Asim Hussain Joins CG Corp Global as Global Head of Category Dev & R&D
24th February 2025: Asim Hussain’s appointment as the Global Head for Category Development and R&D at CG Corp Global is a significant milestone in the food technology industry. With over 18 years of experience, Mr Hussain brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, positioning him as a key driver of innovation and quality enhancement in the food processing sector.
In his previous stints, he served as R&D Head at Mrs Bectors Cremica, Lead NPD in Future Group Own Brand, and Food Scientist in his initial career with Nilons & Tata Tea.
He has gained expertise in processing areas like bakery, extrusion, frying, roasting, dehydration, emulsions, gelatinisation, curing, IQF, and freeze-drying.
He holds a B.Tech. in Process & Food Technology from AAIDU, Allahabad.
Earned a Management diploma in Operations from Welingkar’s Mumbai, blending technical knowledge with strategic acumen.
He is expected to lead innovation in Noodles, Biscuits and Snacks through cutting-edge technology in R&D.
- Aim to address the evolving challenges of a competitive market while driving sustainable growth.
- Sets new benchmarks for innovation, quality, and efficiency in food science.
Hussain’s appointment is widely regarded as a catalyst for innovation in food science. His strategic vision and proven track record are anticipated to inspire peers and stakeholders, paving the way for a future where scientific rigour meets forward-thinking.
As the food technology industry continues to evolve, Hussain’s role at CG Corp Global will be closely watched, with high expectations for groundbreaking advancements and sustainable practices under his guidance.
Aster DM Healthcare Reaffirms RS. 850 Crore Investment in Kerala at Global Summit
Kochi, February 24, 2025: Aster DM Healthcare, one of India’s leading integrated healthcare providers, has reinforced its deep-rooted commitment to Kerala with a strategic vision for expansion and long-term investment. Aligned with the state’s efforts to attract and facilitate high-impact investments under the ‘Invest Kerala Global Summit’ initiative held in Kochi, Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman, and Mr. Anoop Moopen, Director at Aster DM Healthcare met Kerala Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan and Shri P Rajeev, Minister of Law, Industries, and Coir to discuss the current healthcare landscape and explore opportunities for growth and innovation. As part of the engagement, Aster has said that it plans to invest around ₹850cr in the next 3 years towards scaling up its infrastructure, medical services, and employment generation in the region. This commitment builds on the ₹500cr Aster has already invested in Kerala during the last 3 years, further solidifying its leadership in the state’s healthcare landscape.
Looking ahead, Aster has an aggressive investment plan in Kerala that will result in a significant increase in bed capacity, bringing the total number of beds in the state to 3,453 by FY27. Aster currently operates seven hospitals in Kerala, with a total capacity of 2,635 beds, contributing to 53% of the company’s India revenue (9M FY25).
Aster DM Healthcare’s expansion in the state will be driven by two greenfield projects that are coming up namely Aster Capital Trivandrum with a 454-bed facility and Aster MIMS Kasargod with 264 beds. The flagship hospital Aster Medcity will expand to 962 beds by FY27 as well. In Q3FY25, 100 beds were added to Aster Medcity’s existing capacity, further cementing Aster’s leadership in Kerala’s healthcare sector.
Participating in the Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025, Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, said, “Kerala has always been at the heart of Aster’s journey, and our commitment to the state is stronger than ever. We are delighted to reaffirm our long-term vision to expand our footprint, bringing world-class healthcare closer to the people of Kerala while fostering employment and medical excellence in the region. The ‘Invest Kerala Global Summit’ is a pivotal initiative that underscores the state’s potential as a hub for high-impact investments, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative journey. We plan to invest an additional ₹850cr in the next 3 years to further strengthen Kerala’s healthcare landscape. Our expansion plans reflect our unwavering belief in Kerala’s potential as a leader in healthcare innovation and accessibility.”
Mr. Anoop Moopen, Director, Aster DM Healthcare said, “Aster DM Healthcare has been a significant contributor in creating thousands of opportunities for skilled professionals in Kerala. Today, Aster provides direct employment to over 12700 professionals in Kerala, including thousands of doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. With our expansion plans, we anticipate creating an additional 4200 jobs, further strengthening Kerala’s healthcare workforce and economy. Being part of the ‘Invest Kerala Global Summit’ reinforces our commitment to not only building infrastructure but also nurturing talent, empowering communities, and reinforcing Kerala’s reputation as a centre for medical excellence.”
