Archives 2025

Largest AI-powered blue-collar worker recruitment platform in India, Vahan.ai secures strategic investment from LemmaTree; aims to empower 1 billion people with employment opportunities

National, 30 July, 2025: Vahan.ai, India’s leading AI-powered recruitment platform for blue-collar workers, has announced a strategic investment from LemmaTree, an investment firm founded by Temasek, a global investment company headquartered in Singapore. Alongside this transaction, Vahan.ai has also acquired L.earn, the digital learning and upskilling tech platform of GoodWorker, which was backed by Lemmatree.

Together, this investment and acquisition mark a significant milestone in Vahan.ai’s mission—not just to connect millions of Indians to job opportunities, but to empower them with the skills and career advancement they need to thrive.

This announcement comes amid the rapid evolution of India’s blue-collar workforce, with blue-collar jobs set to drive 70% of the country’s new employment growth by 2030, as highlighted in a recent report. This growing segment is also seeing wage increases, with blue-collar jobs growing at a rate of 5.7% annually. As this critical workforce expands, there is an urgent need for a scalable, intelligent, and inclusive job infrastructure to support it. Meanwhile, India’s gig economy, a key driver in this transformation, is projected to grow at a 17% CAGR and reach a gross volume of $455 billion by the end of the decade, potentially creating up to 90 million jobs. These trends emphasise the need for technology-driven platforms to efficiently connect millions of blue-collar and gig workers to reliable, long-term livelihoods.

To date, Vahan.ai has placed over 1 million workers across 920+ cities and currently facilitates approximately 40,000 job placements per month, working with employers such as Zepto, Swiggy, Blinkit, and Zomato. The new investment will primarily be deployed to enhance Vahan.ai’s proprietary tech stack—including the development of advanced AI capabilities tailored for large-scale, multilingual recruitment. The platform plans to expand support to eight additional Indian languages, enabling deeper access to job seekers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets. Vahan also aims to enter new high-growth sectors while accelerating its footprint across India and select international markets such as Southeast Asia and the MENA region.

As the blue-collar workforce expands, there is a pressing need for an intelligent and inclusive job infrastructure to support them. The acquisition of L.earn adds a powerful skilling layer to Vahan.ai’s offering. L.earn provides mobile-first, vernacular content tailored for gig and frontline workers in sectors like logistics, manufacturing, and retail. By embedding modular skilling journeys directly into the job-seeking process, Vahan.ai will empower workers to enhance employability, access better-paying roles, and build long-term careers. This approach not only benefits job seekers but also helps employers bridge the growing demand for skilled labour—creating a win-win ecosystem.

Commenting on the development, Madhav Krishna, CEO and Founder, Vahan.ai, said, “This partnership accelerates Vahan.ai’s ambition to build the most advanced AI-led infrastructure for employment in India’s informal sector. With LemmaTree’s backing and the integration of L.earn, we’re reimagining how workers access livelihoods – through voice-led interfaces, multilingual support, and embedded skills that adapt to each user’s context. The recruitment industry in India is undergoing a revolution, but for that growth to be sustainable and equitable, workers need both access and advancement. The focus now is on deepening personalisation, scaling across new industries, and ensuring that every interaction on our platform moves a worker closer to long-term economic mobility. We’re building not just a hiring engine, but a career ecosystem for Bharat.”

Speaking about this investment, Glenn Gore, CEO, LemmaTree, said, “We are thrilled to join forces with Vahan.ai as they redefine how businesses connect with frontline workers across India and beyond. Vahan’s innovative platform and passionate team are unlocking new opportunities for millions, driving both economic empowerment and operational efficiency. We look forward to supporting Vahan in its journey to create a more inclusive and dynamic workforce ecosystem.”

