New Delhi — March 11, 2025: For the first time ever, the 19th edition of What Design Can Do (WDCD) Live Delhi 2025 took place at the iconic India Habitat Centre on March 08, 2025, and featured an immersive program of talks, workshops and exhibitions on design and climate justice. A sold-out crowd of 450 designers, innovators, and changemakers gathered to explore how design can help reshape lives in the face of a planetary crisis. In partnership with Unbox Cultural Futures, Quicksand, and The Design Village, WDCD Live Delhi 2025 explored innovative and regenerative solutions for a fairer and more resilient future. The festival was supported by Global Methane Hub, The Rockefeller Foundation, The Netherlands Embassy, and Pro Helvetia – Swiss Arts Council.

Leading the conversation with a potent mix of urgency and optimism were over 30 of the world’s finest changemakers from The Netherlands, the UK, the USA, Mexico, and India. Richard van der Laken, Co-Founder and Creative Director of What Design Can Do (WDCD) captured it insightfully: “Though perspectives were diverse, one message rang clear: in turbulent times, creativity can offer a hopeful way forward. Design can be a powerful tool for disruption, as we learned from the innovators at WDCD Live Delhi 2025 — all of whom are paving the path ahead.”

As Ayush Chauhan, Co-Founder of Unbox Cultural Futures and Quicksand put it, “WDCD Live Delhi 2025 made it amply evident that change will come only when we challenge the dominant ways of working and thinking. Alongside designers and creative changemakers, who demonstrated how they are subverting unsustainable economic models, there were those from fields of policy, philanthropy, and technology, that threw down the gauntlet for how the design community needs to respond to the unique challenges of our population and region. There was a restless creative energy in the room that comes when a new vision is discovered and new alliances are formed and WDCD Live Delhi gave us both.”

Sourabh Gupta, Co-Founder of The Design Village said, “At The Design Village, we believe that community is everything, and at WDCD Live Delhi 2025, we truly saw that in action. It was an inspiring and motivating day filled with incredible sessions, speakers, and an incredible turnout.”

March 11,2025:Gillco International School hosted the highly anticipated BollyHop Dance Workshop, a vibrant celebration of womanhood that brought together students and faculty in an energetic display of strength, grace, and unity. The event, infused with boundless enthusiasm, highlighted the joy of dance while promoting empowerment and creativity.
A unique fusion of Bollywood and Hip-Hop, the BollyHop Dance Workshop allowed participants to experience the exhilaration of movement while embracing diversity and self-expression. The workshop served as a powerful reminder of the role of the arts in fostering confidence and camaraderie.

Dr. Kritika Kaushal, Principal of Gillco International School, shared her thoughts on the event, stating:

“At Gillco International, we believe in nurturing not only the academic excellence of our students but also their overall growth, including physical, emotional, and creative development. The BollyHop Dance Workshop was a fantastic way to celebrate womanhood, emphasizing the importance of strength, grace, and unity. It was heartening to see our students embrace the joy of dance and come together in this empowering experience. We hope to continue such celebrations that foster creativity, unity, and confidence among our students.”

Reflecting on the impact of NSM, Mr. Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited and Brand Custodian, Arena Animation, said, “National Students Meet 2025 was more than just a student conclave; it was a transformative experience that equipped students with the industry exposure and practical skills necessary to excel in their careers. By bringing together industry veterans, thought leaders, and young creative minds under one roof, we aimed to foster innovation, skill development, and meaningful connections that will shape the future of the AVGC sector. Through National Students Meet 2025, Arena Animation reaffirms its commitment to empowering students with industry-relevant education and experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in the ever-evolving Media & Entertainment sector.”

Mumbai, 10^th March 2025: According to CareEdge ratings, India presents significant opportunities for the development of REIT-able assets, driven by strong demand for institutional-grade real estate, increasing investor interest, and evolving regulatory frameworks. CareEdge Ratings anticipates a sustained expansion of India’s REIT portfolio in FY26 and ahead, fuelled by a combination of upcoming REIT launches and the abundant availability of high-quality, REIT-worthy assets.

According to CareEdge Ratings, the Indian office REIT segment has witnessed remarkable growth, with total operational stock expanding at a CAGR of 7% over the six years ended CY24. Additionally, REITs have consistently accounted for over 9% of the total office stock across India’s top eight cities, reflecting their growing prominence in commercial real estate.

Rajashree Murkute, Senior Director & Head – Corporate & Infra Ratings, CareEdge Ratings said, “The Indian REIT market is poised for sustained expansion, fueled by a combination of upcoming REIT launches and the abundant availability of high-quality, REIT-worthy assets. This growth is expected to be driven by a robust pipeline of Grade A commercial real estate and increasing investor interest in diversified sectors”.

