BLS International Registers Remarkable PAT Growth of 23% In the Second Quarter

Reports net profit of Rs. 32.99 crore in Q2 FY19

Highlights of the Results For the Quarter ended on 30th September, 2018 (Q2 FY19 viz Q2 FY18): Total Income stood at Rs. 191.2 crore, q-o-q growth of 2.0%  EBITDA of Rs. 45.4 crore; q-o-q growth of 2.8%  Net Profit stood at Rs 32.9 crore; q-o-q growth of 23.1%  EPS for Q2 FY19 stood at Rs 3.22 as compared to Rs. 2.62 in Q2 FY18 for the corresponding period For the half, yearly comparative from April to September FY19 viz FY18: Total Income stood at Rs. 393.4 crore in H1 FY19, up by 2.7% from Rs. 383.2 crore in H1 FY18 EBIDTA of Rs. 95.9 crore in H1 FY19, up by 8.8% from Rs. 88.2 crore in H1 FY18 for the corresponding period PAT of Rs. 67 crore in H1 FY19, up by 20% from Rs. 55.85 crore in H1 FY18 EPS for H1 FY19 stood at Rs 6.54, as compared to Rs. 5.45 for H1 FY18

New Delhi, 14^th November, 2018: BLS International Services Limited (BLS), a specialist services provider of Visa, Passport, Attestation and Citizen Services to the Governments and diplomatic missions globally, declared its financial results today for the second quarter ended 30^th September, 2018.

The company reported Net Profit of Rs 32.9 crore for Q2 FY19, up by 23.1%, as compared to Rs. 26.8 crore in the corresponding quarter of last fiscal. The company’s Q2 FY19 PAT margin stood at a robust 17.3%, as compared to 14.3% in Q2 FY18.

Total Income for the quarter ended September 2018 stood at Rs. 191.2 crore, up by 2.0%, as compared to Rs 187.4 crore in the same period last year. The company’s earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) in Q2 FY19 stood at Rs. 45.4 crore, up by 2.8% as compared to Q2 FY18 which stood at Rs 44.2 crore. Its EBITDA margin improved from 23.6% in Q2 FY18 to Rs. 23.8% in Q2 FY19.

Earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter ended Q2 FY19 stood at Rs. 3.22, as compared with Rs. 2.62 for the quarter ended Q2 FY18.

Commenting on the financial performance of the company Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International Services Limited said, “We are happy to report another quarter with strong results. The encouraging performance in the Q2/H1 FY19, is led by timely and quality deliverables of our contracts in domestic and international market. We are proud that during this quarter BLS International not only got listed in Forbes Asia’s ‘Best Under A Billion’ company list but also received Spain Esquema Nacional de Seguridad (ENS – National Security Framework) accreditation after rigorous assessment and audits by ENS Certification Entity from Spain.”

He further added, “Being the face of government across the globe, we will continue to rally our focus on execution, operation and swift rollouts of projects for our client governments across globe and we believe that we are well positioned for sustainable growth in the current year and future”. 

Growth trend:

The Spain global contract that BLS International bagged in December 2016 also yielded strong results for another quarter in a row. Since the roll out of the project, the Visa application centres have regularly been fortified with wide range of Value Added Services (VAS) for the applicant’s convenience, such as SMS, Photocopy, Photo-booth, Form filling, Courier and Premium lounge, Flexi hours, Travel Insurance, SIM cards (Telecom), Prime time, Internet kiosk and Mobile biometric services.

The company also commenced operation of its new contract of citizen services by the Punjab Government in this quarter. The fresh contract is for a period of 5 years under which BLS International is operating 352 facilitation centres for providing 169 citizen centric services covering 16 districts of Punjab and working with 22 departments. 

Contracts and Awards: 

BLS International commenced servicing the French Embassy in Jordan from August 2018, and is providing key deliverables under the contract which will support processing of approximately 25 thousand France Visa application(s) in Jordan in strategic alliances with its partner. This strategic association is aimed to help strengthen our presence in Europe and Middle East.

In this quarter, the company also paved its way in the Forbes Asia’s ‘Best Under A Billion’ list of top 200 publicly listed companies in the Asia-Pacific region out of 24,000 companies and were selected on sales/revenue and earnings growth.

