Archives 2025

Noida, February 17, 2025: Spectrum@Metro, located in Sector 75, Noida, turned Valentine’s Day into an unforgettable celebration with Daawat-e-Ishq, a vibrant fusion of love, music, and exquisite flavors. The live music and food festival brought together couples and food enthusiasts for a magical evening, blending India’s rich culinary heritage with soulful melodies. Renowned singer Danny’s captivating performance added to the romantic ambiance, making the night even more special.

The festival, themed “Daawat-e-Ishq,” took visitors on a delightful gastronomic journey, where they savored authentic regional specialties, each dish representing warmth and passion. From decadent desserts to aphrodisiac-inspired delicacies, the event showcased an array of flavors crafted to celebrate love. The festival also featured interactive sessions with renowned chefs, who shared insights into preparing the perfect romantic meal.

As a vibrant live music and food fest, Daawat-e-Ishq provided an unparalleled experience where melodies and flavors intertwined seamlessly. Guests enjoyed soulful performances, engaging culinary experiences, and an atmosphere filled with love and joy, making it a must-visit Valentine’s Day celebration.

Ajendra Singh, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Spectrum@Metro, said, “Daawat-e-Ishq was not just a food festival; it was a tribute to love and togetherness. We are delighted by the overwhelming response and the beautiful memories created. Whether it was a romantic dinner, a fun-filled evening, or an exploration of delicious cuisines, this event truly had something special for everyone.”

Spectrum@Metro, a premier retail and entertainment destination in Sector 75, Noida, continues to host unique and engaging events that bring people together. Daawat-e-Ishq was a celebration of love, flavors, and the joy of togetherness, leaving guests with cherished memories of a truly special Valentine’s Day.

Mumbai, February 17, 2025: The world of business is rapidly transforming under the influence of artificial intelligence (AI). Organisations are seeking leaders who can utilise AI to drive innovation, streamline operations, and gain a competitive edge. In response to this need, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), ranked India’s #1 Business School (FT ‘Masters in Management’ Rankings 2024), in collaboration with Emeritus, has announced the launch of its ‘Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business’.

Designed to address the growing demand for AI expertise in India, this programme empowers professionals with the skills to implement AI-driven strategies, aligning them with organisational goals to promote innovation and efficiency. According to PwC’s 2024 Global AI Jobs Barometer, the demand for AI-related roles is surging, with job postings in this field increasing 3.5 times faster than the average across sectors. A study by BCG and NASSCOM indicates that India’s AI market, growing at an estimated CAGR of 25–35%, is expected to reach $17 billion by 2027, highlighting the urgent need for strategic AI leadership.

Prof. Ashish Desai, Associate Professor and Programme Director for the Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business at SPJIMR, while commenting on the programme launch, said, “This seven-month online programme is designed to help mid-to-senior-level professionals and business leaders unlock AI’s transformative potential to drive innovation, optimise operations, and achieve sustainable growth. With live online sessions from our faculty and an advanced curriculum, participants will gain practical and strategic insights to leverage AI for business advantage.”

The Executive Certificate Programme in AI for Business offers live online sessions delivered by SPJIMR’s esteemed faculty. Its curriculum includes hands-on projects, case studies, and a focus on practical applications. Participants will also benefit from a cohort-based learning approach, promoting collaboration and networking opportunities.

Through this programme, participants will be able to:

•  Utilise AI-powered solutions to drive business innovation and competitive advantage.
•  Align AI-driven strategies with organisational objectives to gain a competitive edge
•  Improve decision-making through data-driven insights and predictive analytics.
•  Solve complex business challenges using supervised and unsupervised learning techniques.
•  Master advanced AI applications, such as Generative AI, recommender systems, and natural language processing.
•  Build and manage AI teams and projects to promote innovation and streamline operations.
•  Implement AI strategies effectively while addressing scalability and resource allocation challenges.
•  Gain hands-on experience with real-world case studies and applied AI projects.
•  Optimise business processes through digitisation and automation for sustainable growth.

