Archives December 2025

India-Sweden Sustainability Day 2025 Doubles Down on Collaborative Endeavours for Industry 4.0 and a Net-Zero Future

“India–Sweden Sustainability Day stands as a testament to the shared vision of both nations to turn ambition into action and to deliver long-term value. Through forward-looking initiatives such as the India–Sweden Green Transition Partnership (ISGTP), we are building an ecosystem where innovation takes centre stage and sustainability is embedded into every industrial process,” said Ms. Sofia Högman, Trade and Invest Commissioner of Sweden to India.

‘’The Sweden-India collaboration is rooted in trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to shaping a greener, more equitable future. The India–Sweden Sustainability Day 2025 embodies this spirit, serving as a platform where both nations unite to create joint frameworks, share knowledge, and mobilise resources. Through these efforts, the partnership is setting new global benchmarks in advancing shared sustainability and development goals, ensuring that industrial progress contributes not only to net‑zero ambitions but also to inclusive growth and long‑term resilience,” said Mr. Sven Östberg, Consul General of Sweden in Mumbai.

Dec 12: India Accelerator  India’s leading multi-stage, fund-led accelerator, is set to launch its accelerator program in Saudi Arabia, backed by a dedicated $15 million fund to support Indian startups entering and scaling in the Kingdom. The initiative is supported by the National Technology Development Program’s Empowering Accelerators product, advancing Saudi Arabia’s growing innovation mandate under Vision 2030.

The initiative will focus on startups across AI, Sustainability, Electric Mobility (EV), PropTech, and DeepTech- sectors closely aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 priorities and NTDP’s mission to accelerate technology-led economic transformation.

The first cohort, scheduled for launch in March 2026, will support 8–10 high-potential startups, providing them with structured market-entry support, regulatory guidance, access to local partnerships, and investor connectivity. Applications for the inaugural batch opened on December 8, 2025, and remained open until February 28, 2026.

Ashish Bhatia, Founder, India Accelerator, said:
“Saudi Arabia is emerging as one of the world’s most forward-looking innovation markets. Through this partnership with NTDP, we aim to offer Indian startups a trusted, structured pathway to scale in the Kingdom. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to enabling cross-border expansion and building meaningful linkages with global innovation ecosystems.”

Ibrahim Neyaz, CEO of the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), added:
“Saudi Arabia and India are home to two advanced startup ecosystems. Through our partnership with India Accelerator, we are opening new pathways that enable Indian entrepreneurs to collaborate with Saudi partners, tap into the Kingdom’s evolving technology and investment landscape, and contribute to the growth of its digital economy. This partnership strengthens the connection between our ecosystems and helps deepen long-term collaboration between the two countries in technology and investment.”

The partnership with NTDP establishes a strong foundation for deeper engagement across the GCC, expanding India Accelerator’s global footprint and advancing its mission to support founders beyond domestic markets

Anudip Foundation and DBS Bank India inaugurate DeepTech Training Centre in Airoli, Maharashtra to empower underserved youth

Chandigarh, Dec 12: Anudip Foundation for Social Welfare, a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of economically and socially vulnerable youth, in partnership with DBS Bank India, inaugurated its new DeepTech Training Centre at Airoli, Navi Mumbai. This signified a major milestone in their three-year initiative to skill and empower 2,400 young individuals from underserved communities across Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, and Chennai. The programme aims to achieve a minimum 70% placement rate, with expected monthly salaries ranging between ₹22,000 to ₹25,000, significantly contributing to economic upliftment.

The DeepTech Programme for Underserved Youth, supported by DBS Bank India, addresses the growing skills gap in India’s technology sector by offering industry-aligned training in non-programming digital technologies, communication, career readiness and soft skills. Delivered through a blended learning model powered by AI tools, gamification, and a Moodle-based LMS, the programme prepares learners for the digital workforce, with third-party assessments by Mettl ensuring standardised evaluation and job readiness.

Senior leadership members of the Anudip Foundation and members from DBS Bank India also graced the occasion, providing guidance and strong encouragement to the learners. The welcome address eloquently articulated the unified vision of advancing digital inclusion and cultivating robust career opportunities for underserved youth. During the beneficiary engagement segment, students adeptly showcased their projects, unequivocally demonstrating their technical proficiency and the programme’s nascent yet significant impact.

