One year down the line, the economy certainly seems to have bounced back and how. Several economic indicators are pointing to a definitive recovery. A’V’ shaped recovery, as projected by the Government, seems to be on track. Union Budget provided not only the intent but necessary impetus as evident in enhanced 34.5% increase in the capital expenditure and several other measures. As a result, the optimism and self-assured attitude is more than palpable.

India’s exemplary performance in bouncing back from a pandemic-ravaged slump has also attracted world’s attention. FDI inflows in India went up by a robust 40% in April-Dec 2020 amounting to $68 billion. Sensex, the benchmark stock index has been hovering around a psychologically high 50000 mark.

GST collections rose 27% to hit a record high of nearly Rs 1.24 lakh crore in March this year. In fact, GST collections have stood above Rs 1 lakh crore mark at a stretch for the last six months while witnessing a steep increasing trend.

Purchasing managers’ index (PMI) in manufacturing and services, e-way bills, rail freight – are all indicating increase in consumption and, in turn, economic revival.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has projected that Indian economy is poised to revive and retake its place as the fastest growing one in 2021 with a projected growth of 12.6% during FY 21-22.

OECD is not alone. Moody’s has revised India’s growth to 12% in 2021 as compared to its November 2020 estimate of 9% growth. Near-term prospects for Asia’s third largest economy have turned more favourable, it has stated.

Similarly, The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its World Economic Outlook has projected a robust 11.5% growth for India in 2021 making the country the only major economy in the world to register double-digit growth this year.

Another piece of news that has brought cheer to all those interested in economic development of India is the fact that the pace of construction of highways in the country touched a record 37 km per day in the just concluded FY 2020-21. That this feat was achieved against the backdrop of the pandemic makes it all the more remarkable. According to Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, the achievement is unprecedented and has no parallel in any other country in the world.

With this accomplishment, the length of national highways has gone up by 50% to 137625 km over the past seven years. Total budgetary outlay has increased 5.5 times to Rs 1.83 trillion during this period.

Tyre Industry as “wheels of economy” has long been a bellwether for economic performance. Tyre Industry’s performance too, therefore, points to economic revival.

Both Truck & Bus (T&B) tyres and Passenger Car tyres’ production has been steadily moving up over the last few months. Ever since September’20, the domestic production of T&B and Passenger Car tyres has remained higher than corresponding months in the previous year. In the month of December’20, the T&B tyre production stood at a record high of nearly 20 lakh units. While it shows the economic recovery, at the same time it underscores Indian Tyre Industry’s preparedness and capabilities to be ahead of the demand curve as and when demand peaks in view of the infrastructure development.

The rise in Covid cases again, especially in an economically important state such as Maharashtra, has queered the pitch for continued economic growth. However, given the resilience of Indian economy and the enterprising zeal of our entrepreneurs, India will ride through this challenge as well.

Here is wishing that FY 2021-22 lives up to the high expectations and aspirations of a billion plus dreams. (TT)

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Smithers, a renowned provider of testing, consulting, information and compliance services, has announced that its proving ground at Treadwell Research Park in Pearsall, Texas, has achieved ISO 17025 accreditation.

Operated on behalf of Discount Tyre, the facility’s accredited scope currently covers wet grip testing and tyre buffing, with plans to expand accreditation to include rolling resistance and pass-by-noise testing. The site boasts diverse paved and off-road test surfaces for comprehensive tyre performance validation. Additionally, it complies with UNECE Regulation No. 117 for Wet Grip and Pass-by Noise standards. This accreditation underscores Smithers' commitment to delivering high-quality testing services in the tyre industry.

Sean Connolly, Director of Test Track Operations at Smithers Winter Test Centre/Pearsall Test Track, said, “The tyre industry is currently focused on a variety of sustainability initiatives, such as reducing the rate of tread wear to extend the life of the tyre. Understanding tyre performance at varying levels of tread wear is critical for tyre manufacturers looking to get the most out of their designs.”

Jim Popio, PhD, Vice President, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division, North America, said, “We’re incredibly proud that our existing processes and procedures meet the rigorous requirements of ISO 17025 accreditation. Accurate data, on time, is central of the Smithers promise on a global scale, and we strive to go above and beyond our clients’ expectations with exceptional service as well.”