The programme provides optional on-campus immersion at SPJIMR, Mumbai, enabling participants to engage with faculty and peers in person. Key modules include AI Ecosystem, AI and Deep Learning, Generative AI, AI Strategy and Deployment, and AI Applications in Business.

Programme Details:

•  Start Date: March 30, 2025
•  Duration: 7 months
•  Eligibility: Graduate/diploma holder (10+2+3) in any discipline with at least 2 years of work experience as of March 30, 2025.
•  Programme Fee: INR 1,25,000 + GST
•  Learning Mode: Live online sessions by SPJIMR faculty – 3 hours per week, Sundays.
•  Certification: Upon successful completion of the programme, with a minimum attendance of 70 percent and satisfactory academic performance, participants will receive a certificate of completion from SPJIMR. Graduates also gain SPJIMR Executive Alumni status.

Chandigarh, February 17, 2025 – India’s care sector is at a critical juncture, requiring a strong workforce to meet both national and global demands. Speaking at the summit on ‘ Transforming the Future of the Skilled Workforce in the Care Sector ’ organized by NSDC International in Chandigarh, Shri VK Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog emphasized the need to expand skilling initiatives beyond traditional medical education and strike a balance between quality and quantity.

Talking about skilling initiatives, Mr. Paul said that NSDC International is playing a vital role in this endeavor, ensuring that care professionals trained in India are globally employable. He highlighted the importance of developing a curriculum, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and scaling up skill-based training programs to address workforce shortages, including in specialized areas such as geriatric care. “ Private sector support is essential to bridge the skill gap. With structured policies and strong industry-academia partnerships, India can grow its healthcare skilling ecosystem and emerge as a major contributor to the global workforce,” he added.

The summit was attended by vice-chancellors of 50 institutions and about a dozen AIIMS chiefs working towards a strong healthcare ecosystem.

Mr. Paul further added , “ India’s healthcare workforce is a vital asset for both the nation and the world. With the growing global demand for skilled professionals , structured skilling initiatives play a vital role in equipping our workforce with the expertise required to meet international standards. NSDC International’s efforts in developing a highly trained care talent pool have contributed significantly to this vision , enabling professionals to excel in diverse healthcare environments. By strengthening skill development and placement pathways , we are not only meeting workforce requirements domestically , but also reinforcing India’s position as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals across the globe.”

Speaking on this , Alok Kumar, CEO, NSDC International said , “ With a projected global shortage of 15 million caregivers by 2030 , the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. Countries such as Germany , Japan and Canada have seen the number of international caregivers grow by over 30% in the last two years alone. India , with its young and skilled workforce , has the potential to bridge this gap. At NSDC International , we are committed to developing a globally competent caregiver workforce by aligning skilling programmes with international recognition , streamlining certification processes and integrating cultural adaptability training. By fostering strategic global partnerships , we aim to establish India as a trusted provider of skilled care professionals , creating dignified employment opportunities while strengthening the global healthcare system.”

The summit witnessed meaningful discussions on policy recommendations and strategic initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and future-ready caregiver workforce. A major highlight was a dialogue between vice-chancellors and directors of leading healthcare institutions, which discussed the critical role of education in bridging the shortage of healthcare workers. By strengthening collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers, the summit set the stage for innovative solutions that will enhance skilling, workforce mobility, and India’s contribution to the global healthcare ecosystem.

Makar Sankranti and Pongal brings an exciting selection of films and series across streaming platforms! From the heartfelt romance of The Great Gujarati Matrimony on ShemarooMe, to the legacy of The Roshans on Netflix, and the thrilling Paatal Lok Season 2 on Amazon Prime Video, there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s gripping crime dramas like Chidiya Udd, action-packed tales like Pani, or supernatural adventures with Power of Paanch, this week promises to captivate and entertain.

