Archives March 2025

Bengaluru, March 27, 2025: Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, launched its IPTV services across Karnataka offering customers the best large screen viewing experience. Customers will get access to an extensive library of on-demand content from 29 prominent Streaming Apps including AHA, Nammaflix, Sony Liv, Netflix, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime, Zee5, 600 popular television channels, and Wi-Fi service at plans starting Rs. 699. As an introductory offer, all Airtel customers will get upto 30 days of free service on the purchase of IPTV plans which can be availed through the Airtel Thanks App.

Commenting on the launch, Rajnish Verma, CEO – Bharti Airtel, Karnataka, said, “Entertainment has long been a cherished and integral part of the vibrant culture of Karnataka. Today, we are delighted to announce the launch of our cutting-edge IPTV service in Karnataka. This service will usher in a new era of immersive experiences for our customers. With this launch, we are confident of setting a new standard for entertainment solutions that will resonate with the aspirations and desires of the people of Karnataka.”

Bengaluru, March 27: Karnataka Riding Association (KRA), in partnership with Embassy International Riding School (EIRS) successfully hosted the 2nd edition of Karnataka State Equestrian Competition 2025. The event, held at EIRS, showcased exceptional talent, with Bhargav astride Gucci and Siddharth Nanda astride Sonia from EIRS securing top honors in the Show Jumping 100 cms and 120 cms respectively.

Athletes from prestigious institutions such as Zippy Equestrian Centre, Flying Sea Stallion, Royal Equestrian Academy, Bangalore Horse Riding School, and the host club, participated in a thrilling showcase of Dressage and Show Jumping. The competition featured some of the finest equine breeds, renowned for their agility, strength and elegance.

The event once again highlighted Karnataka’s growing prominence in equestrian sports, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for top-tier riders and promising talent.

Mr. Rudrapratap Singh, President of the Karnataka Riding Association, and Mr. Navneet, Secretary General of the Karnataka Riding Association, expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the participants, officials and supporters who played a vital role in the event’s success. A special note of gratitude was extended to Ms. Silva Storai, Director of Embassy International Riding School, for her commitment to the advancement of equestrian sports in the region.

New Delhi, 27th March 2025 – Announcing showcase with Khadi India at ‘Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI’. This event highlights the council’s dedication to promoting Indian textiles globally, with Khadi—India’s most iconic fabric—at the heart of the showcase. The show will take place in Mumbai at 9:30 PM on March 27, 2025, at Jio World Convention Centre.

Following the success of the Khadi showcase at Moscow Fashion Week (March 2025)—an initiative that further strengthens Khadi’s global appeal— the council continues its mission of taking Indian textiles to the world.

“As FDCI celebrates 25 years, we take great pride in leading multiple initiatives to promote Khadi both in India and worldwide. Khadi is not just fabric—it represents our heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Showcasing it on global platforms is an honour and a matter of national pride,” said Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI.

The showcase will feature top designers— CoEK – Khadi India, Niki Mahajan, Nikasha and Ka-Sha—who will present fresh interpretations of Khadi with contemporary silhouettes, fine craftsmanship, and a blend of tradition and modern design.

Participating Designers & Collection Highlights

CoEK – Khadi India

Khadi is more than just fabric—it is a philosophy, a movement, and a step toward sustainability. The Centre of Excellence for Khadi (CoEK)—an initiative by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)—is dedicated to repositioning Khadi for today’s lifestyle. Through innovation, branding, and storytelling, CoEK expands Khadi’s reach globally. This curated collection features pure cotton, wool, and Eri silk Khadi fabrics from artisans across Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Assam, blending tradition with modern sensibilities.

Niki Mahajan

Niki Mahajan’s collection merges baroque grandeur and French brocade-inspired prints with the raw beauty of Khadi. This fusion of European influences with Indian heritage creates a visually rich and meaningful collection. Pleats gathers, and soft silhouettes add effortless elegance while staying true to the essence of Khadi.

Nikasha – Mahboob

Mahboob, meaning “the beloved,” is a tribute to Khadi—woven with love and tradition. This collection celebrates craftsmanship, with each weave carrying the essence of its maker. Featuring fluid drapes, intricate details, and handwoven textures, Mahboob combines nostalgia with modern elegance, honoring artisanal fashion.

Ka-Sha – Samantar II

Samantar II explores the connection between the past and the future, the self and the world. This collection builds on Ka-Sha’s signature techniques, using Khadi in repetitive, mirrored, and gradient patterns. The designs feature indigenous silhouettes with a modern twist, blending geometric precision with organic forms to create a unique fashion statement.

