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FICCI Recognizes Syngenta Foundation India Once Again for ‘Sustainable Farmer Income Enhancement’

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Syngenta Foundation India (SFI) has been awarded the first prize in the Sustainable Farmer Income Enhancement category at the FICCI awards, for the second time in a row. The award, a testament to the SFI’s unwavering commitment to uplift small holder farmers, recognizes SFI’s impactful Agri Entrepreneurship model, fostering sustainable practices in agriculture and enhancing farmers livelihoods.

Rajendra Jog, Executive Director, SFI (second from right) receiving FICCI award accompanied by Jyoti Vij- ADG FICCI, Varun Yadav AEGF, Ashish Bahuguna, Former Chairperson, FSSAI India among others

Rajendra Jog, Executive Director of Syngenta Foundation India, said, “It is great to receive the prestigious award for sustainable farmer income enhancement for the second year in a row! I am incredibly proud of our teams hard work and dedication in achieving this success. I must thank our government stakeholders, partners, resilient farmers, and the entire Syngenta Foundation India team for getting this award. This award is a testament to our commitment to improving the lives of small holder farmers and their families, and we will continue to strive for even greater impact in the years to come.”

The flagship Agri Entrepreneurship program, operating in 14 states, has empowered 16,131 Agri Entrepreneurs across 19,000+ villages, benefitting 1.4 million farmers. Notably, 42% of these entrepreneurs are women, contributing significantly to gender equity.

The programs success is amplified by collaboration with philanthropic institutes and corporates, including CiNi by Tata Trusts, IDH, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, DCM Shriram Foundation, Environment Defense Fund, GAIN, Harvest Plus, Swiss Re Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, GiZ, NABARD, IFC, Unilever, IFDC, Marico, Syngenta India Pvt. Ltd. and State Rural Livelihood Missions like Jeevika, MPSRLM etc. It has garnered support from various governmental initiatives, making it the largest Agri-Entrepreneurship program in India with a robust ecosystem.

Affiliation with esteemed institutes such as CCS National Institute of Agriculture Marketing, Jaipur (CCS NIAM) and National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management, Hyderabad (MANAGE) reflects the programs commitment to quality and excellence. The certification of the Agri Entrepreneurship program and curriculum development, in collaboration with these institutes, ensures a comprehensive and well-structured approach.

About Syngenta Foundation India (SFI)

Syngenta Foundation India is a not-for-profit organization that works towards improving smallholder farmers’ income, agricultural productivity in a climate smart manner and generating livelihoods for rural youth by nurturing them as Agri- Entrepreneurs (AEs). These AEs bridges gap between agricultural innovation and its delivery to the last mile; improves access to agricultural inputs, access to credit and insurance, access to markets; thereby helping smallholder farmers improving their income.

It focuses on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Zero Hunger, No Poverty, Gender Equality, Climate action, life on land, good health and well-being, through sustainable food production and empowering marginalized communities.

CII Pune Hosts the 11th Edition of West Tech Summit 2023

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More than 150 management and delegates converged at the Hyatt Regency Pune to discuss role of innovations and new technologies and resultant disruptions across sectors and geographies. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Pune in association with organizing the 11th Edition of West Tech Summit 2023 focused on the theme “Technological Innovation & International Expansion” in Pune on 30 November 2023. The conference was supported by ‘The Embassy of Republic of Korea‘ and Korea-Trade Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) India-Korea Business Cooperation Center.

CII Pune hosts the 11th Edition of West Tech Summit 2023

Chang Jae-bok, Ambassador of Republic of Korea to India delivered the key note address while Shekhar Singh, IAS, Commissioner Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and Pradeep Bhargava Chairman, CII GreenCo Council and Chairman Automotive Stampings and Assemblies Ltd. delivered special address.

