Budget Expectations: Alok Dubey & Ganesh Raju

“The upcoming budget should prioritize India’s digital and technological growth by focusing on key areas such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, and 5G infrastructure. Strengthening these areas will drive innovation and help bridge the digital divide between urban and rural India. We anticipate measures to boost R&D, semiconductor manufacturing, and green technologies, which are crucial for enhancing India’s position as a global technology hub. Policies that support startups, MSMEs, and local manufacturing—through refined PLI schemes and targeted subsidies—will play a pivotal role in strengthening the ‘Make in India’ initiative and reducing import dependency. Additionally, simplifying tax structures and investing in skill development will empower the tech ecosystem, driving long-term, sustainable growth. We are optimistic about the government’s continued focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and self-reliance, which align with our commitment to innovation and eco-friendly practices.”

By: Alok Dubey, Chief Finance Officer, Acer India.

“The upcoming budget needs to recognize a crucial shift in India’s startup landscape. While we have mastered software innovation, the next wave of value creation will come from hard-tech – startups solving complex industrial, agricultural, and healthcare challenges. To enable this, we need more than just tax benefits. We should consider creating specialized funding pools for R&D-intensive startups, particularly those working on deep tech solutions. The government could introduce matching funds for early-stage investments in sectors like semiconductor design, biotech, and advanced materials. This would help de-risk private investment in areas that typically have longer gestation periods but higher impact potential. Additionally, simplifying the process for academic institutions to become startup shareholders could unlock a wealth of untapped innovation. Many breakthrough technologies remain within lab walls due to complex commercialization pathways. The focus should shift from creating more startups to enabling the right kind of startups – ones that solve India’s core challenges while building for global markets,”

By: Ganesh Raju, Founder, Turbostart Global.

B2B E-Commerce in 2025: The Trends Revolutionizing the Industry

With the rise of sustainable innovations, one can witness that the B2B ecommerce landscape in 2025 will transit through a substantial transformation stage. The digital age has already brought great changes to the usual methods of business and this, together with the quickly progressing technology and the evolving needs of the consumers are the things that will be happening in the next few years. Companies like ExportersIndia.com are already incorporating these advancements into their companies to ensure that the trend is not something they lag behind but are actively involved in the facilitation of the nascent relationships between B2B sellers and buyers.

These are the main trends that will determine the ecommerce sector of the B2B industry in the year 2025:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation

AI has already started to revolutionize B2B ecommerce by offering more personalized experiences and enhancing customer service. In 2025, the role of AI in B2B ecommerce will continue to grow and  enabling businesses to make smarter decisions and improve operational efficiency.

One of the key ways that AI will enhance the B2B buying experience is through automation. From chatbots providing instant support to predictive analytics anticipating customer needs, AI-powered tools will streamline the sales process, reduce manual intervention, and help businesses understand customer behaviours more deeply. For instance, AI will help identify the best products for customers based on their past purchasing habits, location, and industry trends.

Moreover, automation will play a crucial role in inventory management, order processing, and fulfilment. Automated systems will help businesses reduce errors and speed up workflows, ultimately resulting in cost savings and more efficient operations.

  1. B2B Marketplaces Will Continue to Dominate

The trend of B2B marketplaces has been growing steadily over the last few years, and it will become even more dominant. Marketplaces like ExportersIndia.com will continue to serve as the backbone of B2B commerce, offering businesses a platform to connect, showcase products, and conduct transactions. The success of these marketplaces is built on trust, ease of use, and access to a wide array of buyers and suppliers.

The future of B2B marketplaces will be shaped by the integration of advanced technologies like AI, big data, and blockchain. These technologies will improve trust and transparency, allowing buyers and sellers to have greater confidence in their transactions. As ecommerce marketplaces will become even more vital by offering cross-border trade opportunities and expansion.

  1. Personalization at Scale

While personalization has long been a buzzword in B2C ecommerce, it is now making its way into the B2B space. B2B buyers expect the same level of personalized experience that they receive as consumers. Businesses will need to leverage data analytics and AI to offer highly tailored experiences for their clients.

This personalization will not only be limited to product recommendations but will extend to pricing, customer service, and marketing. For example, a buyer from a specific region may receive personalized content or offers relevant to their local market. Additionally, AI will help businesses understand the buyer’s unique pain points and offer solutions more efficiently.

