Life & Style

Lucknow. BJP MLA Chandrabhanu Paswan from the Milkipur Assembly constituency of Ayodhya district paid a courtesy call on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow. His wife and Ayodhya District Panchayat member, Mrs. Kanchan Paswan, was also present on the occasion.

During the meeting, MLA Chandrabhanu Paswan discussed in detail with the Chief Minister the ongoing development projects in the Milkipur Assembly constituency, the expansion of infrastructure, and important public welfare issues. He stressed the need to accelerate the implementation of schemes related to roads, drinking water, health, and education in the area.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath listened attentively to the MLA’s concerns and assured him of all possible support for the overall development of the region. He stated that the state government is committed to promptly resolving public issues and ensuring quality development work.

This courtesy call is considered significant from the perspective of the development of the Milkipur Assembly constituency. This meeting is also being seen as a positive initiative at the local level, which is expected to give further impetus to regional development works

Lucknow: Birla Precision Technologies Limited (BPTL), a leading precision engineering and advanced manufacturing company, has unveiled a new corporate identity and strategic direction aimed at strengthening its presence in global markets. This transformation signals the company’s evolution into a more technology-driven, diversified, and future-ready organization.

The new identity reflects Birla Precision Technologies’ renewed focus on trust, growth, innovation, and expansion into emerging industry segments, while continuing to uphold its strong legacy and commitment to excellence in precision engineering and advanced manufacturing.

A Strategic Evolution Towards a Technology-Led Organization

With this strategic shift, Birla Precision Technologies has entered a new phase of growth by strengthening its market position across high-growth and emerging sectors. The company is expanding its application-led manufacturing portfolio to support advanced and critical industries, including:

• Aerospace
• Defence
• 3C industries (Computer, Communication, and Consumer Electronics)
• Critical and industrial engineering applications

Alongside this expansion, Birla Precision Technologies is enhancing its precision machining capabilities across its core manufacturing categories to meet the evolving needs of domestic and global customers.

Strengthening Market Position Through Capacity Expansion

To support its strategic priorities, Birla Precision Technologies Limited continues to focus on expanding manufacturing capacities, upgrading technology, and improving operational efficiency. The company is strengthening its production footprint across its manufacturing facilities in Aurangabad, Nashik, and Chalisgaon in Maharashtra.

These expansions are designed to enable the delivery of high-quality, reliable, and scalable precision engineering solutions to both Indian and international markets, further reinforcing the company’s competitive position.

Future-Focused Growth Aligned with Industry Dynamics

Birla Precision Technologies has articulated a future-oriented industrial vision aligned with changing market dynamics and industry requirements. This evolved outlook supports the company’s long-term growth strategy and focuses on building a stronger, more diversified, and resilient business.

The company remains firmly committed to the Make in India initiative by expanding domestic manufacturing capabilities and strengthening India’s role in global supply chains. With a legacy of over 90 years of trust, Birla Precision Technologies continues to deepen its presence across Indian markets while pursuing global opportunities.

Leadership Perspective on the New Corporate Identity

Chairman’s Statement

Commenting on the company’s new identity and strategic direction, Mr. Vedant Birla, Chairman, Birla Precision Technologies Limited, said:

“Our new corporate identity represents a bold and forward-looking vision to establish Birla Precision Technologies as a globally trusted, innovation-led precision engineering company. We are reinforcing our commitment to the Make in India program through planned investments in advanced manufacturing and technology, with a strong focus on strengthening our production facilities in Maharashtra.”

He further emphasized that the next phase of growth is focused on achieving market leadership while creating long-term and sustainable value. Through these strategic investments, the company aims to support large enterprises as well as MSME customers across Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 cities with high-quality, reliable, and precision-driven solutions.

Managing Director’s View

Mr. Ravinder Chander Prem, Managing Director, Birla Precision Technologies Limited, stated:

“Birla Precision Technologies has earned customer trust over decades. Our next phase of growth is centered on enhancing how we manage, manufacture, and deliver precision solutions. With our renewed strategy, we are strengthening our production capabilities, upgrading infrastructure, and deepening our technological expertise to align with the evolving demands of multiple industries.”

He added that these initiatives will enable the company to serve new sectors while further strengthening its core competencies in precision machining and industrial engineering.

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Driving Modernization Through Innovation and Strategic Investment

Under the leadership of Vedant Birla, Birla Precision Technologies has undertaken several strategic initiatives to modernize its legacy businesses and drive expansion. These efforts are supported by sustained investments in:

• Research and Development
• Advanced manufacturing technologies
• Process innovation and automation
• Skill development and operational excellence

Through these initiatives, Birla Precision Technologies is positioning itself as a future-ready organization capable of delivering world-class precision engineering solutions while contributing to India’s industrial growth.

