New Delhi, April 14, 2025: As India’s retail market is expected to reach USD 2 trillion by 2035 (Source: Kearney Global Retail Development Index), Mapic India Shopping Centre Summit – Maha Kumbh of Retail will unite the leaders in retail, real estate, and technology on April 15, 2025, at the JW Marriott Hotel, Aerocity, New Delhi. The event will encapsulate the theme “Next-Gen Retail: Navigating Disruption, Seizing Opportunities,” leveraging the advantage of an exclusive value proposition, intertwining human experience, advanced technology, and customer confidence to garner interest in today’s fast-moving world of immediate satisfaction. A friendly T20 cricket match between India’s top Retailers and Developers will kick off the event on April 16th.

With a booming consumption economy, the problem is not demand but differentiation in the midst of a deluge of new brands, malls and store formats that are fast fragmenting the marketplace. The pie needs to focus on the most recent strategies for innovation, digital transformation and sustainable growth, with insightful inputs to steer through the fast-changing Indian retail environment. With the shopping habits shifting rapidly, technology and ease of use are now the prime drivers. AI and new-age technologies are revolutionizing experiences, while the “real Bharat”—Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities—proves to be a goldmine of opportunity, where there lies massive, untapped potential for growth.

Key Speakers who will be sharing their insights in the event include Pushpa Bector, Senior Executive Director and Business Head, DLF Retail; Bijit Nair, Senior Director – Direct to Consumer (DTC), Adidas; Arjun Singh Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group; Shibu Philips, Director, Shopping Malls LULU Group; Pramod Arora, CEO, PVR INOX Limited; Harsh Bansal, Co-Founder, Unity Group and Vegas Mall; Dr Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, Founder & Chairperson, NAREDCO Mahi (Under the aegis of Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs); Samim Sekh, Deputy Chief Architect, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC); Abbas Jabalpurwala, CEO, Timezone India; Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Malls and more.

As the retail industry is being transformed at a breakneck pace by new technologies, changing consumer tastes, and sustainability needs, Mapic India Shopping Centre Event will seek to address the urgent forces remaking the industry’s future. This year’s agenda will delve into the redefinition of retail environments, with a focus on blended environments that enrich customer experiences through next-gen malls, omnichannel retailing models, and customer engagement enabled by AI. Particular focus will be placed on the increasing importance of sustainability in retail real estate, with debate on how green building techniques, energy efficiency, and sustainable development are becoming the focal point of the industry’s transformation.

Mr. Umang Gupta, RX India Country General Manager, stated, “With the fast-changing dynamics of Indian Retail & Real estate sectors, the only way to flourish and capture the mind of the Indian consumer is to grasp the ‘New Retail Code’ .

Mapic India Shopping Centre Event 2025 is the industry’s forum to address key opportunities, trends and transformations offering solutions to exponentially grow your business investments. With increased international participation from prominent global retail and technology brands, this year’s event is focused on Indian startups and D2C innovators. ‘Differentiation’ in a highly competitive market like India is the only survival code.

Mapic India Shopping Centre Event 2025 continues to be the flagship forum and the ‘Mahakumbh’ or melting pot of Retail industry players, with the opportunity to build networks, forge business ideas &  innovations that will shape the future of retail and build global retail brands coming from India.”

Speaking about the event, Ashna Gemini Sharan, Portfolio Director, RX India said “In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, characterized by the rise of e-commerce, shifting consumer behaviours and technological advancements, there exists an unprecedented opportunity for retailers in the coming decade. Anyone looking to tap into India’s immense retail potential and contribute to a future driven by innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth should consider attending this event. The Mapic India Shopping Centre Summit and Awards will serve as a platform for participants to explore the critical strategies and innovative approaches required to unlock this immense potential and thrive in the dynamic retail environment of the future.”

By-Dr Nikhil Suresh Ghadyalpatil,Director – Medical Oncology

In today’s world, cancer is no longer treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. With medical science advancing rapidly, cancer treatment has become more focused, less harmful, and far more effective—thanks to a new approach called Precision Oncology.

At the forefront of this transformation is Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad, where each cancer patient receives a treatment plan tailored to the exact nature of their disease.

“Not all cancers behave the same, even if they’re of the same type,” says Dr. Nikhil Suresh Ghadyalpatil, Director and Consultant Medical Oncologist at Apollo Cancer Centre. “Through advanced testing, we can now understand the specific genetic makeup of a tumour, allowing us to choose the treatment that works best for that individual.”

