Archives April 2025

Mumbai, 8th April, 2025– HRX, India’s leading homegrown fitness brand co-owned by Hrithik Roshan and Exceed Entertainment, is excited to announce the launch of HRX Carbonics. This innovative running shoe is specifically designed to empower beginner and mid-distance runners by offering superior performance and comfort at an affordable price.

HRX Carbonics redefines running efficiency with its groundbreaking S-curve carbon-fiber plate, meticulously designed to enhance energy transfer from heel strike to toe-off. This advanced technology works seamlessly with a lightweight and responsive EVA midsole, delivering superior cushioning and shock absorption to minimize impact stress while maintaining agility. The breathable and flexible knitted upper naturally conforms to foot movements, ensuring a secure yet adaptable fit for lasting comfort.

Engineered for both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts, HRX Carbonics combines speed, durability, and affordability. The enhanced arch support promotes stability across various running styles, while the padded collar provides essential ankle support. With its innovative spring-like propulsion system, the shoe optimizes forward momentum, reducing foot fatigue and enabling runners to sustain peak performance effortlessly.

“HRX has always focused on pushing boundaries and making performance-driven gear accessible to everyone. With HRX Carbonics, we are introducing advanced running technology to everyday runners, ensuring they receive optimal support, comfort, and efficiency in their stride.,” said Ajay Singh, Business and Marketing Head, HRX.

Gurugram, 8th April 2025: The Academy of Pastry & Culinary Arts (APCA) recently arranged an outstanding three-day class with Chef Eunyoung Yun, a renowned pastry pioneer, founder and owner of the renowned Garuharu School and Pastry Shop in Seoul, South Korea. During the exclusive masterclass at APCA Gurugram, Chef Yun, who is well-known across the globe for her signature style, captivated attendees with her artistic abilities, methods, and inventive approach to pastry-making.

Chef Eunyoung Yun, discussed her experience creating a distinctive pastry style during the workshop. Participants got the unique chance to learn with direct instruction from Chef Yun, whose knowledge and love of confections have served as an inspiration to pastry enthusiasts and chefs all over the world.

The workshop was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of learning, collaboration, and culinary excellence at the Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts. APCA remains committed to providing its students with unique opportunities and constant upgradation, to learn from industry experts and expand their knowledge in the world of pastry and culinary arts.

61% increase in the children in the normal nutrition category and a 47% reduction in children suffering from protein-energy malnutrition in 21 months

Launched in 2022 as part of the ‘Rural Rising’ campaign by United Way of Bengaluru and in alignment with the Aspirational District development framework of NITI Aayog, the ‘Nutrition Initiative’ aimed at combating undernutrition in children within Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, Kerala’s second-largest tribal-populated area, has achieved remarkable progress. With the successful implementation of 400 co-active kitchens, the program has directly impacted 700 children. Over 21 months, there was a 61% increase in the children in the normal nutrition category and a 47% reduction in children suffering from protein-energy malnutrition. A 3rd party study conducted revealed a social return on investment (SROI) of INR 7.4 for each rupee invested in the cooked meal intervention.

30 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) have been refurbished, creating safe spaces with child-friendly environments. The cooked meal intervention/nutrition initiative targeting the micronutrient requirements of children has been implemented in 42 Anganwadi centers. The focus was on improving the overall nutritional status, especially among the tribal communities of Wayanad, through nutrition education and behaviour change.

1. Infrastructure upgradation with a nutritious cooked meal: Children at AWCs received 3 meals a day, 6 days a week, with the menu consisting of local and culturally appropriate ingredients, encouraging healthy eating habits.
2. Nutrition promoters: influenced families to adapt to nutritious cooking and consumption and be co-partners in the child’s development process. This improved children’s attendance at AWCs. Community mobilization, nutrition sensitization, and frequent home visits to parents’ homes brought awareness and behavioural change among them.
3. Co-Active Kitchens for Enrichment (CAKE), a community-based model, was implemented in 30 AWCs to foster community-level change. It encouraged participation in cooking activities, introduced new recipes, and educated mothers on nutrition and healthy cooking.

