Latest news with #SaurabhJoshi
India Gazette
5 days ago
- Business
- India Gazette
Hindustan Copper shifts to underground mining, plans to double output amid surge in infra demand
By Saurabh Joshi Malnjkhand/Balaghat (Madhya Pradesh) [India], July 5 (ANI): In a significant development for India's mining sector, Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) has successfully transitioned its flagship Malanjkhand mine from open-cast to fully underground operations. The announcement was made during a site visit on Saturday, where HCL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Kumar Singh laid out the company's ambitious roadmap for copper production.'For the year 2024-25, our entire production from Malanjkhand has come from underground mining,' said CMD Singh. 'We are currently producing around 4 million tonnes, and we aim to double this to nearly 12 million tonnes -- within the next six years,' he a Government of India enterprise, is undertaking this expansion to meet the growing domestic demand for copper, which has seen a sharp rise with the emergence of artificial intelligence and data centers.'Earlier, copper demand was largely driven by electric vehicles, metros, railways, and transmission lines. But now, with the boom in AI and data centers, which consume huge amounts of copper for wiring and cooling systems, the demand has grown exponentially,' Singh in a strategic international move, HCL signed an MoU on April 1, 2025, with Codelco, Chile's state-owned copper mining giant. The partnership aims to strengthen HCL's capabilities in deep exploration, operational excellence, and adoption of global best practices.'Codelco will assist us in exploring copper deposits beyond one kilometer depth, share international benchmarks, and help us resolve technical challenges in our mines,' Singh said.'Their team has already arrived in India as of June 23 to initiate collaborative work.'Additionally, CMD Singh described this phase as a pivotal moment in the company's journey. 'This is the Amrit Kaal. We must utilize this time effectively to contribute to the Prime Minister's vision of a Developed India by 2047,' he said. 'Our role in meeting India's copper requirements is crucial, and we are committed to scaling up every aspect of our operations,' he added.A comprehensive Vision Document has been laid out by Union Coal and Mining Minister G Kishan Reddy to guide this transformation. It outlines production targets, technology upgrades, recycling initiatives, and sustainability goals to ensure the copper industry plays a leading role in India's industrial growth. (ANI)
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Chandigarh: Councillors weigh in on AI-powered smart parking plan for UT
In a significant step towards addressing the city's ongoing parking challenges, around 20 councillors from various parties attended an all-party meeting convened by mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla on Tuesday to discuss the much-anticipated Smart Parking project. Held just days before the June 30 General House meeting, the session saw modest participation as councillors reviewed the revised blueprint for the city's AI-based parking initiative. The re-imagined project, aims to implement AI–based, state-of-the-art facilities across 89 parking lots in the city. (HT File) The fresh proposal came nearly three months after the Chandigarh municipal corporation (MC) house scrapped the previous version of the Smart Parking project, citing execution and infrastructure gaps. The re-imagined project, drafted by the parking committee of the civic body chaired by councillor Saurabh Joshi, aims to implement artificial intelligence–based, state-of-the-art facilities across 89 parking lots in the city to streamline traffic flow and enhance parking convenience for residents. As per the project proposal, the revamped project will have an AI-enabled parking management and monitoring, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), real-time space availability tracking, dynamic pricing and demand-based slot allocation, pre-booking options for convenience, live status updates via mobile app and digital displays, integrated digital payment solutions, centralised command and control centre, 'pink periphery zones' for women's safety, dedicated spaces for persons with disabilities, EV charging stations at multiple sites, valet parking services at select locations, energy-efficient lighting and infrastructure, and emergency features including SOS alerts and dedicated lanes. The software support for these systems is proposed to come from the Society for Promotion of IT in Chandigarh (SPIC). Additionally, there have been deliberations on data protection protocols, revenue-sharing models, inclusion of GST and stamp duties, and a new fee structure. During the meeting, Congress councillor Gurpreet Singh Gabi raised concerns regarding the implementation timeline and profit-first approach of past contractors. 'The MC is proposing that the firm allotted the tender can begin charging revised rates within 90 days and then upgrade the infrastructure. But based on past experience, these companies start collecting money without completing the infrastructure set up. This time, priority must be given to completing the infrastructure first,' Gabi said. Notably, on April 27, the House approved a hike in parking rates, which will come into effect once the smart system is rolled out. According to the new structure, parking will remain free for the first 15 minutes at all 89 MC-managed lots — a move aimed at easing quick-turnaround visits and improving vehicle circulation. For longer duration, four-wheelers will be charged ₹ 20 for up to four hours, up from the current ₹ 14. Two-wheeler users will pay ₹ 10, a rise from ₹ 7. Premium rates of ₹ 85 for the first four hours have been proposed for high-traffic commercial hubs such as Elante Mall, Fun Republic, and Piccadily Square, making them the most expensive parking spots in the city. AAP councillor Prem Lata said, 'Suggestions were given to ensure that the parking staff wear uniform, with their names and contact numbers printed on it. Also, vacant spaces of MC should be converted into parking lots. Also, reserving the parking space using an online booking method can be tricky as space will remain un-utilised for hours, and long waiting queues will be seen on city roads.' Congress councillor Sachin Galav and other party councillors staged a walkout from the meeting for protesting against the administration for organising a political event. 'Chandigarh administration and BJP should be ashamed of holding events like 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas' while doing nothing for the city. The same BJP that brings unconstitutional ordinances, misuses ED and CBI, crushes dissent, and runs parliament without debate, talks about saving the constitution? hypocrisy at its peak,' Galav said.
