Archives September 2024

Kolkata, 9th September 2024: Odisha made its debut in the internationally recognised Legends League Cricket (LLC) T-20 with the introduction of its own team, Team Konark Suryas Odisha, owned by SANPRIYA Group. This addition marked a significant milestone for the state as it further established itself as a growing hub for sports in India. The league, which brought together cricket legends from across the world, featured Team Konark Suryas Odisha alongside teams such as India Capitals Delhi, Gujarat Giants Gujarat, Manipal Tigers Bengaluru, Urbanrisers Hyderabad and Southern Super Stars Chennai.

The team’s name is inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Konark Sun Temple, symbolising Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The official launch of Team Konark Suryas Odisha took place in Bhubaneswar with Mr. Sanjay Behera, Secretary, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), present to underscore the importance of this event for the state. He emphasised that the introduction of this T-20 franchise team, brought by the SANPRIYA Group, will help boost sports infrastructure in Odisha and provide the state’s youth with greater access to international-level sports opportunities.

The team, captained by Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, features notable players including Ambati Rayudu, Yusuf Pathan, Vinay Kumar, Rajesh Bishnoi, Shahbaz Nadeem, Pravin Tambe, Diwesh Pathania, K P Appanna & Natraj Behera (Odisha) from India and international stars like Ross Taylor from New Zealand, Kevin O’ Brien from Ireland, Ben Laughlin from Australia, Richard Levi from South Africa, Navin Stewart and Fidel Edwards from West Indies and Dilshan Munaweera from Sri Lanka.

Mr. Sanjay Behera, Secretary, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), expressed his optimism and stated, “Konark Suryas Odisha, our new team in the T-20 Legends League Cricket, represents a significant moment for Odisha. This initiative will enhance the state’s soft power and provide our youth with access to world-class sporting infrastructure.” He also highlighted the importance of private-sector investment in building a sports ecosystem and talent development at the grassroots level.

Mr. Sanjeev Srivastva, Chairperson, SANPRIYA Group, announced plans to further develop a Multi Sports Centre of Excellence in Bhubaneswar, which will serve as a training hub for youth athletes and support the growth of sports culture in the region. This centre will be part of the larger Assotech World project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting the state’s development. He stated, “With Legends League Cricket and Team Konark Suryas Odisha, we aim to create new opportunities for the youth of Odisha. Our goal is to nurture talent, provide world-class training facilities and contribute to India’s growing sports ecosystem.”

Ms. Enakshi Priyam, spokesperson for SANPRIYA Group, concluded by highlighting the state’s passion for sports. “Odisha has a deep-rooted love for sports and with Team Konark Suryas Odisha, we are aligning with the government’s vision of creating a sports ecosystem that fosters excellence and opportunity.”

New Delhi, September 09, 2024: Nucleome Informatics, a leading genomics services provider, is proud to announce the launch of its DrSeq IRD panel, a revolutionary genetic test for diagnosing Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs). This test is among the most comprehensive available globally, designed to improve early detection and disease management, especially in individuals with a family history of blindness. IRDs represent a genetically diverse spectrum of disorders that affect the retina, leading to vision impairment or blindness. In India, the prevalence of IRDs ranges from 1 in 350 to 1 in 2000, varying by region and factors such as consanguinity. Accurate diagnosis of these conditions has been challenging due to their clinical and genetic heterogeneity, with over 300 genes associated with IRDs. However, most cases are caused by mutations in 20 key genes.

Nucleome’s DrSeq IRD panel covers an extensive range of IRDs, including:

● Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)
● Cone Dystrophy
● Cone Rod Dystrophy
● Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
● Stargardt’s Disease
● Maclaren Dystrophy
● Congenital Stationary Blindness
● Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy
● Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
● Usher Syndrome
● Choroideremia
● Achromatopsia
● Bestrophinopathy

The DrSeq IRD panel includes 850 genes and thousands of known and novel variants, providing superior diagnostic accuracy. The test helps identify the genetic mutations responsible for specific IRD types, which is critical for tailoring treatment options, including gene therapy. The significance of genetic testing is growing as gene therapies advance. These tests enable patients to qualify for clinical trials or access targeted treatments tailored to their genetic profiles.

