Latest news with #ISPL
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Fertile fields or solar factory: a verdant land facing an industrial leap
Karedu in Ulavapadu mandal of SPSR Nellore district is a picturesque coastal village dotted with temples, ponds and lush greenery. Lying close to Manneru Vaagu and Buckingham Canal, it's been an tourist hotspot and houses the renowned Bommidala Guest House. Despite having tap connections supplying drinking water, most residents here continue to rely on wells and borewells throughout the year as the groundwater, available from just 15 feet below the surface, remains potable. For generations, residents of the village have reliably counted on the fertile soil, harvesting three crops a year. Apart from cultivating paddy, groundnut and cotton, they also grow vegetables and fruits, predominantly mango, sapota, coconut and banana. Most of the vegetables grown here are supplied to the neighbouring cities whereas some varieties of mango and sapota are exported. Those who don't own land either work as labourers on agricultural fields or shrimp farms. Today, however, the hardworking residents of Karedu are a worried lot. It's root: a government announcement of plans to establish an integrated solar photovoltaic (SPV) module manufacturing plant of Indosol Solar Private Ltd. (ISPL), a subsidiary of Kadapa-based Shirdi Sai Electricals Ltd. (SSEL), at Karedu. They fear that the fertile tracts of their village would be acquired to establish the manufacturing facility, robbing them of a lifestyle they long to preserve. Story so far During the tenure of the previous YSRCP government, ISPL had been given land at Chevuru village in Gudluru mandal near Ramayapatnam port, where it built a plant on 114.5 acres. After the Coalition government came to power, however, the land parcels in the same village were offered to Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. for its greenfield refinery project worth ₹95,000 crore. As per G.O. no. 43, dated March 25, the government has instead allotted 8,348 acres to ISPL at Karedu for its ₹69,000-crore 30 gigawatt (GW) SPV module manufacturing plant, which, it is said, would generate 13,050 jobs. Other than offering financial incentives, the government has also allocated water supply from Karedu, Cheruru and Chennapalayam ponds. Subsequently, Nellore district administration issued a preliminary notification for land acquisition in Karedu through A.P. Industrial Infrastructure Corporation Ltd. (APIIC). The district officials recently organised a grama sabha, but, according to sources, a majority of the residents refused to give up their land, with only 10% agreeing to the proposal. 'The officials are currently planning to acquire 4,000 acres while the company is looking for 20,000 acres,' says M. Srinivasulu, a resident. The elderly farmer alleged that the company gave jobs to a few people at its existing plant near Ramayapatnam but removed them within a couple of months. 'Though we are not educated, we earn a living from agriculture. If they take away our land, we will struggle to live,' he said. P. Durga Rao, a fisherman-activist from Muthukuru village, said there are around 800 families belonging to fisherfolk communities in and around Karedu. 'Most are illiterates but earn a minimum of ₹1,000 a day by fishing. We can't trust a private company to offer a salary package matching our current income,' he adds. 'The fisherfolk of Middirevu and Gummaladibba villages in Chilakuru mandal of combined Nellore district, who had been given jobs at Krishnapatnam Port, couldn't be skilled and couldn't understand the deductions in their salaries. They left their jobs at the port within a year. Karedu fisherfolk may face a similar situation at the new plant of ISPL,' he adds. The farmers and fisherfolk have been staging a number of protests in the village. The leaders from various organisations and political parties, including former Chief Minister and YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, have visited the village and promised their support to the protests. Opposing the land acquisition bid, Yanadi Welfare Association State president K.C. Penchalayya said that the government should give up the idea of offering land to the company, threatening to escalate the protest. The district administration, however, hope to resolve the problems. District Collector O. Anand said the farmers can submit their objections to him or to the Special Deputy Collector. 'We will conduct grama sabha and resolve all their issues. There are about 12,000 acres in the village, but we plan to acquire less than 5,000 acres. However, we are not going to touch the three-crop land parcels close to the Buckingham Canal and the sea,' he says. He said they are trying to minimise the acquisition of fertile land parcels. 'Out of the 19 habitations in Karedu village with a combined population of 14,000, we are planning to displace only three habitations – Upparapalem, Pollukatta Yanadisangam and Ramakrishnapuram, which has 350 families with around 1,500 population. Based on the Land Acquisition Act, compensation will be provided to the land owners at 2.5 times the market rate. This apart, the government will give the evicted a house on 5 cents of land in a new colony and ₹6.5 lakh as a part of the Rehabilitation and Resettlement package. 