Illuminate 3.0 by LTTS and NIE: Celebrating the Power of Technology and Sustainability for Citizen Empowerment
Mysuru, India, Feb 05, 2025: illuminate, the public science and technology forum celebrating engineering excellence and innovation, is back in its third year. The event, revitalized with the momentum of Purposeful Agile Innovation, promises dynamic discussions and groundbreaking ideas focusing on technology, sustainability, and citizen empowerment.
Co-presented by L&T Technology Services Limited (BSE: 540115, NSE: LTTS), and The National Institute of Engineering (NIE), illuminate seeks to democratize knowledge and bring to light the latest engineering marvels in contemporary India. The third edition of the marquee event, scheduled for the 8th of February in Mysuru’s Karnataka State Open University, ensures that the most complex engineering and technology feats are made accessible to all. Unveiling the stories behind landmark breakthroughs, it is a testament to the ingenuity, perseverance, and expertise of our national talent base.
This year’s speakers feature Srikanth Nadhamuni, Founder CTO, Aadhaar, a technologist and philanthropist whose illustrious career spans Silicon Valley advancements in AI and Digital Public Infrastructure, and Gayatri Chauhan, Founder and CEO of BuzzOnEarth, a champion of environmental action, sustainability and leadership. The speakers bring together a rich bouquet of diverse perspectives – from cutting-edge sustainability practices to transformative digital initiatives that are helping redefine lives and livelihoods. Their expertise mirrors our aspirations to lead the world – both as an innovation powerhouse and a catalyst – with practical solutions to global challenges
“illuminate has evolved to become a vital platform for sparking collaboration and fostering groundbreaking innovation in science and technology. We are proud to continue empowering changemakers with a forum that tackles a diverse range of topics including artificial intelligence, sustainability, and community-led initiatives. LTTS will continue inspiring progress, innovation, and engineering excellence, while creating a lasting impact through meaningful dialogue and cutting-edge initiatives leveraging Purposeful Agile Innovation”, said Abhishek Sinha, Executive Director & President – Medical, Smart World & Functions, at L&T Technology Services.
“The National Institute of Engineering is delighted with our long-standing association with L&T Technology Services to co-host illuminate, currently in its third edition. Designed to cater to technology enthusiasts, innovators, and engineering students, the forum is an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights from thought leaders and visionaries toward empowering young minds and experienced professionals alike,” said Dr. Rohini Nagapadma, Principal, NIE – Mysore.
Over the years illuminate has featured eclectic minds from the field science and technology. The speakers include Padma Shri Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, the renowned former ISRO scientist affectionately known as the ‘Moon Man of India’, and Sudhanshu Mani, the genius behind the conceptualization of the revolutionary ‘Vande Bharat’ express trains.
Illuminate 3.0 is not just an event, but a celebration of human ingenuity and collective progress – a testament to the idea that engineering feat is achieved by a combination of persistence, excellence, and resilience. With each edition, the initiative grows stronger, cementing itself as a definitive forum for celebrating India’s engineering achievements while propelling the future of innovation.
Zydus Wellness Reports 12.7% Net Sales Growth in Q3 FY25
Ahmedabad, February 5, 2025
For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, Zydus Wellness Limited, recorded 12.7% y-o-y growth in Q3 net sales which stood at ₹ 4,508 million. EBITDA rose to ₹ 148 million, marking a 16.5% y-o-y increase, while net profit surged to ₹ 64 million.
During the later part of the quarter, the Company acquired Naturell (India) Private Limited specialised in manufacturing, research and development, marketing of nutrition bars, protein cookies, protein chips, and health food products under the Ritebite Max Protein (Protein fuelled healthy snacks) and Ritebite (fibre-enriched snacks).
Growth in Q3 FY 25 was driven by robust consumer demand in the personal care segment, which posted double-digit growth of 50.3% while food and nutrition segment recorded a growth of 8.8% for the quarter.
Most of the Company’s brands are the market leaders in the respective categories/segments and continued to perform well.
