AshokVistas by Peninsula Land Achieves 100% Sell-Out on Day One of Launch
Mumbai, 23rd January, 2025 – Peninsula Land Limited (PLL) proudly announces the resounding success of the launch of its project, AshokVistas by ‘Peninsula Land’, held on 18th January at Gahunje, Pune. The event, themed “Your Canvas, Your Eden”, witnessed an overwhelming response, with the entire project inventory of ~120 plots launched on 18th January getting sold out within few hours.
The sell-out is a testament to the capabilities PLL has built in the category of plotted developments with a journey that began six years ago, spanning successful projects across Goa, Nashik, Lonavala and Pune. With nearly 50 acres of residential, retail, and plotted developments, Peninsula Land has been instrumental in transforming Gahunje. AshokVistas’s 7-acre project now serves as the grand finale to this landmark Gahunje series.
Speaking about the launch, Mr. Nandan Piramal, COO, Peninsula Land Limited stated, “The launch of AshokVistas marks a significant milestone in our plotted journey, which began six years ago with successful developments across Maharashtra and Goa. The overwhelming response to this project is a testament to the trust our customers place in us and the equity we have built in Pune over the years. Building on this legacy, we are committed to delivering more such projects that reflect our dedication to creating exceptional experiences for our customers.”
Bespoke Launch Experience
The AshokVistas launch was a by-invitation-only event, meticulously crafted for an exclusive audience. Tailored for the discerning few who prioritize long-term value and future-oriented investments. To offer a unique touch, attendees were treated to a series of curated experiences that made the event stand out from typical real estate launches.
Zone 1: The AshokVistas Experience Zone offered potential buyers an exclusive, immersive experience, giving them a taste of the lifestyle AshokVistas promises. Designed to evoke the feeling of living in a bespoke Eden, it highlighted the project’s unique fusion of natural beauty and modern conveniences, enhanced by cutting-edge technology to bring the vision to life.
Zone 2: The Community Impact Zone added a meaningful touch to the event. This zone featured a specially curated hamper for AshokVistas buyers, created in collaboration with various partner NGOs. Beyond a token of appreciation, this initiative highlighted Peninsula Land’s commitment to community development. By purchasing a plot, attendees not only secured a valuable asset but also contributed to the betterment of these communities.
Zone 3: Urvi Ashok Piramal Foundation (UAPF) Display, further emphasized PLL’s dedication to social causes. UAPF, the primary NGO partner, had a dedicated display showcasing their products. The zone also featured a block-painting activity, allowing attendees to engage and stay occupied while waiting, fostering a sense of involvement and creativity.
Zone 4: The Canvas of Dreams showcased four massive paintings created by renowned local artists, each depicting their vision of an ideal dream home as part of a promotional event. These stunning works reinforced the campaign’s tagline—”Your Canvas, Your Eden”—and celebrated the individuality and creativity of homeowners. This activity highlighted Peninsula Land’s philosophy of empowering buyers to design their unique sanctuaries, blending luxury living with the beauty of nature.
A Seamless and Transparent Sales Process
The AshokVistas launch stood apart from the usual chaos of real estate events, offering a thoughtfully curated and customer-centric process. Designed to ensure ease and transparency, the event featured a digitized plot layout display that provided real-time inventory updates, allowing buyers to make confident and informed decisions. The seamless and comfortable purchasing experience highlighted PLL’s dedication to putting the customer first.
The Journey Ahead
Looking ahead, Peninsula Land is set to further enhance its plotted development portfolio with projects that offer flexibility, investment potential, and hassle-free development at sought after locations. These upcoming developments will continue to uphold the brand’s legacy of trust, quality, and innovation, providing customers with opportunities to create their dream spaces.
Parents are focusing on facilities rather than faculties: CA Mohan Mattupalli, Master Minds
Hyderabad, 23 January 2025: Master Minds Co-Founder CA Mohan Mattupalli, speaking about the remarkable achievement of his student securing All India Rank 1 in the CA finals, on the podcast “Backbenching with Vivek” with his characteristic candor, remarked, “Top ranks don’t come from fancy buildings; they come from exceptional teachers.” Master Minds, a leading coaching institute, has become synonymous with success, guiding thousands of CA/CMA aspirants each year to achieve their dreams. This latest triumph further cements their reputation for excellence and unwavering commitment to quality education. The platform “Backbenching with Vivek” has carved a remarkable niche, boasting a commanding reach of over 100,000 engaged YouTube subscribers.
