Home Affairs Delivers On Commitment To Supercharge Tourism As Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) Digital Platform Goes Live

The Department of Home Affairs’ ground-breaking digital platform for the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), goes live for the first time.

This platform will drive increased tourism from the major source markets of India and China by enabling vetted and approved tour operators to submit group applications for large tour groups from these two countries. This addresses a long-standing obstacle to tourism growth, whereby long queues, red tape and the inability to process group applications timeously led to inefficiency in the issuing of visas for tourists from these countries.

To illustrate the scale of the change: before TTOS was created, there were only two South African missions in China, and only two missions in India, to serve the 2.8 billion people living in those two countries who wanted to come as tourists to South Africa. But under the new TTOS digital-first system, tourists from India and China who use approved tour operators will no longer have to visit a mission, will no longer fill in a single form, will not need to stand in a single queue, and will receive their visas digitally within three days.

In 2023, South Africa only received 37 000 tourists from China and only 79 000 from India. By enhancing visa efficiency and security through TTOS, Home Affairs looks forward to enabling much faster tourism growth from these two burgeoning source markets.

The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, said: “The fact that Home Affairs took the TTOS from conceptualisation to implementation in less than six months demonstrates our commitment to embracing digital transformation and to playing our role as an economic enabler to create jobs. Research has shown that for every twelve new tourists attracted by TTOS, we can create one new job in South Africa. This demonstrates the power of Home Affairs’ digital transformation agenda to create jobs.”

Minister Schreiber added: “I want to acknowledge our in-house team of developers who built this system. I also want to thank the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, as well as the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, for their support in rolling out this innovative new system in record time. This shows the power of collaboration through the Government of National Unity as we pursue our apex priority to grow the economy and create jobs.”

Please find the Minister’s speech delivered in Parliament on, 11 February 2025, during the SONA 2025 Debate: https://www.dha.gov.za/images/PDFs/Home_Affairs_walks_the_talk_on_digital_transformation.pdf

MAHE Creates A Landmark In Digital Education By Conducting First Convocation For Online Graduates

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) hosted the very first convocation for online graduates on 8th February celebrating the achievements of 426 students who successfully completed postgraduate programs., including MBA (Master of Business Administration), Master of Science (MSc) in Business Analytics, MSc in Data Science, Post Graduate Certificate (PGCP) in Business Analytics, and PGCP in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, through a fully online learning experience.

Students from 22 different countries around the globe attended online and including South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, attended in person to receive their degrees, highlighting the far-reaching impact of MAHE’s online education programs. MAHE’s Online Education Initiative by partnering with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India helps to make higher education accessible to African Youth. In the first convocation of online education around 204 African students received their degrees under the e-Vidya Bharati Pan-African Scholarship Project.

Reinforcing the credibility of online education, the UGC guidelines affirm, “The online degree is recognized as equivalent to the conventional degrees offered on campuses, and students can apply for all job opportunities and higher education as per their eligibility.” MAHE pioneered its online degree programs in September 2022, envisioning a future where learning transcends geographical boundaries

The event was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. H S Ballal - Pro-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education. The ceremony was graced by distinguished leaders, including Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh - Vice-Chancellor of MAHE, Dr. Narayana Sabhahit - Pro Vice-Chancellor (Technology & Science) MAHE, Dr. Sharath K Rao - Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Dilip G Naik - Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Madhu Veera Raghavan - Pro Vice-Chancellor (MLHS & Head – MAHE Bangalore campus), Dr. Giridhar P  Kini - Registrar, Dr Vinod V Thomas - Registrar, Evaluation, and Dr. Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director - Directorate of Online Education. The event also welcomed the Guest of Honor, Mr. Ambrish Sinha, CEO - of Unext Learning.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The Convocation for online graduates highlights the significant milestone achieved by Manipal Academy of Higher Education in impacting the lives of the students in a better way as well as strengthening and maintaining the bond with international countries. This momentous occasion is not only a defining milestone for our graduates but a significant chapter in MAHE’s legacy, as we embrace the future of education in an evolving world.”

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh VSM, (Retd) Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The initiative by Manipal Academy of Higher Education is shaping the education of students from all over the world. The very First Convocation for Online Graduated held highlights MAHE’s legacy in embracing the future of education. Under the UGC guidelines, MAHE has been pioneering in the field of online education programs ever since its launch in September 2022. The convocation event inspired many by bringing together the working professionals from the industries together.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

MAHE is a trailblazer in academia and research, holding a NAAC A++ rating and the prestigious Institution of Eminence (IoE) recognition. Since 1953, it has been delivering world-class education across various disciplines. Ranked #4 by NIRF, MAHE boasts an illustrious alumni network featuring visionaries like Satya Nadella, Vikas Khanna, and Dr Devi Prasad Shetty.

