Gurugram, 6 March 2025: Connektra.io, a no-code AI agents platform for workflow automation, has raised a seed round led by the Inflection Point Ventures (IPV) Ideaschool Program. The funds will be used to accelerate product development, expand the engineering team, and establish a go-to-market (GTM) motion.

Founded in 2024, Connektra.io simplifies enterprise workflow automation and software integrations through AI-powered agents and a no-code, prompt interface. By reducing engineering costs by up to 40%, and enabling digital projects to be completed up to 70% faster compared to traditional integration methods, Connektra.io is addressing the increasing complexity of API and data integrations for businesses worldwide.

The company is led by Ashutosh Sharma (Founder & CEO), a seasoned professional with 12 years of experience in SaaS startups and multinational conglomerates across Asia and Europe. An alumnus of IIFT, New Delhi, Ashutosh brings deep expertise in business strategy and product development to the firm.

Vikram Ramasubramanian, Partner & CIO, of Inflection Point Ventures, says, “Enterprise software integration has long been a bottleneck, requiring significant effort, time, and resources. As businesses increasingly adopt AI and automation, there is an urgent need for seamless, cost-effective workflow integration. Connektra.io is tackling this challenge head-on with its AI-driven, no-code platform, enabling enterprises to integrate applications effortlessly while reducing overall costs. Their approach not only accelerates digital transformation & democratizes automation but also addresses a critical gap in the market. At IPV, we back founders who bring scalable solutions to industry-wide problems, and we believe Connektra.io has the potential to redefine enterprise automation globally.“

Currently operating out of Gurugram and Bengaluru, Connektra.io is scaling its outreach to large enterprises seeking seamless, AI-powered software integration solutions. The platform’s intuitive workflow interface enables a complete no-code experience and allows business users to orchestrate complex workflows effortlessly, making enterprise automation more accessible than ever. The platform offers AI Agents which autonomously interpret and execute integration tasks based on natural language instructions, eliminating the traditional reliance on manual coding, significantly reducing the time in product development, software implementation and overhead costs of API integration experts.

What sets Connektra.io apart is its Agentic AI framework for automation, allowing users to build complex integrations, across hundreds of commonly used enterprise applications like CRMs, ERPs, martech tools, accounting tools, etc., which streamlines data workflows and centralizes APIs as well as connectors spread across enterprise silos for large enterprises. By offering a familiar chat-based user experience, the platform significantly reduces the reliance on engineering teams, allowing companies to focus on business growth and innovation. The democratization of integration capabilities across business and technical users in companies of all sizes has the potential to unlock unprecedented agility and efficiency in processes, making sure API readiness and development are never a challenge.

“Connektra.io is at the forefront of the paradigm shift happening in the enterprise automation landscape, where software and data integrations are the backbone for all process workflows and AI augmentation initiatives. We’re also getting interest from SaaS companies wanting to embed an AI integration layer into their systems, eliminating months of engineering efforts, and posts, and accelerating product deployments. By leveraging cutting-edge agentic AI and ML in its architecture, Connektra.io is on a mission to empower organizations to autonomously build, manage, and enhance their API Integrations across hundreds of systems, applications, and data lakes” said Ashutosh Sharma, Founder and CEO.

The startup has already made strides in the enterprise automation landscape, with early traction in sectors like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. By delivering cost-efficient, AI-first solutions, Connektra.io is positioning itself as a key player in the B2B SaaS integrations market.

The global integration platforms market is currently valued at $7 billion and is expected to reach $50 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 32%. Key drivers include cloud migration, rapid AI adoption, and increasing API security concerns, making Connektra.io’s solution highly relevant in today’s enterprise landscape.

Mumbai, INDIA, March 05, 2025 – Lenovo is deepening its commitment to India as a global AI hub, expanding focus on AI-driven manufacturing, R&D, and enterprise solutions. At its annual innovation event Lenovo Tech World India 2025, the global technology powerhouse unveiled new AI-powered innovations aimed at accelerating enterprise adoption, digital infrastructure, and India’s AI-first economy.

