बिहार दिवस पर मुंबई में बिहार के राजस्व एवं भूमि सुधार मंत्री संजय सरावगी की प्रेस वार्ता

समाजसेवी नीलोत्पल मृणाल (वाईस प्रेसिडेंट - भाजपा महाराष्ट्र उत्तर भारतीय मोर्चा) और बिहार फाउंडेशन के अध्यक्ष कैसर खालिद (आईपीएस) भी रहे उपस्थित

मुम्बई। बिहार दिवस के अवसर पर बिहार के राजस्व एवं भूमि सुधार मंत्री संजय सरावगी ने बीकेसी, मुंबई में बिहार फाउंडेशन में एक प्रेस वार्ता को संबोधित किया। इस मौके पर उनके साथ समाजसेवी नीलोत्पल मृणाल (वाईस प्रेसिडेंट - भाजपा महाराष्ट्र उत्तर भारतीय मोर्चा) और बिहार फाउंडेशन के अध्यक्ष कैसर खालिद (आईपीएस) भी उपस्थित रहे।

 इस कार्यक्रम का उद्देश्य बिहार सरकार नीतीश कुमार के उन्नत बिहार, विकसित बिहार के संकल्प को पूरा करना है। इस कार्यक्रम में राजस्व मंत्री ने बताया कि जो प्रवासी बिहारी हैं उनके हितार्थ ऑनलाइन सर्वे की व्यवस्था की गई है जहाँ लोगों भारत के किसी भी कोने से अपनी भूमि से संबंधित जानकारी हासिल कर सकेंगे। शिक्षा, स्वास्थ्य, खेल, मनोरंजन, सुरक्षा जैसे कई पहलुओं में बिहार की स्थिति में तेजी से सुधार कार्य हो रहे हैं। 2005 से नीतीश सरकार और वर्तमान मोदी सरकार की नीतियों के बदौलत आज बिहार की आर्थिक और राजनीतिक स्थिति में तेजी से सुधार आये हैं और राज्य सतत विकास की ओर बढ़ रहा है।

मंत्री संजय सरावगी ने बिहार दिवस पर "उन्नत बिहार, विकसित बिहार" के संकल्प के साथ मुंबई एवं देश दुनिया में रह रहे सभी बिहारी प्रवासियों को बिहार की स्थापना के 113वें वर्षगाँठ की बधाई देते हुए शुभकामनाएँ दिया। उन्होंने कहा कि प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी के मार्गदर्शन एवं बिहार के मुख्यमंत्री नीतीश कुमार के नेतृत्व में बिहार निरंतर आगे बढ़ रहा है। पीएम मोदी का 2047 तक भारत को विकसित राष्ट्र बनाने का जो संकल्प है, उसमें बिहार की भी अग्रणी भूमिका रहेगी। महाराष्ट्र और मुम्बई का हृदय से आभार जिसने प्रवासी बिहारी भाइयों एवं बहनों को अपने सपनों को साकार करने का अवसर और एक सशक्त मंच प्रदान किया। महाराष्ट्र की भूमि ने उन्हें कर्मभूमि दी तो बिहार ने उन्हें संस्कार, मेहनत एवं जज़्बे की पहचान सौंपी। यह आपके खुले दिल और स्वीकार्यता का ही परिणाम है कि बिहारी प्रवासी अपनी प्रतिभा और परिश्रम से आपकी प्रगति में अपना योगदान दे रहे हैं।

 मंत्री सरावगी ने आगे कहा कि अब बिहार के हालात एकदम से बदल चुके है। जहां 2005 से पहले बिहार में सिर्फ 3 सरकारी इंजीनियरिंग कॉलेज एवं 13 पॉलिटेकनिक संस्थान थे। वहीं आज बिहार में 38 सरकारी इंजीनियरिंग कॉलेज एवं 38 पॉलिटेकनिक संस्थान हैं। बिहार के हर ज़िले में एक सरकारी मेडिकल कॉलेज के लक्ष्य को पूरा किया जा रहा है। आज प्रदेश में 21 सरकारी मेडिकल कॉलेज सुचारु रूप से काम कर रहा है, और 23 सरकारी मेडिकल कॉलेज निर्माणाधीन है। पटना के बाद दरभंगा में भी एम्स जैसे विश्वस्तरीय अस्पताल का निर्माण हो रहा है।"

साथ ही बिहार में रेल हवाई सम्पर्क को नई ऊँचाइयाँ मिल रही है। गया और पटना एयरपोर्ट का विस्तार हो रहा है, दरभंगा एयरपोर्ट से रोज़ाना नए शहरों के लिए उड़ाने बढ़ाई जा रही है। पूर्णियाँ एयरपोर्ट से जल्द ही उड़ान शुरू हो जाएगी। अयोध्या में निर्मित श्री राम मंदिर के तर्ज पर सीतामढ़ी के पुनौरा धाम में 50 एकड़ में विशाल माँ जानकी मंदिर के निर्माण का निर्णय लिया जा चुका है।

उन्होंने बिहार के प्रवासियों से यह निवेदन किया कि अपनी कर्मभूमि महाराष्ट्र की सेवा के साथ साथ जन्मभूमि बिहार की उन्नति, प्रगति एवं विकास में अपना अमूल्य योगदान दें।

मंत्री ने आगे बताया कि अगले 10 वर्षो में बिहार इतनी तरक्की कर लेगा कि वहां के लोगों को काम के लिए कहीं और नहीं जाना पड़ेगा।

MindOverMatter.help: जागरूकता आणि कृतीद्वारे किशोरवयीन मानसिक आरोग्य सक्षम करणे

  