India entered the REIT space in 2019 with the launch of Embassy REIT, followed by Mindspace REIT and Brookfield REIT in 2020. In 2023, Nexus REIT—India’s first retail-focused REIT—was listed on domestic exchanges, marking a significant milestone for the sector. Additionally, Knowledge Realty Trust (sponsored by The Blackstone Group and The Sattva Group), with an operational leasable area of 37.1 msf, is proposed to be listed as a REIT by H1 FY26.

From a financial standpoint, Indian REITs maintain a conservative leverage profile, with a Net Debt to Gross Asset Value (GAV) ratio of 28% as on December 31, 2024. Furthermore, stringent regulations enforced by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) have strengthened the structural integrity of REITs, enabling them to access external debt at competitive interest rates.

Development of REIT-able assets

CareEdge Ratings sees a Large Pipeline of Grade A Commercial Real Estate, Strong Demand for Commercial Properties, and Expansion Beyond Office REITs and SME REITs as Opportunities for the Development of REIT-able Assets. India has a substantial inventory of high-quality office spaces, particularly in top eight cities. Many of these assets are already leased to blue-chip MNCs, ensuring stable rental income.

The growth of IT, BFSI, and Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India is driving strong demand for high-quality commercial real estate. Companies are increasingly seeking sustainable, well-located, and technology-enabled office spaces, creating opportunities for developers to build REIT-ready assets that cater to corporate occupiers.

while the current REIT market in India is office-focused, there is growing interest in diversifying into retail and hospitality sectors. The organized retail is witnessing rapid growth due to rising e-commerce penetration and strong demand for modern retail spaces. This presents an opportunity for developers to create REIT-able assets in this sector.

SEBI has recently introduced SM REITs wherein the minimum asset value for investment is set at Rs.50 crore as against Rs.500 crore for traditional REITs. As per CareEdge Ratings, the move is likely to widen market participation, enhance liquidity, and boost real estate development in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities.

New Delhi, March 2025: Shangri-La Eros New Delhi in collaboration with Chef Pin, presents an incredible culinary experience celebrating the indigenous flavours of Northeast India. Running from 6th to 8th March 2025, Tamra, the hotel’s international cuisine restaurant, will serve an authentic selection of regional specialities crafted by Chef Mary Lalboi.

A changemaker in Northeast Indian cuisine, Chef Mary Lalboi has been influential in bringing the region’s exquisite and diverse culinary traditions to the spotlight. As the founder of Rosang Café, one of the first establishments to introduce Northeast Indian flavours to Delhi, she has dedicated her journey to preserving and sharing the treasured food culture of her homeland.

This exclusive pop-up highlights the soul of Northeast India with a meticulously curated menu featuring signature dishes that complement the region’s bold and earthy flavours. Guests can savour Kelsa, a mutton curry infused with exotic Northeast herbs; Kanga, a flavoursome goose curry with Manipuri wild roots and leaves; and Kolposola, a notable Assamese banana trunk curry. The experience continues with comforting delights like Bai, a Mizo-style seasonal mixed curry. Sanpiau, a delicate Northeast rice porridge, and Chow Satui, a soulful mutton noodle soup, complete this delightful journey. To conclude the overall experience on a sweet note, the rich and aromatic Chakhao Kheer, a black rice pudding, offers the perfect finish.

Set against the cosmopolitan backdrop of Shangri-La Eros New Delhi, this exclusive three-day event welcomes guests to appreciate the lesser-explored yet interesting world of Northeast Indian cuisine. Each dish presents guests with an enveloping experience applauding authenticity, heritage, and excellent culinary craftsmanship.

Guests can enjoy the Lunch Buffet at INR 3,200 plus taxes per person or the Dinner Buffet at INR 3,500 plus taxes per person, making this an unmissable experience for food connoisseurs.

New Delhi, 10 March 2025 – Air Canada, Canada’s largest airline and flag carrier has taken to the skies with its latest campaign, aimed at Aeroplan members looking to fly between India and Canada.

The limited-time campaign will allow customers to earn 15,000 bonus points on one eligible round trip, or two eligible one-way trips between the two destinations, as the leading global carrier reinforces its presence between India and North America.

The offer means that with just a single transaction, customers will earn enough Aeroplan points to book a one-way trip within India with one of Air Canada’s partner airlines.

Customers looking to put a spring in their step can also earn 7,500 bonus points on an eligible one-way trip from India to Canada as part of this offer if tickets are booked during the promotional period.

Available for bookings between now and 31 March, the offer is valid for travel up to 15 December 2025, and is applicable across all classes of travel — Business Class, Premium Economy, Premium Rouge and Economy, with the exception of Air Canada’s Basic fare.

