Indore, January 28th, 2025: SVKM’s NMIMS Indore Campus hosted an inspiring, thought-provoking and memorable event TEDxNMIMS Indore 2025. Centred around the theme “Rewriting the Narrative”, this event brought together ten talented speakers who shared their personal stories and offered their insights and perspectives to a large audience.

Bhavana Singh, a lifestyle coach, couturier, and fashion influencer with 2.8 million Instagram followers, inspired the audience to become the best version of themselves while sharing insights from her personal experiences. Mrs Jasmine Saluja Lulla, the founder of Cakes and Crafts, shared an impactful story in which she talked about overcoming any adversity with a resilient mindset. Shridhar Venkat, CEO of Akshaya Patra Foundation, and an alumnus of NMIMS, talked about the profound impact of giving and delved into why he believes in doing charity. He took the stage to express his views on the true meaning of life.

Another proud NMIMS Mumbai alumna, Hetal Dalal, President and COO of Institutional Investor Advisory Services India Limited, Hetal Dalal offered her insights on the importance of shareholder activism. Puru the Guru, an enigmatic speaker with a doctorate in finance, spiritual thinker, fitness enthusiast, and the author of ‘The Monk Who Sold His BMW’, took to the stage and shared his life experiences. EKI Energy’s founder, Manish Dabkara, discussed the crucial role of carbon credits in combating climate change and talked about his mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

Representing Andretta Pottery, Subham Sankhyan shared his thoughts on the beauty of pottery as well as its therapeutic nature while emphasising the importance of preserving traditional crafts. Record-breaking Paralympic swimmer and Arjuna Awardee, Mr Sharath Gayakwad used the platform to share his life’s journey. He talked about overcoming challenges, shared his perspective on ‘burnouts’, and voiced his belief that one can get past their passions and move on to newer pursuits. Sanra Shaw, a passionate advocate for community development, showcased the remarkable work of Rehwa Society which is empowering the women of Maheshwar through handlooms sarees.

Finally, Rohit Khandelwal, actor, model, and TV host took to the stage. He talked about his journey as the first Indian and Asian to win Mr World in 2016 and shared his insights on adaptability, perseverance and dedication.

By creating and providing a platform like TedX, NMIMS Indore’s commitment to innovation and diverse thinking is evident. This campus was the ideal platform for exchanging ideas and engaging in profound discussions at TEDxNMIMS Indore 2025. Every speaker reinforced the theme, “Rewriting the Narrative”, and used their personal insights and life experiences to deliver talks that were inspiring, motivating, and meaningful.

Closing Ceremony
The TEDxNMIMS Indore 2025 event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by the TEDx licensee, Ms Ananya Bahadur. Dr Anshuman Jaswal, Director at NMIMS Indore, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all the speakers and audience members, and said, “Hearing the success stories and personal insights of distinguished speakers was truly a remarkable experience. TEDxNMIMS serves as a platform to share ideas which only furthers the mission of NMIMS Indore Campus to cultivate informed innovators and encourage learning.”

28 January 2025– Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has been awarded a contract worth €144 million  to supply Mitrac traction components and other electrical equipment for 17 Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets (408 cars). The systems will be supplied to Indian Railways’ Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. The contract also includes preventive and corrective maintenance of the traction and major electric equipment, as well as support services, for a five-year period, after completion of warranty, at various railway depots. The equipment will be installed in 24-car sleeper trainsets on the Vande Bharat platform, designed to run at a maximum speed of 180 km/h, with a service speed of 160 km/h.

In view of the contract win, Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India said, “The Vande Bharat trains represent the modern face of rail-based mobility in India, and it is a matter of pride for us to yet again partner with Indian Railways in furthering their vision. Alstom has the widest components portfolio in the rail industry, which has been developed at the back of decades of experience in delivering rail solutions across the globe. Our strong manufacturing and engineering presence in India, will allow us to deliver the world-class products and optimise maintenance.”