Aster DM Healthcare’s ambitious expansion plans underscore its commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and services in India. With a focus on strategic growth, patient-centric care, and regional expansion, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape, ultimately benefiting communities and individuals across the country.
Aster’s commitment to Kerala extends beyond infrastructure and employment, with the organisation playing a crucial role in community healthcare initiatives. Through ‘Aster Volunteers’, the company has been at the forefront of disaster relief efforts, responding to emergencies with medical aid and humanitarian support. During the devastating landslide in Wayanad, Aster’s medical teams mobilised swiftly, providing critical emergency care, rehabilitation assistance, and ongoing medical support to affected families. This unwavering dedication to community service underscores Aster’s broader mission – to not only deliver advanced healthcare but to stand in solidarity with the people of Kerala in times of crisis.
Chef Ranveer Brar Discusses Lucknow at ABP Ideas of India 2025
Chandigarh, 24 February 2025: “Coming from a small city like Lucknow has been a significant advantage for me. In such an environment, the need to prove oneself becomes second nature. Additionally, hailing from a city renowned for its rich culinary heritage has had a positive impact on me.”, says Ranveer Brar at ABP Network’s Ideas of India.
Speaking in the session themed ‘What We Eat Is Who We Are: The Palate on a Plate’, Ranveer Brar said, “After Lucknow, I went to Delhi, and then to the US. I realized that being a great cook is not enough; you need to connect with the people you are cooking for. I make food that is ‘from India,’ not ‘Indian food’ as such. Indian food prioritizes nourishment, with taste being an added accent. Some people think that because India is a land of spices, adding all the spices makes any dish the so-called – “Indian food”. This attitude towards Indian food is changing now. Today, Indian food doesn’t need a title. Previously, when we spoke about Indian food, we always attached a title, for example, food from progressive India or from modern India; there was always a need for a title. The world has now realized that wellness has more value than fitness, and Indian food is all about nourishment and wellness. The root of all culture is agriculture, and because there is agriculture, there is food. The biggest building block of our culture is agriculture. I am fortunate to be able to incorporate a farmer’s sentiment into the food that I make.”
“I have discovered a powerful medium—cooking—through which I can understand people, places, and everything in between. I did not want to pursue conventional paths like others do. That is why I chose to cook.”, Brar added.
ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, centred on the theme ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier,’ will bring together thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities in India’s ascendance in a rapidly changing world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements such as AI, the summit delved into India’s role as both an ancient civilisation and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit brought together a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions of a better, more sustainable world for all.
Mgmt Conclave 2025 Vision 2030 – AI & Sustainability
Chandigarh, February 24, 2025: The School of Commerce at NMIMS Chandigarh successfully hosted its highly anticipated Management Conclave 2025, an event that brought together some of the brightest minds to discuss a truly timely and transformative topic – Vision 2030: AI-Driven Business and Sustainable Practices. The event featured an engaging panel discussion where industry leaders and experts shared their thoughts on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing business and paving the way for sustainable practices.
The event kicked off with a heartfelt lamp-lighting ceremony led by Prof. (Dr.) Rashmi Khorana Nagpal, the esteemed Campus Director, alongside Dr. Ankita Bhardwaj, Program Chairperson of the School of Commerce, and faculty members Dr. Naimitya Sharma, Dr. Kunal Pasari, Dr.Poonam Sharma, Dr. Parul Mahajan Grover,Dr.Rahul Rangotra,Dr.Pankaj Kapoor, Dr.Vanita Sharma & Dr.Deepa Guleria. This symbolic moment set the tone for a day filled with insightful discussions, eager minds, and a sense of excitement about the future.
In her opening remarks, Prof. (Dr.) Rashmi Khorana Nagpal emphasized the importance of staying curious and committed to continuous learning, especially as the world of business evolves at lightning speed. She inspired the students to remain adaptable and embrace the changes brought on by AI, noting that the event’s theme was not only relevant but essential for shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
The conversation began with Mr. Ashish Grover, Co-founder of uTrade Solutions, who shared his thoughts on AI’s growing influence in sectors like microfinancing and manufacturing. He pointed out that AI is poised to automate about 50% of tasks across industries and highlighted how countries are racing to lead in AI innovation. His insights sparked a discussion on the balance between AI’s potential and its challenges.