In a candid conversation with the host Vivek Kandula, CA Mohan Mattupalli delved into critical yet overlooked aspects of education, the misplaced priorities of parents when selecting training institutes. “Parents often prioritize flashy facilities and premium ambiance while overlooking the most crucial factor, faculty quality. This approach leaves many students falling short of qualifying for CA/CMA by a wide margin,” he remarked. He urged parents to look beyond glossy brochures and flashy promises of coaching institutes and emphasized the need to focus on what truly matters, quality coaching. CA Mohan unveiled the secret behind Master Minds’ incredible success in consistently cracking the top CA/CMA ranks, as a formula built on a foundation of exceptional teaching, unwavering dedication, and a relentless focus on student success.
“CA Mohan sir doesn’t just run an institute – he’s building India’s future CAs/CMAs,” says Vivek Kandula, founder of STRUX Digital and host of Backbenching with Vivek. “His success with Master Minds shows that focusing on strong fundamentals beats chasing fancy infrastructure.”
Republic Day Weekend Offer: Relaxo Footwears Brings Exciting Discounts Across India
New Delhi 23rd January, 2025: As India gears up to celebrate the spirit of unity and progress this Republic Day, Relaxo Footwears, a name synonymous with quality and comfort, is marking the occasion with an exclusive Republic Day Weekend Offer. The three-day celebration, running from January 24th to January 26th, 2025, promises a rewarding shopping experience at Relaxo Exclusive Stores across Delhi and the country.
Designed to make the festivities even more special, the offer allows customers to enjoy ₹300 off on purchases of ₹1,999 and ₹500 off on purchases of ₹2,499. These discounts are applicable to Relaxo’s signature brands, including Relaxo Hawaii, Sparx, Flite, Bahamas, Mary Jane, Boston, and Kids Fun.
Relaxo’s Republic Day Weekend Offer is available at Relaxo’s exclusive Stores, ensuring customers get the best experience and access to the latest collections. The offer applies only to fresh articles and is valid while stocks last, highlighting the limited-time opportunity to avail of these special discounts. Customers can visit their nearest Relaxo Exclusive Store from January 24th to 26th to make the most of this celebratory offer. With footwear designed to suit every style and need, Relaxo ensures that every stride is taken in comfort and confidence.
Effie India Awards 2025 to be Held by The AdClub on January 24th
The Advertising Club’s Effie Awards which is easily the most coveted and the biggest Advertising & Marketing show of the country will be held on Friday, 24th of January, 2025 at 6.30 p.m.
Effie Worldwide is leading, inspiring & championing the practice and practitioners of marketing effectiveness globally. Effie Worldwide stands for effectiveness in marketing, spotlighting ideas that work and encouraging thoughtful dialogue about the drivers of marketing effectiveness. The Effie network collaborates with some of the top research and media organizations worldwide to bring its audience relevant and first-class insights into effective marketing strategy. Effie is the only award that recognizes what has worked in the marketplace and how advertising has contributed towards building a brand. It is also the only award that is presented to both the Agency as well as the Client.
The Effie continues to bring a profound change in the concept of advertising awards. Awards are no longer just a celebration of the craft of advertising, but a substantial acknowledgement of the agency’s capabilities to build brands through effective campaigns. Effie awards, over the years, have emerged as one of the most coveted awards for the Marcom industry.
The Effie India Awards presentation celebration, since the past 23 years, has become a calendar event for the industry with the gala evening attracting 1200 professionals from the world of Advertising, Marketing, Media, Research, PR and Communication. The India awards have also emerged as the second largest Effie in the world, in terms of participation.
This year The AdClub has received 1152 entries, with as many as 75 Agencies participating. The Ad Club and the Effie Committee also express their sincere gratitude to 486 jury members for their time and support. As many as 254 Marketing Professionals have graced the judging process this year. The Round 2 Judging was held in person at Mumbai, Delhi & Bangalore.
The event will be followed by Cocktails & Dinner.
Talking about this year’s Effie, Rana Barua, President, The Advertising Club & GROUP CEO, HAVAS INDIA, SOUTH EAST & NORTH ASIA (Japan & South Korea), Havas Group – India said, “The Effie Awards are a celebration of marketing brilliance, where effectiveness meets innovation, and efficiency thrives through collaboration. Effie India stands as a beacon of excellence, recognising campaigns that go beyond expectations, forge new standards, and exemplify the true spirit of partnerships that drive impactful and transformative business success. I look forward to this year’s winning campaigns.”
