Archives February 2025

Significant Scholarships for 2025 for Indian Students University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is a world-renowned institution committed to fostering academic excellence and innovation. Its scholarship programs reflect its dedication to empowering students from around the globe to achieve their full potential. The University has announced substantial scholarships to support ambitious and talented students from India in their pursuit of higher education. With over 230 merit-based master’s scholarships available for 2025, this initiative aims to foster academic excellence and provide financial assistance to deserving candidates.

Aspiring scholars can participate in world-class education and research opportunities through the scholarships, which demonstrate the university’s dedication to developing international academic talent and advancing cultural diversity. For various scholarships on offer, a student’sacademic merit will serve as the foundation for assessment. Students who get an offer while meeting the qualifications, will get a scholarship in the form of a decrease in tuition fees.

The Scholarships available are as follows:

1. Global Futures Scholarship

The Global Futures Scholarship is available to students worldwide, including those from India. This scholarship reflects Manchester’s commitment to global engagement and innovation. It is available for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students.

• Undergraduate: The University of Manchester is proud to offer more than 100 merit-based undergraduate scholarships of up to £24,000 (£8,000 per year over three years) to international students from a selection of countries across the globe.

• Eligibility Criteria:

  •  Applicants must be fee-paying and domiciled in India.
  •  Candidates must hold a conditional or unconditional offer to study at The University of Manchester.
  •  Scholarships are available for various schools, including the School of Social Sciences, School of Environment, Education and Development, School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, and Alliance Manchester Business School.

• Timeline: Prospective students must submit their scholarship applications online by 10 April 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by 30 April 2025.

• Postgraduate: The University of Manchester offers international students 230 merit-based scholarships. The value of The Global Futures Scholarships for South Asian students is £8,000. Scholarships will be awarded in the form of a discount on published overseas tuition fees.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants will be considered for the award based on academic merit and the quality of their scholarship application.

Timeline: Please note the application form will only be made available to students once they have applied and been made an offer (either conditional or unconditional).

2. GREAT Scholarship 2025:
The University of Manchester is offering qualified students a GREAT scholarship of £10,000 towards tuition fees for the majority of one-year master’s programs in collaboration with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign. Additionally, students from India who will enroll in the 2025–2026 academic year are eligible to receive a GREAT scholarship specifically for taught master’s programs in the School of Arts, Languages, and Cultures.

Timeline:Indian students must apply by 24 April 2025, with results announced by 30 May 2025.

3. Humanities Postgraduate Scholarships:
Designed for future leaders, these scholarships provide £10,000 in funding and are granted based on academic merit without the need for a separate application.

Eligibility:

  •  1 year of funding only
  •  Applicants domiciled in India
  •  Applicants must be paying international tuition fees

4. Manchester Humanities International Excellence Scholarship:
Available to self-funded Indian applicants, this scholarship offers up to £5,000 based on the programme’s tuition fees.

Eligibility:

  •  Be domiciled in India
  •  Hold an offer to study with us on an eligible programme*
  •  Meet or exceed specified academic entry criteria for the programme applied to
  •  Be self-funded (not sponsored)

Availability:

  •  For programmes with tuition fees below or equal £28,000: £2,500
  •  For programs with tuition fees above £28,000 and all listed programmes within the Manchester Institute of Education: £5,000

5. Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute Taught Masters Scholarships:

Offering £14,000 for select programs, this scholarship supports students commencing their studies in September 2025.There will be one scholarship available for each of the following programmes:

  •  MA Humanitarianism and Conflict Response
  •  MSc International Disaster Management

Eligibility:

  •  Applicants may be of any nationality.
  •  Students who have already accepted full scholarships or bursaries for September 2025 entry are ineligible to apply.

upGrad & AWPO Partner to Empower Military Veterans

Mumbai, 11 February 2025: Riding high on its commitment to nation-building through skilling and career development, upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and forever learning majors—has announced a unique partnership with the Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO). It aims to empower military veterans and their dependents, including wives, young graduates, and widows of martyrs, with career opportunities to seamlessly transition into India’s corporate workforce.

