Birla Opus Paints Unveils Its 4th Factory At Chamarajnagar, Karnataka

~Birla Opus Paints raises capacity to 866 MLPA, catapults to become the 2nd largest decorative paints player by installed capacity~

Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, today unveiled the fourth plant of Birla Opus Paints, a division of Grasim Industries Ltd., at Chamarajnagar, Mysore. This fully automated, integrated paint plant commenced its commercial production today which raises the company’s manufacturing capacity to 866 MLPA (Million Litres Per Annum) and catapults Birla Opus Paints to become the 2nd largest decorative paints player by installed capacity.

Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group said, “Our paints business speaks to a new India, a confident and aspirational India. Our aspirations embody this spirit of a bold, confident India. The launch of Birla Opus Paints earlier this year marked a pivotal moment in the Indian paints industry as we look to redefine the industry. The business is progressing in line with the plan with an impactful journey so far and is on track to hit the revenue target of Rs.10,000 Cr within the first 3 years of full-scale operations.” He added, “To cater specifically to the growing needs of the southern region, our fourth state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chamarajnagar supports our growth strategy. This new facility will help us provide quality products and services to customers with increased responsiveness, underscoring our unwavering commitment to becoming a leader in the decorative paint industry.”

The Chamarajnagar plant, with a capacity of 230 MLPA, will produce Water based paints, Enamel paints and Wood Finish Paints. The Water based paints will use in-house manufactured advanced Emulsions as key raw material through unique polymer synthesis process helping company offer innovative paint features like multi stain resistance, outstanding dirt resistance, crack bridge-ability and high scrub resistance leaving no furniture marks when consumer paints with Birla Opus luxury products. The Solvent based paints will use inhouse resins with exquisite designer molecules for high corrosion resistance, better durability, faster drying and superior gloss. The plant is fully sustainable with zero liquid discharge and equipped with 4th generation manufacturing technology to manage supply chain at lightning speed, with zero defects and end to end product traceability - a first of its kind feature.

Birla Opus Paints had previously outlined plans to establish six strategically located manufacturing plants with a total capacity of 1,332 MLPA, at an upfront investment of Rs.10,000 Cr. The paints business has already incurred a total capex of Rs. 8,470 Cr. (85% of the total project costs). Currently, four plants are operational, contributing 866 MLPA. Of the remaining two, the Mahad plant near Pune has entered trial production, while the Kharagpur plant near Kolkata is progressing as planned.

Mr. Himanshu Kapania, Director, Aditya Birla Group, said, "Birla Opus Paints continues to make rapid strides as part of its growth journey. With 4 out of our 6 state-of-the-art, fully automated manufacturing plants now operational across Panipat, Ludhiana, Cheyyar and Chamarajnagar, we are well-positioned to meet growing demand by having higher supply capacity. The inauguration of our fourth plant marks a key milestone, reinforcing our commitment to progress."

At the time of launch, Birla Opus Paints had committed to offer the widest product range with 145+ products and 1,200 SKUs across Water based paints, enamel paint, Wood Finishes, Waterproofing and Wallpaper. As of September 2024 end, the company has already placed 129 products out of planned 145+ products with over 900 SKUs. The launch of Chamarajnagar plant will help Birla Opus Paints expand its product portfolio with exclusive products like Indian PU Wood Finish, special factory-made shades of Enamels, besides bringing down logistics cost to serve the market better. The product quality is already receiving excellent feedback from customers and painters as business is recording robust month on month growth.

Mr. Rakshit Hargave, CEO, Birla Opus Paints, said, “Our dedication to cutting-edge R&D, ESG initiatives, and smart factory technology is delivering the best quality of decorative paints in the country with host of differentiated product features for the entire eco system. The opening of our fourth fully automated factory is a reinforcement to our commitment of building a successful paints business in India.”

Birla Opus Paints today also announced the pilot launch of its Franchisee led Painting Services - PaintCraft Partner to supplement its direct painting services.

The company’s confidence on the quality of its products is reflected in the latest advertising campaign ‘Naye Zamane Ka Naya Paint' showcasing innovative features - like no marks scuff resistant paint, excellent dirt pickup technology, high coverage, 10% free paint promotion and warranty on the entire range of products up to 16 years etc after a memorable launch campaign - ‘Duniya Ko Rang Do'.

Birla Opus Paints is now available in over 4,300+ towns pan-India covering all large and mid-size towns in every district of the country and fast spreading across small towns and rural markets.