In collaboration with LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), DST (Department of Science and Technology) of the Government of India and Korean partners, including Seoul Eye Hospital, Nucleome Informatics has developed the DrSeq IRD panel by sequencing 300 IRD patients and 200 healthy family members from India. A similar study was conducted using Korean patient samples, further validating the panel’s efficacy across populations. One of the unique aspects of the DrSeq IRD panel is its saliva-based collection method, which eliminates the need for blood samples. Patients can easily provide samples from the comfort of their homes using a saliva collection kit, which will be analyzed at Nucleome’s state-of-the-art laboratory in Hyderabad.

Mr. Dushyant Singh Baghel, CEO of Nucleome Informatics, announced the launch of this innovative test during his participation in a conference at Stanford University, San Francisco. Mr. Baghel expressed his excitement about making the test available in India and shortly globally. He said, “The DrSeq IRD panel marks a significant step forward in tackling the challenges posed by Inherited Retinal Diseases. With this test, we aim to enhance early detection, improve treatment options, and support gene therapy initiatives worldwide. Nucleome Informatics is actively seeking distribution partners globally, as well as gene therapy companies that are targeting IRDs such as Leber Congenital Amaurosis, Stargardt’s Disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa, and other conditions covered by the DrSeq IRD panel”.

The company extends its gratitude to the Technology Development Board, DST, Government of India, LV Prasad Eye Institute, and Korean counterparts for their support in making this project a reality.

Bengaluru, 9th September 2024: Honda Power Pack Energy India Pvt Ltd (Honda e: Swap) a Subsidiary of Honda Motor Company, Japan and Bhago Mobility an Indian innovator in sustainable transportation solutions have teamed up to provide state-of-the-art Green Fleet Management Services aimed at revolutionizing last-mile delivery solutions for the EV segment. These services incorporate Honda e: Swap’s cutting-edge battery swap technology where discharged batteries can be replaced with fully charged batteries within minutes to enable EV fleets with maximum Uptime Bhago Mobility’s electric cargo vehicles powered by Honda e:Swap’s innovative technology offers quick battery swaps resulting in higher levels of reliability and lower downtime for EV fleets., Bhago Mobility will deploy Honda e:Swap-powered electric vehicles at strategic locations in Bangalore and Delhi. These would be a boon to e-commerce fleets as well as vehicles engaged in passenger mobility.

Bhago Mobility’s dedicated hubs will provide electric cargo vehicles round the clock. These vehicles with swappable battery packs will be stationed within a 10km radius of every metro station, guaranteeing access to reliable, convenient and sustainable mobility services whenever needed, effectively providing a truly green choice for commuting and carrying cargo. With carefully chosen partners, Bhago mobility will launch 100 vehicles within the next few months of 2024 and aims to reach 10,000 vehicle in the next three years by 2028.

“We are excited to mark World EV Day by starting our Honda e:Swap service for Bhago Mobility in Bangalore. This initiative reflects our commitment to providing sustainable, efficient, and cutting-edge solutions for urban mobility. We believe this step will not only enhance the seamless delivery solution, but also contribute significantly to the city’s transition towards a greener future.” said

Mr. Takuya Taniguchi, President and CMD, Honda Power Pack Energy India Pvt ltd. (Honda e:Swap)

“It is an honour to partner with Honda e:Swap in this ground breaking initiative. Our shared vision for sustainable transportation aligns perfectly with our goal to revolutionize fleet management and last-mile delivery in India. With the support of Honda e:Swap’s advanced battery swapping technology, we are confident in delivering superior service to our clients while significantly reducing our carbon footprint,” said Mr. Aditya Goyal, founder of Bhago Mobility.

