8th January 2025  Bangkok, Thailand Thailand’s iconic riverside celebration captivates the world with unparalleled spectacle, featuring a world-renowned superstar and style icon “Lisa Lalisa Manobal” and leading Thai artists, a record-breaking display of the longest fireworks along the most picturesque curve of the Chao Phraya River, cementing ICONSIAM as the ultimate global countdown destination.

ICONSIAM, a global landmark along the Chao Phraya River, has set a new global standard with the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025, hailed as one of the most extraordinary New Year’s celebrations in the world. The event captivated viewers across the globe, with an unforgettable performance by “Lisa Lalisa Manobal”, a world-renowned rapper, singer, dancer and style icon, who inspired people worldwide. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 spanned three days of entertainment, featuring a diverse lineup of Thai and international artists. The event culminated in a breathtaking eco-friendly fireworks show, making headlines across influential media outlets and reaching a record-breaking audience of over 30 million viewers worldwide.

Record-Breaking Viewership
ICONSIAM announces the tremendous success of the grand countdown celebration that showcased the best of Thailand and the World. The event featured a diverse lineup, led by “Lisa Lalisa Manobal”, a world-renowned rapper, singer, dancer and style icon, who has brought global fame to Thailand and inspired people worldwide. This has set the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 a new record with over 30 million viewers tuning in from around the world across 20 LIVE broadcast platforms. The extraordinary event captured worldwide attention, making headlines across influential media outlets including CNN, BBC, AP, AFP, Reuters, ABC, CCTV, South China Morning Post, MBN TV, and more. This underscored Thailand’s growing influence as a premier international destination for world-class celebrations.

A Stunning Eco-Friendly Fireworks Lit Up the Sky
The eco-friendly fireworks made from Thai sticky rice displayed along a stunning 1,400-meter stretch of the Chao Phraya River, with a viewing radius of up to 5 kilometers, illuminated the night sky, reflecting the beauty and spirit of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. With the theme “Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam,” the fireworks display captured the essence of radiant Thai wisdoms, flourishing nature and Chao Phraya wonders, while demonstrating ICONSIAM’s commitment to sustainability.

Grand Opening Scene and World-Class Entertainment
The opening ceremony featured a blend of traditional Thai and international cultural performances, highlighting the beauty of Thai art, music, and heritage, highlighting the legacy of Thailand. A diverse lineup of world-class Thai and international artists graced the stage over the course of the three-day celebrations. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Chao Phraya River, the event offered non-stop entertainment for fans of all genres and styles.

ICONSIAM continues to create lasting memories of the extraordinary countdown by hosting a fireworks photography contest in collaboration with the Royal Photographic Society of Thailand. The winning firework photographs will be displayed on ICONSIAM’s in-mall digital screens as well as online channels from 10-31 January 2025.

A Phenomenal Celebration: The Best of Thailand and The World
The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 not only brought joy to millions at the close of the year but also reinforced Thailand’s position as a global leader in tourism and international events. The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM exemplifies the country’s potential and the power of public-private partnerships, driving the growth of Thailand’s tourism industry. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 is estimated to generate a nationwide economic impact exceeding 62 billion baht. With Thailand’s status as a Top 5 Countdown Destination, this event underscores the nation’s ability to host world-class celebrations, showcasing its vibrant cultural heritage to global audiences.

8th January 2025 Chandigarh, India  Chitkara International School has achieved a significant milestone by being prominently featured in Disney+ Hotstar’s renowned series Leading Educational Institutes in India. This prestigious recognition highlights the school’s transformative approach to education and its integral role in shaping the future of learning both in India and globally.

Celebrated as the No. 1 Happy School and a leader in employability and future-readiness, Chitkara International School sets the benchmark for academic excellence through its unique fusion of rigorous scholarship, experiential learning, and advanced technological integration. The school’s forward-thinking approach to education prioritizes not just academic achievement, but also emotional well-being, life skills, and career readiness.

