Bharat’s Future The Importance of Value-Based Quality Education
Damayanti Bhattacharya
Principal, Jasudben ML School
Our country’s future draws a lot from what it has been like in the past. India’s rich cultural heritage, deep-rooted values and immense knowledge base has survived generations and remains among us. We had a rampant gurukul system and even well-established universities that attracted worldwide scholars. At that time, we had meagre means for communication and spread of knowledge and wisdom. That has transformed.
Knowledge is now transferred in the blink of an eye and is available at our fingertips. But what about wisdom? The challenge is how to guide young minds to use this knowledge responsibly. It has become imperative to instil core values and nurture emotional intelligence in children from an early age.
A school, often considered a second home for children, therefore plays a vital role in training young minds to harness the power of technology in positive and ethical ways.
What will the world look like in 15 years? What kind of jobs will be available to today’s five-year-olds? Can we equip our children with the required knowledge? Not really. What we can do is use the power of India’s rich value system that has withstood the test of centuries.
Value-based Education and The Shift in Curriculum
The National Education Policy (NEP-2020) has taken this into consideration and incorporates value-based education right from the outset. It makes the goal of every school to nurture well-rounded individuals who will grow up to actively contribute in shaping India’s future. It redefines education as a meaningful service to society, rather than as a means to achieve professional achievement or financial gain. It promotes an education system that equips youngsters with necessary skills and mindset required to navigate through and thrive in a modern world.
As the State, CBSE, CISCE, and NCERT curricula undergo revisions, it’s more important to inculcate values into the educational framework to ensure that students engage with ethical thinking and moral reasoning from an early age. In the Early Childhood stage, where foundational values are best cultivated, ethics should be embedded into every subject, integrated into the learning process rather than an isolated topic. Value-driven experiential moves away from rote memorisation and towards a more immersive educational experience. It allows learners to internalise values organically through everyday interactions and educational experiences. They actively participate in tackling real-world challenges and reflecting on how their actions impact society. This integration can be further enriched by creating dedicated spaces for student growth, such as an Art Den, a Music and Dance Den, and a Language Den, among others.
Teachers as Role Models
The role of teachers has transformed as well. They are not only educators. They are mentors, role models, facilitators and influencers. Their emphasis from the early years should be on the promotion of experiential learning through discovery and self-directed activities. They need to upskill and be constantly updated on the world around them and stay relevant with each generation and their interests.
A flexible pedagogy that nurtures self-awareness, physical growth, relationships, communication, and conservation can create a holistic learning experience. This culture helps develop students who are well-equipped to contribute positively to society as well as carry these values into their personal and professional lives.
The Broader Impact on Society
Emphasizing value-based education has profound societal implications. In today’s interconnected world, it helps bridge social divides and strengthens national unity. As students enter the workforce and take on leadership roles, they bring a strong moral and ethical foundation that this education system has given them. It helps them throughout their professional or personal lives and also contributes to a nation deep-rooted in values and principles such as justice, equality, and fairness. In a diverse country like ours, it helps to promote social cohesion and supports the holistic development of children— emotionally, socially, cognitively, aesthetically, and physically—allowing them to excel academically while also advancing their socio-emotional growth.
As India continues to evolve, it is crucial to embrace an educational vision that honours our core traditional values while also adopting a contemporary and forward-looking academic approach. This vision lays the groundwork for a more compassionate, just, and prosperous society.
Canon India Launches She CANwithCanon for Women’s Empowerment
India, 8th March 2025: This International Women’s Day, Canon India is not just celebrating women, it is spotlighting the importance of taking action to accelerate change, through its ‘She #CANwithCanon’ campaign. Aligned with the international Women’s Day theme of ‘Accelerate Action’, the campaign aims to highlight that women empowerment shouldn’t be a momentary commitment but instead focused on creating systematic, sustainable opportunities that enable women to thrive personally and professionally.
The campaign features a powerful video showcasing the challenges women face every day and reinforces Canon India’s commitment to taking concrete steps that ensure gender equality and inclusive progress. It celebrates women as inspiring ambassadors and key pillars of success, emphasizing that inclusivity is not just a policy, but a practice. With a long-standing commitment to fueling growth, the campaign spotlights progressive initiatives such as Leadership & Mentorship programs that pair women leaders with newcomers to foster their professional development. The De-Light initiative ensures office lights are turned off at 5:30PM to promote work-life balance, while dedicated cab services enable safe commutes for women employees.
