Archives March 2024

BENGALURU, India, March 11, 2024 – CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRWD), a global cybersecurity leader that provides cloud-delivered protection of endpoints, cloud workloads, identity and data, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year 2024, ended January 31, 2024.

“CrowdStrike delivered an exceptionally strong and record fourth quarter with net new ARR growth accelerating to 27% year-over-year, reaching a new high of $282 million and ending ARR growing 34% year-over-year to reach $3.44 billion,” said George Kurtz, CrowdStrike’s president, chief executive officer and co-founder. “Customers favor our single platform approach, standardizing on CrowdStrike for cloud security, identity protection, and LogScale next-gen SIEM solutions, together representing more than $850 million of ending ARR. CrowdStrike is cybersecurity’s consolidator of choice, innovator of choice, and platform of choice to stop breaches.”

Commenting on the company’s financial results, Burt Podbere, CrowdStrike’s chief financial officer, added, “Highlights of the fiscal year included, ending ARR growing 34%, four consecutive quarters of GAAP net income, 104% non-GAAP net income growth and free cash flow margin of 31%, exceeding our target for the year. Our achievements in fiscal 2024 represent another high-water mark for CrowdStrike and we remain relentlessly focused on profitably scaling the business to $10 billion ARR and beyond.”

Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2024 Financial Highlights

· Revenue: Total revenue was $845.3 million, a 33% increase, compared to $637.4 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Subscription revenue was $795.9 million, a 33% increase, compared to $598.3 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

· Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) increased 34% year-over-year and grew to $3.44 billion as of January 31, 2024, of which $281.9 million was net new ARR added in the quarter.

· Subscription Gross Margin: GAAP subscription gross margin was 78%, compared to 75% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP subscription gross margin was 80%, compared to 77% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

· Income/Loss from Operations: GAAP income from operations was $29.7 million, compared to a loss of $61.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP income from operations was $213.1 million, compared to $95.6 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

· Net Income/Loss Attributable to CrowdStrike: GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike was $53.7 million, compared to a loss of $47.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. GAAP net income per share attributable to CrowdStrike, diluted was $0.22, compared to a loss of $0.20 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike was $236.2 million, compared to $111.6 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike per share, diluted, was $0.95, compared to $0.47 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

· Cash Flow: Net cash generated from operations was $347.0 million, compared to $273.3 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023. Free cash flow was $283.0 million, compared to $209.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023.

· Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments was $3.47 billion as of January 31, 2024.

Full Year Fiscal 2024 Financial Highlights

· Revenue: Total revenue was $3.06 billion, a 36% increase, compared to $2.24 billion in fiscal 2023. Subscription revenue was $2.87 billion, a 36% increase, compared to $2.11 billion in fiscal 2023.

· Subscription Gross Margin: GAAP subscription gross margin was 78% in fiscal 2024, compared to 76% in fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP subscription gross margin was 80%, compared to 78% in fiscal 2023.

· Income/Loss from Operations: GAAP loss from operations was $2.0 million, compared to a loss of $190.1 million in fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP income from operations was $660.3 million, compared to $355.6 million in fiscal 2023.

· Net Income/Loss Attributable to CrowdStrike: GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike was $89.3 million, compared to a loss of $183.2 million in fiscal 2023. GAAP net income per share attributable to CrowdStrike, diluted, was $0.37, compared to a loss of $0.79 in fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike was $751.8 million, compared to $368.4 million in fiscal 2023. Non-GAAP net income attributable to CrowdStrike per share, diluted, was $3.09, compared to $1.54 in fiscal 2023.

· Cash Flow: Net cash generated from operations was $1,166.2 million, compared to $941.0 million in fiscal 2023. Free cash flow was $938.2 million, compared to $676.8 million in fiscal 2023.

Recent Highlights

· CrowdStrike’s module adoption rates were 64%, 43% and 27% for five or more, six or more, and seven or more modules, respectively, as of January 31, 20241.

· Named a Leader in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms, positioned furthest for Completeness of Vision for the fourth consecutive time and highest for Ability to Execute among 15 vendors evaluated in the report2.

· Recognized as Overall Customers’ Choice in 2024 Gartner Peer Insights™ Voice of the Customer for Vulnerability Assessment Report3.

