Latest news with #Surat
Entrepreneur
28-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
GROWiT Raises USD 3 Mn to Power the Future of Protective Farming
The Series A funding round was led by GVFL, with participation from Veloce Opportunities Fund, JITO, We Founder Circle, Sunicon Ventures Fund, Progrowth Ventures, and Hyderabad Angels. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Agritech startup GROWiT India Pvt Ltd has successfully raised USD 3 million in a Series A funding round led by GVFL, with participation from Veloce Opportunities Fund, JITO, We Founder Circle, Sunicon Ventures Fund, Progrowth Ventures, and Hyderabad Angels. The capital infusion will be strategically deployed to support GROWiT's aggressive expansion, bolster R&D efforts, and enhance its technology infrastructure. This will enable the company to serve farmers better while also expanding its footprint in India and emerging markets like Africa. "They are making climate-friendly, sustainable farming methods more affordable and effective," said Mihir Joshi, Managing Director, GVFL. "We see GROWiT as a strong player emerging in this segment." GROWiT was founded in 2020 by Akshay Agarwal and Saurabh Agarwal, with a mission to revolutionise farming through sustainable, accessible technologies. Surat-based startup is a pioneer in protective farming, delivering soil-to-harvest agritech solutions. Its products and services include: Mulch Films, Crop Covers, Weed Mats – to protect crops and improve yields – to protect crops and improve yields Pocket-Friendly Soil Testing Device – launched in April 2025, offering soil composition insights and crop recommendations – launched in April 2025, offering soil composition insights and crop recommendations A vast on-ground franchise network of 650+ outlets A reach of over 2,25,000 farmers across 12 states Saurabh Agarwal, Founder and CEO, said, "With climate change emerging as a huge challenge, our goal is to make technology accessible and affordable. Our tools are designed to optimize productivity, cut input costs, and drive sustainable farming practices." The startup claims to have witnessed a CAGR of 50–60% over the last three years and continues to see yield improvements of 40–100% in areas where its solutions have been adopted. Its blend of field engagement and research-driven innovation has set a new standard in operational excellence. Looking ahead, GROWiT aims to double India's farm output by 2030, positioning itself as a one-stop, climate-resilient solution hub for farmers.
The Independent
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Independent
AP PHOTOS: Decades-old diamond industry in India's Surat faces an uncertain future
In a narrow street made narrower by rows of parked motorbikes, businessmen sitting cross-legged on the sidewalks or perched on the motorbikes, are conducting business with their clients. The tools of their trade are basic — trays lined in velvet, tweezers, and magnifying glasses. Their wares are anything but. These men in Surat, a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat, are trading in diamonds, carrying the precious stones wrapped in small squares of colored paper in their shirt pockets. The casualness of the whole operation belies its complexity. Both the sellers and the buyers are seasoned businessmen who can quickly appraise the smallest of diamonds. Deals worth thousands of dollars are sealed over cups of tea ordered from street vendors. There is an unwritten code of honor among these traders and a slip of paper noting the transaction suffices for credit. No one is a complete stranger here and reputations are built or broken over time. The most trustworthy buyers have access to generous lines of credit. The increasing popularity of lab-grown, cheaper diamonds, and the banning of diamonds originating from Russia by the European Union and G7 countries have adversely affected the industry. But the biggest recent threat is from U.S. President Donald Trump's 10% tariffs on imports, including diamonds. An even bigger 27% tariff on Indian exports to the United States has been delayed for 90 days as the Trump administration negotiates trade deals. But even the 10% cut in profits is hurting. Four out of five of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat, where generations have known no other skill or trade. Behind the grimy facades of several buildings in the market lie swanky workshops equipped with sophisticated technology to design and cut the raw diamonds arriving from Australia, Canada, Russia and parts of Africa. Only a small percentage of Surat's output is absorbed by Indian consumers. The rest is exported to the U.S., the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Belgium and other countries. The U.S. has no diamond mines. But two of the three main institutes for grading the gems are in the United States, and diamonds cross multiple borders before they are finally sold in their finished form. The United States accounted for about 30% of gem and jewelry exports from India in 2023-24. About half of that was in the form of cut and polished diamonds. The future of this trade is now uncertain, depending on what Trump does about his tariffs. 'If the proposed tariffs are implemented, we may lose about half of our export revenue. We won't be price-competitive anymore,' said Jigar Patel, treasurer of the Jewellers Association Ahmedabad, based in Gujarat's main city.
