Mr Meghdut Roychowdhury, Founder of Make Calcutta Relevant Again and Chief Innovation Officer of Techno India Group.
The announcement of a new Rs 10,000 crore Fund for startups is a game-changer for India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Funding has always been one of the biggest challenges for startups, especially those outside metro cities. With Rs 91,000 crore already committed through Alternate Investment Funds (AIFs), this fresh infusion of capital is a much-needed boost that will help startups scale, innovate, and take bigger risks.

More importantly, this initiative signals the government’s belief in young entrepreneurs and the power of homegrown innovation. It’s not just about financial support—it’s about creating an environment where startups, especially from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, can access the resources they need to thrive.

The key now is in the execution. If this fund is distributed transparently and inclusively, reaching a diverse pool of founders across industries, it could set the stage for India to truly become a global startup powerhouse. As someone passionate about nurturing talent and innovation, I am excited to see the impact this will have on the next generation of changemakers.

New Delhi, February 2025: The newly reopened Chor Bizarre at Asaf Ali Road serves regional Indian cuisine and authentic signature Kashmiri dishes in a setting that is unabashedly Indian. Originally debuting in 1990 as India’s first theme restaurant, Chor Bizarre gained iconic status with its unique ‘thieves market’ ambience and authentic regional Indian cuisine.

It is especially known across the world for its Kashmiri dishes and was the first to bring the Kashmiri Wazwan as well as other delicacies from Kashmiri pandit cuisine, out of the valley. Chor Bizarre has taken its pop-ups across the country and the world. However, the restaurant has always been proud of the ever-changing regional favourites too on its menu.

Chor Bizarre recently hosted a pop up of Mangalorean cuisine by Chef Shriya Shetty. Prior to that, it showcased Odia cuisine by actor-filmmaker Nandita Das. Last year, it also held a pop-up featuring Purani Dilli cuisine as well as brought its sister restaurant, Hosa from Goa, for a pop up to New Delhi. Another recent pop-up featured 40 dishes from the Kashmiri Wazwan for its regulars.

Starting February 7th, Ladakhi cuisine will take centre stage at Chor Bizarre, offering a rich exploration of this unique culinary tradition in collaboration with Stok Palace, Leh. This pop-up promises to bring authentic, time-honoured recipes from Ladakh to Delhi, further enriching the culinary experience for its regular guests.

Says Stanzin Jigmed Namgyal, Prince of Ladakh,‘’We, at Stok Palace, endeavour to honour Ladakh’s culinary heritage by presenting guests with an authentic taste of the royal kitchens. We try to deliver a genuine experience, keeping the dishes simple and thoughtfully prepared. We look forward to doing the same for our esteemed guests during this weekend in New Delhi.”

At its core, Ladakhi food is comfort food—rooted in the use of indigenous, organically grown ingredients that flourish in the unique environment of Ladakh. Each region within Ladakh brings its own variation and flair to the table, with dishes that tell the story of the land and its people. For instance, Yarkhandi Pulao, a delicacy with origins tracing back to the Silk Route era, showcases the historical exchanges and influences that have shaped Ladakhi culinary traditions. Other delights on the menu include Khambir with Tangthur, a traditional sourdough flatbread; Gyathuk, a Chinese-style Thupka; O-Skyu, thumbprint pasta; Pheymarr and more, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Ladakhi cuisine, deeply rooted in the region’s geography and traditions, reflects its people’s resourcefulness and deep connection to nature. The food is based on locally sourced ingredients like barley, wild herbs, and apricots, prepared with techniques passed down through generations. This pop-up will showcase a variety of dishes that capture the heart and soul of Ladakhi culinary culture.

Says Chef Srinivas, Brand Chef of Chor Bizarre: “We’re thrilled to introduce Ladakhi cuisine to our guests in Delhi. This is a wonderful opportunity for our diners to discover the authentic and distinctive flavors of Ladakh, which are not often found in the city. With the culinary expertise of Stok Palace combined with Chor Bizarre’s touch, we’re excited to offer a truly memorable dining experience.”

