Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Vacation-Ready Styles: The Latest Spring Watch Launches You’ll Love

Vacation-Ready Styles from Your Favourite Watch Brands

-The Latest Spring Watch Launches from Fossil, Armani Exchange, Michael Kors & More

This vacation season, new launches from your favourite brands like Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, Michael Kors, Fossil and Diesel bring their latest Spring collections featuring versatile silhouettes, refreshing colour palettes and statement-making designs. From elegant metallic finishes and soft seasonal tones to bold dials and everyday classics, these timepieces are designed to elevate both getaway wardrobes and effortless everyday style.

FOR HER

Emporio Armani AR11761

For Spring, Emporio Armani introduces the AR11761, a 37mm timepiece that blends natural beauty with refined design. Its malachite semi-precious stone dial creates a striking visual contrast against a gold-tone stainless steel bracelet, while a fluted bezel adds texture and depth. Featuring a three-hand date movement at 6 o’clock, this elegant watch brings effortless sophistication and a fresh pop of color to spring wardrobes.

Armani Exchange AX4406

The Armani Exchange AX4406 features a sleek silver and gold two-tone stainless steel bracelet and coordinating round case, creating a layered metallic look. Its silver sunray dial with gold-tone accents and a minimalist two-hand design makes it a versatile, everyday accessory. Perfect for spring, it adds a subtle sparkle and effortless sophistication to bright, seasonal outfits.

Michael Kors MK4999

A fresh take on the classic Michael Kors Essex tank, reimagined in a chic two-tone design with a five-link half-moon bracelet. Polished yet playful, it adds effortless elegance to everyday looks. Finished with a crisp white dial, this timepiece is a subtle statement of timeless style.

Fossil ES5362

The Fossil Harlow ES5362 is inspired by a classic archival design, bringing the sophistication of the past into a modern setting. This intricate watch features a polished multi-tone stainless steel five-link bracelet paired with a distinctive octagonal-shaped case. The textured cream dial adds subtle character, while the three-hand movement ensures reliable everyday timekeeping, creating a piece that feels timeless yet.

Emporio Armani AR60095

Emporio Armani reintroduces the open skeleton automatic for Spring 2026 with the AR60095, featuring a 43mm stainless steel case, Roman numeral indexes, and a seven-link bracelet that highlights its automatic movement through a refined open dial. This timepiece features an open skeleton automatic movement and a silver sunray dial covered by an amber crystal. The polished stainless steel bracelet, Roman numeral dial and applied branding details create a truly elevated presentation for everyday wear.

Armani Exchange AX4297

The Armani Exchange Sync now debuts with an automatic multifunction movement, featuring an openwork dial that reveals the intricate mechanics beneath, paired with a sleek black strap. The AX4297 Automatic watch adds a touch of modern sophistication to your spring wardrobe. With its 44mm round case, silver dial, and black leather strap, it blends timeless elegance with everyday style, sleek, versatile, and effortlessly polished for any look.

Diesel DZ4705

Diesel’s Stinger watch features a black and blue gradient sunray dial, chronograph movement, and a blue stainless steel bracelet, bringing dynamic colour play to a clean, modern silhouette. Designed for those who thrive on contrast and confidence, the tonal shift adds energy to everyday spring styling.

Michael Kors MK9252

The Michael Kors Prescott stands out with its refined octagonal case and sleek monochromatic design. Featuring a chronograph movement and linear bracelet, it strikes the perfect balance between strength and sophistication. Finished in all black, this timepiece moves effortlessly from boardroom to after-hours.

Fossil FS6154

The Everett Chronograph FS6154 reflects the fresh spirit of spring with its light blue sunray dial set in a 44 mm stainless steel case. Powered by a Japanese chronograph quartz movement for reliable timekeeping, it is paired with a stainless steel bracelet that offers a clean, versatile finish - perfect for the season’s easy, everyday style.

