Archive: April 30, 2025

Smita Chatterji Named Chair of CII IWN West Bengal

Kolkata, 30^th April 2025: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) announced the appointment of Ms. Smita Chatterji, Founder and CEO of Centreax Group, as the Chairperson of the Indian Women Network (IWN) – West Bengal Chapter for the 2025–26 term. In a parallel development, Ms. Chatterji has also been elected as a member of the CII West Bengal State Council for 2025–26, establishing her as one of the state’s foremost voices in industry, innovation and gender inclusion.

A pioneering first-generation entrepreneur, Ms. Chatterji leads the Centreax Group—comprising Centreax Technologies and Centreax Textiles—with flagship consumer brands such as Shu Sam & Smith and Haathe Bona. Under her leadership, the group has delivered digital transformation solutions across banking, insurance, education, manufacturing and agro sectors, with sustainability and ethical governance at the core of its mission. Notably, her ventures introduced India’s first end-to-end sustainability solution for the tea industry, addressing climate and compliance challenges in one of the country’s most heritage-rich sectors.

Her election to both roles comes at a critical time, as India targets a $5 trillion economy and pushes key national missions including Viksit Bharat @2047, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Digital India. With her new leadership responsibilities, Ms. Chatterji is expected to drive convergence across technology, gender parity and sustainable industrial policy in West Bengal-a state poised for accelerated growth but still navigating structural disparities.

A consistent advocate for responsible entrepreneurship, Ms. Chatterji has been recognised by the Indian Chemical Council for her work in industrial safety and best practices. She has served as an interlocutor at major policy forums, including the Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, where she championed entrepreneurship-led policy changes that culminated in the state government announcing a women-exclusive industrial park and a dedicated entrepreneur support cell at IPICOL.

As Chairperson of CII IWN West Bengal, she will focus on strengthening mentorship networks, advancing digital and vocational skills among women in Tier II and Tier III cities and collaborating with policymakers to create enabling environments for women-led businesses. Mental health, workplace wellbeing and emotional resilience-long under-addressed aspects of leadership-will also be central to IWN’s agenda under her stewardship.

Speaking on her appointment, Ms. Smita Chatterji said, “Being nominated is a privilege but to be elected is an honour I deeply value. This is an opportunity to bridge gaps, build resilient ecosystems and ensure that women not only participate in but also shape the future of industry in West Bengal.”

She added, “IWN is not just a network—it is a movement. A movement to nurture the potential of women who are often underestimated or underserved. My goal is to strengthen this ecosystem, especially for women from Tier II and III cities, so they become confident contributors and creators in their industries.”

Spices Board Hosts Sensitisation Programme on 8th Edition of NPOP for Spices

Speaking at the event, Ms. P. Hemalatha IAS said, “Sustainable agriculture aims to ensure safe and nutritious food at affordable cost, farmer profitability, and environmental conservation. In this context, the 8th edition of NPOP provides essential guidelines for organic spice production in harmony with nature. I hope this programme deepens stakeholders’ understanding and commitment to sustainable practices.”

Sanskriti University’s Business and Leadership Conclave 2025 Ignites Vision for a Viksit Bharat

Sanskriti University successfully hosted the Business and Leadership Conclave 2025, an event that became a vibrant confluence of spiritual wisdom, business acumen, entrepreneurial insights, and cultural pride. Eminent leaders from diverse fields — business, education, IT, film industry, and healthcare — came together to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.

The grand event was inaugurated with the ceremonial lamp lighting by Spiritual Guru Acharya Satish Sadguruji Maharaj, accompanied by Dr. Sachin Gupta, Chancellor of Sanskriti University, Pro Chancellor Shri Rajesh Gupta, Industrialist Puran Dawar, Chairman of Agarwal Packers and Movers Limited Shri Ramesh Agarwal, Founder of HIIMS Acharya Manishji, and Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) MB Chetti.

Held at the Santosh Memorial Hall, the conclave unfolded across six power-packed sessions, offering students and attendees valuable leadership mantras rooted in culture, discipline, and innovation.

In his welcome address, Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) MB Chetti highlighted Sanskriti University’s commitment to nurturing job creators rather than job seekers under the visionary leadership of Chancellor Dr. Sachin Gupta.

Jagadguru Satishacharya, during the inaugural session, emphasized the role of Sanatan Dharma, education, and health in achieving leadership excellence. He motivated students by illustrating that success is achievable even with minimal formal education if one remains connected to cultural roots and ethical values.

Chancellor Dr. Sachin Gupta inspired the audience by underlining the significance of self-discipline, human values, and holistic development for becoming future-ready leaders. Acharya Manishji spoke about the adoption of six Purusharthas from the Vedas to lead a balanced and successful life.

The conclave also featured key sessions on financial literacy and startup strategies, with thought leaders like Vikas S. Chaturvedi (Founder, Valucent Company), Paresh K. Tapadia (FundsIndia Private Wealth), and Vimal Tripathi emphasizing financial planning, self-investment, and the need for early financial education.

