Archives 2025

Hyderabad, 4th September 2025 : Limelight Diamonds, India’s largest lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, today announced the launch of its third store in Hyderabad, located at Himayat Nagar. Following the strong response to its Somajiguda and Gachibowli outlets, the brand continues to deepen its footprint in Telangana, catering to the city’s rising demand for sustainable luxury. The launch was led by Karam Chawla, Director, Limelight Diamonds, Sanchit Agarwal, Regional Partner, and the Limelight leadership team.

The new store showcases Limelight’s signature lab-grown diamond collections from solitaire necklaces, bracelets, and earrings to men’s jewellery, all crafted with cutting-edge technology and a focus on sustainable luxury. With interiors blending elegance, minimalism, and warmth, the store offers an elevated shopping experience designed to resonate with the city’s modern, style-conscious audience.

To celebrate the opening, Limelight has introduced a special offer: 15% off on diamond value, 15% off on making charges, and a FREE gold coin on purchases above ₹1 lakh, valid until 30th September, 2025.

“Hyderabad has been one of our most important markets, where customers truly appreciate innovation, craftsmanship, and conscious luxury,” said Pooja Sheth Madhavan, Founder & MD, Limelight Diamonds. “With Himayat Nagar, we are proud to open our third store in the city, making sustainable diamond jewellery more accessible than ever before. This expansion is a testament to Hyderabad’s evolving preference for modern, responsible choices.”

Karam Chawla, Director, Limelight Diamonds, added, “Our journey in Hyderabad has been very encouraging. Customers here are looking for jewellery that reflects both timeless beauty and progressive values. With this new store, we aim to bring our most-loved solitaire collections closer to the heart of the city and continue building trust through transparency, value, and personalised experiences.”

“It’s exciting to bring Limelight Diamonds to Himayat Nagar, a destination known for its vibrant retail culture,” said Sanchit Agarwal, Regional Partner, Limelight Diamonds. “This store is designed not only to showcase exquisite lab-grown diamond jewellery but also to provide customers with unmatched services such as lifetime buyback, 100% exchange guarantee, and jewellery insurance, features that make the brand stand apart.”

With this addition, Limelight further strengthens its retail presence across India, now operating 50+ exclusive brand outlets and 40+ shop-in-shops across 45+ cities,including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad.

In a world where experiences are the ultimate currency, travellers seek more than just a method of payment. They require a key—a meticulously crafted tool that transforms travel from a routine journey into a seamless, all-in-one companion. For the Indian traveller in 2025, the right credit card is no longer just a piece of plastic; it is a statement of intent, a passport to a world of privileges, and a silent concierge in their pocket.

From quiet airport sanctuaries to exclusive hotel suites and intelligent foreign exchange savings, these are the five cards that promise effortless and rewarding travel in 2025:

RBL World Safari Credit Card

For the globally minded traveller, the RBL World Safari credit card, powered by Mastercard, is India’s first card exclusively designed for overseas travel. It comes with many exciting benefits, such as:

• Zero foreign currency markup, complimentary airport lounge access (two domestic visits per quarter and three international visits annually).
• A ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher on activation, along with milestone rewards on annual spending.
• Comprehensive insurance benefits covering lost baggage, delayed flights, and overseas medical emergencies so you’re always protected on the move.
• A 24×7 global concierge service further elevates your travel by assisting with reservations, itineraries, and emergencies.
• Complimentary golf rounds and lessons along with Golf Concierge service exclusively available to Mastercard cardholders.

HDFC INFINIA Credit Card (Metal Edition)

Synonymous with exclusivity, the metal edition of HDFC INFINIA credit card delivers unmatched travel luxury and rewards, including:

• 2% forex markup.
• Priority Pass lounge access worldwide for both primary and secondary cardholders.
• Unlimited complimentary golf rounds and lessons at leading courses globally.
• 5X reward points on SmartBuy travel bookings, with a 1:1 redemption value on flights and hotels.
• 24×7 concierge service, zero liability on lost cards, and premium global assistance.