In India, Alstom has engineering and industrial presence for components with the sites of Savli (bogies), Coimbatore and Maneja (bogies and traction equipment). The contract execution will be done at the Maneja site, with a prototype delivery expected to begin by August 2026 followed by serial production, which is due to commence in 2027. The maintenance contract will consequentially start in 2029. Established in 1996, the Maneja site today runs more than 20 local and export projects with a total capacity of 900,000 manhours in two shift operation.

With the widest components portfolio in the industry, Alstom offers the best solution available to original equipment manufacturers, operators and asset owners, for increasingly safe and environmentally friendly travel. Its range of state-of-the-art and proven systems and products includes bogies, motors, dampers, brake friction, switchgear, traction and auxiliary converters, transformers, green traction solutions, interiors and train control & information systems.

Alstom is also the market leader in rail services globally, supporting customers over the entire asset lifecycle with the broadest portfolio of services solutions. Alstom’s FlexCare Sustain solutions cover parts, repairs, component overhauls and obsolescence management. Alstom provides 24/7 customer care through a worldwide network of repair and overhaul centers to sustain the safety and reliability of fleets for the long run.

Alstom is supporting the government’s modernization initiatives, with world class rolling stock, rail equipment and infrastructure, signalling and services. Fully aligned with the country’s vision of Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Alstom remains deeply committed to strengthening its local sourcing and supply chain ecosystem.

New Delhi, January 28th, 2025: The Bird Education Society for Travel & Tourism (Bird Academy), a leader in career-oriented aviation training, skilling, and placements for over 27 years, is proud to announce that it has been accredited as an Aviation Security Training Institute (ASTI) by the Directorate General, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. This prestigious accreditation authorizes Bird Academy to conduct BCAS-endorsed Aviation Security (AvSec) training programs, including:

•  AvSec Induction Training (5 Days)
•  AvSec Basic Training (14 Days)
•  AvSec Basic Refresher Training (3 Days)

Conducted as per the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme (NCASTP 2024), these programs are designed to prepare aviation security personnel with critical skills, ensuring the highest industry standards.

Mr. R.N. Choubey, IAS (Retd. Secretary, Civil Aviation) congratulated Team Bird Academy through a video message and said, “The launch of ASTI marks a significant milestone, not just for Bird Group but for the entire aviation security ecosystem in India. Known for their unmatched standards in the aviation sector, the Bird Group is now poised to set new benchmarks in training and innovation. Under the visionary leadership of Mrs. Radha Bhatia and her dedicated team, I am confident that ASTI, Bird Academy will not only stand out as a center of excellence but will soon rise to be the premier aviation security training institute in the country, serving as a model for others to emulate. This initiative will undoubtedly strengthen our nation’s aviation security framework and inspire a new era of professional excellence.”

Mr. M.T. Baig, Senior Advisor, Aviation Security, Bird Group inspired the batch of students to present there with his experiences and shared that nowadays private security agencies are being deployed at the airports to perform non-core aviation security functions and access control duties at the entry point of the airports as well as check-in area. Hence, these personnel are required to undergo certain AVSEC training approved by regulatory authorities, who can be trained at this state-of-the-art facility.

Mr. Syed Sarosh Khushbakht, Sr. Manager-Head-ASTI, Bird Academy, and Ms. Vineetha G., Manager – Training, Bird Academy shared the pride of having the ASTI accreditation as a new feather in the cap and said that this will align with the vision of BESTT of creating deeper synergies with global aviation.

On this occasion, Mrs. Radha Bhatia, the visionary Chairperson of Bird Group said, “Since the last 5 decades Bird Group has stayed deeply entrenched and committed towards the progress of the Indian aviation and travel industry. Bird Academy has served on the frontlines for more than 27 years by offering meaningful, gainful education and skilling, as a result of which thousands of its alumni are today successful professionals who are further contributing towards the industry’s growth. In the aviation industry, security is of paramount importance. The ASTI center, Bird Academy is indeed a promise of excellence for the future of aviation. We are immensely grateful to BCAS for their invaluable trust in us and this accreditation. It makes us want to soar even higher as the burgeoning industry grows.”

