CHENNAI PLUS

Schaeffler India Limited announced that its Board of Directors approved the results for the fourth quarter and the full year ended December 31, 2024.   For the fourth quarter (October – December 2024), the revenue from operations was INR 20,823 million, which is 12. 2% higher than the same quarter in 2023 and 0. 5% higher than the previous quarter. The Profit Before Tax (PBT), before exceptional items, was INR 3,387 million, up by 12. 7% compared to the same quarter in 2023, with a PBT margin of 16. 3%. The net profit for the quarter was INR 2,493 million, resulting in a net profit margin of 12. 0%.   For the full year (January – December 2024), the revenue from operations was INR 80,763 million, an 11. 8% increase compared to the previous year. The PBT for the year was INR 13,175 million, up by 7. 3%, with a margin of 16. 3%. The net profit for the year was INR 9,777 million, and the net profit margin was 12. 1%.   Mr. Harsha Kadam, Managing Director and CEO, e...

Tata AIA Life Insurance (Tata AIA), one of the leading private life insurers in India, has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting lives with the launch of its ‘Pledge to Protect’ initiative in Chennai. This initiative is part of the company's ambitious goal to secure one lakh lives in Q4 FY25.    In support of this initiative, Tata AIA’s employees and advisors in the Chennai Metro region visited HOPE orphanage on the auspicious occasion of Tata AIA's 24th Foundation Day. The group met differently abled people and provided them with food items, clothes, stationeries, daily necessities, and snacks. On 15th February, the Team Agency organized a Walkathon rally at Besant Nagar Beach, Chennai between 5am and 7am. There were over 120 employees and advisors who participated in the event. Amit Dave, Chief Distribution Officer - Proprietary Business, Tata AIA , said, “Life insurance offers much-needed financial security to people, including the vulnerable section of society. Ther...

The Resort, Madh Island, will host ‘Wedding Story’, a special two-day wedding showcase on March 1st and 2nd, 2025, from 10 AM to 10 PM. This event is for engaged couples, families, and wedding planners, offering an immersive experience with live wedding setups, beautiful décor ideas, and insights into dream weddings. Attendees can enjoy five to six beautifully designed wedding setups, including a wedding stage for vows, a reception area for celebrations, a colorful Mehndi setup, a poolside venue for luxury, and a picturesque terrace setting for an intimate experience. Each setup highlights different themes, providing inspiration for the couple's special day. Additionally, The Resort will serve an elaborate brunch featuring regional Indian dishes like Undhiyu, Khandvi, and various non-vegetarian options. This will allow guests to taste the quality and variety of food available for weddings. With its stunning beachside location and excellent service, ‘Wedding Story’ aims to help ...

The Process Equipment business of Godrej Enterprises Group has announced a ₹200 crore investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Dahej, Gujarat. This follows an earlier investment of ₹300 crore and shows the company’s commitment to enhancing domestic manufacturing and supporting India’s clean energy ambitions. The expansion aligns with government initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, as well as the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which prioritize clean energy and projects backed by a ₹37,000 crore allocation. The Phase-III expansion will boost the facility's annual manufacturing capacity to around 30,000 MT, adding new production space, including a Dust-free Enclosure for exotic materials and dedicated areas for manufacturing internals. This development aims to increase capabilities in producing high-end equipment for sectors such as hydrogen, nuclear, geothermal energy, and conventional projects like refineries and petrochemicals. Hussain Shariyarr, E...

Tamil Nadu has emerged as the second-largest market for shampoo hair colour in South India, reflecting a shift towards quick and convenient hair colouring solutions. Consumers are increasingly opting for shampoo hair colour, a do-it-yourself (DIY) format that eliminates the need for professional assistance. With rising awareness and a preference for ease of use, Tamil Nadu now contributes over ₹140 crore of South India’s ₹500 crore shampoo hair colour market. Industry analysts attribute this surge in demand to the convenience of shampoo-based applications, which provide a fast and efficient alternative to conventional hair dyes such as powders and mehndi, making them well-suited for modern lifestyles.   “As consumers seek personalized and innovative hair colour solutions, the growth in demand for shampoo hair colour has been significant,” said Neeraj Senguttuvan, Head of Marketing – Personal Care at Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL).   Recognizing this shift, Godre...

PVR INOX, India’s leading cinema exhibitor, is delighted to announce its association with ISHA to bring the grandeur of MahaShivRatri celebrations to audiences across the country. The live telecast from ISHA’s Coimbatore campus will be screened at select PVR INOX cinemas on February 26, 2025, from 6:00 PM on wards, continuing through the night until 6:00 AM. Speaking on this unique collaboration, Mr. Gautam Dutta, CEO-Revenue & Operations, PVR INOX Limited, expressed enthusiasm: " At PVR INOX, we constantly strive to create unique and immersive experiences for our audiences beyond just cinema. Bringing the sacred energy of MahaShivRatri to the big screen in partnership with ISHA Foundation is a truly divine and transformative initiative. We are confident that this initiative will redefine how communities come together to celebrate and experience devotion on a grand scale.”

