Onix Wins Big at 2025 Google Cloud Partner Awards
India, April 15th, 2025 – Onix, a data, cloud, and AI solutions provider and a 14-time Google Cloud Partner of the Year, announced today that it has received the 2025 Google Cloud Partner of the Year Awards in the Data & Analytics – North America and Industry Solutions – Telecommunications categories.
These prestigious awards recognize Onix’s continued success within the Google Cloud ecosystem and highlight Onix’s collaboration with Google Cloud, enabling customers to achieve rapid digital transformation, drive operational efficiency, and unlock business value at scale.
“Google Cloud’s Partner Awards recognize partners who have created outsized value for customers through the delivery of innovative solutions and a high level of expertise,” said Kevin Ichhpurani, President, Global Partner Ecosystem, Google Cloud. “We’re proud to announce Onix as a 2025 Google Cloud Partner Award winner and celebrate their impact enabling customer success over the past year.”
Onix’s dual award win underscores its capacity to deliver both broad and specialized data and analytics solutions. They excel in industry-specific data modernization and AI-powered analytics across diverse sectors while also providing tailored, mission-critical solutions for the unique challenges of the telecommunications industry. This dual expertise allows Onix to effectively translate advanced data and AI technologies into demonstrable KPI impact and business outcomes and lead the evolution of data-driven innovation and modernization.
“Winning these awards is more than recognition; it validates Onix’s strategic vision of driving data and AI-led transformation at scale,” said Sanjay Singh, CEO, Onix. “By combining deep data expertise with industry-specific models, we empower enterprises to turn complexity into opportunity. Whether modernizing data infrastructure, developing business LLMs, delivering AI and agentic AI solutions, or enabling AI-driven enterprise search and automation through Agentspace, Onix is shaping the future. Our pioneering work in AI agents enhances decision-making and operational efficiency, helping clients achieve real, measurable impact in an increasingly data-driven world.“
Onix’s IP-backed, AI-powered solutions facilitate transformative data modernization and visual analytics, propelling businesses into the future. Proven by its work with over 20% of the Fortune 500, Onix delivers measurable impact: from validating trillions of data rows for Cisco and boosting efficiency by 80%, to streamlining the migration of 4+ petabytes of data and 250K+ data objects for a multinational telecommunications provider. Notably, Onix partnered with TELUS to modernize their data landscape, successfully migrating 14 petabytes and consolidating over 100 data sources, resulting in a 50% reduction in query execution and unlocking powerful AI capabilities.
In 2025, Onix has continued to push the boundaries of cloud modernization, data modernization, and AI enablement, spearheading large-scale transformations across industries. Apart from expanding its expertise in multi-cloud analytics, AI orchestration, and agentic AI, and industry-specific solutions, Onix is also streamlining the data-to-cloud-to-AI journey with a cutting-edge autonomous intelligence platform. Through deep collaboration with Google Cloud, Onix remains at the forefront of helping enterprises maximize the value of their data investment.
ETCIO 2025 Explores the Evolving Role of CIOs
New Delhi, April 15, 2025 – The Economic Times CIO (ETCIO) announces its landmark 7th Annual Conclave, themed “CIO 3.0: Transforming Innovation into Business Reality,” taking place May 29-June 1, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt, Goa. This invitation-only gathering will bring together over 200 of India’s most influential technology leaders to explore the evolving role of the CIO from technology enabler to business strategist and potential CEO.
In an era where AI, automation, and data analytics are fundamentally reshaping business landscapes, the 2025 Conclave addresses the critical evolution of the CIO role. No longer confined to technical implementation, today’s CIOs are increasingly becoming architects of growth, drivers of customer experience, and shapers of enterprise strategy.“The modern CIO stands at a pivotal crossroads,” said Amit Kumar Gupta, Business Head, ET Business Verticals. “This year’s Conclave is designed as a blueprint for technology leaders who are ready to translate their innovation capabilities into tangible business outcomes and position themselves for the highest levels of corporate leadership.“
The ETCIO Annual Conclave 2025 delivers an unparalleled experience crafted specifically for technology leaders at the pinnacle of their fields. Attendees will engage with Dr. Ram Charan’s exclusive masterclass on the CIO-to-CEO journey, participate in 25+ visionary sessions spanning multiple formats, and connect during 1,000+ minutes of strategic networking opportunities with peers from India’s most prestigious organizations.
