Furlenco Partners with RCB for Women’s T20 League 2025

National, 17th February 2025: Furlenco, India’s leading furniture and lifestyle rental brand, teams up with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the Official Furniture Partner for the upcoming Women’s T20 League 2025. Furlenco’s vision for flexible living perfectly complements RCB’s never-back-down attitude, making ‘Furnish the Bold’ more than a promise, but a way of life.

With a strong presence in 25+ cities across India, Furlenco is transforming the urban furniture landscape through its innovative subscription-based model. Bengaluru, the brand’s largest market, underscores its deep penetration among young, aspirational consumers. As part of its strategic growth plan, Furlenco is expanding into new cities, and this partnership with RCB for Women’s team in 2025 serves as a pivotal move to strengthen brand visibility and connect with a wider audience through the influential platform of sports.

As part of this strategic collaboration, Furlenco will furnish key team spaces, including team rooms enhancing comfort and functionality for RCB (W) team 2025. The collaboration extends across OOH, digital, print, and social media, reinforcing Furlenco’s commitment to innovative home solutions and expanding brand reach.

Speaking on the partnership, Ajith Karimpana, CEO & Founder of Furlenco, said: “We are proud to partner with Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the Official Furniture Partner for Women’s T20 League 2025. Bengaluru has been central to our growth, and this collaboration strengthens our deep connection with the city and its cricketing culture. Together, we aim to elevate the fan experience and bring bold, innovative living to the forefront.”

“This collaboration ushers in a bold new chapter for Furlenco, blending innovative home solutions with the energy of world-class cricket. As RCB Women’s team takes the field, Furlenco is ready to ‘Furnish the Bold’ and support champions on and off the pitch.”

On this partnership, Rajesh V Menon, Chief Operating Officer of RCB said, “We are pleased to partner with Furlenco, united by our shared vision of innovation and community, to offer elevated experiences at the centre. Together, we aim to craft memorable moments that resonate and foster a deeper connection.”

IIM Kashipur Unveils ‘Manthan 2025’: A Premier Cross-Domain Conclave with Industry Pioneers

Kashipur, February 17, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur successfully hosted Manthan 2025, its flagship cross-domain conclave, bringing together distinguished industry leaders to engage in insightful discussions on innovation, resilience, and strategic transformation. The event provided an opportunity for future business leaders to gain invaluable insights from industry stalwarts, fostering a bridge between academia and corporate excellence.

The conclave featured two thought-provoking panel discussions, each addressing key aspects of modern business strategy and leadership in a fast-evolving landscape. With a focus on both present challenges and future opportunities, the sessions emphasized how businesses can adapt, innovate, and lead with resilience.

Morning Panel: “Decoding Resilience: Strategy in Disruptive Times”

Setting the tone for the day, the first panel explored strategies for navigating uncertainty and fostering sustainable growth. Experts from diverse industries shared their experiences and insights on strategic decision-making in volatile business environments.

Each speaker provided a unique perspective, making the discussion both insightful and actionable.

Nikhil Bhushan, Chief Technology Officer, Starbucks, emphasized that companies must move beyond product functionality and focus on fostering deeper human connections. Vrunda Thakkar Chief of Staff, Augmont, highlighted the exponential nature of market disruptions, urging businesses to proactively embrace change as a strategic advantage. Supriya Saripalli Chief of Staff and Director of Business Operations at ServiceNow, stressed the growing importance of intrinsic human capabilities, such as problem-solving and emotional intelligence, in an era dominated by automation. Arnab Banerjee, Director of Supply Chain AI, at Micron shared a structured career roadmap, advising professionals to continuously assess their expertise and stay updated with evolving technologies. Anil Suneja, Chief Financial Officer, Medtronic India, pointed out the risks of inadequate investment in research and development, warning that regulatory challenges could threaten business survival. Subramanian Chidambaran, Chief Strategy Officer, Cummins, advocated for balancing short-term adaptability with long-term strategic goals, ensuring sustainable growth.