At the event, Lenovo India announced achieving 12 million units manufactured and exported from India in the period of January – December 2024. The global technology powerhouse is expected to exceed its target of doubling the number of units produced vis-a-vis last year.

Under the theme ‘Smarter AI for All,’ Lenovo outlined its hybrid AI strategy, integrating AI-enabled devices, enterprise solutions, and sustainable computing to support India’s digital transformation.

Talking at Tech World India, Shailendra Katyal, Managing Director, Lenovo India said, “We have been at the forefront of the AI revolution India is witnessing today, with the first-in-industry AI devices and solutions launched in the market. Lenovo’s AI vision in India is reflected in its 71% year-on-year revenue growth in the first three quarters of FY 2024-25. With Made in India devices touching a new high of INR 18 thousand crores through CY2024, we are bullish about our continued momentum in the market and are excited about collaborating with our partners and customers to unleash the true power of what AI can do. As Lenovo completes 20 years of presence in India, we have renewed our commitment to deliver powerful, flexible, and responsible AI solutions that empower individuals and drive meaningful change across communities.”

 Inside the Event: Key Moments & Insights

Lenovo Tech World India showcased groundbreaking AI innovations, reinforcing India’s position as a dynamic AI hub. From intelligent devices and transparent displays to fan-driven creative workshops and high-octane gaming face-offs, the event delivered immersive, next-gen experiences.

Lenovo Faststart spotlighted future-ready AI solutions poised to transform Indian businesses and redefine the country’s sporting legacy. Attendees explored cutting-edge capabilities firsthand, including Lenovo AI Now, which enhances the computing experience in real time. Conversations on stage underscored the power of collaborative AI innovation, driving Lenovo’s vision of Smarter AI for All. Industry leaders delved into the responsible development of AI, sustainability, and the arrival of next-gen AI PCs tailored for Indian users. The event also highlighted AI’s role in social impact—advancing education, sustainability, and nurturing emerging engineering talent. Lenovo Tech World India was a bold statement on AI’s potential to fuel innovation, creativity, and meaningful change.

Mumbai, 6^th March 2025 – Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) announced a significant milestone achieved by its Building Automation Fire regulatory lab. The lab has successfully attained the prestigious Client Test Data Program (CTDP) accreditation from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), certifying its equipment, processes, and personnel to conduct regulatory testing for Fire Systems/Panels independently. This achievement positions Honeywell Technology Solutions (HTS) as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region, achieving CTDP accreditation and setting a new benchmark for excellence in the industry.

The CTDP accreditation grants HTS the autonomy to execute regulatory tests and submit reports directly to UL for review and certification. This milestone is expected to deliver upwards of 30% savings in regulatory costs and cycle time, significantly enhancing operational efficiency for Honeywell’s Fire Systems business.

This accomplishment is the culmination of years of dedication and leadership by the HTS India Building Automation team. The team has built a robust foundation over the years, achieving IEC/ISO 17025 accreditation for the EMI/EMC, Thermal, and Vibration labs. Over the last three years, the team has been delivering flawless remote witness testing, setting the stage for the accomplishment of the UL CTDP accreditation milestone

With this achievement, Honeywell Technology Solutions sets new standards in fire safety and continues to raise the bar for safety and innovation, enabling faster and more efficient testing processes. This also reaffirms Honeywell’s commitment to ensuring the highest level of compliance and reliability for customers and creating a safer, more sustainable future for all.

India, Bangalore, March 06, 2025:  In celebration of International Women’s Day, St. George’s University School (SGU) of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies shares insights from a recent panel discussion featuring accomplished female medical practitioners.

