Skydo Receives RBI Approval as PA-CB
Bengaluru, Jan 21
Skydo Technologies Private Limited, a leading cross-border payments company, has received in-principle authorization from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator-Cross Border (PA-CB) entity. Skydo is among the first companies in the cross-border payments space to receive this authorization.
This further strengthens Skydo’s mission of making cross-border payments compliant, seamless and cost-effective for India’s exporters. Skydo started operations in 2022 and currently serves over 12,000 exporters in India, processing over USD 250 million in annual export payments.
“The RBI in-principle authorization is a testament to our compliance-first culture, secure systems and robust risk controls”, said Awadhesh Ranjan, Head of Risk & Compliance at Skydo.
Skydo’s customers are small and medium businesses selling a range of products and services to customers globally. Skydo partners with leading banks across the world and provides a comprehensive solution to manage their invoicing, payments and reconciliation. Key features include transparent pricing and fees with no markup on live mid-market forex rates, digital onboarding with instant KYC, dedicated customer support, fast settlements, and streamlined regulatory compliance with instant issuance of Foreign Inward Remittance Advice (FIRA).
“As an Indian fintech startup with global ambitions, we are thrilled to receive this approval. We plan to scale our payments volume by 10x over the next 18-24 months, expand to support import payments, and build out more trade corridors globally,” said Srivatsan Sridhar, Co-Founder and CEO of Skydo.
Looking ahead, Skydo plans to introduce several first-to-market offerings for India’s growing MSME export sector. “Starting with payments, we will extend our offerings to credit, tax compliance, treasury services and Export Data Processing and Monitoring System (EDPMS) reconciliation. Together, these products will be a comprehensive cross-border financial operating system for any exporter. By bringing cross-border payments into the Payment Aggregator framework, RBI has enabled companies like us to build superior technological products and power the international ambitions of Indian businesses,” said Movin Jain, Co-founder of Skydo.
The Bengaluru based fintech has also recently secured Payment Service Provider (PSP) approval from Amazon, enabling it to process payments for exporters participating in Amazon’s Global Selling program.
SOCIAL Unveils India’s First Co-Working Space
Hyderabad, January 2025: SOCIAL, India’s favourite neighborhood café announces the expansion of its co-working model – SOCIAL Works to 50+ locations in 10 cities. Introduced 10 years ago as the country’s first co-working space, SOCIAL Works was designed to cater to freelancers and professionals seeking an alternative to traditional offices. Now, with SOCIAL Works, SOCIAL is extending its reach to new neighborhoods and pincodes, offering dynamic workspaces where professionals can collaborate, create, and thrive in cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, Indore, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Dehradun, and Kolkata.
Available from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, the SOCIAL Works seamlessly blends functionality with SOCIAL’s signature vibe. Designed to resonate with Millennials and Gen-Z, it creates an environment that fosters productivity, creativity, and community.
A Vision for Modern Workspaces
Over the years, SOCIAL Works has become a thriving hub where connections are forged, ideas take shape, and success stories continue to unfold. From freelancers to budding entrepreneurs, the space has nurtured ventures of all scales—from small startups to prominent companies like BOAT, IVM Podcasts, Food Talk India, Lazy 8, and many more which began their journey here. SOCIAL Works has also been a creative haven for artists and freelancers, offering them a platform to connect, collaborate, and grow. It has witnessed connections and partnerships flourish in the most unexpected ways in the Works section, making it more than just a workspace—it’s a place where ideas come to life, and creativity thrives. Today, it remains the go-to spot for professionals seeking a dynamic and inspiring environment, fostering meaningful partnerships and providing the perfect blend of productivity and creativity.
As the workday winds down, SOCIAL Works seamlessly transitions into a buzzing social hub. Whether you’re wrapping up a brainstorming session or unwinding with colleagues, the space adapts to your needs. It allows you to work comfortably in an environment that feels authentic to you, while also offering opportunities to meet new people and collaborate.
A Space That Adapts To You
- Flexible pricing options: INR 300 per day, INR 1200 per week, and INR 4500 per month—fully redeemable on SOCIAL’s delectable food and drinks. The cover can also be clubbed with other ongoing offers at the outlet, ensuring every workday comes with a side of culinary delight.
- Workspace pass includes free Wi-Fi, a confirmed seat in the workspace area, and access to SOCIAL’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Monthly members enjoy exclusive access to up to 4 SOCIAL events, such as workshops, conferences, networking meetups, live music, and DJ nights.
