15th January 2025  Kharagpur, West Bengal, India  The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) hosted the 21st Annual Alumni Meet from January 3rd to 5th, 2025, a landmark event organized by the Students’ Alumni Cell. The event brought together alumni from across generations to celebrate their enduring connection with their alma mater, relive cherished memories, and engage with the current campus community.

Celebrating Reunions and Legacy

This year’s meet celebrated the milestone reunions of the batches of 1975,1985 and 2000. Alumni from these batches were warmly welcomed and honored in specially curated programs, which included nostalgic visits to their old halls of residence, interactive campus tours, and photo sessions to commemorate their bond with the institute.

Dynamic Events and Activities

The event kicked off with an inauguration ceremony on January 3rd, attended by the Interim Director, Prof. Amit Patra, distinguished faculty members, and the alumni. Over the course of three days, the meet featured:

Panel Discussions and Keynote Sessions: Alumni from diverse industries shared their insights on topics such as emerging technologies, entrepreneurship, and societal challenges.

Networking Opportunities: Alumni had the chance to reconnect with peers and interact with students during informal networking sessions, fostering mentorship and collaboration opportunities.

Cultural Extravaganza: A grand cultural evening showcased mesmerizing performances by students and alumni, including music, dance, and drama that captured the spirit of KGP.

Distinguished Alumni Awards

The Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony, held on January 3th, was the highlight of the event. Alumni who have made remarkable contributions in various fields were recognized and celebrated. Their inspiring journeys served as a testament to the institute’s legacy of excellence.

Innovation Showcase

Alumni were deeply impressed by the advancements in technology and innovation taking place at IIT Kharagpur, reaffirming the institute’s position as a leader in education and research.

Emotional Connections and Reflections

One of the most cherished moments was the “Down the Memory Lane” session, where alumni shared interesting stories from their student days, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone present.

A Shared Vision for the Future

During the concluding session, the Interim Director emphasized the importance of alumni in shaping the institute’s future. He invited alumni to contribute through mentorship, funding, and collaborations, ensuring IIT Kharagpur remains at the forefront of global education and research.

A Successful Conclusion

The 21st Annual Alumni Meet ended on a high note, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of belonging and pride in being a part of the KGPian community. The event not only celebrated the past but also strengthened the bond between alumni and the institute, paving the way for a brighter future.

15th January 2025  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Safex Chemicals Group, a leader in the chemical industry, marks its 34th Foundation Day with the launch of an inspiring employee engagement campaign that bridges its storied past with its ambitious future. The idea of Safex was conceived by Late Mr. S.K. Jindal and Mr. S.K. Chaudhary at a time when the Indian agrochemical industry was dominated by multinational companies. The company celebrated this milestone across the country, with more than 1,500 staff members gathering to remember and pay homage to Late Mr. S.K. Jindal.

The celebration underscores the company’s evolution from a single facility in Bahadurgarh, Haryana, in 1992, to an international enterprise with seven manufacturing units across India and the UK. The month-long celebration features a series of thoughtfully crafted initiatives reflecting the company’s remarkable journey and core values. The “Walk to Your Dreams” Challenge, inspired by Founder & Chairman Mr. S.K. Chaudhary’s extraordinary life story, encouraged employees to walk 10,000 steps daily throughout December 2024. This initiative symbolizes the grit and determination that have defined both Mr. Chaudhary’s personal journey and Safex’s impressive growth—achieving a 40-fold increase since 2010 and maintaining a 35% CAGR over the past five years.

Complementing this physical initiative is the “Dream Big” program, dedicated to the late Mr. S.K. Jindal, Co-founder of Safex Chemicals. This forward-looking initiative invited employees to set ambitious personal and professional goals, mirroring the company’s transition from serving local farmers to building a network of over 15,000 distributors across 21 states and employing more than 1,500 people globally. The company’s strategic milestones, such as the acquisition of UK-based Briar Chemicals in 2022, exemplify how bold aspirations can be turned into reality.

Reflecting on this journey, Mr. S.K. Chaudhary, Chairman of Safex Chemicals, said, “The situation was very tough but with sheer grit, determination and a strong will to succeed, we continued to progress slowly and steadily. Many challenges came along the way, but the spirit could not be defeated. Mr. S.K. Jindal left us along the way but new generation joined in to carry the legacy forward. It speeded up the pace of growth setting new benchmarks along the way. Today, present in almost all verticals of agrochemicals viz crop protection, home care, grain storage and contract development, Safex is the 2nd Indian agrochemical company after UPL to acquire a 115-acre facility in the United Kingdom at a cost of 73 million pounds.”

