Archives September 2025

SSEN Bids For FIFA World Cup 2026 & 2030 Broadcasting Rights

Kolkata, 22nd September, 2025: In a move that underscores both ambition and vision, Shrachi Sports Entertainment Network (SSEN), a dedicated sports OTT platform, has officially placed its bid for the broadcasting rights of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2030. Valued at approximated USD 2 Million (INR 18-20 crores), the bid reflects SSEN’s ambition to redefine how global football reaches audiences across India and the subcontinents.

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If awarded, SSEN intends to stream both the tournaments entirely on a free to view basis. This pioneering model would ensure that millions of fans across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives can watch the world’s greatest sporting event without subscription fees or barriers to entry.

“The bid is more than a business move – it is a commitment to inclusivity and reshaping the future of football consumption in the region. By offering the FIFA World Cup streaming free to fans, we are democratising access to the game and laying the foundation for a long-term legacy that inspires generations” said Mr Tamal Ghosal, Chairman, Shrachi Sports.

The bold proposal builds on SSEN’s expanding portfolio of premier sports properties. The network already streams marquee tournaments including the Calcutta Football League and the I-League. In addition, SSEN is the first to stream the Women’s Bundesliga and the German Handball Bundesliga, underscoring its credibility as a platform delivering both Indian and international sporting action to mass audiences.

By taking these decisive steps, SSEN signals its determination not only to challenge conventional sports broadcasting models but also to position India as a central hub in the global football narrative.

 

AIIGMA Celebrates 50 Years with Regional Safety Seminar on Gas Cylinder Rules in Hyderabad

AIIGMA marks 50 years with ‘Regional Safety Seminar on Gas Cylinder Rules and Industry Standards’ at Hyderabad!

Hyderabad, 22nd September 2025: The All India Industrial Gases Manufacturers Association (AIIGMA), the apex body representing the interests of the industrial and medical gases industry in India, commemorated its 50th anniversary by hosting the Regional Safety Seminar on Industrial and Medical Gases, with reference to Gas Cylinder Rules 2016 & SMPV (Unfired) Rules 2016; today at the Hotel Westin, Mindspace, Hyderabad. The Seminar was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Shri V. K. Mishra, Jt. Chief Controller of Explosives – Hyderabad Circle, PESO, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India; and delivered the Keynote address at the Seminar and was graced by Mr Saket Tiku, President, AIIGMA; Mr Rajiv Guptha, General Secretary AIIGMA and Shri Shankar Ghosh, Director, Shell-N-Tub Pvt Ltd,; among others. Over 200 delegates from all over India attended the one-day Seminar.

Regional Safety Seminar on Gas Cylinder Rules and Industry Standards

Established in 1975, AIIGMA serves as a common platform for manufacturers, suppliers, and equipment providers in the gas industry, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and advocacy for safe practices, innovation, and growth in the sector. AIIGMA continues to be actively engaged in policy discussions, industry seminars, international collaborations, and safety initiatives. The upcoming seminar in Hyderabad is part of its ongoing efforts to reinforce safety, technology, and sustainability in the gases industry.

Speaking on the occasion Chief Guest Mr. V K Mishra, Jt. Chief Controller of explosives-Hyderabad Circle, PESCO, Ministry of commerce & Industry, Government of India; in his keynote address said, “congratulations to AIIGMA on completion of 50 years and during this period, AIIGMA has grown by leaps and bounds. Some excellent work was done by the industry during the crisis like COVID; however, we need to retrospect if we had done our best or was there space to do better, such introspection helps to handle future crisis more efficiently. During that period, liquid oxygen storage and cryogenic cylinder installation, were two major issues which could have perhaps facilitated better management. Reflect on such issues and ensure better management in future. AIIGMA did a wonderful work in supporting the industry and entrepreneurs. To maintain high safety standards, need to rigorously emphasis on identification of cylinders, periodic testing and condemnation of unused cylinders.”‘              

Mr. Saket Tiku, President, AIIGMA; said, “over the last five decades AIIGMA has emerged as the voice of the Indian Gas Industry, working tirelessly for the growth of our sector, while ensuring the safety, compliance, innovation remain at the forefront. Here, I would like to touch upon a very important development, in the light of the recent trade tariffs imposed on India, it has become imperative for all of us to focus on manufacturing more within India, of course we also recognize the practical reality, as there are certain products which are not manufactured in India. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister has been emphasizing on manufacturing of Semi-conductor chips within India, for producing these semi-conductor chips, we need specialty gases with ultra-high purity, rare gases etc., which are not available in India. Many of which may not have so much demand in India to make it viable to produce here. Till the volumes of such gases become viable to produce, they will continue to be imported. Going forward AIIGMA will be emphasizing increasingly on make in India products, to become self-reliant. At the heart of this entire thing lies safety, which becomes non-negotiable. We conduct regular trainings on safety, which are subsidized by AIIGMA. Safety is crucial in our industry, therefore depute your technical staff for these trainings, benefit from them and avoid mishaps.”    

