Fashion’s Second Act: Why Sustainability is the Industry’s Boldest Trend Yet
By – Eshanvi Grover, Student-designer and sustainability enthusiast from New Delhi.
The Fabric of ChangeBehind the sparkle of runways and red carpets lies a shadow few talk about — over 92 million tonnes of clothing waste dumped annually, and up to 45 billion garments produced each year, many of which never find a wearer. The question isn’t whether fashion is broken — it’s whether we’re brave enough to fix it.
As a teen designer, I’ve chosen to stitch my creativity into a new narrative: one where style and sustainability walk the runway together.
Fast Fashion’s Fallout: The Truth in Your ClosetWe live in a world where clothes are cheaper, trends move faster, and the cycle of buy-wear-dispose feels endless. But that ‘₹499 top’ often hides the real cost: polluted rivers, underpaid workers, and overflowing landfills.
If fashion is supposed to reflect culture, why are we okay with waste?
Reworking the Rules: Style That EvolvesMy journey began when I looked at my own closet — clothes worn twice, trends I no longer liked, and a pile of “nothing to wear.”
That’s when I discovered upcycling. A satin dress became a hybrid kurti. A mesh top turned into two beanies. Slowly, fashion felt less like consumption and more like creation.
Today, my designs focus on:
Multi-use garments — Outfits that morph from dress to top to wrap.
Breathable, eco-friendly fabrics — Like hemp and upcycled cotton.
Timeless silhouettes — Because sustainability is the opposite of fast.
Teens & Moms: The Overlooked AudienceFrom school runs to sleepovers, our lives move fast. But most clothes aren’t built for flexibility. Sustainable fashion fills that gap — with clothes that are comfortable, durable, and adaptable.
Imagine: one outfit that serves three occasions, made of skin-friendly fabric, and designed to last years, not months.
5 Tips to Start Your Sustainable Wardrobe
- Repeat is chic — Rewear your favorites. Restyling is the new cool.
- Swap parties > shopping hauls — Host monthly exchanges with friends.
- Label check — Look for natural or recycled fabrics before buying.
- Tailor, don’t toss — A small stitch can save a garment.
- Support small, ethical brands — They often produce with purpose.
Why This Isn’t Just a Teen TrendFrom Paris to Delhi, the future of fashion is circular. Major fashion houses now explore zero-waste design. Schools teach sustainability as a core course, not an afterthought.
This isn’t a phase. It’s a movement — and Gen Z is leading it.
My Mission: Less Waste, More WowMy goal is to launch a line of transformable clothing — fashion that moves with you, fits different body types, and lives longer than one season.
Because the best kind of fashion doesn’t just look good — it does good.
Increase Industry and manufacturing contribution to GDP our top priority: Hemant Sharma
Bhubaneswar: The 2nd Edition of the Odisha Manufacturing Conclave 2025, organized by the ASSOCHAM Odisha State Council, successfully commenced today at a city hotel. This year’s conclave, themed “AI-Driven Manufacturing: Innovation, Efficiency, and Sustainable Growth,” brought together industry leaders, policymakers, technology pioneers, and academia to discuss Odisha’s roadmap for becoming a future-ready manufacturing hub.
Additional Chief Secretary, Industry, Govt of Odisha, Shri Hemant Sharma highlighted that Manufacturing currently contributes 36% to Odisha’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), while the combined contribution of industry and manufacturing stands at 53%. He emphasized that there is significant potential to further enhance this share, and this remains a top priority for the state government. “Our policies have been strategically designed to drive this growth, and we are witnessing a rapid inflow of investments. Many investment proposals have not only been received but have also been successfully grounded,” he said.
Reflecting on Odisha’s industrial transformation over the past few decades, Sharma noted the role of technological advancements in optimizing resource use. “For instance, the land required for establishing aluminium plants with double the production capacity has now been reduced to almost half, thanks to improved technology,” he explained. He further added that the state government is actively supporting industries with a steady supply of skilled manpower and comprehensive infrastructure to help them flourish.