The Roshans- Netflix
A captivating documentary series, The Roshans, premieres exclusively on Netflix on January 17, 2025, offering an intimate exploration of one of Bollywood’s most iconic families. Spanning three generations, the series chronicles the journey of music director Roshan Lal Nagrath, his sons—filmmaker Rakesh Roshan and composer Rajesh Roshan—and his grandson, superstar Hrithik Roshan. Featuring rare archival footage, candid interviews, and heartfelt anecdotes from industry stalwarts like Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Karan Johar, The Roshans celebrates their enduring legacy and unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. A must-watch for film enthusiasts!

Paatal Lok season 2
Paatal Lok returns with its highly anticipated second season on January 17, 2025, five years after its groundbreaking debut. This time, Inspector Hathiram Chaudhary (Jaideep Ahlawat), the weary yet determined protagonist, takes on a high-profile murder investigation that leads him to the remote landscapes of northeast India. Alongside his trusted ally Ansari (Ishwak Singh), Hathiram confronts formidable adversaries and personal demons in his quest for justice. The new season introduces compelling characters played by Jahnu Barua, Tillotama Shome, Nagesh Kukunoor, and Anurag Arora, each adding depth and complexity to the story. With a darker, grittier tone, Paatal Lok Season 2 promises to unravel a sinister conspiracy while exploring Hathiram’s turbulent psyche and relentless pursuit of truth. Don’t miss it!

Chidiya Udd – Amazon MX Player
Chidiya Udd, a gripping series on human trafficking, premieres on January 15, 2025, exclusively on Amazon MX Player. Headlined by Jackie Shroff and Sikandar Kher, the show delves into the harsh realities of Mumbai’s red-light district, Kamathipura. Inspired by real incidents and based on Abid Surti’s book Cages, the story follows Seher (Bhoomika Meena), a 20-year-old from Rajasthan, who arrives in Mumbai with dreams of a brighter future. Set against a backdrop of gang wars and the city’s dark underbelly, Chidiya Udd explores her harrowing struggle to survive in a ruthless world. This hard-hitting narrative shines a light on the grim truths of trafficking, promising a poignant and emotional journey. Don’t miss it!

The Great Gujarati Matrimony- ShemarooMe
ShemarooMe presents The Great Gujarati Matrimony, streaming exclusively from January 18, 2025. Directed by Preetsinh Gohil, this heartwarming romantic movie follows three compelling characters—an aspiring actress with big dreams, a cheerful matchmaker, and a practical investment banker—on a journey of love, self-discovery, and cultural celebration. Featuring Siddhi Idnani, Mitra Gadhvi, and Devarshi Shah, the film blends romance, emotions, traditions while offering a fresh perspective on modern relationships. Perfect for cozy family viewing, The Great Gujarati Matrimony is a celebration of relationships and the values that bind us together. The movie also stars Hiten Kumar, Tatsat Munshi, Jhanvi Gurnani, and Sucheeta Trivedi, who bring depth to the story with their flawless performances.

Viduthalai Part 2- Zee5
Viduthalai Part 2 (Freedom Part 2) premiered on January 17, 2025, exclusively on ZEE5, continuing the gripping narrative directed by Vetrimaaran. A sequel to Viduthalai Part 1, this Tamil-language period political crime thriller, adapted from Jeyamohan’s short story Thunaivan (Companion), delves deeper into the life of Perumal Vaathiyaar (Vijay Sethupathi), a revolutionary fighting for justice. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Soori, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Manju Warrier, the film uncovers Vaathiyaar’s tumultuous backstory, his radical ideology, and the devastating consequences of his fight against oppression. Packed with intense confrontations, emotional depth, and moral dilemmas, Viduthalai Part 2 is a powerful tale of resistance and sacrifice, culminating in an unforgettable climax. Don’t miss this cinematic masterpiece!