Shujaul Rehman,Chairman, CII Pune Zonal Council and Chief Executive Officer, Garware Technical Fibres Ltd., Sanjeev Fadanavis, Chairman West Tech Summit 2023 and Chief Executive Officer Nitor Infotech India Pvt. Ltd., Sudhir Mehta, Past Chairman, CII Western Region and Managing Director, Pinnacle Industries Ltd., Kiran Acharya, Vice Chairman, CII Pune Zonal Council and Managing Director & CFO, Sandvik Coromant India Pvt. Ltd. along with other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The day long deliberations included various sessions like Technological Innovation & International Expansion, Role of AI in Accelerating Innovation & Generating Value and Technology Disruption in International Expansion.

Chang Jae-bok, Ambassador of Republic of Korea to India in his key note address said that this year holds particular significance for both India and Korea-India relations, marked by Indias G20 presidency and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between our nations. He extend his heartfelt congratulations to India for the successful G20 leaders meeting in New Delhi. He highlighted the ongoing digital transition in the global economy is entering a new phase, characterized by non-linear technological advancements. Artificial Intelligence (AI), exemplified by innovations such as Chat GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), is reshaping the global business environment in unprecedented ways, presenting both challenges and opportunities, He also stated that It is crucial to emphasize that the economies of Korea and India are complementary. Korean companies bring state-of-the-art technologies and efficient manufacturing expertise, honed through a rich history of economic development. Simultaneously, Indian firms possess abundant natural and human resources, fortified by unwavering governmental support for nurturing domestic industries. He firmly believes that collaborative efforts between Korean and Indian entrepreneurs are pivotal to navigating the challenges of the current global economic environment and securing prominent positions in global supply chains.

Shujaul Rehman, Chairman CII Pune and and Chief Executive Officer, Garware Technical Fibres Ltd. said that we are living in a dynamic digital era powered with revolutionary technologies like AI, which has transformed and accelerated innovations across sectors from automobiles to engineering to healthcare. And this is just the start with exciting times ahead. The West Tech summit brought together the decision makers who are using these new age technologies to transform the way we work. The summit gave an insightful perspective on the innumerable possibilities that new technologies offer for businesses.

Sanjeev Fadanavis, Chairman West Tech Summit 2023 and Chief Executive Officer Nitor Infotech India Pvt. Ltd. said that technological capabilities will be a key to business expansions both domestically as well as internationally. International expansion appears to have been to a large extent impingent on the development of technological and innovation capabilities. In recent years, generative artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a once-in-a-generation technology, revolutionizing virtually every sector and market. AI-powered tools will change how we approach work and life across dozens of fronts, including corporate innovation

A testament to deepening India-Korea cultural ties, the delegates were treated with a special K-Pop session to give a glimpse of Korean Pop Culture which has transformed into a global phenomenon.

Taste the Difference – Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe

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When it comes to culinary excellence, the secret often lies in the quality of ingredients. Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe are one such ingredient that can elevate your dishes to a whole new level. These exquisite tomatoes are renowned for their exceptional flavour and are a must-have for any discerning chef or home cook.

Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe are a testament to the rich tradition of tomato cultivation in the region. Europe has a long history of producing some of the worlds finest tomatoes, and the Red Gold variety is no exception. These tomatoes are characterized by their vibrant red colour and a flavour that is nothing short of exquisite.

One of the key factors that set Red Gold Tomatoes apart is the European commitment to sustainable farming practices. These tomatoes are grown in carefully tended fields, benefitting from the ideal climate and soil conditions that Europe has to offer. The result is a tomato with a sweet, rich taste that bursts with natural flavour This is an ingredient that embodies the essence of farm-to-table dining, and its no surprise that its a favourite among top chefs.

Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe are incredibly versatile. Whether youre making a classic Italian pasta sauce, a vibrant Spanish gazpacho, or a hearty French ratatouille, these tomatoes are your go-to choice. Their natural sweetness adds depth to any dish, and their thick, meaty texture ensures a satisfying mouthfeel.

Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe are incredibly versatile

Not only are these tomatoes delicious, but they are also packed with essential nutrients. Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, and Red Gold Tomatoes are no exception. They contribute to a healthy diet while elevating your culinary creations.

