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Culinary Excellence on Display: Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts Partners with Abilympics for Regional Competition

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The Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts (APCA), in collaboration with Abilympics, achieved a significant milestone by successfully organizing a two-day culinary competition at the APCA Gurgaon Campus on 8th and 9th December 2023. The event, conducted under the guidance of the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI), saw enthusiastic participation from various regions in North India, with Mr. Aman Sahoo from Gwalior showcasing his culinary skills during the regional round.

Academy of Pastry & Culinary Arts (APCA)

As an IT professional with a profound interest in the culinary arts, Mr. Aman Sahoo demonstrated his exceptional culinary prowess before the esteemed APCA culinary chefs. The marking for his skills was conducted meticulously by APCA chefs Himanshu Roye and Eram Amberin. Despite the tough competition, Mr. Aman Sahoos culinary talents stood out, earning him recognition and applause.

Commenting on the association Major Dinesh Sharma, Director at APCA said, “As a committed partner, APCA in collaboration with NAAI, played a pivotal role and meticulously designed test papers and tasks for both regional and national competitions. These were tailored to showcase the diverse culinary talents of the participants, aligning with the details provided by the NAAI team.”

Following the successful completion of the exams, APCA chefs nominated by NAAI are set to become jury members during the International Abilympics competitions in 2027. If selected, they will play a pivotal role by traveling and participating full-time during the 5-7 day event, showcasing their expertise on a global stage.

The collaborative efforts between APCA and Abilympics underscore a commitment to fostering culinary talent within the differently-abled community. The event not only celebrated culinary excellence but also exemplified the spirit of inclusion and empowerment.

About Abilympics

Abilympics, often referred to as the “Olympics of Abilities” is a vocational skills competition designed exclusively for Persons with Disabilities. Governed by the International Abilympic Federation (IAF) in Japan, these competitions occur every four years, showcasing the unique talents of disabled individuals. Past international venues include Perth, Australia (1995), Prague, The Czech Republic (2000), New Delhi, India (2003), Shizuoka, Japan (2007), Seoul, South Korea (2011), Bordeaux, France (2016), and Metz, France (2023).

California Walnuts Unveils “Pure Gold” Campaign in India

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California, known as “the Golden State“, is not only synonymous with wealth and prosperity but also home to the coveted California walnuts, jewels of the Central Valley kissed by the sun. Today, California Walnuts is thrilled to announce the launch of its much-anticipated “Pure Gold” campaign, an ode to the timeless tradition of quality, flavor, and nutritional richness inherent in every California walnut.

Mr. Robert Verloop – CEO and Executive Director and Ms. Pamela Graviet – Vice President for Integrated Marketing, California Walnut Commission and Board at the California Walnut Campaign Launch Event

Gold, a symbol of wealth, good fortune, purity, and beauty, finds its manifestation in the diverse hues of Californias walnuts, harvested by the many multi-generational family farms whose lives are dedicated to growing premium quality walnuts. The “Pure Gold” campaign not only celebrates the natural golden essence of these walnuts but describes the buttery, rich flavour and creamy texture that has become the gold standard for chefs and consumers around the globe. As more consumers look to healthier food choices, California walnuts are becoming an integral part of every Indian households tradition for health, wealth, and prosperity.

At the heart of California is a golden agricultural haven called the Central Valley which spans about 51,800 square kilometers with a Mediterranean-style climate, deep rich soils, and nearly 300 days of sunlight which ensures the cultivation of high-quality walnuts that embody the essence of pure gold – walnuts in golden hues, sun-ripened to perfection. We are excited to introduce the Pure Gold campaign as a tribute to the rich heritage of California Walnuts. It encapsulates not just the golden color of our walnuts but also the commitment to quality, innovation, sustainability, and food safety delivered to every table,” says Pamela Graviet, Vice President of Integrated Marketing, California Walnut Commission & Board.

She further added, “We invite households to embrace the goodness of these walnuts, making them a staple in daily life. Whether as a snack, in culinary creations or as a health-conscious addition to traditional practices. Let these golden delights enrich your life and elevate your well-being.

About California Walnuts

More than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States are from California, produced by multi-generational farmers encompassing 4,000 family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long. With the focus on plant-forward eating, walnuts are enjoyed in a variety of innovative and delicious ways, such as a plant-based meat alternative, walnut milk, and walnut butter. They are recognized as a versatile and nutritious snack, a topper for yogurt and oatmeal, and the perfect nut to pair with salads and vegetables.

