Panel on India’s Constitution and Public Lecture by Professor Susan Marks
12th February 2025: The Centre for Constitutional Values, School of Law, BML Munjal University organized a day-long discussion on the life and works of Professor Upendra Baxi at the India International Centre, New Delhi, on Saturday, 8th February 2025. Prof. Upendra Baxi is Professor Emeritus at the University of Warwick and is the former Vice Chancellor of Delhi University and the University of Surat. His extraordinary life traversed scholarship and activism. His open letter to the Chief Justice of India, on the Mathura Rape Case brought rape law reform to the center of law reform initiatives, while his work on the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, and the famous Agra Women’s Home brought questions of structural injustice in the law to the forefront. The discussion was organised around four thematic panels on the Constitution of India inspired by the recently published volume titled “Of Law and Life” published by Orient Blackswan. The volume is a series of conversations between Prof. Baxi and four legal academics over a period of over eight years that sheds light on his life through landmark events such as the Emergency, the Mandal Commission, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy and his stints in the US, UK, and Australia.
The event brought together eminent academics including Prof. Sudhir Krishnaswamy, Vice Chancellor of NLSIU Bangalore, Prof. Rajeev Bhargava (former Director of CSDS), Prof. Mrinal Satish (former Chairperson of the Delhi Judicial Academy), Prof. Arun Thiruvengadam (eminent constitutional law scholar), as well as activists such as Mr. Harsh Mander and Ms. Kavita Srivastava. Eminent lawyers defending civil liberties and public causes such as Mr. Trideep Pais, Mr. Ritwick Dutta, and Mr. Apar Gupta also spoke at the event. This was followed by a public lecture on the concept of Human Dignity by Professor Susan Marks, Professor of International Law at LSE Law School.
On the brisk morning of February 8th, a crowd of about 150 lawyers, students, and academics waited at the Kamala Devi Complex of the India International Centre, dotted with pictures and quotes providing glimpses of one of the most prolific and influential legal minds in India. The palpable excitement and anticipation of the crowd bubbled into applause as the guest of honour, Professor Upendra Baxi, entered the hall. Despite the intellectual tone and tenor of the event, there was a strong sense of shared celebration. This unlikely combination of celebration and intellectual rigour marked the entire event.
The day began with Professor Shyam Menon, Vice Chancellor of BML Munjal University, welcoming everyone to the event. This was followed by Professor Baxi’s address, which reflected on whether “accountability” was fading from public life, and how it ought to be thought of in terms of accountability of activists, lawyers, and academics. In a speech marked by intellectual depth and peppered with humour, he raised questions on accountability, rights, and justice that formed the basis of the first three panels. The panels discussed wide-ranging issues of freedom, sustainability, law reform and practice, the use and misuse of law, the role of institutions such as courts, civil society groups and law schools, and the scope of justice within and through these institutions. The audience was left contemplating critical questions, such as: What does the shift in terminology from “global warming” to “climate change” reveal about the individualization of responsibility? How is justice through courts becoming increasingly contingent on media discourse and public engagement? Does the “feel-good” factor of legal aid obscure the violence of a dysfunctional and inaccessible legal aid system? How do democratically elected regimes persecute social activists? Professor Baxi’s scholarship formed the foundation for these discussions, and his questions and comments elevated the conversation at every turn. The last panel was a tribute to Professor Baxi as a thinker, scholar, empathetic teacher, and administrator. It brought together anecdotes and recollections from Professor Baxi’s colleagues, friends and students, and the authenticity of conversations during this panel left everyone asking for more.
The four panel discussions were followed by Professor Susan Marks’ Public Lecture, titled ‘Dignity: A Worldly Perspective’. Drawing from international law, the laws and constitutions of various countries (notably South Africa, Germany and India), and compelling case studies, Professor Marks urged the audience to think about dignity as a lived experience rather than an abstract concept, and to question the normative ideal of universal human dignity against the widespread indignity of human life. A thoughtful and critical session of questions and comments following the lecture brought the proceedings of the day to a close, leaving everyone intellectually richer and hungry to learn more.
