Archives 2025

Hyderabad,  Nov 21: Elior India, a leading institutional and workplace dining company, announced plans to double its investments in Hyderabad over the next 24 months, reinforcing its long-term commitment to one of India’s most dynamic growth hubs. The expansion underscores Hyderabad’s rapidly rising prominence as a centre for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and high-quality workplace experience ecosystems.

Since commencing operations in mid-2024, Elior India has recorded an impressive 80% CAGR over the last 14 months, fuelled by strong client partnerships and growing demand for fresh, high-quality meals across diverse industry segments. The company has expanded its Hyderabad portfolio to over 25 clients, reflecting the city’s increasing appetite for premium, chef-led dining solutions. Its state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen now serves thousands of meals daily to some of Hyderabad’s most prominent GCCs, blending global culinary standards with authentic local flavours.

“Hyderabad continues to be at the heart of our expansion journey,” said Vijay Krishnan Vazhvelil, Chief Commercial Officer, Elior India. “We’ve seen tremendous growth here, and we plan to scale further doubling investments, expanding our team, and strengthening partnerships with clients who value quality, consistency, and care in workplace dining.”

Elior’s success in Hyderabad mirrors the surge in India’s institutional dining sector, where workplace food experiences are increasingly viewed as a crucial driver of employee well-being, culture, and retention. Reflecting this vision, Elior recently partnered with Millet Marvels, a Hyderabad-based food enterprise championing millet-based nutrition. The collaboration reinforces Elior’s commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and promoting healthier dining choices.

Over the past year, Elior has also expanded across multiple cities, adding new pan-India clients several of whom now operate in Hyderabad as well highlighting strong market trust in its chef-led culinary model and operational excellence.

“Our focus is on deepening relationships with our clients in Hyderabad and continuing to deliver world-class culinary experiences that balance taste, technology, and thoughtful dining,” Vijay added.

With new partnerships and investments in the pipeline, Elior India stands firmly positioned as one of the fastest-growing players in the institutional dining industry, poised for accelerated growth in Hyderabad and beyond.

ENGIE, a global leader in low-carbon energy and services, has achieved a significant milestone in its India journey with the successful award of 280 MW / 2-hour battery storage capacity in the Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GUVNL) auction. Part of the national 2 GW / 4 GWh tender, this represents one of India’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) allocations to date and marks ENGIE’s formal entry into utility-scale storage in the country. With this win, ENGIE’s India portfolio expands to approximately 2.75 GW, further strengthening its position as a long-term partner in advancing India’s 500 GW clean energy vision and enabling firm, future-ready renewable power.

This development comes at a defining moment for India’s renewable energy landscape. As solar and wind installations grow at record pace, the need for large-scale storage solutions has become critical to deliver clean, reliable power, minimise curtailment, and enhance grid stability. ENGIE’s GUVNL BESS project will help manage peak loads, facilitate seamless 24/7 renewable integration, and support India’s ongoing grid modernisation efforts.

Globally, ENGIE has set an ambitious target of achieving 95 GW of renewable and storage installed capacity by 2030. With 55 GW already in operation and 6 GW under construction, the Group brings deep technological expertise and proven global experience to India’s rapidly evolving storage sector. The GUVNL award leverages this global strength and positions ENGIE to deliver a new generation of dependable, flexible, and intelligent clean energy solutions for the country.

Amit Jain, CEO & Country Manager, ENGIE India, and Managing Director Renewables & Batteries (India & South-East Asia), said:

“India’s renewable story is entering a decisive phase, where scale must be matched with firmness, flexibility and digital intelligence. Storage is the bridge that will take us there. This award strengthens ENGIE’s mission to build the next generation of hybrid and storage-backed infrastructure that can support peak demand, integrate more renewables, and deliver dependable clean power to millions. Backed by ENGIE’s global storage expertise, we are committed to shaping an energy system that is resilient, efficient, and ready for the future India is building.”

The win reaffirms ENGIE’s long-term commitment to India’s clean energy roadmap. With scalable, technology-driven renewable and storage solutions, ENGIE continues to play a pivotal role in building a resilient, low-carbon energy ecosystem aligned with India’s 2030 and 2047 climate goals.

The IndianOil WNC Navy Half Marathon has emerged as one of Mumbai’s most prestigious sporting events, blending the spirit of endurance with a celebration of national pride. Organized by the Western Naval Command as part of the Navy Day celebrations, the event offers civilians a unique opportunity to run alongside the men and women in white who safeguard India’s maritime frontiers.

The 2025 edition shall be flagged off by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, FOC-in-C, Western Naval Command, and Mr. Arvinder Singh Sahney, Chairman, IndianOil. Their joint presence underscores the robust synergy between India’s maritime guardians and its energy backbone.

