Arunachal Pradesh 2025 Calendar: Rise and Shine with Stunning Views of the Northeast
February 1st: Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
The Department of Tourism, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, partners with Miss India Organization, Times Group, to proudly launch the breathtaking calendar “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh.” This calendar pays tribute to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh, India’s first dawn-lit state, at a spectacular launch event held at Dorjee Khandu State Convention Center, Itanagar.
The Times Group has engaged with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to partner with and highlight the various pillars that make Arunachal Pradesh an arresting destination across all industry verticals. The first such engagement is with the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, to conceptualise and produce a magnificent calendar that encapsulates time with the state’s natural beauty.
The calendar “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh” is a heartfelt tribute to the alluring beauty of Arunachal Pradesh with the graceful exuberance of Femina Miss India winners through a visual story captured in this calendar, featuring 13 exquisite images. Each month showcases Arunachal’s scenic topography and landscape – its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and serene rivers – intensified by the elegance of Miss India queens. “Rise” symbolises Arunachal’s periodic embrace of the sun, while “Shine” underscores the glowing achievements of Femina Miss India winners. Together, “Rise and Shine” is a tribute to Arunachal’s rich treasury of beauty, culture, and India’s luminous and promising future.
The event commenced with ceremonial lamp lighting, signifying an auspicious start to the occasion, followed by a welcome speech by the Secretary, Department of Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Ranphoa Ngowa. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, First Lady of the State Smt Anagha Parnaik, the Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Shri Kardo Nyigyor, the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona; Guest of Honour Neha Dhupia. Additionally, an array of esteemed dignitaries attended the event, namely the Hon’ble MLA Shri Topin Ete, the Hon’ble MLA Shri Tseten Chombay Kee, the Hon’ble MLA Smt Nyabi Jini Dirchi, the Hon’ble Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Dasanglu Pul, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Shri Nyato Dukam, the Minister of Housing, Shri Balo Raja, and the Secretary, Department of Tourism, Shri Ranphoa Ngowa.
In his keynote address, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona – Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, highlighted the importance of such collaborations in promoting tourism, saying, “Through this collaboration with Times Group and Miss India Organization, we proudly showcase the wonders of our state to the world. This calendar celebrates Arunachal Pradesh’s natural splendour and these remarkable women. It is an invitation to experience the warmth of our people, the richness of our traditions, and the magic of our landscapes. We welcome travellers to explore Arunachal Pradesh – where every journey is a memory waiting to be made.”
Adding to the occasion, a specially curated audio-visual presentation of the state’s tourism attractions was premiered, offering an immersive glimpse into the cultural and natural wealth of Arunachal Pradesh. The captivating visuals drew applause from the audience, setting the perfect tone for the evening, followed by a mesmerising cultural dance performance representing Arunachal Pradesh’s rich traditions, featuring Femina Miss India winners: Nandini Gupta – Femina Miss India World 2023, Nikita Porwal – Femina Miss India World 2024, Aayushi Dholakia – Femina Miss India 2024 – 2nd Runner-up, and Tadu Lunia – Femina Miss India Arunachal Pradesh 2024, and Guest of Honour Neha Dhupia.
Addressing the congregation at the calendar launch, the Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, said, “I extend my warm greetings to all participants in this launching of the ‘Rise and Shine’ calendar 2025. I am confident that this tourism and travel initiative will go a long way in reflecting the true cultural diversity of Arunachal Pradesh and harnessing the tourism potential of the State.
I commend our Hon’ble Minister Shri PD Sona, officers and officials of the State Tourism Department and Miss India Organization, Times Group for this joint venture. Through this collaboration with Times Group and Miss India Organization, we proudly showcase the wonders of our State to the world. This calendar celebrates Arunachal Pradesh’s natural splendour and these remarkable women. It is an invitation to experience the warmth of our people, the richness of our traditions, and the magic of our landscapes. We welcome travellers to explore Arunachal Pradesh, where every journey is a memory waiting to be made.”
