Archives January 2025

21st January 2025, Jaipur: Livguard, a pioneer in solar and energy storage solutions, marked a significant milestone with the introduction of their solutions Livguard Solar360, at the JECC Exhibition & Trade Centre in Jaipur. The event provided an ideal platform to unveil the comprehensive rooftop solar solution to a wide audience, including industry professionals, businesses, and residential consumers.

 The Livguard Solar360 stole the spotlight at the exhibition with its promise to deliver end-to-end solar solutions starting from survey of the roof to installation and commissioning to monitoring and easy AMC plan to ensure consistent higher generation of 10% and lifetime reliability. These solutions are tailored for homes and small businesses ensuring a seamless adoption of renewable energy. Visitors to the Livguard booth experienced firsthand how Solar360 addresses the growing demand for clean, efficient, and cost-effective energy solutions.

 Key Features Showcased at the Event
– Comprehensive Solutions for All Needs: Solar360 supports on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid solutions, designed with high-quality components to maximize efficiency and performance.
– Customer-Centric Approach: The solution has a customer-centric approach including free rooftop surveys, tailored 3D designs, and remote monitoring ensuring ease of use and reliability.
– LivMonitor360: Livguard’s real-time monitoring app was demonstrated, showcasing how it empowers users to track savings and manage their solar systems effortlessly.
– Care Packages: Easy AMC plans garnered significant interest for their focus on maintaining system longevity and maximizing solar generation.
– Sturdy Structure Installed by Experts – The sturdy module structure design is cyclone-proof, leakage-proof, rust-proof. Additionally, all the modules are installed by authorised installation partners who are experts.

 The Livguard booth, creatively designed to reflect the product’s innovative spirit, attracted a large number of visitors who were keen to explore the potential of Solar360 in achieving energy independence.

 “The JECC exhibition was an incredible opportunity to introduce Livguard Solar360 to a diverse audience,” said Rakesh Malhotra, Founder, Livguard. “At Livguard, we’re not just offering renewable energy solutions, we’re delivering a seamless, end-to-end experience that takes the complexity and worry out of adopting solar power. From installation to maintenance, our solutions are designed to ensure higher energy generation, unmatched reliability, and long-lasting performance.

 What sets us apart is our commitment to making solar adoption effortless for homes and businesses by addressing every need under one roof. We provide the assurance that, with Livguard, you’re investing in a solution built for life—one that empowers you to generate sustainable energy efficiently and enjoy peace of mind knowing your energy needs are in expert hands. Our goal is to drive a sense of confidence and ease for our customers as they take this significant step toward a cleaner and brighter future.”

Mahabaleshwar, 21st January 2025: Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar in the past few months has taken significant steps in ensuring that they expands their area of operation and influence. A step towards achieving this comes in the form of strengthening the sales centre team with team members operating out of Pune, Mumbai and on-property. These strategic appointments reflect the hotel’s commitment to enhancing its market presence and delivering unparalleled service to its valued clients. The new team members bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for excellence, promising to drive growth and innovation in the competitive hospitality sector.

1. Hrishikesh Bokil – Sales Manager

Hrishikesh Bokil joins Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar as Sales Manager, bringing over a decade of regional and national sales expertise. A diploma holder in Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Hrishikesh has built an impressive career working with some of the most respected names in the hospitality industry.

His journey includes pivotal roles such as Regional Sales Manager at Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli, Unit Sales Manager at Vivanta by Taj Hinjewadi, and National Account Manager with IHG – Intercontinental Hotels. His extensive experience across the Pune market positions him as an asset in driving strategic initiatives and delivering results for the hotel. Hrishikesh’s strong understanding of client needs and his ability to cultivate lasting relationships will play a key role in strengthening the hotel’s regional sales efforts.

2. Priya Pandit – Sales Manager

Priya Pandit brings over eight years of experience in sales, marketing, and client relations to her role as Sales Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar. She has held key positions at leading hospitality brands such as Hyatt, Radisson, and ITC Hotels, where she excelled in revenue growth, market research, and building client relationships.

Priya’s earlier tenure at ITC Maratha Hotel, Mumbai, strengthened her expertise in customer engagement and workflow optimization. Known for her collaborative approach and ability to deliver tailored solutions, Priya is well-positioned to drive sales and further strengthen Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar’s market presence.

