Category: business

Telangana’s IT and Industry Minister inaugurates HIPLEX 2026, India’s Third-Largest Plastics Expo

Hyderabad, Aug 07: Calling the plastics and polymers sector a “salient engine of India’s economic growth,” Telangana Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, Communications, Industries & Commerce D. Sridhar Babu appealed to industry stakeholders to join hands with the government in making Telangana a leading hub for plastics and polymer manufacturing.

The Minister inaugurated HIPLEX 2026, South & Central India’s largest plastics exhibition and India’s third-largest plastics expo, at the HITEX Exhibition Centre on Friday.

The four-day international exhibition, organised by the Telangana and Andhra Plastics Manufacturers Association (TAAPMA), features over 550 exhibitors and is expected to attract more than 55,000 business visitors from India and abroad.

Addressing a gathering of over 500 industry leaders, entrepreneurs and exhibitors, the Minister said the exhibition represents much more than machines and products.

Everyone presents here has experienced plastics in one form or another throughout life’s journey. This exhibition is not merely about products and machinery. It reflects dreams, entrepreneurship, innovation and the courage to invest in the future, he said.

He said almost every manufacturing sector today depends on plastics and polymers in some form.

“The plastics and polymers industry is a salient engine of India’s economic growth. It provides direct employment to nearly 50 lakh people and indirect employment to over one crore. In Telangana alone, nearly two lakh families depend on this industry for their livelihood.”

He observed that as manufacturing grows, industries expand, employment increases and the country’s economy prosper.

Referring to the challenges faced by the sector, the Minister said the industry has successfully navigated geopolitical uncertainties, volatile crude oil prices, fluctuating polymer prices, logistics disruptions, energy challenges and labour shortages.

“Industries are not built in easy times. They are built in difficult times. Your resilience has made you stronger than ever.”, he added.

Assuring continued government support, he said: “The Telangana Government is your partner in progress. Your success is our success. Whenever policy intervention is required for the betterment of the industry, the Government will stand with you.”

Highlighting Telangana’s industrial growth story, the Minister said the State has already established itself as a leader in IT, ITeS, Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), Defence and Aerospace.

“We now want to replicate the same success in the plastics and polymers sector. The future belongs to industries that innovate responsibly, embrace sustainability and adopt green manufacturing practices. Let us together make Telangana the preferred destination for plastics and polymer manufacturing.”

The Minister also released the HIPLEX 2026 Show Directory.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Raju Desai, President, Plastindia Foundation, said India’s plastics industry has grown into a ₹4.5 lakh crore industry, expanding at 6-9 per cent annually, with similar growth expected through 2031.

The industry today employs nearly 55 lakh people, while exports are expected to cross ₹1.4 lakh crore this year.

He said India recycles nearly 60 per cent of the plastics it consumes, placing the country among the global leaders in plastic recycling.

Dr. Desai noted that packaging continues to account for nearly half of the industry’s demand, while healthcare, pharmaceuticals and medical devices are among the fastest-growing segments. The automotive sector, driven by lightweight materials and electric vehicles, contributes around 15 per cent of consumption.

Arvind Mehta, Chairman, Governing Council, All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA), said the industry must now focus on four strategic priorities—exports, technology adoption, skill development and sustainability.

 

 

He observed that India has enormous potential to significantly expand exports of plastic products and become a stronger global manufacturing base.

Anil Reddy Vennam, Senior Vice President, AIPMA, appealed to the Governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to establish a dedicated Plastics Park with world-class infrastructure that would enable MSMEs to set up manufacturing units.

He also requested the allocation of 250 acres for a Recycling Cluster with a Common Effluent Treatment Plant.

He urged both State Governments to encourage investments in infrastructure, water management, packaging and medical plastics, with the goal of increasing plastics consumption in the two States to two million tonnes by 2030 and raising their share in the national market to over 8 per cent.

He said HIPLEX has been provided with a dedicated 2 MW power supply to enable exhibitors to conduct live demonstrations of advanced processing machinery, recycling systems, bio-polymers and next-generation polymer technologies.