Technology visionaries from ICICI Bank, Ola, Akasa Air, Zepto, Hero MotoCorp, NSE, Adani Group, and other industry titans will lead critical conversations on AI as the new enterprise operating system, strategies for leading through constant disruption, data democratization across organizations, and next-generation infrastructure approaches. This carefully orchestrated convergence of India’s top technology minds creates not merely a conference but a transformative leadership laboratory where today’s innovations become tomorrow’s competitive advantages.
Setting this Conclave apart are the carefully crafted evening experiences featuring conversations with prominent figures from Bollywood, business, and sports, complemented by performances from India’s most celebrated musical artists—creating an environment where intellectual stimulation meets cultural enrichment.
The ETCIO Annual Conclave isn’t just an event; it’s where the future of technology leadership is defined. Attendees don’t just leave with new ideas—they leave with transformed perspectives on their role in shaping enterprise futures.
For more information about the ETCIO Annual Conclave 2025 or to request an invitation, visit https://cio.economictimes.indiatimes.com/annual-conclave.
Volkswagen India introduces the all-new Tiguan R-Line – Beyond better
Mumbai: Volkswagen India launched the all-new Tiguan R-Line, the brand’s flagship SUV for the Indian market. A global best-seller from Volkswagen, the launch of the highly anticipated R–Line of the third generation Tiguan underscores the commitment of Volkswagen to Indian customers. Built on the MQB EVO platform, the all-new Tiguan R-Line boasts of a new chassis generation that delivers unparalleled driving dynamics and ride experience.
Speaking at the launch of the all-new Tiguan R-Line, Mr. Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Volkswagen India, said, “With the launch of the all-new Tiguan R-Line today, we are entering an exciting phase for Volkswagen in India, a phase that embodies the future of premium mobility from Volkswagen. This iconic SUVW along with being bold and dynamic is also modern, fully equipped and highly capable to handle all terrains. Developed with German–engineered DNA, 5-star safety and fun-to-drive dynamics, the all-new Tiguan R-Line is here to thrill.”
Customers can access the Beyond betteR; Tiguan R-Line at a special introductory price of INR 48.99 lakhs, with deliveries starting from 23rd April, 2025 onwards, across the Volkswagen dealership network in India.
Expressive Beyond Design
The all-new Tiguan R-Line offers a new design language that perfectly blends form and function. The front of the SUVW features a bold and powerful look with LED Plus headlights and a glass-covered horizontal strip. The all-new Tiguan R-Line also features ‘R’ inspired 19-inch “Coventry” alloy wheels with diamond-turned surfaces. A new horizontal LED strip builds emphasis on the distinct rear design along with the rear combination lamps. The SUVW’s interiors are adorned with ‘R’ inserts on front sport comfort seats, while also featuring an illuminated ‘R’ logo on the dashboard. The all-new Tiguan R-Line is equipped with Ambient lighting (30 colours), panoramic sunroof, illuminated door handle recesses, pedals in brushed stainless steel and surround lighting with welcome light.
Built Beyond Comfort
The all-new Tiguan R-Line delivers opulent experiences with every drive. Equipped with segment leading features such as “Ergo active’’ seats with massage function and adjustable lumbar support, the all-new Tiguan R-Line offers personalized comfort. Features like Air-Care Climatronic (3-zone air-conditioning), Park Assist Plus with Park Distance Control and Inductive Charging for 2 Smart Phones, add to comfort and convenience beyond the ordinary.
Progressive Beyond Performance
Equipped with 2.0-litre TSI EVO engine, the Tiguan R-Line offers 204 PS of peak power and 320 Nm of torque. The engine has been mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission with 4Motion all-wheel drive capability. The Tiguan R-Line comes with DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) Pro, and a Vehicle Dynamics Manager (XDS). The Vehicle Dynamics manager implements wheel-specific braking interventions and wheel-selective adjustments of the shock absorber damping, in-turn, offering a more neutral, stable, agile and precise cabin comfort.
