February 2024 -

ASUS fortifies itspan India retail strategy with the launch of its NewPegasus Store in Noida

As a step towards fortifying the brand’s retail footprint across the country, ASUS India, a Taiwanese tech giant today announced the launchof the Pegasus store in Noida.The new Pegasus store is spread across 400 sq. ft. and is set to host an extensive range of electronics and computer hardware, including the ASUS flagship products such as Vivobooks, Zenbooks, Republic of Gamers (ROG) laptops, Gaming Desktops, All-in-One Desktops, and accessories. This marks the brand's first Pegasus store in Noida, bringing the total count of Pegasus stores in Delhi to 7. Additionally, it increases the brand’s outlet tally in Delhi NCR to 31.

Commenting on the launch of the store, Arnold Su, Vice President- Gaming and Consumer Segment ASUS India said, “We take immense pride in announcing the expansion of our retail footprint in the country. Recognizing the paramount importance of Delhi NCR as a key market, the launch of our new Pegasus store in the growing city of Noida marks a significant milestone in our endeavor to offering consumers across India with an unparalleled experience of our offerings. Through a meticulously planned retail expansion strategy, we are committed to cultivating offering our customers with a hands-on experience while forging valuable connections with them.”

Somany Impresa Group appoints Shashvat Somany as Head of Strategy

Somany Impresa Group, a leading Indian conglomerate with a diverse portfolio, announcedShashvat Somany as the recently appointed Head of Strategy.This strategic move signals a key step in the Group's expansive plans across companies, including AGI Greenpac, Hindware Home Innovation Limited, and Hindware Limited. Shashvat will play a crucial role in shaping the long-term strategic direction, collaborating closely with business leaders for the Group's ambitious growth and diversification.

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Shashvat will play a pivotal role in steering the Group's innovation and business expansion initiatives.His main focus will be leading the global expansion initiatives of AGI, formulating a strategic roadmap to establish a strong international presence. Shashvat will also be responsible for exploring strategic partnerships, fostering innovative collaborations, and evaluating potential ventures to further elevate the Group's presence in the building products and packaging products sector.

In addition to these strategic initiatives, Shashvat will focus onenhancing the capabilities of the data and analytics teams, contributing to the Group's digitalization efforts. His primary objective is to ensure a comprehensive and forward-looking integration of technology across the businesses, positioning Somany Impresa Group for success in the digital age.

“I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Somany Impresa Group. The Group's commitment to innovation and forward-thinking approach is truly inspiring. I am confident that my experience and collaborative spirit will contribute to our ambitious expansion and diversification goals,” says Shashvat Somany, Head of Strategy, Somany Impresa Group.

India’s Largest Corrugated Packaging Machinery Expo Commences on 7 March 2024

Elevating the Corrugated Packaging Machinery Industry in India

The Corru Pack Print India Expo 2024, an exhibition dedicated to the Corrugated Packaging Machinery Industry, is set to unfold from March 7 to March 9 at the India International Convention and Expo Center in New Delhi. Jointly Organized by the Indian Paper Corrugated & Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Association (ICPMA) and the Futurex Group, this event stands as the singular exhibition facilitated by India's foremost Corrugated Packaging Machinery Association.

This expo will feature leading manufacturers in the Corrugated Packaging Machinery sector, showcasing their latest products with live demonstrations of cutting-edge machines. The event aims to bring together the entire spectrum of the Corrugation Industry, presenting a comprehensive display of products that cater to the Packaging and Corrugated Industries. With 300+ exhibitors and 800+ participating brands, attendees can expect a dynamic array of offerings and opportunities. From groundbreaking technologies to innovative solutions, the event will feature over 1,000 products and services, providing a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in the field. Anticipating the presence of over 10,000 trade visitors, this gathering promises to be a vibrant hub for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.

Among the distinguished speakers present at the press conference of this significant event wereMr. Hitesh Nagpal, President of ICPMA and MD of Natraj Industries; Mr. Jatinder Singh, Secretary of ICPMA and Director of Surjeet Engineering; and Swami Prem Anveshi Ji, Managing Director of Futurex Group and Mr. Namit Gupta, Director of Futurex Group.

In his statement, Hitesh Nagpal Ji, the President of ICPMA, highlighted the unique significance of Corru Pack Print India as a specialized event catering exclusively to the corrugation segment. He emphasized that this exhibition marks a pioneering effort by the association, making it the first of its kind to bring together Corrugated Packaging Machinery manufacturers.

ICPMA, as India's first Paper Corrugated & Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Association, has been a driving force since its inception in 2014 in New Delhi. It stands as a modern and dynamic forum that provides valuable opportunities for Indian manufacturers engaged in the Corrugated Packaging Machinery Business on a global scale.

