Action-Packed Scenes to Ultimate Face-Off: 5 Reasons to Watch Salman Khan’s Sikandar This Eid!

From Action to Emotions – 5 Reasons to Watch Salman Khan’s Sikandar This Eid on the Big Screens!

Salman Khan is set to set the big screen ablaze this Eid with Sikandar, hitting theaters on March 30. The film’s trailer and songs have already ignited massive excitement, promising a high-octane mix of action and drama. With full-on mass entertainment, Sikandar is poised to be a blockbuster and a true treat for Bhaijaan fans. As anticipation soars for its release, here are five compelling reasons why Salman’s upcoming Eid extravaganza is a must-watch on the big screen!

*Salman Khan’s Electrifying Entry: A Mass Moment Guaranteed!*

Salman Khan’s larger-than-life screen presence is pure magic, and what’s a Salman film without a grand, whistle-worthy entry? Bursting through thick white fumes, he makes sure his fans aren’t left disappointed. His fierce, action-packed avatar, combined with his signature swag, guarantees an adrenaline rush that will set theaters roaring with excitement!

*Explosive Action and Powerful Dialogues*

When Salman Khan is on screen, every line and scene is pure whistle-worthy magic! His dialogues, from Kick to Wanted, remain iconic even today. For Sikandar, the makers ensured power-packed lines like “Bohot saare policewale jail gaye hain...” and “Mere gusse par mera full control hain...” Fans can already picture the deafening cheers when Bhaijaan delivers these on the grand 70mm screen!

*Original Storyline and Pure Mass Entertainment*

In an era of remakes, Sikandar stands out with its entirely original storyline. Directed by Ghajini filmmaker AR Murugadoss, every scene and frame is crafted with authenticity. “This is a completely original story,” the director confirmed. Adding to its uniqueness, Santosh Narayanan’s powerful background score elevates the film’s energy and depth. Seeing a big star in a fresh narrative will be an exciting experience for audiences.

*Salman Khan & Rashmika Mandanna’s Chemistry*

Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna are set to share the screen for the first time, and their electrifying chemistry in the trailer and songs has already sparked massive excitement. Fans are eagerly awaiting this fresh pairing, with social media buzzing over their on-screen dynamic. Watching their characters unfold on the big screen promises to be a thrilling experience.

*Salman Khan vs. Sathyaraj: An Awaited Face-Off!*

A hero is only as strong as his villain, and Salman Khan knows this well. This time, he faces the formidable Sathyaraj, famed as Kattappa from Baahubali. Playing a scheming politician, Sathyaraj’s composed yet menacing presence promises intense confrontations. Their high-stakes battle will be a thrilling cinematic showdown!

Get ready for an epic cinematic experience this Eid 2025! Salman Khan returns to the big screen, joined by the stunning Rashmika Mandanna in Sikandar. Backed by the visionary Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by the master storyteller A.R. Murugadoss, the film is set to release on March 30, 2025.

LIC's clarification on the recent changes in rules raised by the agents to the Hon'ble Leader of the Opposition

_Today some of the LIC agents met the Hon’ble Leader of Opposition and raised certain issues._*

“ _We want to clarify that LIC has introduced products that align with the New Product Regulations set by IRDA, effective from October 1, 2024, keeping policyholders’ interests at the forefront_ .” said *Siddhartha Mohanty, CEO&MD, LIC.*

“ _Committed to broadening life insurance coverage, LIC has consistently focused on reaching rural areas and economically and socially disadvantaged sections. Our aim is to extend financial protection to every insurable individual at an affordable cost_ .” *Shri. Mohanty said.*

*Shri Mohanty* added “ _With a diverse portfolio catering to various customer segments and different strata of society, LIC fully complies with all regulatory requirements. As an example, our Micro Bachat plan offers a minimum sum assured of ₹1 lakh and is exempt from GST, ensuring accessibility. Post changes in product regulations, the commission has not been reduced for agents, it has been given in staggered manner_ .”

“ _LIC remains dedicated to providing financial security to its policyholders while also supporting the well-being of its agency force_ .” *Shri Mohanty said.*

Special Measures for extending services to Policy Holders of LIC of India

The Offices of LIC of India under jurisdiction of Zones and Divisions will be kept open for normal operations as per official working hours on 29.03.2025, 30.03.2025, and 31.03.2025 in order to avoid any hardship to the policyholders. This is as per the advisory issued by Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) dated 12.3.2025. 