Nekzaad Vakil, Executive Director, Group Strategic Marketing & Communications, DBS Bank India, said, 

“We are proud to partner with Anudip Foundation on the inauguration of the DeepTech Training Centre in Airoli. This aligns with our larger efforts and commitment towards fostering inclusion and empowering underserved youth with future-ready skills. We believe that addressing critical skills gaps can create pathways to sustainable careers. By supporting the development of advanced technological capabilities among the next generation, we aim to contribute to creating economic opportunities and building resilient communities.”

Monisha Banerjee, CEO, Anudip Foundation said,

 “At Anudip, we believe success begins with access. By providing market-driven skills, mentoring, and employment opportunities, we enable young people from underserved communities to build brighter futures.”

DBS Bank India is committed to creating impact beyond banking. Its efforts are further reinforced by the DBS Foundation, which actively aims to uplift the lives and livelihoods of vulnerable communities in Asia. This includes providing essential needs and fostering inclusion for vulnerable communities through grants, mentorship, and capacity-building programmes. The DBS Foundation also supports Businesses for Impact (social enterprises and SMEs with innovative solutions for creating positive social impact and forging strategic partnerships) to catalyse the growth of the ecosystem.

The States’ Policy Conclave 2025 convened yesterday under the theme “Navigating Global Challenges with Fast-Tracked Indian Economy,” bringing together policymakers, experts, and leaders to deliberate on transformative strategies for India’s growth. The event focuses on strengthening local governance, prioritizing sustainable development, and fostering inclusive institutions to drive robust state-level progress that aligns with the nation’s broader economic ambitions.

Mr Tripurari Sharan, Chief Information Commissioner & Former Chief Secretary, Government of Bihar, delivered insightful remarks emphasizing the need to empower the third tier of governance-local self-government bodies such as panchayats and municipalities. Drawing from decades of administrative experience, he highlighted that despite past efforts, urban governance remains a challenge in many parts of India. He urged a strategic reorientation toward delegating more power with adequate resources at the grassroots level, rather than relying solely on transferred funds. Using Bihar as a case study, Mr. Sharan illustrated how focused priorities on infrastructure- roads and rural electrification- and education transformed the state’s development trajectory, taking its budget from a mere ₹3,000-6,000 crores decades ago to a robust ₹3.5 lakh crores today. Mr. Sharan concluded with a compelling reminder that a society shapes its government and that intellectual and institutional capital must guide governance to ensure progress benefits all citizens.

Mr Amitabh Ranjan, Registrar, Indian Institute of Public Administration, Government of India, highlighted India’s resilience in a VUCA world of geopolitical tensions like Russia-Ukraine supply disruptions to petroleum, fertilizers, and railway imports, alongside OECD-projected global growth dipping to 3.2%. Despite these headwinds, India’s Q2 surge to 8.2% and ADB’s 7.2% FY26 forecast drive Viksit Bharat by 2047 through a $1.35 trillion infrastructure push- including Bharat Mala’s 34,000 km highways (over half complete), near-100% rail electrification, and collateral-free ₹10 lakh MSME credit, plus energy sovereignty with 51% non-fossil capacity (256 GW of 509 GW total: solar 128 GW, wind/hydro 52 GW each), green hydrogen targets of 5 MT by 2030 and 125 GW by 2047, and nuclear expansion from 8.8 GW to 100 GW via ₹20,000 crore mission. Digital transformations shine via UPI in 9 nations, DBT delivering ₹47 lakh crores while saving ₹3.8 lakh crores by curbing fakes (4.15 crore LPGs, 5.03 crore ration cards) and halving subsidies to 9%, alongside DigiLocker (61.27 crore users) and DigiYatra; human capital harnesses a 1.44 billion youthful population (median age 29 rising to 37 by 2047) through 1 crore PM internships, skilling schemes, and 1,000 industry-led ITIs, as he quoted: “Degrees are for recognition, skills define character”- bolstered by defence exports reaching ₹25,000 crores.