Afternoon Panel: “Beyond Profit – Business for People & Planet”

As the day progressed, the focus shifted towards a more holistic perspective—how businesses can integrate sustainability, ethics, and human-centric growth into their core strategies.

Moderated by Prof. Safal Batra, a faculty member at IIM Kashipur known for his expertise in strategic management and entrepreneurship, the discussion underscored key themes:

  • Neetan Chopra, Chief Digital and Information Officer, IndiGo, Businesses must integrate sustainability and ethical decision-making to create long-term impact.
  • Dr. Tanya S, Senior Vice President, American Express reassured that AI will enhance, not replace jobs, emphasizing adaptability and lifelong learning.
  • Mr. Rajesh K, Chief Quality & Sustainability Officer, Licious, emphasized resource efficiency and meaningful work as fundamental to societal and corporate progress.
  • Ms. Swati Mishra, Head of HR – South Asia, Omya, advocated for resilience and goal-setting as key drivers of success.
  • Mr. Samrat Sehgal,Global Supply Chain Head, Dabur highlighted the need for agility and strategic thinking amid rapid technological advancements.
  • Mr. Uday Murthy Kandarpa, Managing Director, Kyndryl emphasized incremental progress and strong values as the foundation for sustainable business growth.

The conclave concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where students and industry professionals engaged with panelists on topics ranging from ethical business practices to sustainability strategies. The discussions not only provided real-world insights but also emphasized the importance of creating a responsible and purpose-driven corporate world.

“Manthan, our flagship conclave, continues to be a catalyst for fostering innovation, leadership, and resilience in today’s ever-changing business landscape. At IIM Kashipur, we are committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry, equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to lead with agility and purpose.”

— Prof. Deepak Verma, Chairperson, Placement & Corporate Relations, IIM Kashipur

Manthan 2025 provided a platform for future business leaders to gain invaluable insights from industry stalwarts, fostering a culture of adaptability, innovation, and resilience in an ever-evolving corporate landscape.

The Indian Institute of Management Kashipur is a premier business school dedicated to academic excellence, research, and industry collaboration. Through its diverse programs, industry partnerships, and knowledge-driven initiatives, IIM Kashipur continues to shape future business leaders who are agile, innovative, and purpose-driven.

Nail Your Professional Profile With Hiring Expert’s 7 Tips

17th February 2025:

Key Points:

  •  Employers and recruiters look at more than just a CV, expert says
  • You can get the job of your dreams simply by making a few changes
  •  This expert provides the updates everyone should be making to their online profile to attract the most employers in their specific industry

In a competitive job market, the key to success lies in standing out from the crowd and making yourself visible to potential employers and recruiters. With the rise of professional platforms like LinkedIn, recruiters have access to a larger pool of candidates than ever before. This has completely revolutionized the recruitment process, making it faster and more efficient for both recruiters and job seekers.

A strong and attractive professional profile has become more important than ever for job seekers who want to land their dream job. If you’re not utilizing these platforms to their fullest potential, you could be missing out on valuable opportunities to showcase your skills and experience to recruiters.

Luckily, recruitment experts exist to identify insider tips for crafting a professional profile that stands out and catches the eye of recruiters. “You need a clear and concise summary highlighting your skills, experience, and career goals. This is the first thing recruiters will see, so it should grab their attention and make them want to learn more about you,” suggests Julia Yurchak, Senior Recruitment Consultant Keller Executive Search.

With these insider tips below, you’ll be well on your way to nailing your professional profile and attracting recruiters to your dream job. It’s time to take your career to the next level and make your profile work for you.

1. Complete and Updated Job History

The most important aspect of any professional profile is a detailed and up-to-date job history. This includes the positions you’ve previously held and your job titles, responsibilities, and accomplishments in each role. This helps potential employers understand your experience and skill set.