Hosted by the SGU School of Medicine Alumni Association, the discussion included insights from Sasha Lake, Assistant Professor at SGU, Kumkum Sarkar Patel, board-certified gastroenterologist, Jessica Best, emergency medicine physician, Svjetlana Lozo, urogynecology and pelvic reconstruction surgeon, and Angela Self, President of the Tarrant County Medical Society. The panel highlighted key success strategies that aspiring female doctors in India can apply to their own careers in the industry.

Work-life balance starts with passion

Enjoying professional lives and maintaining a positive work environment contribute significantly to a well-balanced life. Making the most of personal time and days off is essential for long-term success and preventing burnout in the medical field. Finding fulfillment in daily practice and surrounding oneself with supportive colleagues can make the journey more rewarding.

Mentorship as a Career Compass

Having multiple mentors can provide invaluable guidance throughout a medical career. Seeking mentorship for professional and academic development helps build confidence and clarifies career pathways.

Building a strong support system

Establishing a reliable network, whether through friends, family, or colleagues, is crucial for navigating the challenges of medical training and practice. A strong support system ensures stability and resilience.

Defining your leadership style 

Understanding personal leadership strengths and developing a personal approach is key to advancing in medicine. Recognizing your potential and embracing unique personal leadership qualities fosters career growth.

Exploring flexibility in medicine

Medicine offers diverse career paths, allowing professionals to adapt and pivot if needed. Exploring different specialties and career opportunities ensures long-term engagement and fulfillment.

Brendon LaGrenade, Vice Provost and Director of Alumni Affairs at SGU, emphasized the importance of supporting and celebrating female doctors, “We are proud to acknowledge our female doctors who continue to provide excellent care and make a difference in their patients’ lives every day. Their dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to young women in India who aspire to pursue medicine. As the healthcare landscape continues to develop, the contributions of female doctors will be instrumental in shaping the future of patient care, medical innovation, and leadership in the field.”

With women now representing just over 50 percent of SGU’s recent incoming medical classes, the next generation of female doctors is breaking barriers and shaping the future of medicine, supported by mentorship, resilience, and a strong professional network provided by SGU.

For more information on SGU and its programs, visit SGU’s website

This Women’s Day, Forevermark celebrates the unstoppable spirit of women with diamond jewelry that embodies strength, elegance, and individuality. Designed with passion and precision, each piece—crafted in 18kt rose, yellow, and white gold—features natural, hand-selected diamonds of exceptional beauty. Whether it’s a bold statement ring, a delicate bracelet, or an elegant pendant, these timeless creations inspire confidence and celebrate the brilliance of women who shape the world.

EMBRACE SELF-EXPRESSION WITH THE FOREVERMARK ICON™ COLLECTION
Mark this Women’s Day with a gift that symbolizes empowerment and self-expression. The Forevermark Icon™ Collection showcases exquisite, meticulously crafted diamond jewelry—each piece a tribute to the fearless and trailblazing women who drive change.

Forevermark Icon™ Collection Pavé and Baguette Ring

A stunning statement of confidence and timeless style, this intricately crafted ring showcases the brilliance of real diamonds, making it a meaningful piece to celebrate the strength and achievements of every woman.

Forevermark Icon™ Collection Long Bar Earrings:

Elevate your style with the timeless sophistication of the Long Bar Earrings. Sparkling with the brilliance of carefully selected diamonds, these earrings are a symbol of elegance and empowerment.

Forevermark Icon™ Collection Bypass Bangle

For understated elegance, the Bypass Bangle is a refined yet meaningful choice. Encircling the wrist with delicate brilliance, this piece represents resilience, beauty, and enduring style.

Forevermark Icon™ Collection Halo Pendant

Make a bold statement with the Halo Pendant, featuring a stunning solitaire Forevermark diamond encircled by a halo of brilliance. Designed to capture the essence of confidence and grace, this necklace is the perfect Women’s Day gift.

New Delhi, 06 March 2025: Strengthening its commitment to innovation, Elanpro, India’s leading commercial refrigeration company, today unveiled a groundbreaking lineup of refrigeration and automated retail solutions at AAHAR, 2025. With a vision to build a comprehensive refrigeration ecosystem, Elanpro’s latest offerings are designed to enhance efficiency, improve food preservation, and streamline operations for businesses across the food and beverage industry.