The highlight of the event was the grand unveiling of the calendar – “Rise and Shine in Arunachal Pradesh“. Hon’ble Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Lt Gen Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, the Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Shri Kardo Nyigyor, the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, the evening’s Guest of Honour, Neha Dhupia and other esteemed dignitaries, came together to launch the calendar. Each page features iconic locations of Arunachal Pradesh, captured with the poise and elegance of the Femina Miss India winners, making it a collector’s item that inspires wanderlust.
Towards the end of last year, the members of the Miss India Organization, along with the Femina Miss India winners, embarked on an extraordinary journey across various cities of Arunachal Pradesh to capture the state’s unparalleled beauty through a spectacular calendar and content shoot. Over two weeks, the team explored and shot at five breathtaking locations—Namsai, Mechukha, Tawang, Ziro, and Anini—showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
This calendar features the stellar cast of Femina Miss India winners: Nandini Gupta – Femina Miss India World 2023, Shreya Poonja – Femina Miss India 2023 – 1st Runner-up, Strela Luwang – Femina Miss India 2023 – 2nd Runner-up, Nikita Porwal – Femina Miss India World 2024, Rekha Pandey – Femina Miss India 2024 – 1st Runner-up, Aayushi Dholakia – Femina Miss India 2024 – 2nd Runner-up, and Tadu Lunia – Femina Miss India Arunachal Pradesh 2024.
Speaking of the partnership, Mr Rohit Gopakumar, Director – Worldwide Media and CEO – ZENL and Times Digital Network, said, “The Times Group has been working closely with the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to partner and collaborate on promoting the state’s offering to the larger Indian Audience. We are proud to kick off this collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, in conceptualising and producing a beautiful calendar which marries the power of femininity through the Femina Miss India and the scenic Natural beauty of the state to create a magnificent masterpiece, the ‘Rise and Shine’ calendar of 2025 for Arunachal Pradesh. It points to the state’s unparalleled beauty, where nature has blessed the state of Arunachal Pradesh with attractive gems for tourists, such as rolling hills, glimmering lakes, and waterfalls under the clear blue sky and crisp Himalayan air. It is a commitment to spotlighting our country’s unexplored treasure like Arunachal Pradesh, its rich diversity, boundless dreams, and the indomitable spirit of its people.”
Beyond the stunning calendar visuals, this collaboration also resulted in the filming of captivating content (videos and still images) featuring stunning landscapes, topography, heritage, and culture, among other aspects of the state, to promote the prospect of its tourism and build positive optics and interest. The content will be promoted and amplified across the digital properties of Femina Miss India, the Worldwide Media group network and Arunachal Pradesh Tourism.
Pendown Press Celebrates Milestone at World Book Fair 2025
New Delhi: Pendown Press, widely regarded as the business community’s top choice for publishing, held a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony at their stall in Hall 5, Stall Number G-08, during the opening day of the prestigious World Book Fair 2025. The ceremony was a significant moment for Pendown Press, as the publishing house earned the rare distinction of hosting a book launch on the very first day of the fair. This honor underscores Pendown’s unwavering commitment to empowering business owners and professionals by helping them establish authority through books.
Addressing an enthusiastic audience comprising media representatives, book lovers, and dignitaries from far and wide, Mr. Dinesh Verma, Founder and CMD of Pendown Press, delivered an inspiring speech:“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and fellow book lovers, it is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the World Book Fair. This annual event celebrates the power of the written word, uniting people from all corners of the globe.
We are here today to officially open our stall and mark the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and enriching journey for all of us at this remarkable fair. The event brings together a vast array of authors, publishers, educators, and readers, all united by their love of books and their desire to share ideas and insights. As we cut the ribbon, let us remember that books are more than just objects on shelves. They are keys to Power, Popularity, and a Passport to a world where solutions to business challenges are unlocked effortlessly. Books open doors to opportunities, foster connections, and establish authority.
So, let us celebrate the opening of the World Book Fair with joy, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the written word. Let us explore the exhibits, meet new people, and discover fresh ideas. Above all, let us never forget the importance of books in shaping our lives and the world.
Thank you, and enjoy the fair!”