Vahan.ai’s cutting-edge AI-driven technology is transforming the way India’s blue-collar workforce accesses employment opportunities, bridging gaps in digital literacy, language barriers, and infrastructure. At its core is a voice-based AI recruiter powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4o, capable of conducting human-like conversations with job seekers in English and Hindi over a simple phone call. This AI layer streamlines the hiring journey, from job discovery and application to interview scheduling, cutting through traditional barriers like digital literacy, language, and infrastructure. Vahan.ai’s system handles thousands of simultaneous interactions daily, automating repetitive tasks while maintaining empathy and contextual accuracy. With plans to expand to eight additional Indian languages, the platform is designed to meet users where they are, enabling even first-time internet users to access meaningful employment opportunities simply by speaking.

India, July 30, 2025: The Security Solutions Business of Godrej Enterprises Group has unveiled findings from its Happiness Survey, which revealed that 83% of respondents place increased importance on securing personal belongings. This growing sense of responsibility highlights how the idea of protection evolves from mere caution to conscious preparedness. As investments in gold continue to be a preferred choice, this shift reflects a deeper understanding of both emotional and financial security.

Interestingly, over 51% of respondents expressed a preference for trusted home lockers, with gold cited as a key factor in their decision. As families look to secure what matters most, the demand for home lockers has grown stronger, underpinned by trust, reliability, and design that blends seamlessly into modern living spaces.

Commenting on the insights, Mr. Pushkar Gokhale, Business Head of the Security Solutions Business, Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “As gold continues its upward trajectory, it is shaping consumer preferences and driving a new era of responsibility towards protecting one’s assets. Our survey findings reaffirm a growing mindset shift where individuals are not only investing in wealth, but also in its preservation and protection. This emerging trend presents a unique opportunity for brands like ours to bridge aspiration with assurance, offering solutions that evolve with consumer needs. Aligned with this, we are committed to capturing 85% of the home locker category by innovating with purpose and designing with empathy. As custodians of trust, our goal is to ensure every Indian household can protect what truly matters, peace of mind, dignity, and legacy.”

Supporting this shift, India’s Smart lockers’ market has been growing steadily and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.8%, projected till 2030, according to 6Wresearch. This growth is being driven not just by advancements in technology, but also a result of the broader consumer shifts including the rapid rise of e-commerce. It reflects a growing awareness around secure storage solutions within the home environment.

At the consumer level, personal security is being redefined. Lockers are no longer just security tools they are becoming a part of the modern home, especially in urban and tier-2 cities, where design-conscious consumers seek a balance between aesthetics and assurance. From space optimisation to emotional reassurance, families today are actively investing in lockers that meet their evolving needs, blending seamlessly into everyday life.

Through its consumer-first lens, Godrej’s Security Solutions Business continues to expand the home locker category with a wide portfolio of offerings tailored for modern homes combining strength, design, and innovation. With a continued focus on accessibility and trust, the company remains committed to protecting what matters most to Indian households.

July 30, 2025— Rockwell Automation, Inc. , the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, today announced the results of the 10th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report: Life Sciences Edition.” The study encompasses the responses of 143 leaders from life sciences manufacturers across 15 of the leading manufacturing countries, including India.

Life sciences manufacturers are working to keep up with growing demand, rising costs, growing cybersecurity threats, and complex compliance requirements, all while navigating ongoing workforce challenges. Many are turning to advanced technologies to help them become more agile and adapt to constant change.

Smart manufacturing is a clear area of focus with 95% of life sciences manufacturers saying they are using or evaluating smart technology. Specifically, companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help improve product quality, protect systems and support employees where skilled labor is hard to find. Leaders are also thinking beyond quick wins and investing in technologies that will help them expand capacity and build more secure operations over time.

Highlighting the key insights from the report, Dilip Sawhney, managing director, Rockwell Automation India, said: “The life sciences sector in India is experiencing significant transformation due to evolving global tariff scenarios, supply chain challenges, and the dual imperatives of patient-centric innovation and operational resilience. The findings of this year’s report reaffirm that technologies like AI, digital twins, and smart manufacturing are no longer optional—they are essential to addressing talent shortages, regulatory compliance, supply chain constraints, and scaling with resilience and agility.”

