GARP Enables Remote Access to SCR and RAI Exams
India, 5th May 2025 — The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), a global leader in risk education, has announced the launch of remote online proctoring for its Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) and Risk and AI (RAI) certificate programs globally. This initiative is designed to significantly expand access to these globally recognized programs, especially for professionals in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities by enabling candidates to take the exams from the comfort of their homes. The first set of remotely proctored exams will be administered in October 2025.
The remote testing option is secured through a secure remote proctoring system, ensuring a consistent and fair exam experience for all candidates. It will allow Indian candidates the flexibility to schedule and take their SCR and RAI exams from a location of their choice, following India Standard Time (IST). Registered candidates will receive all necessary instructions and access details prior to their exam via email.
The initiative comes at a time when interest in GARP’s globally recognized risk education programs is rising sharply, driven by growing awareness of the need to manage risks related to climate change and emerging technologies. In India, GARP has collaborated with educational institutions including XLRI-Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur, Christ University, Bangalore and Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar. It aims to expand to cities such as Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Indore, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Jamshedpur, Kochi, Lucknow, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, Visakhapatnam, Agra, Kanpur, Mysuru, Mangalore, and Udupi.
These ongoing partnerships allow GARP to share its global expertise and contribute to India’s educational and professional upskilling goals. Between 2021 and 2024, enrolment for the SCR program in India grew at an impressive annual rate of 59.6%, reflecting the rising demand for sustainability knowledge. Since the launch of the RAI program in August 2024, India has rapidly become GARP’s second-largest market for candidate registrations globally. Participation has been particularly strong in metro cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, and Chennai—key hubs for careers in sustainability and AI. The introduction of remote proctoring is set to remove logistical and cost barriers, providing professionals with easier access to these future-focused certifications from anywhere across the country.
“India is a major global economy, and it is growing. As the nation progresses toward its $5 trillion economic goal, the capacity to manage sustainability and AI-driven risks becomes paramount,” said Richard Apostolik, President and CEO of the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). “By introducing remote proctoring, we are eliminating geographical and logistical barriers to certification, making these critical programs more accessible to professionals in India, allowing them to objectively demonstrate to their global peers that their professional knowledge is on par with anyone in the world.”
The RAI certificate equips candidates with a robust understanding of AI evolution, core AI tools and techniques and their application in real world use cases, AI risks, including algorithmic bias, explainability, transparency, reputational risk, and data and model governance frameworks—skills that are especially vital as India’s AI sector is projected to generate over 2.3 million jobs by 2027, while the available talent pool may only reach 1.2 million, highlighting a knowledge gap and urgent need for upskilling .
Similarly, the SCR certificate—recognized globally as a unique climate risk credential—offers in-depth knowledge of green and sustainable finance markets and instruments, climate science, global policy and governance initiatives, climate models and scenario analysis, transition planning and carbon reporting, and nature risk assessment. With over 80% of India’s population vulnerable to climate-induced disasters and forecasts suggesting climate change could shrink India’s GDP by 25% by 2070 , equipping professionals with these critical skills is more important than ever.
Gargi stars for Chembur Gym
Gargi Devgekar did the star turn for Chembur Gymkhana, winning both her matches in their 3-0 demolition of Bombay Gymkhana in the Ullal Cup for women at the Motiram, Ullal and Kanji Cup Inter-Club Badminton Championships, organised by GMBA, and hosted by Willingdon Sports Club, here, on Friday.
It was a poor start for Bombay Gym, who then went on to lose their second match by a similar margin to Khar Gymkhana.
Gargi defeated Avni Arlekar 15-7, 15-3 to make the issue safe for Chembur Gymkhana after their doubles pair of Tanvi Gharpure and Tisha Darveshi had given the team a winning start. However, Gargi got on to the court again, partnering Vedikar Kulkarni to defeat Avni Arlekar and Rajvi Sampat 15-6, 15-12 to complete the rout.
Khar Gymkhana also made a strong start to their Ullal Cup campaign, defeating Chembur Gym 2-1 to keep a clean slate.