IDFC FIRST Bank Mayura Metal Credit Card

Crafted for discerning travellers, the IDFC FIRST Mayura Metal credit Card on Mastercard network combines industry-first features like zero forex markup with premium lifestyle privileges. It comes with:

• Zero foreign currency markup on international transactions.
• 8 complimentary lounge or spa visits per quarter (4 domestic + 4 international) and railway lounge access and guest privileges.
• A trip cancellation cover up to ₹50,000 and comprehensive travel insurance.
• Up to 60X reward points on spends, redeemable for travel, dining, and lifestyle experiences.
• Curated movie and golf privileges, fuel surcharge waiver, roadside assistance, and premium offers from top brands.

Axis Horizon Credit Card

For travellers with a passion for exploration, the Axis Bank Horizon credit card powered by Mastercard serves as a gateway to seamless, rewarding journeys. Its key features include:

• EDGE Miles—Earn 5 Miles per ₹100 on flight and travel bookings, and 2 Miles per ₹100 on everyday spends. Redeem them at 1:1 value for flights, hotels, and more.
• Complimentary airport lounge access with up to 32 domestic visits and 8 international visits annually.
• A welcome gift of 5,000 EDGE Miles and 1,500 renewal miles every year.
• 1% fuel surcharge waiver and exclusive dining perks through EazyDiner discounts.
• Lost card liability insurance up to ₹10 lakh and protection across trips.

Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards Credit Card

Perfect for IndiGo loyalists, the Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards credit card ensures smarter, more affordable journeys in the skies. It comes with:

• A welcome IndiGo flight ticket worth ₹3,000 plus 6E Prime benefits valued at ₹1,099.
• 6% rewards on IndiGo bookings, 3% on dining, groceries & entertainment, and 2% on other spends.
• 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits annually.
• Lower convenience fee on flight bookings and seamless 6E Rewards redemption.
• Milestone bonuses and faster airport check-in and boarding when flying IndiGo.

Whether jet-setting for business or leisure, these credit cards redefine what it means to travel smart in 2025. With features that blend luxury, security, and savings, they serve as trusted companions for the modern Indian traveller. Choose the one that aligns with your lifestyle and let every journey be as rewarding as the destination itself.

Affrika Blackmon brings 10 years of social services experience to the growing nonprofit.

(St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 4, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently named Affrika Blackmon as one of its Community Support Specialists. With more than 10 years of experience in social services, Blackmon will focus on connecting families, child care providers, and community members with the information and support they need through Missouri’s statewide Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) system.

Affrika Blackmon

Blackmon’s newly created position is made possible by a contract with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood, which provides dedicated focus in serving Missouri families with young children in need of help. In her position, she will represent CCAMO and serve the Missouri Childhood Resource and Referral (MCRR) Center, which provides crucial child care subsidy navigation for parents going to school or taking a job and connects families to essential resources across the state including locating child care.

Prior to joining CCAMO, Blackmon was the Social Service Coordinator for Volunteers of America and a Senior Social Services Specialist at the Department of Mental Health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Criminal Justice from Ashford University in San Diego, California.

“We are delighted to have Affrika bring her deep commitment and proven leadership in social services to our organization,” said CCAMO CEO Robin Phillips. “Her expertise will be instrumental as we work to break down barriers to ensure every Missouri family can find and access quality child care.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

TruAlt Bioenergy and Sumitomo Corporation Ink Landmark Bioenergy Agreement in Tokyo During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Japan Visit

New Delhi, 03 September 2025 – In a landmark moment for Indo–Japanese cooperation, TruAlt Bioenergy Limited (TBL), India’s leading producer of biofuels, and Sumitomo Corporation, one of Japan’s largest integrated trading and investment groups, formally announced an ongoing discussion of a strategic bioenergy partnership during the Japan–India Next-Generation Economic Forum, held in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Prime Minister of Japan Mr. Shigeru Ishiba.

The agreement will mark a new milestone in the India–Japan partnership, uniting India’s ambition to achieve energy sovereignty and emerge as a global hub for biofuels with Japan’s expertise in advanced decarbonization technologies under the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM). It reflects the shared resolve of both nations to accelerate the goals of the Paris Agreement, enhance energy security and foster sustainable, inclusive economic growth.