Emeritus Global Skills Report 2025: Indian Workforce Sees AI Skills as Key to Career Advancement
February 3, 2025: India is experiencing a transformative wave of Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in workplaces, prompting working professionals to learn the necessary skills and tools for the future. According to the 2025 Global Workplace Skills Study conducted by Emeritus, a global leader in professional education, the integration of AI in the workplace is reshaping careers across India, with 94% of Indian professionals believing that mastering AI skills will accelerate their career growth.
The study, which surveyed over 6,000 respondents across 18 countries aged 21-65 working across sectors such as finance & insurance, manufacturing, software & IT services, and education, among others, revealed that Indian professionals are leading the global AI adoption curve. An impressive 96% of Indian professionals are using AI and generative AI tools at work, significantly higher than the 81% in the US and 84% in the UK. As a result, 95% of Indian workers report increased productivity due to these technologies, outpacing the global average.
Indian professionals are prioritizing AI skills to stay competitive, with 90% considering AI and generative AI crucial for future career success. Moreover, 94% view AI expertise as essential not only for career advancement but also for diversifying across industries—far surpassing the global average of 87%. Notably, machine learning is uniquely among the top five most sought-after skills in India, with professionals twice as likely as global counterparts to focus on it.
Top 5 most sought after skills:
- AI Development and Application
- Mastering Emerging Technologies
- Effective Communication Skills
- Machine Learning
- Strategic Leadership and Management
The Global Workplace Skills Study 2025 identifies four critical trends in how Indian learners perceive and use AI:
- Higher AI Adoption in India: India has a higher AI adoption rate (96%) reflecting a tech-savvy workforce, compared to 81% in the US and 84% in the UK.
- AI/Gen AI Skills as a Top Priority: AI/GenAI skills are at the forefront of professional development priorities in India, with 94% of Indian professionals seeing AI competencies as vital for long-term career employability.
- AI’s Transformative Impact on Workplaces: 93% report that higher job satisfaction due to AI, GenAI-driven tools and resources available at work, significantly above the global (87%), US (82%) and UK (83%) averages.
- Concerns about AI-Driven Displacement: Despite being early adopters of AI and Gen AI tools, Indians are increasingly worried about technology replacing them if they do not continually upskill.
Indian Employers Highly Invested in Employees’ Continued Learning
The Global Workplace Skills Study 2025 highlights a strong commitment by Indian employers to invest in workforce development, with working professionals reporting that 73% of employers increased their investment in training over the past year, well above the global average of 46%. Key benefits supporting skill development include internal training programs (44%) and career coaching (38%). Additionally, 40% of Indian professionals expect their employers to contribute financially to skills enhancement programs, signalling an opportunity for organisations to enhance workforce satisfaction and higher employee retention by sponsoring educational opportunities.
As India cements its position as a hub for technology innovation and growth, the emphasis on AI-driven upskilling will play a critical role in shaping the nation’s economic trajectory.
Announcing the launch of the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study 2025, Ashwin Damera, CEO and Co-Founder of Emeritus, said, “As the world undergoes economic and technological changes, the workforce needs to keep up with the time and evolve their approach to work with new skills, mindsets and competencies. India’s workforce is not only adapting to AI but actively harnessing it to shape the future of work. The findings from the Emeritus Global Workplace Skills Study highlight the resilience and forward-thinking mindset of Indian professionals and their employers in positioning AI as a career catalyst.”
iQOO Neo 10R Raging Blue: A Sneak Peek at the New Trendsetter
Inspired by a growing affinity for dual-tone designs across segments, iQOO introduced this concept in the Neo series, starting with the iQOO Neo 9 Pro. Now, taking this design philosophy forward, the iQOO Neo 10R debuts with a striking Blue and White back, crafted exclusively for India—to provide Indian consumers with unique and innovative designs that resonate with their bold and vibrant colour preferences.