Mr. Rajiv Guptha, General Secretary AIIGMA; “our gas industry carries a significant responsibility to ensure the highest standards of safety, today’s seminar is a testament to that commitment. As we focus on the crucial Gas Cylinder Rules, 2016 and Assembly Rules, 2016; a thorough understanding and sincere adherence to these rules are not just regulatory requirements but are the foundation of our safety culture and a pledge to protect lives and property. Let’s use this opportunity to share insights and collectively raise the bar for safety in our sector.”

The Wealth Company Mutual Fund becomes India’s first AMC to launch NFO on ONDC Network

Mumbai, 22nd September, 2025: The Wealth Company Mutual Fund, a Pantomath Group Company, today announced a significant milestone by becoming the first asset management company (AMC) to launch New Fund Offer (NFO) on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) Network in partnership with Cybrilla Technologies Pvt Ltd.

TWCMF team

With this launch, investors across Bharat – especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will now be able to access The Wealth Company Mutual Fund NFOs seamlessly through ONDC Network’s open digital infrastructure. The initiative reflects the company’s vision of democratizing wealth creation and driving financial inclusion across underserved markets.

Starting 24th September, The Wealth Company Mutual Fund will be leveraging ONDC Network to launch its NFOs, making mutual fund distribution simpler and more accessible to a wider base of investors.

Madhu Lunawat, Founder, MD & CEO, The Wealth Company Mutual Fund, said: “Our integration with the ONDC Network marks a breakthrough moment. As the first AMC to launch NFOs on ONDC, we are making mutual fund investments easier, especially NFOs more accessible for investors across India, particularly reaching Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities that were previously underserved. This partnership reinforces our commitment to democratizing wealth creation and expanding financial inclusion nationwide.”

Vibhor Jain, Acting CEO and COO at ONDC, said: “It’s encouraging to see The Wealth Company Mutual Fund launch its NFO through the ONDC Network. By enabling discovery and access through new distribution channels, ONDC is not only broadening investor engagement but also helping bring investment opportunities to previously underserved markets. This demonstrates the network’s potential to support more inclusive and accessible financial ecosystems.”

In August 2025 alone, ONDC processed over 2,800 mutual fund transactions worth INR 1.1 crores with more than 15 distributors live on the network. This growth underscores the strong appetite for investment opportunities in the underserved markets and highlights the vast potential of expanding access.

Spirit of Wipro Run Marks 20th Edition with 62,000+ Global Participants

Spirit of Wipro Run Celebrates Historic 20th Edition Run by Bringing Together over 62,000 Participants Worldwide

Bengaluru, September 22, 2025: Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO), a leading AI-powered technology services and consulting company, celebrated the 20th edition of the Spirit of Wipro Run with over 62,000 global participants that included Wipro employees, their families and friends, clients, and partners. The event took place in more than 100 cities worldwide including Bengaluru, New Jersey, Dubai, and London – demonstrating Wipro’s commitment to wellbeing, community engagement, and purpose.  

Rishad Premji, Executive Chairman, Wipro Limited at Spirit of Wipro Run in Bengaluru.... Rishad Premji, Executive Chairman, Wipro Limited, flagged off the event at the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, and Srini Pallia, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Wipro Limited, led the run in East Brunswick, New Jersey. 

“For two decades, the Spirit of Wipro Run has united our global communities in purpose and progress,” said Saurabh Govil, Chief Human Resources Officer, Wipro Limited. “This year, with over 14,000 participants in Bengaluru alone—the highest ever—we celebrate not just a number, but the spirit of togetherness that defines Wipro. It demonstrates a legacy built on values, and a future that inspires positive action.”