Blue Star Limited introduced a new range of 150 models of Room ACs, including a premium series, for the upcoming summer. This selection includes inverter, fixed speed, and window ACs, catering to various consumer segments at different price levels. The demand for these air conditioners is increasing due to the hot summer weather and the rising incomes of India's growing middle class. This growth is also seen in smaller markets and from replacement buyers looking to equip additional rooms. Estimates suggest that India's AC industry could double by FY30.  To address this demand, Blue Star has launched a variety of products utilizing its manufacturing, research, and development strengths to offer innovative and high-quality ACs. The new lineup includes models in the 3-star and 5-star categories that provide effective cooling performance under extreme conditions. These models feature cooling capacities from 0. 8 TR to 4 TR, with prices starting at Rs 28,990. Among them, there are...

Around 30,000 people were planning to protest at Thoothukudi on February 20, 2025 asking the State Government to reopen the factory as unemployment in the district is growing. Tamil Nadu police rejected permission for a planned protest advocating for the reopening of the Sterlite factory in Thoothukudi.   The protest was called by various associations including INTUC, Tamilnadu Eluchi Tholilalar Nala Sangam, Thoothukudi Makkal Vazhvathara Padhukappu Iyakkam, Thoothukudi Contractors Association, Thoothukudi Industrial Suppliers Association, Tamil Nadu Hindu Traders' Association, Tamirabharani Pasana Vivasayigal Munnetra Sangaml, Lawyer's Association, PMT Makkal Pathukappu Sangam, Aadhi Dravidar Nala Sangam, Tamilaga Makkal Munnetra Kalagam, Al Muslim League Party and the local fishermen among others.   According to official order from the police denying permission for a planned protest advocating for the reopening of the Sterlite factory in Thoothukudi. Two rounds of p...

Rotary Coimbatore Ikons, in partnership with Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation and The TANKER Foundation, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on February 18 to establish a dialysis center in Coimbatore. This center will offer free and subsidized dialysis to those in financial need. The signing event was attended by several officials and members from the Rotary Coimbatore Ikons and sister clubs. The TANKER Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in June 1993, focused on providing subsidized dialysis and financial aid for kidney disease-related expenses to underprivileged patients. They also conduct awareness programs and screening camps for early kidney disease detection. Over 31 years, TANKER has delivered 743,805 dialysis sessions to 2,981 patients and provided Rs. 4. 40 Crores in financial support for 5,257 patients’ treatment costs.

Security is more than just a measure of protection—it is the foundation of peace of mind and lasting happiness. The latest ‘Happiness Survey’ conducted by the Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprise Group reveals that an overwhelming 98% of individuals who experienced a security breach in their homes reported a direct impact on their overall sense of security and happiness. More alarmingly, 56% of these respondents admitted that the breach had a significant to extreme effect on their well-being.   With a concerning 35% respondents having faced incidents such as break-ins, robbery, and burglary, the findings underscore an urgent need for enhanced security adoption. The survey delves into what fosters a true sense of security, with 41% of respondents opting for home lockers (Tijori), 45% citing surveillance cameras as the top measure to make them feel more secure, followed by 36% emphasizing the presence of security guards, 29% preferring alarm systems, and 20% highlightin...

ICICI Bank has adopted advanced technology to create drinking water from atmospheric moisture as part of its effort to enhance sustainability. The bank has set up units to produce 8,000 liters of safe drinking water daily, benefiting 4,200 employees at five locations: one each in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, and two in Chennai. The units, called Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs), use innovative technology to turn moisture in the air into clean, fresh drinking water that is free from microbes. The process involves condensing water vapor into droplets, followed by multiple filtration stages. Essential minerals are added afterward. These AWGs can function all year long under various temperatures (18°C-45°C) and humidity levels (25%-100%). Mr. Soumendra Mattagajasingh, the Group Chief Human Resources Officer, mentioned the bank's commitment to sustainability to lessen its environmental impact. Their environmental strategy follows the 4R principle: reduce, reuse, recycle, and res...

Tooling business of Godrej & Boyce, part of the Godrej Enterprises Group (GEG), announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italian automation specialist Bisiach & Carru (B&C) to manufacture advanced railway and aerospace equipment in India. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in India's manufacturing capabilities and supports the government's Make in India initiative. The collaboration will initially target a higher local manufacturing content with plans to increase this as capabilities develop. This strategic alliance comes at a pivotal moment in India's manufacturing evolution, perfectly aligned with the nation's push for self-reliance in critical sectors. The partnership will serve the rapidly expanding needs of Indian Railways, metro projects, and the aerospace industry – sectors that form the backbone of India's infrastructure and technological advancement. The partnership will manufacture sophisticat...