One of the school’s standout initiatives is its pioneering “PhD to Playway Curriculum”, a reverse-integrated educational model that bridges early childhood learning with higher education. This innovative curriculum focuses on equipping students with employability skills, critical thinking, and future preparedness, with a strong emphasis on play-based and experiential learning. Vibrant classroom themes, such as Underwater World and Jungle Safari, foster creativity and curiosity in the junior wing.

In addition, the Sole Point of Contact (SPOC) initiative facilitates continuous communication between parents and educators, ensuring a collaborative approach to student development. The school also offers a diverse range of co-curricular activities in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhancing students’ skills in various fields while nurturing their creativity and confidence through Pep Talks and Kaleidoscope Events.

Chitkara International School’s commitment to innovation is further evident in its state-of-the-art Atal Tinkering Lab, “The Tinkering Talkies”, where STEM education thrives. With more than 18 patents filed by students and staff, the school continues to lead in innovation. Its Career Testing Programme, held regularly with professionals from diverse fields, helps students align their interests with future career pathways.

The school’s holistic approach is underscored by its focus on Emotional Quotient (EQ), Intelligence Quotient (IQ), Skill Quotient (SQ), and Happiness Quotient (HQ), ensuring well-rounded student development. Knowledge Walkways, interactive learning spaces, provide an immersive educational experience beyond the classroom. Sustainability is also a core focus, with the Chitkara Sustainable Centre empowering students to engage in eco-friendly projects rooted in the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Chitkara International School goes beyond traditional classrooms, offering Employability Studios designed to equip students with real-world skills. The school’s partnerships with prestigious global institutions such as HARVARD, MIT, NASA, and UNESCO provide students with unparalleled learning opportunities, ensuring they are well-prepared for international success.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Chairperson of Chitkara International Schools, and Dr. Niyati Chitkara, Director of Chitkara International School, the institution continues to set global benchmarks in education. This recognition by Disney+ Hotstar reinforces Chitkara International School’s commitment to excellence, innovation, sustainability, and holistic development, positioning it as a beacon of educational success.

8th January 2025  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India The THE RISE 14th Global Summit, scheduled to be held at the iconic ITC Grand Chola in Chennai from January 9-11, promises to be a momentous occasion for the Global Tamil community. Chevalier Rev. Dr. Jagath Gaspar Raj, Founder of THE RISE Organization, described the summit as a “majestic and magical Tamil moment” in a press statement released in Chennai.

From left to right: Prof Ms Ovya, Mr. Sivakumar Pethaiyan, Dr P Mahendravel, Dr Jagath Gaspar Raj, Dr C.J. Vetrievel, Mr Junaith Babu, Dr Maick Rajendran, Prof Lakshmi Mohan

The summit will see an exceptional international participation, with 30 Tamil entrepreneurs from Switzerland alone and 70 delegates from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Enthusiastic professionals and entrepreneurs are also coming from countries such as South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, Papua New Guinea, and Ghana. Delegates from nearly 40 countries and major cities worldwide will gather, showcasing the global presence of the Tamil community and their role in shaping the future of Tamil culture and economy in the 21st century.

“GO GLOBAL THAMIZHA” is the clarion call of THE RISE Chennai International Summit, which aims to open new opportunities for Tamil entrepreneurs, especially those in the MSME sector, to network and globalize their products and services. The summit is expected to facilitate the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) worth over Rs. 1,000 crore between delegates. One of the most remarkable features of this summit is its inclusivity, with entrepreneurs ranging from small businesses with a turnover of Rs.5 lakhs to large enterprises with a turnover of Rs. 500 crores. All will unite under the guiding principles of Tamil Aram and a shared commitment to prosperity.