Apart from fleet operations Bhago mobility’s another forward looking initiative is its upcoming dedicated “Solar-Powered Hub” with 360-Degree Green Operations. the 360-degree green operations is expected to be powered by the Solar powered Hubs. Mr. Goyal said, “We integrate sustainable practices throughout our entire process, ensuring an eco-friendly approach from start to finish. These hubs will not only support our operations but also reflect our dedication to sustainable practices.”

Other key features of the services include –

· Advanced Fleet Tracking and Monitoring: Real-time GPS tracking and data analytics provide comprehensive insights into fleet performance, helping businesses make informed decisions and optimize routes.

· Predictive Maintenance: Using AI-driven algorithms, the system predicts potential maintenance issues before they occur, ensuring vehicles remain operational and reducing downtime.

· Sustainability Focus: Bhago Mobility’s Green Hub integrates electric and hybrid vehicles into fleet operations, reducing carbon footprints and promoting greener practices.

· 24/7 Support and Assistance: A dedicated team of experts is available around the clock to provide support and ensure maximum uptime for all fleet operations.

By introducing these services, Bhago Mobility is not just providing fleet management solutions but is also paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future. Businesses that partner with Bhago Mobility can look forward to reduced costs, improved operational efficiency, and a smaller environmental footprint.

New Delhi, 9th September 2024: Pacific Mall NSP Pitampura hosted ‘The Art Event’, showcasing live paintings by 40 artists who brought Retro Bollywood to life. The mall’s atrium transformed into a vibrant gallery, engaging audiences with a creative array of art.

Each artwork brought the magic of Retro Bollywood to life. The artworks are now available for auction, with proceeds going to NGO Rahi to support underprivileged communities, particularly women and marginalized groups.

Commenting on the success of the event, Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director of Pacific Group, said, “We are delighted to have hosted ‘The Art Event,’ which not only celebrated the incredible talent of local artists but also supported a meaningful cause. Partnering with NGO Rahi allows us to ensure that the funds raised from the auction will make a real difference in the lives of those in need.”

The event was not just a display of artistic mastery but a demonstration of how art can be a powerful tool for community engagement and social change. With the funds raised going to NGO Rahi’s mission of fighting poverty and social injustice, the success of ‘The Art Event’ stands as a promise of Pacific Mall’s commitment to giving back to the community.

New Delhi, September 09th, 2024 – Nomad Pizza, India’s leading pizza company that has become a household name for its appetizing recipes, is proud to present its premiere culinary workshop centre- Nomad Food Academy. The opening of this breakthrough centre comes as part of the company’s larger efforts at launching into culinary education focused on providing budding chefs across India with the knowledge and skills they need to make it big in this field. With a mission to foster local talent and inclusivity, Nomad Food Academy is dedicated to nurturing aspiring food artists from all backgrounds and regions, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to shine.

Offering a transformative 21-day hands-on culinary workshop for an exceptional price , the Academy is meticulously crafted to guide students from basic cooking techniques to advanced culinary arts. Participants will gain invaluable experience through personalised mentorship from master chefs with decades of expertise, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in any professional kitchen. The workshop’s comprehensive approach not only provides rigorous training but also guarantees job placement upon completion of the workshop, leveraging Nomad’s extensive industry connections to secure rewarding positions in leading kitchens across the nation.

“We founded Nomad Food Academy with a clear vision: to democratise culinary education and create real employment opportunities in the food industry. Our goal is to empower anyone with a passion for food to turn that passion into a successful career,” said Amit Ajwani, CEO & Founder of Nomad Pizza. “With our hands-on training, expert mentorship, and guaranteed job placements, we’re not just teaching cooking—we’re changing lives.”

