. The presence of inspiring athletes like Nitesh Kumar and Lakshya Sen makes this event truly special.”

The Elpro Sports Fest has become a platform that not only celebrates athletic talent but also fosters values like inclusivity, perseverance, and teamwork. It’s a shining example of how sports can bring communities together and leave a lasting impact on young minds. To know more about Elpro International School follow @elpro_international_school on Instagram.

NoBroker Hosts Pune Property Carnival: A Paradise for Aspiring Homeowners

6th December 2024 Pune, Maharashtra, India After the tremendous success of its previous Property Carnivals in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai, NoBroker, India’s first proptech unicorn, is bringing its highly anticipated Property Carnival to Pune on 7th and 8th December 2024. Homebuyers in Pune now have an exceptional opportunity to explore an array of exclusive property offers, exciting deals, and financing options from over a dozen top-tier developers in the real estate industry under one roof.

The event will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn, Hinjewadi Wakad Road, Pune, on December 7th and 8th and promises to be the ultimate destination for homebuyers looking to find their dream homes with unbeatable perks.

Event Highlights

Homebuyers visiting the NoBroker Property Carnival will enjoy a range of exclusive offers and benefits, including white goods up to Rs 4 lakhs, no GST payment, free Oxford Golf membership for 25 years, MG Comet car for every customer who books on the spot, and gold vouchers of up to Rs 5 lakhs. The event is expected to have a massive footfall of 1,000+ buyers over the course of the weekend after similar astounding success in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Chennai which witnessed similar footfalls and over 100 property bookings on the spot.

Customers will also have the opportunity to choose from lucrative payment schemes such as:

  • Fixed EMI starting at ₹33,333 for 30 months
  • 5:95 Payment Scheme – Pay 5% now and enjoy an EMI holiday until December 2026
  • Moratorium for 24 months
  • Bullet Payment Plan – Special pricing for selective units (Pay 9% now, with the next payment due after 6 months)

Leading developers from the real estate industry such as Godrej Properties, Kolte Patil, Shapoorji Pallonji, Mahindra Lifespaces, Rohan Builders, Platinum Developers, Dosti Realty, and more will showcase their top properties at the event.

NoBroker is committed to offering homebuyers not just great deals with professional guidance but a seamless experience through technological solutions. Special benefits are available exclusively for NoBroker customers who book on during the carnival. Whether you’re a first time home-buyer looking for your dream home or an investor looking to get good returns from real estate, this carnival has you covered.

Saurabh Garg, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of NoBroker said, “Homebuying is a big decision and our experts would help customers make the right decision. This is the perfect opportunity for Pune homebuyers to explore a wide range of properties from some of the best developers in the market, all while taking advantage of exceptional offers. Whether you are looking for a 2BHK, 3BHK, or 4BHK property, flexible payment schemes, loan options, there is something for everyone at the NoBroker Property Carnival. We at NoBroker wish to make the dream of owning a home come true for our customers. The offers at this carnival are designed to make home-buying more affordable and rewarding.”

India 2030 Leadership Conclave 2024: Vritilife and NexBrands Honor Icons in Corporate and Entertainment

6th December 2024 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India The much-anticipated Brand Vision: India 2030 Leadership Conclave, presented by Vritilife, an initiative by NexBrands Inc, took place on November 19, 2024, at the luxurious ITC Maratha in Mumbai. This year’s conclave celebrated extraordinary leaders from the corporate and entertainment sectors who were honored as Extraordinaires for their remarkable contributions to their industries and society.

The prestigious event brought together an exclusive gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and influencers, recognizing their efforts in transforming India’s corporate landscape, driving innovation, and influencing the entertainment world. The conclave acknowledged the visionaries whose leadership, perseverance, and trailblazing achievements continue to inspire future generations.