2. Posts in Your Niche

Recruiters increasingly look at social media platforms, especially LinkedIn, to find and evaluate potential candidates. “Sharing insightful and knowledgeable posts related to your industry or niche can showcase your expertise and knowledge, making you stand out to recruiters,” says Julia.

3. Endorsements and Recommendations

Having endorsements and recommendations from previous colleagues, managers, or clients on your profile can add credibility and help recruiters understand your skills and strengths. Ask for recommendations from those who can speak to your work ethic and abilities.

4. Achievements and Accomplishments

Recruiters are drawn to candidates with a track record of success and achievement. “You should include any relevant awards, certifications, or significant accomplishments on your profile to catch the attention of recruiters and make a strong impression,” suggests Julia.

5. Educational Background and Relevant Courses

Your educational background and any relevant courses or certifications can also be helpful in attracting recruiters. “Make sure you include details of your degree, major, and any relevant coursework or certifications that showcase your expertise and qualifications,” adds Julia.

6. Professional Networking

Your profile should showcase your ability to network and build professional relationships. Include any professional groups or associations you are a member of, any events or conferences you have attended, and any relevant connections you have made in your industry.

7. Clear and Professional Profile Picture

“First impressions matter, and your profile picture is often the first thing recruiters see,” stresses Julia. Make sure to use a high-quality, professional profile picture that conveys confidence and approachability.

Julia Yurchak, Senior Recruitment Consultant Keller Executive Search Comments:

“Having a comprehensive and professional profile is the first step to attracting recruiters. Including your job history, relevant skills, achievements, and career milestones on your profile can significantly increase your chances of catching the attention of recruiters and landing your dream job.

“Make sure to regularly update and maintain your profile to stay relevant and stand out to recruiters in your industry. Given today’s job market, you never know when you may need to dust off your resume and hit the market, so always be on your toes and ready to adapt no matter what the business world throws at you.”

Apna.co & AICTE Empower 3.5 Lakh Students, Facilitate 8 Lakh+ Job Applications

New Delhi: 15th, February 2025: Apna.Co, India’s leading jobs and professional networking platform, in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), has successfully facilitated employability prospects for lakhs of students across the country. Through the partnership, 3.5 lakh students across 6,000 colleges have been empowered with career opportunities in just 9 months, bridging the gap between education and employment.

The AICTE Career Portal, launched as part of this collaboration, has become a transformative force in connecting students with verified job opportunities. It has enabled over 8 lakh job applications across 44,000+ companies, including top industry giants like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HDFC Bank, Deloitte, and Tata Motors. Moreover, with 1.6 lakh job opportunities lined up for campus hiring between March and June 2025, the career portal is set to create a seamless bridge from graduation to employment, unlocking career pathways for millions of students.

Through the AICTE Career Portal, students have been able to develop industry-relevant skills, with top technical skills in demand, including Python, Java, C++, data analytics, SQL, cloud computing (AWS, Azure), cybersecurity, and AI/ML. The most sought-after soft skills remain communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Sector-wise, job demand has been the highest in Technology & IT Services, BFSI, Retail & E-commerce, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Logistics, underlining the need for a skilled and future-ready workforce.

The Career Portal has also addressed key hiring challenges, particularly for students in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, by eliminating geographical barriers and ensuring equal access to job opportunities. Additionally, free career masterclasses attended by over 30,000 students have helped bridge skill gaps, offering guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and emerging technologies.

Building on the success of this initiative, Apna.Co and AICTE conducted CampusInc 2025, a landmark event which brought together industry, government, and academia to shape India’s future workforce. Held on 13th February 2025 at the AICTE auditorium in Delhi, the event witnessed 300+ delegates and over 12 distinguished speakers, including Sonali Misra (VP – Talent and Head of HR, Bain & Co.), Vineet Tandon (Director, Global Talent Marketing, HCL Tech), Gautam Duggal (Director, People Strategy & Business Partnering, Mastercard), Nidhi Pasricha (Associate Director, EY), Kushendra Singh (Head Talent Acquisition – India & South West Asia Coca Cola), Misal (TA Head ECR & Audit, KPMG), Dr. Safia Farooqui (Director, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Centre for Online Learning), Abhijeet Anand (Business Head – Early Careers, Apna.co), Siddharth Anand (Head, Enterprise Marketing, Apna.co) and Dr. Preet Deep Singh (VP, Apna.co), among others. Nirmit Parikh, Founder and CEO of Apna.co and Honorary Professor T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, also delivered the keynote addresses.

