Veranda RACE Signs MoU with NEMI to Offer IIT Indore Certified BFSI Courses

CHENNAI, 5TH April 2025:Veranda RACE, a Veranda Learning enterprise and a leading institute for competitive exam training and professional upskilling, announced the signing of MoU with NEMI Education to offer an IIT Indore certified Post Graduate Program in Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI). This program is a significant step in bridging the skill gap and equipping aspiring professionals with industry-relevant expertise.

As an exclusive skilling partner of IIT Indore through its skilling wing, Drishti CPS, NEMI Education designs and delivers cutting-edge skilling programs. These courses will be taught by a combination of esteemed faculty members, experienced practicing managers, and a robust technology-driven learning platform.

With its extensive reach, strong presence in BFSI training, and deep understanding of the learning needs of aspirants, Veranda RACE will play a crucial role in ensuring that a wide range of students benefit from this program. Veranda RACE’s proven track record in mentoring candidates through structured training programs and industry-focused learning will enable more learners across the country to acquire essential skills and advance their careers in the BFSI sector.

The initial program will be Post Graduate Certificate in BFSI and delivered online, catering to a broad range of learners. With a duration of 4 to 6 months, the first cohort is tentatively set to commence on May 1, 2025.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Akshay Bajpayee, CEO of NEMI Education, said,
“We are excited to partner with Veranda RACE to bring IIT Indore Certified skilling programs to aspiring BFSI professionals. Our goal is to create industry-ready talent through a combination of academic rigor and practical insights. This program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the BFSI sector.”

Mr. Santhosh Kumar, CEO of Veranda RACE, added, “At Veranda RACE, we are committed to providing high-quality skilling opportunities that empower learners to achieve their career goals. Our collaboration with NEMI Education aligns perfectly with our vision to offer world-class education through a blend of technology and expert-led training.”

This partnership is poised to redefine BFSI skilling in India by integrating academic excellence with practical learning. Veranda RACE and NEMI Education aim to create a strong pipeline of skilled professionals ready to make an impact in the financial services sector.

AI Adoption Goes Mainstream Kapiva, Birla Capital and Rustomjee Embrace Behavioral AI

Mumbai | 05th April 2025 — Indian marketers today face a fast-moving, multi-platform consumer landscape where traditional personas and surveys fall short. AI Twins by consumr.ai solves this with real-time, privacy-safe digital replicas of ideal customers—built from observed behavior like search trends, content engagement, and social activity. These dynamic profiles help brands make sharper decisions across media, creative, targeting, and product development—turning live behavioral data into marketing precision at scale.

Unlike legacy research methods that rely on focus groups or surveys—often slow, costly, and biased—AI Twins delivers deterministic, observation-based insights instantly. This enables brands to ground every business decision in what consumers are actually doing, not just what they claim—putting real behavior, not assumptions, at the heart of strategy.

“India is one of the most complex and high-potential consumer markets in the world. With AI Twins, we’re giving marketers a powerful edge—access to real-time, behavior-led intelligence that makes every decision sharper and more scalable,” said Vivek Bhargava, Co-founder, consumr.ai.

How AI Twins is Driving Impact
Kapiva discovered a new growth lever for its wellness product Dia Free when AI Twins identified a behavioral pattern among non-diabetics interested in managing sugar spikes. This insight led to a strategic repositioning and a potential 5x expansion in the addressable market. “That one insight helped us rethink our category strategy and unlock an entirely new growth lever,” said Ameve Sharma, Co-founder, Kapiva.

Aditya Birla Capital built behavior-based lookalikes of women insurance buyers, leading to 90%+ female-led conversions—a breakthrough over traditional targeting. “AI Twins helped us move beyond probabilistic targeting to a level of accuracy we hadn’t seen before,” said Darshana Shah, Head of Marketing & Customer Experience, Aditya Birla Capital.

