Pune, 23 January 2025: The Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT Mumbai), under its flagship initiative, the Mumbai Biocluster, awarded its prestigious 2nd Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship for Affordable Biopharmaceuticals to Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla, Chairman, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., a revolutionary entrepreneur, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to biopharmaceutical innovation and global healthcare. Established by ICT Mumbai to honor the late Dr. K. Anji Reddy, founder of Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, a visionary in Indian pharmaceuticals, the fellowship recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the advancement of the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. The fellowship celebrates innovation, leadership and commitment to addressing global healthcare challenges.

The award was presented during a special ceremony at Hotel Ritz Carlton, Pune, on January 21, 2025, in the presence of Chief Guest Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, a distinguished scientist and Padma Vibhushan awardee. The ceremony was jointly hosted by the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai and the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Maharashtra, represented by Professor Anniruddha B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor and Hon’ble Shri Chandrakant (Dada) Patil, Minister of Higher and Technical Education.

On receiving the award Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla said “Among all the awards I have received, the Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Award is particularly special to me because it highlights the importance of affordable pharmaceuticals. Unlike global producers, which received billions in government funding, we at Serum Institute of India relied entirely on our own savings and resources to produce the COVID-19 vaccine at a high speed. We took a significant personal and financial risk to ensure the vaccine’s safety and efficacy, even taking early doses ourselves before licensure.”

Hon’ble Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil, Ministry of Higher and Technical Education commented “We are eagerly anticipating the development of a vaccine by Dr. Poonawalla and the Serum Institute of India (SII) that aims to protect girls from breast and cervical cancer. Our government is expected to launch a campaign to promote this initiative. Just as India successfully became polio-free, we hope to see a future where women in our country are free from the threat of cancer—a vision that Cyrus and his dedicated team at SII are working tirelessly to turn into reality.”

Chief Guest Padma Vibhushan Dr. R.A. Mashelkar said, “Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla is a ‘living legend’ who shares the vision and principles of Dr. K. Anji Reddy, an ICT alumnus. Just like Dr. Reddy founded Reddy Labs, leaving an enduring legacy in the pharmaceutical sector, Dr. Poonawalla’s legacy lies in transforming global healthcare through the Serum Institute of India, making life-saving vaccines affordable and accessible to millions around the world.”

On the sidelines of the event Professor A. B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor, ICT Mumbai said, “Mumbai Biocluster is an organization that is going to be established on the premises of ICT. Currently, many drugs and medicines are manufactured using synthetic chemicals. However, producing them through natural methods can significantly reduce side effects. This groundbreaking research will take place within the Biocluster, with support from several leading pharmaceutical companies.”

Dr. Ratnesh Jain, Founder, Mumbai Biocluster, said, “The Mumbai Biocluster, led by ICT Mumbai, is a transformative initiative that bridges academia, industry and policymakers. By fostering collaboration, it serves as a driving force for biopharmaceutical innovation, empowers startups and accelerates the development of affordable healthcare solutions, solidifying India’s position as a global leader in biopharma. At ICT and our flagship Mumbai Biocluster, it is a tremendous honor to recognize Dr. Poonawalla with this well-deserved accolade. We take immense pride in celebrating him as one of our own and as a distinguished alumnus who continues to inspire us all.”

The award ceremony for the 2nd Dr. K. Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship was a momentous occasion, celebrating the life-changing impact of Dr. Poonawalla’s work and his unparalleled contributions to global healthcare. This recognition underscores ICT Mumbai’s commitment to fostering science, innovation and leadership in the biopharmaceutical sector. Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla’s extraordinary contributions to global healthcare have established India as a hub for affordable vaccines, saving billions of lives worldwide. As the visionary chairman of the Serum Institute of India, Dr. Poonawalla has demonstrated how innovation and unwavering dedication can drive transformative change. His remarkable legacy—delivering over 1.5 billion vaccine doses annually to more than 170 countries—and his pivotal role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic stand as enduring testaments to his leadership and commitment to humanity.