This strategic transformation reinforces Birla Precision Technologies Limited’s commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainable growth in the global precision engineering and manufacturing landscape.

Jamia Ismailiya at Masauli Sharif Integrates Religious and Modern Education
Masauli Sharif, Barabanki (Uttar Pradesh):

Jamia Ismailiya at Masauli Sharif Integrates Religious and Modern Education
Masauli Sharif, Barabanki (Uttar Pradesh):

Jamia Ismailiya at Masauli Sharif Integrates Religious and Modern Education
Masauli Sharif, Barabanki (Uttar Pradesh):
Jamia Ismailiya, an educational institution established at Masauli Sharif, has emerged as a center for integrated religious and modern education under the supervision of Syed Gulzar Ismail Wasti, also known as Gulzar-e-Millat.

The institution offers structured courses in traditional Islamic education, including Hifz-e-Qur’an, Aalimiyat, and Mufti programmes, while simultaneously providing instruction in modern academic subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Geography, English, and Hindi. The dual curriculum aims to prepare students for religious scholarship alongside contemporary educational requirements.
According to the institution’s administration, Jamia Ismailiya was founded with the objective of combining classical Islamic studies with mainstream education so that students could pursue religious learning without remaining disconnected from modern academic disciplines.
Students enrolled in the institution come from Masauli Sharif and surrounding regions of Barabanki district. Residential facilities have also been developed to accommodate students from distant areas, enabling them to continue their studies in a structured academic environment.
Educationists note that institutions adopting an integrated curriculum play a significant role in bridging the gap between traditional madrasa education and modern schooling. By including secular subjects alongside religious studies, Jamia Ismailiya seeks to broaden educational opportunities for its students.
Community members associated with the institution state that graduates are increasingly participating in teaching, religious services, and community-oriented activities in different parts of the state, reflecting the wider social impact of the educational initiative.
The management of Jamia Ismailiya has indicated that further academic development and infrastructure expansion are planned in the coming years to enhance the quality of education and student facilities.
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Lucknow: Montra Electric, part of the Murugappa Group, has achieved a major milestone in India’s clean mobility journey by becoming the first manufacturer to receive PM E-Drive certification for a heavy-duty electric truck.

Marking this achievement, Montra Electric officially delivered India’s first PM E-Drive certified heavy electric truck — the Rhino 5538 EV 6×4 tractor trailer — to UltraTech Cement Limited, the country’s largest cement and ready-mix concrete company.

This landmark delivery highlights Montra Electric’s strong commitment to advancing electric mobility solutions across India’s logistics and industrial sectors.

PM E-Drive Scheme Accelerates Adoption of Electric Heavy Trucks

Under the Government of India’s ₹10,900 crore PM E-Drive scheme, ₹500 crore has been allocated specifically to promote electric trucks in the heavy-duty segment.

The Rhino 5538 EV qualifies for an incentive of up to ₹9.6 lakh per vehicle, significantly reducing operating costs for fleet operators and encouraging faster transition to electric commercial vehicles.

UltraTech Cement Becomes First Operator of PM E-Drive Certified EV Truck

The celebratory handover ceremony was attended by:

• Mr. Arun Murugappan, Chairman – Montra Electric (TI Clean Mobility)
• Mr. Jalaj Gupta, Managing Director – Montra Electric
• Mr. Sathiya Raj, Chief Procurement Officer – UltraTech Cement Limited

This initiative is expected to drive large-scale adoption of electric heavy trucks in logistics, mining, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors.

Electric Trucks Offer High Performance with Lower Operating Costs

According to Montra Electric, switching from conventional fuel-based trucks to electric heavy-duty vehicles delivers multiple benefits, including:

• Reduced fuel and maintenance costs
• Stable operational economics unaffected by fuel price fluctuations
• Compliance with sustainability and emission norms
• High uptime and strong performance capabilities

The PM E-Drive certification marks a decisive step towards cleaner, more efficient, and future-ready freight transportation in India.

Government Vision: Decarbonizing Logistics and Building an EV Manufacturing Hub

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister for Heavy Industries Mr. H.D. Kumaraswamy stated:

“The PM E-Drive scheme showcases India’s growing innovation capabilities in the heavy-duty electric vehicle segment. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are committed to decarbonizing logistics and establishing India as a global hub for EV manufacturing.”