Narendra Baldwa, President, TAAPMA, said the 55-year-old association, representing more than 1,000 members, has consistently promoted technology, innovation and sustainability in the plastics sector.

Meela Jayadev, Convener, HIPLEX 2026, said plastics have become indispensable to modern life.

“From a pin to an aeroplane, plastics are everywhere. The real question is not whether plastics should exist, but how responsibly they should be produced, used and recycled.”

He noted that India’s per capita plastic consumption is around 7 kg, compared with 24 kg in China, indicating tremendous growth potential.

One of the biggest attractions at HIPLEX 2026 is the Dedicated Recycling Pavilion, where visitors can witness how discarded plastics are transformed into high-value products such as roads, railway sleepers, furniture, construction materials and even garments.

The exhibition also features live machinery demonstrations, technical conferences, knowledge sessions and business networking events covering emerging raw materials, recycling technologies, sustainability, automation and future manufacturing trends.

HIPLEX 2026 is spread across seven exhibition halls covering over 26,000 square metres and will remain open to visitors until August 10, from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm each day.

Hindalco Posts Record Q1 FY27 results

Mumbai, Aug 07: Hindalco Industries Limited, the Aditya Birla Group metals flagship, today reported its strongest-ever performance for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, achieving new highs in Revenue, EBITDA and PAT, driven by strong India business momentum and Novelis’ recovery.

Consolidated EBITDA for the first quarter stood at ₹14,989 crore, up 73% from the same quarter last year. Quarterly Net Profit was ₹7,013 crore compared to ₹4,004 crore in the same quarter last year, backed by strong performance across all business segments. Aluminium Upstream, Aluminium Downstream, Copper and Novelis delivered their highest-ever quarterly EBITDA.

Hindalco’s milestone performance was driven by favourable macro tailwinds and the Company’s strategic focus on resource security, premium product innovation and relentless operational excellence.

Novelis recorded a 37% improvement in EBITDA, buoyed by the successful restart of Oswego hot mill and accelerated benefits from its cost optimisation programme.

Summary of Consolidated Financial High lights for the Quarter ended June30, 2026

(₹ Crore)

Commenting on the results,Mr. Satish Pai, Managing Director, Hindalco Industries, said, “Hindalco has started FY27 on a strong note, delivering record Revenue, EBITDA and PAT, with every business segment contributing meaningfully to this performance. Our India business delivered another record quarterly performance while Novelis reported improved profitability supported by the successful restart of Oswego and continued benefits from cost optimisation measures.

Our Aluminium Upstream business reported an all-time high EBITDA, backed by favourable macros and operational efficiencies. Both our Copper and Aluminium Downstream businesses also delivered record quarterly EBITDA reflecting the continued strength of our diversified business model, value added products and operational excellence.

Looking ahead, our pipeline of strategic investments remains robust across upstream and downstream. As we continue to expand upstream capacities in alumina, aluminium and copper, we are scaling up our downstream projects. Projects such as Aditya FRP, battery foil, battery enclosure, Inner Grooved Tube are progressing well while the ramp of Novelis’ Oswego plant and Bay Minette plant will mark another milestone in our downstream growth journey. Together, these investments position Hindalco uniquely as an integrated global metals company with the right balance of upstream strength and downstream value addition to deliver sustainable, long-term growth.”

Advancing Sustainably

• Operationalised a 65 MW round-the-clock renewable energy project at Aditya Aluminium, making Hindalco the only company in India with an operational captive round-the-clock renewable energy plant
• Achieved 80%  overall  waste utilisation in the first quarter, while advancing India’s first bauxiteresidue-based quarry backfilling initiative at Dalla stone quarry in Uttar Pradesh
• Water recycling increased to 29% across operations, up from 27% a year ago, supported by advanced tertiary water treatment initiatives
• Planted 80,000 saplings in Q1, taking cumulative plantation to 6.34 million trees; launched pollinator conservation initiatives at Baphlimali mines, and developed avian habitats at the Aditya Aluminium Biodiversity Park

Recognised as the World’s Most Sustainable Aluminium Company in the S&P Global CSA for the sixth consecutive year (2020–2025).