The initiative implemented by United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) in collaboration with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partners has been closely supported by the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Wayanad, and the members of Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, whose valuable inputs and approach helped ensure the program’s success. The Panchayat has decided to sustain the initiative by allocating the required funds for the continuation of the initiative in the AWCs and communities in the panchayat.

This has garnered attention at both local and state levels due to the collaborative efforts of the Gram Panchayat and various government departments, including Local Self Governance, Health, National Health Mission, and Civil Food Supply. The partnership has played a crucial role in the success of this program, which is now set to serve as a model for similar initiatives not just across Kerala but on a Pan-India basis.

“We’ve seen remarkable improvements in the nutritional status of children in the Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat. The community-driven approach, combined with strong collaboration with the government, has ensured the sustainability and replicability of this program. It’s heartening to see that this model is now being discussed at the state level,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

Mumbai, April 8, 2025: Sony SAB’s ‘Wagle Ki Duniya – Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey’ continues to win hearts with its relatable middle-class struggles and heartwarming family moments. Adding to the fun, veteran comedy actor Paresh Ganatra is all set to join the show in a special role, bringing triple the laughter as he plays Jyoti’s ( Bhakti Chauhan ) three contrasting brothers—Sudhanshu, Himanshu, and Dipanshu.

The upcoming track takes viewers on a nostalgic ride as Rajesh ( Sumeet Raghavan ), Vandana ( Pariva Pranati ), Atharva ( Shehan Kapahi ) and Sakhi ( Chinmayi Salvi ) recall one of Rajesh’s biggest past blunders—an ill-fated matchmaking attempt. In a flashback, the Wagles reminisce about how Rajesh tried to set up Vandana’s friend, Sandhya, with Dr. Sudhanshu, a sophisticated cardiac surgeon. However, a classic mix-up leads Sandhya to meet his two wildly different brothers instead—Himanshu, a rough and brash personality, and Dipanshu, an overly emotional caterer. The resulting confusion sparks a comedy of errors that will leave viewers in splits. With Paresh Ganatra stepping in to play all three distinct roles, this track promises viewers laughter, chaos, and classic Wagle-style entertainment.

Paresh Ganatra, who is essaying the role of three contrasting brothers—Sudhanshu, Himanshu, and Dipanshu, said, “Wagle Ki Duniya is a show that beautifully blends light hearted moments with real, relatable storytelling, and I was thrilled when I got the chance to be a part of it. Playing three completely different characters in the same track was definitely a challenge, but one that I gladly embraced. I had a great time working with the cast and bringing Sudhanshu, and Dipanshu to life. I hope the audience enjoys watching the chaos unfold as much as I enjoyed performing it. The storyline is fresh, fun, and full of laughter, and I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”

Sumeet Raghvan, who essays the role of Rajesh Wagle, said, “Paresh is such a well-known and loved face in comedy, and beyond that, he’s just a wonderful person to have on set. It was an absolute delight working with him. The storyline itself is really unique, not only is there complete madness with the triplets, but the flashback element adds a touch of nostalgia as Vandana and Rajesh narrate fun stories from their past to their kids. It’s a perfect mix of humor and warmth, and I’m sure the audience will love it!”

Hyderabad, April 8, 2025 – Gampa Nageshwar Rao, a prominent youth empowerment advocate, has been elected as the Governor of Lions District 320H of the International Association of Lions Clubs during the annual convention held at Saketh, Secunderabad, on Monday. Rao won with a decisive majority, securing 143 out of 146 positive mandates. Ashok Swain was elected as the Second Vice District Governor, receiving 121 votes.

In a press release issued today, Gampa Nageshwar Rao expressed his gratitude and outlined his vision for the upcoming year. In his acceptance speech, Rao announced the theme for the year: “Be The Best.” He encouraged the 1,000-plus attendees to always strive for excellence and give their best in everything they do.