Join us in celebrating 25 years of FDCI’s journey and the evolution of Khadi at the FDCI Showcase with Khadi India at Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI.

27th March 2025 Bodh Gaya, India – The Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya (IIM Bodh Gaya), in collaboration with TeamLease EdTech, launched its Online Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) program. This two-year online program provides mid-to-senior-level professionals with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to accelerate their careers while continuing in their current roles.

 The EMBA program offers a flexible and comprehensive learning experience, featuring a curriculum that spans core management disciplines, including Finance, Marketing, Operations, and Strategy. A key highlight of the program is its wide selection of elective courses, allowing learners to build competency in their chosen fields from a diverse set of options across multiple disciplines of management. This empowers students to build expertise in areas most relevant to their career aspirations, enhancing their job readiness and positioning them for growth in their respective industries. The program is taught by IIM Bodh Gaya’s distinguished faculty, known for their academic excellence and industry experience. Sessions by industry experts who will share deep contemporary domain knowledge are another highlight of the program. The program also enables participants to engage with peers and an elite alumni network.

 Pursuing an MBA in India significantly enhances professionals’ career trajectories. According to the Financial Times MBA Ranking 2025, alumni from Indian business schools have experienced notable salary increases post-MBA, reflecting the degree’s impact on earning potential and career advancement. Additionally, a Pearson Skills Outlook report indicates that 88% of Indian workers recognize the necessity of continuous learning and upskilling to remain relevant in the job market. This underscores the value of advanced degrees like an MBA in facilitating career growth and adaptability.

 Prof. Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, highlighted the institute’s commitment to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant management education: “At IIM Bodh Gaya, we firmly believe that education should evolve to meet the needs of modern professionals. This Online Executive MBA program is a significant step in that direction. It combines academic rigor with real-world relevance, ensuring that working professionals can gain top-tier management education without disrupting their careers. The program’s unique structure, which allows learners to specialize in their areas of interest, ensures that they are industry-ready and equipped with the skills to take on leadership roles in their respective fields.”

  Mr. Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration: “At a time when industries are rapidly evolving, professionals must continuously upskill to stay ahead. Our partnership with IIM Bodh Gaya aims to bridge the skill gap by offering a dynamic and flexible learning environment that empowers professionals to acquire high-impact management knowledge while continuing their careers. The extensive elective options in the program make it uniquely suited for learners looking to carve a niche for themselves in their industries. We are excited to bring this opportunity to ambitious professionals who seek to advance their careers through high-quality education.”

Get ready to lace up your running shoes as Ashoka One Mall hosts the IDL Lake 5K & 10K Run on 29th March 2025, starting at 5 AM. This invigorating event promises a perfect blend of fitness, endurance, and community spirit, bringing together runners of all levels for an energizing morning by the scenic IDL Lake. From seasoned athletes to first-time runners, everyone has the opportunity to challenge themselves, enjoy the refreshing outdoor experience, and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

With a supportive atmosphere and a picturesque route, the IDL Lake Run is more than just a race—it’s a movement towards wellness and self-improvement. Join fellow fitness enthusiasts as you push your limits and celebrate the joy of running. Register now and be part of this exciting fitness journey with Ashoka One Mall.

Where: Ashoka One Mall

When: 29th March 2025

Time: 5.00 AM onwards

New Delhi, March 27th, 2025| Grip Invest, leading high-yield investment platform, has introduced its innovative “Sell Anytime” feature, setting a new benchmark in the investment landscape. This feature empowers investors to exit their bond investments before original maturity.

The feature introduces a seamless, digital marketplace where investors can exit their positions with transparent, market-driven pricing. During its beta launch in August 2024, the feature demonstrated a 100% success rate on the platform, matching sellers with potential buyers, validating the intuitive design of the feature.

By offering this option, Grip Invest ensures that investors no longer need to wait until bond maturity to access their funds, providing a practical and efficient solution for the bond market. As the first one to introduce this feature for bonds currently and soon to be launched for SDI, Grip Invest revolutionizes the market by seamlessly facilitating bond sales online, enabling investors to receive competitive offers and secure favorable prices for exiting their investments.

This “Sell Anytime” feature also aligns with SEBI’s vision to ensure retail investors have the ability to exit their investment and also results in improving overall market liquidity.

Commenting on the feature launch, Nikhil Aggarwal, Founder and Group CEO, Grip, said, “Liquidity is often a missing piece in fixed-income markets, and illiquidity in bonds often curtails investor confidence. Based on customer feedback, Grip now allows investors to easily manage their portfolios and access funds in response to market changes. Understanding customer needs, we created a user-friendly digital marketplace that offers smooth transactions, clear exit options, and real-time insights for investors who want flexibility and control in their bond investments.”

