Archive: October 3, 2025

Pune-Based Spherule Foundation Wins Mahatma Award 2025 for Social Good & Impact

Pune, 3^rd October 2025: As the nation marks Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti (October 2) and the beginning of Mahatma Week, Pune has taken centre stage in global recognition for social good. The Spherule Foundation, a Pune-headquartered NGO, has been honoured with the prestigious Mahatma Award 2025 for Social Good & Impact, one of the highest international recognitions for social commitment.

The Mahatma Award, one of the highest global honours for social commitment, is supported by the Aditya Birla Group. The award ceremony takes place as part of the annual Mahatma Week, commencing on October 1st—a global observance dedicated to honouring Gandhi’s life and legacy. This year, the week also marks the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, making the recognition even more significant.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Geeta Bora, Founder & Director of Spherule Foundation, said, “This honour is not just for the Spherule Foundation but for every changemaker, volunteer, and partner who believed in our vision. The Mahatma Award strengthens our resolve to keep working towards a society where equality, dignity, and compassion are at the heart of progress. “

Under Dr. Bora’s leadership, the Spherule Foundation, headquartered in Pune, has become a catalyst for change, impacting millions of lives through programs aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its work spans diverse sectors, including:

• Education: Establishing STEM and digital learning labs, remedial classes, and scholarship programs for underprivileged children.
• Health & Nutrition: Setting up mobile health units, ICUs, NICUs, and running large-scale awareness campaigns on malnourishment, adolescent health, and hygiene (including a Guinness World Record initiative).
• Gender Equality & Livelihoods: Empowering women with skills, self-reliance, and financial independence through innovative programs.
• Sustainability & Climate Action: Building Green Schools, promoting renewable energy, and conducting environment awareness campaigns.

RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.5 Percent, Cites Global Uncertainty and Domestic Growth Tailwinds

Mr. V P Nandakumar, MD & CEO Manappuram Finance Ltd.

“RBI MPC’s decision to keep repo rate unchanged at 5.5% stems from the fact that the central bank wants to watch out how the current situation unfolds in the coming months as there are several external headwinds to the domestic growth. RBI observes that the trade restrictions will hit external demand, geopolitical conflicts continue to escalate, and volatility in the global financial markets may continue. However, a major tailwind is the recent GST rate rationalization, which is expected to boost domestic GDP growth substantially. CPI inflation is benign and projected to be within the central bank’s tolerance limit, forex reserves are in a comfortable position, and the growth projections are intact. Thus, RBI has moved towards further internationalization of the rupee and several measures to strengthen the financial condition of banks and regulated entities, and ease of doing business. The transmission of earlier rate cuts is progressing well and the credit growth in the economy is healthy. So, RBI is waiting to see the real impacts of global trade tensions and estimated consumption boom post GST rate rationalization.

Another notable measure is easing of bank funding to capital market operations like enhancing the limit of lending against shares. For individuals and institutions, the move is beneficial. NBFC funding to operational infrastructure projects is also relaxed, which will eventually strengthen the financial position of non-bank lenders. Despite a weakening rupee, efforts to internationlise rupee and promote NRI investments in India worth special mention.”

Kalyan Kumar Assumes Charges as Managing Director & CEO of Central Bank of India

Mumbai, October 3: Shri Kalyan Kumar assumes charges as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Central Bank of India. He succeeds Shri M V Rao who retired on superannuation at the close of working hours on July 31, 2025.

Kalyan Kumar

Prior to his appointment as MD & CEO, Shri Kumar served as the Executive Director of Punjab National Bank since October 2021, where he drove business growth through Digital Transformation, Strategic Management, Economic Advisory, Data Analytics, and Information Technology Excellence.

With an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades, Shri Kumar, began his banking journey in 1995 as a Rural Development Officer with Union Bank of India. Over the next 26 years, he held diverse leadership roles across branch operations, including heading Very Large Branches (VLBs), serving as Principal of the Staff Training College, and leading key corporate functions such as Business Process Transformation, Credit Review & Monitoring, Vigilance, and Human Resources. He also played a pivotal role in steering the successful amalgamation of Andhra Bank and Corporation Bank into Union Bank of India.

A Post Graduate from Rajendra Prasad Agriculture University, Pusa, Shri Kumar is a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB) and holds multiple certifications in Trade Finance, SME Finance, IT Security, and KYC-AML from IIBF. He has also undergone leadership development training with the Banks Board Bureau and the Director Development Programme conducted by Egon Zehnder in collaboration with Harvard University.

At Punjab National Bank, he led the Bank’s vision and strategy for overall growth through Digital Transformation, Strategic Management, Economic Advisory, Data Analytics, and IT Excellence. Keeping ESG goals as a priority, he launched the ‘PNB Palaash’ initiative, under which awareness programmes and sustainability measures such as tree plantation drives, use of digital copies and biodegradable folders, and energy, paper and water conservation were implemented. He also encouraged carpooling as part of a broader green culture.

