Archives March 2025

ASME Foundation India Drives Creativity and Innovation at EFx India 2025

Bengaluru, March 29, 2025: In a celebration of ingenuity and sustainable innovation, ASME Foundation India, the philanthropic arm of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), in collaboration with REVA University, has brought together the country’s brightest engineering minds for EFx India 2025. The three-day festival, running from March 27 to 29, has

drawn over 700 students from top-tier engineering institutions across India, providing a platform to showcase technical acumen, compete in high-stakes challenges, and engage with industry leaders shaping the future of engineering.

Ms. Maria Cardwell, Executive Director & Chief Engineer, Boeing India, and the event’s Chief Guest, underscored the high expectations placed on India’s engineers. “The demand is immense, and that pressure shapes the way young engineers approach their craft—compromise, negotiation, and incremental success are part of the journey to groundbreaking innovation. When you’re in the workforce, there’s little room for failure. That’s why ASME, Boeing, and many others invest in initiatives like EFx.”

Empowering Engineers through Innovation and Collaboration

As one of ASME’s premier student engagement initiatives, EFx has, over the past seven years, attracted more than 10,000 participants from 400 institutes spanning 20 cities, reinforcing India’s reputation as a global powerhouse for engineering talent.

This year’s edition goes beyond competition, featuring expert-led masterclasses on cutting-edge topics—biomimicry, GD&T in manufacturing, welding and NDE applications, remote imaging for material assessment, and sustainable engineering—offering students critical industry insights and practical expertise.

“EFx India has returned after two years to reignite experiential learning,” said Mr. Madhukar Sharma, President, ASME India Pvt Ltd. “Engineering is not just about technical skills—it’s about resilience, collaboration, and navigating real-world constraints. Here, students don’t just learn; they innovate, fail, and ultimately, succeed.”

Dr. P. Shyama Raju, Founder and Chancellor, REVA University, emphasised the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students. “I have always wanted students to gain real-world exposure. EFx competitions provide practical learning that goes beyond classroom and lab projects. I sincerely thank ASME India and the ASME India Foundation for this opportunity. I want my students to become job providers, not job seekers. If universities foster collaboration between research, academia, and industry while providing practical exposure, I believe my vision of producing job providers will become a reality.”

The Next Era of Indian Engineering

ASME Foundation India operates with a clear mission: to bridge the gap between academia and industry while fostering equitable access to engineering education and career opportunities. Its initiatives rest on three foundational pillars:

• Education that Inspires: Partnering with organisations such as CSRL, ASME Foundation India nurtures problem-solving abilities and hands-on learning in mechanical engineering.

• Careers that Matter: With a robust network of over 6,000 members and volunteers, ASME India facilitates mentorship, leadership development, and industry networking.

• Ideas that Innovate: Actively engaging underrepresented communities, particularly women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs), ASME supports engineering-driven solutions that enhance livelihoods and drive economic empowerment.

“ASME Foundation India is committed to empowering the next generation of engineers,” said Ms. Avni Malhotra, Deputy Director, ASME Foundation India. “Through EFx competitions, student initiatives, and philanthropic programs, we are equipping young talent with the skills to tackle global challenges head-on.”

Dr. Narayanaswamy KS, Registrar, REVA University, echoed this sentiment: “Real-world problems demand professional solutions. ASME’s unwavering commitment to engineering excellence is making a tangible difference.”

Discover Top International Beauty Brands on Myntra’s M-Now

Bangalore, 29th March, 2025: Myntra is delighting its discerning customers by extending its premium range of international beauty brands, on M-Now, its speed proposition.

For the first time ever, beauty lovers can now quickly get their hands on their favorite international beauty and personal care products and have it delivered to their doorsteps starting in just 30 minutes in select pincodes.

Myntra is elevating the pursuit of premium beauty, making coveted international brands effortlessly accessible. Now, the indulgence of a premium skincare ritual or the allure of a signature fragrance is within reach. Myntra is not just offering beauty; it’s unlocking immediate access to some of the world’s most desired brands, seamlessly integrating premium offerings into the rhythm of modern life.

