Archives May 2025

This Mother’s Day, shower the most important woman in your life with the love she deserves, the gift of glowing, nourished skin. After receiving widespread praise for its baby care line, CITTA, a premium homegrown bath and skincare brand focused on conscious beauty, has come up with their curated lineup of skincare products for adults that blend nature’s wisdom with scientific precision.

Thoughtfully formulated products like the Aqua Boost Face Gel (India’s first frosted-texture face gel), the triple vitamin C-powered 12% Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum, and the 3-in-1 (serum, moisturizer & sunscreen) Invisible Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 PA++++, elevate self-care to a luxurious, skin-reviving ritual.

Gift new moms the self-care they crave with the CITTA Aqua Boost Face Gel, enriched with five potent hydrating boosters like Hyaluronic Acid, AQUAXYL™, and Ashwagandha, or brighten her day with the triple-action Vitamin C Brightening Face Serum, formulated to bring back her glow while being gentle on sensitive skin. For multitasking moms, the CITTA Invisible Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 PA++++ merges sun protection, hydration, and glow in a single, weightless step, no white cast, no greasiness, just radiant skin.

For those looking to truly pamper, CITTA’s Berry-licious Body Care Duo and Regenerative Face Serum & Night Cream Duo are indulgent sets crafted to revive, replenish, and restore. The Berry-licious Duo, infused with antioxidant-rich Strawberry Creamy Body Scrub and a deeply moisturizing Body Cream, offers a skin-smoothing experience she’ll love. Meanwhile, the Regenerative Face Serum & Night Cream Duo harnesses the age-defying power of Retinol, Kumkumadi Oil, Niacinamide, and Ashwagandha to unveil firmer, more radiant skin. A gift that says, “You deserve to glow.” And let’s not forget their nourishing hair care products that bring shine and strength to every strand.

This Mother’s Day, celebrate her strength, grace, and beauty with CITTA’s conscious skincare that will keep her glowing, inside and out.

India, 7th May 2025: Indian start-up ecosystem is buzzing and is poised to contribute USD 1 Trillion by 2030. Recents reports have suggested that India’s funding winter is finally passing but the same cannot be said about very early stage start-ups. A clear indicative preference to later stage start-ups over very early stage start-ups have resulted in the segment shrinking to half its size in 2024 when compared with 2022(source) . In an endeavor to spotlight very early start-ups, entrepreneurs and founders with a vision, Rukam Capital, India’s leading consumer focused VC, introduced Startup Startup Table with AJ in 2024.

Over the years, a prevailing trend of focusing on established start-ups and founders have taken a centre stage, reducing opportunities of very early stage start-ups with enough avenues to talk, discuss and spotlight their innovation. Startup Table with AJ breaks through this clutter. The program has been conceptualised to empower them with a platform that enables them to discuss challenges and opportunities with like minded industry members, resulting in fundings, industry confidence, understanding nuances about the segment as well as peers who become their sounding board.

Rukam Capital is driven by its philosophy to nurture the next generation of Indian start-ups, giving them ample opportunities and a platform to connect with like-minded individuals. This philosophy is also translated during the 18 episodes and 2 seasons of Startup Table with AJ. Each episode features a different cohort that focuses on segments like D2C, gaming, personal care amongst others and is anchored by industry veteran, Archana Jahagirdar. Each cohort features very early stage start-ups pillared by the vision and strategies of a passionate founder. During the sessions, the invited founders talk about how they can work towards bettering the infrastructure, challenges as well as the opportunities that will shape up in the next 5-10 years in that sector.

Antithesis, founded by Aparna Saxena, is one of the many startups spotlighted by Startup Table with AJ that has received a pre-seed funding from Rukam Capital and V3 Ventures. Another startup that was featured on the podcast- Gyde XP,a New Delhi-based travel experience platform, also raised a maiden round of funding from Rukam Capital. Not just limiting the impact to funding, Meine Electric, India’s Deep-tech company at the forefront of innovation, got their first customer through an opportunity extended through Startup Table with AJ. Covooz, an online influencer marketplace, when entering a meeting is always backed by the Rukam Capital confidence that gives them an edge while some find their mentors.

Till date, Startup Table with AJ has showcased over 130 early stage startups and has also travelled to cities such as Kashmir and Varanasi.

