Ambuja Cements Empowers Rural Women in Bhatapara with Lakhpati Didi
Chhattisgarh, 17 February 2025: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is driving economic empowerment among rural women in Bhatapara, through the transformative ‘Lakhpati Didi’ programme. By fostering micro-enterprises and offering extensive support in training and resources, the Company’s CSR initiatives are helping women achieve financial independence and sustainable livelihoods.
The ‘Lakhpati Didi’ movement, initiated by the Ministry of Rural Development, aims to enable women in self-help groups (SHGs) to earn an annual household income of ₹1 lakh or more. Ambuja Cements’ CSR team identified 188 women from Bhatapara for this program and provided them with the necessary tools and training to achieve this milestone. Many women have successfully ventured into enterprises like tailoring, vegetable cultivation, and retail stores, significantly improving their quality of life and inspiring their communities.
This initiative has enabled women like Kuleshwari Verma, a fancy store owner earning ₹3.75 lakh annually, and Kusum Patel, who cultivates vegetables and earns ₹1.1 lakh per year, to achieve transformative financial growth. Stories like theirs highlight how access to resources and consistent support can unlock the entrepreneurial potential of rural women.
Ambuja Cements remains committed to promoting inclusive development and sustainable livelihoods through its CSR initiatives. By supporting rural women entrepreneurs, the company underscores its dedication to economic empowerment and long-term community growth.
Startup Mahakumbh Returns with Largest Global Gathering of Innovators
New Delhi, February 17, 2025: Registration is now open for the highly anticipated second edition of Startup Mahakumbh, the world’s largest startup event, set to take place from April 3 to 5, 2025. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year’s event will spotlight India’s growing leadership in global innovation and entrepreneurship. With industry leaders such as Aman Gupta, Co-Founder & CMO, boAt Lifestyle, Peyush Bansal, CEO & Co-Founder, Lenskart, Padma Shri Prsahant Prakash, Founding Partner at Accel Ventures, Nithin Kamath, Founder & CEO, Zerodha Investments, among other notable CXOs already part of the organizing committee, Startup Mahakumbh promises to be a game-changing platform driving collaboration and empowering entrepreneurs to build the future of the startup ecosystem.
With over 3,000 startups, 500+ investors, and industry leaders from 50+ countries, the event will create unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and growth. The event will feature cutting-edge technologies across industries and a variety of activities, including, knowledge tracks on funding, scaling, and technological advancements, and networking zones for collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors.
The event will offer attendees a range of activities, from high-impact pitching sessions to thought-provoking workshops and discussions on the latest industry trends. Startups looking to exhibit their innovations can register for Startup Pods, which are available for both Indian and international participants. Indian startups can secure a Startup Pod for INR 30,000 per pod, which includes two complimentary delegate registrations and a listing in the event’s e-directory. For international startups, the cost is USD 375 per pod, with the same entitlements.
Additionally, Attendees can also avail Gold and Silver Delegate Passes, each with exclusive benefits. For Indian participants, the Gold Pass (INR 12,000) includes priority registration, delegate kit, premium seating, event access, breakout sessions, VIP lunch for 2 days, access to the Gold Lounge for networking, and the B2B portal. The Silver Pass (INR 5,000) offers standard registration, delegate kit, event access, breakout sessions, complimentary lunch for 2 days, and access to the B2B portal. For international participants, the Gold Pass is for USD 150, and the Silver Pass is for USD 60, with similar benefits as the Indian passes. The first 300 Gold and 500 Silver registrations are eligible for these offers.
Archana Jahagirdar, Founder & Managing Partner at Rukam Capital, expressed, “It is more than just an event; it’s a catalyst for change. This year, the focus on emerging sectors and innovative technologies will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs to bring transformative solutions to the forefront, helping India solidify its position as a global startup hub.”
Hidden images in Jackson Pollock paintings diagnosed
17 February 2025- According to new research published by leading psychiatry professor, Stephen M. Stahl, artist Jackson Pollock clearly incorporated images (coined ‘Polloglyphs’ by his co-author John Gates) into his pre-drip paintings and repeatedly used the same images in multiple drip paintings, potentially as a result of “extraordinary” spatial skills related to his bipolar disorder. These findings appear in a research paper by Professor Stahl, published in Cambridge University Press journal CNS Spectrums.
The paper emphasises that Pollock met the diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder; that he didn’t paint when he was intoxicated or depressed; and that he both had extensive exposure to Rorschach ink blots during his psychiatric treatment and had visual images and hallucinations of images.