Associated Press
22-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
AP PHOTOS: Decades-old diamond industry in India's Surat faces an uncertain future
SURAT, India (AP) — In a narrow street made narrower by rows of parked motorbikes, businessmen sitting cross-legged on the sidewalks or perched on the motorbikes, are conducting business with their clients. The tools of their trade are basic — trays lined in velvet, tweezers, and magnifying glasses. Their wares are anything but. These men in Surat, a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat, are trading in diamonds, carrying the precious stones wrapped in small squares of colored paper in their shirt pockets. The casualness of the whole operation belies its complexity. Both the sellers and the buyers are seasoned businessmen who can quickly appraise the smallest of diamonds. Deals worth thousands of dollars are sealed over cups of tea ordered from street vendors. There is an unwritten code of honor among these traders and a slip of paper noting the transaction suffices for credit. No one is a complete stranger here and reputations are built or broken over time. The most trustworthy buyers have access to generous lines of credit. The increasing popularity of lab-grown, cheaper diamonds, and the banning of diamonds originating from Russia by the European Union and G7 countries have adversely affected the industry. But the biggest recent threat is from U.S. President Donald Trump's 10% tariffs on imports, including diamonds. An even bigger 27% tariff on Indian exports to the United States has been delayed for 90 days as the Trump administration negotiates trade deals. But even the 10% cut in profits is hurting. Four out of five of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat, where generations have known no other skill or trade. Behind the grimy facades of several buildings in the market lie swanky workshops equipped with sophisticated technology to design and cut the raw diamonds arriving from Australia, Canada, Russia and parts of Africa. Only a small percentage of Surat's output is absorbed by Indian consumers. The rest is exported to the U.S., the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Belgium and other countries. The U.S. has no diamond mines. But two of the three main institutes for grading the gems are in the United States, and diamonds cross multiple borders before they are finally sold in their finished form. The United States accounted for about 30% of gem and jewelry exports from India in 2023-24. About half of that was in the form of cut and polished diamonds. The future of this trade is now uncertain, depending on what Trump does about his tariffs. 'If the proposed tariffs are implemented, we may lose about half of our export revenue. We won't be price-competitive anymore,' said Jigar Patel, treasurer of the Jewellers Association Ahmedabad, based in Gujarat's main city.
Associated Press
12-05-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Summirow Dental Hospital Introduces Nitrous Oxide Sedation for Stress-Free Dental Care in Surat
Summirow Dental Hospital enhances patient care with the introduction of nitrous oxide sedation, offering pain relief and relaxation during dental procedures. SURAT, GUJARAT, INDIA, May 12, 2025 / / -- Summirow Dental Hospital, a leading dental care provider in Vesu, Surat, proudly announces the introduction of nitrous oxide sedation - a proven, safe, and effective solution to ensure stress-free dental experiences. This new service is designed to help children and anxious adult patients receive high-quality dental care without fear or discomfort. With the addition of nitrous oxide, commonly known as 'laughing gas,' Summirow Dental Hospital enhances its commitment to patient-centered care. This sedation technique reduces anxiety, minimizes pain sensation, and promotes relaxation, all while maintaining patient awareness and cooperation. The benefits are numerous: nitrous oxide takes effect within minutes, wears off quickly after the procedure, and allows most patients to resume their daily activities without delay. Its use is especially valuable in pediatric dentistry and for nervous adults who previously avoided dental treatments due to fear or discomfort. Summirow Dental Hospital ensures the highest standards of safety, employing trained professionals to monitor sedation levels throughout the procedure. The technique is versatile, suitable for a range of treatments including cleanings, fillings, extractions, and more. With a soft nose mask delivering the gas, patients can experience gentle care without the need for injections or oral medications and even those with a strong gag reflex benefit from smoother procedures. About Summirow Dental Hospital Summirow Dental Hospital is a premier dental care facility in Vesu, Surat, dedicated to providing advanced, patient-focused services across all specialties. With a team of experienced dentists and cutting-edge technology, Summirow offers comprehensive solutions for patients of all ages in a compassionate and professional environment. Kaushal Kakkad Summirow Dental PVT. LTD + +91 93777 77303 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