Bengaluru , India, January 23, 2025 – Tata AutoComp Systems Limited, a leading automotive components conglomerate serving Indian and global OEMs, showcased cutting-edge, indigenously developed, technology-first solutions at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, underscoring its commitment to strengthening India’s self-reliance through groundbreaking localisation and technology leadership.

As a major participant in Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 with a theme of “Beyond Boundaries: Co-creating Future Automotive Value Chain,” Tata AutoComp reaffirmed its vision of being the most trusted mobility components and systems partner while reimagining the future of mobility. The stall was inaugurated by Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, underscoring Tata AutoComp’s pivotal role in advancing India’s automotive sector and driving innovation in mobility solutions. Tata Autocomp showcased its comprehensive strengths across 18 business units, including nine joint ventures with leading global auto component manufacturers, all together on one stage. Tata AutoComp showcased groundbreaking advancements, including EV Components, Lithium-Ion Battery Packs, EV Chargers, E-Compressors, Integrated Drivetrain [6-in-1], and Powertrain Solutions for EVs and ICE and also had an Innovation Room that showcased more Advanced Technology.

Mr. Arvind Goel, Vice Chairman of Tata AutoComp Systems said, “The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with electrification, hybridisation, hydrogen technologies, and software-driven vehicles shaping its future. Tata AutoComp is committed to leveraging these advancements to provide innovative solutions that empower the mobility ecosystem. At the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, we highlight not only our capabilities across diverse segments but also our vision to support India’s transition to sustainable mobility. As global trends shift and technologies evolve, we see tremendous opportunities for the Indian automotive sector to lead, particularly in exports, while continuing to strengthen our domestic industry through innovation, R&D, and collaboration.”

In alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, Tata AutoComp is determined to achieve 100% localisation. The company has already made significant strides by localizing critical electric vehicle components, including battery packs, Battery Management Systems (BMS), and over 80% of battery thermal management systems. The company has also achieved successful localisation of Dual Clutch Transmission. This focus on localisation enhances India’s self-reliant automotive ecosystem while ensuring high-quality, cost-efficient solutions for the domestic market.

Expanding its focus beyond the automotive domain, Tata AutoComp has entered the railway sector, contributing to the indigenous development of components for the Vande Bharat initiative. This move complements its efforts in the EV space, where the company empowers manufacturers with localized solutions and advanced drivetrain technology, further solidifying its leadership in the “One Tata” approach to innovation and collaboration.

With a strong emphasis on workforce development, Tata AutoComp’s Learning & Development initiatives are equipping the workforce with the skills needed to meet the demands of an evolving industry. These efforts are creating job opportunities, strengthening the manufacturing sector, and driving sustainable growth in India’s mobility ecosystem.

Marking three decades of excellence, Tata AutoComp has offered its expertise to various sectors, including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, two- and three-wheelers, tractors, off-road machinery, allied industrial applications, and the aftermarket segment. Tata AutoComp is setting the benchmark for the component industry by aligning with policy frameworks like FAME-III and the PLI schemes of the Government of India.

As we step into 2025, the role of nutrition in achieving long-term health cannot be overstated. With increasing awareness of how our lifestyle choices impact our well-being, prioritizing essential nutrients—such as proteins, omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals—has become essential. Our evolving lifestyles and shifting metabolic needs demand a balanced and intentional approach to nutrition. Embracing this approach is not just a choice; it’s a powerful investment in our future health and happiness.

Today, nutrition isn’t just about counting calories. It’s about knowing what your body needs and making sure it gets the right mix of macronutrients for energy and micronutrients for staying healthy and strong. Dr. Priti Thakor, Director, Medical & Scientific Affairs, Nutrition business, Abbott highlights, “As people become more mindful of their eating habits, the demand for nutrient-dense foods is rising, leading to healthier dietary patterns. To support these efforts, oral nutritional supplements (ONS) can help fill nutritional gaps, help prevent malnutrition, especially in individuals with poor appetite, increased nutritional needs, or difficulty absorbing nutrients.”

