Jyotsna came on board as the CFO and Head of IT of Bridgestone India, around two-and-a-half years ago - in April 2018. Since then, she has ensured attentive capacities are in place, thus focusing on maintaining cost control and delegating financial management. Afterall, the tyre industry is highly competitive and market-driven. And yes, digital evolution and safety of her colleagues and business partners have become one of her top priorities during the pandemic.

Raised in a modest and orthodox business family of six daughters, principles such as hard work, humility, and honesty were a natural part of growing up for her. Married at the age of twenty-one, Jyotsna wanted to be more than just a housewife. Thus, she pursued her grinding CA qualification while being a mother of a baby boy.

“I pursued further education and got a professional qualification, CA, in 1994. Not an easy call in any way. The profession itself was demanding and then to be able to garner the support of the larger family was a big task considering the social norms at the time. However, with the great support from my in-laws, my husband Rajesh, and my conviction, I managed to pursue this new path,” Jyotsna recalls.

When asked about what she would attribute to the leadership qualities she has achieved, she reflects on her family background and the formative years of her life. Marriage was the ultimate end-goal for all girls back then, she says. But, her father, who was a civil engineer, and ran a unit into precision tools manufacturing, understood the value of education. He ensured all his daughters received quality higher education. This paid off as all of Jyotsna’s sisters are highly qualified across different streams.

Jyotsna also mentions the underlying importance of financial independence that was ever-present while growing up. These values, coupled with formal education and academics, added to her versatile calibre. However, she says studies were never her cup of tea. Her interests were games, food, and fun. Having done her graduation at BMCC, life was relatively stress-free then.

However, getting married at the early age was a turning point in her life when she braved the conventional social norms at the time and pursued her CA studies. She adds that the journey from 1989-1994 was full of challenges, excitement, courage, and family support. Significant challenges to pursue her CA were to convince the in-laws to allow her to go and live in a hostel and study and to be able to meet social obligations as a newly-wed woman, and not being able to give time to her son.

 “To be able to give my 100% to the studies amidst all of this was quite difficult. However, I always kept my eye on the big picture.”

Jyotsna started her professional career at Kinetic Honda, a manufacturing organisation which, she says, was not perceived to be ideal for women and had limitations to growth. “But that made me work even harder. However, it was a role of my choice, and I worked with them for nine years, and those were my formative career years. A combination of experience at Firodiya, a well-respected business house and a Japanese business brand is great learning for any finance professional. I took additional responsibilities on multiple functions and projects to rise the ladder at a good pace as by now; I had found my Ikigai- a reason to live.”

 “Amidst all this, the family challenges continued as my husband Rajesh had moved to Singapore, and I single-handedly attended to our son”.

At the workplace, she always ensures that she works hard and does everything from grassroots and is never bothered about her designation and qualification as, for her, that is a means and not an end. “Over the years, I worked on building and strengthening relationships and never really kept any limitations to what I wanted to achieve.”

COVID has turned the auto industry upside down. New normal is becoming a part of life and businesses as well. Whereas the challenges of COVID have been unprecedented, it also brought new ways of doing businesses. Now employee safety is becoming a top priority, while digital evolution is bringing a new era ahead of the industry.

At Bridgestone, Jyotsna says, the safety of their people and safeguarding their operations have been the topmost priority. Ever since COVID first hit the country, the company took proactive measures to not only keep the people safe but, also streamline operations in the wake of new normal. Furthermore, at the back of accelerated digitisation, Bridgestone India has been able to bring the right solutions for its consumers as well as ensure the same levels of productivity within the organisation. 

When asked about how she feels about working in such a dynamic industry, Jyotsna says, “The automobile industry is where my professional career is slated. Kinetic Honda, SKF Bearings, NRB Bearings, Sandvik Asia and now Bridgestone are my performing turfs. One side of the industry, i.e., channel partners, are the same - similar channels set up requirements, risks, opportunities, and expectations of the partners. What differs is the strength of the product and strength of the competitor. Bridgestone, with its world-class Japanese technology in tyre manufacturing, is one of the leading and most trusted brands with all the strengths on the product, manufacturing, and innovation.” 