At the forefront of innovations, Elanpro launched Blast Freezer for cold rooms. Featuring a Made in India cooling system, the product is equipped with a condenser and evaporator developed by the company’s in-house R&D team. The ‘Made in India’ cooling system integrates international engineering with homegrown expertise to ensure rapid, reliable, and energy-efficient cooling in Indian weather conditions. With the ability to accommodate GN 1/1 x 20 trays on a rolling trolley, the product is engineered for high-volume operations in the frozen food industry, airline pantries, and airport lounges.

 For quick-service restaurants aiming to serve chilled and refreshing beverages with ease, Elanpro has introduced the Pre-Mix Cooler. Designed for efficiency and convenience, the compact machine features three to four (optional) dispensing valves, allowing multiple flavors to be served simultaneously. The advanced carbonation hold system allows the preservation of fizzy and flavourful drinks for up to 48 hours, ensuring a consistently refreshing experience. Capable of chilling 18 to 24 liters at once, the new beverage dispenser by the company ensures a smooth, uninterrupted flow of 72 to 96 glasses per cycle, making it a game-changer for high-demand beverage service.

The company recently announced its entry into the automated retail market by acquiring a 41% stake in smart vending startup- Wendor. Enhancing this innovative portfolio, Elanpro will showcase the AI and IoT-enabled vending machines and smart lockers that offer automatic, integrated, smart vending of items like snacks, beverages, and FMCG. The next-gen solutions feature one -of its -kind facial recognition technology alongside payment access modes like QR codes, OTPs, and RFID cards. Ideal for workplaces, educational institutions, and retail spaces, the product provides a fast, secure, and contactless self-service experience.

Adding to its premium offerings, the company will also showcase the Platinum Series Kitchen Refrigeration Solutions, designed to meet the demands of professional kitchens. Crafted from the highest grade stainless steel, the rugged yet sleek series delivers powerful cooling performance for optimal food preservation, while its refined craftsmanship enhances the overall kitchen ambiance.

Speaking about the new launches, Mr. Sanjay Jain, Director, Elanpro said, “Elanpro remains committed to delivering state-of-the-art refrigeration solutions that empower businesses to maintain product quality while optimizing operational efficiency.”

Beyond new product launches, Elanpro is aggressively working towards leading the industry in transitioning to lower-GWP refrigerants and ensuring compliance with upcoming energy efficiency regulation while helping businesses future-proof their refrigeration investments.

Attendees can visit Elanpro at Stall No. 14G-09, Hall 14 to experience live demonstrations and engage with product experts. The company’s team will be available throughout the exhibition to discuss customized solutions tailored to specific business requirements.

INDIA – March 6, 2025: Agora, Inc. (NASDAQ: API), a leading platform for real-time engagement APIs, today announced the launch of its Conversational AI Engine, an advanced solution enabling developers to create interactive voice experiences with any AI model. Built for seamless real-time engagement, the engine ensures ultra-low latency responses and superior voice processing, allowing for the effortless creation of immersive voice AI experiences.

Agora’s Conversational AI Engine provides developers with the flexibility to use any AI model, whether custom-built or from leading LLM providers, and any text-to-speech (TTS) voice solution for their AI agent. The Engine is designed to optimize real-time conversation flow. It enables faster, low-latency responses and intelligently pauses for interruptions in real-time, enabling more natural dialogue with users.

“Most AI models don’t yet offer the ability to interact via voice, and those that do haven’t optimized the experience,” said Tony Zhao, CEO of Agora. “Agora’s solution will help drive the adoption of conversational AI by enabling seamless, natural voice interactions. With effortless integration and real-time, voice-driven experiences that have near-zero lag, we are removing barriers and unlocking new possibilities for businesses and end users alike.”