3. Masoom Rajpurohit – Sales Centre Manager

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar welcomes Masoom Rajpurohit as Sales Centre Manager. A dynamic leader with a proven track record, Masoom has worked with leading global hospitality brands, including Taj, IHG, Marriott, and Wyndham. Her journey in the industry began in Guest Relations, where she developed a keen understanding of customer needs before transitioning into Sales and Marketing, a field in which she has excelled.

Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Masoom was awarded “Young Marketer of the Year” in the under-35 category at the prestigious Global Excellence Awards. Her ability to drive revenue, establish strategic partnerships, and implement innovative sales initiatives makes her an invaluable addition to the team. Masoom’s expertise in both leisure and corporate market dynamics will contribute to the hotel’s growth in these key segments.

Talking about the appointments, Rahul Janve – General Manager said, “We have seen a steady increase in our business operations from markets around us and thus, it was imperative for us to dive deeper into these markets with a strong and result-driven sales team to lead from front. We are very proud to fortify our team with the appointment of these three seasoned professionals. The joint effort of the teams dedication to excellence ensures a promising future for the hotel.”

India, January 21, 2025: PeepalCo’s innovative investment platform, Lemonn, has launched Margin Trading Facility (MTF) on its app. Lemonn has also reached a milestone of one million users* and is now among the top 50 brokers in India.

MTF can be a significant feature for advanced stock investors, empowering them to amplify their investment potential. Through this, users can now purchase stocks beyond their current account balance by borrowing up to 80% of a stock’s value. Lemonn’s MTF offering comes with a highly competitive interest rate of just 8.99% per annum, making advanced trading strategies more accessible and affordable.

The new MTF feature aligns with Lemonn’s vision of democratizing access to advanced financial tools while ensuring affordability. Users can access it seamlessly with just a single click from the homepage, following a one-day activation period.

Commenting on the announcement Devam Sardana, Business Head, Lemonn said “At Lemonn, we are driven by a singular mission: to make investing simpler, smarter, and more rewarding for our users. The launch of the Margin Trading Facility (MTF) is a step in this journey, empowering investors to approach the stock market with confidence. By offering highly competitive interest rates, we are enabling users to make the best use of opportunities as they arise even when they have lack of sufficient funds”.

In less than a year, Lemonn has achieved significant milestones, including surpassing 1 million users and securing its position among the top 50 brokers in India. These accomplishments highlight the platform’s rapid ascent in the investment ecosystem.

“Our rapidly growing user base is a testament to the trust we’ve earned and proof that we are delivering on our promises. It’s heartening to see more and more people choosing Lemonn as their preferred investment partner,” he added

Lemonn is a user-friendly platform that offers a diverse range of investment options, including mutual funds, direct stocks, IPOs, and F&O trading for first-time and seasoned investors.

Chandigarh, January 21, 2025: Veritas Finance Limited, a retail-focused non-deposit-taking NBFC registered with the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”), and under the scale-based regulations of the RBI, classified as an ‘NBFC-Middle Layer’, has filed the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI for an Initial Public Offering (IPO).

As a diversified, retail-focused NBFC, it primarily provides small business loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) and self-employed individuals, and over the years, has expanded its business to include home loans and used commercial vehicle loans.

The public offer aggregating up to Rs. 2,800 crore comprises a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 600 crores (“THE FRESH ISSUE”) and an offer for sale of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 2,200 crores by the Selling Shareholders (“OFFER FOR SALE”) with a face value of ₹10 each per equity share. The public offer includes a reservation of equity shares for subscription by Eligible employees (“EMPLOYEE RESERVATION PORTION”).

The company proposes to utilize the net proceeds towards augmenting its capital base to meet future business requirements of the company towards onward lending.

The Offer for Sale of up to Rs 2,200 crore comprises equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 550 crores by Norwest Venture Partners X – Mauritius; up to Rs. 550 crore by Kedaara Capital Fund II LLP; up to Rs. 500 crores by British International Investment plc; up to Rs. 425 crores by Lok Capital Growth Fund; up to Rs. 75 crores by Growth Catalyst Partners LLC (Collectively Referred to as the “Investor Selling Shareholders”) and equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 36 crore by Vidya Arulmany; up to Rs. 21 crore by P. Surendra Pai; up to Rs. 21 crore by Savita S. Pai; up to Rs. 14 crore by Sheela Pai Cole and up to Rs. 8 crore by Moneisha Sharad Gandhi (Collectively The “Individual Selling Shareholder” and along with The Investor Selling Shareholders As The “Selling Shareholders”) (“OFFER FOR SALE”, And together with THE FRESH ISSUE, The “OFFER”).]

