Archives 2025

Hyderabad, Dec  22: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), in association with BIT Innovative Technologies and Zoho Corporation, organised a seminar titled “Transforming MSMEs Digitally” on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Manjeera Plaza Hotel, Begumpet, Hyderabad.

The seminar brought together MSME owners, entrepreneurs, finance managers, and business leaders to deliberate on the critical role of digital transformation in strengthening MSME operations, financial discipline, and sustainable growth.

The event highlighted how digital tools such as Zoho Books and Inventory can empower MSMEs with real-time insights, transparent financial records, efficient inventory management, and improved access to finance.

The program commenced with opening remarks and a welcome by Mr Lokesh Fatehpuria, Joint Director, FTCCI, followed by presentations from industry experts. Mr Jayanth P R, Business Development Manager, Zoho Corporation, shared insights on Zoho’s journey and its vision for MSME growth.

Mr Manoj Bejawar, CEO, Bejawar Innovative Technologies Pvt. Ltd., delivered a detailed session on how Zoho Books and Inventory can drive measurable improvements in MSME performance.

A special address was delivered by Mr R. Ravi Kumar, President, FTCCI. The seminar also featured customer testimonials showcasing real-world success stories and tangible returns on digital adoption.

Delivering the concluding remarks, Mr Prem Chand Kankaria, Chairman, Banking, Finance & Capital Markets Committee, FTCCI, emphasised that digital transformation is not an expense but an investment in the financial future of MSMEs. He highlighted that digitally savvy MSMEs are better positioned for bank finance, investor confidence, and long-term scalability.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, presentation of mementoes, a vote of thanks by Mr. K. K. Maheshwari, Senior Vice President, FTCCI, and a networking dinner, reinforcing FTCCI’s commitment to supporting MSMEs in their digital transformation journey.

This Christmas, Marriott Bonvoy brought the magic of the festive season to Mumbai International Airport, Terminal 2, with a heartwarming activation designed to surprise and delight arriving passengers. The immersive experience transformed the arrivals conveyor belt area into a moment of joy, gifting and emotional connection during the peak holiday travel period.

As passengers arrived, they were welcomed by a dedicated airline conveyor belt featuring personalized Christmas hampers, each thoughtfully tagged with the traveler’s seat number – adding an authentic and meaningful personal touch.

Brand ushers guided guests through the experience, while a live Christmas choir and Santa meet-and-greet filled the space with festive cheer, turning a typically routine arrival into an uplifting celebration.

The activation reflects Marriott Bonvoy’s commitment to celebrating the spirit of giving and creating emotionally resonant experiences that extend beyond hotel stays. By reimagining an everyday travel touchpoint, the brand reinforced its belief that hospitality isn’t limited to destinations – it’s present throughout the journey.

Sharing her experience of the activation, Namrata Seth, Actor and Digital Content Creator said, “I was completely delighted by the surprise that awaited me at the airport. Watching beautifully curated Christmas hampers arrive on the conveyor belt felt joyful and festive in the most unexpected way. Marriott Bonvoy truly transformed a routine arrival into a celebratory moment, bringing in the spirit of Christmas the moment you land from your travels.”

As part of the festive season, Marriott Bonvoy’s Celebrate Christmas with Marriott Bonvoy collection features a curated range of handcrafted Christmas offerings, including festive cakes, cookies, hampers and interactive DIY treats. Thoughtfully created by Marriott’s culinary teams across India, the collection is designed for gifting, sharing and celebrating the warmth of the season – bringing the same spirit of care and craftsmanship seen at the airport experience into homes and celebrations.

The Christmas collection is available across participating Marriott hotels in India throughout the festive season.

With this distinctive airport activation, Marriott Bonvoy continues to elevate consumer engagement by meeting travelers where they are – transforming routine moments into heartfelt memories and reaffirming its role as a brand that celebrates journeys as much as destinations.

As the Holiday season sets in, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is all set to turn travel into a celebration with the return of the12th edition of its much-loved Season of Smiles campaign. From December 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026, the airport transforms into a Festive Gateway of Joy, where every corner feels warm, welcoming, and wonderfully Christmassy.

Across Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and The Quad, travellers and visitors can experience a festive lineup featuring Christmas Markets, Tree Lighting ceremonies, Carol performances, Santa Parades, Cake-Mixing celebrations, Wishing Trees, Live Concerts, Pop-up Cinema screenings, and a New Year’s Eve Gala to ring in 2026 in style.

