Category: Brands

  • Weekend Unwind with Dorby’s Mehul Agarwal

    Weekend Unwind with Dorby’s Mehul Agarwal

    Mumbai: With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com’s Weekend Unwind – a series of informal chats that peek into the minds of business executives through a fun lens in an attempt to get to know the person behind the title a little better.

    In this week’s session, we have Dorby director and CEO Mehul Agarwal. With a Bachelor of Management Studies and nearly a decade of experience in the building materials industry, he co-founded Dorby in 2017, aiming to revolutionize interior design. Under his leadership, Dorby has become one of the market leader’s in laminate manufacturing and home décor products, focusing on quality and innovation. Mehul envisions elevating Dorby as a top lifestyle brand, transforming spaces into artistic expressions. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and exploring new business perspectives.

    Without further ado, here it goes…

    Your mantra for life

    I firmly believe that success is a lifelong journey, not a destination. In a world of constant evolution, a growth mindset is essential. At the same time, it’s important to always remain a lifelong learner. Even in the surface décor industry, I’m constantly discovering new things. Every experience, every challenge, and every success offer valuable lessons. Staying curious and open to new perspectives helps me continually adapt and grow, both personally and professionally.

    A book you are currently reading or plan to read

    I am engrossed in ‘The Power of the Subconscious Mind’ and ‘The Catalyst’. These books have been incredibly illuminating. They’ve shown me the profound impact our thoughts and environment have on our choices and outcomes. It is fascinating to discover how subtle shifts in perspective or surroundings can catalyse significant transformations. The insights have also been invaluable in shaping my leadership philosophy, particularly in the interior décor segment, where the right design choices can evoke emotions and set the tone for a space, ultimately influencing how people feel and interact within it.

    Your fitness mantra

    My fitness mantra is simple: build a stronger mind and body. It is essential to cultivate mental resilience along with better physical strength. Consistency, discipline, and willpower are my guiding principles. I believe a healthy body is the foundation for a sharp mind and ultimately a fulfilling life.

    Your comfort food

    Sushi and Thai curry with rice are my go-to comfort foods. The combination of flavours is incredibly soothing and satisfying. When faced with a demanding schedule or stressful situations, indulging in a favourite meal helps me recharge and find balance.

    A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down

    “I wish that I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.”

    This tiny poem, written by the 14th century Persian Sufi poet Hafiz is a constant source of inspiration for me. They remind me that even in the darkest moments, there’s an inner strength and resilience waiting to be discovered. It’s a powerful reminder to look inward for solace and find beauty amidst adversity.

    Your guilty pleasure

    I have a sweet tooth, so desserts definitely qualify as my guilty pleasure.

    The last time you tried something new

    I recently taught myself to make sushi and some other Asian dishes. It was a challenging but immensely rewarding experience. Experimenting with new flavours and techniques is a great way to step outside of my comfort zone and savour my hard work later.

    A life lesson you learned the hard way

    Life has taught me the importance of preparedness. Nothing is guaranteed, so I’ve learned to cultivate resilience and adaptability. Having a Plan B and a strong support network are essential. While optimism is crucial, it’s equally important to be prepared for unexpected challenges.

    What gets you excited about life?

    Bringing innovative ideas to life, especially in business, really excites me. The journey from a raw idea to a tangible product or service that makes a difference is incredibly exhilarating. Witnessing growth and expansion is what fuels my passion.

    What’s on top of your bucket list?

    Visiting Antarctica is at the top of my list. It is the wildest, coldest, and most remote continent on Earth—a place where nature is still truly untamed. Experiencing that kind of raw beauty is something I’ve always dreamed of.

    If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

    Persistence is key. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Trust in the journey, even when the path seems uncertain. Remember, life often leads us to places we never imagined, but that are ultimately where we’re meant to be.

    One thing you would most like to change about the world

    I would love to see a world where empathy, compassion, and respect are universal. A world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels like they belong. It is a vision that inspires me, and I believe it’s attainable through collective effort and conscious change.

    An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times

    When faced with challenges, I find breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable steps to be incredibly effective. Taking that first small step, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is crucial in overcoming procrastination. It’s a strategy that helps me maintain momentum and stay focused on my goals, even during the most difficult times.

