NSDC Expands Tech-Driven Learning with Axim Collaborative to Enhance Open edX Platform
March 24, 2025: National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) partnered with Axim Collaborative, a non-profit organization, to enhance the Open edX open-source software Platform and drive innovation in education and skill ecosystem to empower youths.
Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC and MD of NSDC International and Ms. Stephanie Khurana, CEO of Axim Collaborative, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 20th March 2025. This partnership marks a significant leadership stride from NSDC towards utilising digital solutions for skill development and vocational training.
The partnership will support advancement of the Open edX Project, a global open-source learning management system and community for online teaching and learning, by providing leadership and technical support. The collaboration includes sharing knowledge, expanding the Open edX ecosystem, establishing new partnerships, and driving digital innovation. Additionally, NSDC will join the Open edX Technical Oversight Committee to further enhance the platform’s capabilities.Both the organizations also intend to pursue innovations in important areas such as AI enhanced teaching and learning, content modularity, credential recognition, digital wallets, mobile learning experiences, open-source learning platforms, and results-driven funding.
“NSDC is not merely pondering the what ifs—we are making them real. With bold strides, we are breaking barriers, building pathways, and transforming education into what it must be,” Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC, added, “We believe this collaboration will significantly enhance our efforts in vocational training and skill development. By contributing to the Open edX platform, we can provide better learning opportunities and prepare a future-ready workforce.”
“This partnership underscores our commitment to making learning more accessible, relevant, and effective across the globe,” said Stephanie Khurana, CEO of Axim Collaborative. “By deepening our collaboration with NSDC, we aim to expand the reach and capabilities of the Open edX platform, empowering millions to advance their lives through education. By sharing insights on NSDC’s effective education policies, upskilling strategies, and workforce models, we seek to build stronger education-to-work pipelines that anticipate future workforce needs—ensuring individuals and communities thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”
Hindustan Zinc Recycles 18 Billion Litres of Water Saving 1 Lakh Households
Udaipur, 24th March 2025: Ahead of World Water Day, Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC), India’s largest and the world’s second largest integrated zinc producer, announces the recycling of more than 18 billion litres of water in FY24 roughly equivalent to the annual water usage of nearly 1 lakh households in Rajasthan. Operating in Rajasthan, one of the India’s most water stressed regions, Hindustan Zinc remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable water management, reinforcing its position as a 2.41 times water positive and zero liquid discharge (ZLD) company. The company has maintained a zero liquid discharge approach that ensures process water & effluent is treated, recycled, and reused, significantly reducing its reliance on freshwater while eliminating liquid discharge.
As the world’s most sustainable metals and mining company, Hindustan Zinc’s approach to water conservation encompasses operations and community led water stewardship initiatives. Ahead of World Water Day, Hindustan Zinc unveiled major water management initiatives in progress at operations and community level across various districts of Rajasthan. The company is set to inaugurate a 4,000 kilolitres per day (KLD) Zero Liquid Discharge plant at Rampura Agucha, home to the world’s largest underground zinc mining operations in the coming week. The company has maintained a zero liquid discharge stance and with this new facility, alongside existing zero liquid discharge plants at Zinc Smelter Debari, Dariba Smelting Complex, Chanderiya Lead Zinc Smelter, and Zawar Group of Mines – across its operations in Rajasthan – further propels the company’s vison of responsible water management.
Speaking on the occasion of World Water Day, Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “At Hindustan Zinc, we recognize that water is the foundation of a sustainable future. Our water stewardship approach extends beyond operational efficiency to ensuring long-term water security for both communities and industries. As a 2.41 times water-positive company, we are actively replenishing and fortifying water resources. By embedding sustainable water management at the core of our strategy, we continue to demonstrate that industrial growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”
Beyond its operational commitments, Hindustan Zinc is driving large-scale community water initiatives to enhance groundwater recharge and improve rural water access. At Agucha, in Bhilwara district, Hindustan Zinc has undertaken pond renovation work covering Agucha panchayat. This project will revitalise the biodiversity around villages, enhance the availability of water and positively impact nearly 25,000 people. In Rajsamand district, the company has undertaken pond deepening activity for 4 ponds covering 4 villages that is benefitting more than 10,000 people by collectively augmenting the capacity of these ponds by 55,000 m3 or 55 million litres. Plans are in place to extend this initiative to two more ponds in the next fiscal year. In Chanderiya, Hindustan Zinc launched a lift irrigation scheme benefiting over 100 farmers, supporting cash crop cultivation across 50 acres, ensuring efficient water usage for sustainable agriculture.