About Grasim Industries Limited

Grasim Industries Limited, a flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, ranks amongst the top publicly listed companies in India. Incorporated in 1947, it started as a textiles manufacturer in India. Today, it has evolved into a leading diversified player with leadership presence across many sectors. It is a leading global producer of Cellulosic Fibres, Diversified Chemicals, Fashion Yarn and Fabrics producer in India. Implementing next phase of transformational growth journey, the company has entered paints business under the brand name ‘Birla Opus’. Out of the six plants to be set-up for manufacturing decorative paints across pan India locations, three plants commenced operations in Apr’24. Leveraging the Group synergies, Grasim has launched ‘Birla Pivot’, the B2B online marketplace for building materials. Through its subsidiaries, UltraTech Cement, Aditya Birla Capital and Aditya Birla Renewables, it is also India’s prominent cement producer, leading diversified financial services player and clean energy solutions player. At Grasim, there is an endeavour to create sustainable value for 45 ,000+ employees, 2,52,000+ shareholders, society, and customers. The company reported consolidated net revenue of ?1,30,978 Cr. and EBITDA of ?20,837 Cr. in FY 2024.

About Birla Opus Paints:

Birla Opus Paints, housed under Grasim Industries, Aditya Birla Group’s flagship firm, offers Decorative Painting Solutions to consumers in India. Launched in 2024, Birla Opus Paints has a complete portfolio featuring a range of superior products across categories like interiors, exteriors, waterproofing, enamel paints, wood finishes, and wallpapers. With six manufacturing plants spread across India, Birla Opus Paints is well positioned to be amongst the market leaders in the decorative paints category. The brand aims to inspire people to turn their surrounding spaces into their very own masterpiece.

The Third Edition Of Granules Green Heartfulness Run Witnesses More Than 40000 Participants To Raise A Green Cover Of 10000 Plants

The third edition of Granules Green Heartfulness Run organised by Heartfulness in association of Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and Fit India concluded with a huge turn-out of 4200 running at the premises with 40000 runners from around the world joining from 80 different geographical locations. The run which is aimed at raising a green cover will support Forests by Heartfulness with the proceeds from the run helping plant 10,000 saplings. The third edition of the Granules Green Kanha Run meets the target of 25000 saplings with the previous two runs planting 15000 saplings; and to promote both physical health and environmental sustainability while protecting endangered plant species. Additionally, it has objectives of community engagement, spreading Heartfulness practices, and contributing to ecological causes.

The mega run was graced by special guests Ms. Uma Chigurupati – Executive Director, Granules India Ltd; Ms. Deepthi Jeevanji – Bronze Medal in Women’s 400M T20 at Paris Paralympics 2024; Shri Nagapuri Ramesh – Dronacharya Awardee, Chief National Coach, Junior Indian Athletics; Shri Avinash Mohanty IPS, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad, Telangana; Shri N Balram  IRS; Shri Manmeet Singh also known as Green Man of India in the Divine Presence of Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness & President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission.

Ms. Uma Chigurupati – Executive Director, Granules India Ltd. said, “This third edition is meeting the target of 25000 tree plantations. Plantation and fitness are very close to my heart.”

Rev. Daaji -Guide of Heartfulness & President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “We must sensitize all generations of people around the world the practical way of saving mother earth – each one taking the onus on himself to plant trees.”

The Granules Green Heartfulness Run was held across categories of 21K, 10K, 5K and 1.5K run. 21 Km one was 18 years of age or older on the event day; the lower age limit for a 10Km run was 15 years; 8 years or older for a 5 Km run and for 2Km run minors with consent of their parents for participation. The other partners for the marathon included Sports partner Decathlon, Timing Partner - Timing Miles, Marathon Partner - The Nile Mile.; Medical partner Medicover; eblu – e-Bike partner; Hyderabad Runners – community partners; Decathalon – Gifting partner. The marathon aims to promote both physical health and environmental sustainability.

Sugar.Fit Launches ‘Live Again Series’ With Sachin Tendulkar, Bringing To You Untold Stories Of Some Unbelievable Comebacks

* Watch All Episodes – https://www.sugarfit.com/

* The ‘Live Again Series’ is now streaming on https://www.sugarfit.com/ and Sugar.fit’s YouTube Channel.

