38th AIU National Youth Festival ‘Amity Utsav’ Inaugurated with Enthusiasm
5th March 2025: The environment was filled with excitement as the 38th AIU Inter University National Youth Festival-2024-25, “Amity Utsav”, under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), being held from 3rd-6th March 2025, was inaugurated at Amity University.
During the Festival, over 2407 students from 148 Universities from across India are participating in 28 Competitions such as Classical Music, Vocal Music, Western Music, Folk Dance, Classical Dance, Quiz Competitions, Debate Competitions, Plays, Skits, Poster Making, Collage Making, Clay Modelling, Installation Art, Mehendi and Rangoli Making amongst others.
Inaugurating the festival, Renowned Kuchipudi Dancer, Padma Bhushan Shri Raja Reddy, averred, “India is famous across the world for its dynamic, vibrant, colourful and diverse customs, languages, culture and traditions. It is also known as the country of “Universal Enlightenment” and “Nectar of the East”. In dance, forms, poetic expressions speak through rhythmic patterns and facial gestures, and it is an expression of the various human emotions and sensitivities. Amity is one of the best institutions in the world and has provided a wonderful opportunity to the students from various parts of the country to showcase their talent, which will also shape them as human beings.”
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Member of Parliament and Chairman, Kailash Group of Hospitals, said, “Amity University has organized this Mega Youth Festival which is truly commendable, and I congratulate all the participants. India is known for its rich cultural heritage across the world, and we strongly believe in our traditions and culture which make India a unique country in the world. Students from different parts of the country have gathered here today to showcase their incredible talent, which is a proud moment for all of us. Students are the ambassadors of Indian culture, and we must nurture their talent and creativity so that they can make our country proud.”
Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak President, Association of Indian Universities (AIU), stated, “Youth Festivals serve as a vibrant platform for the expression of creativity, talent, and innovation among our young minds. It is a time when the energy and enthusiasm of the youth take centre stage, showcasing the incredible potential that resides within each of you. This festival is not merely an event, it is a testament to the vitality and dynamism that characterize our young student’s community. AIU has been annually organizing the Inter-University Youth Festivals (UNIFESTs) at the zonal and national levels every year, wherein a large number of youth artists from member universities and affiliated colleges participate.”
Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh said, “The AIU Inter-University National Youth Festival 2024–25 is a vibrant and highly anticipated event that brings together students from universities across India to showcase their talents, creativity, and cultural diversity, with an aim to celebrate the spirit of unity, national integration, and youth empowerment. This annual event highlights the rich cultural heritage of our nation through a wide array of competitions in music, dance, theatre, fine arts, and literature. It stands as a jubilant tribute to our cultural legacy, showcasing the talent and collaborative spirit of university students from across the country, transforming fleeting moments into cherished memories.”
Renowned Kathak Dancer Duo Padma Shri Ms. Nalini Asthana & Ms. Kamalini Asthana, said, “The festival offers a platform to the artists to showcase their skills, encouraging appreciation and support for one another’s unique abilities. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate this diversity, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among students from various backgrounds. Bookish knowledge is not enough, and students must hone their skills and talent for their holistic development. It is the responsibility of educational institutions to recognize the talent of the students and provide them with the opportunity to display their creativity.”
Before the Inauguration, a Cultural Procession took a round of the Amity campus, wherein the participants from various Universities showcased their talent for two minutes. Students enthralled the audience with their mesmerising classical dance, scintillating western vocal, outstanding Indian solo vocal performances and many other activities, thereby showcasing their exceptional talent.
Approximately 1,000 universities from across India were divided into 08 Zones i.e. Central, Southeast, South, West, East, Northeast, North and Northwest Zone. Zone-wise competitions were hosted by different Universities and the winners from these Zones have been selected for the grand finale at Amity, where they are competing for the championship trophy. The Inaugural Ceremony was attended by Ms. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General AIU, Dr. Mamta Rani Agarwal, Additional Secretary AIU, and thousands of Amity students.