Whether you’re flying, picking up a loved one, dining, or simply pausing between journeys — there’s something to make every moment feel magical, memorable, and full of holiday cheer.

Attached is the full event calendar, with dates and experiences to help you discover what’s happening at BLR Airport throughout the Season of Smiles festivities.

Mumbai, Dec 22: Vijay Sales, India’s premier electronics omnichannel retail chain, is back with the most exciting tech event of 2025  the IICF Consumer Expo, Vijay Sales is all set to host Mumbai’s largest electronics exhibition at MMRDA Grounds in BKC from December 23, 2025, to January 5, 2026.

The 14-day electronics shopping festival spans across a massive 60,000 sq. ft. area, featuring 100 top brands across categories. The event is designed to be an immersive experience where the joyous holiday spirit drives consumers to explore the largest display of electronics under one roof.

Visitors can witness exciting product launches, live demonstrations, and exclusive offers from trusted global and domestic tech leaders like Apple, Samsung, LG, Sony, OnePlus, boAt, Haier, Whirlpool, Asus, Hitachi, Godrej, IFB, Morphy Richards, Philips, Wonderchef, AO Smith, and many more. From the latest smartphones and AI-enabled gadgets to premium home appliances and smart kitchen solutions, there is something to fascinate everyone.

With every major brand carving out its own dedicated experience zone, this exhibition is an opportunity for shoppers to experience cutting-edge technology firsthand before making a purchase.

Speaking about the exhibition, Mr. Nilesh Gupta, Director from Vijay Sales, said;

“This exhibition is a celebration of innovation, a showcase of possibilities, and an opportunity for our valued customers to indulge in the joy of discovering new gadgets. We have curated this event to let them experience and connect with the latest launches and diverse offerings from the best-in-tech brands. As we bid farewell to 2025, we, at Vijay Sales, invite everyone to join us in this tech extravaganza and witness the future of electronics firsthand.”

Shoppers can also look forward to exclusive instant bank discounts and cashbacks on their purchases, ensuring that they get the best value for their money during this festive season. The MyVS loyalty program helps buyers maximize savings, rewarding 0.75% loyalty points on shopping at their stores. Every point earned is worth a rupee at the time of redemption.

To make this years’ experience even more rewarding, Vijay Sales is offering exclusive added benefits to all guests visiting the exhibition. Visitors will be greeted with a INR 1,000 flight and a INR 1,000 hotel voucher from ixigo, giving their travel plans a flying start. Furthermore, guests will be rewarded with INR 250 worth of MyVS Rewards loyalty points just by scanning the QR code displayed at the exhibition.

Guests transacting using paper finance options will receive free gifts from Bajaj Finserv, IDFC Bank and HDB Finance. Additionally, purchases of INR 25,000 and above made via brand EMI or brand full swipe using credit or debit cards through Paytm POS will be eligible for a Paytm Flight Voucher or Movie Voucher worth up to INR 1,000.

So, don’t miss out on the chance to grab the best gadgets at special event prices at the Electronics Exhibition 2025. Save the dates and prepare to explore the biggest, boldest tech display the city has ever seen!

Current Instant Discount Offers from Top Banks;

HDFC Bank Credit Card holders can avail an instant discount on EMI transactions meeting the minimum purchase requirement. American Express Credit Card holders can enjoy an instant discount on EMI transactions above the eligible threshold. ICICI Bank Card holders can avail instant discounts on Credit and Debit Card EMI transactions, as well as on Credit Card non-EMI transactions above the qualifying purchase value. HSBC Bank Card holders can avail instant discounts on Credit Card EMI transactions throughout the week, and additional discounts on Credit and Debit Card non-EMI transactions during weekends. RBL Bank Credit Card holders can enjoy instant discounts on eligible EMI transactions. OneCard Credit Card holders can avail instant discounts on qualifying EMI transactions. IDFC First Bank Credit Card holders receive a percentage-based instant discount on EMI transactions above the minimum purchase value. AU Small Finance Bank Credit Card holders can enjoy a percentage-based instant discount on non-EMI transactions and a flat instant discount on higher-value non-EMI transactions on Sundays only. Yes Bank Credit Card holders can avail a percentage-based instant discount on eligible EMI transactions. BOBCARD holders can enjoy a percentage-based instant discount on EMI transactions meeting the eligibility criteria. PNB Bank Credit Card holders receive a percentage-based instant discount on EMI transactions at stores and exhibitions only. DBS Bank Credit Card holders can avail a percentage-based instant discount on EMI transactions and an instant discount on non-EMI transactions above the qualifying purchase value.