Hitesh Ji outlined the association's ethos, underscoring the active involvement of its members in advancing the technological landscape of the corrugated industry in the country.He further expressed the association's vision of fostering growth for its members, ensuring that each participant contributes to improving their business for the benefit of future generations. The ICPMA remains dedicated to its mission of enhancing the technological prowess of the country's corrugated industry through collaborative efforts and continuous innovation.

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Mr. Jatinder Singh, Secretary of ICPMA and Director of Surjeet Engineering said “As Secretary of ICPMA, I am delighted to witness the realization of Corru Pack Print India. This platform serves as a bridge between manufacturers and consumers, fostering collaboration and driving growth in the corrugation segment.”

The Indian packaging industry, valued at approximately USD 75 billion in FY20, is on a trajectory to achieve a CAGR of 18-20%, reaching nearly USD 200 billion by FY25. This growth is particularly driven by the retail market, the fifth-largest sector in India's economy, showcasing consistent expansion potential, especially in exports.

Swami Prem Anveshi Ji, Managing Director of Futurex Group, stated “At Futurex Group, we believe in shaping the future of packaging through innovation and sustainability. Corrupt Pack Print India embodies this vision, providing a forum for industry leaders to showcase cutting-edge solutions and pave the way for a greener tomorrow.”

Corru Pack Print India 2024 promises to be a hub for networking among packaging peers, expanding industry networks, and learning about new packaging trends. With over 150 livemachineries in action, attendees can engage in face-to-face interactions, fostering collaborations and knowledge exchange.

Namit Gupta, Director of Futurex Group said, “It's a strategic confluence of innovation and business acumen. By bringing together industry leaders, we aim to create a fertile ground for meaningful collaborations, fostering technological advancements and driving the Corrugated Packaging Machinery Industry to new heights.”

The Corrugated Packaging industry in India is experiencing substantial growth, fueled by increased demand for consumer products and the burgeoning e-commerce landscape. As a vital component of the packaging sector, corrugated packaging is playing a crucial role in ensuring the protection of products during distribution, developing brand identity, and managing shipping costs.

The event is fortified by invaluable support from esteemed organizations playing pivotal roles in shaping the landscape of the Corrugated Packaging Machinery Industry including the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM), and the Indian Institute of Packaging.

Airtel switches to recycled PVC SIM cards – partners IDEMIA

The initiative will limit the generation of over 165 tonnes of virgin plastic leading to a reduction in CO₂ equivalent of 690 tonnes in one year

Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, in partnership with IDEMIA Secure Transactions, today announced that it has switched from virgin plastic to recycled PVC SIM cards. This is in line with the company’s commitment to encouraging the adoption of circular business practices. IDEMIA Secure Transactions, a division of the IDEMIA Group, is a leading provider of payment and connectivity solutions for financial institutions, mobile network operators and automotive manufacturers.

An industry first in India, Airtel is the only telecommunications service provider to switch to recycled plastic SIM cards. With this migration, the generation of over 165 tonnes of virgin plastic will be limited which will further reduce the generation of over 690 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in one year.

This migration is in line with Airtel’s continued commitment to reducing greenhouse gases and promoting circularity with supplier partners and other stakeholders with the aim of encouraging them to reduce waste, recycle and reuse products.

Pankaj Miglani, Director – Supply Chain, Bharti Airtel, said, “We are delighted to announce yet another first as we continue to lead the Indian telecom industry. As a brand we endeavour to align our efforts to adopt various sustainable measures and contribute significantly towards India’s ambition to achieve net zero. Our collaboration with Idemia underscores our shared commitment to contributing to a sustainable future.”

Rahul Tandon, Senior VP – Connectivity Services, India, IDEMIA Secure Transactions, said, “We are proud of our long-standing partnership with Airtel. We congratulate Airtel for taking the lead in reducing the carbon footprint and providing green solutions to their subscribers in India. I would also like to thank all our R&D teams for making such innovations possible.”

Airtel has committed to reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its operations by 50.2% by FY 2030-31 with FY 2020-21 as the base year. The company has also committed to reducing its absolute scope 3 GHG emissions by 42% over the same time frame. In line with this commitment, some of the key initiatives at Airtel include promoting energy efficiency, utilising open-access green energy and adopting renewable energy across operations, as well as building a climate resilient network, resource efficiency and waste management.

Carbon dioxide equivalent or CO₂ equivalent is a metric used to compare the emissions from various GHGs on the basis of their global-warming potential, converted to the equivalent amount of carbon dioxide.

BOBCARD Deals: Grab Hot Discounts on Amazon across Fashion, Electronics, Home and more!

