Howden India Appoints Saurabh Verma as Chief Business Officer

Mumbai, 1st April 2025: Howden is pleased to announce the appointment of Saurabh Verma as the Chief Business Officer for its India operations. With nearly 25 years of extensive experience in the insurance industry, Saurabh brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to the Howden India team. In his new position, Saurabh will be in charge of promoting regional growth and strengthening client connections.

Saurabh has held several key leadership positions in the past, including President & Head – Sales (CRS) and Strategic Account Management at Aon, Executive Vice President and Geography Leader at Willis Towers Watson, Practice Leader for Renewable Energy at Willis Towers Watson, and Regional Head at Chola MS GICL. His proven track record in building high-performing teams and developing market-leading risk solutions will be invaluable to Howden India.

Amit Agarwal, CEO of Howden India, stated “We are excited to welcome Saurabh to team Howden! His new perspective will undoubtedly enhance our growth trajectory. Moreover, Saurabh is a great fit for Howden’s culture and will play a pivotal role in fostering an exceptional workplace environment for our people.”

Saurabh Verma, Chief Business Officer, commented “I am excited and look forward to contributing to Howden India’s growth. Two and a half decades of my professional experience have taught me to stay continuously invested in forming exceptional teams that seek collaboration, operational brilliance, and client-centric solutions. As Chief Business Officer, I will further Howden’s unique endeavour to be an employer of choice and foster culture of empowerment and ownership.”

Saurabh holds a BE in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA in Marketing & Systems, and is a Fellow of the Insurance Institute of India (FII).

Experian Enhances Global Services with India Innovation Centre

April 1, 2025: Experian, a leader in data and technology, has expanded its Global Innovation Centre (GIC) in Hyderabad, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, talent development, and global technology leadership. The expansion marks another important step in the company’s growth and efforts in India.
The new 85,000 sq. ft. facility more than doubles the previous office space, supporting Experian’s rapid growth in the region. The Experian GIC is a hub for cutting-edge technological advancements and groundbreaking innovations. Since its inception, the centre has grown significantly, leveraging emerging technologies to drive advancements in fintech, analytics, decisioning, identity management, and fraud prevention. By delivering transformative solutions, the centre empowers businesses and individuals worldwide while strengthening Experian’s global operations.
Manish Jain, Country Managing Director, Experian in India, said, “India is at the forefront of digital transformation, and our ongoing investment here reflects our long-term commitment to this dynamic and fast-evolving market. Experian’s Global Innovation Centre is not just a technology hub; it is a strategic enabler that allows us to unlock new possibilities, develop cutting-edge solutions, and scale innovation globally.”
“This expansion strengthens our foundation for the future—enabling us to move faster, think bigger, and solve complex challenges with greater agility. As we chart this next growth phase, our focus remains on driving impact through innovation, empowering our teams, and creating meaningful and future-ready solutions.” He added
Alexander Lintner, CEO, Technology Software Services & Innovation (TSSI), Experian said, Growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the ideas we nurture, the innovations we ignite, and the transformative impact we create—shaping the world with every breakthrough. This expansion aligns with our overall strategic vision to strengthen our position as an innovation powerhouse while emphasising continuous improvement and inspiring disruptive innovation across the business. Serving all Experian regions globally, the GIC is focused on building world-class products, delivering them at scale through integrated, value-added solutions and sophisticated platforms that combine advanced capabilities. The centre provides a world-class workspace that inspires transformation and customer excellence, reinforcing our commitment to a people-first culture and our customers while expanding into areas that can provide growth.”
Operating on a “follow-the-sun” global delivery model, the GIC ensures seamless, round-the-clock service. It leads initiatives in cloud migration, standardised data platforms, process automation, and operational excellence, enhancing speed, accuracy, and scalability. The centre also plays a key role in adopting emerging technologies such as Generative AI (GenAI), agile methodologies, Development, Security, and Operations (DevSecOps), and Site Reliability Engineering to deliver secure and scalable solutions.
Vinu Kurien, Site Lead, VP, Experian Technology & Innovation (T&I) said, “The Experian GIC has grown exponentially, reflecting our vision to enhance capabilities and deliver exceptional services to our consumers, clients, and colleagues. Leveraging Hyderabad’s engineering and tech talent, the GIC offers a full stack of competencies to provide global support for product and platform solutions, data science and analytics, system architecture, and intelligent automation. The new office fosters collaboration, innovation, and creativity, enabling us to deliver transformative solutions. This expansion marks a key chapter in our growth and creates more career opportunities for local talent, fostering a thriving professional community.”