In addition to these achievements, Shri Kumar provided strategic oversight in business process re-engineering, proactive credit monitoring, asset quality improvement and recovery, strengthening of operations and KYC, and enhancing customer experience at the bank. He also spearheaded the PNB Udaan programme for HR transformation, bringing clarity of roles and expectations for every employee through well-defined and measurable KRAs. Furthermore, he strengthened the bank’s business acquisition and relationship divisions, focusing on driving growth in CASA and expanding the marketing of both asset and liability products, including credit cards. Shri Kumar also led the wealth management vertical with emphasis on increasing fee-based income through third-party products.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) cleared his appointment on September 29, 2025. Shri Kumar will assume charge as MD & CEO of Central Bank of India for a period of three years, effective from the date of taking over office.

Bondada Engineering Ltd. Hosts Annual General Meeting; Celebrates Landmark Growth and Sets Bold Future Goals

Hyderabad, October 3, 2025: Bondada Engineering Ltd. (BEL), a leading infrastructure and renewable energy solutions provider, conducted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for FY 2024–25 today. The meeting highlighted the Company’s strong performance during the year, diversification across sectors, and ambitious roadmap for future growth in alignment with India’s digital and energy security vision.

During FY 2024–25, Bondada Engineering achieved several milestones. The Company played a crucial role in the BSNL 4G Saturation Project, executing more than 1,250 telecom towers, about 10% of the nationwide rollout dedicated to the nation by Hon’ble Prime Minister on September 28, 2025. BEL also evolved from a solar EPC contractor into a renewable energy developer, initiating a 2 GW solar park under its subsidiary GreenBond RE Park Pvt. Ltd. and making significant progress in battery energy storage with the execution of a 200 MW/400 MWh project in Tamil Nadu. Diversification into the railways sector was marked by securing an order from South Central Railways covering 452 sites across 1,500 kilometers. On the financial front, the Company reported revenues of INR 1,571 crore (up 96% year-on-year) and net profit of INR 115 crore (up 149% year-on-year), while its credit rating was upgraded to CRISIL A (Stable).

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Dr Bondada Raghavendra Rao, Chairman & Managing Director Bondada Engineering Limited, “FY 2024–25 was a year of transformation and resilience. From telecom and renewable energy to railways and storage, we have proven our ability to deliver at scale while creating long-term value. With bold ambitions and clear strategies, the group is poised to march towards a vibrant future through 2025-2026 towards our 2030 vision of becoming a 25 GW clean energy powerhouse, reinforcing India’s digital and energy security in the process.”

Looking ahead, Bondada Engineering is targeting exponential growth guided by the mantra “Live Excellence.” The Company aims to double its revenue by FY 2026 over the FY 2025 base, triple it by FY 2027, and achieve a seven-fold increase by FY 2030. With revised renewable energy targets of 25 GW, expanded presence in battery storage, and sector diversification, BEL is positioning itself as a key contributor to India’s transition towards clean energy and advanced digital infrastructure.

Beginner’s Guide to Raising Backyard Chickens: What You Need to Know Before You Start

If you’ve ever scrolled through YouTube or read blogs from seasoned poultry keepers, you’ve probably stumbled across names like Backyard Chicken Guru https://backyardchickenguru.com/. These voices make the idea of raising chickens sound both rewarding and surprisingly manageable. And truth be told, more and more families in India are exploring backyard chicken keeping, not only for fresh eggs but also for a small taste of self-sufficiency. Before you rush to buy your first chicks, though, there are a few important things to know.

Why Backyard Chickens Are Catching On in India

The appeal is simple. Fresh, chemical-free eggs every morning, plus the joy of watching hens scratch around in the yard. With urban gardens and terrace farming becoming popular, chickens fit right into the mix. For rural households, poultry has always been part of daily life, but now even city dwellers are giving it a try on a smaller scale.

Things to Check Before You Start

Before setting up a coop, it helps to think a few steps ahead.

• Local regulations: Some cities or housing societies don’t allow poultry inside residential areas. Always check.
• Space available: Even a few hens need breathing room. A cramped setup quickly turns into a mess.
• Climate: Indian summers can be brutal. Shade, ventilation, and water access are non-negotiable.
• Time commitment: Chickens aren’t high-maintenance, but they do need daily feeding, cleaning, and monitoring.

Choosing the Right Breeds

Not every chicken breed is suited for backyard life in India. Some are better layers, others tolerate the heat well.

• Giriraja: A hardy Indian breed, good for both eggs and meat.
• Kadaknath: Famous for its black meat and strong immunity.
• White Leghorn: Light, active, and one of the most reliable egg producers.
• Rhode Island Red: A foreign breed but very popular across Indian farms.

