Social Beat & Fortune Foods Present: The Ultimate Influencer Masterclass for Home Cooks
Fortune Foods, in collaboration with Social Beat, proudly presents the Fortune Influencer Masterclass, an initiative designed to empower cooking enthusiasts by transforming their culinary skills into thriving digital careers.
With the rise of food influencers and the increasing popularity of social media platforms, this program aims to provide cooking fans and learners with the right tools and strategies to succeed in the digital space. The masterclass equips participants with hands-on learning and expert guidance by Meghana Kamdar, Vinayak Grover, and Nimisha Rao bridging the gap between passion and profession.
The Fortune Influencer Masterclass is a structured, two-month online program covering:
● Food Styling & Plating: Creating visually appealing dishes for social media
● Videography & Content Creation: Shooting, editing, and producing high-quality videos
● Social Media Growth: Understanding engagement strategies, platform algorithms, and audience building
● Monetization Techniques: Turning content into a profitable career
Participants receive expert-led video lessons, practical assignments, and one-on-one mentorship. To support their journey, they also receive Fortune Foods sponsorships, social media starter kits, and completion certificates. The interactive learning format, combined with Q&A sessions, fosters an engaging experience and ensures long-term impact.
The Fortune Influencer Masterclass has received an overwhelming response, with over 40,000 registrations and counting since its launch.
Jignesh Shah, Head of Digital, Fortune Foods, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Fortune Foods has always believed in the power of ghar ka khana and the individuals behind them. This initiative is our way of empowering cooking enthusiasts and food lovers in taking their skills beyond their kitchens and onto digital platforms.The overwhelming response to this initiative proves that the passion for food can truly be transformed into digital stardom.”
Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, Social Beat, emphasized the growing opportunities in the digital space, adding, “With the right guidance and strategy, anyone can build a strong online presence. The digital ecosystem is evolving rapidly, and we believe this initiative will help passionate cooks and learners leverage their skills to build authentic and engaging content. We are excited to collaborate with Fortune Foods in helping budding chefs and amateur cooks unlock their full potential as digital creators, enabling them to not only share their love for food but also establish a sustainable personal brand.”
Social Beat has taken a strategic approach to this campaign, integrating its expertise in Content Creation, Social Media Strategy, Influencer Marketing, Media Planning & Buying, and Tech bringing out an impactful digital transformation for aspiring food influencers.
The Fortune Influencer Masterclass marks a new chapter in digital empowerment, redefining the future of food content creation, one home cook at a time.
How Plotted Developments Are Revolutionizing India’s Housing Market
March 13,2025:Government-led infrastructure initiatives are also playing a crucial role in reshaping residential preferences. With ongoing developments in suburban and peripheral urban areas, plotted developments are set to redefine housing in India. This trend is paving the way for a new era in real estate, where developers cater to the rising demand for open, customizable spaces while fostering sustainable, community-centric urban planning. Given the current market momentum, the future of residential real estate in India looks increasingly promising.
A JLL study indicates that between January 2022 and October 2023, real estate developers acquired approximately 3,294 acres of land. Furthermore, Anarock reports that around 2,252 acres of land deals in FY-24 are earmarked for residential, plotted, and township projects. The India Plot Market report by Magicbricks highlights Mumbai as the city with the highest demand, followed closely by Pune. This data underscores a notable transformation—plotted developments are no longer just an alternative but are fast becoming the preferred choice for middle-class buyers seeking independence and spacious living.
Developers are also rethinking conventional models to create residential spaces that reflect contemporary aspirations. With a strong emphasis on quality and community-oriented planning, they are crafting environments where residents can enjoy open spaces without sacrificing urban convenience. The trend is also a strategic response to evolving market demands and a step toward future-proofing residential projects.
Mohit Malhotra, Founder & CEO of Neoliv, emphasized this point, stating, “We recognize that homebuyers today seek more than just a place to live—they want spaces that reflect their aspirations, lifestyles, and need for community. As a fund-led developer, we are moving beyond conventional models to create plotted developments that offer the perfect balance of Unique Urban Forest Living, large recreational spaces, and wide access roads. With projects in key locations driven by government infrastructure push, including Kundli-Sonipat, we are committed to prioritizing quality, thoughtful product design, and sustainable growth. By doing so, we are building vibrant, future-ready communities. This shift is more than a trend; it’s a strategic evolution in residential real estate, ensuring that homes are always delivered on time and with a high-quality lifestyle for future generations.”