Pani – SonyLiv
SonyLIV’s gripping new series Pani premieres on January 16, 2025, blending intense action with emotional depth to explore the fragile balance between progress, power, and personal relationships. Directed by Joju George, in his much-anticipated directorial debut, this action-thriller follows the journey of Giri (Joju George), a local kingpin whose life is upended when two criminally inclined youngsters disrupt the peace of his family and city. As Giri’s quest for vengeance intensifies, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power. Featuring a stellar cast including Sagar Surya, Junaiz V.P., Bobby Kurian, and Abhinay, Pani promises a riveting tale of urban upheaval and personal retribution.

I Want To Talk – Prime Video
Shoojit Sircar’s heartfelt drama I Want to Talk streams on Prime Video starting January 17, 2025, after its theatrical release on November 22, 2024. Starring Abhishek Bachchan as Arjun Sen, a cancer survivor facing life-altering challenges, the film portrays a deeply emotional journey of resilience and healing. As Arjun navigates his battle with multiple surgeries and a grim prognosis, he struggles to mend his relationship with his teenage daughter, Reya, while dealing with societal judgment and personal loss. Aided by his nurse Nancy (Kristin Goodard) and guided by his doctor, Jayant Deb, Arjun defies expectations, finding humor, hope, and strength in the face of adversity. With poignant storytelling and a moving exploration of father-daughter bonds, I Want to Talk is an inspiring tale of love, perseverance, and the triumph of the human spirit. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey.

Power of Paanch- Disney+ Hotstar
Power of Paanch, a supernatural drama, premiered on Disney+ Hotstar on January 17, 2025. Starring Riva Arora and Urvashi Dholakia, this fantasy-filled series follows a group of teenagers who discover they possess elemental powers—wind, fire, and water—after a trip to Dehradun. What begins as a thrilling journey of self-discovery quickly turns into a battle against dark forces, as the friends grapple with the weight of their newfound abilities. As secrets surface and betrayals unfold, they must come together to protect themselves and the world from greater dangers. With a perfect blend of action, fantasy, and emotional depth, Power of Paanch is sure to captivate audiences. Don’t miss it!

17th February 2025; Mumbai: Today we are excited to announce that STAAH has earned the status as Expedia Group’s Elite Connectivity Partner for 2025. This recognition underscores our focus on building and maintaining a high-quality software connection that empowers you to serve guests better and grow your business on Expedia Group’s travel Platform.

There are two status tiers: Elite is the top tier status, followed by Preferred. Only the top 2% of connectivity software companies are qualified for Expedia Group’s Elite status this year, and over 400 global companies are eligible.

Expedia Group offers high visibility across 200 websites and native apps, plus expanded distribution through 90,000 travel agencies and business partners around the world. Leverage your connection with STAAH to distribute rates and availability to Expedia Group, reducing complexity in your daily business operations and attracting new loyal travelers.

National, February 17, 2025: Apollo Hospitals, Asia’s foremost integrated healthcare services provider, today announced a landmark achievement of 25,000 successful organ transplants across its hospital network. This remarkable milestone puts the spotlight on Apollo Hospitals’ unwavering commitment to saving lives and transforming healthcare through innovation, expertise, and compassionate care. The 25,000 transplants are not just a numerical accomplishment but reflect the hope, and resilience of patients and the donor families and the dedication of the Apollo Hospitals transplant team.

Building upon this legacy of excellence, Apollo Hospitals also launched the “Perfect Match” Campaign, a comprehensive initiative to raise awareness about the critical need for organ donors, dispel common myths surrounding organ donation, and inspire individuals to register as potential donors. The campaign has made a beginning in addressing the widening gap between the number of patients awaiting life-saving transplants and the availability of suitable organs.

The “Perfect Match” Campaign included a variety of outreach activities, including community health talks, educational workshops, online resources, and partnerships with patient advocacy groups. Dr. Ravichand Siddachari, Sr Consultant HPB, Liver and Pancreas Transplant at Apollo Hospitals, led an engaging and informative session with residents of the Rainbow Vistas community in Hyderabad. During the session, Dr. Siddachari addressed key questions about transplant eligibility, the organ donation process, and the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and families facing life-threatening illnesses.