Dr Stahl, currently a professor at the University of California, Riverside and San Diego, argues that Pollock either consciously or unconsciously encrypted images in his paintings to tell a story.
“Certain images make their way repeatedly into his paintings – including booze bottles, images of himself, monkeys, clowns, elephants and more. We consequently have good reason to believe Pollock encrypted these images into his paintings, whether consciously or otherwise.
“His remarkable ability to hide these images in plain sight may have been part of his creative genius, and could also have been enhanced by the endowment of extraordinary visual spatial skills that have been described in some bipolar patients.”
Although Pollock was variably diagnosed by his psychiatrists as having “alcoholic psychosis,” being “schizoid”, or possessing “a schizophrenia-like disorder characterised by alternating periods of violent agitation and paralysis or withdrawal”, in today’s world he would more likely be diagnosed as bipolar. Chronic and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder can be associated with creativity and genius, with good outcomes possible especially with effective treatment.
Seeing images in Pollock’s drip paintings has been both a popular pastime and a controversy ever since these paintings were created. Some art critics argue emphasise the formal elements of Pollock’s work, arguing that no images are present and that viewers can find whatever they are looking for within the paintings’ abstract lines and composition. This line of reasoning suggests that perhaps Pollock’s paintings merely prompt viewers to project their own emotions onto these works, and that no actual images are hidden between the lines.
Co-author Jon Gates, a longtime Pollock aficionado, however, says: “Seeing an image once in a drip painting could be random; seeing the same image twice in different paintings could be a coincidence; seeing it three or more times – as is the case for booze bottles, monkeys and gorillas, elephants, and many other subjects and objects in Pollock’s paintings – makes those images very unlikely to be randomly provoked perceptions without any basis in reality.”
ISB Ranks 27 Globally in FT MBA Rankings 2025, Retains 1 Spot in India
[February 17, 2025]: The Indian School of Business (ISB) has once again secured top position as the premier business school in India and has also risen to #27 ranking globally in the Financial Times (FT) Global MBA Ranking 2025 that was released today. This four-place jump from last year’s #31 global ranking reflects ISB’s continuous pursuit of excellence and innovation in its pedagogy. Within the Asian region, ISB has maintained its position as one of the top contenders, retaining its #5 spot.
ISB has secured a remarkable #4 global ranking in the alumni network this year, marking a rise from last year’s #8 position. This achievement underscores the exceptional strength, camaraderie, and support of its alumni community.
ISB’s career services have retained its #19 global ranking, showcasing the effectiveness of the school’s guidance and placement support. ISB’s graduates continue to experience exceptional career growth, as evidenced by the #2 global ranking in salary percentage increase.
The school continues to promote gender diversity in management education, as indicated by its #24 ranking in % of female students. ISB’s commitment to environmental responsibility is reflected in its #23 global ranking in carbon footprint.
Speaking about the results, Professor Deepa Mani, Deputy Dean, Academic Programmes and Digital Learning, ISB, said, “ISB’s rise in the FT ranking reflects our steadfast focus on innovation and adaptability. Just this past year, we undertook a comprehensive curriculum review for our flagship Post Graduate Programme in Management, as well as, launched a new PGP for Young Leaders programme in keeping with our mission to develop leaders who can manage the evolving business landscape in India and globally. The FT rankings recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and set new benchmarks in management education.”
She added, “We are proud of our 18,000+ alumni across 65+ countries, as they are ISB’s ambassadors. Also, the fact that we are ranked #23 in carbon footprint showcases that ISB is playing its role in facilitating a greener India.”
The Z Connect Festival A Month of Music and Dance at The Galleria Mall
Bengaluru, 17 February, 2025: The Galleria Mall was abuzz with energy as it hosted the Ultimate Z Connect Festival, a high-octane celebration of Gen Z brands, creativity, music, dance, and non-stop fun! From 7th to 23rd February 2025, the mall transformed into a vibrant hub where youthful, energetic crowds gathered to explore and engage with their favorite Gen Z brands like Snitch, Neeman’s, Zouk, Bewakoof, Kica Active, Derma Co., Aqualogica and more, all under one roof. This event offered an unparalleled space for self-expression, where attendees could celebrate life and discover the latest trends across fashion, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle.
Each weekend brought something new and exciting, making it impossible for anyone to miss out! The festival kicked off with electrifying performances like the iconic Black Ice Crew dance show on February 7th, followed by a throwback Vinyl Night Out on February 8th, featuring top DJs spinning nostalgic beats. On February 9th, art lovers got creative at the Sip & Paint event, bringing their passion to life on canvas. Whether it was Fuzz’s Bring Your Dog to the Mall Day (Feb 11), or the Style under 3000 challenges with Bewakoof and Snitch (Feb 12), there was something for every trendsetter.