Mr Amit Sharma, Director Census Operation & Citizen, Registration, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, shared insights from his service across J&K, Ladakh, and Mizoram, emphasizing digital reforms like e-office implementation that enabled 24/7 paperless secretariats in J&K, eliminating costly file transports between capitals, and 100% paperless operations in Mizoram, alongside Bhashini AI to bridge linguistic barriers amid new rail connectivity. He advocated launching an “India Lithium Mission” to exploit 5.9 million tonnes of high-grade reserves, plus three more nearby sites rivaling South America’s Lithium Triangle, to end 100% import dependency from China, power EV manufacturing, and propel India to the world’s third-largest economy far ahead of 2028-29 projections. Spotlighting global admiration for UPI, DigiLocker’s paperless certificates, and DigiYatra, he stressed the upcoming first-ever digital paperless census, starting pre-tests in J&K by 2026 with high publicity via local stars, to deliver precise data beyond 2011 figures, enabling accurate policies, private initiatives, and fast-tracked growth toward Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Mr Rajinder Kumar, Economic Adviser, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, affirmed India’s consistent high-growth trajectory, endorsed by IMF, World Bank, and ADB, sustained over the past 8-10 years despite geopolitical volatilities impacting core industries like steel and oil, with inflation and interest rates expertly balanced by the Monetary Policy Committee. Focusing on textiles, the second-largest employer after agriculture (4.5 crore jobs, ~60% women), he highlighted recent reforms including GST simplification eliminating all inverted structures (reducing slabs effectively to 5% and 18%, costing government lakhs of crores but boosting working capital for handlooms and handicrafts), removal of 7 outdated Quality Control Orders, PLI threshold cut from ₹300 crore to ₹100 crore for broader incentives, PM Mitra Parks across 7 states (e.g., Telangana, UP, Gujarat) offering free land and full infrastructure for farm-to-fibre value chains, and the SMART scheme achieving 82-83% post-training employment via industry-customized skilling. He noted export diversification targeting 40 key markets, a nearing UK FTA ratification by June, and a mantra of “Inform, Perform, Transform” to propel the sector and economy forward.

Dr Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI, highlighted India’s rise as the 5th largest economy with its global share doubling to 3.4-3.5% since 2000, sustaining 6.5-7% growth as the fastest major economy per IMF and World Bank despite pandemics, supply shocks, geopolitical tensions, and climate disruptions, emphasizing that empowered states- leveraging federal diversity, competitive patriotism, performance incentives, and reforms in infrastructure, labor (four new codes to boost FDI), energy, and ease of doing business, form the crucible for resilient, inclusive Viksit Bharat by 2047 through state-led strategies, collaborative problem-solving, and structural reforms building a “Silk Road” policy by policy.

PHDCCI, in collaboration with Koan Advisory Group, released the “Tech Readiness Index of States” knowledge report, benchmarking states’ digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and innovation readiness to drive tech-led growth toward Viksit Bharat 2047.

As the conclave progresses, these perspectives set the stage for critical discussions on harnessing local governance reforms and strategic state policies to accelerate India’s journey towards fast-tracked economic growth with equitable development. The emphasis on inclusive, decentralized governance and prioritized resource allocation offers a roadmap for states to effectively navigate the complex challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy.

This Christmas, let the magic of the season unfold at Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel. Join us for unforgettable dining celebrations where festive traditions meet culinary artistry, creating moments of joy, togetherness, and indulgence that you and your loved ones will treasure long after the season ends.

Christmas Eve Dinner & Christmas Day Brunch and Dinner feature spectacular spreads including soulful soups, Mediterranean mezze, ocean-fresh seafood bars, and artisanal charcuterie. Explore live interactive stations that keep you warm during this nippy season like Dim Sum, Pasta, Pizza, grills and select others, offering endless culinary adventures.

Savor festive mains including classic roasted Turkey, succulent Beef Wellington, honey-glazed Ham, Tandoori Raan, and diverse Asian and Western specialties. Conclude at our dessert wonderland featuring traditional seasonal cakes, Yule Logs, Plum Puddings, flowing chocolate fountains, delicate verrines, and hearty Churros.

Experience beautifully decorated ambiance, live Carolers, Santa’s special visits, and curated festive beverages, creating cherished memories filled with warmth, joy, and festive cheer.

Venue: Feast, KMCY, Sheraton Grand Pune

Dates: 24th December and 25th December

Dec 12:-Drama O’Clock 2025 at DPS Hinjawadi concluded with exceptional acclaim, celebrating student artistry and the school’s unwavering Success Mindset philosophy. Students from Grades 3 to 7 captivated the audience with compelling performances of Alice in Wonderland and The Canterville Ghost, demonstrating remarkable confidence, disciplined preparation and imaginative expression.