“The market in India is huge, and the progressive growth and demographics of the country are definitely positive. At Bridgestone India, we are financially secure with a good product range, best manufacturing facilities, substantial market share, reliable channel partners and an ambitious and committed workforce. The biggest risk is getting complacent and losing focus on cost. The tyre industry is competitive, and market driven. Also, the capacities are in place, thus keeping focus and maintaining cost control is the financial management challenge which is exciting.”

Like everyone, COVID has influenced Jyotsna’s personal and professional life. According to her, COVID was a blessing in disguise to be able to spend all this time at home and spending time to call and check on all near and dear ones, reconnecting, rejuvenating were positives in this situation.

However, work from home bears multiple challenges and ,for her the divide between official work and domestic duties was practically invisible. As the Head of IT and CFO, Jyotsna had a great responsibility to ensure the digital solutions were up and running and without causing the loss of productivity at the same time managing concerns around security and support. “As a CFO, a time to complete FY 20 financials and audits, and the Mid-term – 3 years business plan process which were very challenging.”

“But I would say the times have tested my abilities to stay strong under all situations. I would like to say this to my fellow leaders that encourage your teams throughout and keep the work exciting as always. This will ensure a positive sentiment in these trying times.”

As much as work is refreshing with so much happening, Jyotsna does take personal time to recharge. She loves to drive and have been doing rallies like Raid the Himalaya, Desert Storm, Spice Challenge. She has also done international driving vacations.

 “Amidst the lockdown, I recently drove to Bangalore to be with my son Prateek. The memory of absolutely traffic-free roads and my car racing at 230-250 with confidence to touch Bangalore from Pune non-stop in 9 hours was wonderful. We drove through Kabini and spent a holiday together, making memories.”

“I also like to read, so I took this opportunity to download the most read books Ikigai, Atomic Habits, Just do It – the Nike story and many more.”

 “Netflix was another relaxing way to spend some time, and the most exciting watch for me was Drills apart from many others. I love to socialise and continued e-socialising as well.”

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Falken Tyre Europe GmbH is embarking on a new brand initiative designed to put its all-terrain capabilities to the test in a practical, real-world environment. The Falken Adventure Camp, set to take place in New York State from 28 May to 7 June 2026, will place the Falken WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA tyre at the heart of an immersive driving experience. Participants will navigate a curated route through a diverse range of landscapes, from bustling urban settings to serene forests, gravel paths and remote countryside trails, showcasing the tyre’s adaptability.

The WILDPEAK A/T AT3WA is engineered for drivers whose journeys frequently shift between paved roads and unpaved terrain. This event aims to make that transition tangible, demonstrating the tyre’s competence in both everyday commuting and more rugged off-road conditions. Its selection for the camp is bolstered by a recent industry accolade; in September 2025, the tyre secured first place overall in a prestigious off-road tyre test, outperforming six competing all-terrain models. It was specifically praised for its exceptional performance on loose surfaces, including reliable traction, short braking distances and consistent lateral grip.

The Adventure Camp’s philosophy steers clear of extreme off-road challenges, instead focusing on authentic driving scenarios that highlight the tyre’s versatility. The planned journey is intended to illustrate how modern mobility can harmoniously coexist with nature-focused exploration. Enthusiasts interested in participating can submit their applications through the dedicated campaign website until the end of March 2026.

This initiative represents Falken’s broader strategic shift towards more experiential marketing. By moving beyond traditional product presentations, the company seeks to create memorable encounters where drivers can directly experience product performance. The goal is to make the tyre’s strengths tangible within genuine, relatable driving contexts, fostering a deeper connection between the consumer and the brand.

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The Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) hosted representatives from NOMURA JIMUSHO, INC. at its Kuala Lumpur Secretariat on 12 February 2026. The visit facilitated strategic discussions between ANRPC Secretary-General Dr Suttipong Angthong, his team and the firm’s Yoshiyuki Hosaka and Taichi Nomura.