With built-in background noise suppression, AI-driven acoustic algorithms, and real-time speech-to-text (STT), Agora’s Conversational AI Engine ensures clear and accurate voice interactions in any environment. Powered by Agora’s global Software-Defined Real-Time Network™, the Engine dynamically handles packet loss and minimizes latency, delivering exceptional performance across devices and networks. The solution is built on top of the TEN framework, an Agora-supported community project for building conversational AI. The Engine allows businesses to deploy natural and engaging real-time voice agents with maximum scalability and minimal effort.

Agora also plans to extend the capabilities of the Conversational AI Engine to its App Builder product, enabling a no-code approach to creating conversational AI experiences. App Builder allows users to create a simple UI and seamlessly integrate Agora’s Conversational AI Engine without extensive coding, making it possible to deploy voice-driven AI experiences even more quickly.

Zhao continued, “Our goal is to bridge the gap between AI and human interaction, making conversations more intuitive, expressive, and impactful. We are dedicated to democratizing voice interactions between humans and AI models, making them a fundamental part of how people connect, communicate, and innovate.”

To further enhance its Conversational AI Engine, Agora is partnering with Oracle as a key AI infrastructure provider, leveraging the scalable Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) solution to optimize performance, security, and efficiency.

“Agora’s Conversational AI Engine solves two of the biggest hurdles in human-to-AI voice conversation—latency and wireless last mile challenges,” said Hua Jiang, Alliance & Channel Director, Oracle APAC. “We are proud to collaborate with Agora to provide the infrastructure that enables more natural, responsive, and reliable voice-powered conversational AI.”

Agora’s Conversational AI Engine is designed for a wide range of applications, including:

• 24/7 Customer Support: Create AI-powered voice agents that provide instant responses, troubleshoot issues, and guide customers through processes.
• IoT Integration: Enable seamless voice control for smart devices, wearables, robots, and connected applications.
• Virtual Shopping Assistants: Help customers find products, compare options, and make purchasing decisions in real-time.
• Live AI Hosts: Leverage AI agents to host live events, equipped with automated content moderation and the ability to respond to viewers in real-time.
• Mental Health Support: Offer mental health support agents that can listen, provide advice, and connect users with professional help if needed.
• Live Tutoring: Offer AI tutoring that can speak with students to offer real-time feedback and guidance when learning specific languages or subjects.
• AI-Powered NPCs in Gaming: Build more immersive virtual worlds with AI-controlled characters that can interact naturally with players via voice.
• Employee Onboarding: Guide new hires through training and provide instant access to a 24/7 resource to answer questions.

Agora’s Conversational AI Engine is now available in public beta, allowing businesses and developers to start building advanced voice AI applications today. For more information, visit www.agora.io/en/products/conversational-ai-engine/.

Mumbai, March 06, 2025 – Parexel, one of the world’s largest clinical research organizations (CROs) providing
the full range of Phase I to IV clinical development services, today announced the appointment of Jeff
Bernstein, Partner, Private Equity, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, and Co-Head, Goldman Sachs
Healthcare Private Equity Investing, to its Board of Directors effective March 5, 2025. Mr. Bernstein succeeds
Michael Bruun, Partner, Global Co-Head of Private Equity, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, as part of a
planned rotation.

“Michael Bruun has been a tremendous asset to our Board over the past two years and we’re incredibly
grateful for his engagement, guidance, and leadership,” said Peyton Howell, Chief Executive Officer. “We thank
Michael for his service and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”

She continued, “We’re delighted to welcome Jeff Bernstein to the Parexel Board. His deep knowledge across
the global financial and healthcare landscape will be invaluable as we work to create even greater value for
our stakeholders in 2025 by leveraging unique insights, driving best-in-class delivery, and building trust to
achieve market-leading growth.”

Mr. Bernstein brings significant healthcare investment, financial and public company Board expertise to
Parexel. He joined Goldman Sachs as an Analyst in 2008, was named Managing Director in 2019, and made
Partner in 2024.