Shri Hemant Sharma, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries & MSME Dept, Govt of Odisha unveiled ASSOCHAM study paper in partnership with Primus Partners
The event commenced with a Welcome Address by Mr. Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, Chairman, Odisha State Development Council, ASSOCHAM, who lauded the Government’s visionary approach and called for stronger collaboration between the government, industry, and academia to enable smart and sustainable manufacturing in Odisha.
“AI is no longer an emerging trend; it is now a defining catalyst of modern manufacturing. Odisha must now transition from being resource-rich to becoming data-rich and digitally intelligent,” said Mr. Mohanty.
The conclave also witnessed the release of the ASSOCHAM-Primus Knowledge Report, providing critical insights on AI adoption and manufacturing best practices.
Mr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and North East India remarked, “India and the UK share a rich history of industrialisation and innovation. We now stand at the cusp of a new era, shaped by digital transformation, green technologies, resilient supply chains and the rising importance of critical minerals. With Odisha aspiring to become a major manufacturing hub, it naturally aligns as a strategic partner for the UK. Together, we can drive industrial innovation while upholding the principles of sustainability. Today, the UK is at the forefront of smart factory automation, advanced industrial engineering, and sustainable supply chain practices all underpinned by the latest advances in AI”.
Two key plenary sessions held. On Enabling a Competitive Manufacturing Ecosystem – Policy & Tech Integration session, Eminent speakers discussed how Odisha can leverage policy frameworks and cutting-edge technologies to build a future-ready manufacturing sector. Similarly, AI for Sustainable Manufacturing – Innovations & Best Practices session,
Industry experts explored how artificial intelligence can foster sustainable growth and unlock new opportunities across sectors. The conclave concluded with a strong call for collaborative action to make Odisha a national leader in AI-powered, sustainable, and intelligent manufacturing.
The event was attended by senior officials, industry stalwarts, technology leaders, international representatives. Ms Perminder Jeet Kaur, Senior Director – East & Northeast, ASSOCHAM proposed vote of thanks.
Other dignitaries spoke at the event were Shri D. Prasanth Kumar Reddy, IAS, Director of Industries, Odisha, Shri. Sashi Sekhar Mohanty, Chairman, Odisha State Manufacturing Council, ASSOCHAM, Mr. Prabodh Mohanty, Chairman, Odisha State Mining & Steel Council, ASSOCHAM, Mr Prashant Hota, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Odisha CSR & Sustainability Council & Mr. Bharat Dureja, Senior Adviser, Primus Partners India.
JP Infra Unveils ‘Monsoon Fest 2025’…
JP Infra Unveils ‘Monsoon Fest 2025’ – An Exclusive Seasonal Privileges for homebuyers
Mumbai, 19th June 2025: JP Infra, one of Mumbai’s most trusted and leading real estate developers, has announced its innovative limited-period campaign “Monsoon Fest 2025”- offering a host of exclusive benefits across its landmark residential developments in Mira Road, Thane, and others.
The campaign brings together a thoughtfully crafted selection of privileges that elevate the homebuying experience. Every booking comes with an assured premium White Goods voucher from leading brands. To complement this, homebuyers can choose among one of three exclusive add-on benefits: a 50% waiver on stamp duty, a modular kitchen, or a fully furnished home—each designed to enhance both comfort and savings. The offers are available for a limited time, from 16th June to 31st July 2025 These offers are available for a limited period, from 16th June to 31st July 2025, and apply across JP Infra’s most sought-after residential developments, including new launches, under-construction, and ready-to-move-in projects.
Mr. Deepak Nair, Head – Marketing, JP Infra, said “At JP Infra, we don’t just build homes, but we create opportunities for families to begin a new chapter with confidence and comfort. The Monsoon Fest is an extension of that vision. With exclusive offers, a customer-first approach, and our proven track record of timely delivery, we aim to make the journey to homeownership both rewarding and reassuring.”
With a legacy of delivering ahead of time and a commitment towards crafting thoughtfully designed communities, JP Infra’s Monsoon Fest is more than a seasonal offering, it’s a gateway to a lifestyle defined by trust, timeliness, and transformation.