Bangalore, 9th September, 2024: Toniq Retail Brands, a multi-brand fashion accessories company, has acquired Ayesha Accessories™, an award-winning brand known for its in-trend and affordable fashion accessories. This acquisition strengthens Toniq Retail Brands portfolio to 7 distinct brands and expands its retail footprint to 140 store-in-store (SIS) formats in Lifestyle and Shoppers Stop outlets. It also enhances its digital presence on major e-commerce platforms like Myntra, Nykaa Fashion, and Tata Cliq.

Founded in 2010 with the vision to democratize fashion accessories—making them available and accessible for young people everywhere—Toniq Retail Brands is uniquely one of the few fast fashion accessories companies with a robust distribution network spanning both offline and online channels. The acquisition of Ayesha Accessories™ aligns with Toniq Retail Brands strategy to scale up its distribution, extend Ayesha’s core signature design to a broader audience, and establish it as a full-range accessories label catering to the Gen Z and Gen Alpha demographics.

Sonali Bulchandani, CEO and Founder of Toniq Retail Brands, shared her thoughts on this milestone, stating, “Acquiring Ayesha Accessories™ is an important step for us and a moment of pride for my team and me. This acquisition perfectly aligns with our growth strategy, allowing us to reach a wider audience with contemporary, high-quality fashion jewelry. Ayesha has always been a fun, playful brand with a strong identity and loyal customers. Our aim is to extend the brands core signature design to a much larger landscape by becoming a full-range accessories label, offering premium fashion jewelry with contemporary design and functionality at the core of the customer experience for young Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences.”

Ayesha Accessories™ has now been launched in 45 Shoppers Stop stores across India within a record time of two months. Sohel Lalvani, COO and Co-Founder of Toniq Retail Brands, added, “This acquisition not only broadens our offerings but also provides our customers with a wider selection. Our teams have done an exceptional job launching the brand in 45 stores, and we are planning to expand Ayesha’s footprint to 100 stores in the coming months. The past few months have been a period of consolidation for us, allowing us to leverage our strengths in our product portfolio and our distribution network across offline and online channels. We are confident we can leverage these capabilities across all our brands.”

Toniq Retail Brands is proud to be a women-led company, with women making up 80% of its key management. With a portfolio catering to various segments—including fashion accessories, hair accessories, ethnic jewelry, and men’s accessories—Toniq Retail Brands continues to lead the market. Over the years, Toniq Retail Brands has built a reputation for its customer-centric approach and commitment to quality.

With the acquisition of Ayesha Accessories™, the company is furthering its mission to provide on-trend products that resonate with its growing customer base, specifically targeting Gen Z and Gen Alpha. This move is part of a broader strategy to establish Toniq Retail Brands as a next-gen fashion accessories company. With a robust supply chain, inventory management, and the use of data analytics, Toniq Retail Brands is well-positioned to scale its operations, plan for exclusive brand stores in select cities, and partner with quick commerce companies to expand its reach.

Ludhiana,9th September 2024: AIPL, India’s leading real estate development and hospitality enterprise, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Club Aqua at AIPL DreamCity, Ludhiana. More than just a club, Club Aqua is a sanctuary where members can experience a life of balance, relaxation, and connection—every single day.

Set within the green and serene environment of AIPL DreamCity, Club Aqua invites its members into a world of comfort and sophistication, where every detail is designed to enhance daily living. From your early morning swim in the refreshing pool to an energizing session at the state-of-the-art gym, Club Aqua offers a place where wellness meets luxury, giving you the tools to not just live but thrive.

Imagine stepping into the tranquil card room or library after a long day, where the peaceful atmosphere allows you to unwind and rejuvenate your spirit. Families will find dedicated spaces for children, ensuring that every family member has a place where they feel at home. Whether it’s a game of tennis, a casual gathering in the sports area, or a relaxing evening enjoying gourmet cuisine, Club Aqua promises to turn everyday moments into cherished memories.