BOBCARD LIMITED, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, is delighted to unveil exclusive offers once again under the banner of #ReimagineShopping, spanning across top product categories available onAmazon, India's foremost online shopping destination. Embracing the spirit of redefining shopping experiences, the company will provide enticing rewards and discounts, commencing from February 28^thtoMarch 3^rd, 2024.

During this offer period, customers can enjoy anattractive 10% Instant Discount sitewide on Amazon, applicable on both full payments and EMI transactions, with a minimum order value of ₹7,500. Furthermore, customers can enjoy enticing offers such as a maximum discount of ₹750 on the latest mobiles for full payment and ₹1000 on EMI. Similarly, for all other categories, they can avail themselves of a maximum discount of ₹1,000 on full payment and ₹1,500 on EMI.

What’s more?Extra Flat ₹750 OFF, on purchases above ₹30,000 on 6 Months+ EMI tenure.(*Terms and Conditions apply). These offers are applicable across categories including Fashion, Home, Kitchen, Electronics, Books, Entertainment among others, except Grocery.

With all the amazing offers lined up under#ReimagineShopping by the BOBCARD, consumers can experience a reimagined shopping journey on Amazon, where seamless transactions and exclusive deals await. BOBCARD Limited is dedicated to elevating customer experiences, fostering convenience, and affordability.

Apply for your BOBCARD at www.bobfinancial.com to avail the discounts if not using yet.

Bank of Baroda's credit arm recently underwent a rebranding, transitioning from BOB Financial to BOBCARD LIMITED. These exclusive offers, introduced under the campaign “Remember to Reimagine,” signifies the brand's revitalization post-transformation. Through this rebranding endeavour, BOBCARD has reaffirmed its commitment to reshaping the nation's credit landscape by delivering exceptional credit solutions and prioritizing customer-centric offerings.

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Škoda Autoannounces all-new compact SUV for India

Implements New Era as part of India-centric strategy

Ø All-new SUV will hit roads in India in the first half of 2025

Ø Is company’s third made-for-Indiaproduct

Ø Vehicle will be based on the MQB-A0-IN platform like the Kushaq and Slavia

Ø Targets 100,000 annual volumes for Škoda Auto India by 2026

Ø Škoda Auto India simultaneously announces naming contest for new product

Škoda Auto India is not taking its foot off the accelerator pedal when it comes to the Indian market. In its third major product offensive after the Kushaq and the Slavia, the company announced plans for an all-new compact SUV that will debut in India in the first half of 2025.

Speaking on the announcement, Klaus Zellmer, CEO, Škoda Auto a.s, said,“India is crucial to the global growth of Škoda Auto, both because of its own market strength and as a development and manufacturing base for our expansion in new markets including ASEAN and the Middle East. We have more than doubled sales in India since 2021 and we are now taking the next step by further expanding the range of models designed for customers in India and internationally. The all-new compact SUV due in 2025 will add an important segment for customers. I’m confident the expanding Škoda portfolio will contribute to our India growth target of achieving a market share for the Volkswagen family of brands of around 5 percent by 2030.”

The MQB-A0-IN platform, debuting with the ŠkodaKushaq in 2021, formed the crux of Škoda Auto India’s strategy. It was developed jointly by teams in India and the Czech Republic with a focus on high localisation, low cost of ownership, and quick turnaround times. It is the first platform developed by the company outside of Europe and tailormade for the Indian market.

Speaking on the product action, Dr JohannesNeft, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development,Škoda Auto a.s, said,“The MQB-A0-IN platform we developed and localised specifically in India for India has incredible technical prowess, is very versatile and is ready for the world. The Kushaq and Slavia are based on this platform, and it is fulfilling to see that they have played an integral part in the growing focus on building safer cars in India. The new compact SUV will also be built on this platform and will carry forward the same Škoda DNA of superior driving dynamics, integral safety and proven quality.”

Speaking on the all-new product announcement,Martin Jahn, Member of the Board of Management for Sales & Marketing, ŠkodaAuto a.s, said,“The Škoda brand has taken big strides globally. In 2023, we have grown by 18.5% compared to 2022. India is a key market for our growth, and we have just crossed the 100,000 sales mark over the last two years – thanks to the locally developed and produced Kushaq and Slavia models. With the all-new compact SUV, we are underlining our commitment to India and its importance to our internationalisation plans. Together with the Kushaq and the Kodiaq, we will have an even better SUV portfolio for India, which is a key segment that contributes over 50% to all vehicle sales in the market.”