Leveraging its strong research and development capabilities, Nutralite Doodhshakti Professional forayed into processed cheese this quarter, while Naturell launched the choco-filled fibre bar ‘Melting Chocolate,’ and two variants under the fruit-filled bar range—’Blueberry Blast’ and ‘Berry Delite’—and ‘Protein Bar Bytes’.
Zydus Wellness Limited continues to drive innovation, category expansion, and market leadership, reinforcing its strong growth momentum.
Join the Climate Revolution: Anant National University Opens BTech Admissions for 2025
Ahmedabad, 05th February 2025:Anant School for Climate Action, India’s first Climate School at Anant National University, announces the opening of admissions for BTech in Climate Change, India’s first and only 4-year undergraduate engineering degree programme, for the batch of 2025-29. Designed to address the urgent challenges of climate change, the BTech in Climate Change prepares students for the rapidly expanding global climate industry, valued at $23 trillion.
The programme offers students a unique opportunity to develop and apply technology solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Students learn to use engineering tools and design thinking principles with practical application-oriented learning at Anant’s Climate Lab, within industry, government and research laboratories for creating technology solutions for climate change.
The curriculum is strategically designed to provide incremental advancement across eight climate technology streams – Climate Simulation, Engineering Mathematics, Environmental Engineering, Climate Chemistry, Energy and Technology, Climate Finance, Design Thinking and Behavioural Science and Technology and Society – and applied research throughout the first six semesters. The final two semesters are dedicated to specialisation, allowing students to take specialised courses that lead to complete industry immersion.
As estimated by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), India is likely to create 3 million renewable energy-related jobs by 2030. Yet only 1,20,000 globally and 5,000 in India are qualified or formally and adequately trained to cater to the burgeoning climate industry, offering immense opportunities for trained climate warriors. To ensure that the BTech students get the proper industry exposure, Anant provides internship opportunities to all its students. Some have interned at companies like Tech Mahindra, Johnson Controls Hitachi, the Commonwealth Secretariat and Sustain Labs Paris.
Dr Miniya Chatterji, Founding Director, Anant School for Climate Action, Anant National University and CEO, Sustain Labs Paris, says, “The BTech in Climate Change programme at Anant National University is a pioneering step toward equipping young minds with the skills and knowledge to solve the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. As climate change reshapes economies and industries, this engineering degree empowers students to create transformative solutions and lead the rapidly growing global climate industry. We are proud to nurture future climate leaders who will drive sustainable innovation and systemic change and encourage aspiring changemakers to join us and be part of this impactful journey.”
Anant National University has also established global partnerships with leading academic and industry institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania (USA), Sciences Po (France), The Villars Institute (Switzerland), the Commonwealth Secretariat (UK), Sustain Lab Paris (UAE), Initiatives of Change, UNICEF and Earthday.org.
As India’s first climate-focused education institution, Anant School for Climate Action at Anant National University is committed to nurturing future climate leaders through its diverse programmes, from undergraduate to PhD levels.
Rapido Offers Free Rides in Delhi to Boost Voter Turnout for 2025 Elections
5th February 2025| National: Rapido, India’s leading shared mobility platform, is making it easier for Delhi residents to cast their votes in the upcoming 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly Elections. As part of its “Sawaari Zimmedari Ki” commitment, Rapido will provide a 100% discount (up to ₹40) on all bike taxi rides to encourage voter participation.
On February 5th, 2025, Delhi residents can avail of this offer by using the coupon code “VOTENOW”, applicable on up to two bike taxi rides. This initiative, launched in partnership with the Delhi Chief Electoral Office, reinforces Rapido’s commitment to civic engagement by ensuring affordable and seamless transportation to polling stations. By reducing logistical challenges, Rapido aims to contribute to a higher voter turnout and enable all eligible citizens to exercise their democratic right.
“Ensuring access to polling stations is essential for a thriving democracy. At Rapido, we believe in leveraging mobility to empower citizens, and this initiative is a step towards enabling greater voter participation. We are grateful for the support of the Delhi Chief Electoral Office in amplifying this effort and ensuring its success.” Says Pavan Guntupalli, Co-Founder of Rapido.
