Archives February 2025

New Delhi, 10th, February 2025: Career Launcher, a pioneer in UPSC CSAT coaching, has announced the relaunch of its comprehensive CSAT preparation program for the Civil Service Examination 2025. With the rising difficulty of the CSAT paper in recent years, this move addresses the growing demand from students seeking structured guidance to secure qualifying marks. Career Launcher is leveraging its 29+ years of expertise in aptitude training to help aspirants navigate this critical component of the UPSC prelims exam.

Career Launcher first introduced CSAT coaching in 2011, becoming the go-to choice for aspirants with its structured curriculum, experienced faculty, and comprehensive resources. Between 2012 and 2014, its students achieved a remarkable 7% success rate in the prelims examination—more than double the overall success ratio at the time. However, when CSAT became a qualifying paper in 2014, Career Launcher discontinued the program as aspirants required minimal preparation to meet the passing criteria. In recent years, the growing complexity of the CSAT paper has made it challenging for many students to clear this hurdle, sparking demand for expert guidance.

The new CSAT batch will commence on 17th February 2025 and will feature 150+ hours of live interactive online classes, offering in-class practice and doubt-solving sessions. Students enrolling in the program will receive comprehensive hard copy study materials and access to a full-length CSAT test series. The test series will be available in both offline and online modes to accommodate diverse learning preferences and simulate real exam conditions.

Speaking about the relaunch, Gautam Puri, Vice Chairman and MD – UPSC at Career Launcher, said, “We are thrilled to reintroduce our CSAT preparation course to address the increasing challenges faced by UPSC aspirants, especially in prelims. With our unparalleled experience in aptitude coaching and a legacy of success, we aim to provide students with the tools they need to excel and achieve their aspirations. We are committed to making competitive exams easy for students and aspirants using the latest technological tools and our rich experience.”

By, Dr. Smrithi D Nayak, Consultant – Obstetrics &Gynaecology, Aster RV Hospital

Winter in India introduces a specific set of issues and opportunities for those who want to start or expand their families. Here’s how the cold time of the year may play with fertility, along with some tips to make the best of it:

1. Improved Fertility: Hormones in action during Winters
There are changes in hormones that happen normally at this time. Researchers have found that during the winter, levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are made at a greater rate, thus bringing quality to ovulation and sperm. Most men notice a peak in testosterone during winter and women notice regularity of their cycles, increasing their chances of conceiving.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on ovulation during this time and have intercourse during your fertile window for maximum success.

2. Improved Sperm Quality in Men
The cooler temperatures are more favorable to sperm production and quality. Heat can damage sperm, but winter’s cooler climate maintains an ideal environment, thus boosting sperm count and motility.

Pro Tip: Advise your partner to avoid overly tight clothing and hot baths to maintain optimum sperm health throughout winter.

3. Seasonal Diet Boosts Fertility
Winter has plenty of fertility-enhancing foods, such as green leafy vegetables (spinach, fenugreek), fresh citrus fruits (oranges, guava), and nuts. These are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals needed to maintain the reproductive system. Foods like sesame seeds and jaggery are also taken as natural fertility enhancers in Indian traditional diets.

Pro Tip: Eat seasonal food in your everyday diet to boost your reproductive health and keep your hormones in check.

4. Less Stress and Improved Sleep
Winter’s longer nights tend to promote improved sleep, which is necessary for the balancing of hormones. Better quality of sleep would enhance the conditions for ovulation and sperm production, whereas decreased stress improves overall fertility.

Pro Tip: Establish a bedtime routine, enjoy warm beverages like herbal tea, and keep your bedroom cozy to maximize the benefits of winter’s restful nights.

5. Chances of Seasonal Diseases and Weight gain
On the other hand, cold weather may have the impact of increasing the vulnerability of acquiring colds and flu, and might thus weaken the body for some time, along with infertility. Also, minimal movement, calorie-rich foods are the factors that lead to gaining weight, which impacts hormone levels.

Pro Tip: Light exercises like yoga or walking, maintain healthy weight, and keep in your diet immunity-boosting foods like turmeric milk and ginger tea.