To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit californiawalnuts.in.

D2C startup Nat Habit raises $10mn in Series B funding

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Nat Habit, a direct-to-commerce beauty and wellness brand, has secured $10.2 million in a series B funding round. The leading investor in this round was Bertelsmann India Investments.

Fireside Ventures, an existing investor, joined the funding round, along with other investors like Amazon India Fund, Mirabilis Investment Trust, and Sharrp Ventures, the company said in a statement on Monday.

Before this round, the company had already gathered around $7 million in total funding. Out of the newly acquired $10.2 million, approximately $2 million is earmarked for providing early-stage investors with exits, promising a remarkable 5X returns within four years. Peak XV Partners, formerly known as Sequoia India and Southeast Asia, is among the company’s previous investors.

Swagatika Das and Gaurav Agarwal founded Nat Habit, which is currently generating annual recurring revenues of Rs 82 crore. The company plans to utilize the recently acquired funds for various purposes, including growth, expansion into new categories, retail, research and development, and talent acquisition. Notably, Nat Habit manufactures all its products, comprising about 200 different stock keeping units (SKUs), in-house.

Among Nat Habit’s diverse product range are moisturizers (malais), hair oils, facewash, ubtans, henna, and lip scrubs. These products are crafted using a variety of ingredients such as grains, grams, nuts, milk, yogurt, and fresh herbs and flowers.

With the founding in place, Nat Habit plans to debut into offline sales via modern and general trade. “We plan to also start our own two outlets for the coming financial year. Both will be early experiments in this direction,” said Das.

In addition to its own website, Nat Habit presently markets its products on popular online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. According to Das, approximately 55% of the total sales are attributed to direct sales through their website, while the remaining portion is generated from sales on online marketplaces.

Nat Habit has ambitious plans for growth, aiming to achieve a revenue increase of over four times to reach Rs 350 crore in annual recurring revenue within the next 24 months.

Nat Habit reported that it presently caters to almost 1.4 million customers and dispatches 15,000 units daily. A significant majority, exceeding 70% of its user base, comes from tier 1 and 2 cities. Furthermore, the brand notes a substantial 30% demand from tier 3 cities and beyond.

“Natural or ayurvedic care is not merely a trend for us; it is a lifestyle or habit we would like consumers to adopt for a safer, longer and happier life,” Das added. 

Das, an alumnus of IIT-Kharagpur and INSEAD, has a background of working with Apple. On the other hand, her co-founder Agarwal, an alumnus of DCE and Darden, previously held a position with Capital One.

“Nat Habit has taken personal care to a new level by offering fresh products using proprietary techniques and natural ingredients. We are excited by their unique products that have led to immense customer love and strong retention,” Pankaj Makkar, partner, Bertlesmann, said.

“This certainly is a brand that’s here to win. Fireside will continue to support such visionary purposes and entrepreneurship,” Fireside Ventures partner Dipanjan Basu said. 

Atmus Filtration Technologies Inaugurates its World-Class Global Capability Center in India

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Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc. (Atmus; NYSE: ATMU), a global leader in filtration and media solutions, has announced the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Global Capability Center in Pune, India.

Avani Shah – Atmus India Global Capability Center Leader, Steph Disher – Atmus CEO, and Greg Hoverson – Atmus CTO attend inauguration, cutting the ribbon to signify the occasion

The opening of the Global Capability Center marks a major milestone for the company in its continued focus to design and manufacture high-performing filtration systems. Building on the over 65 years of experience and continued innovation from Atmus, the Global Capability Center is designed to enhance collaboration and cross-functional learning, and employs advanced analytics to facilitate the development of cutting-edge filtration technologies that adhere to the highest industry standards.

At Atmus, our focus has always been towards advancing technological frontiers and cultivating a culture of innovation – and our new Global Capability Center in India allows us to take the next steps in delivering high-performing, proven solutions to our customers,” said Greg Hoverson, Chief Technical Officer at Atmus.

Situated strategically in heart of Pune, the Global Capability Center will employ over 100 skilled professionals and is spread across 16,000 square feet, catering to various markets, such as truck, bus, construction, mining and power generation across the globe. This new facility will support many of Atmus’s global business functions including engineering, purchasing, product management, IT, supply chain, quality, HR, finance and advanced analytics.