A special focus will be on the Information Technology segment in the GO GLOBAL THAMIZHA SUMMIT 2025, with a dedicated track titled “Deep Tech Future”. This mini-summit will explore the cutting-edge developments in AI, quantum computing, and more. Key speakers include globally recognized figures such as:

• Mr. Cecil Sunder, Director of AI at Microsoft, USA
• Mr. Ganesh Radhakrishnan, CEO of FEKKI AI, USA
• Mr. Rajendran Dhandapani, Director at Zoho Corporation
• Mr. Prabhakaran Murugaiah, Founder & CEO of Mayu AI, USA
• Mr. Sidd Ahamed, President & CEO of VDART, USA

In addition, there will be a focused track for healthcare entrepreneurs and professionals under the auspices of Tamil Doctors International (TDI). Dr. C.J. Vetrievel, Global President of TDI, Founder & Chairman of Be Well Hospitals, announced the MARUTHUA MUNNETRAM 2025 (Advancements in Healthcare), a one-day international healthcare summit on January 11, 2025. This event will bring together leading doctors, healthcare entrepreneurs, innovators, and professionals to explore the future of healthcare technology. Topics include the integration of global healthcare practices, modern healthcare innovations, strengthening the healthcare workforce, making healthcare affordable, and transforming healthcare operations.

An Investor Connect Program and Healthcare Startup Fest will also take place, in partnership with Startup TN, where healthcare startups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions to global investors and potential partners.

The summit will also feature a distinguished panel of doctors and healthcare experts, including speakers from the Indian Medical Association, Chennai who will lead discussions on various healthcare-related topics.

Moreover, THE RISE will launch several groundbreaking initiatives, including the establishment of the Tamil Economic Council (TEC), Tamil Bankers International (TBI), and Tamil Millionaires International (TMI), aimed at advancing the economic and financial prospects of the Tamil community worldwide.

A day long Pitch Fest Jointly to be curated by Global Tamil Angels Network and Startup Singam will reach out and hand hold AI based Startups as well as grassroots level micro and small enterprises, particularly the ones headed by Women.

A key highlight of the summit will be the announcement of a transformative social impact project in collaboration with the Halima Foundation to improve the lives of over 70,000 war widows in the north-eastern districts of Sri Lanka. Halima Foundation has already set apart $100000 as seed money for this important and transformative project.

Additionally, THE RISE will unveil plans for the development of a Global Tamil Village and Country Club near Kutralam, designed to promote arts, culture, environmental sustainability (including the preservation of Palmyra trees), religious tourism, and global Tamil collaboration.

The Government of Tamil Nadu is represented in this Summit by Several Key Ministers including Mr. K.N Nehru, Mr. Tha.Mo. Anbarasan, Dr Palanivel Thiaga Rajan and Mr. T.R.B Raja.

8th January 2025 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India Vels Institute of Science, Technology, and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) has introduced a 100% scholarship for students who score above 90% in their Grade 12 board exams. This initiative, aimed at promoting academic excellence, was announced by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Institutions, at the Second Edition of the Academic Excellence Award ceremony held at the Institutions Auditorium.

The Academic Excellence Award, presented in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Nursery Primary Matric Higher Secondary and CBSE Schools Association, celebrated outstanding academic performance of the students from Grade 12. The event recognized and honored 1,000 top-performing students from schools across Tamil Nadu, with ten students selected from both the Science and Commerce streams of each school.

Dr. Ramesh Prabha, a veteran journalist, career counselor, and author, graced the event as the chief guest. In his address, he provided valuable guidance to students on how to choose a career path that aligns with their personal interests and passions. He emphasized the importance of self-reflection, urging them to identify their strengths, values, and what excites them, rather than simply following societal expectations or external pressures.

Moreover, he offered insightful advice on how to face competitive exams, which are often a daunting part of a student’s journey. He highlighted the need for disciplined study habits, time management, and consistency in preparation. He also encouraged the students to remain calm under pressure and stay focused on their goals.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh emphasized, “I am proud to announce that students who score above 90% in their board exams and choose VISTAS for their higher education will receive a 100% scholarship on their tuition fees. Alternatively, if students take our scholarship exam V-SAT and perform well, they will also be eligible for a 100% scholarship on their tuition fees.”

The ceremony was also attended by other distinguished leaders of the Institution, including:

• Dr. Arthi Ganesh, Pro Chancellor (Administration), VISTAS
• Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, Vels Group of Institutions
• Dr. Sriman Narayanan, Vice Chancellor, VISTAS

8th January 2025  New Delhi, Delhi, India Reaffirming its commitment to accelerating India’s clean energy transition, the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) announced three key forward-looking initiatives and partnerships at a high-level stakeholder convening in New Delhi: a Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF) in partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), DUET (Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition) and ENTICE 2.0 (Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge). Together, these initiatives bridge financing gaps, enhance institutional capacity and foster cost-efficient scalable solutions to support India’s clean energy transition.

