65-year-old Mumbai-based reputed brand Saroj Sweets chooses to explore the bakery biz, Rahul Laud reports
Third-generation entrepreneur Tejaswini (Renuka) is the grand-daughter of Damodar Krishnaji Marathe one of the most respected businessmen, educationists and philanthropists who were the first to open a sweets shop in the Eastern suburbs of Mumbai at Chembur. She is also the daughter of Sheshnath and Manisha Marathe who has chosen to add to the Saroj Sweets kitty of dairy, sweets and savoury products diversified bakery and confectionery products. Saroj Sweets is a brand named after Renuka’s grandmother and has been a household name in the Mumbai Chembur area for the past 65 years. Renuka adds, ”Saroj is a very precious name. There’s divinity, grace and abundance in the name.”
Honouring the tradition, values and ethics in business as laid down by Damodar Marathe, the brand despite several peer pressures and public demand does not have any franchisee and the residents of that area and nearby locations choose to stand in long queues for hours to get their favourite sweets, milk products and namkeens. Her parents struggle hard to retain brand quality, face distribution and delivery challenges, and cope with the huge growing demand. Seshnath is known in the sweets trade as ‘mithai ka doctor’ as the Marathes keep their entire establishment completely clean, raising the bar of hygiene standards in the sweets trade in addition to procuring the best quality ingredients and raw materials. A visit to the manufacturing, production and sale all-in-one building reveals clearly and demonstrates the fact that Saroj Sweets is like a sweets-making laboratory.
Renuka is the sole heir today and she has found interest in baking products. Following her degree in management studies, Renuka is armed under her belt with a specialised course in baking from the Rahejas. Her full-fledged course in baking, pastry making, confectionery and entrepreneurship at the European School of Pastry became a game changer for her. Culinary experts, renowned chefs and industry veterans Anil Rohira and Vikas Bagul became her mentors and teachers at the School and Renuka was chosen by the Chefs to bake and cater at the high-profile Ambani weddings.
Renuka values her parents and grandfather’s contributions, and she is exploring all possibilities to strike a correct balance with her existing sweets business. Awaiting all legal paperwork, licences and market study she will jump fully into the business at an appropriate time.
Like her grandparents and parents who do food and sweets ‘’Sewa’’ for the underprivileged tribals, Renuka is steadfastly committed to teaching baking and entrepreneurship to the wives of Indian soldiers. As a volunteer, she travels to Jodhpur with the patriotic NGO Aseem group led by Sarang Gosavi to teach these soldiers’ wives.
Like her parents, she is committed to her cause and business – both. This young 27-year-old entrepreneur is focused, planned and cherishes the values of ethics in business and is not in any rush or hurry. Like her brand Saroj Sweets she is here to stay.
The Pakistan Army - Defenders of the nation or privileged travellers on the 'Milbus.
Frustration grows in Gilgit-Baltistan over chronic food, power crises and exploitive governance … writes Dr Sakariya Kareem. Protests are being held by political parties, civil society, and the public in Gilgit Baltistan, which has become a serious law-and-order issue in the geo-strategically crucial region.
The Pakistani government’s decision to hike wheat prices has led to widespread protests in the Gilgit-Baltistan region which is already suffering from a shortage of food grains, energy and fuel as well as the imposition of unjust taxes, and forced land acquisition. While Islamabad’s failure to address the problems has risked law and order disruptions, the frustration among people has led some of them to talk about joining India. Gilgit-Baltistan is governed by Pakistan but claimed by India to be its integral part.
The Islamabad government has raised wheat prices from Rs 20 to Rs 36, though the initial plan was to increase it to Rs 52. The hike however has led to strong protests in Gilgit-Baltistan, in which all religious, social, and political groups have come together and formed an alliance named the Awami Action Committee (AAC). Calling the Gilgit-Baltistan a “disputed” region, AAC chairman Najaf Ali said the protests were not just against the wheat prices but the rights of people in the region.
Similarly, the prolonged power crisis and fuel shortage have become major problems in Gilgit-Baltistan. People were forced to stay in the dark during the holy month of Ramadan. “Electricity has become a dream for us. We are experiencing over 20 hours of power outages,” said Zakir Baltistani, a resident of Skardu city. Now they are left in the lurch to brave intense cold. Severe load shedding adds to winter woes of people in Gilgit-Baltistan,” said another local Sattar Farooq.
