Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy Garu inaugurated SHIELD 2025
Hyderabad, February 19, 2025:
The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB), Cyberabad Police, and the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC) successfully inaugurated SHIELD 2025, Telangana’s premier cybersecurity conclave, at HICC, Hyderabad. The conclave was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Anumula Revanth Reddy, in the presence of Guest of Honour, Shri D. Shridhar Babu, Minister for IT & Industries, Telangana, Shri Ravi Gupta, IPS, Special Chief Secretary, Home Department, Telangana, Dr. Jitender, IPS, Director General of Police, Telangana, Smt. Shikha Goel, IPS, Director General CID & I/C Director, TGCSB, Shri Avinash Mohanty, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad & Chairman, SCSC, and Shri Ramesh Kaza, Secretary General, Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC).
The conclave received an overwhelming response, bringing together 900 delegates, including top leaders from law enforcement, industry, government, academia, and students. Attendees included senior officers from law enforcement agencies across 14 states in India, cybersecurity experts, representatives from the IT sector, BFSI, telecom, defense, and public policy organizations, as well as leaders from global tech companies and startups. The event also saw active participation from students and academic institutions, encouraging the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Additionally, the conclave was live-streamed at three different locations, at a parallel hall in the venue, Cyberabad Commissionerate – where 100 cyber warriors were actively engaged and Society for Cyberabad Security Coouncil (SCSC),. The discussions highlighted the growing importance of collaborative cybersecurity efforts, ensuring a resilient and future-ready digital ecosystem.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister, Mr. Anumula Revanth Reddy, in his keynote address, emphasized the growing cyber threats in an increasingly digital Telangana and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure. He highlighted how cyber resilience is crucial for protecting businesses, government systems, and citizens, especially as Telangana continues to expand its digital footprint. He commended TGCSB’s proactive efforts in cybercrime prevention, particularly its role in the development of the Centralized Cybercrime Portal, which is now used by 27 states, and its efforts in victim restitution, ensuring ₹183 crores were refunded to 18,000 victims in 2024 alone.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the government, law enforcement, tech leaders, and academia to develop a future-ready cybersecurity framework. He highlighted the importance of leveraging AI, blockchain, and cloud security to strengthen Telangana’s digital infrastructure and emphasized building a skilled workforce in cybersecurity by encouraging young professionals and students to take up careers in this field. He further reiterated the government’s focus on investing in
cybersecurity innovations, enhancing intelligence-sharing frameworks, and establishing key partnerships to ensure a safer digital ecosystem for the state.
Mr D. Sridhar Babu, IT Minister, spoke about Telangana’s rapid digital transformation and how cybersecurity is integral to the state’s IT growth. He emphasized the importance of securing critical infrastructure, fostering cybersecurity startups, and integrating cybersecurity into government initiatives and policies. Additionally, he announced that discussions are underway to establish the Telangana Cyber Defence Center (TGCDC), a dedicated initiative to proactively defend police departments and government agencies against cyber threats. This center will serve as a centralized hub for monitoring, mitigating, and responding to cyber risks, ensuring enhanced security across government institutions.
Sri Ravi Gupta, IPS, Special Chief Secretary, Home Department, Telangana, emphasized the critical need for cybersecurity preparedness across government departments and public services. He spoke about how cyber threats are evolving rapidly, impacting governance, financial systems, and critical infrastructure, making robust security policies and swift action essential. He highlighted the state’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, enforcing best practices, and fostering innovation to stay ahead of cyber threats.
DGP Dr. Jitender commended TGCSB’s significant achievements, including the refund of ₹183 crores to 18,000 victims in 2024, demonstrating the state’s commitment to ensuring swift action and victim restitution. He also highlighted the use of AI-driven investigative tools like Crime OS, which have helped law enforcement enhance cybercrime detection and improve response times. He also emphasized the need for advanced training programs and specialized task forces to tackle emerging threats such as ransomware, financial fraud, and AI-powered cyberattacks.