“Our vision with Club Aqua goes beyond luxury—it’s about creating a space where our members can enjoy the finer things in life while cultivating meaningful connections with their family, friends, and neighbours. We believe in elevating your everyday experiences, making wellness, leisure, and community an integral part of life,” said Shamsheer Singh, Director at AIPL.

The culinary offerings at Club Aqua will leave even the most seasoned palates longing for more. Our expert chefs have created a menu that transports you around the world without ever leaving Ludhiana. Picture yourself savoring the bold flavors of Mediterranean Dishes, indulging in the aromatic spices of authentic Asian delicacies, or losing yourself in the comfort of classic European dishes, rich with tradition. And if you’re craving something closer to home, our chefs bring the vibrant tastes of progressive Indian cuisine to life, offering everything from modern twists on traditional favorites to the finest in contemporary dining. For those seeking something more adventurous, Japanese delicacies await—think fresh sushi, tempura, and more, prepared with precision and passion. Every dish is crafted to tantalize your taste buds, offering an unforgettable journey through the world’s finest cuisines

Club Aqua’s thoughtfully designed amenities offer a daily escape from the rush of the outside world. Parents can relax knowing that their children are safe and engaged in activities in the spacious play area. Evenings turn into special occasions at Club Aqua, with options for casual family meals at the restaurant or social evenings at the café or bar.

The luxurious yet welcoming design of Club Aqua caters to every mood—whether you’re seeking serenity or connection. The beautifully landscaped outdoor seating deck is perfect for quiet reflection, while the stunning waterfall feature wall adds a sense of calm to the surroundings.

Complementing this luxurious lifestyle, AIPL DreamCity, Ludhiana, was awarded the “Excellence in Prime Township” by ET Now in 2024, offers a thriving community across 500 acres of green and well-planned spaces. With everything from schools, police station, and religious sites, AIPL DreamCity Ludhiana fosters a sense of belonging, where families can grow, friendships can flourish, and life can be enjoyed to the fullest.

At Club Aqua, luxury isn’t just an indulgence—it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life, creating moments that inspire joy, well-being, and togetherness. Join us and discover the perfect balance between luxury, lifestyle, and community.

Gurugram: KIIT World School is excited to share the success of the Young Inventors Program, an inspiring collaboration between KIIT World School and Vastav Intellect IP Solutions. Designed by Mr. Venkatesh Bharti, Founder and Director of Vastav Intellect IP Solutions LLP (VIIPS) and Vastav Incubatex & Entrepreneurship Foundation (VIEF), along with Ma’am Deepa Kholi, this initiative aims to foster creativity and innovation in students, helping them develop ideas into impactful designs.

The program engaged students from grades 1 to 6, encouraging them to think outside the box and generate fresh, inventive concepts. Through expert-led brainstorming sessions, facilitated by professionals from Vastav Intellect, students explored problem-solving techniques and innovative approaches to address real-world challenges. This hands-on learning experience empowered young minds to look at everyday issues from a new perspective.

At the conclusion of the program, students presented their innovative designs and posters to their classmates, teachers, and a panel of experts. The interactive session allowed for valuable feedback and insights, helping students refine their ideas and chart the next steps in their innovation journey.

Dr. Neelima Kamrah, Principal of KIIT World School, praised the initiative, saying, “It’s heartening to see our students embracing innovation at such a young age. Programs like these build a strong foundation for creative thinking and problem-solving, which are essential skills for the future.”

9th September 2024: With a history dating back to 1552 when it was founded via a charter granted by King Edward VI, Shrewsbury School has for over 472 years, been synonymous with prestige and world-class, ‘whole person’ education. In 2025, Shrewsbury International School India will open the doors of its 150-acre campus in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh with a promise to offer world-class, holistic and culturally integrated education for Indian students aged 11 to 18. Shrewsbury International School India will be a co-educational residential boarding school and will adhere to the British National Curriculum leading to Cambridge International examinations and A-Level courses.

Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Founder and President of the Board of Management at Shrewsbury International School India, shares his vision, “Our campus will seamlessly blend India’s cultural heritage with the global standards that define Shrewsbury. We aim to offer our students the best of both, a curriculum that balances academic excellence and holistic development. The campus boasts a 160,000-square-foot academic block, 20 diverse sports facilities, a 40,000-square-foot performing arts school, and a dedicated language centre offering over six languages—Each element at Shrewsbury International School India is designed to create an optimal learning environment. Our facilities include specialised laboratories for Design and Technology, Science, and Astronomy, along with cutting-edge sports amenities where students can engage in unique activities like Indoor Rowing, Scuba Diving, and Fencing, making Shrewsbury India the first international residential school in India to offer these. Additionally, our collaboration with Trinity College London will allow students to pursue diplomas in music and dramatics.”

A special event was organised in Amritsar by the Shrewsbury India team in the presence of Mr. Dominic Tomalin, the newly appointed Founding Headmaster of Shrewsbury India. The event provided a platform for prospective parents and budding students to engage with the promoters and the founding headmaster. Admissions for the academic session 2025-26 were also discussed at this event.

In his address at the event, Headmaster Dominic Tomalin said, “We are committed to make this school one of the leading residential schools in Asia, we are proud to offer an optimal learning environment to students that makes them future ready and honors their spirit of inquiry while keeping their core cultural values in sight.”

The school is also providing a unique occasion to parents to experience the state-of-the-art campus, first-hand, by scheduling visits starting October 2024, where they may take a glimpse into the fulfilling educational experience that awaits their wards at Shrewsbury International School India.

Noida, September 9, 2024 — Noida International University (NIU) celebrated its Foundation Day in conjunction with Teacher’s Day, marking a significant milestone in its journey of excellence in education. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Vikram Singh, Chancellor of NIU, who served as the Chief Guest. The celebrations were held on the university campus with great enthusiasm and participation from students, faculty, and staff.

The event began with a heartfelt video presentation that highlighted NIU as the dream project of its founders, showcasing the university’s roadmap and achievements over the years. This powerful visual journey set the tone for the day’s celebrations, emphasizing the vision and dedication that have driven NIU to its current standing.

Dr. Vikram Singh, Chancellor of NIU said, “We can only grow together, and it is through our collective efforts that we can achieve new heights. I want to emphasize the importance of unity and collaboration in fostering growth, both at the individual and institutional levels. The teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the future by nurturing and grooming students with dedication and passion.”

Prof. (Dr.) Uma Bhardwaj, Vice Chancellor of NIU, “Research is the backbone of innovation and progress. I urge our students to develop a research-oriented mindset and approach their work with enthusiasm. By doing so, you can make meaningful contributions to society and advance the world of knowledge.”

Adding to the day’s cultural richness, the event featured a Saraswati Vandana, a traditional invocation to the goddess of wisdom, followed by a vibrant musical performance by the university’s student group. These performances showcased the students’ talents infused the celebration with a sense of joy and reverence.

Tablets were distributed to selected students under a government scheme, symbolizing NIU’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering its students with the tools necessary for modern education. This initiative was one of the highlights of the event, further solidifying NIU’s role in fostering educational equity.

The day was made even more memorable with active participation from the students, who showcased their talents and made the event insightful, fun, and engaging. To recognize excellence in teaching and research, awards were presented to the most outstanding faculty members. The Best Teacher Award, Best Researcher Award, and Best Non-Teaching Awards were given to distinguished professors and staff members, setting an example for the future leaders of the nation.

Ms. Khushboo, the head of the cultural committee at NIU said, “The celebrations concluded with a vote of thanks and memorable photography session with the dignitaries, capturing the spirit of the day. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a grand success. The Foundation Day and Teacher’s Day celebrations at Noida International University truly commemorated our institution’s remarkable achievements. It has also inspired all of us in the NIU community to continue striving for excellence in education, research, and holistic development.”