Rao also shared several key initiatives for his tenure. One of his top priorities is the mobilization of 5,000 units of blood through various donation camps across the region. He emphasized the critical need for blood donations, especially during the summer months, and highlighted the importance of voluntary donations, particularly from individuals with rare blood types.

In a significant move, Rao revealed that the Lions Quest program, a social and emotional learning initiative developed by the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), will be expanded to 5000 government school students in the state during the 2025-2026 Lions year. The program aims to equip young people with essential life skills, foster resilience, and prevent risky behaviors. Additionally, personality development classes and training sessions will be conducted in the selected schools.

Rao also announced several other ambitious initiatives for the year, including raising awareness about cyber frauds and taking a strong stance against online betting. With the support of 2,100 Lions members, the district will launch programs to educate the public, particularly youth, about the risks of online gambling and the growing issue of cyber fraud.

Along with these initiatives, Rao emphasized that his administration would continue to prioritize causes such as promoting eye health and raising awareness about drug abuse.

Rao introduced his leadership team for the year: Muthsala Kamalakar will serve as the District Cabinet Secretary, SPY Reddy as Cabinet Treasurer, and J. Jagan Mohan Reddy as District Advisor. He also announced the formation of a new 50-member cabinet to assist in the administration of the district.

Lion Babu Rao, the International Director, graced the event as the Chief Guest and called for unity and coordination within the Lions fraternity to achieve service excellence.

In a remote address via Zoom, Telangana State Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TSANB) Director Sandeep Shandilya emphasized the harmful effects of drug consumption and urged Lions to raise awareness among youth regarding the dangers of drugs and their long-term impact on their lives.

Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd, a Mumbai-headquartered pharmaceutical leader with operations in Navi Mumbai, has announced a ₹50 crore multi-pronged growth strategy, including a major expansion into South India, a doubling of production capacity, and plans to launch its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in FY 2026-27. The company, which recently crossed ₹100 crore in annual sales, aims to solidify its national presence and enhance its ability to deliver innovative, affordable healthcare solutions.

 As part of its strategic expansion, Steris Healthcare will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in South India, targeting key markets in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Hyderabad (Telangana), and Bengaluru (Karnataka). This move is designed to streamline supply chains and strengthen the company’s reach in high-demand regions. The new plant will double Steris’ production capacity by 100%, adding (XX) units to its existing infrastructure, enabling the company to meet growing domestic and international demand while adhering to stringent quality standards.

 In addition to scaling operations, Steris Healthcare will launch new medications and healthcare products aimed at addressing critical therapeutic needs. This initiative reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and bridging gaps in medical care. The expansion is also expected to generate 800 new jobs across manufacturing, R&D, sales, and logistics, fostering economic growth in South India.

 Mr. Jeevan Kasara, Director & CEO of Steris Healthcare, shared his vision for the company’s future: “This ₹50 crore expansion and our upcoming IPO in FY 2026-27 mark a defining chapter in Steris’ journey. By deepening our roots in South India and investing in cutting-edge therapies, we are poised to serve millions more patients while creating long-term value for our stakeholders. Our focus remains on making healthcare accessible without compromising on innovation.”

 Ms. Renuka Kasara, Director of Steris Healthcare, added: “Crossing ₹100 crore in sales this year is a testament to our team’s dedication and the trust healthcare providers have placed in us. As we embark on this expansion phase, we remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality while expanding our product portfolio to serve diverse medical needs across India.”

 The proposed IPO, slated for FY 2026-27, will support Steris’ growth objectives, including infrastructure development, R&D advancements, and market diversification. The company is collaborating with financial advisors to ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks and to align with investor expectations for a successful public listing.

Bangalore, India, 08 April, 2025: DaveAI, a patented cutting-edge AI conversation experience cloud, announced a growth investment round led by Inflection Point Ventures and SucSEED Indovation Fund. This growth investment round had a strategic mix of equity and debt with participation from Soonicorn Ventures, Yes Bank and Mr.Mohan Kumar, Founder at Crestere Technologies LLP. Funds will be used for developing technology leadership, expanding its partner ecosystem, and fast-track global market penetration.

