Latest news with #Kalyani
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Bofors fully transferred tech to India in 80s, I even proposed made-in-India guns to Cong govt, but...: Baba Kalyani's explosive reveal
India imported 400 Bofors guns from Sweden in the 1980s under the Congress regime, claimed Bharat Forge Chairman Baba Kalyani . Kalyani, who made the observations during an interview, said that along with the guns, India also received the complete technology transfer from the Swedish firm in the 1980s; however, this was never utilized to establish indigenous artillery gun manufacturing. Separately, he revealed that in 2011, he personally approached then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Defence Minister AK Antony to pitch domestically produced howitzer guns, but his proposals were met with, in his own words, a cold response. Reflecting on the origins of his interest in artillery manufacturing and the Bofors legacy, Kalyani said, 'What really got me excited was the connection between metallurgy and artillery guns. I still remember in the 80s, when the Bofors technology came in, it really was a transfer of technology of something which, if India has, is metallurgical strength, and that's what got me excited.' When Swedish firm Bofors tranferred its tech to India Despite the comprehensive technology transfer that accompanied the Bofors deal, Kalyani highlighted the exclusion of the private sector from defense manufacturing during that era. 'I still remember in the 80s, Sweden literally gave the total artillery technology package on a platter, but unfortunately, at that time, the private sector was locked out from defense manufacturing,' he lamented. Live Events Years later, Kalyani faced further hurdles in promoting indigenous defense technology. 'We showcased this gun in 2012, and I can tell you, the kind of, you know, skepticism that came out, it was as if, you know, we didn't exist,' he said, underscoring the prevailing reluctance to embrace homegrown innovation. This challenge was separate from the Bofors era, but continued to hinder domestic manufacturing. Recounting his efforts in 2011, he added, 'And literally, if I look at it, they kept on going back and buying stuff from outside, and I remember meeting every prime minister, every defense minister, and it was like a blank wall,' Kalyani explained, describing the perceived lack of support for indigenous efforts, even well after the Bofors scandal . 'Made-in-India a game changer' Adding to the frustration, Kalyani pointed out the cost-effectiveness of manufacturing within India. 'I was much cheaper than buying it from outside, so I used to keep wondering what is wrong with us, you know,' he stated, highlighting the missed economic opportunity. However, Kalyani expressed optimism about the shift in approach under the current government. 'I think the whole dream has come alive in this government,' he said, referring to the Modi administration's push for local manufacturing and self-reliance in defense. According to Kalyani, the "Make in India" initiative has been a game-changer. "So in December '14, when we had this Make in India conclave, that's where the real revolution started," he emphasized, noting its transformative impact on the sector. He also credited Manohar Parrikar, former Defence Minister, for bringing about crucial policy changes that opened the sector to private players. "I think the biggest change that happened was Manohar Parrikar came in, and the first thing he did was unleashed what is called the DPP 2016, where he opened it up to the private sector," Kalyani stated. The Bofors Scandal The Bofors scandal remains a prominent chapter in India's political history. The $1.4 billion deal to acquire 410 field howitzers from Swedish arms manufacturer Bofors in 1986 became embroiled in allegations of bribery and corruption, casting a shadow over defense procurements for years to come. While the technology transfer was part of the agreement, India's indigenous artillery manufacturing remained largely dependent on imports and public sector units for decades, per Kalyani's account.