India, 2025

In a groundbreaking celebration of art, culture, and spirituality, Atelier Ajanta proudly announces its pan-India launch with the unveiling of its latest masterpiece: Devon Ke Dev Mahadev. Created by visionary Dutch artists Hans Goedoen and Jerrel Goedoen, the piece is a striking interpretation of Lord Shiva, a modern piece of art symbolizing resilience, faith, and cultural continuity. Founded in Amsterdam, Atelier Ajanta is named after the iconic Ajanta caves; the birthplace of Indian art. The studio serves as a creative hub where the Goedoen brothers blend the intricacies of Hindu iconography with modern European design. Their art bridges the past and present, the spiritual and the material, making ancient traditions accessible to contemporary audiences.

Hans & Jerrel’s journey is a testament to the strength of identity across continents and centuries. Descendants of Hindu indentured laborers transported to Suriname during British rule in India, the Goedoen brothers’ family migrated to The Netherlands in the 1970s. Despite the upheavals of migration, their Hindu faith remained a guiding force, shaping their identity and artistic expression.

“It’s incredible how our ancestors carried Lord Shiva in their hearts across oceans and generations,” says Hans. “This connection to Sanatan Dharma became the foundation of our art. Our sculpture is more than art; it’s a homecoming,” adds Jerrel. “Shiva’s journey mirrors our own—from India to Suriname, to The Netherlands, and now, back to India. Hinduism is not just a religion; it’s a way of life that has stood the test of time. In fact, our piece of art is a true manifestation of the meaning of Sanatan Dharma – eternal truth. Sanatan Dharma is regarded as eternal because it embodies the timeless, universal laws governing the cosmos and human existence. It recognizes truths that transcend time, place, and culture. Across continents, generations, and diverse cultures, the essence of this dharma has remained unchanged—its enduring nature is vividly reflected in our timeless piece of art that stand as evidence to this phenomenon. Through this masterpiece, we aim to share this strength and spirituality not only with India but also the rest of the world.”

Our masterpiece named “Devon Ke Dev Mahadev” is a bold, contemporary tribute to the essence of Hinduism and a celebration to its resilience. Crafted from hand-spray painted dry cast resin and standing at 35 cm tall, the 12kg solid sculpture embodies both Shiva’s cosmic power and meditative stillness. Each piece is signed by the artists and comes with a certificate of authenticity, making it both a collector’s item and a profound statement of faith and heritage. Atelier Ajanta issues only a limited number (hundred pieces), keeping it exclusive and rare.

By returning their interpretation of Lord Shiva to India, Hans and Jerrel complete a spiritual and cultural circle that began generations ago. The launch of Devon Ke Dev Mahadev in India represents not only their personal journey but also the resilience of Hinduism, which has flourished across continents and adversities.

In a time when the pride in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage is resurging under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the story of Hans and Jerrel Goedoen becomes even more symbolic. Their journey and art are a testament to the unmatched resilience of Hinduism—a religion and way of life that has survived time, distance, and adversity to emerge stronger than ever. How powerful is Hinduism, if it can withstand generations of migration, crossing oceans and continents, yet remain unbroken and eternal? The Goedoen brothers’ masterpiece exemplifies this strength, inspiring pride in every Hindu who reflects on the unshakable truth of Sanatan Dharma.

Devon Ke Dev Mahadev is now available across India for both progressive members of the Hindu community and art enthusiasts. Each piece is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Limited edition.

February 1st: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

The Department of Tourism, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, partners with Miss India Organization, Times Group, to proudly launch the breathtaking calendar “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh.” This calendar pays tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, India’s first dawn-lit state, at a spectacular launch event held at Dorjee Khandu State Convention Center, Itanagar.

The Times Group has engaged with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to partner with and highlight the various pillars that make Arunachal Pradesh an arresting destination across all industry verticals. The first such engagement is with the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, to conceptualise and produce a magnificent calendar that encapsulates time with the state’s natural beauty.