Raging Blue exudes strength and forward momentum, while the White accent embodies a sense of power and determination. The design is enhanced by an exclusive texture inspired by racing tracks, which also influenced “R” in the iQOO Neo 10R. The result is a design that is not only visually stunning, but also reflects brand’s dedication to innovation, attention to detail and craftsmanship, making iQOO Neo10 R a truly exceptional device that is sure to stand out in the crowd.
Combined with iQOO’s commitment to providing consumers with the latest technology and features, reflected in the Neo 10R‘s cutting-edge specifications and capabilities, makes it a must-have for anyone looking for an all-rounder high-performance smartphone with a bold and unique design.
Day 2 of Ramayana Kalpavrksam
Hyderabad, 3rd February 2025: The third edition of the iconic 3-day music and dance extravaganza, ‘Ramayana Kalpavrksam’, conceived and curated by Hyderabad based acclaimed dancer Padmashri Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant, a celebrated artist and cultural ambassador, was inaugurated by Sri Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament, Friday. The festival scheduled from 31st January 2025 to 2nd February 2025, at the CCRT campus, Hyderabad, is a unique signature festival that is a unique confluence of art, tradition, and scholarship, being presented by Shankarananda Kalakshetra and Natyarambha, in collaboration with Brhat, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Govt of India.
The morning sessions, ‘Ramamrita’ brings together six remarkable and scholarly speakers, each offering a unique perspective on the timeless epic of the Ramayana. Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of the widely popular 21 Notes, sharing innovative insights into the Ramayana; Dr. Anupama Kylash, a celebrated dance scholar, illuminating the Ramayana through the lens of classical Indian dance and culture; Dr. DK Hari and Dr. DK Hema, creators of the Bharat Gyan series, bringing their extensive research on India’s ancient wisdom and the Ramayana to life. This exceptional lineup promises to delve into the myriad facets of the Ramayana, blending scholarship, creativity, and storytelling to inspire and enlighten.
As part of the vibrant three-day festival, an array of engaging learning workshops and unique experiences await participants, in ‘Kala Charan’: a Sanskrit Learning workshop, led by Udaya Shreyas of the Sanskrit Channel, offering an immersive dive into the beauty and essence of Sanskrit.
Priya Living Revolutionizes Aging with Its Expansion into India
New Delhi, India – 3-01-2025 – Founded in Silicon Valley in 2013 by Arun Paul, Priya Living has reimagined senior living in the United States, creating vibrant communities where aging is embraced with joy, creativity, and purpose. Now, Priya Living is bringing its innovative approach home to India—offering a new vision for elderhood as the most fulfilling stage of life.
“Priya Living is deeply personal to me,” said Arun Paul, Founder of Priya Living. “It is a tribute to my parents, who left everything behind in India to give me a life of opportunity in the United States. Their sacrifices, their resilience, and their enduring connection to India inspired me to create Priya Living. Now, I want to reconnect the Indian diaspora with their roots while also addressing the growing need for a fresh, dynamic approach to aging in India itself.”
Priya Living’s communities are designed as more than just residences—they are thriving hubs of culture, learning, and connection. Here, life’s possibilities never end, and people can rediscover old passions while exploring new horizons. Priya Living features modern, boutique-inspired spaces, world-class services, experiential programming, and curated experiences, These communities attract both elders and younger generations, creating a vibrant intergenerational space that blends the wisdom of old age with flourishing dynamic ideas.
As Priya Living expands to India, it introduces a powerful, transformative way of life, challenging the outdated notions of senior living, and proving that aging is not about slowing down—it’s about growing, exploring, and achieving our highest level as human beings. Priya Living is not just about a place or a space for community, culture, and choice, its a movement to redefine what it means to age.
My Vision for India
“This year marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Priya Living, as we bring our vision to India. We are launching our first communities in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad—three vibrant cities that reflect India’s diversity, energy, and future. These communities will serve as a model for how elderhood can be redefined in India, blending the best of global design and service with the deep cultural and emotional connections that are so central to Indian families.
But this is just the beginning. Over the coming years, we plan to expand to dozens of cities across India, from Tier I to Tier III. Our vision is to create vibrant communities in cities and regions where families are looking for modern solutions to support their parents. By doing so, Priya Living will not only transform the lives of elders in India but also set a new global standard for aging that the rest of the world will look to as an example.