GEAPP strengthened its partnership with International Solar Alliance (ISA) by signing ISA’s Multi-Donor Trust Fund, which aims to mobilize $100 million to fund high-impact solar energy projects. As the lead organization for the MDTF, ISA will drive the overarching vision and strategic direction of the program, ensuring that solar energy initiatives meet the needs of its member countries. GEAPP, through its Project Management Unit, will support ISA by providing governance oversight, facilitating fundraising efforts, and leveraging its expertise in energy transition planning, financing, and project implementation.

Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General, ISA, commented, “This agreement marks an exciting step in our ongoing collaboration with GEAPP to accelerate the clean energy transition. By aligning our efforts through partnership, we are better positioned to deliver sustainable and impactful solutions to countries seeking to scale solar energy. GEAPP’s expertise will help grow the Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF) into a powerful tool to deliver renewable energy access in our Member Countries and support the realization of their climate and energy goals.”

DUET (Digitalization of Utilities for Energy Transition) is a program focused on the digitalization of grid systems through the development of a technology suite in which all grid assets are digitally captured (including geo-coordinates, specifications, etc.) and integrated with live smart sensors for real-time data. The system will conduct load flow analysis and real-time tracking of voltage, current, and phase data to reduce transmission and distribution losses. It will also assist in BESS deployment and DRE integration into the grid.

ENTICE 2.0 (Energy Transitions Innovation Challenge), powered by GEAPP, is a platform designed to identify, nurture, and scale innovative solutions that have the potential to accelerate India’s startup ecosystem and help achieve its sustainability goals. First launched in 2023, ENTICE aims to help scale innovations for the energy transition by facilitating access to funding, market linkages and mentorship. ENTICE 2.0 will kickstart in January 2025, and will go beyond the scope of ENTICE 1.0 by focusing on supporting and scaling investable opportunities.

GEAPP’s involvement in the Multi-Donor Trust Fund, DUET and ENTICE 2.0 underscore its commitment to driving innovation and addressing the challenges of reliable, clean energy access and climate change in India.

“At GEAPP, we believe that the path to a sustainable and inclusive future lies in accelerating the transition to renewable energy, particularly in emerging markets that are poised to drive global change. The signing of the MDTF with ISA highlights the critical role of strategic alliances in mobilizing resources to accelerate clean energy adoption. Our initiatives, such as ENTICE 2.0 and DUET, aim to foster innovation and deliver scalable solutions that drive sustainable economic growth and empower communities. By alliancing with diverse partners, we can unlock the full potential of renewable energy and create a more resilient global energy system,” said Woochong Um, CEO of GEAPP.

Saurabh Kumar, Vice President – India at GEAPP, also presented the Alliance’s three-year strategy and impact targets for India, with a specific focus on ENTICE 2.0 and contributions to Energy Transition Planning (ETP).

This stakeholder convening brought together key industry leaders to discuss an action-oriented roadmap towards India’s goal of building 500 GW of renewable energy capacity. It also coincided with the visit of Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, President of The Rockefeller Foundation, to India. Dr. Shah’s visit emphasized the critical role of philanthropy in advancing the global energy transition and supporting India’s clean energy efforts.,

8th January 2025  Delhi, India At Stall 59 of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025, the inspiring journey of Mangal Leima Self-Help Group (SHG) unfolds—a venture rooted in Khangabok village, Manipur. Founded in 2014 by Laishram Sharmila Devi, this initiative started modestly with a handful of women and has since grown to empower over 4,000 women artisans today. With financial and skill-development support from NABARD, Mangal Leima SHG has become a beacon of self-reliance and creativity, producing a diverse range of handcrafted products, including bags, gift baskets, boxes, cases, and home décor items, all made from Kouna, a locally sourced swamp reed native to the Thoubal District. Organized into 14 women-led SHGs, members earn an average monthly income of Rs. 12,000, showcasing the transformative potential of sustainable entrepreneurship and community-driven efforts.