Commenting on the success of the initiative, Archana Jahagirdar — Founder and Managing Partner at Rukam Capital, and the host and visionary behind Startup Table with AJ, said, “I am thrilled to see the impact of Startup Table with AJ, where we’ve not only showcased the resilience and innovation of India’s next-gen entrepreneurs but also provided a platform for them to connect, learn, and grow. The success stories of startups like Antithesis and Gyde XP are a testament to the potential of our ecosystem. As a VC, it’s fulfilling to nurture and support these talented founders, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for them.”

“One thing that I took away from the overall series was that I found my first customer there. They are building portable water generators and our fuel cells are the perfect fit for them as an energy source.” shared Priyansh Mohan, Co-Founder and CEO- Meine Electric

The upcoming episode of Startup Table with AJ, set to be held in India’s Silicon City, Bengaluru, will spotlight emerging startups in the AR/VR, Aerospace, and Defence sectors. ‘Startup Table with AJ’ editions are available on the Rukam Capital YouTube .

Rukam Capital, with a track record of backing high-growth consumer brands, has previously invested in brands like Beco, Sleepy Owl, Indus Valley, GO Desi, Burger Singh, Antithesis amongst others.

Gurugram, 7th May 2025:  Leading general insurer IFFCO-Tokio today announced launch of ‘Comprehensive Home Protector’, a home insurance product that covers the risk of loss/ damage of physical assets, interests, liabilities of the Insured and their family making no insurance gap.

Designed as per guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), the insurance product comes with de-bundled fire coverage and insured can choose ‘Basic Fire Cover’, besides opting for other natural and human-made disasters/sections as additional coverage, such as earthquake, storm, cyclone typhoon, tempest, hurricane, tornado, tsunami, floods, inundation, lightening, landslide, and act of terrorism, riots, strikes, malicious damage bush fire, forest fire, damage resulting from action of civic authorities etc.

This policy also comes with coverage of personal money/ important documents and cards lost under certain circumstances outside insured’s home. While the policy has provision to return the lost money, it also pays for cost incurred in reproducing the lost/damaged documents and items like share & stock certificates, deposit receipts, insurance policy, title deeds, manuscripts, passport, driving license, credit card and personal records and certificates.

One of most significant aspects of IFFCO Tokio’s Home Insurance Policy is coverage of damages to contents when you change homes from one geographic location to another. This feature also includes damages due to fire, lightening, breakage of bridges, overturning of carrying vehicle, derailment or accident and robbery & dacoity.

Loss of jewellery & other valuable items, damages to fine arts, fixed glass and sanitary fittings, breakdown of domestic appliances, portable electronic devices, bicycles, accidental death or disablement of insured and loan payment protection in case of death or disablement, personal liability insurance are some of the standout features of policy.

The policy also takes care of tenant’s liability towards home owner against damages to building, contents given by owners/landlord, electrical installations, over and under ground tanks, fixed glass/sanitary fittings and other fixtures, fittings and interior decorations.

As part of its launch bonanza, company is giving flat 10% early bird discount on policy premium to those who buy the policy directly from IFFCO Tokio.

Commenting on the launch of this exciting product, Ms.Niharika Singh, Executive Director, Marketing, IFFCO Tokio General Insurance said, “Launch of Comprehensive Home Protector marks a significant milestone in the journey of IFFCO-Tokio. We have included as many as risks as one can possibly face at home or during shifting of home. Further, we have designed it in such a way that customer is free to choose the risks and pay the premium only against coverage for those probably exposed risks. Through this policy, we want to make sure that the policy holder buys not just the policy, but the peace of mind.”

Gurugram, 7th May 2025:  Leading general insurer IFFCO-Tokio today announced launch of ‘Comprehensive Home Protector’, a home insurance product that covers the risk of loss/ damage of physical assets, interests, liabilities of the Insured and their family making no insurance gap.

Designed as per guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), the insurance product comes with de-bundled fire coverage and insured can choose ‘Basic Fire Cover’, besides opting for other natural and human-made disasters/sections as additional coverage, such as earthquake, storm, cyclone typhoon, tempest, hurricane, tornado, tsunami, floods, inundation, lightening, landslide, and act of terrorism, riots, strikes, malicious damage bush fire, forest fire, damage resulting from action of civic authorities etc.

