ISDM Opens Doors for Aspiring Leaders with PGP in Development Management Admissions
New Delhi, 13 February 2025 – The Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has announced the commencement of admissions for its flagship Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP-DM) for the 2025 cohort. As India’s social sector continues to face a glaring leadership gap, ISDM’s program offers a pathway for aspiring changemakers to step into impactful roles across the country’s diverse social sector landscape.
Recent studies, highlight a growing need for trained professionals who can balance mission-driven goals with operational efficiency. Unlike traditional management programs focused on corporate growth, ISDM’s PGP in Development Management blends rigorous academics with experiential learning. It equips individuals with strategic planning, financial management, and policy engagement skills—preparing them for leadership roles in social purpose organizations, philanthropy, and impact-driven enterprises.
The PGP-DM is a unique 11-month program that integrates management principles with the complexities of social impact, ensuring students emerge as professionals equipped to navigate the challenges of today’s world with empathy, strategy, and resilience. With a 100% placement rate and partnerships with over 350 leading organizations, ISDM graduates have gone on to work with Save the Children, ICICI Foundation, Reliance Foundation, CSRBox, Dr Reddy’s Foundation, Lend A Hand India, PRADAN and many other social purpose organisations.
Ravi Sreedharan, the Founder of ISDM, remarked, “At ISDM, we have been working on Talent, Knowledge and Practice of Development Management in India for the last 10 years. Today, as a leading institution for Development Management in the country, our students from the first 7 batches have been grabbed by the sector as reflected by 100% Campus Placements with the highest average salaries in the sector. Today, the alums of ISDM are working in India and elsewhere in International, National and Local Social Purpose Organizations besides several who have started their own social enterprises. Our aspiration is to produce a cadre of Development Management professionals with the required knowledge, attitude and skills to solve the most complex problems facing society and the planet”.
Through initiatives like the Realising India field immersion, where students engage directly with grassroots realities, and mentorship opportunities with industry veterans, ISDM ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to tackle the sector’s most pressing challenges. ISDM’s approach to education is deeply personal and transformative, encouraging students to reflect inward, challenge preconceived notions, unlearn outdated beliefs, and embrace new perspectives, forming a strong foundation for meaningful change.
Aspiring leaders ready to make a difference can now apply for the 2025 intake. This program is a perfect opportunity for individuals who are ready to step into roles that require courage, creativity, and a strong sense of responsibility toward the greater good. Detailed information and the application form are available on ISDM’s website.
Adidas Expands Its Star Power by Adding Rishabh Pant as Brand Ambassador
New Delhi, 12th February 2025 – adidas today announced a multiyear partnership with Indian Cricket team star, Rishabh Pant. With this announcement, Pant joins adidas’ elite athlete roster which includes- Jude Bellingham, Noa Lyles, Kuldeep Yadav, Nikhat Zareen, Sumit Antil, Manika Batra and more. Known for his resilience and never give up attitude, Rishabh Pant is one of Indian cricket’s leading names, loved by fans across generations. Pant resonates commitment and self-belief, which reflects in his game on the pitch, inspiring others around him.
adidas has a rich history of iconic partnerships with cricket legends from India, including Sachin Tendulkar and, more recently, Rohit Sharma, who has been a long-time partner with the brand. Now, Rishabh Pant is ready to carry the legacy forward as adidas names him its newest partner. Having been an adidas athlete from 2016 to 2019, Pant now makes a return to the 3 stripes as the brand looks to further strengthen its presence in the world of cricket.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mr Neelendra Singh, General Manager, adidas India, said, “At adidas, we have always stood by athletes through every step of their journey—supporting them in their moments of triumph and resilience alike. Rishabh’s fearless spirit, determination, and unwavering commitment to the game make him a true embodiment of what adidas stands for. We are excited to welcome him back to the adidas family and support his continued success.”
Expressing his thoughts, Rishabh Pant, shared, “I am excited to be partnering with adidas, a brand I truly admire. I believe we have a shared vision of inspiring athletes and people at large, to trust themselves and never give up while marching towards the goal. I’m looking forward to this journey with adidas, empowering the next generation of athletes and making a meaningful impact in the world of sports.”
