The Unique Times Conclave 2024, in partnership with Manappuram Finance Ltd, recently convened a prestigious panel to explore “Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Women’s Empowerment” during an event on May 13th. The conclave brought together leading figures from various industries, with notable opening remarks and a speech by Mr. Jiji Mammen, Executive Director & CEO of Sa-Dhan. His insights shed light on significant trends and obstacles within the industry, providing a meaningful context that enhanced the dialogues throughout the day.
Moderated by Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff, founder and CEO of Therefore I’m, the panel discussions delved into the complexities of entrepreneurship faced by women and explored strategies for empowerment and success. The panel included powerful voices like Mrs. Nazneen Jehangir (CEO NeST Digital), Ms. Devika Shreyams Kumar, (Director – Operations, Mathrubhumi Group) and other notable figures such as Mrs. Parveen Hafeez (Sunrise Group of Hospitals Chairperson and Managing Director), Adv Anna Linda Eden (High Court of Kerala), Dr. Lekshmi Nair, Director (Center for Advanced Legal Studies), Dr. Radha P Thevannoor (Director & Group Director, SCMS Group of Educational Institutions) and Dr. Elizabeth Chacko (CEO & Managing Director, Kalpana Beauty Salon) who shared their experiences and insights, illustrating the resilience and innovation required to thrive. The event also included a thought-provoking keynote speech by Dr. Thomas Varghese, head of the Cancer Department at St. Joseph Hospital, addressing the critical issue of breast cancer which added a significant dimension to the discourse on women’s health and leadership.
The conclave concluded on an inspirational note that encouraged continuous engagement and dialogue among the participants. It reinforced the conclave’s aim to not only honor but actively support the growth and empowerment of women entrepreneurs. Through the combined efforts of its esteemed speakers and organizers, the event successfully highlighted the essential role of entrepreneurship in advancing women’s roles both in business and in wider societal contexts.
Georgia’s parliament is on the verge of passing a highly controversial “foreign agent” law, despite facing significant opposition from both within and outside the ruling Georgian Dream party. Critics of the proposed legislation, often referred to as the “Russia law,” argue that it poses a severe threat to civil liberties within the country.
The bill has sparked weeks of mass protests, with thousands of people gathering near the parliament building to voice their opposition. Protesters fear that if the law is enacted, it could be exploited by the government to suppress dissenting voices and undermine Georgia’s aspirations to join the European Union.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has remained steadfast in his support for the bill, vowing that it will pass despite the ongoing protests. He has issued warnings about the consequences of not implementing the law, drawing parallels to the situation in Ukraine without providing specific details.
President Salome Zurabishvili, although an opponent of Kobakhidze, has expressed her intention to veto the law. However, Georgian Dream holds sufficient parliamentary support to override her veto, indicating that the bill is likely to be approved.
The proposed legislation would require NGOs and independent media outlets that receive more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources to register as organizations with foreign interests. They would be subject to government monitoring and could face significant fines if they fail to comply with the regulations outlined in the law. Critics argue that this would create a chilling effect on freedom of expression and civil society in Georgia.
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Revathy Mohan clinched the prestigious title of Mrs Kerala Global 2024, an event presented by Unique Times and DQUE Soap. This grand pageant, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, was held at Le Meridien in Kochi on May 13th. Ashitha P S was named the first runner-up, and Julia Mariam Vijobi took home the second runner-up honor. Pegasus Chairman Ajit Ravi and Managing Director Jebitha Ajit crowned the winners.
12 skilled contestants, chosen through an intense audition process, demonstrated their talents at the grand finale. The event was a magnificent exhibition of elegance and composure.
Subtitle Winners
Mrs Kerala Solidarity – Gopika K
Mrs Kerala Fashionista – Viji K Viswanathan
Mrs Kerala Diligent – Ashitha P S
Mrs Kerala Inspiring – Thushara George
Mrs Kerala Vivacious – Roshni Vinodkumar
Mrs Kerala Shining Star – Pooja
Mrs Kerala Ramp Walk – Anagha P John
Mrs Kerala Tenacious – Sangeetha Sanal
Mrs Kerala Renaissance – Ramya P
Mrs Kerala Congeniality – Julia Mariam Vijobi
Mrs Kerala Talent – Revathy Mohan
Mrs Kerala Humaneness – Sheena V Kunnuth
The judging panel consisted of distinguished individuals, including Reshma George (Bharatnatyam Dancer), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Aries Group of Companies), Renju Renjimar (Celebrity Makeup Artist), and Nisha Mathew (entrepreneur, actor, and producer).