Navneet Education Limited Debuts ‘Navneet AI,’ Paving the Way for Intelligent Learning
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: Navneet Education Limited, a leader in the education sector, is excited to announce the launch of Navneet AI, an innovative platform designed to empower teachers with easy access to knowledge and resources. Leveraging Navneet’s extensive catalogue of educational materials, Navneet AI’s tools will help teachers deliver lessons more effectively by offering an interactive, user-friendly platform to create quizzes, homework, PPTs, Flashcards, summaries, and more.
For decades, teachers and students across India have relied on Navneet’s renowned educational resources, including the popular Navneet Digests, comprehensive workbooks, Navneet 21 Most Likely Question Sets, Pre-Primary and various Children’s books. Navneet AI is based on 50,000+ Navneet resources and delivers interactive output to make classes more engaging and effective. By equipping teachers with a powerful tool to enhance classroom experiences, Navneet Education aims to bridge traditional educational resources with modern technology.
“Our goal with Navneet AI is to make learning resources more accessible and adaptable to the needs of today’s educators,” said Devish Gala, Director – Branding, Marketing and Sales at Navneet Education Limited. “By integrating digital technology with trusted content, we support teachers in their mission to inspire young minds. Navneet AI represents our commitment to staying current with technological advancements and catering to evolving educational demands.”
Harshil Gala, CEO TopTech, Navneet Education Limited says, “With Navneet AI, we are revolutionizing the ways education is delivered, making learning more interactive and engaging for both teachers and students. At Navneet, we have always been at the forefront of innovation in education, and with this tool, we are taking a bold step towards the future, where technology empowers educators and enhances student learning outcomes like never before.”
Navneet AI is India’s first custom education model. In a world where generic AI chatbots are being marketed as study assistants for students, Navneet has deliberately chosen to create a platform designed specifically to support teachers. It operates on a multi-agent architecture, where each specialized agent plays a key role in shaping the output. These include the Curriculum Alignment Agent, Content Structuring Agent, Visual Design Agent, Assessment Creation Agent, Quality Verification Agent, and others, working together to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness in educational content.
This ensures strong alignment with educational standards and provides a solid foundation for effective learning. All of this is made possible by leveraging Navneet’s trusted content, built over six decades. This innovation is backed by years of expertise and experience, making it both groundbreaking and cost-effective, from innovation to delivery.
Navneet Education Limited will also host a series of workshops, titled ‘Q&AI’ with Navneet AI to introduce the platform to educators and guide them in maximising its potential. The workshops aim to provide hands-on experience, answer teachers’ questions, and ensure educators feel confident using the platform to enrich their teaching methods.
As the education landscape continues to evolve, Navneet is proud to offer teachers a digital assistant with tools that combine its legacy of academic excellence with the promise of digital innovation. With Navneet AI, the company reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of learning in India, blending tradition with technology to create a brighter, smarter classroom experience.
CarDekho Group Celebrates PowerDrift’s 3 Million YouTube Subscribers
112th February 2025: PowerDrift, one of the automotive channels by CarDekho Group, has achieved a milestone by surpassing 3 million subscribers on YouTube.
PowerDrift’s success is attributed to its ability to adapt to changing audience preferences, delivering quality, engaging, and authentic storytelling that resonates with automotive enthusiasts and industry stakeholders alike. Beyond reviews and comparisons, the channel’s diverse formats, such as travelogues, experiential videos, and series like Game of Performance and Signal2Signal, have garnered popularity. PowerDrift has embraced emerging technologies like AR/VR and short-form content, aiming to stay relevant in an evolving digital landscape.
It has an average viewer retention rate exceeding 65% and a loyal community that actively engages through comments and shares. A significant portion of its viewers is aged between 18 and 34, predominantly male, with a growing female viewership of 15%. While Tier 1 cities contribute most of the viewership, there is a marked increase in engagement from Tier 2 and 3 cities, driven by practical, value-driven content and regional-language adaptations.
Internationally, PowerDrift has witnessed growing traction in markets like the UAE, the US, and Southeast Asia, reflecting its global appeal. Over the years, PowerDrift has evolved from simple reviews to producing narratives that blend travel, culture, lifestyle, and adventure capturing the imagination of a diverse audience base.