  • CeraVe: Dermatologist-recommended skincare solutions, including hydrating cleansers and restorative moisturizers, are now accessible through M-Now’s expedited delivery network.
  • Yves Saint Laurent (YSL): Iconic fragrances, such as Libre and MYSLF, can be efficiently delivered, catering to immediate needs for premium olfactory experiences.
  • MAC Cosmetics: A comprehensive range of makeup products, including lipsticks, setting sprays, and eyeshadow palettes, is now available on M-Now.
  • Dyson: The technologically advanced Dyson Airwrap, for professional hairstyling, can be delivered with exceptional speed.
  • Carolina Herrera: Perfumes, including the sophisticated 212 Women fragrance, are available for delivery starting in 30 minutes.
  • Estée Lauder: High-performance skincare formulations, such as the Advanced Night Repair serum, and luxurious fragrances are available for rapid delivery.
  • Clinique: Clinically formulated skincare and sun protection products are offered through M-Now’s efficient delivery system.
  • COSRX: Esteemed for its efficacious K-beauty formulations, COSRX provides a range of skincare solutions available for expedited delivery.
  • Prada: Prada’s luxury line of fragrances including the famous Paradoxe EDP and the Luna Rossa Carbon EDT can be purchased and delivered to fragrance fanatics starting in 30 minutes in selected pincodes.

This selection showcases just a glimpse of the premium international beauty and fashion brands now at your fingertips with Myntra’s M-Now. Designed to cater to the needs of its premium customers, this service eliminates any trade-off, ensuring they no longer have to compromise on the brands they desire for the sake of immediate access – experience high-quality, coveted products delivered with unparalleled efficiency, right when you need them.

Speaking about the selection of International beauty brands to M-Now, Venu Nair, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Omnichannel, Myntra, said “Beauty is witnessing remarkable adoption on Myntra, and we’ve been dedicated to curating a selection of the finest international beauty brands for our customers. Through M-Now, we’re not just offering products; we’re delivering an experience—allowing our customers to access high-quality, coveted beauty items with unparalleled efficiency, right when they need them. This strategic expansion underscores our commitment to ensuring our customers have the best possible selection, delivered at lightning-fast speed.”

ILine Revolutionizes Last-Mile Delivery Using Green Technology and AI-Driven Applications

Delhi, March 2025 – Delivering the Future, Sustainably—with this vision, ILine proudly announces the launch of two groundbreaking mobile applications: the ILine Customer App and the ILine Pilot App. These apps are set to redefine the landscape of last-mile logistics by making EV-based deliveries more accessible, efficient, and eco-friendly.

The ILine Customer App enables effortless scheduling and booking of EV deliveries with just a few taps. Users have the choice of instant deliveries or pre-scheduled deliveries as per their convenience. Furthermore, ILine provides transparency through real-time tracking and AI ETA updates. Payments can be made free of irritants through credit and debit cards, digital wallets, and UPI. In addition, the app promotes safe and reliable deliveries using OTP delivery confirmation and package photo verification. Sustainability remains core to ILine mission and thus the application incorporates CO₂ Savings Tracker and Green rewards programs that promote eco-friendly decisions.

With features designed to enhance productivity and profits for EV delivery drivers, the ILine Pilot App has integrated smart ride management capabilities. Drivers are boosted through AI-powered auto-assignment and route optimization that enable maximum productivity and battery preservation. The app monitors battery levels in real-time and provides directions to charging stations, making sure service is never interrupted. Financial tools such as earnings summary, instant withdrawal, and incentive tracking make managing finances effortless and transparent. Customer and driver safety are prioritized by security measures including OTP delivery completion, photo proof of package delivery, and an SOS panic button for emergencies.

“Launching an app isn’t our focus. At ILine, we strive to change last-mile delivery through the use of AI and sustainable technology. It is our mission to provide a smarter, greener, and efficient EV logistics environment for customers and drivers. Our app distinguishes itself with a uniquely AI integrated security and sustainability feature that delivers unparalleled results. Technology adoption that raises the efficiency and AI integration of delivery solutions while making the world cleaner for future generations is essential during the transition to electric mobility. That is the future of logistics and ILine is excited to drive the change,” said Prakarsh Dwivedi, CEO of ILine.