Sugar.fit, a health-tech startup dedicated to managing and reversing Type 2 Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, launched their new brand campaign, ‘Live Again Series – The Comeback Stories’ with the legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. Hosted by the renowned sports commentator Joy Bhattacharya, this series lets viewers go through the journey of Tendulkar’s most iconic comebacks with some untold anecdotes from Sharjah 1998, Sydney 2004, his tryst with Tennis Elbow and his journey into cricket while drawing inspiration from real stories of resilience and victory over diabetes by Sugar.fit users.

The ‘Live Again’ brand campaign underscores Sugar.fit’s mission of helping individuals regain control of their lives, celebrating resilience, transformation, and triumph. Through this initiative, Sugar.fit aspires to inspire a broader audience to take action against diabetes, a silent pandemic making India the diabetes capital of the world. 

The ‘Live Again Series’ features inspiring tales of individuals who overcame health challenges to make extraordinary comebacks. Real-life stories from Sugar.fit users who reversed Type 2 diabetes through the platform’s comprehensive program demonstrate how targeted interventions, lifestyle modifications, and resilience can rewrite the narrative of living with diabetes. 

Madan Somasundaram and Shivtosh Kumar, Co-founders of Sugar.fit say, “This series represents our core values—resilience, transformation, and empowerment. India’s battle with diabetes is reaching a tipping point, and we believe that every comeback story has the potential to inspire millions facing similar health challenges. Sachin’s journey is a powerful parallel to the stories of our users who have reversed diabetes with Sugar.fit’s comprehensive program. Partnering with him allows us to amplify this message of empowerment, as he embodies perseverance and victory over setbacks.”

Viewers can look forward to engaging episodes that explore Sachin’s untold stories, including his legendary comebacks, while diving into the experiences of Sugar.fit users who have overcome the challenges of Type 2 diabetes. Each episode offers a blend of real insights on resilience, determination and results of a strong mindset.

The ‘Live Again’ campaign signifies a broader vision for Sugar.fit to redefine diabetes management through innovative technology, continuous glucose monitoring, and personalized care. With Sachin Tendulkar as Brand Ambassador and Strategic Investor, Sugar.fit continues to establish itself as a leader in digital health solutions, empowering users to achieve sustainable health outcomes.

About Sugar.fit

Sugar.Fit is an innovative Health-tech startup that seeks to manage and reverse Type 2 diabetes through a highly consumer-centric data-driven digital health experience. Backed by Mass Mutual Ventures, Cure.Fit, Endiya Partners, Tanglin Venture Partners and B Capital, Sugar.Fit uses continuous glucose monitoring technology (CGM), which helps users see real-time impact of various food and lifestyle activities on blood sugar levels of people with diabetes to optimize metabolic health.  

Sugar.fit’s comprehensive program further combines medical experts with deep technology, including coaching, personalized analytics, and integrated devices and testing. Sugar.fit’s founding team includes Madan Somasundaram and Shivtosh Kumar and the core founding team comes with vast experience in building and scaling products at Walmart Labs, Cure.Fit, Dailyhunt, Flipkart, Myntra, Samsung etc.  

For more information on Sugar.fit, visit: https://www.sugarfit.com/

Karnataka Govt To Establish Three Dedicated Global Innovation Districts: CM Siddaramaiah

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday announced that the State government would establish three dedicated global innovation districts in Bengaluru, Mysuru and Belagavi.

"These will be dedicated parks for GCCs (Global Capability Centres) to set up shop here in the state," he said after inaugurating the 27th edition of Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) here.

He noted that the State had recently launched India's first dedicated Global Capability Centres (GCC) policy, aimed at empowering and supporting these centres.

The three-day tech conclave is organised by the State government's Department of Electronics, IT and BT, with Australia being the official country-partner for the event.

The Chief Minister said the Bengaluru Global Innovation District will be part of the Knowledge, Well-being, and Innovation City (KWIN City), which will serve as a global hub for innovation and research.

"Our state is a preferred destination for GCCs, thanks to its unmatched engineering talent and the highest number of AI professionals globally. This will further be strengthened by our initiatives under 'NIPUNA Karnataka' which will be a program designed to create industry-ready workforce," he said.

Talking about the five MoUs signed at the tech summit with Microsoft, Intel, Accenture, IBM and BFSI Consortium, he said: "They are going to skill one lakh individuals in the state of Karnataka."

"Through a cluster-based approach, we are driving balanced regional growth, from Mangaluru's fintech leadership and Hubballi-Dharwad's advancements in EVs (electric vehicles) and drones - to Mysuru being a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) cluster," Siddaramaiah said.

