Pinwheel Project’s 15th Edition: A Shopping Extravaganza for Moms and Kids in Worli
Attention All Moms and Moms-to-be! Your Ultimate Shopping Destination, The Pinwheel Project is back with its Spring Edit and this time it gets bigger and better! Slated for 10th April 2025 at Palace Halls, NSCI Worli, the shopping extravaganza promises to offer amazing brands to shop across diverse categories. Coveted as India’s favourite exhibition, The Pinwheel Project brings 100+ brands from across India under one roof, across diverse categories like kids apparel, toys, home decor, games, bedding, accessories. Marking a significant milestone, the Pinwheel Project celebrates its 15th edition this year—an incredible journey that began as a passion project by three dynamic moms and has now become one of India’s most loved exhibitions for moms and kids. With each edition, the event continues to grow in scale, spirit, and community, making this Spring Edit a truly special one.
The upcoming edition gets more exciting with new collections of kidswear that will be exhibited by Bambee Kids, Enfance, Popcorn, Dulaar, Karamel Baby, and Me Kasa. Shoppers can also explore other essential offerings from Foamo Bath Essentials for gifting and Griha Couture’s range of bedding, and more. Complement these with stylish accessories from Cute Little Bows and All Things Little, and bags from Nasher Miles, Bags Bunny, and Love by Parilicious. Stimulate young minds with educational books, toys, and games from Little Future Founders, Smarty Pants, and Craft Ghar. This Spring Edit promises an amalgamation of artistic brilliance and style, taking it up a notch by collaborating with a premium adult fashion curation partner The Style Storie Edit by Tanaz Doshi and Azmina Rahimtoolah for an exclusive women’s section. There is an interesting lineup of effortless wearables and accessories, showcasing the artistry of designers and their captivating new collections from the likes of The Label 39, Melia, Amos by Pooja, Khushboo Chugh, Devina Juneja, Ennso Label and Maya by Maya Parikh. For exquisite accessories, take your pick from the jewellery showcase that gleams with radiance, as esteemed brands like Isharya, Raya and Sorbet & Co. present their chic offerings, adding a touch of opulence to the occasion.
The fiesta has something in store for everyone from favourite classics to some new up-coming brands will surely leave you wanting more. At the heart of the Pinwheel Project lies a mother’s need to provide the absolute best for her children. Born from the shared experience of three passionate working mothers -Aditi Kapur, Ragini Vakil & Shouger Merchant Doshi- The Pinwheel Project has become a Mumbai mainstay. Initiated in 2017, as a labour of love, this passion project has evolved into Mumbai’s most highly anticipated, go-to destination for busy moms in search of unique and premium products for their children. Together, the three supermoms embarked on a mission to craft a haven where mothers like themselves could uncover an expansive array of products and services catering to the dynamic world of motherhood and childhood, with children outgrowing most of what they own before the blink of an eye and today they are celebrating their 15th edit milestone!
Nurturing a vibrant community of exceptional brands, The Pinwheel Project transcends geographical boundaries, uniting not only Mumbai but also entrepreneurs in the kid’s space hailing from various corners of India – Jaipur, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Pune, Baroda, and beyond. “This year’s Spring Edit promises to be a truly immersive experience,” says Shouger Merchant Doshi, co-founder of the endeavour. “We’ve expanded our exhibitor base to include a wider range of brands, ensuring there’s something for every taste and style. Our partnership with The Style Storie Edit shows our commitment to adding more layers to our bi-annual event – it is not just for kids items and shopping, but also the parents who are an integral part of the system.“
“This edition of the Pinwheel Project is all about celebrating childhood with joy, creativity, and thoughtful design,” says Ragini Vakil, co-founder. “We’ve curated a vibrant lineup that brings together the very best for children and moms alike—from imaginative play to fashion-forward picks. It’s a space where discovery and delight go hand in hand, and we can’t wait to welcome our community once again!”