FICCI-BAF Awards 2025 celebrates excellence in AVGC-XR Industry; Unveils FICCI-EY M&E Report on Industry Growth

 

MUMBAI, 28 March 2025: ‘FICCI-BAF Awards 2025’ were announced yesterday celebrating excellence in Animation, Visual Effects (VFX), Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (XR). Established in 2004, the Best Animated Frames (BAF) Awards have grown into India's foremost platform recognizing innovation, creativity, and technological advancements in the AVGC-XR sector.

 

With 33 award categories, this year’s ceremony honoured outstanding contributions across the industry, including Best Animated Feature, Best VFX in Films, Best Game Design, and Best XR Experience. The awards catalyse innovation, offering students, professionals, and studios a global stage to showcase their work while facilitating invaluable networking opportunities with investors, producers, and industry leaders.

 

During the event, FICCI also launched the Annual FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment (M&E) Report – Shaping the Future, offering key insights into the industry’s trajectory. According to the report, India's M&E sector grew by 3.3% in 2024, reaching INR 2.5 trillion (US$29.4 billion). Digital media emerged as the largest segment, growing by 17% to INR 802 billion, while advertising revenues saw an 8.1% rise, driven by digital platforms, live events, and Out-of-Home (OOH) media. However, a 2% decline in subscription revenues impacted traditional media segments, highlighting the need for strategic policy support. The sector is projected to grow 7.2% in 2025 and reach INR 3.1 trillion by 2027, driven by digital expansion, strategic alliances, and AI-driven advancements.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Munjal Shroff, Chair, FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, said, “The FICCI BAF Awards 2025 celebrate the ingenuity, passion, and dedication of India’s AVGC-XR industry. As technology and storytelling evolve, India is emerging as a powerhouse in content creation for global audiences. We appreciate the Government of Maharashtra for their continued support in nurturing the creative ecosystem and fostering innovation in the AVGC-XR sector. The industry’s future is promising, and we remain committed to advancing India’s leadership in this space."

 

The FICCI BAF Awards 2025 reaffirm FICCI’s commitment to supporting the growth of India’s AVGC-XR industry and providing a dynamic platform for the next generation of creators.

 

 

RECPDCL Handovers Mahan Transmission Limited SPV to Adani Energy Solutions Limited

REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of REC Limited, the Maharatna CPSU under the aegis of Ministry of Power, handed over project specific SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) of Intra State Transmission Project under TBCB route viz, Mahan Transmission Limited to Adani Energy Solutions Limited on 26^th March 2025.

 

Adani Energy Solutions Limited emerged as the Transmission Service Provider (TSP) through Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) process conducted by RECPDCL, the Bid Process Coordinator, for development of the transmission project on Build, Own, Operate & Transfer (BOOT) basis.

 

The SPV was handed over to Shri Shashank Sharma, Head Business Development, Adani Energy Solutions Limited in the presence of Senior Officials of RECPDCL, Adani Energy Solutions Limited, MPPMCL and MPPTCL. The implementation period for Rewa (Sagra) Substation is 25.10.2026 & for Amarpatan Substation is 25.04.2027.

 

The scheme covers construction of 400/220/132 kV Substation at Rewa (Sagra) & Amarpatan locations, 166 km of 400 KV transmission line between PTEMPL (MEL) Switchyard & Rewa (Sagra), 50 km of 400 KV line between Rewa (Sagra) & Amarpatan including other associated works of 220kv & 132 Kv lines. The estimated cost of the project is around Rs. 1,996.47 Crore.

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आरईसीपीडीसीएल ने महान ट्रांसमिशन लिमिटेड एसपीवी को अडानी एनर्जी सॉल्यूशंस लिमिटेड को सौंपा

आरईसी पावर डेवलपमेंट एंड कंसल्टेंसी लिमिटेड (आरईसीपीडीसीएल), विद्युत मंत्रालय के अंतर्गत महारत्न सीपीएसयू, आरईसी लिमिटेड की पूर्ण स्वामित्व वाली सहायक कंपनी, ने टीबीसीबी रूट के तहत अंतर-राज्यीय ट्रांसमिशन परियोजना विशिष्ट एसपीवी (स्पेशल पर्पज व्हीकल), महान ट्रांसमिशन लिमिटेड को 26 मार्च 2025 को अडानी एनर्जी सॉल्यूशंस लिमिटेड को सौंप दिया।