  1. Omni-Channel Experience

Omni-channel experiences have become a priority for many B2B companies. In 2025, businesses will need to seamlessly integrate various touchpoints—online and offline—to provide a consistent experience to their customers. Whether it’s browsing on mobile devices, accessing support via live chat, or placing orders through a dedicated app, B2B buyers will expect a fluid, interconnected experience across all channels.

To deliver a smooth omni-channel experience, businesses will need to integrate their customer relationship management (CRM) systems, inventory management, and payment systems across all platforms. By doing so, companies can ensure they meet the diverse needs of their customers while delivering on their expectations.

  1. Voice Search and Conversational Commerce

With the growth of voice-activated technologies and virtual assistants, voice search will become an integral part of the B2B ecommerce journey. By 2025, voice-based shopping will be increasingly utilized by B2B buyers, who will use voice assistants to place orders, find suppliers, and even ask questions about product specifications.

Conversational commerce is also set to rise as businesses integrate chatbots and virtual assistants into their ecommerce platforms. These tools will offer real-time communication, helping buyers make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s answering FAQs, providing product recommendations, or assisting with order tracking, conversational commerce will enhance the customer experience and drive higher engagement rates.

  1. Sustainability and Green ECommerce

In 2025, businesses will not only look at the environmental impact of their products but also at the practices of their suppliers. Green ecommerce platforms will provide businesses with the opportunity to access sustainable products, materials, and eco-friendly services. With increasing pressure from consumers, companies that embrace sustainability will be better positioned to attract and retain clients who prioritize ethical sourcing and eco-conscious practices.

Companies in the B2B ecommerce sector are increasingly leveraging emerging trends to stay competitive in the evolving market landscape. Embracing advanced technologies and strategic approaches can enhance operational efficiency and customer experience, while also paving the way for sustainable growth in a rapidly changing global environment.

Liberty General Insurance Unveils Republic Day Brand Film

Mumbai, January 24, 2025: As India commemorates its 76th Republic Day, Liberty General Insurance has released a thought-provoking campaign film that explores the true meaning of “Liberty” through the voices of everyday citizens. The film poses a simple yet powerful question: What does Liberty mean to you? Designed to inspire reflection, the campaign connects deeply with audiences by celebrating the freedoms that shape our lives.

The film opens with this central question and transitions into personal, heartfelt responses from individuals across diverse walks of life. A child’s playful imagination, a doctor’s dedication, a Gen Z individual’s self-expression, a common man’s values, and a retired army man’s preparedness come together to highlight liberty’s varied interpretations. These stories, told with authenticity, encourage viewers to appreciate the unique ways freedom influences their own lives.

Speaking on the launch of the Republic Day brand film, Mr. Parag Ved, CEO & Whole-Time Director, Liberty General Insurance, said, “At Liberty General Insurance, liberty is not just a word; it represents our promise to empower people to live without fear or hesitation. This film is a reflection of the values we stand for—providing our customers with the confidence and peace of mind they need to embrace life’s opportunities. Our aim is to remind everyone that liberty is deeply personal yet collectively significant, and through our reliable services, we strive to honour this belief every day.”

The film is a tribute to the spirit of independence, seamlessly aligning with Liberty General Insurance’s mission of delivering trust and reliability. Through its relatable narrative and inspiring tone, the campaign aims to strengthen Liberty’s connection with its audience while encouraging them to embrace the true essence of Republic Day.

ManpowerGroup’s 2025 Talent Shortage Survey: The Growing Need for Skilled Workers

NEW DELHI, INDIA (January 24, 2025) – Employers In India are expecting cautious hiring in the first quarter of 2025, as ongoing talent shortages continue to hinder recruitment efforts according to the latest ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN) Talent Shortage Survey. The survey collected data from more than 3,000 employers across the 4 regions of India, seeking inputs on the Talent shortages they are facing and how do they plan to cope with attrition in their efforts to retain talent as well as their HR priorities in 2025. Despite the highest hiring demand globally (53%), 80% of employers in India are struggling to find the right talent they need, a trend that has persisted since 2022 and is more than the global average, where 74% of employers are reporting talent scarcity (the global figure remains unchanged over 2024). The survey highlights that no region is immune to shortages, and talent scarcity remains a defining feature of the global labor market.

“The persistent talent shortage, with 80% of organizations struggling to fill roles in 2025, underscores the urgent need for collective action, said Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India and Middle East. Industries like IT, Energy, and Utilities are feeling the greatest strain, with demand for specialized skills like data and IT continuing to rise. In South India, where the shortage is especially pronounced, the pressure on medium and large enterprises is significant. Employers are increasingly prioritizing upskilling strategies to bridge this gap, reflecting a shift towards sustainable solutions over short-term measures like wage increases. Addressing this challenge will require a robust partnership between businesses, governments, and educators to build a future-ready workforce.”