Avani Shah, Atmus India Global Capability Center Leader, emphasized the significance of this investment for the companys growth, stating, “The establishment of the Global Capability Center in India allows Atmus to leverage diverse, highly skilled talent in India while supporting global markets. This strategic investment in the Atmus business in India represents our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and excellence, while strengthening our position as a global frontrunner in the filtration industry.”

Atmus Filtration Technologies also has a strategic joint venture Fleetguard Filters Private Limited (FFPL) which is headquartered in Pune. Incorporated in 1987, FFPL is a market leader providing world class filtration solutions for the commercial vehicle market throughout India.

About Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc.

Atmus Filtration Technologies Inc. is a global leader in filtration and media solutions. For more than 65 years, the company has combined its culture of innovation with a rich history of designing and manufacturing filtration solutions. With a presence in more than 150 countries on six continents, Atmus serves customers across truck, bus, agriculture, construction, mining, marine and power generation vehicle and equipment markets, along with providing comprehensive aftermarket support and solutions. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee (U.S.), Atmus employs approximately 4,250 people globally who are committed to creating a better future by protecting what is important.

Learn more at www.atmus.com.

IFFCO Group Marks a Culinary Milestone with the Grand Opening of its Flagship Customer Engagement Centre in India

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IFFCO, the Multinational group based in the United Arab Emirates announces the grand opening of its state-of-the-art Customer Engagement Centre in India, solidifying its significant footprint in the country. The grandeur of this occasion unfolded at the prestigious AIPL Business Club, as PRISTINE, one of IFCCO’s flagship brands, embarked on a journey to redefine the essence of gourmet sophistication.

Left to Right – Chef Mohamad El Ghazzaoui, Sumit Nair, Andrey Dribny, Chef Nishant Choubey

Established in 1975, IFFCO Group is renowned for its commitment to crafting high-quality culinary products and solutions for professionals and consumers globally. Operating a dedicated PRISTINE manufacturing facility in India, IFFCO Culinary segment aligns with the purpose of “Crafting Tasty Experiences for Generations“. The Group’s carefully curated portfolio serves as a global inspiration for culinary excellence.

In India, IFFCO is committed to providing the best food portfolio to professionals and home enthusiasts, leveraging a value proposition known as “Pantry essentials“. This move towards a more experiential value proposition aims to bring out-of-home experiences into the home.

Andrey Dribny, Global Managing Director – Culinary, IFFCO Group, expressed enthusiasm about the new step, stating, “Launching our Customer Engagement Centre in India is a pivotal stride in IFFCO Groups global strategy. The Engagement Centre is not only a local achievement; it is a testament to our longstanding commitment to crafting delightful experiences globally. Our state-of-the-art facility showcases our unwavering dedication to culinary excellence, providing a space where professionals converge, ideas flourish, and the future of gastronomy is shaped.”

Sumit Nair, General Manager of PRISTINE India, IFFCO, said, “The unveiling of the Centre is a defining moment for PRISTINE, a brand firmly rooted in the rich tapestry of IFFCOs culinary legacy. At the Centre, PRISTINEs unwavering commitment unfolds, creating not just dishes, but memorable gastronomic experiences that reflect the essence of IFFCOs culinary legacy.”

Distinguished guests attended the event, including industry professionals, baking enthusiasts, restaurateurs, corporate head chefs, hotel GMs, and culinary experts. The ambience resonated with excitement and shared passion, as the new Customer Engagement Centre unfolded its culinary wonders. The spotlight shone on indigenous excellence, with a showcase of the extensive range of PRISTINE products, including the exquisite PRISTINE Whipping Cream, the versatile PRISTINE Cooking Cream, and the delightful PRISTINE Soft Serve Mix. This grand celebration not only marks a pivotal moment in PRISTINE’s journey but also symbolizes the rich tapestry of culinary ingenuity flourishing on Indian soil, where traditions and innovation harmoniously converge.