Equipped with a state-of-the-art Learning Management System (LMS), MAHE offers its online learners an immersive digital education experience, complete with extensive e-learning materials, recorded lectures, webinars, interactive sessions, quizzes, and assignments. Additionally, students enjoy free access to Coursera certifications and comprehensive placement assistance, including skill assessments, resume building, and virtual placement drives.

Currently, MAHE offers seven online degrees and certification programs, catering to a thriving community of over 8,000 learners from around the world—bringing education beyond borders and into the future.

Turkish Technic And Air India Express Expand Partnership Through A New Agreement

Turkish Technic, one of the leading maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies worldwide, has signed an agreement with Air India Express, subsidiary of Air India group, covering their Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 fleet.

The agreement covers the component support and solution needs of 190 Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft, enabling Air India Express to benefit from extensive component services such as component pooling, repair, overhaul, modification, and logistics services of Turkish Technic. Leveraging its extensive global supply chain and technical expertise, Turkish Technic continues to enhance the operational efficiency and fleet reliability of Air India Express’s fleet.

Commenting on the agreement, Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, said: ‘‘We are happy to further strengthen our partnership with Air India Express through a new agreement. The continuation of our cooperation is a testament to our reliability in component support, supply, and solution services. We are confident in our capabilities and global supply chain network to continue enhancing their operational efficiency. We thank Air India Express for choosing us as their trusted solution partner. We are excited to contribute to the elevation of Indian aviation.”

Regarding the continuation of the partnership, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express said: “We are happy to have Turkish Technic as our partner for the component support and solution service for the B737-8 and B737-10 aircraft. The collaboration will further bolster our repairs and maintenance competencies for the airline’s rapidly growing B737 family of aircraft and enhance our reliability and availability of components for aircraft operations.”

Turkish Technic has been a trusted solution partner for Air India Express, providing various maintenance solutions over many years. This agreement further solidifies the mutual trust and collaboration between the two companies and reinforces Air India Express’s dedication to operational efficiency as Turkish Technic ensures uninterrupted, seamless operations for the carrier.

About Turkish Technic

Turkish Technic (IATP: TKT), an association of Turkish Airlines group companies (Istanbul Stock Exchange: THYAO), is one of the world’s leading aviation services providers, where comprehensive maintenance, repair, overhaul, modification, and reconfiguration services are performed with a highly qualified workforce of 11.500 within Istanbul Ataturk Airport, Sabiha Gokcen Airport and Istanbul Airport facilities on two separate continents. Aside from its engineering and maintenance activities, Turkish Technic supports aircraft operators and owners globally with encompassing component pooling, design, certification, and production services. For more information: visit our website or connect with us on Facebook, X, Youtube, Linkedin, and Instagram.

About Air India

Founded by the legendary JRD Tata, Air India is a pioneer of Indian aviation. Since its first flight in 1932, Air India has built an extensive global network that spans 29 countries across five continents, connecting India with major destinations in USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, Australia, and the Middle East. After its homecoming in 2022, from the Government of India to the Tata group, Air India embarked on Vihaan.AI, a five-year transformation journey, with a vision to be a global airline with an Indian heart. The first two phases of this transformation, ‘Taxi’ and ‘Take-off’, were focused on fixing the basics and building foundations for growth. The airline has now entered the ‘Climb’ phase, which will focus on achieving excellence in operations and customer experience. A member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium of leading international airlines, Air India offers seamless connectivity to passengers as a full-service global airline, while its wholly owned subsidiary Air India Express operates as a low-cost airline flying within India and nearby countries.

Government Of Karnataka Honours Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar With ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award

* This award is for his Visionary Leadership and Pioneering Contributions to Industrial Growth at Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet

* TKM also received the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ for excellence in automotive innovation and sustainability.

The Government of Karnataka has posthumously honoured Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar, former Vice Chairman of Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award for his visionary leadership, pioneering contributions, and transformative role in shaping Karnataka’s industrial, economic, and social landscape. The felicitation, presented at the Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet (GIM), acknowledges his lifelong commitment to industrialization, job creation, skill development, and strengthening local supplier ecosystem all of which have significantly contributed to Karnataka’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub. Further solidifying his legacy, Toyota Kirloskar Motor was also honoured with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ in the Automotive Division at the event, recognizing the company’s leadership in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in Karnataka—a testament to the strong foundation laid by Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar.

