Friday, April 25, 2025

TKM, Camdir Toyota In Association With Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh Established 68th T-TEP And STAR Scholarship Program


* Hon’ble Minister Nyato Dukam Inaugurates T-TEP: Urged Students To Utilise Facility To The Fullest

Continuing its commitment to the nation’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) in collaboration with the Skill Development & Entrepreneurship department instituted its 68th Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP) and the “Scholarship program for Technical Education and Recognition” [STAR] initiative under T-TEP at Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Roing, Arunachal Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri. Nyato Dukam launched the T-TEP by inaugurating the state-of-the-art automotive training facility and launching the scholarship program today. The initiative aims to equip students, particularly from rural and under-served communities - with job-ready technical skills in the automotive domain. Commissioner Skill Development, Shri. Saugat Biswas; Smti. Soumya Saurabh - Deputy Commissioner, Lower Dibang Valley, Shri. Sibo Passing - Director, SDE, Shri. Ringu Ngupok - Superintendent of Police, Roing, Shri R C Dutta – Principal Government ITI Roing, Country Head and Executive Vice President Shri. Vikram Gulati, Toyota Kirloskar Motor were present on the occasion.

T-TEP is a comprehensive, year-long training program tailored for final-year ITI and diploma students, combining in-depth classroom learning with On-the-Job Training (OJT) at Toyota dealerships. This dual approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure to the latest in automotive service technologies. At ITI Roing, the program will focus on the General Technician Category, specifically catering to students in the Mechanic Motor Vehicle (MMV) and Diesel Mechanic trades.

Complementing this initiative is the STAR Scholarship Program, under T-TEP, introduced by TKM to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing technical education. Eligible students can receive scholarships of up to ?51,000 per year, covering hostel fees, educational expenses, and family support—allowing them to focus on their learning without financial burden.

Established in 1971, Government ITI Roing is the oldest technical institute in Arunachal Pradesh operated under the Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. The partnership with TKM marks a new chapter in its journey toward becoming a hub of high-quality vocational training in the region.

Camdir Toyota, a key partner in this endeavour, shares equal ownership in the T-TEP Roing initiative and is also contributing to the STAR Scholarship Program, reinforcing its commitment to community development and youth empowerment in the region.

Nationally, T-TEP has trained over 13,000 students, with more than 70% successfully placed across the automotive sector. T-TEP Roing’s workshop has been structurally remodelled, along with training aids from conventional engine, automobile components and multiple simulators which includes Toyota’s latest Hybrid technology. The newly inaugurated facility features a fully equipped workshop, modern classrooms, and trained faculty. The first batch includes 20 students, guided by two instructors, with three students selected as STAR Scholars based on academic performance and potential.

Hon’ble Minister Shri. Nyato Dukam on the occasion expressed his appreciation to the department for having partnered with Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Camdir Toyota and bringing the T-TEP Activity to Arunachal Pradesh. “This program brings global standards of training, industry exposure, and career opportunities closer to our students—many of whom come from remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh. The STAR Scholarship program, introduced under T-TEP, further strengthens this support by easing the financial burden on deserving students and enabling them to focus entirely on their learning journey. We believe this initiative will serve as a model for industry-academia partnerships and inspire many more such efforts to uplift skill education across the region. We are thankful to Toyota for their vision and commitment to empowering the youth of the North-East” he added.

While appreciating the speed of execution of the Project by Toyota and Camdir Toyota, Commissioner, Skill Development Shri. Saugat Biswas also highlighted the future plans of the department to expand the program to other ITIs. Biswas further informed that the department is collaborating with various top of the line companies in addition to Toyota such as Tata, L&T, Honda, NHPC to bring in collaboration in skilling and technology partnership for enhancing sustainable employment from Arunachal Pradesh. “We will also send the Principals of the ITIs and senior faculty members of ITIs to Toyota Plant in Bangalore soon for capacity building & exposure” he added.  

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President - Corporate Affairs and Governance - Toyota Kirloskar Motor said “Toyota Kirloskar Motor has long recognised that true progress lies in inclusive growth—where every region, every community, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The launch of the T-TEP facility at ITI Roing marks another meaningful step in that direction. This initiative is not just about automotive skills; it’s about building aspirations, enabling self-reliance, and preparing young minds for a future shaped by innovation and mobility. Through such efforts, we hope to create a lasting impact—one where industry-academia partnerships serve as a foundation for empowering youth, uplifting local economies, and strengthening the skilled workforce that will drive India’s future.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Teli Tada, Dealership Principal of Camdir Toyota said “At Camdir Toyota, we have always believed in the power of education and opportunity to transform communities. The North-East region, and Arunachal Pradesh in particular, is brimming with young talent that often lacks access to industry-relevant training.