Safety Beyond Features
Beyond safety, the all-new Tiguan R-Line is packed with advanced technology for a reassuring driving experience with 21 Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driving Assistance System) features delivering highest levels of safety to customers. The all-new Tiguan R-Line not only offers driving confidence but an assurance of class-leading safety; with segment leading 9-airbags, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control, Front & Rear Disc Brakes and much more. Additionally, the all-new Tiguan R-Line has received a 5-Star EURO NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest SUVs on Indian roads.
Innovative Beyond Technology
The all-new Tiguan R-Line with its 26.04 cm customizable digital Cockpit is equipped with options to set different information profiles. The all-new Tiguan R-Line comes with a class leading 38.1 cm infotainment system that delivers enhanced convenience and ease of operation with its newly designed menu structure and graphics. Providing a seamless driving experience, the new head-up display and the multi-function driving experience dial with an integrated TFT LCD display, redefine the SUVW’s in-cabin experiences. The immersive sound system with eight speakers makes every journey an experience to savour.
Advanced Beyond Convenience
Further enhancing convenience, the Tiguan R-Line is equipped with Wireless App-Connect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as wireless charging. Seamless integration of navigation information from the infotainment to the digital cockpit ensures distraction less focus on the road ahead. Powered by IDA voice assistant and voice enhancer, the all-new Tiguan R-Line offers control over various infotainment functions using natural language.
Service Beyond Ownership
The all-new Tiguan R-Line comes with the 4EVER Care program as standard, ensuring a hassle-free ownership experience through four-year standard warranty, four-year Roadside assistance and three free services.
Colours
The all-new Tiguan R-Line will be available in 6 exclusive colours: Persimmon Red Metallic, Cipressino Green Metallic, Nightshade Blue Metallic, Grenadilla Black Metallic, Oryx White Pearl & Oyster Silver Metallic.
Prayatna Launches Free Camp to Curb Mobile Addiction
Kochi, 15th April 2025: Prayatna, a leading multidisciplinary center providing specialized services for children and adults conducts a free mobile de-addiction camp for children aged 3 to 18. The camp will run from April 21st to May 21st, addressing the critical issue of excessive screen time, particularly prevalent during vacation periods and post-festival seasons.
The camp will be led by experienced child care specialists who will equip children with strategies to manage their screen time effectively and engage in healthier activities.
“We understand that vacations and post-festival periods often lead to increased screen time for children. Our goal is to provide them with engaging activities and techniques that they can incorporate into their daily lives, even after the camp concludes,” said Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnassery, Founder of Prayatna, Kochi.
Space Matrix Designs a Dynamic, Experience-Driven Workspace for IMC’s India Operations
Mumbai, April 15th – Space Matrix, a leading multinational workplace design and build consultancy, has created a high-performance, future-ready office for IMC India Securities Pvt. Ltd. (IMC). Since launching its operations in India in 2021, IMC’s expansion required a workspace that facilitates innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
Space Matrix has seamlessly integrated intelligent spatial planning with experience-driven design, setting new benchmarks in both functionality and aesthetics. The new IMC office ensures that employees feel connected to one another, the company, and its ambition, empowering colleagues to work with energy and purpose every day.
“IMC’s new office is a true reflection of its culture—where collaboration and innovation are at the forefront,” said Meghna Vajani, Managing Director – India, Space Matrix. “Through the integration of flexible design and cutting-edge technology, we’ve created a space that supports efficiency while nurturing creativity. This environment enables employees to thrive—empowering them to work with purpose, satisfaction, and energy.”
Reflecting on the project, Jocelyn Dentand, Managing Director, IMC India Securities Pvt. Ltd., shared, “The India office was growing faster than anticipated and we needed a bigger space to support our expansion plans. Space Matrix has brought our vision to life, with a workspace that embodies our values, energises our teams, and transforms the way we collaborate daily.”
Designed with flexibility in mind, the office offers a variety of areas to accommodate different work styles. Dedicated quiet rooms support focused work, while open, inviting spaces encourage collaboration and idea-sharing. At the heart of the office is a spacious cafeteria, positioned to take advantage of the building’s best views, offering employees a space to relax, socialise, and recharge.