New Delhi, Dec 22: The eight-day Sahakar Haat 2025, supported by NABARD, successfully concluded today at the Emporia Complex, Connaught Place, with a vibrant valedictory ceremony that celebrated India’s rich handicraft traditions and the spirit of rural entrepreneurship.

The closing ceremony event organized on 19 December 2025, was graced by Sh. Krishna Kumar Singh, IAS, Registrar Cooperative Societies, Govt. NCT of Delhi. He emphasised that the cooperative in Delhi has taken up few new initiatives in association with NABARD to strengthen cooperative sector in Delhi. He congratulated NABARD for successfully conducted a dedicated Exhibition showing cooperative products of India. 

Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Nabin Kumar Roy, General Manager/Officer-in-Charge, NABARD, New Delhi Regional Office, emphasized NABARD’s continuous efforts in empowering rural artisans, promoting GI-based livelihoods, and fostering entrepreneurship at the grassroots. He informed that the event was organized as a part of celebrations of ‘International year of Cooperative 2025’. 

The exhibition was themed “From Cooperation to Business With NABARD”, showcasing vibrant contribution of cooperatives.  During the closing ceremony, artisans from Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat shared heartfelt experiences, expressing gratitude NABARD for the opportunity to showcase their products on such a grand platform. For many, it was their first exposure to direct retail interaction, helping them understand fair pricing and the benefits of eliminating intermediaries through direct market linkages. 

Organised from 13-20 December, the ‘NABARD Sahakar Haat’ brought together over 100 artisans from more than 15 states, presenting a vibrant display to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and Geographical Indication (GI) products on a single platform. The success of NABARD Sahakar Haat 2025 stands as a testament to NABARD’s commitment to preserving India’s artisanal heritage while promoting inclusive, sustainable livelihoods. 

Hyderabad, Dec 22: Over 30,000 participants joined in person, with a million more from around the globe participating virtually, at the Heartfulness-led World Meditation Day event at Kanha Shanti Vanam, home to the world’s largest meditation hall. Themed ‘One World, One Heart’, the meditation led by Revered Daaji, Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission, reflected the spirit of collective consciousness and shared humanity. The event was attended by the Hon’ble Vice President of India – Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan; the Hon’ble Governor of Telangana – Shri Jishnu Dev Varma; and Hon’ble Minister of IT of Telangana – Shri Sridhar Babu who also took part in the meditation.

Speaking about the impact of the event, the Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, “I appreciate the Heartfulness movement for its unparalleled commitment to peace, harmony and spiritual wellbeing. Heartfulness meditation is being practiced by police force in Madhya Pradesh, and they have witnessed a great change in their consciousness. As the Global spiritual guide, Daaji has made meditation simple practice for all ages and culture. His teachings emphasise balance, compassion and inner transformation to build a sound society through conscious living. Meditation leads to inner peace, clarity of heart and mind. India has centuries of spiritual wisdom attained by rishis as part of its heritage and through the teachings of vedas, Upanishads and Gita has contributed immensely to the world. The true source of all wisdom leads to culmination of jeeva into Shiva. Meditation is a need for collective progress towards becoming Viksit Bharat – not only as an economic leader but also as a spiritual leader. When we meditate, we transcend the barrier of humanity towards oneness towards society and nature. Let us lead by this example through spirituality and sustainability. Embrace mental peace and harmony.”

The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, said: “It is a privilege to be here honouring Indian’s timeless wisdom. Meditation brings clarity, helps discover our inner being, it guides the inner journey from untruth to truth, darkness to light, mortality to immortality. Our ancient wisdom suggests that through meditation ego is dissolved, allowing nations to embrace; it nurtures wellness and empathy and goodwill and contentment. This world meditation day, collective meditation can elevate humanity from agitation to clarity, division to oneness, impulse to restraint and collective observance and universal wellbeing.”

Speaking about the initiative, Revered Daaji, Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “Meditation helps us to understand the purpose of life and yet meditation comes with practice. The processes is eased through Pranahuti – a divine energy which accelerates our journey to the ultimate Destination. Meditation in Sanskrit means Dhyana – a word which is a derivative of Dhi and Yan which is akin to a vehicle that transports one’s consciousness to the Divine. It is a tool to drop the inertia and arrive at a higher consciousness. Just as our body needs nourishment, so does our mind needs nourishment which comes through meditation. I am overjoyed to have our esteemed dignitaries who are also advocating meditation through Pranahuti and the innumerable numbers participate in today’s meditation to raise our collective consciousness.”

