Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has launched the Indian Navy’s second Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV), INS Utkarsh, from its Kattupalli Shipyard near Chennai. This launch comes just three months after the first MPV, INS Samarthak, and is a step in expanding the country’s Navy fleet. INS Samarthak is currently undergoing tests and trials before being handed over to the Navy.

Multi-Purpose Capacity

Designed to handle a range of tasks, the MPVs are 107 meters long, 18.6 meters wide, and have a displacement of over 3,750 tonnes. These vessels are built for maritime surveillance, humanitarian assistance, pollution control, and as platforms for testing next-generation weapons and sensors. They are also equipped to launch and recover various surface and aerial assets.

Launch Event and Participants

The launch of INS Utkarsh was officiated by Dr. Sushmita Misra Singh, the wife of Union Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. The event was attended by senior officials from the Navy, including Vice Admiral B. Sivakumar and Rear Admiral Vishal Bishnoi, alongside L&T representatives.

Built at Kattupalli Shipyard

Both MPVs were designed and engineered at L&T’s Warship Design Centre in Chennai and constructed at the Kattupalli Shipyard. The shipyard is known for its shipbuilding and repair facilities, equipped with ship lifts and berths capable of handling multiple projects simultaneously.

Other Projects in Progress

Beyond these MPVs, L&T is also working on three Cadet Training Ships and six additional vessels for the Navy. Repairs for the Indian naval ship INS Tir are currently underway at the same shipyard. This launch shows the capacity of India’s shipbuilding sector, aligning with national initiatives to develop homegrown defence technology.

Larsen & Toubro Ltd shares were trading at ₹3,498.15 as of 2:08 PM on January 15, up ₹35.55 (1.03%) for the day, but showing a decline of 4.20% over the past six months and 1.27% over the past year.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

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Infosys, a leader in next-generation digital services, continues its fruitful 7-year collaboration with Tennis Australia. At the Australian Open (AO) 2025, this partnership has evolved with the introduction of generative AI-powered innovations aimed at revolutionising tennis experiences for fans, players, and coaches.

The share price of Infosys is trading marginally higher at ₹1,945.70, up by 0.40% on the NSE as of 9:57 AM on January 15, 2025.

Unveiling ‘Beyond Tennis’ – The World’s First Generative AI Tennis League

A standout feature of AO 2025 is Beyond Tennis, the first generative AI-powered tennis league. Designed to captivate younger audiences, particularly Gen Z, this fan-driven experience enables year-round interactivity. Fans can engage with virtual players, train teams, and participate in AI-generated tournaments. This initiative, powered by Infosys Topaz, represents a new dimension in digital engagement while ensuring safety through a responsible AI framework.

Enhancing Experiences with Generative AI

1. AI Commentary: Infosys Match Centre now features AI-generated commentary, offering byte-sized insights during matches on the AO website and app.
2. VR AI Stadium: Fans can immerse themselves in virtual courts inspired by unique themes, such as galaxies or the 1970s, via speech-to-image generative AI technology.
3. AI Shot of the Day: This feature helps AO’s media team meet content demands by creating social-media-ready clips of captivating match moments.

Climate-Conscious Fan Engagement

The Infosys Fan Zone at Melbourne Park goes a step further by being entirely climate active, with its carbon footprint fully offset and its structures fully recyclable. Fans can experience cutting-edge technology while supporting sustainable practices.

Empowering Communities and Advancing Skills

Beyond the game, Infosys is empowering the community through its Future Leaders Programme. Powered by Infosys Springboard, this initiative offers participants valuable skills in leadership, inclusion, and design thinking, alongside exposure to the latest generative AI technologies.

Leaders Speak on the AI Revolution in Tennis

Andrew Groth, Executive Vice President of Infosys, highlighted the company’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. He said, “Through this collaboration with Tennis Australia, we are enabling truly innovative platforms for fans, players, and media to engage with the sport.”

