Mumbai, 29^th January 2025: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) continues its commitment to creating a safer road environment by organizing an engaging ‘Kids Carnival’ focused on road safety education. The event, aimed at empowering young minds with essential traffic safety knowledge, aligns with Honda’s global vision of achieving zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050. HMSI has taken significant steps towards fostering road safety awareness, while aligning with the Government of India’s goal of reducing road fatalities by half by 2030.

The Kids’ Carnival was organized at HMSI’s all four plants across India – Tapukara (Rajasthan), Vithalapur (Gujarat), Narsapura (Karnata) and its culmination at the company’s Global Resource Factory in IMT Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana. It featured interactive and fun-filled activities designed to educate children about the importance of road safety. From traffic rules and road signs to the significance of responsible behaviour on roads, it introduced young participants to these vital concepts in an engaging manner.

The Kids Carnival activity brought together over 1100 students and teachers from government and primary schools, aiming to promote a culture of road safety among young minds. Students from 5^th to 6^th standards accompanied by their teachers, actively participated in interactive activities designed to educate and empower them as road safety ambassadors.

HMSI’s road safety education program is built upon scientifically devised learning modules that make learning fun yet informative. The event featured a range of engaging activities, including:

• Road Safety Skit: Students performed specially curated skits covering various aspects of road safety, making the learning process interactive and relatable.
• Road Safety Videos: Specially designed movies were showcased to encourage a positive mindset towards safe road usage among children.
• Interactive Games: Fun-filled activities were organized to reinforce road safety concepts in an enjoyable and memorable manner.

HMSI remains dedicated to spreading road safety awareness to all sections of society, from school children to corporate employees and communities at large. With a skilled team of safety instructors, HMSI conducts daily road safety education programs at its 10 adopted Traffic Training Parks (TTP) and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) across India. To date, the initiative has reached over 90 lakh Indians.

Through its National Road Safety Awareness Program, HMSI provides:

1. Scientifically Devised Learning Modules: Covering essential topics such as road signs, driver responsibilities, riding gear, and safe riding etiquettes.
2. Practical Learning: Virtual riding simulators to help participants experience over 100 possible on-road dangers before actual riding.
3. Interactive Training: “Kiken Yosoku Training” (KYT) to enhance sensitivity to road hazards and encourage safe driving behavior.
4. Skill Enhancement for Existing Riders: Slow riding activities and narrow plank riding exercises to hone skills for experienced riders.

HMSI’s efforts reflect its mission to be a company that society values and supports, striving to build a safer and more responsible future generation. Through innovative and engaging road safety programs, HMSI continues to make a lasting impact across various segments of society.

HMSI also recently launched its innovative digital road safety learning platform, E-Gurukul, which offers training modules tailored for three specific age groups from 5 years till 18 years ensuring a comprehensive approach towards road safety. Currently the modules are available in multiple languages like Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and English—to ensure inclusivity and regional relevance and E-Gurukul can be accessed at egurukul.honda.hmsi.in. The platform supports live streaming or downloading, and multilingual modules to ensure accessibility across diverse regions. The launch of E-Gurukul is part of HMSI’s ongoing efforts to empower children, educators, and dealers to champion safe road practices. The initiative will expand to cover schools in every state, promoting road safety education tailored to different age groups.

Ahmedabad – 29th January 2025 – Ishan Technologies, a leader in ICT services with a pan-India presence and a member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), has announced the launch of its Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) solution, Ishan CXConnect, in collaboration with Oracle. This new platform is set to elevate customer service experiences while maintaining secure communications by providing businesses with scalable, cloud-based contact center solutions. Ishan CXConnect is powered by Oracle Enterprise Session Border Controller (E-SBC), offering streamlined, high-quality voice communications with superior network security.

As the CCaaS sector gains momentum in India, Ishan Technologies has customised the service to address the evolving needs of modern businesses. With features such as the “Click to Call” functionality, customers can connect with mobile app-based customer care, enhancing the overall user experience. Hosted on Ishan’s Cloud, the service components are built with resilient architecture ensuring the highest uptimes.