New Indian Express
6 days ago
- General
- New Indian Express
Excavation at Karnataka's Lakkundi to unearth clues to Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas
GADAG : Excavation began at Lakkundi for the second time in 20 years. This time, an open ground has been prepared to collect antique items, coins and inscriptions of Kote Veerabhadreshwara Temple. Retired scientist Keshav and his team are working with the ASI team, and there is much curiosity among history enthusiasts to see the artifacts being excavated. In November, ten teams started excavation work at Lakkundi and found five wells, six inscriptions and 600 historic stone carvings. This time, five families handed over their houses to the excavation team, and ASI officials also plan to make an open museum under the guidance of Tourism Minister HK Patil. Incidentally, the first excavation was started in 2004-05 under Patil, who was then irrigation minister. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurated the work this week. As per Lakkundi Heritage Development Authority sources, there are good chances of getting coin mintage, some more wells, temples and antique items from the Rashtrakuta, Kalyani, Chalukya and Hoysala eras. In 2004, Lakkundi Prabhudeva Mutt's south part, and a wall belonging to the ninth or tenth century was found. In 2005, some stone age items were found. This time, the idea of an open museum has attracted many as it is the first time the people of Lakkundi will be able to see artifacts in an open place. Siddalingeshwar Patil, committee member of Lakkundi Heritage Development Authority, said, 'This time, we are curious to see what we get after excavation. We hope to see old Lakkundi coins and inscriptions which will show us the path to further inscriptions. This time, we hope to find temples and wells belonging to Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas and Hoysala dynasties.' How excavation started Minister HK Patil has a big hand in the excavation which started in November. He first convinced all villagers by writing out Lakkundi's brief history and pamphlets were printed and distributed to villagers. Patil appealed to the people to support the excavation, and the villagers gave the ASI team good support.
Hindustan Times
26-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Pune police bust drug racket run by ‘Lady Don' Kalyani Deshpande; 20 kg ganja seized
Pimpri-Chinchwad police on Saturday busted a ganja smuggling racket allegedly operated by notorious criminal Kalyani Deshpande and her gang. Acting on a tip-off, authorities arrested her husband and two other relatives involved in the illegal operation. The action was taken by the anti-narcotics cell of the Pimpri Chinchwad police. During routine patrolling on Pashan-Sus Road, police got information about Kalyani and her drug racket operating from the Kalyani Collection shop and her residence. Acting on the tip, police raided the shop located in Bavdhan. During the raid, police arrested her husband Umesh Suryakant Deshpande, 56, her niece Ashwarya Abhisekh Ranawade alias Ashwarya Nilesh Deshpande, 22, and Ashwarya's husband Abhisekh Ranawade, 32. However, the search for the Kalyani alias Jayashree Deshpande is underway. During the raid, police seized 20.73 kilograms of ganja, three mobile phones, ₹700 cash, total valued at ₹11,27,700. Sandeep Doiphode, DCP (crime) Pimpri-Chinchwad police, said, 'During the investigation, it was found that prime accused Kalyani supplied ganja to these three arrested accused in order to further the sale. Soon we will arrest the Kalyani in this case.' Police said Abhisekh Ranawade is the on-record criminal, and he was booked earlier by Faraskhana, Vishrambaug and Market Yard police station for various crimes. Kalyani has more than two dozen cases registered against her in the last two decades. These range from charges under the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act (PITA) and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to allegations of murder and financial fraud. She was also operating a sex racket from her bungalow in the Sus area of Pune. Her network was far-reaching, allegedly involving hoteliers and links to organised crime groups. In 2016, Kalyani was convicted and sentenced to seven years of rigorous imprisonment—a rare judgment involving both PITA and MCOCA. According to police she was released from jail in 2023-24.
Hans India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Kalyani Priyadarshan turns up the heat in bold gold ensemble
Kalyani Priyadarshan, who made her mark in Telugu cinema with Akkineni Akhil's Hello, continues to capture hearts with her effortlessly striking fashion moments. In her latest shoot, the actress stunned in a gold shoulder-drop top paired with a matching skirt, accessorized with chunky earrings that added a perfect dash of drama. What made this look even more unique was the setting — a seemingly random, cluttered storeroom backdrop. While most would shy away from such a chaotic frame, Kalyani completely owned it. The raw, unpolished vibe of the background only enhanced the bold simplicity of her outfit, making her stand out without trying too hard. There's no over-the-top styling here. The focus is sharp — on her confident posture, bold color choices, and a face that doesn't need much to command attention. The entire look is unapologetically edgy, unconventional, and refreshingly real. Kalyani proves that sometimes, all it takes is the right attitude and a striking outfit to steal the spotlight — even in the most unexpected of places.
