Next Gen Consulting

Category: Business

  • India’s Power Transmission Sector to Attract INR 9 Trillion Investment by 2032: Report

    New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): India’s power transmission sector is set for a significant expansion, with projected investments of around ₹9 trillion by 2032, according to a recent industry report. The surge in capital expenditure is expected to be driven by rising electricity demand, rapid infrastructure growth, and the country’s ongoing clean energy transition.

    The report states that the planned investments will focus on strengthening the national transmission backbone, expanding interstate power corridors, and enhancing the system’s ability to integrate large-scale renewable energy.

    India’s Power Transmission Sector to Attract INR 9 Trillion Investment by 2032: Report

     A major priority will be improving transmission capacity from renewable energy hubs to consumption centres, ensuring smoother evacuation of solar and wind power. Upgradation of grid infrastructure and adoption of advanced technologies for better load management are also expected to be key focus areas.

    Experts note that India’s evolving energy landscape requires a more flexible and resilient transmission network capable of handling fluctuating renewable output alongside growing industrial and urban demand.

    The report further highlights that policy support, regulatory reforms, and increasing private sector participation are likely to sustain long-term investment momentum in the sector.

    Overall, the projected capex underscores the critical role of transmission infrastructure in strengthening energy security, supporting economic expansion, and enabling India’s transition toward a cleaner and more efficient power system.

     

  • V-Guard Study Reveals Low Voltage Increases AC Power Consumption by Up to 50 percent

    India Apr 20: In an era of escalating energy costs and climate volatility,  V–Guard Industries has released a definitive study on the hidden correlation between power quality and energy efficiency. Validated by a NABL-accredited laboratory, the research demonstrates that sub-optimal voltage doesn’t just threaten hardware it acts as a massive “efficiency tax” inflating air conditioner electricity consumption by up to 50%. 

    The study, which benchmarked multiple 1.5-ton AC units from industry-leading brands, reveals a critical performance gap. When input voltage drops into the 140V–180V range a common occurrence during peak Indian summers the compressor’s thermodynamic efficiency is compromised. This forces the air conditioner to operate for significantly longer durations to achieve the same cooling output, leading to an exponential rise in power draw.

    “There is a fundamental misunderstanding regarding ‘stabilizer-free’ appliances,” says Mithun K Chittilappilly, Managing Director, V Guard Industries. “While modern ACs are built to survive voltage fluctuations, they are not optimized to maintain peak efficiency under them. Our research proves that operating an AC on a dedicated stabilizer isn’t just about protection, it’s an energy-saving strategy that can reduce AC electricity bills by half.” 

    How Low Voltage Drains Your Wallet 

    The V–Guard study explains exactly why poor power quality makes your bills climb:

    • The “Slow-Motion” Cooling Trap: When voltage is low, the AC compressor can’t work at full strength. It lacks the sufficient electrical energy to pump the refrigerant gas at full speed. Therefore, it takes much longer to cool the room, sometimes much longer, just to do the same job it could finish quickly on stable power.
    • The 50% Electricity Bill Penalty: That extra running time adds up directly on your electricity meter. An AC running on low voltage can take two to three times longer to reach your set temperature — and every extra minute costs you money. This inefficiency can hike your monthly AC bill by up to 50%.
    • Silent Damage to a Costly Appliance: Struggling against low voltage generates excess heat inside the AC‘s compressor — the most expensive component to repair or replace. Over time, this wears the machine down from the inside, shortening its life well before it should need servicing.

    Redefining Power Quality for the Modern Household 

    To address these systemic grid challenges, V–Guard’s high-performance stabilizers including the VWR 400 Plus and VWI 400 are engineered to serve as an intelligent interface between the grid and the appliance. By filtering out unstable power and delivering a consistent voltage profile, these systems ensure:

    1. Lower Bills: You can save up to 50% on your AC electricity costs simply by helping the machine work faster and smarter, not harder.
    1. Faster Comfort: Your room cools down much quicker, even on the hottest days when the local power grid is struggling.
    2. Extended Appliance Life: By preventing the “struggle” of low voltage, you protect your AC from burnout, ensuring it lasts for years to come.

    As energy efficiency becomes a primary pillar of sustainable living, V–Guard’s findings suggest that a humble voltage stabilizer is no longer a peripheral accessory, but a critical tool for economic and operational efficiency 

     Business News For Profit

  • Cottonseed Oil Cake Prices Inch Up in Futures Trade on Fresh Bets

    New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Cottonseed oil cake prices recorded a marginal uptick in futures trade on Monday, supported by fresh buying interest and improved demand in the market.