With a history of working with top athletes across sports, including cricket, football, athletics, and tennis, adidas continues to be at the forefront of sporting excellence. The addition of Rishabh Pant to its athlete lineup further solidifies adidas’ continued dedication to sports and its commitment to fuelling the aspirations of the country’s young and aspiring athletes.
Navneet Education Limited Debuts ‘Navneet AI,’ Paving the Way for Intelligent Learning
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: Navneet Education Limited, a leader in the education sector, is excited to announce the launch of Navneet AI, an innovative platform designed to empower teachers with easy access to knowledge and resources. Leveraging Navneet’s extensive catalogue of educational materials, Navneet AI’s tools will help teachers deliver lessons more effectively by offering an interactive, user-friendly platform to create quizzes, homework, PPTs, Flashcards, summaries, and more.
For decades, teachers and students across India have relied on Navneet’s renowned educational resources, including the popular Navneet Digests, comprehensive workbooks, Navneet 21 Most Likely Question Sets, Pre-Primary and various Children’s books. Navneet AI is based on 50,000+ Navneet resources and delivers interactive output to make classes more engaging and effective. By equipping teachers with a powerful tool to enhance classroom experiences, Navneet Education aims to bridge traditional educational resources with modern technology.
“Our goal with Navneet AI is to make learning resources more accessible and adaptable to the needs of today’s educators,” said Devish Gala, Director – Branding, Marketing and Sales at Navneet Education Limited. “By integrating digital technology with trusted content, we support teachers in their mission to inspire young minds. Navneet AI represents our commitment to staying current with technological advancements and catering to evolving educational demands.”
Harshil Gala, CEO TopTech, Navneet Education Limited says, “With Navneet AI, we are revolutionizing the ways education is delivered, making learning more interactive and engaging for both teachers and students. At Navneet, we have always been at the forefront of innovation in education, and with this tool, we are taking a bold step towards the future, where technology empowers educators and enhances student learning outcomes like never before.”
Navneet AI is India’s first custom education model. In a world where generic AI chatbots are being marketed as study assistants for students, Navneet has deliberately chosen to create a platform designed specifically to support teachers. It operates on a multi-agent architecture, where each specialized agent plays a key role in shaping the output. These include the Curriculum Alignment Agent, Content Structuring Agent, Visual Design Agent, Assessment Creation Agent, Quality Verification Agent, and others, working together to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness in educational content.
This ensures strong alignment with educational standards and provides a solid foundation for effective learning. All of this is made possible by leveraging Navneet’s trusted content, built over six decades. This innovation is backed by years of expertise and experience, making it both groundbreaking and cost-effective, from innovation to delivery.
Navneet Education Limited will also host a series of workshops, titled ‘Q&AI’ with Navneet AI to introduce the platform to educators and guide them in maximising its potential. The workshops aim to provide hands-on experience, answer teachers’ questions, and ensure educators feel confident using the platform to enrich their teaching methods.
As the education landscape continues to evolve, Navneet is proud to offer teachers a digital assistant with tools that combine its legacy of academic excellence with the promise of digital innovation. With Navneet AI, the company reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of learning in India, blending tradition with technology to create a brighter, smarter classroom experience.
Chanda Kochhar Opens Up in ‘Journey Unscripted’
Mumbai, February 12th, 2025 – Chanda Kochhar, a visionary leader and one of the most influential voices in India’s corporate landscape is set to launch her much-anticipated podcast, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’. This YouTube series, premiering on 13th February 2025, brings forth insightful conversations with trailblazers from diverse fields, capturing the moments of grit and grace that have shaped their journeys.
“As someone having navigated an unconventional journey, I believe in the power of real and candid conversations to inspire and connect,” said Chanda Kochhar. “Every experience, whether planned or unplanned, shapes who we are, and through this series I hope to bring out the defining moments that make each journey truly extraordinary.”
