Changing Lifestyles Drive Demand For Beauty And Wellness In Tier 2 Cities: Justdial

-          Beauty and Personal Care category witnesses a 14% increase in demand in FY-2023

-          Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune led the demand among Tier-l cities

Consumer insights by Justdial, India’s No.1 hyperlocal search engine, report that over the last decade there has been a significant increase in demand for beauty and wellness in Tier-ll cities in India. This trend exists largely due to the increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles of people in these cities. As people become increasingly aware of the importance of self-care, they are turning to Beauty and Personal care services such as beauty parlours, salons, spas, yoga classes, gyms, zumba classes, nutritionists and dieticians, for an overall physical well-being and grooming.

As per the Justdial Consumer Insights, this trend can be seen in non-metro cities like Ernakulam, which witnessed a 46% year-on-year growth, Surat (29%), Patna (27%) and Jaipur (26%). The trend can be attributed to the growing middle-class population in these cities and higher disposable income, of the population here, to spend on personal grooming and wellness. A clear reflection of this trend can also be seen in cities like Kozhikode, which saw a 50% year-on-year spike, Meerut (33%), Palakkad (29%), Bhubaneshwar (27%), and Jhansi (25%).

Commenting on this, Justdial spokesperson said, “The increasing demand for beauty and wellness in Tier-ll cities in India is a reflection of the changing lifestyles and priorities of people in these cities. With the industry expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years, it presents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors looking to tap into this space.”

Overall, there was a 14% Y-o-Y increase in searches for the Beauty and Personal Care category on Justdial platforms in FY-2023, with Bangalore topping the charts among metros with 22% growth, followed by Chennai with 19%, Hyderabad with 18%, and Pune with 15%.

The pandemic has also had a significant impact on this trend. Remote working environments put a greater emphasis on self-care and the need for an active lifestyle, thereby leading to an increased demand for both physical and online beauty & wellness services.

About Just Dial Limited

Just Dial Limited provides local search related services to users in India through multiple platforms such as Desktop/PC website (https://www.justdial.com), mobile site (https://t.justdial.com), mobile apps (Android & iOS), over the telephone (Voice, pan India number 88888-88888) and text (SMS). Justdial’s latest version of JD App, is an All-in-One App, replete with features like Map-aided Search, Live TV, Videos, Stock quotes, etc. to make the life of the consumer infinitely smoother & more engaging.

The Company has recently launched its B2B marketplace platform, JD Mart. JD Mart platform, available at https://www.jdmart.com and via apps on Play Store and App Store, is aimed at enabling millions of India’s manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers to become internet-ready in post-COVID era, get new customers and sell their products online. The platform offers digital product catalogues to businesses and aims at digitalising India’s businesses, especially MSMEs, across categories. Buyers can discover quality vendors offering a wide selection of products to choose from, spread across millions of categories to suit all B2B needs.

Justdial has also initiated transaction-oriented services for its users. These services aim at making several day-to-day tasks conveniently actionable and accessible to users from one App. With this step, Justdial is transitioning from being purely a provider of local search and related information to being a direct/ indirect enabler of such transactions. Justdial has also recently launched an end-to-end business management solution for SMEs, through which it intends to transition thousands of SMEs to efficiently run business online and have their adequate online presence via their own website, mobile site. Apart from this, Justdial has also launched JD Pay, a unique solution for quick digital payments for its users and vendors.

Tribute Portfolio Fosters Engaging Experiences With Opening Of Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, A Tribute Portfolio Resort

* A characterful, boutique Resort designed to encourage harmony with nature, offering unique indigenous experiences enriched with a warm touch of nostalgia.

