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Deepavali Demand and GST Bachat Utsav Push Vehicle Sales to Record Highs: Shriram Mobility Bulletin

  • Truck rentals remained firm across key trunk routes

  • The deferral of entry ban of non-BS VI vehicles into NCR by 1 year rejoiced truckers

  • Entry ban of BS-II & BS-III vehicles continues in the NCR region from Nov 1

  • Arrival of Kharif crop produce bolstered truck movement

  • GST Bachat Utsav lifted sales of all vehicle categories

  • Poor agriculture and mining offtake dented diesel consumption
     

The October edition of the Shriram Mobility Bulletin reflects a strong rebound in India’s mobility ecosystem driven by festive consumption, rural freight activity, and accelerating electric vehicle adoption. Vehicle sales witnessed sharp month-on-month growth across categories, supported by pent-up demand and improved liquidity in the retail and transport ecosystem.

 

Truck rentals remained firm across key trunk routes in October. The Delhi–Mumbai–Delhi corridor saw the sharpest month-on-month increase at 1.9%, followed by Delhi–Hyderabad–Delhi up 1.0%, Bengaluru–Mumbai–Bengaluru and Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata both up 0.7%, Mumbai–Chennai–Mumbai up 0.6%, and Bengaluru–Kolkata–Bengaluru up 0.5%. Rentals on Delhi–Kolkata–Delhi and Delhi–Bengaluru–Delhi remained unchanged, while Delhi–Chennai–Delhi and Mumbai–Kolkata–Mumbai registered minor dips of 0.5% and 1.0%, respectively. On a year-on-year basis, truck rentals were higher by 2–10% across major corridors, led by Bengaluru–Mumbai–Bengaluru 10% YoY, followed by Delhi–Mumbai–Delhi, Delhi–Hyderabad–Delhi, Mumbai–Chennai–Mumbai, and Kolkata–Guwahati–Kolkata each up 9% YoY. Entry restrictions on non-BS VI vehicles into NCR continued to tighten fleet availability, while heavy rains in North India briefly disrupted truck movement even as the arrival of Kharif crops helped bolster freight demand.

 

Fuel consumption reflected a mixed trend. Petrol consumption rose 8% month-on-month and 7% year-on-year, driven by festive travel, while diesel consumption increased 12% MoM but remained marginally lower by 0.5% YoY due to reduced demand from agriculture and mining sectors.

 

FASTag collections saw a temporary dip month-on-month, with volumes declining by 3.8% and values by 4.4% to Rs. 6,450 crore, indicating some moderation in intercity freight movement. However, on a year-on-year basis, FASTag volumes and values grew 1% and 5%, respectively, signalling continued growth in toll-based transactions.

 

Vehicle retail sales recorded a broad-based recovery in October, with nearly all categories registering double-digit month-on-month growth. Goods carriers surged 58% MoM and 23% YoY, while three-wheeler (goods) and e-rickshaw sales rose 59% and 16% MoM, respectively, supported by last-mile delivery and urban logistics demand. Two-wheeler sales soared 144% MoM and 52% YoY as festive buying peaked. Passenger car sales also climbed 83% MoM and 11% YoY, reflecting strong consumer sentiment. Even traditionally cyclical segments like earth moving equipment and agricultural tractors saw month-on-month gains of 44% and 10%, respectively, highlighting the spillover from infrastructure and rural activity.

 

Electric vehicle (EV) sales were among the strongest ever, marking October as a record month across categories. E-2 wheelers jumped 40% MoM and 39% YoY, while E-3 wheelers grew 16% MoM and 324% YoY, reflecting continued traction in passenger and cargo EV adoption. EV motor cars rose 13% MoM and 158% YoY, underscoring the mainstreaming of electric mobility in both urban and semi-urban markets.

 

Mr. Y S Chakravarti, CEO and Managing Director, Shriram Finance Ltd. said, Deepavali delivered exceptional results, with truck rental rates remaining firm and automotive sales across all categories achieving record highs. The focus now is on sustaining this momentum, although a moderation in vehicle demand is anticipated in the coming weeks.”

 

E-way bill generations maintained their upward trajectory, indicating robust movement of goods. Intra-state generations rose 2% MoM and 25% YoY to 8.58 crore, while inter-state e-way bills increased 6% MoM and 18% YoY to 4.62 crore. Transaction values grew 7% MoM and 19% YoY for intra-state and 8% MoM and 13% YoY for inter-state, signaling sustained consumption and supply chain recovery across sectors.