MGM Healthcare Performs Rare Skull Base Surgery on 1-Year-Old
Chennai, 19th June, 2025: MGM Healthcare successfully performed a Transnasal Endoscopic Repair of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leak from a herniated brain inside nose with Skull Base Defect Reconstruction on a one-year-old child from Odisha. , marking a rare and complex intervention in pediatric endoscopic skull base surgery. This surgery was done using duragen, a collagen-based biomaterial, instead of a traditional autograft. The surgery was uneventful, the patient was discharged 48 hours post-surgery.
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage occurs when there is a defect or tear in the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, allowing the clear, cushioning fluid to escape from its normal pathways. When such a leak occurs at the skull base, it can lead to nasal discharge, recurrent infections, and breathing difficulties.The presence of congenital meningomyocele inside the nasal cavity proved to be the biggest surgical challenge . The condition is extremely rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 10,000 cases.
In this case, the child had been experiencing multiple episodes of brain fever, persistent CSF leakage and complete nasal blockage for nearly six months, due to a congenital skull base defect. This is a rare condition where the base of the skull does not fully develop during the growth period. If left untreated may lead to life-threatening complications due to the exposure of prolapsed meninges herniating into the nasal cavities from above. It was left undiagnosed and untreated till the pertinent investigations clinched the diagnosis. In the earlier visits to the hospitals, the baby was treated conservatively in the hope that mouth breathing would abate as the age progresses.Finally , a proper evaluation led to the diagnosis of this clinical entity.
The intra operative innovation using collagen based artificial dura eliminated the requirement for a secondary surgical site, thereby reducing surgical invasiveness, an important consideration in pediatric surgical care. In such an underweight child, especially , during the growth phase , it’s important to preserve the existing anatomy to the extent possible.
Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department, Institute of ENT, MGM Healthcare said, “Navigating through a narrow transnasal route in a one-year-old child with such a high-risk skull base defect is always a surgical challenge. This case reinforces the importance of early diagnosis and timely intervention. Open surgical approaches in such cases can be highly morbid. However, by employing the endoscopic technique along with advanced biomaterials, we were able to minimize scarring, ensure faster recovery, and reduce the overall surgical burden on the child.”
Using advanced high-definition endoscopic imaging technology, Dr. Mohanty and his team successfully navigated the infant’s extremely narrow nasal passage to locate and repair the skull base defect with high precision.
This case also underscores the value of cadaveric dissection-based training and continual upskilling in endoscopic skull base approaches, which enhance surgical precision and enable safer, more effective treatment of rare and complex cases like this one.
Narayana Health Doctors Reattach Severed Foot in Rare Surgery
Bengaluru, 19th June, 2025: In a rare and complex surgical feat, doctors at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru, have successfully reattached the foot of a 23-year-old woman, Pavithra, following a devastating road traffic accident (RTA) that resulted in a traumatic foot-level amputation.
The incident occurred on May 14th, when Pavithra was riding pillion with a family member on a two-wheeler and was involved in a collision that led to the complete severing of her foot. Demonstrating remarkable presence of mind, her family quickly retrieved and preserved the amputated limb in a clean, cool condition and rushed her to Narayana Health City within the critical golden window of six hours.
What followed was an intricate, high-stakes surgical procedure led by Dr. Ravi D R, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, supported by a specialised trauma and microsurgical team. The surgery, which lasted several hours, involved meticulous repair of crushed bone, arteries, veins, nerves, and tendons to restore the limb’s viability.
“Foot re-implantation surgeries are extremely rare, especially in cases involving severe crush injuries,” said Dr. Ravi. “Most such injuries are considered unfit for reattachment. However, quick-thinking action by the patient’s family, combined with our team’s preparedness, surgical precision, coordinated care, and overall medical excellence, made this extraordinary outcome possible.”
This case is medically significant not only due to the complexity and rarity of foot re-implantation but also because it demonstrates the level of coordinated trauma care that is available in select advanced centres. To the team’s knowledge, this is the first such successful foot re-implantation performed at their unit since 2018.