Trivia lovers tested their knowledge at the Pop Quiz Night on February 13th, while Valentine’s Salsa Night on February 14th got hearts racing with rhythm and romance. The high-energy Epic DJ Nights on February 15th kept the crowd partying until the last beat. Those seeking a moment of Zen could unwind at Pawasana Yoga with Puppies on February 16th, blending relaxation and adorable puppies for the perfect balance.
Throughout the festival, Neeman’s photo ops on February 19th allowed attendees to model the latest trends, while fierce competition sparked at the Dance Battle Qualifiers on February 21st. The grand finale on February 23rd saw the best dancers clash in the Dance Battle Finals, with the ultimate crown up for grabs.
The Z Connect Festival proved to be the ultimate destination for anyone craving fun, creativity, and unforgettable moments. People marked their calendars, brought their friends, and celebrated music, dance, and culture in full force at The Galleria Mall. The Z Connect Festival was undeniably the event of the season!
Fortis to Acquire 228-Bedded Shrimann Superspecialty Hospital in Jalandhar
National, February 17, 2025: Fortis Healthcare Limited (“FHL” or “Fortis” or the “Company”), amongst India’s leading healthcare delivery companies, today announced that it has signed definitive agreements for the acquisition of Shrimann Superspecialty Hospital in Jalandhar, Punjab (“Shrimann Hospital”) from inter alia Shriman Enterprises (a partnership firm) by way of a slump sale. The acquisition would be undertaken by FHL’s wholly-owned subsidiary Fortis Hospotel Limited (FHTL) and is subject to FHL shareholder approval.
As part of the transaction, FHTL would acquire the entire business operations, hospital building of Shrimann Hospital, as well as the underlying hospital land. In addition, an adjunct land parcel for possible future expansion is also being acquired.
The transaction will be an all-cash deal for an overall purchase consideration of approx. INR 462 Crores (excluding stamp duty and other regulatory costs) and shall be subject to customary closing adjustments as agreed in the definitive agreements.
The acquisition is in line with the Company’s cluster-focused inorganic growth strategy and further bolsters Fortis’ network in the state of Punjab. Shrimann Hospital, Jalandhar adds to the Company’s existing presence in the key cities of Punjab including Mohali, Amritsar and Ludhiana. The acquisition will enable the Company to scale up and further deliver quality healthcare services to patients in Jalandhar as well as in surrounding catchment areas.
Shrimann Hospital, is amongst the leading multi-specialty hospitals in Jalandhar, commissioned in 2018. The facility, built on ~3 acres of land, has a capacity of 228 beds (191 beds currently operational) with the capacity to add a further ~45 beds – taking the total potential bed capacity to 270+ beds. In addition, the acquisition of the adjunct land parcel of approx. 2.4 acres provides an attractive opportunity to add another 180+ beds in the future taking the overall potential capacity to 450+ beds.
The facility is NABH accredited and offers a complete range of super specialties including the key specialties such as Cardiac Sciences, Nephrology, General and Laparoscopic Surgery, Oncology, Neuro Sciences and Gastroenterology. For FY 2024-25 (basis annualized 9-month FY numbers) the hospital is expected to generate revenues of ~INR 154 Crs with an EBITDA of ~INR 36 Crs.
The transaction is estimated to be consummated by end of March 2025, subject to the completion of certain customary conditions precedent as stipulated in the definitive agreements.
Dr Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO of the Company, said, “We have been evaluating various acquisition opportunities to expand our presence in our existing markets and to enable us to leverage the benefits of scale and synergies. We believe this acquisition is a good strategic fit as we already have a significant presence in Punjab with ~800 beds across four facilities. The transaction will allow us to capitalize on market opportunities as we expand to more than 1000 beds and further strengthen our market presence in the region. We endeavor to broaden and further strengthen the spectrum of the medical specialties at this facility and deliver exceptional clinical care ably supported by an experienced team of clinicians.”
VOSMOS Expands Globally with Virtual Event Solutions, Targets 10,000+ Sign-Ups
New Delhi, 17th February, 2025: VOSMOS, a division of Kestone Integrated Marketing Services and promoted by CL Educate, is expanding its presence in the global virtual event space with a strong focus on reaching 10,000+ sign-ups. As more businesses look for ways to engage audiences beyond physical limitations, VOSMOS is providing a digital platform that simplifies participation, enhances interactivity, and extends the impact of events.