Benefits of Accreditation:

•  Delivering BCAS recognized AVSEC (Aviation Security) training for a secure aviation ecosystem.
•  Bridging skill gaps in aviation security and empowering professionals.
•  Providing accessible, high-quality security training to aviation personnel.
•  Offering joint certification with BCAS certified credentials for greater employability.

Bird Academy (BESTT), the educational division of the esteemed Bird Group, boasts of decades of excellence in aviation training and skill development. Recognized for its industry-aligned programs and outstanding placement record, it has established itself as a trusted leader in aviation, travel, and tourism education. The addition of BCAS-accredited ASTI training to Bird Academy’s portfolio marks a significant step in its commitment to delivering high-quality training. This inclusion ensures the provision of mandatory aviation security training to relevant professionals, further strengthening its mission to uphold industry standards and enhance professional competencies.

Goa, 28 January 2024: The University of Surrey is set to open a world-class International Branch Campus in GIFT City, Gujarat, India, delivered in collaboration with experienced transnational education group GUS Global Services (GGS). Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, and Dr Sharad Mehra, Regional CEO – Asia and Australia, Global University Systems (GUS) Asia Pacific, announced the collaborative project on the side lines of the QS India Summit 2025 in Goa today.

The project, which is at an advanced stage of pre-delivery, is contingent on regulatory approval from Gujarat’s International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) under the International Branch Campus Regulations, in place to position GIFT City as an Indian hub for international higher education providers. Professor Lu and representatives from GGS will be meeting with IFSCA in GIFT City on Friday 31 January to progress discussions.

Delivery of the new India campus will be a partnership combining the University of Surrey’s teaching and research excellence in business, international finance, computer science, cyber-security and other areas aligned with the strategic vision of GIFT City with GGS India’s proven capabilities as a strategic partner for higher education providers. All teaching and academic assurance will be delivered and led by University of Surrey staff. Ancillary services, such as strategic advice on India entry, student enrolment, campus establishment and operations management, will be provided by GGS, ensuring a seamless setup and operational excellence.

The University of Surrey and GGS are working closely with officials from the British High Commission and the British Council in India. The project will help cement ties between the two countries and is closely aligned with Government of India priorities to expand education and become a global knowledge superpower. The UK Government has expressed its appetite for collaboration across a range of scientific priorities and opportunities to drive greater growth for both countries.

Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, said:

“The University of Surrey campus at GIFT City will be a shining example of British education excellence and impact, contributing to transnational education in a more globalised world. We are proud and excited to be part of the GIFT City story, where we’ll combine India’s strengths in the global financial sector with the University of Surrey’s academic and teaching competencies in business, finance and computer science.

“Students can look forward to a world-class education delivered at the heart of a thriving new international finance and technology powerhouse for the region. Together we’ll be contributing to the skills and growth agendas of both our countries.”

Dr Sharad Mehra, Regional CEO – Asia & Australia, Global University Systems (GUS), said:

“This initiative seeks to expand world-class academic standards and global learning experiences available in India. It will offer Indian students the opportunity to access transformative education without leaving the country. The collaboration aligns with India’s higher education goals, such as improving global competitiveness, offering world-class education locally, and contributing to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on internationalisation.”

Aaron Etingen, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Global University Systems, said:

“This strategic alliance between the University of Surrey and Global University Systems in GIFT City represents a significant milestone in transnational education. The collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of transforming lives through education while supporting India’s ambitions to become a global knowledge hub. By bringing together international expertise and local knowledge, we’re creating pathways that will empower students and strengthen communities. It combines Surrey’s academic excellence with Global University Systems’ proven expertise in educational services, creating new opportunities for students in India to access world-class British education.”

The University of Surrey and GGS delegations will be travelling together from the announcement at the QS India Summit in Goa to GIFT City on January 31 for high-level meetings to accelerate progress on the project, which is designed to grow a talent pool in GIFT City, ready to thrive in a globally-connected world.

AnantashreeVibhushit Paschimnaya Dwarkashardapeethadhishwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swamishree Sadanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj visited the Rajarishi Palace, located in Sector-17, Mukti Marg, West, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. During his visit, he engaged in a profound and enriching discourse with Dr. B.K. Modi, who has been honored with the title of Rajarishi by all four Shankaracharyas.