- Earn loyalty points through The SOCIAL Club, unlocking exciting offers, topical events, and freebies.
- Discover exciting new food and beverage offerings, featuring special limited-time menus, unforgettable experiences such as meeting your favorite artist, winning exclusive branded merchandise, or indulging in drinks at unbeatable prices!
Divya Aggarwal, Chief Growth Officer of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd, shared her vision for the SOCIAL Works. “When we launched SOCIAL Works, our goal was to create a workspace that broke away from the rigidity of traditional offices. Over the years, it’s been incredible to see how this concept has supported startups, freelancers, and professionals in building their dreams. We’re creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring, blending work and leisure seamlessly as per different requirements. It’s about evolving with the needs of today’s workforce and continuing to offer a place where ideas can thrive, and connections can flourish.
Keeping in mind the future of co-working, SOCIAL Works is designed to cater to diverse work styles, whether you’re working solo, brainstorming with a team, or catching up with colleagues. The experience is a testament to SOCIAL’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, blending work and play in a way that’s uniquely their own.
Hexaware Joins AWS for Cloud Solutions
Mumbai, January 21st, 2025 – Hexaware Technologies, an IT solutions and services provider, announced today that it has entered into a collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), with plans to strengthen its offerings in migration and modernization, data and AI, and generative artificial intelligence (AI)-powered customer experience solutions.
Through this collaboration, Hexaware will help empower its customers to innovate and capitalize on real-time insights from data, unlock business value and optimize operational efficiency across key sectors such as retail, banking, healthcare and life sciences, travel, transport, and hospitality.
Hexaware’s AWS Migration and Modernization Consulting Competency underscores its efforts in helping clients accelerate their time to value. Leveraging AWS native accelerators and Hexaware’s Amaze®, and in compliance with AWS Foundational Technical Review guidelines, it will help deliver migration and modernization solutions faster while reducing costs for customers.
Hexaware has built RapidX™, a GenAI-based platform for modern software engineering. AWS and Hexaware will collaborate to further develop the RapidX™ platform to support clients for cloud-native product development, as well as legacy modernization initiatives to deliver cost-effective solutions by improving developer productivity and software development quality metrics.
Apurva Kadakia, Global Head – Cloud, Hexaware Technologies, said, “Hexaware has been working with AWS on domain-specific generative AI solutions and has released a few in the retail and customer analytics space on AWS Marketplace. This collaboration will enable us to harness the collective powers of all our service lines and verticals to enhance digital transformations by adding a layer of ease and predictability for customers.”
Hexaware’s client Aidan Lyons, CEO, FanCapital, said, “From the high-speed thrill of F1 to the intense action of SEC Volleyball, fans today demand more than just a game—they crave unforgettable, personalized experiences! With AWS platforms, FanCapital elevates digital fan engagement. Powered by the fan graph on Amazon Neptune, we are enabling sports stars and their fans to connect and enabling delivery of precision marketing and personalized interactions that keep the excitement alive, on and off the field!”
Amy Dennerlein, Chief Executive Officer, Realize-365, said, “Integrating Amazon Bedrock with Hexaware was productive for us. It helped tackle unstructured medical data in legal cases, reducing manual review time by 90%. This shift allowed legal professionals to focus on strategic preparation. Our AI now enables quick, precise, and accurate case summarization.”
Rima Olinger, Managing Director – North America Partners, AWS, added, “The collaboration between Hexaware and AWS will provide our joint customers globally with an accelerated path to modernize critical workloads to AWS led by our shared dedication to innovating on behalf of customers. AWS and Hexaware together will deliver tailored solutions, backed by Generative AI, to help customers improve productivity, insights, and value to their unique business challenges.”
This collaboration underscores the value of Hexaware and AWS to provide flexibility and unlock business value for customers across industries. For more information please visit: [hyperlink to landing page].
IIM Sambalpur Hosts CEO Immersion for Professionals
January 20th, 2025; Sambalpur: IIM Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutions, hosted a six – day CEO Immersion Programme for the Executive MBA 2024-26 and MBA for Working Professionals2023-25 batches at its Sambalpur campus. The programme aims to equip the batch with practical knowledge, industry trends, and leadership skills through direct interaction with seasoned professionals. As many as 100 executives from different industries participated in the programme that was addressed by over 15 – 25 CXOs of top companies.