Key Honorees at Vritilife presents Brand Vision: India 2030 Leadership Conclave 2024

The event saw the recognition of several corporate and entertainment icons under different categories:

Corporate Icons:

  • Madan Mohan Mohanka – Tega Industries – Powerful Business Icon
  • Harish Kohli – Acer India – Most Powerful CEO
  • Sanjay Koul – Timken India – Most Powerful CEO
  • Dheeraj Arora – Hygienic Research Institute – Most Powerful CEO
  • Amit Gossain – Kone Elevators – Most Powerful CEO
  • Lav Chaturvedi – Reliance Securities – Most Powerful CEO
  • Deepak Jain – amanté – Dynamic Business Leader
  • Saurabh Munjal – Lahori Zeera – Disrupting Startup Led by Youth Leader – FMCG
  • Sanjib Sahoo – Ingram Micro – Trendsetter of the Industry – IT Distribution & Services
  • Gautam Boda – JB Boda Group – Powerful Business Icon
  • Nitin Jain & Hemant Daga – Neo Wealth & Asset Management – Most Innovative Business Leaders – Wealth & Asset Management
  • Krishnadas R Varier – Arya Vaidya Pharmacy – Leadership Par Excellence – Ayurveda
  • Mathew Job – Watertec India – Most Innovative Business Leader – Bath Fittings
  • Rohini Iyer – Raindrop Media – Influential Entrepreneur
  • Aditya Vikram Birla – Cosmic Birla Group – Dynamic Business Personality
  • Priya Anand Dakle – Dakle Industrial Plastics – Leading Ladies of Influence – Manufacturing
  • Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese – Hindustan Group of Institutions – Powerful Business Icon – Education
  • Aakanksha Kaur – JIS Group – Leading Ladies of Influence – Education
  • Kumari Swetam – Indiana HR and Training Solutions – Leading Ladies of Influence – HR Consultancy & Training
  • Arnav Vij, Karissa Gupta, Vihaan Tampi – Walking Past – Youth Leaders of the Year

Entertainment Legends:

  • R. Madhavan – Game Changer of the Decade
  • Anupam Kher – Change-Maker of Indian Cinema
  • Nawazuddin Siddiqui – Versatile Actor of the Decade
  • Fardeen Khan – Breakthrough Performer
  • Raashii Khanna – Sensational Performer
  • Esha Gupta – Leading Ladies of Influence
  • Dhvani Bhanushali – Pop Sensation of the Year
  • Ali Fazal – Global OTT Icon
  • Sayani Gupta – Impactful OTT Performer
  • Urvashi Rautela – Style Icon
  • Adah Sharma – Power Achiever
  • Pragya Jaiswal – Rising Star (Female)
  • Gurmeet Choudhary – Rising Star (Male)
  • Aastha Gill – Youth Icon (Music)
  • Gauranga Darshan Das – Visionary Leader (Spirituality)

A Night of Recognition and Inspiration: Vritilife presents Brand Vision: India 2030 Leadership Conclave was a spectacular evening of recognition, featuring a host of luminaries from both the corporate world and entertainment industry. The event not only celebrated their outstanding achievements but also provided a platform for networking, inspiration, and vision-sharing about the future of India in the next decade. Each award recipient was celebrated for their unwavering commitment to excellence and their contributions to shaping the India of tomorrow.

Panda Extravaganza: 2,500 Sculptures to Grace Hong Kong’s Landmark Locations

6th December 2024 Hong Kong As a national treasure, the giant panda’s rarity and heartwarming, adorable appearance has captivated the world. In Hong Kong, the panda craze shows no signs of slowing down, from the anticipated arrival of two new pandas in December to the locally born panda twins earlier. After the successful summer exhibition “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS Tour (Hong Kong)”, the creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) is once again setting the stage for a new wave of excitement by organising Hong Kong’s largest panda exhibition, PANDA GO! FEST HK. The exhibition will showcase 2,500 panda sculptures in eight unique designs.

The PANDA GO! FEST HK kicked off with a grand welcoming ceremony on December 2 at one of the Hangars, within the restricted area of Hong Kong International Airport, where 2,500 pandas were warmly welcomed.

These pandas will be creatively displayed across various locations around Hong Kong. They are visiting iconic landmarks with four exhibitions throughout the city, starting in December.