    What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?

    Spending time with my loved ones— friends, family, and my dog, Euro. They always know how to lift my spirits and remind me of what really matters. They inspire me to face challenges with renewed optimism.

    Your go-to stress buster

    Enjoying the breath-taking sunset over Marine Drive from my lounge is my ultimate stress reliever. The serenity and beauty of that moment create a perfect sanctuary, allowing me to unwind and recharge, no matter how demanding my day has been.
     

  • Eveready celebrates the international week of deaf people

    Eveready celebrates the international week of deaf people

    Mumbai – Eveready Industries India Ltd., a leading name in the Indian battery and flashlight market, marked the International Week of Deaf People through a first-of-a-kind initiative at the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan) in Mumbai. This apex institute, operating under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, is dedicated to providing comprehensive services for individuals with speech and hearing impairments.

    The event, titled “Surakshit Kanya: Sashakt Kanya”, aimed to raise awareness of the critical issues faced by deaf women and creating safety measures for deaf women. Eveready actively engaged with approximately 50 attendees, including deaf students, parents, teachers, and staff from over ten schools across the city, focusing on safety for deaf adults, particularly women aged 16 and above.

    The session for deaf adults was coordinated by Dr. Gayatri Ahuja, Head of Department, Department of Education at AYJNISHD. With a key focus on women’s safety, the session included a demonstration of Eveready’s Siren Torch for personal safety. Additionally, Mr. Alok Kejriwal and Ms. Pooja Barot from India Signing Hands, were present to address the audience and share their experiences.

    Eveready Industries India Ltd General Manager – Flashlights & NPDs Insiyah Chawala stated, “At Eveready, we believe in the power of innovation to make a positive impact on society. Our participation in the International Week of Deaf People reflects our commitment to societal inclusivity and safety for all. The Siren Torch is more than just a product; it’s a means of empowerment, allowing individuals to signal for help in distressing situations, regardless of their ability to vocalise.”

    The session aligned with this year’s theme—”Sign Up for Sign Language Rights”—showcasing Eveready’s Siren Torch as a must have essential for individuals facing potentially hostile situations. The torch’s powerful 100 dBA alarm and flashing capabilities can help draw attention in emergencies. After the session, Eveready distributed Siren Torches to attendees as a thoughtful gesture to celebrate the event’s success and honour the attendees’ high spirits.

    Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities director Suman Kumar commented, “We are pleased to collaborate with Eveready on this important initiative. This session not only equips our students with valuable safety knowledge but also reinforces the message that everyone has the right to feel secure and empowered, regardless of their disability.”

  • realme expands after-sales service program with realme care+ nationwide

    realme expands after-sales service program with realme care+ nationwide

    Mumbai: realme today announced the expansion of its after-sales service program, realme Care+. This initiative reflects realme’s commitment to delivering superior customer service across India, aligning with the slogan “We Care, for Real.”

    realme Care+ focuses on improving customer satisfaction by providing high-quality, efficient service. With over 550 service centers already operating in India, realme plans to increase this network to over 600 centers and establish 50 new brand service centers by 2025, covering more than 500 cities nationwide.

    realme Care+ offers a 10-day product exchange policy, a one-year warranty, and multilingual support in 10 languages. Customers benefit from Service Day every mid-month, offering unlimited bonuses. With a 95 per cent first-time resolution rate and 97 per cent same-day repairs when parts are available, realme Care+ ensures fast, reliable service. Their service centers have achieved a 90 per cent customer satisfaction rate and a 4.3 Google rating.

    During the Diwali Sale, realme offers discounts worth Rs 800 crore on smartphones and AIOT products. Customers can enjoy up to Rs 4,000 off on select realme P2 Pro 5G variants and coupons worth Rs 2,000 on realme NARZO 70 Turbo 5G.

  • AKAI India launches flagship 100 and 75 inch Google TV range

    AKAI India launches flagship 100 and 75 inch Google TV range

    Mumbai: AKAI India has launched its new big-size TVs, featuring advanced 4K QLED display technology, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos Sound. Running on Android 11, the series includes MEMC technology for smoother motion and QLED+ display for enhanced picture clarity.