The newly opened Customer Engagement Centre is set to enhance customer experiences by providing a dedicated space where professionals meet for the co-creation of products, education on new bakery techniques, and fostering brand loyalty through an immersive exploration of the Group’s vision. The Centre will induce product innovation, bringing to life concepts introduced to various channels such as Retail, Foodservice, QSR, and more. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the Engagement Centre features a range of culinary and baking applications and innovations, including professional soft-serve machines, combi ovens, industrial fryers, whipping and decorative appliances, among others. The design is focused on providing visitors with a caf-like professional environment where expertly crafted products can be tasted and evaluated for various culinary endeavours.

With its dedication to culinary excellence and commitment to innovation, IFFCO’s Customer Engagement Centre in India is poised to become a hub for culinary inspiration, collaboration, and the creation of delectable masterpieces.

5 Companies Redefining Success with #VocalForLocal Initiative

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In the spirit of #VocalForLocal, a movement that resonates deeply in India, companies across the nation are actively championing local businesses.

Amid India’s growing emphasis on the #VocalForLocal movement, these companies shine brightly, demonstrating that expanding their global presence doesn’t mean compromising their local roots. They not only rejoice in the vibrant tapestry of Indian cultures but also play a pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining local businesses. These impactful campaigns go beyond fleeting trends, serving as a resounding reminder that championing homegrown art and artisans is a dynamic movement that not only captivates consumers within India but reverberates globally.

Today, lets turn our focus to five companies that have wholeheartedly embraced the #VocalForLocal ethos in India, seamlessly integrating it into their campaigns with authenticity and impact.

5 Companies Redefining Success with #VocalForLocal Initiative

MobiKwik

Local Merchant Partnerships: MobiKwik, prominent player in the Indian fintech space, has collaborated with local merchants to promote digital payments. Mobikwik is one of the truly Indian payments platforms that is made by Indians, for indians. Their initiatives often focus on supporting local businesses and driving financial inclusion, aligning with the #VocalforLocal campaign.

MobiKwik’s strong focus on financial inclusion and commitment to serving traditionally underserved markets, such as tier 2, 3, and 4 cities, rural areas, and lower-income brackets, sets them apart from its competitors. At MobiKwik, the digital payment services have been used in 19,103 pin codes out of 19,253 in India, covering 99.2% of Indias PIN codes.

Paytm

Local Initiatives: Paytm, one of Indias leading fintech companies, has been active in promoting local businesses through its platform. They have supported various local campaigns, encouraging users to shop from nearby stores and promoting local merchants.

Paytm actively supports the “Vocal for Local” initiative and brings half a billion Indians into the mainstream economy by providing accessible payment services. As a market leader in offline payments, Paytm deploys 4.5 million devices, aiming to simplify business operations for small merchants. Their innovative digital payment solutions contribute significantly to small- and medium-sized businesses, aligning with the national sentiment to support indigenous or made in India products.

Protium

Championing MSMEs: Protium takes center stage in the #VocalForLocal movement, advocating for and supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The campaign reflects their dedication to empowering small businesses, addressing the challenges they face in a competitive market, especially during festive season.

Protium is guided by a strong moral compass to support small businesses, which often grapple with the challenges posed by intense competition and the allure of more expensive alternatives.

Protium reaffirmed its commitment to the #VocalForLocal campaign, carrying forward the spirit that has ignited positive change over the past years. The campaigns essence revolved around the idea of encouraging individuals to embrace and support local businesses, with a special focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of our nations economy.

This resounding success of the campaign underscored Protiums commitment to the #VocalForLocal principles, emphasizing that collective efforts truly empower small businesses and fortify our local economy.

PhonePe

Boost for Local Merchants: PhonePe, a popular digital payments platform, has been actively involved in initiatives to support local businesses. They have introduced multiple MSMEs businesses on their platform to raise the voice of locals.

PhonePe has launched initiatives to bring digital payments to 25 million small merchants in semi-urban and rural areas. These include enabling digital payments for Kirana stores, introducing a PhonePe for Business app, providing personalized store pages, and enhancing customer-merchant interaction through the PhonePe app. The company has also deployed a merchant acquisition team to reach 5,500 talukas and create 10,000 jobs in these areas.

Also, there are many campaigns that timely encourage users to transact with local merchants, contributing to the #VocalforLocal movement.

Razorpay

Empowering Small Businesses: Razorpay, a fintech company specializing in payment solutions, has shown support for local businesses through various initiatives. They have provided tools and technologies that empower small businesses, aligning with the ethos of the #VocalforLocal movement.