The event featured panel discussions exploring a wide range of topics, including AI, Tech & Automation: Industry Expectations from Campus Talent & Academia and Employing India’s Largest Generation: Strategies to Hire & Skill GenZ, offering deep insights into the evolving employment landscape.

Apna.co is on a mission to build a future where every student, irrespective of their background, has an equal opportunity to thrive in the professional world,” said Nirmit Parikh, Founder and CEO of Apna.co. “Our collaboration with AICTE is a testament to the power of technology in bridging skill gaps and making employment more accessible. CampusInc 2025 marked a significant milestone in this journey, bringing together key stakeholders to drive India’s workforce transformation. The event fostered impactful discussions that are set to shape hiring strategies and upskilling efforts for the next generation of professionals

Honorary Professor T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, added, “By bridging academia and industry, we are shaping a future-ready workforce equipped to navigate emerging challenges. CampusInc 2025 served as a key platform for driving impactful discussions on India’s talent pipeline, ensuring students gain the skills needed for the digital age. Our continued partnership with Apna.co will be instrumental in transforming quality education into meaningful career opportunities.”

The success of Apna.co’s collaboration with AICTE marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and dynamic job market while reinforcing the two organisations’ shared vision towards creating a robust workforce across India.

Sri Mandir Joins International Temples Convention & Expo as Temple Technology Partner to Boost India’s ₹6 Lakh Crore Temple Economy

National, 15th February 2025 – In a landmark collaboration, Sri Mandir, India’s leading devotional tech platform, has been named the Official Temple Technology Partner for the International Temples Convention & Expo (ITCX) 2025, the world’s largest conclave dedicated to temple administration and management. ITCX 2025, organized by Temple Connect in association with Anthyodaya Pratishthan, is set to witness hybrid participation from over 1581 devotional institutions from 58 countries under one roof at Asha Conventions, Tirupati, from February 17 to 19. The event, hailed as the ‘Mahakumbh of Temples’, will showcase 111+ speakers, 15+ workshops and knowledge sessions and 60+ stalls, with a sharp focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and progressive temple management.

The temple economy, valued at over ₹6 lakh crore, is a significant driver of spiritual tourism and religious engagement in India. ITCX 2025 will serve as a catalyst for this ecosystem, fostering global collaboration between temple leaders, policymakers, and industry experts. This convention aims to modernize and streamline temple operations to meet the growing demand. Key discussions will center around AI-driven temple management, fintech solutions for temple funds, sustainable energy practices, crowd control innovations, and digital tools to enhance devotee experiences. The initiative will be a significant milestone in strengthening the religious travel market, which is valued at approximately ₹20,000 crore. This year’s convention is set to witness participation from India’s most revered temples, including Tirumala Venkateshwara Temple (TTD), Kashi Vishwanath, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, and Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

As the Official Temple Technology Partner, Sri Mandir will lead a speaker session and an interactive workshop, showcasing how its advanced digital solutions transform temple accessibility for devotees around the world. With over 30 million app downloads and 2.7 million pujas facilitated, Sri Mandir has revolutionized devotional engagement, ensuring that millions who cannot physically visit temples can still participate in rituals and ceremonies. The platform’s virtual pujas, chadhava offerings, and extensive devotional content have redefined the spiritual landscape, making devotion more accessible than ever. This collaboration with ITCX 2025 marks the beginning of a new era for temple management, combining digital innovation with centuries-old spiritual traditions, ensuring a more inclusive, efficient, and connected religious ecosystem for generations to come.