In his welcome address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “Our campus blends modern infrastructure with Indian ethos, as reflected in its architecture, art, and cultural elements. We have also introduced transformative Drivers for digitalization and Green Technologies like AI, blockchain are set to revolutionize industries by creating unified systems for business processes, from design to sales. This shift will demand a new wave of consulting talent, and MBA graduates will play a pivotal role in leading this transformation.” Prof further said, “As the world transitions to sustainable practices, industries such as oil, gas, coal, and traditional automotive manufacturing will undergo significant changes. These shifts present both challenges and opportunities for leaders equipped with the right skills. Institutions like IIM Sambalpur must lead these transformations. We aim to contribute by fostering a knowledge base that supports global organizations and industries. To this end, we are signing an MoU with an AI-driven learning management system. This initiative will enable IIM Sambalpur to develop and share case studies and articles on a global platform, similar to the renowned Harvard Business Cases.”
Attending the events as the chief guest, Dr. Biswajit Mahapatra, Head of Customer Solutions-CIO Advisory – Amazon Web Services, said “Digital transformation is about reimagining how we think, act, and operate in an increasingly intelligent, interconnected, and instrumented world, where new business paradigms emerge through evolving models, innovative ways of working, and the cultivation of expertise. It’s a shift from merely adding AI to systems to centering every business outcome around AI, fostering democratized innovation and responsive operations. Expertise, once defined by narrow specialization, now demands a comb-shaped approach—deep skills across multiple areas with broad horizontal knowledge—while orchestrated ecosystems, built on collaboration and co-opetition, drive success. Technologies like cloud, blockchain, IoT, and intelligent workflows form the bedrock of transformation, with data as indispensable as air, fueling insights that power this evolution. “
During the programme, selected meritorious MBA female students including, Kratika Krishna Panchal, Sapna Rani, Pallavi Lata, Gunika Kaur and Manjot Kaur from economically weaker sections, awarded a scholarship of one lakh rupees in recognition of their academic excellence. The award was given by Mrs. Sharada Gupta of Delhi, wife of Dr. Girish Mohan Gupta, an MBA for Working Professionals student at IIM Sambalpur Delhi Campus.
The event was attended by Priyadarshi Nanu Pany, CEO of CSM Technology; Nilesh Biniwale, General Manager at Pattern India; Manas Barpanda, National Head at Britannia Industries Ltd.; Padmanabhan S., Senior Vice President at MSN Laboratories; Gulshan Tiwari, J oint President & Plant Head at Hindalco, Jharsuguda; Dr. Debasish Guha, Head of Research TCS innovation Park IIT KHARAGPUR; Aparna Chetan, CHRO at Torry Harris Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; Ghanashyam Parida, President & CEO of the Power Vertical at Welspun Corp; Abhishek Kumar Verma, Founder and CEO of Indiano Pelletteria; Dr. Angshuman Ghosh, CEO of MENRV AI; Jay Prakash Singh, CHRO at JSW Steel; Akshay Rakshit, HRBP at BMW Group India; Manish Pandey, Senior Director at Infosys and Head of Infosys Foundation Bhubaneswar; Damodar Mittal, Executive Director at Jindal Steel & Power Limited; Debasish Mallik, President at Hindalco – Hirakud and Rajesh Singh, Senior VP HR & IR at TRL Krosaki Refractories Limited.
86400 Powers UPI Credit Line Payments for Banks & FinTechs
Mumbai, 20th January 2025: 86400 (an Initiative of Mobileware Technologies), a leading provider of cutting-edge payments infrastructure announces the launch of its Credit-as-a-Service (CaaS) solution, designed to integrate Credit Line on UPI into the offerings of Banks and Fintech companies. This solution is set to develop and redefine digital credit accessibility, providing instant, flexible, and user-friendly credit options to millions across India.
Built on NPCI’s Credit Line on UPI framework, 86400’s new solution offers financial institutions a robust and compliant solution to unlock short-term credit capabilities without disrupting existing systems. As per the prediction by 86400, this scheme is poised to revolutionize the market, offering an end-to-end solution that enables banks to conceive and rapidly launch versatile credit products.
Credit Line on UPI
Credit Line on UPI is an NPCI offering that allows users to access pre-approved credit directly within UPI-enabled apps. By integrating the solution into its advanced technology stack, 86400 enables financial institutions to offer customers easy access to credit for transactions like bill payments, shopping, and emergency expenses.
