The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) “7th Auto Retail Conclave”

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  “Self-Sustaining Success” at the Core of Transforming Auto Retail for Naya Bharat

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) hosted the “7th edition of the Auto Retail Conclave”, centered around the theme "Self-Sustaining Success: Transforming Auto Retail for Naya Bharat." The Conclave drew an impressive gathering of over 500 delegates from every corner of the country, representing the vibrant auto retail community. Adding to the significance of the event were stalwarts from the automobile industry, influential dealer representatives, and visionary policymakers, including leading thought leaders and think tanks. This year the auto conclave focused on creating a future-ready retail ecosystem, strengthening OEM–dealer partnerships, and charting the roadmap for sustainable growth in India’s mobility landscape. 

The Conclave was inaugurated by our Honourable Chief Guests Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, along with Shri. H.D. Kumaraswamy, Union Minister for Heavy Industries & Steel who joined virtually to address the gathering. Sharing the dais were eminent industry leaders, including Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President – SIAM; Mr. Kartick V. Nagpal, President – Rosmerta Group and Mr. C.S. Vigneshwar, President – FADA. Together, they emphasized the importance of strengthening OEM–dealer synergies, with innovation and customer trust as the key drivers of future growth.

Commending FADA’s ongoing efforts in building a responsible retail automobile ecosystem in the nation, Hon'ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, stated,“The transition of India’s automobile sector towards clean and sustainable mobility is not a one-time effort but a continuous process that evolves year after year. Today, we already have electric buses, cars, and even construction vehicles running on electric and hydrogen power. In the coming years, electric vehicles and diesel / petrol vehicles will stand on equal ground in terms of cost and efficiency. India has a huge market potential not just for domestic adoption but also for exports. To support this, we are focusing on securing critical minerals, scaling semiconductor production, and enabling startups engaged in advanced research. Even through scraping old vehicles, we are recovering rare metals and recycled materials for reuse.

 

He further added, “India is now the world’s 3rd largest automobile market, and within five years, we aim to be No.1. With strong demand, skilled talent, low cost of production and global players expanding in India, the foundation is set. Guided by ethics, economy, and environment, we are driving biofuels, flex fuels, EVs, and hydrogen, while easing taxes to cut imports and boost growth. Green mobility is both a necessity and an opportunity to make India a global automotive leader.”

 

Honourable Minister of Heavy Industries, Mr. H.D. Kumaraswamy, addressed the 7th Auto Conclave saying, “The 7th Auto Retail Conclave is a celebration of the strength and resilience of India’s automobile retail sector, which stands as the backbone of the industry. Dealers are not just sellers, they are the trusted face of mobility for millions of families, offering confidence, service, and reliability at every step. With over 15,000 dealerships and 20,000 outlets employing nearly 50 lakh people, the sector contributes immensely to the economy, generating almost 18 downstream jobs for every role at an OEM plant. This year’s theme, Self-Sustaining Success for Naya Bharat, is timely as the industry embraces AI adoption, digital transformation, and global competition while advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The Ministry of Heavy Industries remains deeply committed to working alongside FADA and all stakeholders to strengthen this ecosystem, ensuring a sustainable, future-ready, and self-reliant automobile retail sector that powers India’s growth journey.” 

Addressing industry stalwarts and esteemed Government dignitaries, Mr. C.S. Vigneshwar, President of FADA, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s 30,000+ dealerships in generating employment for over 5 million people and contributing significantly to the nation’s economy. Mr. Vigneshwar stated, “The 7th Auto Retail Conclave is a tribute to the resilience and contribution of dealers, who form the backbone of the automotive ecosystem. This year’s theme, ‘Self-Sustaining Success for Naya Bharat,’ reflects our collective commitment to building a resilient, progressive, and future-ready industry. Auto retail in India is not confined to vehicle sales, but it also sustains the livelihoods of over 50 lakh people, anchors investments of ₹20 lakh crore, and contributes ₹3 lakh crore annually in taxes. Being three times larger than all organized retail combined, the sector’s growth and stability are closely tied to the nation’s progress. At FADA, our vision is to empower dealerships by moving from dependence to independence, turning challenges into opportunities, and ensuring long-term sustainability. This requires OEMs and dealers to work as true partners. Issues such as excessive inventory, thin margins, high training costs, and business viability must be addressed constructively to foster trust and resilience. 

He further added, “While GST 2.0 is a landmark reform, the withdrawal of Compensation Cess risks straining dealer working capital and weakening festive momentum. A fair transitional framework, along with policy measures such as a Dealer Protection Act, ease of doing business, and EV ecosystem support, is vital. Auto retail is more than commercial is a national mission contributing to Naya Bharat.”