Protest in Gilgit Baltistan over Air Force’s Land Grab
The Gilgit-Baltistan residents do not express their confidence in the local legislature assembly as they claim it is being controlled by the Islamabad government. “The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly is not a public spokesperson but a group of the privileged class,” they said while criticising Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid during wheat price-induced protests.
Moreover, they assert that the Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are administered via ad hoc presidential decrees as they reject the Islamabad government’s absolute control over them and its arbitrary decisions. Even the Supreme Court of Kashmir has maintained that the region is “disputed”.
London-based anthropologist Livia Holden said the people of Gilgit-Baltistan have not allowed the Islamabad government to access the management of their economic and natural resources as the region remained a disputed territory to date. “The people of Gilgit-Baltistan have submitted petitions to the Supreme Court, held peaceful protests, and initiated grassroots political scrutiny,” she said in her report on the struggle of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. “Undermining their efforts would mean to silence their struggle. People’s struggle for participatory governance in Gilgit-Baltistan shows remarkable resilience, which has been unjustly perceived.”
Now, protests are being held by political parties, civil society, and the public in Gilgit Baltistan, which has become a serious law-and-order issue in the geo-strategically crucial region. Protesters have resorted to burning highways and burning tyres to express their anguish and frustration. Khalid Khurshid, chief minister of Gilgit-Baltistan blamed the Islamabad government for the shortage of wheat and overall cuts in funds allocated for the region. But people are not in the mood to accept any reason for the price hike.
Another reason for the people’s anger is land grabbing by the Islamabad government under colonial law, which protestors call a “black law”. These protests are not new but they are being held for decades now. They have become more intense in recent times. People in Gilgit Baltistan blame the Islamabad government for discriminatory policies that led to their exploitation. This often leads the protestors to express their desire to join with India as the region was a part of Jammu & Kashmir before Pakistan came into existence.
UK-based Kashmiri activist Amjad Ayub Mirza said the people in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan were suffering due to a shortage of essential commodities and taxes on basic necessities. “People are out on streets because there is no food, there is no flour. People are fed up. The government depots for flour are locked. People in almost every city of (Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan) are protesting, even students, lawyers, civil society and women are protesting,” Mirza said.
Speaking at the event, H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan expressed, “LuLu Exchange’s remarkable growth is a testament to its dedication to providing essential financial services…reports Asian Lite News
LuLu Exchange, a leading financial services provider, proudly commemorates its growth and success with the inauguration of the 100th customer engagement centre at Q1 Mall, Al Warqa, Dubai. This historic achievement reinstates the company’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding its reach in the region. The newly opened customer engagement centre takes the tally of global engagement centres under LuLu Financial Holdings to 314.
The milestone 100th Customer Engagement Centre was inaugurated by H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India, Dubai, alongside Mr. Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of LuLu Financial Holdings and Mr. Richard Wason, CEO, Lulu Financial Holdings in the esteemed presence of the company’s senior management and key dignitaries from the financial industry.
Speaking at the event, H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan expressed, “LuLu Exchange’s remarkable growth is a testament to its dedication to providing essential financial services. This 100th Customer Engagement Centre is a significant step forward, reflecting the company’s commitment to the community.”
Mr. Adeeb Ahamed remarked, “Our commitment to a value-driven approach is evident in every aspect of our operations, ensuring that integrity and customer satisfaction guide our actions. We actively work towards financial inclusion, recognizing the importance of accessible financial services for all. This commitment aligns with our broader vision of making a positive impact on the communities and environment with a focus on sustainability. The persistent support from the leadership and governance of the UAE has been instrumental in our growth journey. Their strategic vision and commitment to excellence have provided a solid foundation for our success. As we celebrate this milestone, LuLu Exchange remains dedicated to upholding high standards in financial services, with gratitude for the trust placed in us by millions.”
Since its establishment in 2009, marked by the inauguration of the first Customer Engagement Centre in Abu Dhabi, LuLu Exchange has undergone a significant transformation, evolving into a diversified leader within the global payments industry. Over the past 15 years, the company has expanded its presence across all seven emirates of the UAE, making a substantial impact on the financial landscape.
