Archives 2025

Hyderabad, 18th February 2025: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Prasanna Venkatesh as its new Director of Operations. A seasoned professional with over 20 years of global hospitality experience, Prasanna has a proven record of driving operational excellence and delivering exceptional guest experiences. His journey spans renowned hospitality brands such as Westin, Hilton, and Accor, as well as the prestigious Dubai Expo 2020.

A visionary leader, Prasanna has been instrumental in turning around F&B venues, optimizing service delivery, and spearheading high-impact events. His expertise in strategic planning, budgeting, and operational efficiency has led to increased profitability and guest satisfaction across diverse properties, including luxury resorts in the Maldives and large-scale urban hotels in the Middle East.

In his previous role at the prestigious Pullman & Novotel complex in Aerocity, celebrated for its luxury and exceptional F&B offerings, Prasanna honed his expertise in crafting refined dining experiences. Throughout his career, Prasanna has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating bespoke guest experiences through innovation and collaboration. At Dubai Expo 2020, he played a pivotal role in launching iconic dining destinations, earning accolades for delivering seamless hospitality experiences at one of the world’s largest events.

In his new role at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC, Prasanna will focus on enhancing operational efficiencies, driving sustainability initiatives, and elevating service standards across the property. His leadership will be key to strengthening the hotel’s reputation as a premier destination for business, leisure, and events in the region.

“We are excited to have Prasanna on board and look forward to the transformative energy he brings to our operations,” said Rubin Cherian, General Manager at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC. “His strategic vision and passion for hospitality will undoubtedly create memorable guest experiences and propel us to new heights.”

Hyderabad, February 18, 20205……Uttar Dakshin Concert is to be held in the city on March 1 at JNAFAU Auditorium, Masab Tank, Hyderabad, at 6 PM. It will be a Grand Jugalbandi. It will bring together two legendary maestros—Padma Shri Pandit Ronu Majumdar on the flute and Vidwan R. Kumaresh, the celebrated violinist from the Carnatic music tradition.

This much-awaited Jugalbandi will be organised jointly by Vivid Arts and Surmandal Hyderabad.

Pandit Ronu Majumdar, one of India’s most revered flautists, was recently honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri for his immense contributions to Indian classical music. His soulful renditions and unparalleled mastery over the bansuri have enthralled audiences worldwide. Vidwan R. Kumaresh, one of the most acclaimed violin maestros of the Carnatic music fraternity, is known for his dynamic and deeply expressive performances, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation.

Despite coming from two distinct classical traditions, both artists share a profound belief that the difference in styles is not a challenge but rather the richness of Indian classical music. They see their collaboration as a way of creating a holistic musical experience, where the intricate rhythmic and melodic structures of both styles merge into a unified, immersive soundscape.

Adding to this grand musical confluence will be Shri V. Narhari on the Tabla and Shri Tumkur Ravishankar on the mridangam, whose rhythmic brilliance will further elevate the concert.

The Uttar Dakshin series has consistently brought together the finest Hindustani and Carnatic musicians, fostering an artistic dialogue that celebrates the diversity and unity of Indian classical music. This Jugalbandi promises to be an unforgettable evening for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

India, 18th February 2025 – Federal Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, unveiled a new NR Savings account variant – Prospera. The Prospera NRE Savings Account offers an impressive suite of benefits designed for the emerging affluent NRI segment which includes Complimentary Insurance Benefit up to ₹60 Lakh, complimentary airport lounge access, special rewards for debit card spends and other banking benefits. As an introductory offer, the Bank is providing discount of up to 24% on flight and hotel bookings on select travel platforms using Prospera Debit Card.

 “For over seven decades, Federal Bank has been a trusted partner for Non-Resident Indians across the globe, facilitating their financial aspirations and connections with home,” said Mr. KVS Manian. “Today, we handle approximately one-fifth of India’s inward remittances, symbolizing the immense trust that the Indian diaspora and our partners place in us. We recognize that today’s NRI customers seek more than just basic banking and want to enjoy a comprehensive financial experience that matches their aspirations and lifestyle. We are committed to continuously evolving and enhancing our products and services to meet the changing environment and the needs of our customers.”

 “Our new offerings reflect our understanding of the evolving needs of the Indian diaspora and our commitment to serving them better,” added Joy P V, Executive Vice President and Country Head – Deposits, Wealth and Banca, Federal Bank.