Pavithra is currently recovering well under close observation, with early signs of success and the initiation of physiotherapy for rehabilitation. Her case underscores the importance of public awareness in post-amputation first aid—prompt transport, proper preservation of the limb, and immediate medical intervention, which can make the difference between permanent disability and functional recovery.
India Real Estate Report FY 2025-26: Trends, Insights and Forecasts
New Delhi, June 2025: Grant Thornton Bharat , released its latest edition of India Real Estate Report FY 2025–26, highlighting continued momentum in India’s real estate sector across residential, commercial, and industrial verticals. The report reveals strong investor interest, emerging asset classes, and growing adoption of technology and sustainability practices.
Key Highlights:
– Residential Resurgence: Home sales across India’s top cities rose ~77% since FY 2019, with increasing preference for mid-to-premium homes. While affordable housing saw a slight dip in Q1 2025, overall inventory is reducing, indicating long-term demand stability.
– Commercial Real Estate on the Rise: Office leasing hit record levels in FY 2025, driven by demand from global capability centers, IT/ITeS, and flexible workspaces. Tier-2 cities are emerging as new hubs.
– Industrial & Warehousing Growth: The logistics and warehousing sector continues to expand, supported by ‘Make in India’, GST reforms, and the National Logistics Policy.
– Capital Flows & Deals: India recorded 99 real estate transactions worth USD 6.99 billion in FY 2024–25. Private equity led with USD 3.15 billion, while public markets raised nearly USD 3 billion through IPOs and QIPs.
– Technology & ESG Disruption: AI, blockchain, smart buildings, and green construction are reshaping how assets are developed and operated. Real estate tokenisation and SM-REITs are emerging as new investment vehicles.
The sector faces rising construction costs, regulatory delays, and the need to adapt to evolving consumer preferences such as wellness-centric and integrated living. However, the report forecasts sustained growth in premium housing, commercial office spaces, logistics infrastructure, and alternative investments, driven by digital innovation, urban decentralisation, and investor appetite.
Developer Spotlight: Sobha Ltd.’s Bengaluru flagship, Sobha Dream Acres, is leading innovation in sustainable construction and efficient housing delivery, with plans to expand into Mumbai’s luxury market. “India’s real estate story is being rewritten—digitally, sustainably, and inclusively. The future is decentralized, tech-enabled, and investor-friendly,” said the Shabala Shinde, Partner and Real Estate Industry leader, Grant Thornton Bharat.
The Wealth Company Launches INR 2000 Cr Bharat Bhoomi Fund to Capture India’s Real Estate Potential
Chandigarh, 10th June 2025: The Wealth Company Asset Management Private Limited, part of the Pantomath Group, has launched Bharat Bhoomi Fund—a ₹1000 crore Category II AIF with a ₹1000 crore green shoe option—under its fifth Bharat Value Fund series. The Fund brings private equity-style rigor to India’s growing real estate sector, with a focused approach on execution-ready projects across high-opportunity corridors and core cities.
Bharat Bhoomi Fund marks a thoughtful expansion of The Wealth Company’s investment canvas—rooted in the same value-driven philosophy that defines the rest of its approach. Building on the strong foundation and credibility of the Bharat Value Fund series—trusted and backed by quality investors such as Sovereign Fund of Funds and prominent Family Offices—this fund provides a natural way to broaden exposure to real assets. Offering visibility and collateral backing, real estate forms a resilient foundation alongside equity and private market investments—demonstrating lasting value across market cycles.
For The Wealth Company, real estate is not a new direction, it’s a natural progression aligned with the need to diversify portfolios. The asset class aligns perfectly with the focus on tangible value, risk-managed returns, and disciplined capital deployment. The Fund is built to bridge the gap between developer mindset and investor expectations, applying hallmark underwriting and governance frameworks to a physical asset class, supported by expert operators and executional control.
