EDITIORS SYNOPSIS

·         ACC through the Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC) in Chaibasa, supports Paikrey Hessa to overcome financial adversity.

·         Paikrey’s training in technical skills leads to a job as a QC Semi-Skilled Visual Inspector, earning Rs. 17,500 monthly.

·         Adani Foundation’s ASDC creates pathways to financial independence, inspiring brighter futures for rural families.

ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, remains committed to providing high-quality skill development training to rural youth across the nation. The Company along with the Adani Foundation’s Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC) is proud to highlight the inspiring journey of Paikrey Hessa, a youth from rural Kondwa, in West Singhbhum, Jharkhand. Through ASDC’s skill development programme, Paikrey overcame financial adversity and transformed his life.

Growing up in a rural family of six, Paikrey faced significant financial hardships, with his father as the sole breadwinner. Determined to support his family and overcome these challenges, he enrolled into ASDC’s Automotive Service Technician and Basic Computer courses.

Over an intensive three-month programme, he acquired hands-on technical expertise and essential life skills, building the confidence to pursue a stable career. His dedication culminated in securing a role as a QC Semi-Skilled Visual Inspector at Siplan Steel Cast Pvt. Ltd., with a gross salary of Rs. 17,500 — a milestone that eased his family’s financial burden and improved their quality of life.

Paikrey’s story exemplifies the transformative power of skill-based education and ACC’s unwavering commitment to uplifting rural communities. By equipping individuals with employable skills, initiatives such as ASDC create pathways to financial independence and inspire hope for a brighter future.

With the backdrop of pressing issue of climate uncertainty in India and the need for robust roofing solutions, Berger Paints India Ltd, India's fastest growing paint company and being the No.1 in protective coatings, introduced an advanced roof waterproofing solution which can emerge as a pivotal investment for homeowners. Given the roof’s role as the first line of defence against unpredictable weather, constant exposure to harsh elements like rain, humidity, and UV rays underscores the necessity for high-quality, durable waterproofing solutions.

Berger Paints believes that traditional waterproofing methods often fall short in durability and resilience and hence unable to fully protect against severe weather fluctuations. Advanced roof waterproofing systems, on the other hand, create an impermeable barrier that safeguards both the roof structure and the interiors, effectively shielding against water damage, mold, and structural deterioration. Latest waterproofing technology in paint is also a great way to keep the roof cool as it has heat-reflecting properties that will significantly reduce the transfer of heat into the house. By addressing these vulnerabilities, advanced systems preserve property value and extend the lifespan of roofs, ultimately reducing maintenance costs. This need is especially critical in regions like coastal cities Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi, and states with extreme climates, such as Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Even urban areas like Delhi and Kolkata can benefit from advanced waterproofing, as they face moisture and temperature fluctuations that threaten roof longevity.

Highlighting this trend, Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO of Berger Paints India Limited, stated, “Demand for waterproofing and interior cooling solutions is accelerating at a fast pace. “Roofs experience expansion and contraction, due to extreme weather conditions, which frequently results in structural fissures in the roofing system. To mitigate this issue, we formulatedRoof Kool & Seal, a specialized next-gen productto regulate room temperature and prevent cracking in the roofing system. Currently ranked third in the waterproofing segment, we are strategically positioned for accelerated growth, driven by continuous product innovation in our waterproofing portfolio to meet the dynamic demands of the market and enhance customer satisfaction.”

~ Redmi Note 14 Pro Series 5G: A seamless blend of AI-powered performance, flagship camera, sleek curved design, and unbeatable durability with Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 and IP68, all backed by segment’s most powerful battery

~ Redmi Note 14 5G: With a fresh design, powerful camera setup, and a 120Hz AMOLED display, the Redmi Note 14 elevates your mobile experience in both performance and aesthetics.

~ Smart Speaker & Redmi Buds 6: Delivering clear sound, long battery life, and customizable audio, enhancing the Smartphone x AIoT ecosystem.

 

Xiaomi, a global technology leader, today announced the launch of the Redmi Note 14 5G Series, redefining excellence in the mid-range smartphone segment. The series offers a flagship camera, the largest battery in its segment, and exceptional durability, all powered by AI for a seamless, intelligent experience. It combines cutting-edge performance, innovative design, and an advanced camera system to elevate mobile experiences to new heights.