The session also featured the launch of FADA’s CSR Initiative for 2025–26, marked by the unveiling of the Auto Dealer Day Logo, Theme, and Video on providing immediate assistance to road accident victims. A moment of pride came with the felicitation of Padma Shri Dr. Maya Tandon, Founder Chairperson, Sahayata Trust, for her exemplary service to society. 

A key highlight of the Conclave was the Fireside Chat with Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, who shared his vision for the transformation of India’s auto retail sector in line with Naya Bharat. He urged dealers to champion sustainable mobility and road safety, while accelerating the shift towards greener mobility solutions through alternative fuels, electrification, and clean energy adoption. The session was moderated by Mr. Pankaj Doval, National Editor, The Times of India.

The Conclave also featured a series of strategic sessions showcasing the progress and future roadmap of FADA’s key verticals. Mr. Pradeep Agarwal, Treasurer - FADA and Chairman, Two-Wheeler Vertical, outlined initiatives to strengthen the two-wheeler retail ecosystem. Mr. Manish Raj Singhania, Chairman - FADA Academy & Research, reviewed the Academy’s achievements and presented its strategic outlook to nurture leadership within the dealer community. Highlighting youth-driven innovation, Mr. Surya Chordia and Mr. Maneet Singh, Zonal Coordinators - FADA GenX, shared key milestones and the vision for the next phase of GenX. Ms. Rashmi Kale, Chairperson - Women in FADA (WIF), emphasized the growing role of women in the sector and shared her vision for greater inclusivity and representation. Adding an entrepreneurial perspective, Mr. Niraj Singh, Founder & CEO, Spinny, delivered a special address on Driving Trust, Aiding Indian Mobility, highlighting how technology and trust are redefining consumer engagement. The session also witnessed the announcement of the OEM - Dealer Agreement, a landmark step towards institutionalizing fairness and collaboration in OEM - dealer relations.

The Conclave showcased the 5th Dealer Satisfaction Study (DSS’25) for OEMs, presented by Mr. Rahul Sharma, COO & Director, PremonAsia India, alongside Mr. Amar Jatin Sheth, Secretary - FADA. The DSS’25 Power Panel, moderated by Mr. Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor at Autocar India, featured industry leaders including Mr. Ashutosh Varma (Hero MotoCorp), Mr. Jyoti Malhotra (Volvo Car India), Mr. Nalinikanth Gollagunta (M&M Ltd), Mr. Rajesh Kaul (Tata Motors), Mr. Sanjeev Kumar (Ashok Leyland), Mr. Tarun Garg (Hyundai Motor India), Mr. Yogesh Mathur (Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India), and Mr. Bharat Kumar Chordia (Khivraj Automobiles). The discussion highlighted key strengths, opportunities, and best practices in OEM - dealer engagement, emphasizing transparent and growth-oriented partnerships. The session concluded with the presentation of the DSS’25 Awards recognizing OEMs for excellence in dealer satisfaction, the felicitation of event partners, and a Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Amar Jatin Sheth, Secretary - FADA.

Nikon Enters Cinema Space With Nikon ZR, Brings Cinematic Precision To A Compact, All-In-One Body

Equipped with internal 6K RAW, R3D NE*1, cinematic colour workflows, and the world’s first*2 32-bit float audio recording, the Nikon ZR sets a new bar for compact cinema cameras

Nikon India Pvt. Ltd. has officially launched the ZR, a full-frame sensor camera and the smallest model in the Z CINEMA series*3. Developed in collaboration with RED, a subsidiary of Nikon Corporation, RED Digital Cinema, Inc. (hereinafter “RED”), the ZR delivers high-end cinematic videos through its internal 6K RAW recording, RED-curated colour science with R3D NE video codec, and pro-level audio—all in a lightweight body.

*1 A dedicated codec developed for Nikon cameras to record video in R3D format. The file extension is “. R3D".

*2 Among cameras with interchangeable lenses that record audio via the built-in microphone and 3.5-mm stereo mini-pin jack.

*3  As of September 10, 2025, Z CINEMA comprises four products, and aside from the ZR, the other three are sold by RED and its authorised dealers.

Built-in Cinematic Output

Nikon ZR’s nine RED-curated Imaging Recipes that can be previewed in real time

New ZR can support recording in seven video formats, including 12-bit RAW for maximum tonal range and post-production flexibility, 6K/59.94p and 4K/119.88*4p 12-bit RAW recording in REDWideGamutRGB and Log3G10 profiles, marking the first integration of the RED R3D NE codec into a Nikon camera.