मुंबई, १९ मार्च २०२५ - किशोरवयीन मानसिक आरोग्य आव्हाने वाढत असताना, MindOverMatter.help हे समर्थन आणि सक्षमीकरणाचे एक दीपस्तंभ म्हणून उभे आहे. *मार्च २०२२ मध्ये तीन १६ वर्षांच्या मुलींनी - आलिया शेट्टी ओझा - ज्मनाभाई नर्सी इंटरनेशनल स्कूल , अगस्त्या गोराडिया - धीरूभाई अंबानी इंटरनेशनल स्कूल आणि फिया इनामदार - कोडईकनाल इंटरनेशनल स्कूल, यांनी स्थापन केले* . हे युवा नेतृत्वाखालील उपक्रम जागरूकता वाढवण्यासाठी, खुल्या संभाषणांना चालना देण्यासाठी आणि मानसिक आरोग्य संघर्षात असलेल्या तरुणांसाठी महत्त्वपूर्ण संसाधने प्रदान करण्यासाठी समर्पित आहे. या तिघांचा प्रवास कोविड-१९ च्या पार्श्वभूमीवर सुरू झाला, कारण त्यांनी शैक्षणिक दबाव, सामाजिक आव्हाने आणि ऑनलाइन आणि वास्तविक जीवनातील अस्पष्ट सीमांशी झुंजणाऱ्या समवयस्कांना पाहिले. अनेक किशोरवयीन मुलांना त्यांच्या पालकांशी बोलण्यासाठी संघर्ष करावा लागला, तर काहींना महिन्यांच्या मर्यादित सामाजिक संवादानंतर गुंडगिरी आणि बॉडी शेमिंगचा सामना करावा लागला. फरक घडवण्याचा दृढनिश्चय करून, आलिया, अगस्त्या आणि फिया यांनी फक्त १३ वर्षांच्या वयात नैराश्य, चिंता आणि तणावाभोवतीचा कलंक दूर करण्यासाठी सोशल मीडियाचा वापर करून MindOverMatter.help लाँच केले. मार्च २०२२ मध्ये इंस्टाग्राम आणि फेसबुक उपक्रम म्हणून सुरू झालेली चळवळ वेगाने एका बहु-प्लॅटफॉर्म चळवळीत रूपांतरित झाली: • एप्रिल २०२२: मानसिक आरोग्य संघर्ष सामान्य करण्यासाठी एक ब्लॉग सुरू केला. • ऑक्टोबर २०२२: शिक्षक, आरोग्यसेवा व्यावसायिक आणि विद्यार्थ्यांसह १६ तज्ञांचा समावेश असलेला पॉडकास्ट सादर केला, जो आता गुगल, अमेझॉन आणि स्पॉटिफायवर उपलब्ध आहे. • २०२३-२०२४ उपक्रम: ◦ "३०-डे चॅलेंज टू रीस्टार्ट अँड रिचार्ज" हे ई-पुस्तक प्रकाशित केले, जे तीन दिवसांत १,०००+ वेळा डाउनलोड केले गेले. ◦ मानसिक आरोग्य स्वयंसेवी संस्थांसाठी निधी उभारण्यासाठी चित्रे आणि पुस्तके विकली. ◦ पालक, शिक्षक आणि विद्यार्थ्यांसह बहु-शहर वॉकेथॉन आयोजित केले. ◦ सहा शाळांचा समावेश असलेली कला उपचार स्पर्धा सुरू केली. ◦ १२ शाळांमधून प्रवेशिका मिळाल्याने ऑनलाइन निबंध स्पर्धा आयोजित केली. • फेब्रुवारी २०२५: त्यांच्या ३०-दिवसीय आव्हान पुस्तिका आणि कृतज्ञता जर्नल्सच्या कागदी प्रतींचे वाटप, ज्याचा ५००+ लोकांना परिणाम झाला आणि मानसिक आरोग्य वकिलीसाठी त्यांची वचनबद्धता पुन्हा दृढ झाली. २३ मार्च २०२५ रोजी, जुहू बीचवर, MindOverMatter.help भारतातील सर्वात मोठ्या महिला धावण्याच्या कार्यक्रम असलेल्या Pinkathon सोबत भागीदारीत एक वॉकेथॉन आयोजित करणार आहे. निरोगी, सक्रिय जीवनशैलीला प्रोत्साहन देताना मानसिक आरोग्याच्या समर्थनार्थ चालण्यासाठी शेकडो सहभागींनी आधीच नोंदणी केली आहे. हा जबरदस्त प्रतिसाद मानसिक आरोग्य वकिली आणि कृतीची वाढती गरज अधोरेखित करतो. आलिया, अगस्त्या आणि फिया यावर भर देतात: "आमचे ध्येय शारीरिक आरोग्याबद्दल बोलण्याइतकेच मानसिक आरोग्य चर्चा सामान्य करणे आहे. MindOverMatter.help द्वारे, आम्ही तरुण मनांना ज्ञान, समर्थन आणि त्यांचे अनुभव सामायिक करण्यासाठी सुरक्षित जागेसह सक्षम करण्याचे उद्दिष्ट ठेवतो." चळवळीत सामील व्हा MindOverMatter.help शाळा, पालक, विद्यार्थी आणि मानसिक आरोग्य व्यावसायिकांना एकत्र येऊन असे जग निर्माण करण्यासाठी आमंत्रित करते जिथे कोणत्याही किशोरवयीन मुलाला एकट्याने मानसिक आरोग्य संघर्षांना तोंड द्यावे लागणार नाही. अधिक माहितीसाठी, www.mindovermatter.help ला भेट द्या किंवा संपर्क साधा: मीडिया संपर्क: संस्थापक, MindOverMatter.help ईमेल: mindovermatter.help.mail@gmail.com फोन नंबर: +९१- ९८१९२५४७८३

Actors XI Triumphs Over Leaders XI by 2 Wickets in Thrilling Match for TB-Mukt Bharat Awareness

Mumbai, March 23, 2025 :In an exciting T20 friendly match held at the MCA Cricket Stadium in Mumbai, Actors XI, led by Bollywood star Sunil Shetty, defeated Leaders XI, captained by former Union Minister and MP Anurag Singh Thakur, by 2 wickets. The match was part of the ongoing TB-Free India initiative, a campaign spearheaded by Anurag Thakur to raise awareness about tuberculosis (TB) and its eradication.

The thrilling match, which stretched late into the night, saw both teams putting up an outstanding display of cricket. Leaders XI, after winning the toss and opting to bat, scored 249/3 in their allotted 20 overs, with Yusuf Pathan leading the charge with a brilliant 119 off 38 balls. Mohammad Azharuddin remained unbeaten at 54, while Captain Anurag Thakur contributed 18 runs. Despite the impressive total, Actors XI, under the captaincy of Sunil Shetty, chased down the target, scoring 251/8 with four balls remaining. Yusuf Pathan’s scintillating performance earned him the “Man of the Match” award, while Anurag Thakur was honored with the “Best Fielder” title.

Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the match and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde concluded the event. Prominent dignitaries including bollywood stars like Salman Khan, Arjun Rampal, Sonu Sood, along with MPs such as Ms.  Supriya Sule, Shri Arvind Sawant, and Ms. Pritam Munde among others attended the event. 

During the event, Governor Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan emphasized the importance of TB eradication in India. “We aim to make India TB-free by 2025. This match, with participation from MPs and actors, will help spread awareness about TB elimination. I congratulate all the participants and Anurag Thakur for organising such a meaningful initiative," he said.

The match is a part of Anurag Thakur’s ongoing efforts to spread awareness about tuberculosis and its elimination. Speaking after the match, Deputy CM Shri Eknath Shinde praised the initiative, saying, “Shri Anurag Thakur’s vision behind organizing this match is remarkable. It’s heartening to see leaders and actors coming together for such a cause. This event strengthens Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s TB-Free India campaign, and it was exciting to witness this fantastic match.”

Anurag Thakur reiterated the significance of such campaigns in the fight against TB. “We will continue to play matches across the country to raise awareness about TB. Today’s match in Mumbai with the Actors XI was a fantastic experience. While we may have lost the game, the objective behind this match—raising awareness about TB—was a success. Our real fight is against TB, and we will succeed in eliminating it from India.”

Actors XI captain Sunil Shetty emphasized the importance of the cause, saying, “The goal is clear—TB must be eradicated from the country. Winning or losing the match is secondary; making India TB-free is our true aim.” This is not the first time Anurag Thakur has organized such a match to raise awareness about TB. Earlier, a similar match between the Rajya Sabha Chairman XI and Lok Sabha Speaker XI was held in Delhi. 

*Teams:*

*Leaders XI:*

Anurag Singh Thakur (Captain), Kamlesh Paswan, Manoj Tiwari, Rammohan Naidu, Mohammad Azharuddin, Yusuf Pathan, Srikant Shinde, Lavu Sreekrishna, Deepender Hooda, Gurmeet Singh Hair, K. Sudhakar, Chandrashekhar

*Actors XI:*

Sunil Shetty (Captain), Sohail Khan, Sharad Kelkar, Raja Bherwani, Shabbir Ahluwalia, Daruwala Freddy, Sameer Kochar, Navdeep Tomar, Sunny Deol, Abhishek Kapoor, Siddharth Jadhav, Mudsir Bhatt

Inauguration of ‘Hall of Nuclear Power’ at Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai.

 

NEHRU SCIENCE CENTRE

(National Council of Science Museums)

Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai - 400 018

21st March, 2025 : Development and energy demand are deeply interdependent. Without adequate energy, growth is hindered, leading to crises. In a fast-growing nation like India, energy is crucial for development, and per capita energy consumption serves as a key indicator of progress. To meet rising demands, a balanced mix of renewable and non-renewable sources is essential. While solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower have limitations, nuclear energy stands out as a cheap, stable, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and safe alternative.  

India’s fossil fuel reserves are depleting, and their continued use contradicts global commitments to reducing emissions. Renewable energy technologies are still evolving and face economic and environmental challenges. Recognizing this, Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha envisioned a three-stage nuclear program in 1959, ensuring a long-term, sustainable energy solution. 

Despite its advantages, nuclear energy faces public safety concerns. India’s defense in depth policies and engineered reactor designs ensure robust safety, but the public often lacks direct exposure to these safeguards. To bridge this knowledge gap, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) collaborated with the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM)  to establish the  Hall of Nuclear Power at  Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai —Dr. Bhabha’s birthplace and home to India’s first nuclear facility. With over 7 lakh annual visitors, including 2 lakh students, the centre is an ideal location to showcase nuclear energy’s role in India's development.  

Launched on 20th August 2011, the gallery has played a pivotal role in educating visitors about nuclear science and its real-world applications. With rapid advancements in nuclear technology, the gallery has now been renovated with NPCIL’s support to reflect the latest developments.  

The 700 sq. m. gallery, featuring 70 exhibits, takes visitors on an immersive journey through the history, applications, and future of nuclear energy.  Interactive panels, videos, dioramas, AR-VR technologies, and virtual walkthroughs explain concepts such as nuclear fission, reactor operations, neutron moderation, heat transfer, and radiation safety. A major highlight is the section on nuclear safety, covering engineered safeguards, radiation protection, and environmental impact. 