World-renowned motivational speaker and author Ankur Warikoo electrified the audience with his keynote, urging students to embrace uncertainty, seek diverse experiences, and prioritize inner happiness over rigid career plans.

In another notable session, Bollywood actor and motivational speaker Mohammad Ali Shah, alongside celebrated Bollywood director-producer Gajendra Singh, discussed the role of films and music as tools of soft power and cultural diplomacy, emphasizing the creation of value-driven content that resonates globally.

Sharing personal journeys, Industrialist Puran Dawar and Ramesh Agarwal, Chairman of Agarwal Packers and Movers Ltd., imparted invaluable life lessons. Dawar described the current era as Amrit Kaal, an age of economic empowerment for youth, while Agarwal encouraged students to dream big, remain focused, and persevere toward their goals, recounting his journey from an army officer to a business magnate.

Organized meticulously by Dr. Gajendra Singh, CEO of Sanskriti University Incubation Center, the conclave witnessed enthusiastic participation from student volunteers including Kavyansh Kushwaha, Deepika Chaudhary, Pari Mitra, Amit Keshari, and Riya Arora.

The Business and Leadership Conclave 2025 not only set new standards in knowledge sharing and leadership grooming but also reinforced Sanskriti University’s vision of empowering students with cultural grounding, entrepreneurial spirit, and global outlook — a vision aimed at creating leaders who will shape a Viksit Bharat.

Praj announces Quarter and year end results

Pune, April 30, 2025: Praj Industries (Praj), announced its audited financial results for the quarter and full year ended March 31, 2025.

 Performance Review for Q4 FY25 – Consolidated:

• Income from operations stood at Rs 8,596.809 million (Q4 FY24: Rs. 10,185.646 million; Q3 FY25: Rs. 8,530.279 million)

• PBT is at Rs. 582.519 million (Q4 FY24: Rs. 1,230.237 million; Q3 FY25: Rs. 588.220 million)

• PAT is at Rs. 398.169 million (Q4 FY24: Rs. 919.361 million; Q3 FY25: Rs. 411.044 million) • Order intake during the quarter Rs. 10,320 million

Performance Review for FY25 – Consolidated:

• Income from operations stood at Rs. 32,280.422 million (FY24: Rs. 34,662.784 million)

• PBT is at Rs. 2,703.963 million (FY24: Rs. 3,774.608 million)

• PAT is at Rs. 2,189.330 million (FY24: Rs. 2,833.909 million)

• The consolidated order backlog as on March 31, 2025 stood at Rs. 42,930 million (FY23 order backlog at Rs. 38,550 million).

Dividend: The Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of Rs 6 per equity share @300 % of the face value of Rs 2 per equity share, for the financial year ended 31 March 2025, which is subject to the approval of shareholders at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting.

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Mr. Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, Praj Industries said, “Our results for the quarter are reflective of the developments taking place globally in the bioeconomy and energy transition space. Completion of EBP20 program ahead of the timeline augurs well for the future initiatives to expand the share of bioenergy in the overall energy mix. During the quarter, we continued to build positive traction for our international business. The GenX facility is now scaled up and ready to serve ETCA segment globally.”

Key Developments:

• Praj Industries Ltd joined forces with Thyssenkrupp Uhde to revolutionize PLA production; Together to work on End-to-end offering for PLA (polylactic acid) production that covers all stages from feedstock conversion to polymer production.

• Received a significant international order to set up grain-based ethanol plant in Paraguay • Praj signed term sheet with BPCL for developing 10 CBG projects under joint venture

• Praj entered into agreement to set up a CBG project of 36 TPD capacity with an industry leader in South India. The project will be one of the largest single location facilities in the country

• Long term framework agreements for supply of goods and services, signed with three leading global customers of Praj GenX

Axis Finance launches Disha Home Loans for EWS and LIG homebuyers

Chandigarh, April 29, 2025: Axis Finance Limited (AFL), one of India’s fastest-growing non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), today announced the launch of Axis Finance Disha Home Loans on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. The product is aimed at catering to the needs of aspiring homebuyers from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Low-income Group (LIG) segments.

Disha Home Loans aim to provide customized home loan solutions across various geographies, with a seamless experience throughout the loan lifecycle – backed by best-in-class talent and agile systems to ensure speed in execution and responsiveness to customer needs

This product caters to a diverse range of employment types, covering the entire spectrum of salaried (resident & NRI) and self-employed customers. It addresses the needs of individuals who have formal, semi-formal or informal income documents and are looking for financial assistance. The loan can be availed for the purchase of ready / under-construction / resale property, plot + construction, self-construction, home renovation / extension and more.

Speaking on the launch, Sai Giridhar, MD & CEO, Axis Finance, said, “The launch of ‘Axis Finance Disha Home Loans’ on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya reflects our commitment to making home ownership more accessible. This product aims to empower individuals from economically weaker sections by bridging the financial gap and in making their dream of owning a home a reality. This is in line with the government’s relentless efforts to enhance access to housing finance in this segment. Disha Home Loans provide a wide range of customised solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers across geographies.”

