Archives January 2025

January 2025: Avtar group, India’s pioneer in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) solutions and India’s leading workplace culture consulting firm, today announced the third edition of ‘Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI)’ index. Hyderabad, the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Telangana ranked among the top five Indian cities for being the most inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities for working women. The city has scored the highest in infrastructure, and women have rated the city high for safety, skilling and employment opportunities as well.

Speaking at the press conference, Dr Saundarya Rajesh, Founder-President, Avtar group said, “Cities are the foundations of opportunity. They shape how women live, work, and thrive. So, a clear understanding of the core principles and cultural fabric of our cities is crucial for advancing women’s progress and inclusion. Avtar’s annual index ‘Top Cities for Women in India’ does precisely that, using a data-centric and evidence-based approach. And, to realize our dream of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, we need the Indian Women Professionals to succeed on par with men. This is possible only if cities are truly gender-inclusive and offer an atmosphere where women’s strengths can be optimized. This means not just providing safe streets, accessible healthcare & education and affordable living to women, which are largely reparatory measures, but also competitive avenues for women’s economic success and opportunities for them to thrive as business leaders. Let’s invest in women-led projects and optimize women’s lives and careers.”

About TCWI index
Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) index identifies role model cities and best practices, and provides a framework for organizations, policymakers and individuals to foster well-rounded development in our cities, which is a pivotal driver of women’s progress nationwide. The index has been compiled by assimilating various data sources including the Centre for Monitoring the Indian Economy (CMIE), the World Bank, crime records and Periodic Labour Force Survey, along with Avtar’s primary research. Avtar’s research included FGDs and a nation-wide survey that was conducted from February 2024 to November 2024 in which 1672 women from 60 cities participated.

The Top 10 Cities for Women in 2024 include: Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Gurugram, and Coimbatore.

Criteria for selecting the top 10 cities for Indian women in 2024

120 cities across India were considered for the study, based on their economic contribution to the country. The cities were ranked based on an overall ‘City Inclusion Score’ assigned to every city, inferred from Avtar’s research and existing governmental data. The City Inclusion Score (CIS) is derived from three pillars – Social Inclusion Score (SIS), Industrial Inclusion Score (IIS) and Citizen Experience Score (CES).

The Social Inclusion Score is a cumulative score of four indicators that include city liveability, safety, women’s representation in employment and women’s empowerment.

The Industrial Inclusion Score evaluates the extent to which organizations in the city across industries are inclusive of women.

The Citizen Experience Score captures women’s assessment of their cities and is calculated from the responses collated from women across India through FGDs and surveys. It covers six pillars: Skilling and employment, caregiving support, transport and accommodation infrastructure, quality of life, efficiency of government bodies, and safety.

While the first two editions of the TCWI index featured two lists of cities – ‘Million-plus’ cities and ‘Less than a million’ cities, this year’s report has a single unified ranking because of several factors such as outdated population data, rapid urbanization and migration, and to simplify the execution process for stakeholders.

The findings:
Regional analysis:
The South emerges as the most inclusive region, scoring comparatively higher in both social and industrial inclusion. The average city inclusion score of the South is 18.56. The South is closely followed by the West (16.92). The Central and Eastern regions lag, with averages of 11.79 and 10.55, respectively. This is a result of limited industrial development and opportunities.

The North is at 14.00 – It is worth noting that while the industrial inclusion scores of Northern cities like Delhi and Gurugram are high, there is scope for improvement in their social inclusion scores.

State-wise analysis:
Kerala leads with the highest average City Inclusion Score of 20.89, followed by Telangana at 20.57, Maharashtra at 19.93, Tamil Nadu at 19.38 and Karnataka at 17.50.

Women’s ratings of cities:
Skilling and employment: Gurugram is rated the highest (7.68 – out of 10) by women. Among the bigger cities, Mumbai (7.60) and Bengaluru (7.54) score highest in skilling and employment, while Chennai (7.09), Hyderabad (6.95) and Thiruvananthapuram (5.51) lag slightly behind.