Marico Launches Saffola Cuppa Oats, Redefining the Category
Hyderabad, 5th March 2025: Marico, one of India’s leading FMCG companies, is set to redefine the convenience in the Oats category with the launch of Saffola Cuppa Oats—a delicious, nutritious, and hassle-free snack tailored for today’s fast-moving consumers.
Saffola Cuppa Oats, ready in 4 minutes by just adding boiling hot water, will be available in two flavours – Magic Masala and Spicy Mexicana, along with a delightful blend of oats, millets & crunchy multigrain bites. Not only does the product guarantee a masaledaar flavour with crunchy bites but also is high in fiber and acts as a source of protein. True to Saffola’s ‘No Nasties’ promise, the product is crafted as NO Maida, No artificial flavours, No colours, No preservatives, and No palm oil, making it a better-for-you snack without compromising on taste.
Designed for minimal effort and maximum flavour, it ensures that new-age consumers that comprises of working professionals, young adults and students can enjoy a delicious snack without hampering their schedules. Whether it’s a rushed morning, a midday boost, or a late-night craving, Saffola Cuppa Oats delivers a seamless and satisfying experience, combining taste, nutrition, and ease of preparation in just four minutes, delivering on its promise of ‘Masaledaar taste, no time waste’.
Saffola Cuppa Oats will be currently available in leading retail stores and quick-commerce platforms, making it the perfect go-to snack for modern consumers.
Introducing Saffola Cuppa Oats, Nilanjan Roy Choudhury, Business Head – Foods Business at Marico Ltd shared insights on the launch, “At Marico, we are committed to continuous innovation that meets the evolving health needs of our consumers. We recognised that modern consumers crave for a snack that delivers flavour and nutrition without compromising on the chores of their busy life. To bridge this gap, we curated Saffola Cuppa Oats, a category-redefining easy-cook oats offering a quick, tasty, and nutritious mess-free snack that fuels their ambitions and effortlessly fits into their dynamic lifestyles. This unique product represents a fusion of modern convenience and wholegrain goodness, designed for today’s fast-moving world.”
Vanmali Katha Samay & Vishnu Khare Awards Celebrate Literature
National, 5th March 2025: Celebrating the rich tapestry of literature and art, Vanmali Srijanpeeth proudly inaugurated the three-day Vanmali Katha Samay & National Vishnu Khare Poetry Awards Ceremony at Rabindranath Tagore University. This vibrant event brought together esteemed literary figures, scholars, and passionate storytellers to honor exceptional contributions to the literary world. The ceremony featured insightful discussions, compelling storytelling, and the unveiling of important literary works, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a culture of reading and writing in today’s society.
The ceremony included an engaging session with prominent speakers such as senior storyteller Mamta Kalia, Vanmali Katha magazine’s chief editor Mukesh Verma, Tadbhav magazine’s editor Akhilesh, and writer Oma Sharma. They explored “The Landscape of Contemporary Literary Journalism and Vanmali Katha,” discussing the evolving dynamics of literary publications.
RNTU Chancellor and senior author Shri Santosh Choubey emphasized the essential role of language in contemporary society, stating, “The greatest need of the present time is to embrace language as a skill alongside literature.” He also reflected on the journey of Vanmali Katha magazine, urging writers to remain committed to their activist spirit.
Addressing the challenges of publishing literary magazines today, Akhilesh, editor of Tadbhav magazine, said, “With rising postal costs, many literary magazines have ceased publishing in print format. In such times, democratic and inclusive publications like Vanmali Katha are undertaking a courageous effort.”
Oma Sharma, senior storyteller, also emphasized, “The focus should be on the work itself; the platform is not as important. Vanmali Katha engages deeply with the creations, ensuring that the essence of storytelling remains at the forefront.”
Mamta Kalia, senior storyteller, passionately remarked, “We find ourselves in an era where half of society is consumed by commerce while the other half is engrossed in consumption. The very essence of reading and teaching is under siege. In this critical juncture, the continuous and diverse publication of ‘Vanmali Katha’ is not just admirable; it is a beacon of hope for the preservation and promotion of our literary heritage.”