Understanding Nutrition & The Evolving Nutritional Needs

Good nutrition is essential for maintaining good health. Although the term is widely recognized, its true meaning often remains unclear. With ever-evolving research and the rise of popular diets like vegan, paleo, gluten-free, and keto, making the right food choices can feel overwhelming. Yet, one thing remains consistently evident across all studies: a well-balanced diet has the power to significantly enhance the health and well-being of families.

As individuals progress through different life stages, their nutritional needs evolve. For instance, children require higher amounts of certain nutrients for growth, adults need to focus on maintaining muscle mass and bone density, whereas older adults may require more protein to prevent muscle loss and additional vitamins like D and B12 to support cognitive function. Incorporating products like Ensure in adult diet can help bridge nutritional gaps, providing a balanced source of essential nutrients that support overall health. Recognizing these changes is vital for tailoring dietary choices that meet one’s specific health requirements.

To maintain optimal health, it is important to ensure that your diet is balanced and includes a variety of essential nutrients. Here are key nutrients that should be incorporated into an adult’s diet:

• Protein: This supports muscle repair and growth and can be obtained from dal (lentils), chickpeas, kidney beans (rajma), paneer (cottage cheese), eggs, and chicken.
  Carbohydrates: Being the body’s primary energy source, this is usually found in rice, whole wheat roti, poha, oats, and sweet potatoes.
  Omega-3 Fatty Acids: This supports heart health and helps reduce inflammation and is found in flaxseeds (alsi), walnuts, mustard oil, and fish such as Indian mackerel (bangda) or rohu.
  Fibre: Fibre aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight and is available in whole grains like brown rice and millet, fruits such as guava and apples, vegetables like spinach and broccoli, and psyllium husk (isabgol).
• Vitamins:
  Vitamin D: Aids calcium absorption for bone health and can be sourced from fortified milk, yogurt, and exposure to sunlight
  Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, and is present in almonds, sunflower seeds, and mustard greens (sarson ka saag)
  Vitamin C: Essential for immune function and skin health, available in citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, amla (Indian gooseberry), and guava
  Vitamin B6: Important for brain health and metabolism, found in bananas, potatoes, and sunflower seeds
  Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells, found in dairy products, eggs, fish, and fortified cereal
• Minerals:
  Calcium: Vital for bone health, sourced from milk, curd, ragi (finger millet), and sesame seeds
  Iron: Supports metabolic processes and is found in spinach (palak), fenugreek leaves (methi), jaggery (gur), and lentils (dal)
  Zinc: Aids immune function and wound healing, available in pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and whole grains like bajra .Each nutrient plays a specific role in maintaining health, making it important to consume a diet that is rich in these components.

A Look at Daily Meals

A popular saying goes, “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper.” Since proteins and fats are harder to digest than carbohydrates, they should be consumed at breakfast and lunch. Dinner should be the lightest meal as metabolism slows down in the evening. Breakfast, the heaviest meal after fasting overnight, should begin with lukewarm water to flush out toxins. Include energy-rich carbohydrates like poha, upma, dosa, idli, or cheela made from pulses, enhanced with seasonal vegetables, and pair them with fruit or a glass of milk for added nutrition. Lunch, the second major meal, should focus on unprocessed foods such as salads before the main meal for essential vitamins. Balanced meals like roti with sabji or khichdi make for a light and easy-to-digest dinner.

In addition to these main meals, incorporating small nutrient-dense snacks such as a glass of Ensure can help curb hunger and maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Small Steps to Big Health Wins in 2025

Small changes can lead to significant improvements in overall health. Incorporating more whole foods, reducing processed foods, and staying hydrated are great starting points. Alongside proper nutrition, regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Engaging in strength training exercises at least twice a week can enhance muscle strength, improve balance, and support metabolic health. Activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga also contribute positively to overall fitness.

As we move into 2025, let’s focus on bridging dietary gaps, whether through food or supplements, to help lead fuller, healthier lives. Embrace the opportunity to make meaningful changes nourishing your body, staying active, and cultivating a positive mindset. By committing to these goals, we can collectively set the stage for a healthier, happier year ahead.