This run brings together employees from Wipro Limited, Wipro Enterprises, Premji Invest, Azim Premji Foundation, and Azim Premji University. Each registration is matched by a corporate contribution through Wipro Cares – the employee engagement arm of the Wipro Foundation – benefitting over 85 non-profit organizations globally. These partnerships focus on advancing healthcare initiatives and access to education for underprivileged communities, and build awareness towards environmental sustainability. Additionally, all registrations and event operations have been managed through an in-house custom-built platform, ensuring a seamless experience for participants. 

The Spirit of Wipro Run covers more than 100 locations worldwide – including Bengaluru, New Jersey, Toronto, London, Zurich, Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney. In Bengaluru, the Spirit of Wipro Run is integrated with the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon. Also held on the 21st of September, the 12th edition of this Marathon saw an inspiring turnout of over 35,000 runners, including some of India’s finest elite athletes, reaffirming the city’s passion for fitness and community spirit. In 2025, Wipro proudly marked its third consecutive year as the title sponsor of the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon.

Memory Loss, Speech Issues & Behavioural Changes May Signal Alzheimer’s: Dr Amit Shankar

Memory loss, speech impairment & behavioural changes couldsignal Alzheimer’s disease, says Dr Amit Shankar

Chandigarh, September 22, 2025: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and about 70-80% of those affected by dementia are diagnosed with the disease. To raise awareness on Alzheimer’s disease and, World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on 21st September every year. The theme of World Alzheimer’s Day-2025 is ‘Ask About Dementia’ – which encourages the general population to seek information and bust myths about the disease.

Dr Amit Shankar Singh, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Fortis Hospital Mohali, in an advisory explains the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment options of Alzheimer’s disease.

Statistics
As per the 20217-2020 national survey, around 8.8 million people aged 60 and above have been living with dementia in our country. It is expected that the number is likely to triple by 2050, therefore dementia, especially Alzheimer’s, hence, more awareness needs to be spread about the disease.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?
It is a neuro-degenerative disorder of the brain that causes the brain to shrink (atrophy) and brain cells to die. The disease is characterized by a decline in the cognitive abilities of an individual such as learning, memory, language, attention, motor and social skills. And due to these, there is drastic effect in daily activity of life of the patient.

Causes
Genetic inheritance is one of the prime causes of the disease. It is also caused due to the abnormal deposition of proteins — amyloid protein and neuritic plaques — in the brain, thereby causing the brain cells to die. People above 65 years of age are more likely to be affected by Alzheimer’s. The incidence of the disease is also higher in women compared to men.

Symptoms
The warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease are as follows:

  • Memory impairment: Memory impairment is the initial symptom as dementia sets in and there is progressive deterioration in memory. This leads to difficulty in thinking, reasoning and understanding.
  • Behavioural changes: Patients affected with Alzheimer’s exhibit symptoms such as depression, confusion and inability to concentrate. They tend to become unaware about their surroundings.
  • Difficulty of language, speech:Alzheimer’s disease causes problems with speech. Those affected are unable to convey the meaning of things and are unable to understand, thereby causing confusion.
  • Unable to complete daily tasks:The disease affects their cognitive abilities. Alzheimer’s disease increases an individual’s dependency on others as they are unable to communicate their needs.

Diagnosis
Alzheimer’s disease should be suspected in any older adult with a progressive decline in memory. Neurologists conduct brain imaging, diagnostic and mental ability tests etc. to detect the disease. These helps to identify the possible causes of brain impairment.

Prevention
Shedding light on Alzheimer’s disease, Dr Shankar, said, “Even as there are no proven ways to prevent the disease, regular physical activity, meditation, balanced diet, maintaining healthy weight and keeping blood pressure under control help to keep the brain healthy.”

  • Engage in regular cardio-vascular exercises as it helps delay cognitive decline.
  • Quit smoking, alcohol, or any other type of addictive substance.
  • Avoid stress by counselling, developing problem solving attitude and yoga/meditation.
  • Take care of cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.
  • Consume a healthy and balanced diet.
  • Adequate sleep of 6-8 hours helps compile memory signals in neurons.

Shedding more light on the disease, Dr Shankar, said, “Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. A few medications help in controlling its symptoms. Along with medication, family support, physical and cognitive rehabilitation are an integral part in the management of the disease.”

Celebrity Dandiya Nights from September 22 to October 2 at HICC, Madhapur

Hyderabad, September 22 2025: The city is gearing up for one of its most awaited festive extravaganzas as Hyderabad Models announces the 9th season of Celebrity Dandiya Nights to be held at Novotel HICC, Madhapur, from September 22nd to October 2nd, 2025. The 11-day grand celebration promises a colorful blend of tradition, music, glamour, and festivity.