He further added, “We aim to provide solutions that customers are looking for, along with superior service and transparency in our dealings. Technology and data science will be our backbone as we enter different markets across the country.  Providing easy access to housing finance with a seamless experience will be our focus.”

Axis Finance has a long and successful presence in secured mortgage products with existing systems, processes, technology, talent, underwriting capabilities and a strong distribution.

Normet Secures Strategic Contract with South32 to Equip Hermosa Mining Operations

April 30, 2025: Normet has been awarded the Ancillary Underground Equipment Fleet Contract for the South32 Hermosa project in Arizona, USA. The contract was executed on April 23rd, 2025, and the Normet team had the honor of participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for Centro, Hermosa’s state-of-the-art remote operating center. Centro is designed to support the future of mining through innovation and sustainability by providing an office-like setting for employees to operate and monitor equipment 25 miles away, underground.

The contract encompasses 35 pieces of mobile equipment, including Normet SmartDrive battery-electric machinery, and 9 power delivery units. The fleet will consist of a Multimec MF 100 SD multi-functional carrier, Utimec MF 500 SD Transmixers, Utimec MF 205 PER SD personnel carriers, Charmec MF 605 V LE SD explosive charger, as well as scissor lifts, shotcrete sprayers, concrete transmixers, lube trucks, water trucks, and rock breaking solutions. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2026 and will continue through to 2030.

This contract award underscores our unwavering commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in the underground equipment industry. We look forward to working with South32 and the communities in Santa Cruz County.

The Cost Benefits of EVs – Empowering India to Go Electric

Chennai, 30.04.25, April, 2025: Electric vehicle (EV) ownership in India is gaining momentum, driven by the clear cost advantages it offers over traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Despite the slightly higher initial acquisition cost, the long-term benefits make EVs a smart choice for buyers seeking sustainable and cost-effective mobility solutions. TATA.ev leads the charge in bringing price parity between EVs and comparable ICE models. With lower running and maintenance costs, EVs are the future and redefining the economics of car ownership.

According to the VAHAN data, the electric passenger vehicle segment has seen a remarkable surge, with retail sales reaching over 89,000 units in CY 2024, marking a 22% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects a broader trend in the EV market, which saw a total of 19 Lakh units sold, representing a 27% overall increase. Besides its economic benefits, this rising consumer interest in EVs is also driven by the expanding support from both manufacturers and government initiatives.

The Financial Edge of EVs

A closer examination of the costs associated with EV ownership reveals substantial savings across multiple fronts. The total acquisition cost for models like the Nexon.ev is becoming increasingly competitive, as battery prices continue to decline. When compared to equivalent petrol, diesel, hybrid, and CNG vehicles, the Nexon.ev offers a favorable cost proposition, making EVs more accessible to a broader range of consumers.

Beyond the initial purchase, the ongoing cost benefits of EVs become even more apparent. Charging an EV is substantially more economical than fueling an ICE vehicle. Additionally, lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts further enhance the appeal of EVs as a cost-effective option. The integration of rooftop solar systems adds another layer of savings, allowing EV owners to achieve zero cost mobility and reduce energy costs by utilizing renewable energy for charging, making the shift to electric mobility even more advantageous.

EVs demonstrate significant acquisition cost savings compared to premium hybrid and CNG options, aligning with consumer priorities of affordability and sustainability.

EVs stand out with their low per-kilometer energy cost, especially when compared to traditional fuels like petrol and diesel. This is a critical factor for consumers seeking to reduce their daily commuting expenses.

Understanding Cost of Ownership in Detail

One of the key advantages of owning an EV is the significant reduction in daily operating costs, which becomes evident when examining the granular details of fuel consumption and maintenance.

With a daily fuel cost as low as ₹43.62 for the Nexon.ev, compared to ₹303.29 for a petrol vehicle, and ₹191.34 for its diesel powered counterpart, the financial benefits of owning an EV accumulate quickly. This translates to an annual fuel cost of only ₹15,703 for the Nexon.ev, compared to ₹1,09,184 for petrol, ₹68,883 for diesel, and ₹54,332 for CNG. Combined with lower maintenance expenses, EVs offer a cost-effective solution that not only helps save money but also enhance the overall ownership experience.

Long-term Running Cost Benefits

The annual running cost of the Nexon.ev is significantly lower compared to other vehicle types. Over five years, this difference becomes even more pronounced with the Nexon.ev totaling ₹1,77,458, compared to ₹6,50,912 for petrol, ₹4,56,404 for diesel, ₹4,73,947 for hybrid, and ₹3,78,625 for CNG.

This long-term financial advantage offers consumers a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative to ICE vehicles.
TATA.ev continues to dominate the EV market with over 60 percent market share, achieving sales of over 2 Lakh units in 4 years. It leads the charge with the largest electric vehicle portfolio in India, comprising the Tiago.ev, Tigor.ev, Punch.ev, Nexon.ev, and the Curvv.ev ranging from ₹7.99 Lakh to ₹22 Lakh. By continuously innovating and enhancing its offerings, TATA.ev ensures that transitioning to electric vehicles proves to be a smart and rewarding choice for consumers.