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Michelin, a leading tyre technology company, has launched its first Michelin Experience Store in India, in partnership with Bharat Tyres. The facility spread across 25,000 sqft is located in Adgaon on the Mumbai-Agra highway, Nashik and is Michelin’s largest store in the country.

It is designed not only to provide a premium experience, but also showcases the company’s global legacy through the Michelin Wall. Customers will also be to experience the Heritage Wall that visualise the heritage of both Michelin and its local dealership partner.

The Michelin Experience Store also has a Display Zone that showcases Michelin’s innovations in electric mobility, materials science and environmental responsibility.

The dealership also includes service areas for cars and trucks, PPF coating, precision wheel alignment, advanced balancing services, innovative puncture repair solutions, professional car detailing and a wide array of car accessories. 

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “We are proud to unveil Michelin’s first Experience Centre in India. The sole purpose of this store is to go beyond traditional tyre retail and provide customers an immersive experience of the brand, of our dealer partners and of the technological prowess of our tyre solutions that are safe and sustainable. Nashik, a key hub with growing premium vehicle ownership, is the first of many such centres that will further strengthen our footprint in the western region while providing state-of-the-art experience and services to evolving customers.”

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Radar Tyres, the flagship brand of Omni United, has appointed Sami Jauhojärvi, Olympic gold medallist and one of Finland’s most celebrated cross-country skiers, as its official brand ambassador.

Jauhojärvi's sporting excellence – built on resilience, performance and a profound connection with nature – mirrors Radar Tyres' commitment to delivering premium-quality tyres across all seasons and terrains at accessible prices. The brand's comprehensive range includes Summer, All Season, Winter and specialist Ice tyres, designed to meet diverse driving needs with reliable performance.

This collaboration represents a strategic alignment as Radar Tyres expands its European and UK presence. Jauhojärvi will serve as brand ambassador, featuring in marketing campaigns, digital initiatives and local events while sharing his expertise to support Radar Tyres' mission of making high-performance tyres available to all drivers.

G S Sareen, Founder and CEO of Omni United, said, “We’re excited to welcome Sami to the Radar family. Sami’s authenticity, credibility and strong connection with his audience make him an ideal partner for us. He embodies the spirit of perseverance and performance – the same qualities we build into every Radar tyre. As we continue to grow our brand across Europe, partnerships like this play a key role in building deeper connections with consumers. We’re excited to build on this momentum with more such collaborations in the near future.”

Jauhojärvi said, “I am thrilled to represent Radar Tyres, a brand that has a remarkable mission to make premium quality and performance accessible to all and also has deep-rooted values of giving back to society via various initiatives it has undertaken over the years such as supporting breast cancer research. I’m sincerely surprised about the performance and silence of my Radar Tyres and happy to deliver this feedback to all the people.”

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Kenda Tires is celebrating Dan ‘The Flying Dutchman’ Vanden Heuvel's nomination to the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, recognising his legendary 49-year career as both a champion racer and community leader.

Since entering his first race at age 15 in 1977 at Crandon International Raceway, Vanden Heuvel has become one of off-road racing's most respected figures. His aggressive driving style earned him 20+ Pro-Class wins, five Crandon World Championships and a PRO-2 title. As owner of Flying Dutchman Racing, he mentored numerous drivers including his son Mikey, who secured Kenda Tires' historic first PRO-2 victory.

Beyond competition, Vanden Heuvel's greatest impact comes from his tireless community work. He co-founded the Midwest Off-Road Racing Association, created the Short Course Kart Series for young racers and established the MORR Injured Driver Fund with his wife Nancy. His hands-on approach – from building tracks to mentoring drivers – has shaped generations of off-road enthusiasts.

Now as Kenda Tires' Product Display Manager, Vanden Heuvel continues supporting the sport, assisting drivers across multiple series while representing Kenda at events nationwide. His dedication embodies the brand's values of community and passion for motorsports.

The formal induction ceremony will be held on 2 November 2025 in Las Vegas. This honour celebrates not just Vanden Heuvel's remarkable racing achievements but his enduring legacy as an ambassador who has profoundly influenced off-road culture.

Brandon Stotsenburg, VP of Automotive Division, Kenda Tires USA, said, “Dan is more than a legend – he is a mentor, a servant-leader and the beating heart of the off-road community. He helped deliver Kenda’s first PRO championship and still shows up for others every single weekend. We are honoured to have him represent Kenda and even more proud to call him family.”

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