Gold Coast Films, a premier content marketing agency specializing in branded content and influencer marketing, took Indian direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands to new heights by showcasing brands like Lino Perros and uppercase at the prestigious New York Fashion Week (NYFW). The event featured exclusive runway shows where international models showcased the brands products, and renowned Indian lifestyle influencers Pooja Mundhra (@thecozyvibe) and Mehak Ghai (@mehakkghaii) stole the spotlight as showstoppers.

Gold Coast Films Brings Indian D2C Brands to Global Spotlight at New York Fashion Week

The companys presence on the iconic Times Square Billboard marked a significant milestone, bringing unparalleled global visibility to Indian brands. This initiative aligns with Gold Coast Films’ vision of bridging Indian brands with international audiences, reinforcing its mission to elevate India’s most disruptive D2C brands on global platforms.

“New York Fashion Week was just the beginning for us. For the first time, we took Indian D2C brands to an international fashion stage, and the response has been incredible. But we’re not stopping here. This is just the start,” said Neeraj Mishra and Sunny Arora, Co-founders of Gold Coast Films.

“Our vision is to take Indian brands beyond borders, making them a global phenomenon. We’re set to take over fashion weeks worldwide, ensuring Indian brands get the recognition they truly deserve,” added Mr. Sunny Arora.

Gold Coast Films has established itself as a strategic partner for over 100+ Indian and international brands, including Mokobara, Skybags, American Tourister, EUME, Dot & Key, Jack & Jones, FILA, VeroModa, Snitch, JBL, NOISE, Corona Beer, and Metro to name a few. The company’s expertise in crafting high-impact branded content and influencer-led campaigns, combined with strategic global partnerships, ensures seamless brand positioning across diverse markets.

“At uppercase, we believe in pushing boundaries-whether through sustainable innovation, bold design, or taking Indian craftsmanship to the global stage. Showcasing at New York Fashion Week was a milestone moment for us,” said a representative from uppercase. “The support from Gold Coast Films was instrumental in bringing our story to an international audience in the most impactful way.”

Celebrating its 25-year milestone, Team Lino Perros added, “Were proud to introduce our latest collection-a testament to our commitment to innovation, quality, and style at New York Fashion Week. Our team is motivated to showcase our collection on this platform every year.”

About Gold Coast Films

Gold Coast Films is a content production company specializing in branded content, influencer marketing, and global brand positioning. The company curates high-impact international campaigns and experiential intellectual properties (IPs) such as the SCY Awards, helping brands elevate their presence in India and worldwide.

For more information, visit: Gold Coast Films Instagram.

Online food delivery in the country started roughly in 2014 with the boom in startups. But the Online food delivery industry faced several challenges. While they gained some traction, there were significant issues related to user experience, delivery times, and logistical inefficiencies. They struggled to meet the diverse needs of its users and restaurant partners, leading to inconsistent service quality and customer dissatisfaction.

SRM AP Collaborates with ASCI for a 3-day Workshop

However, when the online food delivery industry considered the needs and necessities of the stakeholders and connected with the stakeholders with innovative ideas, they – moved on to the path of success.

Industry that connected with the relevant stakeholders, plugged-in Innovation and were iterative – as it is in the case of Online food delivery industry – achieved significant success.

And this approach of connecting with the relevant stakeholders and adopting innovative ideas is DESIGN THINKING.

What is Design Thinking

Design Thinking is a framework for solving complex problems and discovering new opportunities. At its core, it is about understanding and empathizing with the people for whom you are designing, brainstorming creative solutions, and iterating through prototypes to find the best possible outcome. This approach is not limited to product design-it can be applied to processes, systems, and even social issues.

When is Design Thinking Best suited

Design Thinking becomes handy to address challenges or problems for which either he/she does have a direct solution or is confronted with multiple confusing solutions.

Design Thinking is the best suit approach to address problems working in collaboration with all the stakeholders – connecting with them emotionally to know their pain points and come out with an innovative and iterative solution. In the modern world – a consumer driven market, the ability to innovate and adapt is critical for success.

What makes Design Thinking so special

Design Thinking has come to stay mainly of it being:

• Built on a strong foundation of Human Centricity, Innovation and being Iterative.

• A non-linear approach – that enables to arrive at the best possible solution based on the feedback at any stage of the process

• A systematic process that is thoroughly tested at every stage of the process to arrive at a solution that works for all and gets success

The Phases of Design Thinking

Design Thinking typically involves five key phases:

1. Empathize: The first step is to gain a deep understanding of the problem, and the pain points that one is trying to solve.

2. Define: In this phase, one synthesizes his findings from the Empathize phase to define the core problem.

3. Ideate: Once there is a clear problem statement, it is time to generate ideas to address the Defined problem statement.