Time of India
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Things in a flux but see light at the end of tunnel: Bharat Forge on Trump tariffs
HighlightsIndian auto component makers remain cautiously optimistic despite the uncertainty of steep US tariffs, hoping for long-term gains. Bharat Forge and Sona BLW foresee export opportunities amid global supply disruptions but acknowledge near-term challenges. ICRA warns new US tariffs could slash component OEM earnings by up to ₹4,500 crore and lower industry revenue growth projections. New Delhi: The threat of steep tariffs on auto components by the United States has, till now, failed to dampen the spirits of Indian OEMs, though dark clouds of uncertainty continue to hover over the horizon. Many prominent manufacturers have been asserting that India is in a good place but also throwing up their hands at specifics of the tariff fallout. Patience is certainly a virtue but will Trump tariffs help Indian parts' makers take away some business from other countries and simultaneously increase their exports to the USA? Have some clients of these OEMs indicated a change in order quantities or prices? There appear to be no clear answers yet. India is a strong country with very good manufacturing capability and we think that we will see light at the end of this tunnelAmit Kalyani Last week, the top management of Sona BLW Precision Forgings spoke of a silver lining in the long term for Indian parts' makers but also admitted that the short term remains difficult. Now Bharat Forge has echoed a similar sentiment. Read more: Bharat Forge shares in focus as Trump plans to ease auto tariff impact '…things are in a flux and I think the Indian government and Indian manufacturing are cooperating to make sure that we take advantage and are in a good situation even with the United States tariff situation. India is a strong country with very good manufacturing capability and we think that we will see light at the end of this tunnel. Thanks to the leadership and let's say the way the Indian government is handling the situation on tariffs. I think there should be a good solution in place for us sooner than later…,' Vice Chairman and MD Amit Kalyani said after repeated questions from analysts on the fallout of the tariffs on the company's business. Kalyani admitted to 'a lot of uncertainty' though and urged everyone to wait and watch. 'I think India will be in a let's say neutral position to advantageous position vis-à vis many other places and I think this should give a significant opportunity to Indian companies to both manufacture in India and to partner with global companies for mutual beneficial opportunities,' Kalyani said. Global automotive production, and this I include every market, may see disruptions due to supply chain complexities and high dependence on China, especially for rare earth materialsVivek Vikram Singh Meanwhile, Sona had said given out two factors to justify its optimism: a) a been there, done that attitude, which is a result of a large order book and substantial growth after the Covid19 disruption b) hope that in the medium to long term, weaker global auto parts manufacturers may not survive the impending chaos whereas companies with strong balance sheets like Sona will be able to ride the trough of tariffs. But the short term worry remains. Sona provides mission critical systems for electrified and non electrified powertrains to BEVs as well as ICE vehicles, in India and many markets across the world. We are not immune to the demand and supply disruptions. But if you can look beyond the short term, I think there is also a lot of opportunityVivek Vikram Singh Passenger cars first off the block Bharat Forge's Kalyani said that so far, only passenger car parts will be attracting higher tariffs from the US. To a question on how customers of the company have reacted and whether they are going slow on orders, Kalyani repeated the 'wait and watch' phrase, while emphasising that the company's US order book remains strong. Sona's MD and Group CEO Vivek Vikram Singh had said earlier that the tariffs will adversely impact the demand for cars as well as light trucks. And since Sona is a supplier to automakers globally, 'we may not be, we in fact are not immune to the demand and supply disruptions. But if you can look beyond the short term, I think there is also a lot of opportunity. Second, global automotive production, and this I include every market, may see disruptions due to supply chain complexities and high dependence on China, especially for rare earth materials.' Read more: Bharat Forge, Tata Motors, other auto stocks tumble up to 9%, extending tariff led rout In a recent comment on the impact of Trump tariffs on Indian auto component makers, ICRA had estimated anywhere between ₹2,700 crore to ₹4,500 crore on the component OEMs' earnings after the imposition of steep US tariffs on key automotive parts. The new levies include 25per cent tariff on engines, transmission, electrical components and other auto parts. These tariffs may also moderate the overall auto component industry's revenue growth to 6-8per cent in the current fiscal, which is a downward revision from an earlier projection of 8-10per cent . Speaking about the impact of tariffs, a senior component industry executive had said earlier that problems could arise if China were to undercut Indian auto parts' exports through any kind of opaque subsidies. Other problem scenarios could include a demand slump in the US market and if Trump were to offer selective tariff relaxations to other countries. India's component exports were worth 6.79 billion US dollars in FY2024.