Tribute Portfolio- part of Marriott Bonvoy’s growing collection of characterful, independent Resorts, welcomes its latest addition with the opening of Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills- A Tribute Portfolio Resort .This serene property  is nestled at the foot of the historic Nandi Hills and is a 25-minute drive from the Kempegowda International Airport. Rooted in the ethos of meaningful travel, the 102 key property nurtures an intimate design that invites the return to a simplistic life. The Resort is a beautiful confluence of natural elements like sweet bird song, earthly textures accentuating rustic shingle roofs, dark wooden pillars, natural stonework, brass artifacts, walkways interluded with lush greenery and panoramic views of the Nandi Hills lend a sense of space and home coming, encouraging the free spirited and curious minded traveller to forge deeper connections with the locale and community when travelling.

“We’re thrilled to welcome this vibrant new Resort within Tribute’s Portfolio to Bengaluru, one of the most cosmopolitan and progressive cities of India. This opening marks the eighteenth property to join our growing portfolio of brands in this city” said Ranju Alex- Vice President South Asia, Marriott International. This new hotel is set to present captivating design and truly authentic experiences tailored to the locale in Bengaluru.”

One of the leading real estate developers in the country, The Prestige Group has a legacy of over three decades in real estate development. It has diversified business models across the Residential, Office, Leisure, Retail, and Hospitality segments with operations across 8 key locations in India. Commenting on the launch, Mr. Irfan Razack, Chairman & Managing Director of Prestige Group, said, “we are thrilled to add to our hospitality portfolio- Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, - A Tribute Portfolio Resort  which has its own unique characterful personality where guests can seek to immerse themselves in the richness of the locale, to discover what defines Nandi Hills as a leisure destination and to experience a one-of-a kind warm boutique ”

Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort is inspired by a beautiful story woven around the small joys and simplicity of childhood. The vibrant paintings, naturalistic murals and hand painted artwork adorning the resort, tell the story of a young girl named Santi who lived in an idyllic, rustic setting against the backdrop of the majestic Nandi Hills. Santi grew up on a Mulberry farm, under the watchful care of doting parents and a loving grandmother. Her childhood was spent in the company of warm cinnamon aromas, wild lush greenery, home grown herbs and the earthly fragrance of silkworms. Her lazy summer afternoons were filled with fun-filled explorations, gardening, plucking fruit, adventurous treasure hunts and unending stories. Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort embodies the beauty of Santi’s childhood, with its imaginative spaces and thoughtful experiences that will evoke a sense of warm nostalgia

The resort comprises 102 vibrant villas and suites, each featuring bespoke, handmade furniture, eye-catching wall murals and local artwork. A three-fixture bathroom enhanced with natural stone and warm lighting with private verandahs favoring views of the foliage integrated into the landscape, are some of the unique features of the room categories. The resort has a carefully thought-out wellness and recreation calendar for guests to get busy and engaged – early morning somatic workouts, moonlight yoga, wine stomping, board games, pottery classes, books and binoculars for bird watching and musical evenings are some of the fun experiences lined up. Digital distractions are discarded in favour of spending time with loved ones in the company of nature.

Guests can enjoy an immersive culinary experience across three unique restaurants. Terra, the all-day dining offers a refreshing mix of seasonal and local specials with international favourites, enjoyed over uninterrupted views of the beautiful hotel landscape. The swim-up pool bar Asri serves small plates and creative cocktails that bring the garden to glass concept to life. Kokoon, the quaint cozy cafe next to the lobby is the perfect place for coffee brews, choicest selection of teas and baked local specialties available from early morning to late evening.

Guests can relax at the Ksema spa at the hands of expert therapists who offer a full range of spa treatments, facials and body wraps. A Turkish hammam, a couple jacuzzi, an open-air pool, a well-equipped workout studio, a pickleball court and a yoga and meditation room complete the wellness checklist. Kreo the game zone for grownups and a kids play area are open for some spirited fun with family and friends. The resort is pet-friendly, allowing guest to enjoy their stay with their furry friends in tow.