Rustomjee used psychographic signals from AI Twins to align messaging with buyer motivations, resulting in stronger engagement across digital channels. “Excited to partner with consumr.ai as we take our digital marketing efforts to the next level at Rustomjee,” said Rushabh Shah, CMO, Rustomjee. “Combined with Vivek’s extensive cross sectoral experience and the platform’s sharp consumer intelligence capabilities, we’re looking forward to unlocking new possibilities in how we plan, personalize, and perform across the funnel. The future of marketing is insight-led, and we’re glad to be on this journey together.”

Celebrate Mango Season with Mother’s Recipe Maharashtra Mango Pickle

Pune(S.N):As the mango season reaches its peak, Mother’s Recipe invites you to savor the essence of summer with its Maharashtra Mango Pickle, beautifully packaged in a 200g PET jar, priced at just Rs. 70.

This season, enrich your palate with the bold and traditional flavors that define Maharashtrian cuisine. Our Maharashtra Mango Pickle is a tribute to the state’s rich culinary heritage, blending tangy raw mangoes with a robust mix of spices. The heat of red chili powder and the depth of turmeric come together in a dance of flavors. The special addition of hing (asafoetida) and roasted spices offers a complex taste that resonates with the vibrant spirit of Maharashtra, while fenugreek seeds add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Ms. Sanjana Desai, Executive Director of Mother’s Recipe, reflects on the inspiration behind this seasonal delight, “Each jar of our Maharashtra Mango Pickle is packed with the vibrant flavors of summer and the time-honored spice blends of Maharashtrian kitchens. This pickle is not just a condiment, it’s an invitation to explore and celebrate the rich gastronomic culture of Maharashtra with every bite.”

Now available in Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Nagpur, as well as other major cities across Maharashtra, this pickle can be found at leading retail outlets, e-commerce platforms and supermarkets, ensuring that everyone can add a touch of tradition to their meals during the mango season.

Unwind with a luxurious getaway at Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt

April 2025, New Delhi: Take a break and immerse yourself in a luxurious staycation at Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt. Nestled in the vibrant city of New Delhi, Andaz Delhi is known for crafting luxurious and unforgettable staycations, perfect for a family vacation or a joyful getaway with friends or as a solo retreat. The month of April offers a perfect opportunity to indulge in a staycation at Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt. Bring your furry friends too as it is a pet – friendly hotel with tailored amenities and open spaces ensuring your four – legged partners enjoy as much as you do.

Guests can choose to stay from 17th April to 20th April for the upcoming long weekend of Good Friday. This weekend getaway comes with truly exciting offers such as a scrumptious buffet breakfast and a pan to plate dinner at AnnaMaya, the modern food hall at Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt where guests can treat themselves to a gastronomic journey. Furthermore, guests will enjoy a 25% discount on Food and Beverages and Spa Sessions that are sure to leave you rejuvenated. What’s more is that children below the age group of 12 years old can stay for free of charge!

Take a refreshing swim in the pool while savouring the lush green views and sip on your favourite beverage as you do so. Andaz Delhi, by Hyatt offers rooms that are thoughtfully designed to give guests the utmost comfort and a stunning runway view of the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The hotel also provides a range of luxurious amenities to ensure your long weekend is relaxed, refreshing, and stress-free. One can also opt for experiential tours across Delhi with Andaz Delhi’s ‘401 Reasons to Fall in Love with Delhi’ tours.

Palladium India Wins ‘Net Zero Initiative’ at Water Digest Awards 2024-25

05-04-2025, Delhi – Palladium India has been honored with the prestigious ‘Net Zero Initiative of the Year’ award at the Water Digest World Water Awards 2024-25, an esteemed platform that highlights outstanding contributions to water sustainability. This award, conferred in partnership with UNESCO and supported by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), recognizes Palladium’s continuous efforts to lead sustainable practices across multiple sectors. The award was presented by Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State, Ministry of Jal Shakti, and was graciously received by Anoop Phanse, Associate Director, Palladium India, at a grand ceremony attended by industry leaders and policymakers.