Mitrajit Bhattacharya, Chairperson, Effie India Awards, The Advertising Club & Founder and President, The Horologists said, “Elaborating on the awards, Mitrajit Bhattacharya, Chairperson, EFFIE India said, “It gives me great joy to host the 24th Effie India Awards Gala on the 24th of January. Celebrating the best work of the year with the people who create them is a huge high for all of us at the Effie India committee and The Advertising Club. A big thank you to 486 judges who judged a record-breaking (for a 12 month assessment period) of 1152 entries over three rounds of online and physical judging. In the round 2 judging that was physically held, we introduced jury chair for each session of judging, which was hugely appreciated. I also thank each participating agency and client for the support.”
Pradeep Dwivedi, Co-Chairperson, Effie India Awards, The Advertising Club & Group CEO, Eros Media World said, “It’s an honour to serve as the co-chairperson for Effie Awards India. This platform celebrates the power of creative thinking and measurable impact, which are the cornerstones of successful marketing. I look forward to collaborating with industry leaders to recognise and reward the campaigns that truly drive results and set benchmarks for excellence. I would also like to thank Effie Global for their steadfast support through the jury & award process.
Ashok Leyland Boosts Northern India Footprint with New Ludhiana Dealership
New Delhi, 23rd January, 2025: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, today, inaugurated a new 3S (sales/service/spares) dealership outlet of Grover Motors Private Ltd. in Ludhiana, Punjab. The state-of-the-art dealership is spread over 1,04,000 sq. ft. and has 30 bays. With this addition, Ashok Leyland now has 17 M&HCV network touchpoints in the State.
The new outlet is strategically located on Old GT Road, and will cover the key districts of Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Sangrur and Barnala. The 24X7 operational oultet is equipped with modern tools and equipment such as wheel alignment machines, pneumatic systems supported by mobile service vans, 8 accidental repair bays featuring advanced repair systems, and trained technicians to ensure seamless service. The facility was inaugurated by Mr. Anil Dhingra, Head Aftermarket, in the presence of the local Ashok Leyland team and representatives from channel partner.
Mr. Anil Dhingra, Head Aftermarket-MHCV, Ashok Leyland, said, “We are excited to further strengthen our presence in Northern India. This region has always been an important market for Ashok Leyland. We have been working on establishing a strong foothold in the region, and the new outlet will bolster our presence in this geography. Our partner, Grover Motors Pvt. Ltd., with its strong presence in the territory, will ensure we grow our family of customers while ensuring we serve them better. We aim to contribute meaningfully to the larger ecosystem in the area with our innovative mobility solutions. The new outlet represents another step towards achieving our vision of being among the Top 10 CV makers in the world.”
Mr. Kulwant Singh Grover, MD, Grover Motors Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Ashok Leyland and address the growing demands of customers in Punjab. The new outlet will enhance the brand’s visibility in the region. Ashok Leyland has been a trusted and preferred brand in Northern India, renowned for its reliability, durability, and better total cost of ownership. We are committed to providing best-in-class ownership experience to our customers, and we look forward to not only expanding our customer base but also fulfilling their diverse transportation needs comprehensively by delivering complete mobility solutions through this partnership.”
Ashok Leyland has one of the largest and fastest-growing networks in the commercial vehicle industry, and the company is expanding its brand presence through a robust network of dealerships and service centres to provide best-in-class sales and after-sales support to its customers. The company will cover the major transport hub offering Haulage, Tractor trailers, ICV Goods, Tippers, Fully Built RMC, Haulage, and School/Staff Buses through these dealerships.
True Crime: Indian Tales for ‘Black Warrant’ Fans
What is it about true crime that keeps us on the edge of our seats? From chilling documentaries to gripping audiobooks, the genre has a way of pulling us into the minds of criminals and the intricate webs of justice. In India, the love for true crime has skyrocketed, with series like ‘Black Warrant,’ created by the incredibly talented Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, starring Zahan Kapoor, attracting audiences recently. And, for those who can’t get enough, there’s a world of true crime audiobooks, films, and series waiting to be explored—each unraveling mysteries that are as fascinating as they are unsettling. Whether you’re a seasoned crime junkie or just dipping your toes into the genre, these stories will leave you spellbound.