The resort is poised to be a sanctuary for small and intimate business meeting and social events with a banquet space measuring 2200 sq ft and a pre function area with abundant daylight and inspiring design. Additionally, Aurora the poolside deck measuring 1000 sq ft and an outdoor lawn Shanti measuring 2600 sq. ft allows for intimate cocktail evenings and open-air celebrations in the benevolent climate of Bengaluru.

“We’re thrilled to welcome guests to Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort. Its true Indie spirit, vibrant social spaces and thoughtful experiences will help create meaningful connections for the bold and intrepid traveller seeking to connect with the true spirit of the destination” said -Devidyuti Ghosh, Hotel Manager – Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort

About Tribute Portfolio

Tribute Portfolio is a growing global family of characterful, independent Resorts drawn together by their passion for captivating design and their drive to create vibrant social scenes for guests and locals alike. With more than 80 Resorts open around the world, Tribute Portfolio has struck a chord with those who seek out independent experiences and crave a connection with the community when traveling. From boutique s like Ermita in Cartagena and urban Resorts such as The Vagabond Club in Singapore; to Resorts in indie-spirited locales like Bellyard in Atlanta and Resort Riomar in Ibiza, each Tribute Portfolio Resort celebrates its individuality, offering travelers a fresh, often colorful, perspective.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. Members can earn points for stays at Resorts and s, including all-inclusive s and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Prestige Group

Prestige Group, one of the leading real estate developers in the country, has a legacy of over three decades in real estate development. It was founded in 1986 by CMD Irfan Razack when he partnered with his brother, Rezwan to establish what is today a truly diversified and fast-growing business conglomerate. Known for his visionary leadership, foresight and sharp business acumen, Irfan Razack is today a familiar face in the Indian industry. Prestige Group has diversified business models across the Residential, Office, Retail, and Hospitality segments with operations in 12 key locations in India. As of 31st December 2022, the Group has completed 278 projects with developable area of 165 mn sft and has 55 ongoing projects across segments, with total developable area of 75 mn sft. Further it has 93 mn sft under planning. The company has been graded CRISIL DA1 by CRISIL and also enjoys credit rating of ICRA A+. In October 2010, the Prestige Group also successfully entered the Capital Market with an Initial Public Offering of Rs 1200cr. The Group registered a sales of INR 103,820 Mn  during FY 22, while the Market Capital as on 31st December 2022 is INR 180,000 Mn

Tyresnmore Revolutionizes Tyre Buying Experience With Doorstep Fitment In New Ad Campaign

Tyresnmore, an invested company of the CEAT group, is excited to announce the launch of their new ad campaign, "Tyresnmore - Right at your Door!" The campaign aims to address the common pain points that customers face when buying tyres and showcase how Tyresnmore is the perfect solution with their doorstep fitment service.

Tyre purchases can often be a time-consuming and overwhelming process for customers, with numerous brands, price points, and service options to choose from. Tyresnmore aims to simplify this process and become the go-to brand for customers' tyre, battery, and alloy changing needs now and in the future all with the click of a button right at their doorstep.

Mr. Rajeshwar Wadhera, Chief Executive Officer  - Tyresnmore said, "We are thrilled to launch our new ad campaign, 'Tyresnmore - Right at your Door!' With these ads, we aim to increase awareness about Tyresnmore and highlight our convenient and hassle-free concept for doorstep fitment. We want to be the go-to brand for customers when it comes to buying wide range of tyres, batteries, and alloy wheels changing needs, providing them with a seamless and enjoyable experience all at the comfort and safety of their home."

Mr. Ashish Tambe, Executive Creative Director- Kinnect   said, "It was important that the visuals captured Tyresnmore's vision to transform the tyre buying experience for customers while showcasing their commitment to convenience, expertise, and customer-centricity. The ad campaign was crafted to showcase the essence of Tyresnmore's innovative doorstep fitment service. We believe that these ad films will resonate with customers, showcasing the convenience and expertise that Tyresnmore brings to the table. We are confident that the campaign will drive awareness, engagement, and ultimately, customer satisfaction."