Segment-wise Performance for Q1FY27 Novelis

• Revenueat $5.8 billion, up 23%, driven by higher metal prices
• Adjusted EBITDA at $516 million, up24%, supported by structural cost reduction initiatives
• Oswego hot mill restarted in June and production is rampingup
• Bay Minette plant commissioning is underway;expect to commence commercial shipments in Q1 FY28

Aluminium (India)

Aluminium Upstream:

• Quarterly Upstream revenue at ₹13,403 crore, up 44%
• Record Aluminium quarterly Upstream EBITDA at ₹7,390 crore, up 81%, driven by favourable macros and stronger operational performance
• All-time high quarterlyAluminium Upstream EBITDA pertonne at $ 2,331, up59%
• Aluminium Upstream continued to deliver robust EBITDA margins, at55%
• Aditya Smelter Phase 2 on track to begin metal production in FY28

Aluminium Downstream:

• Sales of Aluminium Downstream stoodat 104KT, up3%
• Downstream revenue was ₹4,889 crore, up 46%
• All-time high quarterly Aluminium Downstream EBITDA at ₹298 crore, up 30% supported by favourable product mix and higher shipments
• Downstream EBITDA pertonne at $ 303,up 15%, led by change in product mixand premiumization benefits
• Aluminium Battery foil plant at Aditya and Coated AC Fins plant at Taloja commissioned; FRP plant at Aditya scaling up to optimal production levels

Copper(India)

• Coppermetal sales at105 KT,down16%
• Copper Continuo us Cast Rod (CCR) sales at 96KT down 8%
• Revenue at ₹17,232crore,up16%
• Record quarterly EBITDA at ₹918 crore despite a planned major smeltermaintenance, backed by strong operational performance and higher realisation of by-products like sulphuric acid
• Copper Tubes and Inner Grooved Tubes plan fully operational and scaling up
• Copper and e-wasterey cling project  to commissionin FY27

NODWIN Gaming Awards Exclusive Digital Streaming Rights for BGMI Masters Series Season 5 to Global Streaming Giant KICK

IITB-Monash Research Academy celebrates 300th graduate

The IITB-Monash Research Academy in Mumbai has reached an exciting milestone with its 300th PhD graduate. The landmark is a testament to the power of cross-border research and the growing strength of its doctoral cohort.

As India’s oldest and largest joint PhD program, the IITB-Monash Research Academy currently has 175 active doctoral students working on major global challenges across artificial intelligence and advanced computational modeling, clean energy, health sciences, smart materials, sustainable societies and management, circular economy, infrastructure engineering, and design.

The milestone underscores the Academy’s role in equipping the next generation of Indian researchers to deliver innovation across key industries, sectors and communities.

MS Unnikrishnan, CEO of the IITB-Monash Research Academy, highlighted the value for students, and the role the Academy plays in supporting India’s future workforce development. 

“The IITB-Monash Research Academy has helped 300 brilliant students turn tough technical challenges into real-world solutions,” he said. “This joint PhD program aligns with India’s goals to build a highly skilled workforce. By linking our research expertise with local business hubs like the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), we ensure all of our graduates help build India’s industries and technology for the future.” 

The University has pursued purposeful bilateral engagement with India for several years, including but not limited to the Academy. Monash holds more than 470 research partnerships with Indian institutions, numerous transnational education pathways, and engages in significant industry partnerships on strategic research areas.

The University has also enabled more than 1250 Australian Monash students to travel to India since 2022 through travel grants and runs local language programs in Hindi and Punjabi in Melbourne to support the Indian community. 

Monash also maintains an alumni network of more than 2600 graduates in India alone, and a global alumni talent pool of 530,000+ graduates.

NueGo Expands Its Electric Intercity Bus Network Across India

Mumbai, Aug 7: NueGo, India‘s electric intercity bus brand by GreenCell Mobility, backed by Eversource Capital announced the expansion of its network with the launch of new services key routes in India. Strengthening its position as India‘s fastest-growing electric intercity travel network, the latest expansion enhances connectivity while advancing the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. With a rapidly growing network spanning over 150 cities, NueGo continues to provide travellers with greater access to safe, reliable and eco-friendly intercity transportation.