As a pioneer in sustainable water management, Hindustan Zinc has established Udaipur’s first sewage treatment plant (STP) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, a pioneering initiative in Rajasthan that treats 60 million litres of wastewater daily. This initiative plays a crucial role in keeping the lakes of Zinc City Udaipur free from polluted water while supplying treated water to Hindustan Zinc’s operations via a state-of-the-art pipeline network. This reduces freshwater consumption significantly.
Expanding its community impact, Hindustan Zinc has undertaken a large-scale artificial groundwater recharge project in Bhilwara district, spanning four blocks. Through desilting of ponds, strengthening embankments, and constructing 358 recharge shafts across 84 ponds, the initiative has created a groundwater recharge potential of 87 lakh cubic meters (or 8700 million litres)—a critical intervention in Rajasthan’s arid landscape. Hindustan Zinc’s community development initiative also includes providing potable drinking water in Rajasthan that has ensured supply of nearly 4 million litres of safe water to communities through water ROs (reverse osmosis plants) and water ATMs.
At Rajsamand the company has also launched a first-of-its-kind Jal Sakhi initiative that fulfils the triple goal of women empowerment, entrepreneurship and availability of clean water wherein this women-led enterprise has provided clean water to nearly 50,000 people by operating the water ATMs for the community. Additionally, Hindustan Zinc has also supplied over 15 million litres of water to more than 20 water-scarce villages in FY24 across Rajasthan through tankers. According to community members, the availability of the potable drinking water has marked a decrease in water-borne diseases like cholera, typhoid, dysentery etc.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category for the second consecutive year by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024. The company also launched EcoZen Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc, produced using renewable energy, that has a carbon footprint about 75% lower than the global average. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition for a sustainable future.
Philips IGT Drives Clinical Innovation Through MAHE, Manipal Partnership
Manipal, March 24, 2025 – MAHE’s Office of Corporate Relations and Kasturba Medical College (KMC) jointly presented a Clinical Consultancy Delivery Program for Philips Image Guided Therapy (IGT) engineers’ leadership team on March 20-21, 2025. Twenty engineers from Philips Innovation Campus -Bangalore, attended the program focused on Image Guided Therapy. Designed to bridge the gap between engineering and healthcare, the program enhanced participants’ understanding of medical device integration in clinical settings.
The two-day program featured KMC faculty leading classroom sessions on cardiac and radiology device functionalities and applications. Hands-on training with advanced technologies provided practical experience in patient care.
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, (VSM), Vice Chancellor, MAHE stressed the importance of integrating technology and medicine for healthcare advancement. He envisioned AI-driven diagnostics and remote monitoring to improve medical practices. He expressed confidence that the program would empower Philips engineers to drive healthcare progress and improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE, highlighted the curriculum’s collaborative spirit, strengthening technical skills and fostering an understanding of technological innovations’ impact on clinical practice, enabling targeted solutions for healthcare challenges.
Dr. Giridhar P. Kini, Registrar, MAHE, noted the crucial role of technology in revolutionizing medical delivery and enhancing patient outcomes and encouraged exploring MAHE’s interdisciplinary research.
Dr. Harish Kumar, Director of Corporate Relations, MAHE welcomed attendees. Dr. Vinod C. Nayak outlined the program’s agenda focused on Image Guided Therapy’s complexities.
Dignitaries including Dr. Avinash Shetty, Dr. Rajagopal, Dr. Ganesh, Dr. Abhimanyu Pradhan, and Dr. Harshit enriched the learning experience.
As MAHE celebrates 2025 as a “Year of Excellence in Industry-Academia Collaborations,” this program exemplifies its commitment to bridging academia and industry, translating technological innovations into real-world healthcare solutions and paving the way for medical technology breakthroughs.
