Introducing Vegan Drink Company: Supporting The Healthy Lifestyles Of This Generation

For the ever-increasing number of people becoming lactose intolerant or adopting veganism as a lifestyle choice, Oxbow Brands is thrilled to announce the launch of its new brand, Vegan Drink Company (VDC). This new venture paves the way for brand expansion through offline channels in modern and general retail, as well as the food service sectors across India.

With this new brand offering, plant-based milk beverage users no longer have to rely on dairy milk with varying fat contents. Instead, they can choose from multiple sources like millets, nuts, fruits, and grains, providing an array of options to replace traditional milk in their daily beverages.

Vegan Drink Company offers dairy-free beverages in five exciting variants to suit all taste palettes and nutritional needs:

1. Almond

2. Oats

3. Millet

4. Soy

5. Coconut

These vegan drinks are made from plant-based proteins, with no added sugar, and feature a delicious, creamy flavor and aroma that elevates the drinking experience.

"We are ecstatic to launch the Vegan Drink Company, our new brand under Oxbow catering to the specific requirements of health and environmentally-conscious consumers today. With this exciting new range of beverages, we aim to support the changing lifestyle of people," said Rahul Johar, Founder & CEO of Oxbow Brands.

The healthy range of drinks is meticulously crafted by Mother Nature to be dairy-free, based on proactive feedback from coffee shops and industry professionals. Consumers opting for these healthy drinks can enjoy on-the-go nutrition, as they are fortified with Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, and Vitamin B12.

The products from the new range will be available to consumers on the brand's official website, Amazon, and leading cafes and retail chains like Barista, Nature’s Basket, Q Mart, Pothy’s, Nilgiris, and Magson stores, with distribution in neighboring countries like Bhutan and Nepal as well.

With the successful launch of the drinks, the VDC team is currently working on ready-to-drink vegan shakes in some lip-smacking flavors, to be launched soon!

**Product Details:**

- Net Quantity & MRP: 180 ML for Rs 60 and 1 Litre from Rs 149 to Rs 260

- Shelf Life: 1 Year

Ashok Leyland Kicks-Off 'M&HCV Expo' Series From July 19-20 At BIEC, Bengaluru

* Showcasing 11 of its Latest Range of Products and Solutions

Ashok Leyland Limited, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, announced the launch of its ‘M&HCV Expo’ from Bengaluru. Starting today, this exciting initiative will highlight Ashok Leyland's state-of-the-art Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (M&HCV) across key locations nationwide. The expos aim to bring the best of Ashok Leyland’s innovations closer to customers and enthusiasts.

The first expo will be in Bengaluru starting today and over the next months will cover 11 major cities across the country including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata among others.

Leading the showcase is the superior AVTR range, India's first modular platform, featuring premier models such as the AVTR 4825 MAV, AVTR 5525 Tractor, and AVTR 4825 HD Tipper—anticipated to be major crowd-pullers. In addition, Ashok Leyland will present the ICV truck model, BOSS 1915, designed for superior comfort and optimized for high-speed, long-distance application. The exhibition will also feature the versatile Oyster i-series buses, tailored for school and staff transportation. In addition to the vehicle displays, there will be interactive stalls featuring Ashok Leyland’s latest Aftermarket and Digital offerings. The highlight of the expos is the innovative alternate energy range of vehicles from the Ashok Leyland stable.

The expos will be a great opportunity for visitors to experience not only the latest vehicles but also the comprehensive services and solutions that Ashok Leyland offers.

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland said, "The ‘M&HCV Expo’ will highlight Ashok Leyland's commitment to innovation and excellence. We are excited to bring our state-of-the-art M&HCV vehicles closer to our customers and showcase our advanced technological capabilities. One of the highlights of the expo is our pioneering alternate energy vehicles, which includes our Battery Electric and LNG trucks. This underscores our commitment to leading India's transition towards a greener, more sustainable future. "

Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, President – M&HCV, Ashok Leyland said, "Our goal with these regional expos is to highlight the robustness and versatility of Ashok Leyland’s M&HCV products. We are confident that our vehicles, coupled with our extensive aftermarket solutions, will demonstrate our dedication to providing comprehensive transportation solutions to our Customers. We look forward to engaging with our Customers and other stakeholders at these expos."

These M&HCV Expos will highlight Ashok Leyland’s state-of-the-art M&HCV products, demonstrate Ashok Leyland’s extensive presence across regions, and establish how ‘No Dream is Too Far’ with Ashok Leyland as it spreads its footprint to every nook and corner of India.

To stay updated on the ‘M&HCV Expos’ and join the conversation, follow Ashok Leyland's social media handles.