The collaboration lays out a clear roadmap for investments, beginning with the development of four state-of-the-art Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants in Karnataka and Maharashtra. These projects are expected to create around 700 direct and indirect jobs and unlock an additional 800 to 1,000 livelihood opportunities. Building on this foundation, the partnership will expand into future projects in ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) sectors that are critical to India’s clean energy transition and the global decarbonization agenda. To implement this vision, a Joint Venture Company (JVC) will be established, with TruAlt Bioenergy holding 51% and Sumitomo Corporation 49%. The initiative is designed to enhance farmer incomes, drive rural industrialization, and strengthen India’s energy self-reliance, while laying the groundwork for scaled investments in ethanol and SAF in the years ahead.

The Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) will serve as a cornerstone of this collaboration, channeling Japan’s advanced low-carbon technologies into India’s bioenergy sector while ensuring transparent crediting of greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions. By linking investment with measurable climate outcomes, the JCM will accelerate India’s bioenergy transition, reinforce Japan’s decarbonization contributions, and strengthen both nations’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). More importantly, it sets a global precedent for how bilateral partnerships can transform climate ambition into concrete action combining technology, finance and sustainability at scale.

Vijay Nirani, Founder & Managing Director of TruAlt Bioenergy, said:

“Biofuels lie at the heart of India’s quest for energy sovereignty and are integral to our Panchamrit commitments of lowering carbon intensity and expanding renewables. This partnership with Sumitomo Corporation represents the convergence of their global expertise in sustainable enterprise and TruAlt Bioenergy’s leadership in India’s biofuels sector. Anchored in the Joint Crediting Mechanism, it is designed not only to accelerate India’s clean energy transition but also to contribute meaningfully to Japan’s climate commitments. Together, we are laying the foundation for India to emerge as a global hub for biofuels while empowering farmers, strengthening rural economies and building a resilient, green future for generations to come.”

BizDateUp Launches ₹1,000 Cr “Pulse Fund I” to Fuel India’s Next Wave of Innovation in Startups, SMEs, and Real Estate

Mumbai, 3rd September, 2025 — BizDateUp, a leading startup ecosystem enabler, announces the launch of Pulse Fund I, a Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) (IN/AIF2/25-26/1887). The close-ended fund, with a total corpus of ₹1,000 Cr, including a ₹500 Cr base fund and a ₹500 Cr green-shoe option, is set to back India’s Growth Engine. With a strategic allocation model, the fund will dedicate 50% of its portfolio to high-growth startups, 30% to profitable SMEs, and 20% to selective real-estate equity. This launch marks a significant milestone for the firm and its mission to empower India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Pulse Fund I is structured as a 10-year close-ended fund (extendable by 2 years), designed to provide patient capital and hands-on support to portfolio companies. The fund will prioritize investments in high-impact sectors such as AI, SaaS, FinTech, HealthTech, Deep Tech, Defense, AeroSpace, Gaming, EV Mobility, Green Energy, and RegTech, with a particular focus on opportunities in India’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The fund’s multi-sector, multi-stage strategy is designed to capture India’s multi-speed growth while mitigating risk through a balanced portfolio with stable, long-term returns.

Strong Governance and Value Creation

Pulse Fund I emphasizes rigorous, multi-layer due diligence across financial, legal, and compliance parameters. The fund’s governance structure, overseen by an NISM-certified Fund Manager, ensures institutional-grade compliance and reporting. The fund will also leverage BizDateUp’s in-house Venture Studio Model to provide post-investment support in areas like governance design, market access, and compliance enablement, aiming to accelerate growth and de-risk execution.

Jeet Mukesh Chandan, Group Managing Director, BizDateUp, commented, “India was once known as the golden bird, and I want to see it shine even brighter in this century. Pulse Fund I is just the first stone in that journey – proof that vision and execution can move a nation. This fund isn’t only about investing in companies; it’s about backing the builders of the next India.”

“We’re matching patient capital with hands-on mentorship so founders can scale faster and smarter—with sustainable cash flows and clear exit pathways.” added, Meet Jain, Group CEO & Co-Founder, BizDateUp

“Our playbook is simple: rigorous diligence, disciplined deployment, diversified risk. We focus on founders with proven traction and transparent governance so investor confidence stays front and center.” stated, Jyotir Jain, Director, BizDateUp & NISM-Certified AIF Fund Manager

Samit Mehta, Director, BizDateUp, concluded, “Pulse Fund I marries institutional discipline with entrepreneurial agility. We’re building a bridge between founders who need growth capital and investors who seek long-term, risk-adjusted returns.”