In a first, the strategic partnership will enable a stronger last mile upskilling through bespoke training programs in essential domains like AI, Digital Marketing, Data, and vocational courses that prepare veterans and their families with core capabilities for both white-collar and blue-collar roles as per requirements, driving a very strong economic and social inclusion.

The Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) is a welfare initiative under the Adjutant General’s Branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army). Established in May 1999, AWPO is a non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating second career opportunities for retiring and retired Army personnel, their widows, and dependents. It assists in job placements across government, semi-government, and corporate sectors. Up until January 2025, AWPO has successfully placed over 1.3L veterans, including Officers, JCO, OR, and wards/widows, building one of the strongest placement ecosystems in India for ex-army officials.

Major Gen Ajay Singh Chauhan, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal (Retd) and Head of AWPO, commented, “The Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) aims to provide second career opportunities for army veterans, who often retire between ages 35-40, at a crucial stage in their lives. Many face challenges supporting their families with pensions, making career transitions vital. The partnership with Upgrade is key in helping us understand the skill sets and shortcomings of these veterans. While they bring valuable experience, the needs of the industry vary, and upGrad’s role in upskilling them makes them industry-ready. This partnership helps bridge the gap, ensuring they are fully prepared to take on any opportunity that arises, significantly advancing AWPO’s mission of placing retired army personnel. AWPO operates across 17 regional offices, including in J&K, and has placed over 16,000 JCOs, 450 officers, and 300 widows/wards across diverse sectors in corporate India in the last year. We believe in proactively hunting for opportunities, with regional offices tasked to match profiles and ensure seamless transitions.”

“It’s a matter of great pride for upgrade to work closely with AWPO and contribute meaningfully and literally towards nation-building. Our partnership is a powerful response to the growing organic demand we are witnessing from all over the ecosystem – not just corporate India,” said Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise. “It comes at a time when the Indian Government is making stronger strides within skilling and forever learning and building the right infrastructure to support our economic progress. It’s incredible to see the opportunity at hand—enabling AWPO with the right resources – for example, while this group of army officials, JCOs, and veterans who retire every year, brings unmatched discipline, leadership, and resilience honed through military service, we will build bespoke training to enhance their soft skills and capabilities for a smoother transition from a military environment to a job corporate/service environment. We are both honored and excited by the trust placed in us by AWPO, and we remain committed to delivering impactful outcomes.”

IFMR and the Government of Meghalaya sign MOU to Enhance Data Systems, Foster Innovation and drive policy implementation

L To R, Shri Ram Kumar, Secretary, Health & Family welfare,

Sri City, February 11, 2025IFMR and Krea University hosted Synergy 2025, an annual flagship event designed to bring together leading academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape data-driven solutions for pressing developmental challenges. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the event catalyzed action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen governance mechanisms in India.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Krea University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nirmala Rao, noted that “Synergy is a unique platform for the academic community to engage, debate, and critically analyze some of the most pressing issues in development, focusing on solutions and action.”

A key highlight of the event was the inaugural N Vaghul Memorial Lecture, honouring the legacy of the late Shri Narayanan Vaghul. Delivering the inaugural lecture, Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the transformative impact of AI and the tectonic shifts in this space. He emphasized the role of foundational research and evidence in developing inclusive AI solutions rooted in the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

In line with the event’s focus on data-driven development, Synergy 2025 also marked a key milestone in strengthening government-academia collaboration. The Government of Meghalaya and IFMR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance data systems, foster innovation, and drive efficient policy implementation. The agreement, signed by Dr Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Government of Meghalaya and Mr Kapil Viswanathan, President, IFMR, builds on Meghalaya’s pioneering initiatives in data-driven governance and underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking.

The event also featured a keynote lecture by Dr Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor’s Professor of Economics, UC San Diego and a panel discussion on enhancing state capacity including dignitaries: Dr Sampath Kumar, Government of Meghalaya; Ms Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment; Dr Veena Srinivasan, Executive Director, WELL Labs, Dr. Karthik Muralidharan, and Ms Deepthi Reddy, Chief – Women Empowerment, Reliance Foundation.

Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Founder & Former President, of IIT Madras Research Park, delivered a special address that emphasized research and industry collaborations. Stressing the inherent risks involved in research, he underscored the need for mechanisms that encourage risk-taking, enabling breakthroughs that can redefine industries and improve lives.