The ZR supports LUT monitoring to, biggest in its class, 4.0-inch LCD, allowing easy LUT previews. The ZR also includes real-time waveform, histogram, and multi-colour zebra overlays, and it also offers support for up to ten 65-point*5 LUTs, alongside 17 and 33-point LUTs for accurate preview or baked-in colour. A configurable shutter angle range of 5.6° to 360° allows for true cinematic motion blur, while its deep-learning autofocus system offers up to 9 types of subject detection—including people, dogs, cats, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, trains, airplanes. Face detection is capable of recognising subjects as small as 3% of the frame, providing reliable focus even in wide compositions or fast-moving scenes.

Designed to give filmmakers complete creative control right out of the box— Nikon ZR combines cinematic presets, colour flexibility, and advanced monitoring tools in one streamlined system. Its dedicated Cinematic Video Mode applies standardised shutter angle, frame rate, and colour tone settings for consistent, high-quality output. For stylised looks, users can select from nine RED-curated Imaging Recipes*6, which can be previewed in real time for immediate application.

*4 Image area will be cropped to [DX] format (APS-C size).

*5 With recording at video frame rates of 23.976p, 25p, 29.97p, 50p, and 59.94p.

*6Imaging Recipes must be downloaded from Nikon Imaging Cloud beforehand.

 

Compact Size, No Compromises

Weighing just 540g*7, the ZR is one of the lightest cinema cameras in its class. Engineered for on-the-go filmmaking, its dust-and-drip resistant magnesium alloy body delivers reliability in any setting, from the studio to the great outdoors.

Despite its small set-up, ZR is designed to replace bulky multi-component rigs with the following features:

·         Internal 6K RAW video capture (R3D NE, N-RAW, ProRes RAW HQ)

·         The world’s first in-camera 32-bit float with 3.5mm jack audio recording with OZO Audio*8 support

·         Dual Base ISO for optimised exposure control

·         Direct cloud uploads via Frame.io through NX MobileAir*9

·         Efficient heat dissipation, allowing 2h+ of silent, continuous recording without overheating

*7 Camera body only: approx. 630 g including battery and recording media. 

*8 OZO is a registered trademark of Nokia Technologies Oy.

*9 Software availability varies by market. For more information, please contact your local Nikon service center.

 

Sounds That Matter, Built for Live, Remote and Multi-Cam Workflows

Engineered for modern productions, the ZR offers the connectivity, audio performance, and system versatility demanded by today’s filmmakers—all in a complete, self-contained body.

The ZR’s efficiency in dissipating heat enables silent operation during takes and supports extended recording without the risk of noise interference or mechanical failure, while its Z mount system ensures flexibility with a wide range of native lenses, while also supporting adapted third-party options*11 for specialised needs.

Featuring a comprehensive HDMI and USB-C connectivity, HDMI-CEC*12 tally light compatibility, and ON AIR / PREVIEW indicators, making it an ideal choice for studio-based workflows, multi-camera environments, and even livestreaming.

On the audio front, the ZR includes the world’s first native 32-bit float with 3.5mm jack recording, capturing a wide dynamic range without the risk of clipping, even with just the internal microphone. Its integrated OZO Audio system offers five pickup patterns*13—including voice-isolated and 360° modes—and pairs seamlessly with the optional ME-D10 shotgun microphone for broadcast-quality capture without batteries or XLR inputs.

*11 Certain features may be unavailable when other brands lens adapters are used.

*12 Up to six cameras can be connected.

13 Available when recording with H.264 or H.265 at 59.94p or lower. 

Wireless, Non-Battery-Operated ME-D10 Shotgun Microphone Brings Exceptional Convenience

The ME-D10 is a 32-bit float shotgun microphone compatible with the new digital accessory shoe developed for the ZR. It requires no battery or cable, and the adoption of a shock mount and its compact design make for easy handling.

The microphone offers two recording modes, PURE and FOCUS, which can be selected with a switch on the microphone. PURE features a wide dynamic range and a sound design true to the original source, allowing natural and accurate capture of raw audio, including the ambient atmosphere while FOCUS accurately captures the intended voice, even in noisy surroundings such as those outdoors, ensuring clear audio for product presentations and live streams.

Key Specifications

·         RED R3D NE codec

·         Internal RAW video: 6K/60p (R3D NE, N-RAW, ProRes RAW HQ)

·         Dual base ISO: 800/6400

·         Monitor: 10.16cm (4-inch) vari-angle with a 3070k‑dot resolution

·         Dynamic range: 15+ stops*13

·         The world’s first in-camera 32-bit float , OZO Audio, 3.5mm line input

·         Slow motion: Up to 10x slow motion in Full HD (FHD 239.76p) and presets for 4 x straight-out-of-camera slow motion

·         Cloud-ready: Frame.io integration

·         Monitoring: Waveform, histogram, LUTs

·         Stabilisation: 5-axis IBIS

·         Build: Magnesium alloy, dust-and-drip resistant

·         Weight: 540g

*13 Value based on measurement performed by Nikon.