Indian Express
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Indian Express
Chandigarh MC mulls implementation of smart AI-based parking project at 89 locations
The Municipal Corporation's (MC's) parking committee has proposed the implementation of a smart AI-based parking project at 89 locations across Chandigarh. The plan was discussed at a key meeting held under the chair of Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla. The meeting saw participation from committee chairman Saurabh Joshi and councillors including Jaswinder Kaur, Umesh Ghai, Dilip Sharma, Rajinder Sharma, Anil Masih, Jasbir Singh Bunty, and others, alongside senior MC officers. As outlined during the discussion, the project aims to tackle growing traffic congestion and parking chaos in the city by introducing a seamless, tech-driven, and citizen-friendly parking ecosystem. The proposed system integrates artificial intelligence to enable real-time parking space tracking, automatic number plate recognition, and centralised monitoring. Key features of the proposed smart parking model include dynamic pricing, pre-booking options, live updates via a mobile app and digital display boards, digital payments, and a centralised command and control centre. In addition, the proposal includes infrastructure enhancements such as energy-efficient lighting, SOS emergency systems, and valet services at select locations. The plan also emphasises inclusivity with designated 'Pink Periphery Zones' for women's safety, special parking spots for persons with disabilities, and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations across several sites. The parking committee has invited suggestions from all councillors to refine the project before it is presented in the upcoming General House meeting for final approval. If approved, this initiative could position Chandigarh as a leading smart mobility city in India, aligning with the broader vision of sustainable and tech-enabled urban development, an MC official said.
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Stock picking: Improving operating profit could signal long-term market outperformance
How do you pick winners when global equity markets are rocked by trade uncertainties and there is persistent weakness in domestic demand? One effective way is to closely check your company's EBITDA ( earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) margins. In a nutshell, these are fundamentally sound companies that effectively minimise value erosion amid periods of high market volatility. Why EBITDA is a winner EBITDA is calculated by subtracting operating expenses (excluding depreciation) from the sales revenue. On the other hand, EBITDA margin is calculated by dividing EBITDA by the sales revenue. For example, a company with an EBITDA margin of 10% means that the company is generating Rs.10 as operating profit on every Rs.100 worth of sales. A study conducted by ET Wealth shows that the companies that have consistently improved EBITDA margins over the last four quarters have significantly outperformed the market benchmark in the last one year whereas the companies with consistent deterioration in EBITDA margins significantly underperformed the market benchmark. An analysis of 1,508 companies (excluding those in banking, finance, and insurance) reveals that 29 companies have maintained positive EBITDA margins and consistently improved them over the last four quarters. In contrast, 28 companies have shown a steady decline in EBITDA margins during the same period. The latest data pertains to the March 2025 quarter and has been sourced from the Reuters-Refinitiv database. In the last one year, the group of 29 companies (with positive EBITDA margins) has generated an equal-weighted average return of 30.3%, whereas the group of 28 companies (with negative EBITDA margins) has generated -9.8% returns. The Nifty 500 equal-weighted index delivered 7.8% returns in the last one year. The returns are based on 30 May 2025 closing prices. Experts agree. 'Improving EBITDA margins increases the RoE of the business, which in turn improves the growth and profitability of the business and the stock price of the company,' says Saurabh Joshi, Head of Research, Marwadi Shares and Finance Limited (MSFL). Significance of EBITDA margins EBITDA provides an accurate picture of the company's competitive strengths as it excludes the effect of non-cash charges (or depreciation), varying capital structures and taxes. 'EBITDA is the preferred metric for investors who want to know how a company performs at its core before financing decisions and accounting treatments cloud the picture,' says Om Ghawalkar, Market Analyst, a stock brokerage firm. A strong EBITDA indicates efficiency and the company's ability to generate value. Analysts suggest that investors should consider EBITDA margins over a period of time to spot good quality companies with sustainable business models and sound financial health. Corporate India performance Corporate India saw a modest improvement in both revenue and EBITDA in the March 2025 quarter compared to the December 2024 quarter. Based on a sample size of 1,508 non-BFSI companies. Growth is year-on-year. 'Consistent improvement in EBITDA margins signals superior execution, pricing power, cost control, and positive operating leverage. It reflects a company's ability to increase profits faster than expenses,' says Sonam Srivastava, Founder and Fund Manager at Wright Research PMS.'