Adding a unique cultural dimension to the celebration was the “Jukebox” initiative, which took employees on a melodious 34-day journey through the company’s history. Each day featured five carefully selected songs representing every year since Safex’s founding in 1991. This musical timeline resonated with employees across generations and celebrated the company’s continued progress and legacy.

From modest beginnings to becoming a key player in the global chemical market, Safex Chemicals has grown to meet the demands of the ever-evolving agriculture industry. According to Agriculture Today Magazine, Safex has emerged as the 18th largest agrochemical company based on FY23-24 data, achieving one of the highest growth rates in the industry at 21% for the said year. As the company celebrates this significant milestone, these programs strengthen the bond between employees and the organization’s mission while laying the groundwork for future growth and innovation.

15th January 2025  Pune, Maharashtra, India  Following the traditions of ushering the New Year with happiness and prosperity, CREDAI-Pune Metro’s marks its 23rd edition of its Flagship event and Annual Property Exhibition, “Pune Property Expo 2025”, scheduled to be held from 17th to 19th January 2025 at the Agriculture College Ground, Pune. The event will bring together over 55 trusted developers, showcasing more than 400 RERA-registered projects from Pune, PCMC, and PMRDA regions. The exhibition aims to provide a platform for first-time home-buyers, Upgraders & Investors promising something for everyone. One can explore a wide range of real estate options, including affordable Studio &1 BHK to 5 BHK luxury housing, NA plots to premium villas, commercial properties to pre-leased assets tailored to Suit Every Lifestyle & Budget.

Some notable highlights are as under:-

• On-the-Spot Deals & Best-In-Class Offers Available Only at the Exhibition
• Integral Home loan advice and Instant Home loan sanction by eminent bankers
• Entertainment, Lucky Draw, Attractive Free Gifts
• Customer Centric Seminars and Interaction with Developers
• Free entry, Free parking / Valet parking service available
• Food Court at your service

On 19th January, the expo will feature customer-focused seminars:

• The Essentials of Redevelopment for Homeowners: A panel discussion featuring Mr. Gautam Chaterjee (Ex-Chairman, MahaRERA & Chairman, GRSC), Mr. Suhas Patwardhan (Chairman, Maharashtra Co-Operative Housing Federation), and Mr. Vikram Karandikar (M.D., Chaphalkar Karandikar), moderated by Mr. Sanjay Deshpande (CMD, Sanjeevani Developers).
• The Hidden Checklist Every Homebuyer Needs by Mr. Rahul Ajmera, Partner, Vasupujya Corporation.
• Role of Homebuyers in Eco-Friendly Practices by Mr. Sandeep Sonigra, M.D., Orange County Group.

The Expo will be inaugurated on 17th January 2025 at 10:00 AM by Honourable Shri Murlidhar ji Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation.

15th January 2025  Sheo | Barmer, Rajasthan, India  STAGE OTT hosted the Rohidi Music Festival, a grand celebration of Rajasthan’s cultural and musical heritage, in the picturesque desert town of Sheo, Barmer. This landmark event brought together over 400 Manganiyar artists who showcased the timeless rhythms, soulful vocals, and traditional instruments that define the region’s rich folk traditions. The festival began with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, followed by the stirring performance of Dharti Dhora Ri, setting the tone for an evening filled with artistry and cultural pride.

Among the highlights were spellbinding performances by Virasat Lok Sansthan, the Joga Dhol Party from Bisala, and Akala Dariya, who mesmerized the audience with the iconic track “Ghani Re Ghani Khamba” from the movie Padmavat. The event also featured an extraordinary lineup of celebrated artists, including Padma Shri awardees Ustad Sakar Khan’s family and Ustad Lakha Khan, alongside other luminaries such as Shakur Khan, Jasu Khan Bissu, Jasu Khana Meer, Hakam Khan Nimbla, Moti Khan, and R Khan. Their stellar performances not only captivated the audience but also honored the Manganiyar community’s centuries-old legacy.

The Manganiyars have long been the storytellers of Rajasthan, weaving music into every aspect of life, from births and weddings to festivals and harvest celebrations. Their music, which is passed down through generations, reflects a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region. The Rohidi Music Festival beautifully celebrated this rich tradition, emphasizing how music in the Manganiyar community transcends mere entertainment to become an integral part of their daily lives and rituals.

Mr. Vinay Singhal, CEO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT and Mr. Parveen Singhal, CCO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT, reflected on the success of the festival, stating, “The Rohidi Music Festival was an opportunity to showcase the vibrant soul of western Rajasthan. By bringing together esteemed artists, we aimed to present the heart of Rajasthan’s folklore to a larger audience. This festival was not only a celebration of music but also a step toward empowering local communities and preserving their cultural treasures.” The event served as a platform to uplift Manganiyar artists, creating economic opportunities while fostering pride among performers and attendees alike.