A special session on “Hindi Writers in Malayalam,” chaired by Santosh Choubey, featured a 20-member delegation of Hindi-Malayali writers from Kerala. Senior Hindi-Malayali writer Dr. Rasu praised Kerala’s supportive environment for Hindi, while Dr. K.C. Ajay Kumar stressed the need for adopting the Devanagari script in mainstream Hindi literature.
The unveiling of the poster for the Vishwarang International Hindi Olympiad 2025 took place alongside the launch of ‘Kathayatra,’ a curated collection of 51 Hindi short stories translated into Malayalam, as well as ‘Madhya Pradesh Kathakal.’ Following this, a captivating storytelling session at Katha Sabha showcased works from Santosh Choubey, Mukesh Verma, Akhilesh, and Manisha Kulshreshtha, highlighting the rich diversity of contemporary storytelling. The evening concluded with a theatrical adaptation of Santosh Choubey’s story ‘Lekhak Banane Wale,’ performed by second-year students of the Tagore National School of Drama. Directed by Dr. Chaitanya Athle, the play critically examines the commercialization of literature, exploring the protagonist’s struggle between mechanical storytelling and the authenticity of genuine writing.
The event served as a powerful celebration of literary excellence while sparking meaningful discussions on the future of literature and the pivotal role of language in society. Vanmali Katha’s steadfast commitment to nurturing a rich literary culture ensures that the voices of writers and readers will resonate for generations to come, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling.
The Inspiring Journey of Janvi Sachdeva Design
Janvi Sachdeva Kapoor, the dynamic founder of Janvi Sachdeva Design, is reshaping the world of jewellery with her creative approach and persistent passion. Despite hailing from a family rooted in the footwear industry, Janvi ventured into uncharted territory to craft her own path in the jewellery segment. Her journey began with a love for statement jewellery, an affection so deep that it inspired her to pursue a diploma in jewellery design from the prestigious GIA in Mumbai and IIGJ in Delhi. Further refining her craft, she clasped contemporary techniques at Alchimia, a celebrated jewellery school in Florence.
Janvi’s inspiration to create Janvi Sachdeva Design arose from her recognition of a distinct void in the market. Positioned between fine jewellery and imitation pieces, she conceived a brand that would enrich silver jewellery into the luxury sphere. Her mission is clear – to craft statement jewellery that is luxurious yet accessible, bridging the gap between refinement and affordability. Janvi aspires for her creations to be timeless treasures cherished for generations to come.
The brand’s ethos focuses on quality, craftsmanship, and excellence. Janvi’s personal values, her meticulous eye for detail and her preference for quality over quantity are intricately incorporated into the DNA of her designs. Each piece is a representation of her belief in crafting jewellery that is both modern and classic, making it a lasting style statement.
Under Janvi’s leadership, the brand has gained admiration for its prime craftsmanship and innovative designs. At every exhibition, Janvi Sachdeva Design has been praised for its unique artistry, showcasing a deep commitment to greatness. The Elizabeth Necklace from her second collection is a masterpiece illustrating her design philosophy. Similarly, the Amaryllis Choker and Alpine Earrings have become iconic, beloved by customers for their grace and versatility.
Janvi’s vision grows far beyond crafting jewellery; she seeks to reimagine perceptions. By highlighting the difference between silver and imitation jewellery, she positions her creations in the world of luxury. Her dream is to make Janvi Sachdeva Design synonymous with global icons like Cartier and Tiffany, establishing a legacy that accords both in India and internationally.
At the core of the brand lies a profound appreciation for heritage craftsmanship and trendy aesthetics. Each piece merges the brilliance of lustrous gemstones with the purity of fine silver. Janvi’s designs observe a harmonious blend of luxury and individuality, inspiring confidence and polish in every wearer.
Through Janvi Sachdeva Design, Janvi sends an exhilarating message – invest in jewellery that is not only ravishing but also meaningful. Her pieces hold a transformative power of jewellery as a fashion statement, proving that silver, when paired with impeccable gemstones and craftsmanship, can be as fascinating as gold – without compromising on affordability.