KEY FINDINGS FROM THE 2025 TALENT SHORTAGE SURVEY

  • 80% of employers report difficulty finding skilled talent, remaining consistent in the last three years, and increasing 86% from 2021’s survey.
  • To find, attract, and recruit talent, employers are offering more upskilling and reskilling opportunities to current employees (39%), as they aim to reduce recruitment costs by promoting internal mobility. Increasing temporary recruitment is favoured by only 22% of employers as they show preference in targeting new talent pools (38%) and increasing wages (29%).
  • Talent shortages are most prominent in South India (85%) and have remained consistent with last year.
  • When asked about Artificial Intelligence (AI), employers cite training staff, finding qualified talent, and offering more location flexibility (hybrid, remote) as the top challenges to fully leverage the technology
  • Company size plays a notable role in talent acquisition challenges, with large organizations (250-999 employees) and very large enterprises (1,000-4,999 employees) reporting an 82% difficulty in filling positions, while the largest organizations (5,000+ employees) face slightly fewer challenges at 80%.

Sheel Verma on His Role in ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain’

Actor Sheel Verma is stepping into the spotlight with his highly anticipated Shemaroo Umang’s upcoming show, ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain’. With its gripping promos teasing drama, suspense, and unexpected twists, the show has already created a buzz.

Sheel couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared his thoughts about his debut. “This role is incredibly special to me. What makes it even more exciting is how unpredictable my character is, you never know what’s coming next! That’s the beauty of this show—it keeps you guessing,” he said with a smile.

Having previously worked in web series and movies, Sheel explained why he chose this show for his TV debut. “The storyline is so unique and interesting. It’s not your typical family drama; it has depth, twists, and surprises that will keep the audience hooked. My character has a very important part to play in the bigger story.”

Sheel also hinted at the excitement viewers can expect. “This show is packed with twists and turns. Every episode brings something new, and I promise it’s going to be an exciting ride. Playing this role has been an amazing experience, and I can’t wait for the audience to join me on this journey,” he added.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Rajasthan, Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain is a tale of family, tradition, and power struggles. At its core, it’s a story of sacrifice, resilience, and love, revolving around Chaina, a village girl whose life changes dramatically when she enters a grand haveli.

Bank of Baroda’s ‘Baroda Kisan Pakhwada’ Empowers 348,000 Farmers in Nationwide Campaign

Mumbai, January 24, 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, concluded the 7th edition of its flagship rural outreach programme, ‘Baroda Kisan Pakhwada’ on a high note. Through the fortnight-long initiative, the Bank connected with over 348,000 farmers across the country and cumulatively sanctioned agri loans of over Rs 3,300 crore. Through a combination of mega kisan melas, choupals, health camps and other drives, the Bank showcased its strong ties with the agricultural community.

As a part of the Baroda Kisan Pakhwada programme, Bank of Baroda organised outreach events across its 22 zones and 119 regions pan-India, with the ‘Baroda Kisan Rath’ travelling across the country to raise awareness and to share information on the Bank’s agriculture lending products & services as well as Government initiatives, such as lending schemes under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Package, micro insurance, social security schemes etc. The Bank also felicitated progressive farmers, entrepreneurs and customers for their contributions to the sector.

This year’s theme focused on leveraging technology to empower Indian farmers and the Bank introduced two digital initiatives – the Digital Baroda Kisan Credit Card (BKCC) and Digital Gold Loan to facilitate seamless access of credit to farmers.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “The success of Baroda Kisan Pakhwada underlines our unwavering commitment to India’s agriculture community. Through our digital initiatives like Digital BKCC and Digital Gold Loan, our aim is to simplify access to credit, making banking services more accessible and convenient for farmers. Through the Baroda Kisan Pakhwada, we have helped create a strong awareness on the range of offerings available with the Bank, thus empowering farmers to take advantage of financial schemes that will fuel their growth.”

Bank of Baroda’s lending to the agriculture sector stands at Rs 144,508 crore as on September 30, 2024, recording a 10.6% year-on-year growth.

upGrad Partners with Maharashtra Govt to Build AI Excellence Centers

Mumbai, India – January 24, 2025: upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra in the presence of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Ronnie Screwvala at Davos, yesterday. The initiative aims to create a world-class AI talent base for global jobs and drive employment opportunities across the State.