With a strong emphasis on employee experience and well-being, the design integrates biophilic elements such as strategically placed greenery and natural materials. These elements improve air quality, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness, enhancing both productivity and a balanced work atmosphere.
Breakout areas balance functionality with comfort, fostering impromptu meetings and brainstorming sessions. Modular furniture provides flexibility to adapt spaces to the company’s evolving needs. Design features such as the History Wall and Charity Wall celebrate the company’s journey and community contributions, instilling a sense of pride and a deeper connection to the organisation’s culture.
The space also incorporates advanced technology. Digital displays in common areas showcase company milestones and provide an interactive platform for employees to stay engaged. Smart lighting systems create optimal environments for productivity and relaxation, while acoustic panels ensure sound privacy and reduce distractions in open spaces.
Through this office, Space Matrix continues to focus on designing workplaces that are not only functional but also human-centric, solving business challenges and facilitating growth.
The Prem Jain Memorial Trust National Green Earth Challenge
The Prem Jain Memorial Trust (PJMT) is proud to announce the winners of the National Green Earth Challenge (NGEC) 2025, a national competition aimed at inspiring undergraduate students in Design, Engineering, and Architecture to create innovative, sustainable solutions to address global climate challenges of today. The event was held in collaboration with Daikin India, Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC), the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), the Association of Designers of India, UNICEF YuWaah, and the National Institute of Urban Affairs.
The Prem Jain Memorial Trust (PJMT), founded in December 2018, continues to honour the legacy of Dr. Prem Jain, a visionary engineer, teacher, leader and ‘Father of the Green Building movement in India’. Dr. Jain’s pioneering efforts helped India achieve an impressive 5.7 billion square feet of green building footprint by 2018. His dream of a Green Bharat lives on through the work of young leaders and sustainability advocates across the country.
The National Green Earth Challenge serves as a platform to identify and nurture India’s brightest minds, engaging students from over 500 partnering technical and design institutions across 19 states of India. This year, 1130 applications were received from passionate students eager to contribute their innovative ideas for climate resilience and energy efficiency. After a highly competitive zonal round across four regions—North, South, East, and West—where 72 teams battled it out, and reached the final stage. The top 16 teams have made it to the national round, marking the exciting culmination of this year’s challenge.
The competition encourages a trans-disciplinary approach to sustainability, with a particular focus on repurposing resources, fostering climate resilience, and enhancing energy efficiency. Students were tasked with creating projects and designs rooted in Dr. Prem Jain’s philosophy of Panchbhutas (five elements), emphasizing harmony between nature and human development.
The National Jury for the NGEC 2025 took place on March 21st and comprised a distinguished panel of experts and leaders from diverse platforms in the fields of sustainability, architecture, design, and engineering. Their collective expertise provided invaluable insights into the innovative solutions presented by the students. Our eminent jury comprised of Ar. K T Ravindran, Mr. V Suresh, Dr. Hariharan Chandra, Ms. Ina Puri, Mr. Rajesh Pratap Singh, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Dr. Satyaki Roy, Dr. Shatarupa Thakurta Roy , Ms. Anshu Khanna, Ar. Murlidhar Reddy, Mr Sandeep Narang, Mr. Debasish Mukherjee and Ms. Payal Jain.
We are incredibly proud of the ground-breaking ideas presented by the finalists, including the Model for Self-Sustaining Communities, the Engine Health & Smoke Analyzer for Vehicles, HydroSoleil, the Integrated Photocatalytic-Self-Fenton-PS System for Sustainable Water Treatment, and the Eco-Friendly e-Scooter. These innovations reflect Dr. Jain’s vision of a green and sustainable future, where education, innovation, and action converge to drive positive change. The energy and creativity shown by these students highlight the bright future of sustainability in India.
The winners of NGEC 2025 will receive mentorship from industry leaders, alongside the opportunity to showcase their sustainable designs to global audiences. The projects submitted span a range of solutions, from energy-efficient buildings and waste management systems to innovative water conservation techniques and climate-responsive urban designs.