Alongside the Redmi Note 14 Series, Xiaomi is also introducing the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Speaker and Redmi Buds 6, expanding its audio category. These new devices offer seamless connectivity, enhancing the user experience across smartphones and audio products. Through its Smartphone x AIoT strategy, Xiaomi continues to deliver innovative, accessible technology for a smarter, more integrated ecosystem.

Redmi Note 14 Pro Series: A Perfect Blend of Power, Durability, and Innovation

The Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G&Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G redefine the smartphone experience with their innovative features, premium design, and intelligent functionality. Both models are crafted with Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 on the front and Gorilla® Glass 7i on the back for added strength, while also boasting an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Powered by Xiaomi HyperOS, the series introduces AI-driven features like live video subtitles, language translation, and Gemini AI for seamless multitasking and intuitive connectivity. A stunning 6.67-inch 120Hz AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, 3000 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos offers immersive visuals and acoustics. The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G further elevates the experience with an elegant, curved display for enhanced ergonomics and aesthetics.

While both models share a strong foundation, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G stands out with Xiaomi's largest ever battery on a smartphone, featuring a 6200mAh battery for long-lasting power coupled with 90W HyperCharge technology. The device is equipped with a flagship 50MP Light Fusion 800 camera offering superior low-light performance and sharp, detailed shots thanks to Super OIS. The camera setup is enhanced by an 8MP Sony ultra-wide camera for dramatic visuals and a 50MP 2.5X telephoto camera capable of incredible portraits.

The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G packs a powerful 50MP Sony LYT-600 sensor, delivering pro-level photography with AI-enhanced features such as AI Bokeh and Dynamic Shots for stunning, crisp images. With a 5500mAh battery and 45W fast charging, the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G ensures long-lasting performance throughout the day. Both models come with 4 years of software updates, ensuring a future-proof and continuously improving user experience.

Both are designed for style and durability, with the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G available in Spectre Blue, Titan Black and a special Phantom Purple vegan leather edition, while the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G is available in Ivy Green, Titan Black and for the first time on aPro, a dual-tone vegan leather Phantom Purple edition.

Redmi Note 14 5G: Elevating Everyday Excellence

The Redmi Note 14 5G brings together elegant design and powerful performance, offering a seamless experience. With its stylish camera deco, curved body, and sleek color options like Mystique White, Phantom Purple and Titan Black, it’s a phone that stands out. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display delivers stunning visuals with 120Hz refresh rate and 2100 nits peak brightness, ensuring vibrant clarity in any light. The in-display fingerprint sensor also makes unlocking the device quicker and more convenient.

When it comes to capturing moments, the 50MP Sony LYT-600 sensor, paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens and macro lens, ensures you get sharp, detailed shots every time. The 5110mAh battery now charges even faster with 45W fast charging, a noticeable upgrade from its predecessor, keeping you powered up with less wait. For immersive sound, dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos take your multimedia experience to the next level.

Reinforcing Xiaomi's commitment to local manufacturing, all three devices—Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G, Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, and Redmi Note 14 5G—are part of our Make in India initiative.

Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Speaker: Ultimate Sound for Any Adventure

The Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Smart Speaker, a 2024 Red Dot Award winner, combines sleek and portable design with powerful performance. Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering, hiking rugged trails, or relaxing by the pool, its versatile design ensures easy mobility without compromising on sound quality. Its powerful 30W driver with dual subwoofer delivers immersive audio anytime, anywhere. Weighing just 597g with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, it’s ready for any adventure or weather. Perfect for day trips or extended outings, the 2600mAh battery provides up to 12 hours of playback, while fast charging gets you back to full power in just 2.5 hours. For larger gatherings, Bluetooth 5.4 enables pairing with up to 100 speakers, creating a surround sound experience.

Redmi Buds 6: Premium Sound and Smart Features for Every Lifestyle

The Redmi Buds 6 features a segment-first dual-driver system, combining a 12.4mm dynamic titanium driver and a 5.5mm micro piezoelectric driver for rich bass and crisp highs. With 49dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, they block over 99.6% of external noise, providing an immersive listening experience in any environment, whether commuting, working, or relaxing. Dual Device Pairing allows seamless switching between devices, while the AI ENC and quad-mic system ensure crystal-clear calls, even in windy conditions or on the move—ideal for outdoor meetings, workout calls, or jogs. With up to 42 hours of use using the case and upto10 hours of playback on a single charge, the Redmi Buds 6 are perfect for long trips, commutes, or all-day use, making them the ultimate audio companion for any lifestyle.