'We will also take their feedback and consider their preferences,' says the Collector. 'We may give a compensation of ₹12.5 lakh per acre for wet and dry land and ₹17.5 lakh per acre of orchard. We may negotiate further in the discussions with the farmers. The proposed plant is likely to benefit 33,000 people, by offering direct jobs to 13,050 and indirect employment to the rest. We are also initiating skill development programmes for the local people,' he adds. Study on social impact A fact-finding team of Human Rights Forum (HRF) A.P. State Committee, Rashtra Chenatha Jana Samakhya (RCJS) and Matsyakara Sangam recently visited the village and prepared a report on the overall impact of the proposed project. They also pointed out the government's decision to waive off the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) requirements for this project. HRF A.P. State general secretary Y. Rajesh questioned the government for exempting the conduct of the SIA before land acquisition. 'Does ISPL has the technical capabilities to manufacture everything from quartz-to-modules. How can the government help a private company that has no track record in taking up such a crucial and complex project,' he asks. 'In India, most solar companies import cells and assemble them into modules. This vertically integrated SPV plant is the first of its kind. ISPL initially had plans to reach 10 GW of module manufacturing in three phases. To produce 10 GW of modules, about 30,000 tonnes of polysilicon is required and the processing of silicon is a highly polluting activity,' the HRF member points out. Asked about the company's current capacity utilisation, ISPL CEO Sharat Chandra said they are manufacturing 0.5 GW solar modules at the plant built on the 114.5 acres in Chevuru village near Ramayapatnam port. 'We are going to achieve one GW of ingot-to-module manufacturing capacity by the end of this fiscal year.' Speaking about the employment, he said: 'Currently, about 200 people work at the plant. They were offered skill development training. Once we enhance the manufacturing capacity, more people will be offered jobs. To move forward, we don't have the land. Out of the total requirement of 8,348 acres, about 4,800 acres should have been provided in the first phase.' On the need for such vast tracts of land, Sharat said: 'An integrated SPV plant, which manufactures the complete solar supply chain, including ingot/wafer, cell and module, needs a huge chunk of land. Moreover, 33% of the overall project area must be earmarked for developing greenery. So, nearly 2,500-3,000 acres will be dedicated to the green cover.' To a question on the government's decision to relocate the project, he said that he was not personally in favour of relocation as they had already begun operations near Ramayapatnam port and that the company was unable to assess capital expenditure on the land owing to the change in the plan.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Sikandar' star Salman Khan gives fans a rare piece of advice while sharing his intense workout pictures; netizens say , 'world's biggest comeback is loading'
Salman Khan took the internet by storm with his recent pictures from the gym, and the captions accompanying them are making waves online. The unexpected Instagram post featured Salman flaunting his biceps after an intense upper body workout. Check out the post here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salman Khan (@beingsalmankhan) The first picture showed Salman's reflection in the gym mirror. The second one featured him shirtless and drenched in sweat following a rigorous session. In the subsequent images, he flexed his tanned biceps and was seen giving a sharp, intense look to the camera. He looked stylish in his black sleeveless tank vest. One of the pictures showed him lying on an inclined bench, half of his face hidden after the exhausting workout. Salman Khan Buys Delhi Team in ISPL | Joins Cricket's Biggest Celebrity League! After sharing the mirror selfies, he captioned the post, 'Take care and protect the man in the mirror… wohi kaam aayega.' Social media reaction Social media users were quick to react. One commented, 'Bhai is back in form and shape,' while another wrote, 'Mirror me apna Tiger hai.' A third user added, 'World's biggest comeback is loading.' Many fans praised the caption as well. One admirer summed it up with, 'Once a legend, always a legend.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Bitcoin vs Gold: Which Is the Better Investment for the Next 1–3 Years? Liseer Undo Salman Khan's work front On the work front, Salman was last seen in AR Murugadoss' Sikandar, alongside Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Sathyaraj, Jatin Sarna, Sanjay Kapoor, Prateik Babbar, and Kishore. Reports suggest he is collaborating with Jawan director Atlee and is set to reprise his roles in sequels to cult favourites like Andaz Apna Apna, Kick, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. There is also growing buzz around his reunion with Sanjay Dutt for Ganga Ram, as well as a patriotic military drama inspired by the Galwan Valley conflict.