How the Solution Works
The solution is designed to deliver seamless functionality for both customers and financial institutions. For financial institutions, the solution offers streamlined APIs that facilitate quick integration with their systems, ensuring minimal operational disruptions and accelerating time-to-market for credit services. For customers of these financial institutions, it enables easy access to pre-approved credit directly within their existing UPI-enabled apps, catering to a variety of financial needs such as bill payments, shopping, and emergencies.
Key Benefits
Instant Access to Credit:
- Customers can tap into pre-approved credit instantly without delays.
- Real-time credit utilization and repayment capabilities simplify user experience.
Seamless Integration for Financial Institutions:
- Quick onboarding with 86400’s robust and scalable technology stack.
- Reduced setup costs and operational complexities.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Fully adherent to RBI and NPCI guidelines, ensuring data privacy and securit
Relaxo Opens New Outlet in Nawada, New Delhi
New Delhi – January 20, 2025: Relaxo Footwears Ltd., India’s leading footwear brand, proudly announces the grand opening of its newest Exclusive Brand Outlet (EBO) in Nawada, Delhi. This significant addition reinforces Relaxo’s commitment to bringing stylish, durable, and affordable footwear closer to its customers across the state.
The launch of this outlet marks an important milestone in Relaxo’s retail expansion journey in Delhi, where the brand now operates 60 outlets across the city, solidifying its position as a preferred choice for quality footwear in the region.
The new EBO in Nawada showcases Relaxo’s flagship brands, including Flite, Sparx, Bahamas, and Boston, offering a diverse range of footwear that blends style, comfort, and functionality. From everyday essentials to trendsetting designs, the store caters to a wide array of customer preferences, ensuring a seamless and satisfying shopping experience.
With this opening, Relaxo’s retail presence has now grown to 412 Exclusive Brand Outlets nationwide, a testament to the company’s unwavering focus on making premium footwear accessible to both urban and semi-urban markets. This latest store underscores Relaxo’s strategy of deepening its footprint in key markets to meet the rising demand for high-quality and affordable footwear.
Kia India Unveils EV6 at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025
New Delhi, 20th Jan 2025: Kia India, a leading mass premium carmaker, unveiled the new EV6 at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Kia India also announced that bookings for the new Kia EV6 start today, marking another milestone in the brand’s electric journey.
The new Kia EV6 continues to set the standard for safety, equipped with our ADAS 2.0 package, which includes 27 advanced safety and driver assistance features. As compared to previous EV6 we have added five additional ADAS 2.0 features – Front Collisions Avoidance assist (FCA) – City/Pedestrian/Cyclist/Junction Turning, Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) – Junction crossing, Forward Collision Avoidance– Lane Assist Change (FCA) – Oncoming & Side, Forward Collision Avoidance assist (FCA) – Evasive Steering and Lane Follow Assist (LFA). These features are derived from the cutting-edge technology from our flagship model, EV9 and include improvements to collision safety, structural rigidity, and enhanced occupant protection. With the added strength and enhanced ADAS package, you can drive with confidence, knowing that the EV6 is designed to protect.
The EV9 stands as Kia’s flagship electric SUV, setting new standards for technology and innovation in the automotive industry, globally. Having crowned as the prestigious WCOTY 2024, the vehicle is powered by a 99.8 kWh battery, the EV9 offers an impressive range of up to 561 km on a single charge, making it suitable for both city commutes and long-distance travel. Its ultra-fast charging capability allows the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes with a 350kW DC charger.
Kia India is also showcasing its legacy of pushing boundaries by seamlessly harmonizing global technology, luxurious design, and sustainable engineering with its product range including the newly debuted Kia Syros. The immersive display at Bharat Mobility pavilion aligns with Kia India’s commitment to driving the future of automotive excellence while supporting India’s vision for a sustainable and innovative transportation ecosystem.
Mr. Gwanggu Lee, MD and CEO of Kia India, said, “At Kia India, we are committed to driving positive change in the automotive industry. Since the EV6 first hit the roads, it has garnered widespread admiration, growing in popularity and strengthening its global reputation. Today as we unveil the new EV6 we are sure that it will redefine the electric mobility standards with its latest hi-tech innovations.
Mr. Lee further added,” Our participation in the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 underscores this commitment, where we are proud to unveil the new EV6, a key step in our journey towards carbon neutrality. With it, we are taking a bold stride in offering environmentally conscious, next-generation technology to Indian consumers.”