Final Thoughts for Couples Trying to Conceive
Winter is indeed the perfect time to focus on one’s reproductive health. But the right approach—healthy eating, stress management, and leveraging nature’s hormonal benefits—can definitely make the most of it. Stay warm, stay hopeful, and remember that this is a journey unique to each couple.

Dr. Sandhya Rani, Sr. Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women & Children Hospital, Bengaluru

Increased reports of period pain have been noticed in recent times. As a young woman, it’s essential to take care of one’s reproductive health. Many complications during this age can affect your entire well-being, from irregular periods to hormonal imbalances and risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Keeping up with common reproductive health problems and learning how to tackle them is imperative for a healthy future.

So, here is what every young woman should know about reproductive health, especially navigating common health concerns.

1.  Irregular Periods – Irregular cycles may be a sign of hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS. Track your periods and consult a gynaecologist if they are consistently irregular, heavy or painful. Early intervention can help regulate your cycle.
2.  Severe Pain – Severe period pain is not normal. It may be a sign of endometriosis or fibroids. If severe pain interferes with your daily life, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Complications can be avoided and one’s daily life can be improved simply by recognising and treating these signs early.
3.  Infections and STIs – Most infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be prevented. Hence practice safe intercourse, take regular screening tests and maintain good hygiene to protect your health. Pelvic inflammatory disease is one of the most common consequences of untreated infections leading to severe issues.
4.  Fertility Awareness – PCOS or pelvic infections can cause fertility issues. Consult a doctor if you have any concerns or are planning for the future. Regular check-ups can result in early identification of any issues and help doctors to provide specific solutions.
5.  Hormonal Imbalances – Mood swings, acne or changes in a person’s body could be symptoms of hormonal issues. Consult a gynaecologist about persistent symptoms to prevent long-term effects. A well-balanced lifestyle often helps to manage these imbalances.
6.  Contraception Options – Understand and select the appropriate contraceptive that suits your needs. Discussion with your gynaecologist will help you choose the right contraception based on your health and lifestyle. Proper education and information on the different contraceptive options reduce risk and promote safer choices.

Reproductive health isn’t only about disease management, it’s about taking control of one’s health, which involves preventing potential problems and seeking appropriate timely treatment when needed. Staying aware of conditions like irregular periods, hormonal imbalances and sexually transmitted infections can improve your overall health. Maintaining proper reproductive health along with early diagnosis and treatment can prevent bigger problems while contributing to a satisfied life without complications.

New Delhi, February 10, 2025 – The Lodhi, New Delhi, a distinguished member of The Leading Hotels of the World, has added another feather to its cap by unveiling its brand new Pickleball Courts as part of its world class recreational offerings. This exciting new addition complements the already impressive amenities within The Lodhi’s state-of-the-art lifestyle club, elevating the property’s commitment to luxury, wellness, and active living.

 On February 3, 2025 The Lodhi hosted a glamorous launch event for its three newly introduced Pickleball courts, welcoming an elite gathering of sports enthusiasts, luxury lifestyle connoisseurs, and guests eager to experience one of the world’s fastest-growing sports in a premium setting. The event, held from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM at The Lodhi’s state-of-the-art courts, was a thrilling celebration of athleticism and camaraderie. The Lodhi has introduced 3 Pickleball courts, providing ample space for players to engage in fast-paced matches. Attendees were treated to an engaging showcase of Pickleball, with live matches featuring sports enthusiasts demonstrating the strategic gameplay.

 The Lodhi’s lifestyle club features an impressive range of facilities, including 8000 Sq. ft. of a fully equipped gymnasium, Pilates and spin studios, squash courts, table tennis, lawn tennis courts, and a 50-meter lap pool. The addition of Pickleball courts further enhances these offerings, ensuring that residents and guests can engage in both traditional and contemporary sports in an elegant environment.

 To ensure an exceptional playing experience, The Lodhi partnered with Elephant Racquet Club, which supplied high-quality racquets and balls designed for superior performance. This collaboration underscored the hotel’s commitment to providing the best equipment for both seasoned players and newcomers eager to learn the sport. Meanwhile, XTCY Drinks kept the energy levels high with a curated selection of refreshing and revitalizing beverages, ensuring that players and guests remained hydrated and invigorated throughout the evening.