With hybrid working options and flexible working hours implemented since 2002, and a ‘Health 1st’ philosophy, Canon India has created an environment where women can grow professionally without compromising personal responsibilities and wellbeing. A two-month walkathon has been introduced to inspire a lifetime of wellbeing among employees, partners, and the community at large, while symbolizing the collective steps taken towards long-lasting change.
Speaking on the campaign, Mr. C. Sukumaran, Senior Director, Product & Communication, Canon India said, “At Canon, empowering women goes beyond celebrating achievements – it’s about fostering an environment where our workforce can succeed, both personally and professionally. Through ‘She #CANwithCanon,’ we are stressing on the importance of real change, ensuring that equality is not an aspiration but a lived reality. By mentoring, supporting, and investing in women, every single day, we pave the way for stronger, more diverse leadership and success.”
Building upon the momentum of the ‘I#CANwithCanon’ campaign, which showcased how Canon’s solutions have empowered individuals and businesses, ‘She #CANwithCanon’ reaffirms the organization’s dedication to fostering a culture where women are empowered to thrive. By continuing to champion positive attitudes and equal opportunities, we aim to inspire a future where every woman can confidently say, “I CAN.”
Casagrand Signs Hrithik Roshan as Brand Ambassador for Casagrand Mercury
Chennai, 8th March 2025: Casagrand, one of South India’s leading real estate developers, has unveiled a captivating new television commercial (TVC) featuring Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan. The company has roped in Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan for this exclusive campaign, titled “Taking Luxury to New Heights,” which showcases Casagrand Mercury’s unparalleled luxury and redefines opulent living through an engaging cinematic experience. Casagrand plans to further scale this campaign with a 360-degree, integrated approach by featuring the TV commercial across prints, advertisements, and digital integrations.
The Casagrand Mercury TVC is a visual spectacle that brings to life the grandeur and scale of one of Chennai’s most iconic residential developments. Designed to appeal to urban homebuyers seeking an exclusive lifestyle, the campaign masterfully showcases Casagrand Mercury’s towering 42-storey architecture, a sprawling 10-storey clubhouse, 130 indulgent amenities, and 17 acres of lush green spaces. Every frame captures the project’s luxurious offerings from the state-of-the-art gym to the elegantly designed living spaces with walk-in closets setting a new benchmark in premium living.
At the heart of the campaign is Hrithik Roshan, an icon of sophistication, excellence, and aspiration. His presence seamlessly aligns with the brand’s vision, reinforcing the essence of Casagrand Mercury that is breathtaking, and larger than life. The TVC blends compelling storytelling with high-end aesthetics, creating an emotionally resonant narrative that positions the project as the ultimate symbol of luxury and exclusivity. With Hrithik Roshan fore fronting the campaign, the TVC not only highlights Casagrand Mercury’s architectural brilliance but also inspires homebuyers to envision a lifestyle that transcends the ordinary.
Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Vimesh P, Senior Vice-President of Marketing, Casagrand, said, “Luxury isn’t just about ownership. It’s about vision, ambition, and the way you experience life. Casagrand Mercury isn’t another high-rise; it’s a landmark that reshapes Chennai’s skyline with scale, sophistication, and world-class living. Hrithik Roshan is the perfect embodiment of this ethos – pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and redefining excellence. This isn’t just a residence; it’s a statement. And with this partnership, we’re not just building homes, we’re shaping the future of urban living.”
Located in Perambur, Casagrand Mercury is Chennai’s first-of-its-kind high-rise residential marvel. Spread across 20 acres, the project boasts 1678 international-standard condominiums, including 2, 3, and 4 BHK high-rise apartments and 4 BHK floor villas. At its heart stands a 42-storey Dubai-styled skyscraper, alongside Chennai’s largest ten-storey clubhouse, Club Celest, spanning 88,790 sq. ft. With 130+ world-class amenities, 17 acres of open green spaces, an infinity walkway, a forest trail, multiple swimming pools, a grand gym, a sky cinema, and more, Casagrand Mercury is the epitome of indulgence.
Aptus Value Housing Wins Deloitte’s Enterprise Growth Award 2025
Chennai, March 8, 2025: Aptus Value Housing Finance India Limited, a leading Housing Finance Company, is proud to announce that it has won the inaugural Enterprise Growth Awards 2025, presented by Deloitte. This recognition highlights the remarkable growth journey and substantial contributions to India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Enterprise Growth Awards celebrate outstanding businesses that demonstrate innovation, leadership, and a commitment to driving economic progress. Aptus Value Housing Finance has consistently demonstrated resilience and remarkable growth while staying focused on its mission to make homeownership accessible to underserved segments. The company’s customer-centric approach and strategic expansion initiatives have enabled it to emerge as a trusted player in the affordable housing finance sector.