NSCI’s woes continued in the Motiram Cup for men, losing both their matches 1-2, and 0-3 to CCI C and Chembur Gymkhana, respectively.
Brief Score
ULLAL CUP MATCHES
The Chembur Gymkhana – W beat BOMBAY GYMKHANA – W 3-0
Tanvi Gharpure/Trisha Darveshi bt Aparna Popat/Naheed Divecha 15-9,15-14; Gargi Degvekar bt Avni Arlekar 15-7,15-3; Gargi Degvekar/Vedika Kulkarni bt Avni Arlekar/Rajvi Sampat 15-6,15-12
Khar Gymkhana beat The Chembur Gymkhana – W 2-1
Kairavi Thakore/Manya Avlani bt Tanvi Gharpure/Trisha Darveshi 15-14, 15-12; Manya Avlani beat Gargi Degvekar 15-5, 15-10; Sarita Jethwani/Tanvi Teckchandani lost to Gargi Degvekar/Vedika Kulkarni 10-15, 4-15
Khar Gymkhana beat Bombay Gymkhana – W 3-0
Kairavi Thakore/Manya Avlani bt Aparna Popat/Naheed Divecha 15-14,15-12; Manya Avlani bt Avni Arlekar 15-5 15-12; Sarita Jethwani/Tanvi Teckchandani bt Avni Arlekar/Rajvi Sampat 15-8 15-11
MOTIRAM CUP MATCHES
The Chembur Gymkhana – M beat GCH – Mens Team 3-0
Amey Joshi/Suyog Lokhande bt Ishan Thaker/Parthh Chandak 15-10, 15-10; Parthive Nair bt Vishal Jhaveri 15-8,15-6; Aman Farogh Sanjay/Siddharth Gupta (C) bt Dhruv Jhaveri/Dicky Modi 15-3 15-5
CCI C beat NSCI C 2-1
Nihal Peerbhoy/Rishi Agarwal lost Aditya Somani/Harsh Shah 10-15, 5-15; Rustom Warden bt Aditya Somani 15-5,15-5; Ketan Patel/Ritish Desai bt Aryan Ahuja/Tejas Shah 15-8,11-15,15-10
The Chembur Gymkhana – M beat NSCI C 3-0
Aman Farogh Sanjay/Siddharth Gupta (C) bt Tejas Pikale/Tejas Shah 15-7,15-6; Suyog Lokhande bt Tejas Pikale 15-7, 15-8; Amey Joshi/Parthive Nair bt Aditya Somani/Harsh Shah 15-8, 15-10
India Bags 15 Golds, Ranks Third at Asian U-15 & U-17 Boxing Championships
Speaking from Amman, BFI President-Chairman, Interim Committee, Mr Ajay Singh, congratulated the young boxers on their performance: “A proud and satisfying performance by our young boxers at the continental stage! Finishing with 15 gold medals and among the top three nations is a rewarding moment for all of us. These young boxers are the future of Indian boxing. I congratulate every member of our U–15 and U–17 teams for their courage, spirit, and skill. With this foundation, I have no doubt we’ll see many of them on the Olympic stage in the years to come.”
Chintamanis Group Celebrates Labour Day by Offering Free Healthcare to Gurugram Construction Workers
Gurugram, May 1, 2025: In observance of International Labour Day, Chintamanis Group organized a free health check-up camp for its construction workers at the site of its project on Dwarka Expressway, Sector 103. Over 200 workers participated in the initiative, benefiting from a wide range of medical services aimed at promoting their health and well-being.
The camp provided essential health screenings including blood pressure, blood sugar, and BMI checks, along with doctor consultations and tetanus vaccinations. Operated on a first-come, first-served basis without the need for prior registration, the initiative ensured maximum convenience and accessibility for the workforce. It forms a part of Chintamanis Group’s broader commitment to the welfare and dignity of its workers through regular health and wellness programs.