Neoliv has already made its entry into North India through a development agreement with Royal Green Realty. Its 20-acre Kundli-Sonipat project, situated near Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming plant, includes premium villas, custom-designed plots, and a clubhouse, with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of over Rs. 600 crore. The company aims to create a world-class, sustainable living community in the NCR region.
The demand for plotted developments in India is surging as homebuyers seek greater flexibility and personalized living spaces. Unlike high-rise apartments, these projects provide the freedom to design homes according to individual preferences while benefiting from the security and amenities of gated communities. Additionally, their competitive pricing and adaptability make them an attractive choice for a diverse range of buyers.
Commenting on this shift, Rajat Khandelwal, Group CEO, Tribeca Developers, shared, “Plotted developments are redefining modern homeownership by offering unparalleled flexibility to design bespoke homes while benefiting from thoughtfully curated community amenities. This surge in demand reflects a broader shift in buyer preferences – where personalisation, asset appreciation, and a deeper sense of ownership take precedence. As land values continue to appreciate and infrastructure development accelerates, plotted developments present a compelling investment opportunity, not just in metropolitan hubs but also in emerging tier-II and III cities. At Tribeca, we recognize the potential of this segment and are closely evaluating opportunities to bring our design-driven approach and commitment to quality to the plotted development space.”
The growing inclination toward plotted developments is fueled by rising lifestyle aspirations, increasing disposable incomes, and a preference for green, sustainable living. Developers are capitalizing on this demand by integrating nature-centric elements into their projects. Stonecraft Group, a Hyderabad-based real estate firm, recently launched Woods Indresham, a plotted development spread across 32 acres in Hyderabad. It comprises 305 premium plots ranging from 267 to 587 sq yards and features unique elements such as a one-acre mango grove, a two-acre Miyawaki forest, and seven acres of open spaces to foster a vibrant community.
Kirthi Chilukuri, Founder & Managing Director of Stonecraft Group, noted, “Plotted developments have emerged as a preferred choice for homebuyers seeking flexibility, long-term value, and a deeper connection with nature. Unlike conventional apartment living, these projects offer the freedom to build and customize homes while enjoying open spaces, greenery, and a well-planned community ecosystem. With increasing demand for sustainable and nature-centric living, plotted developments are shaping the future of residential real estate.”
Experience Gourmet Majesty Ranjit Khasa’s Signature Feast at Royal Vega, ITC Royal Bengal
March 13,2025:Indulge in Ranjit Khasa, the royal feast at ITC Royal Bengal’s signature luxury vegetarian cuisine restaurant, Royal Vega. Guided by the precepts of Ayurveda, this feast is based on the concept of eating fresh and seasonal produce in complete harmony with nature.
Drawing inspiration from the magnificent royal kitchens of India, Royal Vega offers a thoughtfully curated menu rooted in the principles of Ayurveda – the ancient science of life and well-being. The restaurant’s offerings are aligned with Ayurvedic philosophy and holistic approaches to health, focusing on fresh and seasonal produce that promotes balance and harmony with nature.
Ranjit Khasa, drawing inspiration from a royal banquet laid out by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is curated to mark the onset of the New Year and the arrival of spring. It offers a mindfully prepared spread of exquisite dishes, deeply rooted in the traditions of India’s royal heritage. The menu features an array of carefully selected vegetarian dishes, including Madhura Tikkiya (crispy fried patties of dove-smoked beetroot stuffed with spiced hung curd, sprinkled with homemade pudina masala), Paneer Khasa (artisan handcrafted tomato-flavored paneer simmered in fresh tomato gravy, delicately spiced with fenugreek seeds), Khoya Mewa Kofteh (crisp khoya marbles stuffed with nuts, simmered in cashew and poppy seed gravy, flavored with star anise and embellished with silver leaf), Maanh (whole black urad slow-cooked overnight to perfection, lightly spiced with black cardamom, pepper, cumin, and asafoetida, served with saffron butter), and Atta Gond Halwa (a warm halwa of whole wheat and plant gum, cardamom, and garnished with silver leaf and pistachio) – to name a few.
