IRM Energy Secures 5-Year RLNG Deal with GSPC
April 1, 2025 – IRM Energy Limited (“IRMEL” or “IRM Energy”) is pleased to announce the execution of its second long-term (5-year) Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) supply agreement with Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Limited (“GSPCL”). Under this agreement, IRM Energy will procure 65,76,000 MMBtu, equivalent to approximately 174.44 MMSCM at 9500 kCal Gross Calorific Value (GCV), ensuring a stable and cost-effective energy supply for its customers.
The agreement signing was attended by Directors of IRM Energy, Shri. Badri Mahapatra and Shri. Amitabha Banerjee, underscoring the Company’s commitment to securing reliable energy sources for its clients.
Earlier, on March 26, 2025, IRM Energy signed a similar agreement with Shell Energy India Private Limited. Together, these agreements secure a total supply of 1,88,97,200 MMBtu of RLNG and Domestic Gas over the next five years, reinforcing IRM Energy’s commitment to energy security and sustainability.
Strengthening Strategic Growth
This agreement marks a significant milestone in IRM Energy’s expansion strategy, enhancing its sourcing portfolio and ensuring uninterrupted, affordable natural gas supply.
Advancing Sustainability and Energy Security
The partnership with GSPCL strengthens IRM Energy’s role in delivering cleaner and cost-effective fuel solutions, supporting India’s energy security and sustainability goals. The Company remains committed to aiding industries in their transition toward low-carbon alternatives, reducing both environmental impact and operational expenses.
Supporting Industrial and Commercial Growth
Leveraging GSPCL’s expertise in the LNG market, IRM Energy is well-positioned to provide a consistent and reliable supply to industrial and commercial customers. This strategic move aligns with its vision of accelerating India’s clean energy transition by offering dependable, environmentally friendly fuel options.
“As we continue our mission to provide sustainable and affordable energy, this agreement is a crucial step forward,” said Mr. Manoj Kumar Sharma, CEO of IRM Energy. “We are confident that this collaboration will ensure stable gas supplies, driving industrial growth and encouraging the widespread adoption of clean energy solutions.”
Commitment to Innovation and Sustainable Growth
IRM Energy remains dedicated to expanding energy access across its authorized geographical areas while maintaining affordability and reliability for industries, businesses, and households. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and advan
Dalmia Bharat Secures 49.5 MTPA Production Milestone Ahead of FY25
April 1, 2025: Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL), India’s leading Indian cement company, has achieved its target of 49.5MTPA for FY25 with the commencement of commercial production of an additional 0.5 MTPA at its Rohtas Cement Works (RCW) plant in Bihar effective 30th March 2025. This strategic expansion with an investment of Rs. 96 crores at the existing integrated unit increases the plant’s total capacity to 1.6 MTPA. The commissioning of Line 2 reinforces DBL’s commitment to strengthening its market presence in the Eastern region and aligns with its long-term vision of scaling capacity to 110-130 MTPA by 2031.
Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Limited, said: “Our growth in the East reflects our strong belief in the region’s development potential. With this expansion, we are enhancing our ability to support key infrastructure projects and contribute to economic progress in the region. This milestone reinforces our long-term vision for sustainable and strategic growth. I am pleased to announce that we have successfully reached our target of 49.5 million tonnes by FY’25, marking another key achievement in our expansion journey.”
Dalmia Bharat has a strong footprint in the East with manufacturing units in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. This expansion will enhance the company’s ability to cater to the increasing infrastructure demands in the East, across sectors such as roads, railways and airports. The initiative is also expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to the region’s economic development. Dalmia Bharat remains dedicated to innovation, sustainability and delivering high-quality cement solutions to meet India’s growing infrastructure needs.
Laugh Riot! Must-Watch Comedies on JioHotstar This April Fools’
April 1, 2025:April Fools’ Day is more than just a day for pranks—it’s a celebration of laughter, mischief, and good times. What better way to mark the occasion than by watching some of the funniest comedies available on JioHotstar? Whether you prefer outrageous humor, buddy films, or laugh-out-loud chaos, these movies will ensure the fun lasts all day. Prepare some popcorn, invite your friends, and gear up for a comedy marathon that will leave you in stitches!