Key global findings include:

• Smart manufacturing is nearly universal. 95% of life sciences manufacturers are using or evaluating smart technology.
• Top use cases for AI are clear. Most companies use AI to improve quality (53%), streamline operations (50%) and strengthen cybersecurity (48%).
• Hiring remains a major challenge. 26% of leaders say finding skilled workers is the biggest barrier to growth in 2025.
• Tech helps fill talent gaps. Nearly half of life sciences manufacturers are turning to AI (48%) and automation (46%) to support their workforce.
• Emerging tech is gaining traction. 36% plan to invest in generative or causal AI, and 35% are exploring digital twins and simulation tools.
• Investments are focused on long-term value. Leaders are prioritizing growth (66%), expanding capacity (62%) and protecting operations (50%).

Although most manufacturers collect large volumes of data, only 46% say they are using it effectively. As digital tools scale, the ability to turn insights into action will be key to unlocking smarter, faster decision-making.

Brothers come in all kinds.

Some are spreadsheet wizards, others spontaneous adventurers. Some dress to impress even at 9 AM, while others live in their favorite oversized tee. Some bring calm, others bring chaos (and most bring both).

This Raksha Bandhan, move beyond the usual sweets and socks. Celebrate him for who he really is — with a gift that matches his pace, personality, and panache. Whether he’s all about sharp collars, effortless casuals, or a style that’s quietly confident, here’s a guide that makes gifting less of a chore and more of a vibe.

1. Arrow Sports – Solid Compact Cotton Polo Shirt

For the brother who brightens every room, even on his quietest days.

Rendered in warm sunshine yellow, this polo is crafted from 100% compact cotton that breathes easy and feels soft against the skin — just like the warmth he’s always shared. With a trim, structured fit and subtle sporty detailing, it’s a versatile staple that pairs effortlessly with jeans or chinos, whether he’s heading for a casual meet or a relaxed family afternoon.

Available at: Arrow Sports – Solid Compact Cotton Polo Shirt

2. Arrow Sport Regular Fit Night Is Young Shirt

For the brother who turned every late-night chat into a memory.

This Raksha Bandhan, gift him something that matches his easygoing spirit and endless energy. The Night Is Young shirt from Arrow Sport — cool, carefree, and full of personality — is perfect for the one who taught you how to live in the moment and laugh a little louder.

Crafted in soft, breathable cotton with a playful print, it’s more than a shirt — it’s a hug in the form of style. For all the nights he stayed up listening, and all the times he made things feel better without even trying.

Available at: Arrow Sport Regular Fit Night Is Young Shirt

3. Arrow Sport Solid Regular Fit Polo Shirt

For the brother who makes the everyday feel effortless.

He may not say much, but his presence speaks volumes — steady, warm, and always just right. This Raksha Bandhan, gift him something that feels like him: easy, dependable, and quietly confident. A timeless piece that fits into his routine just like he fits into yours — without fanfare, but with all the heart.

Available at: Arrow Sport Solid Regular Fit Polo Shirt

4. Arrow AutoPress Solid Dobby Shirt

For the brother whose strength has always been soft, and whose calm voice still makes everything feel right.

This Raksha Bandhan, gift him a shirt that reflects his quiet grace. The subtle texture of the dobby weave brings understated depth to crisp cotton — a classic as steady as his support and as comforting as late-night stories shared under a single light.

Every thread is a thank-you for the hidden shoulder shrugs, the gentle encouragements, and being the balance to your whirlwind. Gift him this to say: I see you. I appreciate all you are.