The calendar “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh” is a heartfelt tribute to the alluring beauty of Arunachal Pradesh with the graceful exuberance of Femina Miss India winners through a visual story captured in this calendar, featuring 13 exquisite images. Each month showcases Arunachal’s scenic topography and landscape – its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and serene rivers – intensified by the elegance of Miss India queens. “Rise” symbolises Arunachal’s periodic embrace of the sun, while “Shine” underscores the glowing achievements of Femina Miss India winners. Together, “Rise and Shine” is a tribute to Arunachal’s rich treasury of beauty, culture, and India’s luminous and promising future.

The event commenced with ceremonial lamp lighting, signifying an auspicious start to the occasion, followed by a welcome speech by the Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Ranphoa Ngowa. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, First Lady of the State Smt Anagha Parnaik, the Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Shri Kardo Nyigyor, the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona; Guest of Honour Neha Dhupia. Additionally, an array of esteemed dignitaries attended the event, namely the Hon’ble MLA Shri Topin Ete, the Hon’ble MLA Shri Tseten Chombay Kee, the Hon’ble MLA Smt Nyabi Jini Dirchi, the Hon’ble Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Dasanglu Pul, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Shri Nyato Dukam, the Minister of Housing, Shri Balo Raja, and the Secretary, Department of Tourism, Shri Ranphoa Ngowa.

In his keynote address, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona – Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, highlighted the importance of such collaborations in promoting tourism, saying, “Through this collaboration with Times Group and Miss India Organization, we proudly showcase the wonders of our state to the world. This calendar celebrates Arunachal Pradesh’s natural splendour and these remarkable women. It is an invitation to experience the warmth of our people, the richness of our traditions, and the magic of our landscapes. We welcome travellers to explore Arunachal Pradesh – where every journey is a memory waiting to be made.”

Adding to the occasion, a specially curated audio-visual presentation of the state’s tourism attractions was premiered, offering an immersive glimpse into the cultural and natural wealth of Arunachal Pradesh. The captivating visuals drew applause from the audience, setting the perfect tone for the evening, followed by a mesmerising cultural dance performance representing Arunachal Pradesh’s rich traditions, featuring Femina Miss India winners: Nandini Gupta – Femina Miss India World 2023, Nikita Porwal – Femina Miss India World 2024, Aayushi Dholakia – Femina Miss India 2024 – 2nd Runner-up, and Tadu Lunia – Femina Miss India Arunachal Pradesh 2024, and Guest of Honour Neha Dhupia.

Addressing the congregation at the calendar launch, the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, said, “I extend my warm greetings to all participants in this launching of the ‘Rise and Shine’ calendar 2025. I am confident that this tourism and travel initiative will go a long way in reflecting the true cultural diversity of Arunachal Pradesh and harnessing the tourism potential of the State.

I commend our Hon’ble Minister Shri PD Sona, officers and officials of the State Tourism Department and Miss India Organization, Times Group for this joint venture. Through this collaboration with Times Group and Miss India Organization, we proudly showcase the wonders of our State to the world. This calendar celebrates Arunachal Pradesh’s natural splendour and these remarkable women. It is an invitation to experience the warmth of our people, the richness of our traditions, and the magic of our landscapes. We welcome travellers to explore Arunachal Pradesh, where every journey is a memory waiting to be made.”

The highlight of the event was the grand unveiling of the calendar – “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh“. Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, the Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Shri Kardo Nyigyor, the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, the evening’s Guest of Honour, Neha Dhupia and other esteemed dignitaries, came together to launch the calendar. Each page features iconic locations of Arunachal Pradesh, captured with the poise and elegance of the Femina Miss India winners, making it a collector’s item that inspires wanderlust.

Towards the end of last year, the members of the Miss India Organization, along with the Femina Miss India winners, embarked on an extraordinary journey across various cities of Arunachal Pradesh to capture the state’s unparalleled beauty through a spectacular calendar and content shoot. Over two weeks, the team explored and shot at five breathtaking locations—Namsai, Mechukha, Tawang, Ziro, and Anini—showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

This calendar features the stellar cast of Femina Miss India winners: Nandini Gupta – Femina Miss India World 2023, Shreya Poonja – Femina Miss India 2023 – 1st Runner-up, Strela Luwang – Femina Miss India 2023 – 2nd Runner-up, Nikita Porwal – Femina Miss India World 2024, Rekha Pandey – Femina Miss India 2024 – 1st Runner-up, Aayushi Dholakia – Femina Miss India 2024 – 2nd Runner-up, and Tadu Lunia – Femina Miss India Arunachal Pradesh 2024.