The company, in consultation with the BRLMs, may consider a Pre-IPO placement of specified securities aggregating up to Rs. 120 crore as may be permitted under applicable law, prior to filing of the red herring prospectus with the roc (“PRE-IPO PLACEMENT”). The Pre-IPO placement, if undertaken, will be at a price to be decided by the company, in consultation with the BRLMs. If the PRE-IPO placement is completed, the amount raised pursuant to the PRE-IPO placement will be reduced from the fresh Issue, subject to compliance with rule 19(2)(b) of the securities contracts (regulation) rules, 1957, as amended.

Established in 2015, Veritas Finance is a non-deposit taking non-banking financial company (“NBFC”) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”), and under the scale-based regulations of the RBI, is classified as an ‘NBFC-Middle Layer’. As a diversified, retail-focused NBFC, it primarily provide small business loans to micro, small and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) and self-employed individuals, and over the years, have expanded its business to include home loans and used commercial vehicle loans. According to CRISIL MI&A, it is the fastest-growing NBFC in terms of Loans (AUM) growth among compared peers for the period between the Financial Years 2022 to 2024, with a compounded annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 61.76%. The company focuses on addressing the financial needs of underserved and underbanked MSMEs and individuals by providing access to credit.

ICICI Securities Limited, HDFC Bank Limited, Jefferies India Private Limited, Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited and Nuvama Wealth Management Limited are the Book Running Lead Managers to the issue.

The Equity Shares offered through the Red Herring Prospectus are proposed to be listed on the Stock Exchanges, being BSE Limited (the “BSE”) and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (the “NSE”, together with BSE, the “Stock Exchanges”).

Hyderabad, January 2025: SOCIAL, India’s favourite neighborhood café announces the expansion of its co-working model – SOCIAL Works to 50+ locations in 10 cities. Introduced 10 years ago as the country’s first co-working space, SOCIAL Works was designed to cater to freelancers and professionals seeking an alternative to traditional offices. Now, with SOCIAL Works, SOCIAL is extending its reach to new neighborhoods and pincodes, offering dynamic workspaces where professionals can collaborate, create, and thrive in cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, Indore, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Dehradun, and Kolkata.

Available from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, the SOCIAL Works seamlessly blends functionality with SOCIAL’s signature vibe. Designed to resonate with Millennials and Gen-Z, it creates an environment that fosters productivity, creativity, and community.

A Vision for Modern Workspaces

Over the years, SOCIAL Works has become a thriving hub where connections are forged, ideas take shape, and success stories continue to unfold. From freelancers to budding entrepreneurs, the space has nurtured ventures of all scales—from small startups to prominent companies like BOAT, IVM Podcasts, Food Talk India, Lazy 8, and many more which began their journey here. SOCIAL Works has also been a creative haven for artists and freelancers, offering them a platform to connect, collaborate, and grow. It has witnessed connections and partnerships flourish in the most unexpected ways in the Works section, making it more than just a workspace—it’s a place where ideas come to life, and creativity thrives. Today, it remains the go-to spot for professionals seeking a dynamic and inspiring environment, fostering meaningful partnerships and providing the perfect blend of productivity and creativity.

As the workday winds down, SOCIAL Works seamlessly transitions into a buzzing social hub. Whether you’re wrapping up a brainstorming session or unwinding with colleagues, the space adapts to your needs. It allows you to work comfortably in an environment that feels authentic to you, while also offering opportunities to meet new people and collaborate.

A Space That Adapts To You

· Flexible pricing options: INR 300 per day, INR 1200 per week, and INR 4500 per month—fully redeemable on SOCIAL’s delectable food and drinks. The cover can also be clubbed with other ongoing offers at the outlet, ensuring every workday comes with a side of culinary delight.

· Workspace pass includes free Wi-Fi, a confirmed seat in the workspace area, and access to SOCIAL’s vibrant atmosphere.

· Monthly members enjoy exclusive access to up to 4 SOCIAL events, such as workshops, conferences, networking meetups, live music, and DJ nights.

· Earn loyalty points through The SOCIAL Club, unlocking exciting offers, topical events, and freebies.

· Discover exciting new food and beverage offerings, featuring special limited-time menus, unforgettable experiences such as meeting your favorite artist, winning exclusive branded merchandise, or indulging in drinks at unbeatable prices!

