Kamya Panjabi on National Girl Child Day: A Call for Real Progress in Gender Equality
In a world where days like National Girl Child Day and Women’s Day are marked with enthusiasm, Kamya Panjabi, known for her role as Mohini in Ishq Jabariya on Sun Neo, brings a thought-provoking perspective. While many celebrate these days with grandeur and big speeches, Kamya questions their true impact. Her honest words remind us that change begins with actions, not just words.
Kamya says, “I feel that celebrating things like National Girl Child Day and Women’s Day is just a joke. Honestly, it feels like a waste of time. All this big talk about girl’s rights and equality it needs to stop unless we actually do something about it. The day our mindset truly changes, the day these things start happening for real, we won’t need a specific day to celebrate girls or women. Every single day will naturally become a celebration. We keep saying that the country is progressing, that things are improving, and yes, they are. But the reality is that the mindset hasn’t changed much. It’s still stuck in the past.”
She reflects on her own fears as a mother, saying, “Take my own fears as an example. Even today, if my daughter has to step out of the house, I feel scared. I worry about sending her with a driver. She’s only 15 now, but when she turns 18, my fears will only grow. That worry has already started. Why? Because we don’t have trust. There’s no faith in our society. Someone could die, get assaulted, or even worse, and it seems like life just moves on. Cases like Nirbhaya keep happening, and it makes me so angry.”
The Ishq Jabariya actress powerfully states, “When we talk about girls and their safety, it makes my blood boil. We celebrate and talk about progress, but the truth is, the basic fear and mistrust haven’t gone away. Until those things change, what’s the point of celebrating?”
In Ishq Jabariya, Kamya plays Mohini, the aunt of Aditya (Lakshay Khurana). The show follows the heartwarming journey of Gulki (Siddhi Sharma), a lively young woman with big dreams who faces unexpected challenges on her path to love and self-discovery.
Managing Winter Risks and Staying Strong for Cancer Patients
By:Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Cancer treatment can be a challenging journey for patients, and the winter months often add an extra layer of difficulty. The drop in temperatures and the onset of seasonal illnesses pose unique risks for individuals undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from it. Understanding how cold weather affects cancer patients and taking appropriate precautions is essential for managing health during this season.
Cold Weather and Its Effect on Cancer Patients
The colder months can significantly affect the overall well-being of cancer patients. One of the primary concerns is weakened immunity. Many cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to seasonal infections like the flu and pneumonia. Exposure to extreme cold can also lead to complications like frostbite and hypothermia, especially for those with reduced circulation due to treatment side effects.
Cancer survivors often experience joint pain and stiffness as a result of treatment-induced inflammation or side effects like peripheral neuropathy. Cold temperatures tend to exacerbate these conditions, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Additionally, reduced exposure to sunlight during winter may cause a drop in vitamin D levels, which are essential for immune function and bone health.
Managing Risks During the Winter
To navigate the challenges posed by winter, cancer patients can adopt several strategies to protect their health. Keeping the body warm is crucial. Wearing multiple layers of clothing, using heating devices indoors, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold weather can help prevent complications like frostbite and hypothermia.
Maintaining a strong immune system is vital during this time. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods can help boost immunity. Incorporating foods fortified with vitamin D or taking supplements, as prescribed by a doctor, can address seasonal deficiencies.
Preventing infections is another critical step. Cancer patients should prioritize hygiene by washing their hands regularly, avoiding crowded spaces, and staying up-to-date with seasonal vaccinations, such as flu shots. Staying hydrated and using humidifiers can also help combat dry air, which can irritate respiratory passages and skin.
Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
The colder months, combined with the physical toll of cancer treatment, can also affect mental health. Seasonal affective disorder, characterized by feelings of depression during winter, can exacerbate the emotional challenges that many cancer patients face. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as indoor yoga or light exercises, can help improve mood and circulation. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and counselling can also provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Road to Recovery
For cancer patients, managing the effects of cold weather requires a proactive approach. Taking steps to stay warm, maintain immunity, and prioritize mental health can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. It is equally important to stay in close communication with healthcare providers, who can offer tailored advice and interventions to address individual risks during the winter months.
While winter poses unique challenges, it is also an opportunity to focus on self-care and resilience. With the right precautions, cancer patients can navigate the season safely and continue their journey toward recovery.