GI Mahotsav Products from 15 States at PHDCCI Exhibition at Dilli Haat
PHDCCI is organizing a three-day GI Mahotsav: Promoting India’s Heritage through GI Products an initiative by the Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India from 21st to 23rd March 2025. The event features products from 15 states, with diversified range of GI-certified products, including Bengal Kantha, Kashmir’s Pashmina, MP’s Maheshwari Sarees, Chamba Rumal, Kangra Painting, Madhubani Painting, Black Pottery, Mysore Soap and Agarbathi, Kannauj Perfumes and many other traditional artisan products from different regions.
On this occasion, a conference of stakeholders including senior officials from the Government participated and addressed the exhibitors.
This GI Mahotsav marks a significant milestone in promoting GI Products of our country’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential. Through collaborative efforts, the event has brought together artisans, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to showcase the diverse range of Geographical Indication (GI) products, highlighting their unique qualities and traditional craftsmanship.
With a focus on empowering local producers, the exhibition is providing a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and business opportunities, fostering growth and recognition for India’s GI sector.
Dr Rashmi Singh, Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K in her inaugural address mentioned that she herself is a great proponent of GI products and complimented PHDCCI & the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, for organising this GI Mahotsav which has provided an excellent opportunity to the GI product manufacturers from all over the country to showcase and market their products.
She added, that this sector is relatively new, and not many people are aware of GI products. In the beginning, it is crucial to promote these schemes through conferences as it help raise awareness. She also stressed that with time the environmental sustainability, local economy, and social responsibility also increase among the people of India through such initiatives. It is not just about buyer-seller interactions but also about promoting and preserving indigenous products, and Art & the culture of the country.
Prof. (Dr) Unnat P. Pandit, Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM), RoC, GI & SICLDR, DPIIT, MoC&I, Govt. of India in his address informed that as a GI registrar, it is truly a privilege to witness the exhibition of diversified GI products and interact with them. He discussed that it has been 20 years since the GI Act was enacted, and so far, 650 GI products have been registered. He emphasized that GI is India’s cultural heritage and identity and is a significant community intellectual property right.
The increased promotion of GI products will directly contribute to better sustainable livelihoods for artisans. He further highlighted that efforts are being made to bring GI products into every household through the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative and the GeM portal. He urged collective efforts to take India’s cultural heritage forward as part of the vision for a developed Bharat.
Dr Ranjeet Mehta, CEO and Secretary General, PHDCCI welcomed the dignitaries and participants and mentioned that India is proud of an incredible variety of GI-tagged products across multiple sectors. These include traditional textiles, handicrafts, agricultural goods, and food products, each deeply tied to the culture and heritage of their regions. The GI system provides protection against unauthorized use of regional product names and ensures that producers are rewarded for their quality and craftsmanship.
Mr Vinod Karwa, Chair, MSME Committee PHDCCI, appreciated the Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India for giving PHDCCI this opportunity to host this 3 day GI Mahotsav, bringing together the artisans and manufacturers of GI products from across the country.
He further added that in our globalized world, protecting and promoting our GI products isn’t just a matter of cultural pride; it’s a strategic economic imperative. These products carry with them centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and distinctiveness that set them apart in the international markets.
Mr D P Goel, Co- Chair, MSME Committee, PHDCCI, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of MSME for their unwavering support and emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to nurturing and promoting the GI ecosystem in India. He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts in harnessing the full potential of GI products to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Dr H P Kumar, Advisor, PHDCCI and Former CMD, NSIC highlighted the various government schemes and policies that have been initiated to promote new business enterprises and facilitate MSMEs to grow and build sustainable businesses. He further explained about the different schemes like the Start Up India, Stand up India and Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Program (PMEGP), among others, which are very progressive.
Dr R K Bharti, Joint Director, HOO, MSME-DFO, Okhla, New Delhi, Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India highlighted the importance of intellectual property rights and GIs which bring together cultural heritage and traditional art from different regions. He mentioned that the Ministry of MSME is providing various support services for the promotion of the GI product and this GI Mahotsav is a part of the Ministry’s initiative. He invited the participating GI units to contact his office for any assistance required may be required by them. A detailed presentation on the schemes of Ministry of MSME was also made by Mr Sunil Kumar, Asst. Director, Ministry of MSME.