Razorpay is actively supporting the Indian governments “Vocal for Local” campaign by relocating its US-based parent entity to India. The step best aligns with the governments efforts to encourage local fintech companies and startups to relocate to Finance Tec Services Centres in India.

Razorpays decision to consider a listing in India post-relocation further emphasizes its commitment to the local market. The company is also actively participating in government initiatives like ONDC, which promotes indigenous digital solutions and fosters self-reliance in the digital economy.

Travel operators FY25 revenue seen jumping 12-14 pc on top of 30 pc this fiscal: Crisil

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The tour and travel sector is expected to see robust revenue growth of 12-14% in the upcoming fiscal year. This positive outlook follows a remarkable 30% growth in the current fiscal year, surpassing the pre-pandemic levels in various travel segments, including long-haul journeys.

The anticipation of double-digit growth in the next fiscal year builds on the current fiscal performance. The sector is on track to achieve a substantial revenue growth of 30%, marking an impressive 18% increase compared to the pre-pandemic peak. This information was highlighted in a report by Crisil released on Monday.

The report anticipates that the elevated revenue growth will offset the rising expenses resulting from the revised tax rates on tax collected at source on overseas travel packages. This trend is on the rise due to the easing of visa-related restrictions.

The report indicates that the operating margin is anticipated to remain robust, exceeding 6.5 percent in the current and upcoming fiscal year. This resilience is projected despite increased promotional expenditures, as it is supported by the advantages of operating leverage and various cost optimization and automation measures implemented since the pandemic. The findings are derived from the performance data of four leading travel operators—Thomas Cook, MakeMytrip, Yatra, and EaseMyTrip—constituting 60% of the total revenue.

Poonam Upadhyay, a director at the agency, highlights that the expanding trend of international travel and the increasing desire for brief getaways drive the expansion of tour and travel operators. The recent hike in TCS rates is expected to restrict demand since the individual expenditure per trip typically falls below the INR 7 lakh threshold for over 80 percent of tour packages.

After prolonged deliberation, the government raised the tax collected at source on individual forex spending above INR 7 lakh to 20 percent from 5 percent starting in October. 

Shounak Chakravarty, an associate director at the agency, anticipates that travel operators will boost promotional spending by 100-150 basis points to capitalize on the heightened demand across various segments. The increased scale is expected to maintain the operating margin at 6.5-7 percent for this fiscal year and the next.

Rodic Consultants Celebrates International Mountain Day with Trekking Expedition, Emphasizes Mountain Conservation and Well-being

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On the occasion of International Mountain Day, Rodic Consultants Private Limited, a leading engineering and digital infrastructure consulting company, reaffirms its commitment to promoting mountaineering and a love for life on land. The company organized a trekking expedition covering the picturesque mountain ranges of Tunganath, Chandra Shella, and Deoria Tal in Rudra Prayag, Uttarakhand, to promote fitness and encourage its employees to connect with nature and foster a sense of responsibility towards mountain conservation.

Rodic Consultants Celebrates International Mountain Day with Trekking Expedition, Emphasizes Mountain Conservation and Well-being

The theme for this years International Mountain Day, “Restoring Mountain Ecosystems” is a step ahead to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 15 – “Life on Land“. Since 2002, December 11 each year has been observed as International Mountain Day designated by the United Nations to celebrate the importance of mountains as an essential part of the natural ecosystem and build alliances to address opportunities and constraints in mountain development.

Rodics commitment to sustainable practices and holistic well-being resonates with the above pursuits of sustainable development. Through its projects and initiatives, Rodic actively supports “green” economies and the use of innovative technologies to strengthen the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Mr. Raj Kumar, Chairman & Managing Director, Rodic Consultants Pvt. Ltd., who himself is a National Level Sportsman in shooting, expressed that the International Mountain Day is a reminder of the vital role mountains play in our natural ecosystem. In addition to stunning landscapes, mountains are vital for our survival and have a profound influence on communities. Under his strong leadership and vision of holistic development, the company has imbibed the culture of sports and fitness as an essential element for overall development and peace of mind. He encourages employees to spread awareness about protecting the mountain’s delicate ecosystems which are threatened by climate change and overexploitation.