The Ranjit Khasa menu is available at INR 1,975 plus taxes per person. À la carte portions are available upon request. From carefully balanced tastes to vibrant seasonal ingredients, Ranjit Khasa promises to take you back to a majestic regal feast, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Indulge in Royal Feast – Ranjit Khasa at Royal Vega, ITC Royal Bengal
Indulge in Ranjit Khasa, the royal feast at ITC Royal Bengal’s signature luxury vegetarian cuisine restaurant, Royal Vega. Guided by the precepts of Ayurveda, this feast is based on the concept of eating fresh and seasonal produce in complete harmony with nature.
Drawing inspiration from the magnificent royal kitchens of India, Royal Vega offers a thoughtfully curated menu rooted in the principles of Ayurveda – the ancient science of life and well-being. The restaurant’s offerings are aligned with Ayurvedic philosophy and holistic approaches to health, focusing on fresh and seasonal produce that promotes balance and harmony with nature.
Ranjit Khasa, drawing inspiration from a royal banquet laid out by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, is curated to mark the onset of the New Year and the arrival of spring. It offers a mindfully prepared spread of exquisite dishes, deeply rooted in the traditions of India’s royal heritage. The menu features an array of carefully selected vegetarian dishes, including Madhura Tikkiya (crispy fried patties of dove-smoked beetroot stuffed with spiced hung curd, sprinkled with homemade pudina masala), Paneer Khasa (artisan handcrafted tomato-flavored paneer simmered in fresh tomato gravy, delicately spiced with fenugreek seeds), Khoya Mewa Kofteh (crisp khoya marbles stuffed with nuts, simmered in cashew and poppy seed gravy, flavored with star anise and embellished with silver leaf), Maanh (whole black urad slow-cooked overnight to perfection, lightly spiced with black cardamom, pepper, cumin, and asafoetida, served with saffron butter), and Atta Gond Halwa (a warm halwa of whole wheat and plant gum, cardamom, and garnished with silver leaf and pistachio) – to name a few.
The Ranjit Khasa menu is available per person. À la carte portions are available upon request. From carefully balanced tastes to vibrant seasonal ingredients, Ranjit Khasa promises to take you back to a majestic regal feast, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Coromandel International’s Bold Investment in NACL Industries Fuels Growth in Agrochemicals Sector
Mumbai, 13th March, 2025: Coromandel International Limited (BSE: 506395, NSE: COROMANDEL), one of India’s leading agri-solutions provider, today announced the signing of definitive agreements to acquire majority stake in NACL Industries Limited (NACL). NACL is an India based Crop Protection player having strong branded formulation business in domestic markets, exports Technicals in key global geographies and has presence in contract manufacturing operations with global multinational agrochemical companies. Coromandel is set to acquire 53% shareholding in NACL industries, for consideration of Rs 820 Crores at Rs 76.7/- price per share from the current promoter KLR Products Limited. Coromandel also proposes to make an open offer to the public to acquire upto 26% of the equity share capital of the company as per the SEBI Takeover Regulations. The proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is likely to be consummated over next few months.
The proposed acquisition will position Coromandel as one of the leading players in the Indian Crop Protection industry with a wide range of technicals and pan India presence in domestic formulation business. This will also help in expanding Coromandel’s scale, accelerating its entry into contract manufacturing business, fast-tracking new product commercialization and expanding its product portfolio.
NACL Industries operates Technical and Formulation plants in Andhra Pradesh, besides having centralized R&D facility near Hyderabad. NACL’s subsidiary has also recently invested in Technical grade facility at Dahej, capable of manufacturing Active Ingredients. It has established formidable partnerships with key global players, offering contract manufacturing services for over two decades. The company has strong brand presence in domestic formulations segment with pan India footprint.
Reflecting on the transaction, Coromandel’s Executive Chairman Mr. Arun Alagappan stated,
“This is a defining moment for Coromandel International’s Crop Protection business. Coromandel’s long-term strategy has always been centered on driving sustainable growth and market leadership. The decision to acquire NACL Industries is a natural extension of company’s growth vision. By combining our extensive distribution network and deep industry expertise with NACL’s manufacturing capabilities, diversified product portfolio and large formulations presence, we are setting the stage for a significant increase in operational scale. The acquisition not only expands our scale but also enables us to tap into critical customer segments and secure strategic CDMO relationships.”