Founded by Sriram P H, Dr. Ananth G, and Ashok in 2016, DaveAI’s platform GRYD, aids enterprises in industries such as automobile, BFSI and retail to personalize user journeys and drive revenue outcomes. The company’s suite of AI-powered solutions can be integrated across web, mobile, kiosk, or messaging platforms, helping businesses enhance both engagement and conversion. DaveAI’s architecture enables enterprises to create their own foundational enterprise models while remaining independent of vendors and cloud services, adapting to the rapidly evolving generative AI ecosystem.

“DaveAI will use this investment to build its proprietary domain-specific Small Language Models focused on industries like Automobile, aiming for a leadership position in AI software for the industry and scaling into new markets such as North America,” said Sriram PH, CEO & Co-Founder, DaveAI.

“To make a major impact in AI from India and the world, we have to invest in some fundamental technology and domain expertise. We are in line towards making this happen with this pre-series A investment round,” said Dr. Ananth G, CTO & Co-Founder, DaveAI.

The investment from IPV and SucSEED comes at a time when the demand for Generative & Conversational AI solutions is accelerating globally.

Mitesh Shah, Co-Founder, Inflection Point Ventures, says “Companies today face one similar problem on the customer service end, i.e. delivering a personalized and engaging customer interaction at a large scale. DaveAI is solving that using advanced AI-powered virtual avatars and conversational intelligence to transform customer engagement across industries to improve customer service experience. At IPV we believe and support them in their journey to redefine the AI-driven customer engagement market.”

“DaveAI is transforming the way enterprises engage customers using AI-driven virtual avatars and conversational intelligence, addressing a total addressable market exceeding USD 1 trillion. Their ability to personalize sales experiences and drive tangible revenue outcomes makes them a compelling investment.” said Vikrant Varshney, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, SucSEED Indovation Fund. “We have seen them grow over the years, looking at previous investments with them and with strong market validation, a scalable SaaS model, and a seasoned founding team, SucSEED sees immense potential in DaveAI’s growth trajectory.”

Mumbai, 08 April 2025: ENGYNE, a premium menswear brand, is all set to launch in India, redefining affordability in luxury fashion. Founded by Gnanaprakash, Karthikeyan K., Karthikeyan P., Ramesh Kumar, and Dinesh D., the brand brings global design sensibilities and craftsmanship to Indian consumers. The founders, who have been associated with global giants like Diesel and Guess in the past, witnessed a missing link i.e., premium-quality menswear at accessible prices, inspiring them to birth ENGYNE.

Headquartered in Bangalore, ENGYNE will debut its Spring-Summer 2025 collection featuring meticulously designed wardrobe essentials. The collection is crafted using premium Supima cottons and Supima blend yarns, ensuring exceptional softness, durability, and comfort. It features a range of premium textures including mis-jersey, micro-pique, interlock, jacquard, and cross-loop French terry—each chosen for its unique feel and performance. Enhanced with state-of-the-art printing techniques and refined embroidery, the garments are designed to deliver international aesthetics and quality.

With a Digital First & D2C (direct-to-consumer) model, ENGYNE ensures complete control over quality and pricing. The collection will be available exclusively on the brand’s official website, with a mobile app launching for Android and iOS shortly after.

As the brand prepares to disrupt the Indian menswear market, the team is driven by a mission to make premium quality more accessible. Director Karthikeyan K. emphasizes this vision and shared “ENGYNE is not just about fashion; it’s about redefining expectations. Premium quality should be a choice, not a privilege.” With a focus on craftsmanship and affordability, the brand aims to fill a long-standing gap in the industry.