Providing his inputs on the development, Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) said, “After the success of the Kushaq and Slavia, we are expanding our reach with the upcoming launch of an all-new compact SUV, targeting the largest segment in India. Our R&D expertise in India has already enabled us to incorporate highly localised parts and components for our entire range. With the new compact SUV, we are furthering this strategy by systematically developing our local supplier base to provide parts and components of global standards and quality at competitive prices. We aim to actively participate in the evolving landscape of mobility in India. We remain focused on our expansions and further enhancement of the Group’s wide portfolio of cars in India.”

On the all-new product, Jan Bures, Member of Board, Sales, Marketing and Digital, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) said,“The Škoda brand has been instrumental in fuelling the growth of the Group in India. This is not only in terms of sales volumes, but also in terms of our network reach and evolution across the value chain. The Made-in-India models built on the versatile MQB-A0-IN platform remain key contributors to delivering substantial volumes, which will be further driven by this all-new compact SUV, strengthening the diverse offerings of our Group brands.”

Škoda Auto, with a legacy of 129 years in the world entered India in November 2001. It had its biggest year in terms of sales in 2022. Combined with the year 2023, the company sold over 100,000 cars in a 2-year period. Earlier, it had taken the company 6 years to achieve the landmark, highlighting the rapid pace of growth undertaken by the company ever since the MQB-A0-IN platform has been put into action.

Adding further on the company’s announcement, Petr Janeba, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India said, “I am extremely pleased to announce that in a year from now, Škoda Auto will debut an all-new car – a compact SUV for the Indian market. With this launch, we will enhance our workforce on all fronts, with an innovative approach and pioneering formats to engage with our new and existing customers. We have already kick-started trainings and workshops for our sales and after-sales verticals and continue with our laser-sharp focus on customer satisfaction. With the new compact SUV, we are confident of reaching the 100,000 annual sales volume by 2026.”

First-ever Škodacompact SUV in India
The all-new compact SUV will be the company’s first ever vehicle in the category in the country. The vehicle will be on Indian roads in the first half of 2025. This new SUV will witness Škoda Auto India continue its made-for-India, ready-for-the-world ethos, where the company specifically develops cars focussed on the local market with an eye on localisation and low maintenance costs. The manufacturer first made this platform – the MQB-A0-IN developed specifically for India – available through the Kushaq SUV in July 2021, and the Slavia sedan in March 2022.

Commitment to India
Škoda Auto India’s all-new vehicle, slated to hit roads in 2025, is the third, all-new product on the MQB-A0-IN platform. This vehicle will be a sub 4 metre SUV that uses the excise benefits for under 4-metre cars available in India. And the company will pass on the benefit to customers when it comes to pricing. This all-new vehicle will be the new entry level product in Škoda Auto India’s fleet with the company intending on penetrating deeper and wider into Tier 3 and smaller markets with the car.

Manufacturing and sales strategy
Škoda Auto India has a full-fledged manufacturing unit in Chakan, near Pune, and a parts and components facility in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. These facilities are part of the strategy for Škoda Auto India’s further expansion and growth plans in India. Activities in the Indian market are part of Škoda Auto's Next Level Strategy. Škoda aims to become the best-selling European brand by 2030 and achieve a five percent market share for all Volkswagen Group brands as part of its responsibility for the region. In 2022, Škoda Auto recorded the highest sales of its brand in the Indian market in history and, together with the year 2023, sold over 100,000 vehicles in a two-year period. The automaker aims to sell 100,000 Škoda vehicles annually in India by 2026. In addition, the company leverages synergies in the export of vehicles produced in India to the ASEAN and Middle East regions.

Made in India. Ready for the world
The MQB-A0-IN platform, since 2021, has already proven its mettle in India and the world with the Kushaq and Slavia earning a full 5-stars for adult and child occupants in Global NCAP crash tests in October 2022 and April 2023 respectively. They were the first cars in India to be tested under the then newer and stricter test protocols of Global NCAP and the first to earn 5 stars for both adults and children.

High localisation and Safest fleet
The grounds-up design and development of the MQB-A0-IN platform has allowed Škoda Auto India to localise the car by up to 95%. This has enabled customers to enjoy the benefits of low cost of ownership and turnaround times, and standard warranties of 4 years and optional warranties of up to 8 years facilitating customers complete peace of mind. Combined with the Kodiaq luxury 4×4 that is rated 5-stars under Euro NCAP, Škoda Auto India has a fleet full of 5-star safe and tested cars in India.

The game in the name
Keeping intact its tradition of providing distinct nomenclatures that reflects culture, legacy and heritage, Škoda Auto India has announced a naming contest for this all-new compact SUV. The Kushaq is inspired by the Sanskrit word for emperor and the Slavia takes its name from the bicycle, which was the first ever product of the company from its origins in 1895. In an endeavour to enable users, customers and fans on what they think this all-new compact SUV should be named, Škoda Auto India announced the #NameYourSkoda campaign inviting entries from across India for possible names for this first-ever Škoda product in this segment in the country.