Divya Aggarwal, Chief Growth Officer of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd, shared her vision for the SOCIAL Works. “When we launched SOCIAL Works, our goal was to create a workspace that broke away from the rigidity of traditional offices. Over the years, it’s been incredible to see how this concept has supported startups, freelancers, and professionals in building their dreams. We’re creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring, blending work and leisure seamlessly as per different requirements. It’s about evolving with the needs of today’s workforce and continuing to offer a place where ideas can thrive, and connections can flourish.

Keeping in mind the future of co-working, SOCIAL Works is designed to cater to diverse work styles, whether you’re working solo, brainstorming with a team, or catching up with colleagues. The experience is a testament to SOCIAL’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, blending work and play in a way that’s uniquely their own.

With SOCIAL Works, the brand continues to lead the way in creating spaces that inspire productivity and foster connections. Whether you’re a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or part of a remote team, SOCIAL Works invites you to experience the future of co–working—where every day is productive, and every moment is social.

Chandigarh, January 21, 2025: Vinir Engineering Limited, an integrated engineering solutions company engaged in the manufacturing of specialized, critical and heavy, precision-forged and machined components for a wide range of industries and applications, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (“DRHP”) with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”).

The IPO comprises an offer for sale of up to 53,300,000 equity shares of face value of ₹ 2 each. The offer for sale comprises up to 53,300,000 equity shares of face value ₹ 2 each by Nitesh Gupta (Promoter Selling Shareholder).

Vinir Engineering Limited is an integrated engineering solutions company engaged in the manufacturing of specialized, critical and heavy, precision-forged and machined components for a wide range of industries and applications, including energy, defense, aerospace, railways, energy turbines, hydraulics, earthmoving, high-end engineering, amongst others. The components play a vital role in various systems and applications, such as armored vehicles, armaments and ammunition, combat equipment, military hardware, upstream and downstream oil & gas systems, cryogenics systems, aircraft propulsion systems, power turbines, gas turbines, railway locomotives and braking systems, nuclear energy infrastructure equipment, heavy-duty excavation machinery, spaceframes, hydraulic components, wind turbine generators & high-pressure boilers, amongst others. The company specializes in producing critical and heavy precision-forged and machined components using a wide range of metals, including alloy steel, titanium, Hastelloy, carbon steels, stainless steels, duplex steels, special steels, Inconel, Monel, and aluminum, amongst others. The company is equipped to manufacture components with weights ranging from 20 kilograms to 6,000 kilograms using these processes and precision machining.

The company has a total installed capacity of 38,000 MTPA, distributed across three Manufacturing Units. Unit I is located at Bangalore in Karnataka while Unit II and Unit III are located in Hosur and Kalukondanapalli, both in Tamil Nadu. These units collectively span an area of 38,160 square meters. The company’s diverse customer base includes companies operating in sectors like energy, defence, aerospace, railways, energy turbines, hydraulics, earthmoving, high-end engineering amongst others , spread in India and foreign countries like United States, Mexico, Spain, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Canada, amongst others. During the last 3 fiscals and six months ended September 30, 2024, they served over 150 unique customers, with an average of 60-70 customers per year/period. During the same period, they added 39 new customers.

The major demand driver of precision-forged and machined components is the economic growth and massive investment in infrastructure, oil gas and focus on aerospace & defence sectors across the globe. Global Non-Automotive Forging Market was valued at USD 33.16 Bn in 2023 which accounts for 35% of the overall forgings demand and is estimated to grow to USD 54.54 Bn by 2030 at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2023 to 2030 driven mainly by growth of demand from non-automotive end use sectors such as oil and gas, aerospace and defence, earthmoving, hydraulics and mining, railways and energy sector. Global Non-Automotive Precision Machined Forging Market was valued at USD 23.88 Bn in 2023 which accounts for 72% of the overall forgings demand and is estimated to grow to USD 37.11 Bn by 2030 at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2030 driven mainly by growth of demand from non-automotive end use sectors such as energy (oil and gas), aerospace and defence, earthmoving, hydraulics and mining and railways. Indian Non-Automotive Precision Machined Forging Market was valued at INR 13,117 Crores in FY 2024 which accounts for 70% of the overall forgings demand and is estimated to grow to INR 20,814 by 2030 at a CAGR of 8% from FY 2024 to 2030 driven mainly by growth of demand from non-automotive end use sectors such as energy (oil and gas), energy turbines aerospace and defence, earthmoving, hydraulics and mining and railways. This augers well for players like Vinir Engineering Limited.

Pantomath Capital Advisors Private Limited is the Book Running Lead Managers to the issue. KFIN Technologies Limited is the Registrar to the offer.