Subtitles winners were selected by a panel of prominent figures, heightening the event’s excitement. Winners received exquisitely crafted gold crowns presented by Preeti Prakash from Parakkat Jewelers.
The pageant was bolstered by major partners like Unique Times and DQUE 78 TFM Grade One Soap, and was further supported by Manappuram Finance Ltd, SAJ Group, VIBE, Mr Light, and Parakkat Resorts as powered by partners. Co-partners included Aiswaria Advertisements, FICF, Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Times New, UT World, Europe Times, Vee Kay Vees Caterers, Gireesh Photography, Alcazar, Neenu Pro The Sound Experts, Green Media, St Joseph Hospital, Akshay Inco, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.
Anagha P John, Ashitha P S, Gopika K, Julia Mariam Vijobi, Pooja, Ramya P, Revathy Mohan, Roshni Vinodkumar, Sangeetha Sanal, Sheena V Kunnuth, Thushara George and Viji K Viswanathan were the contestants. The exclusive pageant celebrated the beauty, talent, and grace of women from Kerala, inspiring empowerment and equal opportunities. With distinguished guests in attendance, a deserving winner was crowned, leaving the audience in awe of the participants’ remarkable achievements.
Harsha Sreekanth of Kerala was crowned DQUE Soap Miss Queen of India 2024, with Tamanna Bharat from Punjab finishing as the first runner-up and Himanshi Chhallani from Maharashtra securing the second runner-up position. The pageant took place on May 13th at Le Meridien in Kochi.
The winners were crowned by SAJ Hotels MD Sajan Varghese, while Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi crowned the first and second runners-up. 10 contestants were selected from around the nation for the Miss Queen of India competition. The contestants also had grooming session led by experts.
Regional Title Winners
Miss Queen North – Himanshi Chhallani
Miss Queen West – Tamanna Bharat
Miss Queen East – Anju Pandey
Miss Queen South – Aishwarya Pundlik Magdum
Subtitle Winners
Miss Congeniality – Akshatha Das
Miss Ramp Walk – Aishwarya Pundlik Magdum
Miss Fashionista – Anuradha Kumari
Miss Talent – Tamanna Bharat
Miss Shining Star – Swati Kumari
Miss Tenacious – Harsha Sreekanth
Miss Vivacious – Livya Liffy
Miss Solidarity – Himanshi Chhallani
Miss Diligent – Anju Pandey
Miss Inspiring – Meenakshi Unnikrishnan
The competition progressed in three rounds, Traditional (Lehenga), western wear and evening gown. The pageant organisers, Pegasus event Production Company is the only company in the nation which exempted the bikini round for the competition. The company has made a unique position for itself in the fashion industry. Miss Queen of India is a pathway to countable international pageants including Miss Asia, Miss Asia Global and Miss Glam World.
Hari Anand (Fashion Designer), Lakshmi Menon (Model and Actress), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Aries Group of Companies) and Rinky Shah (Influencer & Entrepreneur) were on the judging panel. The winners of the subtitles were selected by a panel of eminent persons. The winners of Miss Queen of India were presented with a gold crown designed by Preeti Prakash of Parakkat Jewellers.
DQUE 78 TFM Grade One Soap is the main partner of Miss Queen of India 2024 organized by Pegasus. Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, Parakkat Resorts, Ryoto Electrix and SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts are the powered by Partners.
Co-partners are Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Aiswaria Advertisements, Vee Kay Vees Caterers, Gireesh Photography, Europe Times, Times New, UT World, FICF, Alcazar, FICF, Green Media, Neenu Pro, Akshay Inco, St Joseph Hospital, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.
Aishwarya Pundlik Magdum from Karnataka, Akshatha Das from Tamil Nadu, Anju Pandey from West Bengal, Anuradha Kumari from Bihar, Harsha Sreekanth from Kerala, Himanshi Chhallani from Maharastra, Livya Liffy from Kerala, Meenakshi Unnikrishnan from Kerala, Swati Kumari from Jharkhand and Tamanna Bharat from Punjab were the contestants.