The fund’s registration application has been approved by SEBI, and it will operate in accordance with the SEBI (AIF) Regulations for Category II funds with Registration No. “License Number” to be added.

Building on this momentum, BizDateUp is already charting its global footprint. Over the next 24 months, they aim to launch parallel funds in Singapore, the USA, and Dubai — unlocking over $1 Billion in global capital to flow into India’s innovation ecosystem.
Their vision is simple: Make India not just the world’s fastest-growing startup hub, but its most attractive investment destination.

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Richmond Road, Bengaluru, is paying tribute to teachers this Teacher’s Day, September 5th, with an exclusive dining experience. Recognizing the invaluable role teachers play in shaping lives and inspiring dreams, the hotel is extending a special 20% savings exclusively for teachers.

Guests can indulge in buffet and à la carte dinner across Mahjong Room and WelcomCafe Jacaranda, where thoughtfully crafted menus and warm hospitality set the tone for a memorable evening.

Offer Details:

Date: September 5th, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Venue: Mahjong Room & WelcomCafe Jacaranda
Special Offer: 20% savings for teachers (valid institutional ID required)

This Onam, Dakshin at ITC Windsor invites you to immerse yourself in the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Kerala. Renowned for its elegant Southern Indian Décor, warm lighting and tranquil setting, the restaurant comes alive with vibrant floral decorations, creating a festive and welcoming ambience that perfectly complements the season.

The specially curated Onam Sadhya showcases Kerala’s most beloved flavours, featuring classics such as Avial, Olan, Kootu Curry, Erussery, Thakkali Rasam, and Murungakai Sambar, paired with aromatic Kuthari Choru, Crisp Pappadam, and delightful crunchy indulgences like Kaya Varuthathu and Sharkara Upperi. Each dish is a tribute to Kerala’s culinary artistry – a harmony of spice, aroma, and texture.

Conclude this festive journey with the traditional desserts Parippu Pradhaman and Pal Adai, leaving a lingering taste of joy that truly embodies the spirit of Onam.

• Where: Dakshin, ITC Windsor
• When: 5th September 2025
• Timing: 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, 2:00pm-4:00pm

Pharma’s Next Decade Will Be Shaped by Cross-Industry Partnerships and Workforce Evolution: Novartis’ Amitabh Dube

Mumbai, 1st September 2025: “,The trends and partnerships we see today will define the next decade of the pharmaceutical industry. Innovation will no longer be confined to pharma alone – it will increasingly be driven by collaborations across technology, healthcare delivery, and policy frameworks” said Mr. Amitabh Dube, Country President and Managing Director, Novartis in India, while addressing students of the Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management (SPPSPTM), NMIMS, Mumbai, at a session organised by B-Gyaan, The Management Club.

He stressed the need to balance affordability with innovation. “India faces unique challenges with access to early diagnosis and equitable healthcare delivery. Innovation must directly address unmet medical needs without leaving vast populations behind,” he said.

Mr. Dube further reflected on the growing importance of public health campaigns. Drawing parallels with past AIDS and HIV awareness initiatives, he noted, “Campaigns need more than strong messages – they need delivery mechanisms tailored to regional languages, rural contexts, and diverse audiences. With nearly 60% of our population residing in rural India, inclusivity in communication is non-negotiable.”

Discussing global trade and its influence on pharma, he observed, “While tariffs have minimal immediate impact, global pricing pressures and evolving regulations demand agility. Companies must balance sustainability with affordability while maintaining patient access.”

Speaking to Dr. Jagannath Sahoo, Dean of SPPSPTM, Mr. Dube emphasised the importance of preparing students with the right mix of scientific knowledge, management acumen, and adaptability. “Mindset and adaptability will be the biggest differentiators. The workforce of tomorrow must be agile enough to learn, unlearn, and relearn continuously.”