It was inspired by Hong Kong’s own panda family, the PANDA GO! FEST HK also features six exclusive designs and introduces the special Hong Kong intellectual property (IP) – Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong (PFF HK) ARR invites both locals and tourists to dive into this immersive celebration that blends art, exhibition, and tourism. It promises not only a citywide celebration of the pandas’ unique charm but also an atmosphere filled with joy and hope.

Organizer ARR Returns to Curate Again, Continuing a Decade-Long Bond with Pandas

The connection between giant pandas and the creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) runs deep. In 2014, ARR introduced the iconic “I AM HERE” giant panda installation in Chengdu, the home of pandas, which has since become a local landmark. Later that year, ARR launched the “1600 PANDAS WORLD TOUR IN HONG KONG: CREATIVITY MEETS CONSERVATION,” captivating audiences across multiple cities worldwide and pioneering a new exhibition format by appearing at landmark locations through a series of flash exhibitions. For generations, pandas have been cherished as close companions by the people of Hong Kong, holding special meaning for both ARR and the city’s residents.

Now, a decade later, with the arrival of four new members, the total number of giant pandas has been brought to six. Also, thanks to global panda conservation efforts, the giant panda population has now grown to over 2,500. This includes wild pandas, which have increased from around 1,600 to approximately 1,900, and over 600 captive pandas. Despite these advancements, pandas remain exceedingly rare.

Panda Go! Fest HK Returns with Eight New Panda Designs as 2,500 Pandas “On the Go”! As a result, ARR has decided to bring 2,500 panda sculptures back with a fresh new look. Continuing with Hong Kong as the central hub, ARR is set to create the city’s largest panda-themed exhibition yet, gathering panda lovers and art enthusiasts while spreading panda culture to every corner of Hong Kong. For the PANDA GO! FEST HK, ARR has designed eight new panda designs, which will form a creative collection of 2,500 panda sculptures.

Visitors will have the chance to spot traces of giant pandas at various iconic landmarks across Hong Kong, bringing art closer to daily life and raising awareness about panda conservation. The highlight of the event is the appearance of 2,500 pandas in four public exhibitions starting from December 7, where they will meet locals and visitors alike. For details, visitors can check the official website pandago-fest.com.

The Exclusive Hong Kong IP, Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong, will Make Its Adorable Debut

When visiting the PANDA GO! FEST HK exhibitions, you will notice six particularly familiar and charming pandas among the crowd. ARR has specially created six new characters for Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong (PFF HK), an exclusive Hong Kong IP inspired by the city’s panda family. These characters include Ying Ying, Le Le, and the newly added members—Keke*, An An*, and the twin pandas, “Big Sister*” and “Little Brother*” (*existing names). Each character incorporates their distinct personalities and physical traits with anthropomorphic elements, blending local cultural and lifestyle features to create a one-of-a-kind Hong Kong exclusive IP.

PFF HK will not only be part of the exhibition but also serve as Hong Kong’s giant panda ambassadors. This IP may appear in other panda-related events hosted by various organisations. ARR has gifted this IP to Hong Kong. Organisations are incorporating PFF HK into different settings, actively driving culture and tourism. This initiative aims to spread joy, boost the economy, and infuse new energy into Hong Kong. During this event, all royalties generated from commercial activities will be fully donated to Ocean Park to support giant panda conservation efforts.

This exhibition also features renowned French artist Paulo Grangeon as the artistic consultant. With his meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of artistic creation, he has further refined and elevated the essence of pandas, ensuring that every sculpture and movement captures the panda’s spirit to the fullest.

PANDA GO! Fest HK has also invited 11 renowned figures from various fields to create one-of-a-kind special-edition panda designs. The lineup includes Pharrell Williams, a renowned musician, artist, producer, and fashion designer; Huang Bo, a celebrated actor and director; Du Juan, a supermodel and actress; and Kasing Lung, the artist behind the creation of LABUBU, among others.

Most of these special-edition panda sculptures will be auctioned online for charity, with the highest bidder winning. Proceeds from the auction, with no deductions, will be donated in full to Ocean Park, supporting giant panda conservation efforts. Details of the charity sale will be announced later.

