Category Archives: industry

automotive, business, industry, sales, technology

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

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**Maruti Suzuki Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings; Waiting Period Extends Up to 10 Weeks**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the **Victoris**, has received an overwhelming response since its launch just a few weeks ago. Available through the brand’s Arena dealerships, the vehicle has already garnered over **25,000 bookings** in just over two weeks, marking a strong debut for Maruti’s flagship offering under its Arena retail network.

### High Demand Pushes Waiting Period to 10 Weeks

The massive demand for the Victoris has led to a waiting period extending up to **10 weeks**. However, this timeline may vary depending on the variant, color preference, and the buyer’s region. The SUV is offered in **six main variants** and boasts **10 color options**, further supported by three engine choices and three transmission options to cater to diverse customer needs.

### Strategic Launch to Boost Festive Sales

The launch of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the automaker’s presence in India’s competitive utility vehicle segment. Alongside existing models like the Fronx, Brezza, and Grand Vitara, the Victoris is expected to significantly boost Maruti’s sales during the festive season, aided by reduced GST rates and attractive festive offers.

### Performance and Engine Options

The Victoris impresses with a promising mileage of up to **28.65 km/l**. It comes equipped with three engine options:
– A **1,462cc K15C petrol engine** with strong hybrid technology,
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain,
– A **1,490cc M15D petrol motor**.

The SUV also offers multiple transmission choices, including a five-speed manual gearbox, a six-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT option on the strong hybrid variant. Depending on the engine and transmission selected, the fuel economy varies between **19.07 km/l and 28.65 km/l**.

### Competing in a Crowded Segment

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris takes on well-established rivals like the **Kia Seltos**, **Hyundai Creta**, and **Volkswagen Taigun**. With its diverse engine lineup, practical transmission options, and competitive pricing, the Victoris aims to carve out a significant share in the mid-size SUV market.

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The Victoris’ rapid booking numbers and extended waiting list highlight Maruti Suzuki’s successful strategy and the model’s strong appeal among Indian customers looking for a versatile and efficient SUV this festive season.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

business, consumer goods, industry, regional economy

Southern States Dominate Indian-Made Foreign Liquor Sales, Roping In 58% Revenue

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**South Indian States Dominate IMFL Sales, Contributing 58% Revenue in FY25: CIABC Report**

New Delhi: South Indian states continue to lead the sales of Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), accounting for 58 percent of the total revenue in the financial year 2024-25 (FY25). According to data from the industry body Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), Karnataka retained its position as the top contributor nationally, providing 17 percent of the pan-India IMFL volumes in FY25.

The five Southern states—Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana—along with the Union Territory of Puducherry, maintained their dominance by consuming a combined total of 23.18 crore cases of IMFL during the year ending March 31, 2025. This accounts for 58 percent of the total sales across India.

“South’s dominance is near-absolute in IMFL sales for FY25, with the rest of India sharing the remaining 42 percent,” the CIABC data revealed.

### IMFL Whisky Sales Slow Down Nationally

Despite strong regional performance, the national sales volume of IMFL Whisky registered a modest growth of 1.4 percent in FY25, reaching 40.17 crore cases compared to 39.62 crore cases in FY24. CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer attributed this slowdown primarily to a weak first quarter last year due to general elections and excise policy challenges in various states.

“We have been in constant dialogue with state governments, raising concerns about excise policy issues. Every year, significant hikes in state levies and policy changes impact sales in the short to medium term,” Iyer told PTI.

### Understanding IMFL and State-Wise Performance

The term IMFL refers to alcoholic beverages such as Whisky, Vodka, Rum, Gin, and Brandy, which are distinct from country liquor and traditional drinks like todi, fenny, and arrack.

Among the states, Karnataka led with 6.88 crore cases sold, accounting for 17 percent of national IMFL volume sales, followed closely by Tamil Nadu at second place with 6.47 crore cases (nearly 16 percent of total sales). In comparison, Karnataka had sold 6.83 crore cases in FY24, while Tamil Nadu registered 6.44 crore cases.