“Sri Mandir’s vision is to make devotion accessible to everyone, ensuring that no devotee is limited by physical, geographical, or logistical barriers. With over 30 million devotees already connected through our platform, We are dedicated in supporting every devotee on their spiritual journey. Our partnership with ITCX 2025 marks a significant milestone in this journey, enabling temples to embrace digital transformation, enhance global reach, and create a more immersive and inclusive spiritual ecosystem for millions of devotees worldwide.” said Prashant Sachan, Founder of Sri Mandir

Giresh V Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect & International Temples Convention & Expo (ITCX), added, “The International Temples Convention and Expo will bring together temple managers and administrators engaged in the operations, maintenance, and enhancement of the temple economy. This year’s event will host participants from across India as well as international guests from around 17 countries. The convention aims to enhance collaboration around modern technologies, innovative ideas, and smart concepts, significantly boosting the temple economy through value-added services and creative innovators like Sri Mandir. Sri Mandir is a unique and innovative platform that bridges the gap between devotees and their faith by offering virtual puja and chadhava services conducted at various temples. It offers devotees greater convenience and delivers an end-to-end spiritual experience right at their fingertips. At this year’s ITCX, it will play a pivotal role by partnering closely with temples to emphasizing the importance of temple interface and exploring ways to elevate it to the next level. Through the Sri Mandir platform, pujas and rituals conducted at various temples can be seamlessly executed, bringing temples and devotees closer. . We hope this convention adds immense value and fosters meaningful collaborations with innovators like Sri Mandir. Together, our aim is to strengthen the temple economy and fulfill Prashant Sachan’s vision of creating a more robust and interconnected spiritual ecosystem.”

Backed by $18 million in Series B funding, Sri Mandir is poised for exponential growth, with plans to expand its temple partnerships tenfold, introduce new regional languages, and venture into devotional travel experiences. Through this partnership, Sri Mandir will present real-life case studies of temples that have adopted its platform, showcasing significant improvements in devotee engagement, temple awareness, footfall, and revenue generation. By integrating cutting-edge technology with age-old traditions, Sri Mandir is not just transforming how devotees connect with their faith but also setting a new benchmark for temple modernization and accessibility.

MG Hector continues to be the Best-in-Class Value for Money SUV

Gurugram, 15th February 2025 – JSW MG Motor India’s flagship SUV, MG Hector continues to be the go to option for Indian car buyers looking for style, space, comfort and technology without a hefty price tag along with a maintenance cost of ~INR 500 per month. With a low maintenance cost as compared to the premium hatchback, the MG Hector stands out as a smart investment in the SUV segment in 2024.

The MG Hector- India’s first Internet SUV, has carved a niche for itself among Indian SUV enthusiasts since its launch. It embodies a perfect blend of luxury, efficiency, and a bold, iconic design. Packed with tech-led features and offering a comfortable ride, the Hector caters to the modern driver. Beyond its impressive features, the Hector stands out for its low Total Cost of Ownership, high resale value, and undeniable quality that sets a benchmark in the industry.

The MG Hector, India’s first Internet SUV, was introduced in 2019 and has since set a new bar for SUVs. With some best-in-class offerings like its dual pane panoramic sunroof, the diesel variant of the MG Hector is an exceptional package for SUV enthusiasts who are looking for power and performance, with a touch of technology and top-notch performance.

With an industry-best 35.56 cm (14-inch) HD infotainment system, 75+ connected car features, advanced safety offerings, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and other equally attractive incorporations, the Hector has been designed to provide exceptional and distinctive experiences to SUV enthusiasts. This feature-rich SUV caters to tech-savvy buyers seeking a bold design and a smooth, comfortable ride. Available in 5, 6, and 7-seater configurations, the MG Hector starts at an attractive price of ₹13.99 Lakhs (Ex-Showroom).