Rodic is putting sustainability at the heart of its business strategy which is beneficial to the environment, society, and economies at large. Giving wings to mountaineer and athlete Ms. Baljeet Kaur’s dream of ascending Mount Everest, last year Rodic sponsored her mission and rigorous training. A beacon of hope for athletes across the country. She is the first Indian to climb 5, 8K Summits in 30 days. She visited the Rodic Head Office in New Delhi to express her gratitude for the support.

The trekking opportunity was extended to Rodic employees across all offices and project units, bringing together participants from diverse expertise and demographics. The five-day event aimed not only to promote physical fitness through mountaineering but also to emphasize the importance of restoring mountain ecosystems, in alignment with the theme for this years International Mountain Day.

The world has realized the significance of nature in making a balance between growth and quality of life. Rodic’s trekking expedition underlines that mountaineering is one of the prime fitness activities to maintain cardio health and metabolic actions in terms of physical fitness, while mountains provide the most ideal surroundings to connect with the inner self for spiritual well-being.

The Rodic trekking team, comprising individuals from varied fields, demonstrated the power of motivation, commitment, and zeal in achieving common goals.

In support of the day, Rodic took to social media to commend the efforts of mountaineering enthusiasts and conservationists, urging the public to align themselves with nature and incorporate fitness goals into their lives.

The team, upon descending from the mountains, shared their exhilarating journey experiences, which stand as testimonials championing the conservation of mountains and the benefits of mountaineering. Rodic Consultants has consistently been an advocate for sustainability, good health, and economic growth. The company regularly organizes various sports activities and health camps, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to well-being for its employees.

Lobb & its Eight-year Journey – We are on Track

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It was 2015 two minds were thinking of creating something which will create the ripples in the most unorganised segment which is Logistics in India. Jayaram & Venu passionate and ambitious duo came together with a shared dream of creating something extraordinary. This diverse experience, each bringing unique skills and perspectives to the table, embarked on a journey to build a startup that would disrupt the industry. Jayaram relocated to India from the USA, got an opportunity to work with uncle s team to set up and run a logistics company with PAN India presence. He initially joined to develop software for them, later involved in business and operations. Closed worked with all the stakeholders who were totally unorganized, fragmented and the entire process is manual and time consuming. India was beginning to transform the way business is done digitally, for example the way air tickets and bus tickets were booked. While Venu had the experience in developing software for logistics, they both bumped into one another other several times to brainstorm logistics market in India. The idea of Lobb was born out of both founders discussion for almost six months.

Lobb on wheels

The spark that ignited their entrepreneurial spirit was a common dissatisfaction with the status quo. They saw inefficiencies, gaps in the market, and opportunities waiting to be seized. Fuelled by their shared vision, they decided to channel their energy into creating a solution that would not only address existing problems but also redefine the way people approached a particular aspect of their lives. Jayaram says, “We had tried several approaches to solve the issues and few failed also. We believe in “try and fail first” approach. In 2019 as per our investors suggestion we stuck to few markets and few products, this approach gave us encouraging results and made a good number of transactions. Started replicating the same by opening several branches which include adding more employees.

The team spent countless hours brainstorming, conducting market research, and refining their concept. Through the ups and downs of countless iterations, they honed in on a unique value proposition that set them apart from the competition. The idea was innovative, and they believed it had the potential to make a significant impact. Infact Venu Kondur CEO spent considerable time with fleet owners & drivers, Venu says, “To get a feel of their daily routine & business I spent three days with truckers day & night.”

With the concept solidified, the next hurdle was securing funding to turn their vision into reality. Undeterred, the team pitched their idea to investors, leveraging their passion and belief in the project. It wasnt an easy journey, but their persistence paid off when they secured the necessary funding to take the first steps toward building their startup. Says Venu, “Again this market is huge, traditional brokers with micro market presence are our competition. I dont see that as a competition and our value added services make a huge difference. There is enough meat for everyone to create a large business.

Armed with financial support, the team worked tirelessly to develop a prototype of their product or service. The team faced technical challenges, logistical hurdles, and the inevitable setbacks that come with any ambitious undertaking. However, each obstacle was met with resilience and a commitment to learning and adapting.

As the prototype took shape, the team shifted their focus to marketing and building a community around the brand. Lobb recognized the importance of not just selling a product but creating an experience for their users. Social media, word-of-mouth, and innovative marketing campaigns became their tools to generate buzz and interest in what they were creating.