Pegasus Event Production Company has impeccably organized the 12th edition of Miss Queen Kerala, sponsored by DQUE Soap. Cinda Padamadan emerged as the winner, while Lekha Unnikrishnan Nair and Harsha Haridas achieved the first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
The ceremony took place at Le Meridian Kochi on May 13th, 2024, where the winners were honored by SAJ Hotels MD, Sajan Varghese. Dr Ajit Ravi Pegasus, the Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd was present during the ceremony. A dazzling gold crown specially crafted by Preethi Parakkat of Parakkat Jewels graced the heads of each and every triumphant winner, in a truly befitting tribute to their remarkable achievements.
The judging panel included Dalu Krishnadas (Fashion Choreographer), Cerena Ann Johnson (Miss Queen Kerala 2022), Nikitha Thomas (Miss South India 2019) and Regi Bhaskar (Fashion Photographer).
From a vast pool of candidates across the state, 14 individuals were chosen to participate in the event. The event featured three rounds, where the first round was showcased them in red ethnic wear, the second round had participants dressed in black cocktail attire and, the third round in white gown.
Subtitle Winners
Miss Talent: Nithesha C K
Miss Solidarity: Krishnendu G S
Miss Fashionista: Amrutha Lakshmi
Miss Perfect Ten: Harsha Haridas
Miss Congeniality: Dyuthi Kurian Puliyeli
Miss Ramp Walk: Shincy Prem
Miss Humaneness: Kalyani Ajith S
Miss Inspiring: Vishnupriya Rajhu
Miss Shining Star: Khulsum
Miss Vivacious: Renuka Reghu
Miss Tenacious: Athira P R
Miss Diligent: Sandhra V
The powered partners of event were Manappuram Finance Ltd, SAJ Earth Resorts, Medimix, Unique Times and Parakkat Resorts while co-partners included Kalpana International, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, St Joseph Hospital, FICF, Vee Kay Vees Caterers, Times New, Europe Times, UT World, Gireesh Photography, Neenu Pro The Sound Experts, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Alcazar, Akshay Inco and Green Media. The competition aimed to showcase the diverse and rich cultural values and promote tourism.
Amrutha Lakshmi, Athira P R, Cinda Padamadan, Dyuthi Kurian Puliyeli, Harsha Haridas, Kalyani Ajith S, Khulsum, Krishnendu G S, Lekha Unnikrishnan Nair, Nithesha C K, Renuka Reghu, Sandhra V, Shincy Prem and Vishnupriya Rajhu were the participants of the pageant.
The Kremlin has announced the removal of long-time ally Sergei Shoigu from his position as defense minister, replacing him with Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, who lacks significant military experience. Shoigu will be appointed secretary of Russia’s Security Council. This move, a rare reshuffle in Russian politics, is seen as reflecting President Putin’s decision-making authority, particularly regarding the conflict in Ukraine.
Belousov’s appointment surprises many due to his background as an economist. However, analysts suggest this decision aligns with Putin’s aim to integrate the Russian economy more closely with military efforts. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for innovation in the defense ministry, comparing Russia’s situation to the mid-1980s Soviet Union when a large portion of GDP was allocated to military spending.
The decision to appoint a civilian to such a significant military role underscores the changing priorities within the Kremlin and the necessity to improve efficiency in the armed forces amid ongoing conflicts. Recent events, including the arrest of one of Shoigu’s deputies on corruption charges and prolonged military engagement in Ukraine, likely contributed to speculation about Shoigu’s weakening position.
While Shoigu will retain influence as secretary of the Security Council, his reassignment may be interpreted as a demotion. The future of Nikolai Patrushev, the council’s current head, remains uncertain. Shoigu, who has a civil engineering background, gained prominence in the 1990s as head of the emergencies and disaster relief ministry.
Belousov, described as a staunch defender of the state who believes Russia faces numerous external threats, shares a close relationship with Putin and the Russian Orthodox Church. He has practiced martial arts, including karate and sambo, and previously served as an aide to Putin. His support for the annexation of Crimea in 2014 aligns with Putin’s policies.
Putin’s recent reelection for a fifth term with an overwhelming majority solidifies his leadership position in Russia, which he has held since 2000.
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The recent regional election in Catalonia marked a significant shift in the political landscape, with the Socialists, led by Salvador Illa, emerging victorious with 42 seats. This success contrasted with a drop in support for independence to 42%, down from 49% in 2017, signaling a setback for pro-independence parties.
Despite the Socialist victory, forming a government may prove challenging, as coalition negotiations are necessary. The fragmented nature of the Catalan parliament, divided by unionist-separatist allegiances and left-right divisions, is likely to prolong post-election discussions.