LuLu Exchange has consistently demonstrated remarkable growth over the last decade, aligning with the growing demand for remittance services, and established itself as a trusted global financial service provider. The 2023 World Bank report validates this upward trajectory, revealing a substantial surge in global remittances to an impressive $860 billion. Amidst this growth, the resilience exhibited by labour markets in advanced economies and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has played a vital role in supporting migrants and facilitating crucial fund transfers back to their home countries. In 2023, India topped the charts in remittances, and LuLu Exchange, with its extensive global operations, played a pivotal role as a major facilitator of cross-border payments into India. Lulu Exchange processed $9.4 billion in the year 2023, leveraging its global payout network covering over 100 countries. This underscores LuLu Exchange’s integral part in the global financial landscape and further reinforces its unwavering dedication to providing secure and transparent cross-border payment solutions.
LuLu Exchange’s strategic focus on digital transformation and platform-based innovations has positioned it as a key player in cross-border payments, foreign exchange, WPS payroll solutions, and wholesale banknotes. With a customer base spanning millions of individuals from diverse nationalities each year, LuLu Exchange has consistently delivered prompt, transparent, and reliable services.
This accomplishment is made possible through its extensive network of customer engagement centres throughout the UAE and the proprietary LuLu Money digital payments app, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence in financial services. As LuLu Exchange continues to evolve and grow, its legacy of innovation and customer-centric initiatives remains a driving force in the dynamic landscape of global financial services.
DEWA’s female employees who participated in the trip expressed their happiness at visiting this historical landmark, which relays the history and glory of the UAE…reports Asian Lite News
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) Women’s Committee organised an educational trip to Etihad Museum, a notable historical landmark and tourist attraction in Dubai. This supports DEWA’s efforts to strengthen national identity. Over 60 female employees from various divisions took part in the trip. Educational trips are an important aspect of the social activities of the Women’s Committee as part of its annual agenda.
This type of activity contributes to achieving a balance between the professional and social lives of female employees, in addition to enhancing social cohesion, which reflects positively on their happiness.
“DEWA Women’s Committee supports the organisation’s efforts to strengthen the national identity among its employees and provide a happy, positive, and motivational working environment that ensures a balance between the employees’ professional and social lives. This educational trip to the Etihad Museum, with its prominent historical significance, has enhanced the awareness of female employees of different nationalities of the UAE’s history and the establishment of the Union by the Founding Fathers.
It highlighted the UAE’s journey of growth and development which started in 1971, that has made the UAE an exceptional model for progress, development, and civilisation,” said Fatima Al Jokar, Chairperson of the Women’s Committee at DEWA.
DEWA’s female employees who participated in the trip expressed their happiness at visiting this historical landmark, which relays the history and glory of the UAE. It features inspiring cultural messages, stories, and presents valuable information about the establishment of the Union, the UAE Constitution, and rare stories and details that reflect the spirit of the Founding Fathers and the vision of the wise leadership. The employees also praised the efforts of DEWA Women’s Committee in organising such activities that enhance social connectivity with their colleagues from various divisions and departments at DEWA.
The video featured members of the Indian Mission in London extending New Year wishes in languages other than their mother tongues…reports Asian Lite News
In a unique and heartwarming gesture, the Indian High Commission in the UK took a distinctive approach to New Year celebrations by extending greetings in various mother tongues, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry that defines India.
The initiative was shared in a post on X by the High Commission of India. In a video message, India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, expressed his warm wishes for the New Year while shedding light on the inspiration behind the initiative. “Last year, my colleagues and I wanted to showcase the diversity of India’s many, many languages. And we wished you all in our mother tongues, our home languages,” he explained.
Ringing in the New Year with a twist (of the tongue)! This time, we're swapping around our heartfelt greetings by wishing you in someone else's mother tongue, celebrating the diversity that makes up 🇮🇳. How did we do? Please do let us know in comments. @IndianDiplomacy@MEAIndiapic.twitter.com/4etSM8twYb
The Indian mission took a different approach in 2024. “This year to be different, we’re going to try and showcase just how much the diversity of our languages is part of our culture by trying to wish you a very happy new year in somebody else’s mother tongue from India,” Doraiswami said in the short video message.
The video featured members of the Indian Mission in London extending New Year wishes in languages other than their mother tongues. Each member embraced the challenge of wishing the audience in a language assigned, demonstrating the cultural richness that defines India. Doraiswami, leading by example, expressed New Year wishes in Assamese, despite being from South India. The video showcased the linguistic diversity within the Indian community and celebrated the cultural mosaic that binds the nation together. “Greetings, friends, and a very Happy New Year to all of you for 2024,” exclaimed Doraiswami, encapsulating the spirit of unity in diversity.