The versatility of Red Gold Tomatoes is matched by their convenience. Available in various forms, including whole, chopped, crushed, and pureed, these tomatoes can easily be incorporated into your recipes. Theyre a time-saver in the kitchen, allowing you to create restaurant-quality dishes at home with minimal effort.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life and savour the joy of cooking, Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe are the epitome of tomato perfection. The next time youre in search of the ultimate tomato to elevate your dishes, look no further. With a rich history, a commitment to sustainability, and an unrivalled flavour, these tomatoes are the key to unlocking the full potential of your culinary creations. Taste the difference with Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe, and experience the essence of European culinary excellence in every bite.

Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe : Experience the essence of European culinary excellence in every bite

About Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe

Red Gold Tomatoes from Europe is the name of the campaign managed by the Italian association OI Pomodoro da Industria Centro Sud and co-funded by the European Union to raise awareness of EU canned tomatoes 100% made in Europe. EU canned tomatoes are produced by a traditional process that keeps intact all the flavours of the fruit, picked at the peak of its ripeness and aroma.

For in-depth insights into the European and Italian tomato industry or for some delicious recipes using canned tomatoes, visit our website www.redgoldtomatoesfromeurope.com and follow us on Instagram @redgoldtomatoesfromeurope & on Facebook @redgoldtomatoesfromeurope.

Disclaimer
The content of this promotion campaign represents the views of the author only and is his/her sole responsibility. The European Commission does not accept any responsibility for any use that may be made of the information it contains.

The Power Partnership of Sport Elites: GNC and Pawan Sehrawat Announce their Partnership

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GNC, a leading global health and wellness brand that has set the standards for the sentiments of “Live well“, has announced its association with Pawan Sehrawat, a popular name in Pro-Kabaddi League. With an aim to bring the energy and intensity of Pawan’s nature that compliments GNC’s values into the spotlight, GNC finds it in its best interest, in order to support the unconventional game of Kabaddi, to celebrate it with the renowned Sportsperson Pawan Sehrawat.

In the game of Kabaddi, ace the game with GNC’s Pro performance whey protein! An athlete’s secret weapon to success

GNC is pleased to work with Pawan, a stellar kabaddi player, whose journey and unwavering determination align perfectly with GNCs mission to support athletes and sports that go unhighlighted,” says GNC.

The collaboration seeks to transform the way underdog athletes and their sports receive support, providing them with access to advanced nutrition, supplements, and wellness resources to enhance their athletic performance. They seek to foster a culture of inclusivity, resoluteness, and excellence in sports.

We chose Pawan as our collaborative partner because his commitment to personal growth, combined with our expertise in nutrition and wellness, forms a synergy that will not only elevate Pawans performance but also inspire countless others in the sports community. Together, we aim to redefine possibilities in sports and empower a new generation of champions,” adds the spokesperson of GNC.

The collaboration between Pawan Sehrawat and GNC is born out of a shared recognition of the untapped potential and determination present in underdog athletes. GNC acknowledges the spirit and resilience exhibited by individuals like Sehrawat, making this collaboration a natural and powerful alliance. GNC supports non-mainstream and latent sports like that of Pawan Sehrawat’s with extensive aid and encouragement for similar talents.

Pawan Sehrawat, the current captain of the Indian Kabaddi team and consistent scorer of most raid points since 2018, has outshined as one of the most influential and inspirational sportsmen, remarkably with his ultimate win of Pro Kabaddi’s Most Valuable Player title. He boasts impressive achievements, holding distinctions like gold medals at the 2019 South Asian Games, the 2022 Asian Games and the 2023 Asian Kabaddi Championship.

As an athlete who is part of an ever-evolving sport, nutrition is such an important key aspect of my progress. So to have a globally renowned brand like GNC as my nutrition partner is something I am pleased about. A new season of the Pro Kabaddi League is around the corner, and I am going to need to have the best of all aspects if I am to have a successful season with my team,” says Sehrawat.

GNC is thrilled to collaborate with Sehrawat and firmly believes that Pawan is the best-suited sportsman synonymous with GNC’s vision. Ergo, GNC looks forward to celebrating the roots and spirit of Indian Kabaddi with equally matched enthusiasm and support!