The amnesty law, a contentious issue benefiting nationalists and championed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government, played a pivotal role in securing support. However, it has faced criticism, particularly from opponents on the right, for its perceived leniency towards separatist activities.
Calls for unity among pro-independence parties have emerged, but the complexity of the political landscape suggests that negotiations will be intricate. Despite former regional president Carles Puigdemont’s suggestion for a coalition between pro-independence parties, the path to forming a government remains uncertain.
Additionally, the election saw gains for the conservative People’s Party and the far-right Vox, while the centrist Ciudadanos lost all representation in the parliament. A new far-right party, Catalan Alliance, also secured two seats, further diversifying the political spectrum in Catalonia.
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In Germany, tensions escalated as hundreds of climate protesters clashed with law enforcement while attempting to breach the Tesla factory near Berlin. The demonstrators were rallying against the proposed expansion of Tesla’s only European plant, situated in Grünheide, Brandenburg. Their concerns revolved around potential environmental damage resulting from the factory’s enlargement.
Despite the activists’ efforts, police successfully thwarted their attempts to enter the facility. However, the confrontation led to injuries, including three police officers, and resulted in several arrests. Videos circulating on social media depicted the chaotic scene, with protesters donning blue caps and flags, attempting to overrun the police cordon.
The protest tactics employed by the demonstrators included blocking nearby motorways, disrupting railway services, and staging sit-ins on country roads surrounding the factory. While some managed to breach the police lines, Tesla CEO Elon Musk reassured the public that the facility remained secure. Musk also criticized the leniency shown by law enforcement toward the left-wing protesters.
The group orchestrating the protest, Disrupt Tesla, aimed to draw attention to what they termed “environmental destruction” in Grünheide. Their activism included occupying parts of the forest slated for clearance for the factory expansion, with protesters building tree houses and erecting signs in opposition. Despite the disruptions, Tesla announced that the site would be closed for the day due to the demonstration, with employees allowed to work remotely.
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A tragic incident unfolded in St. Petersburg, where a bus careened off the Potseluev Bridge into the Moika River, resulting in the loss of seven lives. The accident, which occurred in the city center on Friday afternoon, was captured on footage showing the bus swerving into oncoming traffic, colliding with two cars, and then plunging into the waterway, sinking within moments.
Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, detaining the bus driver and launching a criminal investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Initial reports indicated several critical injuries and two individuals in serious condition among the estimated 20 passengers onboard. Tragically, despite rescue efforts, three individuals lost their lives shortly after being retrieved from the submerged bus.
The heroic actions of bystanders, including Idris Gadzhiev, Shahban Jabrailov, and Muhammad Hasanov, who courageously leaped into the river to assist in rescue efforts, underscored the community’s solidarity in the face of tragedy. Meanwhile, emergency services deployed heavy machinery to lift the sunken bus from the river, bringing an end to the rescue operation.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of road safety measures, occurring as the bus turned onto the bridge from Bolshaya Morskaya Street, a bustling area approximately 1.5 kilometers from the renowned Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg’s historic center.
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In the pursuit of fostering innovation for a sustainable future, the CEO of Ryoto Electrix, Sandeep Ralhan, is leaving no avenue unexplored. Embracing a strong commitment to environmental consciousness, Ralhan has played a pivotal role in steering the company from its inception to its current standing as a frontrunner in eco-friendly mobility and renewable energy solutions. Here Ralhan shares his valuable insights into the company’s accomplishments, obstacles, and future ambitions. Join us as we delve into the exemplary leadership characterized by a blend of foresight and creativity, alongside the impactful endeavors shaping Ryoto Electrix’s trajectory toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Sandeep Ralhan, CEO of Ryoto Electrix
Can you describe the journey of Ryoto Electrix and its evolution in the green mobility and renewable energy sectors?
Ryoto Electrix, the pionerring two-wheeler EV company embarked on its journey with a commitment to revolutionize transportation through environmentally friendly solutions, initially focusing on high-performance electric vehicles (EVs) with zero emissions. This vision quickly gained momentum, establishing the company as a leader in the sustainable mobility sector. As Ryoto Electrix expanded, it recognized the interconnected nature of transportation and energy usage, prompting its expansion into renewable energy solutions. By incorporating solar, wind, and other sustainable energy sources, the company aimed to develop a holistic ecosystem that not only powered its EVs but also played a role in reducing carbon emissions on a broader scale.