Mr. P. Balaji, Managing Director of Aptus Value Housing Finance India Ltd, said, “We are deeply honoured to receive the Enterprise Growth Awards 2025. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the trust placed in us by our customers and stakeholders. We remain committed to empowering low and middle-income families through accessible and affordable housing finance solutions.”
Aptus Value Housing Finance India Ltd has built a strong presence in semi-urban and rural markets, addressing the financial needs of distinct needs of individuals from low and middle-income segments residing in rural and semi-urban areas.
ASDC Celebrates Project Sakhi’s Success in Empowering Women EV Drivers with BluSmart
New Delhi, March 8, 2025 – The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) successfully hosted the convocation ceremony for Project Sakhi, an initiative undertaken in partnership with BluSmart, South Asia’s largest all-electric ride-hailing service and EV charging infrastructure network, and supported by the SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation to empower women as skilled electric vehicle (EV) drivers. Held at the Driver Training Institute, Burari, Delhi, the event marked a significant milestone in fostering gender inclusivity in India’s mobility sector.
As part of this program, ASDC today awarded certificates to nearly 50 women from underprivileged backgrounds who have now been placed with BluSmart, across Delhi-NCR, while another batch of 50 women continue their three-month training. This program includes comprehensive driver skills training to equip women with the skills and knowledge required for safe and efficient driving. BluSmart further provides these driver partners with knowledge sessions on the unique features and benefits of EVs. This thus empowers the driver partners with not just hardcore skills of driving but in building their holistic understanding of the space that they operate in. Together, they are breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry and paving the way for a more diverse and equitable workforce in the mobility sector.
Project ‘Sakhi’, supported by the SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation (SSF), not only promotes financial independence but also contributes to the broader goal of gender inclusivity in the mobility sector. By offering industry-aligned training and hands-on experience, programs like Project Sakhi and Nayi Raah bridge gender disparities and make way for a future-ready workforce.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Vinkesh Gulati, Vice-President, ASDC, emphasized the impact of skill development in transforming lives. He stated, “Project Sakhi is more than just a training program—it is a transformative step towards women’s empowerment and self-reliance. By equipping women with essential skills, we are not only enabling them to secure sustainable employment but also fostering their confidence to excel in non-traditional roles. When women become financially independent, they uplift their families and communities, driving broader economic and social progress. ASDC remains dedicated to expanding such initiatives, ensuring that more women break barriers and build thriving careers in the EV and automotive sectors.”
Commenting on the initiative, Anirudh Arun, CEO – BluSmart Fleet, emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusive mobility. He said, “At BluSmart, we believe that true progress comes from empowering women and providing them with opportunities to thrive in industries where they have been underrepresented. Project Sakhi is a testament to the potential of skill development in creating not just employment for our 150+ women driver partners but lasting change. We thank ASDC for their partnership in driving the industry forward, fostering meaningful change, and expanding employment opportunities in electric mobility.
The convocation ceremony brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and training partners, reaffirming their collective commitment to closing the gender gap in the automotive workforce. The initiative aligns with Delhi’s vision for sustainable urban mobility and the national agenda for green transport solutions, equipping women with the expertise to contribute to India’s growing electric mobility ecosystem.
With continued industry collaborations and policy support, ASDC aims to scale similar programs, enabling more women to enter skilled roles within the automotive and transportation sectors.
Bobby Deol Dazzles in Bespoke Bandhgala at IIFA by Raghavendra Rathore
Mumbai, 8th March 2025: Veteran actor Mr. Bobby Deol is set to make a powerful style statement at the upcoming IIFA Awards, donning an exquisite Bandhgala from India’s leading menswear brand, Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur (RRJ). Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and timeless appeal, the Bandhgala is a true reflection of India’s rich textile heritage, and Mr. Deol’s choice to wear this masterpiece speaks volumes about his appreciation for tradition and modern elegance.
This meticulously crafted Bandhgala features intricate hand embroidery, paying homage to the country’s artisanal craftsmanship and deep-rooted textile legacy. A signature creation of the brand, this iconic silhouette seamlessly combines heritage with sophistication, transforming it into a global style essential for the modern man.