Executed by The Salt Inc., the series offers a refreshing take on unfiltered conversations, inviting viewers to reflect on their own paths while drawing inspiration from remarkable individuals. Neena Dasgupta, CEO and Co-Founder of The Salt Inc., said, “Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ is about conversations that are real and relatable. Chanda Kochhar’s engaging presence and keen perspective bring out the essence of each guest’s journey in a way that is both inspiring and heartfelt. We are excited to be a part of this show and it is fascinating to see how meaningful conversations bring amazing insights.”
The series kicks off with a leading Indian entrepreneur – the founder and chairman of a Fortune India 500 company, whose journey sets the stage for an engaging lineup of distinguished guests. Whether through stories of perseverance, unconventional choices, or bold ambitions, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ offers viewers an opportunity to connect with real-life experiences that inspire and resonate. With its blend of candid conversations and compelling narratives, the series is a must-watch for those seeking insights, motivation, and a deeper understanding of the journeys of personalities from diverse fields. The first episode of the series will air on YouTube on 13th February 2025, making these insightful conversations accessible to a wide audience.
South Indian Bank Clinches 5 Awards at the 20th Annual IBA Technology Awards
New Delhi, 12 February 2025: South Indian Bank (SIB), well known for its novel contributions in banking technology, was recognised at the 20th edition of the Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024. The awards reflect SIB’s commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric digital solutions.
The Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024, were part of the Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations, organised by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). The awards recognise organisations that have brought in transformational changes in their businesses by adopting modern digital solutions. At a glittering ceremony on January 24 in Mumbai, SIB was declared the winner in the category of ‘Best Tech Talent & Organization’. Additionally, SIB received a special mention in the categories of ‘Best Digital Sales, Payments & Engagement’, ‘Best IT Risk Management’ and ‘Best Fintech, & DPI Adoption’. Moreover, the Bank was adjudged runners-up in the ‘Best Financial Inclusion’ category.
Mr. P R Seshadri, MD & CEO, South Indian Bank, expressed joy at the achievement, “We are honoured to receive these prestigious recognitions from the IBA yet again. These awards underscore our commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, drive financial inclusion, and ensure secure digital transactions. The awards acknowledge our efforts toward nurturing talent and building a strong tech team. It encourages us to continue our drive of continuous innovation, uncovering novel banking solutions for all our stakeholders, while also affirming our position as a forward-thinking financial institution.”
Cyient DLM to Begin Production for Boeing Under New Contract
Hyderabad, February 12, 2025: Cyient DLM, an integrated partner for design-led manufacturing, has signed a production contract with Boeing Global Services (BGS) for precision-machined parts and assemblies, marking a key milestone in their partnership.
This precision machining project awarded to Cyient DLM by BGS highlights Cyient DLM’s growing capabilities in delivering high-precision components to the aerospace sector.
Anthony Montalbano, CEO, Cyient DLM, said, “This contract with Boeing is a significant achievement for Cyient DLM, showcasing our advanced manufacturing capabilities and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are honoured to collaborate with Boeing, a global leader in aerospace, and we look forward to strengthening this relationship by consistently delivering products that meet the highest industry standards.”
Cyient DLM’s achievement underscores its position as a trusted partner in the Aerospace and Defense sector. The company is among the first AS9100C aerospace-certified electronic manufacturing facilities and the first in India to obtain the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) certification for Circuit Card Assembly (CCA).
With over 30 years of experience, Cyient DLM specializes in manufacturing prototypes, small-batch production, box builds, and complete sub-assemblies and assemblies involving precision machining and detailed integration. The company also excels in additive manufacturing (3D printing) for proof-of-concept designs, design verification, and functional testing.
‘Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition’—DeadAnt Live’s Comedy Show Pokes Fun at Air Pollution
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: In a city where the air itself has become a punchline, DeadAnt Live is flipping the script with Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition—a night of rapid-fire comedy that puts Mumbai’s air quality crisis center stage.