NMIMS Navi Mumbai’s Aarambh a Grand Success in Leadership and Diplomacy

Navi Mumbai April 1, 2025: NMIMS Navi Mumbai, in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of NMIMS Sunrise, successfully concluded its two-day event, Aarambh, held on March 20th, 2025.The event set a milestone, achieving its goals of promoting academic excellence, fostering leadership skills, and driving social consciousness.

Aarambh’s Narsee Monjee Institute Model United Nations (NMIMUN), which provided a platform for students to engage in thought-provoking debate, critical analysis, and problem-solving activities related to major global issues.The MUN included diverse committees, catering to the wide range of interests and expertise of the participants.

There were various MUN committees ranging from national to global level. The highlight of the program was the Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) giving students a first hand experience of Humanitarian issues and welcomed thoughts from the perspective of multiple nations. The discussion went to a local scale in the Parliamentary level committee, where the delegates represented states and multiple famous politicians. Aarambh also featured masterclass sessions that provided students with valuable insights from experienced professionals.

The event also included a series of impactful social initiatives,the Aarambh Mahadaan, which included interesting activities for school children from the Raigad Zilla Parishad Shala. The children enjoyed their interaction as they participated in a choreographed dance competition. Other activities in Mahadaan included Squid Games, Hamare Hero for the service staff at the campus, allowing them a much appreciated relief from their mundane chores, and learning that they had a place in the hearts of the students. the Aarambh Mahadaan, which included interesting activities for school children from a local municipal school. The children enjoyed their interaction as they participated in a choreographed dance competition. Other activities in Mahadaan included Squid Games, Hamare Hero for the service staff at the campus, allowing them a much appreciated relief from their mundane chores, and learning that they had a place in the hearts of the students.

Dr. Aparna Rao, added “MUN Conferences include structured debates, documentation, resolutions, reading international policies and out of box solutions for issues in the world. They are an empowering experience for students as they bridge the gap between students and real-world diplomacy. Students develop skills necessary for asking the right questions, leadership, critical thinking, leadership and negotiation skills and most importantly, receive and provide criticism. These abilities help them to navigate through a world facing climate crises, conflicts, social inequalities where diplomacy is more crucial than ever.”

Aarambh witnessed a huge turnout, with significant participation from the student body and delegates from more than 20 institutions. The event successfully fostered collaboration and networking opportunities among students from diverse academic backgrounds.

NMIMS Navi Mumbai and the Rotaract Club of NMIMS Sunrise express their gratitude to all participants, partners, and sponsors who contributed to the success of Aarambh. Being the first-of-its-kind initiative, this event has set a strong foundation for future MUNs.

TEXMiN, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad Strengthen Ties with INDIA BRAZIL CHAMBER

April 01, 2025 – In a significant move to bolster India’s critical mineral capabilities, TEXMiN Foundation, the Technology Innovation Hub of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, has entered into a MoU with the India Brazil Chamber of Commerce (IBCC). The formal signing ceremony took place at the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi, graced by the presence of the Brazilian Ambassador and other high-level delegates.

This alliance aligns seamlessly with the Government of India’s recently launched National Critical Mineral Mission, an initiative with an outlay of ₹34,300 crore over seven years aimed at achieving self-reliance in critical minerals essential for green technologies.

Brazil, endowed with the world’s third-largest rare earth reserves estimated at 21 million metric tons, also boasts significant deposits of niobium and graphite. Despite these abundant resources, Brazil’s current production of rare earth elements remains modest, presenting vast opportunities for collaborative exploration and technological advancement.

