Ashoka Buildcon Sells 51% Stake in Renewable Energy Arm Prakashmaan

Ashoka Buildcon Limited, a major infrastructure firm based in India, has announced a significant strategic move involving its renewable energy portfolio. 

In an official disclosure to stock exchanges, the company confirmed the sale of a majority stake in its wholly owned subsidiary, Prakashmaan Renewable Energy Private Limited, marking a shift in ownership structure and business alignment.

Strategic Divestment for Operational Focus

On 8 April 2025, Ashoka Buildcon sold 2,550 equity shares, equivalent to a 51% stake in Prakashmaan Renewable Energy Private Limited, to Sunbreeze Renewables Private Limited. 

The total consideration for this transaction amounted to ₹1.98 crore. Following the sale, Ashoka Buildcon retains a 49% stake, resulting in Prakashmaan being reclassified as an associate company. This move is part of Ashoka’s broader restructuring plan aimed at refocusing its investments while still maintaining a stake in the renewable energy sector.

Sunbreeze Renewables, established in February 2022, is an independent entity not related to Ashoka’s promoter group. It operates across seven states in India and manages renewable energy assets with a combined capacity of over 3000 MW. Its services include solar park development, engineering, procurement, construction, and infrastructure integration.

Regulatory Compliance and Deal Structure

The transaction was carried out in accordance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and accompanying circulars dated July 2023. The agreement for the sale was signed and executed on 8 April 2025, with the entire consideration duly received.

As Prakashmaan was incorporated recently on 24 September 2024, audited financial data for the entity is not yet available. The deal does not fall under the related party transaction category and is also not part of any scheme of arrangement or slump sale, further confirming its standalone commercial nature.

Ashoka Buildcon Share Performance 

As of April 09, 2025, at 9:30 AM, Ashoka Buildcon share price is trading at ₹184.32 per share, reflecting a decline of 1.68% from the previous day’s closing price.

Conclusion

Ashoka Buildcon’s partial exit from Prakashmaan Renewable Energy reflects its intent to streamline operations and focus on strategic partnerships. With a reputed buyer like Sunbreeze Renewables taking charge, the move indicates a calculated realignment of business interests while retaining future potential in the renewable sector.

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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Lemon Tree Hotels Shares in Focus on Signing New Property in Siliguri, West Bengal

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of a new property under its brand ‘Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels’ in Siliguri, West Bengal. The hotel is scheduled to open in the financial year 2029 and will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the group.

Details of The Hotel 

The upcoming hotel will feature 63 tastefully designed rooms along with a restaurant, banquet space, recreation amenities, and public areas. Strategically located, the property offers convenient access to Bagdogra Airport (18 km away) and Siliguri Railway Station (3 km away), ensuring ease of travel for both business and leisure guests. With its position near major transport routes, the hotel aims to attract tourists and professionals alike.

Strategic Presence in the Gateway to the Northeast

Siliguri, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Northeast,” holds considerable economic and geographical significance. Nestled at the base of the Himalayas, the city thrives as a centre for tea, timber, and tourism. 

The addition of a Lemon Tree property in this bustling city strengthens the brand’s regional footprint, joining its two operational hotels and three upcoming developments in West Bengal.

The location’s proximity to popular hill stations such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Gangtok, coupled with wildlife attractions like the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, further enhances its appeal. This new signing aligns with Lemon Tree Hotels’ vision of delivering high-quality hospitality across key markets in India.

Lemon Tree Share Performance 

As of April 08, 2025, at 9:30 AM, Lemon Tree share price is trading at ₹137.70 per share, reflecting a decline of 0.68% from the previous day’s closing price. 

Conclusion

The planned launch of Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels in Siliguri reflects the company’s commitment to strategic growth and superior guest experiences. With a robust pipeline of projects across metro and regional locations, Lemon Tree continues to cement its position as one of India’s leading hotel chains.

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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EPFO Rolls Out Aadhar Based Face Authentication for UAN Generation and Activation

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new method for employees to generate and activate their Universal Account Number (UAN) using Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT). This feature is now available through the UMANG mobile application.