A passionate technocrat, educated at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar was a stalwart of India’s manufacturing and automotive sectors. He was instrumental in bringing Toyota to Karnataka and establishing Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in Bidadi. Under his leadership, TKM evolved into one of India’s foremost automobile manufacturers, setting new benchmarks in technological excellence, green mobility, skilling initiatives, and sustainable manufacturing. His deep-rooted belief in inclusive growth played a defining role in fostering an industrial ecosystem that balances economic development with environmental responsibility and social impact. As the former President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and former President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), he made immense contributions to the growth of Industry in India.

Beyond industrial growth, Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar was deeply committed to giving back to society. He championed community development and skill-building initiatives, ensuring that industry serves as a catalyst for social progress. His visionary leadership led to the creation of Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI), empowering thousands of young talents, particularly from rural Karnataka, with world-class technical education and employment opportunities. His efforts in local supplier development further strengthened Karnataka’s manufacturing ecosystem, fostering job creation and economic growth.

For over 25 years, Toyota Kirloskar Motor has been a trusted partner in Karnataka’s progress, investing ?16,000 crores, with an additional ?4,000 crores under execution, including the establishment of a third manufacturing plant. Inspired by Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar’s unwavering commitment to nation-building through responsible industry, Toyota remains dedicated to job creation, sustainability, skilling, and empowering local communities, ensuring that his vision continues to shape India’s industrial and economic future.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms. Manasi N. Tata, Vice Chairperson, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and daughter of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar, said, “On behalf of my mother Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar and everyone at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Karnataka for honouring my father with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award and recognizing Toyota Kirloskar Motor with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award.’ This is a deeply emotional and proud moment for us. I am especially grateful that Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar received the award on mine and her behalf, as she has been a pillar of strength and an integral part of my father’s journey. My father dedicated his life to advancing manufacturing excellence, sustainability, and innovation, believing in Karnataka’s immense industrial potential. This recognition reinforces Toyota’s commitment to responsible industrialization and green mobility. We remain dedicated to carrying forward his vision, strengthening Karnataka’s position as a global hub for sustainable manufacturing and technological excellence.”

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Swapnesh R. Maru, Deputy Managing Director - Corporate Planning, Green Field Project, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are truly grateful to the Government of Karnataka for recognizing Toyota Kirloskar Motor with the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award’ and for bestowing the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award upon our late leader, Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar. Over the past 25 years, Karnataka’s progressive policies, robust infrastructure, and skilled workforce have played a pivotal role in our journey, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic and industrial development. Our focus has always been on creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem, empowering local suppliers, and fostering skill development, particularly among rural youth. This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue contributing to Karnataka’s industrial transformation in becoming a global manufacturing hub based on Toyota Production System (TPS) principles and legacy of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar”

Reflecting on the award, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head of State Affairs – Toyota Kirloskar Motor, remarked, “The recognition of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar with the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award is a profound tribute to his lifelong contributions to the industry and society. We are equally honoured that Toyota Kirloskar Motor has received the ‘Sunrise Sector Pioneer Award,’ reinforcing our deep-rooted partnership with Karnataka. The state’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and skill development has empowered us to contribute beyond manufacturing—impacting education, community welfare, and the broader industrial landscape. The strength of Karnataka’s governance, infrastructure, and policy support has made the state a global leader in industrial excellence. As we step into the future, we remain committed to furthering this collaboration, driving economic progress, and strengthening India’s role in the global mobility revolution.”

As Karnataka pays tribute to one of its most distinguished industry leaders, Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar’s vision continues to illuminate the path forward—one where industrial growth is deeply intertwined with sustainability, inclusivity, and technological progress. His contributions will forever remain a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing excellence and Karnataka’s global industrial prominence.

Photo Caption: Mrs. Geetanjali Kirloskar receiving the ‘Industrial Legacy’ Award on behalf of Late Mr. Vikram S. Kirloskar at Invest Karnataka 2025 Global Investors Meet.

Minute Maid Pulpy Orange Unveils ‘Shake It Up’ Campaign With Actors Shraddha Kapoor And Nani

* Campaign Film ft. Shraddha Kapoor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HqGUtLLoJQ

* Campaign Film ft. Nani: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPWBY1wusQ4

Minute Maid, Coca-Cola’s fruit beverage brand, has unveiled its latest campaign, “Shake it Up with Minute Maid Pulpy Orange” curated to resonate with Gen Z and young adults seeking a shift in vibe during everyday dull moments. The campaign reinforces the brand’s commitment to delivering relevance in everyday consumer’s life, while providing real orange juice with real pulp, making every sip more enjoyable & fun.