Coromandel’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sankarasubramanian added,
“This acquisition will strengthen Coromandel’s presence in Crop protection business both in domestic and export markets. Coromandel will leverage its management expertise, credit access, sourcing capabilities, and diversified presence in international markets to strengthen NACL’s operations in a short period and create value for the shareholders. With the combined synergies in R&D and manufacturing, we can accelerate our Go to market strategy for new products and intermediates, thereby increasing our product offerings in domestic and global markets.”
Darjeeling Lounge, ITC Royal Bengal : Timeless Elegance, Tea Culture & Delight
Darjeeling is celebrated for its exceptional tea, steeped in rich tradition and lore. The Darjeeling Lounge at ITC Royal Bengal captures this charm, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the elegance of 1800s tea estates. This tranquil 24-hour space offers a perfect escape from the daily grind, where friends can enjoy leisurely cups of tea or fine beverages paired with gourmet bites.
Our beverage selection is thoughtfully curated, featuring not just Darjeeling tea but also the finest from Assam and China. First flush teas like Margaret’s Hope and Makaibari provide smooth, aromatic flavours reminiscent of hazelnuts and almonds. Additionally, we cater to contemporary tastes with innovative offerings like share-market chai and refreshing iced tea cocktails, making the Darjeeling Lounge a delightful stop for tea lovers.
The lounge is adorned with subtle, minimal décor and vintage furniture, with charming robin’s egg blue walls that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Among the local favourites, our Share Market Chai stands out, infusing Assam tea with bold flavours of cardamom, ginger, carom seeds, and fennel, accompanied by Gondhoraj cookies. This special brew is inspired by the street tea of Dalhousie near the Calcutta Stock Exchange, encapsulating Kolkata’s vibrant tea culture. It’s a beloved spot for both celebrities and locals, all of whom cherish the unique experience.
Lilavati Hospital and Rotary Club Host Strong Healthcare Initiative for Women
Mumbai 13 March 2025: On the occasion of Women’s Day, Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre in association with the Rotary Club of Mumbai Western Elite took a remarkable step toward women’s health by organizing a special free medical camp dedicated to their well-being. The camp, conducted on the theme “Of the Women, By the Women, For the Women,” provided free health check-ups. The aim was to spread awareness about the importance of preventive healthcare and empower women to take charge of their health.
Present at the event were esteemed doctors from various departments including General Physician, Cardiology, Dental, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Dermatology, Orthopedics, Chest Medicine, ENT, and Opthalmology, free medicines were given to patients as prescribed by the doctors and ambulance service onsite. The camp provided free consultations, and diagnostic tests (full body check-ups, breast scanning, blood pressure, blood sugar test, ECG, lung function test (PFT), Pap smear tests, bone density, audiology and anaemia check-ups) to over 1000 women who attended the camp from underprivileged communities.
Women’s health often takes a backseat due to various social and familial responsibilities. Conditions such as anaemia, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, reproductive and lung problems, and hormonal disorders are prevalent among women. However, these diseases and conditions remain undiagnosed in women due to a lack of routine health check-ups. Preventive screenings and early detection can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improving the quality of life. This medical camp ensured that women receive the attention and care they deserve, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being.
Vinay Khetawat, Club President, Rotary Club Of Mumbai Western Elite said, “The Mega Medical Camp, ‘Of the Women, By the Women, For the Woman’ dedicated exclusively to those who care for us without first caring for themselves was a testament of Rotary’s vision and goals to provide the best of health care service to the underprivileged community at large. This camp was our way of Celebrating Life by CELEBRATING the WOMEN in our lives.”
Mr Prashant Mehta, Permanent Trustee at Lilavati Hospital, said “At Lilavati Hospital, we believe in taking proactive steps to address the healthcare needs of the community, and women’s health remains a top priority for us. This initiative underscores our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality medical care to women, ensuring they receive timely screenings and expert consultations. Through this Women’s Day special medical camp, we aim to empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to take charge of their health. It is especially crucial to extend healthcare support to underprivileged women, who often lack access to regular medical check-ups and essential treatments. By offering free consultations, diagnostic tests, and medicines, we hope to bridge the healthcare gap and make a meaningful impact on their well-being.”
“Through this initiative, we aim to provide accessible, quality healthcare while raising awareness about the importance of preventive screenings and early diagnosis. A case of myocardial infarction (MI) was identified, and primary treatment was administered by Dr Rohit Deshpande, Internal Medicine from Lilavati Hospital. The patient was then transported via the hospital’s ambulance on-site to the nearest medical facility for further care,” Concluded Dr Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer of Lilavati Hospital.