"We are tailoring policies and infrastructure to harness regional strengths and attract investments to emerging clusters also along with our focus on Bengaluru," he said.

Stressing that the government has made significant investments in physical and digital infrastructure to bolster tech-driven sectors, the Chief Minister said, "Initiatives like the 'Namma Grama Namma Raste' program for rural connectivity and the Special Development Program are enhancing accessibility and economic opportunities across Karnataka."

"We believe in extending the benefits of growth beyond the tech sector through programs like ‘Beyond Bengaluru,’ which bring technology to rural areas, increase agricultural productivity, and improve e-education for students and positively impact delivery of all citizen services," he said.

Siddaramaiah noted that Karnataka’s startup ecosystem has seen remarkable growth, with an 18.2 per cent increase from 2022 to 2023, totaling 3,036 startups and making the state a leader with 8.7 per cent of India’s total startups.

"This success reflects our strong support and vibrant opportunities for entrepreneurs. Our collaboration with the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) has connected more than 200 startups with 100 funding firms, providing capital, mentorship, and growth opportunities," he said.

The Chief Minister also said an Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) would be set up in Kochanahalli near Mysuru, which will strengthen Karnataka’s role in the global semiconductor industry, creating jobs and driving economic growth in both urban and rural regions.

According to officials, BTS 2024 is hosting delegations from over 15 countries, including the USA, Australia, the UK and France. These high-level delegations, featuring government officials, industry leaders, and innovators, will enrich the summit with diverse perspectives and collaborative opportunities, they said.

The summit features a multi-stage conference across six tracks: IT, Deep tech and Trends, Biotech and Health Tech, Startup Ecosystem, Global Innovation Alliance, India-USA Tech Conclave, and the newly introduced Electro-Semicon track, officials added.

Inputs from Agencies.

CM Siddaramaiah Inaugurates The 27th Edition Of Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024

The 27th edition of the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024, jointly organised by the Department of Electronics, IT, and BT of the Karnataka government and Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), was inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Palace Grounds here on Tuesday.

The summit witnessed significant international participation from over 15 countries, including Australia, the UK, France, Austria, the European Union, Denmark, Finland, Poland, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Israel, and the US, according to the official statement of the Department of Electronics, IT, and BT, the government of Karnataka. The summit will be held between November 19 to 21.

More than 50 high-level delegations comprising government officials, industry leaders, and startups with diverse perspectives and collaborative opportunities are taking part in the event.

CM Siddaramaiah also inaugurated the tech exhibition at BTS 2024. Accompanied by the ‘BTS Flying Man’ wearing a futuristic jet suit designed by Gravity Industries, he cut the ribbon to mark the commencement of the event.

Sriharsha Majety, CEO and Co-Founder of Swiggy was felicitated by the Karnataka Government's Department of Electronics, IT, and BT for his inspiring contributions and significant achievements.

Texas Instruments India was honoured for its remarkable 40 years of presence in Bengaluru and India. Santosh Kumar, Managing Director of Texas Instruments India, received the award on behalf of the organisation.

The summit, themed 'Tech Unbound', saw participation from key dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Minister for IT, BT, and Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Priyank Kharge, who highlighted the importance of the summit in their addresses.

Dr Anna Christmann, Commissioner for Startups at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, and Alexandra Dublanche, Vice President for Economic Recovery and Development, France, were present alongside Dr E.V. Ramana Reddy, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka were present.

As part of the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, Elets Technomedia and eGov Magazine, in collaboration with the Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and Science and Technology, unveiled a special commemorative edition titled 'Karnataka: Driving India’s Technology and AI Revolution' highlighting the state’s remarkable leadership in advancing Artificial Intelligence and technology across India.

Additionally, the Bengaluru Data Report was launched during the event. The Karnataka government further announced the establishment of a 'Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence' in Bengaluru to promote cutting-edge research and development. This centre is envisioned as a premier accelerator for AI startups in India. It will be spearheaded by the “IIT Alumni Centre Bengaluru” (IITACB) in partnership with the Karnataka government.

Mr. Chris Hodges, U.S. Consul General, Inaugurates Technology Exploration And Product Engineering Centre At GITAM In Bengaluru

Chris Hodges, U.S. Consul General, Chennai, inaugurated the Technology Exploration and Product Engineering (TEPE) Centre at GITAM Bengaluru. This marks his second visit to the campus in 2024, following the February inauguration of the Multidisciplinary Unit of Research on Translational Initiatives (MURTI). During this visit, he also reviewed the progress made by the MURTI Research Centre and suggested possible collaborations. 