Finally, the day arrived when Lobb was officially launched. The response was overwhelming – positive reviews poured in, and users embraced the solution with open arms. The startup quickly gained traction, and its success exceeded even the teams most optimistic expectations.

With success came new challenges – scaling operations, managing increased demand, and staying ahead of the competition. Yet, the teams foundation of passion, innovation, and resilience carried them through. They continued to adapt, evolve, and expand, turning their startup into a formidable player in the industry. Says Venu, “Lobb has a very strong presence in South & West of India & our target is to spread wings in North & East which is under action.

And so, Lobb that began as a shared dream in a small room evolved into a thriving business, leaving an indelible mark on the market and inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. The story of Lobb logistics serves as a testament to the power of vision, teamwork, and unwavering determination in the face of challenges.

Nadir Godrej Calls Upon Ahmedabad University’s Class of 2023 to Use Interdisciplinary Skill Along with an Unrelenting Will

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799 students celebrated a major milestone in their educational journeys as they graduated from Ahmedabad University receiving degrees at its 13th Annual Convocation on December 9, 2023. 463 students from the Amrut Mody School of Management, 120 students from the School of Arts and Sciences, and 216 students from the School of Engineering and Applied Science were recognised at the ceremony. The total count of graduating students also included six doctoral students.

Ahmedabad University’s 13th Annual Convocation presided by Nadir Godrej, Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej Industries Limited

The chief guest at this year’s convocation was Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej Industries Limited, Mr. Nadir Godrej. Through a lyrical narrative, he conveyed a holistic message that spanned the journey from India’s Independence to the hopeful future that shines in front of us. He praised the importance that Gujarat’s Ahmedabad Education Society put on education, which paved the way for many prominent institutions.

Ahmedabad University, he said, “Is perhaps the greatest project of all, an institution standing tall. And very clearly what we see is a broad ranging university. In order to have clarity of thought, interdisciplinary learning must be sought. This is the pillar of their strength. They are prepared to go to any length. To give young minds the facility for deep knowledge and versatility. If each student acquires this, it would indeed be sheer bliss. But problem solving is done in teams and therefore it certainly seems, different experts could be tapped but it would still be very apt to have generalists aboard to ensure the thinkings broad. Some degree of versatility will help us all clearly see. Problems should be anticipated, different views integrated. To me, it would clearly seem that any wide-ranging team that is bold but circumspect and treats all members with respect is very likely to succeed, wide ranging thought is the need. Applied science shows us how to succeed, but humanities are what we need to ensure that what we do is right. Broad knowledge must be kept in sight. With the dawning of the nuclear age many thought the knowledge sage. Indeed, the benefits are there. They are now seen everywhere.”

He concluded, “Your broad knowledge will give you scope. Make sure you strive and even fight to do everything thats right. Steadfastly avoid each plight and then our future will be bright.”

Presiding over the 13th Annual Convocation, Chancellor Mr Sanjay Lalbhai quoted Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision and his keen goal to get the private sector in Gujarat to come forward to provide resources and managerial skills in building institutions for higher education. When Ahmedabad Education Society was setup in early 1930s, it kept building colleges in several disciplines of learning, it helped several public institutions grow to become the best in the country, and now almost nine decades later it is building one of the finest research universities in India in Ahmedabad University. This is an example of deep commitment to an idea for a long duration. He also shared his grandfather Kasturbhai Lalbhai’s wisdom about giving only resources to individuals, that will have to be continually provided to them, and that would last only for a short time. Although, when individuals are empowered with knowledge and skills it will help them create a livelihood. He urged young graduates to remain engaged and support the University’s growth in the future.

Addressing the students, the University’s Vice Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Management, Professor Pankaj Chandra, said, “At Ahmedabad University, we have been pursuing three goals – to reimagine the classroom and to redefine how students should learn; to address some of the most challenging questions and problems of our times in our research; and to build responsible leaders and citizens of tomorrow – those who are concerned and are engaged.” He illustrated several undertakings and advancements, how “The University is now poised for a deeper engagement with challenges of the society as its foundation as a 21st century institution gets firmed up. Our effort of the last few years to build interdisciplinary research clusters has opened newer opportunities.”