With the integration of Oracle’s E-SBC, Ishan CXConnect delivers advanced voice capabilities alongside Ishan Technologies’ managed services, offering uptime and resiliency. Ishan Technologies maintains a managed solution that remains proprietary. This integration allows for CRM, reporting solutions, and more, handled by the company’s dedicated Professional Services (PS) team. The solution is bundled with regulatory compliance solutions which include network, telephony plans, applications, and support services, all hosted in Ishan’s own data centers in Mumbai and Gandhinagar, with potential expansion to Chennai based on customer needs.

“India is rapidly emerging as a hub for CCaaS solutions, driven by growing demand for enhanced customer engagement. Ishan CXConnect powered by Oracle’s E-SBC will help allow businesses to reduce overhead costs, streamline operations, and focus on their core competencies with better communications protection against cyberthreats,” said Pinkesh Kotecha, Chairman and Managing Director, Ishan Technologies. “This platform is a 360-degree solution that delivers streamlined, secure, and future-ready communications for our customers.”

“We are excited to partner with Ishan Technologies to bring Ishan CXConnect to the market,” said Payam Sharifi, senior vice president, worldwide sales, Oracle Communications. “The combination of the robust network security and voice capabilities in Oracle’s E-SBC, paired with Ishan’s expertise in cloud and contact center management, creates a powerful solution for enterprises. Together, we will help evolving businesses optimize their customer interactions, while maintaining the highest standards of security and performance.”

MUMBAI, India—January 29, 2025—Prime Video today revealed that the Spanish Original young adult movie Culpa Tuya has taken the world by storm, becoming the most-watched International Original on Prime Video ever at launch. The sequel from Mercedes Ron’s best-selling Culpables book trilogy, Culpa Tuya, launched on Prime Video on December 27, 2024, in 240 countries and territories worldwide. At launch, Culpa Tuya, ranked number 1 title on Prime Video in over 170 countries, including Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, and Canada, Top 3 in the U.S. and U.K., and Top 10 in over 220 countries. It has now become the most-watched International Original movie or series on Prime Video globally at launch, with 90% of streams coming from viewers outside of Spain.

Prime Video also released the list of the Top 10 most-watched non-English language International Originals from 2024 that saw record-breaking viewership outside their country of origin. In 2024, some Prime Video International Originals debuted with international success, setting a new bar for viewership of international programming. Seven different countries feature in the Top 10 list of International Originals, reflecting the diverse viewing habits of Prime Video customers.

Top 10 Non-English Language International Originals on Prime Video in 2024 (based on performance outside their country of origin):

• Culpa Tuya (Movie, Spain, December 2024)
• Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End (Movie, Spain, October 2024)
• Maxton Hall: The World Between Us (Series, Germany, May 2024)
• Citadel: Diana (Series, Italy, October 2024)
• Citadel: Honey Bunny (Series, India, November 2024)
• Red Queen (Series, Spain, February 2024)
• Marry My Husband (Series, Korea, January 2024)
• No Gain No Love (Series, Korea, August 2024)
• Betty La Fea, The Story Continues (Series, Colombia, August 2024)
• Like A Dragon: Yakuza (Series, Japan, October 2024)

*Ranking based on total viewing figures outside the country of origin in first 4-weeks of launch, with titles that launched in 2024

Most Popular Genres and Countries Bringing in International Audiences

Young adult is a leading genre generating huge audiences and fandoms. Culpa Tuya comes out top, with German Original, Maxton Hall: The World Between Us, based on the bestselling novel series Save Me by Mona Kasten following closely behind. Young adult, female skewing korean dramas (or ‘K-dramas’) like Marry My Husband and No Gain No Love also reach Top 10 in the charts. Younger demographics are increasingly consuming content across borders, regardless of its language or origin.

Spanish language Originals continue to drive big international audiences on Prime Video. Spanish Originals in the Top 10 list include young adult movie Culpa Tuya, post-apocalyptic action thriller film based on the successful book trilogy, Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End, series adaption of the hit thriller book trilogy Red Queen, and Colombian Original series following “Betty’s” iconic comeback Betty La Fea, The Story Continues.

Other stand outs include international stories from known brands, including action-packed, Italian Original spy series Citadel: Diana and Indian Original Citadel: Honey Bunny, both born from the world of Citadel, Prime Video’s Global Original series. As well as titles from known IP, including Japanese Original, Like A Dragon: Yakuza, the TV adaptation of SEGA’s iconic video game series.