Bangalore , India, January 21, 2025: ZF, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, is making a huge impact at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, showcasing its latest innovations in mobility solutions. ZF’s presence at the expo emphasizes its commitment to the technological advancements and redefining mobility for sustainable and intelligent transportation in India.

“We are excited to present ZF’s state-of-the-art mobility solutions at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025,” stated Mr. Akash Passey, President , ZF Group India. “India represents a strategic market for ZF, and we are dedicated to facilitating the nation’s shift towards a sustainable, safe, and interconnected mobility ecosystem. Our emphasis on technological innovation and advanced solutions is closely aligned with the dynamic and growing automotive industry in India. We are well-positioned to address the evolving needs of the future of transportation in India, for domestic and global players. “

A key highlight at the ZF booth is the company’s X-by-Wire portfolio. This innovative technology replaces traditional mechanical and hydraulic linkages with electronic signals, enabling greater vehicle customization and enhanced safety. With by-wire technology, ZF lays the foundation for the software-defined vehicles that will lead to new functions and features, many that emphasize safety as much as driving comfort: Purely electronically controlled and networked by-wire systems offer better vehicle control, more steering flexibility, and greater driving stability at high speeds. The display showcases a range of X-by-Wire components, including brake-by-wire, steer-by-wire, and electronically controlled, active damping demonstrating the potential for future vehicles with unprecedented levels of autonomy and personalization.

For commercial vehicles and for passenger cars, ZF is showcasing its latest ADAS technologies, including advanced radar and camera systems, which enhance vehicle safety and efficiency. These systems provide crucial features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Notable Commercial Vehicle ADAS solutions on display include OnGuardMAX Autonomous Emergency Braking System (AEBS) and together with Short-Range Radar for improved object detection and Reversing Camera for enhanced safety. These technologies work towards making roads safer and reduce the number of accidents.

ZF’s commitment to sustainable mobility is evident in its range of electrification and connectivity solutions on display. The booth features CeTrax 2 dual, an integrated and modular electric central drive for HD trucks, buses and coaches , enabling electrification of heavy-duty vehicles. SCALAR, the next-gen fleet management solution which uses real time data and predictive analysis to streamline and optimize mixed fleet operation.

Among the new products, unveiled at the Expo, is the e-comp Air Lite a cost-efficient, lightweight electric-driven compressor designed for the Indian and Asian markets. Engineered for medium-duty commercial EVs and hybrid vehicles, it features a compact 2-cylinder design ideal for low air-demanding applications. The system enhances energy efficiency with an automatic shut-off feature when air is not needed.

The Electronic Braking System and the Electronic Stability Control provide improved safety and handling, . These solutions highlight ZF’s expertise in providing reliable and efficient solutions for the mobility sector.

ZF also showcased its construction equipment Ergo Power II transmission specifically localized for the evolving demands of the off-highway industry. The innovative transmission from ZF makes it possible to integrate electronic driveline management, lowers operations cost, and provides efficient and high-performance capabilities.

ZF’s competitive advantages lie in its robust portfolio of cutting-edge technologies and its strategic focus on design-to-market areas. By leveraging its strengths in e-mobility, commercial vehicle technology, and industrial solutions, ZF is uniquely positioned to drive the next generation of mobility. Additionally, our commitment to localizing products and optimizing our manufacturing and engineering strengths enhances our agility and resilience in the market.

The future-oriented technologies showcased at the ZF Group booth demonstrate the company’s positioning as a technology leader backed with a robust system capability. With intelligent solutions for the megatrends, ZF impressively demonstrates the vision of enabling vehicles to see, think and act. This in turn is making ZF Group a strong player in Redefining India’s Mobility.

India, 21st January 2025: Start the year with a feast that’s anything but ordinary! Aflatoon by SOCIAL brings bold North Indian flavors wrapped in quirky, collectible packaging, turning every meal into a delightful adventure.

Whether you’re hosting a lively party, gathering with family, or planning a cozy night in, Aflatoon promises to make every dining moment memorable. From playful twists on North Indian classics to rich gravies and fragrant pulaos, the menu is designed to excite your taste buds and spark conversation.

Dive into soul-soothing dishes like the slow-cooked Maa Ki Dal Makhani, indulgent Truffle Butter Chicken, or the rich and aromatic Bhoona Gosht Biryani, paired perfectly with buttery naans or fragrant jeera rice. These hearty, comforting options are just what you need to beat the winter chill.