The Hangover
What happens in Vegas… definitely doesn’t stay in Vegas in The Hangover! When a group of friends wakes up after a wild bachelor party with no memory of the night before—and the groom missing—they must retrace their steps through a series of insane and utterly hilarious events. From a stolen tiger to Mike Tyson’s surprise cameo, this movie is a comedy classic that never gets old.
Ted
Imagine your childhood teddy bear comes to life… and turns out to be a foul-mouthed troublemaker. That’s exactly what happens in Ted, where John (Mark Wahlberg) struggles to balance his relationship with his girlfriend and his lifelong friendship with his inappropriate, beer-chugging, weed-smoking teddy bear. With Seth MacFarlane’s signature humor, this film delivers non-stop laughs and unexpected heart.
Baby’s Day Out
What happens when three clueless kidnappers try to outsmart a baby? Absolute chaos! Baby’s Day Out follows a wealthy baby who gets kidnapped but outwits his captors at every turn. From escaping through a zoo to hitching a ride on a construction site, his innocent mischief makes this film a laugh riot from start to finish.
Night at the Museum
Imagine getting a new job as a night guard at a museum—only to discover that all the exhibits come to life after dark! Ben Stiller’s misadventures with a mischievous monkey, a playful T-Rex skeleton, and historical figures like Teddy Roosevelt (played by Robin Williams) make this a laugh-filled ride for all ages.
The Devil Wears Prada
Not all comedies are about slapstick and explosions—sometimes, a sharp tongue and cutting wit do the job just as well. The Devil Wears Prada follows an aspiring journalist (Anne Hathaway) who lands a job at a high-fashion magazine under the terrifyingly fabulous Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). Between the insane work demands and fashion disasters, this movie is packed with laughs and iconic one-liners.
April Fools’ Day is all about fun, and these comedies on JioHotstar are guaranteed to keep the laughs rolling. So, which one are you watching first? Or better yet—watch them all for an April Fools’ marathon you won’t forget!
Ankura Hospital Secures INR 165 Cr Funding from ADB for Expansion
April 1, 2025: Ankura Hospital, a premier healthcare provider specializing in super-specialty tertiary and quaternary care services for women and children, is proud to announce that it has successfully secured INR 165 Crore in funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This strategic investment will support Ankura’s ambitious expansion plans and is aligned with its long-term vision to strengthen its market presence and enhance healthcare accessibility across India.
Dr.Krishna Prasad Rao Vunnam, Founder & MD Ankura Hospital for Women and Children
Dr. Krishna Prasad Vunnam, Founder and Managing Director of Ankura Hospitals, expressed his excitement about this significant milestone, said “This significant financial support from the Asian Development Bank is a testament to our commitment to improving Women & Children health in India. It will allow us to enhance our Pediatric, maternity and gynecology services, expand our facilities, and reach more families, ensuring they receive the highest standards of care.”
As part of its expansion strategy, Ankura Hospitals is focused on establishing new state-of-the-art facilities in key cities across India.
Ankura Hospitals specializes in providing world-class care in maternity and gynecology, offering services such as normal deliveries, cesarean sections, fertility treatments, high-risk obstetrics, and comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care. The hospital also features advanced surgical solutions in gynecology, including laparoscopic surgeries and treatment for various gynecological conditions.
Also, Ankura Hospitals is committed to providing world-class services, including advanced neonatal intensive care,all Pediatric sub-specialties pediatric surgery, child development, and behavioral health for children.
With the support from ADB, Ankura Hospitals is poised to enhance its facilities, broaden its impact, and continue delivering exceptional care across India.
Bollywood’s Bobby Deol Graces Kalyan Jewellers’ New Showroom Launch in Bengaluru
April 1, 2025: Kalyan Jewellers, one of India’s most trusted and leading jewellery companies, today opened two new showrooms in Bengaluru, at Kengeri Satellite Town Extension and at Hesaraghatta Road, MEI Layout, Bagalagunte. Bollywood Star Bobby Deol inaugurated the showrooms, which feature an extensive range of designs from various collections of Kalyan Jewellers. Patrons can expect state-of-the-art facilities with a world-class ambiance, providing an unparalleled experience.
Addressing the enthralled crowd, Bollywood Star Bobby Deol said, “I am pleased to be present here today for the inauguration of the new Kalyan Jewellers’ new showrooms. It is an honour to be associated with Kalyan Jewellers – a brand that stands firm on the principles of trust, transparency, and customer-centricity. I am confident that the patrons will welcome Kalyan Jewellers warmly, while enjoying the service-backed shopping experience and exploring the diverse range of jewellery collections offered by the company.”