Telangana Signs MoU with JSW Defence for Manufacturing Facility
Chandigarh, January 24, 2025: The Government of Telangana has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JSW UAV Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of JSW Defence, to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to make Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in the state.
As part of this strategic initiative, JSW UAV is set to invest approximately ₹800 crores in the project, through a technology arrangement with a leading US-based defence technology company.
The MoU was signed in the presence of the Honorable Chief Minister of Telegana, Shri Revant Reddy and Parth Jindal of JSW Group in the presence of senior dignitaries from the state on the side lines of the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Revanth Reddy, Honorable Chief Minister of Telengana, said, “Hyderabad, and Telengana, was long positioned in the global market as software and pharma leader. With clear vision and diligent efforts, we are now establishing Telengana as a clear leader for investments in manufacturing across sectors, ranging from semiconductor, defence, private space to FMCG. My government’s efforts to position Telengana as a preferred option for the world for its China Plus One strategy has started bearing results.”
Parth Jindal of JSW Group said, “This MoU underscores our unwavering commitment to playing a key role in indigenizing defense technology in India. We are deeply grateful to the Government of Telangana, led by the Honorable Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy, for its guidance and support through industry-friendly policies that make initiatives like this possible.”
JSW Defence Pvt Ltd. – a part of the US$ 24 billion JSW Group – has a strategic partnership with Shield AI, Inc, a leading U.S defence technology company, to indigenize and manufacture Shield AI’s “V-BAT”, a Group 3 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). This collaboration marks a significant step in boosting India’s defence capabilities by bringing in world-class UAS technology to the country.
Budget Expectations: Alok Dubey & Ganesh Raju
“The upcoming budget should prioritize India’s digital and technological growth by focusing on key areas such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, and 5G infrastructure. Strengthening these areas will drive innovation and help bridge the digital divide between urban and rural India. We anticipate measures to boost R&D, semiconductor manufacturing, and green technologies, which are crucial for enhancing India’s position as a global technology hub. Policies that support startups, MSMEs, and local manufacturing—through refined PLI schemes and targeted subsidies—will play a pivotal role in strengthening the ‘Make in India’ initiative and reducing import dependency. Additionally, simplifying tax structures and investing in skill development will empower the tech ecosystem, driving long-term, sustainable growth. We are optimistic about the government’s continued focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and self-reliance, which align with our commitment to innovation and eco-friendly practices.”
By: Alok Dubey, Chief Finance Officer, Acer India.
“The upcoming budget needs to recognize a crucial shift in India’s startup landscape. While we have mastered software innovation, the next wave of value creation will come from hard-tech – startups solving complex industrial, agricultural, and healthcare challenges. To enable this, we need more than just tax benefits. We should consider creating specialized funding pools for R&D-intensive startups, particularly those working on deep tech solutions. The government could introduce matching funds for early-stage investments in sectors like semiconductor design, biotech, and advanced materials. This would help de-risk private investment in areas that typically have longer gestation periods but higher impact potential. Additionally, simplifying the process for academic institutions to become startup shareholders could unlock a wealth of untapped innovation. Many breakthrough technologies remain within lab walls due to complex commercialization pathways. The focus should shift from creating more startups to enabling the right kind of startups – ones that solve India’s core challenges while building for global markets,”
By: Ganesh Raju, Founder, Turbostart Global.
B2B E-Commerce in 2025: The Trends Revolutionizing the Industry
With the rise of sustainable innovations, one can witness that the B2B e–commerce landscape in 2025 will transit through a substantial transformation stage. The digital age has already brought great changes to the usual methods of business and this, together with the quickly progressing technology and the evolving needs of the consumers are the things that will be happening in the next few years. Companies like ExportersIndia.com are already incorporating these advancements into their companies to ensure that the trend is not something they lag behind but are actively involved in the facilitation of the nascent relationships between B2B sellers and buyers.
These are the main trends that will determine the e–commerce sector of the B2B industry in the year 2025:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation
AI has already started to revolutionize B2B e–commerce by offering more personalized experiences and enhancing customer service. In 2025, the role of AI in B2B e–commerce will continue to grow and enabling businesses to make smarter decisions and improve operational efficiency.
One of the key ways that AI will enhance the B2B buying experience is through automation. From chatbots providing instant support to predictive analytics anticipating customer needs, AI-powered tools will streamline the sales process, reduce manual intervention, and help businesses understand customer behaviours more deeply. For instance, AI will help identify the best products for customers based on their past purchasing habits, location, and industry trends.