Janvi Sachdeva Kapoor is creating a legacy. Her vision, passion, and dedication are shaping Janvi Sachdeva Design into a name that vows incredible luxury, timelessness, and accessibility.
Lotus Electronics & Indore Superchargers Launch Lotus 10K Run
05 March 2025: Lotus Electronics, Central India’s leading electronics retail chain, in collaboration with the Indore Superchargers Health Welfare Society, is excited to announce the Lotus 10K Indore Superchargers run, a community-focused event that blends fitness with awareness on the critical theme of cyber security. Scheduled for March 23, 2025, with Nehru Stadium, Indore as its starting point, the event aims to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to promote health, safety, and digital literacy.
The Lotus 10K Indore Superchargers run will feature four categories: Fun Run, 5K Timed, 5K Untimed, and 10K Timed. Whether participants are seasoned runners or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active, there is something for everyone. The theme of cyber security takes center stage this year, reflecting the growing importance of online safety in today’s digital age. Through this initiative, participants will not only engage in physical activity but also gain valuable insights into protecting themselves and their loved ones from cyber threats. The event is supported by the Indore Municipal Corporation and Choithram Hospital and Research Centre, Indore. Our mission for this marathon is to foster health awareness while promoting national culture, safety, and family participation.
Speaking about this unique initiative, Mr. Gaurav Pahwa from Lotus Electronics, said, “At Lotus Electronics, we have always believed in contributing meaningfully to the communities we serve. The Lotus 10K Indore Superchargers run is more than just a marathon. It is an opportunity to bring people together for fitness while addressing an issue as relevant as cyber security. We are proud to partner with the Indore Superchargers Health Welfare Society to create an event that combines health awareness with education on digital safety.”
Highlighting the significance of this event, Dr. Amit Bang from Indore Superchargers Health Welfare Society, said: “Our goal has always been to encourage healthier lifestyles while addressing pressing societal concerns. By focusing on cyber security as the theme for this year’s run, we aim to educate participants about staying safe in an increasingly digital world while also promoting physical well-being. This collaboration with Lotus Electronics allows us to reach more people and make a lasting impact.”
Cargill Unveils Innovative Food Solutions at AAHAR 2025
National, 5th March 2025: Highlighting its role as an innovative and trusted partner for innovation and growth for the Indian food industry, at AAHAR 2025, Cargill showcased its diverse range of applications and products with a focus on the indulgence categories such as snacks, bakery, confectionery, dairy and ice cream, catering to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers who are increasingly health- and value-conscious yet unwilling to compromise on taste and experience.
Re-emphasizing the theme of “The whole world of possibilities,” this year, Cargill booth was inaugurated today by Simon George, Country President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia along with Tarak Bhattacharya, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Over Donuts.
Showcasing the versatility and unique applications of products in the Cargill portfolio, Cargill’s Corporate Chef Anip Kumar and team conducted live demonstrations at the Cargill AAHAR booth, whipping up Millet Cookies, Berry Fudge, and Sourdough Chips recipes, amongst heavy footfall from visitors. In total, over 50 chef-curated baked applications were on display over the course of the exhibition.
“We are excited to deliver comprehensive solutions that empower our customers to grow their business through innovative products and cost-efficient solutions and at the same time, connecting consumers to the nutrition they need and food they love, building a more food secure world. Through AAHAR, we aim to strengthen our partnerships and reinforce Cargill’s position as a trusted food solutions provider in the industry,” said Simon George, Country President and Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia
Innovative Functional Blends
Cargill is showcasing its unique and innovative functional blends for snacks, bakery, confectionery, dairy and ice cream industries for the first time for Indian B2B players at AAHAAR 2025. Designed to enhance product quality, taste, and performance across multiple categories and diverse requirements. These product innovations include:
- First of its kind dent corn-based modified starch which helps create brighter color and appearance in sauces, enhancing the sensorial acceptability of fresh tomato aroma and smooth taste and texture.