 The launch happened in Dubai, marking Managing Director & CEO, Mr. KVS Manian’s maiden international media interaction since assuming office in September. During the event, Mr. Manian highlighted the deep-rooted connect that the Bank has with the NRI population. The Bank also highlighted its achievements in the NRI banking space, such as market leadership in remittance services, digital innovation in cross-border banking, a strong presence across key NRI markets, a robust remittance partnership network in the UAE, and consistent growth in NRI deposits.

Mumbai, February 18, 2025:Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, a leading institution recognized for #BuildingBusinessOwners, is thrilled to announce the commencement of applications for its full-time Ph.D. Program 2025. The last date to apply is 10th May 2025. For more details, please write us at doctoral.admission@iimraipur.ac.in.

This full-time, fully funded program is meticulously structured to develop globally recognized scholars equipped to contribute significantly to the field of management research and education.

Inviting aspiring candidates, Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, shared, “Our institute is devoted to fostering a research-driven academic environment that empowers scholars to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. Our Ph.D. program provides a robust platform for aspiring researchers to engage in high-quality, impactful studies that contribute to both academia and industry. I extend an invitation to all those who seek to shape the future of management thought and practice.”

The doctoral program spans four years and is split into three phases: Fundamentals of Management, Specialization, and Doctoral Dissertation respectively. It offers research opportunities in various domains including Economics & Public Policy, Finance and Accounts, HRM and Organizational Behavior, Humanities & Liberal Arts (Including Business Communication), Information Systems, Marketing, Operations and Quantitative Techniques, and Strategy & Entrepreneurship.

To promote research excellence, the program offers financial support, including a monthly stipend of ₹50,000 for the first two years and ₹55,000 for the subsequent years, along with ₹200,000 grants for national and international conferences. Doctoral scholars will also receive a contingency grant and one-time support of ₹50,000 for research-related resources.

Candidates with a valid GATE, GRE, GMAT, JRF (UGC/CSIR), UGC NET, with CAT score (July 1, 2023, onward) and a Master’s/PGP from IIMs or equivalent (min. 55% marks) can apply. Those with CA/ICWA and a degree, CS with B.Com (min. 60% marks), a 4-year B.E./B.Tech/B. Arch (min. 6.5 CGPA), or a 5-year Integrated Master’s (min. 60% marks) are also eligible.

New Delhi, February 18, 2025 – CanSupport, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing palliative care services for people with cancer and other serious illnesses hosted the 18th edition of its flagship event, ‘Walk for Life – Stride Against Cancer,’ at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, to commemorate World Cancer Day. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, including cancer survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, students, corporate teams, and expatriates, all united in their commitment to raising awareness about cancer and showing solidarity with those affected by the disease.

Since its inception in 2008, the Walk for Life has become Delhi’s largest cancer awareness walkathon. This year’s event marked a significant milestone with the introduction of a 5 km Run alongside the traditional 3 km Walk, catering to fitness enthusiasts and further amplifying the impact of the cause. Participants walked and ran with passion and determination, carrying banners and messages of hope, resilience, and the importance of early detection and palliative care.

In her message to the participants Harmala Gupta, Founder-President of CanSupport said “It is a time to share experiences, meet with friends, both old and new, and honor those who are living with cancer as well as remember those who are no longer with us. More than anything else, however, it is a call to urgent action.

We know that cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and that it is on the march in our part of the world. What we also know is that it can be kept at bay if we adopt a healthy lifestyle. Besides eating right, regular exercise is one of the most powerful weapons we have and the Walk is to remind us that we must use it for our benefit.”

The other dignitaries present at the event included Dr Pramod Kumar Julka, Vice-Chairman Oncology, Max Institute of Cancer Care, Former Ambassador of the US to India David Mulford and his wife and the patron of the Walk for Life event Jeannie Mulford.

Over the years, the Walk has grown in popularity, with participation increasing annually. Over 4,000 walkers participated in the event and reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the cause.

Members of the Royal Mavericks Club joined the Walk to support cancer patients and rode with them. Performances from the BSF Band, Music Factory, Delhi Drum Circle, and Sai Aerobics kept the walkers entertained as they arrived at the venue.

Dr. Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director and Chief of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the field of medicine, and one of the areas where it is making the most significant impact is cancer treatment. Precision medicine, which tailors medical treatment to individual patients based on their genetic makeup and other factors, is helping doctors provide more personalized and effective care. Let’s explore how AI is enhancing precision medicine for cancer and changing the way we approach treatment.