UAN Generation Now Possible Without Employer

Earlier, the UAN generation process was handled by employers, who submitted employee data to EPFO. Although Aadhaar was used for verification, errors in other fields, such as the employee’s father’s name or mobile number, were common. These issues led to delays and manual corrections during claims or other services.

The updated system allows employees to generate and activate UANs directly. Using the UMANG and AadhaarFaceRD apps, employees can enter their Aadhaar details, verify via OTP, and capture a live photo to complete the process. Once matched with Aadhaar records, the UAN is automatically generated and activated. The e-UAN card is also made available for download.

Activation Rates and Technical Details

According to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, in FY 2024-25, over 1.26 crore UANs were allotted by EPFO. However, only 35.3% of them, approximately 4.5 million, were activated by members. One reason for the low activation rate was the requirement for members to separately complete Aadhaar-OTP verification, which often led to confusion.

Under the new process, activation happens alongside generation, and mobile numbers are auto-verified with Aadhaar. The new method is intended to reduce errors and streamline onboarding.

Future Use Cases and Expansion

The Ministry has confirmed plans to extend face authentication services to pensioners, as per the reports. Youth volunteers under My Bharat Will assist pensioners in submitting digital life certificates using the Jeevan Pramaan platform.

Audits for Private Provident Fund Trusts

The EPFO will also begin auditing private provident fund trusts that receive complaints regarding irregularities or mismanagement. This step comes after the Labour Minister received reports of misconduct. The Ministry has flagged concerns around the opaque functioning of some private PF trusts.

Conclusion

The new system is designed to improve accuracy in UAN generation and address gaps in existing processes, while also upgrading oversight of private PF trusts.

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.

Tata Technologies Partners With RVCE to Build State-of-the-Art Skill Development Centre in Bengaluru

In a significant development aimed at strengthening the bridge between academia and industry, Tata Technologies and RV College of Engineering (RVCE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up an advanced Centre for Invention, Innovation, Incubation and Training (CIIIT). Located within the RVCE campus in Bengaluru, this centre is set to become a pioneering hub for engineering education in southern India.

₹60 Crore Investment to Power Innovation

Tata Technologies has pledged approximately ₹50 crore towards this initiative, while the Rashtreeya Sikshana Samithi Trust (RSST), the managing body of RVCE, will contribute around ₹10 crore. The financial commitment reflects a strong mutual intent to develop a world-class facility that aligns with the evolving needs of the industry.

Read More CRISIL, Ashiana Housing, and Others in Focus for Dividend, Stock Split, and Rights Issue.  

Driving Skills for Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing

The CIIIT will focus on equipping students with the skills required in emerging fields such as smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies. This includes hands-on exposure to real-world applications, advanced simulation tools, and cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of industrial processes.

A Multi-Faceted Ecosystem for Learning and Innovation

According to KN Subramanya, Principal of RVCE, the centre is not just an academic facility but a “transformative ecosystem” that serves multiple purposes. It will provide:

  • Practical training for engineering students

  • Vocational education for school dropouts and rural youth

  • Incubation and mentorship for startups

  • Technological support for MSMEs

  • A talent pipeline for large industries

Such a comprehensive approach is expected to create a ripple effect across various sectors of the economy.

Industry-Certified Training Embedded in Curriculum

Representatives from Tata Technologies, Sushil Kumar and Pawan Bhageria, highlighted the emphasis on integrating industry-aligned training modules and certifications directly into the academic curriculum. This move ensures that graduates from RVCE are not only academically sound but also job-ready with practical skillsets that match the demands of the modern workplace.

Backed by Strong Institutional Support

The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of several notable dignitaries including RSST President MP Shyam, Honorary Secretary AVS Murthy, and Joint Secretary DP Nagaraj. Their support underlines the institutional commitment behind this initiative, which promises to reshape engineering education in India.