Hodi Craft, started by Nazeer in 2015, and at stall 49 at the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025, brings the rich heritage of Nicobar Islands to life with handcrafted artifacts and decor in coconut shells, bamboo, and natural fibers. From six artisans from each of 12 villages, the initiative has now blossomed into a symbol of tradition and craftsmanship.

Hodi Craft, which has recently been accorded a GI tag with NABARD’s support for specializing in Hinpon artifacts inspired by traditional boats, chatais, baskets, and hats, has provided the artisans with a stable monthly income of Rs. 9,000 and has promoted economic resilience while sustaining the identity of the Nicobari. Nazeer wishes to expand Hodi Craft throughout India to spread the artistry and heritage of Nicobar to a wider populace.

Viraasat Back to Roots Handicraft Producer Company from Raipur Rani block of Panchkula, Haryana, set up in 2022 with the support of NABARD Haryana and displayed at Stall 140, stands for the craftsmanship of 310 members, including 94 men. Led by Founder and Director Mustaq Ali, the artisans create a diverse range of handmade products such as dhurries, yoga mats, doormats, bed side runners, wall hangings and Japanese amigurumi toys.

Using traditional looms, including the durable “Pit Loom,” which enables intricate weaving with pedal operations. Organized into a Handicraft Producer Company Limited and supported by NABARD and Swami Rama Foundation Trust, the members have undergone specialized training and handholding at NIFT Panchkula and NIFT Kangra, with aspirations to expand their reach nationally. Today, they are onboarded on Amazon, Gatha, Exotic and they also have own website. Recently they also exported 5 dhurries to France opening a new horizon of world. The artisans earn an average monthly income of Rs. 10,000, reflecting the success of their efforts. Their work garnered significant attention when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visited their stall at the Gram Bharat Mahotsav 2025.

8th January 2025  Pune, Maharashtra, India  ADVIK, a leading automotive product manufacturer, has successfully acquired Powersports MTG GmbH, a motorcycle mechanical and hydraulic braking system and clutch system manufacturer. Powersports MTG GmbH (“Powersports”) was created as a spin-off company for the powersports business from Gustav Magenwirth GmbH & Co. KG, known as MAGURA, a German company based in Bad Urach, established in 1893 that develops, produces and markets high-quality components with a focus on brake and clutch systems for two-wheelers. This move puts ADVIK into list of advanced brake system suppliers, aligning with its growth trajectory. The acquisition expands ADVIK’s product range and customer base, aiming to enhance the development of next-gen braking solutions. This acquisition was executed through ADVIK’s Singapore subsidiary ADVIK Singapore Pte. Ltd. Powersports ended 2024 with a strong revenue tending to 30 million Euro. Powersports acquisition brings advanced brake system and clutch system for on and off-road including high-end and racing motorcycles. Lineup includes motorcycle master cylinder and caliper along with slanted radial, fully radial and axial master cylinder in addition to floating caliper and fixed caliper. These technologies reduce friction, enhance brake feel and control across diverse road conditions.

Mr. Aditya Bhartia, Managing Director of ADVIK group, expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing its contribution to a safe & reliable advanced braking system. Mr. Bhartia said, “This acquisition of the two-wheeler braking system of MAGURA, with a rich history of more than 100 years, not only brings advanced technology for hydraulic braking and clutch system to larger part of the World, it also adds manufacturing and research & development capabilities in Germany. With 60 plus patents, this acquisition is very strategic to ADVIK to get access to hydraulic braking and clutch technology. Powersports customer include leading two-wheeler OEMs in Europe and USA for braking and clutch systems. This would help ADVIK to establish its footprint in Europe from where it can expand and service its customers at its doorstep. This is a step forward into our vision of being a leading braking system supplier in the World for two-wheeler (motorcycle and scooter)”. He added that, “ADVIK would carry forward the legacy of more than 100 years and strategically expand the two-wheeler braking system portfolio Worldwide.”