The newly launched services include key routes such as Chennai-Tirupati, Hyderabad–Guntur, Mussoorie–Delhi, Mussoorie–Gurugram, Gurugram–Haldwani, Coimbatore-Madurai and Tirupati–Puducherry. These routes have been strategically introduced to strengthen connectivity across high-demand business, tourism and pilgrimage travel corridors, while improving access between important regional economic centres and popular leisure destinations. The expansion further reinforces NueGo‘s commitment to making sustainable mobility more accessible and convenient for travellers across India.

Speaking on the milestone, Devendra Chawla, MD & CEO, GreenCell Mobility, said, 

“We are delighted to strengthen NueGo’s national network with the addition of several new intercity routes. This expansion aligns with our mission of transforming bus travel in India through sustainable, technology-enabled, and guest-centric mobility solutions. With our continued route development, enhanced safety features, and upgraded in-bus amenities, we are committed to offering guests an elevated travel experience while contributing to a greener, emission-free future.”

Safety continues to be a defining pillar for NueGo. Every bus undergoes 25 comprehensive safety checks before each departure, while the entire fleet is equipped with Advanced Driver.

Assistance Systems, CCTV surveillance, GPS live tracking, Driver Monitoring Systems driver’s breath analyser tests, and a speed-lock mechanism capped at 80 km/hr. Reinforcing its commitment to secure and inclusive travel, NueGo also offers women-centric initiatives such as Pink Seat booking and a dedicated 24×7 women’s helpline. Combined with clean and hygienic coaches, well-maintained mid-points, and a guest-first service philosophy, these initiatives reflect NueGo‘s unwavering focus on delivering a safe, comfortable, reliable, and sustainable intercity travel experience.

As the company continues to expand its footprint, NueGo remains focused on delivering innovative, sustainable and guest-centric mobility solutions that enhance connectivity while contributing to India‘s vision of a cleaner, smarter and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Offshore gas platform proves green hydrogen can be produced using existing infrastructure

The Hague, the Netherlands, Aug 07 – Just 13 kilometres off the coast of Scheveningen, a Dutch pilot project is demonstrating a promising way to repurpose the vast network of offshore oil and gas infrastructure around the world. As part of the energy transition, green hydrogen has, for the first time, been successfully produced on an operational offshore gas platform while natural gas production continued simultaneously. The pilot, known as PosHYdon, is being carried out on the operational Q13a-A platform.

The achievement by the PosHYdon project demonstrates that the infrastructure built for the gas industry could one day be repurposed for a new role: producing and transporting green hydrogen using offshore wind energy. As countries expand offshore wind capacity, one question is becoming increasingly important: how can that renewable energy be transported efficiently to where it is needed?

One possible answer, instead of bringing all electricity ashore through subsea cables, renewable electricity generated by offshore wind can be used directly at sea to produce green hydrogen. The hydrogen can then be transported through offshore pipelines, many of which already exist as part of the North Sea’s extensive gas network.

This successful proof of concept shows that offshore platforms, once their gas production ends, could potentially be repurposed for hydrogen production. In the future, the same offshore pipeline network that currently transports natural gas could also be used to transport hydrogen, reducing the need for entirely new infrastructure.

The quantities of hydrogen currently produced are deliberately small and therefor not used yet. At this moment the purpose of PosHYdon is to demonstrate that the technology works safely and reliably under real offshore conditions and to collect the operational data needed for future large-scale projects.

Over the coming months, TNO and the project partners will analyse the results and findings from the pilot and present them to Stientje van Veldhoven-van der Meer, Minister of Climate and Green Growth in Q4. Those results will help determine the next steps towards scaling up offshore hydrogen production and accelerating the reuse of existing North Sea infrastructure.

PosHYdon is an initiative of DEME, EBN, Eneco, Emerson, Gasunie, Hatenboerwater, Investa Expertise Centrum, Iv, Nel, Eni, Nexstep, NGT, Nogat, TAQA and TNO. Their ambition is to accelerate the development of offshore hydrogen production as Europe expands its renewable energy capacity.