Why Precision Matters in Cancer Treatment
Cancer is complex. Two people with the same diagnosis may respond very differently to the same treatment. Precision Oncology uses genomic testing and biomarkers to identify what’s driving a patient’s tumour — and targets it directly.

This approach improves treatment outcomes and reduces side effects, making life easier for the patient during and after therapy.

World-Class Team, Personalised Care
A key pillar of Apollo Cancer Centre’s success is its Multidisciplinary Tumour Board. This group includes not just oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists — but also organ-specific cancer experts, such as uro-oncologists, gynae-oncologists, breast cancer specialists, bone tumour surgeons, GI cancer experts, and head & neck cancer surgeons.

Together, they review each patient’s case and design a customised treatment plan, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Advanced Treatments Available at Apollo Cancer Centre
Apollo Cancer Centre offers some of the most cutting-edge technologies and therapies, including:
• Immunotherapy and CAR T-cell therapy
• Antibody-drug conjugates and PRRT
• Robotic surgeries for better precision and recovery
• Organ-preserving surgeries, such as breast conservation, limb salvage, and sphincter-sparing techniques

These options not only increase survival rates but also help patients return to normal life faster and with fewer long-term side effects.

Leading the Way in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh With a strong focus on personalised care, world-class infrastructure, and the expertise of Dr. Nikhil Ghadyalpatil, Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad is leading the way in making cancer treatment more precise, effective, and compassionate.

The future of cancer treatment is already here—and it’s saving lives every day.

Gurugram, 14th April 2025: In an inspiring case that highlights the growing impact of thought pollution on young professionals, Manasthali, a trusted name in mental health and emotional wellness, recently supported a 25-year-old advertising executive in his journey to overcome anxiety and mental fatigue caused by the constant overload of negativity from news cycles, social media, and high-pressure work environments. With the right therapeutic intervention and personalized care, Manasthali, a leading mental health and wellness platform, helped him break free from the grip of toxic thinking patterns and regain clarity, focus, and emotional balance.

The patient Rahul (name changed) had been managing anxiety successfully after an initial round of therapy and lifestyle changes. For nearly a year, he remained stable and productive. However, a few months ago, his anxiety resurfaced, prompting him to seek help again at the Manasthali. Upon evaluation,  mental health expert discovered that Rahul had been increasingly overwhelmed by the toxic information around him—endless doom-scrolling on social media, disturbing news reports, and constant comparisons on professional networking sites. Combined with interactions with a few pessimistic colleagues, his mental environment had become severely polluted.

To help Rahul regain control over his mental well-being,  Manasthali implemented a structured and compassionate three-pronged approach. Central to the process was Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), through which Rahul was guided to recognize and challenge his negative thought patterns. By identifying irrational fears and self-critical beliefs, he gradually learned to replace them with healthier, more constructive ways of thinking—empowering him to respond more calmly and rationally to everyday stressors.

Alongside CBT, Rahul was introduced to a Digital Hygiene and Mindfulness routine that focused on reducing his exposure to the constant stream of negativity from social media and news platforms. He followed a personalized digital detox plan and adopted mindfulness meditation and breathing techniques to manage daily anxiety. To reinforce a positive outlook, he also maintained a gratitude journal, recording moments of appreciation and personal growth.

“Just like polluted air can clog our lungs, this mental overload had begun to cloud Rahul’s thoughts—leading to self-doubt, chronic worry, and sleepless nights. His anxiety symptoms—racing thoughts, restlessness, and shortness of breath—had returned, affecting both his personal life and work performance. This combination of gratitude and cognitive restructuring helped rewire his mind, allowed him to focus on progress, resilience, and self-compassion even during challenging times,” said Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Founder-Director and senior psychiatrist, Manasthali Wellness.

Within eight weeks, Rahul reported significant improvement. He felt lighter, calmer, and more focused. With continued therapy and support from Manasthali, Rahul not only managed his anxiety but also became more self-aware and emotionally resilient. He now consciously filters his mental intake, just as one would protect themselves from environmental pollution.