University Of Galway & Presidency University Explore Global Academic Collaboration Opportunities In Bangalore

University of Galway and Presidency University, Bengaluru held strategic talks at Presidency University’s campus to strengthen academic collaboration and create international learning pathways for Indian students, looking at study abroad opportunities in Ireland

The meeting brought together Prof. Alex Metcalfe, Vice President International, University of Galway, and Ravi Kumar R, Assistant Director - Global Engagement & Partnerships, Office of International Affairs, Presidency University, who exchanged perspectives on advancing institutional partnerships and identifying areas of mutual interest that could support greater academic engagement between the two universities.

Presidency University, a private university based in Bengaluru with a student community of over 20,000, has witnessed sustained interest among its students in pursuing higher education opportunities at University of Galway over the years. Currently, three graduates from Presidency University’s undergraduate Computer Science programmes are pursuing MSc programmes at University of Galway’s School of Computer Science, reflecting an existing and growing academic connection between the institutions.

The engagement focused on understanding how this organic student interest can be further strengthened through collaborative initiatives that create greater international learning and academic opportunities.

Key areas explored during the meeting included:

Student exchange opportunities to enhance international exposure and global learning experiences

Faculty exchange initiatives to encourage academic collaboration and knowledge sharing

Summer schools and immersion programmes designed to provide short-term international education experiences

Progression and articulation pathways that could enable structured academic opportunities between the two institutions

Prof. Alex Metcalfe, Vice President International, University of Galway, said, “India continues to be an important strategic market for University of Galway, and we are encouraged by the strong and sustained interest demonstrated by students at Presidency University. We look forward to continuing these conversations and exploring areas where both institutions can create lasting value for students and faculty alike.”

Ravi Kumar R, Assistant Director - Global Engagement & Partnerships, Office of International Affairs, Presidency University added, “Presidency University is honoured to engage with the University of Galway as part of our strategic vision to foster meaningful global academic partnerships and advance internationalisation in higher education. The visit facilitated highly insightful and productive discussions centred on student mobility, collaborative academic initiatives, and cross-cultural learning opportunities. We are enthusiastic about the immense potential this partnership holds in creating transformative global experiences for students and faculty, while further strengthening the educational and institutional ties between India and Ireland.”

Both institutions agreed to continue discussions in the coming months to further evaluate and develop these opportunities based on mutual priorities and institutional strengths.

Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Birla Opus Paints Welcomes Sreeleela As Its New Brand Ambassador

*The brand strengthens its ‘Main Bhi…’ campaign, amplifying its consumer and product-focused storytelling ~

Birla Opus Paints, part of the Aditya Birla Group’s Grasim Industries, has announced Sreeleela as the new face of the brand, further strengthening its ‘Naye Zamane Ka Naya Paint’ philosophy. Known for her vibrant screen presence and strong connect with new-age audiences, Sreeleela’s association with the brand marks an exciting step in deepening its cultural relevance and consumer engagement across markets.

Building on the momentum of its ‘Main Bhi…’ campaign, the brand has unveiled two new films featuring Sreeleela, alongside Lillete Dubey and Sheeba Chaddha, set in a bustling mall and a crowded metro station. Highlighting benefits like 99%+ stain protection and scratch-proof wood finishes, the films are anchored in the insight that when a product delivers, belief spreads naturally.

Through humour and engaging storytelling, the films show how everyday consumers become the brand’s most credible voices. As “Main bhi…” and “Main bhi…” echoes across moments, belief turns into endorsement, making product truth visible and contagious.

Commenting on the announcement, Inderpreet Singh, Head of Marketing, Birla Opus Paints, said, “At Birla Opus Paints, we are building a brand that resonates with the evolving aspirations of today’s consumers, and bringing Sreeleela on board felt like a natural extension of that journey. Her rising prowess and strong audience connect align well with our philosophy of ‘Naye Zamane Ka Naya Paint’. As we continue to scale the ‘Main Bhi…’ thought, our focus remains on showcasing product performance in a way that feels real and rooted in everyday experiences.”