The initiative not only spread joy but also served as a reminder of the beauty embedded in India’s linguistic variety. As the video circulated on social media platforms, it garnered positive responses, with many commending the Indian Mission’s creative and inclusive approach to celebrating the New Year. “Loved it! Jai Hind!” said a social media user in a comment. Another user commented, “Very interesting way of showcasing the diverse languages.” The cultural showcase resonated as a symbol of unity and appreciation for the diverse linguistic heritage that defines the Indian identity. (ANI)
With the UK being a sought-after destination for travelers globally, India, China, Nigeria, and Turkey emerge as the top four application locations…reports Asian Lite News
In a significant development, VFS Global has been appointed as the exclusive service provider for all UK Visa and Citizenship Application Centres across 142 countries, solidifying its position as a leading visa, passport, and citizen services provider on a global scale.
The renowned company, which has been a trusted partner for the UK Government since 2003, is set to manage a staggering 3.8 million applicants annually. As part of its expansion plans, VFS Global is slated to open UK application centres in 84 new countries throughout the year 2024.
The comprehensive contract not only marks VFS Global’s sixth global win in 2023 but also promises substantial investments in technology to enhance customer experience, accessibility, and security. The deployment of 240 Visa and Citizenship Application Service (VCAS) Centres is set to cover regions including Africa & the Middle East, Americas, Australasia & Europe, China & Taiwan, and Asia & the Asia Pacific.
These globally dispersed centres will cater to all categories of visa applications, and in select locations, facilitate UK passport applications as well. Anticipating a colossal processing capacity, the new centres are estimated to handle 3.8 million applicants annually.
Beyond the sheer scale of deployment, VFS Global aims to revolutionize the customer journey. The company is committed to increasing accessibility through revamped customer websites and upgraded in-person experiences. Moreover, the deployment of cutting-edge technologies will reinforce identity checks, ensuring the integrity of the visa and passport application process.
Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global, expressed his delight at winning the contract, emphasizing the company’s dedication to providing best-in-class services to governments worldwide. Karkaria stated, “We are excited to begin operations in new locations and take the next step towards providing customers with a seamless, simple, and secure visa and passport application experience.”
With the UK being a sought-after destination for travelers globally, India, China, Nigeria, and Turkey emerge as the top four application locations.
In addition to the VCAS Centres, VFS Global plans to expand its network of paid application centres, forging partnerships with popular hotels and resorts. The move aims to bring the visa application process closer to home for customers, mirroring successful initiatives in India, the UAE, and the USA.
This latest triumph follows closely on the heels of VFS Global securing the global biometric collection service mandate with Australia and renewing the global visa service contract with Sweden, underscoring the company’s continuous commitment to excellence in its field.
In his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Shamsheer will lead the Board and support the management team in setting strategic priorities, overseeing corporate governance…reports Asian Lite News
Amanat Holdings PJSC, the leading healthcare and education listed investment company, has appointed Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors.
The appointment comes as part of Amanat’s commitment to driving strategic leadership and innovation in the rapidly evolving healthcare and education sectors.
Dr. Shamsheer replaced Hamad Abdulla Alshamsi as Chairman following a Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, December 28, 2023. The company also appointed Mr. Abdulla Mohammed Hassan Mohammed Alhosani as the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Dr. Shamsheer, who is Amanat’s largest individual shareholder, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role as Chairman and his strategic insights are expected to contribute to Amanat’s continued growth and success. As a renowned healthcare entrepreneur and visionary leader, Dr Shamsheer has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of healthcare and education services in the region. He is also the Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, one of the largest healthcare services providers in the MENA Region.
In his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Shamsheer will lead the Board and support the management team in setting strategic priorities, overseeing corporate governance, and driving initiatives that align with Amanat’s mission to create value and deliver a positive impact to shareholders, partners, patients and students in the communities it serves.
In response to his recent appointment, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman of Amanat Holdings, expressed his honor, stating, “I am honored to take on the role of Chairman of Amanat Holdings. The company has a robust history of investments in the healthcare and education sectors. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the Board and management team to further enhance these successes and capitalize on new opportunities in the dynamic markets across the MENA region.”