“It’s been a landmark year for International Originals on Prime Video as we see customers increasingly watch international programming from inside and outside their country of origin,” said James Farrell, VP International Originals, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios. “Our International Originals strategy is built on the belief that great stories can come from anywhere and resonate everywhere, and the success we’re seeing across genres and regions encourages us to continue investing in locally-produced stories for a local and international audience.”

“We’re thrilled to see Culpa Tuya connect with viewers on such a huge global scale becoming our most-watched International Original ever at launch, and I’m delighted we’ll keep Culpables fans satisfied with more to come from the trilogy and author Mercedes Ron,” said María Contreras, Head of Movies & Scripted TV, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios. “The continued international success of Spanish Originals with Apocalypse Z and Red Queen joining Culpa Tuya in the Top 10 list, demonstrates the universal appeal of compelling storytelling, regardless of language or origin.”

International Originals Also Setting Local Prime Video Viewership Records

As well as travelling to international audiences, International Originals launched in 2024 broke records in the country they were produced in. Break out hits included Mirzapur, Season 3 (India), which was the most-watched show ever on Prime Video in India during its launch weekend; Oshi No Ko (Japan), which had the biggest first month performance for a Japanese Original ever in Japan; Who Killed Him? (Mexico), the most viewed title of all time in Mexico; The Park Maniac (Brazil), the most-watched Brazilian Original of all time; Nahir (Argentina), the most-viewed title in Argentina in its first month; Ourika (France), the most watched French Original scripted series in France; and Operación Triunfo (Spain), the most-watched local premiere and the Spanish Original that has driven the most sign-ups to Prime in the history of Prime Video in Spain, amongst others.

“Our goal has always been to produce International Originals which make an outsized impact with audiences in their home country first,” said James Farrell, VP International Originals, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios. “It’s great that our investment in fostering local talent, production and storytelling continues to connect with customers locally by breaking more viewership records in their country of origin in 2024.”

Coming in 2025 and Beyond

Prime Video will continue to invest in diverse, high-quality international programming that resonates with audiences locally and internationally. Seven out of the Top 10 list of International Originals will return for sequels, new seasons, or adaptations of known IP and brands in 2025 and beyond. Customers can look forward fan-favourite movies like Culpa Nuestra, and the UK adaptation of the first movie, My Fault: London, as well as more from Mercedes Ron with the first from the Dímelo book trilogy titled Tell Me Softly in English, and the sequel to Apocalypse Z. Returning seasons include Maxton Hall: The World Between Us, Red Queen, and Betty La Fea, The Story Continues. New titles include Newtopia (Korea), Superboys of Malegaon (India), Unburied (Mexico), Graduation Trip: Mallorca (Spain), and Costiera (Italy). All movies and series are available to Prime Video customers in 240 countries and territories worldwide, offering up to 34 subtitles and 18 dubbed language options.

Mumbai, India | 29 January 2025 | NSE: KPITTECH BSE: 542651: KPIT Technologies, a global leader in building mobility solutions for a cleaner, smarter, and safer world, announced financial results for Q3 FY25 today.

Performance overview

• Q3 FY25 Revenues
  • Revenues at $176MN with CC growth of 17.4% Y-o-Y and $ revenue growth of 18.1% Y-o-Y
  • YTD Q3FY25 CC Revenue Growth of 20.7%
  • Growth led by Powertrain and Connected Vehicles domains
  • Growth led by Asia geography and Passenger Car Vertical
• Q3 FY25 EBITDA and PAT
  • EBITDA at 21.1%, Y-o-Y growth of 20.8%
  • PAT stands at INR 1870MN, growing at 20.4% YoY
• Marks 18^th consecutive growth quarter
• TCV of new engagements won during Q3FY25: $236 million
• Outlook – Increases FY25 EBITDA outlook to 21%+ from earlier 20.5%+, maintains CC revenue growth outlook of 18% to 22% range

Commenting on the performance of Q3 FY25

Kishor Patil, Co-founder, CEO and MD, KPIT said,

“The third quarter revenues are in-line with our annual revenue outlook while the operating profit has improved due to revenue mix change and productivity improvement, despite currency headwinds. Thus, we increase our annual EBITDA Margin outlook to 21%+ from 20.5%+ earlier. We are investing in AI technologies fine-tuned with automotive-specific data. Our AI philosophy is rooted in developing human-centric, innovative, safe, and responsible AI solutions that drive value creation for our clients. We will leverage these AI investments to augment our talent pool, while creating new opportunities for future growth. Our leadership and strength of relationship with our T25 clients is demonstrated by higher deal closures, efficient cash conversion and robust build-up in the pipeline.”