Dr. Prem Jain’s vision continues to resonate across the country, with a growing community of young professionals and students driving forward the movement for a sustainable India. As the PJMT works to honour his legacy, it is clear that the next generation is ready to carry the torch toward a greener, more sustainable future.
Cinystore Launches KeepItShort to Spot Rising Talent
April 15th, 2025, Hyderabad: Cinystore Technologies, a Hyderabad-based media technology startup, has officially launched KeepItShort, India’s first OTT platform dedicated exclusively to student filmmakers from film and animation institutes. Designed as a stepping stone for aspiring student filmmakers, the platform supports discovery, visibility, and community-building within the next generation of talent.
Catering to over 5,00,000 current and alumni students from more than 1,500 film and 1,200 animation institutes across India, ‘KeepItShort’ is expected to attract over 1,000–1,200 showreels or team entries, each with at least five members. This reflects not only a strong participation base but also the platform’s potential to engage over 6,000 budding filmmakers at launch. KeepItShort aims to transform the filmmaking ecosystem by democratizing access to advanced digital tools and enabling data-led decision-making.
Conceived as a launchpad for student filmmakers, KeepItShort provides an open stage for creative storytelling across directing, cinematography, editing, story writing, and screenwriting. The platform is already witnessing strong acceptance, with Film and Animation Institutes and Media governing bodies showing interest to collaborate, underscoring the scale and engagement of this new film and animation community. Notably, various production houses are also excited to see the emergence of fresh storytelling talent many of them are actively scouting for new ideas and students who can bring innovative narratives to the entertainment world.
Nagender Polamraju, CEO, Cinystore Technologies said, “We built KeepItShort to shift power back into the hands of student filmmakers. By combining tech with transparency, we are helping filmmakers navigate a noisy, gatekept industry with clarity and control. It’s about levelling the playing field—where stories rise because of merit, not connections.”
“KeepItShort is about giving student filmmakers the same dignity and reach as professionals. We believe talent should not wait for a break and that students should not have to carry the fear of instability or being overlooked after graduation. By offering a space to explore roles like directing, script writing, editing, or sound engineering while still in school, this platform brings their work directly to audiences and industry insiders without needing to cross outdated gates of access”, Nagender added.
He launched KeepItShort with a vision to develop a platform which empowers budding filmmakers while prioritizing meaningful audience engagement over traditional barriers. His journey inspired a platform where students can be fearless without prejudice and no longer depend on influence or access, but instead on data and direct audience connection.
KeepItShort is now live and available for filmmakers looking to take full control of their content lifecycle from idea to audience.
Preeti Shah’s Book Chronicles Heartbreak and Healing
15 April 2025, National: Storyteller and podcast host Preeti Shah’s latest venture is her novel, 100 Stories of She. The book, a compilation of 100 micro-tales, is her attempt to capture the myriad emotions that accompany heartbreak. Right from the initial shock of a breakup to the intense, and often conflicting emotions that a person feels as its aftermath, beginning from despair to hope, self-renewal and self-love, the book encapsulates the flow of the protagonist’s emotional turmoil through each of these 100 micro-stories over 100 days.
Meant for readers who are keen on exploring the emotional journey of heartbreaks, this unapologetic narrative, with a non-preachy approach, is sure to make you face your emotions and inner peace.
Talking about the book, author and storyteller Preeti Shah says, “In a world that rarely slows down, 100 Stories of She offers a quiet moment to pause and reflect on the beauty and complexity of everyday emotions. The book was born from observing the small yet powerful moments we often overlook — especially in times of heartbreak. These stories speak to those navigating the aftermath of a breakup, offering comfort, clarity, and at times, a sense of closure. It’s a gentle reminder that even in endings, there are stories worth telling.” Preeti’s background in journalism helps her to distill the essence of human experiences into poignant narratives that resonate with readers on a deep level. This is her first book.
FranGlobal and UK’s Direct English Partnership Explained
New Delhi, 15th April 2025 – FranGlobal, the international arm of Franchise India Group, has announced a strategic partnership with Direct English, a globally renowned UK-based English training provider. This collaboration aims to revolutionize English language education across India, addressing the ever-growing demand for fluency and proficiency in global communication.