In its inaugural 2016 edition, the WNC Navy Half Marathon saw 4,560 registrations. The event found the perfect catalyst for growth when IndianOil became the ‘Title Sponsor’ in 2018. Since then, total registrations have gone up exponentially year after year. The momentum is now unstoppable, with more than 20,000 runners expected this year. This partnership has amplified the event’s scale and has enhanced the runner experience, helping the race earn a World Athletics Road Race Label.

One of the biggest draws is its breathtaking route, cited by runners as one of the most scenic in the country. The race flags off from the heritage precinct of Ballard Estate, surrounding runners with the colonial charm of Old Bombay. As participants make their way past CSMT and Oval Maidan, they are greeted by the majestic High Court and Rajabai Tower. The crown jewel of the course is the Marine Drive stretch. As runners hit the “Queen’s Necklace,” they are treated to the vast Arabian Sea on one side and Mumbai’s iconic Art Deco skyline on the other. For the 21K runners, the route extends to the Worli Sea Face, providing a flat, fast, and breezy course perfect for achieving a personal best.

IndianOil widely recognised as the “Energy of India” and as a Maharatna company, plays a pivotal role in fuelling the nation’s growth, with a presence that touches every corner of the country. By powering events like the WNC Navy Half Marathon, IndianOil continues to champion the cause of a healthier, fitter, and more vibrant India.

Brazil, Nov 21: At COP30, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), in collaboration with the International Energy Agency (IEA) and supported by Italy’s Ministry for the Environment and Energy, announced Phase II of the Digital Demand-Driven Electricity Networks (3DEN) Initiative, advancing 14 new digitalization projects across Africa and Brazil.

Phase II: Expanding Digitalization Across Energy & Agri-Food Systems

Building on the success of Phase I, the new phase broadens 3DEN’s scope beyond the power sector to include the agri-food system, where digital tools can significantly cut energy use, improve water efficiency, and enhance climate resilience.

Although renewables are now the world’s cheapest source of electricity, many nations struggle to use them effectively due to rigid grids, outdated infrastructure, and the absence of smart digital tools.

The 3DEN Initiative helps countries develop smarter, more resilient, low-carbon energy and agri-food systems, enabling higher renewable integration while improving efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Phase II aims to fast-track the digital innovation needed to modernize these systems and unleash the full potential of clean power.

Martin Krause, Director of UNEP’s Climate Change Division, noted:

“We have the renewable resources and the technologies to decarbonize fast, but without modern grids, these solutions cannot deliver their full value. 3DEN Phase II fills this critical gap by helping countries strengthen the digital backbone of their power systems.”

Supported by €23 million from Italy, Phase II builds on the strong foundation of Phase I.
Italy highlighted its pride in conceiving and funding 3DEN, emphasizing how digital technologies — from smart meters to distributed renewables — strengthen resilience, competitiveness, and equality.

Phase I: A Proven Model for Digital Energy Transformation

Launched in 2021, Phase I deployed innovative digital tools in Brazil, Colombia, India, and Morocco, including forecasting systems, flexibility solutions, improved regulatory frameworks, and better integration of distributed generation.

Key Results from Phase I:

• Brazil: Homes equipped with solar, batteries, and digital monitoring tools saw energy use drop by 456 kWh annually, bills cut by 60–70%, and outages reduced by 60%.

• India (New Delhi): A digital twin of four grid areas helped identify weak points, cut losses, avoid costly upgrades, and save US$ 3,600 per transformer annually.

• Phase I reached 340,000 people, added 26 MW of clean power, mobilized US$ 9.2 million, and reduced over 5,000 tonnes of CO₂.

These outcomes demonstrated how smart digital investments accelerate clean energy adoption, strengthen resilience, and support climate and development goals.

Phase II Project Selection

The 14 projects in Phase II were chosen through an open call for proposals held from January to May 2025, which received 93 applications from eight countries. The final projects — representing a combined investment of US$ 28.6 million — span both agri-food and urban energy systems, reflecting 3DEN’s expanded mission to digitalize sectors critical for climate resilience and sustainable development.

Mumbai, Nov 21ST : After its launch in October this year, Ananta Quest, a first-of-its-kind platform enabling individuals aged 50 to 65 to chart their next chapter with clarity, confidence and vitality is set to host its first on-ground experiential event on December 13, 2025, at Taj Lands End, Mumbai.

With India’s 50+ population expanding rapidly, and set to reach nearly 300 million by 2050 — this demographic is becoming one of the country’s most influential and future-ready groups. India’s Primers today are healthier, wealthier and set to live longer than any generation before them, yet many remain uncertain about what their next chapter should look like. Ananta Quest aims to create a space where Primers can reflect, connect, and take meaningful action towards shaping that chapter with intention.