 

About Shriram Finance Limited
Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram group which has significant presence in Consumer Finance, Life Insurance, General Insurance, Stock Broking and Distribution businesses. Shriram Finance Limited is one of India’s largest retail asset financing Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) with Assets under Management (AUM) above Rs. 2.81 trillion. Established in 1979, Shriram Finance is a holistic finance provider catering to the needs of Small Road Transport Operators and small business owners and is a leader in organised financing of pre-owned commercial vehicles and two wheelers. It has vertically integrated business model and offers financing number of products which include passenger commercial vehicles, loans to micro and small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), tractors & farm equipment, gold, personal loans and working capital loans etc. Over last 45 years, it has developed strong competencies in the areas of loan origination, valuation of pre-owned commercial vehicles and other assets, and collections. It has a pan India presence with network of 3,225 branches and an employee strength of 78,833 servicing to 96.64 lakhs of customers.

 

About Shriram Mobility Bulletin
Shriram Finance Limited, the flagship company of the Shriram Group, publishes the monthly Shriram Mobility Bulletin. The Shriram Mobility Bulletin aims to provide stakeholders with a picture of India’s statistical data about the logistics and automobile sector through its nationwide network of fleet owners & vehicle dealers and analyses it to identify trends for its stakeholders.

Future of Women's Wrestling in India: Pro Wrestling League's 2026 Comeback to Empower Female Wrestlers

Indian wrestling is set for a major revival as the Pro Wrestling League (PWL) prepares to return in January 2026 — with a renewed focus on women’s participation and professional opportunities for female wrestlers.

 

https://www.newsvoir.com/images/article/image1/33712_Pro_Wrestling_League_image.JPG

Announcement of Pro Wrestling League 2026 at a Press Conference in New Delhi


PWL Returns Under New Structure
After a gap of several years, the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has officially announced the comeback of the Pro Wrestling League, this time under its direct supervision to ensure greater transparency and financial discipline.


Each of the six participating franchises will include nine wrestlers — five Indian and four foreign athletes. Significantly, four of these will be women wrestlers, competing in the 53 kg, 57 kg, 62 kg, and 76 kg categories. Mr. Dayaan Farooqui, Promoter and Chairman of PWL said, “The Pro Wrestling League 2026 marks the beginning of a bold new era for Indian wrestling. Our vision is to create a league that celebrates both tradition and modern sport, where homegrown talent competes shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best. We want to make wrestling not just India’s pride, but its next big sporting phenomenon, inspiring millions to believe that champions are made right here, on our own soil.”


A Turning Point for Women’s Wrestling
The 2026 edition marks a paradigm shift — taking women’s wrestling beyond government tournaments and positioning it within a commercial, televised, and league-based format.


This provides women wrestlers with

  • Sustained competition and exposure alongside top international talent.

  • Financial growth and sponsorship opportunities, previously missing from the ecosystem.

  • Media visibility and fan engagement, helping build a stronger following for women’s wrestling in India.

  • Industry experts believe that PWL could do for wrestling what IPL did for cricket — creating a space where athletes become national icons and the sport becomes a household name.

 

Rising Participation at the Grassroots
The timing couldn’t be better. Across India, from Haryana to Maharashtra, more young girls are taking up wrestling — inspired by the success of champions like Geeta Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Vinesh Phogat. Government initiatives such as Khelo India Women and growing OTT storytelling around sportswomen have built momentum for a cultural shift in how female athletes are viewed. In WPL 2026, top national and international women wrestlers will participate and till last season more than 25 Countries player participated in PWL.


Challenges Still Remain
However, the journey is not without hurdles. Access to quality training facilities in rural belts, societal restrictions, and a lack of consistent media coverage continue to challenge women’s wrestling in India. Experts also stress the need for private investment and audience engagement to make the women’s segment commercially sustainable. Mr. Sumit Dubey, COO of PWL adds,  “The Pro Wrestling League is being built on the foundation of professionalism, opportunity, and scale. Our focus is to create a seamless ecosystem; from athlete development to franchise management, that attracts the best talent, brands, and fans alike. This is not just about organizing a league; it’s about building a sports movement that uplifts every stakeholder, from the young wrestler in an akhada to the sponsor investing in India’s sporting future.”


The Road Ahead
If the PWL’s women’s format succeeds, it could redefine wrestling in India — turning female wrestlers from state-level competitors into national sporting brands.In essence, India stands at the brink of a revolution in wrestling — one where the roar of the crowd at the next PWL may echo not just for men, but for the fierce and fearless women who step into the mat.


Key Facts — Pro Wrestling League 2026 (Proposed Format)
Launch: January 2026, New Delhi
Franchises: 6
Total Wrestlers per Team: 9 (5 Indian, 4 foreign)
Women’s Categories: 53 kg, 57 kg, 62 kg, 76 kg
Supervising Body: Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)
Goal: Equal representation and professional platform for women wrestlers

After Women's Cricket Glory, Spotlight Turns to Women's Wrestling: Pro Wrestling League Set to Redefine the Future

As the nation celebrates the Indian Women’s Cricket Team’s historic World Cup victory, another sport is preparing to step into the limelight – women’s wrestling. Just days before the cricket triumph, the Pro Wrestling League (PWL) was officially announced at a grand press conference in New Delhi, confirming its much-awaited return in January 2026. Together, these two milestones signal a powerful new chapter in Indian sports – one where women athletes are leading the nation’s success stories across disciplines.