Sheri McCoy, Chairperson of the Board, added, “Jeff’s extensive background in healthcare will be a great asset to the Board as we prepare for the next phase of Parexel’s growth. We look forward to leveraging his insights as we work to advance our strategic roadmap and deliver on our growth objectives.”

Mr. Bernstein currently serves on the boards of Advanced Recovery Systems, AvaSure, Capital Vision Services
(referred to publicly as MyEyeDr.) and MDVIP. He previously served on the boards of several other healthcare
companies, including Brighton Health Plan Solutions, Privia Health Grou,p, and Upstream Rehabilitation. Mr.
Bernstein earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a certificate in Finance from Princeton University.

“I’m extremely pleased to join Parexel’s Board,” said Mr. Bernstein. “I look forward to supporting the company
as it differentiates and innovates to advance its position as a leading global CRO and accelerate the delivery of
life-enhancing new therapies to patients worldwide.”

6th March, Pune –Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, hosted the Annual CME 2025 that focused on mental health and addiction studies. The event, which was held at the college’s auditorium, brought together mental experts under one roof for insightful discussions.

The scientific program featured sessions on topics such as epigenetics of addiction, changing cannabis policies, digital interventions in tobacco use, advances in addiction management, and management of new psychoactive substances. A panel discussion on social and familial determinants of substance use concluded the event. Organized by the Department of Psychiatry in collaboration with the Poona Psychiatrists’ Society and the Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) Pune Branch, the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and academic discussions. With 135 psychiatrists in attendance, the event fostered discussions on emerging trends and innovative treatment approaches in addiction psychiatry.

Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs are an integral part of Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, reinforcing our commitment to academic excellence, professional development, and patient-centered healthcare. These programs ensure that our faculty, students, and medical professionals stay updated with the latest advancements in medicine, technology, and treatment methodologies. Through regular workshops, seminars, and expert-led discussions, we bridge the gap between evolving medical knowledge and its practical application, reinforcing our institution’s role as a leader in medical education and research.

As part of the CME, the Pune Psychiatrists’ Association Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Dattatreya Dhavale, a Consultant Psychiatrist with 50 years of experience, recognized for his transformative impact on patients and their families. Along with that, the Pune Psychiatrists’ Association honored Mrs. Mukta Puntambekar, Director of Muktangan Rehabilitation Centre, Pune with the PPA Oration Award 2025.

Hon’ble Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) expressed “At Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Center, Pimpri, Pune, we are dedicated to fostering excellence in medical education and research. The Annual CME 2025 was a testament to our commitment to addressing critical mental health challenges. By bringing together experts in addiction psychiatry, we aim to contribute to evidence-based interventions that shape public health policies and improve patient care.”

Speaking about the significance of this conference, Dr. Archana Narendra Javadekar, HOD and Professor of Psychiatry at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Center, Pimpri, Pune, stated, “Addiction medicine is evolving rapidly, and mental health professionals must stay ahead of these developments. This CME provided an excellent platform for knowledge exchange, enabling clinicians to refine their approaches to treatment and policymaking. By integrating scientific advancements with clinical practice, we can enhance patient outcomes and address the growing challenges of substance use disorders.”

Emphasizing the academic importance of this gathering Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean of Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune remarked “In the ever-evolving field of medicine, continuous learning is not just an option—it is a responsibility. We recognize that the journey of learning never truly ends, especially in the field of mental health. Workshops and seminars like these are vital in equipping our medical community with the latest insights, fostering empathy, and encouraging open dialogue. At our institution, we believe that continuing medical education programs are essential to keep our students and professionals at the forefront of medical innovation, ensuring they are equipped to provide the highest standard of care and adapt to the changing needs of healthcare.”

The CME fostered meaningful dialogue on emerging trends, challenges, and innovative approaches in psychiatric care, reinforcing the commitment to continuous learning and excellence in the field.