The company received the Spain Esquema Nacional de Seguridad (ENS – National Security Framework) accreditation. BLS International is the first Visa Outsourcing ESP (External Service Provider) to have conformed to ENS compliance and is one of the only 69 Organizations in the world who are ENS Certified, sharing the space with companies like Google, Microsoft, Oracle, to be naming a few.

BLS International Services Limited also signed an agreement with Vision Box - Soluções de Visão por Computador, S.A in this quarter to cooperate in connection with specific projects or opportunities in the Territory of Portugal.

Another agreement was signed with Any Security Printing Company Plc., a company existing under the laws of Hungary and engaged in providing consultancy support in Server Operations, to collaborate and pursue the Tenders of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hungary, globally.

The company also signed an agreement with Speed Identity AB to cooperate in connection with a specific projects or opportunities for Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway. Speed Identity AB is a company existing under the laws of Sweden which is expert service provider of Biometric Hardware and Software product and services.

During this quarter, BLS was also conferred with two prestigious awards first for the “Excellence in the Travel Sector” award at the CMO Asia's Best CSR Practices Awards. and Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International won the “Young Achiever Award of the Year” at Times Network’s National Award for Marketing Excellence in Travel and Tourism industry.

Seventh Edition of Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon Mumbai 2018

Seventh Edition of Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon Mumbai 2018 presented by COLORS to be held on Sunday, 16th December 2018 at MMRDA Ground, Next to One BKC Building, BKC

Mumbai, November 13, 2018…The seventh edition of Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon Mumbai 2018 presented by COLORS, India’s biggest women’s run to be held on Sunday, 16th December 2018 at MMRDA Ground, One BKC Building, BKC, Mumbai. Online registrations for the multi-category run are open at www.pinkathon.in/mumbai for the VWash Plus 3km, 5km & 10km run and for the 21km distance drop a mail on info@pinkathon.in.

Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon - Empowering Indian Women, India's biggest women’s run to encourage and promote fitness & health among women and create awareness for Breast Cancer and other issues relating to women’s health is supported by United Sisters Foundation and promoted by Maximus MICE & Media Solutions. Super model, actor, Ultraman and Pinkathon founder Milind Soman formally announced the launch of the seventh edition of Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon Mumbai 2018 presented by COLORS at a press conference hosted by The Farzi Cafe, Kamala Mills, Lower Parel, Mumbai.

Bajaj Electricals Ltd., a globally renowned and India’s leading consumer products company has come on board as title sponsors of Pinkathon, India’s biggest run for women after being the inspiring partners for last 4 years. Hemal Vadera, Head - Advertising, Digital & Branding of Bajaj Electricals Ltd. said, “Bajaj Electricals Ltd. has always collaborated with platforms that have worked towards women empowerment. We strongly feel that empowerment goes far beyond giving equal rights to women. It is about making women confident enough to trust themselves, act independently and most importantly to take control of one's own health and wellbeing.

While Our association with Pinkathon transcends the basic role of title sponsor, rather it gives us the opportunity to act as a catalyst in empowering women, to embrace, who they are both internally and externally.”

Present at the conference were eminent dignitaries like 103-year-old Mann Kaur, world champion and an Indian track – and – field athlete, she holds the world record in the over 100 years old category, Mr. Hemal Vadera from Bajaj Electricals, Head – Advertising, Digital & Branding, Dr. Shishir  Shetty from Apollo Foundation along with four Bajaj Electricals Pinkathon Mumbai mascots who expressed their wholehearted support for the noble cause.

Pinkathon has won several national and international awards such as WOW Awards for Best Festival of the Year & Best Sports Event of the Year and EEMAX Global for Best Public Event of the Year for ticketed and non-ticketed category.

Hershey India expands its ‘Better For You’ snacking portfolio with launch of delicious Sofit Protein Cookies

India is the global company’s first market for ‘Better For You’ cookies

Mumbai, 13th November 2018: Hershey India Pvt. Ltd, a part of The Hershey Company, one of the world’s leading snacking giants, is set to foray into the premium, ‘Better For You’ segment in the biscuit category with the launch of Sofit Protein Cookies.

Delicious Sofit Protein Cookies is a distinctive product that provides the goodness of protein, omega-3, fibre and vitamins. It has no trans-fat and maida (refined wheat flour). The crunchy cookie is made from multi-grains including wheat, oats, soy and includes ingredients such as flax seeds, almonds, raisins, cocoa and mango. With the launch of tasty protein cookies, Sofit intends to offer today’s health conscious consumer a ‘Better For You’ snacking option.