The Fund will follow a diversified capital allocation strategy—investing in data centers, warehousing, hospitality, and renewable parks, sectors aligned with India’s evolving infrastructure, digital transformation, and sustainability priorities. Investor demand for these new economic assets is growing, driven by the country’s digital and green energy transitions. These segments go beyond traditional real estate—they represent economic infrastructure, reflecting the fund’s strategic focus. Alongside this, investments will target mid-to-premium residential, retail, plotted villas, and mixed-use developments across high-growth cities such as Mumbai (MMR), NCR, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The fund will also focus on infrastructure-led corridors and plotted developments benefiting from upcoming connectivity and urban expansion.
The Fund is led by Rakesh Kumar, whose experience spans over 50,000 real estate transactions and senior leadership roles at Shell, Walmart, and Reliance, along with Bhavya Bagrecha, who has executed over ₹2,500 crore in institutional real estate investments and introduced India’s first REIT-style structure under SEBI’s VCF regulations. The team is further strengthened by Peter Sharp, former head of Walmart’s Asia real estate operations, who joins as an advisor with over 35 years of global experience.
The Fund’s approach is designed to identify projects with clear land titles, regulatory readiness, and early exit visibility. It will target ready-to-launch assets that can move swiftly from investment to value creation. With a robust pipeline of approximately 1200 acres across six projects, Bharat Bhoomi Fund is well-positioned to deploy capital with speed, prudence and precision.
Madhu Lunawat, Founder and Director of The Wealth Company Asset Management, stated, “As capital becomes more thoughtful, the demand for real assets with real outcomes has never been higher. Bharat Bhoomi Fund allows meeting that demand with discipline, data, and domain expertise. The Wealth Company’s investment ethos is now extending confidently into India’s real estate space—with conviction and clarity.”
As the Indian real estate market matures, Bharat Bhoomi Fund arrives with timing, leadership, and structure —opening the door to a new standard in real estate investing.
Kamakshi Rai, Nexa Music Season 3 Winner, Drops New Single “Ghosts” on June 10
Mumbai, 10 June 2025 – Celebrated indie artist and Nexa Music Season 3 Winner, Kamakshi Rai, is all set to unveil her latest single “Ghosts” on June 10, 2025. Handpicked by music maestro A.R. Rahman Kamakshi brings her signature blend of emotional honesty and sonic depth in this haunting new release that promises to resonate deeply with listeners.
“Ghosts” is a deeply personal exploration of memory, vulnerability, and healing. Set against a brooding, atmospheric production, Kamakshi’s soulful vocals guide listeners through the lingering echoes of love and loss. The track captures the introspection and emotional complexity that have become the hallmark of her songwriting.
“Ghosts is about the parts of us that stay behind in the spaces we leave — the love, the grief, the echoes,” says Kamakshi. “Writing this song was like walking through the shadows with a lantern — confronting what still lingers and finally making peace with it.”
Kamakshi’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. In 2025, she took the stage at Lollapalooza India, where she collaborated with Zedd during his Day 1 set and opened the Nexa Stage with her own set on Day 2.
She has also headlined three international music productions — The London Dream Project, Ashley Lobo’s Passage to Bollywood, and Stardust — and taken lead roles in celebrated musical theatre productions like Balle Balle by Wizcraft and Sing India Sing by Fountainhead.
Beyond the stage, Kamakshi has lent her voice to Bollywood playback songs, a Disney feature film, film scores, web series title tracks, and TV commercials. First discovered as the runner-up on Season One of “The Stage”, she has since emerged as a formidable original songwriter with tracks that have charted and been widely playlisted across platforms.
19 Young Indians Named Finalists in 3rd Edition of vivo Ignite Tech Innovation Contest
3rd Edition of vivo Ignite : Technology and Innovation Finalists Announced – 19 Young Indian Students Champion Societal Change Through Tech Innovation
New Delhi, 10 June 2025: As the third edition of vivo Ignite reaches its culmination, young Indian students from Grades 8 to 12 are demonstrating extraordinary vision to address societal challenges through innovation.
vivo India, a trusted smartphone brand, has announced the top 10 Ideas, represented by 19 young finalists of its nationwide flagship program – vivo Ignite Technology and Innovation. These outstanding project ideas were selected from over 5,600 submissions, representing a rich diversity of thought, creativity and purpose.