The rollout of these new apps is set to change the face of the logistics sector completely by updating delivery systems and speeding up the use of electric vehicles for a greener tomorrow.

Stand-Up Comedy Takes a New Stage with PVR INOX and DeadAnt in Cinemas

National, 29th March 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibition company, is thrilled to announce its partnership with DeadAnt to introduce DeadAnt’s Night Out — an innovative live comedy series that transforms cinema halls into vibrant comedy arenas. This first-of-its-kind collaboration brings India’s top comedians to perform live on stage, offering audiences an immersive experience that blends the thrill of stand-up comedy with the comfort and ambiance of a premium movie theatre.

DeadAnt’s Night Out kicks off on April 2nd at PVR ICON, Phoenix Palladium Mall, Mumbai, at 8:30 PM, promising an exciting lineup of India’s top comedians. The series opens with Aditi Mittal on April 2nd, Anuvab Pal takes the stage on April 16th, Mandar Bhide brings his signature humor on April 23rd, and the season wraps up with Varun Thakur’s high-energy performance on April 30th. Each show promises a unique experience, blending live comedy with the comfort of a premium cinema environment.

With alternate content booming and stand-up comedy resonating strongly with Gen Z and millennials, this initiative is set to redefine how audiences engage with live entertainment. DeadAnt’s Night Out makes stand-up more accessible and enjoyable by taking it beyond traditional venues and into cinemas, offering a unique night out that combines laughter, entertainment, and comfort.

Mr. Kamal Gianchandani , Chief Business Planning & Strategy, PVR INOX Ltd expressed his enthusiasm stating:

“We at PVR INOX are committed to offering unique experiences beyond traditional cinema. With alternate content gaining popularity and stand-up comedy striking a chord with Gen Z, our partnership with DeadAnt brings live comedy to cinema spaces, blending top-tier entertainment with a premium, immersive environment. This initiative extends our entertainment portfolio beyond movies and reaffirms our dedication to delivering diverse, high-quality experiences in a comfortable and engaging setting.”

Ravina Rawal, Founder & CEO of DeadAnt added that “We’re always pushing the boundaries of how people experience comedy. This series is about giving fans a night out that’s as big and bold as the talent on stage. The energy of a live show, the comfort of a cinema, and lineups you’d actually queue for — that’s the sweet spot we’re going after.”

Ananya’s Opulent Lifestyle Shakes Up the Wagle Family in Sony SAB’s ‘Wagle Ki Duniya’

Mumbai , March 29, 2025: Sony SAB’s show ‘Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey’ has always brought alive the challenges, successes and emotional moments in the lives of middle-class families. The recent episodes dealt with issues like parenting complexities, career dilemmas and teenage rebellion in a light-hearted manner. Now, the story takes a new turn when the Wagle family has to face an unexpected guest, Ananya (Saumya Shetye).

sony sab

This week, the peaceful Sai Darshan Society is thrown into a tizzy when Ananya moves in with the Wagle family for a while. Her high-class lifestyle and habits challenge the Wagle family’s simple lifestyle. From cappuccino machines to community celebrations, their differences sometimes cause tension and sometimes laughter. Meanwhile, another big problem arises outside the house. A building of Ananya’s father’s new real estate project ‘Ananya Smart City’ collapses, landing them in controversy. The incident brings media attention to Ananya and the Wagle family and they too get involved in the chaos.

Will Rajesh be able to protect his family’s privacy and deal with the media?

Sumeet Raghavan who plays Rajesh Wagle in the show said , “This week’s story is a mix of misunderstandings, emotions and real life problems that every family can relate to. Ananya’s entry brings a new storm in the Wagle family, leading to a fun clash between their simple and lavish lifestyle. It is always refreshing to have young energy on the set as it adds a new perspective to the scenes.”