- A cost-effective pectin replacer that can be an effective substitute for expensive pectin used in gummies and jellies, catering to the value conscious consumers
- Other innovations like bake-stable filling that provides optimum flowability and superior mouthfeel post baking, starch based functional systems that adds crispiness in snacks and reduces oil absorption during frying, functional systems for ice creams and frozen desserts that reduces ice crystal growth during storage, improves melting properties, limits shrinkage and enhances overall sensorial acceptability.
Cost-Saving Zone
Cargill also featured a dedicated Cost-Saving Solutions Zone at its booth at AAHAR this year, where visitors explored innovative product alternatives like cookies made with NatureFresh[1] Professional Elite Choice. These solutions are designed to help Indian bakers reduce production and ingredient costs while maintaining superior product quality and taste, ensuring customer delight in the evolving food landscape.
New launches
Cargill presented a range of new products for both B2B and B2C segments this year, including:
- Gemini Plus Trans Fat-Free Vanaspati – Recently launched in Kerala, Trans Fat-Free Vanaspati is developed for HORECA users, a game-changer that is allowing the preparation of the most delectable Biriyanis, Sweets (Laddoos), and Parottas.
- NatureFresh Professional Elite Choice – A premium aerated Cookie Fat NatureFresh Professional Elite Choice provides better yield and saves costs due to its high flour absorption capacity of up to 10%.
- NatureFresh Professional Lite – A butter-flavored vegetable fat designed for exotic bakery applications such as croissants, Danish pastries, and brownies. It is 100% vegetarian and Argemone oil-free.
The booth served as a dynamic platform for chefs, bakers, foodservice brands, small traders, MNCs, and customers, offering an immersive experience into Cargill’s innovative product portfolio and global food expertise. Additionally, Cargill offered visitors a half-day immersive R&D session at the Cargill Innovation Center (CIC) in Gurgaon from the 5th to the 7th of March. This initiative provided an exclusive opportunity to witness firsthand how science and insights drive food innovation at Cargill.
Through AAHAR 2025, Cargill reaffirmed its commitment to the Indian food industry, delivering cutting-edge products and solutions that combine innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through its extensive product portfolio and customer-centric approach, Cargill continues to empower food businesses with the expertise they need to thrive in this ever evolving and competitive market landscape.
Espire Hospitality Streamlines Operations with STAAH’s Smart Solutions
Mumbai: March 5th, 2025 – STAAH, a leading global hospitality solutions provider, has partnered with Espire Hospitality Ltd., a renowned group that operates a chain of hotels and resorts in some of India’s most scenic holiday destinations, to help streamline its wide-spread operations and optimise revenue.
Espire Hospitality operates premium brands like the Six Senses Fort Barwara, Zana Luxury Resorts and the Country Inn Hotels & Resorts in locations like Bhimtal, Jim Corbett, Mussoorie, Rajasthan, Goa, Vrindavan and Amritsar, that offer a perfect blend of comfort, luxury and natural beauty. As part of its ongoing expansion, the group is set to establish a presence in Raipur and Ghaziabad in a few months.
Despite its growth, Espire Hospitality faced significant operational challenges, that impacted the efficiency, performance and overall revenue management across their entire portfolio. “Distribution issues, rate management complexity and limited reporting insights were huge causes of concern. Partnering with STAAH has been a game-changer for us. Their user-friendly interface and wide range of effective products have helped us enhance our overall distribution and revenue management strategies and stay on top of our game in a highly competitive market,” said Mohd Aamir, Head – Revenue and E-Distribution, Espire Hospitality.
STAAH’s suite of technology-driven solutions has played a pivotal role in addressing some of the key challenges. The Max Channel Manager offers real-time synchronization of availability and rates across multiple channels ensuring greater visibility and smarter revenue management. The STAAH Booking Engine helps in driving commission-free direct bookings to the hotel’s website, increasing profitability. The WatchMyRate widget utilizes dynamic rate intelligence to optimize pricing strategies and maintain a competitive edge, while the Get Google feature helps boost online visibility by connecting hotels to Google’s free and paid booking links, increasing direct traffic and reservations.