“The magic of the Pinwheel Project lies in its ability to bring everything you need under one roof. From thoughtfully curated fashion finds to delightful treats, it’s the perfect place to make memories with your little ones this spring. It is this unique aspect that defines the Pinwheel Project as the ultimate haven for shopping and replenishing,” elaborates Aditi Kapur, co-founder of this remarkable event.
“We are excited to partner with Pinwheel Project and curate the women’s fashion section – our synergies were aligned on making it a hit show – and we want to bring the best of affordable and chic fashion to Pinwheel Project and get all the mommies looking like fashionistas,” said Tanaz Doshi & Azmina Rahimtoolah, co-founders of Style Storie Edit.
But wait, there’s more! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the event and head over to the cafeteria at the Pinwheel Project’s Spring Edit. Indulge in delightful desserts from ZAKI, grab an energy boost from Coffee Verse or Tokyo Matcha Bar, and explore a curated selection of food brands including Gusto Foods, Eksbakes, Pink Harvest Farms, Sichuan Spice, The Cowboys Farm, and The Growing Giraffe—all available to shop at the cafeteria.
Grahm Unveils Real Estate Advisory Platform in Bengaluru, Backed by Credvest
April 09, 2025 Bengaluru – Grahm, a first-of-its-kind real estate player, announced its official launch in Bengaluru today. Backed by Credvest, a real estate management solutions firm handling transactions valued at Rs 8000 crore, Grahm aims to reshape the home-buying experience by bridging the gap between buyers, builders, and lenders with a one-stop advisory platform.
Grahm offers an end-to-end, user-friendly platform that provides expert guidance, personalised solutions, financial and legal support, and comprehensive post-purchase support, all at zero cost. With a commitment to redefining the customer experience, Grahm introduces a unique assisted model to residential real estate buyers. From property searches to paper documentation, financing, and post-sale services, Grahm aims to ensure a seamless, transparent and informed home-buying process for customers.
Grahm has onboarded 100+ developers and partnered with 350+ projects in Bengaluru already. It is also looking to tap into seven additional high-transaction cities, including Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Lucknow. Grahm aims to capture 10% of the residential real estate market share over the next three years, accounting for over Rs 50,000 crores in transactions.
On the launch, Ankit Shah, COO & CMO of Grahm, said, “We are thrilled to launch Grahm, starting from Bengaluru. Owning a dream home is an aspirational goal and we want to make the experience smooth and hassle-free. We are driven by relationships and offer India’s first holistic, personalised, end-to-end advisory in residential real estate at zero cost to customers. We are committed to making property transactions simpler, seamless, and streamlined which helps customers choose a home that fits their needs.”
He adds, “We are creating a new category and are keen on positively disrupting the industry. We aim to capture 1% of the total residential real estate market, equivalent to 5000 crores, by the end of the year and 10% in 3 years.”
Suman Naidu, Founder, Credvest Group, said, “The idea of Grahm was born out of a deep understanding of the homebuyer’s journey and the gaps that often make it overwhelming. Credvest is already working with the top property builders in Bengaluru. These partnerships will help us tap the broader network, and offer customers a sharp, comprehensive one-stop real estate solution
At Credvest, we’ve spent the last six years building an integrated ecosystem that supports every aspect of the real estate experience. With Grahm, from identifying the right property to AiTi, interiors, our customers gain access to a wide range of benefits, exclusive partnerships, and curated lifestyle solutions. Our goal is to offer more than just real estate advice, we’re building a connected, future-ready community that connects with our customers long after they have moved in.”
As part of its expansion plans, Grahm is looking to hire 300 employees by the end of the year. The company is keen on expanding its team of advisors, who will be crucial in guiding customers through the purchase process.