Mr. Vikas Dua, Director of Chintamanis Group, said, “True leadership in construction isn’t just about building structures—it’s about building lives. Our workers are at the heart of everything we do, and this medical camp is a reflection of our responsibility to safeguard their health and well-being. We are proud to lead with purpose and will continue to invest in initiatives that create lasting value for our people.”
Ms. Aashi Dua, Executive Director of Chintamanis Group, added, “An empathy-driven approach is what creates a lasting impact. We believe in going beyond compliance to truly care for the people who build our vision every day. This initiative is just one step in our ongoing journey to foster a culture of compassion, respect and support at every level of our organization.”
The initiative drew support from all levels of leadership. Mr. Pankaj Hans, Director, remarked, “Such efforts may seem small, but they make a real difference on the ground.” Mr. Amarjeet Singh Dhillon, Director, echoed this sentiment, stating, “A healthy worker is a strong foundation—one we’re proud to support.”
Chintamanis Group continues to set benchmarks in socially responsible construction by regularly introducing welfare initiatives that empower workers to proactively monitor their health, identify potential concerns early, and receive timely medical attention—creating a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those who build its vision and contributing to a safer, healthier, and more resilient workforce.
Sanjeevini Group’s Umesh Gowda Highlights Bengaluru’s Home Delivery Surge; Varthur and Gunjur Emerge as Key Hotspots
Bengaluru-based real estate developer Sanjeevini Group Chairman and Founder, Umesh Gowda H.A:
With over 80k homes being delivered in the last two financial years in Bengaluru shows the growing focus of city developers on construction and delivery. Game-changing reforms like RERA and SWAMIH fund have accelerated the delivery of homes amidst soaring demand from growing corporate presence and employment. Micro-markets in the periphery like Varthur and Gunjur are amongst the top priority markets for residential demand as developers focus on expediting construction, ensuring quicker delivery and enhancing brand equity.
Vijay Harsh Jha, founder and CEO, VS Realtors:
Delhi-NCR, despite seeing some decline in FY25, saw an unprecedented number of homes being delivered. This signals the growing certainty and confidence in the real estate sector which will help attract more capital from both domestic and global investors.
Endiya Partners and Gopichand Launch ‘Game On!’ for Startup Wellbeing
Bengaluru, India | 30 April 2025 – Endiya Partners, in collaboration with the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, has announced Game On!, a first-of-its-kind sports tournament built to promote wellbeing, resilience, and leadership within India’s startup ecosystem.
The tournament will debut in Bengaluru on 6–7 June 2025 and will feature Badminton, Table Tennis, and Box Cricket. With HSBC Bank as event partner, the initiative invites participation from early and growth-stage startups, as well as ecosystem enablers — acknowledging that everyone, from interns to investors, plays a crucial role in shaping the entrepreneurial journey.
Startups thrive on speed, resilience, and teamwork — and so does sport. Game On! offers founders, operators, and enablers a high-energy break from the grind, using sport to build trust, leadership, and camaraderie that translate far beyond the playing field.
“Sport is one of the best teachers of leadership. It builds not just physical endurance, but clarity, discipline, and emotional strength, qualities every member of the startup ecosystem needs,” said Pullela Gopichand, Chief National Coach for the India National Badminton team. “With Game On!, we want to create a space where the ecosystem can step back from the pressure, recharge, and sharpen the resilience and teamwork that drive success both on the court and in business.”
“Startup teams operate under constant pressure with little room to pause,” said Sateesh Andra, Managing Partner, Endiya Partners. “Game On! brings our ecosystem together not just to compete, but to connect on the court and beyond. Whether you’re closing a deal or winning a match, success relies on rhythm, trust, and shared experience. This tournament is our opportunity to step back, gain clarity, and strengthen the bonds that drive us forward.”
Game On! is also a reflection of a growing cultural shift where startups are recognising the value of investing in employee wellbeing as a necessity for sustained innovation and retention.
Endiya’s ongoing commitment to the founders’ and their teams’ wellbeing underpins the initiative. By encouraging physical activity, peer bonding, and emotional reset, Game On! aims to embed sustainable habits into startup culture.