Conclusion

This collaboration between Tata Technologies and RVCE marks a bold step towards a more integrated and responsive educational ecosystem. By aligning academic training with industry needs, the initiative is poised to prepare the next generation of engineers and innovators for a future powered by technology and creativity.

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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Odisha Government Approves ₹4,000 Cr Solar Cell & Module Manufacturing Project by Inox Solar

The Government of Odisha has allocated 78 acres of land in Dhenkanal to Inox Solar, a subsidiary of Inox Clean Energy under the INOXGFL Group, for setting up a solar cell and module manufacturing facility.

As of 9:39 AM on April 9, 2025, Inox Green Energy Services share price was trading at ₹104.79 , 3.79% down, though down 44.02% over the past six months and 25.59% over the past year.

Project Capacity 

The plant is planned with a production capacity of 4.8 GW each for solar cells and solar modules. The project is part of a ₹4,000 crore investment announced earlier by the company. This is expected to contribute to India’s broader renewable energy goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.

Approval and Land Allocation

The project has been approved by the state’s High-Level Clearance Authority (HLCA). Following this, the formal land allocation was completed for the development of the facility in the Dhenkanal district.

Employment Opportunities

According to reports, the manufacturing unit is to generate over 5,400 jobs. This includes both direct and indirect employment across the region. The project is positioned to support Odisha’s broader plans for industrial development and employment generation in the clean energy sector.

Statements from Stakeholders

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated that the initiative aligns with the state’s plans to promote green energy and industrial growth. He also mentioned that the government aims to create long-term employment opportunities through such large-scale projects.

Devansh Jain, Executive Director of INOXGFL Group, said the land allocation will help expand their solar energy operations and contribute to clean energy manufacturing capabilities in India.

Company Background

Inox Solar operates as a part of the INOXGFL Group, which has businesses across wind energy, renewables, and chemical manufacturing. The new plant in Odisha will be the group’s entry into large-scale solar module and cell production.

Conclusion

The land allocation to Inox Solar is part of the state’s efforts to attract investment in renewable energy and industrial manufacturing while supporting national sustainability goals.

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.

Tata Steel Named 2025 Steel Sustainability Champion by World Steel

Tata Steel has been recognised as a Steel Sustainability Champion 2025 by the World Steel Association (worldsteel). The announcement was made at the Special General Meeting (SGM) of worldsteel’s Board of Members held in Sydney, Australia.

As of 10:01 AM on April 9, 2025, Tata Steel share price was trading at ₹127, a 2.52% down, but down 18.24% over the past six months and 21.66% over the past year.

Eighth Consecutive Recognition

Tata Steel has been recognised as a Sustainability Champion for the eighth year in a row, having first received the title in 2018, the year the programme was launched. The recognition highlights the company’s continued participation and compliance with global sustainability standards.

Criteria for Selection

To qualify, companies must sign the World Steel Sustainability Charter and meet evaluation standards across environmental, social, and governance categories. These include:

  • Material efficiency
  • Environmental management systems
  • Lost time injury frequency rate
  • Employee training
  • Economic value distribution
  • Investments in innovation
  • Submission of Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) data

Companies are also expected to provide regular disclosures to World Steel’s sustainability data programmes.

Sustainability Measures

Tata Steel is a participant in World Steel’s Climate Action programme. The company reports annually to CDP and received an A- A-rating for climate disclosure in 2023. It has also developed capacity in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to measure the environmental impact of its products from raw materials to end-of-life recycling.

Recent Initiatives

  • In FY25, Tata Steel created Carbon Bank, a virtual CO₂ repository.
  • In 2025, it became India’s first steel company to demonstrate end-to-end capabilities for manufacturing hydrogen transport pipes.
  • Tata Steel was also the first Indian steelmaker to use biochar in production and to complete a full-laden leg using B24 biofuel in 2024.

About Worldsteel

The World Steel Association represents around 85% of global steel production, with members from major steel-producing countries, including companies, associations, and research bodies.

Conclusion

This continued recognition places Tata Steel among a small group of global steel producers consistently aligning operations with evolving sustainability benchmarks.

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.