The ad films feature two friends, one smart and the other meek, who encounter typical situations where they need to change their tyres. In the first film set in an office, the meek guy struggles to find a tyre shop that meets all his requirements. His friend suggests calling Tyresnmore for expert advice and scheduling an appointment. The ad showcases Tyresnmore's van arriving at the customer's doorstep as per the scheduled appointment time and completing the fitment process within 45 minutes, including tyre removal, changing, wheel balancing, and alignment, leaving the customer pleasantly surprised and happy.

In the second film, set in a gym, the smart guy suggests to the meek guy that he can get his tyres changed at home without taking leave from work, by simply calling Tyresnmore. The ad follows a similar storyline, showcasing the convenience and efficiency of Tyresnmore's doorstep fitment service.

The ad films can be viewed on Tyresnmore's social media channels. Customers can also visit the website www.tyresnmore.com or call Tyresnmore's customer service helpline (+91- 92 1275 1275 to schedule an appointment or get expert advice on their tyres, batteries & alloy wheels requirements.

Ad film links:

Ad-film 01: - https://youtu.be/jQUAo0PuI1Y

Ad-film 02: https://youtu.be/yuG94QveX6c

New Zealand Education Week Commits Investment Worth NZ$ 400,000 As Part Of The India Strategy

Education ties between New Zealand and India are set to strengthen following one of Education New Zealand’s biggest events of the year, the India-New Zealand Education Week. Starting on 17th April 2023, this week will encourage a dialogue on research while fostering innovation culture exchange and cooperation in the context of international education. The week-long activities included a series of engagements between New Zealand and Indian institutions and academics.

Demonstrating New Zealand’s overall commitment to India, New Zealand has announced an investment of NZ$ 400K towards internationalisation and student mobility initiatives. These include further engagement with the New Zealand Centre at IIT Delhi to include fellowship grants and the re-launch of the partial scholarships under the New Zealand Excellence Awards.

The New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) is a unique scholarship scheme designed exclusively for Indian students. The awards are jointly funded by Education New Zealand and all eight New Zealand universities. Since the launch of the scholarship in 2016, it has supported over 200 Indian students to pursue their overseas study at world class universities in New Zealand.

Speaking at the event, Education New Zealand’s Chief Executive, Grant McPherson said, “New Zealand’s education system is future focussed and multicultural, offering students an opportunity to earn work ready degrees.”

“India is one of New Zealand’s priority partner countries for collaborations, exchanges and student mobility. We are excited that today’s announcements around the New Zealand Centre and the launch of the New Zealand Excellence Award scholarships demonstrate our commitment to India as an education partner.” Added Mr McPherson.

Adding to this, IIT Delhi spokesperson, Prof. James Gomes, Dean International added, “The New Zealand Centre embodies IIT Delhi’s efforts to embrace internationalisation, providing opportunities for new research collaboration and global exposure for our students. The first round of jointly funded Research Collaboration, awarded in 2022, has helped foster collaborative, sustainable and self-supporting research programmes.”

“Today’s Memorandum of Understanding has further enhanced the partnership and cooperation in research, teaching and fellowships between India and New Zealand and provides an opportunity to explore other innovative ventures,” added Prof. Gomes.

The announcements were made at a media roundtable session hosted at the New Zealand High Commission in the presence of: HE. David Pine, New Zealand High Commissioner to India, Grant McPherson, Chief Executive, Education New Zealand; Prof. Alister Jones, Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Waikato, and Dr. Erik Lithander, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Strategic Engagement University of Auckland.

The India-New Zealand Education week has senior level attendance from all 8 universities from New Zealand and focusses on high level engagement between New Zealand universities and Indian institutions and partners.