4. Prototype: This phase involves visualize potential solutions and identify any flaws early on.

5. Test & Implement: Testing involves putting your prototypes in front of real users to gather feedback and finally go for implementation.

The Role of Innovation

Innovation has a big place in Design Thinking to address problems with human centricity. Innovation is about challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries to create something entirely new.

Innovation is the application of Design Thinking principles to create new and effective solutions. It goes beyond incremental improvements to deliver breakthrough products, services, and processes that add significant value.

Innovation that is Iterative – makes it more viable and adoptable.

Benefits of Design Thinking and Innovation

1. User-Centred: Design Thinking prioritizes the needs and experiences of users, leading to solutions that are more effective and satisfying.

2. Collaborative: The process encourages teamwork and leverages diverse perspectives, fostering a culture of creativity and cooperation.

3. Iterative: By continuously testing and refining ideas, Design Thinking reduces the risk of failure and increases the likelihood of success.

4. Creative Confidence: It empowers individuals and teams to think creatively and take risks, promoting a mindset of experimentation and learning.

The roadmap of Design Thinking in India

The future roadmap for Design Thinking and innovation in India is ambitious and forward-looking. By fostering a culture of innovation, integrating Design Thinking in education, supporting through government policies, adopting digital transformation, encouraging collaboration, focusing on sustainability, and continuously measuring impact, India is poised to become a global leader adopting Design Thinking.

Barriers for implementing Design Thinking in India

Implementing Design Thinking in India faces several barriers

• Misfit with Existing Processes: Many organizations have established processes and structures that may not align well with the iterative and flexible nature of Design Thinking.

• Weak Organizational Culture: A lack of openness to experimentation and innovation can hinder the adoption of Design Thinking.

• Resource Constraints: Limited financial and human resources can restrict the ability to invest in Design Thinking initiatives.

• Lack of Awareness and Understanding: Many organizations and individuals may not fully understand what Design Thinking entails and its benefits

• Resistance to Change: Employees and management may be resistant to adopting new methodologies, preferring to stick with familiar practices

• Educational Gaps: There is a need for better collaboration between businesses and educational institutions to promote Design Thinking skills

How to overcome these barriers

All the barriers that are explained can be overcome through:

• Education and Training

• Leadership Support

• Resource allocation

• Taking baby steps

• Cross functional teams

And most importantly understanding and appreciation of the urgent need to bring in a cultural shift and approach to adopt Design Thinking.

GenAI and Design Thinking

Generative AI (GenAI) is set to revolutionize the landscape of Design Thinking and innovation in India in several impactful ways. As Indian industries embrace GenAI, they are poised to achieve unprecedented levels of innovation and success.

By integrating GenAI into Design Thinking, organizations can accelerate the innovation process, reduce time-to-market, and create more user-centric solutions.

GenAI would enhance the capabilities of Design Thinking in

• Defining the Problem statement with data analytics and data extrapolation

• Idea Generation,

• Prototyping,

• User Feedback

• Collaboration

Path to Success

By embracing Design Thinking, Indian Industries can develop innovative solutions, improve customer experiences, drive business growth and contribute to the country’s sustainable development goals.

To get on to the path of adopting Design Thinking and reap the benefits Indian Industry has to:

• Dispel the misconceptions about Design Thinking: Many Indian Executives view Design Thinking as only relevant for product design or creativity rather than holistic business approach.

• Create Awareness: Create awareness to the Indian business of the benefits and the wide application of Design Thinking.

• Education and Training: Indian Business schools offer mentoring Design Thinking from Undergraduate level

• Training Workshops: Offer industry specific mentoring workshops on Design Thinking

Conclusion

Design Thinking and Innovation are transformative processes that can help organizations tackle complex challenges and seize new opportunities. By putting the user at the centre, fostering creativity, and embracing an iterative approach, these methodologies unlock the potential for groundbreaking solutions that drive growth and success.

• ELEMENTAL celebrates the bold, dynamic, and unapologetic modern woman.

• Collection details: A carefully curated palette of soft neutrals, vibrant reds, yellows, refreshing greens, and striking blues reflect the dynamic moods of the modern woman. Fluid fabrics and rich textures ensure effortless transitions from work to evening glam. With soft florals, bold botanical motifs, sequins, and printed mesh, the collection exudes confidence, adding a touch of playfulness and glamour to every occasion.

• The collection allows women to embrace their unique style with confidence.

KAZO, a leading fashion brand known for its contemporary designs and trendsetting collections, introduces Spring Summer 2025 – ELEMENTAL, a collection that encourages women to express their individuality and confidence through fashion. Designed for the bold, dynamic, and unapologetically herself modern woman, ELEMENTAL blends versatility and sophistication, seamlessly fusing timeless elegance with contemporary edge. This empowering collection allows women to embrace every role they play-whether making a statement at work, socializing in style or exuding glam for special occasions.