Speaking about the association, Sreeleela mentioned, “I’m really excited to be associated with Birla Opus Paints which is truly a new-age paint brand. Keeping things simple and real is what stood out to me the most about the brand and its journey till now. I am happy that I am a part of Birla Opus’s vision of adding beauty in people’s lives.”

Link to film 1: Birla Opus Paints | Main Bhi Opus | 99+ Stains | Sreeleela | Lillete Dubey | Hindi | 30s

Link to film 2: Birla Opus Paints | Main Bhi Opus | Wood Paint | Sreeleela | Sheeba Chaddha | Hindi

Agency credits:

Client: Birla Opus Paints

Creative Agency: Leo India

Production House: Sunset City Studio

The ‘Main Bhi…’ campaign continues to reflect a culturally resonant mindset, where consumers move beyond passive acceptance to active endorsement. As the chorus of “Main Bhi…” grows stronger, it becomes a symbol of collective trust, driven by consistent product delivery and real-world validation. The latest films featuring Sreeleela will be amplified across TV, Digital, OOH, and Print, in Hindi and multiple regional languages, ensuring widespread reach and engagement.

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, aerosols and wallcoverings. 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.

For more details, log on to: www.birlaopus.com | www.adityabirla.com   

AGI Greenpac Appoints Dushyant Kumar As Chief Operating Officer For Its Aluminium Cans Business

AGI Greenpac Limited, India's leading packaging products company and the country's most profitable glass packaging manufacturer, announced the appointment of Mr. Dushyant Kumar as Chief Operating Officer of its Aluminium Cans business.

With an engineering background, Dushyant brings over three decades of experience in the metal packaging and beverage can industry, including leadership roles at Canpack India and extensive exposure across global markets. Over the course of his career, he has built and managed businesses across operations, supply chain, and commercial strategy.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Rajesh Khosla, CEO, AGI Greenpac, said: “We are pleased to welcome a leader whose strong operational expertise aligns with our culture of disciplined execution. As we expand into the aluminium cans segment, we are entering a category that is seeing strong momentum globally and in India, driven by changing consumer preferences and increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Aluminium is one of the most sustainable materials in the world, infinitely recyclable without any loss of quality, and we believe this is the right time for us to build a strong presence in this space.”

Commenting on joining the organisation, Mr. Dushyant Kumar said: “I am excited to join AGI Greenpac at a transformative phase in its growth journey. The Company has established a strong reputation and leadership position in glass packaging, and its entry into aluminium cans reflects a forward-looking vision aligned with evolving market and sustainability trends. I look forward to working closely with the team to build a high-quality, customer-centric organisation that drives innovation, operational excellence, and long-term growth in the aluminium cans segment.”

The appointment comes at a strategic time as AGI Greenpac accelerates the development of its aluminium cans venture. Earlier this month, the Company announced the ground-breaking ceremony for its Greenfield aluminium beverage cans manufacturing facility in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, marking the formal commencement of construction for the project. With a proposed investment of approximately ₹1,000 crore, the plant will launch with two production lines capable of a combined output of 1.6 billion cans per year and, through debottlenecking initiatives, the total capacity can be expanded to over 2 billion cans annually. The plant is expected to become operational by FY28 and will cater to the rapidly growing demand from India’s beverage industry.

About AGI Greenpac Limited:

AGI Greenpac Limited is India's largest manufacturer of container glass and provides a comprehensive portfolio of PET bottles and products, along with anti-counterfeiting security closures. With seven strategically located manufacturing plants across India, the company serves over 500 globally recognized institutional clients.  