Through this initiative, we aim to bridge that gap by nurturing practical skills and opening pathways for meaningful employment. We remain deeply committed to supporting this mission, both through infrastructure and scholarship support, and ensuring the success of every student who walks through the doors of this facility.”

TKM has consistently championed skill development through initiatives like the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) and T-TEP. These programs are designed to bridge the industry-academia gap by delivering practical, future-ready training to young talent, especially from underserved regions. Theses initiative reflects TKM’s ongoing efforts to contribute to the Government of India’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ missions and create a robust, future-ready workforce across the nation.

Funskool Achieves Impressive Turnover In FY25; Crosses Rs 300 Crores


Funskool India Limited, the country’s leading toy manufacturer, has recorded over 20% year-on-year growth for the FY 2024-25. The company’s long-term strategy of strengthening exports and contract manufacturing partnerships with global toy multinationals, while continuing to build a strong domestic brand presence, has proven highly successful. Notably, exports grew by nearly 30% compared to the previous year.

For the current fiscal, Funskool has set an ambitious target of achieving USD 40–45 million in revenue, capitalizing on the shifting global trade landscape and increasing preference for Indian manufacturing. Funskool now contributes close to 20% of India’s total toy exports, with exports to the United States accounting for around 40% of the company’s total outbound shipments.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. K.A. Shabir, CEO, Funskool India Ltd., said: “We are moving in the right direction. With an impressive growth trajectory, Funskool continues to play a vital role in advancing the ‘Make in India’ initiative. We are focused on deepening our partnerships with global toy brands and further positioning ourselves as a quality toy manufacturer in the international supply chain.”

The company doubled its production capacity last year through major expansions at its Ranipet facilities. In line with its aggressive growth plans, further capacity additions are planned across its Goa and Ranipet plants.

In addition to its strong export performance, Funskool has continued to expand its diverse portfolio of homegrown brands—including Giggles, Fundough, Handycrafts, Play&Learn, and its growing range of Games.

Thursday, April 24, 2025

IDEMITSU Honda Racing India Riders Arrive In Thailand For “2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship”


In a strong step towards nurturing homegrown talent and elevating Indian riders onto the global motorsport map, IDEMITSU Honda Racing India has announced its international racing squad for the 2025 season of the “FIM Asia Road Racing Championship” (ARRC). The riders have arrived in Thailand for the first round of the season scheduled this weekend from 25th to 27th April 2025.

The move underlines Honda’s commitment to grooming young Indian riders into world-class athletes while showcasing the brand’s engineering and racing prowess on Asia’s most competitive circuits. As a part of the company’s broader vision to create a pipeline for Indian riders to thrive internationally, this initiative offers young talent the opportunity to race alongside Asia’s best and bring pride to the nation. It also marks Honda’s dedication to building a strong foundation for motorsports in India.

The 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will feature six rounds, starting with the official test and season opener at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand scheduled from 25th to 27th April 2025. The second round will take place in Malaysia from 30th May to 1st June 2025, followed by Japan (Round 3) in July and Indonesia (Round 4) in August. While the venue and timeline for Round 5 is yet to be announced, the season finale will be held in December back at Thailand.

For the 2025 season, IDEMITSU Honda Racing India will be represented by two promising Indian riders in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) class: the 19-year-old Kavin Quintal and 18-year-old Johann Reeves. While Kavin has already participated in the previous season of ARRC, Johann has been announced as a new rider for this season in the championship.

Kavin Samaar Quintal's performance in the 2024 ARRC season has been a testament to his skill and determination. The reigning champion of Honda India Talent Cup 2023, he joined Honda Racing India in 2019 and also represented India in Asia Talent Cup 2022. As we gear up for the 2025 season of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC), Honda Racing India is also thrilled to spotlight Johann Reeves Emmanuel, a promising talent who made waves in the IDEMITSU Honda India Talent Cup (HITC) in 2019. Over the years, his performance improved significantly in domestic racing, highlighting his potential and earning him a coveted spot in the Thailand Talent Cup 2024.

Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Samaar Quintal said, “Having raced in the previous season of the ARRC, I have gained invaluable experience and insights into what it takes to compete at this level. In 2025, I am determined to take all my learnings, sharpen my skills further, and aim for a strong finish in the top 10 rankings. I sincerely thank Honda Racing India for this continued opportunity and their unwavering support in helping me grow as a racer.”

Johann Reeves Emmanuel said, “Being a part of the 2025 ARRC is a huge opportunity for me. It’s not just about racing—it’s about learning, growing, and proving that I can compete with the best in Asia. This will be my very first ARRC season, and I am beyond thrilled to be on this journey. I will give it my all to secure a place in the top 10 rankings, and I am truly grateful to Honda Racing India for believing in me and giving me this platform.”  