    Available in two sizes— 75-inch (190 cm) and 100-inch (254 cm)—the TVs offer a cinematic viewing experience. The 100-inch model features a 120 Hz refresh rate, HDR 10+, HLG, 178-degree wide-angle viewing, and 400 nits brightness. The 75-inch model comes with a 60 Hz refresh rate, HDR 10, HLG, and 350 nits brightness. Both models have a colour gamut of up to 90 per cent NTSC 1931.

    The range includes a bezel-less design, 3840×2160 resolution, built-in Chromecast, Miracast, Google Play, and Google Assistant. The 100-inch variant also offers hands-free voice control through Google Far Field voice control. Connectivity options include three HDMI ports, two USB ports, and a LAN port.

    Starting at Rs 99,990 for the 75-inch model and Rs 3,99,990 for the 100-inch, the TVs come with a two-year warranty and flexible EMI options through various financial partners. Available at Electronics Mart India and authorized dealers across India.

    Speaking about the launch, AKAI India MD Anurag Sharma said, “This series represents a new frontier in television technology, combining exceptional display performance with powerful sound and the smart capabilities of Google TV. In our endeavor to deliver a ‘Better Up’ experience the personalised cinema, which we call signature cinema is the first step. These big sized TVs signify Akai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation, ensuring our customers have access to the best that television technology has to offer.”
     

  • Godrej Security & Solutions products have evolved over the last 125 years: Pushkar Gokhale

    Godrej Security & Solutions products have evolved over the last 125 years: Pushkar Gokhale

    Mumbai: The security solutions business of Godrej & Boyce, part of Godrej Enterprises Group has introduced its new ‘Khushiyon Ke Rakhwale’ campaign. The campaign highlighted the brand’s commitment to securing homes and ensuring the protection of what matters the most. With innovative and reliable home security solutions that provide peace of mind for families across India, the campaign aims to emphasise the emotional comfort that comes with knowing people’s loved ones are well-protected.

    Indiantelevsion.com caught up with Godrej & Boyce EVP and business head of the security solutions business Pushkar Gokhale who gave an overall brief of the campaign and lot more!

    Edited excerpts

    On the inspiration behind this campaign

    In developing our campaign, we conducted research to explore the correlation between happiness and security. We aimed to determine whether such a connection exists and, if so, to what extent. This led us to survey 2,400 customers to understand this relationship, which ultimately shaped the direction of our campaign. For the past 125 years, Godrej Security & Solutions has evolved its products to enhance people’s safety and security. Discovering a link between happiness and safety inspired us to position ourselves as a brand that “secures your happiness.” This is how the seeds of our campaign were planted. Previously, we focused on “Desh ki Tijori,” and now we’re excited to launch “Khushiyon ke Rakhwale,” perfectly timed for the festive season.

    On some key features

    We are continually innovating, and this campaign is no exception. Our strategy includes leveraging digital media, social media platforms, OTT channels, and television. Additionally, we plan to execute on-ground activations, taking advantage of our 5,000 retail counters nationwide to raise awareness and engage consumers through an omnichannel approach. Our e-commerce growth also supports this initiative.

    On the crucial aspect of this campaign

    Awareness is a crucial aspect of our campaign, especially since our research revealed a prevalent mindset among customers: “Nothing will happen to me.” We aim to educate them that security incidents can happen to anyone and emphasize the importance of preparedness. Our product range addresses security at various levels—from home entry points to the heart of the home, represented by our secure lockers. With rising jewelry and gold prices, protecting these valuable items becomes imperative; neglecting security invites potential theft.

    On the growing technology incorporated in this market

    We prioritize consumer research, as our customers increasingly view technology as integral to security, particularly in the banking and jewelry sectors. To meet these needs, we have enhanced our products with smart technology, incorporating artificial intelligence and IoT capabilities.

    Any particular challenge for the security solutions market

    One challenge we face in the home locker category is that, while we hold an 80 per cent market share, our focus should shift from simply increasing market share to expanding the market size itself. This requires increasing product adoption and building the category, as there are numerous substitutes available. Many customers still resort to hiding valuables in mattresses or temple houses—basic tactics that any burglar would recognize. We are committed to educating our customers about the importance of proper security solutions.