Grahm’s mission is to create an ecosystem for buyers where they can function as one unit. The company wants to create a first-of-its-kind and the largest community of real-estate buyers in the county. It plans to create and nurture a community of like-minded homeowners with access to amenities, security, financial guidance, medical aid, hobbies and much more, creating lasting value for customers, developers, and communities. Once they are a part of this community, all their home and lifestyle-related needs will be addressed through tailor-made solutions.
Shree Cement Beawar Hosts Hanuman Katha, Paying Tribute to Bajrang Bali’s Legacy
Chandigarh, April 9, 2025: A cherished spiritual tradition, Hanuman Katha began at Shree Cement’s Beawar plant on 7th April and will continue till 9th April, bringing devotees together for three days of spiritual enlightenment and devotion. The katha is expected to draw a large congregation of devotees, from various parts of the country to seek wisdom, strength and divine blessings from Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj, whose sacred discourses have guided and inspired countless followers across the country.
For the past 24 years, this annual gathering has been a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Lord Hanuman, honouring his role in guiding people toward righteousness. This year, Shree Cement has the privilege of hosting Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj, whose profound insights continue to touch the hearts of spiritual seekers.
Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj is a revered spiritual leader, scholar and treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. He played a pivotal role in the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Shri Ram’s idol at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya in January 2024. A disciple of the esteemed Shri Jayendra Saraswati of Kanchi Kamkoti Peeth, Swamiji has dedicated his life to imparting the wisdom of scriptures such as the Srimad Bhagavat, Ramayan and Hanuman Katha. His teachings emphasize faith, resilience and selfless service, inspiring countless devotees to walk the path of dharma and righteousness.
The first day of the Hanuman Katha was deeply moving. Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj captivated the audience with his illuminating interpretation of Bajrang Bali’s virtues—faith, strength and selfless service. He highlighted how Hanuman Ji’s devotion to Lord Ram stands as the ultimate example of relentless dedication and humility. Urging devotees to embrace these principles in their own lives, he stated:
“Devotion is a force that empowers and elevates. Hanuman Ji teaches us that true strength lies in humility, true leadership in selfless service, and true wisdom in faith. Let us follow his path to discover our purpose and inner strength.”
Several esteemed dignitaries from across the region graced the sacred Hanuman Katha with their presence, adding to the spiritual and cultural significance of the event. Notable attendees included Shri Avinash Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Yunus Khan, former Cabinet Minister, Government of Rajasthan; Shri Chandrabhan Singh Aakya, MLA from Chittorgarh; Shri Umashankar ji, Central Committee Member of Vishwa Hindu Parishad; Shri Virendra Kanawat, MLA; Shri Mahesh Chandra Sharma, Divisional Commissioner, Ajmer; Shri Omprakash ji, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Ajmer Range; Dr. Mahendra Singh Khadgawat, District Collector, Beawar; Shri Shyam Singh, Superintendent of Police, Beawar; Shri Mohanlal Khatnawaliya, Additional District Collector, Beawar and Shri Kuldeep Singh Shekhawat, Sub-Divisional Officer, Masuda among others.
Emphasizing the significance of the occasion, Swami Govind Dev Giriji Maharaj said, “I commend Shree Cement for creating an environment where thousands can immerse themselves in the divine teachings of Bajrang Bali. His life serves as an enduring guide to faith, resilience, and devotion. Through his wisdom, we can find the clarity and strength to overcome life’s challenges.”
Expressing his appreciation for the event, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement shared, “Swami Govind Dev Giriji has provided us with a profound spiritual experience, allowing us to step away from our daily concerns and dedicate ourselves to the devotion of Hanuman Ji. His teachings inspire us to embody courage, loyalty, and selflessness—qualities that not only define great leaders but also contribute to a more compassionate and united society.”
The Hanuman Katha will continue till 9th April, offering devotees an opportunity to delve deeper into the divine teachings of Lord Hanuman. Shree Cement remains committed to nurturing community well-being, recognizing that true progress is measured not just in industry but also in spiritual and cultural enrichment.