Moreover, automation will play a crucial role in inventory management, order processing, and fulfilment. Automated systems will help businesses reduce errors and speed up workflows, ultimately resulting in cost savings and more efficient operations.
- B2B Marketplaces Will Continue to Dominate
The trend of B2B marketplaces has been growing steadily over the last few years, and it will become even more dominant. Marketplaces like ExportersIndia.com will continue to serve as the backbone of B2B commerce, offering businesses a platform to connect, showcase products, and conduct transactions. The success of these marketplaces is built on trust, ease of use, and access to a wide array of buyers and suppliers.
The future of B2B marketplaces will be shaped by the integration of advanced technologies like AI, big data, and blockchain. These technologies will improve trust and transparency, allowing buyers and sellers to have greater confidence in their transactions. As e–commerce marketplaces will become even more vital by offering cross-border trade opportunities and expansion.
- Personalization at Scale
While personalization has long been a buzzword in B2C e–commerce, it is now making its way into the B2B space. B2B buyers expect the same level of personalized experience that they receive as consumers. Businesses will need to leverage data analytics and AI to offer highly tailored experiences for their clients.
This personalization will not only be limited to product recommendations but will extend to pricing, customer service, and marketing. For example, a buyer from a specific region may receive personalized content or offers relevant to their local market. Additionally, AI will help businesses understand the buyer’s unique pain points and offer solutions more efficiently.
- Omni-Channel Experience
Omni-channel experiences have become a priority for many B2B companies. In 2025, businesses will need to seamlessly integrate various touchpoints—online and offline—to provide a consistent experience to their customers. Whether it’s browsing on mobile devices, accessing support via live chat, or placing orders through a dedicated app, B2B buyers will expect a fluid, interconnected experience across all channels.
To deliver a smooth omni-channel experience, businesses will need to integrate their customer relationship management (CRM) systems, inventory management, and payment systems across all platforms. By doing so, companies can ensure they meet the diverse needs of their customers while delivering on their expectations.
- Voice Search and Conversational Commerce
With the growth of voice-activated technologies and virtual assistants, voice search will become an integral part of the B2B e–commerce journey. By 2025, voice-based shopping will be increasingly utilized by B2B buyers, who will use voice assistants to place orders, find suppliers, and even ask questions about product specifications.
Conversational commerce is also set to rise as businesses integrate chatbots and virtual assistants into their e–commerce platforms. These tools will offer real-time communication, helping buyers make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s answering FAQs, providing product recommendations, or assisting with order tracking, conversational commerce will enhance the customer experience and drive higher engagement rates.
- Sustainability and Green E–Commerce
In 2025, businesses will not only look at the environmental impact of their products but also at the practices of their suppliers. Green e–commerce platforms will provide businesses with the opportunity to access sustainable products, materials, and eco-friendly services. With increasing pressure from consumers, companies that embrace sustainability will be better positioned to attract and retain clients who prioritize ethical sourcing and eco-conscious practices.
Companies in the B2B e–commerce sector are increasingly leveraging emerging trends to stay competitive in the evolving market landscape. Embracing advanced technologies and strategic approaches can enhance operational efficiency and customer experience, while also paving the way for sustainable growth in a rapidly changing global environment.
Liberty General Insurance Unveils Republic Day Brand Film
Mumbai, January 24, 2025: As India commemorates its 76th Republic Day, Liberty General Insurance has released a thought-provoking campaign film that explores the true meaning of “Liberty” through the voices of everyday citizens. The film poses a simple yet powerful question: What does Liberty mean to you? Designed to inspire reflection, the campaign connects deeply with audiences by celebrating the freedoms that shape our lives.
The film opens with this central question and transitions into personal, heartfelt responses from individuals across diverse walks of life. A child’s playful imagination, a doctor’s dedication, a Gen Z individual’s self-expression, a common man’s values, and a retired army man’s preparedness come together to highlight liberty’s varied interpretations. These stories, told with authenticity, encourage viewers to appreciate the unique ways freedom influences their own lives.