Unfound: True Crime Mysteries of India
It is an intriguing Audible Original podcast series that delves into real-life crimes that have baffled investigators across the country. From shocking abductions to chilling murders, each episode uncovers a new mystery that leaves listeners on the edge of their seats. ‘The Serial Killer’ episode follows the mysterious disappearance of 14-year-old Maltu Agarwal in Calcutta, after he meets a stranger who promises him an acting role, only for him to vanish without a trace. The series continues with ‘The Invisible Yogi,’ a mind-boggling tale of a Himalayan Yogi who manipulated India’s financial world before disappearing into thin air. Many more such intriguing cases await you on this series.
Death Served Cold
Behind seemingly ordinary lives lie extraordinary tales of darkness. ‘Death Served Cold’ written by popular author Sourabh Mukherjee unearths the chilling truths about India’s most dangerous women. Through meticulously researched true stories, it reveals horrifying accounts of those who committed cold-blooded murders over the past three decades. From a wife savoring her husband’s last cries on the phone as he’s killed by her lover, to a teacher harboring a deadly secret for 14 years, these narratives shatter stereotypes about female aggression. A gripping exploration of the human psyche!
Godfathers of Crime
In Godfathers of Crime, journalist Sheela Raval recounts her fearless three-decade pursuit of India’s most infamous gangsters. Through her personal encounters and bold reporting, she unveils the inner workings of the D Company, the split between Dawood and Chhota Rajan, and the rise of organized crime with global connections. Bold and revealing, this audiobook gives an unprecedented glimpse into a shadowy world that has shaped India’s underworld.
The Deadly Dozen
Think serial killers are only a Western phenomenon? ‘The Deadly Dozen’ shatters that myth with chilling stories of India’s most sinister murderers! From a schoolteacher who poisoned multiple lovers to a mother who turned her daughters into child-killers, and even a 19th-century thug who claimed over 900 lives, these accounts delve deep into their twisted motives and chilling deeds. Prepare for a journey into the dark recesses of human nature that will leave you questioning what truly drives people to kill.
Khooni: The Crimes of India
Ever wondered about the chilling crimes that lurk in the darkest corners of India? Khooni – The Crimes of India Podcast takes you deep into the heart of these unsettling tales, narrated by two Indian girls who explore the sordid details of each case with a touch of suspense, humour, and a fresh perspective. With each episode, they bring the most riveting stories to light and keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a true crime aficionado or looking for an intriguing listen during their commute, this podcast is sure to leave you questioning the mysteries that lie beneath.
No One Killed Jessica
Set in 1999 New Delhi, this film chronicles the story of the tragic death of a young model named Jessica which shook the nation. After refusing to serve a drink at a celebrity party, Jessica is fatally shot by Manish, the son of a powerful politician, who feels untouchable due to his privilege. As Jessica’s sister fights for justice against the odds, this film unravels a tale of corruption, power, and an unyielding quest for truth. It’s a reminder of the lengths some must go to when the system fails them.
Dahaad
In ‘Dahaad,’ sub-inspector Anjali Bhaati is called to investigate the mysterious deaths of women in public bathrooms, initially believed to be suicides. However, as the case unfolds, Anjali suspects a serial killer is at work, setting the stage for a tense chase. As a determined cop facing unexpected challenges, she must use all her wit and experience to uncover the truth, while grappling with a dangerous criminal. A tale of suspense, this thriller will keep you on the edge.
The Hunt for Veerappa
This is a gripping docuseries that unravels the life of Veerappan, one of South India’s most notorious smugglers. Through four intense episodes, it traces his rise to power, his bloody battles with law enforcement, and the 20-year manhunt that ultimately brought him down. From violent clashes in the forest to the high-stakes abduction of a beloved movie star, this series offers a chilling yet fascinating glimpse into a criminal empire and its eventual collapse. A must-watch for anyone intrigued by true crime tales!
Curry & Cyanide: The Jolly Joseph Case
‘Curry & Cyanide: The Jolly Joseph Case’ delves into the chilling true-crime story of six deaths within one family, all linked to Jolly Joseph. As the investigation unfolds, it uncovers a web of deception, unraveling the dark secrets surrounding the deaths. This documentary takes you through a suspenseful journey, revealing how one woman’s actions led to a series of unimaginable tragedies. It’s a haunting look into a case that still raises questions and sends shivers down the spine.