India is a critical part of The Hershey Company’s international business and is one of its focus International markets. Hershey India is focusing on key brands like Hershey’s and Sofit to enter and build relevance across different snacking occasions in the country. Sofit is a clear market leader in the soy milk category. Hershey India’s strategic intent is to drive strong future growth on Sofit by building a `Better For You’ snacking portfolio that spans different categories.

Commenting on Hershey India’s foray into a new category, Herjit Bhalla, Managing Director, Hershey India said, “Bringing a unique and consumer-relevant product such as a cookie with the goodness of protein, into this $2.8 billion biscuit category, is a perfect next step for the Sofit brand.  Sofit is well-regarded among consumers as a brand that provides protein and other nutrients.  Sofit Protein Cookies makes it easy and convenient to have a crunchilicious snack that is better for you.”

Commenting on the launch of Sofit Protein Cookies, the brand ambassador of Sofit, John Abraham said, “I have been proud to represent Sofit because it cares about providing protein and nutrients to consumers who seek better ways to snack. The launch of Sofit Protein Cookies continues this journey. As more people seek to lead an active and healthier lifestyle, I am happy that Sofit has introduced a tasty way to consume nutrients in the form of crunchy cookies which can provide them the energy to do more.”    

The launch of protein cookies aligns with Sofit’s promise of ‘Energy to do More’, by providing dietary nutrients in a delicious range. These ‘Better For You’ cookies will be available in distinct range such as natural cocoa with healthy flax seeds; delicious mango with real almond bits; refreshing raisins with healthy flax seeds.

Targeted at working adults residing in the country’s large metro cities, Sofit Protein Cookies will benefit such individuals who are keen on leading a healthy and active lifestyle. Sofit Protein Cookies will be available in Modern Trade, Large General Trade stores and E-Com in the big cities of the country. The product will be sold at an attractive price point of Rs 45 for the small pack (100g) and Rs 65 for the Take Home Pack (150g).

Lotte appoints Anindya Dutta as Managing Director for Havmor Ice Cream

Mumbai, November 01, 2018: Havmor, India’s leading ice cream brand and a wholly owned subsidiary of South Korean conglomerate Lotte Confectionery, has announced the appointment of Anindya Dutta as its new Managing Director. He will be the first MD after Lotte acquired Havmor Ice Cream in Dec 2017.

Anindya will be taking forward Lotte’s vision of expanding its business footprint in India. His mission will be at one end to leverage the legacy, the category expertise and brand equity that Havmor enjoys in the ice cream category to rapidly scale up the business towards a national leadership position and at the other end to evaluate and build synergistic expansion into adjacent categories.

Anindya brings 20+ years of leadership experience in the food industry across business verticals and categories including Bakery, Dairy and Confectionery. Prior to joining Havmor, he was with Britannia for the last 17 years in roles of increasing impact in sales, marketing, strategy and P&L Management.  In his past assignments at Britannia he was heading the Dairy and Bread business and more recently he was leading the International expansion of Britannia as the Vice President- International Business

Mondelēz International Unveils its global Research, Development and Quality Center in India

India facility is part of the company’s $65 million investment in its worldwide

Technical Center network to accelerate growth and innovation

INDIA, 31^st October 2018: Mondelēz International today inaugurated its newest global Research, Development and Quality Technical Center in India located in Thane, Maharashtra. The India Technical Centre has been set up with an investment of $15 million and will support new products and technologies for the company’s global brands in Chocolate and Beverages. The Technical Center will also focus on consumer science, packaging and productivity. This is part of the company’s strategy to invest $65 million in developing a global network of state-of-the-art technical hubs strategically positioned around the world.

“Our mission at Mondelēz International is simple – to offer consumers the right snack, for the right moment, made the right way. And our global Technical Center network is crucial to support this,” said Maurizio Brusadelli, EVP and President AMEA (Asia, Middle East and Africa). “Our AMEA region hosts three global technical centers – the other two being in China and Singapore – demonstrating that our dynamic markets are at the heart of the company’s growth strategy. Our investment in the Thane Technical Center further emphasizes the importance of India to our global business.”

“With these Technical Centers, we’re focusing our investment in research, equipment and capabilities, driving innovation to accelerate our growth,” said Rob Hargrove, EVP, Research, Development and Quality. “Our RDQ hubs will improve speed, efficiency and effectiveness, while increased scale will enable us to address evolving consumer needs more quickly. We are delighted that one of our global technical centers is based in India, which has one of the best technical and scientific capabilities in the world.”