At the Auto Expo, Kia will showcase cutting-edge technology with several key demonstrations highlighting our commitment to innovation and sustainability. In the electrification segment, the E-Vision concept will offer an immersive visual experience, powered by the E-GMP platform and 4th Gen Battery technology. Additionally, the Kia Smart Home will provide a connected home experience, featuring outdoor seating powered by the EV9’s Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities.
The Hi-Tech segment will feature the Kia Connected World, an immersive Q&A game where visitors can drive through the Kia Smart City, answering questions to earn prizes, while experiencing Kia Connect 2.0, OTA updates, and ADAS technology. An exhibit showcasing over-the-air software updates will provide insight into Kia’s tech engagement, including the controller OTA updates. The Syros Smart Drive Experience will offer a virtual drive experience in a real car simulator, showcasing the inspiring drive program. Digital and AI engagements include the My Kia Life, an AI-powered photo booth allowing visitors to capture their selfies and enter the virtual world of Kia, and My Kia Getaway, an AI-powered video generator that creates personalized driving videos. Lastly, the Carnival de Lounge will provide a premium experience, highlighting Kia’s luxury and design leadership with leather calligraphy, coffee brewing, and high-end imagery.
New Kia EV6: Redefining electric luxury with power, performance, and innovation
Kia’s new EV6 is an electrifying leap forward, with more style, power, and technology than ever before. As the refreshed version of Kia’s first-ever dedicated EV, the vehicle offers significant upgrades that reinforce its position as one of the most advanced electric vehicles in the market.
On the design front, the model features a sportier and more aggressive front end, in line with Kia’s signature Opposites United design language. With up to 15 enhancements, including the new signature Star Map lighting with connected DRLs, a front GT-Line styling bumper, 19-inch glossy finish alloy wheels, and star-map LED rear combination lamps, the new EV6 is bolder, sharper, and more dynamic than its predecessor.
Inside, the new EV6 offers an even more premium and spacious cabin. New features, such as the double D-cut steering wheel with hands-on detection technology, elevate the driving experience and ensure comfort and safety. The vehicle also impresses with its upgraded performance. It now features a powerful 84-kWh battery, offering an impressive range of over 650 km, a significant improvement from the previous 77.4 kWh. With a power output of 325 PS and 605 Nm of torque, the refreshed EV6 delivers an exhilarating driving experience, while its 350-kW fast charger enables a rapid charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
Safety has always been a priority for Kia, and the new EV6 is no exception. Equipped with the ADAS 2.0 package, it offers 27 advanced safety and driver assistance features, including 5 new autonomous features. These include FCA 2.0 – Junction Turning, which detects oncoming traffic while turning at intersections, and FCA 2.0 – Junction Crossing that prevents collisions when crossing through junctions. Additionally, FCA 2.0 – Lane Change Assist and FCA 2.0 – Evasive Steering Assist provide an extra layer of protection during lane changes and emergency maneuvers, ensuring a smooth, safe drive-in unexpected situation. The vehicle also comes with LFA 2.0 – Lane Follow Assist, which helps maintain proper lane positioning, reducing the risk of accidents caused by unintentional lane departure. Collectively, these features make the new EV6 one of the safest electric vehicles on Indian roads.
Not leaving the tech behind, the new EV6 features a dual 31.2cm (12.3-inch) panoramic curved display, integrating Kia’s next-generation infotainment system- the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit. The vehicle is also equipped with Kia Connect 2.0, allowing Kia Connect Diagnostics and Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates. Additionally, Digital Key 2.0 (featuring Ultra-Wideband technology) transforms a compatible smartphone into a virtual key, offering a new level of convenience.
Kia EV9: A new World of Innovation
The Kia EV9 introduces advanced technology with Kia Connect 2.0, offering seamless connectivity with smart devices, real-time updates, and remote vehicle control. Over-the-air (OTA) updates ensure continuous software enhancements without a dealership visit, while 44 remote diagnostic controllers monitor the car’s performance. The Digital Key 2.0 allows owners to unlock and start the vehicle using their smartphones, and the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature lets users power devices on the go.
Designed with the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, the EV9 boasts a futuristic angular design and a digital pattern lighting grille. Its digital features include a Trinity panoramic display, combining three HD screens for a comprehensive and intuitive driving experience. With over 27 Autonomous ADAS features, multi-collision brakes, vehicle stability management, and a 10-airbag system, the EV9 prioritizes both convenience and safety for all occupants.