Philippe Vignon Appointed Managing Director at Glion
India, April 9th, 2025 – Glion Institute of Higher Education is proud to announce the appointment of Philippe Vignon as its new Managing Director, effective June 16th, 2025.
Founded in 1962, Glion is a prestigious Swiss institution recognized globally for its excellence in hospitality management and luxury education. With its rich heritage, commitment to excellence, industry connections, Glion has become a benchmark in the academic
world—shaping generations of leaders who elevate the hospitality, tourism, and luxury industries worldwide. The appointment of Philippe Vignon is a strategic decision to reinforce Glion’s identity as a Swiss-born global brand, and to accelerate its next phase
of development, innovation, and influence.
A profile in perfect harmony with Glion’s vision
With over 30 years of experience at the helm of major international organizations in sectors ranging from tourism and aviation to digital media and education, Philippe Vignon brings a rare combination of strategic insight, cross-cultural leadership, and operational
excellence. His career has been defined by transformative initiatives, business growth, and the ability to position brands as leaders in their respective domains.
Career highlights include:
- CEO, Geneva Tourism and Conventions: Transformed the institution into a high-performing Destination Marketing Organisation, leading to a 10% increase in regional tourism spending over four years.
- CEO, Edipresse Digital – Edipresse Group: Designed and executed a comprehensive digital strategy across more than 50 websites, accelerating the group’s transition to digital media.
- General Manager Commercial Switzerland, Italy, Germany & Eastern Europe, easyJet: Oversaw the airline’s most profitable bases, spearheaded the launch of easyJet in Geneva, and delivered 1.5 million new passengers within 18 months.
- L’Oréal Suisse SA: Advanced from Brand Manager to National Sales & Marketing Director, showcasing strong capabilities in brand development, team leadership, and commercial strategy.
His expertise also extends to several strategic advisory and board positions. He is a member of the Advisory Committee of the Doyof Al Rahman Program (Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia), and acts as a board advisor to Cabanner, a digital platform reinventing sustainable
and exclusive travel, and to Sky2Share, a Swiss aviation initiative promoting eco-conscious private jet sharing. He is also an independent board member of the Hôtel des Horlogers, an innovative sustainable luxury property developed by Audemars Piguet in the
Vallée de Joux.
Leading with purpose
Philippe’s extensive international background, his ability to align stakeholders across cultures, and his deep understanding of both business and education make him the ideal leader to further Glion’s mission. He will oversee Glion’s campuses in Switzerland
and the UK, forge strategic partnerships with key players in hospitality, tourism, and luxury, and enhance the student experience through innovation and operational excellence.
In addition, he will be tasked with spearheading Glion’s global expansion ambition, identifying new growth markets, fostering institutional collaborations, and scaling Glion’s influence in regions where excellence in hospitality education is in growing demand.
Philippe Vignon commented:
“Joining Glion means embracing a mission that transcends education—it’s about shaping the future of a vital global industry. Glion represents Swiss excellence, service refinement, and intellectual elegance. I am honored to lead this prestigious institution
and determined to elevate its global relevance and impact in a changing world.”Pierre Salles, Chair of the Glion Governing Board, stated:
“Philippe Vignon is a leader of vision and execution. His ability to transform and uplift organizations aligns perfectly with Glion’s DNA. We are confident he will reinforce Glion’s academic excellence while expanding its global footprint.”
Benoît-Etienne Domenget, CEO of Sommet Education, added:
“Philippe brings a rare blend of strategic clarity, operational experience, and human leadership. He fully understands the positioning of a Swiss heritage brand like Glion and will guide its expansion with authenticity and ambition. His appointment marks
a decisive step in our mission to educate the future leaders of hospitality and luxury.”
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme: Engage More
Chandigarh, India – April 9, 2025 – National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has partnered with Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), a leading autonomous state technical university, to launch a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence for Skill Development. The two organisations formalised their alliance through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Startup Mahakumbh in New Delhi. The initiative aims to equip learners with hands-on experience in manufacturing skill sets across critical sectors such as Energy, Health, Water, and Food.