Available at: Arrow AutoPress Solid Dobby Shirt

Rajasthan has emerged as a powerful example of how public-private collaboration can move the needle on gender equity. Today, it is at the forefront of pioneering models that bridge government schemes, NGO efforts, and grassroots participation. A growing number of partnerships are now working across sectors to ensure that girls not only enter classrooms but thrive well beyond them. From foundational learning and digital access to nutrition and community support, the state is building a stronger, more inclusive future, an initiative at a time.

Here is a snapshot of five standout partnerships powering progress for girls:

Sampark Foundation Champions Early Learning for Every Child

Strong foundations build bright futures, especially for girls just entering the world of classrooms. Through a visionary five-year MoU with the Rajasthan Council of School Education (RCSE), Sampark Foundation is transforming government schools from classes 1 to 8. By bringing in interactive teaching methods, digital resources, and teacher development, this partnership is unlocking foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Young girls who are too often at risk of falling behind now have a better start, and classroom learning becomes a launchpad for lifelong achievement.

Educate Girls Unlocks Doors With Shiksha Setu Yojana

Educate Girls is working closely with the Government of Rajasthan under the Shiksha Setu Yojana to help more adolescent girls and young women return to education. This initiative is part of a larger effort to support girls in accessing future opportunities in skilling, employment, and entrepreneurship. As a part of this, Educate Girls is working alongside the Directorate of Women Empowerment to reach girls in remote communities, so they know that giving education a second chance is not just possible, but within their reach.

Moinee Foundation Connects Girls to Tomorrow’s Opportunities

For girls growing up in smaller towns and remote communities, digital access can be life-changing. The Moinee Foundation, based in Jaipur, is closing the digital divide in partnership with Rajasthan’s Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and district-level education bodies. Their programs bring computer labs, engaging digital content, and robust teacher training to secondary schools. This focus on digital empowerment gives girls the tools and confidence they need to thrive in a technology-driven world.

Anil Agarwal Foundation’s Nand Ghars Light Early Pathways

The Anil Agarwal Foundation is nurturing Rajasthan’s littlest learners and their mothers by rolling out 25,000 modernized “Nand Ghars” (next-generation Anganwadi centres) in collaboration with the Women & Child Development Department. Renewed in January 2025, this effort transforms early childhood spaces with integrated pre-primary education, nutrition, healthcare, and livelihood support for women. Every Nand Ghar becomes a beacon of opportunity, giving young girls a healthy, stimulating start and helping mothers support their daughters’ journeys from the very beginning.

World Vision India Rallies Communities for Girls’ Health

Behind every healthy schoolgirl is a community that cares. World Vision India’s partnership with Rajasthan’s Women & Child Development Department targets nearly 500 Anganwadi Centres across districts like Alwar and Udaipur to strengthen nutrition, health, and outreach. By deploying “Poshan Doots” and empowering local self-help groups (SHGs), the program mobilizes women and girls, improves tracking, and revives grassroots support networks. The result? Girls who are not only present in classrooms, but also nourished, confident, and surrounded by champions in their own communities.

Dr. Sriram; CMO and Consultant VitreoRetina, Sankara Eye Hospital, Hyderabad

Synopsis: During every pregnancy, bodily changes occur, and eye changes are no exception. If you currently suffer from an eye condition, you may question whether it will get worse while you’re pregnant. This blog will help you understand what happens to your eyes during pregnancy, why certain symptoms appear, and what precautions you should take to save your vision during these all-important nine months.

Pregnancy is all about transformations. Your body undergoes numerous adjustments to support the development of your baby. You may expect changes in your skin and weight, but almost all women are surprised to find changes in their vision as well.

Something like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or dry eyes- if you have any dry eye conditions, it is normal to think about whether pregnancy will worsen the condition. Let’s walk you through what happens to your eyes during pregnancy and what you can do to take care of them.

How Pregnancy Affects Your Eyes ?

During pregnancy, your hormone levels fluctuate. These hormonal changes can influence different parts of your body, including your eyes. Some of the common eye-related symptoms during pregnancy include:

● Blurry vision

● Dryness or irritation in the eyes

● Sensitivity to light

● Temporary changes in prescription

Typically minor, these problems disappear after birth. However, if you already have an eye condition, the changes might feel more noticeable.