Beyond power generation, the gallery showcases nuclear technology’s applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry, along with strategies for net-zero emissions and a diversified energy future. Visitors can explore nuclear waste management, fuel processing, and the impact of energy choices through hands-on interactive exhibits, multimedia kiosks, and decision-making simulations.  

A state-of-the-art virtual tour of a nuclear power plant allows visitors to experience the inner workings of a reactor, reinforcing public understanding and confidence in nuclear energy. The gallery also honours Dr. Homi Bhabha, highlighting his vision for India's self-reliance in energy.  

The Hall of Nuclear Power is designed to provide visitors with credible, engaging, and unbiased insights into nuclear energy. Through self-guided learning, they can explore its benefits, challenges, and future potential—empowering them to form informed opinions about this vital energy source.  

The Hall of Nuclear Power was reopened on 24th March, 2025 by Shri Bhuwan Chandra Pathak, distinguished scientist and Chairman & Managing Director, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) in the august presence of Shri B.V.S. Sekhar, outstanding scientist & Executive Director (Corporate Planning & Corporate Communication), NPCIL. The other Dignitaries present on the occasion included Shri Umed Yadav, Additional Chief Engineer (Corporate Planning & Corporate Communication), NPCIL and Shri Umesh Kumar Rustagi, Director, Nehru Science Centre (NCSM).

About NPCIL

NPCIL is a Public Sector Undertaking under the administrative control of Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India. It is spearheading India's nuclear power programme. NPCIL is responsible for design, construction, operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants in India. With its excellent record of safety, NPCIL aims to preserve the surrounding environment, as the nature intended it to be. "Safety First, Production Next and Environment Foremost", is the motto that guides NPCIL. Dissemination of accurate and authentic information on nuclear power is one of the main objectives of NPCIL. 

About Nehru Science Centre

Nehru Science Centre, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai is a constituent unit of National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), a non-profit making autonomous body under the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India. Nehru Science Centre is one of the largest science centers in Asia. The Centre is dedicated to serve the society by popularizing and enhancing public understanding of science and technology through interactive and user-friendly exhibits, plethora of activities, both in rural and urban areas, thereby creating the scientific temper in society.

About NCSM

NCSM, the premier organization in the country under the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India is engaged in the popularization and dissemination of science & technology information for welfare of people in a non-formal mode among the masses in general, and students in particular. It has been serving communities across the length and breadth of the nation through a three-tier (national level, regional level and sub-regional level) network of 26 science centres and a fleet of 48 mobile science exhibition units that move into the deep interior regions of the country. NCSM happens to be the world’s largest network of science centres/museums under a single umbrella, and is well known and respected in the international science community for its state-of-the-art exhibit making capabilities, extensive educational & outreach programmes. Besides its own 26 science centres, the NCSM has already established 25 science museums/centres for various state governments/municipal bodies/institutions in the country and also has helped setting up of such centres abroad. Currently NCSM is developing 34 new science centres & planetarium in different parts of the country.

Excel Entertainment’s Ground Zero Brings BSF’s Greatest Operation to the Big Screen – Releasing April 25, Teaser to release this week and is attached with Sikandar

Inspired by BSF’s Best Operation in 50 Years, Ground Zero Hits Theatres on April 25 – Teaser to Premiere this week and is attached with Sikandar

Excel Entertainment has announced the highly anticipated release of the teaser for their upcoming action-packed thriller, Ground Zero, set to release this week, is attached to Salman Khan’s much-awaited film Sikandar in theaters. The film, hitting the big screens on April 25, 2025, promises an intense cinematic experience.

Starring Emraan Hashmi in a gripping new role, Ground Zero follows his character, a Deputy Commandant in the Border Security Force (BSF), as he leads a two-year-long investigation into a high-stakes national security threat. Inspired by an untold battle that remained hidden from the public eye, the film brings to light BSF’s best operation in the last 50 years, which was officially awarded in 2015. With a seamless blend of action, emotion, and patriotism, Ground Zero explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the unseen struggles faced by those who defend the nation.

Directed by Tejas Deoskar, the film is set to captivate audiences with its realistic portrayal of the military’s challenges and the emotional toll it takes on its personnel. Featuring high-octane action sequences and a deeply engaging storyline, Ground Zero goes beyond the battlefield, delving into the personal sacrifices of those on the frontlines.

Presented by Excel Entertainment and directed by Tejas Deoskar, Ground Zero comes from the producers of Lakshya and stars Emraan Hashmi in a pivotal role. The film releases in theatres on April 25, 2025.

International Squash Returns to India with JSW India Open 2025

~ The JSW India Open will be held from 24-28 March in Mumbai ~

Mumbai, 22 March, 2025: The countdown has begun to what is set to be a landmark moment in Squash in India. JSW are delighted to announce the JSW Indian Open 2025, India's first ever PSA Squash Copper tournament tournament, with a prize purse of USD 53,500. The JSW Indian Open 2025 will commence from 24 March, with the finals scheduled for the 28th at the Bombay Gymkhana. The competition will begin on the indoor courts, with the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final set to be played on a full-glass outdoor court, offering fans a unique experience. 

The JSW India Open is even more significant for the Indian sports fraternity as it welcomes back a major squash tournament to the country after a seven-year hiatus. Co-incidentally, squash is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games. 

The return of top-level squash in India with the JSW India Open was announced in the presence of Manisha Malhotra, President, Inspire Institute of Sports, Divyanshu Singh, COO JSW Sports, Ramit Tandon (India No 1 in Men’s Squash) and Anahat Singh (India No 3 in Women’s Squash). 

This tournament will see top Indian squash players such Ramit Tandon, Velavan Senthilkumar, Veer Chotrani, Anahat Singh, and Akanksha Salunkhe take the court, alongside some talented international athletes from France, Spain, Holland, Egypt, Canada, England, USA, Malaysia, and Japan among other countries. Both the Men’s and Women’s draw will see a total of 24 players each with India’s Ramit Tandon and Akanksha Salunkhe going in as the top seeds, respectively. Meanwhile, India’s Suraj Kumar Chand and Anjali Semwal are the two Wild Card entries at the JSW India Open.

Manisha Malhotra, President, IIS said, “We are delighted to be able to bring squash back to India at the highest level. Sports like squash need to see the return of the circuits at the state and national level. And through such events, we have to promote and support our players and they need to learn how to play bigger events. From an Indian perspective, it's definitely a sport we can dominate, so this will be a good opportunity for us. 

Divyanshu Singh, COO, JSW Sports stated, “We are trying to develop an ecosystem when it comes to the business of sport in India. It is dominated by cricket, but our endeavour is to change that and promote other Indian sports. Very luckily, Indian squash has six players in the top 100, which is a phenomenal achievement already. There is great optimism that going forward up to LA2028, these athletes will shine for India and we are here to get them on the spot.”

“From a marketing perspective, our endeavour is to raise the profile of the players and to raise the popularity of the sport,” he added.

When asked upon his thoughts on the tournament, India No. 1 Ramit Tandon said, “It's always good to play at home. I think in India we don't get the opportunity to do it enough so I'm very thankful to JSW and everyone involved who have made this possible. Especially with the Olympics coming up, our PSA rankings are going to be crucial and home court advantage is something Indians don't really get at the top level. Since this is the biggest squash event ever to be hosted in India, it's important in terms of reaching out to more number of people and getting more eyeballs on the sport. I think it's a beautiful thing to have some more sports events within the country so I'm excited.”

India No. 3, Anahat Singh stated, “This will be one of the bigger tournaments for me up till now and getting to play in India as well as being able to play with so many international players is going to be wonderful. Especially for me it's really important for my ranking and getting to play at home rather than travelling outside the country so much.”

Tickets for the JSW India Open 2025 are available - https://www.district.in/jsw-indian-open-2025---psa-squash-tour--mens--womens/event?fbclid=PAY2xjawJDnTBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpgXD4c7wTYh1uWpx32TR-HOUSa2AuxoVCDLr2IbRyecmbMvxvac7En4nlg_aem_2-HOk2w7H_NilshNGveQBg

Narayan Seva Sansthan to Organize Free Artificial Limb Measurement Camp in Mumbai on March 23

 

Mumbai, March 21: The nationally awarded NGO from Rajasthan, Narayan Seva Sansthan, will organize a large-scale free camp for the welfare of differently-abled individuals on Sunday, March 23, in Mumbai. The camp will be held at Niko Hall, Plot No. 432, near Wadala Udyog Bhavan, Dadar (East), from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Trustee and Director of the organization, Mr. Devendra Chaubisa, stated that the Sansthan is committed to helping individuals who have lost their limbs due to accidents or medical conditions, enabling them to overcome physical challenges and lead dignified lives. Inspired by the vision of Padma Shri awardee and founder Kailash ‘Manav’, the institution has been dedicated to humanitarian service and support for the differently-abled for the past 40 years.