 The event also featured a gourmet spread of light bites and refreshments crafted by The Lodhi’s renowned culinary team. Guests indulged in an assortment of healthy yet delectable treats designed to complement the active nature of the evening. The lively ambiance was further enhanced by curated music, adding a dynamic touch to the celebratory occasion.

 Commenting on the successful launch, Abhimanyu Lodha, General Manager of The Lodhi, New Delhi, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Pickleball to our distinguished guests and patrons. The Lodhi has always been at the forefront of blending luxury with wellness, and these new courts further our commitment to providing world-class recreational facilities. We look forward to fostering a vibrant sporting community and offering unique experiences for all our guests.”

 With the successful launch of its Pickleball courts, The Lodhi reinforces its reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality, blending wellness, recreation, and sophistication. These new courts are set to become a premier sporting destination in the capital, offering guests and members an unparalleled experience in a world-class setting.

 As Pickleball continues to gain global recognition, with premium facilities, expert coaching, and an unmatched luxury experience, The Lodhi remains at the forefront of redefining elite leisure and wellness in New Delhi.

Gurugram, 10th February 2025: In an endeavor to create awareness about cancer, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram along with (HMCI) Heritage Motoring Club of India today flagged off a vintage car rally from the hospital. The event, flagged off at 9:45 AM by Mr. Yash Rawat, Facility Director, Fortis Gurugram in the presence of Cancer Survivors, Fortis Senior Clinicians, and Fortis Senior Leadership all uniting to highlight the critical themes of early detection, effective treatment options, and the resilience necessary to conquer cancer.

The rally demonstrated a robust turnout with over 400 participants, including 45 vintage cars and vintage motorcycles. Following the flag-off from Fortis Gurugram, the drivers embarked on their journey covering a total distance of 12.7 km from Baktawar Chowk, 32 milestone (sector 29) and back to Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram. The event brought together esteemed senior oncologists from the Fortis Group, who shared their insights and perspectives on the significance of cancer prevention and care.

Yash Rawat, Facility Director, Fortis Gurugram, said, “It’s truly inspiring to witness the unwavering passion and enthusiasm of the drivers who joined this awareness initiative. Their dedication sends a powerful message about the importance of early detection, effective treatment, and the relentless spirit required to combat cancer. As India faces a challenging fight against this disease in the coming years, Fortis, as a leading healthcare provider, is taking significant steps to enhance treatment and care for cancer patients. Our survivors are a source of inspiration, demonstrating that life after cancer is not just about surviving, it’s about thriving with confidence and dignity. At Fortis Gurugram, we are committed to providing not only world-class medical treatment but also emotional and psychological support to empower every patient on their journey. Today, we celebrate their courage and unwavering spirit.”

Diljeet Titus, General Secretary, Heritage Motoring Club of India said, “The rally aimed to raise awareness about the prevalence of cancer in India while stressing the importance of early detection and regular screening. The rally was designed to inspire and support cancer survivors and patients, highlighting their courage and determination. It also fostered community engagement and support, representing more than just an event-it symbolised a movement towards a cancer-aware society. The rally embodies hope, strength, and collective determination to conquer cancer. Fortis Healthcare’s commitment, combined with the support of the Heritage Motoring Club community, sends a powerful message in the battle against cancer. Together, they drive not only for awareness but for a future where cancer is no longer a feared adversary.”

Hyderabad, February 10, 2025 — Phenom, an AI company specializing in HR, today announced it acquired EDGE, a leading resource management and talent mobility platform. The acquisition of the Bengaluru-based company strengthens Phenom’s workforce intelligence solutions for the professional services industry and global capability centers (GCC).

The sixth acquisition and addition to the Intelligent Talent Experience platform portfolio marks a significant step in Phenom’s purpose to help a billion people find the right work. This acquisition demonstrates the company’s expansion in the India market with its rapidly growing enterprise sector and rising demand for technology adoption in HR functions.

Phenom aims to double its workforce within the next two years across its existing offices in Hyderabad, Vizag, and Bengaluru, with plans to add more locations across the country.

The EDGE acquisition adds advanced resource planning capabilities to the Phenom platform, market tested by some of the world’s leading professional services organizations and GCCs. This further strengthens the ability for Phenom to deliver solutions suited to different industries’ talent needs, helping companies execute strategic workforce planning at scale.