Common Eye Problems That Can Get Worse During Pregnancy

1. Diabetic Retinopathy

 If you have diabetes, pregnancy may accelerate the progression of diabetic retinopathy, a condition affecting the small blood vessels in your retina. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to loss of vision.
Pregnancy comes with unpredictable blood sugar levels. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels further strain the vessels that carry blood to your eyes. If you already have diabetic retinopathy, regular eye appointments during your pregnancy are very important.

What you can do: Make at least a single visit to the eye specialist every trimester. Also, work closely with your gynaecologist and a diabetes specialist to manage your blood sugar levels.

2. Glaucoma

When excessive pressure accumulates in the eye, it can damage the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma and vision problems. If you are currently being treated with glaucoma medications, you may need to switch medications or possibly stop the medications completely during pregnancy.
The baby may be impacted by certain glaucoma medications, particularly during the first trimester. However, there is some evidence to suggest that some women, while pregnant, may have lower pressures in their eyes, and this lower pressure could mean that during the pregnancy, they don’t need medication for glaucoma at all.
What you can do: Do not stop your medication on your own. Speak with your eye specialist and your obstetrician to work out the proper treatment plan that considers your health and the safety of the baby.

3. Graves’ Eye Disease (Thyroid Eye Disease)

Pregnancy might occasionally exacerbate symptoms if you have thyroid-related ocular conditions such as Graves’ disease. You can experience increased discomfort, redness, or eye bulging.
The immune system is impacted by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which may cause autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease to flare up.

What you can do: Pay careful attention to the symptoms. Inform your physician of any bulging, pain, or changes in vision. After delivery, symptoms usually subside.

4. Retinal Issues

If you previously experienced retinal problems, retinal tear, detachment, or had prior surgery, pregnancy itself does not worsen the problem. However, stress from labour and pushing could potentially be a concern in rare instances.
Normal practice for doctors is to examine the integrity of your retina to determine if having a normal vaginal delivery is safe or if a C-section is more appropriate.

What you can do: Have an examination of your retina in the third trimester of pregnancy, and consult with your gynaecologist and eye doctor so they can guide you on the most appropriate, safest way to deliver your baby.

Eye Problems That Can Develop During Pregnancy

Even if you’ve never had an eye issue before, some problems may show up during pregnancy:
a. Preeclampsia-related vision changes: Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or seeing spots, can be signs of preeclampsia, a condition characterised by high blood pressure.

b. Temporary vision shifts: You may feel that your glasses are no longer working properly. This happens due to fluid retention in the cornea.

c. Dry eyes: Hormones can reduce tear production, leading to dry, itchy eyes.

These are usually temporary and go away after your baby is born. But if they’re bothering you, don’t ignore them, talk to your doctor.

Tips to Take Care of Your Eyes During Pregnancy

1. Keep sugar levels in control: If you have diabetes, regular monitoring and a healthy diet are key. It helps prevent complications like diabetic retinopathy.

2. Don’t skip eye check-ups: If you already have an eye condition, continue visiting your eye specialist regularly. Pregnancy is not the time to miss appointments.

3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps reduce dryness in the eyes.

4. Use safe eye drops: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, ask your doctor to recommend pregnancy-safe lubricating eye drops.

5. Adjust your screen time: Long hours spent on phones or laptops can further strain your eyes. Take breaks and blink often to avoid discomfort.

6. Wear sunglasses: Your eyes may become more sensitive to light during pregnancy. Sunglasses with UV protection can help reduce eye strain and protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays outdoors.

During pregnancy, one should care for their eyes at least as much as any other part of their body, especially if they have a pre-existing eye condition. Awareness, regular eye check-ups with a specialist, and managing any existing eye conditions will help maintain her eyesight throughout her pregnancy journey. After all, it’s not just about seeing the baby clearly when it appears. It’s about seeing everything in one’s life with great clarity and comfort.