The Centre of Excellence will focus on delivering specialized training in emerging technologies, including VLSI Design, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Internet of Things (IoT), Data Science, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Smart Manufacturing, Blockchain, and more. With over 40 online and hybrid courses designed for students across ITI, Diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs, this collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing Skill India Mission, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and National Credit Framework by integrating vocational education and skill development into mainstream academia.
Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC & MD, NSDC International said, “Today, we partnered with Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) at the Startup Mahakumbh to strengthen the skilling ecosystem in the energy sector. This collaboration will support the development of training infrastructure in smart manufacturing, along with Centres of Excellence focused on automotive, EV charging, renewable energy, and semiconductors. Training in the semiconductor domain is already underway, paving the way for youth to gain practical exposure in high-demand, future-oriented fields.”
Dr. S. Sundar Manoharan, Director General, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, said, “We are proud to collaborate with NSDC under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari. With their support, PDEU has transformed its infrastructure into a hub for advanced skill training, especially in high-demand sectors like renewable energy and semiconductors. Our newly launched ATMP Semiconductor Packaging Centre is designed to train students in back-end packaging, encapsulation, and other critical skills, creating a strong pipeline of industry-ready talent.”
PDEU has been at the forefront of energy education and skill development since its inception in 2007. The university has empowered students by integrating industry-standard manufacturing lines within its academic campus, including a 45 MW Solar PV Manufacturing Line and an ATMP Semiconductor Packaging Line. These facilities bridge the gap between academia and industry while fostering innovation in renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind energy, lithium and vanadium energy storage systems, carbon capture solutions, and smart hybrid grids.
“This marks a significant shift—where industry is now turning to academia for manufacturing-focused skilling. For the first time, experiential learning of up to 225 hours is being integrated into academic credits through the National Credit Framework. We deeply value NSDC’s continued guidance and support in building this impactful and scalable education model.” added Dr Manoharan.
Through this collaboration with NSDC, PDEU will further enhance its infrastructure by incorporating advanced manufacturing capabilities into the Centre of Excellence. The CoE will serve as a hub for skill development programs nationwide, targeting students from Tier-1, Tier-2, and Tier-3 institutions. It is aligned with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG-4 (Quality Education), SDG-7 (Affordable & Clean Energy), SDG-13 (Climate Action), and SDG-17 (Partnerships for Goals).
To ensure seamless operations and sustainability, a Section 8 company will be established as part of this initiative. Jointly owned by PDEU and NSDC Trust, this entity will manage the CoE’s activities while creating an independent revenue stream through course fees. It will also support flagship national initiatives like Make-in-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by preparing students for core manufacturing processes and fostering self-reliance in critical industries.
The Centre of Excellence is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing India’s growing demand for skilled manpower as it prepares to have the largest working-age population by 2030. Through practical exposure delivered by industry-certified trainers provided by NSDC, the initiative seeks to enhance employability among students while contributing to India’s socio-economic development.
Imarticus Learning Launches Oxford Cyber Security Programme for Business Leaders
Mumbai, April 09th 2025: Imarticus Learning, one of India’s leading professional education companies, has announced its partnership with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford to introduce the School’s ‘Oxford Cyber Security for Business Leaders Programme’. The Executive programme will empower business leaders with the knowledge and strategies in cybersecurity and provide insights on AI, cyber resilience, and evolving cyber threats.
In 2024 alone, India experienced more than 369 million malware attacks, averaging 702 per minute. Addressing the increasing demand for cybersecurity awareness and expertise, this programme is specifically designed to help business leaders make informed decisions in respect of cyber risks and resilience, enabling them to protect their organisations while driving growth and innovation.