Speaking of the partnership, Mr Rohit Gopakumar, Director – Worldwide Media and CEO – ZENL and Times Digital Network, said, “The Times Group has been working closely with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to partner and collaborate on promoting the state’s offering to the larger Indian Audience. We are proud to kick off this collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in conceptualising and producing a beautiful calendar which marries the power of femininity through the Femina Miss India and the scenic Natural beauty of the state to create a magnificent masterpiece, the ‘Rise and Shine’ calendar of 2025 for Arunachal Pradesh. It points to the state’s unparalleled beauty, where nature has blessed the state of Arunachal Pradesh with attractive gems for tourists, such as rolling hills, glimmering lakes, and waterfalls under the clear blue sky and crisp Himalayan air. It is a commitment to spotlighting our country’s unexplored treasure like Arunachal Pradesh, its rich diversity, boundless dreams, and the indomitable spirit of its people.”

Beyond the stunning calendar visuals, this collaboration also resulted in the filming of captivating content (videos and still images) featuring stunning landscapes, topography, heritage, and culture, among other aspects of the state, to promote the prospect of its tourism and build positive optics and interest. The content will be promoted and amplified across the digital properties of Femina Miss India, the Worldwide Media group network and Arunachal Pradesh Tourism.

February 3, 2025: India is experiencing a transformative wave of Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in workplaces, prompting working professionals to learn the necessary skills and tools for the future. According to the 2025 Global Workplace Skills Study conducted by Emeritus, a global leader in professional education, the integration of AI in the workplace is reshaping careers across India, with 94% of Indian professionals believing that mastering AI skills will accelerate their career growth.

The study, which surveyed over 6,000 respondents across 18 countries aged 21-65 working across sectors such as finance & insurance, manufacturing, software & IT services, and education, among others, revealed that Indian professionals are leading the global AI adoption curve. An impressive 96% of Indian professionals are using AI and generative AI tools at work, significantly higher than the 81% in the US and 84% in the UK. As a result, 95% of Indian workers report increased productivity due to these technologies, outpacing the global average.

Indian professionals are prioritizing AI skills to stay competitive, with 90% considering AI and generative AI crucial for future career success. Moreover, 94% view AI expertise as essential not only for career advancement but also for diversifying across industries—far surpassing the global average of 87%. Notably, machine learning is uniquely among the top five most sought-after skills in India, with professionals twice as likely as global counterparts to focus on it.

Top 5 most sought after skills:

• AI Development and Application
• Mastering Emerging Technologies
• Effective Communication Skills
• Machine Learning
• Strategic Leadership and Management

The Global Workplace Skills Study 2025 identifies four critical trends in how Indian learners perceive and use AI:

• Higher AI Adoption in India: India has a higher AI adoption rate (96%) reflecting a tech-savvy workforce, compared to 81% in the US and 84% in the UK.
• AI/Gen AI Skills as a Top Priority:  AI/GenAI skills are at the forefront of professional development priorities in India, with 94% of Indian professionals seeing AI competencies as vital for long-term career employability.
• AI’s Transformative Impact on Workplaces: 93% report that higher job satisfaction due to AI, GenAI-driven tools and resources available at work, significantly above the global (87%), US (82%) and UK (83%) averages.
• Concerns about AI-Driven Displacement: Despite being early adopters of AI and Gen AI tools, Indians are increasingly worried about technology replacing them if they do not continually upskill.

Indian Employers Highly Invested in Employees’ Continued Learning

The Global Workplace Skills Study 2025 highlights a strong commitment by Indian employers to invest in workforce development, with working professionals reporting that 73% of employers increased their investment in training over the past year, well above the global average of 46%. Key benefits supporting skill development include internal training programs (44%) and career coaching (38%). Additionally, 40% of Indian professionals expect their employers to contribute financially to skills enhancement programs, signalling an opportunity for organisations to enhance workforce satisfaction and higher employee retention by sponsoring educational opportunities.