Bajaj Group and Allianz Finalise Terms to End Insurance Joint Ventures

The Bajaj Group has finalised terms with German insurer Allianz to terminate their joint ventures in the Indian insurance market. The group is expected to seek approvals from SEBI, IRDAI, and the Competition Commission of India (CCI) by the second quarter of FY26.

Stake Buyout Worth Over ₹24,100 Crore

On March 18, Bajaj Group announced plans to acquire Allianz’s 26% stake in 2 insurance entities, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance and Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance. The combined value of the transaction is estimated at over ₹24,100 crore.

Breakdown of Stake Acquisition

The 26% stake held by Allianz will be distributed among three entities from the Bajaj Group:

  • Bajaj Holdings & Investment: 19.95%
  • Bajaj Finserv: 1.01%
  • Jamnalal Sons: 5.04%

In the first phase, Bajaj Finserv and Bajaj Holdings are expected to acquire a combined 6.1% stake. This formally ends the joint venture and removes the non-compete clause between the two parties.

Valuation of the Insurance Companies

The transaction pegs the valuation of the two companies as follows:

  • Bajaj Allianz General Insurance: ₹53,346 crore
  • Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance: ₹40,000 crore

These valuations place the deal among the highest-value transactions in India’s insurance sector to date. The conclusion of the deal will depend on receiving the required regulatory clearances. The group aims to complete this process by Q2 FY26.

Conclusion

The termination of the joint ventures will result in full ownership of both insurance businesses by entities within the Bajaj Group, while Allianz will exit its stake and be free to pursue other opportunities in the Indian insurance space.

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.

Medico Remedies Receives $1.9 Million Order from Dominican Republic

Medico Remedies Ltd has secured a government supply order worth USD 1.9 million (approximately ₹16.32 crore) from PROMESE/CAL, a public healthcare procurement body in the Dominican Republic. The order involves the supply of pharmaceutical products, including tablets, capsules, and dry syrups. The company is to complete the delivery within three months.

As of 9:49 am on 9 April, 2025, Medico Remedies share price is trading at ₹57.16, 0.80% down, with a 17.37% rise over the past six months and 19.90% over the past year.

Contract Conditions

According to disclosures made under Regulation 30 of SEBI’s Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements, the order is from an international entity and is not classified as a related-party transaction. The supply terms are as per the contract agreed upon with PROMESE/CAL.

About PROMESE/CAL

PROMESE/CAL stands for Programa de Medicamentos Esenciales y Central de Logística. It is responsible for the centralised purchase and distribution of essential medicines and pharmaceutical products for the Dominican Republic’s public health sector.

Company Background

Medico Remedies Ltd manufactures and supplies generic pharmaceutical products including tablets, capsules, dry syrups, and injectables. The company operates in both domestic and international markets and regularly participates in government contracts. It focuses on supplying medicines that are part of essential healthcare services.

In Q3 FY 24-25, the company reported a revenue increase of 36.2%, rising from ₹30.04 crore to ₹40.92 crore. Net profit during the same period grew from ₹1.45 crore to ₹2.62 crore. The company has maintained an average three-year net profit growth rate of 19.88%. Its debt-to-equity ratio stands at 0.21, and promoter shareholding is above 65%.

Conclusion

Medico Remedies will supply a set of pharmaceutical products to the Dominican Republic under a USD 1.9 million order, with delivery to be completed within a three-month window. This order falls under the company’s ongoing participation in international public healthcare contracts.

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.

IOC Signs MoU with Odisha for ₹61,077 Crore Paradip Petrochemical Project

Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOC), yesterday, on April 8, 2025, signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Odisha government, committing to invest ₹1.19 lakh crore in the state. Of this, ₹61,077 crore has been allocated for a petrochemical complex in Paradip, and ₹58,042 crore for a naphtha cracker unit. The MoUs were signed during the Odisha Investors Meet held in New Delhi.

As of 9:57 AM on April 9, 2025, Indian Oil Corporation share price was trading at ₹130.95, a 1.37% down, but down 20.51% over the past six months and 22.47% over the past year.