Hexagon Nutrition Limited’s Initial Public Offering Is To Open On Friday, June 5, 2026

· Price Band fixed at ₹ 42 per equity share of face value ₹1 each to ₹ 45 per equity share of the face value of ₹1 each (“Equity Shares”) of Hexagon Nutrition Limited (the “Company”)

· Anchor Investor Bidding Date – Thursday, June 04, 2026

· Bid /Offer Opening Date – Friday, June 05, 2026, and Bid/ Offer Closing Date – Tuesday, June 09, 2026

· Bids can be made for a minimum of 333 Equity Shares and in multiples of 333 Equity Shares thereafter

· RHP Link: https://www.cumulativecapital.group/Admin/UploadedFiles/RHP-Hexagon-Nutrition-Limited-May-25,-2026.pdf

Hexagon Nutrition Limited (the “Company”) proposes to open an initial public offering (“Offer”) of its equity shares of face value of ₹1 each (“Equity Shares”) on Friday, June 05, 2026. The Anchor Investor Bidding Date is one Working Day before the Bid/Offer Opening Date, being Thursday, June 04, 2026. The Bid/ Offer Closing Date is Tuesday, June 09, 2026.

The Price Band of the Offer has been fixed from ₹ 42 per Equity Share to ₹ 45 per Equity Share. Bids can be made for a minimum of 333 Equity Shares and multiples of 333 Equity Shares thereafter.

The offer comprises an offer for sale of up to 30,859,704 Equity Shares, aggregating up to ₹1,388.69 million (₹138.87 Crore (calculated at upper end of the price band)) by existing shareholders, Arun Purushottam Kelkar, Subhash Purushottam Kelkar, Aditya Kelkar (“Promoter Selling Shareholder”) and Nutan Subhash Kelkar (“Promoter Group Selling Shareholder”)

Hexagon Nutrition Limited is a focused nutrition company with a differentiated and research-oriented approach, operating across the nutrition value chain through Branded wellness nutrition products/ clinical nutrition products (B2C), premix formulations (B2B2C), and Ready to Use Foods (“RUFs”) and Micronutrient Powder (“MNPs”) (ESG segment). The company is recognized as one of the largest premix players in India, supplying customised vitamin and mineral premixes to leading Indian and multinational FMCG companies. It is also one of the largest licensed suppliers of MNPs under UN programmes, supporting global food fortification and public health initiatives (Source: CARE Report)

Internationally, Hexagon Nutrition's distribution network extends across non-exclusive 19 regional distributors covering Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The company also maintain 3 overseas offices located in South Africa, Uzbekistan and Hong Kong that support the overseas business operations. Over the past three Fiscals, their products were exported to over 75 countries. The Company has positioned itself as a holistic nutrition company with global nutritional expertise.

The Offer is being made in terms of Rule 19(2)(b) of the SCRR, read with Regulation 31 of the SEBI ICDR Regulations. The Offer is being made for at least 25% of the post- Offer paid-up Equity Share capital of our Company. The Offer is being made through the Book Building Process in accordance with Regulation 6(1) of the SEBI ICDR Regulations wherein in terms of Regulation 32(1) of the SEBI ICDR Regulations, not more than 50% of the Offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to Qualified Institutional Buyers (“QIBs” and such portion the “QIB Portion”), provided that our Company may, in consultation with the Book Running Lead Managers, allocate up to 60% of the QIB Portion to Anchor Investors on a discretionary basis, in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations (the “Anchor Investor Portion”), of which 40% shall be reserved as follows: (i) 33.33% for domestic Mutual Funds; and (ii) 6.67% for Life Insurance Companies and Pension Funds, subject to valid Bids being received from domestic Mutual Funds, Life Insurance Companies and Pension Funds at or above the Anchor Investor Offer Price. In case the aggregate demand from Life Insurance Companies and Pension Funds is less than 6.67%, the remaining Equity Shares will be added to the portion allocated to domestic Mutual Funds, in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations. In the event of under-subscription or non-allocation in the Anchor Investor Portion, the balance Equity Shares shall be added to the remaining QIB Portion (“Net QIB Portion”).