Beyond offering premium designs, ENGYNE is committed to delivering exceptional quality control through its vertically integrated manufacturing facility. Director Dinesh D. highlights this competitive advantage, “Having our own vertically integrated manufacturing facility gives us a unique advantage. We control every step—from fabric selection to final stitching—allowing us to deliver luxury craftsmanship at a fraction of the price. Every ENGYNE garment undergoes the same quality checks as pieces costing three times as much.” By maintaining this level of precision, the brand ensures that each product meets the highest standards.

ENGYNE plans to capture the attention of urban millennials and style-conscious professionals through partnerships with influencers and dynamic social media initiatives. Setting itself apart from disposable/ fast fashion trends, the company focuses on creating enduring styles that undergo rigorous wear testing, delivering lasting quality to buyers.

The brand’s roadmap includes diversifying its collection with shirts, chinos, jackets, and denim within the next SEASON. ENGYNE also sees potential in shipping beyond borders, showcasing Indian craftsmanship worldwide while staying true to its founding principles of exceptional quality at reasonable prices.

Telangana, April 8, 2025: Apollo Hospitals today launched the fifth edition of its Health of the Nation 2025 (HoN-2025) report with a clear message: “Don’t wait for symptoms—make preventive health your priority.” Based on health screenings from over 2.5 million individuals across the Apollo ecosystem in India, the report reveals a silent epidemic—millions are living with undiagnosed chronic conditions despite showing no visible symptoms. Notably, 26% were found hypertensive and 23% diabetic despite being asymptomatic, underlining that a symptom-led healthcare model is no longer viable.

Preventive health checks have grown exponentially as recorded by Apollo Hospitals, rising from 1 million in 2019 to over 2.5 million in 2024 — a 150% increase in just five years. This reflects a growing shift in public awareness and proactive engagement with preventive healthcare.

The insights in HoN 2025 are drawn from de-identified electronic medical records (EMRs of preventive health checks), structured clinical evaluations, and AI-driven risk stratification across Apollo’s hospitals, clinics, diagnostics labs, and wellness centers.

The report zeroes in on three urgent health challenges: fatty liver disease, post-menopausal health decline, and childhood obesity, emphasizing the need for early personalized interventions and lifestyle-based care models.

Dr. Prathap Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals said, “India must rise to the opportunity of creating healthy, happy families by placing health at the heart of every household. Preventive healthcare is no longer a future ambition—it is the cornerstone of a nation’s well-being today. This report affirms our collective responsibility to act early, screen deeply, and empower every citizen with knowledge and access. It is time to integrate preventive care into every educational curriculum, corporate benefits, and family routines. Only then, can we shift from treating illness to preserving health and ensure a resilient, healthier India for generations to come.”

Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals added, “The Health of the Nation Report reaffirms Apollo’s long-standing philosophy that the future of healthcare is early, data-led, and personalized. When 66% of people screened have fatty liver, 85% of them being non-alcoholic; it signals the urgency for new diagnostics and early detection at scale. Traditional screening is no longer enough. Apollo’s ProHealth program is not just empowering individuals to take control of their health; it is laying the foundation for scalable and predictive healthcare. The results from ProHealth show that with consistent follow-up and nudges and real-time data, we can create measurable population-level impact. Prevention is India’s most scalable healthcare solution and Apollo’s mission is to democratize preventive health.”

Hidden Disease, Visible Numbers: Fatty Liver as India’s New Metabolic Signal

Once seen as a concern only for those who consumed alcohol, fatty liver appears to emerge as an important health issue linked to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Of the 257,199 individuals screened, a staggering 65% had fatty liver, and 85% of those were non-alcoholic. More than half had normal blood tests—meaning traditional diagnostics alone are not enough for a thorough evaluation.

Women’s Health: A Critical Turning Point Post-Menopause

The HoN 2025 report highlights a dramatic escalation in health risks for women post-menopause. Diabetes rates spike from 14% pre-menopause to 40% post-menopause, obesity climbs sharply from 76% to 86%, and fatty liver prevalence rises from 54% to 70%. These significant shifts underline hormonal changes’ profound impact on women’s long-term health, emphasizing the necessity for proactive, personalized health strategies for women as they approach menopause.