In the midst of the global safe migration crisis, representatives from nine South Asian countries gathered in New Delhi for the ‘South Asia Consultation Promoting Safe Migration to Combat Trafficking. ’ Key discussions focused on the need for a comprehensive strategy based on rights, aligned migration policies, and necessary legal reforms. The event stressed the importance of a coordinated global response to organized crime like trafficking, calling for agreements that promote safe migration and joint investigations into trafficking networks. Victims of trafficking shared their experiences and suggestions.   Just Rights for Children, a network advocating for child protection, collaborated on the consultation led by the Association for Voluntary Action. Bhuwan Ribhu, the network's founder, highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat trafficking, including disrupting the financial aspects of trafficking and enhancing intelligence sharing at various levels. He emphas...

Apollo First Med Hospital has successfully performed replantation surgeries on multiple patients who suffered traumatic finger amputations due to various accidents. The procedures, led by expert Plastic Surgeons Dr. V. Purushothaman and Dr. Sabari Girish Ambat, have restored not only the patients' finger functionality but also their ability to resume normal daily activities. The replantation surgeries, which took several hours for each patient, involved the meticulous reattachment of severed fingers, including small fingertips. Using cutting-edge microsurgical tools and super-microsurgical techniques, the surgeons carefully reconnected bones, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, restoring blood flow and ensuring hand functionality. Following the surgeries, all patients undergo rigorous rehabilitation to regain full use of their hands and fingers. Dr. V. Purushothaman, plastic surgeon, Apollo first med hospital, explained the importance of preserving the amputated part for repla...

Reliance Infrastructure Limited (RInfra) is entering the renewable energy manufacturing industry by establishing integrated solar and battery manufacturing units. This move shows its commitment to sustainable energy and aligns with global clean energy efforts. RInfra's Integrated Solar Manufacturing initiative will create a facility for producing solar panels and components, promoting self-sufficiency. The Integrated Battery Manufacturing unit will focus on advanced energy storage solutions for grid applications and electric mobility. With this entry, the Reliance Group will cover the entire renewable energy value chain, providing end-to-end solutions from manufacturing renewable energy equipment to generating solar power. This complements Reliance Power's focus on renewable energy generation, enhancing the group's presence in the sector.   To lead this venture, RInfra has appointed industry experts, including Ivan Saha as CEO of Renewable Manufacturing. Saha has over...

  In a significant effort to combat illegal betting and gambling ads from offshore companies, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS), All India Gaming Federation (AIGF), and E-Gaming Federation (EGF), starting January 2, 2025. This MoU aims to create a special monitoring cell that will focus on screening and reporting illegal offshore betting and gambling advertisements to the relevant government ministries. The cell will also review real-money gaming advertisements that may violate ASCI's guidelines, strengthening compliance in the Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry. Since the MoU became effective, ASCI has flagged 413 ads of offshore betting to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and processed 12 real-money gaming ads for possible guideline violations. Previously, ASCI flagged 1336 ads between April 2023 and March 2024, leading to actions being taken to block such ad...

Material Handling Equipment business of Godrej & Boyce, part of the Godrej Enterprises Group, is set to showcase its latest innovations at LogiMAT India 2025, taking place from February 13 to 15 in Mumbai. This trade fair is important for intralogistics and process management and highlights the company's leadership in the material handling sector, where it holds over a 20 percent market share. In line with the 'Make in India' initiative, Godrej continues to create innovative and local solutions that greatly support the country’s industrial growth. With a strong presence throughout India, Godrej plays a vital role in updating warehousing and manufacturing operations, offering advanced solutions tailored to the needs of growing industries. Key exhibits include India’s first locally made lithium-ion battery-powered forklift with a proprietary Battery Management System, emphasizing sustainable solutions. The company will also present a vehicle monitoring system that...

Essencemediacom, has bagged the media mandate of Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), one of India’s largest FMCG company. Essencemediacom will handle the media strategy, planning, buying and implementation forGCPL across traditional and digital media in the Indian market. Harshdeep Chhabra, Head - Global Media, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) , said, “Godrej Consumer Products Ltd is on a growth trajectory driven by expansion into newer categories and introduction of innovative brands while continuing to focus on achieving volume growth ahead of the industry. In line with our growth vision, we are delighted to have Essencemediacom as our new media agency partner. We are certain that their depth of experience in both traditional media and digital media will help us create a much bigger impact and help drive innovation across our product categories.” He further added, “Madison World has been our trusted media partner for over 20 years and contributed immensely to the GCPL growth ...