The 2024 forum intends to delve deeply into the intricate political and economic landscape of the Arab region….reports Asian Lite News
Under the auspices of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the Arab Strategic Forum is set to commence its proceedings in Dubai on January 3, 2024.
Titled “The Political and Economic State of the Arab World in 2024,” the thought-provoking event will bring together prominent global leaders, strategic experts, and leading figures in the realms of politics and economics.
The 2024 forum intends to delve deeply into the intricate political and economic landscape of the Arab region. Renowned speakers will dissect transformative political and economic shifts, analyze the current position of Arab nations, and explore their crucial role in navigating the fast-paced changes unfolding both regionally and internationally. Participants will further engage in insightful discussions, envisioning the contours of the upcoming phase and its potential impact on the global arena of interests and balances.
Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of the Arab Strategy Forum, underlined its legacy as a cornerstone of intellectual exchange since its inception in 2001. Born from the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Forum empowers decision-makers with future-focused insights and advanced thinking. This, Al Gergawi emphasised, equips them with the necessary tools to navigate a complex world – understanding major transformations, embracing flexibility, and crafting proactive solutions to geo-political and economic challenges. Ultimately, this translates to enhanced development plans and improved well-being for both the Arab region and the global community.
Al Gergawi described the 2024 session as convening “amidst delicate circumstances.” The Arab world, and the world at large, finds itself grappling with comprehensive shifts in economics, politics, and international alliances. This session, coinciding with global efforts to address critical development and social stability challenges, presents a crucial opportunity for in-depth readings of these international changes.
By providing such insightful analyses, the Forum empowers leaders in the Arab world and beyond to build robust, science-driven strategic plans. These plans, aligned with the goals of sustainable development, will better equip societies to face the world’s challenges and build a brighter future for all.
The Arab Strategy Forum is a platform for forecasting geopolitical and economic events, bringing together influential leaders and decision-makers. It collaborates with global experts, researchers, and scholars to provide a forward-looking picture of future issues, enabling leaders to develop strategic plans. The Forum also offers training programmes in geopolitical and economic analysis for decision-makers, academics, and media professionals. It aims to help leaders make informed decisions, navigate risks, and exploit opportunities by providing short-term forecasts, thought leadership, and insights. (ANI/WAM)
Extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances continue in Balochistan: rights body(IN)
Salia Marri, the niece of Baloch national leader Baba Khair Bakhsh Marri urged all political parties and social and human rights activists to join the protest….reports Asian Lite News
In an effort to strengthen the collective voice of dissent against purported enforced disappearances and human rights abuses in Balochistan, Salia Marri, the niece of Baloch national leader Baba Khair Bakhsh Marri, declared a five-day protest in London scheduled from January 3 to 7.
Marri, the wife of Baloch nationalist Mir Taj Muhammad Sarparah who is alleged to be among those to have disappeared, said she will lead the sit-in protest for the safe release of her husband and other missing persons.
She urged all political parties and social and human rights activists to join the protest.
“For the safe release of my husband, all missing persons, I am organising a 5-day sit-in protest in front of 10 Downing Street in London. This protest will take place from January 3 to January 7, 2024, 24 hours daily. I urge all political parties, social and human rights activists, media, Baloch nation, and all other communities to join our sit-in protest,” Marri posted from her official handle on X.
The announcement of a sit-in comes amid ongoing protests against Baloch genocide and enforced disappearances at the National Press Club of Islamabad.
The Baloch Yakjahti Committee-Kech, in a post on X, stated that if the state fails to hold negotiations as per their demand, the issue will be taken to the court of the Baloch people.
“If the state fails to engage in serious negotiations on the demands, demonstrate seriousness, and continues its attitude towards protesters as observed over the past week, then after one week, the movement will express clear disappointment with all state institutions for their policies of state-sponsored killings and colonial treatment towards Balochistan. Then, the decision will be taken to the Baloch people’s court,” the committee warned in a statement.
The sit-in movement continues in this cold weather, protesting against Baloch Genocide and Enforced Disappearances at the National Press Club in Islamabad.
If the state fails to engage in serious negotiations on the demands, demonstrate seriousness, and continues its attitude… pic.twitter.com/NhUcfupwnu
Serving them an ultimatum, the committee stressed that during this week, the state needs to clarify to the Baloch people how serious they are about addressing the issue of the Baloch genocide.