This recognition reflects Palladium’s dedication to embracing Net Zero and sustainability as key components across diverse sectors and projects which the impact organization leads. For instance, Palladium’s transformative impact in Pimpri Chinchwad in collaboration with Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation stands as a testament to how urban centers can embed sustainability into their fabric. By raising ₹200 crore through Municipal Bonds for river rejuvenation and developing a robust flood mitigation strategy for the Pawana River, Palladium supported PCMC in laying the groundwork for lasting change. Additionally, the impact organization has been instrumental in building local capacities, facilitating training for more than 150 government officers in collaboration with Japanese experts on disaster response. Through its climate budgeting efforts, Palladium is working toward a 27% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, while also playing a key role in establishing electric mobility initiatives, ensuring that 30% of the city’s transport fleet is now electric. These initiatives, coupled with the development of a Heat Action Plan and air quality monitoring systems, further solidify Palladium’s role as a leader in urban sustainability.

Palladium’s work in Thane in collaboration with Thane Municipal Corporation also highlights its commitment to water management and efficiency. Through this collaboration Palladium India facilitated installation of 105,000 Smart Water Meters in Thane, which in result successfully reduced water wastage by 15%, making Thane’s water footprint more sustainable and helping the city reach its Net Zero goals.

In addition to water efficiency, Palladium is actively working to enhance climate and disaster resilience in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra. The organization developed a Landslide Management Plan, prioritizing 483 high-risk villages and also created India’s first Fort-Specific Disaster Management Plan for Panhala Fort, showcasing its unique approach to heritage preservation and disaster readiness. The Konkan Coastal Disaster Mitigation Project is another of Palladium’s key initiatives designed to reduce loss of life and property, especially in the face of increasingly frequent natural calamities.

In the transport sector, Palladium has partnered with the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation to achieve 15 million tons of annual emissions reductions. By adopting BS-VI emission standards and shifting the state’s public transport fleet from fossil fuels to cleaner energy alternatives, OSRTC is today driving India’s transition toward sustainable mobility.

At the heart of all these accomplishments is Palladium’s commitment to sustainability as an ongoing journey. Amit Patjoshi, CEO of Palladium India, expressed, “This recognition is not just an award; it’s a reflection of our team’s tireless dedication to integrating sustainability into every facet of our work. Palladium India is dedicated to driving sustainability and supporting its clients in achieving their Net Zero and sustainability objectives across diverse sectors. As an impact consulting and implementation organization, we work closely with government organizations, municipalities, and private sector partners to deliver impactful solutions that support environmental and social progress.”

Anoop Phanse, Associate Director, Palladium India, quoted, “Winning this award is a proud moment for all of us. It validates the deep-rooted commitment we have to driving change in every project, creating a lasting impact not only through our operations but also in the wider sustainability landscape.”

Dharma, Devotion & Destiny Audiobooks & Films for Rama Navami

Want to know more about Lord Ram ahead of Rama Navami or finding it difficult to read and understand the scriptures? Or are you keen to introduce the amazing stories about Lord Ram to your children and family? This year, celebrate the festival by immersing yourself in audiobooks and films that bring the Ramayana to life in a way that feels personal and profound. Whether you seek spiritual reflection, timeless wisdom, family bonding or unforgettable stories of righteousness and devotion, these selections offer a meaningful way to mark the occasion. Let these tales make this Rama Navami a celebration to remember.

TO LISTEN

Shri Ram Charitmanas

This audiobook of Shri Ram Charitmanas, written by the revered poet Tulsidas, offers a divine journey through the life of Lord Rama. Filled with timeless lessons on courage, virtue, and dharma, it beautifully portrays Ram’s ideals, his divine acts, and the deep spiritual wisdom that guides us towards inner peace. As we celebrate Ram Navami, this audio version provides a way to connect with the sacred teachings, infusing your day with inspiration, positivity, and a renewed sense of purpose. It is the perfect listen for those seeking both spiritual solace and a deeper understanding of our moral values.