“Reaching 25,000 transplants is a commendable achievement, but it also serves as a reminder of the immense need that exists,” said Dr. Ravichand Siddachari. “Every day, patients are added to the transplant waiting list, and sadly, many do not receive the organ they need in time. Through the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have endeavored to empower individuals to make informed decisions about organ donation and to become part of a life-saving movement.”

V. Tejesvi Rao, CEO-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals underlined the importance of public awareness and education, “Apollo Hospitals has always been committed to advancing the field of organ transplantation in India. With the ‘Perfect Match’ Campaign, we have taken a small but significant step forward in our efforts to increase organ donation rates and ensure that more patients have the opportunity to receive the transplants they need to live longer healthier lives.”

Dr. Ravindra Babu, Director Medical Services-Telangana Region, Apollo Hospitals said “Our team is deeply committed to providing world-class care to transplant patients. The ‘Perfect Match’ campaign is another step towards fulfilling our mission to make organ transplantation accessible to all patients who need it. We encourage everyone eligible to register to become an organ donor.”

Apollo Hospitals has been a pioneer in organ transplantation in India, establishing itself as a Center of Excellence for a wide range of transplant procedures. The hospital’s multidisciplinary transplant teams comprise highly skilled surgeons, physicians, nurses, and support staff who are dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Apollo Hospitals offers comprehensive transplant services including heart, lung, liver, kidney, pancreas, cornea, small bowel, and bone marrow transplants. Dedicated transplant units with specialized equipment and highly trained staff provide optimal care for transplant patients. Transplants are performed for both adult and pediatric patients, with specialized care tailored to the unique needs of each age group. Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches, to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times. Advanced immunosuppression protocols prevent organ rejection and ensure long-term graft survival.

State-of-the-art facilities include dedicated transplant centers in Jubilee Hills, Kakinada, and Vizag, with dedicated state-of-the-art laboratories, operation theatres (OTs), and transplant intensive care units (ICUs), ensuring unparalleled diagnostic precision, seamless surgeries, and 24/7 critical care. The OTs are maintained following strict infection control protocols. Apollo’s transplant ICUs are supported by advanced tools such as ventilators, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), multi-parameter monitors, and more.

Apollo Hospitals also has extensive experience in performing living donor transplants, ensuring that patients have access to this life-saving option. It actively participates in national and regional organ-sharing networks, working to maximize the availability of deceased donor organs for transplant. Apollo Hospitals is actively involved in research and innovation in the field of organ transplantation, contributing to advancements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression strategies, and patient management.

The Heart Transplant program offers hope for patients with end-stage heart diseases such as congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and coronary heart disease. For those not immediately eligible for a heart transplant, circulatory support, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), is provided until a donor organ is available.

Apollo Hospitals takes immense pride in being the first hospital chain to pioneer lung transplants in India. The program also conducts combined Heart and Lung Transplantation, typically recommended for those with complex congenital heart defects.

Over 4,600 liver transplants, including 500 pediatric cases from more than 50 countries have been performed at Appollo. Organs can be procured from either living donors (Live Donor Liver Transplantation (LDLT)) or deceased donors (Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation (DDLT)). In LDLT, the team works closely with donors and recipients throughout treatment to ensure the highest standards of care.

The Kidney Transplant Program offers extensive services including swap kidney transplants, ABO-compatible and incompatible renal transplants. The Apollo Cancer Centre’s Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program is known for launching the region’s first Outpatient Bone Marrow Transplant Program, providing significant benefits such as a 50% reduction in costs, shorter hospital stays, and improved patient well-being. The Corneal Transplant program at Apollo Hospitals utilizes cutting-edge technologies like the FEMTO LDV Z8 laser machine.