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh each contributed around 9 percent of the IMFL sales, with 3.71 crore and 3.55 crore cases respectively. Kerala ranked seventh nationally, with sales of 2.29 crore cases. Notably, the Southern region witnessed an overall growth of approximately 1 percent in sales volume.

Puducherry reported a 10 percent growth in FY25, with sales of 0.28 crore cases, ranking 19th nationally.

### Regional Highlights Across India

The Northern region accounted for 20 percent of IMFL sales, led by Uttar Pradesh with 2.50 crore cases, ranking sixth nationally with 6 percent growth in FY25. Other northern states included Rajasthan (9th), Delhi (10th), and Haryana (11th), registering sales of 1.37 crore, 1.18 crore, and 1.17 crore cases respectively. Overall, the North saw a modest 1 percent growth in IMFL sales.

In the Western region, which contributed 12 percent to the national IMFL sales, Maharashtra was the frontrunner with 2.71 crore cases, making up 58 percent of the region’s sales and registering a 4 percent annual growth. The western region posted a 3 percent growth in total sales.

The Eastern region accounted for 10 percent of IMFL sales. West Bengal led this segment with 1.49 crore cases sold, ranking eighth pan-India with 4 percent growth. Other states like Odisha (0.98 crore), Assam (0.96 crore), and Jharkhand (0.32 crore) followed.

However, some markets faced setbacks. Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir saw declines of 20 percent and 15 percent respectively in IMFL sales in FY25.

### Emerging Markets and Policy Outlook

Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Puducherry were among the markets reporting significant growth, at 15 percent, 13 percent, and 10 percent respectively.

“We are witnessing good growth in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. Delhi remains a major market where we await the introduction of a new excise policy, which is expected to boost growth,” said Anant S Iyer.

### Trends in the Premium Segment and Industry Challenges

On industry trends, Iyer noted a marked increase in premium and luxury segments, especially in whiskies. “Many companies are experimenting with premium whiskies, rums, and vodkas. Premium brands are expected to perform well with new launches and innovations.”

However, challenges persist. High taxation levels, frequent policy changes like Maharashtra’s recent introduction of the Minimum Markup Limit (MML), discrimination against Indian-made foreign liquor via brand-specific levies, and unresolved old dues in states like Telangana continue to affect the industry adversely.

India remains the largest whisky market in the world by volume and is seeing a clear trend toward premiumization.

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*Disclaimer: This story is based on a syndicated feed; only the headline has been modified.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/southern-states-dominate-indian-made-foreign-liquor-sales-roping-in-58-revenue

computing, industry, networking, storage, technology

Versatility of Fibre Channel: Multi-Protocol Magic

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**Presented by Patty Driever, IBM; Howard Johnson, Broadcom**

### About this Talk

Storage networking consumers are well aware of the classic benefits of Fibre Channel as a dedicated storage networking solution. It provides reliable and lossless data transfer, along with high availability and redundancy.

What is less known is that Fibre Channel supports several Upper Layer Protocols (ULPs), including SCSI, FICON, NVMe, Avionics, and RDMA.

In this webinar, we explore the FC-4 layer of the Fibre Channel architecture, which provides the services used by the various ULPs deployed in Fibre Channel products.

Join us for an in-depth exploration into:

– The history of Fibre Channel’s versatility
– Fibre Channel architectural layers
– Overview of the current FC-4 transports: FCP, FC-SB, FC-NVMe, FC-RDMA

Attendees of the webinar will gain a well-rounded understanding of Fibre Channel technology and become familiar with its broad scope and capabilities.
https://www.brighttalk.com/webcast/679/653837

business, health, industry, politics, trade

UK to offer to pay more for some drugs to appease Trump, FT reports

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The British government is reportedly planning to offer higher payments for medicines purchased for the National Health Service (NHS), according to a report by the Financial Times on Friday. This move aims to address one of U.S. President Donald Trump’s major complaints after he announced steep tariff increases on branded medications.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief business adviser, Varun Chandra, is expected to travel to Washington next week, the report added. Reuters was unable to immediately verify these claims.