The event was graced by distinguished guests Mr. Saurabh Aher, noted FTII-trained actor; Ms. Payal Kawale, an accomplished theatre practitioner; and Mr. Umed Patil, a multifaceted actor and director.

Principal Dr. Jaya Parekh, known for her visionary leadership and commitment to building future-ready learners, applauded the performers for their perseverance and willingness to step beyond comfort zones, qualities that epitomise the Success Mindset cultivated at DPS Hinjawadi.

Parents shared resounding appreciation, describing the event as “mesmerising,” “professionally executed,” and “a transformative experience for children.” Many expressed admiration for the students’ eloquence, stage confidence, and the school’s meticulous organisation, affirming that the production surpassed expectations.

Mr. Siddharth Rajgarhia, Chief Learner and Director, shared his reflections on the event, stating,

“Drama O’Clock reflects our belief that every child carries immense potential. When we give them the right stage and the right culture, they rise with confidence and show us what true excellence looks like.”

Drama O’Clock 2025 stands as a powerful reminder of what young learners can achieve when nurtured with belief, opportunity, and a culture rooted in consistent, courageous effort.

Delhi Public School Hinjawadi

Delhi Public School (DPS) Hinjawadi stands proudly under the esteemed aegis of the 75-year legacy of the Delhi Public School Society, a name synonymous with academic excellence, values, and holistic education. Rooted in this rich heritage, DPS Hinjawadi is committed to redefining excellence in the educational landscape through a progressive, child-centric, and future-ready approach.

The school’s vision is strengthened by the leadership of Mr. Gautam Rajgarhia and Mr. Siddharth Rajgarhia, and the academic stewardship of Principal Learner, Dr. Jaya Parekh. Their years of experience, clarity of purpose, and passion for transformative education guide the school in creating an environment where every child grows with competence, character, and a success mindset.

Rooted in strong values and powered by progressive practices, DPS Hinjawadi believes in nurturing competence with character developing children who are academically capable, emotionally balanced, socially responsible, and morally grounded. The school cultivates a success mindset that encourages students to set ambitious goals, persevere through challenges, and believe in their ability to shape their own future.

Set on a serene green campus, DPS Hinjawadi provides a learning environment filled with unlimited possibilities. Through innovative teaching methods, a robust curriculum, and a focus on deep conceptual understanding, the school ensures that every child’s unique potential is recognized, supported, and celebrated.

A blend of academics, sports, arts, technology, and life skills forms the backbone of holistic development at DPS Hinjawadi. With a safe, nurturing, and student-centered approach, the school inspires children to think critically, act responsibly, and grow confidently.

DPS Hinjawadi is a place where children discover who they are, what they can become, and how they can contribute meaningfully to the world.

An example of collaboration and trust ensures timely progress towards delivering dream homes in Bengaluru’s premium Urbana township.

Bengaluru, December 12, 2025: In a heartening instance of collaboration and trust, Ozone Group has announced a significant milestone in the completion journey of its flagship township development, near the Kempegowda International Airport, on NH 7, Bengaluru.

The developer has handed over 1300 units, with 2000 residents living there happily & enjoying the township environment, supported by global-standard infrastructure & facilities.

Customers of the Belvedere & Alcove projects have come together with the developer through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the completion of their 136 signature homes. The break-up of both projects is as follows, by total units delivered & balance due.

Belvedere – 60 units handed over for fit-out of 84 units (24 balance)

Alcove – 40 units handed over for fit-out of 52 units (12 balance).

This unique partnership between homebuyers and the developer demonstrates a deep sense of shared responsibility and optimism. With proactive customer support and Ozone Group’s unwavering commitment, pending works are progressing steadily, and the units will be ready for fit outs. 136 homes are to be handed over with Occupancy Certificates (OCs), marking a significant step towards delivering on the company’s vision.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of Ozone Group, Vasudevan S, said, “Along the way, we have faced unforeseen challenges that affected our timelines. Yet, through it all, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to complete and fulfil our promises to our customers and partners.

He went on to say, “This partnership reinforces our belief that challenges can be turned into opportunities when there is a shared vision. We are deeply grateful to our customers for their proactive support and faith in Ozone’s long-term promise. Together, we are ensuring that the dream of homeownership becomes a joyful reality for every family.”