The campaign features a brand film that brings this idea to life with popular actors, Shraddha Kapoor and Nani. The film transports the actors on a jungle safari adventure where they encounter animals with no activity, leading to lull moments. Adding a humorous twist to the wild, the actors elevate the dullness by shaking the bottle of Minute Maid, transforming the scene into a fun sight.

Ajay Konale, Director - Marketing, Nutrition Category, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said, “Minute Maid is at the forefront of evolving consumer preferences, delivering the goodness of real fruit juice with the differentiation of added real pulp.  With our latest ‘Shake It Up,’ campaign, we are encouraging youngsters to embrace everyday boring moments in today’s fast moving digital era with a sip of Minute Maid pulpy orange juice.

Talking about her association with the brand, Shraddha Kapoor said, “I love how Minute Maid Pulpy Orange shifts the vibe from dull to fun. The campaign is all about finding fun in the unexpected, and I had a blast bringing that to life on screen.”

Actor Nani shared, “Being part of this campaign was a refreshing experience. The idea of shaking things up resonates brilliantly with the youth, and I believe Minute Maid Pulpy Orange is the perfect beverage companion for sipping on something special.”

Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy India, commented, “The idea for the 'Shake It Up' campaign came from a key product ritual. Minute Maid Pulpy Orange is a drink that requires shaking before consumption because of its pulp. That was it. What if the world was shaken up to something that breaks the everyday monotony every single time the bottle is shaken? That’s where the creative idea came from.”

With “Shake It Up with Minute Maid Pulpy Orange”, Coca-Cola India is reaching consumers across multiple platforms through a 360-degree campaign. With an engaging YouTube film, interactive social media activations, and the “Plot Twists with Minute Maid Pulpy Orange” influencer-driven content series, the brand remains a part of consumers’ daily experiences across all touchpoints, TV, digital and social media.

About Coca-Cola India

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda. Premium products constitute Schweppes and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 4 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable agriculture initiatives and carbon emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India launches New “2025 Shine 125”

* ‘Naye India Ki Amazing Shine’

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) announced the launch of the OBD2B-compliant Shine 125, updated with new colour and advanced features to elevate the riding experience of commuters. The prices of “2025 Honda Shine 125” start at Rs. 84,493 (ex-showroom Delhi).  

Introducing the OBD2B Shine 125, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are happy to announce the launch of OBD2B-compliant Shine 125. Since its debut in 2006, the Shine has remained the most loved motorcycle in its segment, earning the trust of millions of Indian customers. Over the years, it has consistently set new standards for performance, comfort, and reliability. We are thrilled to introduce the latest Shine 125 with upgraded features that enhance its practicality and appeal, meeting the aspirations of today’s riders.”

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are delighted to launch the new Shine 125, a motorcycle that continues to set new benchmarks in the 125cc commuter segment. With the latest OBD2B compliant engine and a host of new features like a fully digital instrument cluster, Idling stop system, and USB C-type charging port, the new Shine 125 enhances convenience and practicality for Indian customers. We are confident that Naye India ki Amazing Shine will surely appeal buyers and further strengthen its legacy in the market.”

New Shine 125: Vibrant Design and Hi-tech Features

The design of the Shine 125 retains its elegant and stylish appeal, now complemented by a new colour scheme for a refreshed look. It is offered in six colour options – Pearl Igneous Black, Geny Gray Metallic, Matte Axis Gray Metallic, Rebel Red Metallic, Decent Blue Metallic, and Pearl Siren Blue. Additionally, the motorcycle now gets a 90mm wider rear tyre, enhancing both visual appeal and road stability.

The new Shine 125 now features a Fully Digital instrument cluster, which provides a host of information including real-time mileage, Range (distance to empty), service due indicator, gear position indicator and Eco indicator. Additionally, it comes equipped with a USB Type-C charging port, ensuring convenience for riders to charge their devices on the go.

At the heart of the Shine 125 is a 123.94cc, single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine that is now OBD2B compliant and develops 7.93 kW of power at 7500 RPM and 11 Nm of peak torque at 6000 RPM. It is also equipped with an Idling stop system which enhances fuel efficiency, aligning with Honda’s sustainable philosophy.

New Shine 125: Price and Availability

The prices of the new 2025 Honda Shine 125 start at Rs. 84,493, ex-showroom Delhi. It is offered in two variants, Drum & Disc, and is now available at HMSI dealerships across India.