Smt. Shikha Goel, IPS, Director, TGCSB, highlighted the rising threats of AI-driven cybercrime, deepfakes, and financial frauds, emphasizing the need for proactive countermeasures. She announced that MOUs will be signed with IIT Hyderabad, NALSAR, and ISB, academic partners of SHIELD 2025 for future collaborations in cybersecurity research, policy reforms, and skill development. She also underscored the role of AI-powered tools like Crime OS and real-time threat intelligence systems, along with upcoming collaborations with Google, in strengthening Telangana’s cyber defenses. Reaffirming that SHIELD 2025 is about action, not just discussions, she emphasized the importance of collaboration in shaping a more resilient cybersecurity framework and called for collective efforts to build a safer digital future.
Sri Avinash Mohanty, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad & Chairman, SCSC, highlighted the growing role of technology in law enforcement and crime prevention. He emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer a niche concern but a mainstream law enforcement priority, requiring collaborative efforts between police, private sector security firms, and academic institutions. He spoke about Cyberabad Police’s efforts in tackling cybercrime through
technology-driven policing, awareness campaigns, and strategic partnerships with industry experts.Ramesh Kaza, Secretary General of SCSC, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, and attendees for their active participation in making SHIELD 2025 a meaningful and action-driven cybersecurity conclave. He acknowledged the collective efforts of law enforcement, industry leaders, and academic partners in fostering a safer digital environment and encouraged continued collaboration to enhance cyber resilience in Telangana and beyond.
The inaugural session set the stage for two days of high-impact discussions, keynote speeches, technology showcases, and strategic collaborations, marking a major milestone in Telangana’s cybersecurity landscape. A significant highlight of the event was the virtual launch of the Cyber Fusion Center (CFC), Cyber Protection Unit (CPU), and Security Operations Center (SOC), by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, these units will play a pivotal role in strengthening Telangana’s cyber defense capabilities. These initiatives aim to enhance real time threat monitoring, streamline cyber incident responses, and fortify the security infrastructure of police and government departments.
A key attraction at SHIELD 2025 is the Technology Experience Zone (TEZ), where delegates can explore AI-driven cybersecurity innovations, live cyberattack simulations, and hands-on defense technologies. The zone features AI-powered threat detection, digital forensics tools, neural network-based facial recognition, AI-driven authentication and payment fraud protection, as well as surveillance drones and AR/VR cybersecurity training modules. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to interact with AI-powered humanoids and witness how AI, drones, and immersive technologies are reshaping cybersecurity.
ORRA Fine Jewellery Opens 7th Store in Hyderabad’s Kompally
Hyderabad, 19th February 2025 – ORRA, India’s leading diamond jewellery brand, is enhancing its footprint in Hyderabad by launching and inaugurating a new store at Kompally, Hyderabad. With over 96 retail stores across India, this 4326 sq. ft. store is set to redefine the jewellery shopping experience for the city’s discerning clientele. It showcases our latest diamond jewellery collections, notably featuring the exclusive 73-faceted ORRA Crown Star. The store is designed with comfortable seating and modern interiors, all contributing to an elevated shopping experience. A dedicated wedding jewellery lounge offers a personalized experience for bride-to be’s, families and friends, ensuring a seamless selection of exquisite pieces for everyone.
The new store’s interiors showcase ORRA’s dedication to luxury and sophistication, with a modern layout, plush décor, and ambient lighting extending across ground and first levels. Customers are invited to explore ORRA’s opulent collections, including the renowned ‘ORRA Crown Star’ collection, featuring the 73-faceted diamond that is exclusively patented in India, the contemporary ‘Aekta’ The Wedding Collection, Astra, Desired, and Platinum collection.
Mr. Dipu Mehta, Managing Director of ORRA, expressed excitement about the Kompally store launch, stating, “We are thrilled to inaugurate our new store in Hyderabad, a city that has always had a deep appreciation for fine jewellery. Hyderabad is a market that blends tradition with modernity, much like ORRA’s collections, which balance heritage craftsmanship with contemporary designs. We are confident that our new store will become a beloved destination for jewellery enthusiasts in the city.