Infrastructure: Hyderabad (8.01) secures the highest score for infrastructure (a well-connected public transport system and other travel amenities). Hyderabad is closely followed by Mumbai (7.64). Among the smaller cities, Coimbatore (7.75) and Kochi (7.41) score high in infrastructure.

Efficiency of government bodies: Thiruvananthapuram (8.15) and Pune (7.06) top governance efficiency. Gurugram at 6.48 has room for improvement.

Quality of life: Coimbatore (7.54), Pune (7.50) and Chennai (7.05) report the best quality of life. Gurugram scores relatively low (6.34), which may be attributed to environmental challenges.

Safety: Thiruvananthapuram (7.43), Mumbai (7.19) and Hyderabad (6.95) lead in safety, while women rate Bengaluru (6.17), Kochi (6.02) and Gurugram (5.60) comparatively low in safety.

JANUARY 9, 2025: Arnav Paparkar overcame an inexplicable second set lapse to go past Croatia’s Emanuel Ivanisevic and secure his place in the quarterfinals of the boys event of the ITF J300 event along with top seed Pranav Senthil Kumar while Maaya Rajshwaran Revathi also cruised into the last-eight of the girls singles.

Arnav made a resounding set by pocketing the opening set but could not win a single game in the second set as the Croat forced a decider. The young Indian recovered just in time to raise his game and close the pre-quarterfinal with a 6-3 0-6 6-4 scoreline in his favor. To his credit, Ivanisevic made it as tough for Arnav as possible despite a sluggish start.

Also moving to the quarterfinals were Senthil and Samarth Sahita. Senthil had no trouble in dispatching Alexey Shibaev 6-2 6-3 while Samarth prevailed in an all-Indian clash against Varun Verma 6-4 6-4.

However, curtains came down on the campaign of Hitesh Chauhan, who fought valiantly before losing 4-6 7-5 3-6 to Kazakhstan’s Damir Zhalgasbay. Korean fourth seed Donghyun Hwang, and his compatriot Hyeon Seok Seo also advanced to the quarterfinals. Hwang beat Kazakhstan’s Daniel Tazabekov 6-3 6-0 while Seo knocked out eighth seed Roman Kharlamov 6-4 6-2.

Roshan Santosh (USA) and Arturs Zagras (LAT) completed the quarterfinal line-up with their straight-set wins over Maximus Zavier Wong (SGP) and Kanata Ozaki (JPN).

In the girls event, India’s Maaya moved to the quarterfinals with a fluent 6-0 6-3 win over Manon Favier from France. Polina Berezina advanced when her Japanese opponent Yuka Naito withdrew midway from the contest. Polina was leading 6-3 1-0 when Naito decided not to continue. Polina Kuharenko secured her place in the last eight with her 7-5 6-1 win over Turkiey’s Irem Kurt.

January 09, 2025 – Yugen Infra, a leading real estate development company known for its successful ventures, proudly announces the redevelopment of an exclusive villa community (La-Mandre project) near the serene Mandrem Beach, setting a new standard for luxurious living in one of India’s most sought-after destinations. Yugen acquired these 13 exquisitely designed villas spread across a sprawling 8000 square meter of land to create a coveted and unparalleled residential complex for discerning buyers.

Situated within 5 to 10 minutes of North Goa’s exotic beaches, including the pristine Mandrem Beach, wide roads within the community for seamless access, and nearly 50% open area, these RERA-approved villas ensure a fine medley of luxury and amenities. The plot size of these newly acquired villas ranges from 215 to 590 square meters. Moreover, its residents will enjoy privileged access to the world-class Golf Course at Yugen Golf City, located near Mopa Airport, further elevating the lifestyle offering.

As per Yugen’s project managers, who are heading the renovation process of La-Mandre, these villas will be redeveloped soon and will be ready for possession in just six months, with prices starting from ₹5.37 crore onwards. Moreover, since all the legal compliances and licenses back this project, bank loans can be easily availed of to facilitate hassle-free transactions for buyers.