The 75th Indo-Philippine Cultural and Educational Exchange Summit was a landmark event, celebrating the enduring friendship and collaborative spirit between India and the Philippines. Held on February 15, 2025, at the Gullas College of Medicine Inc., Cebu City, Philippines, the summit brought together distinguished dignitaries, cultural icons and educational leaders from both nations. Under the theme, “GCM Empowering Global Connections: Bridging Education, Health, Culture, and Tourism for a Resilient Future,”

The ceremony was chaired by Mr. VG Santhosam, Chairman of VGP Group of Companies from South India. The event started with the unveiling of a mega statue of Tamil Poet Thiruvalluvar in the Gullas College for Medicine campus, the statue stood as a symbol of Tamil heritage and philosophy, marking a significant cultural milestone in the Philippines. This tribute not only honored an ancient philosopher but also symbolized the integration of Indian culture into the Southeast Asian cultural landscape, reflecting the deep historical ties between India and the Philippines. It resonated with the growing Indian student community in the Philippines, reinforcing a sense of heritage and values. The event was witnessed by the eminent bureaucrats and educational officials of Philippines.

The event commenced with the national anthems of India and the Philippines, Followed by a doxology and a warm welcome from Dr. David K. Pillai, Chief Executive Consultant of Gullas College of Medicine Inc. As the Chief Executive Consultant of the Gullas College of Medicine, as well as a prominent driving force behind the institution’s successes, he unveiled an exciting vision for a futuristic knowledge city that would transform education and innovation in the region.

Direct flight to Philippines from India soon, a boon Indian Ambassador to Philippines H E Harsh Kumar Jain disclosed that direct flights between India and Philippines will become a reality soon. He was addressing at the glittering event of 75th India-Philippines Friendship Celebration organised at Gullas College of Medicine, Mandaue city in Cebu while unveiling of Saint Thiruvalluvar’s statue when he pointed out that the bilateral trade between the two nations has surpassed 3.5 mn mark which only proves to show the diplomatic relations and friendship between India and Philippines.

The potential for collaboration between the two nations is boundless, he said, adding that the people to people contacts will give a boost to tourism besides trade and commerce between the two nations. “Our friendship is truly an enduring one,” he said in a touch of pride that this is poised to grow for a bright future.

Heaping praise on Dr David K. Pillai, the CEO of Gullas College of Medicine, Harsh Kumar Jain said that he is a pioneer in establishing close cooperation with the Philippines in the field of medical education in the Philippines and added that the scholarship program is benefiting the aspiring medical students from India and within the country.

Eulogising the keen interest and commitment of Dr Pillai, he said that Pillai played a proactive role in ensuring Gullas College of Medicine a prominent institution in the field of medical education and the Pillai Medical scholarship program making the dreams of aspiring medical students come true. By installing the Thiruvalluvar statue, Harsh Kumar Jain felicitated Pillai for contribution in ensuring cultural ties between the two nations.

It may be noted that the Indian Ambassador to the Philippines declared open a new office of Wipro a few months ago which has opened up new openings for Indians and those within the nation offering bright prospects. Further, he congratulated Datamatics on the occasion of opening a new office of Datamatics in Cebu on December 10, 2024, which he stated marked another significant milestone in the company’s journey in the Philippines.

The summit featured vibrant cultural performances, symbolizing the harmonious blend of Indian and Filipino traditions. Team Sakhyam showcased traditional Indian dance performances, celebrating the rich artistic heritage of India and Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe presented captivating Filipino cultural displays, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the Philippines. These performances celebrated the shared cultural legacy of both nations and fostered greater appreciation and unity.

Udaipur,17th February 2025-Urban Square Mall, Rajasthan’s largest mall, is set to redefine the shopping experience with its exclusive Valentine’s campaign, “Be Our Valentine,” running from February 14 to February 28, 2025. This unique initiative brings together all retailers under one roof to offer an array of exciting freebies and special surprises for shoppers, making this Valentine’s season truly memorable.