Each collection showcases its unique features and captivating designs, highlighting ORRA’s commitment to quality and excellence. ORRA also unveiled Solis – Always on Shine, the latest collection designed to keep you effortlessly chic and stylish throughout your everyday routine. From boardroom meetings to casual brunches and self-care days, Solis provides everyday diamonds for every occasion, with prices starting at ₹9,999.*
ORRA’s commitment to craftsmanship and elegance is beautifully showcased through their collections, ensuring that every piece tells a unique story of love and celebration. ORRA is known for providing 100% certified jewellery with complimentary insurance* and free lifetime maintenance. The brand offers a lifetime exchange, buyback, a seven-day return policy, and our diamonds are conflict-free. Additionally, ORRA provides a 6-month upgrade facility, and all its jewellery is BIS Hallmark Certified.
India Gate Basmati & Amitabh Bachchan Unveil Top Class, No Khulla Class Campaign
New Delhi, 18th February 2025: KRBL Limited, parent to India Gate Basmati Rice—the World’s No.1 Basmati Rice Brand— has launched its latest campaign, ‘India Gate: Only Top Class, No Khulla Class,’ featuring Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan. With this campaign, India Gate Basmati Rice nudges consumers to choose packaged basmati over loose (“khulla) basmati.
In Hindi-speaking regions, nearly 70% of basmati is still purchased loose (khulla). Many consumers have traditionally opted for loose rice, assuming all basmati is alike. In a category leader stance, India Gate Basmati Rice challenges this buying behaviour inertia.
The launch of this campaign is complemented by India Gate Basmati Rice’s reimagined consumer packaging—a step designed to empower buyers with transparency, convenience, and confidence at the point of purchase. With these purposeful packs, the brand reinforces its consumer-first approach and empowers consumers to make the right choice of Basmati.
Building on the success of the 2022 ‘Basmati Rice Se No Compromise’ campaign, this new initiative takes the conversation further with Amitabh Bachchan—a voice synonymous with trust and credibility. The campaign is built on a strong consumer insight that for most important things in life, consumers always choose the very best for their families. The brand asks a though-provoking question “If everything else in life—education, career, and lifestyle—is Top Class, why settle for Khulla Class when it comes to basmati rice?”
With his presence, Amitabh Bachchan amplifies the message that India Gate Basmati Rice isn’t just about buying rice—it’s about choosing a commitment to quality, purity, and consistency.Speaking about the campaign, Kunal Sharma, Head of Marketing & Business Head, Modern Trade & E-commerce, KRBL Limited, said:
“Staples being a lower involvement category, much of the purchase decision happens on habit. With this campaign, India Gate challenges this inertia calling out their choice of Basmati as a reflection of who they are thereby urging consumers to make the right choice. Amitabh Bachchan’s presence adds unparalleled authority to this message. He isn’t just endorsing a brand; he’s sparking a movement—a movement where consumers demand only the best for themselves and their families. With ‘Only Top Class, No Khulla Class,’ we are setting a new benchmark in the packaged basmati rice industry.”
The campaign, which went live in February 2025, is supported by a robust 360-degree media strategy. It leverages television as its mainstay, alongside Connected TV (CTV) campaigns for digital-savvy audiences. Radio partnerships, outdoor promotions with striking billboards, and retail-level activations ensure the message reaches diverse audiences. Purposeful branding in store aisles, dealer boards, and in-store activations further solidify the brand’s presence at the point of purchase.
Affordable Healthcare Popular Among Women, Gen Z, and Seniors RenewBuy
National, February 18, 2025: RenewBuy’s proprietary, low-cost health insurance plan, RB Health, has experienced significant growth since its launch two years ago. With strong adoption across diverse age groups, RB Health has made significant inroads in states like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. RB Health is bridging the gap for underinsured consumers, especially in markets beyond Tier 1 cities, by making affordable healthcare more accessible.