Bengaluru, 27 March 2025: With a legacy of spreading happiness for over 100 years, known for iconic ice creams and frozen desserts, Kwality Wall’s is thrilled to announce the launch of its new Twister brand in India. Popular for its unique three-layered stick design, Twister promises the ultimate twist in refreshment, tantalizing taste buds with every bite.

Twister, an iconic brand from Unilever’s portfolio, continues to be a favourite summer refresher in over 25 countries. Recognizing the need for a refreshing treat during hot summer hours among Indians, Kwality Wall’s is introducing the new Twister in two exciting variants. Twister Mango – swirls of mango and creamy vanilla wrapped around a tangy strawberry core and Twister Pineapple – swirls of creamy pineapple and sour lemon wrapped around a tangy strawberry core.

Twister is targeted at young Indians who are looking for a refresher with a difference! It is made with real fruit juice and three layers of zing; this fun stick offers a burst of flavors in every bite. Its unique shape is designed to delight young consumers with less than 65 calories per serving.

Adding to the enjoyment of the summer season, Kwality Wall’s is releasing a first-of-its-kind promotion in India, wherein consumers will get a chance to win from ‘30 Lakh Free Ice Candies’. This exciting offer can be redeemed at more than 1 lakh stores across India.

Kwality Wall’s has also recently launched a new multi-media campaign for Twister – bringing to life a refreshing Twister World for this summer. In addition, a fun and eye-catching consumer promotional film will be launched to excite consumers about the offer.

Toloy Tanridagli, Head of Ice Cream Business, HUL, said, “We are thrilled to bring one of our iconic global brands, Twister to India in two exciting and refreshing flavours. Refreshments are a huge category, over 6.6 bn Euros** and consumers are seeking new and exciting refreshments options during hot Indian summers. As a top-selling brand in the Unilever portfolio and a global favourite, our goal in India is to offer a delightful treat that resonates with young consumers and adds a fun twist to their summer. Our unique summer promotion will undoubtedly elevate the experience for Indians.”

New Delhi, March 27, 2025 – Forever Living Products India was honored at the Direct Selling Growth Summit 2025, held at the NDMC Convention Centre, New Delhi. Hosted by the Indian Direct Selling Association (IDSA), the event celebrated industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of direct selling in India.

The summit featured key discussions on the evolving direct selling landscape, including the unveiling of the IDSA Annual Survey FY 2023-24 and the prestigious Aadya Award Ceremony (Season 6), which recognizes outstanding contributions to women’s entrepreneurship in the sector.

As a testament to its mission of empowering individuals, Forever Living Products India proudly celebrated the achievements of two exceptional women entrepreneurs, Ms. Anjana Thakur and Ms. Navjot Kaur, who were honored with Aadya Awards for their outstanding contributions to the direct selling industry. Their inspiring journeys exemplify the impact of direct selling in creating financial independence and professional success for women across India.

Speaking on this recognition, Mr. Harish Singla, CSM, Forever Living Products India, stated, “We are honored to be recognized at the Direct Selling Growth Summit 2025. This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and delivering high-quality wellness products. As the direct selling industry evolves, Forever Living remains dedicated to innovation, ethical business practices, and creating opportunities for individuals to achieve financial independence.”

The event also featured a special address by Shri Chirag Paswan, Hon’ble Minister, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, who emphasized the role of direct selling in fostering self-reliance and entrepreneurship across India. Also present on the occasion was Mr. Vishal Tibrewal, Head of Operations, Forever Living Products.

Forever Living Products continues to lead the way in the health and wellness sector, offering natural and scientifically backed products while fostering a thriving community of entrepreneurs. This recognition at the Direct Selling Growth Summit 2025 further solidifies the brand’s position as a trusted leader in the industry.

New Delhi, 27th March 2025 — Lighthouse Canton, a global investment institution proudly served as the Platinum Sponsor at the Shakti Awards 2025, held at the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai.

Now in its third edition, the Shakti Awards, an initiative by the Rotary Club of Bombay, honor women of substance across diverse sectors who exemplify courage, resilience, and impact. The 2025 ceremony celebrated 12 visionary women who have redefined excellence in fields ranging from business and medicine to arts, education, and sports.