Next, Mr. Vishal Sachdeva, CEO of STGI Technologies Consulting Pvt Ltd., took the stage and shared his perspective on the fast-paced arrival of AI technologies. He spoke about the ease of adaptation to AI, especially for engineers and professionals, but also warned that certain sectors—like banking—might be disrupted by the rise of AI-powered systems. His words underscored the importance of being prepared for rapid technological changes.
Mr. Suneel Saxena, Former VP and Cluster Business Head at Vodafone Idea Ltd., focused on how AI can contribute to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He explained how AI is helping businesses meet compliance standards and make more efficient decisions, reinforcing the idea that AI is a key enabler of sustainable practices in business.
Mr. Tarun Girdhar, Senior Manager of Talent Development at Zscaler, reflected on the historical impact of computers in the workplace and how AI is now playing a similar role in HR management. He discussed how AI helps streamline tasks like performance reviews and instructional design, freeing up time for human creativity and strategic thinking.
Finally, Ms. Bhavya Kalra, People Manager at GyanDhan, talked about the role of AI in talent acquisition, sharing how AI tools are transforming the candidate experience by enhancing engagement and simplifying the interview process.
The Management Conclave 2025 was not just a conversation about technology, but a reflection on the incredible potential of AI to shape the future. The event sparked meaningful discussions about how businesses can harness AI while staying true to sustainable practices, ensuring that innovation aligns with global well-being.
With a full audience of enthusiastic students, faculty, and industry professionals, the conclave proved to be a thought-provoking and inspiring experience. It brought together diverse voices and perspectives, all united in their belief that AI will play a key role in building a better, more sustainable future.
For more information about the event or to learn more about the initiatives of the School of Commerce at NMIMS Chandigarh, please reach out to the Event Coordination Team.
Atlys and ICICI Bank Times Black Credit Card Partner to Simplify Visa Applications for Travelers Worldwide
New Delhi, February 24, 2025 — International travel will be redefined for India’s elite globetrotters. Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card is transforming international travel by partnering with Atlys, a cutting-edge visa processing platform that eliminates the complexity of visa applications with guaranteed on-time approvals.
The partnership marks a first in India’s credit card industry, offering cardholders complete visa fee waivers for select countries and an AI-powered application process that guarantees on-time visa delivery. Times Black ICICI Bank cardholders will now have their visa applications fast-tracked through Atlys’s automated system, which has already successfully processed over 2 million visas across 150 countries.
“International travellers spend countless hours struggling with visa paperwork. We’re changing that,” says Mohak Nahta, Founder of Atlys. “Times Black ICICI Bank cardholders can now secure visas with the same ease as booking a flight.”
This launch comes at a crucial time, as outbound travel from India continues to surge. Cardholders will receive real-time updates on their applications, eliminating the uncertainty of traditional visa processing.
The Times Black ICICI Bank Card, which features metal crafted from historic Times of India printing plates, has been pushing boundaries in the premium credit card space since its launch. This partnership with Atlys adds to its travel benefits, including access to exclusive business events and significant savings on international transactions.
Toprankers Sets Sights on Nationwide Growth with New Centres Opening in Key Cities in 2025
Delhi 24 February 2025 Toprankers, India’s leading ed-tech company, is gearing up for an extensive expansion in 2025 with the launch of multiple new centers across the country. Known for its diverse house of brands—LegalEdge, SuperGrads, Judiciary Gold, CreativeEdge, Udaan, LegalEdge After College by Toprankers these brands together cater to management, law & design careers from UG to PG to professional level competitive exams preparation.
Toprankers continues to redefine education for careers beyond engineering and medicine. With its growing offline and online presence, the platform is now set to bring its world-class learning ecosystem to more cities.
CreativeEdge, by Toprankers’ premier brand for design and architecture entrance exam preparation, is making significant strides in 2025. It recently launched its latest franchise center in Navi Mumbai and opened its company-owned center in Lucknow. With plans to establish more centers in buzzing cities, 2025 is set to be a transformative year for CreativEdge. They are also expanding their LegalEdge and SuperGrads brands, with new centers in Noida, Ghaziabad, Hyderabad and Trivandrum. These centers will serve as a next level of service for students given that Toprankers will now be helping students from North to South with its quality preparation.
These centers will serve as a hub for students preparing for competitive exams in law, management, and design, further strengthening Toprankers’ commitment to making quality education accessible across regions. With this expansion, Toprankers’ total center count is expected to reach 50 by end of 2025-26, with more announcements anticipated in the coming months.