A Unique Research Ecosystem Driving Change

The IFMR and Krea ecosystem is a hub for innovative thinking and action with a portfolio of eight interdisciplinary research centres: WELL Labs, LEAD at Krea University, JPAL South Asia, Centre for Digital Financial Inclusion (CDFI), Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre, Inclusion Economics India Centre, IWWAGE, and Sapien Labs Centre for the Human Brain and Mind, including partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, MIT, and policy entities such as NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, IFMR Graduate School of Business and the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences.

The event featured an Ecosystem Showcase, where the research centres presented cutting-edge work across diverse themes, including financial inclusion, climate action, digital access, education, and public health. Faculty and students engaged with policymakers and thought leaders to explore solutions that can address India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the need for data-driven solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex challenges.

Eastman & Urja Mobility Partner for Lithium-Ion Batteries to Boost E-Mobility in India

Eastman and Urja Mobility

New Delhi, 11th February 2025: Eastman Auto and Power Ltd, (“EAPL”) a market leader in the Indian energy storage sector through its subsidiary, Eastman New Energy Private Limited Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with MTOW Mobility Private Limited, (“Urja Mobility”), a leader in Battery leasing in the Electric Three-Wheeler segment. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development and deployment of advanced lithium-ion battery technology for the electric vehicle (EV) sector in India. As part of the collaboration, URJA Mobility has decided to engage Eastman to supply 20,000+ lithium-ion batteries to execute the battery leasing solution across the country. Eastman will integrate Urja Mobility’s IoT and software solutions into its lithium battery products to enable remote monitoring and analytics.

This collaboration is set to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility in the country, contributing significantly to the nation’s sustainability goals. By combining Eastman’s expertise in lithium-ion batteries with Urja Mobility’s solution of battery leasing for electric three-wheelers, the partnership is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market and provide more efficient and eco-friendly transportation options for consumers.

Eastman being the market leader in E-Rickshaw batteries, this partnership will further bolster the strong position for Lithium batteries in the Electric Three-Wheeler Market.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Shekhar Singal, Managing Director, of Eastman Auto and Power Ltd said “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Eastman as we join forces with Urja Mobility to accelerate the growth of electric mobility in India. Our cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology, combined with Urja Mobility’s innovative battery leasing solution for electric three-wheelers, will play a crucial role in making sustainable transportation a reality for millions of people across the country. We are proud to contribute to India’s vision of reducing carbon emissions and advancing renewable energy solutions.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Pankaj Chopra, Co-Founder & Director, of Urja Mobility said “We are thrilled to partner with Eastman in this transformative collaboration. As a company committed to advancing electric mobility, we believe that, by providing a cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable battery solution, we aim to empower drivers and contribute to India’s vision for a greener future. This MoU is a big step forward in our mission to revolutionize transportation in India.”

This collaboration between Eastman and Urja Mobility represents a significant step forward in India’s transition to sustainable transportation, and both companies are excited to work together to create a greener, more energy-efficient future.

Arihant Capital Q3FY2025 Results – 9-months PAT jumps 11.13Percent

Arihant Capital

11th February 2025; Mumbai: Arihant Capital reported its third-quarter results for the financial year 2025 with revenue at INR 517.8 million down 32.2% QoQ and 28.72% YoY. However, the revenue for 9 months ending 31 December 2024 jumped 17.24% YoY. The drop has been mainly due to tighter regulations in the derivatives segment, falling markets that resulted in a drop in overall volumes, and lower participation of retail investors.

On profitability, the company reported a profit after tax (PAT) of INR 122.5 million down 38.54% QoQ and 37.44% YoY. Despite this, the company achieved an 11.13% growth in its 9-month profit, totaling INR 2,009.77 million by December 2024. Interest income for Q3FY2025 increased by 21.97% YoY to INR 199.4 million, though it saw a sequential decrease of 16.1%.

The company said its total expenses fell 15.06% YoY and 22.27% QoQ to INR 407.15 million.