The visiting senior delegates and academics from New Zealand universities include:

Guy Littlefair, Pro Vice Chancellor, Auckland University of Technology

Annie Goh, International Director, Lincoln University

Christopher Gan, Head of Department Financial & Business System, Lincoln University

Christopher Carey, Executive Director Global Engagement, Massey University

Gaurab Sen Gupta, Deputy HOD Food & Advanced Technology, Massey University

Erik Lithander, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Strategic Engagement University of Auckland

Alister Jones, Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Waikato

Graham Wise, Director of International Development, University of Canterbury

Anthony Ballantyne, Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Otago

Blair McRae, Deputy Vice Chancellor Victoria University of Wellington

Vasso Koutsos, Deputy Director International Marketing & Recruitment University of Auckland

All the New Zealand universities have India based/responsible staff, who are also accompanying the delegation during the NZ-India week, these include:

Fatima Sayed-Naqvi, Recruitment Manager Auckland University of Technology

Linda Oostenrijk, Recruitment Manager, Massey University

Ashish Suri, Recruitment Manager, University of Waikato

Mohammed Hussain, University of Canterbury

Victoria McEniery, Otago University

Ankit Mehta, Victoria University of Wellington

About Education New Zealand (ENZ) https://www.enz.govt.nz/

Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency responsible for taking New Zealand’s education experiences to the world. ENZ promotes a New Zealand education as one that teaches students to be critical thinkers, problem solvers and lifelong learners, which will help them succeed in their future careers and create a positive impact on the world. In 2019, New Zealand’s education system was ranked first among English-speaking countries and third in the world for delivering a future-focused education (out of 50 economies) by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

With approximately 100 staff in 18 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector, including schools, English language providers, Private Training Establishments, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics, universities, and internationally with NZ Inc agencies, Government agencies and education providers to encourage sustainable growth and identify opportunities. 

XUV400 – Mahindra’s First e-SUV Is Truly Sustainable In Indian Market

~Manufactured with 100% Renewable Energy & in a Water Positive set-up~

~Company progresses towards sustainability goals to be carbon neutral by 2040~

In the beginning of its journey, the XUV400, Mahindra & Mahindra’s (M&M) first electric SUV, has crossed a very significant environmental milestone. The all-new e-SUV is produced in a 100% water-positive facility in Nashik, Maharashtra, using only renewable energy.

The energy saved in the making of these vehicles can illuminate more than 1000 homes for a year and is equivalent to planting of 1 lakh trees. The water positive manufacturing set-up saves more than 20,000 kilolitres of water and can provide water for 100 homes in a year.

Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Division, M&M Ltd. says, “Manufacturing an environment friendly vehicle is just one step of a modern automotive company's climate action journey; a more holistic approach is to manufacture that planet-friendly vehicle in the most sustainable manner possible and we’ve managed to do that with our XUV400.”

The XUV400 is already the fastest booked electric SUV in India which saw 15000 bookings in just 3 days. Mahindra also announced that by 2027, between 20 to 30 percent of its passenger vehicles will be Electric.

·         Mahindra group is entirely water positive

·         M&M is also the first Indian ‘automobile & components’ company to be included in the world index of Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) for the 2nd consecutive year in 2022.

·         It is also the first Indian organisation to sign EP100 and adopt a carbon pricing model.

·         Mahindra Ag North America’s (MAgNA) Houston facilities switched to 100% renewable energy recently.

·         M&M is featured in CDP ‘A’ list for climate & water for the years 2020 and 2021.

About Mahindra

Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260,000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India and is the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate.   

The Mahindra Group has a clear focus on leading ESG globally, enabling rural prosperity and enhancing urban living, with a goal to drive positive change in the lives of communities and stakeholders to enable them to Rise. 

Learn more about Mahindra on www.mahindra.com / Twitter and Facebook: @MahindraRise/ For updates subscribe to https://www.mahindra.com/newsroom

Finolex Cables “Expansion Plans To Meet Growing Demand For Solar, Automotive, And Construction Sectors”

Finolex Cables Ltd, India's leading manufacturer of Electrical and Telecommunication Cables, has announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing capabilities. The company has been a trusted name in the industry since its inception in 1956, starting with the manufacture of PVC insulated electrical cables for the automobile industry.  