​Celebrity Dandiya Nights

To mark the upcoming celebration, Hyderabad Models Fashion Director Spandana Palli along with Femina Miss India Chhattisgarh in 2018 and film actress Spandana Palle, Upcoming Actress Katalyn Gowda, Raghavi Media MD Madhu Babu officially unveiled the event poster and shared exciting details of the upcoming nights during a press meet held at the HICC premises.

Speaking on the occasion, Vamshi Palle said, “This year, we’re taking the celebrations to the next level. Attendees can look forward to live bands, energetic DJs spinning Garba tracks, traditional Dhol Tadka performances, and a full-fledged festive experience complete with themed decorations, authentic food counters, and daily celebrity appearances.” He further added that each night will bring surprise gifts, vibrant dandiya themes, and a joyful cultural experience for families and youth alike.

Varun Khanna Honoured as ‘Visionary Healthcare CEO’ at AHPI Leadership Summit 2025

“Healthcare is Service, Not Industry,” says Telangana Governor at AHPI Leadership Summit

Hyderabad, September 22,2025: The 3rd AHPI Leadership Summit, a two-day national conference on “Leadership in the Age of High-Tech Healthcare”, concluded today at Hotel Taj Deccan, Banjara Hills. The event brought together senior leaders from healthcare, policy, and industry to deliberate on people-first leadership, financial sustainability, and strategic planning for the future of healthcare. Chief Guest: His Excellency Shri Jishnu Dev Verma Ji, Honourable Governor of Telangana, graced the valedictory session and emphasised the importance of visionary leadership in strengthening India’s healthcare system.

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His Excellency Shri Jishnu Dev Verma Ji, Honourable Governor of Telangana, underscored the ethos of service in healthcare, stating, “Healthcare should never be viewed as an industry; it must always be seen as a service. The true strength of our healthcare system lies not only in technology and innovation but also in compassion, empathy, and integrity. As the youngest nation in the world, India’s future depends on building a healthcare model that cares for every community and every citizen with dignity and trust.”

In a moment of pride for the healthcare fraternity, Mr. Varun Khanna, Group Managing Director, Quality Care India Limited (QCIL), was honoured with the prestigious award of ‘Visionary Healthcare CEO’. This recognition was based on a rigorous selection process, with nominations put forward by more than 20 State Presidents of AHPI, ensuring that leaders were evaluated by experienced and respected voices from across India. Mr. Khanna’s recognition reflects his exemplary leadership and commitment to advancing patient-centric and innovative healthcare solutions through continuous investment in talent, technology and infrastructure, making him stand out among leaders in the national healthcare ecosystem. 

The summit recognised other distinguished leaders in healthcare, chosen through the same meticulous jury evaluation process. Dr. G. Bhaktavatsam, Renowned Surgeon, received the award for “Healthcare Luminary of India”. Dr. Phalaxmi Majrekar was honoured as “Emerging Nurse Leader”. Dr. Sarvesh Agarwal, Neuro Physician, was recognised as “Emerging Healthcare Leader”. These awards highlight the immense contribution of professionals across diverse areas of healthcare who are shaping India’s future of medicine and care delivery.

Mr. Varun Khanna expressed gratitude and reinforced his commitment to the sector, “This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective efforts of every doctor, nurse, and healthcare professional who tirelessly works to heal lives. The sustainability of healthcare in India cannot be built overnight; it must be shaped by lessons from our past and bold reforms for the future. Our mission is to ensure accessibility, dignity, and trust for every patient. At QCIL, our approach is clinically biased, outcome focused, and digitally enabled—this award motivates me and my team to continue building a healthcare system that India can be proud of.”

The summit was organised by the Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) under the leadership of Dr. Alexander Thomas, Founder-President; Dr. M.I. Sahadulla, National President; Mr. Vishal Bali, Chairman, Health Policy Committee; and Dr. Girdhar J. Gyani, Director General. The organisers reiterated AHPI’s commitment to advancing patient-centred and sustainable healthcare models across India through leadership development, policy advocacy, and knowledge sharing.

The summit concluded with renewed commitments from leaders and institutions to create sustainable, technology-driven, and people-centred healthcare models for India’s future.

TOTO Expands in India, Taps Rising Demand for Luxury Smart Bathrooms

India, 22 September 2025 :— TOTO India has announced an exciting expansion of its portfolio with the launch of season-inspired basins, faucets and a new water-efficient WC range. Each product reflects TOTO’s philosophy of combining Japanese craftsmanship, advanced technology, and timeless design to make everyday living more beautiful and sustainable.