With an initial outlay of INR 2,150 crore, the initiative will build upGrad Institute of AI Excellence Centers across Maharashtra to equip over 1 Mn students in AI and emerging technologies. The move comes under the leadership of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to amplify Maharashtra’s contribution towards the nation’s progress of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2030.

a) The upGrad-supported ATLAS SkillTech University to create futuristic bespoke hybrid programs in emerging arenas of Design, Digital Transformation, Technology, AI and Gaming, under the prestigious Maharashtra State University of Eminence initiative

b) Establish an Urban University and Campus Hubs in partnership with 3 renowned Global Universities – as part of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s visionary ‘Educity’ initiative. This transformative project aims to deliver world-class, globally benchmarked education, positioning Maharashtra as a premier destination for top-quality higher education

c) The second pillar of this initiative will focus on empowering an additional 250,000 rural youth by addressing talent gaps in underserved areas. It will also include training professionals and fostering rural entrepreneurs in the not-for-profit sector, driving Maharashtra’s rural empowerment efforts and accelerating socio-economic upliftment across the state

With a balanced focus on rural and urban development, this partnership is set to establish Maharashtra as the strongest hub for global talent in advanced and emerging technologies.

Dr Indu Shahani, Founding Chancellor & President, ATLAS SkillTech University: “We are proud to partner with the Government of Maharashtra on this groundbreaking initiative to redefine the future of education. Guided by our mission to nurture not just job seekers but visionary job creators, we are steadfast in our commitment to nation-building. By empowering learners with cutting-edge, future-ready skills, we aim to bridge gaps and create transformative opportunities across urban and rural communities. This collaboration stands as a testament to our dedication to delivering world-class education and advancing Maharashtra’s position as a global epicentre for AI talent, innovation, and progress.”

Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder, upGrad & Swades Foundation: “It’s exciting to see the Government of Maharashtra taking concrete steps in enabling our talent with sharp resources they need to springboard on to the growth podium. There’s a very strong urban learning infrastructure that our State has, and taking it to rural, will only accelerate our commitment of producing the largest AI-ready talent for the world and for careers of tomorrow. ATLAS SkillTech University has been fronting the quality benchmarks in higher education across design, tech and entrepreneurship and the partnership will open doors to a wider segment to access that pedagogy and content.

Government of India and Heritage Foundation Mark International Day of Older Persons with Festivities for Seniors

Hyderabad, January 24, 2025: The International Day of Older Persons was celebrated with great enthusiasm under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in collaboration with the Heritage Foundation Regional Resource and Training Centre, Hyderabad, today at the prestigious Hari Hara Kala Bhavan, Secunderabad. The celebrations were graced by Chief Guest Mr. K. R. Gangadharan, Founder of the Heritage Group of companies; who delivered an inspiring keynote address. The Guests of Honour, Shri V Mohan Reddy, Ex MLA, Sircilla; Dr. G. Nageswara Rao, Vice President of the AASARA Central Project Committee, GHMC, Hyderabad and Mr. Prabhakara Reddy, Project Director of the Heritage Foundation RRTC, Hyderabad, added their valuable insights to the occasion.

With over 400 senior citizens participating enthusiastically, the event highlighted this year’s theme: “Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons.” The celebration underscored the importance of fostering respect, care, and robust support for the elderly, setting the tone for a compassionate and inclusive future.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gangadharan said, This year’s theme centers on dignity, extending it to our senior citizens while recognizing that true dignity begins with self-respect. When we respect ourselves, we naturally inspire respect from others. The National Policy on Senior Citizens (1999), highlights that senior citizens are a national treasure, a resource of immense value to society. Similarly, the United Nations underscores that seniors stand shoulder to shoulder with the youth, as equal contributors to societal progress. Let’s take pride in our age, our journey, and the invaluable wisdom that comes with it. After all, ageing is not just about growing older, it’s about growing richer in experiences, memories, and grace.

Shri V Mohan Reddy said, there’s a unique joy in meeting people of our own age, especially when we come together in large numbers, the atmosphere transforms into a vibrant celebration, filled with the warmth and energy of togetherness, nothing short of a festive occasion. It’s a beautiful opportunity to share our joys, recount memories, and even lighten the weight of our worries. In these moments of connection, we find comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging that rejuvenates the spirit. Let’s cherish these gatherings as a reminder that life is best enjoyed when shared with those who truly understand our journey.