Fashion aficionados echo this sentiment, recognizing Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur as the epitome of classic menswear. When asked about his look for the IIFA 2025, Mr. Bobby Deol said “There is nothing like a classic heritage look, and no brand embodies it better than Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur. The craftsmanship, cut, and fit of the Bandhgala are unmatched— it’s been truly mastered by Raghu. Once you’ve experienced the RRJ creations, it’s difficult to find classic menswear anywhere else.”
Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur has long been a symbol of sartorial excellence, redefining classic menswear with a contemporary edge. With the Bandhgala now firmly embedded in the international fashion landscape, this timeless design continues to evolve, finding its place not just in India but across the globe.
Mr. Deol, often spotted in RRJ, reinforces the enduring appeal of heritage fashion, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the modern gentleman’s wardrobe.
Accelerating Action: Global Leaders Unite for Women’s Health & Empowerment
March 8th, 2025 at Natrajpuram, Chengalpattu, Chennai: In celebration of International Women’s Day, Solidaridad, in partnership with Equitas Bank and funded by the European Union under the SWITCH ASIA project, successfully organized a comprehensive Medical Camp at Alina Private Limited (AVT Pvt Ltd), Guindy. This initiative is a key component of the “Promoting Circularity in Tamil Nadu Leather Clusters for Solid Waste Management” project, directly benefiting 100 SME tanning units while actively ensuring the participation of women in the leather supply chain.
Prioritizing Women’s Health for a Stronger Workforce
The medical camp provided free health check-ups, expert medical consultations, and awareness sessions on women’s health and wellness, addressing critical health concerns and emphasising preventive care. Women workers had access to diagnostic services, personalised health counseling, and guidance on maintaining long-term well-being.
Women’s health is not just a personal concern—it’s an economic priority. A healthier workforce leads to higher productivity, improved workplace safety, and a more resilient and inclusive MSME ecosystem. By prioritizing women’s well-being, this initiative aims to accelerate action toward a more equitable and sustainable leather supply chain.
“The theme ‘Accelerate Action’ reinforces the urgent need to empower women with access to quality healthcare. Their well-being is fundamental to the sustainability and growth of MSMEs. We are proud to partner with Equitas Bank and our collaborators to create impactful interventions that support women’s health and empowerment,” said Mr. Venkaiah Vadlamudi, Representative, Solidaridad.
Empowering Women Through Skill Development & Green Jobs
Alongside the medical camp, Solidaridad launched an ambitious skill development program in collaboration with:
– Leather Sector Skill Council (LSSC)
– Council for Leather Exports (CLE)
– Central Footwear Training Institute (CFTI)
– Indian Finished Leather Marketing and Exports Association (IFLMEA)
– Tata International
– PISIE
– A V Thomas Group
This initiative will train 300 unemployed women, equipping them with 200 hours of specialized job training, enhancing their skills, and paving the way for sustainable employment and green jobs within the leather supply chain.
By bridging the gender gap in employment and promoting eco-friendly job opportunities, this program directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
– SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-being
– SDG 5 – Gender Equality
– SDG 8 – Decent Work & Economic Growth
Through health interventions, skill-building, and green job creation, Solidaridad and its partners are shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and empowered future for women in the leather industry.
India Drives 16% YoY Surge in APAC Office Demand Growth to Continue
Bengaluru, March 8, 2025 – Demand for office space across Asia Pacific’s (APAC) top 11 markets surged 15.9% annually to 8.8 million sqm (94.7 million sq ft), led by India, Mainland China and Japan. H2 2024 was particularly strong, with office demand in the region reaching 4.7 million sqm (50.6 million sq ft), a 6.1% rise compared to H2 2023. Demand growth in H2 2024 was notable in markets such as India, Japan and particularly impressive in Australia, which had a lower base. Leasing activity, however, remained relatively subdued in New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan in H2 2024.
Colliers’ latest report, Asia Pacific Office Market Insights H2 2024 and Outlook 2025, found the significant increase in APAC office space demand to be driven by corporate expansion, return-to-office and the growth of global capability centres. The report captured the key markets of Australia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan.
Office market activity was particularly strong in India, which saw 6.17 million sqm (66.4 million sq ft) of leasing during 2024, led by a stronger second half. With 3.44 million sqm (37.0 million sq ft) of gross leasing in H2 2024, India continued to lead office leasing activity in the APAC region, witnessing an 11% YoY rise compared to H2 2023, according to new research from leading global diversified professional services company Colliers.