Direct English, part of the Linguaphone Group, boasts a heritage of over 120 years in language education. Its globally proven curriculum—developed by Louis Alexander, the architect of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)—has trained millions of learners across more than 20 countries through a hybrid model of in-person and online learning.
With India emerging as the second-largest English-speaking nation, the timing of this collaboration is strategic. The English Language Training (ELT) market in India is estimated at INR 40,000 crore (USD 5 billion) and continues to grow rapidly. Direct English’s CEFR-aligned curriculum and high-impact Direct English Live online platform are perfectly poised to meet the evolving educational needs of India’s diverse learners—from students and job seekers to working professionals.
FranGlobal plans to roll out over 150 Direct English centers across India through a robust franchise model. The plan includes two formats: a Unit Franchise model with a 5-year FOFO (Franchise Owned Franchise Operated) structure, and an Area Developer model offering exclusive regional rights, sub-franchise network benefits, and high ROI. With unit licenses already signed in Kullu (Himachal Pradesh) and Kolkata (West Bengal), the expansion is well underway. The rollout will cover strategic regions including Delhi NCR, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and more.
Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India and FranGlobal, said, “Our mission is to democratize access to world-class English education across Bharat. Direct English brings unmatched global credibility, a science-backed curriculum, and flexible delivery modes that make it ideal for every Indian learner—from metro cities to Tier 3 towns. Together, we are building a bridge between local aspirations and global opportunities.”
This partnership is not just a business collaboration—it is a transformative step towards equipping millions of Indians with the language skills they need to succeed in a globalized world. With comprehensive training, marketing support, and a business-friendly model, FranGlobal invites passionate entrepreneurs, educators, and investors to be part of this meaningful journey.
India’s First Para-Triathlon and Para-Cycling Champion Huafrid Billimoria Creates History Under the Holistic Guidance of Dr. Mickey Mehta
Mumbai, India – In an unprecedented milestone for the sporting and wellness worlds alike, Huafrid Billimoria is now India’s first para-athlete to hold national titles in triathlon and cycling. This revolutionary milestone is a culmination of not just Huafrid’s sheer will power but also the all-encompassing mentorship of Global Holistic Health Guru- Dr. Mickey Mehta. With a history of over 45 years of path-paving work in the holistic well-being arena, Dr. Mehta has guided Huafrid for over two years—walking him through intense mental, emotional, nutritional, and spiritual metamorphosis
At the center of this landmark is Dr. Mehta’s ageless wisdom:
This profoundly human message is now resonating across a worldwide wellness movement— “Extraordinary are those who know that there is something within them which is superior to any circumstance.”
For over 45 years, Dr. Mickey Mehta has guided thousands in achieving their full potential by balancing mind, body, and spirit. His holistic approach combines ancient wisdom with contemporary wellness practices, helping people with conditions like ADHD, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Dystonia, and more.
By integrating Panchakarma, Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Naturopathy, and directed consciousness techniques, Dr. Mehta inspires individuals to view themselves beyond limitations—to awaken the superhuman within.
Dr. Mehta profoundly states that: “Champions are born out of challenges
This movement towards inclusive health has made a significant leap forward by Ms. Karishma Mickey Mehta daughter of Dr. Mickey Mehta, the founder of the Antar- The Health Portal. Antar has been conceptualized as a wellness platform for everyone, encouraging active participation by differently-abled citizens and nurturing their dreams to perform on platforms such as the Paralympics.
Ms. Karishma Mickey Mehta and Dr. Mickey Mehta has one thing in common: a desire to redefine wellness— not as physical fitness but as a balanced state of being for body, mind, heart, and spirit. The Antar Portal, through its accessibility-oriented design and holistic tools, is transforming the way individuals define and live wellbeing, It’s a wellness platform offering affordable care, focused on empowering the differently-abled and special children to achieve their best.
Karishma Mickey Mehta’s online wellness platform, Antar, facilitates holistic development and remains committed to empowering children with special needs or those who are seeking excellence.