Further, 5% of the Net QIB Portion shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis only to Mutual Funds, and the remainder of the Net QIB Portion shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to all QIBs, including Mutual Funds, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price. However, if the aggregate demand from the Mutual Funds is less than 5% of the Net QIB Portion, the balance Equity Shares available for allocation will be added to the remaining QIB Portion for proportionate allocation to QIBs. Further, not less than 15% of the Offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to Non-Institutional Bidders in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price, out of which (a) one-third of such portion shall be reserved for Bidders with application size of more than ₹ 0.20 million and up to ₹1.00 million; and (b) two-thirds of such portion shall be reserved for Bidders with application size of more than ₹1.00 million provided that the unsubscribed portion in either of such sub-categories may be allocated to Bidders in the other sub-category of Non-Institutional Bidders; and not less than 35% of the Offer shall be available for allocation to Retail Individual Bidders in accordance with the SEBI ICDR Regulations, subject to valid Bids being received at or above the Offer Price.

All Bidders (except Anchor Investors) are mandatorily required to utilize the Application Supported by Blocked Amount (“ASBA”) process by providing details of their respective ASBA accounts and UPI ID in case of UPI Bidders using the UPI Mechanism, as applicable, pursuant to which their corresponding Bid Amount will be blocked by the Self Certified Syndicate Banks (“SCSBs”) or by the Sponsor Banks under the UPI Mechanism, as the case may be, to the extent of the respective Bid Amounts. Anchor Investors are not permitted to participate in the Offer through the ASBA process.

The Equity Shares of the Company are proposed to be listed on BSE Limited (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) (BSE and NSE together, the Stock Exchanges). For the purposes of the Offer, the Designated Stock Exchange shall be NSE.

Cumulative Capital Private Limited and Catalyst Capital Partners Private Limited are the Book Running Lead Managers (BRLMs) to the issue.

All capitalised terms not defined herein would have the same meaning as attributed to them in the Red Herring Prospectus dated May 25, 2026.

Disclaimer: Hexagon Nutrition Limited is proposing, subject to applicable statutory and regulatory requirements, receipt of requisite approvals, market conditions and other considerations, to make an initial public offering of its Equity Shares and has filed the RHP with RoC on May 25, 2026. The RHP shall be available on the website of SEBI at www.sebi.gov.in, as well as on the websites of the Stock Exchanges i.e. BSE and NSE at www.bseindia.com and www.nseindia.com, respectively, on the website of the Company at www.hexagonnutrition.com; and on the websites of the Book Running Lead Managers (“BRLMs”), i.e. Cumulative Capital Private Limited and Catalyst Capital Partners Private Limited at www.cumulativecapital.group and https://catalystcapital.in/, respectively. Any potential investors should note that investment in equity shares involves a high degree of risk and for details relating to such risk, see ‘“Risk Factors” beginning on page 30 of the RHP filed with SEBI and the Stock Exchanges. Potential Bidders should not rely on the DRHP filed with SEBI and the Stock Exchanges for making any investment decision and should instead rely on the RHP, when filed, for making investment decision.

The Equity Shares offered in the Offer have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws in the United States, and unless so registered, may not be offered or sold within the United States, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and in accordance with any applicable U.S. state securities laws. Accordingly, the Equity Shares are being offered and sold only outside the United States in ‘offshore transactions’ as defined in and in compliance with Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act and the applicable laws of the jurisdictions where such offers and sales are made.

Air India Maharaja Club Members Can Now Earn And Redeem Maharaja Points On Air India Express flights

Air India has announced a significant expansion of its Maharaja Club loyalty programme, enabling members to earn and redeem Maharaja Points on flights operated by Air India Express to over 55 destinations across South, Southeast and West Asia, in addition to Air India services.

This much-awaited enhancement reflects Air India Group’s continued focus on making Maharaja Points more relevant for frequent flyers, enabling members to unlock greater value on their journeys across both Air India and Air India Express’ expansive network.