Hyderabad, Dec 12:  The Musheerabad Job Mela 2025, organised under the initiative of Social Worker Sri T. Dinakaran Reddy, received an overwhelming response at Heritage Palace Function Hall, Musheerabad. The event saw the participation of 4,200 job seekers, showcasing the growing trust in people-centric programs aimed at supporting unemployed youth.

A total of 150 reputed companies across IT, software, banking, engineering, healthcare, logistics, hospitality, marketing, automobiles and various other sectors took part in the Job Mela. With qualifications ranging from 10th, ITI, Diploma, B.Tech, B.Pharm, M.Pharm to Graduation, candidates from all backgrounds benefited from the opportunity.

Notably, 1,800 candidates received on-the-spot job offers, making the Job Mela a significant step towards empowering local youth and strengthening families financially.

Speaking about the success of the event, Social Worker Sri T. Dinakaran Reddy said:

“My commitment towards society drives me to create meaningful opportunities for those in need. Providing employment support to the youth is one of the most impactful ways to uplift communities. The success of this Job Mela inspires me to continue organising such welfare-oriented initiatives for the people of Musheerabad.”

The Musheerabad Job Mela 2025 stands as a testament to Sri Dinakaran Reddy’s dedication to social service, focused on youth empowerment, community welfare, and inclusive development.

Jaypee Infratech Secures Occupancy Certificate for Five Additional Towers at Kensington Boulevard Apartment

New Delhi, Dec 12: Real estate firm Jaypee Infratech Limited today announced that it has received the Occupancy Certificate (OC) for five additional towers of its housing project, ‘Kensington Boulevard Apartments’. These five towers—1, 5, 6, 12, and 14—collectively comprise 423 units. With the receipt of the OC for these units, Jaypee Infratech has now received the OC for 31 towers comprising 3135 units in total, which is one fifth of the total delivery. Additionally, the company has applied for the OC for 11 more towers comprising 1078 units, and it expects approvals for these towers soon.

Commenting on the development Mr. Jash Panchamia, Executive Director, Jaypee Infratech Limited, said,

 “At Jaypee Infratech, we remain fully committed to fulfilling our customers’ expectations and are working tirelessly to deliver on our promises. We reiterate our commitment to the timelines outlined in the resolution plan and are well on course to achieving them. Receiving the OC for five additional towers of Kensington Boulevard Apartments is another significant step toward this goal. We are fully committed to handing over all remaining units as per the stipulated timelines. We will continue to work with utmost dedication to ensure timely delivery and complete customer satisfaction.”

Since mid of last year, post taking the reins of the company, the current management at Jaypee Infratech has been working diligently to fulfil all its commitments. The company has already issued tenders and awarded contracts for all the towers. Several towers have already received the Occupancy Certificate (OC), and work is progressing at a brisk pace on the remaining towers. The company continues to focus on accelerating progress and ensuring that all milestones are achieved within the stipulated timelines.

New Delhi, Dec 12: This Christmas, Ophelia invites guests to celebrate the season with a luxurious and immersive Christmas Brunch that blends festive flavours, elegant décor, and soulful live music. Set within Ophelia’s signature European-inspired ambiance, the space transforms for the season with warm winter florals, rich berry-toned accents, twinkling ornaments, and charming holiday décor that evokes the feel of a modern festive fairy tale.

The Christmas Brunch features an indulgent culinary spread curated by Ophelia’s chefs, showcasing global holiday classics alongside the restaurant’s signature winter specials. Guests can enjoy festive small plates, wholesome roasts, handcrafted artisanal breads, comforting soups, winter-inspired entrées, and decadent desserts that embody the spirit of Christmas. Complementing the feast are Ophelia’s handcrafted winter cocktails warm, aromatic, and perfect for a cozy celebration.

Adding to the festive charm is a live band performing through the afternoon, offering classic Christmas melodies, soulful acoustic sets, and warm, feel-good tunes that elevate the ambience. The combination of music, décor, and culinary artistry creates a cozy, luxurious, and memorable Christmas Day experience.

Designed as a complete holiday celebration, Ophelia’s Christmas Brunch is perfect for families, friends, and festive gatherings looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas in a thoughtfully crafted setting.