Z CINEMA launches official Instagram account

In conjunction with the launch of Nikon ZR, users can receive timely updates on new products, upcoming events, and other information of interest to filmmakers and content creators through its Z Cinema Instagram account.

URL: https://www.instagram.com/zcinema_

Price & Availability

The Nikon ZR camera body will be available from 16th October 2025 at INR 186,995/- (Body Only) across India at Nikon outlets.

For more information on the new ZR  and other Nikon products, please visit https://www.nikon.co.in.

RED Digital Cinema, Inc. releases the V-RAPTOR XE

Simultaneously, RED Digital Cinema, Inc., a subsidiary of Nikon Corporation, also announces the release* of the new V-RAPTOR XE digital cinema camera. The newest addition to its acclaimed Z CINEMA camera lineup, this streamlined version of the revolutionary V-RAPTOR [X], curates the essential tools for cinematic storytelling. Designed for independent creators who demand uncompromising image quality, the V-RAPTOR XE delivers large format, cinema-grade features at a more accessible price point. The new camera retains RED’s industry-leading 8K large format (VV) global shutter sensor found in the V-RAPTOR [X] series, ensuring cinematic image fidelity, dynamic range, and low-light performance that filmmakers around the world trust.  Nikon and RED will meet a wide range of needs in film production with an extensive lineup of cinema-oriented products under the Z CINEMA series.

* The V-RAPTOR XE will be available from RED Digital Cinema, Inc. and RED authorised dealers. Visit RED's official website for product details, as well as for information on release dates and sales respectively.

Madhya Pradesh Bags ‘Best State Tourism Board’ Award; Union Minister Shri Shekhawat Confers The Honour

India Travel Awards 2025: Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board felicitated in New Delhi.

Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, conferred the prestigious Best State Tourism Board Award on the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB). The award was presented at the grand India Travel Awards 2025 ceremony held at Le Meridien, New Delhi, on September 9. This national recognition underscores Madhya Pradesh’s leadership in innovation, excellence, and sustainable growth in India’s tourism sector.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments, Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, said that the honour is a symbol of pride for the people and cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state government has resolved to make tourism the driver of development. We are committed to bringing global recognition to the state’s heritage, natural wealth, and folk traditions. This award gives us renewed energy to make tourism not only the identity of the state but also a strong medium for employment generation and self-reliance,” he said.

Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, Religious Trusts and Endowments, and Managing Director of MPTB, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, stated that the award is the result of the team’s collective effort and vision. “Our aim is not only to create new destinations but also to strengthen local economies, empower women, preserve our culture and traditions, protect natural heritage, and advance tourism in the direction of sustainable development. This honour further motivates us to make Madhya Pradesh – the Heart of Incredible India – a unique tourism destination where tradition, nature, and modernity coexist,” he added.

The recognition reflects MPTB’s forward-looking approach and commitment to presenting the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage to the world. The Board has been consistently working to develop eco-tourism circuits, promote community-based homestays, expand adventure and experiential tourism, and build robust hospitality and visitor infrastructure. The ultimate goal remains to provide tourists with a truly world-class travel experience in Madhya Pradesh.

Future Growth Pathway, Dependent On Government, NGO Partnerships To Scale Sustainable Livelihoods

Conference underscores India’s growing role in sustainable trade, with leaders highlighting:

• EU–India partnership to align on climate-resilient and transparent supply chains.

• Fashion and agriculture surge, with Fairtrade apparel sales doubling and farmers pioneering carbon-negative cotton.

• Regulatory shifts, as EU due diligence and traceability rules create both risks and new market opportunities.

• Decarbonisation in textiles, driven by cluster-level action, regenerative farming, and shared infrastructure.

• Future growth pathway, dependent on government, business, and NGO partnerships to scale sustainable livelihoods.

 

The Fairtrade in India Conference 2025 – Sustainability, Markets & Impact concluded in Bengaluru with a clear message: sustainability must be mainstreamed into global trade, and producers must remain central to shaping the future of supply chains. Over two days, more than 250 stakeholders—including producers, policymakers, brands, and Fairtrade leaders—examined pathways to embed fairness, climate resilience, and transparency into global markets. The event was supported by the European Union’s SWITCH-Asia Programme and EC FFPA.