SAI International Hosts 5th SAI Global Debate with 300 Students
Mumbai / National, 20th January’25: SAI International School, one of the country’s leading CBSE board schools hosted the 5th Edition of the SAI Global Debate recently, demonstrating its dedication to fostering critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills among students. This notable online debate competition attracted over 300 participants from 32 schools across the nation, with the presence of esteemed guests Ms. Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director of Education at the British Council in India, as the chief guest, and Mr. John Snell, Executive Head of Schools, England, as the guest of honour, further elevating the event’s intellectual significance.
The initiative, conceived by Founder, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, aims to cultivate a generation of confident communicators and critically aware global citizens, equipped to contribute to a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable future for all.
The debate showcased outstanding performances across various formats, including Turncoat, Extempore, and Conventional Debate. In the junior category, the preliminary round addressed the ethicality of governmental or corporate censorship of information on the internet to combat misinformation. Students adeptly navigated the tension between free speech and the necessity of controlling misinformation, presenting compelling arguments that engaged the jury’s attention. The final round focused on the topic “Virtual reality has had a tremendous impact on education methodologies,” prompting students to evaluate its transformative potential in learning while addressing challenges such as accessibility and dependency on technology.
The senior category tackled even more complex ethical issues. In their preliminary round, participants debated whether widespread digital surveillance by governments or corporations is ethically justifiable. The finals escalated the discussion with the topic “Do large tech companies hold too much power, posing ethical dilemmas for society?” Here, students critically examined monopolies, data privacy issues, and the ethical responsibilities of technology giants. The event’s structure fostered an environment of rigorous research, persuasive rebuttals, and intellectual excellence.
Overall, the 5th SAI Global Debate not only provided a platform for meaningful discourse but also underscored SAI International School’s pivotal role in nurturing future leaders and thinkers prepared to tackle contemporary global challenges.
Representing the capital, Bal Bharati Public School Dwarka, New Delhi, demonstrated exceptional debating prowess alongside Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyasharam, K.M. Munshi Marg, Jaipur, and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram. Noteworthy institutions such as Blue Bells Model School, Buxi Jagabandhu English Medium School (both campuses), and the prestigious Choithram Schools from Indore and its North Campus enriched the event’s diversity. Further enhancing the assembly were DAV Public School, Unit-8, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, DC Model Sr. Sec. School, KC Public School, and M.C. Kejriwal Vidyapeeth. Maria’s Public School and Miles Bronson Residential School collaborated with ODM International School, Angul, and ODM Sapphire Global School. The event also included Rajkumar College, Raipur, and Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls’ Public School, Jodhpur. Additionally, Shiv Nadar School, Noida, Singapore International School, Mumbai, Sunbeam School Lahartara, The Sanskaar Valley School, and Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun, participated, showcasing a rich blend of academic excellence. The debate also had an international element with the participation of Starehe Boys’ Centre & School from Kenya, reinforcing the event’s global dimension.
In her address, Ms. Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director Education British Council, India, expressed her inspiration from witnessing young minds engage in meaningful discussions on themes that will influence modern society. She highlighted debates on topics such as digital surveillance, the influence of technology giants, and the boundaries of internet censorship, emphasizing the significance of responsible technology use. Moreover, she noted that discussions about how virtual reality is reshaping educational methodologies reflect students’ foresight. Ms. Parruck stated, “Such platforms not only sharpen critical thinking but also build the leaders of tomorrow who will guide us through complex ethical landscapes.” She praised the initiative led by SAI and wished the participants great success.
Mr. John Snell, in his capacity as guest of honor, expressed, “Debates of this caliber highlight the incredible potential of youth when provided with opportunities to explore complex global issues. As educators, our role is to cultivate critical thinking and guide students in understanding the interplay of ethics, innovation, and progress.”
Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson of SAI International Education Group, echoed these sentiments, expressing her inspiration by the vibrant assembly of youths grappling with global challenges through meaningful debates and innovative idea exchanges. She appreciated the active participation from numerous schools that contributed to making the global debate a resounding success. The event highlighted the dedication of students and educators alike in fostering critical discussions about pertinent issues, setting a strong foundation for future leaders.
“This platform goes beyond competition; it is a celebration of ideas, collaboration, and growth. It empowers young minds to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore diverse perspectives, and shape a more thoughtful and equitable future.”
reflected, Shri Nilakantha Panigrahi, Director Academics & Senior Principal, SAI International School.