The Rohidi Music Festival was a historic cultural gathering, blending tradition with a vision for progress. STAGE OTT demonstrated its unwavering commitment to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural legacy while supporting its local artists. The event set a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich artistic heritage of the region.

15th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Renowned architect and designer Ninad Pardeshi, the visionary force behind ELM Designs, is proud to announce the launch of ELM Art Gallery, an exclusive art gallery dedicated to luxury and heritage. Under its brand Moksha Sutra, the gallery will feature an exclusive collection of art masterpieces dedicated to timeless elegance and cultural sophistication. Located in the heart of Mumbai, ELM Art Gallery promises to be a sanctuary for art connoisseurs and collectors.

As the Principal Architect and CEO of ELM Designs, Ninad Pardeshi has built a legacy of creating transformative spaces that marry tradition with contemporary luxury. With over two decades of experience and a philosophy rooted in the belief that “Life is Luxury,” Ninad’s latest endeavor pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, showcasing a curated collection of high-end masterpieces crafted by India’s finest artisans and emerging talents from institutions like JJ School of Art.

ELM Art Gallery aims to preserve and celebrate India’s rich artistic heritage while offering a platform for innovation. The gallery will feature an exquisite range of paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect maximalist aesthetics and intricate craftsmanship-hallmarks of the ELM Designs brand.

“Our mission with ELM Art Gallery is to create a space where art meets soul,” said Ninad Pardeshi. He further added, “This gallery is not just about displaying art; it’s about connecting people to the stories, emotions, and traditions that define our culture. We want our patrons to experience luxury not just as opulence but as a deeper connection to beauty and heritage.”

This ELM Art Gallery designed to cater to high-net-worth individuals and art lovers reflects ELM Designs’ core values of excellence, creativity, and sustainability. Its debut collection under Moksha Sutra will highlight works that integrate vastu principles and eco-conscious materials, offering visitors a sensory journey through India’s artistic legacy.

In addition to its Mumbai location, Ninad Pardeshi has ambitious plans to expand ELM Art Gallery internationally, with future galleries envisioned in Milan and Dubai, further positioning ELM Designs as a global leader in luxury design and artistry.

15th January 2025  Gurugram, Haryana, India  Smartworld Developers has been certified as a “Great Place to Work” for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious recognition underscores the company’s commitment to cultivating a workplace culture centred around employee satisfaction, inclusivity, and collaboration. Based in Gurgaon, Smartworld is a pioneering real estate developer who has significantly impacted the residential real estate sector with its innovative luxury projects.

Commenting on the recognition, Vivek Singhal, CEO, Smartworld Developers, said, “This certification is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to our employees. They form the foundation of our organisation’s culture and values, and this achievement underscores their contributions to our success. We remain committed to providing an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally. It is this dedication that allows us to grow as a company while nurturing our dynamic workforce.”

At Smartworld Developers, fostering an open and inclusive work culture is a priority. The company adopts a flat decision-making structure, ensuring clear communication of its vision and goals to all employees. Regular dialogue between management and staff enables effective two-way communication, fostering a culture of collaboration over competition.

Cross-functional teams are formed to achieve objectives through teamwork, while continuous feedback mechanisms ensure alignment with business goals and motivate employees to perform at their best. Smartworld’s workplace philosophy is rooted in equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender. The company ensures a merit-based approach in areas such as remuneration and responsibility. A strong reward and recognition program further sets Smartworld apart, celebrating achievements at individual, team, and organizational levels.

The Great Place to Work Institute is a global firm that recognises employers creating outstanding employee experiences through a rigorous evaluation process.

According to the Institute’s research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

15th January 2025  Dubai, United Arab Emirates  GEMS Education today announces the launch of its most innovative school to date, GEMS School of Research and Innovation, set to open its doors in August 2025 to take its place among the finest schools in the world. The purpose-built English curriculum school seamlessly blends world-class teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and purposeful innovation that will create an unprecedented learning experience for students.

Designed as a global hub for educational research, the school optimises education through hand-picked specialist teachers, the transformative power of artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and values-led education. Placing wellbeing and happiness at the heart of its mission, the school breaks traditional boundaries to deliver a truly holistic education experience.

The new school has already been endorsed by a string of highly respected figures in British education, including Amanda Spielman, who served as His Majesty’s Inspector for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (OFSTED) from 2017-2023.