As per Mr. Gaurav Goel CEO & Co-Founder, Toprankers “Both offline and online divisions are on track to achieve their projected targets for FY25, delivering enhanced efficiency and outstanding results for students nationwide.
Speaking about the expansion, Mr. Karan Mehta Co-Founder, Toprankers – “2025 is going to be a landmark year for Toprankers as we expand our footprint across India. Our goal has always been to empower students with the best resources, mentorship, and technology to help them achieve their dreams. These new centers will bring us closer to students, enabling us to make a greater impact.”
Toprankers Co-founder Mr. Harsh Gagrani exuberated confidence in the path breaking learning model of toprankers given it has clocked AIR 1,2,3 in 4 out of last 5 years.
With this strategic expansion, Toprankers continues to solidify its position as a leader in the ed-tech space, delivering excellence in education and shaping the future of India’s youth.
Ramagya Group chose Brand Talkeez as the Group’s PR Partner
New Delhi, 21st February 2025: Brand Talkeez, an emerging name in strategic public relations, proudly announces its collaboration with Ramagya Group as its official PR partner. This partnership marks a significant step towards amplifying Ramagya Group’s vision and achievements across education, sports and philanthropy.
Known for its trailblazing innovation and commitment to quality, Ramagya Group has consistently redefined excellence across various sectors. With its prestigious educational institutions and world-class sports academies, the group has been instrumental in shaping the future of young minds and nurturing champions on a global stage.
Speaking on this collaboration, Mr. Utkarsh Gupta, Managing Director, Ramagya Group, said “At Ramagya, we believe in the power of vision, and every vision needs a voice. Brand Talkeez team brings the perfect synergy of creativity and strategy to amplify our story, ensuring that our impact resonates far and wide. “
We are thrilled to be the voice behind a brand that transforms lives in education. This partnership with the Ramagya Group is more than just PR—it’s about storytelling that inspires action,” said Saloni Sood Mehra, Founder, Brand Talkeez.
This collaboration aims to elevate Ramagya Group’s presence and brand awareness, highlighting its contributions and pioneering initiatives in education. As both organizations embark on this journey, the focus remains steadfast: building a legacy of excellence, innovation, and positive change.
New study reveals that $100K is not what it used to be and how much it’s really worth in each state
Rank | State | Purchase Power |
1 | West Virginia | $92,697 |
2 | Tennessee | $91,662 |
3 | Kansas | $91,086 |
4 | South Dakota | $89,972 |
5 | Iowa | $89,866 |
6 | Texas | $89,487 |
7 | Mississippi | $89,288 |
8 | Alabama | $88,914 |
9 | Missouri | $88,838 |
10 | Arkansas | $88,772 |
11 | Indiana | $88,325 |
12 | Oklahoma | $88,091 |
13 | Michigan | $87,321 |
14 | Louisiana | $86,941 |
15 | Wyoming | $86,863 |
16 | Georgia | $85,566 |
17 | Kentucky | $85,033 |
18 | Nebraska | $84,360 |
19 | North Dakota | $84,306 |
20 | Pennsylvania | $84,000 |
21 | Montana | $83,123 |
22 | Illinois | $82,772 |
23 | Ohio | $82,034 |
24 | Nevada | $81,889 |
25 | New Mexico | $80,912 |
26 | South Carolina | $80,807 |
27 | Florida | $80,695 |
28 | North Carolina | $80,219 |
29 | Minnesota | $80,159 |
30 | Wisconsin | $79,296 |
31 | Delaware | $78,658 |
32 | Colorado | $77,647 |
33 | Virginia | $76,866 |
34 | Idaho | $76,472 |
35 | Utah | $74,646 |
36 | New Hampshire | $73,671 |
37 | Washington | $72,639 |
38 | Arizona | $72,483 |
39 | Maryland | $71,693 |
40 | Maine | $71,677 |
41 | Connecticut | $70,373 |
42 | Alaska | $67,006 |
43 | New Jersey | $66,929 |
44 | Oregon | $65,785 |
45 | Vermont | $65,677 |
46 | Rhode Island | $65,311 |
47 | New York | $62,320 |
48 | California | $54,724 |
49 | Massachusetts | $53,581 |
50 | Hawaii | $41,482 |
CHD Affects 2 Lakh Newborns Annually; Delayed Diagnosis Raises Risks
Every year, nearly two lakh newborns in India are affected by this condition, with its prevalence observed in 8 out of every 1,000 births in North India. Among various types, Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is the most common. Experts from Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, highlighted the significance of timely diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Shantanu Singhal, a cardiologist at Fortis, Greater Noida, stated that many congenital heart diseases go undetected in infancy due to mild symptoms. He said, “Signs such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the body are often overlooked. Regular echocardiography and neonatal screening enable early diagnosis. If detected within the first year and treated appropriately, the child can lead a healthy life.” He also emphasized that timely diagnosis during pregnancy and referrals to specialized heart centers can significantly reduce CHD-related mortality and disability rates.