With these plans, India will stand at the forefront of a global movement to redefine what elderhood can be—a time of growth, reinvention, and connection. And for me, personally, it’s deeply emotional to be bringing this vision back to the country that has always been home in my heart.”
Murty Family Calls Jaipur Lit Fest the Queen of Festivals
Jaipur, February 3rd, 2025: The 18th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, presented by Vedanta, in association with Maurti Suzuki, and powered by Vida, has enjoyed an inspiring three days, featuring a caravan of the world’s most celebrated thinkers, speakers, and writers discussing a diverse range of topics. Each evening, acclaimed artists deliver remarkable performances at the Jaipur Music Stage, while the concurrently held Jaipur BookMark, India’s premier publishing conclave, continues to be a hub for the convergence of leading voices in the publishing industry.
On 31st January, the Festival came to an end with the fantastic Kal Penn, who mesmerised the audience with tales from his multifaceted life as a Hollywood actor, White House aide, and Indian American navigating the challenges of stereotypical roles. He shared humorous anecdotes, such as competing with a white actor in brownface for Van Wilder auditions and reflected on how he learned to speak out against dehumanisation. “There was a fear that if we cast a diverse show, white people won’t watch it, but diverse audiences will always watch white content. I think what you’ve seen in this equalisation of content is that humans will watch compelling stories, period,” he said. His session challenged the audience to think beyond stereotypes, embrace kindness, and uplift others.
The third morning of the Festival opened with a soulful Dagarvani Dhrupad recital by Niloy Ahsan, accompanied by Ustad Immamuddin Khan. Rooted in the fifteenth-century mystic Swami Haridas, Ahsan’s performance embodied Prana, with Dhrupad as a spiritual journey toward self-awareness.
The Morning Music segment was followed by a session with acclaimed and beloved writer Sudha Murty speaking with her daughter, businesswoman and wife of former British PM, Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty. Akshata described the Jaipur Literature Festival as the “queen of literature festivals,” or, as “Amma would call it, the Kashi of literature festivals.” The mother-daughter duo spoke about their shared love for books, childhood memories of storytelling, and the impact of reading on learning and personal growth. Akshata reflected on the values of service and duty that her parents instilled in her from an early age, shaping her worldview and approach to life. Sudha, in turn, spoke about how these ideals are deeply embedded in her books.
The consciousness of mortality is unique to human beings and so is the ability to possess a billion dollars. Nobel Laureate Venky Ramakrishnan successfully carried out the task to infuse humour into a conversation about death in a highly attended session. With due respect towards the increasing lust to live longer, Ramakrishnan highlighted the need to respect the principles of evolution in which death is a necessity. “All sorts of entities die, for example, cities can die, companies can die. So, what do we mean by death when we talk about us, humans? It’s a strange paradox that when we are alive, millions of cells in us are dying all the time and in fact a lot of that death is actually to acquire. But at the same time, at the moment of what we think of as death, most of our cells are still alive, in fact all our organs are alive, and you can donate them for organ transplants. So, what we mean by death is the loss of our ability to function as a whole individual. So, it really depends upon how you define the individual as a coherent being.” Ramakrishnan also cautioned that populations who live longer also have lower fertility rates, which again isn’t the recipe for a vibrant and model society.
In the vein of the fear of dying and the desire for longevity, at The Holberg Prize Event: The Swerve Revisited: How the World Became Modern, Stephen Greenblatt was in conversation with William Dalrymple, introduced by Jørgen Sejersted. Greenblatt reflected on the impermanence of literature, highlighting how countless works, including Roman literature, were lost as empires fell, emphasizing the fragile relationship between power, preservation, and the written word. Greenblatt highlighted how science and poetry are often seen as separate realms today, but in ancient texts, they intertwined seamlessly, emphasizing the need for humanities and science to walk hand in hand to rethink and reshape the modern world. In his Pulitzer Prize-winning book The Swerve, Holberg Prize Laureate Stephen Greenblatt argues that the Renaissance rediscovery of Lucretius’ De Rerum Natura transformed the world by emphasizing the inevitability of death, urging people to focus on life rather than be consumed by the fear of dying.