BIS Noida Celebrates 78th Foundation Day and Recognizes Novamax for Excellence at Manak Carnival
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Noida, celebrated its 78th Foundation Day with the successful organization of the Manak Carnival at Savitri Bai Phule Balika Inter College, Greater Noida. The event highlighted BIS’s ongoing efforts to promote quality standards across industries and society while honoring Novamax for achieving the All India First license for IS 3315 certification, a milestone in air cooler manufacturing.
The inaugural ceremony of the carnival was done by Chief Guest Shri Tejpal Singh Nagar, MLA of Dadri, G.B. Nagar, along with Guest of Honor(s) Shri Rakesh Khatri, “Nest Man of India,” and Dr. Inderjit Ghosh, Chairman of the MSME Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India. The dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the beginning of the celebrations.
In his welcome address, Shri Vikrant, HNOBO, emphasized that the efforts of BIS have transcended the industrial sector and successfully created widespread awareness about quality standards across various segments of society.
In his address, MLA Shri Tejpal Singh Nagar emphasized the crucial role played by BIS in fostering industrial growth and social development in the country. He particularly honored the BIS Care mobile application, encouraging all consumers to install the app on their smartphones for enhanced awareness and access to quality standards. Before the formal proceedings, the Chief Guest also visited the stalls set up by industrial units and schools, which displayed a diverse range of products and innovative science projects.
Harshit Aggarwal, Founder & CEO of Novamax Appliances said, “We are proud and honored to receive the All India First license for IS 3315 certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This achievement underscores Novamax’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class quality and innovation in air cooler manufacturing. It reaffirms our promise to provide customers with products that meet the highest safety and performance benchmarks. We are confident that this milestone will inspire trust and confidence among our consumers and industry peers alike.”
The carnival saw the participation of over 25 industrial units from the districts of Gautam Buddh Nagar, Bulandshahr, Mathura, and Agra. These units showcased their products that bear the ISI and CRS marks, certification provided by BIS for quality assurance. Additionally, 19 schools and engineering colleges from the region participated by setting up stalls to present their science projects, contributing to the educational aspect of the event.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including industry representatives, members of the Standard Clubs in schools, NGOs, and officers from Residents’ Welfare Associations. These individuals were honored with commemorative plaques by BIS for their outstanding contributions to promoting and upholding quality standards in their respective fields.
In his concluding address, Shri Vikrant, HNOBO, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Guest, participants, and collaborators for making the event a remarkable success.
This event served as a significant platform not only to promote the importance of quality standards but also to further strengthen the role of BIS in ensuring consumer safety and enhancing the credibility of industries in the country.
Persistent Delivers Strong Q3 FY25 Performance with USD. 360.2M Revenue, 4.3% Q-o-Q, 19.9% Y-o-Y Growth
Consolidated Financial Highlights for the Quarter ended December 31, 2024
Q3FY25 | Margin% | QoQ | YoY | |
Revenue (USD Million) | 360.2 | 4.3% | 19.9% | |
Revenue (INR Million) | 30,622.8 | 5.7% | 22.6% | |
EBITDA (INR Million) | 5,378.4 | 17.6% | 11.9% | 21.7% |
PBT (INR Million) | 4,820.4 | 15.7% | 10.9% | 23.8% |
PAT (INR Million) | 3,729.9 | 12.2% | 14.8% | 30.4% |
The Board of Directors declared an Interim Dividend of ₹20 per share on the face value of ₹5 each for the Financial Year 2024-2025.
Sandeep Kalra, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Persistent
“We recorded our 19th sequential quarter of revenue growth, with 4.3% Q-o-Q and 19.9% Y-o-Y increase — highlighting the strength of our AI-led, platform-driven services strategy. We also declared an interim dividend of ₹20 per share.
This quarter, we achieved several significant milestones, including winning the prestigious 2024 ISG Star of Excellence™ Overall Award based on the voice of the customer, demonstrating our ability to re(AI)magine their businesses. Reaffirming our commitment to developing innovative solutions based on our own IP, we filed 20+ patents related to SASVA™, our AI-powered software development platform. Additionally, our co-developed ContractAssIst solution, built leveraging Microsoft 365 Copilot, was shortlisted by Microsoft and acknowledged by its CEO, Satya Nadella, during his recent Microsoft AI Tour.
We were awarded AA+ (Stable) credit rating by ICRA, recognizing our strong financial profile, experienced leadership, robust capital structure, and well-established customer relationships. Finally, our inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index highlights our commitment to embedding sustainability into our operations.