Commenting on the new showroom, Mr Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director of Kalyan Jewellers, said, “With the launch of our all-new Kalyan Jewellers’ showroom in Kengeri and Hesaraghatta in Bengaluru, the aim is to create a holistic ecosystem and cater to the distinct needs of our customers, enhancing their shopping experience. We aspire to continue reinventing ourselves, providing customers with world-class ambience, while staying true to the company’s ethos of trust and transparency. At Kalyan Jewellers, we will continue to offer vast range of exquisite and unique jewellery designs with focus on quality and service.”
Celebrating the launch, Kalyan Jewellers has announced flat 50% off on making charges* on their jewellery purchases from the all-new showroom. It has also announced that the Kalyan Special Gold Board Rate – lowest in the market and standardized across all company showrooms – will apply on jewellery purchases from the new showroom. All the jewellery retailed at Kalyan Jewellers is BIS hallmarked and undergoes multiple purity tests. Patrons will also receive the Kalyan Jewellers 4-Level Assurance Certificate, guaranteeing purity, free lifetime maintenance of ornaments, detailed product information, and transparent exchange and buy-back policies. This certification reflects the brand’s commitment to offering the very best to its loyal customers.
The showroom will also stock Kalyan’s popular house brands, including Muhurat (Wedding Jewellery Line), Mudhra (Handcrafted Antique Jewellery), Nimah (Temple Jewellery), Glo (Dancing Diamonds), Ziah (Solitaire-like Diamond Jewellery), Anokhi (Uncut Diamonds), Apoorva (Diamonds for Special Occasions), Antara (Wedding Diamonds), Hera (Daily Wear Diamonds), Rang (Precious Stones Jewellery), and the recently launched Lila (Coloured Stones and Diamond Jewellery).
Next Gen Minds Competition Unites India’s Young Innovators in AI
Bangalore,1st April , 2025 – As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, JAGSoM is proud to announce the launch of Next Gen Minds, a national competition designed to showcase human creativity and innovation in an increasingly automated world. This entrepreneurial challenge invites undergraduate students and recent graduates to prove that human ingenuity remains unmatched even as technology advances.
Next Gen Minds goes beyond traditional case competitions by challenging participants to push boundaries and create bold solutions at the intersection of business, technology, and social impact. The competition serves as a platform for ambitious students to showcase their business understanding and innovative thinking on a national stage.
Dr. Venkatesh Sunkad, Director at JAGSoM, emphasized the competition’s role in promoting innovation, “Next Gen Minds is not just a case competition—it is a platform to inspire young minds to think beyond conventional solutions and embrace the challenges of an AI-driven world. At JAGSoM, we believe that human ingenuity, creativity, and strategic thinking are irreplaceable. This competition is a testament to our commitment to nurturing future leaders who can seamlessly integrate technology and business to drive meaningful impact.”
The competition offers substantial rewards, including cash prizes totaling ₹1,75,000, with the winning team receiving ₹1,00,000. Additionally, top performers will have access to scholarship opportunities worth up to ₹50 lakh for JAGSoM programs, along with valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and entrepreneurs.
Eligibility for the competition includes undergraduate students graduating in 2025 and 2026, as well as recent graduates from the 2022, 2023, and 2024 batches. Participants must be pursuing or have completed eligible courses such as BBA/BMS, B.Com, B.Sc, BCA, or B.Tech. Teams can consist of one to three members and can be formed across different courses, colleges, and graduation years.
Commenting on JAGSoM’s Next-Gen Minds Competition 2025, the CEO and Founder of Apna, Nirmit Parikh, stated, “At Apna, our mission goes beyond employment – we aim to empower early talent with the skills, resources, and mindset to become future leaders and entrepreneurs. Initiatives like JAGSoM’s Next-Gen Minds 2025 are instrumental in nurturing this spirit of innovation, providing students with a platform to showcase their entrepreneurial vision. We are excited to collaborate with JAGSoM and celebrate the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.”