 

Opening the plenary, Franck Viault, Minister Counsellor, EU Delegation to India and Bhutan, underlined the strategic dimension of EU–India cooperation: “The future of trade must be sustainable, inclusive, and fair. Together, we can transform supply chains into engines of resilience, equity, and prosperity—ensuring producers are leaders in shaping sustainable growth.” Lisa Prassack, CEO of Fairtrade International, added that “the true measure of progress is when every farmer can sell 100% of their produce on fair terms. Producers must lead the transition to climate-resilient, fairer global markets.”

 

Industry leaders echoed the call for systemic change. Blaise Desbordes, CEO of Max Havelaar France, highlighted India’s role in building credible, traceable alternatives to exploitative trade, while Claudia Brück, MD, Fairtrade Germany, stressed that “economic success and social responsibility can reinforce one another.” Bindu S, Chairperson, Fairtrade NAPP, reinforced India’s leadership role: “India’s 100,000 Fairtrade farmers and workers are redefining sustainable trade. Fairtrade is not charity—it is justice, dignity, and partnership, and when producers are decision-makers, markets become future-ready and transformative.”

 

Textiles and apparel featured prominently, with a session on decarbonisation showcasing how industry clusters like Tirupur are driving sustainability. Prarthana Bora, Momentum India, said: “Decarbonisation is urgent—collaboration is the only way to make the transition just and equitable.” Farmers brought the ground-level perspective, with Nandakumar Rajagopalan of Chetna Organic noting that regenerative practices such as biochar and tree belts are “the backbone of climate-proof agriculture.”

 

The debate on EU sustainability regulations reflected both opportunity and concern. Jorge Conesa of the FairTrade Advocacy Office pointed out that while compliance increases costs, “producers who adapt can build stronger trust and market advantage.” Franck Viault added that regulations should be seen not as barriers but as pathways to future-ready trade.

 

Fashion brands Being Human and Indian Terrain presented their Fairtrade journeys, underscoring that style and sustainability must go hand-in-hand. Vivek Sandhwar, CEO, Being Human, observed that “Gen Z and Gen Alpha demand both ethics and transparency in fashion,” while Indian Terrain’s CEO, Charath Narasimhan, said Fairtrade must become “the ‘Intel Inside’ of sustainability—a trusted assurance consumers actively seek.”

 

Sustainable livelihoods remained a cross-cutting theme. Shilajit Roy of United Nilgiris Tea Estates shared how premiums are reinvested in healthcare and education, while Krishnendu Chatterjee of Nature Bio Foods argued that India itself must emerge as a Fairtrade market, linking every product to a tangible impact story. Pravakar Meher, Chairman of Fairtrade NAPP, added: “Fairtrade premiums are vital, but not enough. We need business, government, and NGOs to partner in scaling renewable energy, resilient farming, and quality training.”

 

Day Two spotlighted climate action, with producers showcasing innovations from tea to cotton. Indranil Ghosh of Chamong Group outlined investments in LPG, solar, hydro and biochar across tea estates, while Avinash Karmakar of Pratibha Vasudha Jaivik Krishi Kalyan Samiti showed how regenerative practices and non-GM seeds are turning cotton carbon negative. Amit Singh of Nature Bio Foods described climate-smart practices like laser land levelling and carbon sequestration as “win-win solutions for farmers, markets, and the planet.” From Kerala, Sreekumar of Manarcadu Social Service Society highlighted how communities recovering from the 2018 floods are now pioneering biochar, water conservation, and digital farm mapping.

 

The session on producer voices reinforced that Fairtrade’s legitimacy rests on inclusivity. Raghavendra Shastry, NAPP Board Representative, said producer realities must guide policy. Anjali Mittal of Pratibha-Vasudha Jaivik Krishi Kalyan Samiti highlighted women-led enterprises doubling family incomes through bio-inputs, while youth representative Sikander Singh urged Fairtrade to create pathways for agripreneurship: “With skills and support, young people can see farming not as a burden, but as an opportunity.”

 

As the conference closed, Abhishek Jani, CEO, Fairtrade India, summed up: “The future of sustainable sourcing depends on aligning consumer demand with producer empowerment. India is well-placed to lead that transformation.”

 

The conference also marked the launch of Mosegi India Pvt. Ltd. and its Fairtrade-powered brand MOSEGI—a slow fashion label blending Indian weaves, Fairtrade cotton, and solar-powered production with an 82% women-led workforce.

 

The two-day dialogue reaffirmed that Fairtrade is not just a certification system but a movement—anchored in justice, partnership, and climate resilience—driving a fairer model of global trade.