EDGE ontologies have been refined through thousands of interactions with employees, managers and HR to deliver highly contextual recommendations for the GCC market. This, coupled with their unique automation framework, has helped companies achieve:

● 16-day reduction in internal fulfillment cycle time

● 21% increase in the number of demands fulfilled internally

● 36% increase in supply visibility

● 28x increase in the number of contractors replaced by existing staff

“Phenom has been on our radar for several years due to their focus on AI and talent intelligence for a variety of HR applications across different industries,” said Sharath Hari, Vice President at the Everest Group analyst firm. “This acquisition is a logical next step to support their verticalization strategy.”

“In the face of rapidly developing AI innovations, organizations must level up their workforces to remain competitive,” said Mahe Bayireddi, CEO and co-founder of Phenom. “Intelligence and automation empower HR teams to provide phenomenal experiences at scale, and the EDGE acquisition adds tremendous value to better serve professional services companies and global capability centers.”

GURUGRAM, February- 10,2025: The thriving metropolis of Gurugram came alive with rhythm, color, and creativity as it hosted the inaugural Gurugram Festival, an arts and cultural extravaganza that brought together the best creative performers from the fields of music, dance, visual arts, and culture. Held on February 8th and 9th at the Epicentre, Apparel House, the festival provided a platform for cultural exchange and encouraged dialogue among artists and audiences.

 Acclaimed artists such as Sarod Maestro Pandit Partho Sarothy, trained under Ustad Dhyanesh Khan and the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, Pandit Uday Bhawalkar, one of the foremost Dhrupad vocalists, sitar virtuoso Samanwaya Sarkar, vocalist Debapriya Adhikari, and Kathak exponent Guru Sandip Mallick headlined this captivating soirée with their accomplished and mesmerizing performances. Accompanying these artists were Pandit Vinod Lele, Debjit Putitundi, and Madhurjya Barthakur on tabla.

 Sarod maestro Pandit Partho Sarothy expressed his excitement, saying, “Performing at the Gurugram Festival was an honor. Being part of such a vibrant celebration of art and culture was truly special. The experience was unforgettable, and I thank everyone who joined us in supporting the arts.”

 Pandit Uday Bhawalkar shared, “For the first time, the Gurugram Festival brought a vibrant cultural experience to the city, which had long lacked such a platform. Celebrating the rich artistic and cultural heritage of our ancient roots, this festival marked a true milestone.”

 Business leader Lloyd Mathias highlighted the significance of the festival, remarking, “It was thrilling to witness the Gurugram Festival at Epicentre on February 8th & 9th! While the city has grown with corporates, the culture has lagged behind. This festival will help to bridge that gap—a much-needed celebration!”

 In addition to music, the festival created a space for literature sessions, workshops for children, poets, painters, and photographers. Whether one is an art lover, music enthusiast, aspiring litterateur, or simply looking for a festive outing, the Gurugram Festival promised an experience that entertained and inspired audiences of all ages.

(Mumbai, February 10, 2025) – Vietjet, Vietnam’s new-age carrier, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with OpenAirlines, a global leader in airline fuel efficiency solutions leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), further advancing its journey toward optimized flight operations.

Vietjet will be the first airline in Vietnam to adopt SkyBreathe®, an innovative platform that utilizes AI, big data algorithms, and machine learning to analyze extensive flight data and optimize fuel consumption. The system collects and integrates information from multiple sources, including aircraft data and fuel reports, into a single platform. With over 21 million flights analyzed, SkyBreathe® relies on the world’s largest fuel efficiency database for airlines.

The SkyBreathe® 360° eco-flying platform identifies concrete opportunities for fuel savings and provides tailored recommendations to key airline stakeholders, including pilots and flight operations managers, fostering effective collaboration. By promoting a green culture while maximizing productivity, the platform enables airlines to achieve both environmental and operational benefits. According to OpenAirlines’ analysis, SkyBreathe®’s user-friendly interface and detailed analytics will empower Vietjet to make informed decisions, reduce fuel consumption by 2%, and cut CO2 emissions by over 96,000 tons annually.