 

Price and Availability:

Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G will be available at a net effective price of INR 29,999 for 8GB+128GB, INR 31,999 for 8GB+256GB, and INR 34,999 for 12GB+512GB, inclusive of offers. The Redmi Note 14 5G Series will be available across Mi.com, Flipkart.in and Xiaomi Retail stores and authorized retail partners starting 13th December 2024.

Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G will be available at a net effective price of INR 23,999 for 8GB+128GB, INR 25,999 for 8GB+256GB, inclusive of offers. The Redmi Note 14 5G Series will be available across Mi.com, Flipkart.in and Xiaomi Retail stores and authorized retail partners starting 13th December 2024.

For the first time ever, Redmi Note Pro Series will be available on Flipkart Minutes for consumers to purchase.

Redmi Note 14 5G will be available at a net effective price of INR 17,999 for 6GB+128GB, INR 18,999 for 8GB+128GB, and INR 20,999 for 8GB+256GB, inclusive of offers. The Redmi Note 14 5G Series will be available across Mi.com, Amazon.in and Xiaomi Retail stores and authorized retail partners starting 13th December 2024.

 

 

Offer Details:

Users can avail an instant discount of INR 1000 with ICICI Credit and Debit cards or INR 1000 Exchange Bonusor INR 1000 Cash Back on HDB Financial Services No Cost EMI loans.

 

Redmi Buds 6 will be available at INR 2,999, with a special launch price of 2,799 between 13th to 19th December 2024. Offering superior sound quality and seamless connectivity the Redmi Buds 6 will be available on mi.com, Amazon.in and Xiaomi Retail

Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Speaker will be priced at INR 3,999, with a special launch price of 3,499 available between 13th to 19th December. Designed to elevate your smart home experience the Xiaomi Sound Outdoor Speaker will be available on mi.com, Flipkart and Xiaomi Retail.

 

APM Terminals Pipavav (Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd), one of the leading gateway ports in Western India, has demonstrated its ongoing dedication to livestock health by organizing comprehensive Animal Health Camps in Kotadi and Bherai villages during November. The initiative, part of the company's “PashuUday Project – Sustainable Livestock Development,” treated over 500 animals for various health conditions, including ectoparasites, dermatitis, diarrhoea, wounds, and anestrous, while also conducting deworming for more than 150 animals.

Since 2016, the PashuUday Project has emerged as a transformative initiative in rural animal welfare, extending its compassionate reach across 45 villages with an unparalleled commitment to livestock health. By delivering a holistic suite of services – from mobile veterinary clinics and periodic health camps to vaccination drives, pathological services, and livestock insurance – the project has not just treated animals, but fundamentally improved their quality of lifeand breed.

The project's remarkable achievements speak volumes: over 40,000 animals have received critical healthcare, 165 comprehensive health camps have been conducted, and critically, more than 80 livestock animals have been provided emergency care after lion attacks. Beyond mere medical intervention, the project empowers local farmers through capacity building, creating a sustainable ecosystem of animal health and rural development that goes far beyond traditional veterinary support.

Local farmers have expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Mr. VanzarKalubhaiJethabhai from Bherai Village shared, “Whenever my buffalo was sick, they came to my home and provided the best treatment, giving her a healthy life ahead. I am very thankful to Pipavav Port for their continuous support.”

Mr. NakabhaiDevatbhai from Rampara Village added, “When my cow falls ill, the PashuUday team arrives promptly at my doorstep, providing timely and effective treatment that ensures her rapid recovery. We sincerely hope this invaluable service continues in the same dedicated manner.”

The project goes beyond mere treatment, focusing on sustainable livestock development and supporting local farming communities. By providing comprehensive healthcare services, APM Terminals Pipavav is making a meaningful impact on the lives of farmers and their livestock in the region.

~The airline is offering one day mega promotion on December 12 for Indian travelers~

 

Vietjet welcomed its 111th aircraft, an advanced Airbus A321neo ACF, to its modern fleet at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. With its innovative technology, the A321neo ACF reduces fuel consumption and emissions by up to 20% while reducing noise levels by 50%.

 

As part of its expansion strategy, Vietjet will receive three additional new aircraft in December and plans to wet-lease 6–10 aircraft to meet peak travel demand during the Lunar New Year holiday. These additions will enable Vietjet to enhance its services for both domestic and international travelers.