As India cements its position as a hub for technology innovation and growth, the emphasis on AI-driven upskilling will play a critical role in shaping the nation’s economic trajectory.

Announcing the launch of the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2025, Ashwin Damera, CEO and Co-Founder of Emeritus, said, “As the world undergoes economic and technological changes, the workforce needs to keep up with the time and evolve their approach to work with new skills, mindsets and competencies. India’s workforce is not only adapting to AI but actively harnessing it to shape the future of work. The findings from the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study highlight the resilience and forward-thinking mindset of Indian professionals and their employers in positioning AI as a career catalyst.”

Inspired by a growing affinity for dual-tone designs across segments, iQOO introduced this concept in the Neo series, starting with the iQOO Neo 9 Pro. Now, taking this design philosophy forward, the iQOO Neo 10R debuts with a striking Blue and White back, crafted exclusively for India—to provide Indian consumers with unique and innovative designs that resonate with their bold and vibrant colour preferences.

Raging Blue exudes strength and forward momentum, while the White accent embodies a sense of power and determination. The design is enhanced by an exclusive texture inspired by racing tracks, which also influenced “R” in the iQOO Neo 10R. The result is a design that is not only visually stunning, but also reflects brand’s dedication to innovation, attention to detail and craftsmanship, making iQOO Neo10 R a truly exceptional device that is sure to stand out in the crowd.

Combined with iQOO’s commitment to providing consumers with the latest technology and features, reflected in the Neo 10R‘s cutting-edge specifications and capabilities, makes it a must-have for anyone looking for an all-rounder high-performance smartphone with a bold and unique design.

New Delhi, India – 3-01-2025 – Founded in Silicon Valley in 2013 by Arun Paul, Priya Living has reimagined senior living in the United States, creating vibrant communities where aging is embraced with joy, creativity, and purpose. Now, Priya Living is bringing its innovative approach home to India—offering a new vision for elderhood as the most fulfilling stage of life.

“Priya Living is deeply personal to me,” said Arun Paul, Founder of Priya Living. “It is a tribute to my parents, who left everything behind in India to give me a life of opportunity in the United States. Their sacrifices, their resilience, and their enduring connection to India inspired me to create Priya Living. Now, I want to reconnect the Indian diaspora with their roots while also addressing the growing need for a fresh, dynamic approach to aging in India itself.”

Priya Living’s communities are designed as more than just residences—they are thriving hubs of culture, learning, and connection. Here, life’s possibilities never end, and people can rediscover old passions while exploring new horizons. Priya Living features modern, boutique-inspired spaces, world-class services, experiential programming, and curated experiences, These communities attract both elders and younger generations, creating a vibrant intergenerational space that blends the wisdom of old age with flourishing dynamic ideas.

As Priya Living expands to India, it introduces a powerful, transformative way of life, challenging the outdated notions of senior living, and proving that aging is not about slowing down—it’s about growing, exploring, and achieving our highest level as human beings. Priya Living is not just about a place or a space for community, culture, and choice, its a movement to redefine what it means to age.

My Vision for India

“This year marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Priya Living, as we bring our vision to India. We are launching our first communities in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad—three vibrant cities that reflect India’s diversity, energy, and future. These communities will serve as a model for how elderhood can be redefined in India, blending the best of global design and service with the deep cultural and emotional connections that are so central to Indian families.

But this is just the beginning. Over the coming years, we plan to expand to dozens of cities across India, from Tier I to Tier III. Our vision is to create vibrant communities in cities and regions where families are looking for modern solutions to support their parents. By doing so, Priya Living will not only transform the lives of elders in India but also set a new global standard for aging that the rest of the world will look to as an example.

With these plans, India will stand at the forefront of a global movement to redefine what elderhood can be—a time of growth, reinvention, and connection. And for me, personally, it’s deeply emotional to be bringing this vision back to the country that has always been home in my heart.”