On 28th February, Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir will play host to some of the sharpest comedic minds in the country as they attempt to do the impossible—make air pollution a laughing matter while ensuring it’s taken seriously. This special edition of DeadAnt’s proprietary format, presented in collaboration with social and environmental impact advisor Asar, will feature a stellar lineup of over 20 comedians, including Aditya Kulshrestha (Kullu), Aditi Mittal, Raunaq Rajani, Aadar Malik, Supriya Joshi, Vineet Srinivasan.
At its core, Laughs Per Minute is a high-stakes challenging format where comedians get 60 seconds each on stage to land a punchline—an exhilarating pace that mirrors the urgency of Mumbai’s, and indeed India’s, declining air quality. But beyond the rapid wit and relentless laughs, this edition serves a more pressing purpose: to translate AQI charts and government reports into a conversation that people can actually engage with. Because while smog-choked skylines and unseasonal coughs have become part of daily life, the issue remains buried under apathy, and jargon-laden policy discussions.
Ravina Rawal, Founder-CEO of DeadAnt remarked, “For DeadAnt, this isn’t just another show—it’s part of a broader mission to use the arts as a force for impact. We are delighted to partner with Asar for the return of Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition; on raising awareness on the rising air pollution in the country, and stripping away the abstraction around air pollution, driving home the reality of what’s at stake—without the doomscroll. At DeadAnt, we believe comedy can be more than just entertainment—it can spark conversations, shift perspectives, and even catalyse change–this edition is designed to make people sit up, take notice and, hopefully, take action.”
The collaboration with Asar ensures that while the jokes land, so does the message. Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition aims to do what few environmental campaigns have managed: make people care.
Brikesh Singh, Chief of Communications, Asar, said, “DeadAnt’s recognition of the urgent need to spotlight air pollution and the broader climate crisis led to this partnership. Through comedy, we aim to make climate conversations more accessible and engaging, driving attention towards actionable solutions to combat deteriorating air quality of Mumbai and mainstreaming climate communication for greater impact.”
He adds that DeadAnt Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition is designed to shake up the conversation on Mumbai’s air pollution—by ditching the jargon-heavy debates for sharp-witted comedy that resonates with everyone. “By using humour as a universal language, the initiative aims to engage a wider audience, spark public action, and make this issue impossible to ignore,” said Singh.
KSSL Collaborates with L3Harris on Advanced Tech Projects in India
New Delhi, 12th February, 2025—Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited (NYSE: BFL) and L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for wider collaboration in supporting advanced defense and security equipment in India.
Under the two-year agreement, both companies will work in close collaboration to provide solutions for mutually agreed opportunities in Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) technologies. The MOU provides L3Harris with a strong, local partner to support tactical communications network development in India, extending an existing global install footprint of more than 1 million fielded radios across U.S. Department of Defense and allied inventories.
“This MOU sets the stage for future partnerships and opportunities in India, where the combined strengths of L3Harris and KSSL can contribute to bolster national security for the country,” said Dave Johnson, Vice President, International, L3Harris. “We are excited to move forward and increase our delivery speed in advanced tactical radios and equipment to the Indian Armed Forces.”
The U.S.-India Defense Industrial Cooperation encourages both parties’ support of advanced defense technologies, capabilities and equipment. The MOU is designed to foster collaboration in defence technologies, with a framework for innovation that benefits both L3Harris and KSSL.
“This collaboration unlocks new strategic capabilities and will lead to harnessing new opportunities for quick delivery of sophisticated defense products to the Indian Armed Forces,” said Neelesh Tungar, President & CEO, KSSL. “Aligned with the evolving doctrines and emerging warfare paradigms, this collaboration between KSSL and L3Harris is aimed at serving future strategic requirements, including joint and integrated ISR capabilities.”
While focusing on the Indian market, the collaboration also seeks to establish robust and resilient supply chains outside India for global obligations.
L3Harris has operated in India for more than 21 years, with facilities in New Delhi and Bengaluru. In addition to providing the Indian Armed Forces with sophisticated tactical radios and manned airborne electro-optic/infrared systems, the company provides Futuristic Telecommunications Infrastructure for all Indian airports in partnership with the Airport Authority of India.