A National Treasure Promoting Cultural Exchange

The giant panda, a national treasure, carries profound cultural and ecological significance. As a Class I protected animal in China, the panda is an endemic species found only in the bamboo forests of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces. Its rarity makes it incredibly precious. Symbolising good fortune and friendship, pandas often serve as cultural ambassadors, gifted to countries around the world. The two pairs of pandas previously sent to Hong Kong have accompanied generations of locals, and the new arrivals will continue to bring joy to the people of Hong Kong.

Financial Optimism Returns: HDFC Life’s LFI Reveals Positive Outlook Across Cohorts

6th December 2024 Mumbai, Maharashtra, India HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, has released the latest edition of Life Freedom Index (LFI). The LFI is a study that was established by HDFC Life in 2011. This index measures the level of ‘financial freedom’ among Indian consumers, and has been instrumental in providing deep insights into the ever-evolving financial needs of consumers across segments. It covers key adult life-stages, bucketed into three cohorts: Young Aspirants, Proud Parents, and Wisdom Investors.

The LFI comprises four sub-indices:

  • Financial Awareness & Familiarity Index
  • Financial Planning Index
  • Financial Sufficiency & Adequacy Index
  • Financial Liberty Index

This edition (2024) of the study was conducted by NielsenIQ across 15 cities (good representation of 4 zones, and Tiers 1, 2, 3) with 2076 respondents.

The latest 2024 study reveals that the Life Freedom Index stands at 70.8, (up by 9 points as compared to 2021). This upward movement indicates a bounce-back in consumer sentiment after the pandemic, and an overall improvement in terms of confidence in consumers’ financial outlook.

This upward movement is attributed to growth across all of LFI’s sub-indices, particularly Financial Planning and Financial Sufficiency & Adequacy indices. However, the relatively lower growth in the Financial Awareness & Familiarity Index highlights the need for better knowledge of financial products.

Another aspect where LFI throws light is the list of top priorities for consumers. Children’s financial security, fitness (both physical and mental) and improving one’s standard of living feature on this list. An interesting development noticed is that retirement planning is gradually gaining importance as a financial responsibility, becoming more important with age. While planning for retirement, consumers are taking into account the expenses towards health, daily living, and supporting children.

In terms of ranking among consumer segments, as per the LFI, Wisdom Investors are at the top, displaying maximum growth, followed by Young Aspirants and Proud Parents.

One of the highlights of LFI’s latest edition is that Tier 3 Consumers & Working women have displayed a notable increase in LFI, reflecting a positive shift in their financial planning and confidence.

The upward trend among Tier 3 consumers is likely to have been driven by improved financial access through digital advancements and greater connectivity.

The increase in the index for Working Women is attributed to easier access to financial education through digital advances and initiatives to empower women.

Since the last edition, HDFC Life has also been monitoring the Life Insurance Confidence Index, which measures the role of Life Insurance in the consumers’ financial planning & goal achievement. There has been a growth of 9.3 points in this index, which indicates the rising recognition of life insurance as a vital component of the financial strategy for individuals. This gain rides on the increased consumer confidence that life insurance provides, to meet financial needs and long term financial goals.

West Zone displays the highest index score, while East exhibits the highest growth. There has also been notable improvement in Tier 3 markets which denotes that life insurance is gaining significance as an important financial product. Overall, life insurance offerings are witnessing improved familiarity and needs such as financial security, returns, child’s future and maintaining lifestyle are the key triggers, driving life insurance purchase.

Speaking on the launch of this study, Vishal Subharwal – Group Head Strategy & Chief Marketing Officer, HDFC Life said, “We created Life Freedom Index (LFI) to serve as an indicator of overall financial preparedness among Indian consumers. We have seen the Index evolve over the years, and with each new study, we mostly found the levels of consumer confidence in terms of financial preparedness, improving. This indicates development and a positive approach towards the future with a focus on financial security.

This year’s study has highlighted improved levels of financial freedom among Working Women and in Tier 3 markets. The Life Insurance Confidence Index has grown significantly, reiterating the importance of life insurance in a well-rounded financial plan. We believe this will give further impetus to our efforts at HDFC Life and across the life insurance industry in our journey towards ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.”