Rohan Albal, Co-Founder & CEO, PowerDrift said, “PowerDrift has always been about more than just sharing information — it’s about creating a connection with our audience through innovative and engaging storytelling. We embarked on this journey with a small team and big dreams to redefine automotive content. By combining cinematic visuals with insightful narratives, we’ve built a format that speaks to enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. Over the years, this vision has evolved into a vibrant, community-driven brand fueled by innovation and collaboration. Surpassing 3 million subscribers is not just a milestone but a reflection of our relentless drive to push boundaries and bring motoring stories to life.”
Chanda Kochhar Opens Up in ‘Journey Unscripted’
Mumbai, February 12th, 2025 – Chanda Kochhar, a visionary leader and one of the most influential voices in India’s corporate landscape is set to launch her much-anticipated podcast, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’. This YouTube series, premiering on 13th February 2025, brings forth insightful conversations with trailblazers from diverse fields, capturing the moments of grit and grace that have shaped their journeys.
“As someone having navigated an unconventional journey, I believe in the power of real and candid conversations to inspire and connect,” said Chanda Kochhar. “Every experience, whether planned or unplanned, shapes who we are, and through this series I hope to bring out the defining moments that make each journey truly extraordinary.”
Executed by The Salt Inc., the series offers a refreshing take on unfiltered conversations, inviting viewers to reflect on their own paths while drawing inspiration from remarkable individuals. Neena Dasgupta, CEO and Co-Founder of The Salt Inc., said, “Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ is about conversations that are real and relatable. Chanda Kochhar’s engaging presence and keen perspective bring out the essence of each guest’s journey in a way that is both inspiring and heartfelt. We are excited to be a part of this show and it is fascinating to see how meaningful conversations bring amazing insights.”
The series kicks off with a leading Indian entrepreneur – the founder and chairman of a Fortune India 500 company, whose journey sets the stage for an engaging lineup of distinguished guests. Whether through stories of perseverance, unconventional choices, or bold ambitions, ‘Journey Unscripted with Chanda Kochhar’ offers viewers an opportunity to connect with real-life experiences that inspire and resonate. With its blend of candid conversations and compelling narratives, the series is a must-watch for those seeking insights, motivation, and a deeper understanding of the journeys of personalities from diverse fields. The first episode of the series will air on YouTube on 13th February 2025, making these insightful conversations accessible to a wide audience.
South Indian Bank Clinches 5 Awards at the 20th Annual IBA Technology Awards
New Delhi, 12 February 2025: South Indian Bank (SIB), well known for its novel contributions in banking technology, was recognised at the 20th edition of the Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024. The awards reflect SIB’s commitment to delivering innovative and customer-centric digital solutions.
The Annual Banking Technology Awards 2024, were part of the Annual Banking Technology Conference, Expo & Citations, organised by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). The awards recognise organisations that have brought in transformational changes in their businesses by adopting modern digital solutions. At a glittering ceremony on January 24 in Mumbai, SIB was declared the winner in the category of ‘Best Tech Talent & Organization’. Additionally, SIB received a special mention in the categories of ‘Best Digital Sales, Payments & Engagement’, ‘Best IT Risk Management’ and ‘Best Fintech, & DPI Adoption’. Moreover, the Bank was adjudged runners-up in the ‘Best Financial Inclusion’ category.
Mr. P R Seshadri, MD & CEO, South Indian Bank, expressed joy at the achievement, “We are honoured to receive these prestigious recognitions from the IBA yet again. These awards underscore our commitment to leveraging technology to enhance customer experience, drive financial inclusion, and ensure secure digital transactions. The awards acknowledge our efforts toward nurturing talent and building a strong tech team. It encourages us to continue our drive of continuous innovation, uncovering novel banking solutions for all our stakeholders, while also affirming our position as a forward-thinking financial institution.”
Le Méridien Hyderabad Appoints Sanjeev Mandal as General Manager
12th February 2025 Hyderabad : Le Méridien Hyderabad is pleased to announce the appointment of Sanjeev Mandal as its new General Manager. With over 20 years of experience with Marriott International, Sanjeev is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of luxury hospitality, guest preferences, and market dynamics in tier-1 cities.