Climate Change Risks Exposed: International SOS Data Highlights Urgent Need for Preparedness, Sharing Key Advice for Businesses

International SOS, the world’s leading health and security services company, today highlights insight from the International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report [1], shedding light on the profound impact of climate change on businesses worldwide.The report revealsimportant statistics, indicating a growing awareness among respondents regarding the significant ramifications of climate-related phenomena on various aspects of operations and employee wellbeing. This is not a surprise for many, as 72% of respondents believe that extreme weather events will have a significant impact on their business or people in 2024, underscoring the tangible impact of environmental shifts expected on business operations.

The International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report also outlines the diverse consequences for the workforce, including increased health risks such as heat-related illnesses and associated decreased productivity. Extreme weather events also have the potential to lead to disruptions in global supply chains. Beyond the physical implications, mental health and absenteeism are also key factors, as climate anxiety grips people across the world.

Looking ahead; what will the impact be in 2024:

48% of respondents reported that climate change anxiety is an issue that they have encountered among their workforces.
42%of respondents think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to / mitigate disruptions caused by climate activism.
41% of respondents think that their organisation is not necessarily fully prepared to respond to / mitigate environmental threats.
26% of respondents have already reported operational disruption attributed to climate change.

Commenting on the medical outlook, Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director – Indian Subcontinentcautions, “We are witnessing an increased severity ofextreme weather events like storms, wildfires, and cloudbursts in the past years.Worsening air quality and the emergence of new diseases are concerning trends. The progressive worsening of heat waves has raised an alarm that we may approach the human limits of survivability by mid-century. While the physical impact of climate change on vulnerable populations is obvious, the not-so-visible damage that any climate event can cause to mental health is far more serious and will affect more people across all age groups. While organisations have been trying to reduce the impact of their actions on the environment, it has now become crucial for them to protect their people from the health and wellbeing consequences of climate change.”

“At International SOS, we saw asignificant increase in the number of climate-related alerts we issued last year. Throughout January – November 2023, we saw a fourfold increase in climate related alerts issued to our clients, with 80% more medical climate-related alerts compared to the previous year.This surge underscores the critical need for organisations to understand the complex interplay between climate change and health risks.”

Udit Mehta, Executive Vice President and Director of Operations for International SOSthinks that organisations should take heed from the losses that can be incurred by extreme weather events, investing in climate preparedness can help ensure a business weathers a storm.“Climate change is of course akey environmental concern, but importantly, also a critical factor intensifying risks for individuals and companies. Although until recently, climate change has rarely been seen as the singular driver of conflict or security issues, the impacts of climate change considerably exacerbate existing tensions, vulnerabilities and operational challenges. The cascading impacts of climate change can be the spark that ignites civil unrest,violence and security issues at high level, as well as amplifies existing political and socio-economic insecurities.

“It is more important than ever for organisations monitor these events,prioritise climate resilience and incorporate proactive measures into their operational frameworks.This year, theInternational SOS Risk Map 2024includes a layer which outlines climate change risks, an important tool for strategic planning. This provides quantified estimates of the impacts of climate change on the future risk of humanitarian crises and disasters. This risk index is intended to inform policy choices across climate mitigation and adaptation, disaster risk reduction, sustainable development and humanitarian assistance for greater resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change.”

Top FivePractical Measures for Organisations toMitigate Climate Change Risks and Safeguard their Workforcein 2024:

Develop a comprehensive climate risk management plan:strategically map climate change impacts on operations to inform mitigation strategies and investments effectively.
Engage employees across the organisation:foster collaboration among HR, risk managers, and the C-suite to harness diverse expertise in combating climate-related risks.
Enhance security protocols and prioritise medical preparedness:establish a system to identify, assess, and control health and security risks related to climate change. Understand the capacity of local healthcare facilities and ensure access to medical care during disruptions.
Provide workforce with adequate emotional support solutions: implement programmes to address the mental health impacts of climate change on employees, such as anxiety, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Leverage external expertise and data:harness the insights and support of third-party experts to conduct a climate vulnerability risk assessment and learn best practice to navigate the complexities of climate risk management effectively.

As businesses navigate the evolving landscape shaped by climate change, International SOS remains committed to providing essential guidance and support to ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees worldwide.

Rocking Rickshaw: The tale of success of a global Indian abroad

In the bustling streets of Singapore's vibrant F&B scene, there's a name that stands out among the rest: Anil Goswami. His journey with his brands is more than just a success story—it's a tale of determination and inspiration, breaking barriers and achieving greatness in a highly competitive market far from home.