Echoing similar enthusiasm, Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, remarked, “AI is enabling new dimensions of interactivity for fans and insights for players, not to mention the speed and scale it brings to content delivery.”

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Homegrown global pipe manufacturer Welspun Corp Ltd (WCL) has taken a major step in advancing its international operations. The company announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Aramco, the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals company, to establish a state-of-the-art Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded (LSAW) line pipe manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia. 

The share price of Welspun Corp has surged by over 5% as of 9:30 AM on January 15, 2025.

Announcement at Aramco IKTVA Forum and Exhibition 2025

The MoU was signed during the Aramco IKTVA Forum & Exhibition 2025, underscoring Welspun’s strategic alignment with Saudi Arabia’s localisation and industrialisation initiatives. This greenfield facility is planned under Welspun Corp’s wholly-owned subsidiary in Saudi Arabia and is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

A High-Capacity Manufacturing Facility

The proposed facility will boast an annual production capacity of 350,000 metric tonnes, solidifying Welspun’s leadership in the global line pipe market. Strategically located in Dammam 3rd Industrial City, the plant will cater to Saudi Aramco’s diverse and evolving requirements, including:

• Oil and gas pipelines
• Hydrogen transmission infrastructure
• Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) projects

Welspun Corp’s Long-Standing Relationship with Saudi Aramco

Welspun Corp has been a trusted supplier of line pipes to Saudi Aramco for nearly two decades, contributing to many landmark oil and gas pipeline projects in Saudi Arabia. This partnership reflects mutual trust and Welspun’s commitment to delivering high-quality solutions for the Kingdom’s energy infrastructure needs.

A Key Milestone for Localisation and Industrial Growth

Welspun Corp’s foray into Saudi Arabia aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 initiative, which focuses on economic diversification and localisation. The facility will not only boost Saudi Arabia’s industrial capabilities but also contribute to the creation of skilled jobs and the development of advanced technologies in the region.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Headquartered in India, Optiemus Group is a powerhouse in telecommunications, technology, and manufacturing, boasting nearly three decades of expertise. Renowned for its pioneering role in India’s electronics market, the group’s promoters hold the historic distinction of introducing the country’s first mobile phone in 1995. 

Partnership with KunWay Technology

Optiemus Unmanned Systems Private Limited (OUS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Optiemus Infracom Limited, has joined hands with KunWay Technology, a leading Taiwan-based drone manufacturer. This strategic partnership will see OUS manufacturing, localising, and selling KunWay’s advanced drone portfolio in India while also exploring additional products on a case-by-case basis.

The collaboration comes at a pivotal time, aligning with the Indian government’s declaration of 2025 as the year of reforms for the defence sector. This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to India’s “Make in India” vision, leveraging OUS’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Noida to produce KunWay’s world-class drones locally.

About KunWay Technology

Established in 2012 and based at Taiwan’s Chiayi AI Drone Centre, KunWay Technology specialises in drone design, AI system integration, and application development. As a member of the Taiwan Industrial Technology Research Institute’s Innovation Club, the company is at the forefront of combining AI technology with drone solutions to deliver precision operations. 

With a global clientele spanning the US and Japan, KunWay is dedicated to continuously enhancing its offerings to meet evolving customer needs.

Statement From Chairman

Mr. Ashok Gupta, Chairman of Optiemus Infracom, expressed delight in partnering with KunWay to advance the localisation of drone manufacturing in India, showcasing the nation’s growing technological capabilities. 

He highlighted the rapid adoption of technology, particularly in defence and homeland security, and shared plans to expand their product portfolio. The partnership aims to launch KunWay’s products in India, adapt them to local defence and security needs, and position India as a global leader in drone manufacturing.

Share Price Performance 

At 12:24 PM today, shares of Optiemus Infracom Ltd traded at ₹696 on the NSE.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India’s renewable energy giant, Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL), has further solidified its position in the sector by expanding its operational renewable energy capacity to 11,666.1 MW. This achievement follows the commissioning of a 57.2 MW wind power component at Khavda, Gujarat, under the company’s wind-solar hybrid project.