“As we accelerate consumer-centric growth across both our global and local heritage brands, innovation plays a crucial role,” said Deepak Iyer, Managing Director, Mondelez India Foods Pvt. Ltd. “The Thane Center will collaborate on innovations with multiple countries within the company network. We are proud that some of the most unique and cutting-edge innovations will be created right here at our Thane Technical Center. This investment is just another example of the importance of India to Mondelez International – as we continue to make, sell and innovate in this market for over 70 years.”

Spread across an area of 12000 sq meters, the Thane Technical Center will be equipped with multiple technical capabilities, such as a pilot plant, a packaging creative studio and a range of laboratories for technical research and development. The team of around 150 scientists, developers, engineers, analytical chemists and other specialists will closely collaborate on innovations across the globe. The site is a zero water discharge facility, zero waste to landfill and has 100 percent rain water harvesting.

The India hub joins nine other Mondelēz International Technical Centres around the world that are already in operation, including – East Hanover, New Jersey, in the United States; Curitiba in Brazil; Bournville and Reading, both in the UK; Wroclaw in Poland; Singapore; Suzhou in China; Saclay in France and Munich in Germany.

Internationally acclaimed artist Bose Krishnamachari inaugurates IndianOil’s ‘The Canvas Code’

(L-R)- Subodh Dakwale, Executive Director, Corp Comm & Branding – IndianOil (IOC), artist Bose Krishnamachari, Gurmeet Singh, Director (Marketing) – IOC, Sadhana Mittal, CH. GM, Corp Comm – IOC

~ A philanthropic initiative in its 22^nd year, IndianOil’s art exhibition is aimed at promoting young talent in the art fraternity and will showcase the work of 12 masters, 35 eminent sculptors and painters, and 38 upcoming artists~

~Scheduled from October 24–29, 2018, ‘The Canvas Code’ will be held at the Jehangir Art Gallery~

October 24^th, 2018 – IndianOil’s biennial art exhibition titled ‘Canvas Code’ was formally inaugurated by internationally acclaimed artist Bose Krishnamachari at Jehangir Art Gallery today where he unveiled the work of 12 masters, 35 eminent sculptor artists and painters and 38 upcoming artists. A wide array of paintings by over 90 artists from across the country will be showcased at Jehangir Art Gallery from October 24 to 29, 2018.  It will also present a diverse range of artworks by artists of different age groups, styles and categories.

What began as an eclectic art display in 1987 at IndianOil’s head office in Bandra, has today, become a significant event on Mumbai’s art calendar. This philanthropic initiative of IndianOil is organized with a view to support and promote young budding talent in the art fraternity and provides them a prestigious platform to exhibit their work alongside established artists. It will also present a diverse range of artworks by artists of different age groups, styles and categories. IndianOil has also collaborated with NGO Nanhi Kali to ensure that 10 per cent of sale proceedings will be contributed to charity.

The name ‘The Canvas Code’ stems from the fact that a canvas denotes a platform or stage that would be given to artists, irrespective of their stature or standing. Since the artists will range from masters to rising stars to beginners, the word ‘code’ has been used to denote the sense of community that they share. The code unites them for one cause – spreading the light and igniting the passion of art in the very fabric of our society where young minds are the creative catalysts of a vibrant future.

Speaking about the event, internationally acclaimed artist Bose Krishnamachari said, “I am very happy to officially inaugurate the 22nd edition of the IndianOil Art Exhibition, ‘The Canvas Code’. When we were growing up we did not have many patrons who always supported practitioners of art. This is a great initiative by IndianOil to support art. Enthusiasm, commitment and passion are important for young artists to grow in their career. IndianOil is doing a very good job in encouraging young artists.”

Speaking about the event, IndianOil’s Executive Director, Corporate Communications & Branding, Subodh Dakwale said, “It’s a privilege to organize the 22^nd edition of the IndianOil art exhibition. We have come a long way from 1987 where we exhibited in our head office in Bandra. With each year, we’ve improved and today we have come of age with paintings of over 100 artists, masters as well as upcoming artists. IndianOil also supports sports, music and culture. This is a great platform for all young artists who otherwise don’t get a place to showcase their work. Mumbai is a city of art lovers and we are looking forward to them attending and supporting the exhibition.”