Sanjeev began his journey in F&B operations, excelling in both curated fine dining experiences and large-scale catering events. His expertise and leadership saw him take on pivotal roles across multiple Marriott properties, including his tenure as General Manager of Fairfield by Marriott Kathmandu in 2017, where he received numerous accolades, including The Best General Manager’s Award.
His strategic acumen was further demonstrated at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai, where he successfully positioned the hotel as a top choice for urban travelers, enhancing its market positioning and commanding a premium pricing strategy.
At Le Méridien Hyderabad, Sanjeev aims to elevate the hotel’s brand presence, enhance guest experiences, and reinforce Marriott’s strong footprint in the city. Known for his people-first leadership, he fosters a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation, ensuring both guest satisfaction and associate engagement remain at the forefront.
He is joined in Hyderabad by his wife Kalpana and their children Rajveer and Rajeswari. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Sanjeev Mandal, as he embarks on this exciting new journey with Le Méridien Hyderabad.
Cyient DLM to Begin Production for Boeing Under New Contract
Hyderabad, February 12, 2025: Cyient DLM, an integrated partner for design-led manufacturing, has signed a production contract with Boeing Global Services (BGS) for precision-machined parts and assemblies, marking a key milestone in their partnership.
This precision machining project awarded to Cyient DLM by BGS highlights Cyient DLM’s growing capabilities in delivering high-precision components to the aerospace sector.
Anthony Montalbano, CEO, Cyient DLM, said, “This contract with Boeing is a significant achievement for Cyient DLM, showcasing our advanced manufacturing capabilities and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are honoured to collaborate with Boeing, a global leader in aerospace, and we look forward to strengthening this relationship by consistently delivering products that meet the highest industry standards.”
Cyient DLM’s achievement underscores its position as a trusted partner in the Aerospace and Defense sector. The company is among the first AS9100C aerospace-certified electronic manufacturing facilities and the first in India to obtain the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) certification for Circuit Card Assembly (CCA).
With over 30 years of experience, Cyient DLM specializes in manufacturing prototypes, small-batch production, box builds, and complete sub-assemblies and assemblies involving precision machining and detailed integration. The company also excels in additive manufacturing (3D printing) for proof-of-concept designs, design verification, and functional testing.
Superstitions Actors Believe in Before Going for a Shoot
12th February 2025: The world of entertainment is filled with talent, dedication, and hard work, but many actors also have their own little rituals and beliefs that they follow before stepping in front of the camera. From lucky charms to specific routines, these superstitions bring them a sense of comfort and positivity. &TV actors Smita Sable (Dhaniya from Bheema), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Rohitashv Gour (Manmohan Tiwari from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) share their personal beliefs that help them feel prepared and confident before a shoot.
Smita Sable, known for her role as Dhaniya in Bheema, shares, “Before every shoot, I always wear my nazarbattu, a small black thread or bracelet my father gave me to keep negativity away. It has been with me for years, and I believe it protects me from any bad energy. I also make it a habit to silently thank the universe for the opportunity to perform and say a short prayer before the camera starts rolling. These small rituals keep me grounded and fill me with positivity before stepping into my character.”
Himani Shivpuri, who plays Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, reveals, “I never leave for a shoot without looking at my parents’ photo. It gives me strength and reminds me why I work so hard. Another superstition I follow is that I never step out of the house if someone sneezes right before me. It’s something my family always believed in, and it has just stayed with me. If someone sneezes while I am about to leave, I wait for a minute, drink a sip of water, and then leave. It may sound funny, but it makes me feel at ease before I go to the set.”
Rohitashv Gour, popular for his role as Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “I always eat a spoonful of curd and sugar before heading to the set. It’s an age-old belief in our family that this brings good luck and ensures smooth work. I also make sure to enter the set with my right foot first. It’s something I have done since my theatre days, and it has become a habit now. These little beliefs give me confidence and help me start my shoot with a positive mindset.”
‘Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition’—DeadAnt Live’s Comedy Show Pokes Fun at Air Pollution
Mumbai, 12th February 2025: In a city where the air itself has become a punchline, DeadAnt Live is flipping the script with Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition—a night of rapid-fire comedy that puts Mumbai’s air quality crisis center stage.