Anil Goswami's path to success began with a dream—a dream of creating a culinary haven renowned for its innovation, affordability, and lively ambiance. That dream became a reality with Al Capone's, a series of sports bars and restaurants nestled in the heart of Orchard Road, contributing significantly to Singapore's culinary landscape.

Since taking the helm as the sole proprietor and manager in 2015, Anil has left an indelible mark on Singapore, bringing pride to India with his culinary flair. With 14 establishments strategically scattered across key areas, Al Capone's has become synonymous with top-notch drinks, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere. But beyond revolutionizing the bar scene, Anil's vision extends to community, mentorship, and empowerment, making Al Capone's a beacon of values as well.

As each new outlet opens its doors, Al Capone's legacy grows, a testament to Anil's unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. And it doesn't stop there—Anil's entrepreneurial spirit knows no bounds. He's taken his success from Singapore to India, expanding Al Capone's reach and showcasing India's culinary prowess on a global stage.

But Anil's journey doesn't end with Al Capone's. He's also the creative force behind Rocking Rickshaw, Asia's only Bollywood Rock Cafe. With plans to expand across Asia, Anil is not only shaping India's image but also shaping the future of the F&B industry.

While Al Capone's may be the talk of the town, Rocking Rickshaw holds its own as a cultural gem, offering patrons a taste of Bollywood-inspired decor and mouthwatering cuisine. Together, these two brands embody Anil Goswami's multifaceted approach to culinary entrepreneurship, enriching Singapore's dining scene and beyond. Anil's journey with Al Capone's and Rocking Rickshaw is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and unwavering dedication to excellence, making India proud on the global culinary stage.

Vietjet Secures Landmark Deal: Orders 20 A330neo Widebodies from Airbus at Singapore Airshow

Vietjet, Vietnam’s leading new-age carrier, and Airbus today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the order of 20 A330neo (A330-900) widebodies.

The new order marks one of the largest deals at the ongoing Singapore Airshow 2024 and Vietjet’s largest widebody purchase so far. The aircraft will be operated on the carrier’s growing long-range network, as well as on high-capacity regional services. They will replace the carrier’s current fleet of leased A330-300s, as well as provide for network expansion.

“We are excited to work with Vietjet on the next phase of the carrier's expansion,” said Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft Business of Airbus. “The A330neo will enable the airline to achieve the lowest possible operating costs per seat and to continue to offer its customers the best possible value wherever they fly. It will also be the perfect complement to the A321XLRs already on order with the airline, as it spreads its wings to more far-flung destinations.”

Vietjet Chief Executive Officer Dinh Viet Phuong said: “The new A330neo aircraft is a strategic addition to comprehensively modernize Vietjet's fleet, enhancing operational capabilities to support our global flight network expansion plan. Its fuel-efficient new-generation design aligns with our sustainable development strategy and ESG goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. With the introduction of the A330neo, passengers can look forward to longer-range, well-equipped flights with excellent services at more competitive fares.”

The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, which offers passengers a unique experience, a high level of comfort, ambiance, and design. This includes more individual space, enlarged overhead bins, a new lighting system, and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems. The airline has also put into operation the modern and environmentally friendly A330 aircraft fleet for flights to Australia, India, Kazakhstan, Japan, and South Korea.

Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm/13,300 km non-stop. At the end of January 2024, the A330 Family had accumulated 1,771 firm orders from more than 130 customers worldwide.

Vietjet has welcomed its 105th aircraft to join its modern fleet, continuing its fleet development plan to meet all customers’ needs. The aircraft arrived at Tan Son Nhat airport in Ho Chi Minh City and belongs to the world's leading modern generation of Airbus – A321neo ACF. With a fleet of over 105 aircraft and constantly growing passenger volume, Vietjet is actively expanding its intercontinental flight network, developing new and modern fleets in collaboration with global strategic partners such as Airbus.

Particularly, Vietjet has aggressively expanded its network to India, which is home to over 1.4 billion people, currently operating 35 round-trip flights per week across 5 major cities – Mumbai, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kochi, and Tiruchirappalli. Business class tickets offer an exquisite travel experience on Vietjet's modern wide-body aircraft A330, featuring exclusive privileges such as private check-in counters, business lounges, private cabins, cocktail services, and the opportunity to savor Vietnamese specialties like Pho Thin, Banh Mi, as well as specially crafted Indian vegetarian dishes and Halal options.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Inaugurates BHARAT TEX 2024 – India’s Largest Textiles Mega Event at Bharat Mandapam

· Discover Textiles, Fashion, Sustainability and Resilience in the Heart of India

· With an overarching focus on sustainability, the 4-day event promises to be a tapestry of tradition and technology, attracting the best and the brightest from the textile world