IHM-Hyderabad Hosts Annual Awards Ceremony for 2024-25
Hyderabad, 30th April 2025: The renowned Institute of Hotel Management, Hyderabad IHM-Hyderabad, a central government institute under the Ministry of Tourism, held its Annual Awards Ceremony for the academic year 2024-25 with grandeur and pride, celebrating academic excellence, placement achievements, and overall student accomplishments. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries from the hospitality, spiritual, and academic sectors, making it a truly inspiring occasion for the budding professionals of the institute.
The ceremony was graced by Sri Pradyumna Krishna Dasa, Spiritual Leader (ISKCON); Mrs. Yamuna Ranga Rao, Founding Principal, IHM-Hyderabad; Dr. Raja Rao, In-charge Principal, Osmania Medical College (OMC), Hyderabad; Mr. Sailesh Mathur, Group General Manager, Hotel Abode; Mr. Pankaj Sampat, President, HRATS, Area Director, IHCL, & GM, Taj Krishna; Mr. Abhishek Menon, General Manager, ITC Kakatiya and Mr. Sanjay Thakur, Principal, IHM-Hyderabad. Other notable guests included Mr. Srinivas Indukuri, Director HR, Taj Krishna & Taj Deccan; Mr. Arnold Lobo, L&D Manager, ITC Kakatiya, Mr. T. Chandra Mohan, Principal, Chennais Amirta and Mr. Karunya Teja, Faculty at Chennais Amirta and a proud alumnus of IHM-Hyderabad.
The ceremony commenced with a soulful Ganesh Vandana, followed by the National Anthem and a heartfelt tribute to the victims of the recent Pahalgam attack. The dignitaries joined students and faculty in observing a moment of silence in their honour.
Principal Mr. Sanjay Thakur extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries and expressed his heartfelt gratitude. Our Heads of Departments felicitated the guests, and Mr. Thakur reaffirmed the institute’s dedication to nurturing future leaders in the hospitality industry.
Academic achievers of the institute and exceptional sports performers from catering colleges across the city were honoured during the event as a part of the Yamuna Ranga Rao Trophy: Inter-College Sports Meet. The winners received their awards from Mrs. Yamuna Ranga Rao, herself. Another highlight of the evening was the felicitation of winners from the Inter-collegiate Flower Arrangement Competition, who were applauded for their creativity and excellence on stage. This chapter of the competition saw participation from hoteliers in the Professional Category, which was won by Dolphin Hotels.
A proud moment for the institute came as two students placed at Ritz Carlton, Naples were recognized, along with 60+ students placed as Management Trainees in leading hotel chains across India. Additionally, over 100 students who secured placements across sectors like QSRs, FMCG, Fashion & Jewellery Retail, Co-working Spaces, Airport Outlets, Hotel Aggregators, Corporate Catering, and Facility Management were acknowledged for their versatility and preparedness for dynamic careers.
A memorable part of the event was the insightful speech by Sri Pradyumna Krishna Dasa, who emphasized the importance of Emotional Quotient (EQ) and Spiritual Quotient (SQ) to create the much-necessary balance in professional and personal life.
Dr. Raja Rao shared a moving account of how hospitality education at IHM-Hyderabad transformed his son’s life, underscoring the far-reaching impact of this field.
Mr. Pankaj Sampat spoke about the evolution of the hotel industry, highlighting the emerging opportunities available for young graduates. He emphasized how a career in hospitality offers the unique privilege of meeting and interacting with some of the most influential personalities across the world. He also noted that the dynamic nature of the industry provides professionals with an exciting
“kick” every single day, while Mr. Abhishek Menon shared his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry, narrating how he started his career and rose through the ranks to become the General Manager of the very same ITC Kakatiya. With heartfelt conviction and a dash of humour, he expressed that being a hotelier is not just a profession for him, but a calling—one he wouldn’t trade for anything else.
The dignitaries also released the 39th edition of the institute’s Annual Magazine Cackle, based on the theme “Food and Spirituality”, during the ceremony, showcasing student creativity, achievements, and institutional highlights from the past year.