Dr G. Nageswara Rao said, programs like these inspire confidence and enthusiasm among senior citizens, empowering them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. In Telangana, senior citizens make up a significant portion of the population, with 16% in urban areas and 15% in rural regions. The Congress Party government in Telangana is taking steps to support senior citizens by extending a 30% discount on RTC fares. Additionally, we have appealed to the Central Government to revive the train fare concession, ensuring more affordable travel options for seniors. In a significant development, at our request, the Hon’ble Governor has graciously approved the construction of ten multi-disciplinary centres for senior citizens in Hyderabad at an estimated cost of ₹6 crores. These centres will serve as hubs for health, recreation, and social engagement, enriching their quality of life. We are also working on various other social initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of senior citizens, enhancing their well-being, and extending their lifespan.

The celebrations kicked off with a spirited walkathon that saw over 400 senior citizens, including 120 inspiring participants aged 70 and above, taking confident strides from Mahboob College, RP Road, to Hari Hara Kala Bhavan, SD Road. Adding to the lively atmosphere, the walkers were enthusiastically cheered on by over 50 schoolchildren, whose support brought energy and joy to the event. This heartfelt gesture of intergenerational bonding set the tone for a day dedicated to honouring the strength, resilience, and dignity of our elders.

By 2030, India’s senior citizen population is expected to surpass 160 million, with a need to reshape the caregiving landscape like never before on war footing. This demographic shift highlights a pressing need for diverse support systems, spanning both paid and unpaid caregiving in formal and informal settings. As the population ages, the demand for holistic healthcare, dedicated care services, and robust social support has surged, especially for elderly individuals living with complex conditions like dementia. This transformative trend underscores the urgency of creating a compassionate, inclusive, and well-equipped ecosystem to meet the unique challenges of an aging nation.

India’s First Franchise Pickleball League Set to Debut

Mumbai, 24th January 2025: The World Pickleball League, India’s first franchise-based pickleball league, is set to kick off its inaugural season on 24th January at Mumbai’s iconic Brabourne Stadium in the Cricket Club of India. League co-founders Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar unveiled the coaches of all six franchises.

Each team will play a total of five ties in the group stage, with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals. This gives fans the opportunity to witness a total of 90 matches during the entire duration of the league. The opening tie will be played between Mumbai Pickle Power and Pune United, followed by Bengaluru Jawans taking on Chennai Super Champs, making for an exciting opening day. The final will be played on 2nd February, ensuring non-stop thrilling pickleball action for fans over a period of 10 days.

Staying true to its promise of ‘sportainment’ for the fans, WPBL will showcase live performances from some of India’s finest artists. Additionally, fans who want to watch the matches live will be able to purchase tickets exclusively on the Swiggy Scenes platform. All matches will also be telecast on the Sony Sports Network (television) as well as the FanCode app (OTT).

 Sam Basford, Coach- Mumbai Pickle Power Said, “Fans can expect high-level pickleball with a massive entertainment factor. The World Pickleball League will showcase incredible players from around the globe, including some exciting up-and-comers. We’re building a strong team in Mumbai Pickle Power and are eager to see their passion shine. This league is a game-changer for pickleball, elevating the sport globally and inspiring players to reach new heights.”

Joey Farias, Coach- Chennai Super Champs said, “The passion of the Indian people for this league is incredible. From the jersey launch in Chennai to the constant excitement, it’s clear this is going to be huge for pickleball globally. We have an amazing team, including our Indian star Sonu who’s been a revelation. We’re ready to bring the energy and connect with the fans. This league will be a game-changer for pickleball, potentially even paving the way for its inclusion in the Olympics.” 

Rosti Sobek, Coach- Pune United said, “The WBPL provides a fantastic platform for players to showcase their talent and grow the sport globally. For India, with its huge population and passion for sports like badminton, pickleball has immense potential. The accessibility of the game makes it appealing to all ages, and we believe it will thrive here. We’re excited to lead the way with our team, especially William Sobek, who will be a key player for us.”

Coco Lococo, Coach- Dilli Dilwale said, “The World Pickleball League is a groundbreaking event for the sport. We’re honored to represent Delhi and bring heart, soul, and fun to the court. Our team has a diverse range of skills, and we’re excited to showcase them. This league will undoubtedly boost pickleball’s popularity in India, making it more accessible to everyone.”