 

Announcement of Pro Wrestling League-2026 in New Delhi at a Press Conference

 

Pro Wrestling League 2026: A New Beginning

The revived Pro Wrestling League (PWL) promises to bring wrestling back to center stage with a vibrant, professional, and gender-inclusive model. Supported by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), the league will follow an IPL-style franchise format, featuring a mix of top Indian and international wrestlers. A WFI spokesperson at the launch event said, “The return of PWL is not just about entertainment – it’s about giving India’s women wrestlers a global platform to shine. After the phenomenal success of our women cricketers, wrestling is ready to script the next chapter in India’s sporting revolution.”

 

Special Focus on Women’s Participation

One of the most exciting aspects of PWL 2026 is its dedicated focus on promoting women’s participation and leadership in wrestling. The league organizers have committed to ensuring: Equal representation of women athletes across teams. Prime-time telecasts for women’s matches to boost viewership. Mentorship programs pairing emerging wrestlers with senior champions. Equal prize money and sponsorship opportunities for female competitors. This emphasis aligns with India’s growing movement toward gender parity in sports and aims to make wrestling an aspirational career choice for young girls across the country. 

 

CEO of PWL Mr. Akhil Gupta said, “The return of the Pro Wrestling League is not just about reviving a sport, it’s about reigniting a dream. Our women wrestlers have the talent, grit, and fire to stand tall on any global stage. With equal opportunities and stronger visibility, we’re building a future where wrestling inspires every young girl to believe she can. This is more than a league, it’s India’s movement of strength and sisterhood.

 

Cricket’s Inspiration, Wrestling’s Opportunity

The Indian women’s cricket team’s World Cup win has redefined how fans and sponsors perceive women athletes. Sports analysts believe this newfound enthusiasm will now spill over into wrestling – opening doors for corporate investments, endorsements, and mass fan engagement in PWL. With India already home to world-class wrestlers like Sakshi Malik, Antim Panghal, and Vinesh Phogat, the Pro Wrestling League could become a turning point – transforming wrestling from a rural pursuit to a national prime-time sport.

 

Grassroots Empowerment and Broader Vision

The PWL revival also carries a developmental goal. Training academies in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are gearing up for talent scouting programs to identify and support young women wrestlers. Simultaneously, government initiatives and CSR-backed sports foundations are aligning resources to expand coaching, nutrition, and international exposure. This dual approach – professional platform plus grassroots growth – is expected to establish wrestling as one of India’s strongest medal hopes for the Paris 2028 Olympics and beyond.

 

Conclusion: The Rise of a New Sporting Sisterhood

As India basks in the glow of its women cricketers’ triumph, the return of the Pro Wrestling League 2026 marks the beginning of another inspiring journey. It’s more than a league – it’s a movement, symbolizing strength, equality, and opportunity for India’s women athletes. From the pitch to the mat, India’s daughters are not just competing – they’re changing the face of Indian sports forever.

Mission to Earthphase – Moonshine Gold Celebrates the Beaver Moon

The fourth model to join the series that celebrates full moons, November’s MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD, bridges nature’s ingenuity with interstellar creativity. Inspired by the Beaver Moon, this model’s moon phase indicator features a full moon that looks like it has been partially devoured by a beaver. This model will be available worldwide from the Beaver Full Moon on November 5 until the New Moon on November 20, 2025, at all Swatch stores carrying the Bioceramic MoonSwatch Collection.

 

Mission to Earthphase – Moonshine Gold Celebrates the Beaver Moon


This new timepiece features the same stellar dial layout as its predecessors, complete with Swatch’s earth phase innovation, a moon phase indicator adorned with OMEGA’s Moonshine™ Gold, and illustrations from the world of Snoopy.


Like all Bioceramic MoonSwatch models, this MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD is also made from Swatch’s patented Bioceramic, a blend of ceramic and biosourced materials from castor oil and comes in a distinctive dark navy blue.


It also boasts many of the iconic features of OMEGA’s legendary Speedmaster Moonwatch, including an asymmetrical case and the famous tachymeter scale with the dot over ninety.


The OMEGA X Swatch logos are proudly displayed on its dial and crown, and its mission statement is engraved on the back of its case. The battery cover features an Earth-inspired design, while the navy VELCRO® rubber strap adds a dash of astronaut cool.


This MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD will be available worldwide from the Beaver Full Moon on November 5 until the New Moon on November 20, 2025, at all Swatch stores carrying the Bioceramic MoonSwatch Collection. As with the whole Bioceramic MoonSwatch Collection, only one watch can be purchased per person, per day and store.