KAZO Unveils Spring Summer 2025 Collection, ‘ELEMENTAL’

KAZO’s SS25 collection ‘ELEMENTAL’ Campaign Film: www.youtube.com/watchv=WqFvMHjx_TQ

ELEMENTAL is more than a collection-it’s a canvas of self-expression, as dynamic and diverse as the women who wear it. A thoughtfully curated palette of soft neutrals, romantic reds, vibrant yellows, refreshing greens, and striking blues mirrors her ever-evolving moods and aspirations. Designed with fluid fabrics and rich textures, every piece effortlessly transitions from day to night. From statement shirts and elegant dresses to power silhouettes and versatile co-ords, the collection blends sophistication with ease. For those who love to leave an impression, tropical-inspired resort wear and vacation-ready styles bring a playful yet polished charm-because fashion should move with her, as she owns every moment.

Unveiling the collection, Ms. Divya Aggarwal, Creative Director, KAZO, shares, “At KAZO, we believe fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression. With ELEMENTAL, we aim to inspire women to embrace their unique identities and reflect their true selves through every piece they wear. This collection is not just about clothing; it’s about empowering women to confidently navigate every aspect of their dynamic lives-from professional spaces to social gatherings and beyond. Elemental is a vision of modern femininity, where individuality and confidence are celebrated in every silhouette and detail.”

Each piece in ELEMENTAL is a celebration of individuality. From soft florals that exude femininity to bold botanical motifs that make a statement, every print is designed to evoke confidence. Sequins and printed mesh add a playful yet glamorous touch, ensuring there’s something for every mood and occasion. Rooted in KAZO’s key pillars-WORK, SOCIAL, and GLAM-the collection offers versatile styles that seamlessly transition with the dynamic life of the modern woman.

The KAZO woman is bold, confident, and unapologetically herself-an unstoppable trendsetter who embraces her individuality. ELEMENTAL embodies this spirit, offering a collection that blends sophistication with edge, allowing her to express every facet of her dynamic personality. It’s more than just fashion; it’s a celebration of her journey, empowering her to own every moment with confidence and style.

For more information, please visit www.kazo.com | www.instagram.com/kazowoman.

About KAZO

KAZO is a prominent womens fashion brand that embodies the essence of the modern trendsetting woman through its impeccable designs. The brand represents a fusion of style and sophistication, offering an extensive array of attire and accessories, including Tops, Dresses, Outerwear, Bottom-wear, Co-Ord sets, Jumpsuits, Bags, Accessories, and Fragrances. KAZO seamlessly blends dynamic trends with premium occasion wear, resulting in a collection that reflects individuality, energy, and a vibrant persona. Founded by Deepak Aggarwal on 07.07.07 in Delhi, India, KAZO redefines fast fashion by infusing it with a conscious and practical approach, all while remaining affordable to a diverse range of customers.

In a landmark move aimed at significantly enhancing its research and development capabilities, Dansy Labs Private Limited has announced the strategic acquisition of key assets & Patents in Hong Kong and Sweden. This buyout is expected to bring about substantial progress in the companys global expansion and innovative areas of research, marking a pivotal moment in the companys growth trajectory. The long-term strategic Investment of USD 120 Million Asset Buyout & Patents in Hong Kong and Sweden encompasses a comprehensive portfolio of pioneering technologies and intellectual properties. These assets are poised to significantly augment Dansy Labs research and development capabilities, thereby expediting the advancement of next-generation products and solutions, the company’s release stated.

Dancy Labs Private Limited

Announcing the investment of USD 120 Million Dr Ashok Tiwari Managing Director of the unlisted pharma company Dansy Labs Pvt Limited said, “ We are thrilled to share that the Board of Directors and Management have endorsed this pivotal proposal in our recent Special General Meeting. This strategic investment will open up significant opportunities in key markets across Sweden. With the capital raised from investors and NBFCs, we are poised to seize this deal and realize its full potential. The asset buyout & Patents is a critical component of Dansy Labs broader strategy to expand its global footprint. The acquired assets include state-of-the-art research facilities and cutting-edge technologies that will be integrated into Dansy Labs existing operations. This expansion is set to accelerate the development of novel pharmaceutical solutions and solidify the companys position as a leader in the industry. With the acquisition, Dansy Labs aims to bolster its innovative capabilities and enhance its competitive edge. The new assets will provide the company with advanced manufacturing capabilities and resources to drive pioneering research in various therapeutic areas. This strategic move is expected to lead to a surge in patent filings and the development of breakthrough treatments that address unmet medical needs.”