Additionally, Julie Young, a highly renowned educator, innovator, and visionary leader from Arizona State University known for her expertise in school design for diverse educational models, including virtual, blended, and technology-enhanced learning, has also given the new school her full endorsement.

Sunny Varkey, Chairman and Founder of GEMS Education and The Varkey Foundation, said, “We believe in empowering the next generation to shape a better world. GEMS School of Research and Innovation is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional education based on our 65 years of experience.

“By combining the very best hand-picked educators recruited from the UK and around the world with cutting-edge technology and unmatched facilities, we are creating a unique school where every student has the opportunity to thrive and innovate, leveraging their own innate curiosity.”

At the core of the school’s philosophy are its values, which nurture students to be pioneering, empathetic, and prepared to address global challenges with care and purpose. The school’s Family First movement strengthens this approach, fostering close collaboration with parents to uphold strong family values.

Every element of the school has been meticulously crafted to provide an enhanced sensory experience. From dedicated reading and play spaces to state-of-the-art STEM and disruption labs, the environment is designed to inspire creativity and foster critical thinking.

Specialist primary spaces for technology, design, sports, and the arts, alongside collaborative tech hubs and an immersive research centre, offer unmatched opportunities for young learners to explore and excel.

Lisa Crausby OBE, Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, said, “This is more than a school – it is a transformative space where education meets innovation. At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, students will benefit from personalised learning experiences, driven by exceptional teachers and enhanced by world-class facilities. We are preparing our students not just for the challenges of today, but for the opportunities of tomorrow.”

The enhanced British curriculum is meticulously designed to blend academic excellence with future-focused subjects. Students will engage with computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics, esports, and game design from an early age while exploring specialist languages, arts, sports, engineering, and business.

The school’s extended day programme further invests in a super co-curriculum that nurtures students’ talents in everything from gymnastics and swimming to musical theatre, classical dance, and street performance.

As a GEMS Centre of Excellence for Research and Technology, students will connect with schools worldwide, participating in UNESCO conferences, becoming global ambassadors, and gaining access to prestigious universities and top-tier employers through the GEMS for Life programme.

Partnerships with industry leaders like Microsoft, HP, Apple, and Plug and Play Tech Center provide real-world learning opportunities that foster entrepreneurial mindsets and encourage students to turn ideas into impactful solutions.

The school’s Disruption Lab and Research Centre is dedicated to developing entrepreneurial skills and cultivating innovative thinking, empowering students to create solutions that address real-world challenges.

The campus boasts world-class amenities designed to bring the learning experience to life, including:

• Specialist robotics and science laboratories.
• A 600-seat auditorium.
• Olympic-sized swimming pool.
• AR and VR-enabled learning centres.

Amanda Spielman commented, “This is a school built not only to deliver outstanding academic results but also to develop well-rounded, future-ready young people. The emphasis on attracting exceptional teachers and providing them with world-class tools and facilities, I believe is a model for others to follow. GEMS School of Research and Innovation can set a new global benchmark for education.”

Julie Young added, “GEMS School of Research and Innovation represents a breathtaking vision for the future of education, which will set new standards for other leading schools around the world to try to match. By integrating cutting-edge technology and exceptional design with a deeply values-driven approach, this school will empower students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially in a rapidly evolving world.”

GEMS School of Research and Innovation builds on GEMS Education’s 65-year legacy of delivering global education excellence, nurturing the genius in every child to shape the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

Families and educators eager to be part of this transformative journey are encouraged to visit gems-sri.com for more information.

15th January 2025  Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India  MMTC-PAMP, India’s only London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Good Delivery gold and silver refiner, is proud to commemorate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya with its exclusive Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. This celebration pays homage to the divine spirit of Lord Ram and affirms the enduring legacy of faith, devotion, and righteousness.

The specially crafted Ram Lalla Bars, made from the purest 24K gold (99.99%+ purity) and 99.99% silver, have been cherished symbols of devotion since their launch. The 10-gram gold bar and 50-gram silver bar both feature 3D embossed of the Ram Lalla idol, inspired by the divine sculpture installed at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, alongside a detailed depiction of the iconic Ram Mandir on the reverse.

As part of the three-day grand celebrations in Ayodhya, MMTC-PAMP joins devotees in the spiritual and cultural activities that resonate with the essence of Lord Ram’s teachings.