    On future plans and other innovations

    Moreover, our product development is driven by consumer research. For instance, our digital home locks have evolved from basic keypads to incorporating biometric access and multiple security features. We are also working on innovations that allow mobile phones to serve as keys, utilizing one-time passwords for added security. These technological advancements will continue to evolve as part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing home security.

  • The matter of high ticket & F&B pricing in cinema halls

    The matter of high ticket & F&B pricing in cinema halls

    MUMBAI: Film maker Karan Johar’s plaint that high ticket and F&B prices are what are keeping cinema-goers away from theatres has been seriously objected to by the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) which has issued a clarification. 

    It may be recalled that Karan Johar, Zoya Akhtar and other directors had sat down and done a free-wheeling conversation with the debut podcast of The Hollywood Reporter India editor Anupama Chopra, the video of which was released earlier this week. During the course of the chit-chat, Johar had mentioned that a single visit to the cinema would set back a family by about Rs 10,000; hence the visits have fallen, films are failing  and the box office is getting affected. 

    MAI president Kamal Gianchandani has issued a note in which he has stated that the issue of ticket pricing and F&B needs to be viewed in a “more balanced manner.”

    According to Gianchandani, the average ticket price (ATP) in 2023 across all theatres in India was Rs 130 per ticket. “The country’s largest cinema chain, PVRInox, reported an ATP of Rs 258 for the fiscal year 2023-24. Additionally, the Average spend per head (SPH) on F&B at PVRIox during this period stood at Rs 132. This brings the total average expenditure for a family of four to Rs 1,560 —significantly different from the Rs 10,000 figure carried in the media reports,” he explained.

    Gianchandani further pointed out that cinema pricing is dynamic and flexible and fluctuates based on factors like location, day of the week, seat type, film format, and cinema format. “Exhibitors utilise sophisticated digital tools to stimulate audience demand and optimize pricing, frequently offering discounts and promotions that make cinema outings more affordable, not just during off-peak times but even on popular days. Many of these initiatives can lower the overall cost of a cinema visit by more than 50 per cent providing families and moviegoers with affordable options. All pricing structures are clearly listed both at cinemas and online, ensuring transparency and choice for customers,” he elucidated.

    “More than anything else, it’s a well-recognised fact that the demand for a film is largely driven by its content and appeal, rather than by pricing alone. Any evaluation of pricing in the cinema industry must account for the broader economics of the movie business, which involves multiple stakeholders, including producers, distributors, and exhibitors. Each of these players contributes to the final cost to consumers, with prices ultimately shaped by the market forces of demand and supply. If lowering prices could optimize revenue for everyone involved, cinema operators would naturally make those adjustments without needing to be told. “

    “Additionally, unavoidable factors such as inflation play a role, and India has historically experienced high inflation rates. Nevertheless, cinema exhibitors continuously experiment with pricing models, collecting customer feedback and leveraging data analytics to refine their strategies,” he spelt out. “This ensures that the current pricing is both competitive and fair in the context of today’s market.” 

    Gianchandani concluded the note whilst saying: “At the heart of it all, our industry remains committed to delivering a diverse, high-quality, and accessible entertainment experience for all moviegoers. We believe it’s crucial to consider the full picture before drawing conclusions about pricing, as it’s a complex issue involving many moving parts. The goal remains the same: to provide audiences with the best possible experience at a fair value.”

  • Mismatchd unveils new fashion designs

    Mismatchd unveils new fashion designs

    Mumbai: Mismatchd is shaking up the fashion scene by celebrating the concept of duality—think Yin and Yang, Day and Night, and the divine balance of Shiva as both creator and destroyer. The brand’s designs capture the different facets of personality, inviting wearers to embrace the bold, the subtle, the adventurous, and the cozy.

    The brand is committed to sustainability, also championing an “Eco-Fabulous” approach that weaves eco-conscious practices into every step of the process. From thoughtfully sourced materials to a no-waste, low-inventory model, every piece is crafted with care, allowing individuals to look fabulous while being kind to the planet.