Speaking at a press conference, Mumbai branch president Mr. Mahesh Agrawal shared that this special free camp is part of the organization’s initiative “Kua Pyaase Ke Paas” (Taking the well to the thirsty), bringing services directly to the differently-abled in Mumbai. During the camp, experienced orthotists and prosthetists from the institute will conduct thorough assessments and take precise measurements for high-quality, lightweight, and durable Narayan Limbs. Based on these measurements, a distribution camp will be organized in approximately two months to provide free modular artificial limbs to the beneficiaries.

Camp coordinator and Mumbai branch in-charge, Mr. Lalit Lohar, mentioned that free meals, tea, and refreshments will be provided to patients and their families attending the camp. Dignitaries and prominent members of Mumbai society have also been invited to grace the occasion.

Media and public relations officer, Mr. Bhagwan Prasad Gaur, appealed to all differently-abled individuals to take advantage of this opportunity and requested that those attending the camp bring their Aadhaar card, disability certificate, and two passport-size photographs. For more details, individuals can contact the institute’s helpline at 70235-09999.

During the press meet, the camp poster was unveiled in the presence of the Sansthan’s trustees, Mumbai branch president, camp coordinator, media head, camp in-charge, and Bhayander Ashram in-charge Mr. Mukesh Sain.

Since 1985, Narayan Seva Sansthan has been serving humanity with a mission of “Nar Seva – Narayan Seva.” The institution’s founder, Kailash Manav, has been honored with the Padma Shri award by the President of India for his humanitarian work. Under the leadership of President Prashant Agrawal, the organization has empowered lakhs of differently-abled individuals by providing medical aid, education, skill development, and sports training, helping them become self-reliant and part of the mainstream society. In 2023, Mr. Agrawal was also honored with the Presidential Award. The institution has successfully fitted over 40,000 artificial limbs so far and is now expanding its efforts in Maharashtra to help differently-abled individuals restart their lives on a larger scale.

Today some of the LIC agents met the Hon’ble Leader of Opposition and raised certain issues.

"We want to clarify that LIC has introduced products that align with the New Product Regulations set by IRDA, effective from October 1, 2024, keeping policyholders’ interests at the forefront .” said Siddhartha Mohanty, CEO&MD, LIC.

“Committed to broadening life insurance coverage, LIC has consistently focused on reaching rural areas and economically and socially disadvantaged sections. Our aim is to extend financial protection to every insurable individual at an affordable cost .” Shri. Mohanty said.

Shri Mohanty added “With a diverse portfolio catering to various customer segments and different strata of society, LIC fully complies with all regulatory requirements. As an example, our Micro Bachat plan offers a minimum sum assured of ₹1 lakh and is exempt from GST, ensuring accessibility. Post changes in product regulations, the commission has not been reduced for agents, it has been given in staggered manner .”

“LIC remains dedicated to providing financial security to its policyholders while also supporting the well-being of its agency force .” Shri Mohanty said.

IIFL Home Finance and Maharashtra Housing Development Corporation Ltd. (MHDC) Partners to Accelerate Affordable Housing in Maharashtra

Partnership to Finance and Sell 3,000 Affordable Homes under PMAY within Maharashtra

 

Mumbai, 18^th March 2025: IIFL Home Finance Ltd., India's leading affordable home finance companies, today announced a strategic partnership with Maharashtra Housing Development Corporation Ltd. (MHDC) to promote affordable housing projects and facilitate home financing in Maharashtra. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in the presence of Mr. Monu Ratra, IIFL Home Finance along with officials from MHDC, which aims to accelerate the sale of approximately 3,000 tenements under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana 2.0 (PMAY 2.0) within the state.

 

The partnership leverages MHDC's housing projects and IIFL HFL's widespread experience in home financing to make homeownership more accessible to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Lower Income Groups (LIG) of the society. The memorandum signed between two entities aligns with the Government of India's vision of "Housing for All" and reinforces both organizations' commitment to affordable housing and financial inclusion.

 

Mr. Monu Ratra, CEO and ED, IIFL Home Finance Ltd., comments on the partnership, "Our collaboration with MHDC marks a significant step toward making homeownership a reality for thousands of families across Maharashtra. By combining MHDC’s housing initiatives with our financial expertise and digital-first approach, we are building a robust ecosystem that supports affordable housing in the state. This partnership reflects our commitment to financial inclusion and aligns with the government's 'Housing for All' initiative. Through MHDC's extensive network, we aim to reach even the most remote corners of the state, making affordable housing more accessible and simpler for people.”  

 

Speaking on the partnership, MHDC adds, "The partnership with IIFL Home Finance is a crucial step towards our mission to provide quality and affordable housing to the people of Maharashtra. By integrating IIFL HFL's financing solutions with our housing projects, we're simplifying the path to homeownership for thousands of families. Together, we're not just building houses; we're building communities and contributing to the economic growth of our state."

 

By combining IIFL HFL's financial expertise with MHDC's deep-rooted presence in Maharashtra, this initiative is set to make a real impact on affordable housing and contribute to the state's economic growth.

 About IIFL Home Finance Ltd.

IIFL Home Finance is technology driven retail focused housing finance company with the primary focus on providing loans to first time home buyers in the economically weaker sections (“EWS”) and low-income group (“LIG”) group. We provide loans to customer in the suburbs of Tier 1 cities and Tier 2 cities and to customers residing in Tier 3 and Tier 4 cities in India where the collateral is the existing or self-occupied residential property. The Company serves salaried and self-employed customers which account for 53.18% and 46.82% of our AUM as of September 30, 2024, respectively. We have served over 4,27,048 customers as of September 30, 2024. 

 

The Company offer customers a range of mortgage-related loan products, including (i) housing loans, for purchase of ready built residential units, under construction property by approved builders, self-construction, home improvement on pre-owned property and purchase of land for construction of residential property; (ii) secured business loans, for primarily meeting working capital requirement, business use and purchase of commercial property; and (iii) affordable housing project loans, to meet construction expenses of affordable housing projects of reputed developers. Housing loans, secured business loans and affordable housing project loans contribute 77.30%, 20.42% and 2.28% of our AUM, as at March 31, 2024, respectively and 78.48%,19.40% and 2.12% of our AUM, as at September 30, 2024, respectively.

 

Company’s AUM has grown at a CAGR of 22.60% from ₹23,617.37 crores as at March 31, 2022 to ₹35,498.55 crores, as at March 31, 2024. As on September 30, 2024, our AUM stands at ₹ 37,098.39 crores. As at March 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, our Gross NPA expressed as a percentage of our AUM was 1.32% and 1.45%, respectively, and our Net NPA expressed as a percentage of our AUM was 1.02% and 1.14%, respectively. We have a widespread network of 387 branches in 18 states and 2 union territory as of September 30, 2024.

 

Company’s focus states include Delhi NCR, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. As a technology driven housing finance Company, the Company endeavours to make customer experience as seamless as possible. The approach has always been digital first and have made the entire life cycle of housing loans i.e., from origination to closure, completely digitized. The Company have also adopted technology in all our other business processes including customer service, collections, underwriting and monitoring asset quality. With strong in-house digital capabilities and efficient processes across business functions, we provide enhanced customer experience, enhanced transparency and sustainable growth.

 

Blue Dragon Strengthens Presence in India with Sunbeam entures, Bringing Authentic Pan-Asian Flavors to Indian onsumers

Mumbai, India, March 18^th, 2025 – Blue Dragon, a globally renowned brand for authentic Thai and Pan-Asian flavours, is expanding its presence in India in partnership with Sunbeam Ventures, a leading FMCG distribution and marketing company. Since establishing its distribution network in India in 2019, Blue Dragon has focused on adapting its products to local consumer preferences. Now, with a robust foundation in place, the brand is set to amplify its presence, engage more directly with consumers, and cater to India’s growing demand for premium Asian flavours.