This policy also comes with coverage of personal money/ important documents and cards lost under certain circumstances outside insured’s home. While the policy has provision to return the lost money, it also pays for cost incurred in reproducing the lost/damaged documents and items like share & stock certificates, deposit receipts, insurance policy, title deeds, manuscripts, passport, driving license, credit card and personal records and certificates.

One of most significant aspects of IFFCO Tokio’s Home Insurance Policy is coverage of damages to contents when you change homes from one geographic location to another. This feature also includes damages due to fire, lightening, breakage of bridges, overturning of carrying vehicle, derailment or accident and robbery & dacoity.

Loss of jewellery & other valuable items, damages to fine arts, fixed glass and sanitary fittings, breakdown of domestic appliances, portable electronic devices, bicycles, accidental death or disablement of insured and loan payment protection in case of death or disablement, personal liability insurance are some of the standout features of policy.

The policy also takes care of tenant’s liability towards home owner against damages to building, contents given by owners/landlord, electrical installations, over and under ground tanks, fixed glass/sanitary fittings and other fixtures, fittings and interior decorations.

As part of its launch bonanza, company is giving flat 10% early bird discount on policy premium to those who buy the policy directly from IFFCO Tokio.

Commenting on the launch of this exciting product, Ms.Niharika Singh, Executive Director, Marketing, IFFCO Tokio General Insurance said, “Launch of Comprehensive Home Protector marks a significant milestone in the journey of IFFCO-Tokio. We have included as many as risks as one can possibly face at home or during shifting of home. Further, we have designed it in such a way that customer is free to choose the risks and pay the premium only against coverage for those probably exposed risks. Through this policy, we want to make sure that the policy holder buys not just the policy, but the peace of mind.”

SINGAPORE – May 7, 2025 – NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today introduced new data that shows manufacturing organizations worldwide are increasingly turning to GenAI to establish smart factories, spur innovation, improve productivity, build resilience and gain competitive advantage. The report – “Feet on the Floor, Eyes on AI: Do you have a plan or a problem?” – also uncovers significant challenges related to workforce and infrastructure readiness as well as ethical frameworks for governance.

The study surveyed more than 500 manufacturing leaders and decision makers in 34 countries. Key findings include:

· 95% (APAC: 97%) of respondents said GenAI is already directly improving efficiency and bottom-line performance.

· 94% (APAC: 99%) expect the integration of Internet of Things (i.e., IoT/edge) data into GenAI models will significantly improve the accuracy and relevance of AI-generated outputs.

· 91% (APAC: 97%) say combining digital twins and GenAI will improve both physical asset performance and supply chain resilience.

· Respondents said their most frequent use cases are supply chain and inventory management; knowledge management; quality control; research and development; and process automation.

“AI is streamlining processes and redefining what’s possible across the entire manufacturing value chain, from supply chain predictions to quality control,” said Prasoon Saxena, Co-Lead, Products Industries, NTT DATA, Inc. “GenAI can help organizations achieve flexibility in fast-changing business environments, especially in the face of uncertain tariff policies worldwide.”

Challenges to Success

Satisfaction with AI initiatives has surged over the past year, yet manufacturers still face significant challenges that include:

• Infrastructure: 92% (APAC: 91%) of manufacturers said old technologies hinder vital initiatives, but less than half have conducted a full infrastructure readiness assessment.
• Complementary technologies: 94% (APAC: 99%) expect the integration of Internet of Things (i.e., IoT/edge) data into GenAI models will significantly improve the accuracy and relevance of AI-generated outputs, yet not all are confident in their ability to complete such integrations.
  Responsible frameworks: While ethical AI is on the radar, only 47% (APAC: 48%) of manufacturing leaders strongly agree their organization follows a robust framework that balances risk with value creation.
•  Workforce readiness: Two-thirds (APAC: 53%) of manufacturers say their employees lack the necessary skills to use GenAI effectively, creating functional and operational disadvantages and risks.
•  Data Management: Just 41% (APAC: 46%) of manufacturers strongly agree they have enough data storage and processing capabilities to support their GenAI workload needs, which will limit success.