On this groundbreaking initiative, Amit Mamgain, Director of Yugen Infra, said, “Villas at La-Mandre are beyond opulence living. Here each piece of marvel is about crafting a lifestyle where luxury meets nature. La-Mandrehas been designed to offer residents a harmonious blend of privacy and connectivity, all within the lush landscapes of North Goa. The redevelopment promises contemporary architecture, abundant greenery, and unmatched proximity to Goa’s iconic beaches. With its prime location near Mandrem Beach and premium facilities, Yugen is all set to become a landmark in North Goa’s real estate landscape.”

Of late, Yugen has also announced its proposed 500-acre Golf City project near the Mopa airport in Goa. The founders of Yugen Infra have a strong reputation in the real estate market, having worked on numerous high-profile projects in collaboration with industry giants such as Emaar, Adani Realty, Birla Estates, DLF, BPTP, M3M, and Elan. Their expertise and commitment to quality are evident in every aspect of the Golf City development.

January 9th, 2025: Funskool India Limited, the country’s leading toy manufacturer promoted by the MRF group, has appointed K A Shabir as its CEO, as on 1st January 2025. Shabir has been with Funskool for over 33 years and is an accomplished Techno-Commercial expert who has led many departments such as International Business, Manufacturing, Factory Operations and New Product Development while also driving organizational growth.

Sharing his thoughts, K A Shabir said, “Funskool pioneered the concept of quality and safety in toys and has been instrumental in raising the standards of toys in India. To lead this 39-year-old organisation which has many firsts to its credit at a time when it is expanding rapidly, is an honour. As a team, we will bring out interesting and innovative creations to make playtime a delight for children.”

For over a decade, Shabir has been the face of Funskool in the international fora within the toy industry. He is hailed as one of the expert voices in the Indian toy industry. Shabir’s acumen for identifying market opportunities and devising tailor made strategies for new customers has expanded Funskool’s global footprints and its exports revenue.

Having excelled in his earlier role as Vice President of international Division and Manufacturing, Shabir’s transition to the new role of CEO marks a new chapter in Funskool’s growth journey. Under his leadership, Funskool is poised to drive innovation in product development, explore new markets, win more marquee customers from across the globe, use the best of technologies to improve toy manufacturing, further the sustainability initiatives and redefine toy industry standards

The field of law offers various academic routes for aspiring lawyers, with the two most prominent options being the LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws) and the integrated B.A. LL.B. (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws). While both courses eventually lead to a career in law, they differ in structure, duration, curriculum, and career prospects. This article explores the distinctions between these programs, factors students should consider before enrolling, and their placement opportunities.

1. Difference in Course Structure

B.A. LL.B.

The B.A. LL.B. is an integrated five-year course combining undergraduate-level arts and humanities studies with law. The curriculum includes a blend of subjects such as political science, history, sociology, and economics alongside core law subjects like constitutional law,criminal law, and contract law. The integrated course allows students to gain a broad understanding of social sciences, which complements their legal education.

LL.B.

On the other hand, LL.B. is a three-year graduate program designed exclusively for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. The course focuses solely on law subjects, providing an intensive legal education. Unlike the B.A. LL.B., this program doesn’t include non-law subjects such as arts or humanities.

2. Duration and Eligibility

B.A. LL.B.

The integrated B.A. LL.B. spans five years and is available to students who have completed their higher secondary education (12th grade). Since it combines undergraduate and legal studies, it saves time for those who are certain they want to pursue law as a career right after school.

LL.B.

The LL.B. is a three-year course available only after completing a bachelor’s degree. Therefore, students would spend atotal of six years (three years for undergraduate studies followed by three years of LL.B.) if they choose this route.

3. Curriculum and Learning Focus

B.A. LL.B.

In the B.A. LL.B., students receive exposure to both arts and law subjects. This holistic approach benefits those who want a broader understanding of the social, political, and economic context in which laws operate. It prepares students for roles in policy-making, academia, or areas of law that intersect with social issues.

LL.B.