Mr. Fabian Auch, Managing Partner of MAGENWIRTH Technologies GmbH, was delighted to have ADVIK as the new owner of the Powersports business. Mr. Auch said: “I am excited to handover this company to ADVIK, a group who has the prowess to further grow the two-wheeler braking systems business. I am sure the Powersports business has found its righteous place, where it will thrive and grow.”

SINGAPORE,7th January 2025– Terrascope, the global leading sectoral-focused carbon measurement and decarbonization pl7th January 2025atform, has announced the appointment of Felipe Daguila as its new Chief Executive Officer. Daguila, who first joined Terrascope as Chief Commercial Officer in 2021 and later took on expanded responsibilities as Chief Commercial & Customer Officer, will assume his new role effective today, January 7th 2025.

Daguila brings over two decades of global leadership experience in startups and enterprises, including tenures at Google and AWS. Since joining Terrascope, Daguila has led the company’s growth across Asia Pacific, Europe and the United States. As CEO, Daguila’s deep expertise in sales, customer success, product development, and technology will propel Terrascope’s next chapter of growth, including investor development and a strategic partnership with Fujitsu, a leading IT service provider driving sustainability transformation.

Daguila succeeds Maya Hari, who has decided to step down as CEO after shaping Terrascope’s vision and growth over the past two years. During this time, Terrascope achieved significant milestones, including expanding its market presence in the US and Japan. Taking Daguila’s place to lead global sales, marketing, and customer success will be Tatsuki Hirota, formerly Terrascope’s General Manager for Japan.

Reflecting on the transition, Hari said, “It has been a privilege to lead Terrascope and contribute to its vision of empowering enterprises to keep the planet habitable for all. Felipe’s thorough understanding of customer needs, hands-on leadership combined with his strategic vision, makes him the perfect leader to guide Terrascope into its next phase of innovation and growth.”

Daguila shared his gratitude and said, “I grew up in Brazil as a farmer’s grandson. That upbringing, combined with my 25 years of experience in technology, developed in me a deep sense of connection to Terrascope’s vision to make the planet habitable for all. In the past three years, Terrascope has measured 462 million metric tons of CO2, – equivalent to Australia’s annual carbon emissions – and developed a sectorial and science based AI-driven decarbonization library of over 20,000 initiatives. As we enter our next phase of growth, we are committed to being the easiest platform to measure and reduce emissions coming from the land, nature, and net-zero economy sectors.”

7th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India In a dynamic financial landscape, the need for innovation is paramount. BHARAT CO-OPERATIVE BANK (MUMBAI) LTD was one of the few banks to implement Finacle as its CBS (Core Banking System) back in the year 2013-2014 with that legacy of being the early mover to adopt technology advancements, BHARAT BANK is now set to redefine the way it serves its customers, by enhancing the overall banking experience while strengthening its operational backbone. BHARAT BANK is proud to announce its technology upgrade to Finacle version 10.2.25, the latest version of the world-renowned core banking system (CBS) by INFOSYS, marking a significant step toward modernization. This upgrade is not just about embracing cutting-edge technology but is also part of a broader vision to enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and set the stage for future growth.

The financial services sector has been undergoing a dramatic shift with the increasing reliance on digital tools and automation. The bank has recognized the need to evolve and adapt to meet these changing demands. By upgrading to Finacle 10.2.25 version, BHARAT BANK aims to deliver an improved banking experience for customers. Finacle latest version 10.2.25’s robust features will provide customers with greater ease of access and faster processing times and also creating a seamless experience across multiple touch points—whether mobile, online, or in-branch.

Operational excellence is a key area where the upgrade to Finacle 10.2.25 version will have a transformative impact. Finacle 10.2.25 offers an advanced suite of features that will streamline the bank’s operations, improving back-office processes and reducing manual intervention. With enhanced automation and integration capabilities, the bank will be able to manage transactions more efficiently, reduce errors, and speed up service delivery. This, in turn, will ensure that resources are utilized effectively, improving both productivity and cost-efficiency.