The company has allocated a capex of 200 crore over the next few months for enhancing its manufacturing capabilities at Urse, Pune. This capex is directed towards enhancing production capabilities to meet the requirements of the Solar Power Industry and the Automotive Industry, bringing in-house certain value additions which were outsourced earlier and further expansion of the Optic Fiber line. 

The expansion plans of Finolex are aimed at meeting the growing demand for solar cables, automotive cables, and optic fiber cables. The company has procured specialized radiation technology equipment to set up a manufacturing plant at Urse to produce solar cables using controlled electron e-beam technology. This will enable the company to produce high-quality solar cables and add value to the solar power industry. 

The company has established its reputation as an innovative leader and quality manufacturer by continuously upgrading technology, modernizing manufacturing facilities and maintaining the highest standards of quality and services. Every cable is manufactured with the latest state-of-the-art machines using bright annealed electrolytic grade copper of 99.97% pure manufactured in-house and is insulated with virgin grade PVC, also formulated in-house. In a move towards backward integration, the company has set up a Copper Rod manufacturing facility at Goa and in-house PVC compound manufacturing facilities at Urse, Pimpri, and Roorkee plants for self-sufficiency and qualitative control. 

The construction sector, which accounts for 60% of its electrical wires and cables revenue, is another focus area for Finolex. The company has recently added additional machinery at its Goa plant to meet demand for its PVC conduits. This will enable Finolex to establish business relationships with project developers and offer a comprehensive range of wires, MCBs, switches, lighting, etc. 

Finolex has been at the forefront of introducing innovative products to the market. As the first company in India to introduce Flame Retardant Low Smoke (FR-LSH) electrical wires, the company has been recommending its usage for concealed and conduit wiring. The FR-LSH wires emit very little smoke and toxic gases and retard the spread of fire, making them ideal for safety-conscious consumers. 

The process of urbanization along with investments in the power sector has resulted in a large demand for High Voltage (HV)/ Extra High Voltage (EHV) Power cables. Finolex's J Power Systems manufacturing facility is well-equipped to produce EHV XLPE (Extra High Voltage Cross Linked Poly Ethylene) Insulated Power Cables as it is the only plant in India to have a 121 mtr long vertical column. The company has been able to make entry to most of the utilities pan India be it state utilities or private utilities. Finolex has also been successful in exporting EHV cables to countries like Indonesia, Myanmar, Kuwait, etc., helping meet the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar initiative. 

With a focus on expanding into adjacent categories, the company has identified untapped markets in Tier 2 and 3 towns and plans to increase its penetration by adding 50,000 retailers over the next three months to bring the retailer count to 200,000 by March 2023. Additionally, Finolex has launched an affordable wire range to meet the needs of this audience. 

In response to changing consumer preferences, Finolex has been expanding its product range to include adjacent categories while maintaining its focus on selling only high-quality 'A' grade products. Its existing retail channels now include Fans, Water Heaters, Switches, Switchgear, Lighting, and Room Heaters, achieving healthy double-digit growth. 

Last year, the company launched  a range of room heaters. The room heaters come in six high-performance, stylishly designed variants with features such as oil-filled, quartz tube, fan blower, convector, and halogen. Recognizing that consumers are seeking practical and energy-efficient appliances, Finolex has just entered the small home appliances segment with the launch of a range of steam and dry irons. The company is also planning to enter the smart switches and smart door lock categories. 

To keep up with its growth strategy, Finolex is focused on setting up a robust two-tier distribution model to ensure its products are available on the store shelves of many more retail outlets across the country. Its ambitious plan is to enhance retail outreach to 200,000 retailers by the end of the financial year, which will drive the conversion of the large unorganized market to the branded universe of quality products that offer better performance and higher service levels. 