IOL News
22-04-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Global South Developments: India rises as a global hub for aero-space and defence technology
Countries that benefit from the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) continue to bolster their naval defense due to the region's strategic importance as a vital trade route, a hub for global energy transit, and a region of growing geopolitical competition. All the factors mean that naval power is a key in maintaining stability and projecting influence. The importance of the IOR cannot be underestimated, it remains a vital artery for global trade and energy transit, with a significant portion of world trade and energy supplies passing through its waterways. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ From a security perspective, the region faces various maritime security challenges, including piracy, terrorism, and potential conflicts, requiring a robust naval presence to ensure stability and protect vital sea lanes. India is quickly rising as a global hub for aerospace and defence technology looking to further develop its own capabilities while also being seen as a crucial partner for international aerospace and defence companies. In January, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three new warships - Surat, Nilgiri and Vaghsheer - to strengthen the country's efforts towards being a global leader in defence and augment its quest towards self-reliance. Surat,is among the largest and most sophisticated destroyers in the world, equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor packages and advanced network-centric capabilities; Nilgiri, incorporates advanced features for enhanced survivability, seakeeping, and stealth and Vaghsheer, represents the country's growing expertise in submarine construction. Key regional partners like India, Japan and South Korea have integrated multiple Light Aircraft Carrier Groups (LACGs) to align with ongoing efforts to bolster their naval power and indigenise defence productions and capabilities. By leveraging the benefits of LCAGs and strengthening partnerships with like-minded nations, India can effectively address complex maritime security challenges in the region, while promoting stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean. This strategic approach will enable India to maintain a strong and sustainable naval presence, while advancing its national interests and promoting regional security. Integrating LCAGs with advanced unmanned systems would further amplify India's maritime surveillance and strike capabilities, while minimizing human risk and aligning with the evolving paradigms of modern warfare. The Indian Navy's carrier groups feature the INS Vikramaditya and the indigenously built INS Vikrant. A typical Indian CBG includes an aircraft carrier with a displacement of around 45,000 tons, operating MiG-29K fighter jets and helicopters; 2 to 3 Kolkata-class destroyers (7,500 tons) equipped for air defense and ASW; 1 to 2 Delhi-class destroyers (6,700 tons) providing multi-role capabilities; 1 to 2 Shivalik-class frigates (6,200 tons) focused on ASW and air defense and 1 Kilo-class or Scorpène-class submarine (3,000 tons or 1,800 tons respectively) offering ASW capabilities. The Akash, a medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system is another example of the defence technology India is making available on the global stage, with the proviso that it is capable of detecting and tracking enemy aircraft at long ranges and engaging them effectively within a 25-kilometer radius. India is increasingly moving towards becoming less reliant on imports and the country's 'Make in India' campaign also extends to its defence capabilities, fostering the promotion of local solutions for defence and aerospace requirements while focusing on self-defence. Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Surat, Nilgiri and Vaghsheer said these vessels will strengthen India's efforts towards being a global leader in defence and augment its quest towards self-reliance. 'This is the first time that a destroyer, a frigate and a submarine are being commissioned together. And the most important thing is that these three frontline platforms are made in India,' Modi said at the launch. He said the country was being recognised as a reliable and responsible partner across the world and especially in the Global South. 'In shaping global security, economics and geopolitical dynamics, a maritime nation like India is going to play a huge role.' The country's aerospace and defence industry is focused on self-reliance and better infrastructure, assisting in strengthening its position domestically and globally. * Dr Govender is an academic and a keen observer of issues related to international relations.