AI and Early Detection
AI-powered tools are being used to enhance early cancer detection. By analyzing medical images, AI can identify subtle patterns in mammograms, CT scans, MRIs, and other diagnostic images that might be missed by the human eye. This technology allows for earlier and more accurate detection of tumors, which is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
For example, AI algorithms can analyze chest X-rays to detect lung cancer at its earliest stages, even before symptoms appear. Early detection gives patients a better chance of undergoing less invasive treatments and achieving a positive prognosis.

Improving Diagnostics and Biomarker Discovery
AI is also helping researchers discover new biomarkers, which are biological indicators of disease. By analyzing large sets of data from genetic studies, AI can help identify patterns that may lead to the discovery of new biomarkers associated with different types of cancer. These biomarkers can then be used for more accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning.
AI can also improve the accuracy of genetic testing by analyzing complex data from genomic sequencing. This can reveal mutations in a patient’s DNA that may make them more susceptible to cancer, allowing doctors to personalize treatment plans based on these findings.

Personalizing Treatment Plans
One of the key goals of precision medicine is to tailor treatment plans to the individual. AI plays a crucial role in helping doctors analyze patient data, such as genetic profiles, medical histories, and clinical information, to create highly personalized treatment regimens.
For example, AI can predict how a cancer will respond to different treatments based on a patient’s unique genetic makeup. This allows for more targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective and have fewer side effects. AI can also help match patients with clinical trials that are most likely to benefit them, further improving treatment outcomes.

Optimizing Drug Discovery
Developing new cancer drugs is a time-consuming and expensive process. However, AI is accelerating drug discovery by predicting how different compounds interact with cancer cells. By analyzing large datasets and using machine learning algorithms, AI can identify promising drug candidates much faster than traditional methods.
AI is also being used to design drugs that specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, and reducing side effects. This targeted approach is a hallmark of precision medicine and holds great promise for creating more effective cancer treatments.

Monitoring Cancer Progression
Once treatment begins, AI can help doctors monitor how well a cancer is responding to therapy. Machine learning algorithms can analyze medical data, including lab results, imaging scans, and patient-reported outcomes, to track changes in the cancer’s size, shape, and genetic profile over time.
This continuous monitoring allows for more timely adjustments to treatment plans, ensuring that the most effective therapies are used as the cancer evolves. AI also helps doctors predict how a cancer may relapse, allowing for proactive interventions before the disease progresses further.

Enhancing Patient Outcomes
AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately can significantly enhance patient outcomes. By identifying patterns in patient data, AI can help doctors make more informed treatment decisions and predict which patients are more likely to respond to specific therapies.
Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants and apps are helping cancer patients manage their treatment regimens and follow-up appointments. These tools can provide patients with personalized guidance, reminders, and educational resources, improving their overall experience and engagement with the treatment process.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing precision medicine for cancer by improving early detection, optimizing treatment plans, and enhancing patient outcomes. By harnessing the power of AI, doctors are able to provide more personalized, effective care, and patients are benefiting from better treatment options with fewer side effects. As AI continues to evolve, its role in cancer treatment will only become more significant, offering hope for more targeted, successful therapies in the fight against cancer.

New Delhi, February 17, 2025:

Noted English litterateur and founder of British Lingua, Dr Birbal Jha, is to receive the esteemed English Literary Gem Award 2025 for his remarkable contributions to language training in India and the world of English literature.

Dr Birbal Jha will be presented with the covetous award in recognition of his relentless efforts in empowering individuals through English education and his significant literary impact on society.

Dr Jha has long been a social advocate for English education as a tool for social and economic empowerment. His contributions have touched the lives of millions, helping bridge linguistic barriers and fostering social mobility through language proficiency. His literary works and educational initiatives have played a crucial role in shaping the English learning landscape in India.

Through his nationwide campaign “English for All,” Dr. Birbal Jha has transformed the lives of millions by making English learning accessible to people from diverse backgrounds. His books, including Celebrate Your Life, Spoken English Kit, and English SIM, besides Lingua Bulletin, have provided invaluable guidance to learners, equipping them with essential communication skills for personal and professional growth.

Dr Jha’s pioneering efforts in English language education have empowered countless individuals, enabling them to secure better employment and lifestyle and actively participate in India’s global integration. His approach to English education has created a more inclusive learning ecosystem, enabling millions to access opportunities that were previously out of reach.

Dr. Jha has played a pivotal role in democratizing English skills in India by breaking socio-economic barriers and making language learning affordable and practical for all sections of society. His unique andragogy and outreach programs have ensured that even those from underprivileged backgrounds can gain fluency in English, enhancing their career prospects and self-confidence.
The award ceremony by Arogya Srijan Nyas is set to take place on February 26, 2025, at the India International Centre, New Delhi where he will be honoured for his profound contributions to literature, education, and social initiatives through language.

“Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions to English education and literature have been transformative. His dedication to empowering individuals through language aligns perfectly with our mission to integrate health and education for national progress.”, said Ajit Kumar, the convener of the programme.

Dr. Birbal Jha has been honored with numerous awards, citations, and accolades, including the National Education Excellence Award (2010), Man of Works (2011), Person of the Year (2014), Star of Asia Award (2016), Great Personality of India Award (2017), Bihar Achiever Award (2017), Paagman Award (2017), Youngest Living Legend of Mithila (2017), Global Skills Trainer Award (2022), Kavi Kokil Vidyapati Award (2023), Mithila Vibhuti Award (2022), Maa Janki Award (2023), Siksha Shikhar Samman (2023), and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Award (2024).

Dr. Birbal Jha is a multifaceted personality, widely recognized as a noted author, global skills trainer, and visionary social entrepreneur. His work transcends boundaries, as he passionately advocates for social justice and community empowerment through his impactful initiatives as a social campaigner and cultural crusader. With a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage, Dr. Jha has led numerous efforts to enrich society.

In addition to his remarkable contributions to social causes, Dr Jha is a talented lyricist and songwriter, who uses his creative expressions to inspire change. As a social worker and leader, he has consistently worked towards uplifting marginalized communities, striving to create a more equitable world. A masterful mass communicator, he has helped countless individuals unlock their potential through his expertise in communication skills training, guiding them towards personal and professional excellence.

Dr. Birbal Jha’s diverse roles reflect his unwavering dedication to making a difference and bridging the gap between education, social justice, and community development. His journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership and the transformative impact of effective communication.

February 2025, National – Embark on a captivating journey at The Writers Bar for an unforgettable book reading session with Indian Author and Columnist, Twinkle Khanna.

 On 17th February 2025, Raffles Udaipur invites you to an enchanting evening in the esteemed presence of Twinkle Khanna. Dive deep into the pages of her latest masterpiece and experience a literary evening like no other. The evening will begin with the Anandini & Bili Hu experience upon arrival, accompanied by live acoustic music, setting the stage for an unforgettable night filled with excitement and anticipation.

Bathed in the gentle glow of ambient lighting, Twinkle Khanna will grace the stage, offering a glimpse into her creative world as she shares captivating insights and powerful excerpts from her latest book, Welcome to Paradise. Following this enthralling reading, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to engage with Twinkle Khanna in a thought-provoking interactive session, delving deeper into her creative journey and the inspiration that fuels her work.

The Writers Bar is timeless and elegant, with colonial-inspired design that exudes sophistication. A bibliophile’s discreet haven, it boasts a well-stocked intimate library, brass counters, textured walls, and chandeliers that shimmer with pearls of light.

 With over 3,000 books lining its shelves, the space invites guests to immerse themselves in the history of great literary works created within its walls. To make the evening even more special, attendees will have the chance to get their personal copies of the book signed by Twinkle herself. As the night unfolds, guests will be treated to a delightful hi-tea spread, offering a chance to mingle, converse, and enjoy the company of fellow literature lovers in an atmosphere of charm and warmth.

“Raffles Udaipur is delighted to host this extraordinary book reading session. We are pleased to welcome Twinkle Khanna, whose literary brilliance will undoubtedly captivate our guests. The audience at Raffles Udaipur is in for a truly immersive experience, as they indulge in a night of insightful conversation and literary discovery,” said Mr. Rajesh Namby, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur.

James Williams & Max Mcrae To Lead MRF Challenge

Chennai, February 17, 2025: MRF, India’s No 1 Tyre Manufacturer, today announced their participation in the prestigious and highly competitive British Rally Championship 2025 and inclusion as official tyre suppliers for the 2025 season. Having dominated the European Rally Championships, Team MRF Tyres now seeks to extend their superiority in the UK. Leading the MRF challenge will be drivers James Williams and Max Mcrae.

The decision to participate in the BRC 2025 underscores MRF’s commitment to showcasing the capabilities of Indian engineering and manufacturing on the international stage. With a rich heritage in the Motorsport Tyres and a reputation for producing high-performance tyres, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the world of rallying.