Arun Pandeya, General Manager & Country Head of India, Air Canada said: “March heralds the beginning of spring season in Canada, so our spring promotion is an excellent opportunity for travellers to start planning their summer adventures to Canada, whether for business or leisure, while also enjoying all the benefits of our renowned loyalty programme.

“This is our way of rewarding the immense trust and loyalty that our frequent fliers have shown us. For those who are not yet Aeroplan members, we urge you to join the family, so you don’t miss out on said fantastic offers!”

To register for this offer, Aeroplan members can click on the ‘Register and book’ tab in their personalised offer e-mail before booking eligible flights. Alternatively, those yet to sign up to Aeroplan can become a member free of charge via the website.

Air Canada’s Aeroplan loyalty programme allows members to enjoy several exclusive benefits including reward points that can be redeemed on flights, upgrades, merchandise, hotel stays, car rentals, Air Canada vacation packages, gift cards, travel experiences, and other exclusive benefits.

The membership also includes several perks such as priority boarding, discounts, and access to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges which are known for their luxurious ambience, comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and shower facilities.

Customers looking to travel between India and Canada can also benefit from Air Canada’s unrivalled connections, including direct flights from Delhi to Montreal and Toronto, in addition to Mumbai to Toronto. Those looking to head further west, can also enjoy flights from Delhi to London Heathrow, allowing connections onto Air Canada’s Calgary and Vancouver services.

March 10, 2025 – New Delhi: Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation (formerly L&T Switchgear), a leader in the Indian electrical and automation industry, today unveiled its next-generation smart energy and automation solutions to drive energy efficiency and cost optimization by upto 30%.

These solutions align with India’s decarbonization goals by optimizing industrial processes and cater to the nation’s energy infrastructure future readiness. With the integration of automation, energy management, and software-driven intelligence, the product innovations empower industries, OEMs, utilities, and infrastructure to reduce energy consumption.

“Our commitment to ‘Viksit Bharat’ is reflected in our drive for industrial transformation and energy resilience. By merging Nordic design excellence with India’s energy transition, we deliver scalable solutions that enhance operational efficiency, drive productivity, and support the nation’s vision for a sustainable future. Through strategic investments in technology, partnerships, and R&D, we are strengthening India’s global competitiveness while building a future-proof industrial ecosystem“, said Mr. Naresh Kumar, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Lauritz Knudsen Electrical and Automation.

With decades of expertise, the company powers 2 Lakh TCD of sugar mills, automates 8K+ tons of rice mills, and drives 60 Lakh textile spindles with its cutting-edge solutions. Recognized for its reliability, Lauritz Knudsen also supports over 20 municipal corporations, 80+ petrochemical terminals, and 25K+ hospital beds. It also plays a vital role in powering India’s largest airports, leading pharmaceutical companies, and 2G ethanol plants, ensuring efficiency and innovation across sectors.

Lauritz Knudsen, a trusted partner for industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, and metals, has introduced next-generation automation solutions to enhance efficiency and accelerate India’s digital transformation.

Designed to cater to the needs of Indian customers, this entire range of products and solutions is poised to revolutionize energy and operational efficiencies, and future-proof businesses. By enabling smart energy control and advanced automation, Lauritz Knudsen aims to enhance productivity and catalyze growth in ‘Deep India’, in both the Industrial and Infrastructural sectors.

These advanced products include Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), IoT-enabled Edge Gateways, and SMARTCOMM Process SCADA Software. Tailored to meet the unique needs of ‘Bharat,’ these innovations optimize industrial automation, streamline operations, and drive productivity.

Lauritz Knudsen’s VFDs enable precision motor control and energy efficiency across key sectors, including water, chemicals, metals, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. The company’s PLCs offer advanced automation and real-time monitoring for manufacturing and process control, ensuring seamless operations. Complementing these, the intuitive HMIs provide real-time data visualization and process optimization, enhancing decision-making.

Further strengthening digital connectivity, IoT-enabled Edge Gateways facilitate predictive maintenance and operational insights, enabling businesses to maximize efficiency. Additionally, the SMARTCOMM Process SCADA Software integrates on-premise and cloud-based applications, delivering robust control and monitoring solutions for industrial processes. Together, these innovations position Lauritz Knudsen at the forefront of India’s automation and energy transformation.

Lauritz Knudsen continues to invest in India’s industrial and energy future, expanding its R&D and manufacturing footprint with state-of-the-art facilities across Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. With an expansive. manufacturing presence and 33+ offices in 500+ cities, the company is at the forefront of India’s Make in India and Viksit Bharat 2047 initiatives.