Urging the graduating class to impact society through their learnings at the University, Professor Chandra said, “Let me say four things to you: One: You are privileged to be here today as you are equipped with the best of traditions of deep learning. You carry contemporary skills. You have been instilled with an ability to work hard and question everything around you. You must make your education count. Believe in yourself and your goodness and you will do wise things. Two: Be grateful for what you have as many have worked very hard to help you reach where you are. Three: Take your chances and you will increase your likelihood of finding interesting moments and meaningful life-path for yourself. You will then continue to remain fresh in your ideas and approach. This world is changing fast and in a very uncertain manner. And four: you must fulfil the public good promise of education – to become a better citizen of whichever society you choose to live in. A strong civic sense and a caring eye will make you sleep better at nights all your life. Remember that your welfare lies in the welfare of others. Do things that will help make others better because others have done that for you.

As part of his valedictorian speech, Rameshwar Bhatt reminded his fellow batchmates to hark back to how “These four years have left us with fairly important tools to carve out our niche, to create and strive, to address economic and ecological challenges, and to nurture the temperament of the society and its needs.”

About Nadir Godrej

Mr. Nadir B. Godrej is the Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej Industries Limited and Chairman of Godrej Agrovet Limited. He is also the Co-Chair of Godrej Good & Green Governing Council. He holds a Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He has been a Director of several Godrej companies since 1977 and has developed the animal feed, agricultural inputs and chemicals businesses of Godrej Industries and other associate companies and has been very active in research.

Mr. Godrej is deeply committed to the GOOD and GREEN strategies and achievement of set targets for the Godrej Group. He encourages and supports a shared vision value for all programs of Good and Green. He is the President of The Alliance Franaise de Bombay, a Member of the CII National Council and past Chairman of the CII National Committee on Chemicals.

OTHER RECOGNITIONS

Chevalier de Legion dHonneur, 2008

Globoil Lifetime Achievement Award, 2012

OTAI Lifetime Achievement Award, 2012

Chemtech CEW Leadership & Excellence Award, 2013

Chemexcil Lifetime Achievement Award, 2013

Porter Prize 2013

Lifetime Achievement Award, All India Liquid Bulk Importers and Exporters Association (AILBIEA)

CHEMTECH Leadership & Excellence Award, 2017

Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Manav Rachna University

Award in Business Excellence at the IBG, 2018

Exemplary Industrialist of the Nation Award, Sashakt Bharat 2022

Hurun Award for Most respected Indian Industrialist of the Year, 2023

Game Changer Felicitation, India Gulf Business Summit 2023

Special Award for Excellence in Healthcare, Navabharat Group

Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar, Maharashtra State Mango Growers Association

Lifetime Achievement Award, CLFMA of India

Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management, XIM University,

Bhubaneswar King Husein Global Business & Intercultural Peace Award, 2023

About Ahmedabad University

Ahmedabad University is a leading private, non-profit research university offering students a liberal education focused on interdisciplinary learning, practice orientation, and research thinking.

The University has been.

Recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence.

Accredited with A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Awarded a 5-star rating, the highest awarded in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 by the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Department of Education, Government of Gujarat.

Recognised by the UGC under section 12(B) of the UGC Act, becoming one of the very few private research universities to have been awarded this recognition for select research universities.

Recognised as a Highly Commended University for Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2023.

Awarded the AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire Award 2023 for its Foundation Programme.

Awarded Gold Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for achieving the Green Building Standards at our University Centre.

The University, established in 2009, is rooted in the vision of one of India’s finest educational foundations, the Ahmedabad Education Society, which was founded in 1935 by nationalist leaders. Programmes at the University range from bachelor’s to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 11 Schools and Centres:

Amrut Mody School of Management | School of Arts and Sciences | School of Engineering and Applied Science | School of Public Health | Centre for Heritage Management | International Centre for Space and Cosmology | VentureStudio | Centre for Learning Futures | Global Centre for Environment and Energy | Centre for Inter-Asian Research | Ahmedabad Design Lab.

An urban university, Ahmedabad promotes independent-mindedness and diversity across all dimensions of its activity and helps students mature into critical thinkers who are analytically equipped, practically oriented, and contextually aware global citizens. The University provides a contemporary educational framework that brings liberal arts, sciences, and the professions to engage together in creating new knowledge for addressing complex challenges of the society and in offering majors that merge the boundaries of disciplines to prepare students for the new economy.