  The Madras Art Guild, with support from the Yuj Foundation, began its fourth edition on February 14, 2025, under the theme 'Transcending Boundaries'. The festival was inaugurated by Muneo Takahashi San, the Consul-General of Japan in Chennai, who performed a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and unveiled the 'Kala Car'. The opening evening featured a classical dance by Remya Nambeesan, a fashion show by Japanese artist Kazuko Barisic San, and an exclusive exhibition viewing at the Fine Art Gallery and Chennai Photo Biennale. The festival displays over 1000 installations, sculptures, paintings, and photographs. These installations were created by students from various educational institutions including Annai Kamakshi Music and Fine Arts College, The Pupil School, and others. The Kala Car was made in collaboration with artists Bhagwan Chavan and Pravin Kannanur. The Basement Art Project, which turns the basement of VR Chennai into an art gallery, showcases works from...

Apollo Hospitals Chennai has launched an advanced Technology-led Epilepsy Surgery Program,strengthening its commitment to comprehensive neurological care. This initiative combines cutting-edge technology with Apollo’s extensive clinical expertise, and management of epilepsy. The program highlights Apollo Hospitals' extensive dedication to medical excellence and innovation in healthcare. This Epilepsy Surgery Program operates through the combined resources of Apollo Main Hospital and Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, ensuring access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technologies. The facility is equipped with a 3T MRI, soundproofed video EEG suite, and PET CT scans, facilitating precise pre-surgical evaluation. The program also incorporates advanced surgical adjuncts, including augmented reality-enabled neuro navigation, intraoperative ultrasound, intraoperative electrocortico graphy, and a high-precision operative microscope, ensuring the highest level of accuracy in epileps...

The Aerospace business of Godrej & Boyce, part of Godrej Enterprises Group, is enhancing its commitment to India's self-reliance by signing several important MoUs during Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru to support government-backed national programs. A key MoU with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Ministry of Defence, marks a significant step in manufacturing flight control actuators for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This agreement builds on a 20-year partnership with ADA in developing crucial components for flight-critical systems. Under this MoU, Godrej will handle the complete development of Flight Control Actuators for AMCA, which involves precision manufacturing, sourcing aerospace-grade materials, assembly, testing, and creating test rigs. The business is shifting from 'Built to Print' to 'Built to Spec' and adopting technologies like 3D printing to transform its manufacturing and design processes. This technology allo...

LG Electronics India is set to launch the third edition of its Mega Blood Donation Campaign, reinforcing its commitment to corporate social responsibility with the core message, "Life’s Good When Life’s Shared." This initiative aims to mobilize communities especially youth and organizing 400 blood donation campsacross 70 cities.   In the years 2019 and 2023, LG Electronics India successfully organized around[188 camps, resulting in over 17,700 registrations. Building on this success, the 2025 campaign aims to further expand its impact, with a goal of securing 30,000 registrations.Each camp will provide donors with essential medical checkups, refreshments, and certificates of appreciation, ensuring a seamless and encouraging donation experience. In collaboration with credible partners like Care Today Fund, United Way Mumbai & Sakashm Bharti Foundation. LG aims to foster a stronger culture of voluntary blood donation in India.   Commenting on the initiative Mr. Hong...

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, ITC Sunfeast Baked Creations is launching a special collection of baked treats to enhance your celebrations. This limited-edition selection will be available for order only on Swiggy and Zomato in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, and Pune until February 14th, 2025. The menu features a variety of delicious items. The Chocolate Heart Bento Cake is a moist chocolate sponge with hazelnut mousse and a shiny glaze, decorated with hearts. The Tropical Love Chocolate Bar, with guava and red hearts, offers a fun surprise. The Valentine’s Red Velvet Cupcakes are filled with caramel and topped with frosting. The Valentine’s Special Hamper Box includes heart-shaped chocolate bento cake, a savory pie, a chocolate bar, and two cupcakes. For a fruity option, there’s the Valentine’s Special Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, which is light and decorated in pink, red, and white. Savory fans can enjoy the Cheesy Love Pie, a golden heart-shaped pastry with chili cheese. ...

Aequs Private Ltd. and Brazilian homeware company Tramontina have announced a joint venture to produce cookware and other consumer products for India and international markets. The new company, Aequs Cookware Pvt. Ltd. (ACPL), will manufacture cookware at Aequs' facility in the Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster. This location will be Tramontina's only manufacturing site outside the Americas. This joint venture will utilize India's Make in India initiative and combines Tramontina's years of expertise in cookware manufacturing with Aequs’ precision manufacturing skills. The Hubballi facility offers a 400-acre manufacturing ecosystem, enabling a complete manufacturing infrastructure. Mr. Aravind Melligeri, Chairman and CEO of Aequs, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the opportunity to leverage Tramontina's over 100 years of experience in cookware. He aims to establish the joint venture as a leader in it, meeting the rising global demand for premium ...