TOTO Seasonal Basin_1

After introducing the Matte colour edition, the brand now unveils a new seasoned themed basin inspired by the elegance of nature and the four seasons. Featuring sleek, flowing designs, the basins bring a sense of calm to modern interiors. The collection consists of four colours, each representing a season: Forest Green for Spring, Mandarin Orange for Summer, Scarlet Red for Autumn and Ash Bule for Winter. Enhanced with TOTO’s CEFIONTECT glaze, the basins stay cleaner for longer, reducing the effort needed for maintenance while ensuring a consistently fresh look.

TOTO also introduces faucets in Rose Gold and Graphite finishes, adding a striking layer of sophistication to luxury bathrooms. These finishes are the result of meticulous artistry, ensuring both beauty and durability. Perfectly complementing the season-themed basins, the faucets are crafted using PVD technology for long-lasting matte black colour, while sustainable manufacturing processes reuse up to 90% of wastewater, making these them as responsible as they are refined.

Completing the collection is a New WC lineup featuring sleek, fully concealed and stylish models-CW362MUNW1 in square shape, CW592MUNW1 in round shape. Designed with TORNADO FLUSH technology for powerful yet water-saving performance and dual flush options as low as 3.0L, the range offers a balance of efficiency, hygiene, and style. The bowls, available in both square and elongated designs, fit seamlessly into contemporary spaces while reducing water consumption without compromising comfort.

“Today, Indian consumers are looking for bathroom solutions that go beyond functionality. They want products that are stylish, comfortable, and sustainable. With these new launches, we are bringing together design and innovation in a way that makes every bathroom experience more thoughtful and enjoyable”, said Mr. Shiozawa Kazuyuki, Managing Director, TOTO India.

IIM Sambalpur Inaugurates First-Ever Batch of B.S. Programme

22 Sept, 2025; Sambalpur: Following the announcement made in May 2025, IIM Sambalpur launched these two cutting-edge programmes in Delhi, and has now welcomed the inaugural batch of its first-ever B.S. Programme in Data Science & AI and B.S. Programme in Management & Public Policy at the Sambalpur campus in Odisha.

In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, IIM Sambalpur has launched its two cutting-edge new undergraduate programmes: “Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy” and “Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” in May 2025. The course curriculum is aligned with the world’s top universities such as MIT, Stanford, Harvard, and Carnegie Mellon University, all of which offer BS programs with similar names.

BS Program inuguration

The inaugural batch welcomed 178 students across the two programmes, 88 in Data Science & AI and 90 in Management & Public Policy. Representing more than 20 states of India, including Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Lakshadweep, the batch reflects strong regional diversity. The B.S. in Data Science & AI programme has enrolled 69 male and 19 female students, while the B.S. in Management & Public Policy has 51 male and 39 female students, ensuring a healthy gender balance.

Admission Process

Admissions were made through JEE (Main) 2025 for Data Science & AI, with the highest admitted rank being 44,645, and through CUET (UG) 2025 for Management & Public Policy, where the top scorers achieved a 99.80 percentile. The academic credentials of the cohort are equally impressive, with an average Class 12th score of 90.5% for Data Science & AI students and 88.2% for those in Management & Public Policy.

Ratnesh Jha, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network India graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Amit Sareen, Managing Director, Accenture and Anjan A, Vice President, North Trust were present as the Guests of honour. Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur along with faculty and students were also present during the event.

The event also featured expert speaker sessions in which the esteemed speakers were Vivek Agarwal, Country Director, Tony Blair Institute; Harpreet Singh, Head –Counterparty Credit Risk, BFSI Sector; Gangadhar Yasam, Head of IT Strategy, Ford Motor Company; Divay Pranav, Business Strategy & Partnerships, Hyundai Motors; Arpit Bajpai, Co-Founder, Neurosensum, were present as key note speakers in the event.

During his inaugural address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “This is a historic step for IIM Sambalpur. By launching these B.S. programmes, we are investing in young minds who will become leaders in technology, policy, and society. These programmes will not only prepare students with academic excellence but also instil in them the values of integrity, innovation, and responsibility towards nation-building. Anchored in the core values of Integrity and Innovation, the programmes provides strong roots in data analysis, critical reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making. The cross-functional courses are designed to develop responsible leaders who can address intricate societal and industrial challenges with innovation, compassion, and a global perspective. This degree program is pioneering and will be adopted by other top management institutes.”