Ryoto Electrix boasts a formidable leadership team poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. Led by CFO CA Ravi Jain, a seasoned finance professional with a wealth of experience, the company is anchored to his strategic financial acumen. Complementing Jain’s expertise is CTO S Dhillon, whose extensive background with Maruti Suzuki & Honda ensures innovative technological advancements. Steering the company’s sales and marketing division is Director and Co-founder Muktika Sharma. Her remarkable proficiency in cultivating and expanding dealer networks underscores Ryoto Electrix’s commitment to robust market penetration and growth. Together, this dynamic trio embodies the firm’s vision and drive for sustainable mobility solutions.
Muktika Sharma, Co-founder and Director
As CEO, what is your greatest achievement with Ryoto Electrix?
As CEO of Ryoto Electrix, singling out one pinnacle achievement amidst our journey of innovation and expansion is a daunting task. Yet, if I were to pinpoint a standout accomplishment, it would be our seamless integration of cutting-edge technology with an unwavering dedication to sustainability. Our ability to not only pioneer groundbreaking EVs but also to cultivate an entire ecosystem around green mobility and renewable energy stands as a testament to our commitment to transformative change.
From the inception of Ryoto Electrix, our goal has been to revolutionize the transportation industry. Witnessing this vision materialize into a tangible impact has been immensely rewarding. Furthermore, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within our organization has been instrumental in our success. By empowering our team to challenge norms and think creatively, we’ve consistently stayed ahead of the curve in an industry that’s evolving at lightning speed.
Furthermore, our dedication to forming strategic partnerships and alliances has been instrumental in expanding our reach and influence. By working closely with aligned organizations, we’ve magnified our effect and accelerated the worldwide embrace of sustainable technologies. Ultimately, our most significant accomplishment is our contribution to shaping a more sustainable tomorrow. Each electric vehicle on the streets and every renewable energy solution implemented symbolizes advancement in combating climate change and preserving our planet for future generations. As CEO, seeing Ryoto Electrix spearhead this crucial initiative is deeply rewarding, as we persist in catalyzing positive transformation and motivating others to unite with us on this path.
What propelled the shift from the banking profession to entrepreneurship, and how did you overcome the challenges?
Moving from the structured realm of the banking sector to entrepreneurship was driven by a profound longing for autonomy, influence, and the opportunity to follow my passion for innovation and sustainability. While my time in banking provided me with valuable insights, I felt a strong urge to chart my own course and make a significant impact in a swiftly changing environment.
The journey from being a banking professional to a business leader was marked by numerous challenges. Adapting to the dynamic and unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship demanded a shift in mindset, embracing ambiguity, and being comfortable with risk and uncertainty. Additionally, acquiring new skills beyond finance, such as product development and team management, required continuous learning, seeking mentorship, and surrounding myself with diverse talents.
S Dhillon, CTO
Establishing credibility, building networks, and securing funding were formidable hurdles as well. It took perseverance, compelling storytelling, and demonstrating market potential to gain traction in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. However, through resilience, relentless focus on our vision, and a supportive team, we overcame these obstacles, learning from failures, and remaining agile to seize opportunities. Despite the challenges, the journey has been immensely rewarding. The chance to build something impactful, drive positive change, and stay true to our values has made every hurdle worthwhile.
What challenges have you faced in introducing ‘Made in India’ electric vehicles and how have you addressed them?
Introducing ‘Made in India’ electric vehicles (EVs) has been a journey characterized by distinctive challenges, yet our approach has been defined by resolve, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to sustainable mobility. Initially, the shortage of sufficient charging infrastructure presented a notable obstacle. To tackle this issue, we established collaborations with government bodies and utility companies, expediting the rollout of charging stations across the country. Furthermore, we made significant investments in our network of fast-charging booths, guaranteeing convenient accessibility for our customers and enhancing confidence in the adoption of EVs.
Building consumer awareness and fostering widespread adoption of EVs proved another significant challenge. We tackled this through extensive marketing and awareness campaigns, emphasizing the myriad benefits of electric mobility, including cost savings, environmental sustainability, and superior performance. Incentives and subsidies were also offered to make EV purchases more accessible, catalysing interest among a broader audience and driving market growth.