· Received the highest score of all vendors in the Strategy category and highest scores possible in the Vision and Innovation criteria in The Forrester Wave™: Cloud Workload Security, Q1 2024 report4 and named a leader in The Forrester Wave™: Managed Detection And Response Services In Europe, Q4 2023 report4.

· Agreed to acquire Flow Security, the industry’s first and only cloud data runtime security solution.

· Expanded strategic partnership to deliver Dell’s Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services with the industry-leading AI-native CrowdStrike Falcon® XDR platform.

· Announced the general availability of CrowdStrike Falcon Data Protection, Charlotte AI and Falcon for IT.

· Released the 2024 CrowdStrike Global Threat Report, which highlighted a surge in adversaries leveraging stolen identity credentials.

· Completed the IRAP and TISAX assessments, the latest in a series of certifications of governments and industry associations around the world that expand access and accelerate the adoption of the AI-native CrowdStrike Falcon platform.

· Announced that Optiv, the cyber advisory and solutions leader, surpassed the $1 billion milestone in sales of CrowdStrike’s AI-native Falcon platform.

· Ranked #3 in 2023 Fortune Future 50 List.

New Delhi, India, 11th March 2024 – Dentium, a world-class manufacturer of premium dental implant systems, is proud to announce its leadership position in empowering dentistry worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Dentium has emerged as a global leader in providing top-tier dental implant solutions to clinicians in over 80 countries.

Established in June 2000 by dentists and experts with extensive clinical experience, Dentium Co., Ltd. specializes in manufacturing dental medical devices, particularly implant products. Since its inception, Dentium has set new benchmarks for quality and reliability in the dental implant industry.

Dentium’s dedication to quality is evident through its certifications, including the prestigious European CE certification in 2003 and approval from the U.S. FDA in 2004. The company’s products meet GMP standards and are recognized for their stability and excellence across numerous countries, spanning Europe, China, Russia, the Middle East, Asia, and Central and South America.

Driven by the ‘Total Solution Provider & Self Development Manufacturer’ motto,’ Dentium has invested in differentiated technological capabilities through its robust research and development efforts. In 2020, Dentium proudly entered the global top 6, offering the highest quality dental implants, biomaterials, and digital medical devices. Dentium’s integrated implant system underscores its commitment to providing comprehensive solutions to dental professionals worldwide.

While talking about the company Mr. Juhwan Yun, General Manager of, the Sales Department expressed his gratitude by saying “As a company founded by dentists and experts with extensive clinical experience, Dentium is driven by a passion for excellence and a commitment to advancing the field of dentistry worldwide. Our dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction remains unwavering as we continue to redefine global standards in dental implant systems.”

As Dentium continues to redefine global standards in dental implant systems, the company remains dedicated to advancing the field of dentistry through innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

11th March Mumbai: Club Mahindra, the flagship brand of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited, which recently launched “Junior Rising Stars”– a platform that encourages kids to display their skills, in a nationwide contest, has collaborated with the popular Bollywood casting director Mukesh Chhabra to adjudge the talent of the kids participating in the contest. This initiative encourages kids to unleash their creativity in categories such as dancing, acting, and singing by uploading under-60- second videos on the microsite.

Mukesh Chhabra will evaluate and select the top 3 winners who also stand a chance to be part of a movie or OTT series. This unique contest also offers multiple prizes such as a Trip to Dubai to the Top 3 Winners in each category. Further, the top 3 in each category will stand a chance to showcase their skills to Mukesh Chhabra in an on-ground contest. Also, the top 25 winners will stand a chance to win Domestic Holiday vouchers from Club Mahindra.

Young participants can join the competition by sharing videos on their individual social media profiles, tagging Club Mahindra, and providing the corresponding link on the designated microsite. The contest went live in February and will continue to accept entries until April 2024.

Mr. Pratik Mazumder, Chief Marketing Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited, said, “This initiative is all about celebrating family bonds and encouraging the diverse talents of our younger generation. Mukesh Chhabra’s involvement adds a unique dimension, offering winners a chance to step into the entertainment industry. We believe that our endeavour will provide a memorable and enriching experience for the participating kids and their families. We look forward to experiencing the magic that unfolds as families come together to encourage their talented kids.”