Commenting on the exhibition, IndianOil’s Marketing Director, Gurmeet Singh, said, “I would like to compliment all the artists as we continue to support and promote them. Introducing the paintings by the hearing and visually impaired for the first time at the exhibition along with senior artists should provide them the opportunity to do some good work. We are thankful to Mr.Bose Krishnamachari for inaugurating the exhibition.”

The exhibition has, for the first time, given an opportunity to hearing and visually impaired artists like Sudarshan Manse and Gaurav Dhamija. Senior artists such as Shrikant Jadhav,  J. K. Chillar, eminent artists such as Geeta Parmar, Deepak PW, Abhang and Manoj Sakale along with acclaimed artists such as Suhas Bahulkar, Achyut Pallav, Shobha Broota, VG Andani, David Prem, Mohammad Iqbal, Pankaj Ghelot, Niti Yogi are amongst many others will be participating in the show, fortifying the unique position that the exhibition has been claiming ever since its inception. The art show is being organized with assistance from senior artists Pratibha Wagh and Bapusaheb Zanje. This year’s mega show includes an eclectic mix of works telling a unique story of life’s experience. The works on display include abstract, semi-abstract paintings and sculptures in diverse media such as oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas, pen & ink, mixed media, ceramics, terracotta, sandstone, etc.

IndianOil is celebrating 2018 as the ‘Year of Trust’ with ‘trust’ being the currency of creativity. Pioneering the spirit of creativity is important to IndianOil’s heritage. As an Indian energy major, this art show truly symbolizes the mindful support IndianOil extends to the Indian art-loving community.

Aware of the need to be perceived not just as corporate behemoths that exist for profits, but as wholesome entities created for improving the quality of life of the communities they serve, Indian Oil supports a variety of endeavours in arts, culture, music and dance, apart from organising programmes on its own under the banners of IndianOil Art Exhibition, IndianOil Sangeet Sabha and IndianOil Kavi Sammelan.

Indian Plumbing Association (IPA) to celebrate 25th Silver Jubilee Anniversary

Water Conservation and Reuse to be Key Focus of 25^th Indian Plumbing Conference & Exhibition

 

L-R: Mr. C.S. Gupta, National Secretary, Indian Plumbing Association (IPA); Mr. Minesh Shah, Chairman, Gujarat Chapter, IPA; Mr. Gurmit Singh, National President, IPA; Mr. Sharat Rao, Chairman, Mumbai Chapter, IPA; Mr. Amish Mehta, Hon. Secretary, Mumbai Chapter, IPA

·     The 25th Indian Plumbing Conference & Exhibition (IPCE) to be held at Nehru Centre, Worli, Mumbai on the 26th, 27th & 28th October, 2018

·     Plumbing is approximately an INR 33,000 crore market in India growing at 15% per annum and employs about 8 lakh people

·     Participation of Plumbing bodies from Australia, Japan and USA to add international flavor to 25th IPCE

Mumbai, October 22, 2018:The Indian Plumbing Association (IPA), the national body of Plumbing professionals with 4000 members and 20 chapters across the country, today announced that the pressing problem of water conservation and its reuse would be the key focus of its 25^th Indian Plumbing Conference & Exhibition (IPC), set to be held in the city’s Nehru Centre at Worli between October 26-28, 2018. The IPA would also simultaneously be celebrating its 25^th Silver Jubilee Anniversary on the occasion.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri, Honourable Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs has consented to be the Chief Guest at the 25^th IPC based on the importance of ‘Water for a Better Tomorrow’. Mr. Sanjay Dutt, MD of Tata Realty and Tata Housing has also been invited as the Guest of Honour.

Speaking at a curtain raiser media event, Mr. Gurmit Singh Arora, National President, IPA, also elaborated on its other key focus area- implementation of the Uniform Illustrated Plumbing Code of India, saying, “IPA has conducted the ‘Indian Plumbing Professionals League’ (IPPL) with around 900 participants across 16 cities to disseminate information on it’s Plumbing Standards & Codes, including the Uniform Illustrated Plumbing Code of India, 2017. The IPPL while imparting knowledge on plumbing products, techniques and installation practices, culminated through five levels of Quiz competitions for the Building & Architectural Community. The Grand Finale with four coveted winners will take place on the October 28, 2018 at Nehru Centre.” 