The three-year LL.B. program is more specialized and faster-paced, as it assumes the students have already acquired general knowledge from their undergraduate degree. The course is more intense, focusing on the intricacies of law, legal drafting, and case law analysis. LL.B.Students tend to dive straight into core legal subjects, making it ideal for those who want a more direct path to legal practice.

4. Career Implications

Both B.A. LL.B. and LL.B. graduates can pursue similar career paths in legal practice. They are eligible to sit for the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) All India Bar Examination (AIBE), allowing them to practice as advocates in India. Upon clearing the exam, they can represent clients in court, work in law firms, or start independent legal practices.

Corporate Jobs

In addition to litigation, many law graduates from both courses enter corporate law departments. Companies, huge corporations, and multinational firms require in-house legal advisors to handle regulatory, contractual, and compliance-related issues. Both degrees prepare students for these roles, but having a background in arts and humanities (B.A.LL.B.) may provide an added advantage for corporate roles requiring insight into social and economic factors.

Other Career Options

A B.A. LL.B. degree, due to its dual nature, opens up additional avenues in civil services, academics, and public policy. LL.B. graduates with a prior degree in science, commerce, or management might find it easier to transition into specialized fields such as intellectual property law, tax law, or business law.

5. Placement Opportunities

B.A. LL.B. Placements

Integrated law programs often have an edge when it comes to placements. Prestigious law schools offering the B.A. LL.B., such as the National Law Universities (NLUs), have strong recruitment cells and often attract top law firms and corporate entities for campus placements . Graduates can secure internships and job offers with law firms, corporate legal departments,and even governmental organizations.

LL.B. Placements

Although LL.B. graduates are equally eligible for job opportunities, the placement process is more institution-dependent. Students graduating from renowned law schools have better chances of securing good placements, whereas those from lesser-known institutions may have to rely more on internships and networking. However, a prior degree in a complementary field(e.g., business administration, engineering) can boost a graduate’s employability in niche legal
sectors.

6. Things to Consider Before Enrolling

Career Clarity

One key difference between the two courses is the point at which students commit to a career in law. B.A. LL.B. students make this decision at the age of 17 or 18, directly after completing their school education, while LL.B. students commit to law after finishing a bachelor’s degree. Students who are certain about pursuing law as a career early on may find the B.A. LL.B. Course is more suitable.

Time Investment

The B.A. LL.B. offers a faster route to entering the legal profession since it is a combined five-year course. On the other hand, students opting for the LL.B. pathway spend a total of six years before obtaining their law degree. Those who wish to pursue dual expertise (e.g., combining law with a different field of study) may prefer to complete a separate undergraduate degree followed by the LL.B.

Institution Reputation

The choice of law school can have a significant impact on a student’s career trajectory. Law schools like the NLUs offering B.A. LL.B. programs are renowned for producing top legal professionals. For LL.B. students, the ranking and reputation of the institution from which they pursue their undergraduate and legal education can play a crucial role in career opportunities and networking.

Interdisciplinary Interests

Students with an interest in the social sciences may benefit from the integrated B.A. LL.B.The course provides a multidisciplinary approach. In contrast, LL.B. students, particularly those with backgrounds in other fields such as science, commerce, or engineering, might find the three-year LL.B. program to be a better fit for integrating their prior expertise with law.

7. Conclusion

The decision between B.A. LL.B. and LL.B. ultimately depend on an individual’s educational background, career goals, and interest in law. Both programs offer diverse opportunities in legal practice, corporate roles, and beyond. However, students should carefully consider the course structure, duration, and placement prospects before enrolling in either program. While B.A. LL.B. provides a comprehensive education with a focus on interdisciplinary learning, LL.B.
Offers a more focused and direct path to legal specialization.