Mr Chandrakant Patil Executive Director of Dansy Labs Pvt Limited said, “This strategic asset buyout is a transformative step for Dansy Labs. It reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing research and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. By integrating these world-class assets, we are poised to accelerate the development of cutting-edge therapies and expand our global reach. Dansy Labs has long been recognized for its commitment to quality and excellence in the pharmaceutical industry. The companys robust portfolio of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates has garnered acclaim for its superior quality and efficacy. The latest acquisition underscores Dansy Labs dedication to maintaining high standards and delivering innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes. The asset buyout is expected to have a profound impact on Dansy Labs research and development efforts. The company is set to leverage the newly acquired assets to explore novel therapeutic avenues and develop treatments that address critical health challenges. As Dansy Labs continues to push the boundaries of innovation, it remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients worldwide. The investment aligns with Dansy Labs mission to enhance its global footprint and strengthen its position in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. By integrating these new assets, the company aims to accelerate its development of cutting-edge solutions and maintain its competitive edge in the industry.”

Dansy Labs Private Limited, headquartered in Mumbai, India, is a leading player in the pharmaceutical industry. The company specializes in the import and export of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and intermediates. With a strong focus on research and innovation, Dansy Labs is committed to delivering high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global healthcare market.

About Dansy Labs
Dansy Labs is a leading global pharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming industries through innovation and excellence. With a diverse portfolio of cutting-edge products and solutions in Pharmaceutical API’s, Dansy Labs is committed to driving progress and shaping the future of technology. Dansy Labs has a significant presence in pharmaceutical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) research, particularly focused on developing innovative and sustainable methods for producing high- quality APIs, often leveraging its expertise in biotechnology, chemistry, and advanced manufacturing technologies; key areas of focus include developing new APIs for complex diseases. Dansy Labs Pvt Ltd, based in Mumbai-the commercial capital of India-stands as a beacon of pharmaceutical research and innovation. Founded with the mission to transform the pharmaceutical landscape, Dansy Labs has carved a significant niche for itself in the realm of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) research.

As one of the pioneering API manufacturing and marketing facilities in the world, Dansy Labs Pvt Ltd continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in pharmaceutical research. The company’s vision is to harness the power of technology and innovation to improve lives and create a sustainable future. By focusing on cutting-edge research and customer-centric development, Dansy Labs is poised to remain at the forefront of pharmaceutical advancements for years to come.

Dansy labs Private limited
OFFICE NO 53-54, Kalpataru Complex,CG Rd, Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400074
www.dansylab.com.
EMAIL: info@dansylab.com

To mark the beginning of the ICC Champions Trophy, Parimatch Sports, a high-quality sportswear brand inspired by the world’s top athletes, has launched a unique billboard campaign that captures the excitement, passion, and aspirations of Indian cricket fans.

Parimatch Sports Rolls Out Eye-Catching Billboard Campaign to Celebrate the ICC Champions Trophy

With the much-anticipated India vs. Pakistan match on February 23, Parimatch Sports has installed a double-sided billboard in Bangalore, delivering a compelling message of rivalry and determination.

One side of the billboard features an image of the Pakistani cricket team, celebrating a Champions Trophy victory. However, there is a crucial detail-the trophy is missing. Instead of being held high in triumph, a cut-out hole replaces the cup, leaving a noticeable void in the image. Below this eye-catching visual is an intriguing message that fuels anticipation, “The men in blue are coming.”

On the reverse side of the billboard, the perspective shifts. The image showcases the Indian cricket team holding the Champions Trophy, reinforcing the belief that the title belongs back in India. The accompanying message states, “Champions Return for Payback!”

The last edition of the ICC Champions Trophy took place in 2017, where Pakistan secured their first-ever title. This victory remains one of the most talked-about moments in the tournament’s history, adding extra significance to this year’s competition. Now, eight years later, India is determined to reclaim the trophy and turn the tables in this historic rivalry.

This initiative captures the intensity of the tournament and the aspirations of Indian cricket fans. As the world’s top cricketing nations compete for supremacy, Parimatch Sports stands in support of India’s pursuit of the title, celebrating the spirit of cricket and bringing fans closer to the action.

“The ICC Champions Trophy is more than just a tournament; it’s a stage where history is made and rivalries are reignited. With this billboard, we wanted to reflect the passion and unwavering belief of Indian fans. The missing trophy is a statement-India is coming for it. Through bold storytelling and innovative visuals, we are engaging cricket enthusiasts and celebrating the excitement of the game,” commented the Parimatch Sports Press Office.

Located in Bangalore, the billboard was unveiled ahead of India’s crucial clash against Pakistan on February 23, reinforcing the competitive spirit of the event.