About GNC
GNC, with over 9,000 locations in about 50 countries, is dedicated to improving customers lives through quality nutritional supplements. Setting industry standards for truth in labelling and product safety, GNC remains on the cutting edge of nutritional science. Known for rigorous quality assurance, the company covers protein, performance, weight management, vitamins, herbs, and wellness supplements. Rooted in top-notch research, partners with Guardian Healthcare in India. GNC’s engagement with sports and fitness, addresses fatigue, stress, vitamin deficiencies, and cholesterol through its core pillars: Multivitamins, Omega-3’s, Proteins, and Probiotics. Its key launches include Pro-Performance whey protein, Creatine Monohydrate, AMP Pure Isolate, Mega men vitamins, power protein, and Digestive enzymes, catering to athletes seeking premium performance.

Ericsson is in talks to lease over 500,000 sq ft of workspace from Skootr in Gurugram

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Ericsson, the Swedish telecom equipment manufacturer, has inked deals to rent up to 525,000 square feet of office space from Skootr at Gurgaon’s Vatika One on One building. This marks one of the most extensive managed workspace agreements in the country, according to three sources familiar with the development.

Under the agreement, Ericsson is set to lease approximately 325,000 square feet for an immediate move-in while also retaining the first right of refusal for an additional 200,000 square feet.

“Ericsson already has two offices in Gurgaon, and the decision to take a large office with a manager and office space provider has highlighted the demand for managed and flexible space in the country. The company has also signed a 5-year lock-in, which is also very rare in the industry,” said one person aware of the development.

As per another source, Vatika, the developer, plans to hand over the initial phase of the building to Skootr within the next 3-6 months. Following this, Skootr anticipates an additional 3-4 months to carry out the fit-out process and prepare the office space for Ericsson.

Skootr had previously expressed its goal of incorporating 1.5 million square feet of space in the current fiscal year 2024, citing a substantial surge in demand for managed workspace since the decline of the Covid pandemic.

Skootr has recently secured a lease for 100,000 sq ft spanning two floors in Max Square, the latest project by Max Estates in Noida. The company aims to expand its presence in the National Capital Region by adding 500,000 sq ft within the following year.

The surge in demand for flexibility has prompted occupiers to shift towards the managed office segment. Businesses are seeking office solutions that can adapt to their evolving requirements and offer easy scalability as needed.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach brings in braille menus for the visually-impaired

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Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by introducing Braille menus. This groundbreaking initiative, implemented at the famous Indian speciality restaurant Zaffran, positions the hotel as a trailblazer in Andhra Pradesh, championing empowerment and equality.

The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of esteemed officials, including Dr Vishwamitra, Coordinator of the District Blindness Control Society, HOD Ophthalmology from Visakhapatnam, and dignitaries from Andhra Medical College and Varun Group, making the occasion even more meaningful.

“Our ethos revolves around fostering inclusivity, ensuring every individual feels esteemed and embraced,” emphasized Mrs Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and The Bheemili Resort managed by Accor.

The event witnessed the presence of distinguished individuals, including Dr G. Butchi Raju, Principal of Andhra Medical College, Dr. Allu Padmaja, Head of DREH, and Dr. Vasupalli Ravi, HOD, Anesthesia & CCM, KGH. The introduction of the Braille menu was met with heartfelt joy by visually impaired guests, offering them the ability to explore and make selections from the menu independently.

This initiative highlights Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment in the hospitality sector. The Braille menus represent not just a menu but a pathway to empowerment and self-reliance for individuals with visual impairments.

Furthermore, Lakshmi Prabhu Kishore, Director, Varun Group, added significance to the occasion by reinforcing their dedication to inclusivity and diversity.

In alignment with this commitment, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach has hired six visually impaired individuals across different departments. Two of these exceptional employees participated in the event, joyfully perusing the Braille menu and placing their orders, exemplifying the success of inclusivity in practice.

Google’s new AI experiment lets you create music inspired by instruments

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Google introduces “Instrument Playground,” an AI experiment that enables users to create music inspired by global instruments.

You can select from a variety of over 100 instruments worldwide, such as the Veena from India, Dizi from China, or Mbira from Zimbabwe. The MusicLM, a text-to-music AI tool, then generates a 20-second sound clip based on your choice.