Rising Cases of Obesity in Kids’: The Truth We Can’t Ignore Anymore!

Obesity among students is rising rapidly, posing serious long-term health threats. The report found that 8% of primary school students were already overweight or obese—an early indicator. This prevalence increases significantly through adolescence, reaching 28% among college students, highlighting the compounding impact of lifestyle and dietary changes. Additionally, 19% of college students were found to be pre-hypertensive, showing that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are taking root much earlier than previously recognized.

Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals said, “The Health of the Nation 2025 report highlights the critical issues that we must address, particularly regarding women’s health and childhood obesity. The rise in metabolic risks post-menopause is a clear indicator that we need more than just routine screenings. It is essential to have age-appropriate, gender-sensitive protocols that can truly address the unique needs of women. At Apollo, we are committed to integrating these findings into a life-stage-based care model, offering support for women at every phase of their health journey. The report also underscores the increasing rates of obesity and pre-hypertension among children, which is deeply concerning. These are not just statistics but signs that we must act swiftly. As a pioneering institution, Apollo is determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities across the nation.”

Beyond the Obvious: A Deeper Look at India’s Evolving Health Landscape

Hypertension: A Quiet but Persistent Risk

Screening around 450000 individuals in 2024 revealed that 26% were hypertensive, often without any symptoms. Hypertension continues to be a key contributor to India’s cardiovascular burden and remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. The report calls for standardized blood pressure monitoring and public health campaigns that make BP check a routine part of wellness.

Heart Disease Hiding in Plain Sight

Among asymptomatic individuals who underwent coronary calcium scoring, 46% had calcium deposits, which are early signs of atherosclerosis. Of these, 25% had obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Even more striking, 2.5% of those with calcium deposits were under the age of 40. These figures reinforce the importance of advanced imaging techniques like calcium scoring and CT angiography for detecting early risk.

Mental Health: A Growing but Under-Recognized Challenge

Mental health has long lingered in the shadows of India’s public health conversation, but the latest data shines a much-needed spotlight. Of the 47,424 individuals screened for depression using the PHQ-9 scale, 7% of women and 5% of men exhibited signs of clinical depression, with the burden peaking in the middle-age bracket (40–55). These figures highlight not just a growing prevalence but also the deep societal stigma that continues to hinder early intervention. Apollo Hospitals is advocating for integrated mental health assessments in routine check-ups, wider use of digital mental health platforms, and community-level awareness to foster openness and timely care.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The Sleep Disorder India Can’t Ignore

The Health of the Nation 2025 report reveals a startling trend: 1 in 4 Indians are at high risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)—a disorder closely linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and daytime fatigue. Based on screenings of 53,000 individuals, 33% of men and 10% of women were identified as high-risk. Risk levels rise sharply with age, affecting 68% of men and 22% of women over 55. Despite its high prevalence, OSA remains underdiagnosed, often mistaken for general fatigue or stress. Apollo is calling for routine sleep risk assessments in metabolic screenings, stronger public awareness about OSA symptoms, and workplace wellness programs that address sleep hygiene as a core pillar of preventive care.

Cancer Detection: Age Trends Offer New Insights

In 2024, the median age for cervical cancer diagnosis was 49, for breast cancer 57, and lung cancer 61—a full decade earlier than global averages. The report advocates lowering the age threshold for routine screening and driving awareness in urban and rural populations alike.

Micronutrient Deficiencies: A Foundation Health Issue

Anemia affected 45% of women and 26% of men, while Vitamin D deficiency impacted 77% of women and 82% of men. Vitamin B12 deficiency was also significant, with 38% of men and 27% of women showing low levels. Among those under 40, the deficiency was even more pronounced—49% of men and 35% of women were vitamin B12 deficient. These gaps, if left unaddressed, can impair energy, cognition, and metabolic function. Apollo recommends widespread education as an essential first step towards improving national nutrition and long-term health.

Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction: The Cascade Continues

The report highlights that 61% of individuals screened were obese, with another 18% overweight. Obesity continues to act as the root cause of a range of NCDs. Apollo supports expanding physical literacy in schools and workplaces and making BMI and metabolic screenings part of every annual health check.

IIT Roorkee, India – April 08, 2025: Continuing its commitment to empowering education through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), HORIBA India awarded the HORIBA Talent Hunt Scholarship 2024-25 to 30 meritorious students of the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee).

The scholarship, launched in 2023 under the theme ‘Together We Grow’, is the brainchild of Dr. Rajeev Gautam, an illustrious alumnus of IIT Roorkee and President, HORIBA India and Senior Corporate Officer, HORIBA Ltd., Japan. It extends a one-time partial tuition fee waiver to deserving students, thereby recognizing academic excellence and easing financial constraints. The recipients belong to 12 different departments, exemplifying the academic diversity at IIT Roorkee.

The occasion also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IIT Roorkee and HORIBA India to collaborate on a pioneering project titled “Sustainable Farming”. The MoU was exchanged by Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee; Dr. Rajeev Gautam, President, HORIBA India and Senior Corporate Officer, HORIBA Ltd., Japan; and Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs (DORA), IIT Roorkee.

The MoU signed between IIT Roorkee and HORIBA India marks a significant step forward in addressing environmental and agricultural challenges through scientific innovation. The joint initiative, titled “Sustainable Farming”, aims to develop and promote advanced technologies that enhance agricultural productivity while preserving natural ecosystems.

The project will focus on deploying cutting-edge analytical instrumentation and data-driven techniques to monitor soil health, optimize water usage, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Leveraging IIT Roorkee’s expertise in agricultural engineering, environmental sciences, and data analytics, alongside HORIBA’s global leadership in analytical solutions, the collaboration is poised to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions for Indian farming communities.

As part of the MoU, both institutions will also work towards establishing a research and demonstration facility that will serve as a living lab for testing innovations in real-world farming conditions. The project will involve faculty, researchers, and students, promoting hands-on learning and translational research with direct societal impact.

“It’s a privilege to give back to my alma mater through initiatives that empower students and support sustainable innovation. With the Talent Hunt Scholarship and our new MoU on sustainable farming, we aim to nurture young minds, promote climate-resilient practices, and build science-driven solutions for the greater good of the agricultural sector and the environment. I also encourage students to approach HORIBA India or HORIBA Japan for any learning support or internship opportunities and if they find alignment with our vision, they are most welcome to continue being a part of the HORIBA family in the long run,” said Dr. Rajeev Gautam, President, HORIBA India.

“IIT Roorkee thanks Horiba for supporting our students. We also deeply value the continued contributions of our alumni Dr. Rajeev Gautam; whose efforts are helpful in shaping a better future for the next generation of innovators. This MoU reflects our shared vision for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, aligned with India’s national goals. It also reaffirms IIT Roorkee’s growing collaboration with global industry leaders to foster innovation that directly benefits society.” added Prof. K.K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee.

By bridging research excellence with industry application, the MoU underscores how global alumni partnerships can pave the way for future-ready, environmentally responsible innovations.

“Initiatives like the HORIBA Talent Hunt Scholarship not only provide vital financial support to students but also inspire them with the real-world impact of our alumni. The addition of the sustainable farming project strengthens our ecosystem of research, alumni engagement, and socially meaningful collaboration,” said Prof. R.D. Garg, Dean of Resources and Alumni Affairs, IIT Roorkee.

The ceremony was graced by Prof. Yogesh Vijay Hote, Chairperson, Senate Committee for Scholarship & Prizes (SCSP); Ms. Kanika Thakur (Lead – Corporate Communications and Marketing In-charge (Materials and Semiconductor) and Ms. Stuti Gulati (Senior Executive – Corporate Communications) from HORIBA India; staff from the DORA and SCSP offices, and Ms. Sonika Srivastava Media Cell In-charge, IIT Roorkee.