 

In 2024, Vietjet has achieved remarkable growth, expanding its vibrant, modern fleet to serve its global flight network connecting Vietnam to more destinations worldwide. These fleet upgrades reinforce Vietjet's position as a leader in providing safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly travel experiences.

 

Further, the airline is offering an exciting one-day promotion on December 12, 2024, from 00:00 to 23:59 (GMT+7). Travelers from India to Vietnam can book tickets for as low as INR 11, plus taxes and fees, subject to availability. The travel period for this offer extends from January 1, 2025, to October 25, 2025. Customers can use the promo code VJ12 to take advantage of this incredible deal.

 

With continued fleet enhancements and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Vietjet is making global travel more accessible and enjoyable than ever. The airline expanded its global presence with a network of 155 routes, including 43 domestic and 112 international routes across Asia and Australia.

 

Bharti Airtel, India’s first spam-fighting network, has flagged a staggering 8 billion spam calls and 0.8 billion spam SMSes within two and a half months of launching its AI-powered, spam-fighting solution. Leveraging this advanced algorithm, the AI-powered network has successfully identified close to 1 million spammers every day.

The company, in the last 2.5 months, has alerted close to 252 million unique customers to these suspicious calls and has observed that there has been a 12% decline in the number of customers answering them. Six per cent of all calls on the Airtel network have been identified as spam calls, while 2% of all SMSes have also been identified as spam. Interestingly, it has been observed that a staggering 35% of the spammers have used landline telephones.

Additionally, customers in Delhi have received the maximum number of spam calls, followed by customers in Andhra Pradesh and Western Uttar Pradesh. Delhi is also where a  maximum number of the spam calls have originated, followed by Mumbai and Karnataka. In terms of SMSes, the maximum number have originated in Gujarat followed by Kolkata and Uttar Pradesh and the maximum number of customers targeted have been from Mumbai, Chennai and Gujarat.

As per the trends, 76% of all spam calls have been targeted at male customers. Additionally, distinct differences have been noted in terms of spam call frequency across age demographics. Customers in the age bracket of 36-60 have received 48% of all spam calls, while those in the 26-35 age bracket have been the second-most targeted, accounting for 26% of spam calls. Approximately only 8% of the spam calls have landed in the handsets of senior citizens.

The company's findings have also shed light on the hourly distribution of spam activity. Spam calls commence from 9 am onwards and gradually escalate in volume as the day progresses. The peak of spam activity is observed between  noon and 3 pm, during which the highest concentration of spam calls occur. Moreover, there is a notable disparity in the frequency of spam calls between weekdays and weekends. The volume of these calls diminishes by around 40% on Sundays. Specifically, devices in the price range of 15,000 to 20,000 rupees are the recipients of approximately 22% of all spam calls.

By meticulously examining a multitude of parameters, the AI-driven system has been able to identify these unwanted intrusions in real-time with remarkable accuracy. This groundbreaking initiative has firmly established Airtel as the first service provider in India to offer a comprehensive solution to the growing menace of spam, setting new industry standards for inclusive security measures that prioritise the privacy and convenience of its vast customer base.

Note to the Editor

The Government of India (GoI) has allocated 10-digit numbers with the prefix 160 to for service and transactional calls. Customers can expect to receive calls from these 160-prefix series assigned to banks, mutual funds, insurance companies, stockbrokers, other financial institutions, corporates, enterprises, SMEs, big and small businesses used for making transactional and service calls.

Additionally, those customers who have not opted for Do-not-disturb (DND) and have subscribed to receiving promotional calls will continue to receive them from a 10-digit number with the prefix 140.

 

SMFG India Credit (SMICC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG), has been awarded an international credit rating of “AA-” with a stable outlook by the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR). This exceptional outcome places SMICC four notches above India’s sovereign rating and only one notch below its parent financial group SMFG's own “AA” rating.

JCR highlighted SMICC's strategic importance to SMFG's Asia Multi-Franchise Strategy, which is supported by robust governance and alignment with SMFG's ethos of promoting financial inclusion and empowering underserved communities in India.