“It must be practically proven that all forms of human rights violations, including forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and illegal actions, immediately cease in Balochistan,” the committee stated further.
The committee added if the state was unwilling to transform its colonial mindset, a decision would be made in the courts of the Baloch people. (ANI)
Robust policies in the state and an efficient ground implementation gaining strength and speed under Hemant Soren’s leadership is ensuring a golden tomorrow.
SPORTS POLICY 2022
Under the leadership of the Chief Minister, many efforts have been made for the development of sports and players in the last four years. Taking this forward, for the first time in the Asian continent, the Women’s Asian Hockey Champion Trophy 2023 was hosted in Jharkhand of late.
Efforts are being made to promote sports at the school level to hone the talent of skilled school children of the state. On the other hand, the Sahay Scheme has been initiated, aiming to spread positivity among the youth living in Naxal hit areas through sports. Through this initiative, a total of 75,000 players participated in the first year.
To keep the physical fitness of the players intact, the quantity of food given to them has been increased more than double. Rs 175 given as food amount per player is now increased to Rs 350. Also, sports centres are being renovated for better accommodation of the players. The government is also providing high-quality sports kits to the players participating in national and international sports competitions. Modern sports stadiums of international standards are being built for the tournaments while on the other hand, sports grounds are being constructed at the Panchayat and Panchayat level and stadiums are being built at the block level for the domestic players as well.
The amount of honorarium given to the players and coaches who represented the state in national, international and Olympic games and won gold, silver and bronze medals in the competitions was increased. The government has amended the cash award rules for the promising players of the state. The earlier provision of Rs 7,000, has been revised to Rs 50,000 under the Sports Policy – 2022. For a gold medal winner in the Olympics, Rs 2 crore has been increased to Rs 5 crore. Recently, the Chief Minister awarded prize money worth Rs 5 crore to 222 players and 52 coaches for 19 sports.
The present government has been sensitive towards the former players who have brought pride to Jharkhand. A provision has been made to give pension of Rs 10,000 per month to the former players. If a former player dies, a provision has been made to give a grant of Rs 5,000 to his family.
The Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Overseas Scholarship Scheme 2021 was rolled out by the State Government in September 2021 for the scholars coming from the Scheduled Tribe communities to pursue higher studies in universities across the United Kingdom. The scholars were able to pursue 1-year Masters or a 2-year M. Phil in select 15 top universities of the United Kingdom across 22 courses. The first cohort of 6 selected scholars flew to pursue their aspirations in September 2021. They are currently pursuing their higher studies
at Loughborough University, University of Warwick, University of Sussex and several other varsities. Under this scheme, every year, up to 10 students from the Scheduled Tribe communities of Jharkhand are to be selected. During the launch event of the Marang
Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Overseas Scholarship Scheme 2021 in September 2021, Soren had shared his vision of including the scholars belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and other minority communities other than the Scheduled Tribes. In less than one year of time, fulfilling his promise to expand the one of its kind overseas scholarship schemes in the country, Hemant Soren led government has increased the ambit and the number of beneficiaries of the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Overseas Scholarship Scheme to 25. In this direction, the Government of Jharkhand and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Government of the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a new Chevening-Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Scholarship programme for the marginalised communities from the state.
Industrial Policy 2021
The industrial Policy 2021 aims to attract investment, create job opportunities
The industry-friendly policies of his government are the reason for industrial players coming to Jharkhand. “Our government had brought out a new industrial policy in 2021 not only to attract investment but also to create job opportunities. It is due to such policies that more industries are setting up units in Jharkhand,” Soren said at an event organised to celebrate Tinplate Company’s Rs 2,000 crore expansion project in Jamshedpur.
To attract investors, the government had proposed attractive incentive provisions, promising investors up to 100 per cent relief from SGST for up to nine years whereas 75 per cent for large-scale industries which is again for up to 12 years. The policy incentivizes investors up to Rs 25 crore as a comprehensive investment project subsidy with an additional 5 per cent incentive provision for SC/ST/women/specially-abled investors.
The policy has provisions for early bird subsidy, anchor subsidy, interest subsidy and power subsidy.
Employment will be created if industries are set up in the state. After we launched the new policy along with Tata Group several other industrial houses have shown interest in investing in Jharkhand. A cement factory had already started production in Bokaro.