FAQs on Can Pregnancy Worsen Pre-Existing Eye Conditions?

1. Can I wear contact lenses during pregnancy if I have dry eyes?

Contact lenses can be worn, but dry eyes may make them uncomfortable for many pregnant women. Subject to your doctor’s approval, consider switching to glasses during these months or using lubricating drops.

2. Will my eyeglass prescription change permanently after pregnancy?

The changes are usually temporary. After delivery, your vision should adjust to normal within a matter of weeks. It is preferable to wait a few months after delivery to get a new glasses prescription.

New Delhi, July 30, 2025 : London-based technology company Nothing has launched its first-ever student competition in India – Nothing Incubator – a bold initiative to unlock raw, unfiltered ideas from the country’s brightest young minds and spotlight India’s growing influence on the global tech scene.

Open to students from over 60 top institutions – including IIM Ahmedabad, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, BITS Pilani, FMS Delhi, XLRI Jamshedpur, SPJIMR Mumbai, and more – the program invites participants to break conventions, challenge assumptions, and reimagine what’s possible.

The competition unfolds in three phases:

Round 1: Idea Submission (now live) – Teams submit a one-slide pitch that brings to life the theme “Making Tech Fun Again.”

Round 2: Strategic Roadmap – Shortlisted teams build a three-year vision and go-to-market plan

Grand Finale – Finalists will pitch their ideas in a live three-minute presentation to a jury of industry leaders, venture capitalists, and startup mentors

Winners will receive a ₹2 lakh cash prize, a winner’s certificate, and the latest Nothing Phone (3). Runners-up will also take home Nothing products and certificates. Finalists showing exceptional promise may be considered for career opportunities with the company.

“India is no longer just a growth market – it’s becoming a creative and innovation powerhouse with global impact,” said Akis Evangelidis, Co-founder and India President of Nothing. “We see a generation that is not only tech-savvy but unafraid to challenge the norm. With the Nothing Incubator, we’re tapping into that mindset – giving young talent a platform to shape the future of technology, not just for India, but the world.”

Open to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students (BE/BTech, dual-degree, MBA/PGDM), teams must consist of 1 to 3 members from the same college, with interdisciplinary teams encouraged.

Registrations are now open on Unstop. More than just a competition, the Nothing Incubator is a call to India’s next wave of innovators to step forward — and show the world what happens when bold ideas meet real opportunity.

Tata Power-DDL Collaborates with Magna Yuma Private Ltd. to establish Battery Swapping Stations in Delhi

Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL), a leading power utility supplying electricity to a populace of around 9 million in North Delhi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with M/s Magna Yuma Private Limited, a battery swapping service provider for augmenting and setting up of Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Swapping Stations across its operational areas.

As per the agreement, Tata Power-DDL will provide dedicated space for establishing battery swapping stations, while Magna Yuma Private Limited will be responsible for designing, procuring, installing, and maintaining these stations.

The MoU was signed between Tata Power-DDL & M/s Magna Yuma Private Limited in presence of senior officials from both the organizations including Mr. Dwijadas Basak, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Power-DDL, Ms. Kiran Gupta, Chief-Customer Experience, Comm, Govt. Affairs, EAC & Consumer Litigation, Tata Power-DDL, Mr. Praveen Agrawal, Chief – HR, IR, FM & HS, Tata Power-DDL, Mr. Raj Kumar Rastogi, Chief-Operations & Safety, Tata Power-DDL, Mr. Surender Singh, Chief – Network Services & Stores and Mr. Abhilash Kumar, Lead Business Head of M/s Magna Yuma Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Harshal Gupta, Lead- Public Policy & Govt Affairs, M/s Magna Yuma Pvt. Ltd.