With a premium range of noodles, sauces, pastes, meal kits, and coconut milk, Blue Dragon aims to make restaurant-quality Asian cuisine effortless for home cooks and food lovers across the country. Consumers can now enjoy a carefully curated selection of products, including:

·        Instant Cup Noodles (6 Unique Variants) – Ready in just 3 minutes, designed for a quick and flavorful experience.

·        Tom Yum Series – Includes Tom Yum Paste, Tom Yum Meal Kits, Tom Yum Soup Kit and Tom Yum Noodle Cups to cater to different cooking preferences.

·        Noodle Kits & Curry Kits – A hassle-free way to prepare authentic Thai and Asian noodle dishes and curries at home.

·        Dry Noodles - Traditional Thai noodles, carefully selected and imported to bring authentic flavor and texture to meals.

·        Savory Sauces & Curry Pastes – Perfectly crafted to enhance home-cooked meals with rich, bold flavors.

·        Coconut Milk – A versatile ingredient for curries, soups, and desserts.

"Blue Dragon entered India in 2019 with a focus on building a strong distribution network and adapting to local preferences. Although the pandemic delayed our expansion plans, we have now established a solid foundation. We are excited to amplify our presence in India, catering to the country's growing demand for premium, high-quality global flavors.

The Indian market has shown tremendous growth, driven by an increasing demand for premiumization and premium products. By introducing our brand and products, we are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth and establish ourselves as a key market player. Our goal is to create a stronger emotional connection with Indian consumers, highlighting our unique value proposition and driving business growth.

We believe our products deliver the perfect balance of authenticity, quality, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for Indian consumers seeking global flavors. With our commitment to exceptional quality and service, we look forward to building a strong presence in the Indian market" said Boworn Pakdeesusuk serves as General Manager of the Bangkok hub.

Sunbeam Ventures, a trusted name in premium FMCG distribution since 2004, is spearheading Blue Dragon’s launch in India. Vikash Singhal, Director & Founder, Sunbeam Ventures, played a pivotal role in bringing the brand to the Indian market, ensuring a robust distribution strategy and consumer outreach. Blue Dragon products are now widely available across leading retail and digital platforms, ensuring easy accessibility for consumers. With a presence in over 50 cities and more than 1,500 premium outlets, the brand is poised for 100% growth in coverage and sales value over the next two years. To drive awareness, Blue Dragon is ramping up promotional efforts on quick-commerce platforms and plans to introduce larger packs for the HoReCa sector.

"Our mission is to offer Indian consumers an authentic taste of Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine while making cooking effortless, exciting, and accessible. Blue Dragon is not just another condiment brand—it is a complete meal solution catering to diverse needs, from home cooks who love to create from scratch to busy professionals looking for quick, high-quality meal options," said Vikash Singhal, Founder Director of Sunbeam Mercantile Ventures Pvt Ltd.

Blue Dragon maintains the highest standards of quality and authenticity through partner factories in Thailand and across Asia, ensuring compliance with strict food safety and quality regulations. The company’s global presence spans the UK, Europe, North America, and Mexico, backed by rigorous selection and monitoring processes to guarantee premium products. By sourcing local raw materials from Asia, the company preserve the authentic taste and aroma of Pan-Asian cuisine, delivering an unparalleled culinary experience to consumers worldwide.

About Blue Dragon

Blue Dragon is a globally recognized brand that brings authentic Asian flavors to home kitchens, offering a wide range of sauces, noodles, meal kits, and pastes that make cooking Asian cuisine effortless. The brand is distributed across the UK, Europe, North America, and Mexico, ensuring high-quality ingredients and strict food safety standards.

About Sunbeam Ventures

Founded in 2004, Sunbeam Ventures is a leading FMCG distribution and marketing house specializing in food, personal care, and home care brands. With a nationwide network of 350+ distributors and presence in 1,500+ premium outlets, Sunbeam has successfully launched and scaled global brands in the Indian market. For more details, visit www.sunbeamventures.in.

 

LG Electronics India Ltd receives SEBI nod to float its IPO

LG Electronics Inc. subsidiary LG Electronics India Limited, the market leader in India in major home appliances and consumer electronics (excluding mobile phones) in terms of volume for the three months ending June 30, 2024, as per the Redseer Report, mentioned in the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), has received final observation from the capital markets regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), to raise funds through an initial public offering (IPO).

The Company had filed its IPO papers with Sebi on December 6, 2024. 

The IPO with a face value of ₹10 per equity share, is entirely an offer for sale up to 10.18 crore equity shares by LG Electronics Inc. 

LG Electronics India, a subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., was established in 1997 and has maintained its position as the market leader in India’s home appliances and consumer electronics industry for 13 consecutive years (2011–2023) by value market share in the offline channel, according to a Redseer Report mentioned in the DRHP.

When compared to listed industry peers like Havells India Ltd, Voltas Ltd, Whirlpool of India Ltd, and Blue Star Ltd, LG Electronics India achieved the highest revenue from operations and earnings per share (EPS) in fiscal 2024.

For fiscal 2024, the company reported a revenue of ₹21,352 crore, marking an increase from ₹19,868.24 crore in fiscal 2023. Profit after tax rose by 12.35% to ₹1,511.07 crore from ₹1,344.93 crore during the same period. In the three months ending June 30, 2024, revenue was ₹6,408.80 crore, with a profit after tax of ₹679.65 crore.

The company holds a dominant market position across various product categories, including washing machines, refrigerators, panel televisions, inverter air conditioners, and microwaves. According to the Redseer Report, for the six months ending June 30, 2024, these products commanded a significant share in the offline channel, which represents approximately 80% of the major home appliances and consumer electronics market (excluding mobile phones) in India by value.

Globally, LG Electronics is recognized as the leading single-brand home appliances company by revenue for 2023, as per the Redseer Report. Catering to both B2C and B2B markets within and outside India, the company offers same-day installation, repair, and maintenance services for its products.

With 27 years of experience in India, LG Electronics India has cultivated deep consumer insights, enabling it to meet the unique demands of Indian customers. LG Electronics India boasts the largest distribution network among its peers, covering both urban and rural regions through 36,401 B2C touchpoints. Its after-sales services are facilitated through 949 authorized service centers nationwide, supported by an extensive supplier base of 280 vendors with an average relationship tenure of 11 years as of June 30, 2024.

Morgan Stanley India Company Private Limited, J.P. Morgan India Private Limited, Axis Capital Limited, BofA Securities India Limited, and Citigroup Global Markets India Private Limited are the book-running lead managers and KFin Technologies Limited is the registrar to the issue. 

Sebi Link: https://www.sebi.gov.in/filings/processing-status/mar-2025/processing-status-issues_59558.html

21 Years, No Justice: Dr. Asha Goel’s family urges Maharashtra CM to intervene

# Despite DNA evidence and a confession, legal delays deny closure to a grieving family

Mumbai, March 17, 2025:  Today, at the Press Club of Mumbai, a press conference was held to highlight the unresolved murder case of Dr. Asha Goel, a distinguished obstetrician and gynecologist who was brutally killed on August 22, 2003, while visiting Mumbai. Her daughter, Rashmi Goel, has written an urgent letter to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, seeking his intervention to the long-delayed trial.

For 21 years, the Goel family has fought for justice, but despite compelling evidence—including DNA matches, forensic reports, and even a confession—the case remains unresolved. The delay has caused immense anguish, raising serious concerns about the efficiency of the justice system. Rashmi Goel, a professor of Criminal Law at the University of Denver, has urged authorities to take immediate action, emphasizing that the lack of progress in the case is deeply troubling.

"We have waited far too long, and our patience has worn thin. My mother dedicated her life to healing others, yet justice for her brutal murder remains out of reach. We urge the Chief Minister to step in and ensure that this case finally moves forward. India cannot afford to be seen as a nation where even the strongest evidence fails to convict murderers," said Rashmi Goel at the press conference.

Dr. Asha Goel was a highly respected medical professional who dedicated her life to women’s healthcare. Born in Mathura in 1940, she pursued her medical education in Mumbai before moving to Canada, where she became a leading figure in obstetrics and gynecology. Her murder shocked both India and Canada, yet her killers remain unpunished.

The press conference underscored that this prolonged legal delay is not just a personal tragedy for the Goel family but also a critical issue for India's justice system. The family remains determined to pursue every possible avenue until justice is served.