The platform is built to ensure that virtual and hybrid events feel natural and engaging rather than just another online meeting. It adapts to attendee preferences, offering relevant sessions, networking opportunities, and interactive elements that keep participation active. Organizers can create large-scale conferences, intimate networking sessions, or product launches with features that support real-time interaction, audience engagement, and data-driven insights.
With a strong focus on accessibility, VOSMOS is offering multi-language support, live captions, real-time translations, and sign language integration, the platform ensures that participation is not limited by location or language barriers. The goal is to create an inclusive space where ideas and discussions flow freely, no matter where attendees are joining from.
Another highlight is that the platform effectively manages events of any size and enterprise-grade security measures ensure that data remains safe. By leveraging real-time data and AI-driven analytics, organizers can optimize audience engagement, personalize experiences, and refine event strategies for maximum impact.
Furthermore, VOSMOS helps businesses reduce costs and carbon footprint by replacing traditional meetings. Companies can reach a wider audience with their events while maintaining their commitment to sustainability.
“Virtual events should not feel like a chore—they should feel like an experience people want to be part of. We have built a platform that allows businesses to connect with their audiences in ways that feel natural, engaging, and meaningful. It is about making participation easier and more rewarding for everyone involved,” said Piyush Gupta, CEO of VOSMOS. “
VOSMOS continues to push the boundaries of virtual engagement, helping brands create impactful events that leave a lasting impression.
Reports Assistive Tech and Flex Work Boost Disability Workforce Participation
New Delhi, India, 17th February, 2025: Public policy firm, The Quantum Hub (TQH), and disability rights NGO Youth4Jobs (Y4J) released two new respective reports concerning workplace accessibility for persons with disabilities in India at the India International Centre today. Supported by Zoom, a leading AI-first work platform for human connection, the two reports delved into how the provision of reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities at the workplace, such as assistive technologies and flexible work, have proven effective in removing infrastructural barriers and enhancing their workforce participation. While TQH’s report highlighted best practices emerging from a comprehensive review of Indian and global laws covering workplace accommodation provisions for persons with disabilities, Y4J’s provided quantitative insights into the state of employment for this demographic in India, through a detailed survey of over 200 employees with disabilities.
The launch event saw academics, civil society, bureaucrats, and the private sector come together to discuss workplace accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities. Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, and Ms. Manmeet K. Nanda, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, were present as Distinguished Guests, with Mr. Aggarwal additionally delivering the keynote address.
A panel discussion, moderated by leading disability rights activist and Director, Policy & Programs at TQH Nipun Malhotra, was also held, providing cross-sectoral perspectives on workplace inclusion. Panelists included Rahul Gambhir (Chief Manager and Digital Accessibility Specialist – Union Bank of India), Amar Jain (Co-Founder, Mission Accessibility), P.V. Madhusudhan Rao (Professor, Departments of Design and Mechanical Engineering – IIT Delhi), Jaishankar Natarajan (CEO – India Autism Center), and Madhubala Sharma (Senior Program manager Inclusive eXperiences and Technologies – Amazon). Zoom’s India Head of Government Relations Rohit Kumar also facilitated the day’s discussions.
Workspaces, both in India and internationally, have not traditionally been inclusive for persons with disabilities, often hindering their ability to access meaningful and dignified employment. For example, 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 people, experience disability, making persons with disabilities the world’s largest minority group. However, 80% of them are of working age, yet only one-third are engaged in the workforce. In India, the National Statistical Office (NSO) estimated in 2018 that 2.2% of the population experiences disability, a figure significantly below the global average. Other surveys, such as the National Family Health Survey 2019, place the proportion even lower at just 1%. The employment scenario in India is also concerning, with only 22.8% of persons with disabilities employed.
However, the provision of reasonable accommodations, such as assistive technologies and flexible work arrangements, have proven effective in removing barriers and enhancing workforce participation. The two reports deploy distinct methodologies and frameworks, to help understand the relationship between reasonable accommodations, workplace inclusion, and dignified employment for persons with disabilities, as detailed in the annexed reports and report overview.
Top leadership from Y4J, TQH, and Zoom also shared their thoughts on the launch of the reports. “These crucial reports, which shed light on workplace accessibility and the role of assistive technologies and flexible work in doing so, can pave the way for stronger, long-term inclusion. Their findings underscore the need for stronger implementation of inclusive policies both at the government and private sector’s level. We look forward to the government and private sector embracing these findings to create equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities,” said Meera Shenoy, Co-Founder, Youth4Jobs.