Mr. Pankaj Malik, Chief Financial Officer, SMFG India Credit, said “This AA- rating by JCR is a testament to SMFG India Credit’s commitment to maintaining financial discipline, operational excellence, and customer-centric growth with the help of innovative products offerings. SMICC’s consistent growth trajectory and strategic alignment with SMFG’s global objectives position us as a key player in India’s rapidly expanding retail loan market. This recognition further motivates us to continue fostering financial inclusion and delivering value to our stakeholders.”

JCR also observed that SMICC’s business scale has grown significantly, driven by the expansion in the domestic consumer credit market and strong support from SMFG. The company’s growth trajectory remains robust and it continues to maintain a healthy loan book. The company has also kept its interest rate risk and liquidity risk appropriately managed through risk management committee.

Godrej Yummiez, the ready-to-cook brand by Godrej Foods Ltd., launched India’s Frozen Snack Report, decoding how India snacks. Building on the inaugural report’s five pillars—Safety, Technology, Taste, Ease, and Mood Uplifter—STTEM 2.0 dives deeper into the perceptions, myths, and realities shaping the world of frozen snacks in India today. The report was launched, amongst the crème de la crème of the culinary world, at the recently concluded India Food and Beverages Award 2024, organized by the Food Bloggers Association of India (FBAI)held in Goa.

The latest research, conducted by YouGov, revealed, 57% of Indians now believe that frozen snacks are safe for consumption, with extensive input from healthcare professionals backing this finding. Based on an online survey of 2,004 respondents, the study ensured balanced representation across genders, age groups, marital status, and socio-economic classes using a quota-based sampling approach. By highlighting the safety standards maintained by regulated manufacturers. STTEM 2.0upholds frozen snacks as a safe and convenient option that’s compatible with modern lifestyles.

Commenting on the launch, Abhay Parnerkar, CEO, Godrej Foods Ltd, stated,“As the frozen snacks category continues to grow in India, the STTEM 2.0 report plays a crucial role in deepening our understanding of consumer preferences and perceptions. By gaining insights into what customers are feeling, what they think, and how aware they are of our products, we can continuously improve our offerings. This report helps us better align with consumer needs and expectations, driving a shift in perception that not only benefits the industry but also strengthens Godrej Foods’ position in the market, fostering greater trust and increasing demand for our frozen snack range.”

Changing Lifestyles&Festivals Influencing Growing Acceptance of Frozen Snacks

The study reveals the versatility of frozen snacks in Indian households. From a quick bite between meals to a full meal solution, over 53% of Indians incorporate frozen snacks into their daily diets. This growing trend reflects the diversity of snacking occasions in India, as consumers seek convenient and tasty options to suit their busy lifestyles.

There is a snack for every moment and there is moment for every snack; From the grand celebrations of Diwali and Eid to the quiet comfort of a personal binge-watching session, STTEM 2.0 uncovers the diverse occasions that drive snack consumption.Together, these insights reveal how specific events across demographics are driving a growing acceptance and integration of frozen snacks into India’s modern culinary landscape.

The key Consumer highlights across five pillars (STTEM) are as below:

·         57% of Delhi claim to enjoy frozen snacks as part of their intermittent meals

·         80% of Delhi agrees that their frequency of snacking has increased

·         78% of Delhi prefers snacks that are crispy!

·         Delhi likes desi-75% prefer frozen snacks with Indian flavours

·         82% of Delhi indulge in frozen snacks for their small and quick hunger pangs

·         Q-commerce is king for Delhi as 83% prefer frozen snacks due to its ease and accessibility in the city

Chef Amrita Raichand,a celebrated culinary expert, shared her thoughts, saying, “In India, snacking isn’t just about eating—it’s about connecting. From sharing plates during festive get-togethers to those chai-time chats, snacks bring us closer. Now since many cannot always get into the kitchen and cook from scratch because of lack of time etc. frozen snacks serve as quite a saviour as these give them the joy of cooking at home. In fact, it is amazing to see that 57% of Indians now trust frozen snacks as safe and convenient. Now for someone like me who loves experimenting with food and always encourages people to learn how to cook, I see this as a sign that people are accepting towards new ways of enjoying their favourites at home. Frozen snacks are not just a shortcut anymore—they are a delicious way to keep up with our fast-paced lives while still savouring every bite.”

STTEM – Safety, Technology, Taste, Ease and Mood Uplifter’ –India’s Frozen Snacks Report by Godrej Yummiez surveyed over 2000 people across 16 cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.