न्यू इंडिया सहकारी बँकेच्या आर्थिक घोटाळ्याला रिझर्व्ह बँक जबाबदार-अँड.शिरीष देशपांडे

मुंबई-न्यु इंडिया सहकारी बँकेवर ठेवीदारांनी विश्वास ठेवून त्यांच्या घामाचे-मेहनतीचे पैसे तिकडे ठेवले होते.या बँकेत १२२ कोटी रुपयांचा आर्थिक घोटाळा झाल्यानें रिझर्व्ह बँकेने दि,१३ फेब्रुवारी रोजी रात्री या बँकेतून पैसे काढण्यास ठेवीदारांना मज्जाव केला.या बँकेच्या आर्थिक घोटाळ्याला प्रामुख्याने रिझर्व्ह बँक,केंद्र सरकार जबाबदार असून येथील ठेवीदारांचा पै आणि पै त्यांना मिळालाच पाहिजे असे ठाम प्रतिपादन मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायतीचे कार्याध्यक्ष ॲड. शिरीष देशपांडे यांनी काल सायंकाळी वर्सोव्यात केले.

मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायत आणि चिल्ड्रन वेल्फेअर सेंटर या शाळेचे संस्थापक विश्वस्त आणि शिक्षण महर्षी अजय कौल सर यांच्या संयुक्त विद्यमाने शनिवारी सायंकाळी न्यू इंडिया सहकारी बँकेच्या ठेवीदारांना मार्गदर्शन करण्यासाठी एक जाहीर सभा चिल्ड्रन वेल्फेअर सेंटर हॉल न्यू इंडिया बँकेसमोर, यारी रोड, वर्सोवा येथे सायंकाळी आयोजित केली होती,त्यावेळी ते बोलत होते.यावेळी संस्थेच्या विधी मार्गदर्शक  शर्मिला रानडे,जेष्ठ पत्रकार प्रकाश कुलकर्णी,चिल्ड्रन वेल्फेअर सेंटरचे ऍक्टिव्हिटी चेअरमन प्रशांत काशीद आणि या बँकेचे सुमारे 

३०० ठेवीदार उपस्थित होते.

 रिझर्व बँकेने ठेवीदारांना तात्पुरती २५ हजार रुपयाची रक्कम काढण्याची दिलेली सवलत कुचकामी असल्याचा आरोप त्यांनी केला. बँकेतील व्यवस्थापनाच्या गैरव्यवहारांची किंमत बँकेच्या ठेवीदारांनी का मोजायची असा प्रश्नही त्यांनी उपस्थित केला. ५ लाखापर्यंतच्या  ठेवी जरी ठेवीदारांना परत मिळणार असल्या तरी ज्या ठेवीदारांच्या पाच लाखापेक्षा जास्ती ठेवी असतील त्याचे भवितव्य काय ? असाही सवाल त्यांनी रिझर्व्ह बँक आणि केंद्रीय अर्थमंत्र्यांना विचारला.

यावेळी त्यांनी आरबीआय व ठेव विमा महामंडळ (डीआयसीजीसी) यांचा पर्दापाश केला.सुमारे अडीच तास चाललेल्या या सभेला मान्यवरांनी विस्तृत मार्गदर्शन केले व देशपांडे यांनी ठेवीदारांच्या विविध प्रश्नांना उत्तरे देत त्यांना दिलासा दिला.

संस्थेच्या विधी मार्गदर्शक  शर्मिला रानडे यांनी सादरीकरण करून ठेवीदारांच्या ५ लाखापर्यंत ठेवी कश्या प्रकारें मिळू शकतील याचे सविस्तर मार्गदर्शन केले.ज्यांच्या ठेवी ५ लाखांच्या वर आहेत त्यांनी सुध्दा त्यांच्या ठेवी मिळण्यासाठी बँकेत अर्ज करावा असे सांगितले.

ज्येष्ठ पत्रकार प्रकाश कुलकर्णी त्यांच्या भाषणात म्हणाले की, सहकारी बँकातील घोटाळे ही नित्याचीच बाब होऊन बसली आहे. त्यांच्यावर निरंकुश निर्णय ठेवणारी रिझर्व्ह बँक तसेच या सहकारी बँकांच्या हिशेबांना क्लीन चिट देणार्यां हिशेब तपासनीसांच्या कंपन्याना त्यांच्या उत्तरदायित्वाचे भान देण्यासाठी पीडित ठेवीदारांनी आता न्यायालयाचे दरवाजे ठोठावले पाहिजे.आर्थिक क्षेत्रातील नियामकच आपले सत्व आणि न्यायबुध्दी हरवून बसतील सर्वसामान्य माणसाने काय करायचे हा आजच्या घडीचा सर्वाधिक गंभीर प्रश्न आहे.

प्रशांत काशीद यांनी प्रताविक केले.तुमच्या मागे मुंबई ग्राहक पंचायत आणि अजय कौल सर असून पुढील दिशा लवकरच

 ठेवीदारांना कळवण्यात येईल.

Ogilvy One CTO Ravi Pal to Speak at Adobe Summit on Strategies for Future-Proofing AI and Delivering Customer-Centric Growth

“Beyond the Hype: Reengineering Marketing for the Post-AI Enterprise” Session to Explore AI’s Impact on Platform Trust, Customer Experience, and Business Growth

NEW YORK – March 11, 2025 – Ogilvy One, which creates brand, business, and customer value by designing personal, data-driven relationships at the intersection of creativity and technology, today announced its Global CTO Ravi Pal will present a virtual session at Adobe Summit 2025 in Las Vegas from Monday, March 17 – Thursday, March 20.  

The session, titled “Beyond the Hype: Reengineering Marketing for the Post-AI Enterprise,” will explore AI’s impact on platform trust, customer experience, and business growth, with a focus on driving revenue while maintaining brand and customer integrity. The session will also underscore the critical need for brands to actively embrace AI, recognizing that inaction carries its own risks in a rapidly evolving market.

As AI adoption accelerates, some businesses prioritize rapid innovation over strategic planning, which could lead to platform decay and the creation of organizational silos that are less technical than political. This trend threatens to erode brand loyalty and sustainable growth.

At the same time, other organizations struggle to fully leverage AI, not because of the technology itself but because of a lack of a clear people strategy and alignment. 

Therefore, now is the moment of truth for AI adoption. Brands must act decisively to implement future-proof strategies, as Pal will outline, to ensure AI enhances, rather than erodes, the customer experience.

In his session, Pal will discuss the essential components of a future-proof AI strategy, including addressing the people strategy, data management, and viewing AI as a relationship builder for brands.

Ogilvy One has been at the forefront of human-centered digital transformation, working with global enterprises to break down organizational silos, integrate AI responsibly, and maximize customer-centric innovation. 

The session will contextualize these insights within the WPP and Adobe partnership, highlighting a shared vision for responsible technology adoption that amplifies human experiences rather than replacing them.

Attendees will gain insights on:

• The Human Hurdle: Why people – not AI – are the biggest challenge to delivering next-gen customer experiences and how to align strategy with execution.    

• Breaking Down Silos: How businesses can address political and operational barriers to unlock AI-powered marketing at scale.    

• AI for Relationship Building: Understanding how to leverage AI to deepen customer relationships through personalized experiences, strategic automation, and trust-building initiatives, moving beyond simple transactional optimization.

“AI is a force multiplier, but it needs to be implemented in a way that enhances, not erodes, the human experience,” Pal said. “This session will offer a framework for doing just that, helping brands build trust, break down silos, and drive sustainable growth in the post-AI world. In today's market, standing still is not an option; brands must actively embrace AI to remain competitive.”

To learn more, register for Ravi’s virtual session and add it to your Adobe Summit 2025 agenda.

Ogilvy One will also host a private, invite-only session in the Prestige Lounge alongside the NFL and the Eagles, with 50 select attendees. This session will spotlight the NFL’s international expansion strategy and how MarTech and Fandom drive this growth. The discussion will explore how data, fan engagement, and personalized marketing are crucial in expanding the league’s global footprint.

To request an invite to this session, and to learn more about Ogilvy One at Adobe Summit, please visit: summit.ogilvyone.com 

About Ogilvy One 

Ogilvy One creates brand, business, and customer value by designing personal, data-driven relationships at the intersection of creativity and technology – now powered by AI. Relationship Design is Ogilvy's approach that imbues the creation of all work across the services Ogilvy One provides. We believe that relationships aren't simply managed but need to be strategically designed across brand touchpoints - digital and physical. This expansive view enables us to center our approach to clients' diverse needs and briefs for relationships and experience services, supported by 4,000 Ogilvy One practitioners and specialists globally, in all regions, operating in over 90 markets. For more information, visit: https://www.ogilvyone.com/.