Mukesh Chhabra shared his views on this initiative saying, “I am delighted to be a part of  Club Mahindra’s Junior Rising Star campaign. Recognizing and nurturing young talent creates a foundation of a world of limitless opportunities for the young brigade. I look forward to evaluating the incredible talent that this contest will present and providing a platform for showcasing their skills. It extends much beyond competition into an opportunity for these artists to shine in the world of entertainment.”

Club Mahindra, recognized for creating magical family holiday experiences, emphasizes children as an integral part of family. It acknowledges the significance of active family involvement in appreciating children’s talents. Moreover, the brand seeks to establish a platform where all generations boost the development of diverse skills and interests in children.

Bengaluru, 11 March 2024: Vedanta’s BALCO Medical Centre (BMC), an emerging leader in India’s oncology space, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian co-researchers in a team to receive the prestigious Cancer Grand Challenges Award. This recognition, with a substantial $25 million grant for cancer research, underscores BMC’s position as a pioneering institution in India’s oncology landscape. The recipient team PROSPECT, comprising of clinicians, advocates, and scientists from BALCO Medical Centre and other esteemed institutions around the world, will be addressing the critical issue of early-onset cancers challenge.

Ms. Jyoti Agarwal, Chairperson, Vedanta Medical Research Foundation, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are honoured to have been chosen for this prestigious award, which significantly advances the battle against cancer. Over the past six years, at BMC, our leaders, employees, and stakeholders have worked tirelessly to ensure that we have access to the best technologies, and that our patients and communities feel safe and confident. With this support from Cancer Grand Challenges, our efforts are not only continued but also strengthened. With collaborative efforts, I am confident that we can positively contribute to the overall healthcare landscape.”

Team PROSPECT is one of five global teams being funded this year by Cancer Grand Challenges, which was founded in 2020 by Cancer Research UK and the National Cancer Institute US, to invite diverse world-class research teams to come together, think differently and take on some of cancer’s toughest challenges. The teams will be funded by Cancer Research UK, the National Cancer Institute, the Bowelbabe Fund for Cancer Research UK and Institute National Du Cancer through Cancer Grand Challenges with a total investment of $125m to tackle some of the toughest challenges in cancer research.

“Together with our network of visionary partners and research leaders, Cancer Grand Challenges unites the world’s brightest minds across boundaries and disciplines and aims to overcome cancer’s toughest problems,” said Dr. David Scott, Director of Cancer Grand Challenges. “With this investment, our largest to date, we continue to grow our global research community, and fund new teams that have the potential to surface discoveries that could positively impact cancer outcomes.”

Vedanta’s BALCO Medical Centre, a state-of-the-art tertiary care Oncology facility in Central India, has been at the forefront of cancer care, providing multidisciplinary treatment and support. The institution is recognized as a referral centre for advanced radiation therapy, brachytherapy, nuclear medicine, surgeries, chemotherapy, and many more. Since inception in March 2018, BMC has treated more than 37,000 patients. Additionally, the institution has received many certifications and accreditations including LEED certification, NABH, FSSAI, NABL, Nursing Excellence, CAHO certifications. This significant grant underscores BMC’s commitment to pioneering research and delivering innovative solutions to address critical healthcare challenges in India.

Dr. Bhawna Sirohi, Medical Director at Vedanta Medical Research Foundation (BALCO Medical Centre) and the lead principal investigator for PROSPECT-India study, says “The worrisome increase in colorectal cancers stresses the importance of early detection and lifestyle choices for prevention. There’s a dire need for cancer screening in high-risk areas to facilitate early diagnosis and prompt treatment, especially with the shifting demographics towards a younger population. This grant will speed up global cancer research, focusing on understanding the reasons behind the rise in early-onset colorectal cancer and strategies for prevention”.

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is an important emerging global problem among individuals younger than 50 years. Team PROSPECT aims to address this by understanding the pathways, risk factors and molecules involved in its development. The team’s vision is to understand and ultimately try to reverse the network of causal factors throughout the life course that disrupts normal biological processes to promote EOCRC. The team will employ a disruptive, transdisciplinary approach spanning cells, individuals and populations to uncover the mechanisms linking lifetime exposures to early-onset colorectal cancer, and test new strategies to combat this cancer type.