 

MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD
SO33N704L
Case material: navy Bioceramic case, crown and pushers
Case diameter: 42.00 mm
Case thickness: 13.75 mm
Lug-to-lug distance: 47.30 mm
Quartz movement: chronograph (seconds only) with moon
phase and earth phase indicators
Water resistance: 3 bar
Glass: box-shaped in biosourced material; an “S” engraved in the center in reference to the Swatch logo
Dial: white opaline with OMEGA X Swatch, Speedmaster and MoonSwatch logos; recessed subdial, hour markers coated with Grade A Super-LumiNova® (green emission).
Moon phase indicator with sparkly dark blue moon phase disc featuring two full moons coated with OMEGA’s Moonshine™ Gold. Secret detail in UV ink (blue emission). Earth phase indicator featuring Earth set against a star-speckled backdrop and oceans coated with UV ink (blue emission).
Hands: hours, minutes and tip of the chronograph seconds hand coated in Grade A Super-LumiNova® (green emission)
Bezel: navy Bioceramic bezel with tachymeter scale featuring white markers
Strap: navy VELCRO®️ rubber strap, navy Bioceramic loop

StarRez Announces APAC Expansion, Building a Global Hub for SaaS Innovation in Hyderabad

StarRez, a global leader in student housing software that provides innovative solutions for on and off-campus housing management, resident engagement, and revenue optimization, has announced the launch of a global Innovation Hub with worldclass Product and Technology talent in Hyderabad, India. The new Hub will serve as a launch point for AI-driven innovation and data intelligence, accelerating StarRez’s global technology roadmap and enhancing the platform’s capabilities for institutions and communities worldwide.

 

The leadership team of StarRez and Zinnov at the launch

 

StarRez India is poised to deliver cutting-edge product engineering, offering Indian tech talent the opportunity to work on modern SaaS architectures and global-scale systems. Engineers will gain hands-on experience with the latest AI tooling, API integrations, CI/CD pipelines, and advanced security and privacy frameworks, while working on an industry-leading Microsoft .NET cloud stack. As StarRez continues to expand, the India team is set to grow from 40+ to 200+ team members, driving new feature development, leading new development projects, and taking on key leadership roles. This growth represents not only an investment in technology but also in the region’s exceptional talent, empowering engineers in India to shape the future of student housing and community management worldwide.

 

This Hub in India represents a significant milestone in StarRez’s global growth journey,” said Mr. Travis Knipe, Executive Chairman, StarRez. “Our new Hub for Innovation in Hyderabad will be home to some of the best technology and product talent, driving innovation through GenAI, analytics, and automation. In the first year, our focus is on building high-performing teams that will enhance our product ecosystem, scale our enterprise SaaS platform, and deliver greater value to our global customers. As a global SaaS company, we operate on a modern, cloud-native, API-driven infrastructure that already supports over 3 million residents worldwide. With India now part of our innovation network, we are poised to accelerate our mission of creating seamless, intelligent experiences for students and residents across the globe.

 

The expansion marks an exciting new phase of global growth for StarRez, as the company rapidly scales under the backing of Vista Equity Partners, investing in new markets, talent, and innovation. This new Hub for Innovation will play a pivotal role in accelerating product delivery, strengthening StarRez’s global organization, and creating worldclass career opportunities for technology professionals in India. As collaboration is central to StarRez’s culture, the India team will work closely with peers across the U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia through shared projects, global roadmap sessions, and customer-focused initiatives. This integrated approach not only fosters innovation but also opens leadership development pathways through direct engagement with StarRez’s global and executive Product and Technology teams.

 

Serving 1,100+ institutions and 2,000+ properties worldwide, StarRez supports more than 3 million residents annually through a unified, cloud-based SaaS platform that combines scalability, data intelligence, and automation. With a modern tech stack designed for performance and flexibility, including API-driven architecture and a cloud-native environment, StarRez enables seamless, secure, and data-rich experiences for both administrators and residents. Headquartered in Australia, with offices across United States, the UK, Canada and now India, StarRez blends the scale of a global organization with the agility and care of a trusted technology partner.

 

To learn more about StarRez, visit StarRez.com and follow StarRez on LinkedIn at StarRez India: Overview | LinkedIn.

 

About StarRez

StarRez is the global leader in student housing software, providing innovative solutions for on-and off-campus housing management, resident wellness and experience, and revenue generation. Trusted by 1,100+ institutions and 2,000 properties worldwide, StarRez supports more than 3 million beds annually with its unified platform, delivering seamless experiences for students and administrators. With offices in the United States, Australia, the UK, and India, StarRez blends the robust capabilities of a global organization with the personalized care and service of a trusted partner.

 

For more information, visit www.starrez.com.
 