These achievements underscore our passion for driving innovation and delivering meaningful value to our clients and stakeholders, while fostering sustainable practices across our business.”
Third Quarter FY25 Client Wins and Outcomes
The order booking for the quarter ended on December 31, 2024, was at $594.1 million in Total Contract Value (TCV) and at $428.3 million in Annual Contract Value (ACV) terms.
Some of the key wins for the quarter include:
Software, Hi-Tech & Emerging Industries
- Modernizing product development with SASVA™ to boost annual recurring revenue and optimize R&D costs for one of the UK’s leading business software providers
- Leveraging AI-led engineering to boost product management, security, and revenue for a leading observability and IT software provider
- Streamlining data management with iAURA to modernize the core Facility Management platform for a leading food services and facilities management company
Banking, Financial Services & Insurance
- Leveraging SASVA™ to modernize legacy systems, reduce technology debt, and improve developer productivity for a US-based financial services company
- Revamping enterprise gateway services for enhanced scalability, efficiency, and real-time authorization with low latency for a leading global payment technology company
- Automating insurance and claims processes and developing innovative solutions using GenAI to maximize return on investment for a US-based insurance company
Healthcare & Life Sciences
- Transforming the patient care and pharmacy platform to enhance patient experience, reduce technology debt, and improve business agility for a leading healthcare and health insurance company
- Replacing the legacy contract management system with a revenue management solution to reduce license costs and enhance performance for a global leader in healthcare solutions
- Enabling migration from MuleSoft to Azure with SASVA™ to drive operational efficiency for a global leader in life sciences analytics and technology solutions
ICT Mumbai Recognizes Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla with Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship
Pune, 23 January 2025: The Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT Mumbai), under its flagship initiative, the Mumbai Biocluster, awarded its prestigious 2nd Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship for Affordable Biopharmaceuticals to Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla, Chairman, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., a revolutionary entrepreneur, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to biopharmaceutical innovation and global healthcare. Established by ICT Mumbai to honor the late Dr. K. Anji Reddy, founder of Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, a visionary in Indian pharmaceuticals, the fellowship recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the advancement of the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. The fellowship celebrates innovation, leadership and commitment to addressing global healthcare challenges.
The award was presented during a special ceremony at Hotel Ritz Carlton, Pune, on January 21, 2025, in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, a distinguished scientist and Padma Vibhushan awardee. The ceremony was jointly hosted by the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai and the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Maharashtra, represented by Professor Anniruddha B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor and Hon’ble Shri Chandrakant (Dada) Patil, Minister of Higher and Technical Education.
On receiving the award Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla said “Among all the awards I have received, the Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Award is particularly special to me because it highlights the importance of affordable pharmaceuticals. Unlike global producers, which received billions in government funding, we at Serum Institute of India relied entirely on our own savings and resources to produce the COVID-19 vaccine at a high speed. We took a significant personal and financial risk to ensure the vaccine’s safety and efficacy, even taking early doses ourselves before licensure.”
Hon’ble Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil, Ministry of Higher and Technical Education commented “We are eagerly anticipating the development of a vaccine by Dr. Poonawalla and the Serum Institute of India (SII) that aims to protect girls from breast and cervical cancer. Our government is expected to launch a campaign to promote this initiative. Just as India successfully became polio-free, we hope to see a future where women in our country are free from the threat of cancer—a vision that Cyrus and his dedicated team at SII are working tirelessly to turn into reality.”
Chief Guest Padma Vibhushan Dr. R.A. Mashelkar said, “Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla is a ‘living legend’ who shares the vision and principles of Dr. K. Anji Reddy, an ICT alumnus. Just like Dr. Reddy founded Reddy Labs, leaving an enduring legacy in the pharmaceutical sector, Dr. Poonawalla’s legacy lies in transforming global healthcare through the Serum Institute of India, making life-saving vaccines affordable and accessible to millions around the world.”
On the sidelines of the event Professor A. B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor, ICT Mumbai said, “Mumbai Biocluster is an organization that is going to be established on the premises of ICT. Currently, many drugs and medicines are manufactured using synthetic chemicals. However, producing them through natural methods can significantly reduce side effects. This groundbreaking research will take place within the Biocluster, with support from several leading pharmaceutical companies.”