President Trump has expressed frustration over the high cost of prescription drugs in the U.S., which are often nearly three times more expensive than in other countries. He has demanded that pharmaceutical companies lower prices in the U.S. while increasing them elsewhere. The proposed price increases in the U.K. could potentially offset the impact of U.S. price cuts on drugmakers’ revenues.

A spokesperson for the UK government did not directly confirm the Financial Times report but stated that Britain is engaged in constructive dialogue with both the U.S. and the pharmaceutical industry. “We will always put patients and taxpayers first, striking the right balance between creating an environment where this innovative sector can thrive whilst ensuring best value for money,” the spokesperson said.

Earlier on Friday, the British government announced that it was pressing the United States on pharmaceutical tariffs in hopes of achieving a beneficial outcome. This follows President Trump’s announcement of a potential 100% tariff on firms unless they establish manufacturing sites within the country.

Major British pharmaceutical companies such as AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline have already set up manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and have announced plans for further investments.

The Trump administration has given drugmakers until September 29 to voluntarily lower prices for certain U.S. drugs, threatening tariffs if the president remains unsatisfied.

— REUTERS
https://thesun.my/world-news/uk-to-offer-to-pay-more-for-some-drugs-to-appease-trump-ft-reports-KL14978705

environment, government, health, industry

Bhopal News: Mercury In Union Carbide Corporation Chemical Waste; Vast Gap In Numbers In Govt Affidavit, CPCB Report

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**Discrepancies in Mercury Levels Raise Concerns Over Union Carbide Waste Burning in Pithampur**

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A renewed debate has surfaced regarding the burning of Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) chemical waste, following reports from two separate pollution control bodies presenting vastly different figures on the quantity of heavy metals—mercury in particular—remaining after incinerating 350 metric tons (MT) of waste. This process resulted in 900 MT of ash at Pithampur.

The state government’s affidavit, filed in the High Court at Jabalpur earlier this month, is based on a report from the regional laboratory of the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB) in Indore. In stark contrast, a joint affidavit submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) indicates significantly higher levels of mercury.

According to the CPCB report on the trial burn, mercury content in the reactor residue ranged from 261 to 615 mg/kg, with the excavated waste containing mercury levels between 152 and 754 mg/kg. Conversely, the state government’s affidavit reported mercury concentrations as markedly lower, between 0.09 and 1.5 mg/kg.

Rachna Dhingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action, an organization working with victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy, highlighted the contradictions: “Both the reports are contradictory. The government affidavit, filed in mid-September this year, and the CPCB report after the UCC trial have a huge gap. Where did the mercury disappear? It is now up to the government to reply in the High Court.”

**“Mercury Is Toxic”**

Hamidia Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Sumit Tandon told the Free Press, “Mercury is poisonous and causes many medical issues. Basically, it is a heavy metal, and exposure to it causes numerous health problems for people.”

The discrepancy in reported mercury levels has raised serious questions about the accuracy of monitoring and the potential health risks posed by residual toxic metals from the UCC waste burning process. The High Court is expected to seek clarifications from the government in the coming sessions.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-news-mercury-in-union-carbide-corporation-chemical-waste-vast-gap-in-numbers-in-govt-affidavit-cpcb-report

business, economy, government, industry, trade

‘Everything from chip to ship’: PM Modi calls for boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat

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**PM Modi Calls for Boost to Indigenous Production Across Sectors at UP International Trade Show 2025**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a significant boost to indigenous production across various sectors, emphasizing the importance of building a ‘Swadeshi’ economy. Speaking at the inauguration of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show-2025 (UPITS-2025) on Wednesday, PM Modi assured stakeholders that the government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them in this journey.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to ease of doing business, the Prime Minister noted that several unnecessary compliances have been removed to help businesses thrive in India. “The government is putting a strong emphasis on Make in India manufacturing. We want everything from chip to ship to be manufactured in India; for this, we are focusing on your ease of doing business,” he said.