Sachin Tikekar, President and Joint MD, KPIT said,

“We have been developing new sub-verticals viz Trucks and Off-highway. There are sizable opportunities through these investments, and they are now contributing to building our pipeline across the geographies. These will contribute to our growth from the second half of the next financial year. There are new relationships being explored and built with the Passenger Car and Truck makers in China and Rest of Europe outside Germany. In terms of our new offerings, there is greater interest from our T25 clients in the areas of vehicle cost reduction, cyber security and data-oriented services. Our attrition remains at all-time low levels and our leadership development programs are in full swing to further enhance our continued growth.”

Mumbai, January 28, 2025 – R R Kabel (RRK), one of the leading consumer electricals players with a strong presence in Fast Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) has announced its Unaudited Financial Results for the quarter and nine months that ended on December 31, 2024.

 

 

Commenting on the Results, Mr. Shreegopal Kabra, MD said, – “RR Kabel has delivered its highest-ever revenues in 9M FY25, despite overall moderate volume growth in Wires & Cables business, while the FMEG segment recorded solid revenue performance, driven by robust volume growth and an improved product mix. Despite volatility in commodity prices, demand has remained fairly stable. Looking ahead, we expect margin improvements in the coming quarters. We continue to focus on our long-term vision of achieving double-digit EBITDA margins, breakeven in the FMEG segment, capacity expansion, and diversifying into newer and emerging market opportunities.”

Guwahati; January 29, 2025: Mega Entertainment, the pioneer of fashion and pageant events in Northeast India, is delighted to announce the Grand Finale of the 21st Livon Mega Miss North East. Scheduled for January 31, 2025, this highly anticipated event will take place at the ITA Cultural Complex in Guwahati. Fifty-seven talented candidates from across Northeast India will compete for the three coveted winners’ crowns.

Mega Miss North East (MMNE) is conceptualized by fashion entrepreneur Abhijeet Singha, produced by Mega Entertainment, and marketed by Mega Activation.

Under the visionary leadership of Abhijeet Singha, MMNE continues to set benchmarks in the pageantry world. Speaking about the milestone event, Abhijeet Singha, Founder of Mega Entertainment, said, “I am filled with immense pride as we celebrate the 21st edition of Livon Mega Miss North East. Over the past two decades, our platform has evolved into a launchpad for global talent, where contestants hone their skills and prepare to make an impact. We have witnessed countless women launch successful careers, inspire communities, and shatter glass ceilings. Our commitment to empowering Northeast India’s youth grows stronger each year, fostering growth, confidence, and unlocking possibilities.”

Speaking about their association with the pageant, Somasree Bose Awasthi, Chief Marketing Officer, Marico Limited, said, “Livon has always been a trusted hairstyling companion for Gen Z and the youth, inspiring them to express their unique style with confidence. Our partnership with Mega Miss North East perfectly embodies our brand philosophy, SalonHairOnTheGo, as we continue to celebrate freedom of self-expression and individuality anywhere anytime. At Livon, we take immense pride in supporting transformative journeys, and we are excited to contribute to this inspiring platform. With a wide range of serums that deliver salon-finish hair, Livon is the ultimate styling essential for every routine. This collaboration reflects the vibrant culture and beauty of the Northeast, and we are thrilled to partner with the 21st edition of this iconic pageant. This year, this platform aims to go beyond boundaries by opening international opportunities for the winners, enabling them to showcase their talent on a global stage.”

This year MMNE is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, under the Incredible India initiative. The event will spotlight the region’s unique cultural heritage through a special campaign featuring the Hidden Paradises of Northeast India. The campaign will be showcased by the contestants, further amplifying the region’s appeal to a global audience.

The event is also supported by Neyah as the Cosmetics Partner, Hotel Daaysco Oley Allo as the Hospitality Partner and Coca Cola as the Beverage Partner. Guwahati-based public relations agency Life’s Purple is the official PR Partner for the event, who will also offer the winners’ reputation management advisory for their reigning term.

Adding a global dimension to the occasion, Mister International 2024, Fran Zafra from Spain, will grace the Grand Finale as a special guest. His presence underscores the international prestige and recognition associated with the event.