    Founded by D2C marketing veteran Sakshi Sharma, Mismatchd stands apart in a world dominated by fleeting trends. “Mismatchd is born from the philosophy of duality,” says Sharma. “We invite you to embrace every aspect of yourself—the bold, the subtle, the adventurous, and the cozy. Fashion should celebrate your multifaceted identity, and with Mismatchd, it’s not just fabulous—it’s eco-fabulous. Our goal is to prove that looking good and feeling good about your choices can go hand in hand.”

  • Airtel dials strongly into Gujarat

    Airtel dials strongly into Gujarat

     MUMBAI: It’s taking the battle into what is considered Reliance’s home turf (and possibly Jio’s too): Gujarat. Bharti Airtel has launched an ad campaign wherein it is touting its improved coverage in the western Indian state.

    It features Gujarati folk singer Aditya Gadhvi – known for his hit Khalasi from Coke Studio Bharat.  The ad -in Gujarati – begins with Gadhvi shooting in a desert like area for an Airtel commercial with a filming crew in which the dialogue has him saying Airtel has been adding the equivalent of eight towers a day in Gujarat. He pooh-poohs the statement; he is challenged by one of the crew members and he chooses to do a speed test. Which he does and to his bewilderment it runs up to 226 Mbps. The TVC ends with Gadhvi singing the praises of Airtel’s 5G Plus service.

    Bharti Airtel today issued a press release to the Bombay stock exchange wherein it announced that the ad campaign follows its expansion drive which saw it installing more than 1,700 new cellular towers in Gujarat over the past seven months –  which tots up to about eight every day.

    Through this initiative, the company, says it intends to expand its coverage to 7,000 villages across the state, impacting over five million people. The Airtel network will now provide connectivity in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, including highways, tourist destinations, and trade centers, ensuring comprehensive coverage in the region, the release points out.

    Earlier in November 2023, Bharti had issued another release wherein it had stated that “within the first year of the launch of Airtel 5G Plus, it has over 2.2 million unique 5G customers in Gujarat. Airtel 5G Plus service is available across all the districts in the state.”

    In June 2024, it had made another release stating that it had installed 2,525 new towers in Gujarat between December 2022 and March 2024, with each city witnessing a considerable surge in infrastructure development. Among the major cities, Ahmedabad, then led with 273 new towers, followed by Surat with 266 towers and Vadodara with 225 towers.

    Bharti Airtel  has since then been working on strengthening its coverage in the remote parts of Gujarat. And the latest network growth push and ad campaign is only a follow up of its intention to capture more customers in the western Indian state.

    The key question now is: how will Reliance Jio react to Airtel’s aggression in its home state Gujarat? 

    One can’t forget the Ranbir Kapoor-featuring TVC promoting Jio AirFibre with the tagline being JioFibre zindagi mein aaye toh baat ban jaaye during the IPL a few months ago. But that was a national campaign and in Hindi.

    Will Reliance Jio go Gujarati as well?

    Let’s wait and watch if it will dial in too!

  • Our primary focus is on maintaining consistent quality and supply of our products: DRRK Food’s Amit & Vikram Marwaha

    Our primary focus is on maintaining consistent quality and supply of our products: DRRK Food’s Amit & Vikram Marwaha

    Mumbai: With roots stretching back to 1967, DRRK Foods was established by Daulat Ram Marwaha and his son, Mohinder Pal, in the city of Amritsar, Punjab. The company was founded during the pre-green revolution era, a time when India was grappling with food shortages. Its flagship brand – Crown Basmati Rice has flourished into a global symbol of quality and tradition in the rice industry. The primary objective was to meet the processed rice needs of the Government of India, using Punjab’s status as the “granary of rice” to ensure a reliable food supply.

    Currently, they operate from two advanced manufacturing facilities located in Amritsar, Punjab. These facilities seamlessly integrate traditional rice processing methods with modern technological advancements to ensure the highest quality standards. As a single-product company specializing in rice, they present a diverse selection of Basmati rice varieties including Crown Classic, Crown Opal, Crown Sapphire Cream Sella, and Crown Amber Golden Sella & a specialty rice brand called Crown Diet Rice. Each variety is carefully crafted to offer the distinctive aroma, long grains, and superior taste that Crown Basmati Rice is renowned for. From the most premium rice for special occasions to the finest quality rice for daily use, DRRK Foods ensures that every grain delivers an exceptional culinary experience.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with DRRK Foods managing director & CEO Amit Marwaha and DRRK Foods joint managing director Vikram Marwaha where they gave insights on the evolving rice industry, the challenges of maintaining quality amidst market challenges, and the future of premium Basmati rice.