The conference was also addressed by Dr S S Acharya, CMD, NSIC who briefed about MSMEs initiative to help the MSME sector through credit, marketing and their digital platforms. He offered to extend NSICs support services to GI participating units for their technology development and building competitive strengths in the global market.
The inaugural day witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of industry leaders, policymakers, artisans, and enthusiasts alike. The GI Mahotsav continues with an exciting line up of panel discussions, workshops, cultural performances, and networking opportunities.
Max Hospital Vaishali Secures Hope by Honoring Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Harit Chaturvedi, Chairman – Max Institute of Cancer Care, said, “Colorectal cancer awareness is crucial in reducing the disease burden. By encouraging regular screenings and promoting early diagnosis, we can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Events like ‘Saarthi’ are a testament to the power of community support, reminding patients and their families that they are not alone in this journey. It is inspiring to see the strength and determination of our survivors, proving that cancer can be fought with the right medical care, emotional resilience, and unwavering support.“
Dr. Vivek Mangla, Senior Director – Gastrointestinal and Hepatopancreatobiliary (GI & HPB) Surgical Oncology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali said, “Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent yet preventable cancers, and early detection plays a crucial role in improving survival rates. Through awareness initiatives like this, we aim to educate people about the importance of timely screening, healthy lifestyle choices, and the latest advancements in treatment. Today’s event is not just about celebrating the survivors but also about creating a strong support system where patients, caregivers, and medical experts come together to inspire hope and resilience. It is heartening to witness the courage of our survivors, reminding us that cancer is not just a medical battle but an emotional and social one as well.”
CMRI Welcomes Experts for HPB Workshop at IHPBA 2025 Conference
Hero MotoCorp Expands Operations, Diversifies into Electric Three-Wheelers
Bengaluru, March 21, 2025: “Our strategic investment in Euler is a bold step towards realizing our vision to “Be the Future of Mobility.” This investment reinforces our commitment to accelerated growth through both organic and inorganic expansion, while highlighting the power of collaboration and adaptability in an ever-evolving market.
As a global automotive leader, Hero MotoCorp is driven by sustainability, innovation and customer-centric progress. As we strengthen and diversify our presence in emerging mobility landscape, this investment allows Hero MotoCorp to venture into a rapidly growing electric three and four-wheeler market, while unlocking adjacent business opportunities and continuing to cement its leadership in the future of sustainable mobility.”
Dr. Pawan Munjal,Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp
Moving swiftly towards its vision, “Be the Future of Mobility”, Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, will make a strategic investment into the electric three-wheeler category by acquiring a significant stake in Euler Motors.
The Company’s board has approved a strategic investment of up to Rs. 525 crore (in one or more tranches), in Euler Motors Private Limited.
This investment will provide Hero MotoCorp with a strong foothold in the fast-growing electric three-wheeler market, where EVs are projected to account for 35% of total sales in the near future.
Euler Motors has a presence in 30 cities in India and is engaged in the designing, manufacturing and sale & service of electric three-wheelers. They recently launched their first electric commercial four-wheeler.
Dance Maestro Raghav Juyal Elevates Hip Hop India S2 with His Unique Flair – Streaming Now
Mumbai, 21th March 2025: The beat drops once again as the fan favorite dance reality series Hip Hop India, India’s first and only hip-hop dance reality show, returns for an even bigger, bolder second season on Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service. Having raised the bar with the success of its initial season, the show increases the stakes this season with death-defying stunts, high-octane dance battles, and an even greater delve into India’s rich underground hip-hop culture. Having made headlines with the opening week, the show returns with even more twists and turns that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. So brace yourselves for another level of excitement as the streaming service is all set to amp up the hip-hop space with the promo for the upcoming episode.
The brand new explosive promo begins with the nail-biting Top 12 reveal, but the thrill takes a shocking turn when Remo makes a bombshell announcement – two contestants are already leaving! The survival battle is on, and the stakes are higher than ever. But that’s not all – episode 3 ups the ante even further with special guest judge Raghav Juyal, and he’s not arriving empty-handed! For the first time in the history of dance reality shows, contestants will be presented with a jaw-dropping challenge with a 5 lakh cash prize at stake! And the fun doesn’t end there – get ready for some high-octane pranks, pulled off the one and only king of slow-motion himself!