Speaking on the occasion, Uddhav Poddar, CMD, Bhumika Group, said:
“At Urban Square Mall, we are committed to enhancing customer experiences and making shopping more exciting. Over time, we have organized several engaging campaigns that bring together our retailers and shoppers, creating a dynamic and interactive shopping environment. ‘Be Our Valentine’ is another step in this direction – a celebration of love, joy, and retail therapy, where every shopper will be treated to something special. We are thrilled to have all our retailers on board for this one-of-a-kind campaign, and we look forward to hosting many more such engaging initiatives in the future.”

Siddharth Katyal, CEO, of Bhumika Group, added:
“This initiative reflects our strong collaboration with retail partners and our dedication to providing unparalleled shopping experiences. With exclusive offers and exciting freebies, ‘Be Our Valentine’ is set to create a festive atmosphere that shoppers will truly enjoy.”

Shoppers can look forward to a series of special giveaways, discounts, and exclusive brand offerings throughout the campaign period. Stay tuned for more details on how you can be a part of this exciting Valentine’s celebration!

Mumbai, Feb 17, 2025: The youths and job seekers should avoid illegal migration routes, commonly referred as “donkey routes” for seeking opportunities in foreign countries and instead leverage NSDC International’s skilling initiatives for ethical migration, said, NSDC CEO and NSDC International MD Shri Ved Mani Tiwari.

In a message to the youths of India, Shri Tiwari emphasised on the process of ethical migration, and shared with media personnel here, how NSDC International with support of the central government has been developing pathways in collaboration with international governments in streamlining the migration process, as global market has lots of opportunities for skilled Indian youths.

“The world values skilled professionals, and with the right training, certifications, and ethical migration, the youths of India can build sustainable and long-term careers abroad. Taking illegal migration route is not only dangerous but also puts lives at risk. The youths can enrol themselves in skilling programs of NSDC International, which offer skilling programs and courses that are in demand in the global market,” Shri Tiwari said.

He said skill assessment centres have been set up for 100 trades across the country. “So effectively, anybody who believes that the person in the job is ready to go to Israel or Japan or Germany, they can simply present themselves to these assessment centres… we can provide a list of these assessment centres where their skills will be assessed and certified, and this is that they can apply for work visa also,” Shri Tiwari said.

He highlighted that NSDC International has been actively collaborating with international governments to create structured job opportunities for Indian youth. Recognizing India’s skilled workforce, several countries have approached NSDC International with employment opportunities. Israel has asked for 5,000 healthcare workers, an indication of demand for Indiana abroad. On similar lines, Germany and Japan continue to seek trained healthcare professionals.

To increase global employability, NSDC International is setting up global language labs offering training in Russian, Italian, Korean, and French languages. The initiative aims to break language barriers and increase the chances of Indian candidates, securing high-paying jobs overseas.

Shri Tiwari also said that NSDC is going to open 10 new international academies to empower youth in foreign languages and soft skills.

Since its inception in October 2021, NSDC International has created 88,924 overseas job opportunities across 22 countries. Through strategic collaborations with international governments and organizations, over 64,000 skilled Indian candidates have been successfully placed in countries, including in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

It has facilitated training and job placements across 19 industries, focusing on key sectors such as construction, mechanical, electrical & plumbing (MEP), and facility management.

“Skill yourself, choose the right path, and embrace global opportunities through ethical means. The future belongs to those who are prepared—let’s work together to shape a brighter tomorrow,” he concluded.

He said Isreal has asked for 20,000 skilled construction workers last year from India, besides the demand from the nation for 5,000 care workers.

He, further explained, about the enormous opportunities coming in the caregiving sector from across the globe, and NSDC International is in touch with agencies of foreign governments to inculcate right skills among the youths of our country to make them eligible for employment. “We believe that close to a lakh care-workers will start getting deployed (annually) in various parts of the world in about two years,” the NSDC CEO shared.

Describing it as an outcome of India’s soft diplomacy, he said, “Our care workers will be providing care and support to aging populations across the world.”

Shri Tiwari assured that NSDC International is working tirelessly to expand global employment avenues, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for India’s skilled workforce.