9 January 2025: Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released Agra Affair, a heartfelt romantic drama that explores the complexities of love, ambition, and self-discovery. Set in the iconic city of Agra, the series follows Sanjay, a passionate cook who dreams of opening a restaurant for international tourists, and Tanvi, a spirited tour guide who joins him in this ambitious venture. As their professional bond deepens, Sanjay’s unreciprocated love for Tanvi strains their relationship, but when he finds solace with Megha, Tanvi realises her own feelings, sparking a complicated love triangle. Whether you’re drawn to stories of love and longing or the pursuit of dreams against all odds, Agra Affair on Amazon MX Player is just the right romantic drama series for you, and here are 5 reasons why it deserves a spot on your watchlist:

Touching Exploration of Unrequited Love: Agra Affair goes much beyond conventional love stories, delving into the bittersweet realities of one-sided love and missed chances. Sanjay’s deep yet unreciprocated feelings for Tanvi are both relatable and heart-wrenching, while the story takes a powerful twist when Tanvi discovers her feelings too late. What unfolds is a poignant tale of love’s fragile timing, the weight of choices, and the unpredictability of the heart, making for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave anyone who has ever loved and lost deeply moved.

The Enchanting Backdrop of Agra: Only a few places across the globe evoke love and romance like Agra, and Agra Affair captures the city’s magic flawlessly. From the majestic Taj Mahal to Agra’s lively bazaars and hidden corners, the series immerses viewers in a world where old-world charm meets modern aspirations. The characters’ journeys mirror the city’s soul, where eternal love meets contemporary hustle, reflecting the delicate dance between love, dreams, and destiny.

A Timeless Tale of Universal Challenges: Agra Affair delves into the intricacies of pursuing one’s dreams, confronting vulnerability, and navigating complex relationships. From Sanjay’s courage to follow his culinary aspirations to Tanvi’s quest for independence, and Megha’s steadfast loyalty, each character’s journey strikes a chord with the universal challenges everyone faces in finding balance. The story’s emotional depth will make viewers laugh, cry, and reflect on their own experiences as they get immersed in the characters’ intertwined lives.

Authentic Performances by a Talented Cast: Aakash Dahiya perfectly embodies Sanjay’s earnestness and vulnerability, while Harshita Gaur gives a powerful and nuanced performance as the spirited yet conflicted Tanvi. Additionally, Chakori Dwivedi’s portrayal of a kind-hearted and simple Megha adds a layer of warmth and sincerity to the story, making the dynamics between the three characters truly compelling. Their interactions make every moment feel authentic and deeply engaging throughout the series.

Watch for free: Get ready to fall in love with the city of perennial love in Agra Affair, available for free exclusively on Amazon MX Player. No subscription is required to watch this heartwarming romantic drama. Stream it now on Amazon MX Player, Prime Video, and Fire TV via the Amazon Shopping App and Play Store.

Agra Affair is now streaming for free exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available through its apps on mobile, the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and connected TVs.

09 January 2025: The wait is over! Ajio Luxe Wkend (ALW), India’s ultimate luxury extravaganza, is back to celebrate a landmark Edition 5 from January 10 to January 12, 2025.

​​Presented by Title Partner Ajio Luxe, with support from Associate Partners Chivas Luxe Collective Perfumes and HSBC, this spectacular event is produced by The Magnanimous Group in partnership with The Established. This year promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Prepare for a dazzling showcase of unmatched elegance, cutting-edge innovation, and unforgettable collaborations, making it the most anticipated event in the luxury calendar.

Marking half a decade of redefining luxury, ALW 2025 elevates its offerings with dynamic brand showcases, one-of-a-kind activations, and innovative experiences tailored to resonate with both brands and attendees. Every element, from the reimagined layout to the stunning installations, reflects the event’s commitment to providing a multifaceted journey that blends style, creativity, and design like never before.

Curated by icons of creativity, this edition boasts an impressive line-up of curators, each adding their unique perspective to the event: Anaita Shroff Adajania for Fashion, Ashiesh Shah for Home & Design, and Shalini Passi for Art & Installation, presenting an exclusive curation and one of the largest art collections ever showcased at Ajio Luxe Wkend.

Spread across four thoughtfully curated zones—HSBC Prive Lounge – designed by the iconic Gauri Khan, this space will host exclusive networking opportunities; House of Chivas – a sophisticated retreat that embodies modern, contemporary, and maximalist opulence, expertly designed by Kunal Rawal will host HSBC Power Panels by The Established—stimulating conversations by Industry Leaders; Ajio Luxe – a luxury, lifestyle hub hosting highly anticipated brand experiential and ground-breaking launches in the country, and Tira – the event’s beauty partner, bringing the best in beauty experiences to life across the 3 days; the event delivers an extraordinary experience, packed with exclusive highlights and brand debuts.