Mumbai, January 23, 2025 – Marking half a decade of serving the less-privileged and the needy in ways that enable them to believe and take the lead, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF) held a close-knit celebration in Mumbai on January 22nd 2025 at The Bombay Club. Tributes and acknowledgments from friends, family, well-wishers, and non-profit partners, paved the event as STF reaffirmed its commitment to ensure better living with primary focus areas of health, education, and sports for children.

The theme of the evening, “Shine Brighter Together” shed light on the Foundation’s core idea of impacting lives, especially children through sports, health and education. For Sara Tendulkar, who recently donned the mantle of Director at the Foundation, the evening was her first official engagement. Stepping on the path shown by her parents at such a young age, Sara brings in a fresh perspective of connecting with the youth and helping them take flight with their aspirations.

Reflecting on her family’s commitment to bettering lives and the transformative potential of the Foundation’s initiatives, Sara said, “Growing up, I was always inspired by my family, who shaped my understanding of the power of giving. I had the opportunity to witness the Foundation’s work and see the spark of hope that lights up in the lives of not just the children but in entire families. Over the last five years, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation has touched over a 10,00,00 young lives, and that’s a hundred thousand reasons to keep going. I am grateful to everyone who believed in us and stood by our side to make this journey possible.

“As Director, I cannot wait to build on what my parents started and make sure that every little dream gets noticed and nurtured. I look forward to this journey as we light up a world of possibilities for children who are the future.”

A short film introduced the guests to the Foundation’s work. The audience were enlightened on the continued dedication of the Tendulkars and STF towards a shared dream of empowering the young dreamers, through strategic partnerships. The work done by the 15+ NGO partners who STF collaborates with was acknowledged and applauded.

Coldplay’s Chris Martin was in attendance and engaged in a Tête-à-tête, on stage with Sachin Tendulkar. Pressing on the Foundation’s journey, Sachin Tendulkar shared, “When I walked back to the pavilion one last time, I had an inkling in my mind that my innings was far from over. Anjali and I had this vision to do something to ease living for the less privileged and give young dreamers some assistance to believe in themselves and take flight. We realized that the germination of the idea was easier than implementing it. Eventually, STF came into being and now we’ve traversed half a decade of doing our bit. The journey is in full swing and with Sara leading the way now, I am confident that STF will continue to transform million dreams into reality and give wings to the doers.”

Starting with a humble vision of connecting with people and assisting them in realizing their full potential, STF is at the threshold to expand its sports-for-development initiatives multi-fold, so that millions more children and youth across the corners get benefitted. The futuristic vision looks at creating more advanced infrastructure in rural areas, strengthening healthcare access for children through collaborations with local hospitals and authorities, and introducing innovative education programs aimed at bridging opportunity gaps and skill development. By merging the core vision with a new zeal, STF aims to make the next decade a decade of fulfilling ‘billions of dreams.’

EasyTurn transforms larger vehicle models into highly agile entities, allowing them to navigate tight parking spaces and perform U-turns in exceptionally confined areas, equivalent to the width of soccer goal. This significant advancement improves the turning radius for a typical midsize passenger car up to 30%, simplifying numerous urban driving scenarios.

Aligned with the global shift towards sustainable mobility, EasyTurn is compatible with rear-wheel drive vehicles commonly seen in electric cars. Additionally, it fits seamlessly with MacPherson axle systems, which cater to around 80 percent of modern vehicle platforms, showcasing its suitability for widespread market adoption.

“EasyTurn represents a major leap forward in our commitment to innovative mobility solutions,” says Akash Passey, President, ZF Group India. “By increasing the steering angle to an unprecedented level, we provide enhanced agility and efficiency that meet the demands of urban environments and contribute to a sustainable future for mobility.”

The innovative EasyTurn axle system offers substantial benefits for both passenger and cargo vehicles, particularly in congested urban areas. It excels in narrow alleys, construction sites, parking spaces, traffic jams, and loading zones, delivering nearly effortless turning and parking manoeuvres.

