ArdorComm Media Group

Thursday, February 26, 2026 10:02 AM

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Sugar Stocks Soar as Government Lifts Ban on Sugarcane Juice for Ethanol Production

Sugar stocks experienced a significant surge in response to a government order reversing the ban on using sugarcane juice for ethanol production. Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar led the gains, recording a 7.7% increase, as major stocks rose in today’s trading session. The government’s decision to allow both sugarcane juice and B-heavy molasses for green fuel production in the 2023–24 supply year followed its earlier ban on using sugarcane juice or sugar syrup for ethanol production in the same period. This reversal prompted a positive market response, with notable gains in major sugar stocks. In accordance with the updated order, various stocks saw substantial increases, including Dhampur Sugar Mills (6.59%), Dalmia Bharat Sugar (6%), Uttam Sugar Mills (5.7%), Sakthi Sugars (5.2%), Balrampur Chini Mills (5.1%), Rajshree Sugars & Chemicals (5%), Praj Industries (4.46%), and Triveni Engineering (3.8%). The food ministry’s directive to all sugar mills and distilleries outlined that oil marketing companies (OMCs) would issue a “revised allocation” of “sugarcane juice and B heavy molasses-based ethanol” for the 2023–24 supply year to each distillery. OMCs were instructed to inform the food ministry after placing revised contracts. Following the revised allocation, sugar mills and distilleries are required to supply ethanol strictly according to the revised quantity of cane juice and B-heavy molasses. The government’s move to ensure sufficient sugar supply in the domestic market, in light of inadequate rainfall affecting India’s sugarcane crop, had earlier led to a ban on sugar exports. With an estimated decline in sugar production to 32.3–33 million tonnes in the 2023–24 season, compared to 37.3 million tonnes in the previous season, and domestic consumption projected to be around 28–29 million tonnes, the government aims to navigate the balance between market demand and ethanol production. India has made strides in ethanol blending, surpassing its 10% blending target for the Ethanol Supply Year 2021–22 by June 2022. The country is now ambitiously targeting a 20% blending rate by 2025–26, aligning with its commitment to enhance biofuel utilization in the national energy mix, a commitment reinforced during the recent G20 summit with the introduction of the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Sugar Stocks Soar as Government Lifts Ban on Sugarcane Juice for Ethanol Production Read More »

Health Ministry Issues Alert on Covid-19 Subvariant JN.1: Guidelines and Concerns Amid Rising Cases

The Indian government has issued an alert to states regarding the emergence of the new Covid-19 subvariant, JN.1, as cases continue to rise in Kerala and 15 cases have been detected in samples from Goa. The Health Ministry emphasized that it is not yet clear whether an infection caused by JN.1 produces different symptoms or is more severe than other variants. The ministry stated that there is currently no indication of increased severity from JN.1, and there is no evidence that it presents an increased risk to public health compared to other circulating variants. Experts, including Dr. GC Khilnani, reassured that the elderly and those with comorbidities are not at an increased risk compared to other variants. General precautions such as handwashing and avoiding crowded areas during the festive season are recommended. The existing treatment for COVID-19 is expected to be effective against JN.1, and updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide increased protection. RT-PCR tests remain the most reliable method for detecting the new subvariant. As the festive season approaches, the Health Ministry stressed the importance of adhering to respiratory hygiene norms, including wearing masks in enclosed and crowded spaces, frequent handwashing, and social distancing. States, such as Karnataka, are taking additional measures, mandating face masks for the elderly and those with comorbidities. The Health Ministry is conducting intensified surveillance at various levels, including laboratories, communities, and sewage, to monitor and report cases of influenza-like illness and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness. The global concern over JN.1 is due to its immunity-evading capacity, leading to rapid spread, with outbreaks reported in the US, China, and Singapore. JN.1 is a descendant of the BA.2.86 lineage of SARS-CoV-2.