“We are proud to launch these reports, which highlight the importance of reasonable accommodations, assistive technologies, and flexible work in fostering workplace inclusion for persons with disabilities. By studying global best practices, we provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and businesses. We look forward to engaging with the government and private sector to implement these findings,” said Rohit Kumar, Co-Founder of The Quantum Hub.
“Zoom is proud to support these important research projects highlighting the role of assistive technologies and flexible work in fostering workplace inclusion for persons with disabilities. We believe technology can bridge accessibility gaps, and we encourage the government and private sector to consider these key findings,” said Rohit Kumar, Head of Government Relations, Zoom India.
Zomato’s Early Data Reveals Strong Consumer Interest In Valentine’s Day
India, 17th February 2025: As India prepares to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Zomato has witnessed an early surge in demand for cakes, desserts, and more. There is a surge in demand for gifting occasions, reflecting higher adoption for celebrating special occasions in a memorable way.
Notable trends and offerings thus far include:
- Increased keyword searches: Searches for relevant keywords like ‘Valentine,’ ‘heart,’ and ‘gift hamper’ are already increasing. Additionally, some quirky yet humorous keyword searches include ‘lover’, ‘boyfriend’, ‘girlfriend’, and ‘romance.’
- Rose Day: Sales of rose-themed and/or flavoured dishes on Rose Day (February 7th) soared by a twofold increase. Delivery of rose-flavored beverages also rose by 70%.
- Chocolate Day: On Chocolate Day (February 10th), over 125K chocolate-based dishes were sold.
- Promising fondue sales: The newly launched chocolate fondue boxes are showing promising early sales figures.
- An uptick in sales across new launches: Restaurant partners and brands have introduced special Valentine’s Day offerings on the app, including:
- Heart-Shaped Treats: A range of heart-shaped food items, including cakes, donuts, cookies, tarts, French hearts, pizza and more.
- ‘Secret Message’ Cake: Cakes with a hidden message for a personal touch.
- Valentine’s Day Gift Hampers: Curated gift hampers, with optional add-ons, are available, building on the success of similar offerings for previous special occasions.
- Growth beyond desserts: Categories like pizza and Asian cuisine are experiencing increased demand.
For consumers looking for a more immersive experience, the app is also offering at-home date night options in select locations in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, including:
- DIY Culinary Kits: Offerings include DIY sushi, ramen, taco, and cocktail-making kits.
- Curated Cheeseboards: A selection of cheeseboards for sharing.
- Chocolate fondue box: Boxes with an assortment of dippable treats.
Looking back at some key trends from 2024’s Valentine’s Day:
- Significant Sales Growth: Last year, on Valentine’s Day, sales of popular categories like cake and desserts increased three to four times compared to an ordinary day, with chocolate and velvet cakes being particularly popular picks.
- Gift Hampers Popularity: Sales of gift hampers saw a twelvefold increase compared to a regular day, making them the best-performing category across special occasions in 2024.
- Emerging categories: The fastest-growing upcoming categories on the app include jar cakes, bento cakes, themed assorted dessert boxes, a combination of chocolate and strawberries.
Supertech Disburses December Salaries Under NCLAT Order and IRP-ACC Plan
17th February 2025: Supertech employees have received their salaries for the month of December 2024, as per the directive issued by the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on February 10, 2025. This disbursement aligns with the salary payment plan prepared and submitted by Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) Hitesh Goel, in consultation with the Apex Court Committee (ACC), who oversaw the process.
A total of 237 employees were paid their December salaries, amounting to over ₹1.02 crore. The successful execution of this plan marks a significant step toward ensuring financial stability for Supertech’s workforce during its ongoing legal and operational challenges.
“We remain committed to ensuring that employees receive their rightful dues in a timely manner. The successful disbursement of December salaries reflects our dedication to financial transparency and stability. With continued cooperation from all stakeholders, we aim to maintain this momentum in the coming months,” said IRP Hitesh Goyal.
Looking ahead, the plan also includes disbursing salaries for January 2025. This is contingent upon the HR Head submitting verified attendance records along with the processed salary sheet. The IRP, in consultation with the ACC, has emphasized the need for accurate and timely documentation to facilitate the continuation of salary payments.
This positive step reaffirms the Apex Court Committee’s dedication to restoring stability and trust. With the right support, there is growing optimism that the grievances of homebuyers, vendors, and employees—who have endured months of uncertainty—will soon find resolution.