Their conversation explored the interconnectedness of all beings, delving deeply into the wisdom of the Vedas and scriptures. Together, they reflected on the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya and the timeless philosophy of Advait (oneness). Their dialogue emphasized the importance of fostering a deeper understanding of shared humanity, practicing benevolence, and promoting global peace, harmony, and coexistence.

This vision integrates success with spirituality, emphasizing a way of life that serves both the individual and society. Rajarishi expressed his keen desire to bring all four Shankaracharyas on a shared platform to exchange insights and deepen collective understanding, thereby enriching the spiritual and philosophical fabric of humanity.

28th January 2025, Mumbai: LoanTap, one of India’s leading fintech companies, proudly announces the nationwide rollout of the BICRI (Business Indicator for Credit Ratings in India) Report. This cutting-edge credit assessment tool is designed to revolutionize the way micro-retailers and MSMEs access credit. The full-scale launch builds upon the success of its reveal during the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) in 2024, where the innovative framework was introduced to an enthusiastic response. Over 4,000 inquiries were received during the limited rollout phase, demonstrating the tool’s potential to meet an unmet need in the credit market.

BICRI, an AI-powered framework, evaluates a range of parameters—including financial data, credit history, social metrics, and trade behavior—to deliver an accurate and holistic credit score. It enables micro-retailers and MSMEs to assess their creditworthiness and improve their financial standing while equipping lenders with reliable data for informed decision-making. The initial feedback from GFF reveal was instrumental in refining BICRI further. LoanTap incorporated suggestions from early adopters to enhance the tool’s usability and accuracy. Key improvements include the integration of the Account Aggregator platform, enabling users to securely share bank statements via OTP instead of manual uploads. BICRI is launched with an aggressive price of ₹499 to attract more first time users.

 BICRI Report:

• Holistic Credit Assessment: Evaluates financial data, trade behavior, credit history, and social metrics.
• Account Aggregator Integration: Simplifies the sharing of bank statements with OTP-based access.
• User-Centric Design: Built on insights and feedback from early adopters, ensuring the tool addresses real-world needs.
• Inclusive Financial Ecosystem: Aims to empower underserved MSME sectors and drive financial literacy.

Satyam Kumar, CEO and Co-founder of LoanTap, shared his vision for BICRI:

“We are thrilled to bring BICRI to the national stage, as it represents our commitment to fostering financial inclusion for MSMEs. By leveraging AI and customer feedback, we’ve developed a solution that empowers micro-retailers with actionable insights into their creditworthiness. This is not just about improving access to credit but about creating a sustainable credit ecosystem that aligns with the unique needs of India’s small businesses.”

The reveal of BICRI during the 2024 Global Fintech Fest served as a testing ground for its framework. With an overwhelmingly positive response from industry stakeholders and users, LoanTap prioritized refining the product based on real-world use cases and feedback. This iterative process ensures that the full market launch of BICRI is positioned to address the unique challenges faced by India’s unorganised micro retailers.

New Delhi, 28th, January, 2025: Ashiana Housing, a leading real estate developer listed on the NSE and BSE, announces the launch of Ashiana Nitara, situated on Ajmer Road, Jaipur. This phase encompasses 224 premium 2 & 3BHK flats, meticulously designed to offer a blend of modern comfort and convenience. Spanning an area of 10,373.03 square meters, this phase is a continuation of the larger 8-acre development. The residences are priced between ₹56 lakh and ₹1.02 crore, catering to both discerning end-users and astute investors, with the project expected to achieve a total sales realization of ₹132 crore. Construction of this phase is underway, with delivery scheduled for April 2028.

Ashiana Nitara is a testament to thoughtful planning and innovation, offering a unique living experience with its state-of-the-art amenities and sustainable design principles. With just 30% of the project area allocated to building structures, the development boasts an expansive 2.3-acre green podium, creating an eco-friendly and serene environment. The project’s east-west aligned buildings ensure ample natural light, enhanced ventilation, and privacy for residents. Adding to its appeal is a 1/4-kilometer podium area that promotes hassle-free movement, reduces carbon emissions, and enhances safety, particularly for children.