On the focus on water conversation at the 25^th IPC, Mr. C.S. Gupta, National Secretary, IPA, said “ We at the IPA have decided to spread the message around the criticality of water based on the principle of four R’s- Respect, Reuse, Retreat and Recycle and this will be on ample display at the 25^th IPC and in all the programmes and we will conduct throughout the year. This can help an individual save at least 20-50 litres of water a day.”

The 25^th IPCE will also see participation from the entire World Plumbing Council (WPC) Board, including Chairman WPC & CEO – Plumbing Industry Climate Action Centre, Australia; the CEO of the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), USA & MD of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and many such luminaries including the MD of Rain Water Harvesting & Infiltration Association of Japan, giving it a truly international flavor.

Besides around 50 of India’s top companies in the sector like Jain Irrigation, Astral Pipes, Kirloskar Pumps, Ashirvad Pipes, Prince Pipes, Finolex Pipes, Jindal Stainless Steel, and Grundfos among others are also expected to participate.

The 25^th IPC will see talks and discussions by such global and domestic industry leaders around the theme of the World Plumbing Council 2018, the ‘4 Pillars of Plumbing’ as in ‘Practices–Standards and accountability in day-to-day work in the industry’, ‘Products– Features and quality of the materials, fittings and appliances used in plumbing work’, ‘Participation– Primarily the training requirements to work in the industry ’ & ‘Protection– Measures to minimize risks and provide redressal when failures occur’. 

The 25^th IPC will also host Prabhuji Gauranga Das of ISKCON, who will deliver a motivational address on Water. 

As all of us are aware, 11 cities in India are listed as moving towards water bankruptcy and it is with the advent of reduction in fresh water supply, and increase in pollutants and untreated sewerage, being unscrupulously released into fresh water streams and supply, the reduction in clean potable and fresh water, both for domestic and agricultural purpose has reached enormously low receding levels. We are truly in a crisis and war like situation and if we do not take ICU meditated and planned measures, most of our urban cities will be highly water stressed, with some reaching water bankruptcy, earlier than later envisaged. 

IPA needs to make drastic steps towards water stability. The Indian Plumbing Association has an enormous task to ensure that we reduce water supply at source, treat and retreat and recycle waste water, rain water harvest, educate the consumer in apt and correct use of water and prevent leakages in plumbing systems, to ensure that we have clean and fresh water for our generation and their generations to come. Water is a finite resource and part of the ‘Panchbuttas’ as in ‘Jal’, ‘Vaayu’, ‘Agni’, ‘Akash’ & ‘Dharti’ and unless we preserve and respect water that we have today, we will have none left for our children & their children to come. 

It is therefore important that media takes cognizance as conscious keepers of society and acts responsibly in propagating the apt use of water to ensure that water is not mistreated. 

70% of the communicable disease is transmitted through bad quality of water. Diarrhea is a bigger killer than even ‘Cancer’ and ‘Aids.’ No doubt a Plumbing Engineering Degree is termed as ‘Pubic Health Engineer’ because he is responsible for the health of millions. 

Plumbing is a science, backed up by 1,000s’ of pages of Codes & Standards. Approximately 12% to 13% of the Construction cost is attributed to plumbing and part of every construction whether HIG, MIG or LIG, it is an important stream and an integral part of construction. 

The IPA is aware of it’s responsibilities in supplying disease-free water at correct pressure and flow rate, to ‘use and reuse’, ‘treat and retreat’, ‘rain water harvest’, ‘educate in apt use of water’ and ‘use Low Flow Fixtures & Sanitaryware’ to leave water for the future. 

IPA is the only National body of Plumbing Professionals, therefore, takes great pride in the important work it does for the nation. 

Answer of the Season’ winner on Koffee with Karan to drive away with the Audi A5 Sportback

Koffee with Karan driven by Audi gets even more exciting as one celebrity guest stands a chance to win the Audi A5 Sportback

Mumbai, October 22, 2018: Audi India, the German luxury car maker, that recently associated with “Koffee with Karan” show for its 6th season has heightened the excitement in the show with the announcement of gifting the Audi A5 Sportback to the guest who gives the ‘Answer of the Season’ (AOTS). The AOTS will be chosen from the quirkiest and most fun answers given by the guests this season.