Time of India
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From Salman Khan to John Abraham: 7 Bollywood stars who own sports teams
Many Bollywood celebrities are not just actors—they're also smart businesspeople. Over the years, several Bollywood stars have invested in different industries like fashion, beauty, and even fitness. But one area that has seen a huge interest from our favourite stars is sports. Yes, many Bollywood stars own sports teams and are actively promoting different games across India and even abroad. From cricket and football to kabaddi and badminton, let's take a look at these popular actors who've gone beyond the screen and into the sports arena. Salman Khan Joins the ISPL with New Delhi Team Salman Khan, one of Bollywood's biggest names, is now the latest celebrity to own a sports team. He has bought the New Delhi franchise in the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL). The ISPL, which is known as India's largest street cricket tournament, is growing fast. Season 2 of ISPL had over 28 million TV viewers and showed a 47% increase from the first season. Salman is not alone in the league. Several other Bollywood stars are also part of ISPL: Amitabh Bachchan (Majhi Mumbai) Saif Ali Khan & Kareena Kapoor Khan (Tigers of Kolkata) Akshay Kumar (Srinagar Ke Veer) Suriya (Chennai Singams) Hrithik Roshan (Bangalore Strikers) Ram Charan (Falcon Risers Hyderabad) Salman Khan praised the ISPL for helping young talent at the grassroots level and said he's happy to be part of this sporting revolution. Shah Rukh Khan – The King of IPL and Beyond When it comes to Bollywood stars who own sports teams, Shah Rukh Khan is the pioneer. He co-owns Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champion. KKR is one of the most popular and successful IPL teams. But Shah Rukh didn't stop at IPL. He also owns or has shares in other cricket teams around the world: Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL) Cape Town Knight Riders (SA20) LA Knight Riders (Major League Cricket) For SRK, investing in sports is about giving back. 'Instead of spending on luxury, I want to support sports,' he once said in an interview. Preity Zinta – A Proud IPL Team Owner Preity Zinta has been a part of the IPL from the very beginning. She co-owns, IPL 2025 runner up Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab). The actress is often seen cheering from the stands with great passion. Preity once shared that her love for sports comes from her family. Her father used to organise local tournaments in Himachal Pradesh. Inspired by that, she wanted to set up a sports school and later saw the IPL as a great platform to support cricket. Ranbir Kapoor – Football Fan Turned Team Owner Ranbir Kapoor is a known football lover. He has turned this passion into a business by co-owning Mumbai City FC, a top team in the Indian Super League (ISL). Ranbir believes sports culture in India is booming. He once said, 'We're proud to be part of the change as more people embrace sports as part of daily life.' Abhishek Bachchan – From Kabaddi to Football Abhishek Bachchan has shown love for both kabaddi and football. He co-owns: Jaipur Pink Panthers (Pro Kabaddi League) Chennaiyin FC (Indian Super League) Abhishek says his interest in these sports came from being a true fan. He's proud to help promote Indian games like kabaddi and modern football leagues. John Abraham – Fitness Icon and Football Investor John Abraham is known for his love of fitness, and sports are a big part of his lifestyle. He owns NorthEast United FC, another ISL team. John has always promoted a healthy lifestyle among the youth and believes sports are a great way to build discipline and dedication. "Sport is like a religion for me," he once said. Taapsee Pannu – Promoting Badminton in India Taapsee Pannu is known for playing athletes in films, but she's just as sporty in real life. She owns Pune 7 Aces, a badminton team that played in the Premier Badminton League. Taapsee once said that if she wasn't an actor, she would have become a sportsperson. Her investment in badminton is her way of supporting the game and inspiring others. Why Bollywood Stars Are Investing in Sports Teams The trend of Bollywood stars owning sports teams is only growing. Whether it's the IPL, ISPL, ISL, or leagues like Pro Kabaddi and PBL, these celebrities are using their fame and fortune to grow sports in India. Their involvement brings attention to the games, encourages young players, and even boosts the fan following of these leagues. It's clear that Bollywood and sports are a winning combination! For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here
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Business Standard
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Salman Khan joins ISPL as owner of Delhi franchise, boosting league power