 Oliver Strecker, Coach- Bengaluru Jawans said, “The league has done a fantastic job, and we’re excited to put on a great show for the fans. We have an incredibly strong team with top players like Kat Stewart, Jack Foster, and Marcello Jardim. This league demonstrates the global growth of pickleball, showcasing its appeal to players of all levels. We’re thrilled to be a part of this exciting moment for the sport.”

Jonny Andrews, Coach- Hyderabad Superstars said, “Hyderabad Superstars will play with the city’s intensity – we’re here to work hard and get the job done. Look out for players like Max Freeman, Ross Whittaker, and Ava Cavataio. This league is a monumental step for international pickleball growth. After witnessing the sport’s rise in the US, I believe this is a pivotal moment that will significantly advance the game.”

 Excited ahead of the official launch of the league, Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO, World Pickleball League, added, “As we unveil the World Pickleball League, we are introducing India to a new era of sports entertainment—one that blends fast-paced action with unparalleled fan engagement. Pickleball is more than just a sport; it’s a movement that’s uniting people across ages and backgrounds. Through this league, we aim to make pickleball not only India’s hottest new sporting spectacle but also a platform that inspires, excites, and brings communities together.”

Know The Teams: 

 Mumbai Pickle Power | Team Owners: Swiggy, Rishabh Pant  

  • Bengaluru Jawans | Team Owners: Priya Atlee and Atlee 
  • Chennai Super Champs | Team Owners: Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu  
  • Pune United | Team Owners: Sudhir and Sunanda Mehta from EKA Mobility and Pinnacle Industries, Ajeenkya and Pooja Patil from Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Bollywood superstars Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh 
  • Hyderabad Superstars | Team Owners: KLO Sports
  • Dilli Dilwale | Team Owners: Ashok Amritraj, Founder of Hyde Park Entertainment, Ankiti Bose and Krishan Rattan, Founding Partners at Terra Invest and Sunil Gavaskar 

 Team-wise Squad:

Sr. No Delhi Dillwale  Pune United  Mumbai Pickle Power  Bengaluru Jawans  Chennai Super Champs  Hyderabad Superstars 
1 Alexa Schull William Sobek Brandon Lane Jack Foster Anna Clarice Patrimonio Max Freeman
2 Isha Lakhani Molly Knaggs Glauka Carvahal Lane Katerina Stewart Etienne Blaszkewycz Ava Cavataio
3 Eduardo Irizarry Vanshik Kapadia Mayur Patil Vrushali Thakare Sonu Vishwakarma Kuldip Mahajan
4 Willy Chung Brooke Revuelta Sabrina Dominguez Trang Hyunh McClain Tanner Tomassi Ross Whittaker
5 Lauren Mercado Louis Laville Mihae Kwon Marcelo Jardim Thaddea Lock Madalina Grigoriu
6 Leander Lazaro Molly O’Donoghue Kim Eung Gwon Alejandra Bobaria Edward Perez Karolina Owczarek
7 Kenta Miyoshi Mateusz Matysik Bartosz Karbownik Felix Grunert Tyra Calderwood Ben Cawston
8 Aiko Yoshitomi Rocio Cardo Katie Morris Mauro Garcia Sarah Jane Lim Ludovica Sciaky

Exhibition and Lecture Series on Coins: Unveiling the Stories Behind Currency

Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Wakankar Archaeological Research Institute under the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives, and Museums, Bhopal, in collaboration with the Ashwini Research Institute, Mahidpur, Ujjain, organized an exhibition and lecture series titled ‘Coins Across Eras.’ The event was inaugurated by Prof. Vaidyanath Labh and Commissioner Mrs. Urmila Shukla. Discussions highlighted the historical and cultural importance of coins. The chief guest elaborated on the origins of coins, ancient methods of exchange, and their contribution to historical documentation.

MoUs and Research Paper Presentations
During the event, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with three institutions to promote research in the field of archaeology and history. Researchers presented their insights on various aspects of ancient coins. Dr. Joseph Manuel discussed the Gupta-era depictions of Goddess Lakshmi, Dr. V.S. Parmar presented on Kushan coins, and other scholars explored symbolisms and numismatics.

Recognition and Participation
The event saw active participation from researchers, students, and experts. It concluded with a vote of thanks to the guests, inspiring further contributions to the field of research and archaeology.

Special thanks to IAS Urmila Shukla, Dr. Pooja Shukla, Mr. Dhruvendra Jodha, and members of Wakankar Research Institute and the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums for making the event a success.