Strategically located on Ajmer Road, one of Jaipur’s rapidly developing residential and commercial hubs, Ashiana Nitara offers excellent connectivity to key locations. The Jaipur International Airport and railway station are a short drive away, and the project is surrounded by essential amenities, including schools, markets, hospitals, and malls. In addition to the residential units, the entire project will feature 22 retail shops, ensuring convenience for its residents and adding significant value to the overall development.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Ankur Gupta, JMD of Ashiana Housing, said, “Ashiana Nitara reinforces our commitment to creating quality living spaces that blend comfort, convenience, and sustainability. Ajmer Road is rapidly transforming into a prime residential hub, driven by its excellent connectivity and robust infrastructure. With its unique design, thoughtful amenities, and strategic location, Ashiana Nitara is a perfect choice for both homeowners and investors.”

Ashiana Housing showcases its dedication to quality and thoughtful design with every detail of this project. By creating homes that balance modern living with sustainable features, the company continues to build on its reputation for delivering exceptional residential spaces.

New Delhi, January 28, 2025: Interio, one of India’s leading furniture brands under the Godrej Enterprises Group, has launched UPMODS, an innovative furniture range designed to meet the evolving needs of modern Indian consumers. Tailored for homeowners who value personal style, adaptability, and sustainability, UPMODS sets a new benchmark in furniture ownership with its unparalleled customization and upgradability.

UPMODS offers consumers the flexibility to modify their furniture without the need for complete replacements, providing a sustainable alternative that evolves with their lifestyles. With 2450 combination options, this platform-based approach empowers homeowners to upgrade, refurbish, and personalize their furniture effortlessly, enabling a complete transformation of their home’s look and feel.

Dr. Dev Narayan Sarkar, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business, Interio, said, “The future of interior design lies in personalization and practicality, driven by the growing demand for multifunctional spaces that adapt to individual lifestyles. Today’s design-conscious consumers seek furniture that not only reflects their unique style but also evolves with their needs. UPMODS is our innovative response to this trend—a premium yet accessible furniture solution that supports sustainable living by reducing waste and eliminating the need for frequent replacements.”

The UPMODS range features:

• Sofa Platform: A versatile core chassis supporting multiple configurations. Consumers can start with a 3-seater and expand to a sectional. Removable upholstery, interchangeable armrests, and various fabric and color options enable complete personalization.
• Dining Collection : Adaptable table sizes with mix-and-match chair designs, under structure, tabletop designs and much more.  The range allows upgrades from a 4-seater to a 6 or 8-seater, with multiple material and finish options for a personalized dining experience.
• Bed Range: Contemporary designs with modular components, including interchangeable headboards and flexible storage configurations. Options for size upgrades and diverse material combinations cater to different bedroom aesthetics.

UPMODS combines form, functionality, and sustainability, addressing the limitations of traditional furniture with its innovative modular design. By offering affordable upgrades and customizable elements, it empowers homeowners to keep their spaces aligned with changing trends while reducing environmental impact.

With UPMODS, Interio continues to shape the future of home décor, ensuring that modern Indian homes reflect evolving lifestyles without compromising on style, comfort, or sustainability.

New Delhi, January 28th, 2025: FUJIFILM India, a leader in cutting-edge imaging and healthcare technology, proudly announces the launch of its second brand film “Maa’s fight through my eyes” under the series “Stories of More Smiles”. The brand film is based on a real-life success story of FUJIFILM India’s Medical Systems Division’s social campaign on breast cancer awareness called “Find It Early, Fight It Early”. This social initiative is a comprehensive social campaign with strategically integrating multiple touchpoints to amplify the message of breast cancer awareness. The campaign begins with “Find It Early Fight It Early” on ground activity to engage with communities, followed by spreading awareness of self-examination and mammography in symptomatic cases. The detection of breast cancer in a patient in Berhampore followed by treatment support by FUJIFILM India’s CSR initiative was a story that demonstrates the resilience of cancer and acted as a motivation for the script.