    Cottonseed Oil Cake Prices Inch Up in Futures Trade on Fresh Bets

     On the National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange, cottonseed oil cake futures for May delivery rose slightly to ₹3,424 per quintal, reflecting a steady tone in trading activity.

    Market participants said the increase was driven by the creation of fresh positions by traders, amid expectations of stronger demand from the cattle feed segment.

    Analysts noted that the expansion of open interest indicated renewed participation in the segment, contributing to the marginal price gains during the session.

    Overall, the market trend remained mildly positive, with demand-side support helping prices maintain an upward bias in futures trading.

     

  • FIA Member Clubs unite in Montenegro to advance mobility and motor sport in Middle East, Europe and Africa

    Dubai, UAE, 20th April 2026:  Motorsport leaders from across Middle East will join counterparts from Europe and Africa for three days of collaboration, innovation and knowledge sharing at the FIA Region I Spring Meeting getting under way in Budva, Montenegro tomorrow.

    With FIA President, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem in attendance, representatives from 102 Member Clubs will discuss priorities to advance safe and sustainable mobility for road users and motor sport for fans at the three-day congress, hosted by the Auto-Moto Association of Montenegro (AMSCG).

    FIA Member Clubs unite in Montenegro to advance mobility and motor sport in Middle East, Europe and Africa

    The FIA Region I Spring Meeting will also host commissions and working groups from across the network, with the International Historic Commission and Founding Members’ Club protecting and promoting motoring heritage, the FIA Eurocouncil supporting the future of mobility in Europe, and Clubs continuing to implement the Safe Mobility 4 All and 4 Life programme across the Region.

    National Sporting Authorities will also be meeting in Montenegro to continue developing and improving motor sport for fans as well as advocating for enhanced driver safety on the track.

    To celebrate the Member Clubs showcasing their commitment to improving mobility services in their countries and across Region I, the three FIA Innovation Challenge 2026 Regional Champions will also be announced during the week.

    FIA President, H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “I am delighted to be joining our Members and partners in Budva for this important regional gathering, and I look forward to engaging with colleagues from across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East on the key challenges and opportunities shaping mobility and motorsport today.

    “Montenegro provides a fitting backdrop for these discussions, as we consider how to strengthen transport systems, improve road safety, and support sustainable solutions that deliver safer, more sustainable, and more affordable mobility for all road users.

    “This meeting is an important opportunity to deepen collaboration, share expertise across mobility and motorsport, and advance our shared priorities.”

    In Montenegro, mobility is undergoing steady development, with continued investment in road infrastructure, including the opening of the Bar–Boljare motorway in 2022, helping to strengthen connectivity and support economic growth.

    Recent road safety reforms and the Sustainable Transport Action Plan are driving progress towards safer, more sustainable mobility.

    In motorsport, the country’s vibrant grassroots scene is led by rally and hill climb events, with competitions such as the Montenegro Trophy attracting growing regional participation and highlighting the potential for further development.

    The FIA Member Club structure forms the backbone of the federation’s governance and operations, with each full Member Club holding voting rights across the FIA’s elections and regulatory decisions. Clubs are grouped into two primary categories, with some serving in both roles:

    • National Sporting Authorities (ASNs) – govern and develop motorsport at a national level, are responsible for sporting events, issuing licenses, and engagement across regulations
    • Mobility Clubs – provide mobility services and represent the interest of road users, with a focus on road safety, travel and tourism, consumer rights, and sustainable mobility

    Within the FIA there are four Mobility Regions and six sport zones. The global FIA Membership is comprised of 245 clubs across 149 countries, connecting over 80 million members.

  • Strong Jewellery Sales Mark Akshaya Tritiya Despite Record High Gold Prices

    New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Jewellery retailers across India reported strong consumer demand on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, with buoyant sales in the gems and jewellery segment despite elevated gold prices.

    Industry players said customer footfall remained healthy throughout the day, with buyers continuing to make purchases of gold jewellery, coins, and investment products, driven by the traditional belief that buying gold on this auspicious day brings long-term prosperity.

    The resilience in demand comes even as gold prices remain at high levels, indicating sustained consumer confidence and strong cultural sentiment associated with the festival.

    Retailers noted that while some buyers opted for lighter-weight jewellery and digital gold options, overall sales volumes remained encouraging compared to expectations, reflecting the enduring significance of Akshaya Tritiya in India’s gold buying season.

    The festival once again reinforced its position as one of the most important occasions for the gems and jewellery industry, blending tradition, sentiment, and investment-driven purchasing behaviour.