ICC’s 7th Social Impact Summit Highlights Housing, Youth Programs and CSR Innovations
Kolkata, 13th March 2025: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) successfully hosted its 7th Social Impact Summit & Awards on Wednesday at ITC Sonar, honouring organisations that have made significant contributions to social impact through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Centred around the theme “Innovate for Impact: Shaping a Sustainable Future,” the event recognised transformative initiatives driving positive change. The summit was graced by distinguished personalities, including Ms Agnimitra Paul, Member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly; Mr. Anshu Gupta, Ramon Magsaysay Award Winner & Founder, Goonj; Mr. Sekhar Mehta, Former Global President, Rotary International; Mr. Saikat Basu, CEO, Consultivo; Dr. Krishna Nirmalya Sen, Chairman – ICC OHS Committee & Head (EHS), L&T M&M SBG; and Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General, ICC. With a focus on fostering innovation in the social sector, the summit featured insightful discussions on key topics such as The Role of Ecosystem in Social Impact; Innovations in the Social Sector; Sustainability in CSR Programs; Emerging Trends and Its Implications for Social Development; and Collaborative Innovation for Social Good: Scaling Impact through Partnerships.
Speaking on the Women Empowerment: A Pillar of Progress, Ms Agnimitra Paul, Member of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, said “Women in Bharat have always been empowered with history filled with strong, courageous women like Sita, Savitri, Draupadi, Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Padmini, Matangini Hazra and Pritilata Waddedar. We do not need to seek empowerment—we already possess it; the challenge is to create an environment where every woman can realise her full potential without barriers. I stand here as proof of that empowerment. Coming from a small town, Asansol, with no godfather in the industry, I still dreamt big. From aspiring to be a doctor, to becoming a fashion designer, to finally stepping into politics, my journey has been unconventional. In 2014, I joined the Bharatiya Janata Party, inspired by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of a strong, progressive India. People laughed when I dreamt of working under his leadership. As an MLA, I have the privilege of voicing the concerns of Bengal’s people. Since 2014, we have seen a remarkable rise in women’s participation across all fields—PV Sindhu, Mirabai Chanu and Hima Das in sports; women fighter pilots, Kalpana Chawla and ISRO’s Dr. Ritu Karidhal in defense and aerospace; Kiran Mazumdar Shaw and countless women entrepreneurs redefining business and science. And it all started with one leader having the courage to speak about real issues—our Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji. His first speech from Red Fort addressed sanitary napkins and toilets—topics that were taboo for years—because they affect the dignity and health of millions of women. Since 2014, the government has launched transformative initiatives—Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao improved the child sex ratio from 918 (2015) to 931 (2023); Ujjwala Yojana provided 5.5 crore LPG connections, reducing health hazards from traditional chulhas; Matru Vandana Yojana ensured ₹5,000 assistance for pregnant & lactating mothers; Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana secured girls’ education; Mudra Yojana & StandUp India empowered women entrepreneurs—70% of beneficiaries are women; and the 33% Reservation for Women in Parliament is a historic step towards true representation. To achieve true empowerment, we need four key pillars—Dedication for committed policies with measurable impact, Determination to break traditional barriers, Discipline to ensure transparency in welfare schemes and Dignity to create a society where women feel safe, respected, and independent. Instead of short-term financial handouts, we must focus on long-term solutions—skill development, entrepreneurship, stronger implementation of education schemes and better safety and law enforcement. Swami Vivekananda once said, ‘A nation that does not respect women can never achieve greatness.’ It is time we bridge the gaps, implement real change and create a Bharat where every woman, from villages to metros, has the opportunity to thrive. I urge all of you—policymakers, business leaders and social influencers—to take concrete steps towards real, sustainable empowerment. Because when women rise, India rises.”
Mr. Anshu Gupta, Ramon Magsaysay Award Winner & Founder of Goonj, said, “We fail to recognise that disasters lead to forced migration, which disrupts all development work—whether in education, health or sanitation. Without addressing survival first, sustainability is impossible. We need to meet more often—not just at conferences but in the field. The social development sector is highly collaborative and partnerships drive impact. Let’s also shift our focus from symptoms to root causes—kill mosquitoes instead of just treating malaria. If we want better education outcomes, building schools isn’t enough. Solve water scarcity in villages, stop forced migration and children will naturally attend school. We are powerful, we have resources, and above all, we have intent. Now, we must go beyond surface level solutions and tackle problems at their core.”