The company is committed to maintaining its strategic edge through ongoing investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and innovative product development. The company's expansion plans demonstrate its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its customers and contributing to the growth of the Indian economy. 

TKM Exchanges MoU With Automotive Skills Development Council For On-Job -Skill Development Program ‘SHIKSHA’ In Uttar Pradesh

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today exchanged the Memorandum Understanding (MoU) with the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) to launch Toyota community program through ‘SHIKSHA’, an on-the-job skill development training (OJT) program aligned with Skill India Mission. This initiative is a unique program which is a first in Uttar Pradesh and first in India, will not only help in providing employment opportunities to the youth of the country by imparting industry-relevant training focused on advanced technologies but also to ensure the availability Toyota trained manpower to meet industry requirements.

Under this partnership, TKM and ASDC will offer a 100-days OJT based skill development program which will provide selected students (diploma / graduates) with knowledge on Sales and Marketing skills, Product knowledge, Road safety and Environment. This initiative in the first year aims to covers 200 students and will see the setting up of xEV corners (electrified technologies ) focusing on self-charging hybrid electric vehicle technology at identified ASDC centres in Uttar Pradesh which will further amplify and create awareness on the electrification and advanced technologies to government as well as at rural locations upto tehsil level.

The inauguration event was graced by Dr. M. K Shanmuga Sundaram, Principal Secretary, Vocational Education & Skill Development Department along with Mr Andra Vamsi, Mission Director, Government of Uttar Pradesh in the presence of Mr V Wiseline Sigamani, General Manager, Mr Narender Kukreti, Deputy General Manager, TKM and Mr Arindam Lahiri, CEO-ASDC and other senior officials.

Speaking on the initiative Dr. M. K Shanmuga Sundaram, Principal Secretary, Vocational Education & Skill Development Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh said “This initiative by Toyota Kirloskar Motor and their dealer partners, along with ASDC, to establish 12 skill development centres across rural markets with a vision to train 200 rural youths, and make them employable, is aligned with the Government of Uttar Pradesh’s Skill India mission. We are committed to encourage and collaborate with industry partners like Toyota Kirloskar Motor to contribute towards upskilling of youth thereby enhancing employment opportunities for better livelihood.”

Expressing his views on the occasion, Mr Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President,  Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We are continuously evolving, and adapting to the changing needs and dynamics of the automobile Industry. We aspire to create a pool of advanced and qualified workforce to overcome the dearth of skilled manpower through continuous upgradation of knowledge and skill with special focus on rural students. The Toyota SHIKSHA Program in collaboration with ASDC is an important step in that direction to further strengthen and nurture rural talent and make them industry ready and employable.”

On this occasion, Mr Arindam Lahiri, CEO-ASDC said “Toyota Kirloskar Motor is always leading by example with a focus on student’s skill enhancement and making youth employable. Through this collaboration, ASDC training partners and students will get an opportunity to understand Toyota's values, safety, and advanced technologies. This collaboration would not only benefit students but also the entire industry and thereby, contributing towards Skill India. “

On this occasion, Mr V Wiseline Sigamani, General Manager, Strategic Business unit, TKM said “Toyota is known for Quality, Durability and Reliability and always strives towards providing heart touching guest experience. Towards this endeavour, it is very important that we have highly skilled manpower who are trained in the latest technologies and on hospitality etiquettes, thereby helping enhance their capabilities and making them industry ready.”

Toyota Community program through ‘SHIKSHA’ will be implemented through select ASDC training partners and Toyota dealers across the state of Uttar Pradesh. The selected students who are diploma or graduates or ITI  will receive 100 days training which include 2 days at the ASDC partner location, 8 days at the Toyota dealership and 90 days OJT training at the student’s tehsil location. This initiative is a significant step towards the company's goal of contributing to the Skill India Mission and demonstrates TKM’s ongoing commitment to address the skills gap by providing training for rural students thereby promoting skill development and enhancing job opportunities.