“What’s more you can add an adjective to your prompt to shape the results such as ‘moody’, ‘happy’, or ‘romantic’. Or because it’s the season, you could add the terms ‘merry’ or ‘joyful’ to compose a festive jingle,” Google said in a blog post on Friday. 

You have the option to customize various elements of the composition, including “Ambient,” “Beat,” and “Pitch,” allowing you to create a unique piece of music.

Simon Doury, an Artist in Residence at Google Arts & Culture Lab, created the experiment.

“Start your journey by discovering 10 lesser-known instruments from around the world, and learn more about traditional instruments and music from India, Korea, Japan, or Brazil,” Google said. 

Google introduced “MusicLM” in May, an experimental AI tool capable of producing high-quality music across various genres based on a text description.

Initially announced in January, the text-to-music AI tool is now accessible to the public through the AI Test Kitchen app, available on the web, Android, or iOS.

OnePlus Founder Shares Ten-Year Anniversary Open Letter on Community Forum

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OnePlus, the global mobile technology company, is thrilled to announce its ten-year anniversary, commemorating a decade of disruption and innovation in the smartphone industry. The journey, which began with a vision to deliver the best in smartphone technology, has been marked by a relentless pursuit of crafting an unparalleled user experience.

OnePlus Never Settle 10th Anniversary​

Pete Lau, founder of OnePlus, took to the OnePlus community forum to share his reflections on this remarkable journey. From the momentous launch of the OnePlus One to the groundbreaking OnePlus 11, the guiding star of “Never Settle” has driven OnePlus to redefine smartphone expectations. Each innovation, from the burdenless OS experience to pioneering fingerprint technology, SuperVOOC charging, collaboration with Hasselblad, and the Trinity Engine performance optimization platform, has pushed the boundaries of what users should expect from their devices.

This year, OnePlus continued its commitment to pushing boundaries with the introduction of the OnePlus Open, a device that made an immediate impact in the emerging foldable smartphone market. The overwhelming response and rapid sell-out during its pre-sale underscore the huge excitement for the OnePlus Open, both among the OnePlus Community, who have formed a deep connection with OnePlus over the last ten years, and new fans of the brand.

Pete shared that the global device sales for OnePlus of 2023 have witnessed a remarkable 59% increase as of October compared to the same period last year, according to the companys data.

Looking ahead, OnePlus remains dedicated to product excellence, focusing on fast and smooth experiences, advanced camera technologies, and AI-optimized software. However, OnePlus recognizes that its impact goes beyond technology and extends to society, diversity, and sustainability. The company is actively building a green and low-carbon operation while ensuring hardware and software longevity to reduce electronic waste and promote sustainable consumption practices. The OnePlus community will continue to be at the heart of OnePlus vision for the future, as it has been an inspiration throughout the journey.

To celebrate this momentous ten-year milestone, OnePlus is launching exciting programs and inviting users to be a part of them. A short film paying tribute to the shared journey and the spirit of “Never Settle” will be released on December 15.

OnePlus Presents

Watch the video here www.youtube.com/watchv=gy8mPncuIeA

OnePlus has recently upgraded its Power of Community program, which is a significant step in harnessing collective creativity to co-create amazing products that empower users to have superior digital lives. From December 9 to 15, OnePlus will be unveiling new tech products daily. With a community of 50.2 million registered members to date, OnePlus boasts one of the largest borderless tech communities globally.

Pete also revealed that the OnePlus 12, the brands next-generation flagship, will feature a special packaging box with a thank you list directly printed on it. This unique gesture serves as a heartfelt appreciation to the core community contributors who have been instrumental in OnePlus journey of dedication and innovation over the past decade. Anticipation is high for the OnePlus 12, as it promises to exceed all expectations.

OnePlus Never Settle 10th Anniversary​

To express gratitude to its loyal users, OnePlus has organized a series of events and promotions. For more information about the 10th-anniversary celebrations, please visit www.oneplus.com/event/10-year-anniversary.