A first-of-its-kind festival celebrating the timeless legacy and resilience of the Himalayan landscape and community

 Royal Enfield Social Mission is set to showcase the inaugural edition of ‘Journeying Across the Himalayas’ from December 5-15, 2024 at Travancore Palace, New Delhi. Celebrating the timeless spirit of the Himalayas through creative expressions, engaging conversations, curated cuisine, live music and tales from its communities,  the multidisciplinary festival was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. He addressed the gathering noting the brand’s efforts to preserve and champion the legacy of the Himalayas and its communities.

As part of Royal Enfield’s social mission to partner with 100 Himalayan communities and help build resilience, Journeying Across the Himalayasis a first-of-its-kind platform that brings together a wide audience to celebrate the power of collective action.

“We look forward to welcoming audiences to Journeying Across the Himalayas. This 10-day celebration presented by Royal Enfield Social Mission showcases the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage through the lens of sustainable exploration. As we gather to share stories, music, and cuisine from the Himalayas, we hope to inspire collective action and a deeper connection to this iconic region that we call our spiritual home,” says Bidisha Dey, Executive Director of Eicher Group Foundation.

Bringing together over 50 communities, 100 partners, 150 experts, and 200 artists and creative practitioners on one platform, the festival spans a range of disciplines to foster cross-learning and the sharing of ideas. Below are key highlights to look forward to:

Exhibitions and Installations:

Where The Wind Tastes of Forgotten Songs by Raghava KK: Created in Raghava KK’s distinctive style, the central installation pulses with vivid, textured visuals – rare species, intricate flora, mythical creatures, and hidden artefacts emerge and fade, creating moments of surprise, connection, and contemplation. These elements reflect the fragility and resilience of Himalayan ecosystems and culture, inviting the viewer to reflect on their place within this delicate balance as we journey through its terrain.

The Long Road by Vishal K Dar: Royal Enfield Social Mission’s Green Pit Stops are demonstrative facilities planned across popular traveller routes, built for the community and by the community. Managed by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) of women as an initiative to create local livelihood opportunities, Green Pit Stops provides tourist amenities like sanitation, tourist information, basic first aid, and curated local culinary and cultural experiences for travellers to explore. The exhibit features drawings and scale models of these Green Pit Stops at the intersection of traditional building techniques, community partnerships and local ecologies.

An Ode to the Snow Leopard by Doel Trivedy and Gautam Pandey: As part of Royal Enfield Social Mission’s Keystone Species programme, this project focuses on the conservation of key Himalayan species like the snow leopard, whose survival is critical to the region’s fragile ecosystem. National award-winning filmmakers Doel Trivedy and Gautam Pandey use the power of 360 VR technology to create immersive experiences that raise awareness and foster empathy for wildlife. Their groundbreaking work captures rare animal behaviour, including one of the first-ever 360 VR films featuring the elusive snow leopard—a milestone celebrated across conservation and natural history communities.

From Folk to Fabric by Ikshit Pande: Presented as part of The Himalayan Knot, Royal Enfield’s heritage textile and pastoral land conservation programme, the exhibit features displays from nine Himalayan regions capturing the storytelling traditions of the Eastern and Western Himalayas. Curated by Ikshit Pande alongside contributors such as Dr Monisha Ahmed, The WoolKnitters, Aagor and others, the exhibition narrates myths, legends, and folktales, serving as living documents of the land and its people. Visitors can explore the meticulous journey from fibre to garment, with curated attire, photographs, and artefacts highlighting the region’s rich craftsmanship.

Evolution of Ice Hockey in Ladakh, Then & Now by LAMO: As part of its initiative to elevate Ice Hockey in the region, Royal Enfield Social Mission has worked to build an ecosystem for developing winter sports in the region from the grassroots level and also to support the National Ice Hockey teams

 

 to compete internationally. Curated by Ladakh Arts and Media Organisation (LAMO), this exhibition brings together six decades of Ice hockey in Ladakh through the voices of veteran players, coaches and a younger generation full of anticipation.

Helmets for India, Art for Change by India Foundation for the Arts (IFA): Royal Enfield Social Mission’s Helmets for India is a not-for-profit Artists’ Collective aimed at promoting road safety by encouraging riders to always wear helmets. The initiative uses helmets as canvases for self-expression, bringing together the global motorcycling community through art to raise awareness about safe riding. In collaboration with the India Foundation for the Arts (IFA), Helmets for India worked with 12 artists to transform helmets into unique artworks reflecting personal stories, gender journeys, and memories of bike rides. The exhibition showcases diverse artistic styles, offering deeply personal perspectives on safety, self-discovery, and the outdoors.