Visit the Expo at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) on July 19-20.

Suzuki Motorcycle India Launches Its Best-Selling Scooters – Suzuki Access 125 & Suzuki Burgman Street In Special Festive Colours

Bringing delight to customers ahead of festive season, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, announces the launch of the Suzuki Access 125 and the Suzuki Burgman Street in Special Festive Colours.

The new dual-tone colour combination of Metallic Sonoma Red / Pearl Mirage White for Suzuki’s flagship scooter Access 125 and the new Metallic Matte Black No.2 colour for Suzuki Burgman Street in addition to the existing colour range are set to enhance the festive spirit of customers with its elegant and eye-catching look.

Speaking on the latest offerings, Mr. Kenichi Umeda - Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. said, “The festive season is a special time for our customers, and we wanted to make it even more memorable by introducing special festive colours in our scooters. The Access 125 and Burgman Street have been appreciated by our customers for their performance, comfort, and style. We believe that our customers will find these new colours attractive and will add joy to their riding experience.”

SUZUKI ACCESS 125

The special festive colour of Suzuki Access 125 boasts a stylish dual-tone combination of Metallic Sonoma Red / Pearl Mirage White.

It is powered by an all-Aluminium 4 stroke, single cylinder 124cc BSVI OBD2 compliant engine. This advanced engine with Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) technology offers smooth power delivery, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions without compromising on performance. With 8.7 PS @ 6,750rpm and 10Nm @ 5,500rpm, riders can enjoy a robust and efficient ride.

The Suzuki Access 125 is equipped with a Bluetooth-enabled multi-function digital console with Suzuki Ride Connect, compatible with both iOS and Android offering information like turn-by-turn navigation, ETA updates, call, SMS, and WhatsApp alerts, and even displays the last parked location. This ensures riders stay connected and informed on the go.

The flagship scooter also features an integrated engine start and stop switch with the Suzuki Easy Start System. Safety and convenience are further enhanced with smart & stylish LED Position light, a super bright LED headlamp, a premium chrome external fuel lid with anti-theft locking, and a side stand interlock switch.

Its large under-seat storage capacity of 21.8 Liters can accommodate a full-face helmet and other essentials, making it highly practical for daily use. Additionally, it includes a convenient front pocket with a USB socket for mobile charging.

Other notable features include a larger 12-inch front tyre for superior performance on rough & uneven roads, a front disc brake with a Combined Brake System for better control, and a telescopic suspension for a smoother ride. The sophisticated design is complemented by chrome plating on the muffler and headlamp cover.

SUZUKI BURGMAN STREET

The special Metallic Matte Black No.2 festive colour of Suzuki Burgman Street flaunts a cutting-edge luxury design following Suzuki European style providing the scooter a premium look.

At the heart of Suzuki Burgman Street is an all-aluminium 4 stroke, single cylinder 124cc BSVI OBD2 compliant engine delivering 8.7 PS @ 6,500rpm, 10Nm @ 5,500rpm. Its Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) technology and advanced fuel injection technology boast top-class power, performance, and low fuel consumption.

Combining big scooter design with advanced features, the Suzuki Burgman Street is equipped with an extremely bright LED headlight, position lamp & tail lamp, upwardly design muffler, and a body-mounted windscreen - the first in India to come standard with this feature. Like Access 125, it has a Bluetooth enabled multi-function digital instrument cluster, with Suzuki Ride Connect.

For a superior riding experience, the Burgman Street includes a flexible foot position, long & premium dual-tone seat and telescopic suspension set-up for the front fork. It also includes a large 12-inch front wheel and a front disc brake with Combined Brake System providing superior performance and control on rough or uneven surfaces. The New Dual Convenient Utility Hooks and large 21.5L under-seat storage provide ample space for luggage and helmets. Additional conveniences include a Front Glove Box with USB Socket, a front pocket, and a One Push Central Locking & Unique safety shutter, making every ride smooth and enjoyable.

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING:

The Suzuki Access 125 and Suzuki Burgman Street in their special festive colours are attractively priced at INR. 90,500/- & INR. 98,299/- (ex-showroom Delhi) respectively and are now available at all Suzuki dealerships across India.

ABOUT SUZUKI MOTORCYCLE INDIA PVT LTD (SMIPL)

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited is a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan wherein they have the same manufacturing philosophy of PRODUCTS OF SUPERIOR VALUE right from the inception. SMIPL manufactures two-wheelers best suited for valuable Indian customers.