The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), India's first-ever tennis-ball T10 cricket series, has made headlines again after Season 2 smashed viewership records with over 28 million television viewers and a remarkable 47% growth from its debut year. Riding the wave of this success, the league has expanded with a brand-new franchise in New Delhi, owned by Bollywood icon Salman Khan. Season 2 wasn't just about numbers, it turned into a nationwide celebration of sport and entertainment, drawing fans from all demographics. Industry legends including Sachin Tendulkar, minister and ACC member Ashish Shelar, Minal Amol Kale, and league commissioner Suraj Samat spearhead the committee, aiming to unite grassroots talent with professional opportunities. 'The love and support from fans in Seasons 1 and 2 have been incredible,' commented Sachin Tendulkar. 'We're thrilled that the addition of a New Delhi team will attract even more support and inspire players.' Ashish Shelar added, 'Our growth across both broadcast and digital formats is a true testament to ISPL's vision. And Salman Khan's entry takes it to the next level.' Echoing this excitement, Minal Kale said the league's popularity is undeniable, with over 4.2 million player registrations and the superstar's entry promising a huge Season 3 surge. Salman looking forward to Season 3 Salman Khan expressed his enthusiasm: 'Cricket pulses in every Indian street. ISPL captures that energy, spotlighting grassroots players and empowering their dreams. Season 3 is just the beginning, fans can look forward to more stories, passion, and connection.' Plans are underway for another franchise in Ahmedabad, featuring another celebrity owner. Season 2 champions Majhi Mumbai headlined a cast of emerging talents, Abhishek Dalhor, Sagar Ali, Rajat Mundhe, Ketan Mhatre, Jagannath Sarkar, and Fardeen Kazi, with Dalhor even earning a net-bowling spot at IPL's Kolkata Knight Riders. ISPL Season 3 will ramp up the excitement with trials across 101 cities, offering a grander, more electrifying showcase of cricket-meets-music. As Suraj Samat puts it, 'We're set for more action, dreams turned reality, and reasons for fans to cheer louder than ever.'
India.com
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Salman Khan buys team in cricket league, not IPL, Amitabh Bachchan also owns a team..., the league is...
Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Salman Khan has become the latest owner of a cricket team. The Bollywood superstar has bought the New Delhi franchise. "The last two seasons of the ISPL received great support and love from fans and well-wishers from across the country. This definitely boosts the morale of the players who come from such diverse backgrounds, toiling hard to make the final cut. Going into a new season with the addition of a new team will bring in many new fans and supporters to enthuse the players even more," ISPL core committee member Sachin Tendulkar said. Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) will kick off third season this year. Season 2 drew a record-breaking 28 million-plus television viewers and marked a 47 per cent growth in TV viewership over its inaugural edition, cementing ISPL's place as India's biggest sports and music carnival. Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Salman Khan is thrilled that ISPL 'empowers talented players'. "Cricket is a heartbeat that echoes through every street in India and when that energy reaches the stadium, leagues like ISPL are born. I have always been passionate about the game and I'm thrilled to join ISPL as this unique league not only promotes grassroots cricket in India but also empowers talented players by providing them with a valuable platform. This is just the beginning — as Season 3 unfolds, fans will get to know more about the team and build a deeper connection," Salman Khan said in a statement. Bollywood superstar Preity Zinta owns the Punjab Kings franchise in IPL. PBKS entered their second final in the IPL 2025 season. Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Shah Rukh Khan owns multiple T20 leagues around the world including KKR in IPL, LAKR in MLC and Trinibago Knight Riders in CPL. Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Film stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan and Akshay Kumar also own teams in ISPL . Salman Khan now joins ISPL's star-studded roster of celebrity team owners, which includes Amitabh Bachchan (Majhi Mumbai), Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan (Tiigers of Kolkata), Akshay Kumar (Srinagar Ke Veer), Suriya (Chennai Singams), Hrithik Roshan (Bangalore Strikers), and Ram Charan (Falcon Risers Hyderabad). Image credit: X (Formerly Twitter) Amitabh Bachchan-owned Majhi Mumbai won the ISPL trophy in Season 2. The tournament spotlighted rising stars like Abhishek Dalhor, Sagar Ali, Rajat Mundhe, Ketan Mhatre, Jagannath Sarkar, and Fardeen Kazi. Among them, Dalhor's standout performance across two seasons earned him a spot as a net bowler with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2025.