The new system’s ability to manage complex banking operations with precision will also play a vital role in strengthening risk management, compliance, and governance protocols. These improvements will enhance the bank’s ability to provide accurate and timely reporting, ensuring that regulatory requirements are consistently met. As a result, the bank can continue to foster transparency and trust with its customers, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and ethical banking practices.

This upgrade is not just about addressing current needs; it is also about preparing the bank for future growth. The adoption of Finacle 10.2.25 positions the bank as a forward-thinking institution that embraces the potential of digital transformation. The platform’s scalability and flexibility will enable the bank to introduce new products and services in a more agile manner, catering to the ever-evolving needs of the market.

The new CBS also supports the integration of emerging technologies this will allow the bank to offer more personalized financial products and services, and make data-driven decisions that enhance business outcomes. By leveraging these advanced technologies, the bank is setting the stage for a more innovative, responsive, and customer-centric approach to banking.

When spoken to Mr. Yashodhara D. Poojary, the Head of CBS at BHARAT BANK, he highlighted that the upgrade of Finacle version 10.2.25 marks a significant milestone in their journey towards becoming technologically advanced and customer-centric institution. With this upgrade, the bank is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also delivering an exceptional and seamless experience for its customers. In addition to technological advancements, the bank has implemented increased security measures to ensure the safeguarding of sensitive data and compliance with evolving regulatory norms. By adhering to the latest standards in data protection and privacy, the bank ensures that it meets the demands of the new age world, providing both security and trust to its customers. As it continues to embrace new technologies and refine its practices, the bank is determined to position itself as a trusted partner for customers, ensuring they benefit from the best in banking services while maintaining the highest levels of security and compliance.

The bank is working to support the new upgrade of Core Banking System (CBS) transformation, which is in the phase of initiation by the technology department. The management is focused towards driving excellent banking experience to its customers in the days to come.

7th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India At 0150 hrs IST on 25 Dec 24, Kaamya Karthikeyan, the 17-year-old mountaineer, successfully completed her most ambitious expedition by summiting Mt. Vinson Massif in Antarctica. This remarkable achievement marks the completion of her Seven Summits Challenge, making her the youngest female climber in the world to conquer the highest peak on all seven continents. Kaamya was supported on this extraordinary journey by Bisleri Vedica Himalayan Spring Water, sourced from the Himalayas, embodying her spirit of being #FullOfAltitude.

Reflecting on her incredible adventure, Kaamya Karthikeyan remarked, “Summiting Mount Vinson still feels surreal, and I’m beyond grateful to Vedica for supporting me wholeheartedly in reaching this highly challenging and my final milestone of the Seven Summits. With this climb, I’ve become the youngest female mountaineer in the world to achieve the Seven Summits Challenge. I’m excited for what’s next and looking forward to setting new goals for myself. I also hope this fuels young Indians of my generation to dream big and turn their dreams into reality.”

Commenting on this association, Jayanti Khan Chauhan, Vice Chairperson, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are incredibly proud to support Kaamya on her historic journey to conquer the Seven Summits. With her final summit of Mt. Vinson Massif in Antarctica, Kaamya has become the youngest girl in the world to scale the highest peak on all seven continents, setting a new standard in mountaineering. It’s been a privilege to fuel her passion and resilience as she continues to redefine the limits of human potential. Kaamya’s journey truly embodies the #FullOfAltitude spirit, and we celebrate her inspiring achievements that motivate the world with her unwavering determination.”

The ascent of Mt. Vinson Massif was an arduous and challenging journey, beginning with a flight more than halfway across the world into the remote Antarctic wilderness, followed by a relentless climb through treacherous ice fields, deep crevasses, and unpredictable weather. Climbers face some of the harshest conditions on Earth, with temperatures plummeting below -40°C and winds exceeding 100 mph. Kaamya’s remarkable accomplishments on so many mountains, including this summit, stand as a profound source of inspiration. She had also become the youngest Indian and the second youngest female in the world to climb Mt. Everest from the Nepal side earlier in May 2024. Her exceptional achievements had earned her the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2021, India’s highest honour for young achievers, and recognition from the Hon. Prime Minister in his Mann Ki Baat.