Epsilon Group To Invest Rs. 15,350 Crores, Signs MoU With Government Of Karnataka

* Investments will focus on manufacturing advanced battery materials, battery R&D and testing in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat vision creating more than 2,000 direct jobs in the state

Epsilon Group, a leading industrial conglomerate driving the global carbon black and advanced battery materials industry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Karnataka (GoK) to invest Rs. 15,350 crores in developing state-of-the-art manufacturing and research facility for EV battery testing & advanced materials. This strategic investment, planned over the next 10 years, will bolster India’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, creating thousands of jobs, and strengthen India’s position as a hub for advanced battery technology.

As part of the MoU, Epsilon Group, along with its subsidiaries Epsilon Advanced Materials and Epsilon CAM Pvt. Ltd. will manufacture sustainable and high-performance Graphite Anode and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Cathode battery materials while Inspire Energy Research Center Pvt. Ltd. will focus on R&D, testing & training for EV battery materials and battery manufacturers. The plan includes an investment of Rs. 9,000 crores to set up a Graphite Anode manufacturing plant, Rs. 6,000 crores for a LFP Cathode manufacturing plant, and Rs. 350 crores for battery materials and battery testing R&D and training center.

This initiative supports Karnataka’s ambition to become India’s energy transition hub, making the state a key destination for battery materials production. Epsilon Group will cater to Indian battery manufacturers, enabling them to access locally produced, high-performance materials to enhance supply chain resilience and support India's growing EV market. The state government will facilitate necessary approvals, incentives, and infrastructure support for Epsilon Group’s projects, in line with its policies to promote industrial development.

To meet the rising demand for EVs in India, Epsilon Group will act as a sustainable and reliable manufacturer of Graphite Anode and LFP Cathode materials, reducing dependence on imports and supporting Indian cell manufacturers in achieving higher Domestic Value Addition (DVA). Epsilon can deliver 100% DVA for anode materials, while cathode materials achieve 60% DVA, significantly enhancing local value creation and supply chain localization.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Handa, Managing Director, Epsilon Group said, “This association marks a significant milestone in India’s transition towards clean energy & EV revolution. Our investment in Karnataka aligns with our vision of making India self-reliant in advanced battery materials and supporting the country’s EV ambitions. We are committed to creating jobs, fostering technology innovation, and promoting sustainable manufacturing to drive economic growth within the state to strengthen the vision of Viksit Bharat.”

Epsilon Group’s Rs. 15,350 crore investment in Karnataka is a crucial step toward reducing India's reliance on Chinese imports and building a localized, self-sufficient battery material ecosystem. By establishing state-of-the-art Graphite Anode and LFP Cathode manufacturing plants, alongside an advanced R&D and testing center, Epsilon is ensuring that India develops indigenous capabilities in battery technology. This investment will secure a sustainable supply of critical battery materials for domestic and international EV manufacturers, strengthen India’s position as a global battery hub, reducing import dependency and enhancing energy security to support the Atmanirbhar Bharat & Viksit Bharat vision, fostering innovation and local employment with over 2,000 direct jobs and attract global OEMs & battery manufacturers looking for reliable, non-China-dependent supply chains.

About Epsilon Group

The Epsilon Group, established in 2010, is a leading industrial conglomerate driving the global carbon black and battery materials industry with a vision to decarbonize economies and support cleaner technologies through its subsidiaries, Epsilon Carbon, Epsilon Advanced Materials and Epsilon CAM Pvt. Ltd.

Epsilon Carbon is India’s 1st backward integrated carbon facility spanning 165-acres in Bellary, Karnataka for carbon black and specialty carbon manufacturing with an annual capacity of 215,000 tons and 320,000 tons respectively. Epsilon Advanced Materials Pvt. Ltd., (EAMPL) established in 2018, is a subsidiary dedicated to developing sustainable and high-performance, sustainable Graphite Anode & LFP Cathode battery materials. The company has successfully commissioned India’s 1st graphite anode material customer qualification plant in Bellary, Karnataka with plans to produce 30,000 tons/annum by 2027 to scale up to 100,000 tons/annum by 2030.  It has made strategic investments globally for manufacturing graphite anode material in USA with 60,000 tons/annum by 2030; and 60,000 tons/annum by 2030 in Finland. Epsilon CAM Pvt. Ltd. forayed into lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) based Cathode Active Material business through a technology center in Germany with plans to manufacture 100,000 tons by 2030.