The TEPE Centre at GITAM equips engineering students with practical experience in product design, prototyping, and deployment. Students use advanced tools like Laser cutting machines, tabletop machining centers, multiple variants of 3D printing machines, electrical and electronics measuring equipment, Development boards etc to solve interdisciplinary real-world challenges in healthcare, renewable energy, and mobility. The initiative emphasizes interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaboration, frugal engineering, and cost-effective problem-solving, enabling students to develop industry-ready solutions. 

"The concept of Technology Exploration and Product Engineering (TEPE) is particularly significant in today’s highly interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary world. It encourages young freshmen engineering students to consider societal challenges and explore how technology can provide solutions. Initiatives that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications help develop a generation of problem-solvers equipped to tackle critical global issues such as climate change, food security, energy, healthcare, and sustainable development. These efforts also foster international collaboration and innovation, strengthening bonds between nations," said U.S. Consul General Chris Hodges

Prof. K.N.S. Acharya, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Bengaluru, presented GITAM’s recent global collaborations with American universities like Elon University, Penn State University, George Washington University, University of North Carolina Wilmington, SUNY at Buffalo, and Binghamton University. These partnerships include joint research projects, student and faculty exchanges, and credit transfer programs.

“TEPE integrates technical learning with real-world applications. It prepares students to meet the demands of industry and national development while our global collaborations expand access to international research and learning opportunities,” said Prof. Acharya.

The TEPE Centre strengthens efforts to connect education with industry needs, positioning Bengaluru as a hub for applied education and translational research. 

About GITAM

GITAM Deemed to be University, established in 1980, is at the intersection of applied education and translational research, equipping students with industry-relevant skills to solve real-world challenges. Across its campuses in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Visakhapatnam, GITAM offers 120+ multidisciplinary programs that emphasise innovation, collaboration, and practical learning. Initiatives like the TEPE Centre reflect GITAM's commitment to addressing societal needs and advancing India's development goals under Viksit Bharat 2047 and Skill India. 

Learn More: www.gitam.edu 

LG Electronics India Recognized As 'Great Place To Work' For The Second Consecutive Year

LG Electronics India Private Limited (LGEIL) has once again been awarded the prestigious ‘Great Place To Work®’ certification, marking the second consecutive year that LG Electronics India has earned this esteemed recognition.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Their mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their recognition is known for elevating employer brands to attract the right people.

Receiving this certification for the second time is a testament to LG Electronics India’s ongoing efforts to create a healthy workplace environment. Building on the success of last year, LG Electronics India has focused on employee satisfaction by prioritizing values that shape a great place to work—namely, pride in the organization, trust in leadership, and a collaborative, supportive work environment.

Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Hong Ju Jeon, Managing Director, LG Electronics India, said, “We are honored to receive the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row. At LG Electronics India, we firmly believe that our employees are our most valuable asset, and this recognition highlights our commitment to fostering a culture that celebrates collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. This achievement inspires us to continue creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.”

To achieve this certification, LG Electronics India has been assessed on several core dimensions, including trust, respect, pride, fairness, and camaraderie, which together contribute to an enriching employee experience.

Mr. Jwa Nam Kim, Region HR Leader of LG Electronics India, added, “Not only is it an honor to be recognized as a Great Place to Work for two years in a row, but also our scores have improved across all evaluation areas compared to  last  year. We will continue to enhance HR initiatives ensuring LIFE’S GOOD for our people.”

As LG Electronics India celebrates this achievement, the company looks forward to building on this momentum in the years to come, continuing to maintain employee satisfaction and workplace culture.

About LG Electronics India Pvt Ltd               

LG Electronics India Pvt. Ltd. (LG Electronics), a wholly owned subsidiary of LG Electronics, South Korea was established in January 1997 in India. It is one of the most formidable brands in consumer electronics - Home Entertainment, home appliances*, HVAC, IT hardware. In India, LG Electronics has earned a premium brand positioning and is the acknowledged trendsetter for the industry. LGEIL's manufacturing unit at Greater Noida is one of the most eco-friendly units among all LG manufacturing plants in the world. The second Greenfield facility is located at Ranjangaon; Pune has the capacity to manufacture LED TVs, air conditioners, commercial air conditioning systems, washing machines, refrigerators, and monitors.