Shri Amitabh Agnihotri, Headmaster, SAI International Residential School (SIRS), lauded the initiative, saying, “Witnessing the brilliance of these young minds today fills me with optimism. The energy, eloquence, and depth of thought exhibited here assure us that the future is in capable hands. Such debates are not merely competitions but transformative experiences shaping tomorrow’s visionaries.”
Provident Housing Launches New Phase of Ecopolitan
20th January 2025, Bengaluru: Provident Housing Limited, one of India’s leading large-scale community developers, is all set to launch a new phase of Provident Ecopolitan in Bengaluru this weekend (18th & 19th January 2025). Building on the overwhelming sold-out success of Phase 1, the new phase offers thoughtfully designed homes that seamlessly integrate sustainable design with contemporary living.
Ahead of the launch, Mallanna Sasalu, CEO, Provident Housing, said, “Building on the tremendous success of Phase 1, we are thrilled to announce a new phase of Provident Ecopolitan. Guided by our philosophy of empathetic design and delivering exceptional value to our customers, this phase features abundant greenery, over 30 lifestyle amenities, and our unique initiative of ‘one tree per family’. This project reflects our commitment to creating eco-friendly communities that offer a lifestyle centered on well-being and sustainability. With North Bengaluru’s strategic growth and excellent connectivity, Provident Ecopolitan is ideal for families seeking long-term value and quality living.”
The new phase comprises 581 residential units available in 1 BHK, 3 BHK, and 3.5 BHK configurations, spread across two towers. The sizes range from 530–590 sq. ft. for 1 BHK units, 1,492–1,550 sq. ft. for 3 BHK units, and 1,793–1,911 sq. ft. for 3.5 BHK units, catering to diverse homeowner needs.
Strategically located in the rapidly developing KIADB Aerospace Park, the project provides seamless connectivity to the Kempegowda International Airport, Yelahanka Railway Station, and Bagalur Cross Metro Station (under construction). The project is also well-supported by robust social infrastructure, including leading educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and retail centres in the vicinity.
Provident Ecopolitan’s new phase features over 45 indigenous species of flora, ensuring a rich and diverse ecosystem that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. With its EV charging provisions and focus on green building practices, the project will provide residents with a sustainable lifestyle. Other amenities include a bird-watching deck, an amphitheater, outdoor gym, squash court, and co-working spaces, ensuring a lifestyle that balances leisure and productivity.
Amitabh Bachchan Sells Mumbai Duplex for Rs. 83 Crore
Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan has sold his duplex apartment in Oshiwara, Mumbai, for Rs. 83 crore, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of Inspector General of Registration (IGR) The transaction was registered in January 2025.
Oshiwara, a bustling neighbourhood in western Mumbai, is known for its vibrant lifestyle and strategic location near the Lokhandwala Complex. Well-connected by roads and the Mumbai Metro, it offers a seamless blend of urban convenience and modern living. The property is located in The Atlantis, a residential project by Crystal Group in Oshiwara, spread across 1.55 acres, offering 4, 5, and 6 BHK apartments.
As per the IGR registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the premium duplex apartment spans a built-up area of 529.94 sq. m (~5,704 sq. ft) and a carpet area of 5,185.62 sq. ft (~481.75 sq. m). It also features a spacious terrace measuring 445.93 sq. m (~4,800 sq. ft) and includes six mechanized car parking spaces. The transaction incurred a stamp duty payment of Rs. 4.98 crore and registration charges of Rs. 30,000.
Square Yards’ analysis, based on a review of IGR registration documents, reveals that the duplex apartment was purchased by Bachchan for Rs. 31 crore in April 2021 and was currently sold for Rs. 83 crore, reflecting a remarkable 168% increase in value. Additionally, the same apartment was given on rent to actress Kriti Sanon in November 2021 for a monthly rent of Rs. 10 lakh and a security deposit of Rs. 60 lakh, according to IGR lease documents reviewed by Square Yards.
Amitabh Bachchan, the iconic Bollywood actor, is celebrated for his towering presence and unmatched acting skills. With a career spanning over five decades, he has delivered unforgettable performances in films like Sholay, Deewar, and Piku. Known as the “Shahenshah of Bollywood,” he has won numerous accolades, including four National Film Awards, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, and multiple Filmfare trophies. His global recognition includes the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan honours