Cybersecurity is not just an IT responsibility but a critical boardroom priority. Business leaders need to understand its impact on brand reputation, customer trust, and business continuity. As digital transformation accelerates, organisations are increasingly exposed to sophisticated cyber threats. Recognising this growing challenge, the programme provides a highly interactive learning experience, integrating real-world case studies, strategic frameworks, and practical applications to help executives build resilient cybersecurity strategies.
The comprehensive curriculum will include essential cybersecurity principles, cyber threats and vulnerabilities, supply chain security and cyber operations, ethical dilemmas in cybersecurity and building resilient strategies. Learners will gain real-world knowledge and insights from the faculty and experts at Oxford Saïd. With a strong focus on peer learning across various industries around the globe, the programme will enable common ground to understand the growing threat of cybercrimes and building competitive strategies for future-looking organisations.
Nikhil Barshikar, Founder & CEO, Imarticus Learning said, “We are proud to partner with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford to prepare leaders from all industries to navigate the complex cyber landscape. In today’s business environment, cybersecurity is no longer an IT-only concern but a core strategic issue for business leaders. It will empower them to understand their organisation’s cybersecurity posture and embrace a culture of cyber resilience. It will also provide them with strategies to identify threats and respond effectively.”
Caroline Williams, Executive Director, Oxford Saïd Online, said, “Our partnership with Imarticus Learning reflects our shared commitment to empowering business leaders with the knowledge and tools to address the challenges of the modern business environment. The programme is designed for current and future business leaders to understand core cybersecurity concepts, make informed decisions, and build trust in the system. The insights will help them protect their organisations and stay ahead of emerging threats.”
Along with expert learning materials world class teaching tools to implement cybersecurity strategies effectively, learners who successfully complete their programme will receive an Oxford Saïd certificate and have exclusive access to a range of benefits with eligibility to join the Oxford Saïd Elumni Network, a growing global community within Saïd Business School, connecting more than 50,000 cross-sector senior executives and C-suite leaders across 195 countries, enhancing their networking and collaboration opportunities
Anil Agarwal Foundation’s flagship Nand Ghar Reaches 8,000
Chandigarh, 9th April 2025: Nand Ghar, the flagship initiative of the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), has achieved a significant milestone by transforming 8,044 Anganwadis into modern centres of holistic development for women and children. Spread across 15 states in India, this expansion underscores Vedanta’s commitment to rural development, impacting over 3 lakh children and 2 lakh women with early childhood education, nutrition, healthcare, and skill development.
Nand Ghars are modernised anganwadis with provision of state-of-the art facilities. In addition to enhanced infrastructural facilities, Nand Ghar incorporates smart education tools, interactive e-learning modules, BaLA designs, and smart TVs to make learning engaging for children aged 3-6 years. Each center is equipped with child friendly furniture, access to electricity, safe drinking water, and hygienic sanitation facilities, fostering a safe and nurturing environment. Beyond education, Nand Ghars combat malnutrition by facilitating fortified meals to children and essential nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers. Integrated healthcare services, including immunization drives and routine check-ups, further strengthen community well-being. Nand Ghar is also strengthening women empowerment by engaging community women in skill-building activities such as handicrafts, food processing, and retail, enabling them to earn an average monthly income of up to INR 10,000.
As Nand Ghar continues to scale its impact, last year marked significant achievements for the program. To combat malnutrition, Nand Ghar launched a two-phase distribution of protein-rich millet shakes, benefiting children across six states. Patented and FSSAI certified, this millet shake contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals and is crafted from a blend of ragi, bajra, foxtail and kodu millets. With the government’s focus on promoting the consumption of millets in daily diet, Nand Ghar’s initiative reaffirms its alignment with the national vision of fostering nutritional security through sustainable and locally sourced superfoods.
In March this year, AAF proudly inaugurated Maharashtra’s first-ever Nand Ghars, launching 25 new centers in Thane. Expanding its reach further, the Foundation is committed to establishing 20,000 more Nand Ghars across Rajasthan over the next two years, transforming rural communities on a scale.