“Optimizing operations for multiple properties across different locations without affecting the bottom line is a top priority for hotel chains. We are delighted to be able to support the Espire Hospitality group in achieving this through our innovative solutions, enabling seamless operations and sustainable growth,” said Shoaib Ali, National Sales Head – India, STAAH.
Amaan & Ayaan Ali Bangash Unveil Holi Album with Malini Awasthi
India, March 2025– Preeminent sarod maestros Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash announce the forthcoming release of their meticulously crafted Holi-themed album ‘Colors And Celebrations’ on March 10, 2025. This sophisticated musical offering represents a remarkable confluence of classical and folk traditions, featuring an extraordinary collaboration with Padma Shri recipient and renowned folk virtuoso Malini Awasthi, affectionately known as the folk queen of India.
‘Colors And Celebrations’ presents five expansive, intricately composed pieces that capture the multifaceted spirit of Holi: ‘Holi Hues (Hori Re Rasiya)’, an exuberant celebration of spring’s arrival; ‘Divine Celebration (Hori Khele Raghuveera)’, a devotional piece honoring Lord Krishna’s legendary Holi festivities; ‘Spirited Splashes (Rang Darungi)’, a playful, rhythmically complex composition; ‘Crimson Flush (Sakhi Solah Hazaar)’, a contemplative exploration of color symbolism; and ‘Colours of Love (Rasiya Ko Naar)’, a romantic interpretation of Holi’s emotional resonance.
Amaan Ali Bangash states, “This album represents our artistic interpretation of Holi’s profound cultural significance, beyond the surface revelry to explore its deeper spiritual dimensions. Each composition deliberately weaves multiple thematic elements—from the triumph of good over evil to the celebration of divine love between Radha and Krishna, to the universal joy of renewal that comes with spring’s arrival.”
Ayaan Ali Bangash elaborates, “Our approach was to create a complete sensory experience through sound. The interplay between sarod and voice mirrors the interaction between colour and canvas during Holi celebrations. We’ve employed specific ragas that evoke particular emotional colours—from the serene tranquillity of morning ragas to the passionate intensity of evening melodies. Working with Malini ji has been transformative, as her profound understanding of folk traditions brings authenticity and emotional depth that complements our classical framework.”
Malini Awasthi, whose illustrious career spans over three decades preserving and elevating the folk traditions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, reflects on the collaboration, “Working with Amaan and Ayaan has been a profound artistic dialogue that transcends conventional genre boundaries. What emerges is neither purely classical nor folk, but rather a new musical language that honours both traditions of Awadh Brij and Banaras while creating something entirely distinctive. The compositions we’ve created together speak to the universal emotions that Holi represents—joy, devotion, playfulness, and the eternal cycle of renewal.”
Dr. Lakshmi Subramanian, eminent musicologist and cultural historian, notes in the album’s detailed liner notes: “What the Bangash brothers and Malini Awasthi have achieved with ‘Colors And Celebrations’ is nothing short of extraordinary—a sophisticated reimagining of traditional Holi repertoire that maintains scholarly rigor while achieving remarkable emotional accessibility. The innovative use of rhythmic patterns, meticulously researched lyrics, and the seamless integration of sarod and vocal techniques represents a significant contribution to the evolving language of Indian classical music in the 21st century.”
Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, who represent the seventh generation of the revered Senia Bangash lineage established by their legendary father, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, have consistently pushed the boundaries of the sarod tradition while maintaining its essential integrity. This release follows their critically acclaimed collaborative projects including ‘Sand And Foam: Music Inspired by Kahlil Gibran’ (2023), their pioneering work with Grammy-nominated vocalist Krishna Das on ‘Peace Mantra: Loka Samastha’ (2022), which bridged Hindu and Sufi devotional traditions; and their groundbreaking experimental album ‘Amalgam’ (2023) with the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The sarod luminaries’ recent musical ventures demonstrate remarkable versatility, from the contemplative ‘Morning Ragas’ (recorded at dawn in the historic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur) to the boundary-pushing ‘Prophets Of Prose’, a bold fusion project with Chilean jazz vocalist Claudia Acuña and American rapper Caliph. Their October 2024 trilogy of singles—’Ram Dhun’,’Payoji Maine’ and the ambitious ‘Diwali Project’—showcased their continued commitment to making classical Indian music accessible to contemporary global audiences while preserving its spiritual essence.