Dr. Ratnesh Jain, Founder, Mumbai Biocluster, said, “The Mumbai Biocluster, led by ICT Mumbai, is a transformative initiative that bridges academia, industry and policymakers. By fostering collaboration, it serves as a driving force for biopharmaceutical innovation, empowers startups and accelerates the development of affordable healthcare solutions, solidifying India’s position as a global leader in biopharma. At ICT and our flagship Mumbai Biocluster, it is a tremendous honor to recognize Dr. Poonawalla with this well-deserved accolade. We take immense pride in celebrating him as one of our own and as a distinguished alumnus who continues to inspire us all.”
The award ceremony for the 2nd Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship was a momentous occasion, celebrating the life-changing impact of Dr. Poonawalla’s work and his unparalleled contributions to global healthcare. This recognition underscores ICT Mumbai’s commitment to fostering science, innovation and leadership in the biopharmaceutical sector. Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla’s extraordinary contributions to global healthcare have established India as a hub for affordable vaccines, saving billions of lives worldwide. As the visionary chairman of the Serum Institute of India, Dr. Poonawalla has demonstrated how innovation and unwavering dedication can drive transformative change. His remarkable legacy—delivering over 1.5 billion vaccine doses annually to more than 170 countries—and his pivotal role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic stand as enduring testaments to his leadership and commitment to humanity.
Driving Atmanirbhar Bharat: Tata AutoComp’s Focus on Technology-First Solutions
Bengaluru , India, January 23, 2025 – Tata AutoComp Systems Limited, a leading automotive components conglomerate serving Indian and global OEMs, showcased cutting-edge, indigenously developed, technology-first solutions at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, underscoring its commitment to strengthening India’s self-reliance through groundbreaking localisation and technology leadership.
As a major participant in Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 with a theme of “Beyond Boundaries: Co-creating Future Automotive Value Chain,” Tata AutoComp reaffirmed its vision of being the most trusted mobility components and systems partner while reimagining the future of mobility. The stall was inaugurated by Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, underscoring Tata AutoComp’s pivotal role in advancing India’s automotive sector and driving innovation in mobility solutions. Tata Autocomp showcased its comprehensive strengths across 18 business units, including nine joint ventures with leading global auto component manufacturers, all together on one stage. Tata AutoComp showcased groundbreaking advancements, including EV Components, Lithium-Ion Battery Packs, EV Chargers, E-Compressors, Integrated Drivetrain [6-in-1], and Powertrain Solutions for EVs and ICE and also had an Innovation Room that showcased more Advanced Technology.
Mr. Arvind Goel, Vice Chairman of Tata AutoComp Systems said, “The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with electrification, hybridisation, hydrogen technologies, and software-driven vehicles shaping its future. Tata AutoComp is committed to leveraging these advancements to provide innovative solutions that empower the mobility ecosystem. At the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, we highlight not only our capabilities across diverse segments but also our vision to support India’s transition to sustainable mobility. As global trends shift and technologies evolve, we see tremendous opportunities for the Indian automotive sector to lead, particularly in exports, while continuing to strengthen our domestic industry through innovation, R&D, and collaboration.”
In alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, Tata AutoComp is determined to achieve 100% localisation. The company has already made significant strides by localizing critical electric vehicle components, including battery packs, Battery Management Systems (BMS), and over 80% of battery thermal management systems. The company has also achieved successful localisation of Dual Clutch Transmission. This focus on localisation enhances India’s self-reliant automotive ecosystem while ensuring high-quality, cost-efficient solutions for the domestic market.
Expanding its focus beyond the automotive domain, Tata AutoComp has entered the railway sector, contributing to the indigenous development of components for the Vande Bharat initiative. This move complements its efforts in the EV space, where the company empowers manufacturers with localized solutions and advanced drivetrain technology, further solidifying its leadership in the “One Tata” approach to innovation and collaboration.
With a strong emphasis on workforce development, Tata AutoComp’s Learning & Development initiatives are equipping the workforce with the skills needed to meet the demands of an evolving industry. These efforts are creating job opportunities, strengthening the manufacturing sector, and driving sustainable growth in India’s mobility ecosystem.
Marking three decades of excellence, Tata AutoComp has offered its expertise to various sectors, including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, two- and three-wheelers, tractors, off-road machinery, allied industrial applications, and the aftermarket segment. Tata AutoComp is setting the benchmark for the component industry by aligning with policy frameworks like FAME-III and the PLI schemes of the Government of India.