Expressing his excitement Raghav said, “I’m totally thrilled to be a part of Hip Hop India Season 2! The energy and the passion of the contestants are infectious. It’s a privilege to be a part of this incredible journey and see these gifted artists raising the bar every time.”
Kreeda Bharti’s ‘Run for Ram’ Half-Marathon Draws 40,000+ Enthusiastic Runners
March 21,2025:Building on the overwhelming success of the 2023 and 2024 editions, Kreeda Bharti Uttar Pradesh, under the visionary leadership of State President Shri Awanish Kumar Singh, is preparing to welcome more than 40,000 participants from across the country. Rooted in the divine inspiration of Ram Janmabhoomi, this marathon is designed to echo the significance of the 14-Koshi Parikrama, symbolizing physical endurance, spiritual commitment, and collective harmony.
The 2025 edition will feature three categories, including a 21-kilometer half-marathon, a 10-kilometer run, and a 3-kilometer family and fun run, each tracing the spiritually significant Ram Path and Bhakti Path in Ayodhya. The event aims to include people from all walks of life, welcoming men, women, children, and senior citizens to take part in this journey of health and devotion. It offers an opportunity for participants not only to test their physical stamina but also to strengthen their connection to faith and tradition.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Awanish Kumar Singh, State President of Kreeda Bharti Uttar Pradesh, said, “Run for Ram has grown into a movement that brings together individuals from all corners of the country in the spirit of devotion and fitness. This is not just a run; it is a collective resolve (sankalp) to embrace a disciplined, healthy, and spiritually enriched life, guided by the ideals of Shri Ram. Ayodhya, the land of Ram Lalla, continues to inspire us all.”
Over the past two years, Run for Ram has witnessed enthusiastic participation from thousands of devotees and fitness enthusiasts, both in India and abroad. With the upcoming edition, Kreeda Bharti seeks to further its mission of encouraging health, discipline, and spiritual awareness among all age groups.
A press conference for the upcoming marathon in Ayodhya and other locations will be organized on 5th April. The organizers are confident that Run for Ram 2025 will once again reaffirm Ayodhya’s position as a spiritual and cultural hub, while promoting the values of unity and well-being.
Commend Airtel’s Affordable International Roaming Packs for Hassle-Free Global Travel
New Delhi, March 21, 2025: As travel season picks up, enjoy seamless connectivity across 180+ countries with Airtel’s International Roaming Packs. These plans enable customers to traverse the globe without the hassle of connectivity concerns. With plans starting at just Rs. 133 a day, Airtel is offering affordable access while providing seamless voice and high-speed data connectivity in over 180 countries.
Airtel’s enhanced data benefits, in-flight connectivity, and round-the-clock customer support further elevate the user experience. Recognizing the importance of simplicity and convenience, Airtel has streamlined the process by eliminating the need for customers to navigate multiple packs for different destinations and layover countries. Instead, travelers can now select a single, all-encompassing package based on the duration of their journey, which will offer them seamless connectivity across the world at unrivaled affordability.
Customers can activate International Roaming by simply logging onto the Airtel Thanks app, logging onto the website https://www.airtel.in/ir-packs/ or visiting any local store, or stopping by the kiosk located at the airport to activate the plans.
The new International Roaming Pack offers an array of compelling features:
· International roaming simplified with no worry of buying multiple country specific packs
· Auto renewal feature for always on for frequent flyers
· Complimentary In-flight connectivity available in >30 days validity packs
· All control in the customer’s hand where customers can manage usage, change pack, get billing update through Airtel Thanks app
· 24X7 contact center support (9910099100) for customers from any corner of the world, free of cost.
Through strategic partnerships with major telecommunications providers in key destinations such as USA, UAE, UK, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Singapore, Canada, Australia & more, to name a few, Airtel has ensured that travelers can continue to stay connected whether they are making calls, surfing the web, streaming content or sharing vibrant photos with loved ones back home. Ahead of this summer travel season, Airtel is poised to be the ultimate travel companion, empowering customers to explore far-reaching corners of the globe and staying connected every step of the way. By offering an economical and feature-rich proposition for International travelers, the company is poised to revolutionize the way travelers stay connected during their travels.