NCLT Clears Path for Merger of Cohance Lifesciences and Suven Pharmaceuticals

Hyderabad, March 29, 2025: Suven Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a leading global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), today announced that the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), vide its order pronounced on March 27, 2025 (the “Order”), has sanctioned the Scheme of Amalgamation between Cohance Lifesciences Limited and Suven Pharmaceuticals Limited.

As per the terms of the Scheme, the merger will become effective from the opening business hours of the first day of the month immediately following the month in which all conditions specified under the Scheme are fulfilled, including receipt of approval from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, where applicable. The effective date will be duly intimated to the Stock Exchanges for public disclosure in accordance with applicable regulations. As previously communicated, the Company expects to complete the amalgamation process by Q1FY26.

The amalgamation is expected to create a future-ready, diversified CDMO platform with a technology-led focus across three high-growth verticals—Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), Oligonucleotides, and Small Molecules. The combined entity will operate as an integrated, end-to-end partner to global innovator pharmaceutical companies, further supported by strong capabilities in the Specialty CDMO and API+ business segments. The merged platform is expected to enhance scale, broaden customer offerings, and drive operational synergies that will fuel long-term growth.

Mr. Vivek Sharma, Executive Chairman of Suven Pharmaceuticals, said, “The NCLT approval marks a milestone moment for both the companies, as we embark on a transformative phase. This merger enhances our global capabilities, particularly in the growing and highly specialized areas of ADCs. With Cohance’s unique technological platform in ADC, we are well-positioned to become a $1 billion revenue company in next five years with higher CDMO contribution.”

Commenting on the proposed merger, Dr. V. Prasada Raju, Managing Director of Suven Pharmaceuticals, said, “The approval of the merger marks a significant milestone in our journey to build a differentiated and innovation-led CDMO platform from India. The combined capabilities of Suven and Cohance position us strongly in high-growth areas such as Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), Oligonucleotides, and complex Small Molecules. These segments represent the future of pharmaceutical innovation, and our integrated approach—spanning development to commercial manufacturing—aims to deliver high-impact solutions to global innovator clients. We are also excited about the broader synergies this merger will unlock across our Specialty CDMO and API+ business segments, enabling us to drive long-term value creation.”

Exicom Joins Forces with IONAGE to Expand Accessible EV Charging Across India

Gurugram, Wednesday, 29th March, 2025 – Exicom, one of India’s leading EV charging and critical power solutions manufacturer, has announced a strategic partnership with IONAGE, a leading EV charging software platform provider. This collaboration aims to build a neutral, unified and accessible EV charging ecosystem, while simplifying charger discoverability, accessibility, and management across the country. With India aspiring to reach 30% EV penetration by 2030, the country’s EV charging infrastructure is expected to scale massively. Along with this impetus, comes the need to simplify EV charger discoverability, accessibility, operations, and management. The solution lies in a neutral, unified, customer facing platform that can enable end EV users to charge effortlessly without having to track multiple applications across charging networks and CPO’s to operate and manage vast charging networks with ease and efficiency.

Vimal Kumar V, Managing Director, Ionage with Anshuman Divyanshu, CEO, EVSE business Exicom.

Exicom, with an installed base of 1.75 lakh chargers, is one of the leading EV charger manufacturers in the country. By joining forces with IONAGE, the companies will help build a solid open charger discoverability and management platform for different charging networks to converge on, enabling end EV users to effortlessly charge across networks. As part of this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Exicom’s extensive EV charging solutions will integrate with IONAGE’s robust CMS platform, offering a seamless CMS integration option for various charging networks in the country while helping build a more robust EV charging ecosystem.

Empowering Charge Point Operators & Fleets:

CPOs, fleet operators, OEMs, and real estate developers will now have access to an optimized charging infrastructure powered by real-time insights, remote diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. This integration will help deliver higher charger uptime, reduce operational costs, and facilitate scalable deployment—critical for building customer confidence and expanding the EV charging infrastructure.