With 30+ years of legacy, Arihant Capital is continuously focusing on growing business verticals pan India in Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities. Amongst the segments, there are a lot of growth opportunities and the company is continuously working towards expansion their focus remains on diversifying revenue streams through portfolio management services, and alternative investment funds along with catering to institutional & retail clients.

During the quarter company expanded its offline presence with 11 new branch openings and also hired over 60 new employees to expand its digital and offline business.

For verticals, it is strengthening & expanding both its Institutional & retail broking business by building customer relationships & providing them services to participate in its annual conference, roadshows, etc. They are serving over 120+ institutional clients including top banks, insurance companies, pension funds, and AMCs, and ~2.5 lakh+ retail customers. Also, Arihant remains focused on expanding its client base for retail segments and expanding its B2B business.

On the digital journey, their Mobile app ‘ArihantPlus’ has been well received by the customers and is simple to use and is a user-friendly interface packed with pro tools for advanced traders and investors has led to over 5.5 lacs total downloads. It has a consistent 99% uptime.

For Merchant Banking, the company managed rights issues, and open offers during the quarter, including Vardman Polytex INR 490 million rights issue. For FY25, management remains positive for the growth of its Merchant Banking Division as they have signed mandates for upcoming IPO (including mainboard and 16 SMEs). Additionally, they have tied up with fa ew wealth & private banking players to provide merchant banking services to their small and medium-sized corporate clients.

Further, Arihant Capital is looking for expansion in alternative investment funds (AIF) and this strategic move will enable them to diversify their product offerings for HNI clients and help them to deliver comprehensive and tailored investment solutions.

In all, their top priority is to enhance and safeguard the financial well-being of corporate and institutional clients as well as individual customers. So, their focus will be on deepening relationships with existing customers and attracting new ones, recruiting and retaining the right talent, diversifying revenue streams, and continuously upgrading technology.

Blenders Pride Fashion Tour Redefines Street Luxe in Chandigarh

Hari & Sukhmani

Chandigarh, February 11, 2025: After kicking off with a successful show in Gurugram, Blenders Pride Fashion Tour transformed Chandigarh into a pulsating canvas of street-inspired fashion, live music, and bold creativity. The evening was engulfed with street-style art, freestyle dance-offs, music performances, a vibing industrial look, and youthful, adventurous edgy street fashion brought to life by Kanika Goyal’s bold designs, and Jacqueline Fernandez’s stunning runway presence!

In collaboration with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), the tour continues to set the stage with iconic showcases celebrating India’s evolving fashion narrative. The synergy between FDCI’s expertise and the tour’s cutting-edge vision reached new heights in Chandigarh, seamlessly blending street luxe with bold, avant-garde expressions, setting the benchmark for an unforgettable experience.

The evening was a celebration of fashion, music, and art, as it spotlighted designer Kanika Goyal’s distinctive aesthetic. Her collection was a visual treat, showcased through bold silhouettes, vibrant hues, and experimental fabrics that redefined the urban narrative. The runway came alive with an eclectic mix of design and storytelling with elements that captured the essence of the designer’s artistic universe. Showstopper Jacqueline Fernandez brought the designer’s vision to life, exuding a flawless blend of confidence and unapologetic charm. Adding to the experience, Hari & Sukhmani performed live on the runway, delivering a mesmerizing musical act that seamlessly synced with the energy and rhythm of the fashion showcase.

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Business Development at Pernod Ricard India said, “Kanika Goyal’s showcase embodies the adventurous pulse of a new-age dynamic culture – one that aligns seamlessly with our vision to create a world where individuality and innovation take center stage. As the tour moves ahead, the upcoming experiences will continue to showcase the evolving face of fashion, as ‘The One and Only’ platform converging innovation and iconicity like never before.”

Designer Kanika Goyal, sharing her thoughts on the show, said, “This collection is a celebration of fearless individuality and the intersection of street and luxury. Blenders Pride Fashion Tour provided the perfect platform to showcase this vision, and Chandigarh, with its vibrant energy, was an ideal setting to bring it to life. The audience’s enthusiastic response was overwhelming, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to share my vision with them.”