Deliberations focused on ANRPC’s core strategic objectives, which include boosting productivity and lowering production costs. Other key areas of discussion involved strengthening downstream value addition, creating diversified income sources and tapping into the environmental value of natural rubber. Central to the dialogue was the overarching goal of improving livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to advancing sustainable growth and circular economy models within the sector. The meeting underscored the critical role of enhanced partnerships in navigating current industry challenges and capitalising on emerging global opportunities.

The collaborative spirit of the visit reinforced a shared dedication to fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious future for the natural rubber industry.

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Trelleborg Tires is set to introduce a significant performance assurance programme at the upcoming Commodity Classic in San Antonio, scheduled from 25 to 27 February. This new initiative guarantees up to 5,000 hours of certified tread wear for several of its key rear tyre ranges, including the TM1060, TM1000, TM900 and TM800 ProgressiveTraction models. The offer underscores the company’s dedication to providing durable solutions that deliver tangible value, enabling farmers to extend equipment operation, minimise downtime and safeguard their investments under rigorous field conditions.

Access to this guarantee is provided exclusively through the Trelleborg Premium Care Portal. This platform not only facilitates secure registration but also connects customers with expert support and personalised advice aimed at optimizing tyre longevity and performance.

Attendees at Booth #1171 will have the opportunity to explore the company’s latest advancements in agricultural tyres, particularly for high-horsepower tractors. Featured exhibits will include the TM1000 ProgressiveTraction in size VF800/70R38, the TM900 ProgressiveTraction in 710/70R42 and the TM800 PowerFlex in VF650/65R38, which showcases a newly engineered tread pattern for improved roadability and field performance. Additionally, the TM200 ProgressiveTraction for vineyard and orchard applications will be on display in size VF440/65R24.

Each of these products integrates Trelleborg’s patented ProgressiveTraction technology, characterised by a distinctive double-edge lug design. This innovation enhances traction, stability and self-cleaning capabilities, effectively reducing slippage and vibration while boosting fuel efficiency and prolonging tread life. Visitors can also learn about Pressure Field Operation (PFO) technology, which allows tyres to perform optimally at lower inflation pressures in specific conditions without sacrificing load capacity. Through these farmer-centric innovations, Trelleborg continues to reinforce its leadership in the agricultural sector by helping producers achieve greater productivity and operational efficiency over the long term.

Tom Rodgers, Commercial Director, Trelleborg Tires, said, “We know that tyre replacement represents a significant operational cost for farmers. With this 5,000-hour performance guarantee, we stand firmly behind our ProgressiveTraction technology and offer a clear commitment to long-term performance.”

Andrea Masella, Marketing Director Agriculture North America, said, “With every innovation, we design our tyres from the soil up to perform where it matters most — in our customers’ fields. By combining advanced engineering with a 5,000-hour certified performance commitment, we provide farmers with solutions that maximise productivity, protect their investment and support long-term operational success.”

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Magna Tyres has expanded its portfolio with the launch of the LH32, a new tyre engineered specifically for trailer use in long-haul and regional transport operations. Designed to address the rigorous demands of modern logistics, the tyre delivers a balanced combination of durability, consistent performance and safety across diverse road conditions. Its advanced tread pattern is optimised to provide reliable traction and even mileage on both highways and regional routes, supporting safe and efficient travel regardless of the terrain.

The LH32 features a robust radial casing constructed with a specially formulated compound, which enhances load-bearing capacity and contributes to improved fuel efficiency. This structural integrity not only promotes longer tyre life but also boosts driver confidence through stable handling. Importantly, the tyre holds full ECE approval, confirming its compliance with strict European safety and performance standards. By integrating these technical attributes, the LH32 enables transport companies to elevate operational efficiency while maintaining high safety benchmarks, making it a practical solution for fleets aiming to optimise performance without compromise.

Key specifications of the Magna LH32

Application: Trailer
Segment: Long haul / Regional
Size: 385/65R22.5
PR: 24
Load/Speed Index: 164K
Fuel Efficiency Class: B
Wet Grip Class: B
Markings: 3PMSF & M+S
Noise Level: 73 dB, Class B

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