“Transportation should never be a barrier to voting. We appreciate Rapido’s support in making polling stations more accessible to Delhi residents. By collaborating with mobility partners, we aim to ensure every eligible voter can cast their ballot conveniently and without hesitation,” said Representative, Delhi Chief Electoral Office.
This initiative builds upon Rapido’s broader commitment to social responsibility. The company remains dedicated to creating meaningful impact through mobility solutions and will continue to explore ways to empower citizens across India.
Calcium Supplements Are They Really Necessary
By: Dr. M S Somanna, Senior Consultant – Joint Replacement & Arthroscopic Surgery
Calcium is an essential mineral for strong bones, teeth, and overall health. It plays a crucial role in muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart health. However, with increasing concerns about osteoporosis and bone-related issues, many people turn to calcium supplements as a preventive measure. But do you really need them? Let’s explore the benefits, risks, and best sources of calcium.
The Role of Calcium in the Body
Calcium is vital for numerous bodily functions. The majority of calcium in the body about 99% is stored in bones and teeth, providing structural support. The remaining 1% is found in the blood and plays a key role in muscle contractions, blood clotting, and nerve communication.
Since the body does not produce calcium, it must be obtained through diet or supplements. The recommended daily intake (RDI) varies by age and gender:
- Children (4-8 years): 1,000 mg/day
- Adolescents (9-18 years): 1,300 mg/day
- Adults (19-50 years): 1,000 mg/day
- Women over 50 and men over 70: 1,200 mg/day
Do You Need Calcium Supplements?
Many people get enough calcium through their diet. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources. Leafy greens, almonds, tofu, and fortified foods like orange juice and cereals also contribute to calcium intake.
However, certain individuals may benefit from supplements, including:
- Postmenopausal women: Estrogen levels decline after menopause, leading to decreased calcium absorption and increased bone loss.
- People with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies: Those who avoid dairy may struggle to meet their calcium needs.
- Vegans: Plant-based diets can lack sufficient calcium unless carefully planned.
- Individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia: Those at risk of fractures or weak bones may require extra calcium.
Potential Risks of Calcium Supplements
While calcium is essential, excessive intake from supplements can lead to health risks. Some concerns include:
- Kidney Stones: High calcium intake, especially from supplements, may increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
- Heart Health Risks: Some studies suggest that excess calcium supplements may contribute to arterial calcification, potentially increasing heart disease risk.
- Poor Absorption of Other Minerals: Too much calcium can interfere with the absorption of iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- Digestive Issues: Calcium supplements can cause bloating, constipation, and gas in some individuals.
Best Ways to Get Calcium
The best way to obtain calcium is through a balanced diet rich in calcium-containing foods. Here are some natural sources:
- Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, cheese
- Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, collard greens
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds
- Fish: Sardines and salmon with bones
- Fortified foods: Plant-based milk, cereals, orange juice
Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and overall health, but not everyone needs supplements. A well-balanced diet usually provides sufficient calcium for most individuals. However, for those at risk of deficiency, supplements may be beneficial. It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.
SUD Life Launches Guarantee Royale Plan for Financial Security
SUD Life launches SUD Life Guarantee Royale, a Non-Linked, Non-Participating individual savings plan that is created to provide guaranteed financial security for both you and your loved ones while helping you achieve life’s important milestones. Imagine a life where your financial goals align seamlessly with security and certainty, where you can confidently provide for your loved ones, achieve your dreams, and navigate through life’s unexpected turns with complete assurance. SUD Life Guarantee Royale helps you transform this dream into reality, allowing you to live worry-free with financial stability.
SUD Life Guarantee Royale is more than just a policy, it is a thoughtfully created plan that combines the benefits of a guaranteed lump-sum payout and savings to help you achieve your financial goals. It offers a guaranteed maturity benefit, which includes the sum assured on maturity, along with guaranteed additions and maturity loyalty additions at the end of the policy term. The plan also provides a special benefit of a 5% discount on the first-year annualised premium for women. Furthermore, the convenience of purchasing the plan online makes it easier to access, and it also comes with added advantages such as an enhanced sum assured at maturity and tax benefits.
Speaking about the launch, Shri Abhay Tewari, MD & CEO of SUD Life, said, “SUD Life Guarantee Royale is designed to offer guaranteed benefits, irrespective of market interest rate movements, providing peace of mind and making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking reliable savings solutions.”