The event promises an extraordinary three-day celebration of luxury, creativity, and innovation. Discover a reimagined shopping experience with a curated selection of international and homegrown brands, thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity and inspire.

The opening evening themed The Gilded Hour, is an exclusive invite-only first look at Edition 5 of ALW. An ultra-special show will celebrate the seamless blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern style, embodying the essence of Tyaani’s jewelry. The runway will be transformed into an elegant canvas— understated opulence and immersive, designed to let the jewelry take center stage. The interplay of shadows and light will create a visual masterpiece, ensuring every jewel catches your eye and tells its story of heritage, modernity, and refined luxury. Adding to the allure, Karan Johar and friends will take the runway with some of the most iconic faces from the world of fashion and cinema adorned in Tyaani’s exquisite jewelry.

Speaking about the event, Akash Sheth, Co-Founder of The Magnanimous Group says, “We strive to redefine a luxurious experience through an immersive lens with every edition. As we celebrate a milestone with Edition 5, we are thrilled to bring together an unparalleled mix of creativity, innovation, collaboration, and culture across art, fashion, design, and lifestyle. This year’s event is a testament to our commitment to pushing boundaries, offering our guests a dynamic journey through curated experiences that are as inspiring as they are engaging. Ajio Luxe Wkend is more than an event—it’s a celebration of the evolving luxury and lifestyle landscape in India, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement.”

Day two promises a journey through the epitome of luxury, beauty, and the dynamic consumer of today. House of Chivas hosts HSBC Power Panels by The Established, with discussions ranging from ‘India’s Global Luxury Moment: Designers, Ambassadors, and Collaborations’ and ‘New-Age Luxury: Shaping India’s Next Boom’ to ‘How Gen Z Is Redefining Beauty Standards in India.’

The HSBC Masterclasses offer an enriching line-up of experiences, including energizing Wellness Mornings, an exploration of The Art of Collectibles, a Styling Workshop led by Akshay Tyagi, and a Farm-to-Table Dining journey curated by Gauri Devidayal. Adding to the excitement, Tira Masterclasses bring together leading beauty experiences, starting with ‘Akind: Listen to Your Skin,’ followed by an exclusive session with Pixi Beauty, and culminating with Burberry Fragrance Wardrobing–an elegant exploration of bespoke scent layering.

Day three is where all the action unfolds, kicking off with an exhilarating Ferrari drive that sets the tone for an unforgettable finale. Adding to the excitement, Tira Masterclasses continue, featuring a cutting-edge styling session by Dyson, followed by Dewy Drinks and Skincare Tips with Youth To The People. Bringing a playful twist to the day, Kenzo introduces an interactive claw machine and photo booth, spotlighting the vibrant Kenzo Verdy Market designs. Dare to play and stand a chance to win exclusive prizes, ensuring every moment is as thrilling as it is memorable.

Indulge in conversations that challenge perspectives, fashion that transitions seamlessly from the living room to the runway, and the allure of fine timepieces and state-of-the-art automobiles. Immerse yourself in inspiring art, ground-breaking beauty brands, exquisite everyday jewelry, and bespoke masterpieces.

Delight your palate with culinary creations that are as imaginative as they are delectable, all set against the backdrop of an electrifying musical experience by local and global music artists – from Mary Ann setting the stage for a great opening with her electrifying beats, to Rabab infusing day 2 with her infectious energies, and Nake, crafting a seamless blend of house, techno and afro rhythms.

The grand finale features Nina Shah’s electrifying performance and Arado headlining India’s first-ever All Saints Closing Sundowner with an unforgettable set. Prepare for a weekend filled with style, sophistication, and delightful surprises.