Six war correspondents, analysts, photographers and authors from around the world joined the panel ‘Frontline’, which drew a range of Festival goers. The numerous global conflicts and changing political climate of the 21st century have raised questions about seemingly unending wars. The panel discussed the stories that have changed them. For Lindsey Hilsum, Ghaith Abdul-Ahad and Yaroslav Trofimov, it was watching a crisis take shape in real time around them while in Rwanda, Iraq and Ukraine. Christopher de Bellaigue highlighted the work of journalists in Gaza and Afghanistan, and the destruction of culture amid war. Vishnu Som shared his experiences from Kargil, recounting the harrowing moments while covering the conflict. With artillery shells exploding around Som and his camera person and even a TV tower being destroyed, he and his team had pressed on, in order to get more vivid pictures. Edward Wong drew parallels between his father’s involvement in the Chinese Liberation Army and American soldiers in Afghanistan. Many on the panel have had to grapple with war and turmoil coming to their own doorsteps creating a balancing act of personal ethics and being a journalist.
In the session with ‘Stone Yard Devotional’, Charlotte Wood, whose book of the same name was in the 2024 Booker shortlist, was in conversation with Anish Gawande. The book is about the inward journey of a woman who retreats from her life and world in Sydney and moves to a catholic convent. The author unpacks the impulses behind a contemporary woman’s decision to become a nun and traces it to a universal dissatisfaction with the lack of climate accountability. Written during the pandemic, bushfires in Australia and her cancer diagnosis, Wood states that she writes for people who have been chastened by the world. She makes her despairing protagonist confront stillness and silence as it’s the most difficult thing to do in our times.
The prestigious Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Award for this year was presented to renowned Hindi poet Badri Narayan. Badri Narayan is known for his deep sociological perspective, and thought-provoking writing. Along with his poetry, he is also active in academic and public life. His acclaimed poetry collection “Tumdi Ke Shabd” earned him the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2022.
Kanhaiya Lal Sethia, a great poet, freedom fighter, and social reformer from Rajasthan, is remembered for his works that were rich in national consciousness, social change, and the sensitivity of the folk language. Established in 2016, the purpose of this award is to honour authors who have made outstanding contributions to the field of poetry.
On this occasion, poet and academic Badri Narayan, the winner of the 2025 Kanhaiya Lal Sethia award, expressed his feelings in the following words:
“Poet and social reformer Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Ji worked for marginalized people, worked for Dalits, and participated in the freedom struggle. I am very happy to be associated with Sethia Ji. This award is not just an award, it is a mission, and I am glad to be part of this mission.” Sanjay K. Roy, Managing Director, Teamwork Arts, Festival Co-director and award-winning author Namita Gokhale, and poet-critic Ranjit Hoskote praised Badri Narayan’s creative journey and his literary contributions. The occasion was graced by the special presence of Jayprakash Sethia from the Kanhaiya Lal Sethia Trust.
Day 4 of the Festival will be back tomorrow at expansive premises of Clarks Amer Hotel with another tranche of transformational dialogues, uplifting ideas, and change-inspiring books. Some of the speakers for tomorrow include Amol Palekar, Shashi Tharoor, John Vaillant, Matt Preston, Amitabh Kant, Huma Qureishi, David Hare, and Andrew O’Hagen.
Yukti by Volvo Group India: Shaping the Future of Girls in STEM Careers
Bangalore, 3rd February 2025: Furthering its commitment to bridge the gap between academia and industry, Volvo Group in India recently hosted an inspiring STEM education workshop at Kendriya Vidyalaya, DRDO, Bangalore. This groundbreaking program aims to inspire young girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), reinforcing Volvo Group’s global commitment to promoting gender diversity and inclusion.