• Art: Sujata Bajaj – Internationally acclaimed artist bridging Indian traditions with global aesthetics
• Author: Meghna Pant – Award-winning storyteller advocating equality through fearless narratives
• Cinema & Television: Shefali Shah – Acclaimed actress bringing depth and power to every performance
• Education: Dr. Indu Shahani – Visionary educator transforming learning and leadership
• Entrepreneurship: Schauna Chauhan – Business trailblazer revolutionising Parle Agro’s legacy
• Fashion: Gopi Vaid – Celebrated designer merging traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance
• Medicine: Dr. Anaita Udwadia Hegde – Pioneering pediatric neurologist bringing care and hope to thousands
• Performing Arts, Dance & Culture: Birwa Qureshi – Artistic innovator reviving India’s heritage through art and dance
• Social Change: Chetna Gala Sinha – Founder of Mann Deshi Bank, empowering rural women towards financial independence
• Sports: Jemimah Rodrigues – Dynamic cricketer redefining resilience and excellence in Indian sports
• Theatre: Shernaz Patel – Acclaimed actress shaping the future of India’s theatre landscape
• Journalism & Media: Shereen Bhan – Journalist redefining business media and national discourse

Presided over by Dr. Swati Piramal, Vice Chairperson of the Piramal Group, the event brought together thought leaders and changemakers in a celebration of Shakti—the power that women wield to drive transformation across communities and industries.

“At Lighthouse Canton, we believe that empowering voices and advancing equity is essential to building a more inclusive and forward-looking world.” said Sumegh Bhatia, Chief Executive Officer, Lighthouse Canton in India “The Shakti Awards are a powerful reminder of the transformative impact women leaders have across industries and communities. We are proud to support a platform that not only celebrates excellence but also inspires future generations to lead with courage and purpose.”

Satyan Israni, President, Rotary Club of Bombay said, “The RCB Shakti Awards are a celebration of the boundless potential of women—their voices, contributions, and power to drive change across industries and communities. Beyond individual recognition, the platform seeks to inspire the next generation of women leaders and innovators to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. With partners like Lighthouse Canton, who champion equity, diversity, and inclusive leadership, the movement is able to expand its impact and elevate these powerful stories even further.”

Lighthouse Canton’s support for the Shakti Awards reflects the company’s commitment to recognizing and elevating voices that may remain unheard. As part of its enduring commitment to equity and diversity, Lighthouse Canton actively supports platforms that champion inclusion, celebrate leadership in all its forms, and drive systemic change.

The Shakti Awards embody that spirit—honoring women who are not only leaders in their fields, but catalysts for transformation across society. For Lighthouse Canton, standing alongside these changemakers is both a privilege and a reflection of its values, focused on creating a more inclusive and empowered future.

National 27th March – FireCompass, a leader in AI-powered Penetration Testing, Continuous Automated Red Teaming (CART), and NextGen Attack Surface Management (ASM), is thrilled to announce that Bruce Schneier, an internationally renowned security technologist, has joined the company as an Advisor. His vast security expertise will be pivotal in helping FireCompass drive innovation and scale its USPTO-patented CART technology to help empower organizations in India and beyond to stay ahead of attackers.

Often referred to as a “security guru” by The Economist, Schneier is one of the most prominent figures in the cybersecurity world. He is the author of 14 books, including the New York Times bestseller A Hacker’s Mind, as well as hundreds of essays and academic papers that have significantly impacted the industry. His widely-read blog, Schneier on Security, and newsletter, Crypto-Gram, influence over 250,000 professionals worldwide. Schneier also serves as a Fellow at Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society and a Lecturer in Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School.

“Bruce Schneier is a true visionary in the cybersecurity world,” said Bikash Barai, CEO and Co-Founder of FireCompass. We’re excited to have Bruce on board as we redefine how organizations, especially in India, think about offensive security. With his insights, we aim to revolutionize proactive cybersecurity, empowering businesses to stay one step ahead using our AI-powered Pen Testing & Red Teaming platform.”

“FireCompass is tackling one of cybersecurity’s most significant challenges helping defenders match the speed and persistence of attackers in an ever-evolving landscape,” said Bruce Schneier. “Their AI-powered approach to automating multi-stage attacks and penetration testing is a game-changer. In particular, Agent AI provides a promising solution to an otherwise challenging problem. I am excited to work with FireCompass and support Indian organizations as they work to stay ahead of emerging threats.”

The average Time to Exploit (TTE) of a new CVE has dropped to just 3 days. With the National Vulnerability Database tracking over 253,000 vulnerabilities and new threats emerging daily, security teams are overwhelmed — both by the volume and by the challenge of identifying which vulnerabilities are most likely to be exploited. FireCompass helps cut through the noise with its risk-based vulnerability prioritization system. Using attack trees, pen tests, and red team playbooks, FireCompass identifies which vulnerabilities are most exploitable, reducing alert fatigue and helping organizations focus on the most pressing threats.