Apart from that, Prof. Jaiswal advised students and said, “Students need to nurture four kinds of intelligence for holistic growth. First is IQ, which sharpens the intellect. Second is EQ, which teaches them to manage their emotions effectively. Third is PQ, which emphasizes the importance of good health, physical fitness, and preferring naturopathy. And Finally, SQ – the spiritual quotient – which helps them reflect on the deeper purpose of life”.

While addressing the students, Chief Guest, Ratnesh Jha, Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network, said, “Congratulation to IIM Sambalpur for excellent NIRF rankings 2025 and for successful inauguration of the first batch of the B.S. Programme. IIM Sambalpur continues to be a hub of creativity and inspiration, opening new avenues for the younger generation. The four-year B.S. Programme holds immense potential to transform students into accomplished professional, well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation. He further emphasized that, while striving for academic excellence, ratings and rankings, it is equally important not to overlook spiritual growth and physical well-being. He added that students must focus on the four Cs, as the absence of any one of them makes progress incomplete and less fulfilling”.

The Bachelor of Science in Management and Public Policy programme is designed to meet national managerial aspirations in terms of Sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and community-led development. This programme aims to equip a new generation of change-makers to close the gap between policy and practice at the grassroots level.

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is focused towards developing India’s digital capability and global competitiveness. The programme, co-designed with industry leaders builds future ready skill set among young students and encourages the use of ethical AI, reaffirming the institution’s pledge to innovation with integrity.

The inaugural marks a new chapter in IIM Sambalpur’s journey to shape responsible leaders with a balance of academic rigor, innovation, and social responsibility. Notably, IIM Sambalpur is the first IIM to offer admissions to its B.S. in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence programme through IIT JEE Main, and to its B.S. in Management & Public Policy programme through CUET, both prestigious national-level entrance exams conducted by the National Testing Agency.

IIM Sambalpur has reached a significant milestone this year, climbing 16 positions in the NIRF ranking 2025. Speaking on the institute’s accreditation journey, Prof. Soumya Guha Deb, Dean (Ranking & Accreditation), highlighted the strategic initiatives and sustained efforts that have contributed to this remarkable achievement.

Prof. Diwahar S Nadar and Prof. Rohit Gupta introduced the B.S. Programmes. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. Diptiranjan Mahapatra, Dean, (Academics), while the vote of thanks was proposed by Prof. Diwahar S Nadar.

HCLFoundation leads nationwide coastal cleanup drive on International Coastal Cleanup Day 2025

NOIDA, India, Sept 21, 2025 — HCLFoundation, which drives the corporate social responsibility agenda of global technology company HCLTech in India, spearheaded a coastal cleanup campaign across six Indian states — Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and West Bengal — to mark International Coastal Cleanup Day 2025.

The initiative mobilized local communities, HCLTech employees and partner organizations, resulting in the removal of approximately 20,000 kilograms of marine debris by over 5,000+ volunteers, reaffirming HCLFoundation’s commitment to protecting India’s coastal and marine ecosystems.

This year’s campaign was strengthened by collaborations with leading environmental organizations, including Animal Welfare Conservation Society, ReefWatch Marine Conservation, SPANDAN, MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, Environmentalist Foundation of India, Development Research Communication and Services Centre, Plan@tEarth, Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trus, and Tree Foundation. Over the past four years, HCLFoundation and its partners have successfully removed more than 560,000 kilograms of ghost nets and marine debris from India’s coastal waters.

A significant milestone in marine conservation was achieved in 2024 when HCLFoundation, the Indian Coast Guard and The Habitats Trust (THT) signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to address challenges facing India’s marine biodiversity. This partnership leverages scientific expertise, operational capacity and grassroots engagement to drive impactful conservation efforts along the nation’s coastline.

On International Coastal Cleanup Day 2025, HCLFoundation, the Indian Coast Guard and THT jointly participated in the national cleanup campaign, demonstrating their unified commitment to marine conservation.

“Environmental sustainability is central to our mission of building resilient and inclusive communities,” said Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, SVP, Global CSR, HCLTech and Director, HCLFoundation.

“Our coastal cleanup initiative goes beyond waste removal—it inspires collective responsibility and fosters a culture of environmental stewardship. Through our partnerships, we are strengthening efforts to conserve and restore India’s marine ecosystems.”