Dalmia Bharat Limited Reports A Positive "Financial Results For The Quarter Ended June 30, 2024"

Q1 FY25 Highlights

Installed cement capacity on 30th June at 45.6 MnT (Current 46.6 MnT)

Volume increased 6.2% YoY to 7.4 MnT

EBITDA increased 9.2% YoY to Rs. 669 Cr

Renewable Energy consumption increased to 35%[1]

Executed Renewable Power Agreements under Group Captive for 127 MW cumulatively.

Net Debt to EBITDA stood at 0.17x

Dalmia Bharat Limited, (BSE: 542216, NSE: DALBHARAT), a leading cement manufacturing company, reported its consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO – Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “The continuity of the incumbent government at the Centre ensures policy stability and a continued focus on infrastructure spending, which bodes well for cement sector's long-term prospects, particularly cement demand. During the quarter, even though cement demand was weak across regions amidst general elections, our volumes grew 6.2% YoY while margins improved to 18.5% from 16.9% last year.”

Mr. Dharmender Tuteja, Chief Financial Officer – Dalmia Bharat Limited, said “The cement pricing continued to be weak during the quarter, but we saw a notable improvement in margins due to better input prices and reversal of certain cost inefficiencies of the previous quarter. We are progressing well on the long-term levers of margin improvement including investment in brand, renewable energy and operationalizing captive coal mines.” He also said, “We have added 2 MnT of cement capacity in South and are on track to add another 2.9 MnT in North East & East region during FY25. Our strong balance sheet positions us well for the next phase of expansion.”

Key updates

Commissioned 1 MnT cement capacity each at its existing units at Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu and Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh respectively. This takes company’s overall installed capacity to 17 MnT in South and 46.6 MnT in India, and is in line with the long-term growth strategy of increasing the total capacity to 110-130 MnT by the 2031.

In line with the commitment towards RE100 by 2030 & Carbon Negative by 2040, Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, has entered into multiple Renewable Power Agreements under the Group Captive, which will secure 127 MW of renewable power through Solar and Wind energy. The commissioning of these Renewable power plants is expected to be in FY25 & FY26.

Key Recognitions during the quarter

Recognized with CDP Leadership Award (CDP Discloser 2023, Climate) for its commitment to environmental stewardship

Recognized as the Supply Chain Champion for the Northern Region at the ISCM Supply chain rankings of the 2nd India Supply Chain Leaders Senate 2024

Won the Procurement Excellence of the Year at the 2nd Procure Connect Confex & Awards 2024.

Drone Destination And NSIC Sign MOU With NSIC To Launch “Drone Training Programs" At NSIC Technical Services Centres

Drone Destination and the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a state-of-the-art drone training centre. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive training on drone technology, repairs and maintenance, data processing and analysis, remote pilot training and new-age sport drone soccer. The centre will focus on skill development, employment generation, and empowering the drone ecosystem in India.

The collaboration between Drone Destination and NSIC is poised to bring significant advancements in the field of drone technology and AI, and develop a future-ready work force to cater to the growing and diversified demands of skilled manpower in the drone sector, especially in digital agriculture, survey & mapping, mining, asset inspection, surveillance & monitoring, disaster management and many more.   

Mr. Chirag Sharma, CEO, Drone Destination, said, "This partnership with NSIC marks a significant milestone in our mission to democratize drone technology in India. By providing specialized training and skill development programs, we aim to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and expertise needed to harness the full potential of drones. We are launching these technical skill enhancing courses in addition to the Pilot Training Certification course already offered by us in 12 locations across India.  This initiative will ensure availability of skilled and specialised workforce in the growing drone eco-system in India."

Kartikeya Sinha Director, Planning & Marketing, NSIC added, "NSIC is committed to fostering skill development across various sectors, and this MoU with Drone Destination aligns perfectly with our objectives. The establishment of this drone training centre will be a game-changer, particularly for aspiring youth and women in technology. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills, we are paving the way for a more technologically advanced and self-reliant India."

The training programs at the centre will be progressively introduced at all NSIC Technical Skill Centres, ensuring widespread access to cutting-edge drone technology education. This initiative is set to create numerous opportunities for skill development and employment, driving economic growth and innovation in the drone sector.