“With ‘Koffee with Karan driven by Audi’, we have strengthened our association with Bollywood. As with most of our initiatives, we didn’t want the partnership to be just symbolic but also experiential. With the announcement of gifting the Audi A5 Sportback to the winner of the AOTS, we are ensuring that the chosen Bollywood achiever experiences the sportiness, progressiveness and sophistication of the Audi brand. We are looking forward to welcome the AOTS winner to the Audi Bratpack,” said Mr. Rahil Ansari, Head Audi India.

Audi completed ten years in India in 2017 and within this short span, the brand has become one of the most preferred luxury car brands for enthusiasts in the country through a progressive marketing strategy. In the last 10 years, brand Audi has been successfully able to achieve the change of philosophy in the Indian market. Audi is now being perceived as being a global brand that is Indianised –  from  being known as a ‘brand with four rings’ to ‘char bangdi’ or ‘char chudiya’, Audi has successfully entrenched itself in the Indian pop culture. A large part of this is attributed to a glocal content strategy through effective curation of content types and media channels to bring a sound degree of market disruption in the segment. 

The brand with four rings upped the glamour quotient by associating with upcoming season of the Koffee with Karan show, which will feature India’s most famous celebrities.

14 years ago, filmmaker Karan Johar wanted to create to show unlike any chat show India had ever seen – he wanted fans to see their favorite celebrities let their hair down, reveal secrets and have fun. Since then, Koffee with Karan, a Star World Original, has become synonymous with Bollywood. The new season will not only bring new and upcoming actors on the couch but will also lead to interesting conversations and fun segments.

"Audi globally associates and partners with motion pictures, sports, entertainment, and cultural properties and we have continued this trend in India as well. Through our association with Koffee with Karan, we are taking this a notch higher and demonstrate our commitment to the Indian market," added Mr. Ansari.

‘Koffee with Karan’ season 6 driven by Audi will launch on 21st October and air every Sunday at 9PM on Star World, Star World HD, and Hotstar.

Hon. Union Minister Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi Announces Haj 2019 And Unfurled The Highest Tricolor At Haj House

100 percent digital and without subsidy Haj 2019 was announced today at Haj House, Mumbai, Two months before schedule comparing to the last year’s Haj. While announcing Haj 2019 here at Haj House, Mumbai,Union Minister for minority affairs shri mukhtar abbas naqvi today said that it is for the first time that preparations for next year’s Haj (2019) has been started immediately after completion of the current year’s Haj Process (2018).

Shri Naqvi said online application process for Haj 2019 will be started from tomorrow 18th October while offline application process will start from 22nd October 2018. A total of 3,55,604 applications had been received for Haj 2018 which included 1,89,217 male and 1,66,387 female applicants. 

Shri Naqvi said that early stage of Haj process will ensure better facilities as well as smooth Haj process as the concerned agencies, both in india and saudi arabia, will get sufficient time for arrangements. Process of airlines tender will be completed by November and accommodations process in Makkah and Madina will be completed by December- January. The accommodation rates in Saudi Arabia will be sane as it was in 2018. All 20 embarkation points will be functional and Haj pilgrims will also be able to go from calicut airport.

Shri Naqvi said that Haj 2018 was pro-pilgrims even after removal of Haj subsidy. Elimination of middlemen and 100 percent online and transparent system ensured that even after removal of Haj subsidy, there was no unnecessary financial burden on pilgrims. 

In 2017, a total of rs 1030 crore was paid to airlines for airfare for 1,24,852 Haj pilgrims, going through Hah committee of India. It means, Rs 57 crore less was paid to airlines this year even after ending Haj subsidy.

Shri Naqvi said that Haj 2018 was successful. For the first time after the independence a record number of 1,75,025 Muslims from India performed Haj this year and that too without any subsidy. We are hopeful that indian Muslims will go in large number for Haj 2019 in comparison to the Haj 2018.

Shri Naqvi said that safety and better facilities, medical facilities for the pilgrims is the priority of the government and there will be no lackadaisical approach on the matter.

On the occassion, Shri Naqvi inaugrated ‘Viewers Gallery’ at the Haj house and unfurled monumental National Flag on the roof top of Haj House, Mumbai.

This monumental Indian National flag of size 20 feet by 30 feet on the high mast of 20 meter height has been installed on rooftop of Haj House making jt 350 feet High from ground level.