In the year 2024, the United National General Assembly unanimously declared 21 December coinciding with winter solstice as World Meditation Day when humanity would go inwards for peace. Heartfulness has been touching millions of hearts around the world creating a powerful wave of peace. 50000 police personal across 2600 meditation centres and police stations in Madhya Pradesh meditated in group today and vowed to meditate every Sunday in the police station, in an unprecedented historic moment for the nation and world. For this Shri Kailash Makwana – DGP Madhya Pradesh, was presented the Heartfulness Changemaker Award for contributed the initiative in the police force.

The session was open to everyone, including youth, students, professionals, and people from all walks of life. The meditation featured the transmission of Pranahuti by Daaji, a yogic energy that supports a shift into subtler states of consciousness and a natural sense of calm. Rooted in the teachings of Lalaji Maharaj and Babuji Maharaj, Heartfulness has grown into a global movement and continues to reach people across continents under Daaji’s guidance. Many practitioners have testified to the effectiveness of Heartfulness meditation, citing greater emotional steadiness, deeper clarity, and a more composed response to daily challenges.

Heartfulness rests on a simple observation: much of our lives is shaped by what we feel and the quiet inspirations that guide us. The practice encourages individuals to pay attention to this inner space with clarity. When the mind and heart begin to work in tune, life is more balanced. This is why Heartfulness focuses on meditating on the heart, a practical way of listening inward and navigating everyday life with a clearer sense of direction.

Hyderabad, Dec 21: Telangana has etched its name in Indian sports history with the launch of the Telangana Pro Basketball League (TPBL)—the first professional basketball league of its kind in the state and only the second official state-level pro basketball league in India.

Season 1 of TPBL is currently underway at the iconic K.V.B.R. Indoor Stadium, Yousufguda, till 24th December, transforming Hyderabad into the epicentre of elite basketball action. Featuring high-octane matches, fierce rivalries, and championship ambitions, the league promises a thrilling spectacle for fans and players alike.

This is an exclusive league for players from Telangana, showcasing homegrown talent from across the state. The league features over 72 players and engages nearly 200 supporting professionals, including coaches, technical officials, medical staff, and event personnel. Players have been selected from diverse districts of Telangana, reflecting the depth and reach of basketball talent in the region.

Each team comprises 12 players, acquired through a competitive player auction. Mr Akash of the Hyderabad Hawks emerged as the highest-valued player, secured for a record bid of ₹2.5 lakh. The players represent a wide age spectrum, ranging from 15 years to 36 years, and include students as well as working professionals, highlighting the league’s inclusive and developmental nature.

The league is scheduled to be conducted twice every year and is projected to generate over ₹100 crore in business activity, both directly and indirectly. The winning team will receive a prize money of ₹20 lakh, along with an MVP award featuring an R15 motorcycle.

Matches are hosted daily between 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, ensuring prime-time visibility for fans and broadcasters. Standing tall among all participants is Srinivas Reddy of the Medchal Mavericks, the tallest player in the league, with an impressive height of 7 feet.

The opening matches have already delivered electrifying performances and a vibrant atmosphere, as fans cheered loud and proud. The joy of witnessing top-tier basketball live, surrounded by friends and fellow supporters, has made TPBL Season 1 a truly memorable sporting experience.

Every match of the league is being broadcast LIVE, bringing Telangana’s basketball revolution to audiences. More than 20,000 people are watching it live.

Ahead of its inaugural season, TPBL completed its franchise auction in November. All six franchises were sold for a combined value of ₹1.27 crore, underlining strong investor confidence and growing interest in professional basketball in the state.

The Franchise Ownership details for 4-Year Rights is as follows. Hyderabad Hawks is owned by Deepti Akki of N Sports Pvt Ltd and bagged it for ₹27.5 lakh

Ranga Reddy Risers is owned by Srujana of Destiny World got it for ₹26 lakh. Karimnagar Kings – Avinash & Raghuveer / Fitbee for ₹20 lakh; Warangal Warriors —Dr. Chandrashekar / Sowbhagya Bharti – for ₹18.5 lakh; Nizamabad Nawabs – Laxmi Motors for ₹18 lakh, and Khammam Titans – Charan / SCL Infratech for ₹16.5 lakh. Each franchise carries an annual fee equal to the bid amount, with a 5% yearly escalation.