Currently, Cancer Grand Challenges brings together 1,200 researchers and 16 teams from across the world to take on 13 challenges. The spirit of giving back is part of the Vedanta’s core values. This achievement brings the company closer to fulfilling the vision of contributing to the community and making a lasting impact on society.

Varanasi; March 11, 2024: – Odysse Electric Vehicles, India’s fastest-growing premium electric vehicle manufacturer, announces the grand launch of its first dealership in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone for Odysse Electric as it continues to revolutionize the electric mobility landscape across the country.

Odysse Electric’s inaugural showroom in Varanasi is located at Lahartara Manduadih Road, Near the Petrol Pump. With the launch of this dealership, the brand aims to cater to the growing demand for green and eco-friendly mobility solutions in Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India. The city, known for its rich cultural heritage and sacred significance, will now be at the forefront of embracing clean and green transportation options.

Spread across 600 square feet, the brand’s first dealership in Varanasi provides a welcoming ambiance for customers to immerse themselves in the world of Odysse Electric. With a diverse range of electric two-wheelers designed and manufactured in India for urban commuting, Odysse Electric offers a compelling alternative to traditional fuel-driven vehicles. The dealership in Varanasi will showcase the latest models of the brand, including the highly acclaimed E2go, V2, Hawk, Evoqis and the recently launched Vader, each delivering an exceptional combination of performance, style, and sustainability.

Expressing enthusiasm about the brand’s expansion in Varanasi, Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are delighted to launch Odysse Electric in Varanasi, a city deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. This marks a strong stride in our endeavour of democratizing clean, green, and sustainable mobility. Our range of products offers a modern and sustainable mode of transportation, aligning seamlessly with the city’s commitment to a cleaner and greener environment. Currently, we are present in 50+ cities and the plans are to further expand our reach and footprint across the country.”

Odysse Electric offers one of the largest product portfolios, comprising 7 models which includes 2 low-speed scooters, 1 high-speed scooter, a delivery scooter targeted to B2B segment, an EV sport bike, and a commuter bike for daily users. These product range which now also offer an extended warranty on its battery upto 5 years, includes: –

• Electric motorcycle VADER (with 7” Android display, IOT, four drive modes, 18-liters storage space, Google Map Navigation)
• Electric bike EVOQIS (with four drive modes, keyless entry, anti-theft lock and motor cut- off switch)
• Electric scooter HAWK+ and Hawk Lite (India’s first electric scooter with cruise control & Music system)
• E2Go, E2go+, E2go PRO and E2GO Graphene (electric scooter with portable battery, USB charging, digital speedometer and keyless entry)
• Electric scooter V2 and V2+ (waterproof motor, huge boot space, dual battery and led lights)
• Electric scooter TROT for last-mile delivery (Loading capacity of 250 kgs and IoT)

Established in 2020, Odysse Electric is at the forefront of reshaping India’s electric vehicle landscape. Renowned for its eco-friendly and technologically advanced electric two wheelers, Odysse Electric continues to garner acclaim for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. In addition to expanding its retail footprint, the brand is also actively seeking dealership opportunities throughout Uttar Pradesh.

11th March, 2024, Bengaluru: The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) has successfully concluded its inaugural EdTech Trade Mission to India 2024, which took place from 26 February to 1 March 2024. This ground-breaking initiative was designed to tap into India’s rapidly expanding online education market and to foster partnerships that enhance collaboration between Australia and India.

The mission provided a dynamic platform for Australian EdTech companies, universities, and training organisations to deepen their understanding of the Indian online education landscape and the EdTech ecosystem. By engaging with key stakeholders, potential collaborators, investors and clients, the mission facilitated meaningful discussions and networking opportunities.

A highlight of the mission was the participation in the India Digital Summit 2024 (IDS) held in Mumbai on 27 and 28 February 2024, which offered Australian delegates invaluable networking opportunities. 15 delegates from 5 Australian EdTech organisations and 3 Australian Universities joined the mission’s itinerary which included visits to Mumbai and Bengaluru. These cities were chosen for their vibrant ecosystems and as a representative of the opportunities available for Australian entities looking to expand into the Indian market.

Dr Monica Kennedy, Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner at Austrade, commented: “The Australian EdTech Trade Mission to India 2024 was a resounding success, creating a unique platform for Australian companies to explore the Indian market and establish connections. The engagement and partnerships formed during this mission are testament to the synergies between the Australian and Indian EdTech sectors.”