Through this bold initiative, Parimatch Sports continues to engage with the sporting community, creating compelling campaigns that resonate with fans and celebrate the essence of cricket.

About Parimatch Sports
Parimatch Sports is a high-quality sportswear brand inspired by the world’s top athletes and designed to equip every brave soul on their winning track. With passion at heart, Parimatch Sports creates pro-on-field kits for football and cricket teams and a comprehensive range of everyday workout clothes for fans. The main feature that makes this brand stand out from the crowd is its exclusive design, inspired by top world’s athletes and their victories on the pitch. Parimatch Sports appearance on the market pursues an ambitious goal-expanding the horizons of Indias love for sports, bringing it to a brand new level.

CentrumBroking, a full-service brokerage platform and part of the diversified Centrum Group, announces the launch of its new mobile investment and trading application, Centrum GalaxC. This first-of-its-kind app offers investors a seamless and guided investment and trading experience, bridging the gap in existing discount broking platforms by providing not just execution capabilities but also integrated research, guidance, and advanced trading tools.

Centrum GalaxC App

The Centrum GalaxC app caters to both new and experienced investors, combining low-cost trading with curated advisory solutions. By offering both technical and fundamental research, the app empowers users to make well-informed investment decisions.

Key Features of Centrum GalaxC:

1. Integrated Research and Guidance – The app provides access to both technical and fundamental research directly within the platform, ensuring investors have the insights needed to navigate the markets effectively.

2. Industry-First Options Strategy Builder – An industry-first feature, the options strategy builder allows traders to execute multi-leg strategies with a single click. This tool helps investors select the most suitable options strategies based on their market outlook-whether bullish, bearish, or neutral.

3. Thematic Baskets – Centrum GalaxC’s thematic baskets enable investors to participate in curated selection of stocks based on proprietary research. Unlike other broking apps that require separate access and logins for such features, GalaxC integrates these baskets directly within the app, ensuring a seamless experience.

4. User-Friendly Interface in Multiple Languages – GalaxC supports multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Kannada, and Marathi, with plans to add Bengali and Gujarati in the next phase.

5. Seamless Account Opening – Centrum GalaxC offers one of the fastest digital account opening processes in the industry, enabling users to open accounts in just five minutes.

Jaspal Bindra, Executive Chairman, Centrum Group, said, “As a diversified financial services organization, we are committed to continuously enhancing our offerings to deliver greater value to our customers. Centrum GalaxC is a testament to this vision-an all-in-one, intuitive, and research-backed platform designed to empower investors across India. This multilingual app serves as a seamless gateway to investing and trading, catering to both seasoned traders and first-time investors alike. We are actively working on expanding the platform’s capabilities with advanced analytics and insights to further enrich the investor experience.”

Speaking on the launch, Sandeep Nayak, ED & CEO, Centrum Broking, said, “The Centrum GalaxC app is a response to the growing demand for a platform that offers both affordability and expert guidance. We have combined execution efficiency with research-driven insights to provide investors with a complete trading ecosystem. With India’s investor base expanding rapidly and technology reshaping the financial landscape, Centrum Broking aims to make trading and investing more accessible, informed, and efficient through this new digital offering.”

The Centrum GalaxC app is available for download on both Android and iOS platforms. The portal is – web.centrumgalaxc.com

About Centrum Broking

Centrum Broking Ltd. (part of the diversified financial services major – Centrum Group) is a full-service broking house offering a wide variety of equity-oriented solutions to a cross-section of clients comprising of high net-worth individuals and institutions. Our approach always has been in line with the groups strategy which is client first. We provide holistic solutions for a clients stock market needs – across equity broking, portfolio management, and depository services.

Yuvashakti Model School, Rohini, continues to set new benchmarks in quality education with affordability, ensuring that students receive the same world-class learning experience as top-tier schools-without the hefty price tag. Established in 1985 by Late Pt. Madan Lal Sharma, National President of Akhil Bhartiye Brahmin Mahasabha and Founder of Brahm Shakti Trust, the school remains committed to academic excellence and holistic development.

Yuvashakti Model School, Rohini

With a CBSE-aligned curriculum, Yuvashakti Model School blends modern teaching methodologies with traditional values, offering a well-rounded education. The school’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, including smart classrooms, advanced science and computer labs, a well-stocked library, and extensive sports facilities, provides a future-ready learning environment comparable to the best institutions.

Unlike many premium schools that charge exorbitant fees, Yuvashakti Model School has made excellence affordable in every aspect-from highly qualified faculty to fully air-conditioned classrooms, ensuring that students enjoy a comfortable and enriching learning experience without financial strain.