Netrack Showcases Innovative iRack Solutions at BICSI India Technology Seminar in Bengaluru

Netrack, a leader and a renowned name in innovation and manufacturing of data center and IT infrastructure solutions, recently participated in the BICSI India Technology Seminar in Bengaluru. At the event, Netrack highlighted its innovative iRack and edge data center solutions that are designed to meet the growing demands of high and medium-density IT environments. The seminar had over 60 industry professionals who participated. Hence, it led to futuristic discussions where Netrack’s offerings played a key role in keeping the participants engaged throughout the event.
 

Netrack Showcases Innovative iRack Solutions at BICSI India Technology Seminar in Bengaluru
 

The event gained momentum with a compelling presentation from Netrack’s General Manager of Sales, Ramesh. He shared a detailed overview of Netrack’s iRack and edge data center solutions. He elaborated on the technologies associated with it and how they are transforming the industry by integrating security, monitoring, and cooling into a single, efficient unit. He further showcased how this cutting-edge solution is specifically designed to optimize thermal management and energy efficiency in high-density data centers. This gained attention of industry professionals. In fact, participants were particularly interested in how the solution could help streamline operations and reduce costs. So, with an interactive audience, the presentation earned appreciation from all participants.
 

Naveen S, Satish Chandra and Subramanya joined Ramesh to add more value to the conversation. They answered all queries and offered real-world insights into how Netrack’s solutions are influencing the future of IT infrastructure. During the conversation about the solutions Netrack offers – it was evident that the company’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency makes its products unique and loved.
 

Netrack’s philosophy goes beyond just selling products; it’s about building partnerships that will last and that will enable the partners to stay ahead of market needs. As businesses expand, the demand for intelligent, space-saving solutions like the iRack and iRack Block grows. These intelligent, self-cooled, and integrated rack solutions garnered significant attention at the seminar for their ability to deliver high performance, energy efficiency, and scalability. This made the offering ideal for edge computing and compact data centers.
 

The BICSI event provided a valuable platform for Netrack to engage with key stakeholders in the IT and data center sectors. It served as a testament to the company’s dedication to innovation and its focus on creating customer-centric solutions that always meets global standards.

Simta Astrix the Best Brand in Doors and Windows at the ET Now InfraFocus Awards

Simta Astrix has been honoured as the Best Brand in the Construction & Infrastructure Industry, in Doors & Windows at the ET Now InfraFocus Summit & Awards – 10th Edition, a prestigious platform that celebrates excellence and impact across India’s built environment. This recognition reaffirms how trust and consistency earn their place over time. For Simta Astrix, being named the best brand in doors and windows isn’t just an award; it’s a reminder to keep delivering dependable performance with thoughtful design. It tells how the company is moving in the right direction serving homeowners, architects, developers, and fabricators who look for quality that lasts and detail that matters.

 

Simta Astrix the Best Brand in Doors and Windows at the ET Now InfraFocus Awards


From day one, Simta Astrix has built its reputation on disciplined manufacturing, reliable supply, and products that deliver long-term value. This award is a public validation of that approach. It signals to customers and partners that when they choose Simta Astrix, they are choosing a brand that treats quality as a commitment, not a claim. Being recognised by such a prestigious platform underscores why Simta Astrix is widely regarded as the best brand in doors and windows: consistent quality, thoughtful design, and an ecosystem that supports projects of every scale.


Speaking on the win, Sampath Kumar, Managing Director, Simta Astrix, said, “This award is not only for the company, but for every member of our team. It gives big motivation to keep raising the standard, to keep working with discipline, and to deliver products our customers can trust. Recognition like this gives strength to the team, and we accept this award with gratitude, and we promise to keep building better and to keep delivering value.”


Built for India’s pace of growth
Simta Astrix’s portfolio spans high-performance uPVC doors and windows, premium ABS doors, steel doors, aluminium windows & Doors, and uPVC modular interior profiles—solutions engineered for Indian climates and usage patterns. German-technology extrusion lines and rigorous quality controls keep tolerances tight and performance predictable. With 500+ fabrication partners and pan-India warehousing, Simta Astrix is able to support complex timelines without cutting corners. This is another reason customers and specifiers recognise it as the best brand in doors and windows.


At the Summit, Mr. Sampath Kumar had the opportunity to join a panel that discussed how digitisation is shaping modern manufacturing. For him, technology is valuable only when it improves reliability for the customer. When systems like PLC and SCADA bring precision to production, or when BIM and 3D models help visualise better, the result is clear – less guesswork, more accuracy. But technology alone doesn’t guarantee excellence. What truly matters is the discipline to use it—consistently, project after project. 


For Simta Astrix, this award is both a celebration and a responsibility. It validates a way of working that puts customers first, and it sets a higher bar for what comes next. The company will continue to invest in people, processes, and platforms to keep products future-ready and service seamless. That is the promise behind the title: the Best Brand in the Construction & Infrastructure Industry, in Doors & Windows—and the promise that has earned Simta Astrix a reputation as the best brand in doors and windows in India.