The three winners of MMNE will be crowned equally with equal privileges and responsibilities. Winners of the pageant will not only gain the opportunity to represent India at prestigious international platforms but will also receive prizes worth over Rs. 50,000. Other benefits include travel opportunities, professional representation from Mega Entertainment, brand engagements, shoots, appearances at youth and fashion events, among others.

The 21st Livon Mega Miss North East pageant will culminate in a spectacular Grand Finale, where talented finalists from across the eight northeastern states will vie for the coveted title. Following an intensive grooming and training session in Guwahati, the shortlisted contestants will take centre stage, showcasing not only their beauty and talent but also the region’s rich cultural heritage, in an evening that promises elegance, empowerment, and cultural pride.

Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India represent a dynamic segment of the nation’s urban landscape. These cities, characterized by their moderate population density and emerging economies, are now at the forefront of India’s growth story. Further, urban development initiatives have played a pivotal role in this transformation. Investments in infrastructure, such as improved connectivity through highways, airports, and metro networks, are unlocking the potential of these cities.

Recent projections for real estate in emerging markets are highly encouraging. According to ANAROCK’s Consumer Sentiment Survey, 26% of property investors are now prioritizing Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, signaling a notable shift in investment trends. Economic factors such as government funding for infrastructure projects and lower land prices compared to metros are driving the demand for luxury real estate in these regions.

Besides, government initiatives like the Smart City Mission, PMAY, and AMRUT are making substantial contributions through investments in roads, highways, public transport, and regional airports. These improvements enhance connectivity, linking smaller cities to major urban centers, and making them more accessible and attractive to potential residents. As a result, the demand for luxury residential properties in these evolving urban areas continues to rise.

Piyush Kansal, Executive Director, Royale Estate Group said, “Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are witnessing a remarkable shift in luxury real estate demand. Rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyle preferences, coupled with enhanced connectivity through airports, highways, and metro extensions, are making these cities highly attractive for homebuyers. Additionally, HNIs and NRIs are increasingly investing in their hometowns, seeking luxury and second homes with world-class amenities. This transformation is redefining the real estate landscape, as smaller cities now offer premium living options that rival those in metros.”

On the other hand, a report from PropEquity supports buyers’ growing appeal towards luxury homes. The report states that housing sales in the top 30 tier 2 cities have risen 11% to nearly 2.08 lakh units in the financial year 2023-24. This economic uplift enables individuals to invest in luxury properties, leading to a burgeoning demand for premium housing. In addition, sustainability has become a central theme in the real estate sector, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where eco-friendly projects and green building practices are gaining significant traction. Developers are increasingly adopting sustainable solutions like solar energy systems, rainwater harvesting, and smart waste management to create environmentally responsible communities.

Manit Sethi, Director, Excentia Infra said, “Urban development is integrating sustainability through various innovations. Growing awareness about environmental impact and the cost benefits of sustainable living have further driven this shift in preferences. Hence, this paves the way for developers to responsibly shape the future of real estate, ensuring that development meets both environmental and lifestyle aspirations. Thus, we look forward to remaining committed to sustainability, redefining real estate with responsibility and vision.”

As property demand rises, Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are experiencing steady value appreciation, positioning them as appealing options for both investors and homebuyers. Their comparatively lower property prices, coupled with rapid infrastructure development, present significant opportunities for long-term capital growth.

Yash Miglani, Managing Director, Migsun Group said, “The future of real estate in tier 2 and 3 cities lies in creating integrated ecosystems that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Urban development projects are driving this transformation, enabling these cities to become self-sufficient hubs that cater to diverse lifestyles and business needs. This approach not only enhances convenience but also attracts buyers and investors looking for comprehensive living solutions. As infrastructure improves and demand grows, we envision unlocking their true potential through our projects and establishing them as sustainable, thriving urban centres.”

Ravindra Gandhi, Founder and Managing Director of Tirasya Estates said, “Tier 2 and 3 cities offer an untapped market with rising demand for modern and luxurious residential spaces. The growing desire for premium homes allows developers to craft quality and diversity of housing options, catering to a wider range of buyer preferences and budgets. Moreover, cities like Goa offer a distinctive blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, appealing to a global audience. This unique combination not only attracts investors seeking high-value opportunities but also homebuyers desiring a lifestyle that merges contemporary living with heritage. Hence, this transformation reflects the broader potential of these cities to thrive while maintaining their cultural identity. We look forward to maintaining this allure by uniting development with the essence of the city, ensuring that our projects not only elevate the real estate landscape but also contribute to the cities’ sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.”