Showstopper Jacqueline Fernandez said, “Walking for Kanika Goyal at Blenders Pride Fashion Tour was an incredible experience. Her bold and adventurous designs perfectly captured the spirit of this celebration. The energy, creativity, and dynamic spirit of this event were unmatched. It’s amazing to be part of a celebration that brings together fashion, art, and music in such a unique way.”

Indian folktronic duo, Hari & Sukhmani said, “Music has the power to elevate every experience, and performing live on the runway at Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in Chandigarh was truly special. We loved being part of this immersive showcase that celebrated creativity in its most dynamic form.”

“The Chandigarh edition was a perfect example of the iconic world of Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, and the impact it creates by bringing together the best in fashion & style. As curator of the tour, it’s exciting to see how it continues to take shape as ‘The One and Only’ platform of en vogue experiences”, says curator Ashish Soni.

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI expressed, “FDCI couldn’t have been prouder to partner with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, where we continue to redefine the fashion landscape. Chandigarh was a true testament to this evolving narrative. As two powerhouses in fashion, we’re committed to shaping the future of fashion experiences.”

The Fashion Tour is now headed to Guwahati on February 22nd, 2025, where designer Jay Jajal’s brand, Jaywalking’s innovative designs will be brought to life by Tiger Shroff’s captivating presence and thumping beats by KRSNA and KARMA.

House Of Makeup Unveils MakeUpWithMakeUp Campaign for Valentine’s Day

House

India, 2025 Homegrown beauty brand House Of Makeup is offering the perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care. Clean, high-impact makeup that speaks louder than any V-day gift, with the hashtag #MakeUpWithMakeUp.

Forget the usual gifts like soft toys, teddies, chocolates, and flowers – they’re old school. This Valentine’s Day, show you care with clean, high-impact makeup that’s as thoughtful as it is beautiful. Makeup tailored to their skin tone demonstrates you’ve put extra thought into the gift (and don’t worry, we’ll guide you in making the right choices). With clean, non-toxic products, you’re not just giving a gift – you’re caring for their skin, making up for every forgotten V-day gift along the way.

Our 1-step glam products make getting ready quick and easy, providing an instant glow-up with minimal effort. Plus, on orders of Rs. 1299 & above, you’ll receive a FREE poofy pouch – the perfect complement to your thoughtful gift. With House Of Makeup’s #MakeUpWithMakeUp campaign, you’re not just giving a present – you’re offering an experience of beauty that makes your partner feel loved and cared for.

“Valentine’s Day is all about showing love and appreciation in thoughtful ways. At House Of Makeup, we’ve designed our collection to not just be a gift, but a meaningful gesture – one that brings joy and confidence, is good for the skin, and leaves a lasting impact. Our mission is to offer beauty with no compromise—clean, easy, and premium, says Harlin Sachdeva, founder of House Of Makeup.”

This Valentine’s Day, it’s time to make up for all the gifts you’ve given (and forgotten to give) with the ultimate beauty gift. Show you care with House Of Makeup’s clean, high-impact products.

Interregnum One – Art Exhibition at Nine Fish Gallery, Mumbai

Anurag Kanoria,

by Anurag Kanoria

Interregnum One, A Pause Between Time and Space, an evocative group exhibition featuring works by Arzan Khambatta, Sahil Betigeri, Sayandeep Kangsabanik, Sushisurge, Tirthraj Sinh Zala, and Zirak Marker, will be on view from February 10 to March 2, 2025, at Nine Fish Art Gallery, Mumbai. Curated by Anurag Kanoria, Interregnum One is a journey through shifting artistic landscapes, where boundaries blur and new voices emerge. Through his curatorial vision, Anurag Kanoria brings together a diverse mix of artists, fostering dialogue between tradition and contemporary expression.

In an era where time and space collapse into a seamless present, this collection of works seeks to navigate the interstitial—those fleeting, undefined spaces between tradition and transformation, past and future, art and identity. Interregnum One is a reflection of new waves, movements, and voices—art untethered yet deeply rooted in exploration.