In India, Technology firms and Flex space operators together accounted for 46% of the total take-up across the top 6 cities during H2 2024. New supply remained robust, with over 2.81 million sqm (30.3 million sq ft) of completions in H2 2024, a 7% YoY growth across the top six cities. Bengaluru and Hyderabad led the office market activity during H2 2024, cumulatively driving more than half of India’s Grade A space demand and supply. Amidst an uptick in both leasing activity and new supply, India vacancy levels largely remained stable at around 17%.
“The APAC office market remained upbeat during H2 2024, with demand rising 6.1% YoY to 4.7 million sqm (50.6 million sq ft). Office space demand in the region continued to be driven by India, Mainland China and Japan. At the same time, leasing in Australia grew manifold during H2 2024, albeit on a comparatively lower base. New office supply declined across most markets in H2 2024, resulting in a 16.9% annual drop at the APAC level. Contrary to larger trends, India witnessed 7% YoY growth in new supply, contributing 60% of the new supply in APAC region during H2 2024. Looking ahead, we anticipate improved demand-supply dynamics in 2025, supported by balanced economic growth and likely moderation in inflation.”, said Arpit Mehrotra, Managing Director, Office Services, Colliers India.
“With over 70% share in leasing and 60% share in new supply in H2 2024, India remains one of the leading office markets in the APAC region. Strong domestic leasing, coupled with increasing Grade A space uptake by Global Capability Centers (GCCs), continues to fuel office demand in India. During H2 2024, GCCs leased 1.4 million sqm (~15 million sq ft) of office space in India, accounting for over 40% of the overall leasing during the period. Factors such as rental arbitrage, abundant talent, and language proficiency will continue to support the expansion of GCCs and outsourcing hubs in India.” said Vimal Nadar, Senior Director & Head of Research, Colliers India.
Colliers’ research estimates both demand and supply to strengthen across most APAC markets in 2025, with vacancy rates expected to remain rangebound.
Mike Davis, Colliers’ Managing Director of Occupier Services, Asia Pacific, said. “The outlook for the office occupier market remains positive, with strong demand set to drive further market shifts in the year ahead. High-activity markets may witness continued rental growth, particularly in peripheral business districts. The overall outlook for 2025 indicates a sustained momentum for the APAC office leasing market. We expect to see steady growth and continued resilience, driven by stable economic growth, corporate expansions, and the return-to-office trend. The flight-to-quality will dominate, with occupiers seeking modern, flexible and sustainable spaces that foster collaboration and productivity.”
Vestige Unveils WomenOfVestige, Empowering Women Entrepreneurs on Women’s Day
New Delhi, 8th March 2025: Vestige Marketing Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading home-grown direct-selling company, has launched #WomenOfVestige, a powerful initiative dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs across the country. As part of the larger GarvSeBoloHumHainVestige campaign, #WomenOfVestige aims to celebrate and uplift women distributors by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to succeed in direct selling.
With a strong commitment to financial independence and inclusivity, #WomenOfVestige offers specialized training programs focused on business acumen, financial literacy, and leadership development. The campaign will also spotlight inspiring success stories of women who have overcome challenges to build thriving businesses, serving as motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Mr. Gautam Bali, Managing Director and Founder, of Vestige Marketing Pvt. Ltd. shared, “Every day, more than 2,000 women join the Vestige family, stepping into a world of opportunities and limitless growth. Through #WomenOfVestige, we reinforce a sense of pride among our women distributors, encouraging them to share their journeys, achievements, and aspirations. Our goal is to bring forward the inspiring stories of women who have transformed their lives through Vestige, showcasing their resilience, and success.”
To further support this mission, Vestige is enhancing its app with expert advice tailored specifically for women distributors. The updated platform will provide industry insights, mentorship opportunities, and business-building guidance to help women establish sustainable and successful ventures.
As a part of the campaign, Vestige will also host state-wide events to educate and inspire women about opportunities in direct selling. These events will serve as a networking platform, fostering collaboration and business growth. The campaign kicks off events in Kolkata on March 8 and Mumbai on March 9, marking the beginning of a nationwide movement to empower women entrepreneurs.
Vestige Marketing remains steadfast in its commitment to gender inclusivity and economic empowerment. With #WomenOfVestige, the company is set to transform lives and create a community of confident, financially independent women entrepreneurs.