 

About Simta Astrix
Established in 2013 as a division of the Simta Group (founded in 1991), Simta Astrix is a leading Indian manufacturer of high-performance doors and windows. With German-technology extrusion, disciplined quality systems, and a nationwide partner network, Simta Astrix delivers durable, design-forward solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional spaces.

Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and Neptunus Partner to Develop India's First CBM-based Marine Engine Monitoring Technology under 'Make in India'

In a landmark step for India’s maritime ecosystem, and a stride toward Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat, Neptunus Power Plant Services Pvt. Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) at Maritime India Week 2025, an event witnessed by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The MoU cements a strategic collaboration to mainstream data-driven maintenance and digital diagnostics across India’s shipping industry, ushering in a new era of maritime innovation built on Indian R&D & Indian manufacturing.

 

  • In a historic first and as part of the collaboration, the IRS awarded Type Approval Certification to Neptunus for VIB 360, the Engine Condition Monitoring System, and Torque Sense SHAPOLI

  • Formalised at Maritime India Week 2025, this recognition marks a major step for India in developing and certifying its own engine condition-monitoring system for marine diesel engines — giving Indian ship owners an early advantage in adopting data-driven and cost-efficient maintenance practices

  • This Mumbai–built technology is set to change how the world’s ships are maintained – eliminating downtime, enhancing reliability, and reducing maintenance costs by up to 30%.

 

From left to right: Mr. P.K. Mishra (Managing Director, IRS) & Mr. Akshay Purohit (COO & Director, Neptunus Power) at the Maritime India Week 2025

 

This milestone marks the world’s first instance of a classification society approving a fully indigenous engine health monitoring solution, positioning India at the forefront of data-driven, sustainable, and cost-efficient maritime operations.

 

As part of the collaboration, the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has awarded Type Approval Certification to Neptunus for its VIB 360 – Engine Condition Monitoring System and Torque Sense SHAPOLI, marking the world’s first instance of indigenously developed, IRS-certified condition-monitoring technologies for marine diesel engines and propulsion systems.

 

The certification demonstrates India’s capability to deliver globally compliant, export-ready maritime solutions built entirely at home. Traditionally, ship maintenance followed fixed OEM intervals, conservative and costly. With VIB 360, fleets shift to Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM), thereby eliminating unplanned downtime, enhancing reliability, reducing maintenance costs by up to 30% (based on previous experience), optimizing fuel efficiency, and thus reducing emissions. This shift from time-based to data-driven maintenance represents a foundational step in India’s Digital Maritime Vision; enhancing operational reliability, reducing downtime, and cutting carbon emissions through precision diagnostics.

 

Under the MoU, IRS and Neptunus will jointly develop frameworks and standards for Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) to help the maritime industry transition from traditional, time-based maintenance to real-time, data-led maintenance practices. The collaboration aims to enhance operational reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and contribute to India’s Green Shipping and Digital Maritime Vision.

 

“This MoU with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) reinforces our belief that Indian engineering can shape the global maritime future,” said Mr. Uday Purohit, MD & CEO, Neptunus Power Plant Services Pvt. Ltd. “We thank IRS for its vision and trust in Indian innovation. This Type Approval is more than a certification; it validates India’s capability to design and deliver data-led maritime technologies that meet global standards. Together, we are paving the way for Indian-built systems to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational reliability across the world’s shipping fleets.”

 

Speaking on the MoU, Mr. Akshay Purohit, Director & COO, said, This MoU is a step toward making condition-based maintenance a mainstream reality in India’s maritime sector. By combining local innovation with data-driven insights, we are creating a framework that can reduce downtime, improve fuel efficiency, and extend asset life. Together with IRS, we aim to redefine how the shipping industry manages its engines; with systems built and certified in India.”

 

By combining the IRS’s regulatory and certification expertise with Neptunus’ technological innovation, this collaboration lays the foundation for a global shift in how the world’s ships are maintained, from preventive schedules to data-driven condition-based maintenance. It also reflects India’s growing capability to build technologies locally that are ready for global deployment.

 

About Neptunus Power Plant Services Pvt. Ltd.

Neptunus Power Plant Services Pvt. Ltd., headquartered in Navi Mumbai, is one of India’s leading providers of engine services, reliability engineering, condition-based maintenance, and asset optimization solutions for marine, oil & gas, and defense sectors. Recognized as India’s Top Innovative MSME (Medium category) by ET Award 2023, Neptunus combines indigenous R&D with over 28 years of field expertise across 30+ countries, including Africa, South America, the Middle East & South East Asia.

 

Website: www.neptunus-power.com.