Hyderabad, February 17, 2025: The Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI), Hyderabad Chapter successfully hosted the first day of a two-day National Conference on the theme “Mining the Marvels: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.” The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and experts to deliberate on the future of the mining sector and its role in India’s journey towards self-reliance.

 The inaugural session was graced by Shri Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman-Cum-Managing Director (Additional Charge), NMDC Ltd., as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests included Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I, MEAI & Vice President, Tata Steel; Shri Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD (Additional Charge) & Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd.; Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL; G Dhananjaya Reddy, Vice President II, MEAI and Shri Joydeep Dasgupta, Director (Production), NMDC Ltd. The event was presided over by Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter.

 Delivering the keynote address on the theme of the seminar, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge), NMDC, said, “The role of mining in national development is crucial. He spoke about how the mining industry can bring social and economic impact in the communities. He emphasized the challenges of attracting young talent due to the remote nature of mining operations and urged MEAI to encourage students and professionals to consider careers in mining. Shri Amitava Mukherjee also highlighted NMDC’s commitment to Responsible Mining and spreading smiles through its community initiatives, setting industry standards as a leader in sustainable mining practices. He also resonated that it would be imperative to have a long term perspective to gain significant goals in the mining industry as it takes more than a decade, globally, to set up and generate thought-provoking revenues. Shri Mukherjee addressed policy challenges including India’s 100th ranking on the Fraser Index and the need for smoother policies to attract foreign direct investment. He stressed the importance of supporting local mining corporations to lower administrative costs and enhance resource utilization. Concluding his speech, he praised GoI’s ongoing efforts to improve exploration in critical minerals and technological advancements in mining, emphasizing the need for sustainability and innovation in the industry.”

 Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter, in his inaugural address, set the tone for the conference by outlining the progress made in India’s mining sector over the past decade. He provided insights into the current status of mining block allocations and how expedited processes are boosting productivity. He highlighted the role of AI-driven database management in improving exploration efficiency and discussed government initiatives aimed at fostering startups and private sector participation. Shri Vinay Kumar, also emphasized the employment potential of the mining industry, stating that it currently engages around 1.3 million professionals and has the potential to generate an additional 1.5 million jobs by 2047. He reaffirmed NMDC’s commitment to responsible mining and its strategic partnerships aimed at achieving 100 MTPA as part of the vision for Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.

Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL emphasized the urgent need to accelerate mineral exploration in India, citing how the country lags behind global mining leaders. He advocated for AI-driven data analysis and machine learning to improve exploration planning and highlighted the necessity of a single-window approval system to streamline administrative processes.

 Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I , MEAI & & Vice President, Tata Steel commended NMDC for instituting the NMDC CMD Excellence Award and spoke on the need for deep-sea exploration and self-reliance in critical minerals. He stressed the importance of policies that enhance domestic mining while encouraging low-carbon mining and increased scrap utilization for sustainability.

 The conference also featured technical sessions with expert presentations from academia and industry, focusing on key advancements in mining technologies, policy frameworks, and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, an exhibition featuring leading mining and steel companies, including NMDC, AN/MS, JSW, and NMDC Steel was organized alongside the conference.

 The MEAI Hyderabad Chapter also recognized the contributions of stalwarts in the mining sector on the first day of the event by honoring Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), Coal India Limited, Kolkata and Former CMD, Central Coalfields Limited, Ranchi, Shri V. Laxminarayana, Dy. Director General, DGMS, Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD(Additional Charge) and Director Technical, NMDC, Shri B. Surender Mohan, Former CMD, NLC India Limited, Er. K J Amarnath, Former CGM, SCCL and Shri M. Fasihuddin, Resident Director, Tata Steel Mines, for their invaluable service to the industry.

 The first day concluded with insightful discussions on the road ahead for India’s mining sector, reinforcing the industry’s role in national progress. The conference will continue on February 15 with further deliberations on critical aspects of mining innovation, policy, and sustainability.