Based on the pillars of health (prana), wealth (artha), and community (ekatra), the event will feature actor, motivational speaker, and podcaster Ashish Vidyarthi as the opening keynote, with human performance coach and author Shayamal Vallabhjee delivering the concluding keynote, alongside an inspiring line-up of thought leaders, wellness professionals, and change catalysts.

Participants can expect a day designed to move them from reflection to action with sessions focused on identifying what truly matters next, and reshaping health and wealth for life beyond 50.

Key sessions include:

• • Discover Your Purpose — Moderated by Deepa Soman (MD-Lumiere Business Solutions Pvt. Ltd.), with Manisha Lath Gupta (Sustainability Champion and Founder, Aanandaa Permaculture Project), Dr. Anil Bradoo, and Dr. Renuka Bradoo (Co-Founders, The Tuning Folks)
  • Questions About Wealth — by Girish Ajgaonkar, COO, Happyness Factory
  • Ensuring Legacy and Peace of Mind — by Anuradha Shah (Pioneer in Estate and Succession Planning) and Nisha Khurana (Advisor on Legal Strategy for Estate and Succession Planning)
  • Live Well — Physical — by Dr. Bhavin Jankharia, Consultant Radiologist
  • Live Well — The Mental Challenge — by Dr. Aditya Nair, Consulting Psychiatrist

• Where to Live — A panel discussion featuring Adarsh Narhari, Dr. Prashant Mangeshikar, and Ashok Sharma

• Risk and Technology — by Akancha Srivastava, Cyber Safety Leader, Brand Strategist, and Founder of the Akancha Srivastava Foundation.
• Committing to Action — by Shayamal Vallabhjee, Human Performance Architect and Author, who has coached Olympic athletes and global leaders.

Speaking about the upcoming event, Sanjay Mehta, Founder of Ananta Quest, said, “At Ananta Quest, we believe India’s Primers stand at the start of an exciting new phase – one shaped by experience, curiosity, and possibility. This event creates a space for them to reflect deeply, find direction, and commit to what they want next.”

Adding to that, Ashish Vidyarthi, Actor, said, “Life after 50 is not about slowing down — it’s about finding new rhythms. I have always believed that purpose doesn’t retire with age; it evolves. What Ananta Quest is doing is extraordinary, it’s giving people the clarity, tools, and community to rediscover who they are and what they can do next.” 

With immersive sessions, storytelling, and guided reflections, the event promises to be a celebration of curiosity, courage, and connection, signalling a key moment in Ananta Quest’s movement to shift how India perceives life beyond 50, as a stage of possibility and growth.

Chandigarh, Nov 21:- Mumbai Cobras clinched a landmark 92 win over the Karachi Monarchs, securing the first season series victory in Baseball United history at Baseball United Ballpark in Dubai. The night was defined by the outstanding performance of three India-born pitchers, Akshay More, Saurabh Gaikwad and Tushar Lalwani marking a breakthrough moment for Indian participation in professional baseball.

India’s first-ever professional starting pitcher, Akshay More, set the tone with a composed debut, delivering three innings of high-quality baseball. He conceded just one hit and struck out three, giving Mumbai an early edge. Saurabh Gaikwad followed with an electric 0.2-inning spell, claiming both outs with sharp strikeouts. Mumbai-born Tushar Lalwani then closed out the final two innings, allowing only one hit and adding a strikeout, sealing a memorable win for the Cobras.

Baseball United Season One, the region’s newest and fastest-growing professional league, is streamed digitally on the Zee 5 app and telecasted live on three of ‘Z’s leading linear channels- Zee Café SD, &Flix SD, and &Pictures HD. Broadcast is available in English, expanding accessibility for fans across India’s diverse regions. Baseball United’s inaugural season will include the league’s four founding franchises – Arabia Wolves, Mid East Falcons, Karachi Monarchs, and the Mumbai Cobras.

Speaking on the inaugural season; Ms. Laxmi Shetty, Head-Advertisement Revenue, Broadcast and Digital, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.“At ‘Z’, we are committed to bringing global sporting experiences to Indian audiences and establishing India as a global platform for international sports. Baseball United is more than a broadcast partnership; it’s an opportunity to introduce India to a new sporting journey. Watching three Indian-born pitchers’ script a historic series win for the Cobras is something truly special. We want Indian fans to see these moments as they happen, to connect with new heroes, and to feel part of a sport that’s ready to grow in a big way. At ‘Z’, we are delighted to be associated with Baseball United, bringing this journey into millions of homes through our linear TV channels and Zee 5 app.”

India is a cornerstone of Baseball United’s long-term vision, partnering with ‘Z’, with combined linear and digital platforms reach over 800 million viewers in India. The collaboration includes coverage of all 21 of Baseball United’s Season One games this November and December, including several primetime matches featuring the Mumbai Cobras, India’s first professional baseball franchise.