The Brazilian Ambassador to India Mr.Kenneth Félix Haczynski da Nóbrega emphasized, “This partnership exemplifies the strengthening ties between Brazil and India, paving the way for collaborative advancements in critical mineral exploration that are vital for the future of sustainable technologies. We are confident that this agreement will not only help in resource development but also lead to the exchange of best practices, technical expertise, and sustainable mining methodologies that will benefit both nations.”

Guilherme Mota, Head of Business Development at IBCC, remarked, “By combining Brazil’s rich mineral resources with India’s technological expertise, we are setting the stage for groundbreaking projects that will benefit both nations and contribute to global supply chains. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation, ensuring sustainable mining practices, and strengthening economic ties between India and Brazil. We look forward to co-developing solutions that will make mining more efficient, environmentally friendly, and aligned with global sustainability goals.”

The MoU between TEXMiN and IBCC is poised to unlock substantial projects with major industry players such as Vale S.A., focusing on joint research, technology development, and knowledge exchange. TEXMiN aims to explore technology projects with “Match Funding” mechanisms, in line with the Department of Science and Technology’s mandates, to foster innovation and sustainable practices in mineral exploration and mining.

Dignitaries present at the ceremony included Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad & Project Director, TEXMiN; Muhammed Danish, Chief Business Development Officer, TEXMiN, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad; Kenneth Félix Haczynski da Nóbrega, the Ambassador of Brazil in India; Dana Blackman, Head of India Office, IBCC and Guilherme Mota, Business Development & Strategic Projects Head, IBCC.

Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad & Project Director of TEXMiN, stated, “This collaboration is a significant step towards achieving the objectives of India’s Critical Mineral Mission. By leveraging Brazil’s vast mineral reserves and our technological capabilities, we aim to develop innovative solutions that will drive the future of mining and exploration. This is not just about extraction but about creating a sustainable ecosystem where research, innovation, and responsible resource utilization go hand in hand. We foresee this partnership as a game-changer in how critical minerals are sourced and utilized for green technologies.”

Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad & Chairman, HGB & BoD, TEXMiN, said, “Our alliance with IBCC marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards pioneering research and development in the mining sector. Together, we will explore new frontiers in critical mineral exploration, contributing to the global demand for sustainable resources. This initiative is not just about meeting industrial demand; it is about securing a greener future, reducing dependency on limited global suppliers, and positioning India as a leader in sustainable mining practices.”

Mr. Suraj Prakash, CEO of TEXMiN, added, “Engaging with international partners like IBCC enables us to harness global expertise and resources, fostering advancements in critical mineral technologies that are essential for sustainable development. This partnership will also open doors for capacity building, training programs, and academic collaborations between institutions in India and Brazil, strengthening the knowledge base for future generations of mineral explorers and engineers.

This strategic partnership between TEXMiN and IBCC underscores a shared commitment to advancing critical mineral exploration and technology development, reinforcing the bilateral relations between India and Brazil, and contributing to the global pursuit of sustainable and secure mineral supply chains.

Former Federal Bank CEO Shyam Srinivasan Joins TVS Capital as Senior Advisor

01 April 2025: TVS Capital Funds (TCF) is pleased to  announce the appointment of Shyam Srinivasan as a Senior Advisor and Operating Partner. With over three decades of  experience in banking and financial services, Srinivasan brings  deep strategic expertise in institutional growth, digital  transformation, and financial governance. As the Managing Director and CEO of Federal Bank for 14 years,  he spearheaded the bank’s national expansion, advanced its  digital banking capabilities, and strengthened asset quality. His  leadership fostered a culture of excellence, balancing innovation  with a strong human-centric ethos. Under his stewardship,  Federal Bank evolved from a regional institution into a  nationally recognised brand, achieving sustained financial  growth and delivering long-term value to stakeholders. 