Wind-Solar Hybrid Initiative at Khavda

The 57.2 MW wind power component, developed by Adani Renewable Energy Forty Eight Ltd, a subsidiary of AGEL, is part of a broader wind-solar hybrid project. The project emphasises the efficient use of land and infrastructure by combining two renewable energy sources, wind and solar, at a single location. This strategic initiative aims to maximise energy output and reliability.

The plant’s commissioning decision was finalised on January 14, 2025, at 2:51 PM, with power generation scheduled to commence on January 15, 2025. This addition plays a pivotal role in AGEL’s commitment to sustainable energy growth.

AGEL’s Expanding Renewable Portfolio

The successful operationalisation of the Khavda plant has propelled AGEL’s total operational renewable capacity to an impressive 11,666.1 MW. This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to advancing India’s renewable energy landscape while meeting its sustainability objectives. The consistent growth in capacity demonstrates AGEL’s capability to execute large-scale renewable energy projects efficiently.

AGEL Share Performance

As of January 15, 2025, at 11:30 AM, AGEL shares are trading at ₹1,046.00, reflecting a 3.49% surge from the previous day’s closing price.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Zee Media Corporation Ltd is one of the biggest news networks in India. The company runs several news channels in different languages, catering to audiences across the country. These channels provide a mix of news, current affairs, and special programmes, keeping millions of viewers informed.

Board Approves Fundraising

The Board of Directors at Zee Media Corporation Ltd has given the green light for raising ₹400 crore through different methods. This decision was made during their meeting on January 12, 2025. The company plans to use these funds to strengthen its business operations and support its growth.

Fundraising Details

Zee Media aims to raise this amount by issuing shares or other securities. They may use various methods such as public offers, private placements, or rights issues. However, the final decision will depend on market conditions and shareholder approval.

Increase in FPI Shareholding Limit

The board has also decided to increase the shareholding limit for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). Previously, FPIs could hold up to 24% of the company’s shares. Now, this limit has been raised to 49%, which could attract more international investments.

These changes will require approval from the company’s shareholders and relevant authorities. Zee Media believes these moves will help the company grow and attract fresh investments.

Share Price Performance 

At 3:06 PM today, Zee Media Corporation Ltd shares traded at ₹19.22 per share on the NSE.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

United Spirits Limited (USL), a subsidiary of global beverage giant Diageo, stands as one of the world’s most esteemed spirits companies, ranking second globally by volume. 

Names Praveen Someshwar as New CEO

On January 13, 2025, USL unveiled a pivotal leadership transition as part of its CEO succession strategy. Following a remarkable 4 years tenure as Managing Director and CEO, Hina Nagarajan will step down on March 31, 2025, to assume an influential new role within the Diageo Group.

In preparation for this transition, the Board has appointed Praveen Someshwar as Chief Executive Officer-Designate, effective 1st March 2025. Someshwar will collaborate closely with Nagarajan to facilitate a seamless handover. Effective 1st April 2025, he will officially take on the mantle of Managing Director and CEO, subject to regulatory and statutory clearances.

Praveen Someshwar: A Visionary Successor

Praveen Someshwar brings a wealth of experience and an illustrious track record to his new role at USL. For the past five years, he has been the MD and CEO of HT Media Ltd., overseeing a diverse portfolio of India’s leading media platforms, including the Hindustan Times, Mint, and various radio outlets.

Someshwar, a Chartered Accountant and Cost & Management Accountant with a B.Com (Hons.) from Delhi University, spent 24 years at PepsiCo in key roles spanning General Management, Finance, and Strategy across India and Asia-Pacific. As CEO of PepsiCo’s South Asia beverage business from 2009, he later led the foods division in India and, between 2014-2018, oversaw operations in North and Southeast Asia while heading sales for the Asia-Pacific region.

Share Price Performance

As of 2:23 PM today, shares of United Spirits Ltd. were trading at an impressive ₹1,412.85 per share on the NSE.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.