Conceptualized by FUJIFILM India Corporate Communications & CSR team, the Ad film is written and directed by Ranvir Kumar Suman and produced by Seaface films. The brand film was shot on Fujifilm Fujinon Premista Cine lenses and involved a massive effort of having a crew of over 80 people in the ad film. The story is a testimonial set against the hustling and vibrant backdrop of Berhampore, West Bengal, narrating the first-hand account of a breast cancer survivor, through the perspective of her daughter. The journey of the cancer survivor’s family from despair to hope unfolds through the tireless efforts of two compassionate medical professionals, Paromita and Ipsita, who incorporate the spirit of dedication and care.

The narrative emphasizes the pivotal role of Fujifilm’s advanced mammography technology in transforming breast cancer survivor’s life, enabling early detection and precise treatment. Through close glimpses into the world of the daughter of a cancer survivor, the film portrays the emotional highs and lows of dealing with cancer while showcasing the resilience of the human spirit. The Ad film concludes on a positive and heartfelt note where the cancer survivor wins the battle against breast cancer and her life takes a meaningful turn as she advocates and dedicates herself to spread awareness by distributing pamphlets and educating women to take charge of their lives.

Mr. Koji Wada, Managing Director, FUJIFILM India stated, “At FUJIFILM India, we are committed to delivering innovative products and solutions that embody our Group Purpose of ‘Giving Our World More Smiles.’ By blending diverse ideas, unique capabilities, and extraordinary people, we aim to create solutions that bring joy and smiles to the world. This brand film reflects our commitment to creating awareness about early detection and showcasing how our innovative solutions can make a real difference. Fujifilm’s advanced diagnostic imaging solutions, combined with the dedication of healthcare professionals, continue to redefine patient care across the country. This brand film aims to inspire millions, shedding light on the importance of empathy, expertise, and innovation in the fight against breast cancer.”

Mr. Abhi Shekhar Singh – Vertical Head, Corporate Communications & CSR – FUJIFILM India, expresses his excitement – “At FUJIFILM India, our actions are in line with our Group Purpose of “Giving Our World More Smiles.” This is the second ad film under “Stories of More Smiles” which continues to tell the stories that should matter for the society for a social good. Shot over a span of 3 days across 7 locations, the film navigates the truth of the story and every aspect of what happened in the journey from diagnosis to post-recovery in the family of a breast cancer survivor. The film reflects the real ethos of FUJIFILM India as a healthcare brand which revolves around empathy and service to the society.”

Staying true to its Group Purpose of “Giving Our World More Smiles,” FUJIFILM India not only leads in innovation in healthcare but more importantly, embodies efforts that turns reluctance into resilience.

Bengaluru INDIA, January 28, 2025: One of the most iconic and the largest congregation of student chefs from 50 countries will gather for a week, in different cities, to celebrate power of food to build bridges of solidarity and bring people and countries together.

The 11th edition of the Young Chef Olympiad, will be held under the aegis of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in partnership with the International Hospitality Council (IHC) London. The Young Chef Olympians- student chefs from 50 nations will undertake two rounds of culinary challenges, to attempt to win, the coveted YCO 2025 Golden Toque.

Speaking to journalists across India on a video conference before this global event, Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman of International Hospitality Council (IHC) and Founder YCO, and Chairman IIHM said “Through the course of 11 years, the Young Chef Olympiad has grown from strength to strength and has taken on many worthy causes starting from unity in diversity to the UN Sustainability Development Goals and to the promotion of Millets. This year we will secure the future of hospitality & hospitality education to make AI which we call Advanced Intelligence) help tourism and hospitality do more for people with enhanced human touch. The immersive experience of the Olympiad, will dismantle barriers and cultivate an environment where dialogue flourishes and friendship blossoms.”

The competition rounds will start, at the IIHM campus kitchens, from Feb 3, in Goa, and from Feb 4 in Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The top 10 Young Chef Olympians as per the scores of the two rounds, will compete in the Grand Finale of YCO 2025 in Kolkata on February 8, 2025.However there is also the plate trophy and the Dr Suborno Bose Culinary International Challenge prize up for grabs. Each trophy, in this global platform, is bound to embellish the careers of young chefs and validate their skills.