Kartik Sharma, Managing Director of Yuvashakti Model School, emphasized the institution’s vision, “We believe that quality education should not be a privilege but a right for every child. At Yuvashakti, we provide top-tier academics, modern infrastructure, and experienced faculty at a cost that remains accessible to a wider section of society. Our focus is on nurturing talent, fostering leadership, and ensuring holistic development.”

Beyond academics, the school offers a diverse range of club activities, arts, and sports, encouraging students to explore their talents and interests. Students actively participate in national and international competitions, further reinforcing the school’s commitment to leadership, creativity, and teamwork. Career counseling, leadership workshops, and interactive learning programs ensure that students are well-prepared for future challenges.

With a low student-to-teacher ratio, the school provides personalized attention and mentorship, helping students excel academically and personally. Yuvashakti Model School takes pride in its dedicated and experienced faculty, who go beyond classroom teaching to inspire and mentor students toward excellence.

As it moves forward with a vision for the future, Yuvashakti Model School remains a beacon of academic brilliance, innovation, and holistic growth. With an unwavering dedication to shaping responsible and confident global citizens, the institution continues to provide top-quality education at an affordable cost.

For more details, visit ymsrohini.com

Commemorating the 120th birth anniversary of Rotary, the Rotary International district 3234 in association with Queen Marys College organized a Peace Walk against drugs with Say No to Drugs campaign, on February 23, 2025. Over 2700 participants that included students from various Chennai colleges, the Rotaract members and the Rotarian families walked from Lady Wellington School to Queen Marys college, symbolizing a collective resolve against the menace of drugs and delinquency among adolescents and the youth. Supported by Rotary Club of Madras and District Public Image Team, this massive awareness movement endeavours to create a drug free Chennai (“Bodhai Illaa Chennai Uruvaakuvoam“).

Sanghamitra Peace Walk – RI DT 3234s United Efforts with Queen Marys College to Combat Drug Addiction

Addressing global drug challenges through a collective community-driven effort like the Sanghamitra Peace Walk, Rtn NS Saravanan, District Governor said, “This day marks a significant moment in history, the founding meeting of Rotary International, which set the stage for a global effort towards peace and understanding across the world. This walk creating an awareness about the perils of drug abuse and promoting Peace, a cornerstone of our mission, amongst the people, especially the youngsters, is one of the many events and competitions that will lead to our district conference, Sanghamitra 2025 to be held on March 1st and 2nd, here in Chennai.“

Rtn. Dr. Kumar Rajendran, Chairman, Dr. MGR Janaki College for Women and Chairman, Rotaract & Peace Walk, said, “To combat the rising tide of drug abuse amongst youth, Rotaract, the youth wing of Rotary proposes to organize more such community events across Chennai, in the near future too. With awareness campaigns, seminars and workshops on substance abuse and addiction prevention for adolescent children and the young adults studying in schools and colleges, we will not only educate them on the side effects of drugs on health, their lifetime consequences, the preventive measures, but also on how to contribute towards building a drug free World.”

Mr. T. Vivekanandan, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mylapore Zone presided over the Valedictory function and distributed the prizes to the participants. Senior Office bearers of RI District 3234 including Rtn S Ravi, Chairman – Conference, Rtn Vidya Ragu, District Secretary, Rtn AKS Ganesh Palanivel, Chairman – Public Image, Rtn J Sasikumar, District Rotaract Representative, Rtn Chella Krishna, President, Rotary Club of Madras also participated in the event.

MAAC, a premier institute and a pioneer in high-end 3D animation, VFX training, Gaming and Multimedia successfully concludes the tenth edition of its flagship creative challenge titled, ‘MAAC Creative League’ (MCL). MCL witnessed participation of more than 11,000 students pan India, across 14 categories including Poster Design, Matte Painting, Photography, Gen AI comic book, Vertical Short Reels, UI Design, Character Modelling, and more.

Maya Academy of Advanced Creativity (MAAC) completes ten years of MCL

MAAC Creative League (MCL) is one of the much-awaited events at MAAC wherein students from all centres participate irrespective of their course, course duration, academic qualification etc. There are fourteen categories in which the students enrol and submit interesting artworks. Through MCL, MAAC aims to create a competitive ecosystem for every student to nurture, groom and improvise on their skills. Registrations for the 10^th edition commenced in the final week of December’ 2024 up to 22^nd January 2025, post which evaluations were undertaken and winners are being announced every day on MAAC India’s social media handles.