There has been a significant rise in women purchasing RB Health Plan, accounting for 30% of the policyholders. This shows their growing financial independence and health awareness, growing need for maternity insurance and OPD benefits, even in the smaller cities. The year-on-year demand amongst women has increased by 10-12%, with women within the age group of 31-40 years showing highest adoption. Most have opted for the low-cost plan with OPD benefits, particularly younger women, who are increasingly taking a proactive approach to their health, driving an increase in policyholders under the age of 40.
RB Health has gained a strong and growing presence across age groups, with a 24% uptick amongst Gen Z. With rising awareness towards financial security, preventive healthcare, rising medical costs, the younger population is becoming more conscious towards health insurance and demanding flexible policies. This mirrors the broader industry trends, where around 50%- 60% of Gen Z demand better digital engagement.
Driven by its affordability and extensive benefits, RB Health has attracted around 10% of senior citizens across the country. The plan offers up to 70% lower premiums for seniors, addressing chronic disease management needs and gaps in the traditional plans.
Indraneel Chatterjee, Co-Founder, RenewBuy said, “Today’s consumers, especially in the smaller markets, seek OPD benefits, coverage for lab tests and medications, and customized premium rates. The purchasing power in these regions differs significantly from metro cities, making affordability a key factor. Over the past two years, we have tapped around 1.5% of RenewBuy’s overall consumer base with our low-cost health insurance, and interestingly, women and the younger generation have shown a growing inclination, especially in the smaller markets.”
“This report offers valuable insights to enhance consumer experience and accelerate growth for low-cost insurance in the untapped markets. So far, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh have led the adoption, accounting for 47% of the total consumer base. The rapid success of this low-cost product has been driven by digital adoption, transparency, and the seamless policy purchase experience,” he further added.
RB Health is one of the simplest health insurance products for consumers to understand and 30% cheaper than standard health insurance plans. Insurance as a sector, is today witnessing fast-changing momentum, with the changing consumer needs, changes in lifestyle, environment, digital adoption and thus, there is a need to introduce products catering to today’s consumers. Along with this, the medical inflation in India is rising by 13%-14% and low-cost health insurance distributed through digital channels, will play a critical role in bridging these insurance gaps.
Glam21 Partners with Flipkart Minutes for Faster and Easier Beauty Shopping
18th February 2025: Glam21, a leading name in the beauty industry, is excited to announce its expansion on Flipkart Minutes, further strengthening its commitment to providing a seamless and fast shopping experience. This move aligns with the brand’s mission to ensure quick and easy access to high-quality beauty products, catering to the evolving needs of modern consumers who prioritize speed and convenience.
Flipkart Minutes is designed for instant access to products, making it the perfect platform for Glam21 to enhance its availability. Also, customer feedback plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s offerings. By leveraging real-time reviews and ratings on Flipkart Minutes, Glam21 aims to refine and enhance its product lineup, ensuring it continues to meet consumer expectations effectively.
According to Mr. Bikash Goyal, Founder Glam21, “Our decision to expand on Flipkart Minutes stems from our dedication to offering a superior shopping experience. With consumers increasingly valuing speed and convenience, our presence on Flipkart Minutes ensures that they have easy access to our premium beauty products whenever they need them.
Additionally, Flipkart’s expansion of Dark Stores at a pan-India level enables Glam21 to reach a broader audience, making its products more discoverable and accessible across the country. This strategic move aligns with the brand’s business approach of catering to a wide customer base with a range of beauty products at competitive price points.
With this expansion, Glam21 is set to redefine the online beauty shopping experience, reinforcing its position as a go-to brand for beauty enthusiasts nationwide.
Shanaya’s Parisian Moment with Charlotte Tilbury
18th February 2025: Fresh from the Amiri show at Paris Fashion Week, Shanaya Kapoor gave us a backstage beauty peek. Her quick touch-up kit? Charlotte Tilbury’s Legendary Beauty Must-Haves.