About OnePlus

OnePlus is a global mobile technology brand challenging conventional concepts of technology. Created around the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high-performance hardware. OnePlus thrives on cultivating strong bonds and growing together with its community of users and fans.

For more information, please visit OnePlus.com or follow us on:
Instagram – instagram.com/oneplus
Facebook – facebook.com/oneplus
Twitter – twitter.com/oneplus
LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/company/oneplus

Lotus Arts De Vivre Forays into New Delhi at Strrot

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Tucked away in the embrace of a lush, green paradise near Connaught Place, Lotus Arts de Vivre finds home at Strrot, in one of Delhis most coveted neighborhoods. As you step into the hallowed grounds of Strrot, youll find yourself meandering through exquisite sections, each as beautiful as a garden in full bloom.

Lotus Arts de Vivre at Strrot, Delhi

As you explore this haven of grandeur, youll find that Lotus Arts de Vivre at Strrot pours the same mastery into its home decor and gifting ranges. From artefacts and statues to table decor and beyond, a piece from Lotus’ impressive catalogue echoes with opulence and grandeur.

Lotus is the legacy of German born Rolf Von Bueren, who immigrated to Thailand in the 1960’s and has made the Asian nation his home. Mr. Von Bueren has also developed a close relationship with India, a country which he has visited numerous times over close to half a century and one with which he feels great kinship.

Nicklas von Bueren, CEO, Lotus Arts de Vivre

Rolf’s son Nicklas has stepped into his father’s shoes and continues the legacy that is Lotus Arts de Vivre. To commemorate 40 years of Lotus Arts de Vivre, they launched a flagship store in Mumbai, India in 2022.

Nicklas grew up surrounded by his father’s passion for beauty and craftsmanship and sees India as almost a second home.

Nicklas von Bueren says, “I have spent so much time in this beautiful country and have a great love and respect for the people, the art and the craftsmanship of India. We think this partnership with Strrot is destined for great success and we hope to see that the discerning clientele of New Delhi will be appreciative of the new range of products that we showcase.”

India’s love of jewellery, both gold and precious stones is well known and dates back to the times of Maharajas waging war on the backs of elephants. Perhaps less well known is that our country shares its love of embellishment with the Kingdom of Thailand.

Home to one of the world’s longest surviving monarchies, Thailand is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional quality in all things. Jewellery and artifacts crafted in the Kingdom are no different and Lotus Arts de Vivre is a brand that is synonymous with this high quality and beauty.

Sidhant Lamba, Founder Strrot, announcing his association with Lotus Arts de Vivre says, “Thrilled and elated as Lotus Arts de Vivre unites with Strrot. This exceptional brand adds the right value to our endeavours, and the association feels like a perfect symphony. Heres to the harmonious union of vision, brand and looking forward to an incredible journey ahead.”

The power of the imagination helps build up the eclectic range of Lotus Art de Vivre product designs that have built the brand’s varied portfolio of home decor, jewellery & accessories. A life like Crocodile Sculpture, a Handbag made from Cinnamon Sticks, Jewelry made from Scarab Wings the list for Lotus exclusivity is endless.

For more information on Lotus Arts de Vivre: www.lotusartsdevivre.com

Instagram Handle: www.instagram.com/lotusartsdevivre/

Address: Continental, Adjoining DDA park, RK Ashram Marg, New Delhi 110001

International Copper Association India Drives Sustainable Cooling Revolution at Next-gen HVACR Seminar

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The International Copper Association India (ICA India) hosted a technical seminar, “Copper Tubes for Next-gen Sustainable and Energy Efficient HVACR“, on November 28th in New Delhi. The event marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable cooling solutions in alignment with the India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP).

Mr. Mayur Karmarkar, Managing Director, International Copper Association, India speaking at the event held in New Delhi on 28th November

As per the India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP), the installed stock of room air conditioners in India is set to increase from 55 million units in 2022-23 to 350 million units by 2037-38. This points toward a significant opportunity for the Indian ACR industry. However, on the other hand, the use of inefficient options could lead to increased energy demand and higher carbon emissions.