Kolkata’s First Comic Con Brings Comics, Cosplay, Anime, and More

Kolkata, India – 15th February, 2025: Comic Con India, the largest pop culture celebration in the sub-continent, is thrilled to announce the exciting launch of its First Edition in Kolkata. Taking place onFebruary 22nd & 23rd, 2025 at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan. This highly anticipated event promises to immerse fans in a world of comics, manga, anime, and all things pop culture. Comic Con India is ready to bring the magic of pop culture, this time to the vibrant city of Kolkata. The event will showcase a plethora of international and Indian comic creators, renowned artists, and popular industry names at the debut edition of Comic Con India in Kolkata.

An unmissable celebration of fandom, where every visitor walks away with an exclusive collectible to treasure. From a special No. 1 Issue of Radiant Black by Image Comics to a Solo Leveling poster by Yen Press and a commemorative Comic Con India bag, fans will take home a piece of the celebration to add to their treasure troves. For Superfans, the experience gets even more epic with a special Superfan Box featuring Marvel’s Dr. Doom Bust, a Deadpool & Wolverine T-shirt and keychain, an exclusive Comic Con India puzzle, a heroic cape, and more—making it a must-have for the ultimate collector.

A historic moment for Kolkata’s growing geek and fandom community, the convention will feature India’s most celebrated comic book artists and publishers. Visitors will get the chance to meet Bengali artist like Harsho Mohan Chattoraj, Chariot Comics followed by Holy Cow Entertainment, Abhijeet Kini Studios, Bullseye Press, Indusverse, Bakarmaxx, Art of SAVIO, Corporat, Akshara Ashok, Saumin Patel, Prasad Bhat, Sufi Comics, LILOROSH, Rajesh Nagulakonda, Yali Dream Creations, Urban Tales, and amongst others. Adding to the global appeal, international creators such as New York Times best-selling author John Layman and American writer and cartoonist Bill Golliher, known for his work with Archie Comics. Renowned for their extensive contributions to the world of comics, they will be hosting exclusive meet-and-greets, insightful panel discussions, and autograph sessions that fans simply cannot miss!

That’s not all, NODWIN Gaming Arena will bring an electrifying premium gaming experience to Kolkata, featuring exclusive showcases from leading brands like Lenovo, PlayStation, and Logitech. Attendees can dive into an immersive Chandrayaan VR experience, compete in community tournaments, test their skills on high-speed racing simulators, and enjoy a dedicated family-friendly board game zone.

The spectacular two-day convention, under the aegis of NODWIN Gaming will be full of thrilling performances taking center stage at the event. From stand-up comedian featuring Azeem Banatwala, The Internet Said So (featuring Varun Thakur, Kautuk Srivastav, and Aadar Malik), along with Rohan Joshi and Sapan Verma, to exhilarating music performances by Geek Fruit and the musical brilliance of Desible, the weekend will be packed with excitement. To top it all off, the brilliant Biswa Kalyan Rath will take the stage with a powerhouse performance that will leave fans laughing nonstop. That’s not all, the convention sets a new standard with immersive experiential zones brought to life by marquee brands like Maruti Suzuki, and Crunchyroll,ensuring fans have unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Speaking about the debut edition, Jatin Varma, Founder of Comic Con India, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are beyond thrilled to bring Comic Con India to Kolkata for the very first time! This city has always been a powerhouse of art, literature, and storytelling, making it the perfect destination for our next big pop culture celebration. From legendary comic creators and international artists to thrilling performances, immersive experiential zones, and exclusive collectibles, we have curated an unforgettable experience for fans. Kolkata’s passionate and ever-growing geek community deserves a world-class platform, and we can’t wait to see the city come alive with the energy and creativity!”