Developed by 19 exceptional young minds, the winning ideas exemplify a unique blend of technology, creativity and intent, offering practical solutions to some of the most pressing societal challenges. The vivo Ignite initiative is designed to nurture problem-solving and analytical thinking among India’s youth and provides students with access to mentorship, resources, and a structured platform to turn their ideas into impactful, tech-driven solutions.
With participation from more than 9,000 schools across 660+ districts, this year’s final has witnessed remarkable diversity. Finalists hailed from diverse regions including Haryana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Pondicherry, Odisha and West Bengal.
Out of nearly 200 shortlisted ideas, 10 transformative innovations stood out — developed by a balanced cohort of 9 boys and 10 girls. The regional distribution of finalists underscored the truly national character of the program: North and South India each contributed two finalist ideas each from the region, while East and West India were represented by three finalists each. Students from Grade 9 formed the largest group, with 13 out of the 19 finalists part of the top 10 ideas, followed by students from Grades 11 (3 students), 8 (2 students), and 10 (1 student)—a testament to the early spark of innovation among young minds.
The Top 10 projects selected this year exemplify how young innovators are applying technology to address real-world challenges—from climate action to inclusive healthcare and rural access. Each idea reflects a deep understanding of community needs and highlights the growing strategic relevance of youth-led innovation in India’s development journey.
- AI-Guru Box: Offline AI Voice System to Assist Rural Communities by Binayak Sengupta: An AI powered rural information hub that bridges the knowledge divide by delivering real time access to healthcare, legal rights, and government schemes, fostering inclusive and sustainable community development.
- Electro-Hub (Community Scale Electricity Producer) by Ritika Jumle and Falguni Kishor Chaudhari: Algae-Biofueler BioNova system that is focused on sustainable biofuel production by a farming technique innovation called, “Pranahakosh” along with a community-based machinery that aims on producing electricity and purifying air too. The first conceptual biofuel engine of India that is very budget-friendly, environment-friendly and recycles CO2 rather than emitting it.
- Arduino Based LPG Gas: Arduino Based LPG Gas Leakage Detection and Prevention System by Kushaal Abhay, Vamshikha K S, & Dhriti Kannan: An automated safety mechanism that enables quick response to accidental LPG leaks, prioritizing prevention and disaster control. An easy-to-install system offering enhanced protection for nearby individuals by significantly reducing leak risks, despite challenges like cost, and network coverage in some areas.
- Nanocomposite Sealants Restoration: Upcycling Waste into Nanocomposite Sealants for Concrete Crack Restoration by Supriya S & Saruhasini V: A system that utilizes waste-derived nanocomposite sealants for concrete crack repair, offering enhanced durability, crack and water resistance. It presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional methods, though further optimization is needed for large-scale infrastructure application.
- Smart Navigation Cane: Smart Navigation Cane for the Visually Impaired by Nilesh Kumar: A smart cane designed to enhance mobility and independence for visually impaired individuals. Reduces pedestrian accidents with real time obstacle alerts. Provides emergency SOS response with Live GPS tracking, Traffic light detection and weather alerts to improve outdoor planning and safety.
- Fab-Brick by Shreeja Mahadik & Harshita Taral: A superglue made from acetone and thermocol that can effectively bind fabric waste to form bricks suitable for non-load-bearing construction. This method highlights a practical approach towards recycling textile waste into usable building materials.
- ArmX – Smart Rehabilitation System for One-Hand Paralyzed Individuals by Devarsh Patel, Veer Manvar, & Kavan Patel: A smart rehabilitation system for individuals with one-hand paralysis, utilizing a sensor-equipped glove to capture hand movements and relay them to a robotic arm that replicates the motion on the affected hand. This non-invasive, interactive setup facilitates movement therapy, gradually improving mobility, strength, and neuroplasticity, thereby fostering greater independence and quality of life.