“The most successful manufacturing organizations have already integrated GenAI into essential operations,” Saxena said. “Companies failing to plan, deploy and govern GenAI strategically will not only have a problem, they may be planning to fail.”

7th May 2025: The Baker’s Dozen (TBD), India’s leading artisanal bakery brand, known for creating authentic and quality baked goods, is making a bold move with the launch of its all-new Zero Maida Donut Cake. This is TBD’s most accessible baked product to date that brings together indulgence, health and affordability without compromising on ingredients or taste.

The Zero Maida Donut Cake is baked, not fried to delightfully blend the texture of donuts with the satisfying experience of biting into a cake. The choco-filled treat is created as the perfect on-the-go or tiffin snack for health-conscious consumers by eliminating palm oil, artificial flavours and refined sugar – all this without compromising on the flavour, taste or quality. It is the best new choice for mothers who want a good healthy product to satisfy their kids’ sweet cravings! It comes in single-serve packaging, making it perfect for lunchboxes or convenient on-the-go snacks. Furthermore, adding a touch of fun, each pack comes with a fun, complimentary sticker, making snack time more exciting for kids and ensuring a strong recall value amongst parents.

The Indian bakery market was worth $12.6 billion in 2023 and it is expected to reach $29.4 billion in size by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 9.8%, according to a study conducted by Research and Markets. At the same time, urban Indians are increasingly seeking healthier alternatives to traditionally processed baked goods. The Baker’s Dozen has always been in the “sweet spot” – quite literally. The brand has already established itself in this space with its range of sourdough breads, artisanal cookies, preservative-free cakes, capturing majority market share in the premium baking category. With the introduction of the Zero Maida Donut Cake, The Baker’s Dozen seeks to reaffirm its position as a brand that aims to create a culture of honesty and excellence even with its simplest and most accessible of all products.

Sneh Jain, Co-founder and Managing Director, The Baker’s Dozen, said, “With the launch of the Zero Maida Donut Cake, the TBD goodness will be made available to a larger market – because why should they be held back from it? Moreover, consumer preferences are also evolving – mothers are actively seeking healthier snacks for their kids, while adults are gravitating towards on-the-go options that are tasty as well as healthy. By introducing this product at an approachable price point of just ₹30/-, all while staying true to our quality-first and no-nasties philosophy, we are tapping into a broader audience and aiming to disrupt the larger cake market. Hence, we are expecting this product to be a major growth driver aiming for annual revenues of INR 50-100 Cr in the next 2-3 years, and are excited for everyone to try it.”

“The Zero Maida Cake is our answer to the growing demand for healthier, convenient snacking options. With summer approaching, we wanted to create something special that parents could feel good about giving to their children as a tasty snack option without compromising on nutrition whatsoever,” explained Aditi Handa, Co-founder & Head Chef at The Baker’s Dozen. “It is packed with rich flavours and the goodness of real ingredients, perfect for a quick snack, tiffin addition once school resumes or even a mid-day treat for working professionals – because why should healthy snacking and satisfying sweet cravings be limited by age?”

TBD has always disrupted the market consistently with its healthy range of baked products, redefining industry standards. Staying true to its ethos, the brand has also taken significant strides towards sustainability by optimising its delivery routes to reduce emissions and minimising carbon footprints, ensuring a more eco-friendly supply chain. By streamlining logistics and partnering with “Climes” to offset carbon emissions, TBD is making every delivery a step towards a greener future.

Beyond its presence across quick commerce, e-commerce platforms and etailers like Nature’s Basket, Reliance and DMart, TBD is significantly expanding its reach. The Zero Maida Donut Cake will now be available across neighborhood kirana stores and offline snack retailers/ retail stores in Mumbai and Ahmedabad along with all quick commerce channels, making it easier than ever to grab a wholesome treat on the go.

New Delhi, 6th May 2025

AIMIL Animal Health, the veterinary division of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals (India) Ltd, observed World Veterinary Day 2025 by organizing a large-scale virtual Continuing Veterinary Education (e-CVE) program. The online event was attended by over 3,000 participants which includes veterinary students, clinicians, research scholars, practicing clinicians, para vets, the Field staff and members of Allied profession. from across India and abroad, to explore the role of holistic and herbal approaches in animal healthcare.