On 28th February, Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir will play host to some of the sharpest comedic minds in the country as they attempt to do the impossible—make air pollution a laughing matter while ensuring it’s taken seriously. This special edition of DeadAnt’s proprietary format, presented in collaboration with social and environmental impact advisor Asar, will feature a stellar lineup of over 20 comedians, including Aditya Kulshrestha (Kullu), Aditi Mittal, Raunaq Rajani, Aadar Malik, Supriya Joshi, Vineet Srinivasan.
At its core, Laughs Per Minute is a high-stakes challenging format where comedians get 60 seconds each on stage to land a punchline—an exhilarating pace that mirrors the urgency of Mumbai’s, and indeed India’s, declining air quality. But beyond the rapid wit and relentless laughs, this edition serves a more pressing purpose: to translate AQI charts and government reports into a conversation that people can actually engage with. Because while smog-choked skylines and unseasonal coughs have become part of daily life, the issue remains buried under apathy, and jargon-laden policy discussions.
Ravina Rawal, Founder-CEO of DeadAnt remarked, “For DeadAnt, this isn’t just another show—it’s part of a broader mission to use the arts as a force for impact. We are delighted to partner with Asar for the return of Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition; on raising awareness on the rising air pollution in the country, and stripping away the abstraction around air pollution, driving home the reality of what’s at stake—without the doomscroll. At DeadAnt, we believe comedy can be more than just entertainment—it can spark conversations, shift perspectives, and even catalyse change–this edition is designed to make people sit up, take notice and, hopefully, take action.”
The collaboration with Asar ensures that while the jokes land, so does the message. Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition aims to do what few environmental campaigns have managed: make people care.
Brikesh Singh, Chief of Communications, Asar, said, “DeadAnt’s recognition of the urgent need to spotlight air pollution and the broader climate crisis led to this partnership. Through comedy, we aim to make climate conversations more accessible and engaging, driving attention towards actionable solutions to combat deteriorating air quality of Mumbai and mainstreaming climate communication for greater impact.”
He adds that DeadAnt Laughs Per Minute: Breathless Edition is designed to shake up the conversation on Mumbai’s air pollution—by ditching the jargon-heavy debates for sharp-witted comedy that resonates with everyone. “By using humour as a universal language, the initiative aims to engage a wider audience, spark public action, and make this issue impossible to ignore,” said Singh.
Havintha Revolutionizes Indian Haircare with Affordable Chemical Free Solutions
12th February 2025: Havintha, a trailblazer in the personal care industry, has proudly expanded its haircare range to offer innovative and affordable herbal solutions for Indian consumers. The brand’s latest launch in the hair oil category introduces a collection of chemical-free, nourishing oils that promote healthier hair and scalp. These new additions offer a holistic approach to hair care by using potent natural ingredients that enhance the beauty and health of hair without the harmful effects of chemicals.
With the growing demand for safe, effective, and natural haircare solutions, the brand’s commitment to providing high-quality products resonates with Indian consumers seeking healthier alternatives. The expanded hair oil range promises a blend of nutrient-rich oils designed to cater to various hair types and concerns. These herbal oils are formulated with key ingredients like Kalonji, Ratanjot, Jatamansi, Rosemary Oil, and Almond Oil, each handpicked for their beneficial properties to support healthy, luscious hair.
Mr. Bharat Khatri, Founder of Havintha, said, “At Havintha, we are deeply committed to providing our customers with solutions that align with their health-conscious lifestyles. With the launch of our expanded hair oil range, we’ve focused on offering chemical-free, deeply nourishing products that empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty. Our oils are crafted with nature’s finest ingredients to promote healthy hair and a balanced scalp, all while ensuring that our products remain affordable and accessible to everyone.”
Havintha’s herbal oils also support scalp health by balancing the scalp’s natural oil production, preventing it from becoming too oily or too dry. This balance is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp and promoting hair growth. Furthermore, the oils are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that deeply nourish both the scalp and hair, strengthening and protecting hair for overall health. Ingredients such as amla, bhringraj, and neem provide essential nutrients that support hair vitality.