Health Ministry Issues Alert on Covid-19 Subvariant JN.1: Guidelines and Concerns Amid Rising Cases Read More »

Haryana Sets Ambitious Target for Full Adoption of New Education Policy by 2025

Haryana’s Higher Education Minister, Moolchand Sharma, announced the state’s ambitious plan to fully adopt the National Education Policy 2020 by 2025, accelerating the timeline from the initially projected 2030 deadline. This bold initiative was spotlighted during the State Level Implementation Committee meeting on the policy, where Minister Sharma underscored its transformative objectives aimed at positioning India as a global educational powerhouse. Acknowledging the instrumental role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in shaping the policy, Sharma commended Chief Minister Manohar Lal’s accelerated agenda. The commitment to achieving the vision by 2025 reflects the state’s dedication to shaping India’s educational landscape for the 21st century. Minister Sharma highlighted the forward-looking approach of the policy, integrating cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, 3-D printing, data analysis, and biotechnology into higher education. The emphasis is on cultivating adept professionals and enhancing youth employability to meet the evolving demands of the job market. Expressing optimism about the progress, Sharma stated, “We aspire to exceed a 50 percent gross enrollment ratio of girls in higher education by 2030.” Haryana has already achieved a commendable 32 percent enrollment ratio among girls, positioning itself strongly to reach the 50 percent milestone well before the 2030 target. Envisioning a transformative future, Minister Sharma sees the effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 as a mechanism propelling India to become a ‘Vishwa Guru’ once again, joining the league of leading global educational frontrunners.

Haryana Sets Ambitious Target for Full Adoption of New Education Policy by 2025 Read More »

Maharah for Human Resources Faces Investor Skepticism Despite 26% Stock Surge

Investors in Maharah for Human Resources Company (TADAWUL:1831) remain cautiously skeptical despite the recent 26% surge in the company’s stock price. Shareholders, while witnessing a notable recovery from previous weaknesses, seem hesitant as the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 24.9x, appearing relatively “middle-of-the-road” compared to the Saudi Arabian market’s median P/E ratio of approximately 24x. Despite the positive momentum in stock price, concerns linger regarding Maharah for Human Resources’ earnings performance, which has been on a downward trend while other companies are experiencing positive growth. The recent dip in profits by 8.2% over the last year and a total decline of 40% in earnings over the past three years raises apprehensions among investors about the company’s growth prospects. Looking ahead, analysts predict a substantial 102% growth in earnings for Maharah for Human Resources over the next year, outperforming the market forecast of 16% expansion. However, the company’s current P/E alignment with the market suggests that some investors may remain unconvinced about its ability to achieve these growth expectations. The report indicates that the company’s stock price surge hasn’t been fully reflected in the P/E ratio, prompting speculation about underlying concerns among investors. While the market generally views P/E ratios as indicators of a company’s health, Maharah for Human Resources’ situation raises questions about the interplay between its earnings outlook and investor sentiment. Maharah for Human Resources, despite the recent positive stock movement, grapples with investor skepticism, with the P/E ratio not fully aligning with its earnings growth projections. The report advises caution and highlights potential risks, urging investors to consider the broader context before making investment decisions.

Maharah for Human Resources Faces Investor Skepticism Despite 26% Stock Surge Read More »