Gopal Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director of  TVS Capital Funds,

Srinivasan has received multiple industry accolades, including the Business Standard Banker of the  Year (2020), Forbes Icon of Excellence (2025), Distinguished Alumnus Awards from IIM Calcutta and  NIT Trichy, and the Financial Express Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also named among India’s  Top 50 Best Leaders in Times of Crisis (2021) by the Great Place to Work Institute.

Welcoming Srinivasan to the advisory board, Gopal Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director of  TVS Capital Funds, commented: ” With the launch of our fourth fund, TVS Capital is sharpening its  focus on both control investing and partnering in transformational growth. Shyam’s depth of  experience in financial services, strategic leadership, and keen industry insight will be invaluable in  this journey. As we partner with businesses to scale into full-fledged, IPO-ready institutions, his  expertise as a veteran banker will play a pivotal role in providing strategic direction, strengthening  governance, enhancing operational excellence, and driving long-term value creation.” 

As Senior Advisor and Operating Partner, Srinivasan will provide strategic insights and operational  guidance to TCF’s portfolio companies, particularly in financial services and technology-driven  businesses. His expertise will further strengthen TVS Capital Funds’ mission to build resilient, future ready enterprises.

Is CARS24 Expanding into Aviation with Used Plane Purchases

Gurugram, 01 April, 2025: After transforming the way India buys and sells cars, CARS24 is reportedly eyeing the aviation space with the launch of Planes24, a platform for buying used aircraft. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the company is looking beyond cars to establish itself as a comprehensive mobility solution and planes seem to be the next logical step.

Talks around Planes24 have gained traction in recent months, with insiders hinting at a technology-driven approach to streamline aircraft transactions, much like CARS24 did with cars. The move is expected to cater to private jet owners, aviation businesses, and even commercial flyers looking for seamless, digital-first solutions.

An industry expert remarked, “If anyone can disrupt aircraft resale as they did for cars, it’s CARS24. Instant quotes for planes? Doorstep evaluations? It doesn’t sound too far-fetched.”

While specifics remain under wraps, whispers of ‘Sell Your Plane in 24 Hours’ and a Planes24 Global Marketplace have sparked curiosity among aviation enthusiasts. Some are even speculating whether the platform will include helicopters, seaplanes, and drones.

With CARS24’s track record of shaking up the automotive industry, this move could well be its most ambitious yet. If the rumours hold true, the next time someone thinks of selling their private jet, they might just log onto Planes24.

Vijay Deverakonda Partners with Vijay Sales for Exciting Campaign

1st April 2025, India – Vijay Sales, India’s leading electronics retail chain, today announced a strategic partnership with renowned South Indian actor Vijay Deverakonda, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy across the South Indian market. This collaboration represents a groundbreaking alliance that promises mutual growth and unprecedented market penetration for both the brand and the actor.

The partnership helps in expanding its footprint in South Indian markets, leveraging Vijay Deverakonda’s immense popularity and strong connect with young consumers across Telugu-speaking states and beyond. With a massive fan following and a reputation for trendsetting, Deverakonda brings not just star power but a genuine resonance with the tech-savvy younger demographic that forms the core of Vijay Sales’ target market.

“This collaboration is more than just a brand endorsement; it’s a strategic vision to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and aspirational lifestyle,” said Nilesh Gupta, Director of Vijay Sales. “Vijay Deverakonda represents the perfect confluence of youth, innovation, and authentic connectivity. Our partnership is designed to create a unique ecosystem where technology meets lifestyle, where every consumer feels empowered to choose the best electronic products that complement their dynamic lives. This partnership is about creating a narrative that goes beyond transactions and builds a lasting connection with our customers.”

For Vijay Deverakonda, the partnership offers an opportunity to extend his brand beyond cinema into the realm of technology and retail.

Known for his innovative approach in the film industry, the actor sees this collaboration as a natural extension of his personal brand of innovation and consumer-centric thinking. The association allows him to connect with millions of consumers directly, offering insights and recommendations that go beyond traditional celebrity endorsements.

The collaboration will encompass a 360-degree marketing approach, including digital campaigns, in-store experiences, exclusive product lines, and targeted marketing initiatives that highlight Vijay Sales’ extensive range of electronic products. From smartphones and laptops to home appliances, the campaign will showcase how technology can be both accessible and aspirational.