अडानी एनर्जी सॉल्यूशंस लिमिटेड, बिल्ड, ओन, ऑपरेट एंड ट्रांसफर (बीओओटी) आधार पर ट्रांसमिशन परियोजना के विकास के लिए बोली प्रक्रिया समन्वयक आरईसीपीडीसीएल द्वारा आयोजित टैरिफ-आधारित प्रतिस्पर्धी बोली (टीबीसीबी) प्रक्रिया के माध्यम से ट्रांसमिशन सेवा प्रदाता (टीएसपी) के रूप में उभरी।

आरईसीपीडीसीएल, अदानी एनर्जी सॉल्यूशंस लिमिटेड, एमपीपीएमसीएल और एमपीपीटीसीएल के वरिष्ठ अधिकारियों की मौजूदगी में एसपीवी को अदानी एनर्जी सॉल्यूशंस लिमिटेड के बिजनेस डेवलपमेंट हेड श्री शशांक शर्मा को सौंपा गया। रीवा (सागरा) सबस्टेशन के लिए कार्यान्वयन अवधि 25.10.2026 और अमरपाटन सबस्टेशन के लिए 25.04.2027 है।

इस योजना में रीवा (सागरा) और अमरपाटन स्थानों पर 400/220/132 केवी सबस्टेशन का निर्माण, पीटीईएमपीएल (एमईएल) स्विचयार्ड और रीवा (सागरा) के बीच 400 केवी ट्रांसमिशन लाइन की 166 किलोमीटर, रीवा (सागरा) और अमरपाटन के बीच 400 केवी लाइन की 50 किलोमीटर और 220 केवी और 132 केवी लाइनों के अन्य संबंधित कार्य शामिल हैं। परियोजना की अनुमानित लागत लगभग 1,996.47 करोड़ रुपये है।

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India's M&E Sector crosses INR 2.5 trillion in 2024, advertising revenues surge by 8.1%: FICCI- EY Report

• Digital media grew by 17% to reach INR802 billion and became the largest segment in 2024, overtaking television, which was the largest segment for 20 years
• Organized live events grew 15% crossing the INR100 billion mark for the first time
• Subscription revenues fell by 2% in 2024 with television, print, filmed entertainment and online gaming all seeing their subscription revenues fall
• The Indian M&E sector is expected to grow by 7.2% in 2025, reaching INR2.7 trillion, and then expand at a CAGR of 7% to reach INR3.1 trillion by 2027

 

Mumbai, 27 March 2025: The latest FICCI-EY report titled, “Shape the future: Indian media and entertainment is scripting a new story” has revealed a remarkable milestone for the Indian Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector in 2024, which has reached a total value of INR2.5 trillion (US$29.4 billion). This represents a growth of INR 81 billion from the previous year, marking a 3.3% increase. Growth slowed down from 8.3% in 2023, due to falling subscription revenues, and a global decline in Animation and VFX work outsourced to India. The sector contributed 0.73% to India's GDP in 2024.

 

As per the FICCI – EY report, digital media in India has overtaken television to become the largest segment within the M&E sector, contributing an unprecedented 32% to the overall revenues.

The Indian M&E sector's advertising revenues have seen an impressive growth of 8.1%, predominantly led by performance advertising on digital platforms, including e-commerce websites, and a surge in demand for premium and digital Out-of-Home (OOH) media. This growth has been further bolstered by the resilience of print and radio retail advertising revenues. Digital media (17%), live events (15%), and OOH media (10%) have been key drivers of growth.

 

Mr Ashish Shelar, Minister of Information Technology & Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra said, “I compliment FICCI for the voluminous Media and Entertainment report. My department and my government will take the lead to see the best suggestions from this report and implement as a part of the upcoming 100 days program of the Cultural Affairs Ministry of Govt of Maharashtra.”

 

Mr Kevin Vaz, Chairman, FICCI, Media and Entertainment Committee asserted, “The Indian media and entertainment industry is at a defining moment, driven by rapid digital adoption and evolving consumer preferences. This transformation is unlocking immense opportunities for content creators, advertisers, and technology innovators across all segments of the M&E ecosystem. With India’s media and entertainment market expected to surpass INR 3trillion by 2027, the future is brimming with untapped potential.  FICCI remains committed to fostering collaboration and innovation to ensure that India’s M&E sector continues to thrive as a global powerhouse.”