Cipla Boosts Digital Health with Major Investment in GoApptiv

Cipla Limited, a leading pharmaceutical company, has announced a further investment of approximately Rs. 42 crore in the digital tech company GoApptiv Private Limited. This move aims to bolster Cipla’s presence in the healthcare sector, particularly in underserved regions of India, by enhancing access to life-saving treatments. With the completion of this investment round, Cipla’s total stake in GoApptiv will rise to 22.99 percent on a fully diluted basis. This marks Cipla’s third investment in GoApptiv, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting the digital tech company’s expansion in underpenetrated areas and product lines. The investment will be made in a combination of equity shares and compulsorily convertible preference shares. Cipla’s collaboration with GoApptiv has already yielded positive results in increasing penetration in underserved rural areas of India and addressing critical healthcare gaps where pharmaceutical coverage is limited. The expansion of this partnership aligns with Cipla’s strategy in the era of technology-driven healthcare, aiming to deliver patient-centric solutions and advance its digitization agenda for the next phase of growth. Umang Vohra, MD and Global CEO of Cipla Limited, emphasized the significance of the long-standing partnership with GoApptiv in addressing healthcare disparities. He stated, “In this era of technology-driven healthcare, this expanded investment will help us deliver patient-centric solutions and further strengthen our digitization agenda to drive Cipla’s next phase of growth.” GoApptiv, known for using technology to provide quality and affordable healthcare, shares Cipla’s commitment to making a positive impact on communities through innovative solutions. The current investment round is expected to deepen the collaboration between Cipla and GoApptiv, focusing on addressing healthcare disparities in underserved regions of India.

Cipla Boosts Digital Health with Major Investment in GoApptiv Read More »

Greta Gerwig to Lead Cannes Film Festival Jury Following Barbie’s Box Office Triumph

Renowned director Greta Gerwig, celebrated for her recent blockbuster Barbie, has been appointed as the president of the jury for the upcoming Cannes Film Festival. Organizers of the prestigious French event hailed Gerwig as “a heroine of our modern times” who has successfully disrupted the status quo in the world of cinema. Barbie, Gerwig’s latest film, has not only dominated the box office this year but is also positioned as a strong contender for major awards. Gerwig’s appointment is historic, making her the first female US director to chair the Cannes jury. Cannes, often considered the pinnacle of cinematic expression, holds a special place for Gerwig, who expressed her excitement, stating, “Cannes has always been the pinnacle of what the universal language of movies can be.” She further added that she is “stunned, thrilled, and humbled” to serve as the president of the Cannes Film Festival Jury. Festival organizers Iris Knobloch and Thierry Frémaux jointly acknowledged Gerwig’s audacious embodiment of the renewal of world cinema, declaring her an “obvious choice” for this prestigious role. Gerwig will lead a panel of accomplished filmmakers responsible for selecting the winners of the top prizes at the renowned annual festival, known for launching many acclaimed films worldwide. Gerwig’s previous works, including Lady Bird (2017) and the 2019 adaptation of Little Women, have also received widespread acclaim. As the current week sees Barbie as the frontrunner for both the Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice awards, anticipation builds for its prominent role in the upcoming Oscars. The Cannes Film Festival, scheduled for May, will undoubtedly witness Gerwig’s influence as she takes on the role of leading the jury in selecting outstanding films from around the world.

Greta Gerwig to Lead Cannes Film Festival Jury Following Barbie’s Box Office Triumph Read More »

Dr. Raj Salunke, President, Sharda Group, Emphasized on Importance of Mental Health of Students

“Half of the day child spent their time with teacher and parents. They must take certain action for child to learn something, rather than isolation and discrimination,” said Dr. Raj Salunke, President, Sharda Group in an interview at “ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023. What’s your take on the mental health of teachers and students? In the context of the cut-throat competition prevailing in today’s educational landscape, the mental health of both teachers and students becomes a critical concern. The intense competition demands a lot, making it imperative for the well-being of children to encompass emotional, social, and psychological aspects. The crucial role of parents and teachers in shaping a child’s mental health is acknowledged, as a substantial portion of a child’s day is spent in the company of these influential figures. Actions taken by parents and teachers, fostering an environment that promotes learning rather than isolation and discrimination, play a pivotal role in maintaining the mental health equilibrium. Any suggestion for children who don’t feel confident sharing problems with parents or teachers? For children facing difficulties in sharing their concerns with parents or teachers, the situation requires careful handling. Teachers, being a significant presence in a child’s life, should approach such situations with calmness and initiate a conversation to uncover the underlying issues affecting the child. Providing proper guidance and support is crucial to creating a conducive and pleasurable learning environment, ensuring that children feel comfortable expressing their concerns and confronting and calming their mental problems. Any suggestions to address the upcoming mental health challenges in the upcoming generation? Addressing the impending mental health challenges in the upcoming generation necessitates honesty and dedicated time-sharing with children. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy for parents and educators to become engrossed in their own tasks, inadvertently neglecting the mental well-being of the younger generation. Maintaining open communication between parents and children is paramount, as disruptions in this connection can lead to issues such as depression and severe troubles. Proactive steps, such as honest conversations and dedicated time-sharing, are pivotal in ensuring the mental health and well-being of the upcoming generation. What was your overall takeaway from today’s event? Today’s event provided a wealth of insights, particularly in the context of the prevailing technological era and diverse educational approaches. The emphasis on technology and the multitude of players in the educational field highlighted the potential contributions of various technologies to enhance students’ knowledge and, ultimately, contribute to universal well-being. The event underscored the importance of staying abreast of these advancements to foster a holistic educational environment that addresses both academic and mental health aspects for the benefit of the upcoming generation.