‘Colors And Celebrations’ was recorded using a pioneering spatial audio technique at the legendary Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai, employing rare vintage microphones and custom-built acoustic environments to capture the nuanced tonal qualities of the sarod alongside Malini Awasthi’s powerful vocal performances. The production process incorporated both traditional analog recording methods and cutting-edge digital technologies, resulting in an immersive listening experience that places the audience at the center of the musical narrative.
The album release anticipates the Bangash brothers’ highly anticipated summer 2025 international tour, which includes a residency at London’s prestigious Wigmore Hall. The July 12th performances will feature a morning collaboration with acclaimed British violinist Jennifer Pike exploring the intersection of Western classical and North Indian musical traditions, followed by an evening concert featuring their father, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, in a rare family performance showcasing three generations of sarod mastery. The tour continues with appearances at the Salzburg Festival, Lincoln Center’s Mostly Mozart Festival, and the Esplanade in Singapore.
The album will be available on all major streaming platforms and for digital download beginning March 11, with a specially mastered audiophile-quality 180-gram vinyl edition, featuring original artwork by renowned painter Paresh Maity, scheduled for release in April 2025. A limited collector’s edition will include a hardbound book with scholarly essays on the history of Holi music, rare photographs, and detailed musical notation of the compositions.
IIT Roorkee Launches S²-STEP2025 & IPSC-2025 for Space Sustainability
Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India – Match 05, 2025: The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) inaugurated the prestigious International Conference on ‘Space for Sustainability: Science, Technology, Education, and Policy’ (S²-STEP2025) alongside the 6th Indian Planetary Science Conference (IPSC-2025) . Organized by the Center for Space Science and Technology (CSST), IIT Roorkee , this conference aims to drive global discussions on sustainable space technologies, planetary exploration, and academia-industry collaborations .
As the world grapples with profound global challenges, the intersection of space exploration, science education, policy formulation, and technological innovation stands as a beacon of hope for sustainable societal development . S²-STEP2025 serves as a dynamic platform to explore the transformative potential of space technologies in shaping a resilient and equitable future . The conference brings together experts, researchers, policymakers, and educators to deliberate on the symbiotic relationship between space exploration, science education, policy formulation, and cutting-edge technological advancements . Running concurrently, the 6th Indian Planetary Science Conference (IPSC-2025) serves as a dedicated forum for recent advances in planetary science , covering topics such as the atmosphere, surface, and interior of planetary bodies in the solar system , planetary processes, and early solar system evolution .
The conference aims to build a robust space education ecosystem , equipping stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the emerging opportunities and challenges in the rapidly expanding space sector while raising awareness about the societal benefits of space-based technologies and services . It will facilitate deliberations on the latest advances in space sciences , particularly their applications in disaster mitigation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development . A key focus will be on evaluating technological advancements in launch vehicles, satellites, and related infrastructure , emphasizing cost-effectiveness and innovation in space-based services. Additionally, the conference will drive policy discussions at national and international levels , shaping the future of space governance and sustainability frameworks . Ultimately, experts will explore planets, moons, and asteroids for their potential future habitability and resource utilization , ensuring that space missions and planetary studies are conducted with sustainability at their core.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO & Secretary, Department of Space (DoS) , as the Chief Guest , and Dr. Young Ho Kim, Director, India Korea Center for Research and Innovation (IKCRI) , as the Guest of Honor . Prof. KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee , presided over the event.
In his keynote address, Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO & Secretary, Department of Space (DoS) emphasized, “The future of space exploration hinges on sustainable and responsible practices. India is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies that will drive our planetary missions and deep-space explorations.”