The session was inaugurated by Dr. Sujit Kumar Dutta, Joint Commissioner at the National Livestock Mission, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India. In his keynote address, Dr. Dutta highlighted the importance of adopting integrative veterinary practices and acknowledged AIMIL’s contribution to promoting Ayurveda-based animal care. “Initiatives like this are crucial in encouraging young professionals to consider sustainable and holistic models of veterinary treatment,” he said.

The event featured presentations by several experts from diverse fields within veterinary science. Dr. Narayan Dutta of the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) discussed the link between nutrition and animal productivity. Mr. Venkat Gollapudi, Project Head at AIMIL, shared the company’s ongoing projects in veterinary research. Dr. N.K. Mahajan focused on liver and kidney issues in poultry, while Dr. Vikas from CGS Hospital, Gurugram, presented on herbal treatments in canine care. Dr. Daniel Mateuta Sirbu Daniel , the international speaker from UAE spoke on integrative care for exotic species. Dr. K. Raj Kumar of RIVER, Pondicherry, addressed advancements in companion animal care, and Dr. Ujjwal Kr De (IVRI) outlined approaches for managing mastitis in cattle. Dr. Jaya Krushna Das from OUAT, Odisha, provided insights into livestock reproductive health.

At the helm of this initiative was Dr. Ikshit Sharma, Executive Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, whose visionary leadership continues to guide AIMIL’s mission to enhance the well-being of animals and improve the livelihood of farmers and common individuals in the animal husbandry sector. Dr Sharma said the company aims to combine traditional systems of medicine with modern veterinary science. He spoke about the need for herbal veterinary alternatives that align with the One Health approach of the World Health Organization. He also noted the potential of phytobiotics and other non-antibiotic solutions in managing animal health.

The program received registrations from more than 3,000 participants, with 55 percent being veterinary students and the rest comprising field veterinarians, para-vets, and practitioners. Students from 47 veterinary colleges took part in academic activities, including a national quiz competition with 579 entries, 200 poster presentations, 51 thesis submissions, and 89 clinical case studies. Selected entries were awarded prizes, and all participants received appreciation hampers.

The Participants & prize winners of the various contests were appreciated by Honorable Founder and Managing Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, Shri K K Sharma. The program was coordinated by Dr. Anil Kr Sharma and Dr. T.S. Easwari, Vice President at AIMIL, while Dr. Rajan Handa, General Manager, AIMIL Animal Health, delivered the vote of thanks. The organizers noted that veterinary health is a shared responsibility and called for stronger collaboration across the sector.

AIMIL Animal Health is known for its research-based herbal veterinary formulations used in the care of poultry, livestock, and companion animals. The division’s recent technology transfer from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute for a cattle feed supplement is expected to support further innovation and led to further product range expansion in livestock nutrition,poultry feed supplement, pet food and aquaculture.

TUESDAY, MAY 6, 2025, — Galxe, Web3’s leading decentralized super app, has unveiled Passport V3: its upgraded KYC solution that streamlines user verification and is now integrated with Sumsub, the world’s most trusted KYC verification platform. With this new integration, Galxe Passport can ensure seamless and secure user onboarding for any Web3 business.

Trusted by over 1 million users, Galxe Passport streamlines identity verification, enabling easy access to multiple decentralized apps and platforms, including Transak and Banxa, with a single verification. By encrypting identity data with a user-defined password, Galxe Passport ensures that only users can access their personal information, yet still use their passport to access financial platforms.

Sumsub’s unrivalled security and compliance standards make it one of the world’s most reliable KYC partners. Used by global brands from Vodafone to Gate.io, Sumsub helps businesses stay compliant while making user onboarding frictionless. With SOC 1, 2, and 3 certifications, Sumsub has already verified over 1 billion users worldwide.

Commenting on Galxe Passport’s integration with Sumsub as part of its V3 launch, Charles Wayn, co-founder of Galxe, says: “With Galxe Passport V3, we’re doubling down on security, compliance, and growth for Web3 projects. Our integration with Sumsub ensures businesses can onboard verified users with confidence, eliminating fraud, strengthening ecosystems, and driving real community engagement.”