Furthermore, ensuring a robust supply chain, navigating regulatory compliance, and staying abreast of technological advancements were paramount. By collaborating closely with local suppliers, engaging with regulatory authorities, and investing in R&D, we’ve established a resilient supply chain, maintained regulatory compliance, and remained at the forefront of EV innovation. Despite the challenges, we view each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and innovation, confident in our ability to drive the transition towards a sustainable future of mobility, both in India and beyond.
Sustainability is a core component of your business model. What specific practices does Ryoto Electrix implement to promote sustainable development?
Sustainability lies at the heart of Ryoto Electrix’s business model, influencing every facet of our operations, products, and partnerships. Our primary focus revolves around electric mobility solutions, where we design and promote electric vehicles powered by clean energy sources, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating air pollution. This commitment to eco-friendly transportation not only contributes to a healthier environment but also aligns with our mission to drive sustainable development.
Aligned with our electric vehicle production, we seamlessly incorporate renewable energy solutions like solar and wind power into our infrastructure. By utilizing clean energy to drive our operations, we not only diminish our carbon footprint but also showcase our steadfast commitment to embracing renewable energy. This dual strategy of manufacturing eco-conscious vehicles and sustaining our operations with renewable sources underscores our comprehensive dedication to environmental stewardship.
Furthermore, our sustainability efforts extend beyond our internal operations to encompass our supply chain, community engagement, and continuous innovation. We collaborate closely with suppliers to ensure adherence to environmental and social standards, engage with local communities to raise awareness about eco-friendly practices and invest in research and development to advance technology and drive further reductions in environmental impact. Through these comprehensive initiatives, Ryoto Electrix strives to be a leader in sustainable mobility, catalysing positive change and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
How do you envision the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy in India?
The future of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy in India holds tremendous promise, driven by a combination of technological advancements, favourable government policies, and growing environmental consciousness among consumers. I envision a landscape where EVs become increasingly prevalent on Indian roads, propelled by advancements in technology that make them more affordable and convenient for the average consumer. With the government’s ambitious incentives and policies aimed at promoting EV adoption, coupled with a burgeoning infrastructure for charging stations, EVs are poised to revolutionize the transportation sector and significantly reduce carbon emissions.
Renewable energy is set to play a central role in India’s quest for energy sustainability and security. The country has made significant strides in harnessing solar and wind power, with ambitious targets for expanding renewable energy capacity in the coming years. As technology continues to improve and costs decline, renewable energy sources will become increasingly competitive with traditional fossil fuels, offering a cleaner, more sustainable alternative. This transition to renewable energy not only reduces India’s dependence on imported fossil fuels but also creates new opportunities for job creation and economic growth in the renewable energy sector.
However, challenges such as intermittency, grid integration, and storage capabilities must be addressed to fully unlock the potential of renewable energy in India. Collaborative efforts between government, industry, and academia will be essential in overcoming these hurdles and realising the full benefits of a clean energy future. With concerted action and continued innovation, India is well-positioned to lead the way toward a greener, more sustainable future powered by electric vehicles and renewable energy sources.
In terms of policy, what changes would you like to see to better support the growth of electric vehicles and renewable energy in India?
To bolster the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy in India, several pivotal policy adjustments are imperative. Foremost, the implementation of robust financial incentives and subsidies is crucial to catalyze demand for EVs. These incentives might encompass tax exemptions, purchase subsidies for EVs, and incentives for manufacturers to localize EV production. Similarly, providing subsidies and incentives for renewable energy initiatives, like solar and wind power, would incentivize increased adoption and investment in clean energy infrastructure, nurturing a more sustainable energy landscape.
Investing in a widespread charging infrastructure network is critical to alleviate range anxiety and facilitate the transition to electric vehicles. Government policies should prioritise the development of charging stations in urban areas, along highways, and in public spaces. Incentives could be provided to businesses to install charging stations, and regulations could mandate new construction projects to include EV charging facilities, ensuring accessibility and convenience for EV owners.
Additionally, increased funding for research and development (R&D) in EV technology and renewable energy solutions is vital for innovation and cost reduction. Government-supported R&D initiatives can accelerate the development of advanced battery technologies, improve charging efficiency, and drive down the cost of renewable energy generation, fostering technological advancements that propel India towards a more sustainable energy future. Through these policy changes, India can create an enabling environment for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy, driving economic growth, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing energy security for the future.
What role will electric vehicles play in India’s goal of reducing carbon emissions in the next decade?