Speaking on the launch of the Republic Day brand film, Mr. Parag Ved, CEO & Whole-Time Director, Liberty General Insurance, said, “At Liberty General Insurance, liberty is not just a word; it represents our promise to empower people to live without fear or hesitation. This film is a reflection of the values we stand for—providing our customers with the confidence and peace of mind they need to embrace life’s opportunities. Our aim is to remind everyone that liberty is deeply personal yet collectively significant, and through our reliable services, we strive to honour this belief every day.”
The film is a tribute to the spirit of independence, seamlessly aligning with Liberty General Insurance’s mission of delivering trust and reliability. Through its relatable narrative and inspiring tone, the campaign aims to strengthen Liberty’s connection with its audience while encouraging them to embrace the true essence of Republic Day.
ManpowerGroup’s 2025 Talent Shortage Survey: The Growing Need for Skilled Workers
NEW DELHI, INDIA (January 24, 2025) – Employers In India are expecting cautious hiring in the first quarter of 2025, as ongoing talent shortages continue to hinder recruitment efforts according to the latest ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN) Talent Shortage Survey. The survey collected data from more than 3,000 employers across the 4 regions of India, seeking inputs on the Talent shortages they are facing and how do they plan to cope with attrition in their efforts to retain talent as well as their HR priorities in 2025. Despite the highest hiring demand globally (53%), 80% of employers in India are struggling to find the right talent they need, a trend that has persisted since 2022 and is more than the global average, where 74% of employers are reporting talent scarcity (the global figure remains unchanged over 2024). The survey highlights that no region is immune to shortages, and talent scarcity remains a defining feature of the global labor market.
“The persistent talent shortage, with 80% of organizations struggling to fill roles in 2025, underscores the urgent need for collective action, said Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India and Middle East. Industries like IT, Energy, and Utilities are feeling the greatest strain, with demand for specialized skills like data and IT continuing to rise. In South India, where the shortage is especially pronounced, the pressure on medium and large enterprises is significant. Employers are increasingly prioritizing upskilling strategies to bridge this gap, reflecting a shift towards sustainable solutions over short-term measures like wage increases. Addressing this challenge will require a robust partnership between businesses, governments, and educators to build a future-ready workforce.”
KEY FINDINGS FROM THE 2025 TALENT SHORTAGE SURVEY
- 80% of employers report difficulty finding skilled talent, remaining consistent in the last three years, and increasing 86% from 2021’s survey.
- To find, attract, and recruit talent, employers are offering more upskilling and reskilling opportunities to current employees (39%), as they aim to reduce recruitment costs by promoting internal mobility. Increasing temporary recruitment is favoured by only 22% of employers as they show preference in targeting new talent pools (38%) and increasing wages (29%).
- Talent shortages are most prominent in South India (85%) and have remained consistent with last year.
- When asked about Artificial Intelligence (AI), employers cite training staff, finding qualified talent, and offering more location flexibility (hybrid, remote) as the top challenges to fully leverage the technology
- Company size plays a notable role in talent acquisition challenges, with large organizations (250-999 employees) and very large enterprises (1,000-4,999 employees) reporting an 82% difficulty in filling positions, while the largest organizations (5,000+ employees) face slightly fewer challenges at 80%.
Sheel Verma on His Role in ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain’
Actor Sheel Verma is stepping into the spotlight with his highly anticipated Shemaroo Umang’s upcoming show, ‘Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain’. With its gripping promos teasing drama, suspense, and unexpected twists, the show has already created a buzz.
Sheel couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared his thoughts about his debut. “This role is incredibly special to me. What makes it even more exciting is how unpredictable my character is, you never know what’s coming next! That’s the beauty of this show—it keeps you guessing,” he said with a smile.
Having previously worked in web series and movies, Sheel explained why he chose this show for his TV debut. “The storyline is so unique and interesting. It’s not your typical family drama; it has depth, twists, and surprises that will keep the audience hooked. My character has a very important part to play in the bigger story.”
Sheel also hinted at the excitement viewers can expect. “This show is packed with twists and turns. Every episode brings something new, and I promise it’s going to be an exciting ride. Playing this role has been an amazing experience, and I can’t wait for the audience to join me on this journey,” he added.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Rajasthan, Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain is a tale of family, tradition, and power struggles. At its core, it’s a story of sacrifice, resilience, and love, revolving around Chaina, a village girl whose life changes dramatically when she enters a grand haveli.