When Galxe Passport users choose to share their proof of age, country of residence or other details, verification is conducted using zero-knowledge proofs, meaning no third party – including Galxe – ever sees the underlying data. Nonetheless, the information is fully verifiable, with Galxe’s integration with SumSub adding a further layer of integrity and trust for Web3 businesses that can block fake users, bots, and duplicate accounts.

Inna Lyubashevskaya, chief customer officer of Sumsub, says: “This launch marks a crucial advancement in Web3 onboarding, and we’re proud to support Galxe with our secure and compliant identity verification capabilities. By integrating our trusted KYC processes, businesses can onboard and verify legitimate users with confidence, preventing fraud and ensuring compliance with global regulations. This collaboration not only enhances the security of Web3 ecosystems but also fosters trust and reliability, helping the industry scale in a safe and compliant manner.“

Galxe Passport is purpose-built for businesses requiring KYC-verified users, particularly Web3 projects that need to meet regulatory standards like the EU’s MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation). By helping Web3 projects meet stringent regulatory requirements, Galxe empowers crypto exchanges, DeFi platforms, and tokenized real-world asset projects to onboard users while staying fully compliant with global regulations.

Celebrated Indian Fashion Designer Tarun Tahiliani attends our exclusive fashion show at UNFOLD 2025

Recently, IIAD was honoured with the Excellence in Skill Development Education award by EducationWorld Magazine at the Higher Education Grand Jury Awards 2025–26. To add to this momentous year, the Indian Institute of Art & Design (IIAD) hosted its annual Graduate Showcase, UNFOLD, on May 3rd and 4th, 2025, at its New Delhi campus—drawing a powerful lineup of industry leaders from Reliance Brands, Adobe, Landor, DLF and more. Visionaries like Tarun Tahiliani, Ramola Bachchan and Sunil Sethi joined the two-day celebration that unveiled over a hundred final-year projects across Communication Design, Fashion Design, Interior Architecture & Design and Fashion Business Management. From immersive installations and spatial redesigns to branding campaigns and business ventures, the event offered a bold glimpse into the ideas shaping India’s next generation of creative professionals.

Lamp lighting ceremony at IIAD

The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony, officiated by IIAD officials namely Dr. Jitin Chadha (Founder & CEO) with Mr. Ajit Chadha (Chairman), Rita Chadha (Chairperson), Prof. Usha Nehru Patel (Director-Academics), Simrat Joshi (COO), Prof. Snehanshu Mukherjee (Course Leader, Interior Architecture and Design), Sakshi Jain (Course Leader, Communication Design), Dr. Sunita Gupta Konwar (Course Leader, Fashion Business Management), and Kishore Chakraborty (Course Leader, Foundation).

Industry practitioners in conversation with students discussing their projects

The Communication Design department brought together leading creative minds to explore the evolving role of designers in an AI-driven world. Moderated by Sakshi Jain, the conversation featured Sudeep Chaudhuri (Adobe), Samar Jodha (Red Balloon), Amit Krishn Gulati (Incubis Consultants), Monica Khanna Gulati (SkyBLUE Design), Sonali Pal (23:23 Designs) and Som Sengupta (Zeppelin Design). The dialogue centered around the irreplaceable value of human creativity, the need for strong educational foundations and the importance of embracing uncertainty in career paths. From reflections on design’s empathy advantage to calls for entrepreneurial courage and personal voice, the panel affirmed that while AI may shift tools and workflows, the essence of design remains deeply human — rooted in observation, context and the courage to create.

Exhibition showcase by Communication Design (CD) and Interior Architecture & Design (IAD) students

Day one featured exhibitions from the Communication Design (CD) and Interior Architecture & Design (IAD) departments. Communication Design students presented final-year projects across animation, illustration, branding and packaging, UI/UX and publication design. Several of these projects had previously won awards at national and international platforms. The exhibitions were open to industry professionals, faculty, students and the larger design community.

A panel of leading architects and designers in a dialogue with academicians at IIAD

A panel discussion was hosted by the Interior Architecture and Design department on Reduction by Design brought together leading voices from firms such as Team 3, Mold Design Studio, AVA Design, Resaiki and others. The session addressed the urgent need to design with restraint—shifting focus from aesthetic minimalism to purposeful reduction in materials, processes, and consumption. Panelists explored how traditional craftsmanship, innovation in construction techniques and client education can together support a more sustainable and relevant design practice.