Paradip Petrochemical Complex

The Paradip complex will include a naphtha cracker with a planned capacity of 1.5 million tonnes. The project is expected to be completed in four to five years. Feedstock will be sourced from IOC’s existing Paradip refinery, where the company has already invested around ₹55,000 crore.

The facility will produce chemicals such as PVC, polypropylene, and phenol, which are used in various industries including packaging, textiles, and agriculture.

Other MoUs Signed

Alongside IOC, Petronet LNG Ltd signed an MoU with the Odisha government for setting up a land-based LNG terminal at Gopalpur Port. The company plans to invest ₹6,500 crore for a terminal with a capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum.

Project Background and Financial Performance

According to the Odisha Chief Minister’s Office reports, the state is an equity partner in the naphtha cracker project and will receive dividends in addition to tax revenue. The project is expected to be one of the largest in its sector in India.

On the financial front, IOC reported a 76.57% decline in consolidated net profit for Q3 FY25 at ₹2,115 crore, compared to ₹9,029.56 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations dropped by 5% to ₹2,15,522 crore.

Conclusion

The Paradip investment is part of IOC’s broader expansion in Odisha, which includes petrochemicals, LNG infrastructure, and oil storage, aimed at increasing capacity and meeting rising domestic demand.

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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What is Niveshak Didi? A Grassroots Movement Empowering 55,000+ Rural Women Through Financial Literacy

In a country where millions remain outside the ambit of formal financial systems, financial literacy is more than a skill — it’s a necessity. Recognising this, the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), in collaboration with the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), has launched Phase 2 of the “Niveshak Didi” initiative — a pioneering campaign aimed at transforming rural women into torchbearers of financial knowledge.

What is “Niveshak Didi”?

Niveshak Didi is a unique financial literacy programme that identifies and trains women postal workers and local community leaders to become financial educators. These women, called Niveshak Didis, are equipped with the tools and knowledge to educate their peers on crucial aspects of finance, including:

  • Budgeting and saving
  • Responsible investing
  • Digital banking tools
  • Fraud and scam awareness

The aim is simple yet powerful, empower women to take charge of their finances and, in turn, empower others in their communities.

Key Facts About the Initiative

  • Over 55,000 rural beneficiaries reached in Phase 1
  • 60% of participants in Phase 1 were women, primarily in the youth and economically active segments
  • 2 out of every 3 participants were from deep rural areas
  • Phase 2 will include 4,000+ financial literacy camps
  • 40,000 women postal workers to be trained as Niveshak Didis
  • Focus on grassroots engagement and community trust-building

Why Women? The Role of Community Influencers

Both IEPFA and IPPB believe that women are natural influencers in rural settings. By empowering them with financial knowledge, the initiative creates a ripple effect — enhancing not only individual households but entire communities. “We aim to empower rural women with the skills and confidence to make informed financial decisions,” said Lt Col Aditya Sinha (Retd.), General Manager, IEPFA. “They don’t just manage their own finances better — they lead change in their communities,” added Mr. Gursharan Rai Bansal, Chief General Manager & CSMO, IPPB.

About IEPFA: Strengthening Investor Awareness

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is tasked with promoting investor education and protection. Through its various outreach programmes, including Niveshak Didi, IEPFA strives to build a financially aware India where individuals can make informed and responsible decisions regarding their money.

About IPPB: Redefining Last-Mile Banking

The India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), with its vast network of over 1.65 lakh post offices and 3 lakh postal employees, ensures that banking and financial services reach even the remotest corners of the country. IPPB’s paperless, cashless, and presence-less model — powered by smartphones and biometric devices — allows for inclusive banking that is secure, simple, and accessible.

Conclusion

The Niveshak Didi initiative is a clear example of how collaboration between government bodies and local influencers can drive real change. By putting knowledge in the hands of women, it fosters independence, financial resilience, and long-term community development.

As the programme scales through Phase 2, its success could serve as a blueprint for other financial inclusion efforts, not just in India, but globally.

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.