The initiative is well-aligned with the Government of India’s vision for women and child development. The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) empowers and supports mothers and their children under six years through various programs ensuring comprehensive childcare support in a secure environment with trained staff, educational resources, nutritional support, and activities for holistic child development. With around 14 lakh Anganwadi centres serving over 7 crore children under six years across the country, Nand Ghar’s model contributes significantly to enhancing the existing ecosystem and amplifying the government’s efforts in ensuring the well-being of children and women in rural India.
Speaking on the achievement, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd. and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd., stated, “The journey of building 8,000 Nand Ghars reflects our deep commitment to transforming lives at the grassroots. These centers are not just reimagined Anganwadis, they are spaces of opportunity where children learn, grow, and thrive, and where women gain the tools to lead empowered, self-reliant lives. It is incredible to witness how Nand Ghar is evolving into a nationwide movement- one that is creating real change. Our partnership with the Government and the Ministry of Women & Child Development continues to strengthen this mission, helping us scale with purpose and bring meaningful change to communities across India.”
Adding to this, Mr. Shashi Arora, CEO, Nand Ghar, commented, “At Nand Ghar, we are committed to holistic community development, where impact is measured not just in numbers but in the lives we transform. By integrating smart learning, digital tools, and sustainable nutrition programs, we are redefining the Anganwadi ecosystem in India. Over the past year, we have introduced cutting-edge digital learning modules and expanded nutrition programs to ensure that every child receives a balanced meal daily aligned with the Poshan 2.0 guidelines. Flagship initiatives such as Khaana Khaaya Kya?, the millet bar and shake distribution drive, and our digital smart learning model have further reinforced our commitment to child development and women’s empowerment. We will continue to deepen our impact within communities, ensuring that early childhood education, nutrition, and women empowerment drive for meaningful and sustainable change.”
WCD’s Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Department is celebrating its 50 years in 2025, and Nand Ghar continues to set benchmarks in early childhood care and women’s empowerment. With this milestone, the program is reaffirming its mission to uplift India’s rural communities, ensuring that the nation’s children and women have access to quality resources for a brighter and healthier future.
Sarbananda Sonowal: Union Government’s Push for Modern Maritime Education at IMU Kochi
Kochi, April 9, 2025: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone for girls hostel building and virtually inaugurated infrastructure development projects across six campuses of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) for the upgradation of maritime Education and Infrastructure. The projects, with a total estimated cost of Rs 67.77 crore, were announced during a ceremony held at the IMU campus in Kochi.
Among the key projects is a new girls’ hostel at IMU Kochi, for which Shri Sonowal laid the foundation stone in person. Developed at a cost of Rs 13.11 crore, the facility will significantly improve residential accommodation for female maritime students.
Simultaneously, the Minister also virtually inaugurated several infrastructure projects across five IMU campuses—Chennai, Kolkata, Navi Mumbai, Mumbai Port, and Visakhapatnam. These include the installation of state-of-the-art simulators, establishment of solar power plants, enhancement of sports facilities, and renovation of student hostels—all aimed at boosting the quality of both academic and residential experiences.
The ceremony also witnessed the presence of Shri Hibi Eden, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) representing Ernakulam, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; Sunil Mukundan, MD, INdia Ports Global, B Kasiviswanathan, IRSME, Chairperson, Dr. Malini V. Shankar, Vice Chancellor of IMU; and other senior officials and stakeholders from the maritime education sector.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Sonowal reiterated the Union Government’s resolve to transform maritime education in India by providing world-class infrastructure and training environments.
“These 17 projects mark a significant step in our mission to strengthen India’s maritime education landscape. With modern infrastructure and advanced facilities, we are enabling students to excel and meet global maritime standards,” he said.
The event concluded with an interactive session featuring discussions on the future of maritime education, innovation in training, and the roadmap for continued infrastructure development across IMU campuses.