Dr. Raj Salunke, President, Sharda Group, Emphasized on Importance of Mental Health of Students Read More »

Sudhakar Joshi, Head – Marketing and Client Servicing, Chrysaalis I-Math India Pvt Ltd, Highlights the mission of I-Math

“Its core mission revolves around instilling critical thinking skills and dismantling the pervasive fear associated with mathematics among the youth” said Sudhakar Joshi, Head – Marketing and Client Servicing, Chrysaalis I-Math India Pvt Ltd in an interview at “ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023. Can you provide information about I-Maths and its objectives? I-Maths, a well-established program with over two decades of operation across India, has been dedicated to nurturing the intellectual growth of early learners, particularly children. Its core mission revolves around instilling critical thinking skills and dismantling the pervasive fear associated with mathematics among the youth. With a robust track record, the program has impacted the lives of approximately 100 thousand children. The central objective of I-Maths is to present mathematical concepts in the most compelling and accessible manner, facilitating a deeper understanding of how mathematics works and fostering a positive attitude towards the subject. Who are the major target audience, how is the program implemented, and what benefits does it bring to society? The primary focus of I-Maths is on early learners, encompassing students from LKG to grade 3. Recognizing the critical developmental stage during these formative years, the program endeavors to eradicate the fear of mathematics. The implementation strategy is comprehensive, involving in-school programs as a foundational element. In addition to conventional methods, I-Maths extends its reach through activities centers, training facilities, and after-school programs, ensuring accessibility even in schools where official integration might be lacking. The societal benefits are profound, as I-Maths contributes significantly to reshaping the perception of mathematics, turning it from a daunting challenge into an empowering and rewarding learning journey for young minds. Why is I-Maths is mainly focused on early learners? The strategic focus of I-Maths on early learners stems from a well-founded understanding of learning pedagogy. Research indicates three crucial phases of learning: 0-5, where children ask numerous questions; 5-10, characterized by the application of acquired knowledge; and 10+, a period marked by logical reasoning. I-Maths zeroes in on the 0-10 age range, identified as the active learning period when children are most receptive to abstract concepts, numerical understanding, and brain development. By concentrating efforts during this phase, I-Maths maximizes the productivity of early learning, making it more engaging and effective. What was the overall takeaway from participating in the recent event? The recent event marked a significant milestone for I-Maths, with participation spanning multiple locations such as Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The program’s representatives expressed satisfaction in establishing connections with a diverse group of educators and like-minded educationists in these regions. Emphasizing a child-driven approach to learning, the event provided a valuable platform for sharing innovative ideas and experiences. The team acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts to determine the most effective ways to educate the younger generation. Looking forward, they extended best wishes to fellow participants and expressed a commitment to continued collaboration, anticipating further developments and positive impacts on education in the years ahead.