The league is the brainchild of A. Prudhvishwar Reddy, General Secretary of the Telangana Basketball Association and a former Indian national player. Inspired by international professional leagues, TPBL is designed to create a structured pathway for young talent while strengthening grassroots basketball across Telangana.

Player development took centre stage with state-wide tryouts held at Dream Basketball Academy, followed by the Player Auction in the same month, allowing franchises to build competitive squads featuring the best local talent.

The unique feature of the ownership is women taking centre stage and owning and managing the teams. A salute to their leadership and Women in Sports. Special is Deepti Akki of Hyderabad Hawks and Srujana of Ranga Reddy Risers; Sowbhagya Bharti of Warangal Warriors and their entire TPBL organising teams for their inspiring leadership, passion, and commitment. Their efforts stand as a powerful example of women driving change in sports, setting new benchmarks for inclusivity and professionalism in Indian basketball.

TPBL is considered a new chapter in particular to Telangana and in general in Indian Basketball. With soaring crowds, professional execution, and a clear long-term vision, the Telangana Pro Basketball League is redefining the future of the sport in the state. As Season 1 unfolds, TPBL is not just hosting matches—it is building a legacy. Indian Basketball has found a bold new home in Telangana.

According to Srujana, a similar league for Women and Children is around the corner.

Basketball in Telangana is not yet a mass sport like cricket, but it is one of the fastest-growing organised sports in the state, with strong institutional backing, rising youth participation, and—most importantly—the launch of a professional league, said R Sridhar Reddy, President of Telangana Basketball Association

Mr. A. Prudhvishwar Reddy, General Secretary, Telangana Basketball Association, further adds that Basketball in Telangana has seen steady and meaningful growth over the years. Today, we have more than 10,000 active players participating across schools, colleges, academies, universities, and district associations. The sport enjoys a strong footprint in regions such as Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Warangal, Karimnagar, Khammam, and Nizamabad, with players regularly competing in platforms like the School Games Federation of India, Khelo India, inter-university tournaments, and district championships. Basketball has particularly found resonance in urban schools, private institutions, and universities, where access to indoor facilities has helped nurture talent.

Adding further, he stated that at the grassroots and institutional level, Telangana is well-positioned. The state has over 30 structured basketball academies and training centres, supported by robust school programs in CBSE, ICSE, and international schools. The Telangana Basketball Association continues to play an active role in organising competitions, identifying talent, and creating pathways for young players. Hyderabad remains the hub of basketball activity in the state, thanks to better infrastructure, experienced coaches, and consistent exposure to competitive play.

In terms of infrastructure, Mr A. Prudhvishwar Reddy adds, facilities such as the K.V.B.R. Indoor Stadium, the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, and several university and institutional indoor courts form the backbone of basketball development in Telangana. While we acknowledge that infrastructure is still limited compared to the growing demand, the progress is encouraging. With sustained investment, structured leagues, and community support, basketball in Telangana is moving in the right direction and holds immense potential for the future.

The launch of the Telangana Pro Basketball League (TPBL) has significantly elevated the sport’s stature. The first professional basketball league in Telangana and the second official state pro basketball league in India secured a ₹1.27 crore franchise valuation in Season 1 itself, marking a very good beginning.

The highest scorer of the League to date has been Tejendra and Raju Bhai of Ranga Reddy Risers (RRR) team

Live broadcasts, packed indoor crowds, and professional execution are helping to increase the fan base, stated Srujana. And it will ultimately contribute to cultivating a sports culture among future generations. She says it’s an Incredible feeling to own a team, it’s pride, responsibility and constant buzz. In the long run, we are instrumental in cultivating sports culture for the current and future generations.

Mr A. Prudhvishwar Reddy states that his goal is to take the league and local players national and international level. He, being a national player himself, thus this is his best way to give back to the sport.

Mumbai, Dec 20:  A Prayer Meeting was organised in Mumbai to honour the memory of Gopichand P Hinduja, late Chairman of the Hinduja Group, who recently passed away. The Prayer Meeting was attended by Captains of the India Inc, friends from the Political world cutting across party lines, members of the diplomatic corps, and several leading film personalities. Glowing tributes were paid to Shri GP Hinduja about his multi-faceted personality by Spiritual Leaders like Chidanand Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan, close associates, etc. Notable singers like Anuradha Paudwal, Nitin Mukesh, and Mohit Lalwani sang GP Hinduja’s favourite bhajans and songs picturised on his dear friend, the late Raj Kapoor.