Additionally, Vietjet will roll out the SkyBreathe® MyFuelCoach application to all its pilots. This dedicated fuel assistant offers personalized eco-briefings and debriefings, allowing pilots to monitor their performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement best practices for fuel efficiency. By adopting these measures, pilots can lower fuel consumption while minimizing the environmental impact of their flights.

“This partnership underscores Vietjet’s unwavering commitment to more sustainable flight operations. By harnessing the power of innovation and digitalization, the airline is turning its ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 into concrete actions that benefit not only itself but the entire aviation ecosystem, travelers, and the planet. The implementation of SkyBreathe® is already underway, enabling Vietjet to unlock its full potential and achieve measurable results quickly,” said Alexandre Feray, CEO of OpenAirlines.

Vietjet Vice President Nguyen Duc Thinh added: “Today’s agreement with OpenAirlines marks a significant milestone in Vietjet’s sustainable development strategy. By leveraging advanced technologies, we can continuously innovate, optimize operations, reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and enhance passengers’ flight experiences at reasonable costs. This collaboration further demonstrates Vietjet’s relentless efforts toward sustainability while delivering long-term benefits to the global aviation industry.”

By joining the 73-member SkyBreathe® Community, Vietjet gains access to a dynamic international network of airlines committed to building a more sustainable aviation industry. As part of this community, Vietjet will receive ongoing support from a dedicated OpenAirlines fuel expert, who will help the airline optimize performance and maximize benefits throughout its SkyBreathe® journey.

Vietjet is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the Asia-Pacific region. It continues to expand its modern fleet with aircraft from world-leading manufacturers while actively growing its global flight network. Through strategic partnerships with key international aviation and technology leaders, Vietjet remains committed to sustainable development and innovation.

Gurugram, 10th Feb 2025: SAMHI Hotels Limited is proud to announce its collaboration with the Indian School of Hospitality, a renowned institution specializing in management and leadership development, to introduce an exclusive Management Development Programme for senior leaders. This initiative aims to foster innovation, strategic thinking, and leadership excellence within the hospitality sector.

The program launched on 3rd February 2025, is tailored for senior executives at the various hotels under the umbrella of SAMHI Hotels Limited to equip them with cutting-edge skills in leadership, operational finance, and business strategy. Participants will engage in a curriculum designed by the Indian School of Hospitality, known for its expertise in Hospitality Management, Finance, Leadership, and Strategy.
The program has been designed and contextualized to the needs of hospitality leaders of today and would include experiential workshops, case studies, mentorship, and hands-on action learning projects, ensuring participants gain practical insights and tools to address the challenges of a dynamic global market.

“We are very excited to partner with the Indian School of Hospitality to create a bespoke program for emerging leaders across our hotel portfolio,” said Ashish Jakhanwala, Chairman, MD & CEO of SAMHI Hotels. “As we invest capital to grow our hotel portfolio, we also remain committed to investing in developing talent. What makes this unique is that the program is available to leaders across different brands that our hotels operate under and therefore the cohort itself brings phenomenal experience to the classroom”

Indian School of Hospitality is delighted to partner with SAMHI Hotels Limited to deliver this bespoke leadership program,” said Mr Dilip Puri, Founder and Executive Chairman, of Indian School of Hospitality. “Our goal is to empower leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive organizational success and adapt to the evolving demands of the hospitality sector.”

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to leadership excellence, innovation, and continuous learning. The first cohort will consist of 27 participants and will commence on 3rd February at the Indian School of Hospitality.

Gillco International School,Mohali conducted a Draw of Lots Ceremony for grade nursery on Saturday, 8 February 2025.GIS is one of the leading educational institutions in Mohali, Punjab conducted a draw of lots ceremony today to determine the order of admission seats for the upcoming session 2025-26.

The ceremony, which was attended by parents, teachers, and students, was held at the school premises. The draw of lots was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, with the Chairman,Mr Ranjeet Singh Gill, Trustee, Mrs Gill, Senior Management,Ms Jai Sandhu Gill presiding over the ceremony.

“We are thrilled to host this event ,” said the Principal, Dr Kritika Kaushal.The draw of lots ceremony marks an important milestone in the lead-up to the event, and we are excited to venture into the new academic year. GIS is a leading educational institution committed to providing a world-class education to its students. With a strong focus on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and character development, it aims to empower its students to become responsible and successful citizens.