Bank of Baroda’s ‘Baroda Kisan Pakhwada’ Empowers 348,000 Farmers in Nationwide Campaign
Mumbai, January 24, 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, concluded the 7th edition of its flagship rural outreach programme, ‘Baroda Kisan Pakhwada’ on a high note. Through the fortnight-long initiative, the Bank connected with over 348,000 farmers across the country and cumulatively sanctioned agri loans of over Rs 3,300 crore. Through a combination of mega kisan melas, choupals, health camps and other drives, the Bank showcased its strong ties with the agricultural community.
As a part of the Baroda Kisan Pakhwada programme, Bank of Baroda organised outreach events across its 22 zones and 119 regions pan-India, with the ‘Baroda Kisan Rath’ travelling across the country to raise awareness and to share information on the Bank’s agriculture lending products & services as well as Government initiatives, such as lending schemes under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Package, micro insurance, social security schemes etc. The Bank also felicitated progressive farmers, entrepreneurs and customers for their contributions to the sector.
This year’s theme focused on leveraging technology to empower Indian farmers and the Bank introduced two digital initiatives – the Digital Baroda Kisan Credit Card (BKCC) and Digital Gold Loan to facilitate seamless access of credit to farmers.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “The success of Baroda Kisan Pakhwada underlines our unwavering commitment to India’s agriculture community. Through our digital initiatives like Digital BKCC and Digital Gold Loan, our aim is to simplify access to credit, making banking services more accessible and convenient for farmers. Through the Baroda Kisan Pakhwada, we have helped create a strong awareness on the range of offerings available with the Bank, thus empowering farmers to take advantage of financial schemes that will fuel their growth.”
Bank of Baroda’s lending to the agriculture sector stands at Rs 144,508 crore as on September 30, 2024, recording a 10.6% year-on-year growth.
upGrad Partners with Maharashtra Govt to Build AI Excellence Centers
Mumbai, India – January 24, 2025: upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra in the presence of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Ronnie Screwvala at Davos, yesterday. The initiative aims to create a world-class AI talent base for global jobs and drive employment opportunities across the State.
With an initial outlay of INR 2,150 crore, the initiative will build upGrad Institute of AI Excellence Centers across Maharashtra to equip over 1 Mn students in AI and emerging technologies. The move comes under the leadership of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to amplify Maharashtra’s contribution towards the nation’s progress of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2030.
a) The upGrad-supported ATLAS SkillTech University to create futuristic bespoke hybrid programs in emerging arenas of Design, Digital Transformation, Technology, AI and Gaming, under the prestigious Maharashtra State University of Eminence initiative
b) Establish an Urban University and Campus Hubs in partnership with 3 renowned Global Universities – as part of Hon. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s visionary ‘Educity’ initiative. This transformative project aims to deliver world-class, globally benchmarked education, positioning Maharashtra as a premier destination for top-quality higher education
c) The second pillar of this initiative will focus on empowering an additional 250,000 rural youth by addressing talent gaps in underserved areas. It will also include training professionals and fostering rural entrepreneurs in the not-for-profit sector, driving Maharashtra’s rural empowerment efforts and accelerating socio-economic upliftment across the state
With a balanced focus on rural and urban development, this partnership is set to establish Maharashtra as the strongest hub for global talent in advanced and emerging technologies.
Dr Indu Shahani, Founding Chancellor & President, ATLAS SkillTech University: “We are proud to partner with the Government of Maharashtra on this groundbreaking initiative to redefine the future of education. Guided by our mission to nurture not just job seekers but visionary job creators, we are steadfast in our commitment to nation-building. By empowering learners with cutting-edge, future-ready skills, we aim to bridge gaps and create transformative opportunities across urban and rural communities. This collaboration stands as a testament to our dedication to delivering world-class education and advancing Maharashtra’s position as a global epicentre for AI talent, innovation, and progress.”
Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder, upGrad & Swades Foundation: “It’s exciting to see the Government of Maharashtra taking concrete steps in enabling our talent with sharp resources they need to springboard on to the growth podium. There’s a very strong urban learning infrastructure that our State has, and taking it to rural, will only accelerate our commitment of producing the largest AI-ready talent for the world and for careers of tomorrow. ATLAS SkillTech University has been fronting the quality benchmarks in higher education across design, tech and entrepreneurship and the partnership will open doors to a wider segment to access that pedagogy and content.