Speed Into An Epic Adventure – Meet Sonic The Hedgehog Live At Phoenix Mall Of Asia


Get ready to jump into a whirlwind of fun as one of the most legendary video game icons of all time, Sonic, the star of Sonic the Hedgehog and the official mascot of the Japanese video game company Sega, zooms into the premier Phoenix Mall of Asia, North Bengaluru for a high-energy Meet and Greet on 26th and 27th April 2025. Whether you are a longtime fan or just discovering his world, this is your chance to meet the hero who defined a generation of gaming, and he is bringing the action with him.

Expect a thrilling on-stage performance, followed by personal meet-and-greet moments where kids can interact with Sonic, snap photos, and share a few speedy smiles. The experience extends further with the event featuring interactive zones, from puzzle-solving and creative drawing activities to a vibrant food zone where children can enjoy their favourite treats from a lineup of beloved F&B brands.

Taking place across two venues inside the Mall of Asia — Plaza on 26th April and Fanpark on 27th April, each day is designed to deliver a memorable experience. With shows happening at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM, families can plan their visit for a perfect afternoon or an exciting evening out. Sign up, bring the kids, and dive into the fast-paced world of Sonic for a weekend they would never forget!

Event Details

Sonic Meet and Greet

Date: 26th April 2025

Venue: Plaza, Phoenix Mall of Asia – Bengaluru North

Time: 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM

Date: 27th April 2025

Venue: Fanpark, Second Floor, Phoenix Mall of Asia – Bengaluru North

Time: 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM

Entry: Registration (Free)

Mysuru Real Estate Boom: G Square Alchemy Sold 230 Units For 150 Cr In Record Breaking 56 Hours


~ G Square Launches Phase 2 of Alchemy in Mysuru ~

G Square, South India’s leading real estate developer, has achieved a landmark milestone with its latest offering—G Square Alchemy, located on New Kantharaj Urs 80 Feet Road at the Rajarajeshwari Nagar Extension in Mysuru. Placing their trust in G Square, customers booked 230 out of 264 premium residential plots in Phase 1 within just 56 hours of the launch, with total bookings exceeding ?150 crores.

The Market price of the land at Rajarajeshwari Nagar in Mysuru is Rs 7000 per Sq. feet but the G Square offered the price at Rs 4999 per sq feet has attracted the more response which has led to immediate opening of Phase 2 for sale. G Square Alchemy provides plug-and-play premium residential plots with full MUDA and RERA approvals, ensuring complete legal clarity and hassle-free ownership for homebuyers and investors alike.

Spread across 41 acres, Phase 1 of the project comprises 264 meticulously planned plots, ranging from 838 to 3,875 sq. ft., designed within a fully developed township. Residents will benefit from over 35 world-class amenities, including 24x7 security, blacktop roads, underground drainage, consistent water supply, and a modern sewage treatment facility.

Mr. Bala Ramajeyam, Managing Director, G Square Realtors, said, “The rapid sell-out of G Square Alchemy within 56 hours is a remarkable testament to the confidence customers have in our vision and quality. This shows a clear shift in buyer preference toward well-planned, legally secure, and amenity-rich plotted communities. We are truly grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us. Over 70% of customers of G Square have experienced 100% returns in the past three years.  Most of the people have got their land appreciated during the pre-launch phase and truly began to see strong gains,” added Mr. Bala

Located in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, one of Mysuru’s fastest-growing residential hubs, G Square Alchemy enjoys excellent connectivity to major transit points such as the Mysuru Bus Stand, Railway Station, and Mysuru Airport. The area is well-supported by infrastructure corridors like the Outer Ring Road, New Kantharaj Urs Road, and Bogadi Road.

The region is seeing strong buyer traction from Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Chennai, owing to robust infrastructure development and rapid value appreciation. The soon-to-be-completed Kantharaj Urs Road is expected to further accelerate capital growth.

Mr. Bala Ramajeyam added, “Mysuru is fast becoming a prime investment destination, and G Square is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. Our legacy of over 12 years, delivering more than 100 premium projects across 4,000+ acres to 15,000+ happy customers, positions us as a trusted enabler of urban expansion in South India.”

About G Square:

G Square is a pioneer in South India’s real estate sector, specializing in premium plotted developments that offer exceptional transparency, legal assurance, and customer-first service. With a rapidly expanding presence across key cities, G Square is redefining urban living through innovation, integrity, and excellence. 