The competition will unfold in three rounds, beginning with an Online MCQ Assessment on April 2, 2025. In this preliminary round, team leaders will attempt 30 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes, focusing on data interpretation, logical reasoning, and critical thinking. Teams that advance will participate in Round 2 from April 4-11, 2025, where they will submit a structured case solution of maximum 2,500 words.
For the grand finale on April 27, 2025, the top-performing teams will be invited to JAGSoM Campus in Bengaluru to present their detailed case solutions to a distinguished jury. The finalist’s presentations will be evaluated based on originality, practicality, impact, business viability, and clarity of presentation.
With over 3,900 registered participants already, Next Gen Minds is poised to be one of India’s most competitive student events of the year. Registration is free and will remain open until April 1, 2025.
The Next Gen Minds competition represents JAGSoM’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders who can navigate the complex intersection of technology and human innovation. By providing this national platform, JAGSoM aims to identify and develop talent that will shape India’s future in an AI-driven world.
As technology continues to evolve, competitions like Next Gen Minds highlight the enduring value of human creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, skills that remain irreplaceable even in an age of advanced artificial intelligence.
Vietjet Deploys Two Relief Flights for Vietnam’s Rescue Teams to Myanmar
April 1, 2025 – Vietjet operated two special relief flights, VJ2875 and VJ2877, using an Airbus A330 and an A321 to transport Vietnamese rescue teams to Myanmar following the devastating earthquake. In support of the emergency response, the airline facilitated the swift deployment of relief personnel from the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense. The two flights departed from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport to Yangon on March 30.
Vietjet ensured the rapid deployment of these flights by expediting flight permits and technical preparations. Its experienced crew and staff have been assigned to assist the relief mission, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to humanitarian aid.
The flights transported 106 rescue and relief personnel from the Vietnamese armed forces, along with trained search-and-rescue dogs and over 60 tons of essential aid supplies, including medical equipment and food, to support earthquake relief efforts in Myanmar.
Vietjet CEO Dinh Viet Phuong said: “Vietjet is always ready for special missions. We swiftly completed all necessary preparations and successfully operated two flights to transport emergency rescue teams from the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense to Myanmar, providing timely support for earthquake relief efforts.”
Upon landing at Yangon Airport, Myanmar, rescue personnel from the Vietnamese armed forces, alongside Vietjet staff, immediately begin unloading and transporting essential supplies to designated relief sites. Police and military officers also take part in search-and-rescue operations, provide medical assistance, and support recovery efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake.
A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28, causing widespread devastation. The disaster has claimed over 1,600 lives, injured nearly 3,500 people, and left hundreds missing. Strong tremors damaged homes, collapsed bridges, and disrupted roads across the country, with shaking also felt in Thailand and Vietnam.
Vietjet has a strong track record of humanitarian missions, embodying a spirit of compassion and solidarity. The airline has operated numerous relief flights, including transporting aid and rescue teams for the 2018 Indonesia earthquake and tsunami, typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013, and pandemic response efforts. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietjet swiftly mobilized flights carrying healthcare workers, police, and military forces. Committed to community support, charitable initiatives remain at the heart of Vietjet’s mission.
Since launching the New Delhi-Ho Chi Minh City route in 2019, Vietjet has pioneered in expanding air links between India and Vietnam, operating over 8,300 flights and transporting nearly 1.62 million passengers. The introduction of new direct flights is expected to boost tourism and trade among Asian regions, offering travelers from India more affordable options to explore Vietnam and beyond. Indian travelers can take advantage of Vietjet’s international connections to popular destinations, including Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or major cities in Australia and Northeast Asia.
Viva ACP Expands Operations with Hyderabad Showcase
April 1, 2025: Viva, Asia’s largest manufacturer and supplier of Metal Composite Panels (MCP), proudly announces the grand opening of its new Experience Centre in Hyderabad. Strategically located at Third Floor, 306-A, Lumbini Jewel Mall, Road Number 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, this state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide architects, designers, and end-users with an immersive experience of Viva’s cutting-edge product offerings.
The inauguration was graced by Mr. Prakash Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., along with Directors Mr. Nitin Jain and Mr. Mayank Jain. The launch of this new centre marks a significant step in strengthening Viva’s presence in South India, offering industry professionals direct access to high-quality cladding solutions tailored to modern architectural needs.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Prakash Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Viva Composite Panel Pvt. Ltd., said, “Innovation is at the core of Viva’s philosophy, and we are excited to extend our reach to Hyderabad, a city known for its dynamic architecture and evolving design landscape. Our new Experience Centre serves as a creative hub where professionals and customers can explore the limitless design possibilities that our extensive product portfolio offers. We are committed to delivering premium quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal through our wide range of MCP solutions.”