The Annual Awards Ceremony 2024-25 was a true celebration of excellence, aspiration, and growth — marking yet another milestone in the illustrious journey of IHM-Hyderabad.
Academic Award Details
Shambhawi Singh Dev, (Alumnus 2024)
Thangam E. Philip award for 1st rank, instituted by South India Hotels & Restaurants Association of Chennai; Highest Scorer in Final Year Accommodation Operations, award instituted by Panaroma Enterprises, Bangalore ; Topper of 2023-24 Final Year Highest Scorer in Final Year Food & Beverage service, instituted by Madam Yamuna Ranga Rao, founder Principal; & Yamuna Ranga Rao Academic Excellence Award
Tushar Aneja, (Alumnus 2024)
Thangam E. Philip award for 2nd rank & 2nd Topper of 2023-24 Final Year
Preti Chaouhan, (Batch 2025)
Thangam E. Philip award for 1st rank – 2nd year.,
Topper of 2023-2024 2nd Year
Talera Group rolling trophy for 1st Rank in 2nd Year … Rooms Division subjects
Mandarapu Atchutha Sai Kumar (Batch 2025)
Thangam E. Philip award for 2nd rank – 2nd yr.,
2nd Topper of 2023-24 2nd Year
Subhranil Dhar, (Batch 2026)
Thangam E. Philip award for 1st rank – 1st yr., Topper of 2023-24 1st Year
Kumari Ritika, (Batch 2026)
Thangam E. Philip cash award for 2nd rank – 1st yr.,
2nd Topper of 2023-24 1st Year
Meghana Bhutada – Award for Vegetarian Course
N Manisha, Alumnus 23
Topper of 2022-23 Food and patisserie course
Anmole Rohini Gunwant, (Alumnus 23)
2nd Topper of 2022-23 Food and patisserie course
Yamuna Ranga Rao Trophy: Inter-College Sports Meet
Carrom-Singles
Runner up – Anurag Gautam (IHM Hyderabad)
Winner – Sukruth (Culinary Academy)
Carrom -Doubles
Runner-up – Om Adithya Prakash and Fayaz Mohammad (Regency College)
Winner – Danavath Vishnu Rathod and Punit (IHM Shri shakti)
Chess
Runner up – M. Mukthananda (Chennais Amritas)
Winner – MD. Yasir Khan (Regency College)
Table tennis: Singles
Runner up – Sanika juikar (IHM Hyderabad)
Winner – Varad Badhe (IHM Hyderabad)
Inter-collegiate Flower Arrangement Competition
Professional Category
Winner – Dolphin Hotel – K. Nagaraju & Aalok Kumar
Free Style – 2nd Runner up- Sara Ashish Reddy (Chennais Amrita)
Runner up – Pranav Gawande (IHM Hyderabad)
Winner – Hari Omm Shukla (IHM Hyderabad)
Flower Decoration – 2nd Runner up- Saraswati Biswakarma (Regency)
Runnerup – Susan Sara Singh (IHM Hyderabad)
Winner – Shiva Prasad (Regency)
Ikebana – 2nd Runner up- Sattwikee Ray (IHM Hyderabad)
Runnerup – Siddharth (Regency)
Winner – T. Mukhteshwar (Regency)
Bouquet
2nd Runner up- Md Abdul Ahad (IIHM)
Runnerup – Manthan Bahadure (CAI)
Winner – Sunidhi Nair (IHM Hyderabad)
Panasonic Launches 2nd ‘Kid Witness News’ Edition in India to Promote UN SDGs
New Delhi, April 30th, 2025, Panasonic Life Solutions India PLSIND, a leading diversified technology company, has launched the second edition of the global initiative – Kid Witness News in India. After running a successful first edition in the country, the programme is deeply committed to raising awareness around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among school students by upskilling youth with digital storytelling skills and creating advocates of change.