Dr. Young Ho Kim, Director, India Korea Center for Research and Innovation (IKCRI) highlighted the role of international cooperation, stating, “Collaborative research in space science and technology is the key to ensuring sustainability. The India-Korea partnership can significantly contribute to global space exploration efforts. He further emphasized on the Advancements in Aerospace Technology and Policy: Strengthening India-Korea S&T Cooperation. ,
Welcoming the dignitaries, Prof. Sanjay Upadhyay, Head, CSST & Conference Chair , said, “This conference serves as a platform to bring together experts from diverse fields to shape the future of space sustainability.”
Delivering the presidential address, Prof. KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to advancing research in space technology, planetary sciences, and sustainable development. This conference is a step towards fostering innovation and capacity building in these domains.”
The session also featured insights from Prof. UP Singh, Deputy Director, IIT Roorkee , and Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, IN-SPACe , who emphasized the crucial role of academia-industry collaboration in strengthening India’s space sector.
On March 5, 2025 , the conference will feature an Interactive Open Session on ‘Indian Space Startups and Industry’ , organized in collaboration with IN-SPACe .
, The session will be addressed by Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, IN-SPACe , who will highlight the evolving startup ecosystem in India’s space sector.
, Dr. Durgesh Pant, Director General, Uttarakhand State Council for Science & Technology (UCOST), will discuss support of Uttarakhand government for innovation and entrepreneurship in space technology.
, Other distinguished speakers include Mr. Prateek Jain, IAS, Managing Director, SIIDCUL who gave an overview of Uttarakhand Industries and possibility of Space domain development in the State and Prof. Dipankar Banerjee, Director, Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (IIST) who gave glimpse of Space Education in India as perceived at Indian Institute of Space Technology.
The conference will continue with technical sessions, keynote lectures, and panel discussions on critical topics such as planetary missions, AI in space, and sustainability in the space industry.
The S²-STEP2025 & IPSC-2025 conference is a significant step in aligning with the Government of India’s vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and the National Space Policy, which emphasizes indigenous innovation, sustainability, and global leadership in space exploration. As India accelerates its space missions including Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and upcoming planetary expeditions this conference reinforces the critical role of academia-industry-government collaboration in achieving long-term sustainability in space. IIT Roorkee, with its strong foundation in cutting-edge research and innovation, continues to contribute toward shaping climate-resilient infrastructure, AI-driven space solutions, and next-generation space technologies. Through such initiatives, IIT Roorkee reaffirms its commitment to supporting India’s technological advancements and global aspirations in space exploration.
India & Netherlands Boost Ties with INR 52B FDI Inflows Rubix Report
Mumbai, 5th March 2025 – Rubix Data Sciences, a leader in risk management and monitoring services has released a comprehensive report on the Netherlands, highlighting its strong economic growth and deepening trade and investment ties with India. The report serves as a crucial guide for Indian businesses looking to leverage the Netherlands’ strategic position as a global trade hub.
India and the Netherlands have witnessed a remarkable surge in trade relations, making the Netherlands India’s 3rd largest export destination in FY2024, a sharp rise from 7th in FY2020. During these five years, Indian exports to the Netherlands grew at an impressive 28% CAGR, driven largely by refined petroleum, which now makes up 64% of India’s total exports to the country. FDI inflows from the Netherlands into India between April 2000 and September 2024 stood at USD 52 billion, making it India’s 4th largest foreign investor. The report also sheds light on the Netherlands’ key sectoral strengths, including its dominant services sector, which accounts for 77% of the economy, and its position as a global leader in agricultural exports.
“India and the Netherlands have built a strong trade and investment bond, and the numbers speak for themselves,” said Mohan Ramaswamy, Co-founder and CEO at Rubix Data Sciences. “With the Netherlands now India’s 3rd largest export market and a major investor, Indian businesses have a real opportunity to expand their reach. Whether it is tapping into trade flows or attracting investment, those who understand the trends and act fast will stay ahead. Our report breaks it all down, giving businesses the insights they need to make the most of this growing partnership.” he added
As the Netherlands continues its economic development and strengthens its trade partnership with India, Rubix Data Sciences is dedicated to delivering essential data-driven intelligence to support businesses navigating these evolving opportunities.