The Hyderabad Experience Centre showcases Viva’s most desired series, including the Santa Fe, Tarnish Metallum, Natural Stone, Alu Zinto, El Zinc, Lustre, De Madera, and Galaxy Series. Along with these product ranges Viva has also launched its two new series Louvers & Solid X. With its innovative product range and expert consultations, the centre is set to become a key destination for those seeking world-class cladding solutions.
With this expansion into the southern market, Viva ACP reaffirms its leadership in the cladding industry, offering industry professionals a dedicated space to experience superior design, performance, and sustainability in metal composite panels.
Indian CEOs Invest Heavily in Emerging Tech, EY Report Finds
31 March 2025: Indian CEOs are more confident than their global counterpart on cost of doing business, revenue and competitive position, according to the latest EY-Parthenon CEO Outlook Survey: Global Confidence Index 2025, India Findings released today. 90% of Indian CEOs believe that investments in existing operations and new areas through joint ventures and mergers & acquisitions are critical for growth. While all of them are very optimistic that they can successfully reimagine their business model for the future through transformation.
The EY survey also finds that 86% CEOs recognize the pivotal role of emerging technologies, marking them as a key investment priority for the next 12 months, while 90% believe successful AI adoption and workforce upskilling will define industry leaders. This forward-thinking approach underscores the resilience and adaptability of Indian businesses, with transformation at the heart of their ambitions.
Rohan Sachdev, Consulting Leader, EY India said, “Organizations that adopt a transformative mindset can convert upheaval into prospects for growth, consistently adapting and evolving to confidently to shape their future with confidence. The EY survey reveals that the most confident CEOs prioritize enduring transformation strategies, focusing on strengthening relationships with customers and employees amid macroeconomic and technological shifts.”
The EY survey highlights that strategic vision and investment in people – including upskilling employees to keep pace with technological innovation – are considered essential levers for growth. 20% of CEOs said improving customer engagement and retention is the first priority, followed by 18% who said improving employee engagement and retention. 16% said reducing costs and unlocking savings, and 14% stated that enhancing product and process innovation can improve current offerings and create new products and services.
Anurag Gupta, Partner and National Leader, EY-Parthenon India added, “Adaptability is the key advantage for organizations in India today. Those who embrace transformation can turn disruption into opportunity, constantly learning, evolving, and confidently shaping their future. According to the EY survey, 42% of Indian CEOs are confident on optimizing operations and boosting productivity, including through digitalization, while 67% are radically reimagining their business models to unlock new avenues for creating, delivering, and capturing value. Most CEOs are taking a long-term view of transformation, prioritizing enhanced customer and employee engagement amidst macroeconomic and technological shifts, and placing people at the heart of their strategy for sustainable value creation.”
CEOs Bullish on M&A: Tech-Driven Strategies Fuel Optimistic Outlook
Unlike their global counterparts, Indian business leaders are displaying strong optimism, with 90% actively exploring strategic transactions in the coming year. Their focus primarily centers on M&A deals (both buy and sell/separate) and joint ventures to optimise operations, drive growth and expand market presence.
Amit Khandelwal, Managing Partner, Strategy and Transactions, EY India said, “Amidst the unprecedented uncertainties brought in by acceleration of AI / Digital adoption and global geopolitics, businesses that prioritize technology, business transformation and upskilling in their M&A strategies will emerge as winners. AI/Digital-Tech led transformation continues to shape corporate acquisitions, while defensive consolidation enhances operational resilience and cost efficiencies in a volatile economic landscape. With strong balance sheets and financing availability, the case for strategic M&A has never been more compelling in India.”
Despite the optimism and plans for more deals, 96% CEOs identify escalating geopolitical instability and uncertainty as their primary concern, highlighting the significant impact of global political dynamics on business operations and strategic planning. CEOs who can effectively navigate these complexities and embrace a long-term transformational mindset are likely to emerge as the market leaders of tomorrow, turning potential threats into strategic advantages.