Ramayana: Anek Kathayein Aur Sandarbh

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on the Ramayana this Ram Navami, Ramayana: Anek Kathayein Aur Sandarbh is one to tune in to. Written by bestselling author Anand Neelakantan, this Hindi Audible Original dives deep into untold stories and interpretations, making the epic feel more alive than ever. With immersive narration and thought-provoking takes, it is for those who want to explore the Ramayana beyond the familiar. So, dive into this immersive experience and deepen your understanding of the occasion’s significance.

The Book of Ram

If there’s one audiobook that beautifully captures the essence of Ram Navami, it’s this one. Devdutt Pattanaik dives deep into the story of Ram, not just as the revered prince of Ayodhya but as a symbol of human virtues, dilemmas, and divine wisdom. Through his signature storytelling, he unpacks the layers of myth, politics, and philosophy surrounding Ram, making this a must-listen for those who want to understand his relevance today.

Ramayana for Children

A great listen for Ram Navami, it brings the legendary tale of Lord Rama to life in a way that’s easy to understand and deeply engaging for young listeners. From Lord Rama’s exile to the epic battle against Ravana, this audiobook simplifies the grand saga while keeping its essence intact. Written in simple language by Sudha Gupta, it’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the values of courage, devotion, and righteousness. Whether you’re celebrating the festival or just looking for an inspiring bedtime story, you must have it on your playlist!

TO WATCH

Ram Setu

What happens when a staunch atheist is forced to question everything he believes in? In Ram Setu, Dr. Aryan Kulshreshtha, a staunch atheist, played by Akshay Kumar, is tasked with proving that the Ram Setu is a natural formation. As he embarks on a high-stakes expedition to uncover the truth, he discovers much more than he bargained for, revealing secrets that challenge history and faith alike. With heart-pounding action, surprising twists, and a deep connection to India’s rich heritage, this film is an adventure that will hold your attention from start to finish.

Adipurush

This is an epic retelling of the Ramayana. Prabhas stars as Raghava, the exiled prince who sets out to rescue his wife Janaki (Kriti Sanon) after she is abducted by the formidable demon king Lankesh (Saif Ali Khan). With the help of Bajrang and the monkey army, Raghava wages an unforgettable battle against evil. With breathtaking visuals, intense action, and the triumph of dharma, this film is a grand spectacle that truly brings the spirit of Ram Navami to life.

Singham Again

Packed with high-octane action, Singham Again draws a powerful parallel to the epic of Ramayana. In this film, Ajay Devgn plays Bajirao Singham, a fearless and unstoppable police officer, who stands as the ultimate protector, much like Lord Ram himself. As a stage play of the Ramayana unfolds within the story, the lives of the characters in the film begin to mirror the legend when Avni (Kareena Kapoor Khan), Singham’s wife, is abducted. Now, with his squad of super cops, Singham must rise like a modern-day Ram to bring justice, making this action-packed saga an electrifying watch for the occasion.

Bharat Kalita Wins Assam Gaurav Award, Boosting State’s Dairy Farmers

Guwahati, April 5, 2025: In a moment of pride for Assam’s dairy sector, one of the most respected figures of the dairy farming community, Bharat Kalita, was honoured with the Assam Gaurav Award on Thursday.

The award was handed over by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at a formal ceremony in Guwahati, attended by Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Secretary Dr Ravi Kota, and a host of other dignitaries.

A veteran in the field, Kalita has long been a pillar of the cooperative dairy movement, and the recognition feels like a win not just for him, but for countless farmers whose lives he has helped transform.

Kalita is a member of the management committee at West Assam Milk Producers’ Co-operative Union Ltd (WAMUL) — better known by its flagship brand Purabi Dairy – and heads the Kamdhenu Dugdha Utpadak Samabay Samiti at Nityananda, Bajali.

At the ceremony, Kalita was lauded as one of the pioneers of Assam’s “milk revolution”.