Chander, Student, MAAC Pitampura who won the Props & Environment Modelling category at MCL 10

Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited, and Brand Custodian, MAAC shared, “For us, classroom learning alongside real life training and nurturing the competitive spirit of our students is crucial to ensure they are prepared to take on the professional world. Through competitions like MCL, our students are able to test out their skills amongst a host of other MAAC students across India and learn the essentials of work such as teamwork, creativity, and discipline. We are delighted by the sheer number of participants who enrolled into the MAAC Creative League this year, and we congratulate all the winners who are taking some exciting prizes home! To those of you who missed out, fret not, we will continue to have more such competitions, and we hope that you take these learnings with you in the future.“

Mr. Chander, Student, MAAC Pitampura who won the Props & Environment Modelling category at MCL 10 expressed his excitement on the award, “It is an honour to have been featured this year at MCL amongst the sea of exceptionally talented professionals who were also competing with me. I am thankful to MAAC’s academic team to ensure that our training leaves no stone unturned, and we are able to deliver exceptional work in a stipulated timeline. I look forward to using these learnings and experiences in my professional journey and I urge all current and aspiring students of MAAC to not be afraid to fail and keep trying new things.“

MAAC Creative League is an annual competition where students of MAAC from across the country get to participate in various AVGC categories and test their readiness. As part of the curriculum, MAAC teaches its students, life skills along with core technical skills. They learn time management, working under pressure, presentation skills, teamwork, and resilience, along with the technical tools and software. The students are also exposed to showcase their skills to industry experts and have an industry interface. This curriculum helps them to transition to a skilled employed professional (SEP).

About MAAC

Maya Academy of Advanced Creativity (MAAC) is India’s leading training institute for high-end 3D Animation and Visual Effects. Founded in 2001, MAAC has trained over lakhs of students, worldwide. It has in total over 130 centres globally with cutting-edge infrastructure in over 65+ cities.

MAAC offers industry relevant career courses on 3D Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Digital Design Filmmaking, Broadcast, VR & AR. MAAC courses are thoughtfully designed to provide students thorough insights about the dynamics of the industry. It provides real-life training environment to students, backed by excellent faculty, world-class infrastructure, and the latest technical tools.

MAAC students are placed across all domains of the Media & Entertainment industry in India & overseas. With our job-ready courses, MAAC students are placed in leading production houses and studios such as MPC, Prime Focus, DNEG, Amazon, Redchillies VFX, Accenture, DQ Entertainment, Green Gold Animation, Technicolor, NDTV, IBN7, NY VFXwaala amongst others.

For further information please visit – www.maacindia.com.

The 12th International Material Recycling Conference (IMRC), held from January 28 to 30, 2025, at the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, emerged as a critical forum for industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities in India’s recycling sector. Organized by the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), the event strengthened India’s dedication to a circular economy and sustainable resource management.

Naresh Pal Gangwar, Additional Secretary, MoEFCC at the event, with Sanjay Mehta, MRAI President, Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, GOI, & other dignitaries

A Call for Pro-Planet Living

Setting an inspiring tone for the event, Sanjay Mehta, President of MRAI, aligned the conference with Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE. He emphasized, “LiFE is about becoming ‘Pro-Planet People.’ Changing the world begins with changing ourselves. Recycling, when done thoughtfully, can reduce the strain on nature. We must start at home, in offices, and in factories by practicing proper segregation.”

Reflecting on the conference’s impact, Amar Singh, Secretary General of MRAI, added, “Transformative ideas and actionable insights have emerged here. Our resolve for sustainable resource management has grown stronger.”

Government’s Support for Recycling Industry Growth

Speaking at the conference, Naresh Pal Gangwar, Additional Secretary, MoEFCC, outlined the government’s roadmap for sustainability and resource efficiency, stating, “Achieving India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2040 requires manifold growth in GDP, increased consumption, and efficient management of material resources.”

Supporting this view, Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel, reaffirmed the need to improve the recycling ecosystem. He stated, “By strengthening our recycling infrastructure, supporting education and awareness campaigns, and encouraging industries to adopt circular economic principles, we can build a thriving, sustainable future for all.”

Industry Leaders and Global Perspectives

The conference featured key insights from global experts:

• Major General K. Narayanan, Program Director, Niti Aayog, highlighted the role of innovation and collaboration in maximizing India’s recycling potential.

• Dr. Soumya Gurjar, Hon. Mayor of Jaipur, stressed the need for greater participation of women entrepreneurs in the recycling sector and praised Prof. Bineesha P., Advisor at MRAI, for her contributions.

• Robin Wiener, President of ReMA, lauded MRAI’s advocacy efforts, while Arnaud Brunet, Director General of BIR, and Susie Burrage OBE, President of BIR, shared perspectives on the challenges posed by evolving EU regulations on shipping.

‘Recycling India’ – A National Initiative

Dhawal Shah, Senior Vice President of MRAI, called for a national campaign-Recycling India-to raise awareness and open doors to new opportunities in the sector. “Our vision is to see India emerge as a global leader in sustainable resource management,” he stated.

Zain Nathani, Vice President of MRAI, reinforced the industry’s role in India’s carbon emission and steel production goals, advocating for greater support of the Vehicle Scrappage Policy and the promotion of recyclable materials.