The Yukti workshop saw enthusiastic participation from over 240 students from Grades VIII & IX and was graced by the presence of Mr. Kamal Bali, President and Managing Director of Volvo Group India, and Radhika Nair, Head of People & Culture at Volvo Group India. During the event, Mr. Bali delivered the keynote address, highlighting the company’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of women in STEM. Conducted by a team of dedicated Volvo Group India volunteers, the workshop provided hands-on learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and empower young girls to explore STEM-related career paths with confidence. Through practical exposure and real-world applications, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, nurturing the next generation of women leaders in technology and engineering.
Students engaged in a variety of immersive activities during the workshop. A Virtual Reality (VR) experience allowed participants to explore Volvo’s advanced technologies, including a realistic driving simulator environment. In the Engines and Problem-Solving segment, students interacted with miniature engines, applied data science concepts, and tackled STEM-based puzzles to sharpen their analytical skills. Additionally, a session on Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision introduced them to cutting-edge applications in the automotive industry, while the Robotics workshop provided an opportunity to design, build, and program robots using advanced technologies featured in Volvo’s trucks.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Kamal Bali, President and Managing Director, Volvo Group India, said “At Volvo Group India, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment where education and industry converge to drive sustainable progress. Through initiatives like Yukti, we are taking a significant step toward shaping the future of our industry by inspiring young girls to explore careers in STEM. By working closely with educational institutions, we not only provide students with practical exposure to advanced technologies but also gain access to a diverse pool of talent that will be crucial in driving innovation and growth. This partnership reflects our ongoing dedication to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills needed to excel in the fast-evolving fields of technology and engineering.”
Radhika Nair, Head of People & Culture at Volvo Group India, emphasized, “As part of Volvo Group’s commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to inspire young girls in India to break barriers and pursue careers in STEM, shaping the next generation of technology leaders. Through programmes like Yukti, we strive to cultivate an agile and innovative workforce poised to achieve strategic goals in an ever-evolving industrial landscape.”
The program at Kendriya Vidyalaya, DRDO, is part of Volvo Group India’s broader mission to drive impactful change in STEM education. By encouraging young minds to innovate for a sustainable and technology-driven future, Volvo Group India reaffirms its commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive industry that reflects its global values.
Through such initiatives, Volvo Group continues to collaborate with educational institutions, equipping the next generation with the skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving automotive and technology sectors.
Jaipur Music Stage 2025 Ends on a High with Kailash Kher & Hrishi
Held at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur, the three-day Jaipur Music Stage came alive each evening as the Jaipur Literature Festival’s inspiring sessions concluded. The first night featured two performances celebrating the timeless verses of medieval mystics Amir Khusrau and Kabir Das—Abhijit Pohankar’s ‘Hazrat Amir Khusrau Project’ and a rock-opera interpretation of Kabir’s baani by the acclaimed Dastaan LIVE. The second evening had performances by singer-songwriter Kamakshi Khanna, followed by a remarkable collaboration between vocalist Susheela Raman, guitarist Sam Mills, and 13th-generation Nagada player Nathoo Lal Solanki. The evening drew to a close with Raman’s much-loved rendition of the evocative song Yeh Mera Diwanapan Hai.
Lovers of music, literature, and the arts arrived in huge numbers for the grand finale as the Jaipur Music Stage prepared for two spectacular performances. The evening opened with Hrishi, the Carnatic-Pop sensation who has taken the internet by storm with his unique fusion of Western pop and Carnatic sounds. With over 300,000 followers and 30 million views online, his music has amassed 5 million streams and 2.4 million YouTube views. His magnetic stage presence, magical voice, and innovative sound captivated the audience, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
The headliner of the evening was the legendary Kailash Kher and his band, KAILASA. A Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s most celebrated voices, Kher is a global ambassador of Indian music, known for his soul-stirring blend of folk, Sufi, and contemporary styles. With over 1,500 songs in 25+ languages and more than 2,000 concerts worldwide, his music has transcended borders. Since its formation in 2004, KAILASA has brought together some of India’s finest musicians, creating a distinctive fusion of traditional and modern sounds. As the Jaipur Music Stage crowd swayed to his iconic anthems like Teri Deewani and Saiyaan, the evening became an unforgettable celebration of rhythm, melody, and emotion.