- Green Run for Green Souls (From Wind to Wheels) by Safin Mallick, Sirsa Naskar, & Agamani Pandey: This project is commercially viable by leveraging renewable wind energy for EV charging stations, reducing dependence on traditional power sources. With India’s vast highway network and growing EV market, scalability is achievable by installing more VAWT towers along highways. The project offers cost savings on infrastructure, aligns with sustainable goals, and promotes green energy.
- Trevive: A Device to Monitor Real-Time Health of Trees by Abeer Gosain: Trevive is a scalable, low-cost solution adaptable for urban and rural landscapes. It’s simple yet effective technology that makes it viable for municipalities, schools, and conservation programs. The mobile app ensures accessibility and provides valuable insights for large-scale tree health assessment. With further automation, Trevive can become a commercialized tool for global tree conservation efforts.
- AI Powered Criminal Activity Detection: Al Powered Criminal Activity Detection Through Sensor Less Sensing by Prateek Sethi: A cost-effective, large-scale crime detection system using Wi-Fi sensing technology. It offers non-intrusive surveillance capable of distinguishing between normal and suspicious human activities, making it suitable for enhancing security across public spaces, homes, and organizations.
The competition is close to its culmination with Grand Finale scheduled for June 15, 2025, in New Delhi. As part of the recognition and encouragement for outstanding performance, scholarships will be awarded to both individual and group winners. Individual participants securing the top five ranks will receive scholarships of INR 4 lakhs, INR 3 lakhs, INR 2 lakhs, INR 1.5 lakhs, and INR 0.75 lakh respectively. Whereas in the group category, scholarship amounts range from INR 9 lakhs for winner, INR 6 lakhs for 2nd positions, INR 4.5 lakhs for 3rd position, INR 3 lakhs for 4th position, and INR 1.5 lakhs will be awarded to the 5th rank holding teams respectively.
As the nation awaits the finale, the vivo Ignite platform continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers driven by science, technology, and purpose. vivo Ignite has established itself as a powerful platform for discovering promising young innovators and equipping them with the resources, mentorship, and recognition needed to transform their ideas into real-world impact.
IHCL Reaffirms Commitment to Reducing Plastic Pollution on World Environment Day
Chandigarh, June 7, 2025: As part of its ongoing sustainability journey, Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, reiterates its commitment to environmental stewardship by advancing impactful waste management and plastic reduction initiatives on World Environment Day. Aligning with the United Nations’ theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution,’ IHCL continues to lead in sustainable practices through its ESG+ framework of Paathya.
Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, stated, “At IHCL, sustainability is integral to our business strategy and purpose. We recognise the urgency of the global plastic crisis and are committed to being part of the solution. Through Paathya, we are driving systemic change by eliminating single-use plastics and investing in long-term waste management solutions. As we continue to evolve, our focus remains on creating lasting impact within our hotels and across our communities.”
IHCL has made significant strides in eliminating single-use plastics across its operations. Key initiatives include installing in-house glass water bottling plants across 64 hotels, introducing 500 ml and 250 ml water bottles in banquets and spas, and incorporating biodegradable materials for bathroom amenities. Transitioning to carbon-neutral bamboo key cards made from renewable resources, IHCL eliminated 623 tonnes plastic. Waste segregation at source is implemented across all hotels, with waste streams being tracked and recycled through authorized channels. To manage organic waste, 101 hotels have installed organic waste composter or biogas systems, collectively preventing over 8,119 tonnes of organic waste from reaching landfills.
The partnership with United Way Mumbai to implement a comprehensive community waste management program led to the collection of over 1,12,000 kilograms of waste in six months, with more than 41,500 kilograms directed for recycling. Through this partnership, interactive sessions are conducted across Mumbai’s colleges raising awareness on marine pollution, mangrove conservation, and practical waste management strategies. Other community initiatives include the adoption of Mahim Reti Bunder and Mahim Causeway in Mumbai for a multifaceted approach to waste management.