Dr. Krishna Nirmalya Sen, Chairman – ICC OHS Committee & Head (EHS), L&T M&M SBG, said, “Over the past decade, India’s CSR landscape has undergone a paradigm shift since the enactment of the Companies Act 2013, which mandated CSR contributions for eligible companies. In FY 2022-23 alone, 24,392 Indian companies invested ₹29,986.92 crores in CSR initiatives, significantly impacting key sectors and reflecting India Inc.’s growing commitment to nation-building. The Economic Survey 2023-24 highlights a remarkable 53% increase in CSR spending between 2017-18 and 2022-23, driving tangible progress in education, healthcare, rural development, environmental sustainability and livelihood enhancement. With over ₹10,085 crore allocated towards education, millions of children have benefited from CSR-driven programs, while ₹6,830 crores have improved access to quality healthcare. Environmental sustainability efforts have seen ₹1,959 crore invested, resulting in afforestation and significant reductions in carbon emissions. Additionally, ₹396 crores have been dedicated to women empowerment initiatives, providing financial literacy and livelihood opportunities to millions of women. The Government of India continues to play a proactive role in enabling and motivating CSR activities through key policies and frameworks, including the National CSR Awards recognizing outstanding projects and the 2021 amendments strengthening compliance and impact assessment. The PM CARES Fund received over ₹10,000 crores in corporate contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, further showcasing the private sector’s unwavering commitment to national welfare. Moreover, aligning CSR initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscores India’s dedication to achieving the 2030 Agenda. While significant progress has been made, the journey ahead demands even greater collaboration and innovation—strengthening public-private partnerships to maximise social impact, leveraging technology and digital solutions to scale interventions, encouraging employee-driven volunteer programs for grassroots engagement and reinforcing impact assessment mechanisms to ensure measurable, lasting change.”
Mr. Saikat Basu, CEO, Consultivo, said, “This year, we received 57 impactful projects—36 from corporates and 21 from NGOs, with a total of 45 participating organizations. NGO projects were categorised into Large (₹10 Cr+), Medium (₹2-10 Cr) and Small (₹50L-2 Cr) across 10 major thematic areas.”
Mr. Sekhar Mehta, Former Global President, Rotary International, said, “This forum showcases how collaboration between civil society, corporates, and government drives real change. As a Rotarian for 40 years, I’ve seen the power of volunteerism. Rotary’s polio eradication effort, launched in 1988, reduced cases from 1,000 per day to near zero, with India declared polio-free in 2014. This proves that commitment and partnerships create impact. Now, let’s tackle illiteracy, water scarcity, and skill development. A national mission, backed by top corporates, can make India fully literate. If each of our 25 crore students educates just one adult, we close the gap in a few years.”
Milestone Moment: Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Skill Development Hosts First Convocation in Ziro
Mumbai/Ziro, March 13, 2025: The Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Skill Development, an initiative by Medhavi Skills University (MSU) in collaboration with Helping Hands NGO, successfully hosted its convocation ceremony to honour the first batch of graduating students from its Plumbing and Electrical programs. The event, held at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre (MGC) in Hong Village, Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh, marked a significant milestone in empowering the youth of the north-east region with skill-based education.
The convocation ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Director General of Police (DGP) Mr. Robin Hibu (IPS), Delhi Police and Founder, Helping Hands and Mr. Pravesh Dudani, Founder & Chancellor, Medhavi Skills University.
The event celebrated the achievements of students who successfully completed their certificate programs in Electrical and Plumbing, equipping them with industry-relevant skills. Along with certificates, the learners also received electrical and plumbing tool kits that would help them in their line of work in the future. Besides earning a monthly stipend, the students have started getting job opportunities which were earlier offered to talent from outside the region. It has aided in timely resolution of plumbing and electrical issues of the localities.
As a highlight of the ceremony, the Award of Excellence was presented to three top-performing students in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective courses. Hibu Komo from the Electrical (1st Batch), Narang Pullo from the Electrical (2nd Batch), and Tasu Abo from the Plumbing (1st Batch) were honoured for their hard work.