Hey there, music lovers! Ready to vibe with the king of soulful serenades? Gajendra Verma is hitting the road on his ‘Good Vibes Only’ Tour at one of the most happening destinations in the city, R City Mall Ghatkopar, and trust us, it’s the kind of evening that’ll have your heart humming and your feet tapping in perfect harmony.

From “Tera Ghata” (cue the feels) to “Mann Mera” (a whole vibe), Gajendra’s journey has been nothing short of a melody in motion. He started with a whisper (remember “Emptiness”?), grew into a roar, and is now the anthem of your playlists. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a mood, a groove, a hug in musical form.

The Good Vibes Only Tour is your ticket to a night where the lyrics speak your mind, the beats move your soul, and the vibes? Oh, they’re downright contagious. Expect big hits, brand-new bangers, and moments that’ll leave you wondering if music could actually heal your soul (spoiler: it can).

So, call up your crew, grab those tickets, and let’s make this an evening to remember. The good vibes are calling—don’t leave them on read!

Day & Date: Saturday, 11th January 2025

Time: 7 p.m. onwards

Venue: R-City Mall

Tickets On: BookMyShow

9th January 2025:Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) has achieved an ‘Excellent’ rating for the performance MoU signed with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) for the financial year 2023-24, with a score of 98.24 (rounded off 98). This marks the fourth consecutive year that IREDA has received an ‘Excellent’ rating, showcasing its unwavering commitment to operational excellence and the highest standards of corporate governance.

In the previous three years, IREDA consistently delivered exceptional results, achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating with scores of 93.50 in FY 2022-23, 96.54 in FY 2021-22, and 96.93 in FY 2020-21. These consistent achievements underline the organization’s dedication to driving India’s renewable energy goals.

Speaking on the achievement, Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, IREDA, said, “Securing the ‘Excellent’ rating for the fourth consecutive year is a significant milestone for IREDA. It reflects the tireless efforts of our employees, the unwavering trust of our stakeholders, and the guidance of the Govt. of India. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to this success. Together, we are committed to accelerating India’s green energy transition and achieving our nation’s renewable energy goals.”

CMD, IREDA, also expressed his gratitude to Shri Pralhad Joshi, Hon’ble Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution; Shri Shripad Naik, Hon’ble Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy; Shri Prashant Kumar Singh, Secretary, MNRE; other senior officials of the ministry; and the Board of Directors for their support and invaluable guidance.

January 09, 2025: Saint Louis University (SLU), a leading Catholic, Jesuit research university in the United States, is deepening its commitment to global education with a special leadership visit to India, including a key meeting with officials from the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS).

At the U.S. Consulate in Mumbai, SLU leaders met with the USCS principal commercial officer and education lead for India. The USCS, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, supports American organizations in building international partnerships and expanding their global reach.

The meeting offered an opportunity to reflect on two years of collaboration between the University and USCS, focusing on how partnerships with U.S. universities like SLU support India’s ambitious educational goals while fostering global perspectives on American campuses that benefit international and U.S. students alike.

“We are grateful for the continued partnership with the U.S. Commercial Service,” said SLU President Dr. Fred P. Pestello. “These discussions have strengthened our commitment to expanding SLU’s presence in India and enhancing the support we offer to our international students. We look forward to building on these relationships and exploring new avenues for collaboration.”

Over the past two years, SLU’s collaboration with USCS and other efforts in India have contributed to a significant increase in international enrollment at the University, with a record 3,200 international students from more than 90 countries currently studying at SLU’s campuses in St. Louis, Missouri, and Madrid, Spain.

Among other notable initiatives is Mumbai 1+1, a pathway program that allows students to complete the first year of their master’s degree at Mumbai University and the second year at SLU in the United States. An inaugural group of 55 students began their studies in Cybersecurity and Analytics last fall at Mumbai University in August 2024.

“Saint Louis University is dedicated to expanding its global footprint and offering comprehensive support to its international students,” said Mr. Rob Reddy, SLU’s Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management, who joined the University’s leadership delegation in India. “These engagements exemplify our commitment to educational excellence, paving the way for a promising future for students and communities across the globe.”