Praising the Tata Group, Hemant said: “Tata group has played a big role in the development of this country and the state. The construction of Tata Cancer Hospital has been completed. Soon it will be dedicated to the people of the state.
Tata Steel CEO and MD T. V. Narendran said that the cancer hospital project in Ranchi is nearing completion and will be inaugurated by Hemant soon.
Sources in the Tinplate company informed that the expansion work will be completed by 2026 after which the annual production would increase from the existing 0.415 Million Ton Per Annum (MnTPA) to 0.715 Mn“The upcoming facilities will have state-of-the-art technology and higher levels of automation to cater to domestic and export markets, minimize man-machine interface, enhance safety aspects, and be designed to meet the EU environmental norms. This expansion is a significant milestone in the company’s growth and commitment to the state. We are committed to partnering with the Jharkhand government and local communities to promote the economic and social development of the region,” said R.N. Murthy, managing director of Tinplate Company.
Tourism Policy 2021
The new Jharkhand tourism policy includes having strategic joint ventures with private tour operators for setting up tourist packages and services, upgrading the tourist information centres (TICs) and conducting a detailed assessment of tourism potential of every district.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren launched the new tourism policy of the state and announced that National Geographic India has been roped in for an upcoming documentary series to boost the state’s tourism sector.
“Jharkhand is a hidden treasure house of nature, culture and sustainable living. From traces of ancient human civilisation to its picturesque natural beauty, charismatic heritage and the deep-rooted indigenous traditions and communities — it is a place you will feel at home,” Soren said on the occasion.
He said Jharkhand has been battling a lot of challenges and Covid-19 has hit the tourism industry hard. “Many people suffered losses during the coronavirus pandemic, especially those associated with the tourism industry and hence, this new policy will help them recover their losses,” he said.
The new Jharkhand tourism policy includes having strategic joint ventures with private tour operators for setting up tourist packages and services, upgrading the tourist information centres (TICs) and conducting a detailed assessment of tourism potential of every district. It also includes the involvement of experts in planning and executing “master plans” for the development of tourism circuits and tourism-related projects.
The strategy of the new policy includes conducting effective public awareness campaigns, particularly among the tribals, organising buyer-seller meetings to market the tourism products effectively and training all the stakeholders in tourism promotion, marketing and tourism-related services.
Solar Policy 2022
Hemant Soren, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, announced an ambitious new solar policy on July 5, 2022 in an effort to raise clean energy capacity from 45 MW to 4,000 MW over the course of the following five years and draw in investors.
The Jharkhand Solar Policy, 2022 would promote rooftop solar panels for residences in urban areas in addition to creating a better environment for larger plants. People with an annual income of less than Rs 3 lakhs may be eligible for a subsidy of up to 80% of the overall installation cost. The State is committed to supporting India’s concerted action against climate change by reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and diversifying the energy mix with various renewable energy sources, which would also improve the State’s energy security and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to its people. The Government of Jharkhand recognizes the significant potential of solar energy due to its topography. The State has around 300 days of clear sun with high solar insolation in the range of 4.5 to 5.5 kWh/m2/day. Supported by technological developments and national mandate, solar energy has steadily grown with parity to conventional fuels. The State aims to take a systematic, transparent and streamlined approach to scaling the share of solar in its energy mix and reap the various socio-economic, health and environmental benefits it offers.
GREEN ENERGY
The Jharkhand government has inked a pact with TCPL Green Energy Solutions Private Ltd (TGESPL), a joint venture between Tata Motors and Cummins Inc, USA to set up the country’s “first” hydrogen fuel project in Jamshedpur at an estimated cost of over Rs 350 crore, officials said. The agreement was signed between the state government and TCPL Green Energy Solutions here in the presence of Chief Minister Hemant Soren, for setting up the project, which would entail an investment of Rs 354.28 crore.
“The facility is expected to start commercial production in March 2024, and likely provide employment to about 1,000 people directly or indirectly. As per Executive Director, Tata Motors, Girish Wagh, the company is committed to provide green, smart and safe mobility. Soren had earlier announced that the hydrogen internal combustion engine and fuel-agnostic engine will be developed in Jamshedpur by TCPL Green Energy Solutions.
He had given approval to the investment proposal for the unit for manufacturing advance chemistry battery, H2 fuel cell and H2 fuel delivery system. “There are several advantages of hydrogen fuel, as it is available in abundance and does not emit harmful substances.