· With the objectives of promoting India's textile prowess, fostering international collaborations, and stimulating economic growth, Bharat Tex aims to propel the Indian textile industry to new heights

· Besides policymakers and global CEOs, Bharat Tex has attracted over 3,500 exhibitors, over 3,000 buyers from over 50 countries, and more than 40,000 trade visitors from 100 countries

BHARAT TEX 2024, a global textile mega event in the textile industry, was officially launched today at Delhi's Bharat Mandapam by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This monumental event is orchestrated by a collaborative effort of 11 Textile Export Promotion Councils, with backing from the Ministry of Textiles. Built on the twin pillars of trade and investment and with an overarching focus on sustainability, the 4-day event promises to be a tapestry of tradition and technology, attracting, besides policymakers and global CEOs, over 3,500 exhibitors, over 3,000 buyers from over 50 countries, and more than 40,000 trade visitors from 100 countries. An exhibition spread across nearly 2 million sq ft of area and encompassing the entire textile value chain, will help position India as a global powerhouse in textiles, showcasing its capabilities and generating momentum throughout the entire Indian textiles ecosystem.

Bharat Tex 2024 is a prominent international industry platform, featuring exhibitions, knowledge sessions, thematic discussions, Government-to-Government (G2G) meetings, Business-to-Business (B2B) networks, the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), product launches, thematic and interactive pavilions and various other activities.

Inspired by the 5F Vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the event scheduled from February 26-29 has a unified Farm to Fashion focus, covering the entire value chain.

Key Features of the Event:

The key features of the session include the following:

20,00,000 Sq. Ft Area for exhibition and trade fair showcasing Apparel, Home Furnishings, Floor Coverings, Fibres, Yarns, Threads, Fabrics, Carpets, Silk, Textiles based Handicrafts, Technical Textiles and many more.
Retail High Street focusing on India’s fashion retail market opportunities
Dedicated pavilions on sustainability and recycling with focus on showcasing Tiruppur sustainable cluster and Panipat recycling cluster
Fashion show showcasing Indian Textiles Heritage
Grand launch of various Government Initiatives such as Kasturi Cotton, Vision Nxt and India Size
Indi-Haat showcasing India’s traditional sector of Handicrafts and Handlooms
Interactive fabric testing zones and product demonstrations
Art jugalbandi focusing on Sustainability
Masterclasses by crafts persons with over 3 generations of tradition and history
MoUs signing between various stakeholders for investment, technology transfer, research and academic collaborations

Knowledge Sessions:

Bharat Tex 2024 has been designed to attract top level policy makers, business CEOs, investors, textile thought leaders, industry captains, sustainability champions, multilateral organizations, global institutes, and other stakeholder to deliberate on issues and challenges faced by the global textiles industry and India’s strengths that can be leveraged to address these issues.

Below are the key knowledge sessions, that would ideate on the future of Global textiles value chain:

3 Dedicated CXO Roundtables (International, Domestic and Technical Textiles).
Over 40% of all sessions focusing on three pillars: Sustainability, Resilient Value Chains and Indian prowess in global Textiles industry.
14 marque sessions on ESG, Sustainability, Circularity and Recycling and Green Financing
3 Country Sessions and 5 State Sessions on opportunities, investment and trade
3 dedicated sessions on the future of Indian Textiles: Large scale investment (PLI), Infrastructure (PM MITRA) and Ease of Doing Business
9 dedicated sessions on Synthetic Fibres and Technical Textiles – Growth Drivers of Indian Textiles Industry
Global Mega Trends shaping the future of Textiles industry
Factory of the Future with emphasis on AI and Block Chain based smart manufacturing
Resilient Global Value Chains and how India role as a preferred sourcing destination
Indian Textiles Vision 2047 – Global leader in Textiles
Retailing in one of the fastest growing consumer market in the world
Local for Global – Weaving the ultra-luxury brands from India
Leveraging Digitization for Indian Textiles industry
Start-ups and Entrepreneurship – Young India fueling the Future of Textiles
Skilling & Enhancing Productivity – Future proof workforce
Decolonizing Indian Crafts – Building a strong ‘Brand India’ for traditional sector (Handicrafts and Handlooms)
Many other sessions covering other topics such as India Size, Standards, QCOs, Handmade Carpets, etc.,

Showcasing Indian Textiles Heritage:

Indian culture is woven with textiles heritage of this country dating back several centuries. The country is renowned for its diverse range of textiles right from silk, muslin and white gold (cotton) during the medieval era to the intricate designs, dyeing techniques, embroideries and world-famous weaves showcasing the country royal textiles traditions. Bharat Tex 2024 will highlight the richness of Indian textiles and strengthen its image as a custodian of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. It will also celebrate India's reliability as a competitive, sustainable textile manufacturing hub across the entire value chain, from raw materials to end products.