Speaking after the event, Kalita said: “This isn’t just about me. It’s about what we have all built together. It is a shared victory for every farmer who believed we could do this.” He also gave a nod to both Purabi and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) for their crucial roles in shaping the region’s dairy fortunes.

NDDB Chairman Dr. Meenesh Shah, who also chairs WAMUL, called the award “richly deserved”, describing Kalita as an example of what grassroots leadership can achieve in rural India.

Sameer Kumar Parida, Managing Director at WAMUL, said: “Bajali’s dairy story simply would not be the same without him. He has pushed boundaries, got more farmers involved, and kept the momentum going.”

Long-time colleague and NEDFL Managing Director Satya Brata Bose said: “His journey has not been easy. But it has been driven by vision, grit and a deep belief in what cooperative farming can do. Young farmers in Assam look up to him — and rightly so.”

Last year, under Kalita’s leadership, the Kamdhenu society bagged the National Gopal Ratna Award for Best Dairy Cooperative in the North-East special category.

POCO C71 Segment’s Ultimate Blockbuster Is Here

Mumbai, 5 April 2025: POCO, one of India’s leading performance-driven consumer technology brands, is set to disrupt the budget smartphone segment yet again with its latest launch—the POCO C71. Designed to offer unmatched value, the C71 packs a top-tier display, cutting-edge features, and powerful performance at an unbeatable price.

the POCO C71 is the only smartphone in its segment to offer a massive 6.88” HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate and segment leading TÜV Rheinland Triple Eye Protection. Whether you’re binge-watching or scrolling, enjoy a safer, smoother, and more immersive experience. The Wet Touch Display ensures precise touch recognition even with wet hands or under light rain.

The sleek flat frame with a refined, stylish camera deco gives the device a premium look and feel, making it stand out in its segment. Featuring a premium golden ring camera deco and a distinctive split-grid design for a bold, eye-catching look. At just 8.26mm slim, it offers a comfortable grip, ensuring effortless handling throughout the day. Available in three stunning colors options— gold, blue, and black, the POCO C71 delivers both aesthetics and performance in one dynamic package.

Powered by a robust Octa-core processor and 12GB Dynamic RAM (6GB+6GB Virtual), POCO C71 delivers a lag-free experience for up to 36 months. With Android 15 out-of-the-box, enjoy a clean, bloat-free experience and 2+4 years of software updates—a rare feature in the budget smartphone category. But that’s not all for those who love capturing precious moments, the C71’s 32MP dual rear camera and 8MP front camera ensure crisp, high-quality shots in all conditions. Moreover, the device is equipped with a 5200mAh battery and 15W fast charging, ensuring an uninterrupted experience all day long.

Commenting on the launch, Himanshu Tandon, Country Head of POCO India, said, “We’re thrilled to unveil the new POCO C71, a device that embodies power, performance, and innovation, pushing boundaries in the budget smartphone segment. With an industry-leading 120Hz display, the power of 12GB Dynamic RAM, and the latest Android 15—all at an unbeatable price, the C71 delivers precisely what our users look for in a smartphone–no compromises.”

What makes the C71 stand out?

  • Segment’s best 6.88” HD+ 120Hz display – Ultra-smooth, ultra-safe with TÜV Rheinland Triple Certified Eye Protection.
  • Sleek, stylish design – Just 8.26mm thin, available in three colours: Gold, Blue, and Black.
  • The only phone in the segment offering 12GB RAM with Android 15 for seamless multitasking and 2+4 years of security updates.
  • Octa-core processor and 36-month lag-free experience – Power-packed for entertainment and productivity.
  • 5200mAh battery with 15W Fast Charging – All-day power with quick top-ups.
  • 32MP Dual camera and 8MP front camera – Capture vivid, life-like shots effortlessly.
  • IP52 Splash & Dust Resistance – Built to last in all conditions.

Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Celebrates Three Years with Extended Stay Offer

Bengaluru, April 05, 2025– Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park are celebrating three successful years of outstanding service, growth, and innovation. To mark this significant milestone, the hotel introduced the special “Three Years of Success” offer, providing guests with an exclusive opportunity to experience its premium amenities and exceptional hospitality. In response to the overwhelming enthusiasm, the hotel is delighted to announce the extension of this offer. Guests can now continue to enjoy a complimentary third night when booking a three-night stay, valid throughout April and May.

Since its opening in 2022, Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park has become a favored destination for both business and leisure travelers. Located within the bustling Embassy Manyata Business Park, a renowned tech hub, the 353-key hotel is part of the larger Hilton Hotels Embassy Manyata complex, which also includes a Hilton hotel and a state-of-the-art 60,000 sq ft Convention Centre—making it one of the largest hotel complexes in South India.

Over the past three years, the hotel has become known for its modern accommodations, exceptional service, and welcoming atmosphere. Its dedicated team has consistently gone above and beyond to foster valuable partnerships and provide an unparalleled guest experience, blending comfort and convenience for every visitor.

Building upon the success of this landmark occasion, Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park is extending its special offer. Guests who book two consecutive nights can now enjoy a complimentary third night for stays throughout April and May. This extension allows guests to further indulge in the hotel’s comfortable accommodations and world-class services.

Whether visiting for business, leisure, or a combination of both, guests can celebrate Hilton Garden Inn’s three years of success while indulging in modern comforts, fine dining, and a superior guest experience.

Mr. Manish Garg, General Manager of Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, expressed his pride on this momentous occasion, stating, “The three-year anniversary of Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our incredible team. This celebration also reflects the continued support and trust from our valued guests. We are thrilled to extend this special anniversary promotion, allowing us to continue expressing our gratitude and inviting more guests to partake in the festivities.”

Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park invites guests to commemorate three years of excellence with a stay that promises comfort, luxury, and an unforgettable experience. To take advantage of the “Three Years of Success” offer, guests are encouraged to book their stay today.

FINDI Board Appoints Amit Nigam as Executive Director and CEO of BANKIT

New Delhi, April 05, 2025 – FINDI Ltd (ASX: FND), has announced the appointment of Mr. Amit Nigam as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BANKIT, following the company’s successful acquisition earlier this year. Mr. Nigam, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of BANKIT, has proven instrumental in the company’s remarkable growth trajectory, successfully launching the brand, expanding operations, and establishing BANKIT as one of India’s fastest-growing fintech firms focused on financial inclusion.

In his new role as Executive Director and CEO, Mr. Nigam will lead BANKIT’s integration with FINDI’s ecosystem. This strategic integration will expand the suite of Phygital services offered by BANKIT to the citizens.

From pioneering financial inclusion to empowering over 1,50,000+ merchants across the country, BANKIT has always been at the forefront of transforming India’s digital banking landscape. Today, it takes a significant step forward as it officially joins the FINDI family—ushering in a new chapter of scale, impact, and innovation.

Deepak Verma, MD and CEO of FINDI, said, “We are excited to elevate Amit to this leadership position. His thought leadership, can-do approach and deep understanding of India’s financial landscape have been instrumental in building BANKIT’s digital payment platform. His elevation reflects our confidence in him and his ability to continue BANKIT’s growth momentum, in line with FINDI’s vision for taking WLA(White Label ATMs) to the masses, driving financial inclusion for the underserved.”

Amit Nigam, Executive Director & CEO, BANKIT, commented, “I am honored to take on this expanded role at such a pivotal moment in BANKIT’s journey. Our integration with FINDI group provides us with the resources and expertise needed to accelerate our mission of redefining India’s financial services landscape. Together, we will focus on creating a more inclusive and innovative financial ecosystem that empowers millions of Indians with access to essential banking and financial services.”.

BANKIT’s extensive merchant network will play a crucial role in FINDI’s strategy of building a full-stack financial services ecosystem serving the underserved, with particular emphasis on enabling access to basic banking services through White Label ATMs and digital platforms.