Dalmia Bharat Limited Reported Its Consolidated Financial Results For The Quarter And Full Year Ended March 31, 2025


FY25 Highlights

Focus on Profitable Growth

Achieved milestone of 49.5 MTPA for Installed Cement Capacity

Announced Cement capacity expansion of 6 MTPA (mainly for new markets in West India)

Volume improved by 2% YoY to 29.4 MnT

EBITDA declined 9% YoY to Rs 2,407 Cr; EBITDA/T stood at Rs 820

Net Debt to EBITDA stood at 0.3x

One of Lowest Carbon footprint in global cement at 465 kgCO2/Ton of cement

Achieved operational RE capacity (including Group Captives) of 267 MW; share of RE consumption stood at 36.4%

Dalmia Bharat Limited, (BSE: 542216, NSE: DALBHARAT), a leading cement manufacturing company, reported its consolidated financial results for the quarter and full year ended March 31, 2025.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO – Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “The Indian economy continues to demonstrate resilience amidst the ongoing global macroeconomic uncertainty. With strong GDP growth projections supported by higher capex allocation and increased disposable income for the individuals, we remain confident about healthy cement demand in the country.” He further added, “Having successfully achieved our milestone of cement capacity at 49.5 MnT, we have commenced the next phase of expansion with the recently announced capacity addition of 6 MnT catering mainly to new markets in Western India. During the current year, while profitability remained subdued due to soft demand and weak pricing, I am confident to deliver profitable growth going forward on the back of stronger volumes, improved realizations and a consistent focus on cost leadership.”

Mr. Dharmender Tuteja, Chief Financial Officer – Dalmia Bharat Limited, said “Our cement volumes declined by 3% YoY in Q4, primarily due to the discontinuation of JP tolling volumes. However, quality of sales improved driven by a higher share of trade sales and increased contribution from premium products. Revenue from operations declined by 5% YoY to Rs 4,091 Cr, reflecting the continued softness in cement prices. However, our EBITDA grew by 21% YoY to Rs 793 Cr during the quarter due to our continued focus on cost leadership through various initiatives including increase in renewable power capacity.” He further said, “Backed by a robust balance sheet, strong leadership team and optimistic profitability outlook, we are well-positioned to successfully undertake the next phase of our expansion.”

Key updates

Commissioned 2.4 MnT cement capacity in Lanka, Assam and 0.5 MnT of cement capacity in Rohtas, Bihar. This takes company’s overall installed capacity to 49.5 MnT.

Announced strategic investment of ~Rs 3,520 Cr to establish a 3.6 MnTPA clinker unit with a 3 MnTPA grinding unit at existing Belgaum plant, Karnataka coupled with a new 3 MnTPA greenfield split grinding unit in Pune, Maharashtra. The Belgaum GU will cater to the underserved Southern Maharashtra markets while enhancing share in the existing region. On the other hand, Pune GU will entirely cater to the untapped Western Maharashtra markets.

Commissioned 2.2 MW captive solar power plant at Lanka, Assam, while 13 MW is commissioned under the Group Captive agreements, increasing our total operational RE capacity to 267 MW. Total operational renewable capacity, including the group captive, is expected to reach 595 MW by end of FY26.

The Board has recommended a final dividend of Rs 5 per share (250%) of face value of Rs 2 per share for FY2024-25 subject to approval of shareholders in ensuing AGM.

Key Recognitions during the quarter

Dalmia Cement has been recognized with several prestigious national awards, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable operations, workplace safety, and environmental stewardship.

Dalmiapuram Mines secured the First Prize for Sustainable Mining Operations under the Mines Environment & Mineral Conservation (MEMC) Awards, highlighting the company’s leadership in responsible mining practices.

The Lanka Cement Works received a Certificate of Appreciation for Excellence in Safety from the National Safety Council of India, underscoring Dalmia Cement’s dedication to maintaining a safe and secure work

At the FAME National Awards:

Meenakshi Cement Works was honored for Excellence in Safety Culture and Environmental Excellence.

Rohtas Cement Works received the award for Excellence in Occupational Health and Safety.

These achievements underscore Dalmia Cement’s unwavering focus on operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and the health and safety of its workforce across all its sites.

PNB Launches “PNB NIRMAAN 2025”- A Special Retail Loan Campaign To Facilitate Customers


~ A retail loan campaign until 20.06.2025 ~

~ Zero processing fee for Home loan and Car loan ~

Punjab National Bank (PNB), nation’s leading public sector bank, has announced its special edition retail loan campaign, “PNB NIRMAAN 2025”, until June 20, 2025. The campaign is designed to offer diversified financial Retail Products to customers across all PNB branches, as well as through its digital platforms – the PNB One app and official website.

As part of this initiative, PNB is offering exclusive benefits such as zero processing and documentation charges for home and car loans, along with zero NEC, legal, and valuation fees for home loan takeovers exceeding a specified amount.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB, said: “At PNB, we are committed to empowering buyers with tailored financial solutions that simplify their journey to home and car ownership. With ‘PNB NIRMAAN 2025’, we aim to simplify and accelerate the financing journey for our valued customers.”

In addition to these benefits, the campaign also features a 5 basis point (bps) interest rate concession on home, car, and education loans, subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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