This strategic collaboration aims to build a robust EV ecosystem focused on commercial electric two-wheelers, especially in the gig economy. By combining Tata Power-DDL’s infrastructure expertise with M/s Magna Yuma’s advanced battery-swapping technology, the initiative seeks to accelerate the adoption of sustainable transport solutions, curb pollution, and enhance income opportunities for gig workers and delivery partners in the city. The association is also expected to reduce power theft and improve remunerative opportunities for shared e-mobility.

Commenting on this partnership, Mr. Dwijadas Basak, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited said, “Tata Power-DDL is pleased to partner with Magna Yuma in expanding the battery-swapping network in Delhi. This initiative is aligned with our commitment to drive clean energy adoption and promote sustainable mobility. Together, we aim to reduce air and noise pollution while creating socio-economic opportunities for the city’s youth and strengthening the gig economy.”

Initially, Magna Yuma will set up two Battery Swapping Stations in Tata Power-DDL grid substations at Shalimar Bagh facility Centre Grid and Badli Grid.

30th July 2025: Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences is pleased to announce the return of Ms. Sakshi Upadhyay as Assistant Director of Sales. A seasoned hospitality professional with extensive experience in corporate and luxury hotel sales, Sakshi rejoins our team to lead and enhance strategic sales initiatives across key business segments.

Sakshi’s previous tenure with Hyatt Regency Pune was marked by remarkable contributions in building strong corporate relationships, driving revenue, and executing high-impact sales strategies. Her in-depth understanding of the Pune hospitality market and her client-centric approach helped elevate the hotel’s positioning within the city’s competitive landscape.

Over the course of her career, she has worked with renowned hospitality brands including Sheraton, The Leela, and Hilton, where she successfully handled key accounts, formulated revenue-generating plans, and demonstrated outstanding performance in guest relationship management. Her diversified experience across leading hotels in India gives her a distinct edge in anticipating market trends and building sustainable client relationships.

Sakshi’s return not only marks a homecoming but also reflects our commitment to nurturing talent and reinforcing a culture of growth. As she resumes her role, Sakshi will be focusing on expanding our corporate portfolio, strengthening client engagement, and supporting the hotel’s commercial leadership with innovative strategies that align with the evolving needs of the market.

Her vibrant energy, leadership skills, and commitment to excellence make her a perfect fit for our dynamic commercial team. We are confident that under her leadership, the sales division will achieve new milestones.

Child Care Aware of Missouri secures $15,000 to support 51 child care educators with a comprehensive health care plan.

(St. Louis, Mo., July 30, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently obtained $15,000 in funding to launch a new initiative that will deliver vital health and mental health services to 51 rural child care educators across five Missouri counties. Through this project, led by CCAMO, participating educators will receive memberships to Show Me Child Care Resources and access to comprehensive telehealth and mental health benefits – all at no personal cost.

The 51 child care educators residing in Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Warren, and Washington counties will have access to unlimited health visits with zero copay along with 10 free mental health therapy sessions per year. According to County Health Rankings & Roadmaps by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, between 12% to 18% of rural professionals remain uninsured in these counties. The American Community Survey also reports poverty rates ranging from 8.6% to 19.7%, highlighting the critical need for support in these communities.

Since 2010, CCAMO has served as the exclusive statewide license holder for Show Me Child Care Resources, a web-based portal providing more than 2,000 resources for child care educators and business owners. The organization also provides consulting, training, and technical assistance to child care business owners to help them understand operational activities, leadership development, expense budgeting, and revenue recognition training to improve business viability.

“Child care professionals don’t often receive benefits, yet their well-being is essential to our communities so they can be present in the child care classroom,” said Robin Phillips, CEO of CCAMO. “Show Me Child Care Resources delivers not only peace of mind to child care staff but also convenient 24/7 access to doctors through our telehealth feature.” Phillips added, “our nonprofit is committed to pursuing ongoing funding annually to continue supporting educators’ health and well-being as they care for Missouri’s children.”

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.