Lucknow, January 30th, 2026 – Xiaomi, the global technology leader, today announced a strategic expansion of its premium service center network in India. By launching centers in 15 new cities, the company marks the second phase of its ambitious plan to establish 100 premium service hubs nationwide. This expansion underscores Xiaomi’s “Value-for-Experience” strategy, focusing on accessible, reliable, and experience-driven after-sales ownership.

The latest rollout includes centers in Lucknow, Surat, and Visakhapatnam, following recent launches in Ludhiana and Indore. Xiaomi aims to have all 15 new locations operational by the end of Q1 2026.

Redefining After-Sales: More Than Just a Repair Hub

Xiaomi’s new-generation premium service centers are designed to move beyond traditional repairs. These centers serve as holistic experience hubs where transparency and speed are prioritized.

Key Features of the Premium Centers:

• Rapid Turnaround: 95% of devices are repaired and delivered within 24 hours.
• Product Interaction Zones: Dedicated areas for customers to explore and purchase the latest Xiaomi products.
• Sustainability Focus: Paperless operations and eco-friendly practices at every touchpoint.
• Standby Support: If a repair takes longer than two hours, customers are provided with standby handsets to ensure zero connectivity loss.

“Our first 10 centers proved that customers value reliable, experience-based support. As device lifecycles lengthen, our premium network ensures users get maximum value and longevity from their technology,” said Sudhin Mathur, Chief Operating Officer, Xiaomi India.

Inclusive Benefits and Community Initiatives

To make premium support more inclusive, Xiaomi has introduced specialized benefit programs for various consumer segments.

Exclusive Discounts and Offers:

• Lifetime Benefits: Defense personnel and persons with disabilities receive a lifetime waiver on service charges.
• Women’s Special: A 30-day exclusive service discount period dedicated to female customers.
• Limited-Time Deals: Up to 50% off on select spare parts and free screen protectors for eligible devices.
• Xiaomi Days: Every Wednesday, users can avail of free device health check-ups, professional cleaning, and software upgrades with zero labor charges for out-of-warranty repairs.

A Commitment to Quality and Reliability

As smartphone replacement cycles grow longer, Xiaomi is positioning itself as a long-term partner for its users. By combining high-quality engineering with robust software support and an accessible service network, the brand is fostering a sustainable ownership journey.

The success of this model is reflected in the data from 2025. With a repeat-visit rate of less than 1% and customer escalations dropping below 0.5%, the premium service model has already earned significant consumer trust. Every center is staffed by Xiaomi-certified experts who undergo rigorous training to maintain a gold standard in technical resolution.

LUCKNOW: India’s automotive aftermarket is entering a transformative era, propelled by aggressive policy reforms, a surge in investments, and the rapid integration of advanced technologies. According to the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), the Indian auto component industry has reached a valuation of $80.2 billion in FY25, with the aftermarket segment alone contributing $11.8 billion.

Industry projections suggest the sector is on track to reach a staggering $111–$200 billion by 2030, positioning India as a resilient and competitive hub in the global value chain.

Yashobhoomi to Host India’s Largest Aftermarket Expo

Against this backdrop of exponential growth, ACMA Automechanika New Delhi 2026 is set to take place from February 5 to 7, 2026, at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre), Dwarka, Delhi.

Organized by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India and ACMA, the 6th edition of this premier trade fair will feature:

• 870+ Exhibitors from over 20 countries.
• 3,000+ Brands showcasing the latest in OE manufacturing and aftermarket solutions.
• Strategic Convergence: A dedicated platform for OEMs, distributors, garage owners, fleet operators, and international buyers.

Driving the ‘Make in India’ Momentum

The industry’s momentum is heavily supported by government initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, FDI reforms, and the Make in India campaign. These policies have successfully attracted robust investor interest, focusing on capacity expansion, electric mobility (EV), and export-oriented manufacturing.

“As India prioritizes quality-based development, ACMA Automechanika 2026 will demonstrate how our industry is aligning with global trends,” said Mr. Raj Manek, Executive Director and Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd. “The show will unite global participants around sustainable solutions, clean-fuel ecosystems, and technological innovations aimed at a greener future.”

Key Growth Indicators for 2026 and Beyond

Category	Current Value (FY25)	Projected Value (2030)
Total Component Industry	$80.2 Billion	$111 – $200 Billion
Auto Aftermarket	$11.8 Billion	$16+ Billion
Exports Goal	$22.9 Billion	Up to $100 Billion

Why This Matters for the Global Market

As global supply chains diversify, India is emerging as the “safe bet” for international sourcing. The 2026 expo will highlight:

• Digital Transformation: Advanced vehicle diagnostics and telematics.
• Green Mobility: Components for EV and hybrid ecosystems.
• Localization: Reducing import dependency while scaling high-quality exports to North America and Europe.