Degrees were conferred upon the graduating students of SPPSPTM, and awards were presented to high performers, all-round achievers, faculty, and staff, recognising excellence across academics and leadership. Mr. Dube appreciated the School’s focus on integrating pharmacy education with technology and management, noting that this equips graduates to contribute meaningfully to research, healthcare delivery, and leadership roles in the global pharma ecosystem.

The St. Regis Mumbai, the epitome of timeless luxury and bespoke hospitality is elated to announce the appointment of Nishanth Vishwanath as Multi-property General Manager. In his new role, he will spearhead The St. Regis Mumbai and Courtyard by Marriott Agra’s vision to elevate guest experiences and drive continued success.

A seasoned hospitality leader with over two decades of diverse experience across Marriott International’s portfolio, Vishwanath brings with him an extensive record of operational excellence, strategic innovation, and market leadership. His career began in 2001 with Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel in the Food & Beverage division. Over the years, he rose swiftly through leadership positions, making significant contributions in enhancing F&B reputation, positioning hotels as premier destinations for luxury events, and driving consistent growth in revenue and guest satisfaction.

From shaping JW Marriott Pune and Renaissance Mumbai as landmark wedding and conference venues to positioning JW Marriott Bengaluru as a market leader during his tenure as Director of Operations, Nishanth has showcased his ability to deliver results with creativity and passion. He later joined as General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai, before taking on the coveted responsibility of Area Director – Operations for South & East India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, where he played an instrumental role in strengthening Marriott’s market presence across the region.

Throughout his career, Nishanth has been celebrated for his people-first leadership style, mentoring associates, guiding pre-opening teams, and consistently championing service excellence. His approach combines innovation with empathy, ensuring that both employees and guests remain at the heart of every initiative. Beyond his professional journey, Nishanth holds a degree from Mangalore University in hotel management. An avid traveler with a deep appreciation for culture and history, he also pursues fitness and reading as part of his personal passions.

The St. Regis Mumbai will build upon its legacy of timeless luxury and bespoke service under his dynamic leadership.

Maldives, 1 September 2025 – Forget bland salads and predictable menus. This October, Just Veg Festival at the award-winning Atmosphere Kanifushi marks its 5th anniversary by proving, yet again, that plant-based cuisine can be daring, delicious, and unforgettable.

Running from 3rd to 9th October 2025, the week-long festival will showcase an exclusive ‘Just Veg Festive’ dinner menu curated by celebrity Italian chef Fabrizio Marino. The Tuscan culinary maverick, celebrated for bringing creative vegan and vegetarian fine dining into the spotlight, is known for dishes that are at once delicate and bold – transforming fruits, vegetables, and herbs into vibrant stories on a plate.

And because great food deserves great company in the glass, Chef Fabrizio’s exclusive festive menu will be paired with vintages from five distinctive wine partners. New this year is Bottega SpA, Italy’s award-winning lifestyle winery, showcasing not only its acclaimed wines but also three artisanal Grappas – adding depth and flair to Chef Fabrizio’s creations. They join Champagne Guy Charbaut, Bodegas Viñátigo, Glenelly Estate, and Martín Códax in a line-up that celebrates craftsmanship.

“Food should thrill you. It should challenge what you think you know”, said Chef Fabrizio, “It is a privilege to share my culinary philosophy in such a remarkable setting. That’s why I keep coming back to Just Veg Festival, because here at Atmosphere Kanifushi we can experiment, surprise, and create something worth remembering”.

Now in its fifth year, Just Veg Festival has evolved from curiosity to cult favourite, carving a place on the international culinary map. With a loyal following, world-class hospitality, and a setting that feels almost unreal, Atmosphere Kanifushi shows that the Maldives isn’t just about picture-perfect beaches, it’s where flavour takes centre stage. “Plant-based dining can support a healthy lifestyle and, most importantly, be rich and flavourful when crafted with imagination and care,” said Mr. Raman Gomathi, the Director of Food and Beverage, Atmosphere Kanifushi.

Just Veg Festival 2025 will take place from 3rd to 9th October 2025 at Atmosphere Kanifushi, Maldives. Exclusive dinners at signature restaurant Just Veg are open to all guests on pre-booking as part of the Atmosphere Kanifushi Plan™.