The 18th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival 2025 will conclude with its final two days on the 2nd and 3rd of February at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur. Just like the first three days, the closing sessions will feature a dynamic line-up of thought-provoking conversations with some of the world’s most renowned thinkers, writers, and speakers. The Jaipur Music Stage promises to return in 2026 with yet another spectacular showcase of musical excellence.
Cooper Corporation Launches Tractor Plant and NDC Series
Mumbai / Satara: Cooper Corporation, a globally renowned manufacturer of engines, engine components and generators, proudly inaugurated its state-of-the-art Tractor Plant in Satara, Maharashtra, on Saturday, 1st February 2025. The event also marked the launch of the company’s first-ever tractor, the Cooper Tractor NDC Series, designed to revolutionize farming with its superior performance, fuel efficiency and innovative engineering.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri. Ch. ShivendraRaje Bhosale, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Public Works, Government of Maharashtra, as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri. Mahesh Shinde (Hon’ble Vice Chairman, Maha. Krushna Khore Vikas Mahamandal, MLA) and Shri Clive Bagnall, Director – Global Product Development of Ricardo, UK.
The State-of-the-Art Tractor Plant and the launch of the Cooper Tractor NDC Series are a part of the company’s ongoing mission to innovate and provide superior, high-performance machinery to the agriculture sector. The Cooper Tractor, designed for tough terrains and heavy-duty operations, comes with an array of innovative features, such as high fuel efficiency, ergonomic design and lower maintenance costs. Developed in collaboration with renowned global engineering firms such as Magna Steyr for design, Ricardo UK for engine development, Carraro for transmission and Mita for hydraulics, the Cooper Tractor promises superior performance and savings in fuel, service and operational costs and is tailored for Indian farming needs. As Mr. Farrokh Cooper is the first agriculture graduate to own a tractor factory and has his own agricultural lands, he is well aware of what exactly a farmer needs from a tractor and has provided his personal insights into the design and development of the Cooper tractor.
Shri. Farrokh N. Cooper, Chairman & Managing Director, Cooper Corporation Pvt. Ltd., expressed his vision for the new venture, stating “Today marks a historic milestone for Cooper Corporation as we step into the agricultural sector with the launch of our first-ever tractor. The Cooper Tractor NDC Series is a result of years of research, innovation and dedication to delivering a product that truly serves the needs of Indian farmers. Built with global expertise and local insights, this tractor is designed to enhance productivity, reduce operational costs and withstand the toughest farming conditions. As a company deeply rooted in Satara, we are proud to contribute to the growth of Indian agriculture and the prosperity of our farmers.”
The Cooper Tractor NDC Series is engineered to meet the diverse needs of modern farming. With features like dual-clutch transmission, power steering and a low turning radius of 3 meters, the tractor ensures ease of operation and superior performance. Its fuel-efficient 4-valve engine, Bed plate design, HLA, Bosch Fuel System, ceramic-coated rings, Piston Cooling Jet and long-life compacted graphite cylinder head, First of its kind for Long life & Durability and low maintenance, Champion at Haulage and farming operations like ploughing and rotavator, No front weight , Long tyre life, It boasts key advantages such as no engine oil top-up, longer service intervals , The tractor’s superior performance is highlighted by its easy deep ploughing, low RPM drop during fieldwork and a quick forward & reverse shuttle lever, etc. making it a reliable companion for farmers. Cooper Tractor is built to serve the world with the highest standards of excellence.
Designed to tackle the most demanding conditions, these tractors provide outstanding load capacity and exceptional all-terrain capability. With cutting-edge fuel efficiency and a host of innovative features, the Cooper NDC series minimizes operational costs while ensuring maximum productivity. Designed with the farmer’s needs in mind, the Cooper Tractor combines precision and power to meet the diverse demands of modern agriculture. From its ergonomic design to its heavy haulage capabilities, it delivers superior savings, reliability and versatility.