Vijay Sales plans to leverage Deverakonda’s massive social media following, which spans millions of followers across platforms, to create innovative digital narratives that showcase the brand’s product range and technological innovations. The actor will be actively involved in product launches, digital campaigns, and special customer engagement programs.

For Vijay Deverakonda, the collaboration represents an exciting opportunity to engage with consumers beyond the film industry. “Technology is the great equalizer,” the actor stated, “and through this partnership with Vijay Sales, I’m excited to help bring the best technological solutions to consumers across South India.”

Morphogenesis Expands with Morpho Dimensions, Revolutionizing Workspace Interiors

April 1, 2025: Morphogenesis, India’s leading architecture and design firms, has announced the launch of its new design and build company, Morpho Dimensions. The firm aims to democratize workspace interiors by making high-quality, bespoke office designs accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Morphogenesis has built a legacy of excellence, having designed and executed over 300+ million sq. ft. of space, with 75+ million sq. ft. certified under green building standards. The firm has worked with prestigious clients such as Capitaland, Emaar, Trump Towers, KRC Raheja, Adani, Godrej, Taj, Infosys, Wipro, ITC, and Keppel, among others. With the launch of Morpho Dimensions, the firm is set to transform how businesses approach workspace design and construction.

Morpho Dimensions is leveraging data, AI, and proprietary technology to deliver office spaces in under 90 days with instant design capabilities. The company provides an end-to-end solution covering design, procurement, and execution, ensuring a streamlined and cost-efficient process.

“We are transforming the entire office development experience using technology, providing a seamless, end-to-end solution that reduces delays, optimizes costs, and enhances efficiency,” said Aryaman Vir, CEO of Morpho Dimensions.

With a team of 250+ architects and designers, Morpho Dimensions is built on Morphogenesis’ SOUL design philosophy:

  • Sustainability– 50% lower energy consumption through green building practices
  • Optimization– Maximizing resource efficiency using value engineering
  • Uniqueness– Designs that are responsive to brand identity, client needs, climate, and context
  • Livability– Prioritizing user-centric design for enhanced workplace experience

Morpho Dimensions provides a turnkey solution for businesses, eliminating the complexity of dealing with multiple vendors. The company’s tech-enabled interface offers real-time tracking, monitoring, and execution, ensuring a seamless project delivery experience.

Additionally, the firm integrates Space Design Visualization and 3D Design Renders to help clients experience their office space before execution, ensuring alignment with their vision and brand identity.

“Our goal is to bring world-class office interiors to businesses of all sizes. High-quality design was once reserved for offices over 100,000 sq. ft.—we are changing that by making it available starting from 10,000 sq. ft. We want to ensure that the actual design intent is translated seamlessly into execution, maintaining the integrity of our vision throughout the process,” said Manit Rastogi, Founding Partner of Morphogenesis.

 The launch of Morpho Dimensions comes at a time when businesses are looking for flexible, cost-effective, and sustainable office solutions. Whether it’s a fast-growing startup, a corporate looking to optimize workspace efficiency, or a Startups / SMEs firm scaling its operations, Morpho Dimensions provides the expertise and technology to create future-ready workspaces.

Samsung to Launch Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, World’s Strongest Cordless Vacuum

GURUGRAM, India – April 1st 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the global rollout of the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, the world’s most powerful cordless stick vacuum cleaner,1 which was unveiled at the Welcome to Bespoke AI global event held this month. Featuring the upgraded AI Cleaning Mode 2.0 and advanced HEPA filtration system, this latest innovation builds on Samsung’s leadership in smart home cleaning appliances.

“Samsung has proven its next level innovation in the cordless stick vacuum cleaner segment by launching the most powerful model in the world,” said Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “Building on the previous achievement of the Bespoke Jet AI, which was the world’s first UL verified AI-powered cordless stick vacuum cleaner,2 we’re confident that this new model will be a true game changer in the global market.”