Simplifying EV Charging for Businesses & Consumers

By merging best-in-class hardware with intelligent software, Exicom and IONAGE will make EV charging more accessible and efficient for businesses, fleets, dealerships, and individual users. Their bundled solution will enable a plug-and-play experience, minimizing setup complexities and enhancing user convenience. Whether managing a large fleet or setting up a home charger, users will benefit from a streamlined, cost-effective solution tailored to their needs.

Anshuman Divyanshu, CEO of EVSE business of Exicom, said, “We are excited to partner with IONAGE to simplify the EV charging experience in India. This collaboration will not only help address the challenges users face in accessing charging stations but also strengthen the EV charger ecosystem by creating a unified platform that supports seamless, efficient, and reliable EV charging across the country.”

Vimal Kumar V, CEO of IONAGE, said, “Our partnership with Exicom marks a key step toward transforming the EV charging landscape in India. By combining our expertise, we will create an integrated system that benefits both operators, fleets and users, making EV charging more accessible and reliable while driving the growth of sustainable mobility.”

RFDL 2024-25: Mohun Bagan Overcomes Muthoot FA; Classic FA Stages Comeback Against Sreenidi Deccan FC

Mumbai; March 29: Mohun Bagan Super Giant edged Muthoot FA by 2-1 in a close encounter, while Classic FA produced a fantastic comeback to defeat Sreenidi Deccan FC 3-2 in their Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL) 2024-25 National Group Stage match at the Reliance Corporate Park in Mumbai on Thursday.

Ahead of the first game between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Muthoot FA, the two sides aimed to maintain their winning momentum having registered wins against Mumbai City FC and Classic FA respectively. The Mariners started the game on the strong foot, capitalising on a mistake from Muthoot FA to take a crucial lead in the game. Their Player of the Match against Mumbai City FC Vian Murgod, pressurized the opposition defence to win the ball in a dangerous position and poked it past the Muthoot FA goalkeeper to make it 1-0. The Kerala-based side got one back before the half-time break when Umer Muhthar brought Abith K B down inside the box and the referee pointed towards the spot. The Muthoot forward coolly placed the ball in the bottom right corner to bring the scores level.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant players celebrate against Muthoot FA during RFDL 2024-25 National Group Stage in Mumbai

Mohun Bagan, however, looked more robust in the second half and earned a penalty right after the restart when Amandeep was fouled inside the box by Muthoot FA goalkeeper Mohammed Anas while attempting to clear the ball. Leimapokpam Sibajit Singh, who was a livewire in the attack throughout the game, stepped up to take the spot kick and put his side back into the lead by scoring the penalty. The Mariners held on to their slender lead and ensured a 100% record in the competition.

In the afternoon kick-off, Classic FA registered an emphatic 3-2 come-from-behind victory over Sreenidi Deccan FC in their second match of the RFDL 2024-25 National Group Stage. The Telangana-based side had taken an early lead in the 10th minute through Levis Zangminlun. Lalfamkima’s attempt from close range was parried by the Classic FA goalkeeper, but Levis managed to score from the rebound. It wasn’t long before Thangjam Roshan Singh setup Bharat Lairenjam inside the box in the 22nd minute. The latter made no mistake in tapping it in and making it 1-1 as the two sides headed into the break.

Late drama ensued in the game when Sreenidi substitute Embokhlang Nongkhlaw made the most out of a piercing through ball from Jay Paominlal Singson to give Sreenidi the lead again in the 85th minute. But Classic FA came all cylinders firing in the remaining minutes of the game to produce a remarkable turnaround. Md. Arbash’s free-kick in the first minute of stoppage time was spilled by the Sreenidi goalkeeper and Blessing Keishing was in the right place at the right time to smash home the equalizer.

The Manipur-based side, full of confidence after the equalizing goal, produced a late wave of attack causing trouble to the Sreenidi goalkeeper. Captain Yendrembam Rohit Singh managed to poke the ball in following a melee inside the box to make it 3-2 and win it for his side deep into the stoppage time.