ZF continues to enhance vehicle technology, driving forward the next generation of mobility solutions that meet the demands of modern transportation. With EasyTurn, ZF sets a new standard in vehicle steering capability, expanding possibilities for vehicle design, driving experiences, and Redefining India’s Mobility.

New Delhi, January 23, 2025 – In a compelling call to action, Apurv Mishra, member, Prime Minister’s economic advisory council (EAC) on Wednesday, emphasized the critical role of education in shaping India’s future as a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) and global power by 2047.

“There is an immediate need for systemic reforms, highlighting education not only as a social and economic imperative but as a cornerstone of national security and strategic autonomy,” Mishra said at North India Education Summit 2025, organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Delhi.

“Education is not just a social or economic issue; it is a pressing national security concern. If India aims to be a developed country by 2047 and a leading global power, we must build world-class capabilities in frontier technologies. Incremental improvements—like faceless assessments, updated teaching practices, better infrastructure, real-time parent-student accountability, alumni involvement, state university funding, and a healthy PhD ecosystem—are crucial to reforming our higher education system,” Mishra further stated.

The summit brought together policymakers, educators, and thought leaders to explore strategies for addressing challenges in teaching, training, and institutional frameworks. Discussions centered on fostering a thriving ecosystem for deep science, building capabilities in frontier technologies, and driving incremental yet impactful changes, such as modernized curriculums, improved infrastructure, and enhanced state university funding.

Simrin Bakshi, chairperson, North India Education Committee , ICC, addressed the dual role of education in individual and national transformation, stressing the need for stronger industry-academia linkages, quality faculty, and innovative solutions for inclusive and globally competitive education.

“There is an urgency of aligning India’s education system with its global aspirations. By addressing systemic gaps and embracing innovation, we can position education as a catalyst for societal and economic transformation.” said Bakshi.

A key theme of the summit was innovation in education, encompassing advancements in technology, pedagogy, and sustainability. The event also focused on creating equitable learning environments to empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.

Chandigarh, 23 January, 2025 – The Lalit Chandigarh is thrilled to unveil a new progressive pan-Asian menu at its signature restaurant, OKO. Renowned for its masterful presentation of the distinctive cuisines of South East Asia, OKO offers an unforgettable dining experience showcasing the finest flavours.

Situated within the premises of The Lalit Chandigarh, the new OKO brings an elevated dining concept to the region, blending exceptional cuisine with an ambiance that transforms seamlessly from a tranquil day retreat to a vibrant nightlife haven. Guests can savour signature dishes such as Spicy Tuna Maki, Pan-Fried Lamb Dim Sums with Peanut Butter Sauce, Balinese Prawn Curry with Sticky Rice, and Chef Vijender’s exquisite Dessert Sampler featuring Green Tea Cheesecake and Date Pancake. The expertly crafted menu celebrates the bold and intricate flavours of South East Asia, offering a harmonious blend of authenticity and innovation.

In collaboration with ASK Consultants, OKO is set to redefine dining in Chandigarh by merging authentic flavours with innovative culinary techniques. The restaurant takes pride in embracing diversity, celebrating inclusivity, and empowering a variety of artists through special performances, reflecting The Lalit’s ethos of respect and care.

The menu has been thoughtfully crafted by the newly appointed Executive Chef Ankur Sharma, who brings over 18 years of expertise in the hospitality industry. Chef Sharma’s vision is to redefine pan-Asian cuisine by blending traditional recipes with contemporary techniques and presentations. Guests can look forward to signature dishes, live teppanyaki stations, and an exquisite fine-dining experience

“OKO at The Lalit Chandigarh is a tribute to the rich, layered cultures of South East Asia. Each dish is crafted with precision and passion, ensuring every guest experiences the authenticity of traditional flavours while enjoying a modern twist,” said Ankur Sharma, Executive Chef, The LaliT Chandigarh.

Mr. Devinder Walia, General Manager, The Lalit Chandigarh said “The new menu at OKO reflects our commitment to pushing culinary boundaries while celebrating the authenticity of Asian flavours”