To tackle this challenge, the Government of India formulated the ICAP, providing a 20-year perspective and outlining the actions needed for sustainable cooling. The ICAP vision is to reduce refrigerant use by 25-30%, decrease cooling energy demand by 25-40%, and lower cooling demand by 20-25% in a progressive manner, while encouraging innovation and skill development to augment economic as well as environmental goals.

For several years, the Indian air conditioner industry has been innovating with new technologies to produce cooling systems that are not only energy-efficient but also use green refrigerants at an optimized cost. In recent years, MicroGroove has been broadly adopted in China, Japan, India, and several Asian countries. MicroGroove coils made from smaller diameter inner-grooved copper tubes deliver an unprecedented combination of reliability, energy efficiency, and eco-friendliness. They are more affordable than traditional designs because they use less material. Many coil manufacturers have added MicroGroove heat exchanger production lines to their plants or even built new facilities dedicated to the production of MicroGroove heat exchangers. India has been one of the fastest countries in adopting MicroGroove heat exchangers. Introduced first in 2017-18, the share of MicroGroove heat exchangers in condensers reached 40% in 2022-2023 in just five years.

Another key area of transformation is refrigerants. Moving towards green refrigerants has been a part of India’s mitigation strategy, which includes the phasing out of ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in compliance with the Montreal Protocol framework. While HCFCs were first replaced with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), the HCFC Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP)-II mandates that the country gradually phase down HFCs and shift to non-HFCs and other low-global warming potential (GWP) and natural refrigerants. Today, almost 90% of room ACs sold in India use HFC-32.

According to the International Copper Association India (ICA India), the use of smaller diameter copper tubes will continue to grow in India. To support the Indian industry in research, development, and promotion of efficient heat exchanger technology, ICA India founded the Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Heat Exchanger Technology Alliance (HETA) India. HETA aims to deepen cooperation with member OEMs, research heat exchanger technology, and strengthen the advantages of copper heat exchanger technology. Through their cooperation on the HETA platform, OEMs are realizing the full potential of smaller-diameter copper tubes and applying this technology to the construction of high-efficiency heat exchangers and appliance products.

Mr. Srinivasu Moturi, Head R&D Centre, Voltas Ltd. said, “Tube size, inner groove geometry and fin profile mixtures play a significant role in improving the efficiency of heat exchangers. 5 mm inner groove copper tubes provide better heat transfer coefficient and handles pressure drop of various refrigerants. Smaller diameter coils made with copper tubes can be produced using familiar tube handling and coil assembly equipment, keeping manufacturing costs low. In terms of longevity and durability, copper is a superior material that yields products with proven longevity.

Mr. Deepak Baid, Vice President R&D, Bluestar Ltd. added, “Inner grooving of copper tubes improves the heat transfer properties of the tube by creating turbulence within the flow of fluid. This, in turn, enhances heat transfer by increasing the surface area of the tube that is in contact with the fluid.”

Mr. Mayur Karmarkar, Managing Director, ICA India, added, “Apart from technology adoption, the Government of India has recognized the need to support the localization of AC and its component manufacturing. This has resulted in three companies under the PLI scheme working on setting up inner-grooved copper tube plants in India. These tubes are 100% imported from the ASEAN region under FTA.” He further added, “The Quality Control Order for copper tubes and PLI scheme are positive steps to revive domestic manufacturing of tubes in India. This will lead to high-quality copper tubes locally available and cater to the growing demand in India.”

The seminar showcased the industrys commitment to environmentally responsible cooling solutions, fostering collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of knowledge. This event served as a cornerstone for propelling India into a future of energy-efficient and eco-friendly air conditioning.

About ICA India (International Copper Association)

The International Copper Association India (ICA India) is a member of Copper Alliance and the Indian arm of the International Copper Association Limited (ICA), the leading not for profit organization for the promotion of copper worldwide set up in 1959. ICA has been operating since 1998 in India and has built an active association with the growing number of copper users through its programs. ICA India Programs are committed to improving the quality of life through better Electrical Safety, Energy Efficiency, Clean Energy and Sustainability. ICA India’s efforts have been pivotal to advancing better standards, across various products, applications and industries, by leveraging upon the superior technical performance of Copper.