The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra boasts suction power of up to 400W3 to tackle even the toughest cleaning tasks. The HexaJet Motor is the key component that generates high suction power. Its unique Hexagon stator structure with a second-stage diffuser and an impeller with the reduced thickness improve airflow and increase motor efficiency, thus enabling up to 400W of suction power. Plus, the motor allows the vacuum cleaner to run for up to 100 minutes on one battery when using Min mode,4 so users can clean their whole house in one go.

Intelligent Cleaning Support Through AI Cleaning Mode 2.0

The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra also introduces the upgraded AI Cleaning Mode 2.0.5 By sensing the brush load and vacuuming air pressure, this mode can classify a total of six different cleaning environments6 using Samsung’s AI Optimum Tech and automatically adjust the cleaning performance. When using the Active Dual Brush, it can recognize whether a carpet is normal or long-pile. The vacuum cleaner senses corners7 with the Slim LED Brush+, as well. And by adjusting the suction power and brush speed8 for the different cleaning environments, it uses power more efficiently, reducing battery power use by 21% and increasing maneuverability by 8% with performance akin to Mid mode.9

Advanced HEPA Filtration System

Complementing this powerful and intelligent experience, Samsung has enhanced the filtration system to ensure dust particles are captured when air is expelled from the vacuum cleaner. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra features a Multi-layered Filtration system that effectively traps fine dust.10 When air comes in, internal compartments like the cyclone and a metal mesh grille filter catch dust particles in succession. As a result, it achieves a filtration efficiency of 99.999%.11

Another distinctive benefit is that Samsung has implemented HEPA filtration into its Multi-layered Filtration system. With this system, the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra captures dust particles as small as 0.3µm, allowing less dust12 to escape into the air.

JBCN Mulund’s Cyclothon Brings 100 Families Together for a Greener Mumbai

1st April, 2025 Mumbai: JBCN International School, Mulund, brought together learners, parents, and staff for an engaging Cyclothon to advocate for sustainable urban living and climate action. This inspiring journey began in December with a masterclass by Mumbai’s first Bicycle Mayor, Firoza Dadan, a climate action trailblazer. She shared her mission for sustainable mobility through the Smart Commute Foundation’s Cycle Chala City Bacha initiative, aiming to make cycling a preferred mode of commute and a way of life in Mumbai, planting the seed for Cyclothon 1.0. Held on Sunday morning, the Cyclothon was an exciting step towards promoting cleaner air and sustainable forms of mobility, especially cycling.

Dr. Viswanathan Iyer, Neurosurgeon and Bicycle Mayor of Mumbai, a proponent of cycling as an eco-friendly and fast mode of transport, spearheaded the event. In support of the movement, Decathlon Viviana partnered with JBCN International School to encourage families and help normalise the practice of cycling in their everyday lives.

The Cyclothon kicked off at 6:30 AM, with more than 150 participants – nearly 100 families – coming together to advocate for change through action. Riding through a thoughtfully curated route, they set a new example for their young learners, highlighting the importance of cyclist-friendly urban spaces and a sustainable lifestyle.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Viswanathan Iyer, said, ” ’Catch them young’ was the mantra. The young children are very aware of sustainability and pollution control, and what better way to show that than a Cyclothon. JBCN International School has taken an initiative worth emulating.”

Ms. Padma Negi, Principal, JBCN International School, Mulund, expressed immense pride in the initiative, stating, “At JBCN, we are proud that our learners are the future, and they understand the importance of sustainable practices from a young age. This Cyclothon is a step towards making eco-friendly commuting an everyday reality. It is truly heartening to see our learners and parents actively participating in this mission.”

The morning concluded with an exciting lucky draw, where two fortunate families won brand-new bicycles, courtesy of Decathlon, Viviana Mall. Adding to the energy of the event, Max Protein partnered to fuel participants with nutritious snacks, further highlighting the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle.

With the overwhelming response and impact generated, JBCN International School, Mulund, continues to spearhead initiatives that shape the Changemakers of tomorrow. The school remains steadfast in its mission to inspire young minds to lead by example – one pedal at a time!