Experience the power of guaranteed financial security and the confidence that comes with it with SUD Life Guarantee Royale, where your dreams, loved ones, and future are secured. Invest today and take the first step towards a stable tomorrow.
Ecole Ducasse Honors the Olive Tree with Special Easter 2025 Celebrations
India, 5 February 2025 – École Ducasse is preparing to celebrate Easter with a one-of-a-kind collection. Highlighting the olive tree—an emblem of peace, hope, and resilience—this initiative is both a gourmet delight and a bearer of profound symbolism. This sensory and cultural journey invites chocolate lovers and connoisseurs of exceptional craftsmanship to discover creations that transcend borders.
A Collection that Travels the World
For Easter 2025, École Ducasse pays tribute to the olive tree, a universal symbol carrying a positive message across the globe. This year, its Easter creations invite people of all ages on an extraordinary journey where local traditions and universal symbols converge. From Paris to Bangkok, Abu Dhabi to Yssingeaux, each school within the group embraces this powerful theme, delivering a message of unity across continents—through chocolate recipes, artistic creations, and both sweet and savory delicacies.
To mark this occasion, the experts at École Ducasse have designed a collection that blends exceptional craftsmanship with timeless values. The olive tree serves as the central theme of these creations—a powerful and inspiring symbol that bridges cultures in celebration of life and renewal.
A Unique Artistic Piece and Gourmet Creations Inspired by the Olive Tree
At the heart of this exclusive collection is a singular artistic masterpiece, which will be unveiled at the ENSP campus in Yssingeaux. This exceptional chocolate egg, a true work of art, poetically represents the olive tree. The experts at École Ducasse have meticulously sculpted a majestic olive tree sheltering a refined egg, adorned with delicate leaves from the same tree. Crafted with precision by the institution’s chefs, this creation combines elegance, technical mastery, and a tribute to the virtues of this iconic tree.
PWNSAT Awards INR 2.2 Crore in Cash Rewards to Empower Scholars
Noida, February 5, 2025: PhysicsWallah, (PW), an education platform, honored 1,581 students who emerged as top performers in the National Scholarship Admission Test (PWNSAT) 2024 from all over the country. The top 3 students each from classes 7 to 12, including both JEE and NEET students, were invited to Noida for a grand felicitation ceremony to honor their exceptional achievements. They received cash prizes, with the highest award being ₹2 lakhs. Along with the monetary rewards, they were also presented with medals and trophies as a token of recognition for their dedication and hard work. As part of its pursuit to make education accessible, PW awarded these students a total of ₹2.2 crore in cash prizes at the felicitation ceremony, recognizing their academic achievements. The event marked the culmination of PWNSAT 2024, with over 15.5 lakh students appearing for the exam, making it a significant scholarship initiative in the country.
The PWNSAT 2024 scholarship fund, amounting to ₹250 crore, represents a vision by PW to assist students gain access to coaching without the burden of tuition fees. Through PWNSAT 2024 the aim is to provide JEE and NEET aspirants the access to the faculties, resources, and learning environment. The scholarship program is extended beyond financial assistance, offering accommodation support, and mentorship, allowing meritorious students to pursue their academic goals. This year, over 5 lakh students received at least a 50% scholarship.
Alakh Pandey, Founder & CEO of PW, said, “When we started, the aim was simple, to make education accessible and affordable. PWNSAT 2024 is one of the ways we try so that financial constraints are not a hurdle for talented students. This ₹250 crore scholarship amount isn’t just a number, it represents our commitment to help a students’ future. The 1,581 students we are felicitating today have worked hard, and this is our way of recognizing their efforts. The real success will be when they achieve their dreams and help others do the same.”
The felicitation ceremony was an event celebrating the perseverance, dedication, and achievements of these students. It brought together students, parents, educators, and academic leaders to recognize and reward exceptional talent. With this initiative, PW continues to redefine access to education in India, and reinforce its aim to make learning equitable, affordable, and empowering.