Kolkata, 14^th April, 2025: The culinary landscape of Kolkata is set to witness a landmark celebration of taste, tradition, and innovation as the first edition of the Foodka Culinary Honours prepares to take center stage. Conceptualized and curated by two of the most passionate culinary minds — Foodpreneur Shiladitya Chaudhury and Food Historian & Culinary Content Creator Indrajit Lahiri — this highly prudent awards platform aims to being hailed as one of the most coveted recognitions in the world of food. Today the official press conference was attended by Mr Manoj Jangid, General Manager, Fairfield by Marriott, & Mr Sudesh Poddar, President, HRAEI where the categories were announced.

With Doctor’s Choice as the Title Sponsor, and presented in proud association with IHM (Institute of Hotel Management, Taratala) as the audit partner and HRAEI (Hotel & Restaurant Association of Eastern India), the Foodka Culinary Honours 2025 will honour culinary brilliance across a wide spectrum of categories, celebrating both heritage and innovation.

The awards will be conferred across the following 11 distinctive segments featuring Indian (Bengali / Biryani & Kebabs / Bhaja Bhuji (Snacks)), Chinese, Pan Asian, Continental, Global, Bakery and Patisserie, Sweets, Café, Lounge & Bar, Vegetarian & QSR (Quick Service Restaurants). There will be a special category called ‘Hall of Fame’ to be conferred to an individual or concern for their soulful contribution towards the industry.

The first edition promises to set a new benchmark in recognizing talent, consistency, and innovation in the food and beverage industry. From timeless flavours of local traditions to the bold explorations of global cuisine, the Foodka Culinary Honours aims to spotlight the individuals and institutions shaping the future of food.

Fairfield by Marriott, Kolkata proudly joins this prestigious initiative as the Hospitality Partner, where the grand celebration will unfold in the form of a glittering gala evening.

The winners across all categories will be announced and felicitated at the awards night in July 2025, in Kolkata — an evening that will bring together the who’s who of the culinary world, restaurateurs, chefs, food connoisseurs, and industry insiders.

“Foodka Culinary Honours is our humble tribute to the culinary custodians of Bengal who have been shaping the state’s food narrative with passion, innovation, and authenticity. Through this platform, we aim to celebrate not just food, but the stories, the heritage, and the relentless spirit behind it. This is just the beginning of a journey to honour excellence across kitchens — from iconic eateries to unsung heroes”, said Shiladitya Chaudhury & Indrajit Lahiri, Founders, Foodka Culinary Honours.

The journey to felicitating the best of gastronomic masterpieces is about to begin in form of Fooka Culinary Honours celebrating excellence, honouring legacy, and inspiring the next wave of culinary creativity.

National, April 14, 2025 – Udaipur Marriott Hotel, the first hotel set to open in Udaipur under the flagship Marriott Hotels brand, today announced the appointment of Vaibhav Sagar as its General Manager. With nearly two decades of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Sagar brings a wealth of expertise in operations, strategic planning, and team leadership.

Vaibhav-Sagar-General-Manager-Udaipur-Marriott-Hotel

Sagar began his career with Hyatt Hotels, before making a successful transition into banking, where he worked with IDBI and Kotak Mahindra Bank. His return to hospitality saw him take on leadership roles with globally acclaimed hotel chains including InterContinental Hotels Group, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHHR Hospitality, and Radisson Hotel Group. This cross-industry experience has equipped him with substantial expertise in marketing, finance, and performance-driven hotel operations. His strong background further complements his strategic mindset and innovative problem-solving abilities.

Prior to joining Udaipur Marriott Hotel, he served as General Manager at Le Méridien Hyderabad since 2022, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the hotel’s performance, significantly enhancing guest satisfaction scores, operational efficiencies, and commercial outcomes. An alumnus of Cornell University’s executive education program, Sagar also holds an MBA in Marketing and Finance.

Upon his appointment, Sagar expressed his enthusiasm: “I am honored to take on the leadership of Udaipur Marriott Hotel, a property with immense potential in one of India’s most vibrant hospitality markets. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to deliver exceptional guest experiences and set new standards of service in the region.”

Sagar’s proven leadership, cross-industry expertise, and commitment to service excellence position him as a valuable asset to the Udaipur Marriott Hotel team. His appointment is expected to enhance the hotel’s performance, strengthen its market presence, and deliver world-class experiences for guests.