AndPurpose Impact Forum 2025: Paving the Way for Climate and Social Change
March 31, 2025 – The AndPurpose Impact Forum in New Delhi, a carbon-neutral event held in March 2025, brought together a distinguished gathering of thoughtful leaders, social entrepreneurs, and sustainability advocates to drive actionable solutions for India’s most pressing social and environmental challenges. Hosted by AndPurpose, a leading social impact company. The discussions at the New Delhi Forum centred around climate action, impact finance, sustainable urban and rural development, and the role of education in fostering environmental consciousness.
The event started with a welcome remark from Kamna Hazrati, Founder of AndPurpose, which laid the groundwork for conversations around systemic problems and innovative solutions. Sudarshan Suchi, Chief Development Officer at the Reliance Foundation, delivered the keynote session stating that one must remain as grounded as possible when working towards social change. “Titles will come and go, but when you keep your feet on the ground and live the reality, you find your real purpose,” he said.
He noted active participation at the community level is necessary to address social issues such as poverty, “You cannot arrive at a solution if you haven’t first sensed the problem.” He highlighted the need to appreciate and understand the social realities of communities rather than work with a preconceived notion that everything can be solved by using intelligence, data and books highlighting the need for community engagement to solve social problems at scale.
The AndPurpose Forum 2025 was notable for being a carbon-neutral event, which is quite unique in India’s event ecosystem. An event is classified as carbon neutral when all carbon emissions generated from travel, energy use, and logistics are offset through sustainable activities such as afforestation, renewable energy initiatives, or the purchase of carbon credits. This achievement was made possible through strategic partnerships with renowned sustainable organizations like ENEN Green and Grow Billion Trees. By hosting a carbon-neutral event, AndPurpose has taken significant steps to protect the environment and uphold its commitment to sustainability.
Shenoy Mathew, Chief Sustainability Officer, Arya.ag underscored the need for a shift in mentality in the agri-supply chain field, especially in businesses aligning to market work instead of project work being the order of the day. He emphasised the need to work with people to find out what needs to be solved, and this was a dominant theme during the forum.
Unsponsored social enterprises face challenges with financing, which is why NatureDots Co-founder, Snehal Verma, advocates for change in social impact investment structures. She mentioned that this impact investment sector has euphorically drifted from their primary aim and it is time to ensure that there is an impact and operationally driven financial system. Building on the same discussion, Shiva Shanker, Partner, Ankur Capital, analyzed different financing types, whether equity, debt, grant, or social impact bonds, and pointed out the importance of creative financing for the survival of social enterprises.
Shalini Singh, Co-Founder, People’s Archive of Rural India, pointed out the problems associated with the unfettered growth of cities. She noted that even though only 1.6% of the Yamuna River passes through Delhi, it is responsible for 76% of its toxicity, which is an indication of how poorly the city has been planned.
A clean energy transition was once again at the centre of discussion, with Shalu Agrawal, Director of Programmes at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), particularly praising the PM Surya Ghar Scheme, which seeks to enable 10 million homes to employ solar energy and funding. While appreciating this plan, she remarked that financial restrictions are a major reason for the limited uptake of rooftop solar installations. She pointed out the need for climate education in school curriculums, urging that children’s education should include lessons in sustainability to develop a climate-aware society.
The rural economy and the agriculture sector were among the other key areas for investment. Omnivore VC’s Partner Subhadeep Sanyal mentioned the dire necessity of improving agri-waste management, enhancing value chains, and extending R&D activities out of the lab. He pointed out that funding is still a major obstacle in achieving these goals. Bisleri’s CSR Head Byju Kurian showcased the company’s sustainability commitment through the “Bisleri Greener Promise” which focuses on recycling plastic, conserving water, and implementing circular economy approaches. He called for more CSR-focused philanthropic expenditure to be aimed at transforming businesses, not as an obligation that needs to be fulfilled.
The event’s overarching goal was beautifully captured by Kamna Hazrati, the Founder and CEO of AndPurpose. In her words, “The AndPurpose Summit and Forum 2025 is not only about discussion but mobilizing specific efforts. India is at a juncture of great economic prosperity but is also facing mounting socio-economic and environmental concerns. By uniting changemakers, policymakers, think tanks, and global corporations, we hope to convert outlandish concepts into actionable, real-world situations that integrate the UN’s aims of sustainable growth. It is now or never – we have to do it all together.”