Each artist in this exhibition brings forth a unique interpretation of this liminality. Tirthraj Sinh Zala’s fluid and evolving lines remain anchored by the weight of historical imagery, while Sahil Betigeri’s pixelated video compositions shift rapidly in search of a digital identity. Zirak Marker’s evocative landscapes and seascapes unravel dreamscapes in perpetual motion. Sayandeep Kangsabanik carves a fresh definition of landscape itself, through fragmented strokes of lines and dots, Sushisurge’s visceral search for self in repeated textured forms applied directly by the finger. At the threshold stands Arzan Khambatta’s sculptural gateway—a solid yet paradoxically permeable portal that invites viewers to step through, embrace the interregnum, and see anew.

By bridging boundaries and allowing for the unbound, Interregnum One asks its audience to engage with the uncharted— to momentarily suspend certainty and immerse in the fluidity of artistic introspection.

Chalet Hotels Expands Leisure Portfolio with The Westin Resort & Spa, Rishikesh

Westin Resort

Mumbai, February 11th, 2025: Chalet Hotels Limited (CHL) has received the approval of the board of directors for the acquisition of Mahananda Spa and Resorts Private Limited, owning company of The Westin Resort and Spa, Himalayas (TWRS) in Rishikesh, a stunning 141-room luxury resort, nestled in the Himalayas. This strategic acquisition strengthens the company’s position in the high-growth leisure, spiritual, and wellness tourism market, unlocking new opportunities for premium experiences and long-term value creation.

CHL is in the process of entering into a definitive agreement with Mankind Pharma Limited, for a 100% stake in Mahananda Spa and Resorts Private Limited, the owning company of the property at an enterprise value of Rs. 5.3 Billion. CHL will be concluding the formalities shortly.

The Westin Resort C Spa, Himalayas, known for its wellness-focused experiences, opened its doors in January of 2023. For its second year of operations, the property reported an ADR of over Rs. 26,000 as of YTD Dec 24 with an occupancy of 45%.

Strategically located in the foothills of the Himalayas, near the spiritual and yoga hub of Rishikesh, the resort features 141 elegantly designed rooms, over 10,000 sq.ft. of event space, world-class dining options, and premium wellness amenities, including the Heavenly® Spa by Westin and the WestinWorkout® Fitness Studio. The pillarless Grand Ballroom is one of the largest conference halls in the region. The outdoor lawns of the resort provide idyllic settings for weddings. The resort is 45 minutes from Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun and offers plenty of recreation opportunities.

Speaking on the acquisition, Dr. Sanjay Sethi, MD G CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited, said: “This proposed acquisition will be a key milestone in Chalet Hotels’ strategy to expand its footprint in India’s high-growth luxury and leisure segment. The Westin Resort & Spa, Himalayas, is a premier wellness destination that perfectly aligns with our vision of offering world-class hospitality experiences. With its breathtaking location and exceptional amenities, this property will strengthen our leisure portfolio and allow us to cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers. We look forward to elevating the guest experience and further driving sustainable growth with this new addition.”

Adani Foundation at ACC Bargarh Empowers Rural Youth for Defence & Law Careers

Chandigarh, 11 February 2025: ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, along with Adani Foundation, is transforming the lives of defense and law enforcement aspirants in rural Odisha through its Pre-Police Training Programme at its facility in Bargarh. This initiative has enabled aspiring candidates like Chandan Pradhan from Malisrigudi, Sonepur district, to achieve their dreams of serving the nation.

Supported by ACC and the Adani Foundation, Chandan’s journey from rigorous training to securing a position in the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) showcases the program’s profound impact on youth empowerment. The Pre-Police Training Programme covers nearly 1,000 aspirants across its 13 locations.

The program begins with a screening check to ensure the candidates fulfill the physical parameters for their service of choice, followed by selection and covering the full theoretical syllabus for the selection examination. The program, facilitated by ACC Limited, provided Chandan also facilitates structured physical conditioning, mock interviews, and mentoring sessions, equipping him to excel in competitive defense recruitment processes.

For Chandan, the opportunity proved transformative, instilling discipline, resilience, and the confidence to succeed. His hard work culminated in clearing the ITBP recruitment exam, with his induction on December 14, 2024.

Chandan’s inspiring story reflects the tangible impact of ACC and Adani Foundation’s commitment to nurturing rural talent and fostering community progress. By creating opportunities for personal and professional growth, they continue to empower youth and contribute to nation-building.