    Edited excerpts

    Since joining DRRK Foods in 1996, how have you seen the company evolve, and what were some key milestones in its journey?

    Amit: Since joining DRRK Foods, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the company’s remarkable evolution. One of the key milestones in our journey was diversifying into new export markets, which significantly broadened our global footprint and opened up new opportunities. Alongside that, we expanded our manufacturing capabilities, allowing us to scale efficiently and meet the growing demand. We also adopted new technologies, which enhanced our production efficiency and improved our quality control measures, ensuring that we consistently deliver high-standard products. Another pivotal moment was expanding our distribution networks within the domestic market, enabling us to reach more consumers across the country.

    Lastly, sustainability has always been a focus for us, and implementing eco-friendly practices, along with achieving important certifications, has not only set us apart but also aligned us with the growing global movement towards more responsible food production. These milestones have collectively shaped DRRK Foods’ growth and adaptation in an ever-competitive industry.

    Since your entry into DRRK Foods in 2002, how have your approaches and strategies contributed to the company’s expansion and success in both domestic and international markets?

    Vikram: Ever since I joined, my approach has been highly focused on strategies that have contributed to the company’s expansion and success in both domestic and international markets. One of my priorities has been understanding market trends across regions, which has enabled us to tailor our products to meet diverse consumer preferences. This adaptability has been crucial in entering new markets and thriving amidst competition. Boosting a culture of innovation has been another major focus. So, keeping that in mind, we have developed new products that cater to evolving consumer tastes and health trends, keeping us relevant and competitive. Building strong relationships with local distributors, retailers, and partners has facilitated smoother market entry and growth, helping us establish a strong global presence.

    I’ve also implemented lean manufacturing practices and optimized our supply chain, which has reduced costs while improving product quality. This has been vital in supporting both domestic growth and our international scalability. Additionally, by investing in targeted marketing campaigns and strengthening our brand identity, we’ve enhanced our visibility and reputation, allowing us to connect more effectively with consumers in various regions. Lastly, our emphasis on sustainable practices and engagement in CSR activities has resonated deeply with consumers and stakeholders, enhancing our brand image and ensuring long-term growth. These strategies have collectively driven our success in the ever-changing food industry.

    Given the fluctuations in the global rice market, what strategies have you implemented to ensure consistent quality and supply of your products?

    Both: Our primary focus is on maintaining consistent quality and supply of our products. First, we’ve developed strong relationships with multiple suppliers across various regions, which helps us mitigate risks associated with local disruptions or sudden price spikes. Furthermore, to maintain product consistency, we’ve put in place stringent quality control measures at every stage of our supply chain. This allows us to ensure that our products meet the highest standards, regardless of market conditions. We’ve also worked on enhancing our supply chain management systems, improving forecasting, inventory management, and logistics efficiency to keep operations smooth.

    Additionally, we use technology to use precision agriculture and improved processing techniques to enhance both yield and product quality. To manage price volatility in the global market, we employ financial instruments like hedging, which provides us with some stability amidst market shifts. Lastly, adopting eco-friendly practices not only ensures long-term supply stability but also appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.

    How do you perceive the evolving consumer preferences in the rice industry, and how is DRRK Foods adapting to these changes?

    Both: I’ve observed that consumer preferences in the rice industry are shifting due to a variety of factors, including rising health awareness, dietary trends, and a growing concern for sustainability. Many consumers are now seeking healthier options, such as brown rice, basmati rice, and rice varieties that offer added nutritional benefits. There’s also an increasing demand for organic and sustainably sourced products, as consumers become more conscious of their food choices and their environmental impact.