     

  • Ministry of Industry Joins ALUMINIUM Arabia as Strategic Partner

     
    Apr 20: ALUMINIUM Arabia has announced the participation of the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources as a Strategic Partner for its upcoming edition, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing its aluminium and mining sectors in line with Vision 2030. The partnership underscores the Ministry’s role in driving industrial diversification, strengthening value chains, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for aluminium production and innovation.
     
    The Ministry’s participation will provide high level strategic visibility and thought leadership, while supporting policy development and ecosystem enablement across the aluminium sector. Through its participation, the Ministry aims to accelerate non-oil GDP growth by further strengthening the aluminium sector’s position as a targeted sector within the National Industrial Strategy, which targets a mining sector contribution of SAR 240 billion by 2030. The platform will also highlight Saudi Arabia’s competitive advantages, including world class industrial assets such as Ma’aden’s Ras AlKhair complex, to attract foreign direct investment and global industry players.
     
    The event is expected to facilitate B2B engagement, enabling partnerships, technology transfer, and the development of advanced manufacturing clusters. It will also support job creation, skills development, and Saudization efforts within downstream aluminium industries. In addition, the Ministry will leverage the platform to promote sustainable practices, strengthen international collaboration, and gain insights into global market trends and emerging technologies.
     
    As a Strategic Partner, the Ministry aims to drive investment and strengthen connectivity and efficiency across the sector’s stakeholder ecosystem.
     
    The upcoming edition of ALUMINIUM Arabia will take place from 15-17 June 2026 in Riyadh, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to shape the future of the aluminium sector in the region, following a recent update to the event schedule.

  • Gold and Silver Futures Decline Amid Weak Demand and Profit Booking

    New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Precious metals witnessed a decline in futures trading on Monday, with both gold and silver prices falling due to weak spot demand and increased selling pressure from market participants.

    Gold and Silver Futures Decline Amid Weak Demand and Profit Booking

     On the Multi Commodity Exchange of India, silver futures for May delivery dropped sharply, reflecting a broad-based sell-off. The decline was attributed to reduced investor interest and profit booking after recent price movements.

    Gold futures for June delivery also traded lower during the session, weighed down by subdued spot demand and weak global cues. Market analysts noted that cautious sentiment in international markets contributed to the downward pressure on prices.

    Traders observed that both metals came under selling pressure as participants reduced positions amid uncertain global trends. The movement indicated a shift toward caution in the precious metals segment, with investors reassessing short-term price direction.

    Overall, the session reflected a softer tone in bullion markets, driven by weak demand signals and global market influences.

     

     

  • Crude Oil Futures Rise on Strong Spot Demand and Fresh Buying Interest

    New Delhi, Apr 20 (BNP): Crude oil prices witnessed a sharp rise in futures trading on Monday, supported by firm spot demand and increased participation from market players.

    On the Multi Commodity Exchange of India, crude oil futures for May delivery rose significantly, reflecting strong buying momentum in the market. The upward movement was driven by fresh positions built by traders amid steady demand conditions in the spot market.

    Market analysts noted that the increase in open interest indicated renewed confidence among participants, contributing to the sustained strength in prices during the trading session.

    The rally in crude oil futures highlights the influence of underlying demand trends and trader sentiment on commodity markets, as energy prices continue to respond to both domestic and global factors.

    Overall, the session reflected a positive bias in crude oil trading, with demand-side support playing a key role in price movement.

     

  • Jindal Stainless launches ‘Jindal Infinity’ stainless steel rebars in Punjab, takes product to retail

    Amritsar, Apr 20: Jindal Stainless, India’s leading stainless-steel manufacturer, has announced the retail debut of its stainless steel rebars, ‘Jindal Infinity’, with a launch in Punjab, marking a strategic step towards bringing advanced construction solutions closer to end consumers. 

    Jindal Stainless launches ‘Jindal Infinity’ stainless steel rebars in Punjab, takes product to retail

    The product was unveiled in Amritsar through a two-day event hosted by Jindal Stainless, bringing together contractors, architects, and structural engineers, key stakeholders who play a critical role in material selection at the ground level. The interactions focused on driving material awareness, enhancing product understanding, and showcasing end-use applications. The product rollout is supported by an initial retail and distribution network of approximately 20 partners across Punjab.