It is believed that this will be the highest tricolor installed on terrace of any building with such height (116 meters from sea level)

माननीय मंत्री मुख़्तार अब्बास नक़वी ने हज 2019 के ऐलान‌ के साथ ही सबसे ऊंचे राष्ट्र ध्वज को हज हाउस में फहराया

आज मुम्बई के हज हाउस में 100 फीसदी डिजिटल और बिना सब्सिडी वाले हज का ऐला‌न‌ किया गया. पिछले साल की तुलना में हज के शेड्यूल से दो महीने पहले इस बात का ऐलान किया गया है. हज हाउस में 2019 कर हज ऐलान करने हुए माननीय केंद्रीय अल्पसंख्यक मंत्री मुख़्तार अब्बास नक़वी ने कहा कि ऐसा पहली बार हुआ है कि 2018 के हज के पूरा हो जाने के तुरंत बाद 2019 के हज की प्रक्रिया शुरू कर दी गयी है. 

श्री नक़वी ने कहा कि 

2019 के हज के लिए ऑनलाइन आवेदन की प्रकिया कल से यानि 18 अक्तूबर से और ऑफलाइन प्रक्रिया 22 अक्तूबर से शुरू कर दी जायेगी. हज 2018 के लिए कुल 3,55,604 आवेदन प्राप्त हुए, जिसमें 1,89,217 पुरुष और 1,66,387 महिला आवेदक थीं. 

श्री नक़वी ने कहा कि हज की जल्द शुरू की जा रही प्रकिया से बेहतर सुविधाएं जुटाने में मदद मिलेगी. इसके अलावा, भारत और सऊदी अरब की एयरलाइन‌ एजेंसियों को इंतजाम के लिए खासा वक्त मिल जायेगा. 

एयरलाइन्स के टेंडर की प्रक्रिया नवंबर तक पूरी हो जायेगी, जबकि मक्का और मदीना में रहने की व्यवस्था से संबंधित तमाम प्रक्रिया दिसंबर-जनवरी तक पूरी हो जायेगी. सऊदी अरब में रहने की व्यवस्था की दर में कोई बदलाव नहीं होगा और ये 2018 के बराबर ही होगी. हज यात्रा के सभी 20 मार्ग सुचारू रहेंगे और इसके अतिरिक्त हज यात्री कालिकट एयरपोर्ट से हज यात्रा कर सकेंगे.

श्री नक़वी ने‌ कहा कि सब्सिडी के हटाये जाने के बावजूद 2018 की हजयात्रा काफी सफल रही. दलालों के खात्मे और आवेदन की प्रक्रिया 100 फीसदी ऑनलाइन करने के बाद के बाद बनी पारदर्शी व्यवस्था ने ये साबित किया है कि सब्सिडी के हटने के बाद भी हज यात्रियों पर आर्थिक बोझ नहीं पड़ा है.

2017 में कुल 1030 करोड़ रुपये हवाई यात्रा के लिए एयरलाइन्स को दिये गये थे, जिससे हज कमिटी की मार्फ़त कुल 1,24,852 हजयात्रियों ने हज यात्रा की थी. इसका मतलब ये हुआ कि सब्सिडी खत्म‌ किये जाने के बाद 57 करोड़ रुपये कम एयरलाइन्स को अदा किये गये.

श्री नक़वी ने कहा कि 2018 की हज यात्रा कामयाब रही. आजादी के बाद पहली बार भारत के 1,75,025 मुसलमानों ने इस साल हज यात्रा की. हमें उम्मीद है कि 2018 की तुलना में अगले साल और भी भारी संख्या में मुसलमान हज यात्रा के लिए जायेंगे.

श्री नक़वी ने कहा कि सुरक्षा और बेहतर सुविधाएं, हज यात्रियों के लिए बेहतर मेडिकल सुविधाएं सरकार की प्राथमिकता है और इसे लेकर सरकार कोई सुस्ती नहीं बरतेगी.

इस मौके‌ पर मुख़्तार अब्बास नक़वी ने हज हाउस में 'दर्शक दीर्घा' का उद्घाटन किया और हज हाउज के रूफ़ टॉप पर विशाल राष्ट्र ध्वज लहराया. इसका आकार 20×30 फुट है और इसे हज हाउज पर 20 मीटर के हाई मास्ट के सहारे स्थापित किया गया है. इस तरह इसकी कुल ऊंचाई जमीनी स्तर से 350 फुट है. ऐसा माना जा रहा है कि ये किसी भी इमारत के टेरेस पर फहराया गया सबसे ऊंचा राष्ट्र ध्वज है, जिसकी कुल ऊंचाई समुद्र तट से 116 मीटर है.