BLR Airport Pioneers Aerial View Display System, Revolutionizing Airport Experience
Bengaluru, February 12, 2025: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport) announces the installation of an innovative Aerial View Display (AVD) System that is set to enhance the overall efficiency of airport operations and emergency responses on the airside. This system offers real-time, consolidated monitoring of all airside operations from the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC), from flight movements to the coordination of emergency and ground vehicles, all on a single, centralised dashboard.
The AVD System is designed to significantly enhance operational efficiency and safety by providing airport operators and stakeholders with a unified view of critical airside activities, including flight landings, take-offs, taxiing, and vehicle movements. By identifying flights through their flight numbers rather than traditional ATC call signs, the system simplifies tracking and management, empowering BLR Airport to streamline operations and make more collaborative and informed, real-time decisions with unparalleled situational awareness.
Features of the AVD System include:
- Real-Time Unified Dashboard: A single platform providing real-time visibility into airside operations, including flight landings, take-offs, taxiing, and vehicle movements
- Advanced Flight Tracking: Accurate monitoring of taxiing, aircraft speed, and runway occupancy time (ROT) to boost airside efficiency
- Ground Vehicle Monitoring: Real-time tracking of ground vehicles for seamless coordination and enhanced safety
- Collaborative Decision-Making (CDM): Tracks CDM milestones to improve stakeholder collaboration and optimize operational planning
- Emergency Alerts: Enabling better coordination during emergencies ensuring swift responses to minimize risks and disruptions
- Optimised Taxi Times: In-depth analysis to reduce delays and ensure smooth operational flow which results in better On-time Performance (OTP) and energy savings.
Commenting on this milestone, Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) said, “BLR Airport has been at the forefront of adopting technology to ensure the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and operational excellence. The Aerial View Display (AVD) System will enables real-time, automated monitoring and seamless coordination across the entire airside. This innovation will not only streamline operations but also empower stakeholders of BLR Airport to make faster, data-driven decisions that will improve capacity and efficiency across our airside operations, which in turn will lead to a reduction in emissions and enhanced sustainability standards.”
The Aerial View Display (AVD) System reinforces BLR Airport’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainability. By harnessing real-time data and offering a unified view of airside operations, the system creates a smarter, more efficient airport ecosystem, enhancing stakeholder collaboration and delivering seamless travel experiences for passengers.
As a key aviation hub, BLR Airport aims to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency by adopting the latest innovation and technology. The AVD system underscores the Airport’s dedication to leveraging advanced solutions to drive sustainable growth, ensure safety, and maintain its leadership in modern airport management.
Samsung Galaxy F06 5G: A Game Changer for Budget 5G Smartphones in India
Bengaluru, India – Feb 12, 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, is set to revolutionize the 5G segment with the upcoming launch of its Galaxy F06 5G smartphone. This device will provide a complete 5G experience at an affordable price, making 5G technology accessible for more users and accelerating its widespread adoption across the country.
Galaxy F06 5G is built to deliver unmatched connectivity, supporting 12 5G bands across all telecom operators. Galaxy F06 5G is also enabled to provide a smoother live streaming & video calling experience and better download speeds thanks to enhanced connectivity.
Galaxy F06 5G is poised to feature an 8 mm sleek design with ‘Ripple Glow’ finish that shimmers with every movement. It also features a large 6.7-inch HD+ display, offering an immersive visual experience for streaming and content consumption. Moreover, the all-new Camera Deco with a 50MP Dual cam strikes a chord with Gen Z and Millennial consumers.
Powered by the MediaTek D6300 processor, Galaxy F06 5G will also boast a powerful Antutu score of up to 416K, ensuring smooth performance for multitasking and gaming. With the promise of 4 generations of Android upgrades and 4 years of security updates, users can enjoy the latest features and security enhancements for a long time.
Furthermore, in its endeavour of bringing innovation across the value chain, Samsung is bringing its much loved feature – Voice Focus with Galaxy F06 5G. This device will also come with Quick share and Knox Vault.
Galaxy F06 5G will be available in two bold and mesmerizing colours: Bahama Blue and Lit Violet.