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, emphasized the significance of bringing Comic Con to Kolkata: “Kolkata’s love for gaming, comics, and pop culture made it our perfect choice for Comic Con India’s next big step. With its deep-rooted literary heritage, iconic art scene, and a fanbase that thrives on creativity, we knew this city was ready to experience something truly special. We wanted to create a space where gaming enthusiasts, cosplayers, and pop culture fans could come together to celebrate in a way that’s never been done before in Kolkata. From immersive gaming zones to spectacular cosplay showcases, Kolkata Comic Con will be a grand celebration of Bengal’s rich comic culture. Bringing together creativity, nostalgia, and fandom, promising an ultimate festival for pop culture enthusiasts.”

GITAM University Sirena Technologies Partner to Advance AI and Robotics

Bengaluru, 15 February 2025 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming societies, revolutionising industries, and reshaping the future of work and innovation. Recognising the pivotal role AI will play in driving national progress, the Government of India has outlined an ambitious vision to position the country as a global leader in AI and emerging technologies. To achieve this, it is imperative that universities foster and build deep expertise in AI, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to this technological evolution.

In alignment with this national vision, GITAM (Deemed to be University) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sirena Technologies. This partnership marks a significant milestone in industry-academia collaboration. It will lead to the establishment of a state-of-the-art Robotics & AI Research and Development Centre at GITAM Bengaluru. This will be the first company-led R&D unit on campus, adding to GITAM’s existing 15 research labs and setting a new benchmark for integrated learning and innovation.

The R&D centre will serve as a hub for cutting-edge research, product development, and hands-on training in robotics, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. This collaboration aims to:

  •  Conduct groundbreaking research and foster innovation in robotics and AI.
  •  Provide valuable internship and employment opportunities for GITAM students.
  •  Offer faculty development programmes to enhance educators’ skills in AI and related fields.
  •  Organise workshops, seminars, and conferences to promote knowledge exchange and collaboration.
  •  Explore joint research initiatives and funding opportunities with government and private sectors.

Highlighting the importance of this collaboration, Hari Bojan, CEO of Sirena Technologies, stated, “Our growth plans are deeply rooted in the need for highly talented AI engineers. Establishing this R&D centre at GITAM Bengaluru is a strategic step towards nurturing the next generation of AI innovators who will drive our technological advancements.”

Over the next five years, Sirena Technologies plans to train and recruit students across multiple disciplines through a structured internship-to-employment pipeline. Graduates selected for employment can expect significant growth opportunities, reflecting GITAM’s commitment to applied education and industry-aligned learning.

Prof. KNS Acharya, Pro Vice-Chancellor of GITAM Bengaluru, remarked, “This collaboration with Sirena Technologies aligns perfectly with our vision to integrate industry-driven research with academic excellence. It will create unmatched opportunities for our students and faculty while strengthening our standing as a leader in robotics and AI education.”

The Sirena R&D Centre at GITAM Bengaluru will function as an extension of Sirena Technologies’ main research facility in Bangalore, ensuring alignment with global industry standards. This initiative is set to drive innovation, strengthen India’s robotics ecosystem, and position GITAM as a frontrunner in emerging technology education.

Hindustan Glass Union Seeks Chief Justice’s Intervention in AGI Review

15th Feb 2025: I wanted to bring to your attention a significant legal development concerning the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) of Hindustan National Glass & Industries Ltd. (HNG). With the Supreme Court’s judgment on 29th January 2025 quashing AGI Greenpac’s resolution plan, the Workers’ Union of Hindustan National Glass & Industries Ltd. (HNG) has appealed on 14th February 2025 to the Chief Justice of India, urging urgent intervention to prevent AGI Greenpac from delaying and derailing the insolvency resolution process through a review petition. A copy of the press note is attached.