    At DRRK Foods, we are actively adapting to these changes by diversifying our product lineup to meet these evolving preferences. We’ve expanded our offerings to include healthier options, and we’ve made significant investments in sourcing organic and non-GMO rice. Additionally, our advanced processing techniques are designed to preserve the nutritional value of our products, ensuring that we deliver quality while keeping health benefits intact. We also prioritize transparency in our supply chain, addressing consumers’ growing concerns around sustainability. By aligning our operations with these trends, we’re not only meeting current consumer demands but also positioning ourselves to continue thriving as these preferences evolve.

    What are your primary strategic goals as you aim to achieve Rs 25 billion in revenue by 2027?

    Both: At DRRK Foods, we are proactively responding to shifting consumer preferences by diversifying our product lineup to include healthier options. We’ve made substantial investments in sourcing organic and non-GMO rice, while our advanced processing techniques are designed to retain the nutritional integrity of our products, ensuring both quality and health benefits. In addition, we prioritize supply chain transparency, addressing the growing demand for sustainability. By aligning our operations with these trends, we’re not only meeting current consumer expectations but also positioning ourselves for continued growth as these preferences evolve.

    How do you plan to position Crown Rice as a leading brand both domestically and internationally, and what will be the key drivers of this growth?

    Both: At Crown Rice, we’ve built a strong brand identity centered on high-quality, premium rice, backed by rigorous quality assurance processes and certifications to earn consumer trust. Through thorough market research, we understand consumer trends in both domestic and international markets and have formed key partnerships with distributors, retailers, and food service providers to expand our distribution.

    Our marketing efforts include targeted digital campaigns and influencer collaborations, highlighting our unique selling points like sustainability, superior taste, and health benefits. We innovate by introducing new rice varieties, including organic and specialty options, while prioritizing sustainable farming and corporate social responsibility. Engaging with customers and gathering feedback further strengthens our relationships. By maintaining a focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability, Crown Rice is poised to become a global leader in the rice industry.

  • 350 Students achieve certification at Samsung Innovation Campus with CM Yogi Adityanath’s support

    350 Students achieve certification at Samsung Innovation Campus with CM Yogi Adityanath’s support

    Mumbai – Samsung India’s flagship CSR initiative, the ‘Samsung Innovation Campus,’ (SIC) has concluded its Coding & Programming, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) courses for 350 students in Gorakhpur at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University. The students were handed over certificates of completion by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath at a ceremony held at the University premises. This initiative reiterates the brand’s commitment to being a strong partner of the country and working alongside the government in its mission to skill India and power #DigitalIndia.

    Senior Samsung executives and representatives from the Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI), which collaborated in training and mentoring the students were also present during the occasion. A total of 350 students were awarded certificates across various future-tech domains, including 150 in Coding & Programming, 100 in Artificial Intelligence, 50 in Big Data, and 50 in Internet of Things (IoT).

    Samsung will train 3500 students across India as part of this programme in 2024. At the conclusion of the 2024 programme top performers of Samsung Innovation Campus will be awarded a cash prize of INR 1 lakh and will have the chance to visit Samsung’s facilities in Delhi/NCR. During these visits, they will have the opportunity to engage with and receive mentorship from Samsung’s leadership team. Not just that, the national course toppers will also receive exciting Samsung products, including Samsung Galaxy Buds and Samsung Galaxy Smartwatches.

    “Samsung has been in India for around 29 years now and Uttar Pradesh has been a hub for manufacturing and research-led initiatives for Samsung during this time. We are a committed partner to the growth story of both India and Uttar Pradesh. Through Samsung Innovation Campus, our flagship CSR programme, we are committed to the mission of educating the youth of the nation in future-tech skills, which will strengthen our vision of powering Digital India,” said Samsung Southwest Asia president and CEO JB Park.

    “Skill development of the youth is a key priority of the Government of Uttar Pradesh. We welcome this initiative by Samsung that will impart employment-oriented future-tech skills to our students. Samsung has been a strong partner of Uttar Pradesh for many years, and this programme will further strengthen our bond,” said Adityanath.

    “This collaboration reinforces the shared vision of equipping India’s youth with the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow. It is heartening to see the programme expand and reach a vast pool of young talent across the country, including those in remote areas. Through this initiative we want to empower the youth and create opportunities for them in domains like Coding & Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Internet of Things,” said Electronics Sector Skills Council of India CEO Abhilasha Gaur.