Read the full article: https://thehague.com/newsroom/en/news/offshore-gas-platform-proves-green-hydrogen-can-be-produced-using-existing-infrastructure

Comfort Has Entered Its Style Era With Max Fashion’s Flexi Air & SoftTec

The modern wardrobe is no longer just about making a style statement, it’s about how your clothes make you feel. Enter Max Fashion’s Flexi Air and SoftTec technologies, where breathable comfort and cloud-soft fabrics come together with contemporary design to create pieces that are equal parts functional and fashionable, no matter where the day takes you. Thoughtfully designed with improved fits and a more inclusive size range, the collection embraces the idea that great style should feel comfortable, confidence-boosting, and accessible to everyone.Max Fashion – SoftTec Women Solid Buttersoft Sports Track Pants

Description: Experience ultimate comfort with these solid wide-leg, butter-soft sports track pants, featuring an elasticated waist and handy pockets. The relaxed fit is perfect for lounging or casual outings.

Link: https://www.maxfashion.in/in/en/SHOP-Max-Beige-Women-Solid-Buttersoft-Sports-Track-Pants-For-Women/p/1000016288821-Beige-BEIGE

Max Fashion – Flexi–air Men Slim Fit Solid Athleisure T-shirt

Description: Stay effortlessly sporty with this slim-fit solid athleisure t-shirt, featuring a classic round neck and half sleeves for a sleek, comfortable fit. Designed for both style and performance, it’s perfect for casual outings or active days.

Link: https://www.maxfashion.in/in/en/SHOP-Max-Black-Men-Slim-Fit-Solid-Athleisure-T-shirt-For-Men/p/1000015460831-Black-BLACK

Max Fashion – SoftTec Women Wide Sports Track Pants

Description: These wide sports track pants feature an elasticated waist and handy pockets, combining comfort with a sporty, relaxed style. Perfect for workouts or casual lounging. These solid trousers are the perfect blend of comfort and style. Featuring an elasticated waist for a flexible and secure fit, they also include pockets for added practicality.

Link: https://www.maxfashion.in/in/en/SHOP-Max-Black-Women-Wide-Sports-Track-Pants-For-Women/p/1000016233103-Brown-BROWNMax Fashion – SoftTec Men Striped Regular Fit Shirt

Description: Elevate your wardrobe with this stylish striped shirt for men. Designed with a regular fit, it features full sleeves, a spread collar, buttoned cuffs, and a front chest pocket. The curved hemline adds a modern touch, perfect for casual outings.

Link: https://www.maxfashion.in/in/en/SHOP-Max-Blue-Men-Striped-Regular-Fit-Shirt-For-Men/p/1000016739822-Blue-BLUEMax Fashion – Flexi–air Men Solid Active Joggers

Description: Gear up for the gym in style with these joggers in a solid-tone finish. It boasts a drawstring waist, cross pockets, and a back zip pocket to place your essentials.

Link: https://www.maxfashion.in/in/en/SHOP-Max-Beige-Men-Solid-Active-Joggers-For-Men/p/1000013628349-Beige-BEIGE

The Chambers’ Rendezvous Presents The Culinary Chronicles With Two-michelin-star Chef Florence Dalia

Mumbai, Aug 07: As part of Rendezvous, The Chambers‘ signature platform for curating exceptional member experiences, The Culinary Chronicles brings globally acclaimed chefs to India through immersive gastronomic collaborations that celebrate culinary artistry, storytelling and craftsmanship.

The latest edition welcomes Two–Michelin–Star French Chef Florence Dalia, who will present an exclusive culinary residency at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, & Taj Mahal, Delhi from 5th to 9th August 2026, offering members an opportunity to experience her distinctive culinary philosophy shaped by decades of international excellence.