“We are excited to take on this new challenge and represent India on the global motorsports platform,” said Arun Mammen Vice Chairman & Managing Director of MRF. “The British Rally Championship is a prestigious event that attracts the best drivers and teams from around the world. Our participation in this event will not only demonstrate the quality of our products but also inspire Indian motorsports enthusiasts and foster a sense of national pride. We are confident that our tyres will perform exceptionally well in the BRC 2025. Our engineers have been working closely with rally experts to develop the right products that can withstand the rigors of the sport and provide our drivers with the necessary grip and stability to compete at the highest level.”

The two professional drivers will leverage the company’s extensive research and development capabilities to develop tyres that are specifically tailored for the demanding conditions in the nine round event throughout the year in 2025. The first round of the 2025 season gets underway in Beverley- East Yorkshire UK ,at the East Riding Stages Rally on 23 February

TEAM MRF Tyres are winners in the FIA European Rally Championship in 2022 and 2023. Dominating the Italian Gravel Rally Championship for 4 years in a row, MRF tyres has also succeeded in Norway and Latvia IN January 2025 with the Snow Tyres. Brand MRF is already a tyre of choice in Hi performance rallies in Australia , New Zealand and South America. The company’s commitment to developing high-performance tyres has been evident through its participation and successes in various national and international championships.

Profile – James Williams, is a Professional Rally Driver. In 2015 he was adjudged as the UK young driver of the year. And from then on he has had good success in various championships. He was the winner of the Rally Isle of Man in 2024 and the Goodwood Festival of Speed winner in the same year. Apart from Rally driving, he is also a brand ambassador and public speaker.

Profile – Max Mcrae UK based Max McRae is excited by his first full British Rally Championship campaign. The 20-year-old Scot tackled four BRC rounds last season, but will step-up to the full six-event calendar in 2025. He closed out last year on the highest possible note, with fastest time on the final stage of the season-closing Cambrian Rallly. Max comes from a family with a rich history in rallying. With eight British titles to the McRae name already (five for Jimmy, two for Uncle Colin and one for father Alister), Max is well aware of the weight of expectation. Much as Max is keen to continue in that same vein, he’s realistic about his experience of – and the competition in – the premier British series. Of the four events he started in a Ford Fiesta Rally2 last season, he finished three of them comfortably in the top-10, including a fine fourth on the Cambrian.

Bengaluru, February 17, 2025: Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone startup, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited (HFCL) at Aero India 2025. This collaboration combines HFCL’s expertise in advanced payload systems with Garuda Aerospace’s leadership in UAV manufacturing and deployment, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s UAV ecosystem.

The partnership between Garuda Aerospace and HFCL will drive innovation across critical sectors, including defense, agriculture, surveillance, industrial inspection, disaster response, and logistics. HFCL will focus on designing advanced payloads such as EO/IR sensors, LiDAR, and AI-driven communication systems, while Garuda Aerospace will integrate these technologies into its UAV platforms, ensuring seamless deployment for both commercial and defense applications.

Under this MOU, drones will be equipped with AI capabilities to support various applications, including disaster management with thermal imaging drones for search, rescue, and damage assessment. Industrial inspections through high-resolution cameras and 5G-enabled drone networks for smart city surveillance will also be tapped. Additionally, AI-powered cargo drones will optimize logistics and urban mobility. Real-time monitoring and analytics for the Namo Drone Didi and Viksit Bharat initiatives will also support farmers. The partnership will further involve joint research in AI, machine learning, and sensor fusion technologies, driving the development of next-gen UAV systems with extended flight times, autonomy, and swarm capabilities. This strategic alliance strengthens India’s self-reliance in UAV technology, aligns with the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, and positions both companies to drive global market expansion through indigenous manufacturing and innovation.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder & CEO, Garuda Aerospace, said “At Garuda Aerospace, we’re building a foundation for next-generation drones that will strengthen UAV technology. This collaboration gives Garuda a significant competitive advantage, enabling us to offer our customers the most advanced drone solutions available. The integration of high-performance payload technology for our drones will benefit various sectors, reducing our reliance on foreign suppliers and boosting our ‘Make in India’ initiative.”

Mr Sampathkumaran S T, Executive President (Defence Business), HFCL said “The partnership with Garuda Aerospace represents a powerful synergy. HFCL is committed to driving technological innovation across sectors. By combining our technological strengths, we are together building a future where drones are integral to national security, economic growth, and humanitarian efforts. We’re proud to be part of this ‘Make in India’ initiative and excited to see the impact of our joint efforts on a global scale.”

The partnership promises to accelerate large-scale drone deployment, boosting indigenous manufacturing and creating opportunities for global market expansion. By driving innovation in UAV technology, Garuda Aerospace, and HFCL are poised to lead India’s journey toward self-reliance in advanced defense and technology solutions.