The EdTech Trade Mission 2024 has laid a solid foundation for future collaboration between Australian and Indian EdTech innovators. As demand for innovative educational solutions continues to rise in India, Australian EdTech firms are well- positioned to meet this demand. Austrade remains committed to supporting Australian companies in navigating the Indian market and seizing the opportunities for growth and collaboration that lie ahead.

Mrs. Jeyalakshmi’s desire of an extraordinary birthing experience led her on a transformative journey, ultimately culminating in Bengaluru under the compassionate care of Dr. Shailaja N, Obstetrics Gynecologist at the Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru. Rainbow Children’s Hospital has once again demonstrated its expertise in providing world-class obstetrics and gynecology care by successfully delivering a baby through a unique and innovative procedure called Lotus Water Birthing. The expectant mother’s choice of adapting this natural procedure signifies a shift from the conventional child-birth practices to a growing demand for alternative birthing options rooted in holistic care and natural processes.

After several on-going consultations with numerous healthcare professionals, Mrs. Jeyalakshmi landed at the Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Bengaluru, drawn by the reputation of Dr. Shailaja N and herexpertise in Lotus-Water Birthing. Under Dr. Shailaja’s purview, Mrs. Jeyalakshmi gained insights about the benefits of this birthing method, specifically its effectiveness in managing pain during labor and  delivery.

Dr. Shailaja N,  Gynecologist at the Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru said, “This is a moment of pure joy as we all could successfully deliver a healthy baby embracing this newer natural birthing method. Mrs. Jeyalakshmi was filled with anticipation to experience this process, but under the guidance of our entire team she has undergone a seamless procedure with zero conventional obstetric interventions. The absence of surgical procedures was complemented by the incorporation of both Lotus and underwater delivery techniques, empowering this process even more”.

Central to the philosophy of Lotus Water Birthing is the preservation of the natural connection between the expectant mother and the baby. Hence the delivery involved: retention of the placenta and no immediate umbilical cord cutting. Instead, both the baby and the placenta were gently delivered and entrusted in the hands of a pediatrician. This unique practice allowed the natural detachment of the placenta within 5-15 days’ post-birth, emphasizing the gentle and non-invasive nature of this birthing procedure.

As the demand for several other birthing methods continue to grow, birthing stories like Mrs. Jeyalakshmi’s will serve as a testimony focusing on the importance of embracing personalized care meeting the diverse needs and preferences of expectant mothers.

New Delhi, 11-03-2024 — Mufin Green Finance proudly announces the raising of a significant debt totalling USD 5 million from BlueOrchard, a trailblazer in impact investment with an unparalleled 20+ year legacy. This strategic partnership marks a pivotal moment for Mufin Green Finance and underscores its commitment to advancing sustainability initiatives in the global financial landscape.

BlueOrchard, renowned for its extensive impact investment experience and a remarkable track record, boasts a global outreach impacting over 280 million individuals worldwide. As the largest commercial microfinance fund globally, BlueOrchard brings unparalleled expertise and resources to the table, aligning seamlessly with Mufin Green Finance’s mission to foster positive environmental change.

The sanctioned USD 5 million investment will empower Mufin Green Finance to propel its initiatives in the Green and Energy space, driving innovation, and facilitating sustainable development. Leveraging BlueOrchard’s extensive network and expertise, Mufin Green Finance aims to spearhead transformative projects that mitigate environmental degradation while fostering economic growth.

“We are thrilled to forge this strategic partnership with BlueOrchard, a recognized leader in impact investment,” said Mr. Kapil Garg, MD at Mufin Green Finance. “This significant investment underscores our shared commitment to drive sustainable change and underscores our resolve to catalyze positive environmental impact globally. Together with BlueOrchard, we are poised to unlock new opportunities and drive innovation in the Green and Energy space.”

As the world grapples with pressing environmental challenges, Mufin Green Finance remains steadfast in its dedication to championing sustainable finance solutions. Through collaboration with esteemed partners like BlueOrchard, Mufin Green Finance aims to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Mumbai, 11 March, 2024: Bata India announced the launch of its 500th Franchise store in India, marking a landmark achievement in the footwear retail industry. To announce this milestone and extend gratitude to its trusted partners pan India, Bata unveiled a larger-than-life CGI OOH celebrating ‘Bata 500 Franchise Store Family in India.