Mumbai Grahak Panchayat (MGP) A leading consumer organization in collaboration with Children Welfare Centre High School is organizing an open meeting of Depositors of New India Coop Bank

Mumbai Grahak Panchayat (MGP) A leading consumer organization in collaboration with Children Welfare Centre High School is organizing an open meeting of Depositors of New India Coop Bank to understand depositors' hardships/difficulties and guide the Bank Depositors for collective action to save the Bank and to save their valuable Deposits

*1. Is New India Cooperative Bank heading for liquidation?*

*2. Are your Deposits in excess of Rs 5 lakhs safe in this Bank?*

*3. What difficulties are faced by you as Depositors?*

*4. Can we save our New India Coop. Bank from Liquidation?*

*5. What legal action possible to save our deposits?*

Speakers: 

1) Adv Shirish V Deshpande, Chairman  - Mumbai Grahak Panchayat.

2) Ms Sharmila Ranade - Legal Advisor, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat 

Meeting will be presided over by Shri. Ajay Kaul 

Principal of Children Welfare Centre High School

Day/Date: Saturday, 15th  March 2025

Time:   4.00 pm 

Venue: Children Welfare Centre High School, Yari Road, Versova.

*Please do join in large number*

*to voice grievances faced by you due to New India Bank's suspension of operations*

Adani Electricity & Adani Foundation's Utthan initiative Transforms Lives of Over 25,000 Students across Mumbai

Coffee Table Book Highlighting the Project’s Achievements Unveiled during Third ‘Utthan Utsav’

Mumbai, March 08, 2025: Adani Electricity and Adani Foundation celebrated the third edition of their annual ‘Utthan Utsav’ in Mumbai on March 8, 2025. Utthan is an initiative of Adani Electricity and Adani Foundation which aims to foster students’ learning abilities and enhance learning outcomes. It entails adopting government primary schools, tutoring Priya Vidyarthis (progressive learners), addressing dropout rates and collaborating for staff capacity building. Empowered educators known as ‘Utthan Sahayaks’, along with support of teachers and parents, together work to enhance foundational learning and numeracy skills of students. The program has positively transformed the learning outcomes of over 25,000 students across 83 BMC schools located at Malad, Dahisar, Borivali, Chembur and Kurla.

The event was graced by Mr Bhushan Gagrani (IAS), Hon’ble Municipal Commissioner, BMC, Dr. Amit Saini (IAS), Hon’ble Additional Commissioner, BMC, Dr Prachi Jambhekar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Education), BMC, and Mr Vasant Gadhavi, Executive Director of Adani Foundation, among other distinguished guests. BMC officials, members of the Adani Foundation and Adani Electricity, students, teachers, and Utthan Sahayaks were also present on the occasion.

The event saw the launch of a coffee table book showcasing the journey and achievements of Project Utthan. As part of the celebration, a slew of cultural and interschool competitions such as elocution, essay-writing, drawing, and creating best out of waste were organized for BMC school students. Interactive and fun competitions were also organized for teachers and parents alike, including healthy tiffin making, dance and rangoli competitions.

Speaking at annual Utthan Utsav in Mumbai, an Adani Electricity spokesperson said, "Adani Electricity is committed to the holistic development of the communities we serve. The Utthan project is a testament to our dedication to empowering young minds and creating a brighter future for Mumbai. We are proud of the transformative impact this initiative has had on thousands of students."

Key Achievements of Utthan

+Improved Numeracy & Literacy: Outcome Assessment Reports indicate up to 98% proficiency in numeracy and 90% or more in reading and writing among Utthan students.

± High Satisfaction: 99.31% of students rated Project Utthan as ‘Good’ or ‘Better’. 

+ Reading Culture: Over 80 Reading Corners established, with more than 12,800 books in English, Hindi, and Marathi.

+ Vision Care: Free eye check-ups and corrective glasses provided through the Adani Foundation’s Vision Care program, enhancing the vision of students.

+ Parental Engagement: Over 50,000 mothers engaged in various competitions and activities; more than 3,000 mothers’ meets organized; over 1,000 home visits by Sahayaks.

+ Teachers’ Empowerment: Regular training sessions conducted for teachers, in alignment with National Education Policy 2020.

The project’s success is driven by its tailored curriculum, effective teaching-learning materials (TLM), Building as Learning Aid (BaLA) designs, and a strong focus on cultivating a reading culture.

Nidhi Adsure, a student of class 6 at Chembur Naka Marathi BMC school, said “Through interactive teaching methods, activity-based learning, and digital resources, we have started enjoying subjects like language and mathematics more.”

Mrs Jayshree Chavan, Principal of Marvali Marathi BMC School, said, “Thanks to Project Utthan, quality education is reaching students belonging to the most underserved communities, transforming our schools into spaces of opportunity and hope. We are grateful for the support, which is shaping our students’ future and giving them confidence to dream big."

Recently Adani Electricity and Adani Foundation, in partnership with the BMC, distributed 20,000 scholarship preparation books to 5,541 students and provided 12,000 library books to 82 BMC schools, reaching 25,000 students.

Crizac Limited gets Sebi Nod for Rs 1,000 cr IPO

Kolkata-based Leading Student Recruitment Solution Provider, Crizac Limited, offering international student recruitment solutions to global institutions of higher education in the United Kingdom, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand (ANZ), has received final observation from the capital markets regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), to raise funds through an initial public offering (IPO).

The Company had refiled its IPO papers with Sebi on November 18, 2024.

The IPO, with a face value of Rs 2 per equity share, is entirely an offer for sale of up to Rs 1,000 crore by the promoter selling shareholders.

The offer for sale consists of the sale of equity shares of up to Rs 841 crore by Pinky Agarwal and up to Rs 159 crore by Manish Agarwal. The offer includes a reservation for subscription by eligible employees.

The offer is being made through the book-building process, wherein not more than 50% of the net offer shall be available for allocation on a proportionate basis to qualified institutional buyers, not less than 15% of the net offer shall be available for allocation to non-institutional investors, and not less than 35% of the net offer shall be available for allocation to retail individual investors.

Crizac Limited is a B2B education platforms for agents and global institutions of higher education offering international student recruitment solutions to global institutions of higher education in United Kingdom, Canada, Republic of Ireland, Australia and New Zealand (ANZ).

During the six months ending September 30, 2023, and in the last three fiscal years, Crizac Limited facilitated enrollment applications from over 75 countries through its registered agents on its technology platform. 

It processed more than 5.95 lakh student applications and collaborated with over 135 global universities. As of September 30, 2024, the company had over 7900 registered agents globally, including 2,532 active agents in Fiscal 2024, with a significant presence in India and various countries like the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Vietnam, Canada, and Egypt.

With a base in India. It also has co-primary operations in London, United Kingdom. In addition to extensive operations and employees in India, it has consultants in multiple countries including Cameroon, China, Ghana, and Kenya. 

The company collaborates with prestigious institutions such as the University of Birmingham, University of Surrey, University of Sunderland, Nottingham Trent University, University of Greenwich, University of West London, University of Portsmouth, De Montfort University, Glasgow Caledonian University, Aston University, University of Dundee, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Coventry University, and Swansea University.

Equirus Capital Private Limited and Anand Rathi Advisors Limited are the book-running lead managers, and Link Intime India Private Limited is the registrar of the issue.