The Pillow Talk Big Lip Plumpgasm is pure magic – a hydrating, high-shine gloss that plumps lips with a stunning, voluminous effect. Its conditioning formula delivers that perfect blend of color and care, making your pout look instantly fuller and more defined.
The Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder is a red-carpet secret weapon. It’s the secret to flawless, poreless-looking skin. It blurs imperfections in seconds, creating a soft-focus, Instagram-ready finish that’s lightweight and invisible. One swipe, and you’re runway-ready with that coveted model-like glow.
Locking it all in is the Magic Setting Spray – a makeup artist’s ultimate trick. It keeps your look pristine through long nights, runway shows, and endless photo ops. A few spritzes, and your makeup becomes bulletproof, maintaining that fresh-from-the-makeup-chair perfection.
Trends might fade, but legendary makeup? That’s forever.
SAE & B V Raju Institute to Host E-BAJA 2025 in Hyderabad
Hyderabad, February 18, 2025: The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), a globally acclaimed association of engineers in the aerospace, automotive, and commercial vehicle industries, in collaboration with the Sri Vishnu Educational Society, renowned for its excellence in higher education, and SAE BAJA INDIA, is hosting the prestigious inter-collegiate E-BAJA 2025. This high-octane event will take place from February 20 to 23, 2025, at B V Raju Institute of Technology (BVRIT), Narsapur, Medak.
E-BAJA is an electrifying All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) racing challenge that rigorously tests the knowledge, technical skills, and problem-solving capabilities of budding mechanical and electrical engineers. This adrenaline-fueled competition draws participation from premier engineering institutions like IITs, NITs, and top universities across the country. With 82 teams and over 2,500 aspiring engineers competing, the event fosters innovation, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
Adding to the grandeur of the event, leading global automotive giants including Volvo, Daimler, AVL, ALTAIR, Tata Motors, and Mahindra and others; will be in attendance. These industry stalwarts will be on the lookout for top talent, making E-BAJA a golden opportunity for young engineers to secure coveted placements and launch promising careers in the automotive sector.
E-BAJA 2025 is more than just a competition—it’s a transformative experience. It challenges students to conceive, design, analyse, fabricate, validate, and race their Electric All-Terrain Vehicles, offering invaluable real-world exposure to industry-relevant challenges, says Mr. Balraj Subramaniam, Chairman, Organizing Committee, BAJA SAEINDIA.
The four day thrilling competition will have Technical Inspection, Brake Test, Sales Finals, Cost Finals of the participating ATVs on day 1, the 20th February; day 2 will have Rainstorm Test, Design Finals, Innovation, Validation, Dronacharya, Acceleration, Dynamic Events day 3 will focus on Sustainability, Innovation, Validation, day four will have endurance testing of vehicles on the tracks. The event will be followed by HR Meet on February 24th and 25th, with global automotive giants offering lucrative placements opportunities to the enterprising engineers.
The event is not just a test of technical expertise but also a battle of endurance for both engineers and their machines. Each ATV will undergo rigorous mechanical and electrical inspections, including brake, acceleration, suspension, and manoeuvrability tests, all conducted in accordance with SAE standards, says Mr. Ravichandran Rajagopal, Vice Chairman, Sri Vishnu Educational Society.
HDFC Life Wins ICAI Award for Best Financial Reporting for 2023-24
Bengaluru, February 18, 2025: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Silver Shield in Category-III – Life Insurance at the ICAI Awards for Excellence in Financial Reporting 2023-24.
This prestigious award was presented to HDFC Life by Honourable Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Law and Justice; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, at the ICAI Awards ceremony held in New Delhi.
Organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) since 1958, these awards recognise companies that demonstrate outstanding financial reporting standards. The esteemed jury selects winners after a thorough review of the accounting practices adopted in financial statements, disclosure policies, and presentation of financial statements. The top two winners are chosen on their adherence to Indian Accounting Standards, statutory guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
HDFC Life has been on a continuous journey to financially secure Indian citizens by offering a wide range of life insurance solutions. Since its inception, the company has provided financial protection to millions of customers and their families, serving as a safety net in times of need while enabling them to achieve their long-term financial goals.