The celebrations commenced on January 11, 2025, with the Abhishek of Ram Lalla by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, followed by a cultural program featuring Usha Mangeshkar and Mayuresh Pai. On January 12, 2025, Raga Seva included performances by Sonu Nigam, Shankar Mahadevan, and Malini Awasthi. The event concluded on January 13, 2025, with spiritual rituals and devotional activities.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Vikas Singh, Managing Director & CEO of MMTC-PAMP remarked, “As we celebrate the first anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha, we are honoured to offer devotees the Ram Lalla Gold and Silver Bars. Crafted with 99.99%+ purity, these bars are a testament to our commitment to excellence and our deep respect for Indian culture and traditions. They symbolize faith and devotion, serving as cherished keepsakes of this historic moment. Since the launch of our Ram Lalla collection, these bars have been a cherished treasure amongst our customers.”

The Ram Lalla Gold Bar, a 10-gram 24K masterpiece with 99.99%+ purity, and the Ram Lalla Silver Bar, a 50-gram bar featuring a full-colour embossed image of Ram Lalla and an engraving of the Ram Mandir, exemplify MMTC-PAMP’s Swiss craftsmanship and purity. Packaged with Assayer Certified Minted Cards for authenticity, these bars are available at MMTC-PAMP Purity Verification Centers, leading jeweller partners, and online at shop.mmtcpamp.com.

MMTC-PAMP invites devotees and investors to join in the celebration and acquire these timeless symbols of faith, which honour the sanctity of the Ram Mandir and the spirit of Lord Ram.

15th January 2025  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Zoivane Pets, a pioneering pet care brand founded by Nishma Singhal, has launched an all-encompassing range of over 150 premium-quality products to make the lives of pet parents easy and joyful by addressing everyday challenges like training, grooming, and maintaining a hygienic home, Zoivane Pets has become a trusted name for pet parents across India.

The brand’s innovative offerings include its Pet Behavior Corrector Spray, which is a safe and humane solution for addressing unwanted behaviors such as barking, jumping, and food stealing. By mimicking natural animal warnings with a hiss sound, this spray interrupts bad habits and fosters positive behavior when used alongside a rewards-based training approach.

Another featured product is the Potty Training Spray, a patented formulation designed to train pets to urinate or defecate in specified areas by sending them an odd fragrance. The spray is safe and non-toxic and may also be used indoors or outside: a great product that will help new pet parents with house training.

Aims to keep your home clean and smelling good, the brand offers Pet Odor Remover with a black currant fragrance. It is a strong but non-toxic formula for removing tough pet odors from surfaces such as carpets, upholstery, and bedding, with refreshing black currant fragrance as a residue.

Complementing the first one is Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray, meant to eliminate persistent stains and combat odors, such as pet urine. It has a mild, refreshing scent that leaves the home feeling clean and inviting. It is safe for use on carpets, furniture, and other surfaces, ensuring your home remains fresh and clean.

The Home Cleaning Kit for Pet Parents is, therefore, another one of its solutions for cleanliness. It is a special collection tailored for pet owners, consisting of products that are environmentally safe for cleaning. This makes it a lot easier to maintain a healthy home for you and your pet.

Nishma Singhal, Founder, Zoivane Pets said, “Our mission at Zoivane Pets is to make pet parenting joyful and easy-going. Products we create are yet another way that we keep true to our commitment toward innovation, safety, and sustainability. We aim to build a bridge between pets and their parents to provide effective solutions that ensure their daily fun.”

With a focus on natural, safe, and practical pet care solutions, Zoivane Pets revolutionizes the way pet parents care for their furry companions.

Kolkata, January 13, 2025: In a thought-provoking session exploring the depths of astrology, experts Shalini Modi and Dr. Ridhi Bahl illuminated the audience at Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival 2025. Moderated by Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan, author and astrologer Shalini Modi shared her journey and personal experiences, including marriage predictions that came true with uncanny accuracy. “The house of marriage or spouse, is also the house partnership. The strength of this house determines the success in marriage and business partnership. Therefore, when marriage is predicted, it includes living in with someone or even finding a partner.,” Shalini added to the topic.

Dr. Bahl, with her rich lineage of astrologers and nearly two decades of professional experience, highlighted the complexity and depth of astrology. “Astrology is wonderful guide which can provide significant insights about personal, professional & financial fronts.”, she said. The session delved into the age-old debate of destiny versus free will, shedding light on astrology’s role as a guide rather than a predetermined script. Dr. Ridhi emphasized, Shalini Modi echoed this sentiment, recounting how astrology had provided meaningful insights to those around her.

The conversation also tackled how astrology evolves with changing times, addressing modern aspects like career decisions and medical treatments. Dr. Ridhi emphasized the importance of adaptability in astrological interpretations, highlighting how classical texts might not address modern concepts like divorce. Today, however, astrologers help couples navigate challenges by suggesting solutions such as medical interventions or adoption. Shalini concluded by noting that astrology’s enduring appeal lies not only in what is written in the stars but in how we interpret and apply it to our lives.