PM Modi further elaborated on the reforms, stating, “The government abolished more than 40,000 compliances, and more than a thousand laws were decriminalised. We are standing with you shoulder-to-shoulder,” addressing the business fraternity and traders present at the event.

Despite global disruptions and uncertainties, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in India’s growth potential. “Disruptions don’t hinder us, but even in those circumstances, we look for new directions. Amid all these disruptions, India is strengthening the foundations for the coming decades. Our resolve and mantra is Atmanirbhar Bharat. Nothing can be more helpless than being dependent on others. The more a country stays dependent on others, the more its growth is going to stay compromised,” he added.

PM Modi also stressed the importance of maintaining quality in indigenous products. “Every citizen is adopting Swadeshi, ‘Garv se kaho hum swadeshi hai’. Our traders will have to proudly adopt this mantra,” he said. He called for creating an ecosystem that gives special emphasis to Swadeshi designs, while urging private investment in research and innovation. “Without innovation, the world stops, businesses halt,” he remarked.

### About the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2025

The trade show, held from September 25 to 29, carries the theme “Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here” and focuses on three core objectives: innovation, integration, and internationalisation. UPITS-2025 aims to connect international buyers, domestic Business-to-Business (B2B) buyers, and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers through a three-pronged buyer strategy, offering opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.

This platform will showcase Uttar Pradesh’s diverse craft traditions, modern industries, robust MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs. Key sectors represented at the event include handicrafts, textiles, leather, agriculture, food processing, IT, electronics, and AYUSH, among others. The trade show will also celebrate the state’s rich art, culture, and cuisine under one roof.

Adding strategic significance, Russia will participate as a partner country, facilitating new avenues for bilateral trade, technology exchange, and long-term cooperation.

The event expects participation from over 2,400 exhibitors, approximately 125,000 B2B visitors, and about 450,000 B2C visitors.

*(With inputs from ANI)*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/everything-from-chip-to-ship-pm-modi-calls-for-boost-to-atmanirbhar-bharat-manufacturing-23595743

business, commodities, industry, metals

Iron ore $20?

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The ferrous complex plods on, caught between conflicting forces. On one hand, there is the approach of major projects like Simandou, Capanema, and Gara Gjeblet. On the other, the shutdown of Chinese green steel plants is creating uncertainty in the market.

Amidst these opposing influences, the balance is maintained by unusually solid blast furnace output for this season.

Honestly, if you had shown me that chart back in 2019, I would have predicted iron ore prices to fall to $20. Indeed, that was my expectation at the time.
https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2025/09/iron-ore-20/

cinema, creativity, diversity, film, industry

5 filmmaking lessons from Ava DuVernay you can’t ignore

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**5 Filmmaking Lessons from Ava DuVernay You Can’t Ignore**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 23, 2025, 07:04 PM*

Ava DuVernay, an acclaimed filmmaker, has made a significant mark in the industry with her unique storytelling and visionary approach. Her career offers invaluable lessons that can inspire anyone looking to succeed in filmmaking. Here are five key insights from DuVernay’s journey that highlight the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and innovation in creating impactful cinema.

### 1. Embrace Your Unique Voice

DuVernay emphasizes the importance of having a unique voice in filmmaking. She encourages filmmakers to embrace their own perspectives and experiences to craft authentic stories. Doing so allows for fresh narratives that deeply connect with audiences. This lesson is a call for aspiring filmmakers to stay true to themselves rather than conform to industry norms.

### 2. Prioritize Storytelling Over Visuals

While cinematography is vital, DuVernay stresses that storytelling should always come first. A strong narrative is what makes a film memorable and impactful. Filmmakers are reminded to focus on developing compelling stories that truly resonate with their viewers, rather than letting visuals overshadow the message.