Electric vehicles are poised to play a pivotal role in India’s ambitious goal of reducing carbon emissions over the next decade, particularly in the transportation sector. Given that transportation is a significant contributor to India’s carbon footprint, transitioning to EVs offers a promising pathway to decarbonise this critical sector. With zero tailpipe emissions, EVs represent a cleaner and greener alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, effectively reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with transportation activities.
Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources into India’s energy mix presents a synergistic opportunity with the adoption of electric vehicles. India has been rapidly expanding its renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind power. EVs can serve as a vital demand-side management tool, enabling the efficient utilisation of renewable energy by charging during periods of high generation. This integration not only maximises the utilisation of clean energy resources but also further reduces carbon emissions from the transportation sector, contributing significantly to India’s carbon reduction goals.
Moreover, supportive government policies, technological advancements, and increasing consumer awareness are expected to accelerate the adoption of EVs in India. Initiatives such as subsidies, incentives, and regulatory mandates aimed at promoting electric mobility are already gaining traction, driving consumer interest and investment in the EV market. As EV technology continues to improve and costs decline, coupled with the expansion of charging infrastructure, the adoption rate of electric vehicles is anticipated to rise, leading to substantial emission reductions and positioning India as a leader in sustainable transportation solutions.
Could you share details about any upcoming projects or initiatives that Ryoto Electrix is currently developing or planning to launch in the near future?
While I can’t provide specific details about upcoming projects or initiatives at Ryoto Electrix at the moment, I can assure you that we’re continuously exploring new avenues to enhance our offerings and serve our customers better. Our commitment to research and development drives us to seek advancements in electric mobility, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable technologies.
Staying at the forefront of industry trends and emerging technologies is a priority for us, and we’re actively working on initiatives that align with our vision of creating a more sustainable future. Whether it’s developing innovative electric vehicle technologies, expanding our renewable energy portfolio, or forging new partnerships and collaborations, we’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation.
As soon as we have concrete details to share about upcoming projects or initiatives, we’ll be sure to communicate them with our stakeholders.
How does Ryoto Electrix integrate emerging technologies like AI and IoT into its products to enhance performance and user experience?
Ryoto Electrix is committed to incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into our product lineup to enhance performance and user satisfaction. With AI-driven efficiency improvements, our electric vehicles and energy systems are designed to optimize energy usage, anticipate maintenance requirements, and enhance overall performance. Through constant analysis of data collected from onboard sensors and systems, our products dynamically adjust to real-world conditions, resulting in improved efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for our customers.
Our commitment to smart connectivity enables seamless interaction between our products and external devices, platforms, and infrastructure. Equipped with IoT sensors and connectivity features, our electric vehicles and energy solutions offer remote monitoring, diagnostics, and control capabilities. Users can access real-time data, monitor energy consumption, and manage charging or energy storage systems remotely, enhancing convenience, control, and peace of mind.
The integration of AI and IoT technologies enables us to personalise the user experience based on individual preferences, behaviours, and environmental conditions. Through intelligent data analysis and machine learning algorithms, our products deliver customised settings, recommendations, and features tailored to meet the unique needs of each user. From optimising driving modes for efficiency to providing predictive maintenance alerts, our solutions offer a personalised experience that enhances user satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty. With a focus on safety and security, AI-powered safety features and IoT-enabled security measures enhance the overall safety and protection of our products, ensuring a secure and reliable user experience.
How has the support of your family contributed to your success as CEO of Ryoto Electrix?
The support of my family has been indispensable throughout my tenure as CEO of Ryoto Electrix, playing a pivotal role in my achievements across multiple fronts. Their steadfast emotional support has been a source of strength and assurance as I navigate the intricacies of leadership, offering unwavering encouragement and faith in my capabilities through both trials and victories. Their empathy and adaptability have also facilitated a harmonious work-life balance, affording me the opportunity to fulfill my professional duties while cherishing invaluable moments with loved ones. This balance ensures that I approach my role with clarity, vigor, and a sense of purpose.
Moreover, my family serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation, driving me to strive for excellence and lead by example. Their unwavering belief in me fuels my determination to propel Ryoto Electrix forward, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and responsibility toward creating a positive impact in the world. Their wisdom, guidance, and shared celebrations serve as reminders of the significance of my work and reinforce my commitment to leading with integrity, vision, and dedication, underscoring the invaluable role of family support in my journey as CEO.
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