Thus, urban development has been a key catalyst in transforming Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities into thriving real estate hubs. Infrastructure improvements, such as better connectivity, modern amenities, and government-backed initiatives, have sparked significant growth in these regions. As buyer preferences shift towards sustainable and holistic living, these cities are increasingly aligning with global trends, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Mumbai, January 29, 2025: The Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd. (MCX), India’s leading Exchange in the Commodity Derivatives Market segment, shall be conducting a special live trading session on Saturday, February 1, 2025, to make available the trading platform for market participants on account of presentation of the Union Budget, supporting their real-time risk management and hedging requirements.

The exchange will remain open for normal trade from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

For complete details, please refer to MCX circular no. MCX/TRD/841/2024 dated December 24, 2024, and for clearing and settlement, please refer to MCXCCL circular no. MCXCCL/C&S/327/2024 dated December 30, 2024.

New Delhi, January 29th, 2025: Lenskart, India’s pioneer in eyewear innovation, is redefining the way we see, hear, and stay connected with the launch of Phonic—a groundbreaking audio eyewear. Designed for today’s multitasking generation, Phonic exemplifies Lenskart’s dedication to offering world-class technology at an accessible price.

Phonic combines premium audio features with eyewear, enabling users to take calls, listen to music, and interact with their digital world. This next-level wearable tech keeps you stylishly in sync with your world.

With designs like Navigator and Hustlr, Phonic is set to elevate your multitasking experience. Whether on a Zoom call or using voice commands to check your schedule, Phonic makes it effortless and extraordinary.

Perfect for professionals managing tasks in noisy environments or commuters on the move, Phonic integrates Bluetooth audio into lightweight eyewear, offering seamless hands-free connectivity.

Why Phonic is a Game-Changer

• InvisibleTech, Visible Impact: Phonic combines cutting-edge Bluetooth audio with stylish, everyday eyewear, creating a hands-free experience that feels natural.
• All-Day Connectivity: With up to 7 hours of playtime,Phonic ensures uninterrupted access to calls, music, and voice assistance, whether you’re at work, driving, or on the move.
• IntuitiveVoice Assistance: The eyewear integrates seamlessly with Android and iOS voice assistants, letting users send messages, set reminders, and control music—all through simple voice commands.
• Customizablefor Every Need: Phonic frames can be fitted with prescription lenses or sunglasses, making it perfect for work and leisure.
• EffortlessControls: Smart button navigation allows users to switch between functions with a single click, keeping their focus where it matters most.

Peyush Bansal, CEO and Founder of Lenskart, shared his vision for Phonic:“At Lenskart, we design products that address real consumer needs. Phonic is for everyone who juggles multiple roles daily—whether it’s professionals in noisy offices, frequent drivers, or commuters who need hands-free convenience. Phonic empowers users to stay connected, productive, and stylish, without adding complexity to their lives.”

29th Jan, Mumbai: Mr. Andre Eckholt, Managing Director of Hettich India, has been reappointed as Co-Chair of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Furniture Committee for 2025.

Established in April 2020, the FICCI Furniture Committee has been working towards addressing industry challenges and fostering collaboration between the Government, industry leaders, and stakeholders. The committee focuses on initiatives such as improving raw material availability, reducing logistics costs, increasing capacity utilization, and promoting the development of furniture hubs across the country.

Mr. Eckholt’s reappointment comes at a time when the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative is boosting the visibility and growth of the furniture sector.

Speaking about the role, he noted, “India’s furniture industry holds vast potential to compete on the global stage. We look forward to continuing the collaborative efforts needed to address industry challenges and position India as a leader in furniture manufacturing and exports.”

As a key industry player, Hettich India has supported the committee’s goals through its work in sustainability, skill development, and fostering ease of doing business – efforts that perfectly align with the committee’s vision for building a globally competitive furniture industry.

With a skilled labor force, abundant raw materials, and rising global demand, India’s furniture industry is well-poised to become one of the top three global players. The FICCI Furniture Committee, under the guidance of its leadership, aims to contribute meaningfully to this progress, supporting the industry’s self-reliance and export capabilities.