Asia-Pacific Textile and Apparel Supply Chain Expo & Summit 2025 (APTEXPO 2025)

The 2nd edition of the Asia-Pacific Textile and Apparel Supply Chain Expo & Summit (APTEXPO 2025) returns to Singapore from 19–21 November 2025, reaffirming its role as the region’s premier platform for the textile and apparel industry. Bringing together global leaders, decision-makers, and innovators, the event will drive dialogue, partnerships, and solutions to build stronger, more sustainable, and future-ready supply chains.


Jointly organised by MP Singapore Pte Ltd and The Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT (CCPIT TEX), and sponsored by the ASEAN Federation of Textile Industries (AFTEX) and China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC), the event is also hosted by the Singapore Fashion Council (SFC).


Themed “Re-engineering towards a Resilient, Adaptive and Sustainable Supply Chain”, APTEXPO 2025 reflects the industry’s urgent need to embrace digitalisation, fair trade, circular economy models, and sustainable innovation. The event will serve as a key platform for stakeholders to share strategies, forge partnerships, and shape the next chapter of global textile and apparel manufacturing.


APTEXPO 2025 enjoys strong support from key associations across ASEAN, including

  • Textile, Apparel, Footwear & Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC)

  • Indonesian Textile Association (API)

  • Association of the Lao Garment Industry (ALGI)

  • Malaysian Textile Manufacturers Association (MTMA)

  • Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA)

  • Confederation of Wearable Exporters of the Philippines (CONWEP)

  • National Federation of Thai Textile Industries (NFTTI)

  • Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) 


It will address the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in the global supply chain, with a particular focus on industrial upgrading and the evolving international trade landscape. Key discussions will explore how decentralised manufacturing models can enhance supply chain security, improve efficiency, and build greater resilience against future disruptions.


Singapore, as a gateway to Asia Pacific, is the perfect host for the 2nd edition of APTEXPO. We look forward to engaging stakeholders from across the globe,” Mr Jason Ng, Managing Director, MP Group.


APTEXPO will connect Asia-Pacific’s manufacturing powerhouse with the global market, driving a more secure, decentralised, and efficient supply chain, ” Mr Xu Yingxin, Vice President, China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC)


 Event Highlights
The 2025 edition of APTEXPO will feature a dynamic line-up of activities designed to deliver high-value insights, connections, and opportunities for stakeholders across the textile and apparel value chain.

 

  • APTEXPO Summit: Bringing together over 300 senior delegates from leading global brands, major retailers, renowned designers, policymakers, and technology innovators, the summit will provide a strategic platform to discuss the future of supply chains, sustainability, and cross-border collaboration.

  • International Exhibition: Featuring over 100 exhibitors from more than 7 countries and regions, the exhibition will showcase the latest in textile manufacturing, sustainable materials, digitalisation, logistics, and supply chain management solutions, making it a one-stop platform for sourcing and partnership opportunities. 

  • Notable exhibitors include Ghim Li Global Pte Ltd (Singapore), Best Garment Group (Cambodia), Chenfeng (Suqian) Textile Technology Co., Ltd (China), NicheTech Advanced Materials Co., Ltd (Republic of China, Taiwan), Foursource Group GmbH (Germany), Jing Cheung Industrial Co., Limited (Hong Kong SAR), Zhejiang Hongdu Textile Technology Co., Ltd (China) and Dalian Tianzhi Garments Manufacture Co., Ltd (China).

  • Meet face-to-face with global textile and apparel suppliers, buyers, and innovators through curated business matching sessions designed to help you find the right partners, explore collaborations, and expand your network across Asia’s fashion and manufacturing ecosystem.  

  • Six Concurrent Events: Running alongside the main exhibition and summit, six specialised concurrent events will offer focused discussions, networking, and knowledge exchange tailored to specific sectors driving growth and innovation across the textile and apparel value chain.

  • The Asia-Pacific Sports & Outdoor Fashion Forum will spotlight emerging trends in performance textiles, functional apparel, and outdoor lifestyle fashion, highlighting opportunities in design innovation, material technology, and sustainability.

  • The 7th Belt and Road Textile Conference will bring together policymakers, trade associations, and business leaders to advance regional cooperation, investment, and sustainable development across the Belt and Road economies. 

  • The Industry Update Showcase will feature country and regional briefings, presenting the latest market developments, investment climates, and partnership opportunities across Asia’s textile-producing nations.

  • A series of exclusive closed-door workshops will provide targeted networking sessions designed for high-level dialogue, investor engagement, and cross-border business collaboration.

  • FUTR Asia 2025 will connect forward-thinking brands, retailers, and marketers exploring the future of retail, e-commerce, and consumer engagement — where fashion, technology, and lifestyle converge.

 

For more information, visit www.ap-texpo.com.


About CCPIT TEX
The Sub-Council of Textile Industry, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT TEX) was officially established in 1988. Three decades after its establishment, CCPIT TEX has gradually developed into an excellent organizer for professional exhibitions in China’s textile and apparel industry. Independently or along with its partners, CCPIT TEX has organized a series of world-renowned exhibitions which cover the entire textile and garment industry both at home and abroad, 
including but not limited to Intertextile apparel fabrics, Intertextile home textiles, ITMA ASIA + CITME and CINTE. 