Nestled against the majestic Aravalli Hills and overlooking the tranquil Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur Marriott Hotel is set to open in April 2025, marking Marriott International’s debut in the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan.

Aaditya Sharda, co-founder, Infra.Market said, “India’s wood panel industry is growing rapidly, driven by rising demand for sustainable and versatile materials like MDF. At Infra.Market, we are well-positioned to tap into this opportunity through our advanced manufacturing facilities, expanding product portfolio, and strong dealer network, enabling us to fuel the industry’s growth.”

14^th April 2025 Banswara/Jaipur, Rajasthan – Extending its support to a key rural transformation initiative, LNJ Bhilwara Group, a leading industrial conglomerate across business verticals including textiles, graphite electrodes, power generation, energy storage solutions, and advanced materials, launched the second phase of inspiring its workforce to contribute and support the Global Vikas Trust’s successful project for farmers’ welfare in Banswara, Rajasthan, today.

 The event was graced by  Shri. Ravi Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, LNJ Bhilwara Group, Shri. Mayank Gandhi, Founder of Global Vikas Trust and Shri. Rajeev Gupta, JMD, RSWM Ltd., along with other esteemed leaders of the organization.

 Shri Ravi Jhunjhunwala has personally led the initiative at RSWM’s Mordi and Lodha plants in Banswara, home to the LNJ Knits and LNJ Denim units at Mordi, and the Kapaas and Greige Yarn units at Lodha, inspiring a workforce of over 3000 people to contribute for the cause.

Speaking about the impact made under the initiative, Shri Ravi Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, LNJ Bhilwara Group, said, “We are immensely moved and motivated by the tremendous support that the workforce in Bhilwara has extended to the cause. Encouraged by their willingness to extend a helping hand, we have launched the second phase of the awareness drive in Banswara and look forward to strong, enthusiastic support here as well. Shri Mayank Gandhi’s initiative to bring about rural transformation has touched the hearts of people who are coming forward to help GVT develop a lucrative and sustainable livelihood ecosystem by combining innovation with structured financial support.”

In the first phase of the initiative organized at the RSWM Ltd.’s plants in Bhilwara, a contribution of INR 50 lakhs was raised by the workforce. During the occasion, Shri. Ravi Jhunjhunwala pledged to match the cumulative contribution raised by the employees from his personal equity.

Shri Mayank Gandhi’s Global Vikas Trust led a transformation in over 4700 villages, across 27 districts in three states, by planting 5.6 crore fruit trees in the last 5 years to amplify farmers’ income tenfold. To strengthen GVT’s endeavors, Shri Ravi Jhunjhunwala is also working towards inspiring confidence and commitment from industrialists across Rajasthan to support the cause.

Elaborating upon this initiative, Shri Mayank Gandhi, Founder, Global Vikas Trust, said, “We are thankful to LNJ Bhilwara Group and Shri Ravi ji for continuously supporting us in our mission to transform the severely impacted farming community by helping them increase farmers’ income through the implementation of effective agricultural solutions. Our motivation is to empower farmers to lead a life of dignity and self-sufficiency while redefining how farming is perceived in society.”

 LNJ Bhilwara is sensitizing the farming and rural community to the impactful work of Shri Mayank Gandhi, extending network support, ensuring that every farmer has access to the trees and training needed for success. LNJ Bhilwara Group will be facilitating holistic agricultural training and education to farmers at Global Vikas Trust’s Farmer Training Center, GVT Krishikul, a world-class facility where farmers, CSR leaders, corporates, and government officials converge to learn and implement pioneering agricultural solutions. This center is drawing interest from all over India, with farmers from Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and beyond visiting to replicate and scale GVT’s proven model.

 With just ₹25 per plant, donors can directly contribute to this cause. A farmer earning Rs 37,000 per year earlier can now generate an income of around ₹4 lakh per annum within three years, with a one-time donation of just ₹30,000, securing his future and creating a life-changing impact through sustainable farming. Since 2016, the Global Vikas Trust has been working towards empowering small and marginal farmers by shifting them from low-income, high-risk crops to high-value fruit plantations, ensuring economic stability, sustainability, and long-term prosperity. With access to better crops and sustainable farming practices, average farmers’ incomes have increased from ₹38,723 to ₹3,93,986 per acre per annum.  Furthermore, over 400 crore litres of water storage capacity have been developed, ensuring resilience against droughts and water scarcity.