Sudhakar Joshi, Head – Marketing and Client Servicing, Chrysaalis I-Math India Pvt Ltd, Highlights the mission of I-Math Read More »

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Sinha, Vice Chancellor, Sandip University, Emphasizes on implementation of NEP 2020

“In today’s scenario practical learning is far more important than theoretical learning,” said Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Sinha, Vice Chancellor, Sandip University in an interview at “ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023. How is Sandip University implementing the New Education Policy, and what progress has been made in the process? The implementation of the New Education Policy at Sandip University is marked by a commitment to innovative teaching and learning methodologies. The university has embraced research-based learning, personalized learning, and project-based learning to meet the contemporary need for practical education over theoretical knowledge. Recognizing the significance of practical learning in today’s scenario, the institution is actively engaging in collaborations with other countries. This international exchange program involves sharing teachers and students to facilitate the mutual learning of diverse teaching techniques. The emphasis on personalized learning is particularly noteworthy, ensuring that teachers understand the ‘what,’ ‘when,’ and ‘why’ of their instruction, while students can gauge their comprehension effectively. What was the overall takeaway from this event? The event organized by ArdorComm has proven to be a valuable platform for Sandip University, providing a conducive environment for in-depth discussions on the future of education. The creation of multiple panels and a structured setup facilitated the exchange of diverse views, suggestions, and ideas. This collaborative space allowed participants to delve into the possibilities and challenges of evolving educational paradigms, contributing to the collective growth of the academic community. Any testimony for the ArdorComm Media? Extending wishes and appreciation to the organizing committee of ArdorComm Media, I express gratitude for orchestrating such a wonderful event. The seamless organization and execution of the event not only provided an enriching experience but also created a platform for meaningful discussions and networking. Best wishes for the continued success of ArdorComm Media in fostering educational dialogues and advancements in the future.

Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Sinha, Vice Chancellor, Sandip University, Emphasizes on implementation of NEP 2020 Read More »

Dr. V. V. Ravi Kumar, Deputy Director- Academics, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, Expresses his views on correlation of AI and NEP

“The correlation between AI and the New Education Policy is a key focus at Symbiosis Institute of Business Management,” said Dr. V. V. Ravi Kumar, Deputy Director- Academics, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune in an interview at “ArdorComm New Normal- Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” held in Pune, Maharashtra on 24th November 2023. How is Symbiosis Institute of Business Management implementing the New Education Policy? At Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) is a progressive endeavour. The first step involves the establishment of the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC), where all students are registered. This innovative approach allows students in business management, for example, to pursue courses outside their core discipline, such as music, with the assurance of receiving credits for their efforts. The institute is actively exploring interdisciplinary avenues to ensure that students do not feel restricted, fostering a more holistic and flexible learning environment. How do you see AI and New Education Policy correlating and making the upcoming workforce market-ready? The correlation between AI and the New Education Policy is a key focus at Symbiosis Institute of Business Management. Through the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC), students can seamlessly integrate AI courses into their MBA curriculum, facilitating the transfer of credits. Regarding workforce readiness, the institute acknowledges that a significant portion of its postgraduate students already comes with industry experience, solving a part of the readiness challenge. However, the emphasis remains on providing these students with a finishing touch and an extra edge, aiming not just for industry readiness but for producing industry leaders. What’s your takeaway from today’s event? A: Today’s event presented a compelling blend of technology companies and education leaders, fostering synergy between these two critical sectors. Engaging in conversations with technology leaders revealed numerous opportunities for education institutions to adopt new approaches and technologies. The event’s innovative format created a space for dialogue that could potentially lead to impactful collaborations and advancements in the field of education. ArdorComm media is celebrating its second anniversary; any message you wish to share? Congratulations to ArdorComm Media on its second anniversary! As evident from your rapid expansion and notable achievements, it’s clear that you are making significant strides. I encourage you to explore additional formats, such as closed round tables, to engage industry and education leaders further. This approach can deepen your impact and contribute to meaningful discussions within the sector. Best wishes for continued success and growth in the years to come.

Dr. V. V. Ravi Kumar, Deputy Director- Academics, Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, Expresses his views on correlation of AI and NEP Read More »