Deputy Director Ashok Kumar Verma Leading Operations Across 38 Cities

Barabanki Handloom Industry Gets Boost from Ministry of Textiles

The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, continues its mission to empower India’s traditional weavers through the Bunkar Sewa Kendra initiative.

Deputy Director Ashok Kumar Verma is currently managing activities in 38 cities under this project, ensuring continuous support and development for handloom artisans.

Under his guidance, the Barabanki Handloom cluster—one of Uttar Pradesh’s oldest weaving hubs—is witnessing renewed growth. The initiative focuses on upgrading handloom technology, providing financial assistance, and connecting weavers with new domestic and international markets.

Barabanki Handloom Cluster Witnesses Growth Under Ashok Kumar Verma’s Leadership

Verma emphasized that government schemes aim to improve the livelihoods of weavers through modern training, marketing exposure, and access to sustainable raw materials. “Our goal is to ensure that every Barabanki handloom product reflects India’s craftsmanship and reaches global buyers,” he added.

The Bunkar Sewa Kendra is also offering support for screen printing, dyeing, and design innovation, enabling traditional artisans to adopt contemporary fashion trends while preserving the heritage of handloom weaving.

Short Summary:
Zoho vs Microsoft Indian software company Zoho, founded by Sridhar Vembu in Tamil Nadu, is making global headlines by positioning itself as a homegrown alternative to Microsoft. With over 130 million users in 60+ countries, ₹1 lakh crore valuation, and products rivaling Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, Zoho is redefining India’s place in the global tech landscape.

An Indian Company Dares to Challenge Microsoft

When a company from India claims it can “replace Microsoft”, it naturally raises eyebrows. After all, Microsoft is a $4 trillion American tech giant — its valuation alone surpasses India’s GDP. Yet, Zoho, a Chennai-based software firm valued at around $12 billion (₹1 lakh crore), has boldly stepped into the spotlight, igniting conversations about India’s potential to compete with global tech leaders.

Government Support Signals a Shift Towards Swadeshi Tech

The buzz around Zoho intensified when IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, an IIT alumnus, announced that his official presentations were now created using Zoho Show — not Microsoft PowerPoint. “I am switching to Zoho for my documents, spreadsheets, and presentations,” he tweeted, highlighting a clear shift towards Swadeshi (indigenous) technology.
This move wasn’t just symbolic; it was a significant endorsement that propelled “Zoho vs Microsoft” into national and business headlines.

Zoho’s Impressive Growth Without Ads or Foreign Funding

Unlike most startups, Zoho is bootstrapped, built entirely without foreign funding. Despite spending zero on advertising, it has grown into a global software powerhouse with:

• ₹8,700 crore annual revenue
• ₹2,800 crore net profit
• 33% profit margin
• 130 million+ users across 60 countries
• 18,000+ employees and 16 data centers

Major global brands — including Amazon, Netflix, Mercedes-Benz, Citibank, HDFC, Philips, and Ford — use Zoho’s CRM and enterprise solutions to enhance customer experiences.

Products That Rival Microsoft and Google

Zoho’s vast suite of products offers alternatives to almost every major Microsoft and Google service:

• Zoho Show – Alternative to PowerPoint
• Zoho Mail – Alternative to Gmail/Outlook
• Zoho WorkDrive – Alternative to Google Drive
• Arattai – Alternative to WhatsApp
• Zoho Sign, Zoho Books, Zoho Invoice – Business productivity tools

This comprehensive ecosystem makes Zoho a credible player in enterprise software — a space long dominated by American giants.

Sridhar Vembu – The Visionary Behind Zoho

Sridhar Vembu, an IIT Madras alumnus, left a promising career in the U.S. and returned to India to build a global tech company from his hometown Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu.
His message to Indian professionals stuck in the U.S. on H-1B visas is powerful:

“Don’t fear returning home. Work here for five years, and we can surpass the world.”

Vembu’s vision is deeply rooted in self-reliance. Despite holding just 5% of Zoho’s shares, he built a company that not only competes globally but also embodies Indian values and family-driven leadership.

A Swadeshi Revolution in the Making

The rise of Zoho comes at a time when India is rethinking its reliance on foreign technology. With ministers openly using Zoho tools and advocating “Make in India” alternatives, the narrative is shifting.
While Microsoft’s $4 trillion valuation is daunting, Zoho’s rise proves that global dominance begins with local ambition.

As the world watches, one question remains: Can Zoho truly challenge Microsoft’s monopoly in business software? If current momentum is any indication, the answer might soon be yes.