SWREL Records Growth Streak In Q1 FY25, 78% YoY Revenue Growth, Robust Performance With Order Inflow At ~ INR 2,170 Crore

Key Highlights

~ Order / LOI inflow of INR 2,170 crore from 5 new projects mainly from repeat customers with huge expansion plans

~ YOY revenue growth of 78%

~ 2nd consecutive quarter of positive EBIDTA, PBT and PAT  

~ Healthy gross margin at 11%

~ Reduction in overheads from the previous year

~ Net debt continues to improve at INR 97 crore vis-à-vis INR 116 crore in March 2024

~ Balance sheet continues to strengthen in Q1 FY25 and poised to capitalize on the overall industry growth

Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited (SWREL) (BSE Scrip Code: 542760; NSE Symbol: SWSOLAR), a leading home-grown renewable EPC, announced its results for the first quarter of FY25, which witnessed a continued revenue growth of 78% YoY. The company’s strong commitment to excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction is reaffirmed by a strong order inflow of INR 2,170 crore.

Having witnessed a strong rebound in its revenue in Q4 FY24, SWREL continues its growth trajectory driven by a consistent improvement in financials and overall performance. This is the second consecutive quarter witnessing a positive EBIDTA, PBT and PAT. Post its QIP, the company has regained it’s market standing as the leading solar EPC in India. The financials are also moving in the right direction with net debt improving to INR 97 crore in June 2024 vis-à-vis INR 116 crore in March 2024. SWREL also declared a substantial gross margin at 11%, reinforcing its competent position in the market and continuing to solidify its focused business growth.

Speaking on the quarter results, Mr. Amit Jain, Global CEO, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group shared, “Our results reflect our strong business revival, and robust ordering momentum. We are happy to be selected by some of our esteemed customers for some of their large projects and our teams are well geared to meet the massive growth opportunity ahead of us. With a robust project pipeline and strong balance sheet, we are confident of tapping the huge growth and are well-positioned to continue this upward trajectory and deliver enhanced value to all our stakeholders.”

“Sustainability is the future and solar energy will spearhead this transformation towards a cleaner tomorrow. As the world increasingly embraces solar energy, our team’s dedication to delivering high-quality projects and exceeding customer expectations remains unwavering”, he added. 

About Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited

Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited (SWREL) is a global pure-play, end-to-end renewable engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) solutions provider. The company provides EPC services for utility-scale solar, floating solar and hybrid & energy storage solutions and has a total portfolio of over 19.4 GWp (including projects commissioned and under various stages of construction). SWREL also manages an operation and maintenance (O&M) portfolio of 8.2 GWp solar power projects, including for projects constructed by third parties. Present in 28 countries today, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited has operations in India, South-east Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe, Australia, and the Americas.

Visit us – www.sterlingandwilsonre.com  

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/sterling-and-wilson-renewable-energy/ 

byteXL Secures $5.9M Series A Funding From Kalaari Capital, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation To Boost Student Learning And Employability

byteXL India’s rapidly growing edtech platform focused on revolutionizing engineering education, has secured $5.9 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Kalaari Capital as lead investor, along with the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation. This investment highlights byteXL's mission to provide high-quality, affordable tech skills to engineering students in tier II and tier III cities across India and acknowledges the company's impressive growth over the past four years.

The new capital will be used for team expansion, product development, the introduction of new digital tools and technologies, and outreach to more colleges and universities across the country.

Since its inception, byteXL has partnered with over 26 colleges and universities across India, training more than a lakh student in various software technologies including programming, emerging technologies like cybersecurity, full stack development, cloud technologies etc. These efforts have led to higher placement rates and increased student intake for their partner institutions. Recently, byteXL collaborated with Microsoft to introduce a new B.Tech CSE course in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, designed to meet current industry demands.

Karun Tadepalli, CEO and Co-Founder of byteXL, stated, “At byteXL, we're not just teaching coding; we're shaping futures and driving innovation in tech education across India. This funding will boost our confidence in empowering engineers of tomorrow with cutting-edge skills and technologies and help us bridge the gap between academia and industry at a faster pace.”

Sampath P, Partner at Kalaari Capital, said, “Engineering schools in India and other markets are evolving to maintain high standards of curriculum, pedagogy and industry readiness in technology disciplines that are rapidly evolving. This need, accelerated by rapid progress in AI, is a critical problem to solve to enable students to succeed in the next generation of technology jobs. ByteXL is committed to being a true partner for universities and colleges, with operational expertise, high-quality educators and an interactive digital learning platform. Karun, Charan and team have spent a long time understanding the core needs of each stakeholder involved in the delivery of technology and curriculum and are deeply committed to improving learning outcomes and the quality of tech talent in India. We are excited to partner with them on this mission.”

Sanjay Modi, Senior Director, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation adds “byteXL is transforming the teaching and learning of engineering colleges in India. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, it is set to make a significant impact on the lives of students in tier II and tier III cities. This investment is aligned with our objectives of enhancing quality education and bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands.”