. EBITDA in a soft quarter The recent quarter performance of corporate India indicates ongoing growth challenges. Despite muted revenue growth, the operating profit growth improved relative to the December 2024 quarter, helped by cost control initiatives, operational efficiencies and input cost benefits in certain segments (see graphic). EBITDA climbers favoured by analysts Going forward, analysts expect demand to improve, aided by rural revival, steady urban consumption, normal monsoons and increased government spending. However, input costs present a mixed picture. Ghawalkar says the softer crude oil prices and the strong coal supply may ease costs for sectors like aviation and chemicals, but other sectors are likely to face pressures. While cotton MSP hikes will hit input costs in the textiles segment, rising logistics costs may squeeze margins in cement. Additionally, wage inflation in IT and healthcare is likely to keep operating costs elevated in these sectors. Here are the five companies from the group of 29 with rising EBITDA margins that have a strong analyst coverage: Orient Electric The electrical equipment manufacturer specialises in home appliances, including fans, lighting and switchgears. The company has reported strong March 2025 quarter: revenue up 9% year-on-year (y-o-y), net profit up 144%. Growth was driven by the lighting and switchgears segment, on the back of distribution expansion, new products, and premium category demand. EBITDA margin expanded 390 bps y-oy, supported by cost optimisation and Project Sanchay. The fans segment is poised for market share gains via improved DTM strategy and Hyderabad plant scale-up. Centrum Broking cites DTM, premiumisation, alternate channels, and Hyderabad plant as key growth and margin drivers. Affle 3i The global technology company specialises in mobile advertising, digital consulting, and software development. In the March 2025 quarter, revenue was up 19% y-o-y, net profit up 17.8%. Growth was led by developed markets (+27.3% y-o-y); India grew nearly 15.9%. EBITDA margin up 290 bps y-o-y, driven by lower employee costs and operational gains. Management targets 20% revenue growth in 2025-26 with gradual margin improvement. Ambit Capital sees tailwinds from integrated platform, stronger processes, sales push, premiumisation, and exposure to high-growth markets and segments. Brigade Enterprises The Bangalore based real estate developer has a diversified portfolio, including residential, commercial, hospitality and retail projects. The March 2025 quarter pre-sales was up 9% y-o-y, driven by strong new launches. EBITDA was down 4% y-o-y, but margin expanded 307 bps on cost control and premium property sales. Robust launch pipeline in residential and commercial segments underpins 2025-26 growth visibility. It expects 15-20% pre-sales growth in 2025-26. Antique Stock Broking highlights geographic expansion beyond Bengaluru, strong launch pipeline, and rising rental asset occupancy as the key positives. Jupiter Life Line Hospitals The multispeciality healthcare provider offers tertiary and quaternary care across various medical specialties. In the March 2025 quarter, revenue was up 12.5% y-o-y, EBITDA up 25.7%, driven by better case mix and higher ARPOB. EBITDA margin expanded 260 bps yo-y due to cost control and operational efficiency. It is on track to reach 2,500 beds across 6 hospitals in Western India in 3-4 years. Exploring growth via acquisitions and greenfield projects. Prabhudas Lilladher expects sustained growth from expansion, rising occupancy, margin gains, and strategic moves in high-density western markets. National Aluminium The PSU company is engaged in in mining, alumina refining and aluminium smelting. In March 2025 quarter, revenue was up 47% y-o-y, EBITDA up 149%, driven by strong alumina and aluminium performance. EBITDA margin surged 2133 bps y-o-y, supported by lower costs and higher alumina realisations. Targeting 36-37% EBITDA margin in 2025-26 via volume growth and cost efficiencies. Axis Securities flags near-term EBITDA risk from falling alumina prices, but sees partial offset from strong cost control and higher alumina sales guidance.
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Smart parking: MC discusses RFP with stakeholders
Chandigarh: A pre-RFP consultation meeting regarding preparation of the Request for Proposal (RFP) for smart parking solutions was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of councillor and committee chairman Saurabh Joshi. The meeting aimed at gathering inputs from prospective stakeholders, including bidders, vendors, OEMs, and system integrators for the proposed project, on public-private partnership (PPP) model. Other committee members present included councillors Umesh Ghai, Jaswinder Kaur and Darshana Puri, besides joint commissioner, MC, Sumeet Sihag and other officers of the civic body. After outlining the vision of the smart parking solution, Joshi invited suggestions from stakeholders to enhance the RFP framework. Stakeholders recommended incorporating a Proof of Concept (PoC), implementing AI-based and RFID-enabled solutions, introducing valet services, and deploying LED display boards for real-time availability updates. Suggestions also included zoning of parking areas, use of ANPR/OCR, allowing consortiums and international firms, and choosing between POS or ticketing machines to reduce costs. Participants urged compliance with manpower regulations, inclusion of geo-fencing and clarity on legal frameworks concerning stamp duty. A minimum financial turnover of Rs 10 crore for bidders was proposed. The MC will evaluate all suggestions for incorporation into the final RFP to ensure a transparent, efficient, and technologically advanced smart parking system for the city. MSID:: 121441329 413 |