    Commenting on the development, Managing Director, Jindal Stainless, Mr Abhyuday Jindal, said,

    “As India continues to build at scale, the focus must shift beyond speed and upfront cost towards materials that deliver long-term performance, safety, and lifecycle value. Our entry into the retail segment with Jindal Infinity marks a strategic extension of our capabilities into the construction value chain. Stainless steel rebars have proven their relevance globally in demanding environments, and through this endeavour, we aim to bring these advanced solutions closer to Indian consumer. This is aligned with our larger vision of supporting a quality-first, safer, and more resilient environment.”

    ‘Jindal Infinity’ stainless steel rebars have proven their mettle in critical infrastructure applications such as coastal developments, metros, and real estate. Compared to conventional rebars, stainless steel rebars offer significantly higher resistance to corrosion, including a higher critical chloride threshold, which enhances durability in aggressive environments. They are engineered to deliver high load-bearing capacity, improved tensile strength, and superior seismic performance due to a higher tension-to-yield strength ratio, enabling better energy absorption under stress. Additionally, their inherent fire resistance at elevated temperatures and reduced concrete cover requirements contribute to enhanced structural safety and design efficiency. With a service life that can exceed twice that of conventional rebars, stainless steel reinforcement supports lower maintenance needs and improved lifecycle value, making it a viable solution for long-term infrastructure resilience.

    Commenting on the launch, Head of Sales, Jindal Stainless, Mr Rajeev Garg, said,

    “This effort is focused on building a robust last-mile ecosystem, anchored in retail availability and direct engagement with key stakeholders like consumers, architects, engineers and contractors. With a growing distributor and dealer network, we are creating the foundation for scale. The initial response underscores the need for high-performance, differentiated materials, particularly in applications where long-term durability and reliability are critical.”

    ‘Jindal Infinity’ stainless steel rebars are manufactured from billets casted at Jindal Stainless’ Hisar plant in Haryana and further processed into rebars at the company’s Ghaziabad facility. They form part of the company’s long product portfolio and are used across applications ranging from infrastructure and railways to bridges, highways, and real estate.

    While stainless steel rebars have seen established adoption in global markets such as Japan and parts of Europe for critical infrastructure in high-risk zones, Jindal Stainless aims to drive similar awareness and adoption in India through this targeted retail approach.

    Availability of ‘Jindal Infinity’ stainless steel rebars will be expanded to other key markets of Punjab including Ludhiana and Chandigarh, followed by select markets across Haryana and Andhra Pradesh over the next six to twelve months. With this move, Jindal Stainless aims to catalyse a shift in the evaluation of construction materials even at the last point of consumption. By bringing stainless steel rebars to the last mile, the company is laying the foundation for a more durable, resilient and future-ready construction practices in India.

    Business News For Profit

  • Nykaa Takes Over Bandstand with a Giant Pink Birthday Cake

     

    ~A birthday cake that turns every slice into a beauty giveaway~

    Nykaa Takes Over Bandstand with a Giant Pink Birthday Cake

     

     

    Mumbai, Apr 20: This April, Nykaa turned its birthday celebration into an unmissable on-ground experience at Bandstand Promenade. Bringing its signature playfulness and consumer-first approach to life, Nykaa unveiled a giant birthday cake installation from April 18 to 19, 2026, inviting Mumbai to quite literally take home a slice of beauty.

    Set against the iconic seafront, the installation transformed the promenade into a beauty-first celebration zone. Engineered as an interactive, gamified experience, the cake went beyond a visual stunt. Beauty lovers could pull out a slice of the cake, each designed as a gift box filled with curated beauty goodies, with the surprise element built into every slice. This playful “pick your slice” mechanic brought alive Nykaa’s core proposition of discovery, surprise and delight, in a format that was both experiential and shareable. In true birthday spirit, Nykaa flipped the script: “It was Nykaa’s birthday, but the gifts were for you!”

    More than just a visual spectacle, the activation was designed to spark organic conversations both on-ground and online. With its picture-perfect design and interactive mechanic, the cake doubled up as a social-first moment, encouraging consumers to celebrate, share and engage with the brand in a fun, memorable way.

    Conceptualised as a phygital extension of Nykaa’s birthday campaign, the installation acted as a powerful bridge between offline engagement and online commerce. While consumers could show up and claim their slice of beauty in person, the celebration did not stop there.

    For those who could not make it to Bandstand, Nykaa’s Birthday Sale is also live till April 21 across the app and website, bringing exclusive deals, offers and surprises directly to consumers nationwide.

    With this activation, Nykaa continued to push the envelope on experience-led marketing, turning a brand milestone into a high-energy, consumer-centric celebration that blended content, community and commerce seamlessly.