GRT Hotels & Resorts Rolls Out Tailored Summer Meeting Offers at GRT Radisson Properties in South India
Chennai, February 2025: GRT Hotels & Resorts is delighted to unveil its exclusive summer meeting offers across four of its distinguished Radisson properties—Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram, Radisson Resort Pondicherry Bay, and Radisson Bengaluru City Centre. These offers are designed to provide meeting planners with seamless event experiences at some of the most sought-after destinations in South India.
With a mix of urban city-center hotels and scenic beach resorts, these properties offer versatile meeting spaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and curated dining experiences that cater to corporate events, conferences, and incentive groups. Each venue provides a unique blend of business-friendly amenities and leisure opportunities, ensuring an inspiring environment for productive gatherings.
Exciting Benefits for Meeting Planners:
- All-inclusive meeting packagestailored for corporate gatherings
- World-class cuisinewith customizable menus and themed dining options
- Unique venues, from boardrooms and banquet halls to beachfront lawns and poolside settings
- Radisson Rewards benefitsfor meeting planners and corporate bookers
- Seamless planning supportfrom our dedicated events team
Jit Bose, Vice President – Commercial, GRT Hotels & Resorts, emphasized the significance of these offers: “We are thrilled to launch these exclusive meeting offers, strategically designed to provide corporate planners with diverse venue options, outstanding hospitality, and exceptional value. By introducing these packages well in advance, we aim to give businesses and event organizers ample time to plan and customize their events with us.”
With its signature blend of luxury, hospitality, and world-class service, GRT Hotels continues to be a trusted choice for corporate events and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) in South India.
Cyber for HER Hackathon Draws Women from Across India
New Delhi, 5th February, 2024: The Cyber for HER hackathon, bringing together 70 teams from across nine states in India, comprising of more than 150 women aged 18-23 to compete and test their cybersecurity skills was successfully held at the Scope Convention Centre in Delhi.
Supported by the British High Commission, New Delhi, sponsored by Rubrik and delivered in collaboration between EY and DSCI, the initiative aimed to enable aspiring young women in cyber and support the development of a more diverse cyber security workforce in India and beyond.
The Cyber for HER Hackathon was formally inaugurated by distinguished guests, notably, Ms. Christina Scott, Deputy British High Commissioner to India; Mr. Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Ms. Sundari Nanda, Special Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs.
The winning teams are ‘Team Fallen Order’ who clinched the winner title, ‘Team Tech Titans’ as 1st runner up and ‘Team Arthasutra’ as 2nd runner up who received a winning prize of INR 2,00,000, INR 1,50,000 and INR 70,000 respectively. The challenge saw pan India participation where young female students travelled from states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Haryana. Participants competed in a jeopardy-style Capture the Flag (CTF), tackling technical challenges in cybersecurity domains such as Reverse Engineering, Mobile Security, Digital Forensics, Web Application Security, Exploitation, and Hardware Security.
The hackathon was executed in two phases. In the first phase, participants showcased their creativity and understanding by designing non-technical cyber awareness materials on themes such as Cyber Awareness, Digital Hygiene, and Privacy Awareness. The phase saw over 1,300 registrations, reflecting the enthusiasm and dedication of participants with 550+ submissions. From these submissions, 200 participants were shortlisted for the second live hackathon phase.
Dominic Gillan, First Secretary – Cyber, British High Commission, New Delhi, said, “Improving diversity in cyber security is a goal for both the UK and India. Diverse teams provide more creativity, innovation, and solutions to cyber security problems. The British High Commission is proud to support the Cyber for HER Hackathon, as part of our India-UK cyber collaboration. To see over 150 young women from across India join us in Delhi to compete in the final phase was inspiring. Well done to all those who took part in both phases and many congratulations to the winners.”
Vinayak Godse, CEO, DSCI, said, “It was indeed heartwarming to witness the enthusiasm and participation of women candidates from all corners of the country. We would like to congratulate all the participants and not just the winners for making their way from tier II, tier III and small cities to compete. Cyber for HER was conceptualised to encourage more young women into the industry and provide an opportunity to explore cyber security careers. We would like to thank the British High Commission for supporting this campaign and partnering with us through the India-UK Cyber Programme.”