### 3. Advocate for Diversity in Film

DuVernay is a passionate advocate for diversity in cinema. She believes that incorporating different voices and perspectives enriches storytelling. By promoting representation, filmmakers can help build a more inclusive industry that reflects the world’s diversity. This lesson encourages filmmakers to champion diversity in their own projects.

### 4. Be Fearless in Your Creative Choices

Taking creative risks is another key lesson from DuVernay. She urges filmmakers to be fearless and bold in their choices, as this can lead to groundbreaking work that challenges conventions and sparks meaningful conversations. Stepping out of comfort zones can open up new horizons in storytelling.

### 5. Build Supportive Networks

Finally, DuVernay highlights the importance of building supportive networks within the filmmaking community. Collaboration and mentorship are essential for overcoming challenges and fostering growth. Filmmakers are encouraged to seek mentors and cultivate relationships that provide opportunities for development throughout their careers.

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Ava DuVernay’s journey is a powerful reminder that authenticity, determination, and innovation are at the heart of impactful filmmaking. Embracing these lessons can help aspiring filmmakers leave their own unique mark on the industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/ava-duvernay-s-career-5-lessons-to-learn/story

business, education, employment, industry, technology

Why getting VC jobs is now harder for MBA graduates

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**Why Getting VC Jobs Is Now Harder for MBA Graduates**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 22, 2025, 01:18 pm*

The pathway from earning an MBA to landing a job in venture capital (VC) remains open, but recent data suggests this route is becoming more challenging. According to reports from PitchBook and academic research, the landscape of VC hiring is shifting.

In 2024, Harvard University placed 50 of its 1,004 MBA graduates into VC roles, with a median starting salary of $177,500. Meanwhile, Stanford saw about 30 of its smaller graduating class enter venture capital positions.

### Alumni Presence and Declining MBA Representation

PitchBook data reveals that over 10,000 MBA alumni from Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton currently hold senior roles in US VC firms. Despite this large presence, the dominance of MBAs in the venture capital world is gradually declining.

Stanford professor Ilya Strebulaev’s research shows that the share of mid-career venture professionals with MBA degrees has dropped from 44% in the early 2000s to 32% today. This signals a noticeable shift in the composition of VC talent.

### Changing Hiring Preferences

The evolving nature of venture capital itself is a key factor behind this trend. VC is expanding beyond traditional sectors into cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence (AI) and hardware, where technical expertise tends to be more valued than business school credentials.

As a result, venture firms increasingly prioritize candidates with backgrounds from tech powerhouses such as OpenAI and SpaceX over those holding MBAs from top business schools.

“There is less appetite for MBAs currently,” notes executive recruiter Will Champagne in an interview with PitchBook.

### Student Interest Remains Strong

Despite these changes in hiring preferences, interest among MBA students in venture capital careers remains robust. At Stanford, for example, the VC club boasts around 600 members out of roughly 850 MBA students on campus.

However, pursuing an MBA at a leading program can be costly, with expenses often exceeding $200,000. Yet this high price tag does not seem to diminish students’ enthusiasm for venture capital roles.

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As the VC industry evolves, MBA graduates may need to adapt by gaining relevant technical skills or experience to stay competitive in this dynamic job market.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/mba-to-vc-job-path-still-exists-but-changing/story

energy, environment, industry, renewable energy, technology

Turning Frozen Tuna Into a New Energy-Saving Business

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This initiative is attracting attention for its potential to work in tandem with demand response programs, which are viewed as key to a renewable energy era.

Demand response refers to a system in which electricity users adjust their power usage in response to supply conditions, helping balance the grid when renewable sources such as solar and wind fluctuate.

In this trial, frozen tuna act like an ice pack within the storage facility. Even when the refrigeration system is briefly stopped, the interior temperature remains stable thanks to the thermal mass of the fish.

By lowering consumption during peak times, operators can effectively sell their adjustment power to the market and receive compensation in return. Industry experts say this model could open the door to a new business opportunity in energy conservation.

If implemented on a larger scale, warehouses and food processors storing frozen products could become participants in the power market—not only saving energy but also generating revenue.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146964.php