Maharaja Club members can immediately begin earning Maharaja Points and Tier Points on Air India Express-operated flights when booking across multiple channels, including the Air India and Air India Express websites and mobile apps and through major travel agents.

Maharaja Club members will also have their Air India Express flights contribute to their tier progression, with eligible flights counting toward both minimum flight requirements and Tier Points accumulation, enabling members to accelerate reaching higher tiers of the programme.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, and Chairman, Air India Express, said: “Our focus is on continually expanding Maharaja Club in a way that ensures our loyal customers’ travel experiences across destinations contribute meaningfully to their relationship with the Air India group. The growing scale of the Air India Express network makes the introduction of accruals and redemptions on these flights both timely and important, addressing a long-standing expectation of our frequent flyers. It also reflects our aim to build Maharaja Points into a valuable currency over time.”

Earning Maharaja Points on Air India Express flights

Maharaja Club members can accrue Maharaja Points on all Air India Express flights by entering their Maharaja Club ID at the time of booking. Maharaja Points for Air India Express flights cannot be claimed retrospectively in the current phase of the rollout.

Members can add their Maharaja Club ID during booking on Air India and Air India Express platforms, as well as select online travel partners. The addition or modification of Maharaja Club membership ID is not available at airport counters or contact centres in the current phase.

The Maharaja Points accrual framework applies to a wide range of bookings, including special fares for senior citizens, students, and armed forces personnel. Reward Points will be calculated on base fare and fuel surcharge, with accrual rates aligned to Air India, as follows, to ensure a consistent and easy-to-understand earning structure.

 

MAHARAJA POINTS EARN STRUCTURE FOR AIR INDIA EXPRESS FLIGHTS
(PER INR 100 SPENT)

Bookings made via

Red

Silver

Gold

Platinum

Air India Express website and
mobile app

8

10

11

12

Other channels including Traditional and Online Travel Agents (OTAs)

6

8

9

10


Redeeming Maharaja Points for Air India Express Award Flights


Redemptions of Maharaja Points for Award Flights on Air India Express are currently available to members booking codeshare flights bearing Air India’s ‘AI’ designator code but which are operated by Air India Express, via the Air India website and mobile app.

For instance, a Maharaja Club member wants to fly from Delhi to Guwahati, and searches for flight options on the Air India website or mobile app. On the flight selection page, they would find multiple flight options on the sector bearing ‘AI’ flight numbers but a few of them may be operated by Air India Express under the codeshare agreement between two carriers. The member can simply redeem their Maharaja Points for those flights in addition to the other flights operated by Air India.

Redemptions for Air India Express Award Flights start from 1,500 Maharaja Points, as illustrated in the following sample redemption pricing table (partial listing of sectors only):

 

Sector

Starting Redemption Price
Economy Super Value Fare
(in Maharaja Points)

Bengaluru-Chennai

1,500

Dimapur-Guwahati

1,500

Bengaluru- Kozhikode

2,000

Bengaluru-Goa

2,500

Mumbai-Goa

2,500

Bengaluru-Mumbai

4,000

Ahmedabad-Kolkata

4,500

Delhi-Bengaluru

7,000

Amritsar-Dubai

12,000

Mumbai-Abu Dhabi

12,000

Kochi-Bahrain

12,000

Bengaluru-Bangkok

12,000


In the later phases of the integration Maharaja Club members flying Air India Express, will be extended a host of benefits such as priority check-in, priority boarding, Fly Prior, seat selection, and flexibility through cancellation and rescheduling fee waivers on eligible flights and services.

About Air India Group

The Air India Group – comprising full-service global airline, Air India, and value carrier, Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India Group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries travellers to 60 domestic and 51 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India Group is in the midst of a five-year transformation programme, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India has placed orders for 600 new aircraft. In addition to taking new aircraft deliveries, Air India is progressively retrofitting all its legacy aircraft.