Feel the Rhythm of Be Happy! Prime Video Unveils a Captivating Music Album of Be Happy, Featuring Vocals by Shankar Mahadevan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Kailash Kher, Vishal Dadlani, and More

Released under the label of T-Series, the music album is composed by the very talented Harsh Upadhyay, and it features twelve original tracks, voiced by singing maestros like Sunidhi Chauhan, Mika Singh, Shankar Mahadevan, Kailash Kher, Vishal Dadlani, and Sukriti Bhardwaj, among others

 The entire music album is now available on Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, JioSaavn, and all major music streaming platforms

Directed by Remo D’Souza and produced by Lizelle Remo D'Souza, under the banner of Remo Dsouza Entertainment Pvt Ltd, this family entertainer stars a powerhouse cast featuring Abhishek Bachchan, Nora Fatehi, Nassar, Inayat Verma in pivotal roles, with Johny Lever and Harleen Sethi in supporting roles

Be Happy is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on March 14

 Jukebox Link: https://youtu.be/6q2rxrShBYo?si=rq1rWfzT29pzMk80 

 *MUMBAI, India — March 12, 2025 — Prime Video,* India’s most loved entertainment destination, today unveiled the mesmerizing music album of its highly anticipated Original movie, Be Happy. Released under the T-Series label, the album features an electrifying lineup of twelve original tracks, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa and compositions by the exceptionally talented Harsh Upadhyay. Elevating the musical experience are powerhouse voices, including Sunidhi Chauhan, Mika Singh, Shankar Mahadevan, Kailash Kher, Vishal Dadlani, and Sukriti Bhardwaj, among others. Now streaming on Amazon Music, Spotify, JioSaavn, Apple Music, and all major platforms, the Be Happy album is set to strike a chord with listeners worldwide.

Rooted in the heartwarming journey of the father-daughter duo Shiv (Abhishek Bachchan) and Dhara (Inayat Verma), the Be Happy music album is a soul-stirring reflection of love, dreams, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of happiness. Each track mirrors the highs and lows of their bond—capturing Dhara’s infectious passion for dance, Shiv’s quiet resilience as a single father, and the unbreakable thread of hope that ties them together. From the electrifying energy of Superstar to the deeply emotional Praan Pita Ka and the joyous spirit of Mazza Hi Mazza, the album seamlessly weaves every emotion, making it an unforgettable musical experience.

Sharing his experience of composing all twelve tracks, music composer Harsh Upadhyay said, “Music is the heartbeat of any film, and we wish to be on everyone’s playlist on loop with the album of Be Happy. It is a reflection of Shiv and Dhara’s journey – their dreams, their struggles, and the fire that keeps them going. Be it Superstar or Mere Papa, Sultana or Praan Pita Ka, each track tells a story within the story. It was nothing short of a dream come true to work with such prolific artists for bringing this vision to life. A heartfelt thanks to Remo sir for believing in me—it’s his trust and guidance that made this journey even more special. I’m beyond excited for audiences to experience the emotional depth woven into every melody.”

Speaking about Praan Pita Ka, Kailash Kher said, “This song is special because it speaks of a love that is often unspoken—a father’s sacrifices, his silent strength, and the deep emotions he carries within. Shiv’s journey as a father in Be Happy is something so many will relate to, and Praan Pita Ka beautifully captures that essence. The lyrics, the melody, everything about this song moved me deeply. I hope it reaches the hearts of people and makes them cherish the bonds that truly matter.”

Vishal Dadlani, who lends his dynamic vocals to Raja, shared his excitement, saying, "The song has a deep sense of emotion, resilience, and belief, which I felt strongly while singing it. Raja's composition is powerful yet soulful, and I think it will connect with people in different ways. It’s a song that stays with you, and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”

Lyricist Sukriti Bhardwaj, who also provides vocals to Mazza hi Mazza and Dream, highlighted, “Working on the Be Happy album has been an incredibly special experience. Songs like Mazza hi Mazza remind us to embrace the simple joys of life, while Dream is about holding on to that one hope that keeps us going, no matter how tough the road gets. These songs feel personal, we have all faced doubts but found strength in our passion. Be Happy is about finding joy in the journey, and I believe it will truly resonate with the listeners.” 

Check out the entire tracklist below:

● Sultana is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, and the rap by Nora Fatehi and Mika Singh, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa, Harsh Upadhyay, and Sukriti Bhardwaj

● Raja is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Vishal Dadlani and Jatinder Singh, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa

● Devi Aayi is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Shankar Mahadevan, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa, Sukriti Bharadwaj, and Harsh Upadhyay

● Superstar is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Mika Singh, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa and Sukriti Bharadwaj

● Mazza hi Mazza is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Sukriti Bhardwaj, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa, Sukriti Bharadwaj, and Harsh Upadhyay

● Praan Pita Ka is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Kailash Kher, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa

● Superstar (Kids Version) is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Mika Singh, Palakshi Dixit, Pratyush Anand, Atharv Bakshi, Vishwaja Jadhav, and Anshika S Chonkar, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa and Sukriti Bharadwaj

● Mere Papa is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Senjuti Das and Jatinder Singh, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa

● Be Happy Poem is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Abhay Harpale, with lyrics by Harsh Upadhyay and Pranav Vatsa

● Dream is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Sukriti Bhardwaj with lyrics by Harsh Upadhyay and Sukriti Bharadwaj

● I Got The Moves is composed by Harsh Upadhyay

● Sultana (Remix) is composed by Harsh Upadhyay, sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, and the rap by Nora Fatehi and Mika Singh, with lyrics by Pranav Vatsa, Harsh Upadhyay, and Sukriti Bhardwaj

Directed by Remo D’Souza and produced by Lizelle Remo D’Souza, under the banner of Remo D’Souza Entertainment, Be Happy stars a highly talented and versatile cast, featuring Abhishek Bachchan, Nora Fatehi, Nassar, and Inayat Verma in pivotal roles, with Johny Lever and Harleen Sethi in supporting roles. The Original film is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on March 14, with dubs available in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada languages.

Wow! Momo Disrupts FMCG Cup Noodles Market with 'Desi-Asian Flavours' – A First in India

 

• Wow! Noodles Set to launch 5 Desi Asian range of Cup Noodles in vegetarian and non-vegetarian flavours;  right from Thukpa from Tibet, Khao Suey from Burma, Korean Noodles, Manchurian & Chilli Chicken & India’s most loved Chinese bhel

• To be available across all quick com and online channels and along with all leading MTs across 200+ Towns and Cities

• Aims to hit annual 100 Cr business within 24 months 

India, 12, March 2025: Wow! Momo, the country's leading QSR brand, has made a bold entry into the FMCG Cup Noodles segment with the launch of Wow! Noodles – a first-of-its-kind range of Desi-Asian Flavours, revolutionizing the instant noodles market. With a unique blend of authentic and wholesome flavors, Wow! Noodles is designed for the modern Indian consumer who craves convenient yet delicious meals anytime, anywhere.

The innovative range features a fusion of iconic Asian and Indian flavors, including Thukpa, Khao Suey, Manchurian, Korean, and Chinese Bhel, ensuring a flavourful experience like never before. With a growing focus on instant, high-quality, and restaurant-style meals, Wow! Noodles delivers an authentic taste experience in just five minutes.

Expanding Nationwide with Omnichannel Availability Wow! Noodles has already made its mark across leading Quick Commerce platforms such as Instamart, Zepto, Blinkit, BigBasket, Flipkart Minutes, and D Mart Ready, along with Modern Trade giants like Reliance, More Retail, Spencer’s, Spar, and Ratnadeep, among others. Additionally, the brand has established a robust presence in 10,000+ general trade stores across 200+ towns and cities.

Further solidifying its footprint, Wow! Noodles is also soaring high at 35,000 feet, making its way into inflight menus of Akasa Air, Air India Express, and Spice Jet. The response from travellers has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the product’s appeal across a wide consumer base.

Sagar Daryani, Group CEO & Founder, Wow! Momo, expressed his excitement about the launch:

“At Wow! Momo Foods, innovation is in our DNA. With Wow! Noodles, we are disrupting the cup noodles category by bringing the perfect blend of desi and Asian flavors in a format that is both convenient and exciting. As we continue to expand our FMCG footprint, this launch marks a significant step towards making Wow! Momo a household name beyond QSR.”

Mithun Appaiah, CEO, Wow! FMCG, added:

“We are leveraging the strong brand equity of Wow! Momo to make Wow! Noodles a household favourite. With our focus on product innovation and strategic channel expansion, we are confident about an exciting year ahead—bringing new Flavors, scaling our distribution reach, and disrupting the FMCG space.”

As Wow! Momo continues to innovate and expand its FMCG portfolio, Wow! Noodles is set to redefine instant meals with wholesome, authentic, and delicious flavors – anytime, anywhere. Wow! FMCG was launched about 24 months ago with packaged momos which has disrupted the category to become one of the top selling brands across key channels in a very short duration. With 16 skus in Momos & now with 9 SKUs of cup noodles its available across 200+ towns and cities in more than 10k stores and distribution points. The division is already at a 60 Cr (ARR) within a short duration of launching its range. Recently Wow! Momo FMCG division launched their range across the Middle East market with the Lulu group which takes them international