Certain factors during pregnancy can increase the risk of CHD in newborns, including smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to harmful chemicals, uncontrolled diabetes, and folic acid deficiency. Additionally, a family history of CHD, genetic disorders, and Down syndrome can further elevate the risk. Experts advise pregnant women to maintain a balanced diet, stay up to date with vaccinations, manage conditions like diabetes, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and consume 400 micrograms of folic acid during the first trimester.
India has made significant advancements in CHD treatment through both government and private healthcare facilities. Fortis, Greater Noida, offers device-based treatments for ASD, VSD, and PDA, balloon procedures for narrowed valves, complex heart surgeries, and conduit reconstructions. In recent years, pediatric interventional cardiology has also seen major developments, including three-dimensional (3D) imaging, advanced cardiopulmonary bypass techniques, and modern post-surgical cardiac care.
With timely screening and proper treatment, children affected by congenital heart disease can lead normal lives. Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, is committed to raising awareness and ensuring a healthier future for children. If a child exhibits symptoms of CHD, consulting a specialist at the earliest is crucial.
Aza Fashions Launches Flagship Store in Dhan Mill, New Delhi
New Delhi, February 21st,2025 – Aza Fashions, India’s premier luxury fashion retailer, has launched its latest flagship store in the exclusive Dhan Mill area of Chattarpur, New Delhi. Spanning an expansive 12,000 sq. ft. across two beautifully designed floors, this new store is set to redefine the luxury shopping experience in the capital. With this launch, Aza now proudly operates eleven stores across the country, underscoring its commitment to expanding its footprint in India’s luxury fashion landscape.
The store brings together a meticulously curated selection of over 100 iconic and emerging designer labels, including Amit Aggarwal, Anamika Khanna, Anand Kabra, Anushree Reddy, Aseem Kapoor, Jayanti Reddy, Mayyur Girotra, Mishru, Nupur Kanoi, Rimple & Harpreet Narula, Tarun Tahiliani, TIL, 431-88, and many more. From wedding wear to contemporary prêt, the store offers a comprehensive selection of designer apparel, accessories, and statement pieces, ensuring every client finds their perfect style.
Dhan Mill has evolved into a thriving cultural and luxury retail hub in New Delhi, attracting artists, designers, and high-end clientele. Known for its unique mix of creativity and exclusivity, this prime location perfectly aligns with Aza’s ethos of delivering premium experiences. The store’s strategic placement allows Aza to cater to New Delhi’s affluent shoppers while contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the area.
To mark the launch in style, a glamorous celebration set the stage as Neha Dhupia and Angad Singh inaugurated the store with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony. The evening came alive with an engaging and interactive session featuring Devangi Parekh (Managing Director of Aza Fashions), where the couple shared their passion for all things fashion. The event was attended by Delhi’s elite, including prominent socialites, making it an unforgettable affair.
Dr. Alka Nishar, Founder & Chairperson of Aza Fashions, expressed her excitement about the new opening “Since our inception, Aza has been committed to elevating Indian fashion and offering clients the best shopping experience. This new store at Dhan Mill is not just a retail space but a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation. We are thrilled to bring the finest in Indian couture to this exquisite location.”
Devangi Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions, highlighted the importance of this new milestone “Delhi has always been a key market for us, and the Dhan Mill store is a testament to our commitment to expanding Aza’s footprint in India’s fashion landscape. With its thoughtfully curated collection and immersive design, this store promises to deliver an unmatched luxury shopping experience for our clients.”
The two floors of Aza’s new store offer a seamless blend of contemporary elegance and traditional elements, creating a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. From expansive display areas and private consultation zones to dedicated sections for bridal trousseau shopping, the store is designed to cater to every need of its elite clientele. Personalized service by trained fashion consultants further elevates the customer experience, ensuring each visit is memorable.