With 2,500 delegates, 400 foreign participants, 200 exhibitors, and representatives from over 50 countries, the 12th IMRC marked a defining moment in India’s sustainable recycling journey.

Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Joint Secretary, MOS, GOI; & Major General K.Narayanan, Program Director, NITI Aayog; honored at the 12th IMRC with MRAI’s Board of Directors & Secretary General

Government Approves Zero Duty on Non-Ferrous Scrap: A Game-Changer for Recycling

In a landmark decision, the Government of India has reduced the basic customs duty on non-ferrous scrap to zero percent, marking a major breakthrough for the recycling industry. The duty exemption applies to key materials such as Lead, Zinc, Copper, Brass, and Lithium-Ion Battery Scrap, providing a boost to India’s circular economy and sustainable manufacturing sector.

MRAI’s Advocacy Paves the Way for Policy Reforms

Sanjay Mehta, President of MRAI, expressed his gratitude for the government’s progressive decision, stating, “MRAI has consistently engaged with stakeholders and government bodies to bring about such transformative reforms. The duty-free non-ferrous scrap marks a critical advancement for the recycling industry.”

He further noted MRAI’s ongoing efforts to reduce duties on aluminium scrap, aligning India’s policies with global standards.

Union Budget 2025: Boosting India’s Recycling Industry

The Union Budget 2025, presented by Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs, stressed the importance of exports and imports as key drivers of economic growth. The reduction in non-ferrous scrap duties is a strategic move to enhance manufacturing competitiveness and facilitate access to affordable raw materials. The decision aligns with India’s broader vision of Viksit Bharat, accelerating growth and strengthening the recycling sector as a key contributor to a resource-efficient economy.

Projected Growth and Sustainability Mandates

The Indian recycled metal market, which generated USD 28.9 million in 2023, is projected to reach USD 38.0 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4% from 2024 to 2030. The zero-duty policy is expected to lower operational costs and encourage greater recycling activities, reinforcing India’s circular economy.

A significant step toward sustainable manufacturing, the budget introduces zero import duty on non-ferrous metal scrap, including lead, zinc, copper, cobalt powder, lithium-ion battery scrap, and 11 other critical minerals. The measure is set to transform India’s recycling sector, reducing production expenses while strengthening the country’s position in global markets.

Additionally, the government has mandated a minimum of 5% recycled content in all new non-ferrous metal products from FY 2028, with targets set for 10% recycled aluminium, 20% copper, and 25% zinc by FY31. These measures are designed to reduce industrial waste, enhance resource utilization, and support long-term environmental objectives.

MRAI’s Call for Further Reforms

In continuation of these efforts, MRAI has urged the government to remove Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on all grades of aluminium scraps, Cupro Nickel & Nickel containing Brass, and Zinc dross scrap under HS code 26201910. With aluminium recycling alone cutting energy consumption by over 95%, such measures would significantly reduce emissions and support India’s environmental objectives. The budget’s provisions are set to accelerate the recycling sector’s expansion.

MRAI’s Continued Engagement with Policymakers

Amar Singh, Secretary General of MRAI, highlighted the association’s role in shaping policy, “In aluminium, we have achieved what we set out to do, ensuring that scrap is imported based on its specification. On the policy front, JNARDDC has been authorized as a metal recycling authority by the Ministry of Mines, marking a significant step in policy-driven change.”

Tax Reforms and Mission LiFE

The Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI) welcomed the tax policy updates of 2024, including the implementation of the Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) under GST and the introduction of a 2% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on non-ferrous scrap purchases. These reforms enhance compliance, increase transparency, and streamline operations in the recycling sector.

Speaking at MRAI’s 12th IMRC in Jaipur, Naveen Sharma, Vice President of MRAI, urged the government to extend RCM to e-waste and battery waste, covering chapters 83, 84, and 85, which will advance formal sector participation.

Calling attention to the economic potential, Dhawal Shah, Senior Vice President of MRAI, noted, “The Indian non-ferrous metal industry is currently valued at $18 billion and is projected to reach $30 billion in the next five years. Renewable energy, automotive, and packaging sectors offer immense growth potential.”

A Collective Step Toward a Greener Future

MRAI extends its deep appreciation to the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, for supporting the recycling sector. The removal of import duties on non-ferrous scrap marks a watershed moment, positioning India as a leader in sustainable metal recycling. This move, backed by key ministries, is expected to reduce production costs, drive the adoption of recycled materials, and enhance India’s global competitiveness in green manufacturing.

Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, Minister of Steel; Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Mines; Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Corporate Affairs; and Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, have played pivotal roles in defining this progressive policy.

With this pivotal policy move, the nation accelerates its transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.