The Air India Group operates South Asia’s largest aviation training academy in Gurugram, India. The construction of a new flying school and a greenfield maintenance base is in progress.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.

For more news on Air India, visit http://www.airindia.com/newsroom

About Air India Express

Air India Express is A Tata Enterprise, operating over 500 daily flights that connect 43 domestic and 16 international destinations across South, Southeast and West Asia. The airline has a fleet of over 100 Boeing 737s and Airbus A320 aeroplanes. As India’s most vibrant and inclusive airline, Air India Express embodies the spirit and confidence of India - warm, expressive, and proudly authentic. Encouraging travellers to ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’, the airline transforms flying into an experience that is personal and memorable.

With thoughtfully curated touches - from ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, comfortable seats, and refreshed interiors to exclusive loyalty benefits for over 20 million members, Air India Express blends smart technology with heartfelt Indian hospitality.  

IMFA Acquires 26% Stake In Renewable Energy Company For Rs 110 Crore

* Secures 65 MW hybrid renewable power under long-term captive arrangement

Key Highlights:

Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd (IMFA; estd 1961), the country’s leading fully integrated producer of ferro alloys, announced the acquisition of a 26% equity stake in EG Urja Strot Private Limited for an aggregate consideration of approximately Rs 110.18 crore.

The company has also executed a 29-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with EG Urja Strot under the Captive Consumer structure as defined under the Electricity Act, 2003 and Electricity Rules, 2005, securing a contracted demand of 65 MW of hybrid renewable power for its ferro chrome operations. The underlying hybrid renewable energy project has a total installed capacity comprising solar capacity of 81.4 MW, wind capacity of 102.6 MW and battery energy storage system (BESS) capacity of 25 MWh, of which IMFA will draw 65 MW as a captive consumer. The indicative timeline for completion of the project is June 2027.

This development follows the previously announced 70 MWp hybrid renewable energy sourcing arrangement, expected to commence in Q2 FY27. With the signing of this agreement, IMFA’s contracted renewable energy supply portfolio stands at 135 MW. About 1.6 tonnes of carbon emission shall be offset annually and ~45 lakh tonnes over the course of the agreement, marking a significant step in IMFA’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

Renewable energy is now expected to account for nearly 40% of the Company’s total energy mix in the next fiscal. It will also help ensure reliable and cost-effective power supply for the company’s operations.

Incorporated on March 6, 2025, EG Urja Strot Private Limited is engaged in the renewable energy business in India.

Commenting on the development, Mr Binoy Agarwalla, Vice President and Head, Power Business Unit, said, “This acquisition is aligned with IMFA’s long-term strategy of strengthening energy security whilst increasing the share of renewable power in our overall energy mix. The arrangement will support our operations with reliable and competitively priced green power over the long term.”

Mr Agarwalla added, “The combination of solar, wind and battery storage capacity is expected to improve operational efficiency and provide greater stability in power procurement. Building on the strong foundation of our integrated business model, we will continue to pursue opportunities that enhance competitiveness and create sustainable value for stakeholders.”

About IMFA

Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd (IMFA), incorporated in 1961 and headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is India’s largest fully integrated producer of value-added ferrochrome with an installed furnace capacity of 289 MVA capable of producing 434,000 tonnes per annum (tpa). The company operates captive chrome ore mines at Sukinda and Mahagiri, along with manufacturing complexes at Therubali, Choudwar and Kalinganagar. It also has captive power generation capacity comprising 200 MW coal-based and 4.55 MWp solar. IMFA’s operations are benchmarked to international standards and are ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems) certified.

With the greenfield ferro chrome project in Kalinganagar, total furnace capacity will stand at 355 MVA (534,000 tpa). Chrome Ore requirement for the enhanced smelting capacity will be entirely met from the company’s captive chrome ore mines and supported by hybrid renewable power. As part of its diversification strategy, a 120 kLD grain-based ethanol plant is being set up at Therubali, Odisha.  

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