As part of the Kid Witness News (KWN) program, Panasonic Life Solutions India has so far partnered with five leading schools, including Heritage Xperiential Learning School, Shalom Hills International School, Suncity School, Lotus Valley International School, and Scottish High International School in Delhi NCR region and is still open for collaborations with more schools. Beginning May 2025, Panasonic will conduct KWN workshops, providing state-of-the-art Panasonic Lumix cameras and other equipment to participating students from partner schools. These tools will serve as a medium for students to direct their thoughts on SDGs to life, deepen their understanding of the world, and positively impact society. One video will be selected after assessment of all entries from India to be showcased at Panasonic’s Kid Witness News Global Summit as part of a global contest scheduled later in the year.
Speaking on the launch of the KWN program, Ms. Pooja Garg Khan, Head of CSR & Corporate Communications, Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND) said, “Panasonic is delighted to launch the second edition of Kid Witness News in India, fostering the next generation of storytellers and community leaders. Last year, we had a number of schools from Gurgaon who participated. Through this initiative, we are providing students with the necessary technology and immersive workshops covering camera techniques, video editing, and digital storytelling. By guiding them to transform their ideas around the UN Sustainable Development Goals into compelling narratives, this program ignites creativity, hones critical thinking, and empowers young minds to champion positive change. It equips them with the necessary skills and confidence to envision and build a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
The Kid Witness News (KWN) is a global program that was launched by Panasonic in 1989 to provide students with opportunities to explore the world of digital storytelling and media production. The initiative is aimed at empowering young people by giving them access to technology and training in the fields of video production and digital media. The KWN has been successful in fostering creativity and media literacy among young people, providing them with valuable skills that can be useful in their future careers. The program has been implemented in various countries around the world and continues to be a part of Panasonic’s efforts to support education and community development.
DP World and Delhi Capitals Launch Cricket-Inspired Campaign Film
Bengaluru, 29th April 2025: DP World, a leading global provider of smart logistics solutions, has unveiled an inspiring new campaign film in partnership with Delhi Capitals, celebrating the transformative power of cricket when driven by purpose. The film highlights how cricket can open doors, create opportunities and positively impact communities.
The film brings together an impressive lineup of global cricket stars including KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, and Mitchell Starc, alongside women’s cricket trailblazers Meg Lanning, Alice Capsey, and Sarah Bryce. It marks the latest milestone in DP World’s partnership with both the Men’s and Women’s Delhi Capitals teams, underscoring a shared commitment to inclusivity and impact through sport.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of local neighbourhoods across India, the film vividly captures DP World’s grassroots commitment to making cricket more accessible. A standout scene features young aspiring players being mentored by life-sized holographic projections of their cricketing idols blending inspiration with innovation to deliver a personal, powerful training experience.
Hemant Kumar Ruia, Executive Vice President, Head of DP World India said, “India is central to DP World’s global operations, both in scale and strategic importance. Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of millions here, and through our Beyond Boundaries Initiative, we are using the power of cricket to connect with communities in India. We are providing access to cricket by providing grassroots clubs with cricket kits, equipment, and facilities through repurposed logistics containers. Our partnership with Delhi Capitals reflects a shared commitment to enabling this access, nurturing local talent, and fostering a spirit of inclusion. This film captures our unifying purpose, showcasing how we are supporting cricketing talent at the grassroots level, while building relationships that matter, both on and off the field.”
As part of its global Beyond Boundaries Initiative, DP World is converting 50 repurposed shipping containers into fully equipped cricket facilities for grassroots clubs worldwide. Each container is stocked with professional-grade kits including bats, helmets, gloves, pads and kit bags. The containers are also multipurpose to suit the local community’s needs, serving as pavilions and dressing rooms – all with the ambition of making the game more accessible.
Since its launch in 2023, the initiative has seen DP World roll out five repurposed containers across key Indian cities including Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi, along with the distribution of 1,250 cricket kits to aspiring players in India. In 2024, the Delhi Capitals team supported the unveiling of containers at Delhi’s Aerocity Ground, reinforcing the commitment to bringing the game closer to communities and nurturing the next generation of talent.
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