BACKGROUND OF THE MATTER:

  •  Hindustan National Glass & Industries Ltd. (HNG) filed for insolvency in October 2021. Two bidders, AGI Greenpac the second-largest player in the container glass industry, (market cap 5000 crs) and Independent Sugar Corp. (INSCO), were vying for HNGIL. Each one of them bid for approx 2200 crs for HNG. On 28th October 2022, the Committee of Creditors (CoC) approved AGI Greenpac’s resolution plan for HNG.
  •  In September 2023, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) upheld the CoC’s approval of AGI Greenpac’s resolution plan.
  •  Soon after this verdict, Independent Sugar Corporation Ltd. (INSCO) challenged the decision in the Supreme Court, arguing that AGI Greenpac had failed to secure mandatory Competition Commission of India (CCI) approval, as required under Section 31(4) of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) 2016.
  •  On 29th January 2025, the Supreme Court ruled in Civil Appeal No. 6071 of 2023 that AGI Greenpac’s resolution plan for HNG was invalid due to non-compliance with CCI approval requirements. The Supreme Court’s judgment nullified AGI Greenpac’s resolution plan and restored all stakeholders to their position before the CoC approval on 28th October 2022.
  •  On 30th January 2025, INSCO wrote to the CoC, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a fast and smooth Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) for HNG, in line with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
  •  Despite the Supreme Court’s judgment, AGI Greenpac filed a review petition in February 2025, raising concerns among HNG’s workers about further delays in the insolvency resolution process. In response, the Workers’ Union of HNG appealed to the Chief Justice of India on 14th February 2025, alleging that AGI Greenpac is attempting to manipulate the legal process to push HNG into liquidation, ultimately benefiting AGI Greenpac by reducing competition in the container glass industry.

HIGHLIGHTS OF APPEAL FROM UNION TO CJI:

  •  AGI Greenpac’s attempt to manipulate the legal process by seeking a review of the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment of 29th January 2025, even after a senior judge from the original bench has demitted office.
  •  The threat to judicial integrity posed by corporate tactics aimed at influencing insolvency proceedings to serve vested business interests.
  •  The risk of setting a dangerous precedent, where dominant industry players could exploit legal delays to force smaller competitors into liquidation.

India Assist Hits 50,000 Mark at MahaKumbh 2025 Supporting Pilgrims

Delhi: As millions of devotees gather at Mahakumbh 2025, India Assist, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Government, has reached a major milestone of successfully providing over 50,000 assistances to pilgrims and travelers. This achievement reinforces India Assist’s role as a trusted travel assistance partner, offering navigation support, real-time guidance, and emergency aid at one of the world’s most significant religious congregations.

The spiritual and cultural phenomenon of Mahakumbh draws millions from across India and beyond. Amidst the vastness and energy of the Kumbh, navigating the grounds, finding assistance, or dealing with unexpected situations can be overwhelming. Recognizing these challenges, India Assist has been managing Tourist Information Centres (TICs) at key locations, including railway stations, the airport, and within the Kumbh Mela grounds. These TICs provide 24/7 tech-enabled assistance, helping visitors with navigation, medical emergencies, lost belongings, language barriers, and real-time updates on crowd movement and accessibility.

Beyond logistical help, India Assist has played a crucial role in reuniting families and resolving travel concerns. Over 17 families who lost their way in the crowd have been successfully reunited, and numerous travelers have received immediate help in distressing situations. One such instance involved a pilgrim struggling to locate his pre-booked cab and tent accommodation. India Assist’s team of on-ground staff stepped in, navigated him to the right location, and arranged alternative transport when needed. In another case, a visitor who fell victim to fraud was guided to the nearest police station, ensuring a swift resolution to his concerns.

Speaking on this milestone, Mr. Aakalp Johari, Co-founder and CEO of India Assist, shared his thoughts on the heartfelt impact of the initiative, “Mahakumbh 2025 has reaffirmed our belief that a combination of human empathy and technology-driven assistance can transform the way people travel. We have seen firsthand how the TICs have made a difference—whether it’s guiding lost pilgrims, providing emergency support, or simply offering a reassuring presence in a massive crowd. Our goal has always been to bridge the gap between tradition and technology, ensuring every traveler feels safe, informed, and cared for. We thank the Uttar Pradesh Government for their partnership and look forward to continuing our mission of making travel stress-free across India.”