The Theme Pavilion at the event would be based on ‘Vastra Katha’ with below sub-themes weaving India’s past heritage with India’s global position in Textiles industry and the future of Global Textiles, spearheaded by India.

Virasat – Showcasing India’s textiles history, heritage and the prominence of the country during Medieval Era
Vikas – Showcasing the modern textiles powerhouse with capability, scale and manufacturing excellence
Vishwas – Global eyes on new India and how the country can power Global textiles industry towards a sustainable future.

Bharat Tex – A benchmark for Sustainable Event:

As the global textiles industry grapples with environmental challenges inherent with the linear model of ‘take-make-consume-dispose’, Bharat Tex is leading the way by taking proactive steps to promote eco-friendly practices and ethical standards.

Below are some initiatives taken during the event to embed the above stated values during the event.

Launching Kasturi Cotton, a new standard in cotton, with transparent value chain and globally acceptable quality standards.
Showcasing latest innovation in process, systems and production methods to move towards eco-friendly and globally acceptable sustainable practices.
Exhibiting various solutions such as waterless dyeing, regenerative farming, organic and recycled raw materials aimed at reducing carbon footprint and minimizing environmental impact.
Promoting circular economy with resources being reused, recycled and repurposed. The event has ideation sessions on how to manage textiles waste and the exhibition would have various closed loop manufactured products.
The exhibitors at the event follow standard norms of ethical sourcing and fair-trade practices with their commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions and promoting culture of responsible sourcing.
The designer ensemble at the event would promote sustainable fibre based designs and zero-waste designs to ensure the country can move towards a sustainable value chain with ease of recycling end-use products.

Global Participation:

The event has received an overwhelming response with leading global textile companies including Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Vero Moda, Coats, Toray, H&M, Gap, Target, Levis, Kohl’s, Nike, K-Mart, IKEA, YKK, Fortum, Lenzing, Anko, CIEL Group, Busana Group, Hyosung Corporation, Brandix Apparels, Teijin Ltd, Coats Group, Poeticgem Ltd, Italiya Inc Japan, Warp-N-Weft Designs, and Cotton Council International, having confirmed their presence. In addition, Business Delegations from key textiles hubs including US, UK, Australia, Belgium, France, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Japan, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Turkey, Philippines, South Korea, Bangladesh, Russia, Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Nepal, Peru, Egypt, and Thailand.

Multilateral Organizations and Global Think Tanks:

The event has garnered interest across various agencies including multilateral organizations, global textile think tanks and NGOs including UNEP, UNIDO, Laudes Foundation, GIZ, IDH, Cotton Connect, WGSN, Fashion for Good, Better Cotton Initiative, Responsible Sourcing Network, ITMF, International Apparel Federation, ITME, BGMEA, BKMEA, Cotton Egypt Association are partnering with Bharat Tex 2024 to facilitate discussions and deliberations on Global trends in Textiles and Apparel including sustainability, circularity, traceability, industry 4.0, innovation, green financing among others.

Holistic representation of Industry Stakeholders:

This event is a perfect example of collaboration among all the value chain players represented by 11 Export Promotion Councils, covering the entire value chain from farm to end products. All top Indian textile companies across all elements of the value chain too are represented in Bharat Tex.

In addition to the EPCs, various Indian and global industry bodies and associations have overwhelmingly supported the event. Some of key bodies include CMAI, CITI, SIMA, SGCCI, TEA, GEMA, YESS, ITMF, ITME, ATMA, NIFT, among others.

Indian Textiles Industry in Unison:

The entire textiles industry covering all parts of value chain have enthusiastically participated in the event. Prominent entities including the Aditya Birla Group, Reliance Group, Arvind Fashion, Welspun Living, Indorama Ventures, Trident Group, PDS, Shahi, have signed up as sponsors of the event. In addition, SMEs have shown large scale participation across all the key clusters in the country.

State Participation:

Major Textiles States in the country including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are enthusiastically participating with dedicated pavilions and government representations.

With India’s global competitive edge in Textiles due to its recent FTAs, policy initiatives such as PLI and PM MITRA and state support packages, India’s textile sector is optimistically looking forward. Over 50 MoUs and announcements to be signed during the event will provide further impetus to investment and trade in the sector. Bharat Tex will not just showcase Indian capabilities in the sector, it will also help build Brand India in textiles and be a significant step in achieving our 2023 vision of a US $ 350 Billion Indian textiles ecosystem.

Further details of the event are at www.bharat-tex.com