The Great Himalayan Exploration by National Geographic & Manou: In 2022, UNESCO and Royal Enfield partnered to document and promote India's Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), starting with The Great Himalayan Exploration. Over 100 ICH practices have been identified across the Eastern and Western Himalayas, with the first two editions documenting over 60 practices from regions like Assam and Sikkim. The 2024 edition focused on Ladakh, documenting 12 practices, including sustainable traditions and local craftsmanship. This initiative aims to preserve and pass on endangered heritage, fostering cultural continuity and offering valuable lessons in resilience for future generations and exhibit is a journey of the same through a photo essay.

Through the Lens of Community, Conservation and Culture by Green Hub: The Himalayan Hub is the nerve centre of Royal Enfield’s Social Mission and is envisioned as a learning centre to build climate resilience in local communities. The main campus of the Himalayan Hub is located inTheog, Himachal Pradesh, and the Eastern outreach is based out of Tezpur, Assam. It focuses on empowering Himalayan youth to address climate change through fellowships and programs, building a network of changemakers for conservation and creating lasting community impact. This exhibition imagines a glimpse of this rich ecosystem through inspiring stories of collective action and conservation from the roots. These are just glimpses of the individuals and communities driving Green Hub’s movement. Their stories, woven together, reveal the power of connection, determination, and the belief that meaningful change begins at the grassroots.

The Shape of the Wind is a Tree by FICA (Foundation for Indian Contemporary Art): The Himalayan Fellowship for Creative Practitioners, a collaboration between Royal Enfield and the Foundation for Indian Contemporary Art (FICA), supports emerging artists from the region working at the intersection of art and sustainability. The inaugural cohort of 10 fellows, whose works are represented at the exhibit, emphasizes processes rooted in deep listening to places and communities, amplifying their voices and fostering a shared vision for the Himalayas.

The festival also features other installations and exhibitions such as Helmeted Hyphae (XXL), Risha (Aratrik Dev Varman and Jisha Unnikrishnan), and Entanglements (sā Ladakh). Snow Leopard-inspired Custom Motorcycles and Apparel by Arjun Raina, Bobbee Singh, and Suket Dhir are also being showcased. Installations by Plasticvalla aka Manveer Singh and One Earth Foundation spotlights themes like circularity and waste management.

Interactive Workshops, Discussions & Film Screenings:
The opening weekend will host an array of panel discussions and conversations covering topics such as safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, responsible tourism, and climate resilience; while also exploring themes of human-animal harmony, culinary heritage, climate literacy, systems thinking for sustainable solutions, etc. The festival will additionally feature engaging sessions on modern storytelling techniques and include poetry and oral traditions. Prominent speakers from conservation, crafts, culinary and contemporary art, filmmakers and authors will join representatives from the Himalayan communities, especially youth changemakers, in discussions that platform stories from the Himalayas to make complex issues such as climate change accessible to the general public. There is a robust curation of interactive workshops alongside an extensive programme of various film screenings featuring stories of conservation and community.

Music Performances: Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy an extensive lineup of cultural performances that bring the Himalayas’ rich traditions to life, with musical acts such as the likes of Taba Chake, Alif,  Bipul Chhetri, Lou Majaw, Ao Naga Choir, Parvaaz, and Joi Barua among others.

Food Lab: The festival takes the attendees on a journey across the Himalayas through taste with celebrated chefs and food experts such as Pankaj Sharma, Shalini Philip and Anumitra Ghosh with partners like We The Chefs, Tribal Gourmet and Käse Cheese.

Festival Shops: The retail space at the festival goes beyond commerce, offering a platform for Himalayan stories told through design, craft, and a shared commitment to conservation. The Himalayan Bazaar will offer a lineup of homegrown labels and brands Aagor Bodo Weaves, Earthen Tunes, Its All Folk, The Woolknitters, Zankla Studio and more. The festival will also feature a special pop-up of Royal Enfield’s Himalayan Knot collections such as EKA x Looms of Ladakh, Countrymade x The Action Northeast Trust, and Sonam Dubal x The Action Northeast Trust, which spotlight artisanal craftsmanship rooted in sustainability. The Himalayan Bookstore is curated by Full Circle.

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