Speaking on the award, Niraj Shah – Executive Director & CFO, HDFC Life, said, “This is a proud moment for all of us at HDFC Life. This award reinforces our values of transparency and good governance. At HDFC Life, we are committed not only to financial security of our customers but also to sustainable and responsible business practices. We continue to strengthen our governance framework while driving long-term value for our stakeholders and contributing towards a more resilient future.”
Sitharaman Hands Over Keys as SWAMIH Fund Completes 50,000 Homes
Mumbai, February 18, 2025: At a post budget interaction event in Mumbai, Honourable Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today handed over keys to homebuyers from select projects in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), whose long-stressed residential projects have been completed under the “Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing (SWAMIH I) Investment Fund”. This milestone marks the completion of 50,000 homes, reaffirming SWAMIH’s mission to provide relief to distressed homebuyers and revive stressed residential projects across the country.
Homebuyers from projects including Avant Hillways, Vision Heights and Shubham Trident received their keys at the event, symbolizing the transformational role of the SWAMIH Fund in restoring hope and stability to families impacted by stressed housing developments.
Established in 2019 and managed by SBI Ventures Ltd., a State Bank of India Group company, the SWAMIH Fund is sponsored by the Ministry of Finance. As India’s largest social impact fund for the real estate sector, it addresses critical funding gaps for stressed and brownfield residential projects. With no precedent or comparable peer globally, the Fund is a pioneering initiative for impact-driven investing.
Mr. Prem Prabhakar, MD and CEO of SBI Ventures Ltd, said that “With the vision and support of the Government of India, this fund has paved the way for the completion of numerous housing projects, ensuring that thousands of families can finally call these homes their own”.
By targeting distressed housing projects, SWAMIH is also driving credit growth in the housing sector, boosting access to home loans, and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive economy.
This milestone not only highlights the Fund’s success in fulfilling its mandate but also demonstrates its critical role in supporting India’s economic recovery and providing long-overdue relief to homebuyers.
Adani Foundation Pledges Education Temples Across India
HYDERABAD: 18th February, 2025: The Adani Foundation has collaborated with GEMS Education, a global leader in private K-12 education, to establish temples of education across the country. With an initial donation of INR 2,000 Cr from the Adani family, the partnership will prioritize making world-class education and learning infrastructure affordable to people from all strata of society. The Foundation is the CSR arm of the Adani Group – India’s largest infrastructure portfolio.
In line with Chairman Gautam Adani’s social philosophy सेवासाधनाहै, सेवाप्रार्थनाहैऔरसेवा ही परमात्मा है, the partnership will also give rise to best-in-class research institutions focused on developing teaching competencies supported by innovation and capability development.
The first ‘Adani GEMS School of Excellence’ will come up in Lucknow in the academic year 2025-26. Over the next three years, at least 20 such schools in the K-12 segment will be rolled out across India’s primary metropolitan cities and, subsequently, also in Tier II to IV cities. In these schools, 30% seats in CBSE curriculum will be free for under-served and deserving children. Leveraging the Adani Group’s pan-Indian presence and extensive infrastructure capabilities and also GEMS’ educational expertise, the partnership plans to develop a scalable, affordable and sustainable model for quality education for students across India.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to making world-class education affordable and widely accessible,” said Mr Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group. “By adopting global best practices and innovative digital learning through our partnership with GEMS Education,we aim to equip the next generation of change-makers to become socially responsible leaders in India.”
“Our vision has always been to make quality education accessible to every learner, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” said Sunny Varkey, Founder & Chairman of GEMS Education. “The collaboration with the Adani Foundation will strengthen us to expand our reach and impact, bringing our global educational expertise to learners and teachers in diverse regions of India.”
The collaboration believes that transforming a nation needs a diligent and committed focus on building its youth. This association will help build upon the objective of creating a highly skilled and value-based talent pool. The Adani-GEMS schools will benefit from a global curriculum combined with the best of Indian study boards.