 

Mr Ashish Pherwani, Media & Entertainment Leader and Partner, EY India said, "The digital revolution has not only transformed how content is created and consumed but has also redefined the very essence of the M&E industry. From immersive storytelling and interactive experiences to innovative business models and strategic alliances, the landscape is continually reshaping itself. As digital media overtakes traditional mediums, we are witnessing a paradigm shift, where the value delivered across information, escapism, materialism, and self-actualization becomes the new benchmark for success.”

 

Ms Jyoti Vij, Director General, FICCI added, “The FICCI-EY report reaffirms the resilience and dynamism of India’s Media & Entertainment sector, which continues to thrive despite global economic headwinds. The impressive 8.1% rise in advertising revenues and the exponential growth of digital media underscore India’s leadership in content creation and consumption. As the industry undergoes rapid transformation, FICCI remains steadfast in driving policy reforms, fostering strategic collaborations, and shaping a future-ready ecosystem that not only fuels sustainable growth but also strengthens India’s global influence in the M&E landscape.”

 

Key findings of the FICCI-EY report:

• Indian advertising grew 8.1% in 2024. Digital media comprised 55% of total ad spends
• M&A value grew ~9.5x in 2024 with 9 deals over INR5 billion each
• Digital media is expected to be the first M&E segment to cross INR1 trillion in ad revenues in 2026
• Looking ahead, the Indian M&E sector is expected to grow by 7.2% in 2025, reaching INR2.7 trillion (US$31.6 billion), and then expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% to reach INR3.1 trillion (US$36.1 billion) by 2027. This growth trajectory is poised to be shaped by innovative business models, strategic alliances, and industry consolidation.

 

Segmental performance in 2024

• Digital advertising: Digital advertising grew 17% to reach INR700 billion, which is 55% of total advertising revenues. Growth was led by short video and social media (11%) and e-commerce advertising (50%), which reached INR147 billion. Included in digital advertising are spends by SME and long-tail advertisers of over INR258 billion
• Digital subscription: Revenues grew 15% to INR102 billion. Paid video subscriptions increased to 111 million, across 47 million households. Paid music subscriptions rose from 7 million to 10.5 million, while news subscriptions remained at 3.1 million
• Live events: The organized segment grew 15% driven by increased spends across government and election related events, personal events and weddings, and ticketed events, including several international acts and concert formats that played to packed venues in India
• OOH: OOH media grew 10% in 2024 across both traditional and transit media. Premium properties and locations led the growth.  Digital OOH grew 78% and contributed 12% of total segment revenues, up from 7% in 2023
• Radio: Radio segment revenues grew 9% in 2024 to INR25 billion on the back of a growth in ad volumes, and alternate revenue streams. On an average, 20% of radio revenues are related to events, content production and other revenue streams
• Print: Ad revenues grew 1% in 2024, with premium ad formats driving growth. Subscription revenues fell 1%, while digital revenues remained sub scale, at under 5% of total print revenues
• Music: Revenues fell by 2% due to a push to reduce free music consumption and lower streaming royalty rates. Paid subscriptions grew from 7 million to 10.5 million. Free alternatives like YouTube and radio limit the growth of the paid subscriber base
• Online gaming: Growth slowed significantly due to imposition of 28% GST on deposits and the rise of illegal offshore sites. Accordingly, net revenues for transaction-based gaming fell by 6%. However, casual and free-to-play gaming grew by 16%, resulting in an overall 2% decline in the segment
• Film: Though over 1,600 films released in 2024, theatrical admissions declined, and only 11 Hindi films grossed INR1 billion, down from 17 in 2023. Revenues dropped 5% to INR187 billion. Both digital and satellite rights values fell by 10% as broadcast and OTT buyers focused on profitability.
• Television: Linear TV revenues fell for the second consecutive year with a 6% drop in advertising revenue and a 3% decline in subscription revenue. Pay TV homes decreased by six million, while Free TV and Connected TV homes increased. Weekly active Connected TVs grew to 30 million in 2024 from 23 million in 2023.
• Animation and VFX: The Hollywood writers' strike and struggling international studios led to a 9% revenue decline in 2024. Reduced broadcast ad revenues also impacted the production of animated content in India.