After the game, Sreenidi Deccan FC Reserves Team Head Coach Alvaro Mota quoted, “We have a very young squad here with an average age of 18. Our goalkeeper today is just 16. So the key for our side is to learn from mistakes and not repeat them. Today was a tough loss for us. I need to credit our opponents, Classic FA, for hanging in there and not giving up till the end. We tried to put up a good show and correct our markings. But the boys will learn a lot from this experience.”

Earlier on Wednesday, NorthEast United registered a narrow 1-0 win over FC Goa to grab their first three points of the RFDL National Group Stage. The Highlanders, though, left it late to take the lead in the game. Following a short corner, skipper Fredy Chawngthansanga delivered a pinching cross into the box and Mukul Panwar headed it onto Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam who was through on goal. The midfielder comfortably took a touch and beat the FC Goa goalkeeper from close range to win it for NorthEast United FC.

MAHE Achieves Significant Growth in SCImago Rankings, Excelling in Every Category

Manipal, 29th March 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has strengthened its position in the SCImago Institution Ranking 2025, by achieving outstanding performance and significant improvements in both global and national standings across multiple categories.

Key achievements in India (University Category):

  • Overall Rank: Climbed from 7th to 4th
  • Research Rank: Improved from 6th to 3rd
  • Innovation Rank: Improved from 137th to 119th
  • Societal Rank: Retained a strong position at 4th

MAHE has also been acknowledged in 19 broad subject categories and 41 narrow subject categories, further strengthening its leadership across diverse academic disciplines.

Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “This is a remarkable feat for Manipal Academy of Higher Education the SCImago Institution Ranking 2025 not only sets an example but also proves MAHE’s commitment towards making an impact in the fields of education, research, and innovation globally.”

This milestone reflects MAHE’s dedication to academic excellence, pioneering research, and meaningful societal contributions. Through the continuous advancement of knowledge and the establishment of new benchmarks, the Manipal Academy of Higher Education has become a leader in education and innovation globally.

Bennett Coleman and Co. Expands Portfolio with Rs. 262 Crore Investment in Mumbai Real Estate

Bennett Coleman and Company Company Picture

Bennett Coleman And Company Limited (The Times of India Group) has acquiring four commercial spaces in Santacruz East, Mumbai. The total transaction value across these deals amounts to Rs. 261.9 crore, according to property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards on the website of the Inspector General of Registration (IGR) . All the four transactions were officially registered in March 2025.

Santacruz East, strategically located in Mumbai’s western suburbs, is a sought-after commercial destination due to its proximity to key business districts such as Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and seamless connectivity via the Western Express Highway, Santacruz railway station, and the Mumbai Metro. The area is known for its commercial complexes, corporate offices, and premium residential developments.

The commercial spaces are located in Kalpatru Infinia. According to RERA, Kalpatru Infinia is a ready-to-move commercial project by the Kalpatru Group, spread across 1.5 acres of land.

According to IGR property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards, the four transactions involve a combined total built-up area of 43,622 sq. ft. (~4,052.4 sq. m) and carpet area of 39,642 sq. ft (~3,682.83 sq. m). The transaction value per space ranges from Rs. 63.87 crore to Rs. 66.75 crore, with the total transaction cost amounting to Rs. 261.9 crore. It includes a total of 56 car parking spaces. The total stamp duty paid for these transactions’ amounts to Rs. 15.71 crore, with each transaction incurring a standard registration fee of Rs. 30,000.

Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited (BCCL), commonly known as The Times Group, is India’s largest media conglomerate, with a legacy dating back to its establishment in 1838. Headquartered in Mumbai, BCCL owns several leading publications, including the world’s largest circulated English daily, The Times of India, and India’s premier business daily, The Economic Times. The group also publishes regional dailies like Navbharat Times and Maharashtra Times, alongside popular magazines such as Filmfare and Femina. Expanding beyond print media, BCCL operates the influential Times Network, which includes prominent television channels such as Times Now, and the nationwide FM radio network, Radio Mirchi. Its digital subsidiary, Times Internet, further enhances the company’s extensive presence across digital news, entertainment, and technology platforms, reinforcing BCCL’s position as a pioneering force in the Indian media industry.