With the inauguration of the 500th Franchise store in Bangalore, Bata India’s retail footprint expands to 2,150+ stores nationwide, comprising a diverse mix of Company-Owned Company-Operated (COCO), Franchise stores and Shop-in-Shop (SIS) stores.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Abhinav Sharan, Head- Franchise Business, Bata India Limited said, “We are immensely grateful for the continued trust and unwavering support of our Franchise partners who have been instrumental in our journey to reach this milestone. The inauguration of our 500th Franchise Store reaffirms Bata’s deep-rooted commitment to India and strengthens our resolve to nurture leaders of tomorrow. Together with our valued partners, we will continue this expansion journey to ensure that Bata’s quality and style are accessible to customers in every corner of the country.”

Bata’s Franchise model has played an integral role in its expansion strategy, serving as a pivotal engine driving growth and accessibility across diverse regions of India. Its dynamic approach has enabled the brand to penetrate deeper into untapped markets while fostering entrepreneurship opportunities for local partners. The success of the program is validated by the high return rate of Franchise partners who have opened and continue to open multiple stores with Bata.

Hamirpur, March 11, 2024: Nestled in the heart of Darla Panchayat, against the picturesque backdrop of Hamirpur’s serene landscapes, a self-help group comprising ten determined women is crafting a narrative of empowerment and entrepreneurship. Adi Shiv Dham Swayam Sahayata Samooh stands as a testament to women’s empowerment and community development through culinary entrepreneurship, driven by their unwavering resolve to seize opportunities and shape their own destinies.

Established in January 2023, Adi Shiv Dham Swayam Sahayata Samooh embarked on a culinary odyssey steeped in tradition and innovation. Specializing in the production of nutritious food items and snacks, the group’s endeavours span the creation of millet-based delicacies such as Ragi Laddoos and Ragi Churma, alongside an array of mouthwatering healthy snacks including Soya Badiya, Atta Momos, Vegetable Noodles, Biscuits, and Achaar.

However, their journey was not without its share of challenges. Initially met with scepticism due to societal norms and the lack of support and guidance, the women persevered with the assistance of the Anil Agarwal Foundation. Through Project Nand Ghar, an initiative transforming conventional Anganwadis into modern centres for Women & Child Development, they found a lifeline. Under Nand Ghar’s guidance, facilitated by workshops conducted by the Institute of Hotel Management, the women honed essential culinary skills and nutritional knowledge, paving the way for their entrepreneurial venture.

With newfound expertise, they established a weekly stall in their block, showcasing their products and generating income for themselves and their families. Their dedication to quality and nutrition earned them recognition within the community, alongside FCCAI certification to uphold stringent quality and safety standards. Their entrepreneurial spirit reached new heights as they represented Hamirpur District at prestigious events such as the Himachal Saras Mela in Chandigarh and the Vedanta Culture Festival at Dilli Haat in the national capital. Here, they showcased their culinary creations, garnering acclaim and income, selling out within days. With Nand Ghar’s support they also collaborated with the Integrated Child Development Services department, to supply Ragi Laddoos for pregnant and lactating women in Anganwadi Centres, furthering their economic outlook and creating an impact on maternal and child health.

Sarita Devi, a proud member of the SHG, encapsulates their journey, stating, “AAF & Nand Ghar saw potential in us when others didn’t, and they gave us the tools and confidence to pursue our dreams. I never imagined that our passion for cooking could turn into something so meaningful.” Today, Sarita Devi represents the thousands of women positively impacted by AAF, receiving training, access to credit, and support services through Nand Ghar, fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence. At Nand Ghar, the selection of local trades is based on village profile and local economy. 30 women are trained per batch over a specified period on a rolling basis. Post training, the women are gainfully employed and are supported to make their business plans as required. With a newfound sense of independence and confidence, these women envision a future where they can continue to expand their horizons and contribute even more to their family’s well-being.

In a world where gender equality remains an ongoing struggle, the story of these women serves as a reminder that with perseverance and proper support, women can break barriers, defy expectations, and chart their own path to success. This International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the Sarita Devis of the world and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.