 

Future projections stated in the FICCI-EY report:

• The M&E sector is expected to grow at over 7% over the next three years to cross INR3 trillion
• Key trends will include a focus on growing subscription revenues, 360-degree monetisation of content intellectual property, consolidation within segments and increased exports of content and content services – making in India for the world
• All segments will focus on digital extensions or integrations, and measurement will evolve to provide an integrated view of audiences across platforms
• The online gaming segment could struggle unless illegal offshore platforms are not curbed, and Indian companies could look to build out business in foreign countries with a more conducive regulatory environment
• Artificial intelligence will play a large role in bring efficiencies across content production, distribution and personalization, as well as operating efficiencies

 

JNPA Announces Development of Corporate Office Building at Malet Bunder in Mumbai Port Area

 

Mumbai, March 25th, 2025: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) - India’s Best Performing Port, announced the Development of a Corporate Office Building at Malet Bunder in the Mumbai Port Area on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025, during a media briefing addressed by Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairperson, JNPA and CMD, VPPL. JNPA has received in-principle approval from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) for the development of this Corporate Office Building. 

JNPA also celebrated its record handling of 7 Million TEUs by a cake-cutting ceremony in the presence of media representatives. JNPA witnessed this landmark achievement on March 17th, 2025. This signifies JNPA’s operational excellence efforts and its terminal operators' hard work.

While interacting with the media Shri Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairperson, JNPA and CMD, VPPL, stated, “This year, we crossed the 7 million TEU mark for the first time—a reflection of our growth. Our terminal operators are doing an excellent job, and the collaborative efforts across the port ecosystem have contributed to this success. Soon with the commissioning of Fourth Container Terminal Phase Two JNPA will become India’s First Port having a container handling capacity of more than 10 Million TEUs.”

“We continue to advance our infrastructure to support growing trade demands. JNPA's vision for excellence extends beyond port operations to creating world-class infrastructure. The development of our Corporate Office at Malet Bunder in the Mumbai Port Area reflects our commitment to efficiency and seamless coordination,” he added. 

JNPA is planning to develop an iconic high-rise building of more than 20 floors. The site for the proposed corporate office is at Malet Bunder Road adjacent to Ferry Wharf and Domestic Cruise Terminal area of Mumbai Port. Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has issued an allotment to lease the plot measuring 12,804 Sqm (3.16 acre) to JNPA. The proposed building will be the Corporate Office of JNPA - India's premier container handling port and Vadhvan Port Project Ltd (VPPL) developing India's first mega port, which needs a corporate office in Mumbai. The building would also have offices of port allied organizations such as DG Shipping, IPGL and IPRCL. 

The building will have a digital observatory on the topmost floor and will have a state-of-the-art auditorium with facilities for 2000 pax on the ground floor. Other floors will house corporate offices of JNPA, Vadhvan Port Project Ltd and Central and State government offices. The space may also be allotted to PPP operators as deemed appropriate. The building will be developed completely as the highest-rated Green Building.

The total project cost would be to the tune of approximately Rs 1000 crores including land, building, interior and amenities. The building is being designed with an FSI of 4.0 and the construction area would be around 9 lakh square feet. JNPA has appointed Engineers India Limited (EIL) for complete consultancy for project development including detailed design, engineering, construction and project management services. JNPA is targeting to complete the building in two years after obtaining requisite approvals and permissions.

JNPA also offered space to the state government, and during initial talks, the state government showed interest. A formal letter in this regard will be sent soon. 

JNPA remains focused on further enhancing efficiency and facilitating trade with its upcoming projects like the Vadhvan Port project. Recently as a part of JNPA’s initiative of Vadhvan Port Skilling Program, an Orientation Program for the Customs Documentation course was conducted at Palghar. The event saw enthusiastic participation from students eager to expand their knowledge in the field of customs procedures and logistics. So far JNPA has received over 21,000 registrations through its Whatsapp Chatbot.  

About JNPA:

The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) is one of the premier container-handling ports in India. Since its inception on May 26, 1989, JNPA has transformed from a bulk cargo terminal into the premier container port in the country.  

Currently, JNPA operates five container terminals - NSFT, NSICT, NSIGT, BMCT and APMT. The Port also has a Shallow Water Berth for general cargo. A Liquid Cargo Terminal present at the JNPA Port is managed by the BPCL-IOCL consortium. Additionally, the newly constructed coastal berth links other Indian ports and facilitates enhancing the traffic of coastal containers.  

Nestled across 277 hectares of land, JNPA also operates a meticulously designed multi-product SEZ, with state-of-the-art infrastructure, to boost export-oriented industries in India.  

 

JNPA is also developing an all-weather, deep-draft, greenfield port at Vadhvan, in Maharashtra. It is poised to be among the top 10 ports globally and will be 100% green port since its inception.  

For media enquiries, please contact:  

JNPA:  

Ambika Singh  

Sr. Manager (Marketing), JNPA