In an ongoing effort to expand vocational training, the Mahatma Gandhi Centre has announced the launch of a Certificate Program in Hair Styling, set to begin in April 2025. Aimed at empowering school dropouts, the centre offers a hands-on learning experience through well-equipped practical labs and structured theoretical modules to students in the thriving beauty and wellness sector.
Speaking at the event, Shri Robin Hibu, a strong advocate for industry-integrated skill-based education, emphasized the impact of such initiatives: “Providing skill-based education to the youth of the North-East is a vital step towards ensuring their socio-economic upliftment. Our collaboration with Medhavi Skills University is a testament to our commitment to this cause. By equipping students with practical skills, we are creating pathways for sustainable employment and financial independence.”
Mr. Dudani stated that “Our aim is to make skill-based education inclusive and accessible to all, equipping the people of the north-east with industry-relevant training that empowers them to build successful careers. Through initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, we are fostering holistic development and creating opportunities for a brighter, self-reliant future.”
During the ceremony, Grace Rehabilitation Centre (run by Apatani Baptist Association, Ziro) and Mother’s Home (run by Achukuru Welfare Society, Ziro) were recognized with certificates for their outstanding contributions to community welfare.
The event also featured cultural Apatani dance performances by traditional local artists, musical presentations, and discussions on social impact and empowerment. Students shared their transformative journey with MSU and Helping Hands. They recounted their dedication, traveling three hours to reach the learning center in Ziro. Upon completing their course, they successfully secured jobs and were able to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, embracing self-employment opportunities.
MSU continues to expand its reach by introducing new courses and skill-building programs, providing students in remote areas like Ziro with enhanced employment opportunities. Through its initiatives, the university remains committed to bridging the skill gap in India and empowering youth with education that translates into meaningful careers.
Rangsons Aerospace Raises INR 300 Crore to Fuel Growth
Bengaluru, March 13, 2025 – Rangsons Aerospace, a leading product technology firm for aerospace, defense and homeland security has announced today that it has secured an investment of ₹300 crore (USD 36.5 Million) towards expanding its operational capacity to address the increasing demand for its Products and Solutions for the commercial and military aviation markets globally, and drive growth into new business areas through strategic acquisitions. This funding round was led by ValueQuest Investment Advisors and had Anand Rathi Advisors as the financial advisor for the transaction.
This investment in Rangsons Aerospace marks the first addition to the portfolio construction for ValueQuest Tristar Fund, a Category II AIF (Alternate Investment Fund) focused on thematic sector investments. With deep niche expertise in these industries, ValueQuest believes the tailwinds in these sectors will drive long-term, decadal growth, making it an opportune time to launch this thematic fund.
Mr. Pavan Ranga, Managing Director, Rangsons Aerospace said, “We are excited about this fund raise from ValueQuest. It will help accelerate our expansion plans and enhance our ability to serve the growing demands of the aerospace and defense sectors”. He further added, “This investment fuels our vision of expanding into global markets and advancing aerospace innovation. One of our goals is to capture a significant share of the ₹20,000 crore fluid-conveyance system market while continuing to develop world-class solutions for India’s Ministry of Defence and international partners.”
Mr. Aniket Dharamshi, Fund Manager, VQ Tristar, added, “The team at Rangsons has built a promising business and we are confident in their ability to continue scaling. We are excited to partner with them on their growth journey and support their vision of becoming a leader in aerospace and defense solutions.” Additionally, Mr. Ravi Dharamshi, Founder & CIO, ValueQuest, stated “Tristar is specifically designed to capitalize on the long-term growth potential in sectors like defense, aerospace, and precision engineering. With our deep sector specific expertise, we are well-positioned to identify and partner with breakthrough entrepreneurs like Pavan and his team at Rangsons to create long-term value.”
Mr. Sachin Mehta, Director, Anand Rathi Investment Banking, added: “We are honoured to partner with Rangsons Aerospace, part of the prestigious NR Group, and grateful to Pavan for this opportunity. This marks our fourth transaction in the burgeoning Indian aerospace sector and our second with ValueQuest. We look forward to supporting the sector’s growth with our expertise and deep industry knowledge.”
Mr. Samir Bahl, CEO, Anand Rathi Investment Banking, commented:
“Rangsons Aerospace has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for global aerospace and defence majors, backed by large orders, strong execution capabilities, and visionary leadership. This transaction highlights the increasing investor confidence in India’s aerospace sector, and we are proud to have facilitated this partnership between Rangsons Aerospace and ValueQuest.”