Author: Athira Sethu
The Justice K. Hema Committee Report has brought to light the severe challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, often referred to as Mollywood. This report, which was initiated after the shocking assault on an actress in 2017, exposes the widespread issues of sexual harassment, gender inequality, and exploitation that female actors encounter in the industry. The report also offers recommendations to improve the working conditions for women in Mollywood. ★ Widespread Sexual Exploitation and the Casting Couch One of the most alarming findings of the Hema Committee Report is the prevalence of the “casting couch” in Mollywood.…
Innovative research and development organisations in the electronics sector often face significant challenges during the early stages of product development. Specifically, the assembly of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) printed circuit boards (PCBs) can prove to be a major hurdle, especially when relying on outsourced manufacturing solutions. Xalten Systems Pvt Ltd, founded in 2023 and led by CEO Unnikrishnan, is committed to supporting the local industry and has stepped in to address these challenges with their range of advanced manufacturing equipment. The Challenge of SMT PCB Assembly As electronics continue to evolve, components are becoming smaller and more intricate, complicating the…
India’s gems and jewellery sector plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy, contributing approximately 7% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This thriving industry supports over five million skilled and semi-skilled workers and ranks third in India’s total merchandise exports, accounting for about 15.71% of the country’s export share. Despite a decline in growth of 15.31% in 2023-24 compared to the previous year, the sector remains a cornerstone of India’s export economy, with exports reaching USD 29.61 billion. Government Initiatives and Focus The Indian government, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is committed to enhancing the export of gems and…
Leather Luxury, a modest leather footwear enterprise based in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a testament to India’s burgeoning leather industry. Despite its smaller scale, the company produces approximately 200,000 pairs of shoes annually and exports thousands to Dubai. This contribution is part of a larger network of small-scale leather units in Agra that play a crucial role in India’s leather footwear exports. Agra: A Hub for Leather Production Agra, renowned for its small-scale leather enterprises, significantly impacts India’s overall leather production. With global footwear brands seeking new manufacturing locations and diversifying from China, Agra has emerged as a viable…
India’s dairy industry, with its rich heritage and robust growth, has become a significant player in the global market, contributing notably to the “Made in India” campaign. This initiative, aimed at promoting Indian products and enhancing the country’s export profile, has seen substantial gains through the export of dairy products. Here’s how dairy product exports are enhancing the “Made in India” campaign: Strengthening Brand India The export of Indian dairy products is not only expanding the global reach of Indian goods but also enhancing the reputation of the “Made in India” brand. Indian dairy products, known for their quality and…
The Ayush sector has experienced remarkable growth, with a 17% annual increase from 2014 to 2020. The industry’s market size surged from $2.85 billion in 2014 to $18.1 billion, reflecting a sixfold expansion. This sector is poised to create nearly 3 million job opportunities, showcasing its substantial impact on the Indian economy. Expanding Market Share The Ayush market is diverse, with herbal plants leading at 43.35%, followed by nutraceuticals at 24.65%, and pharmaceuticals at 14.11%. The herbal medicine sector alone grew at 7.4% annually during 2014-2020. The herbal pharmaceutical segment, in particular, saw impressive growth at 18.5% during the same period, representing 14.1% of the market in 2020. Boosting Exports…
Junaid Khan, the son of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, is currently in the limelight following the success of his Netflix series, “Maharaj.” However, it’s not just his acting skills that are garnering attention; Junaid’s down-to-earth nature and humility have also won him a lot of praise. A viral video of him travelling by auto-rickshaw has captured the hearts of many, highlighting his simplicity despite being the son of a superstar with a net worth of around Rs 1862 crore. A Humble Approach to Stardom The video, shared by news channel E-24, showcased Junaid’s unpretentious lifestyle, a rarity among star kids.…
Established in 2006 at the state-run Kinfra Park in Kannur, Kerala, Maryan Apparel Pvt Limited has carved a niche in the international market by specialising in uniforms for various professionals, including military personnel, police officers, security staff, and healthcare workers. The company has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and precision in uniform manufacturing. Tailoring for Global Clients Over the past eight years, Maryan Apparel has been diligently producing uniform shirts for the Israel police force. The elegant light blue, long-sleeve shirts, complete with double pockets and distinctive emblems, have become a staple for the Israeli law enforcement. The…
The Kashmir bat industry, celebrated for its cricket bats crafted from Kashmir willow, is making a significant impact on the global stage. Once overshadowed by the dominance of English willow bats, these “Made in India” bats are now garnering international acclaim. This rising recognition underscores the quality and craftsmanship that Indian manufacturers bring to the global cricket market. Industry Impact and Growth Valued at approximately ₹700 crore, the Kashmir bat industry is a vital part of the local economy, providing employment to over 10,000 individuals. In the 2021-2022 period alone, around 35,000 bats were exported from Kashmir, reflecting a substantial…
India’s bicycle industry is experiencing a significant boost in international demand, thanks to a growing emphasis on health and environmental sustainability in Europe. The surge in interest spans across the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, known for its strong cycling culture. Additionally, developing nations like Mozambique and Chad are increasingly turning to India for their bicycle needs. Key Export Destinations In the fiscal year 2023-24, Mozambique emerged as the leading destination for India’s bicycle exports, with shipments valued at $10.41 million, marking a 17.82% increase from the previous year. The UK followed closely, with exports rising by 130% to $8.85 million. The Netherlands saw a remarkable 169.38% increase, with…