In frame: Reema Malhotra, Ritu Nakra, Yogeshwar Sharma, Ramola Bachchan, Rohit Singh and Abhishek Verma

The second day featured a panel discussion titled “Launching Tomorrow: What The Industry Wants Today,” facilitated by the Fashion Business Management department. The discussion explored what it takes to thrive in today’s fast-changing industry. Moderated by Abhishek Verma (Associate Professor, IIAD), the session featured Ramola Bachchan (Serial Entrepreneur and Socialite, First Resort, Accidental Chef, Runway Bridal, Runway Rising, Housefull), Reema Malhotra (GM, Pee Empro Exports), Ritu Nakra (GM, Landor), Yogeshwar Sharma (Chief of Business Development, DLF), and Rohit Singh (Head of Sourcing & Design, Reliance Brands Ltd). The panelists spoke about their journeys, industry shifts, and the skills they value in young professionals today. From creative thinking and emotional intelligence to business acumen and adaptability, the conversation stressed the need for a well-rounded approach. AI was seen as a useful tool—but one that cannot replace human insight, experience, and originality.

Addressing students on overcoming self-doubt and taking risks, Ramola Bachchan advised,“It’s important to evolve with time and stay current. You have to be brave enough to take risks, adapt to change and build organically — that’s how you create relevance in today’s world.”

Exhibition at fashion design department

The evening concluded with a second runway presentation, showcasing the same 24 graduating collections that debuted earlier in the day. While the afternoon show was attended by celebrated designer Tarun Tahiliani, the evening brought industry stalwart Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India, to the front row.

Speaking to the students, Indian Tarun Tahiliani remarked, “I told Jitin I’m envious of the students here—because back in my time, there was no design school to go to. I urge every student to be creative, mad and crazy—but always seek technique and never forget your roots. We’re a very cool country that was colonised to rebel—find your own definition of who you are.

From textile explorations to concept-driven silhouettes, each collection reflected a distinct designer voice—merging craft, narrative, and innovation. UnFOLD 2025 offered a compelling glimpse into the evolving voice of India’s next generation of creative professionals—bold, conscious, and industry-ready.

Mumbai: On the occasion of Maharashtra Day and the birthday of Hon. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, a free health check-up and treatment camp was organized for newborns & small childrens  at Apex Hospitals, Mulund, in collaboration with the Shiv Sena Medical Assistance Cell. The initiative was inaugurated in the esteemed presence of Thane MP Hon. Mr. Naresh Mhaske. Shiv Sena Secretary Mr. Sanjay Mashilkar was also present at the event.

The primary objective of this initiative is to provide quality healthcare to newborns from economically weaker sections right from the beginning of their lives. Under the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana, ICU treatment, if required, is also included in the services. Through this scheme, free or highly subsidized medical facilities are made available to poor and needy citizens, including treatment for critical illnesses, surgeries, and follow-up care.

Speaking at the event, MP Naresh Mhaske said, “The health of children is directly linked to the future of the nation. This initiative, held on the occasion of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s birthday, is a strong reflection of social commitment.”

Shiv Sena Medical Assistance Cell President Mr. Mangesh Chivate remarked, “This service is not limited to medical aid alone but is also an effort to extend compassion and social responsibility to needy families.”

Dr. Vrajesh Shah, Medical Director of Apex Group of Hospital, shared, “Under this initiative, each newborn  and medical help seeking children will undergo a thorough medical check-up, and if needed, further treatment and guidance will be provided entirely free of cost.”

Local residents, social workers, and healthcare experts actively participated in this initiative. This health campaign served as a meaningful tribute to Maharashtra Day and the Deputy Chief Minister’s birthday.

Apex Hospital remains committed to delivering world-class healthcare services, ensuring every patient receives the highest standard of care and the best possible chance at recovery.

Apex Group of Hospitals has been a trusted provider of quality and affordable healthcare services for the past 25 years. With over 350 beds and modern facilities across locations in Borivali, Kandivali, and Mulund, these hospitals are equipped with patient-centric treatment systems and state-of-the-art infrastructure.