For lighter moments, snack on Butter Garlic Mutton Seekh, Umami Chicken Malai Tikka, or the Lotus Stem Shami Kebab. Planning a hearty meal? The Malai Paneer Biryani or the flavorful Katey Masale ka Gosht, paired with soft naans, make for a satisfying indulgence.

Aflatoon also offers a vibrant selection of chaats that are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your day. From the zesty The Crispy Quinoa and Bhalla Chaat to the tangy and Balsamic Betroot and Crispy Papdi Chaat, each dish is crafted to deliver a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes making them ideal for lively conversations or indulgent treats.

Finish your meal with the classic warmth of Gulab Jamun or the refreshing flavors of Betel Leaf Rasmalai, each offering a perfect sweet ending.

Bengaluru, 21st January 2025 —Quest Global, one of the world’s leading engineering services firms, has been Certified as a Great Place To Work® in India for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious Certification reflects Quest Global’s commitment to the overall well-being of its people and fostering a culture of high trust and high-performance.

In the 2025 evaluation, Quest Global received an impressive 77% Trust Index™ overall score. This reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering an exceptional culture, where the credibility of management, respect for people, workplace fairness, pride, and camaraderie are not just metrics but lived experiences.

Great Place To Work Certification™ is the gold standard that organizations around the globe aspire to accomplish. This recognition is a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to creating an environment that goes beyond work tasks – one where employees thrive, feel respected, and actively contribute to the company’s success.

“Achieving the Great Place To Work Certification for the fourth consecutive is a source of enormous pride for us. It is an endorsement of our consistent efforts to create a healthy and inclusive work environment. The satisfaction of our employees is at the very core of our operations and their personal and professional growth remains our utmost priority. Our vision is to establish Quest Global as the organization of choice for talent and this certification reinforces our belief that we are on the right path.” said Reshmi Stephen, Global Head – HR Business Partnership, Quest Global.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. In India, the institute partners with more than 1,800 organizations across 20+ industries annually to help them build a High-Trust, High-Performance Culture designed to deliver sustained business results. The institute’s research shows great workplaces are characterized by outstanding leadership, consistent employee experience, and sustainable financial performance. These organizations can deliver the same experience to all their employees irrespective of their role, gender, tenure, or level.

New Delhi, 21st January 2025 – In a groundbreaking step towards building capacity in public administration, the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD), has launched a pioneering online course titled “Population Dynamics and Its Implications for Public Policy.”

 Hosted on the Integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) platform under Mission Karmayogi, this course aims to empower India’s 3.8 million civil servants with the critical knowledge and skills needed to address the complex challenges posed by demographic shifts. The initiative focuses on:

 ● Enhancing understanding of demographic shifts and their impact on society.
● Examining scenarios such as low fertility, urbanization, and the demographic dividend.
● Analyzing the influence of population dynamics for public policy.
● Exploring practical policy options to address demographic changes effectively.

 The course launch event at IIPA’s Indraprastha Estate brought together prominent dignitaries who reinforced the importance of this initiative.

 Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the centrality of data and statistical analysis in policymaking. “Demographic shifts affect every facet of development—from education and healthcare to labor markets and urban planning. This course will be instrumental in equipping government officials to proactively address these challenges,”noted Garg.

 Shri S.N. Tripathi, Director General, Indian Institute of Public Administration, emphasized evidence-based policymaking as the cornerstone of effective governance. He remarked, “This course will provide civil servants with the critical insights they need to design policies that are inclusive, targeted, and sustainable, ensuring that governance evolves with the changing needs of our population.”-

 Ms. Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative and Country Director for Bhutan, reaffirmed UNFPA’s dedication to fostering demographic resilience. She stated, “This course is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about shaping the future. India is at a demographic turning point, and the decisions today will define India tomorrow. By equipping policymakers with the tools to turn demographic trends into opportunities, India can carve a path to sustainable development.”

 Shri Jagadananda, Co-Founder and Mentor, CYSD, shared the vision behind the course, stating, “While CYSD has focused on Odisha’s demographic challenges, we recognized that these issues have national relevance. By partnering with UNFPA and IIPA, we aimed to create a course that offers valuable insights for crafting policies that are inclusive, adaptable, and responsive to the diverse needs of India’s evolving society.”-

 This initiative aligns with India’s commitment to the principles of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD), advocating for rights-based population policies, gender equality, universal access to healthcare, and sustainable development.

 With its broad reach and focus on capacity-building, the course is poised to become a transformative tool in shaping a responsive and future-ready public administration.