Chef Florence Dalia‘s remarkable culinary journey spans France, Asia and Australia. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions at some of the world’s most celebrated French restaurants, including the Joël Robuchon Group, Amber at Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Taipei, where she led the restaurant in earning its second Michelin Star. She also founded 16 by Flo, a Michelin-recommended chef‘s table, and Le Cep, a Burgundy-inspired French bistro in Taipei, reflecting a culinary philosophy centred on authenticity, generosity and exceptional produce.

Designed as an extension of Rendezvous, The Culinary Chronicles celebrates internationally renowned chefs through thoughtfully curated experiences, giving members rare access to celebrated culinary talent and the stories behind their craft. Each edition brings together exceptional cuisine, cultural exchange and meaningful interactions in an intimate setting.

For this exclusive residency, Chef Florence has curated a menu inspired by her journey across continents, seamlessly blending classical French techniques with flavours and influences from Asia and Australia. Guests will savour signature creations including Gillardeau Oyster with Cucumber and Yuzu Kosho Granita, Hokkaido Scallop with Burnt Leek and Vanilla Beurre Blanc, Brittany Blue Lobster with Shellfish Bisque, Miso and Australian Finger Lime, A5 Wagyu with Café de Paris Butter and Burgundy Jus, culminating with a refined Peach, Almond and Verbena dessert. Thoughtfully paired handcrafted beverages complete the immersive dining experience, celebrating the harmony of terroir, seasonality and contemporary gastronomy.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, The Taj Mahal Palace, said, “Through Rendezvous, The Chambers has consistently created extraordinary experiences that bring together global icons across diverse fields for our members. The Culinary Chronicles builds on this legacy by celebrating internationally acclaimed chefs whose culinary philosophies embody artistry, authenticity and innovation. We are delighted to welcome Chef Florence Dalia and look forward to offering our members an unforgettable gastronomic journey inspired by her remarkable expertise.”

With The Culinary Chronicles, The Chambers continues to elevate the Rendezvous experience by bringing world-renowned chefs and exceptional culinary narratives to India, reaffirming its commitment to curating meaningful moments that celebrate craftsmanship, culture and hospitality. Hosted at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, Chef Florence Dalia‘s residency promises an unforgettable exploration of refined French cuisine through a contemporary global lens.

Rising Crude Oil Prices Drag Indian Markets Lower; IT and Auto Stocks Shine

Mumbai, Aug 7: Indian benchmark equity indices opened lower on Friday as rising global crude oil prices and weak global market cues dampened investor sentiment ahead of the release of key U.S. economic data.

The BSE Sensex began the session at 78,516.08, down 438.68 points (0.56%), while the NSE Nifty slipped 97.10 points (0.39%) to open at 24,538.90.

Selling pressure was evident in financial, banking, and cement stocks during early trade. Sectoral indices including Nifty Financial Services Ex-Bank, Nifty Cement, Nifty PSU Bank, and Nifty Private Bank declined by up to one per cent.

On the other hand, information technology, automobile, real estate, FMCG, and telecom stocks bucked the broader market trend. The Nifty IT, Nifty Mid & Small IT & Telecom, Nifty Auto, Nifty Realty, and Nifty FMCG indices gained as much as 1.5 per cent, providing support to the market.

Market analysts said the broader market remains in a consolidation phase and is gradually moving higher, laying the foundation for a potential upward breakout. They noted that first-quarter (Q1) corporate earnings have reinforced confidence in several sectors despite ongoing global uncertainties.

According to experts, companies in the financial services, automobile, pharmaceutical, and telecom sectors have largely reported double-digit growth in both revenue and profits, helping their stocks remain resilient. In contrast, the IT sector continues to face challenges due to slower business growth and concerns over the long-term impact of artificial intelligence on the industry.

Performance in commodity-linked sectors, including metals and oil, has remained mixed.

Looking ahead, analysts expect financial services, automobiles, telecom, and capital goods to continue driving earnings growth. However, they cautioned that while the broader market has delivered strong performance, elevated valuations could limit the pace of further gains.

Meanwhile, international crude oil prices extended their rally amid persistent geopolitical tensions. Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose more than one per cent to $83.83 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbed over one per cent to $78.42 per barrel, raising concerns over inflationary pressures and their potential impact on financial markets.