About MP Singapore
The MP Group (MP) is a global full-service events management, marketing and community engagement company.


Established since 1987, MP embodies more than a quarter century of event building, marketing and management experience in both Eastern and Western cultures, practices, and business philosophies. We bring world-class talent, industry expertise, and incredible enthusiasm into the design and management of extraordinary online-to-offline experiences for your organization.


MP is part of Pico Group, a global group of agencies specializing in engaging people, creating experiences and activating brands for businesses, institutions and governments. As part of the Pico group, MP has unlimited access to a wide network of industry contacts and resources. Pico Far East Holdings has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1992.


About AFTEX
ASEAN Federation of Textile Industries (AFTEX) was established in 1978 with the objective of promoting common trade position and cooperation among textile and apparel industry in ASEAN member countries in line with the objective of the ASEAN Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ASEAN-CCI). Every year, AFTEX holds its regular meetings plus side events on a rotational basis among member countries to discuss concrete issues of significant relevance to the regional growth and development of the textile and apparel industry, ranging from ASEAN trade linkages to workforce development, from trade fairs & investment promotion to sustainability issue, from regional cooperation to broader partnerships, and more.


 About Singapore Fashion Council
Singapore Fashion Council (SFC) serves as the catalyst driving the industry’s continuous growth, with a focus on three key areas: Asian Craftsmanship, Sustainability, and Innovation & Technology.


 With a mission to empower and inspire all brands across the fashion ecosystem, SFC works closely with diverse partners to offer readily accessible resources, meaningful networks, sustainability-focused innovations, and future-forward insights unlocking new opportunities for impact.

GlobalFoundries India Showcases India Foundry Connect Program and Strengthens Fabless Collaboration at TeknIka 2025

GlobalFoundries (GF) India successfully hosted the latest edition of its flagship technical conference, GF India TeknIka 2025, on November 6, 2025. At the heart of this year’s conference was GF’s proprietary India Foundry Connect Program, designed to accelerate the journey from design to manufacturing for India’s fabless semiconductor startups.
 

From L to R: Mr. Ashok Chandak, President IESA and SEMI India, Mr. Jitendra Chaddah (JC), MD & India Country Head, GF India, Mr. Kamal Khouri, SVP- Feature Rich CMOS Business, GF and Mr. Sanjeev Keskar, CEO Arvind Consultancy and IESA EC member
 

Building on the momentum from last year’s launch, the Foundry Connect Program continues to provide startups with access to GF’s advanced Product Design Kits (PDKs), GlobalShuttle™ Multi Project Wafer (MPW) fabrication, IP libraries, and engineering expertise. The program aligns closely with India’s Design Linked Incentive (DLI) scheme, enabling eligible companies to fast-track their silicon innovations toward commercial manufacturing.
 

GF’s decade-long presence in India reflects our deep commitment to the country’s semiconductor growth story. Through the Foundry Connect Program, we are enabling local startups and OEMs with scalable, reliable manufacturing tailored to their needs – from PDKs, IPs, shuttle for test chips to tapeout. Since its launch in 2024, the program has seen consistent growth in customer engagement. With government initiatives like the DLI scheme, GF will help companies move from design to silicon, empowering India’s fabless semiconductor ecosystem and driving faster product realization,” said Jitendra Chaddah (JC), MD & India Country Head, GF India.
 

GF India collaborates with IESA and SEMI India for TeknIka

To amplify the impact of TeknIka 2025, GF India has partnered with IESA and SEMI India, India’s premier industry body representing the semiconductor, electronics, and design ecosystem. Through this collaboration, GF India will engage IESA and SEMI India’s extensive network of fabless startups, academia, and industry stakeholders, inviting them to the conference to know more about GF technologies and benefit from the Foundry Connect Program.
 

“IESA and SEMI India have been at the forefront of uniting the semiconductor ecosystem — from startups and academia to global leaders — to foster meaningful collaboration and drive innovation with real-world impact,” said Ashok Chandak, President, IESA and SEMI India.

“We are delighted to collaborate with GlobalFoundries India for TeknIka 2025 and the India Foundry Connect Program, which directly complements India’s Design Linked Incentive (DLI) initiative and IESA’s Start Up Mitra Initiative. This partnership will accelerate the journey from design to silicon, strengthen the fabless startup ecosystem, and further India’s vision of becoming a global semiconductor design and manufacturing hub,” he added.
 

GF India TeknIka 2025 serves as a platform to showcase GF’s technology roadmap, foster collaboration with academia and customers, and strengthen ties with policy makers and industry bodies. The conference aims to catalyze innovation and build a robust local semiconductor ecosystem in India.