For beginners, it’s usually best to start with 4–6 hens of a proven local breed. They’re more resilient and easier to manage.

Setting Up the Coop

A coop doesn’t need to be fancy. What it does need is functionality.

• Protection from predators: Stray dogs, cats, and even kites can threaten chickens. Secure fencing is essential.
• Dry flooring: Avoid muddy ground; it breeds disease. Many keepers use sand or dry soil.
• Ventilation: Hot Indian summers mean airflow matters more than insulation.
• Nesting boxes: A simple wooden crate filled with straw works fine for laying hens.

Feeding Your Flock

Commercial feed is available, but many Indian households mix their own. A balanced diet ensures consistent egg production and healthy birds.

• Grains: Maize, broken rice, or wheat bran.
• Protein: Soybean meal, groundnut cake, or even dried fish in coastal regions.
• Greens: Kitchen scraps, spinach, or garden weeds.
• Supplements: Calcium sources like crushed oyster shell or limestone powder.

Clean drinking water is just as important as food. Refill and change it daily.

Health and Care Basics

Chickens are tough, but they’re not invincible. A little prevention goes a long way.

• Vaccinate chicks early.
• Watch for signs of illness like drooping wings, watery eyes, or reduced appetite.
• Keep the coop dry and disinfected.
• Isolate sick birds quickly to avoid spreading disease.

Eggs, Manure, and More

Apart from fresh eggs, backyard chickens give you another bonus manure. Poultry droppings, when composted, are excellent fertilizer for vegetables and fruit trees. Some households also sell surplus eggs in their community, turning the hobby into a small side income.

Conclusion

Raising backyard chickens in India isn’t complicated, but it does require planning, consistency, and a little patience. With the right breeds, proper housing, and a watchful eye on health, you’ll enjoy not just eggs but also the rhythm and charm chickens bring to daily life. For many, this journey begins with curiosity, and soon enough, it becomes a rewarding routine. And if you’re still unsure, take a page from those like the Backyard Chicken Guru, start small, learn as you go, and let your flock teach you.

Remedium Lifecare Approves INR 100 Crore Fundraise & New Identity to Fuel Growth

Mumbai, October 2, 2025: Remedium Lifecare Ltd., a rapidly growing player in the pharmaceutical supply chain and specialty chemicals sector, has successfully concluded its 36th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Board Meeting.

At the AGM, shareholders approved the adoption of the audited standalone and consolidated financial statements for FY25. They also approved the re-election of Mr. Mansoor Vahab as Non-executive Director, who retires by rotation.

The management also outlined forward-looking initiatives, including the expansion of global operations through its wholly owned subsidiary, Remlife Global PTE, which will strengthen international trade activities, and entry into the Contract Development and Manufacturing (CDMO) segment to collaborate with leading pharma players and create sustainable long-term value.

Separately, the Board of Directors approved several strategic proposals. These include a proposal to change the company’s name to SUPRA PHARMACHEM LIMITED or any other name as approved by the ROC subject to the approval of shareholders, Stock Exchanges, and other statutory/regulatory authorities as may be required. The Board has also approved an increase in the authorised share capital of the Company from ₹110 crores to ₹210 crores. The Board further approved raising up to ₹100 crores through equity shares, convertible instruments, rights issue, or other permissible securities, in one or more tranches, subject to regulatory approvals.

FY 2024–25 was a year of resilience and steady progress for the company despite industry-wide challenges. However, in Q1 FY 25-26 on a consolidated basis, the company reported Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹464.88 lacs compared to net loss of ₹204.60 lacs in Mar-25. These results reflect disciplined financial management and a strong commitment to sustainable growth.

Commenting on these developments, Mr. Adarsh Munjal, Managing Director of Remedium Lifecare Ltd., said: “FY25-26 marks an important transition phase for us as we focus on global expansion and strengthen our service capabilities through CDMO opportunities. The Board’s decision to explore a new identity and raise fresh capital underlines our commitment to accelerate growth, enhance shareholder value, and position ourselves strongly in the evolving pharma landscape.”

Remedium Lifecare Ltd. is a fast-growing company engaged in the pharmaceutical supply chain and specialty chemicals segment. With a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and global expansion, the company is committed to delivering sustainable value to stakeholders while contributing to the healthcare ecosystem.

About Remedium Lifecare Ltd:

Founded in 1988, Remedium Lifecare Ltd. is a BSE-listed pharmaceutical company engaged in the trading and distribution of raw material as a supply chain management for the pharmaceutical industry with an emphasis on quality, compliance and global reach, the company continues to expand its presence while playing a pivotal role in India’s pharmaceutical ecosystem