But each of the Young Chef Olympians, along with their mentors, the judges, and the YCO organising team and student volunteers will be- quite literally, on the same plate of friendship, as each of them will go home a winner, in the cause of cementing friendships and unity through food.

There will be another winner in this year’s YCO. This winner will not compete but be the catalyst for phenomenal change in global hospitality education- A.I.

The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), has adopted a comprehensive framework to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into global hospitality education. This initiative prioritizes inclusivity, human-centric values, and sustainability, reflecting the industry’s evolving needs while preserving its essence.

Bengaluru round on Feb. 4th 2025:

On Feb 4, 2025. Bengaluru will host students from Romania, Malaysia, South Africa, Namibia, Maldives, Bhutan, Equatorial Guinea, Switzerland, Northern Islands and Iran.

Judges in Bengaluru will be Chef Shaun Kenworthy, Chef/food concept consultant and strategist; Chef Mario Perera, Executive Chef at The Dorchester, London; Chef Enzo Oliveri, Celebrity Chef, Cavaliere OSI, President of Italian Chefs Federation UK, Director International Hospitality Council, Senior Judge Young Chef Olympiad, Hospitality Educator, Food promoter, Events/Exhibition Organiser.

The Chief Adjudicator will be Chef Paul Jervis – head of school Westminster capital city of college. The Bengaluru event will be sponsored by Ariane Porcelain, Brigade Hospitality, Mc Cain Foods, Incredible India- Ministry of Tourism & Yuva Tourism Bangalore Chapter and Delphis.

“This year an additional elimination round was the Young Chef India round which saw participation from students from hotel management institutes across the country. We are proud that the winner of the YCI 2025 is Aliakbar Rampurawala from Bengaluru,” apprised Ms Sanchari Chowdhury, FIIHM, Director- IIHM Hotel School, Bangalore, Head- South India & Co-Director- IndiSmart Learning, while addressing the media.

“Showcasing the multicultural culinary diversity of different countries, YCO 2025 will also bring together the student chefs and chef mentors for the “United World of Young Chefs”. There will be World Cuisine display by the 10 participating countries at Bangalore & Karnataka Food festival organized by IIHM Bangalore in partnership with Venue Partner Brigade Hospitality on 3rd February 2025. We are expecting a foot fall of 500 – 700 pax to be present within the age demographic of 18-25 in the student crowd and a mixture of 25-60 in the form of parents, mentors and chefs from abroad,” added Ms Chowdhury.

A book by Dr Suborno Bose on the A to Z of AI in tourism and hospitality will be launched during the opening of the YCO in Goa. This is aptly called Harmonizing Human Touch and AI in Tourism and Hospitality

“With YCO and AI Suborno Bose has changed the realm of hospitality education”, said Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, Principal Judge and Mentor for YCO 2025

Intelligent hospitality, therefore will be a goal and a way of life of the Young Chef Olympians as they cook, compete, collaborate, but most importantly cement ties, in the largest grandstanding of culinary diplomacy in the world, achieved by young chefs. This impact will be felt beyond the kitchens in IIHM campuses, in the cities where two rounds of the Young Chef Olympiad will be held, culminating in the grand finale where the winner will be chosen.

As in previous years Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor is the Principal Judge and Mentor for YCO 2025 while Prof David Foskett OBE, the legendary hospitality educator and author is Chairman of the Jury. The judging panel includes internationally acclaimed celebrity chef judges including Chief Judge Chef John Wood, a Michelin Star Chef and Founder of KitchenCUT .

Members of the public will also get an opportunity to participate. There will be an online voting opened to vote for the best dessert in round 1 of the main competition, and for the most popular national dish in the United World of Young Chefs competition.

As the chefs of 50 countries including India’s very own, Aliakbar Rampurawala from Bengaluru, return from YCO; the fire of solidarity of the Young Chef Olympiad movement will burn in hospitality college campuses and beyond in these countries, thus making the YCO, a truly global movement- curated and chiseled under the visionary leadership of Dr Suborno Bose, Chairman IIHM and Founder YCO.