From Espionage Thrills to Heroic Canines: Theatre Highlights
As we step into the second week of April, we are thrilled to present a dynamic lineup of films that are set to captivate audiences with their compelling storytelling, star-studded performances, and diverse genres. Whether you’re in the mood for pulse-pounding espionage, inspiring drama, animated fun, or high-voltage action, this week’s theatrical releases offer something for every kind of movie lover.
Here’s a look at the exciting releases you can catch only in theatres this week:
- The Amateur – A Riveting Espionage Thriller: The Amateur is a riveting vigilante espionage thriller directed by James Hawes, featuring Academy Award winner Rami Malek as a CIA cryptographer who turns undercover spy after a personal tragedy. When his wife is killed in a terrorist attack, he embarks on a relentless mission to take down those responsible. Inspired by Robert Littell’s 1981 spy novel, this high-stakes revenge drama boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Laurence Fishburne. With its intricate screenplay by Ken Nolan and Gary Spinelli and gripping narrative, The Amateur is a must-watch for thriller lovers.
- Jaat – An Adrenaline-Fueled Action Drama: Prepare for a cinematic spectacle as Jaat marks the explosive collaboration between Bollywood icon Sunny Deol and acclaimed Telugu director Gopichand Malineni, known for his high-octane commercial entertainers. Coming fresh off the historic success of Gadar 2, Sunny Deol steps into another powerful avatar, squaring off against a formidable Randeep Hooda, who plays the menacing antagonist Ranatunga. Packed with larger-than-life action sequences, intense drama, and raw emotion, Jaat promises to be a mass entertainer that celebrates heroism, valor, and cinematic grandeur on an epic scale.
- Good Bad Ugly: It is a must-watch for every action cinema lover, featuring Ajith Kumar in never-seen-before avatars across multiple timelines, promising a high-octane narrative packed with intense action, gripping dialogues, and mass appeal. Directed by Adhik Ravichandran of Mark Antony fame, the film blends time-travel elements with a powerful story, delivering a larger-than-life cinematic experience that showcases Ajith’s versatility and star power in full glory.
- Dog Man – An Animated Adventure for All Ages: Based on Dav Pilkey’s beloved graphic novel series, Dog Man is an animated action-comedy that brings to life the hilarious and heroic adventures of a half-dog, half-man police officer. A spin-off and story within a story of Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017), it marks the second installment in the wildly popular Captain Underpants franchise. Sworn to protect and serve, Dog Man doggedly pursues the mischievous feline supervillain Petey the Cat, all while navigating a world full of chaos, friendship, and slapstick comedy. With its perfect blend of laugh-out-loud moments, thrilling action, and heartwarming messages, Dog Man is a treat for kids and families alike, promising a paws-itively unforgettable cinematic adventure.
- Akaal: The Unconquered – An Epic Tale of Bravery and Legacy: Starring and directed by the iconic Gippy Grewal, Akaal is a monumental historical drama that marks Dharma Productions’ powerful foray into Punjabi cinema. Based on true events, the film chronicles the valor and sacrifice of Sikh warriors, bringing to life a stirring story deeply rooted in Punjab’s rich cultural heritage. With its gripping narrative, grand visuals, and soul-stirring performances, Akaal stands as a cinematic tribute to the indomitable spirit of bravery and resilience. Distributed across India by Dharma Productions, this epic saga is set to leave a lasting imprint on audiences nationwide.
This week’s lineup at PVR INOX offers a rich tapestry of stories and genres, ensuring that every moviegoer finds their perfect pick. Additionally, audience can watch other new releases as well including Mammootty’s highly anticipated Bazooka (Malayalam) and sports-themed Alappuzha Gymkhana (Malayalam), Drop directed by Christopher Landon (Writer/director of Paranormal activity and Happy Death Day), the action-packed Marana Mass (Tamil) and others.
Gather your friends and family and immerse yourselves in these cinematic gems. Book your tickets now and be part of the movie magic!