The partnership includes a full allotment of supplementary content on Zee 5 app, including player features, ballpark highlights, Baseball 101 clips, behind-the-scenes segments, and an original documentary on the building of the league. ‘Z’ will support the partnership with promotion across its linear and OTT network, with teasers, ad spots, Astons, and additional branded content. Both Baseball United and ‘Z’ will also collaborate on a full slate of social media posts and campaigns.

All games will be broadcast live and include world-class players, music, entertainment, and fan experiences. The season will culminate with the United Series Championship, set for December 12th, 13th, and 14th.

Nov 21: The University of Worcester is now accepting final applications for its January 2026 postgraduate intake, offering a range of industry-aligned programmes that prepare students for global careers. The available courses include MBA, MSc International Business Management, MSc Project Management, MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management, MSc Human Resource Management, and MA Education, each designed with a 12-month professional placement. By combining academic excellence with real-world experience, these programmes help students build the skills, confidence, and international exposure needed to succeed in a competitive job market.

To support aspiring Indian students, the University of Worcester is offering merit-based scholarships of up to £3,000, along with a £500 early payment discount for those who pay their fees in full by 31 January 2026. Applications for the January 2026 intake close at the end of November 2025, with a deposit deadline of 1 December 2025. The University of Worcester’s commitment to academic excellence and student success has been reinforced by its recent recognition as a finalist for the prestigious University of the Year 2025 award by Times Higher Education. This nomination acknowledges the University’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of innovation, employability, and student support.

In line with the University’s commitment to employability, the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024 highlights that 96% of University of Worcester Graduates secure jobs or progress onto further study within 15 months of completing their degree. This demonstrates the University’s strong emphasis on practical learning and industry exposure, preparing students to transition smoothly from classroom to career.

“At Worcester, our goal is to prepare graduates who can think critically and work globally,” said Nick Slade, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and External Affairs) at the University of Worcester. “Indian students are an essential part of that vision. Their presence enriches our academic community and strengthens the long-standing educational partnership between India and the UK. Through a balance of academic rigour and hands-on experience, we aim to help students build meaningful and successful global careers.”

Worcester’s postgraduate programmes are designed around employability, combining academic learning with work placements, internships, and industry-led projects that help students build practical skills and professional networks. Dedicated career support, including CV workshops, interview preparation, and networking sessions, ensures that students are confident and career-ready when they graduate.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Nov 20: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, the largest operator of integrated and purpose-built economic zones in the region, and part of AD Ports Group today announced that it has signed a sponsorship agreement with the most exciting racing on water, SailGP.

The sponsorship comes as SailGP returns to the capital from November 29-30, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global host city for leading international sporting events. The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix 2025 Season Grand Final, presented by Abu Dhabi Sports Council will take place at AD Ports Group’s Free Port, Mina Zayed venue and ensure smooth access to on land and on water areas, courtesy of the Group’s Ports cluster. 

Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities and Free Zones, AD Ports Group, said: “This agreement reflects our commitment to hosting world class events that add value to Abu Dhabi and showcase the strength of our infrastructure. SailGP is a global competition built on precision, speed and teamwork, which aligns well with our own values. By sponsoring the Abu Dhabi round, we are demonstrating AD Ports Group’s readiness to support major international operations and to contribute to the growth of Abu Dhabi as a leading destination for global sport and industry.”

Julien di Biase, Chief Operating Officer at SailGP, said: “This is another significant milestone as we count down to our winner-takes-all Grand Final in Abu Dhabi. With thanks to our partners, we cannot wait to get racing and deliver another successful event in the UAE and find out who is our 2025 championship winner!”

Partnering with SailGP, KEZAD Group strengthens the position of the Free Port and Mina Zayed waterfront as a multi-use space capable of hosting large international events alongside its core trade and maritime functions.

The collaboration complements AD Ports Group’s wider efforts to bring global events to Abu Dhabi and promote the emirate’s role as a centre for business, tourism and cultural exchange.

Noida,  Nov 20:-Medanta Hospital, Noida has successfully treated a 65-year-old patient from Turkmenistan suffering from debilitating right-hand tremors through Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery, offering him a renewed sense of independence and quality of life.

The patient, who had battled severe tremors for years, struggled with essential daily activities such as eating, writing, and dressing. Despite medical therapy, the tremors progressed to the point where he became dependent on his family for even basic tasks.

After a detailed multidisciplinary evaluation by the Departments of Neurosurgery and Neurology, the patient was recommended DBS an advanced, FDA-approved surgical therapy for movement disorders.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Yashpal Bundela, Director Neurosurgery; Dr. Anil Dhar, Associate Director, Neurosurgery, and Dr. Namita Kaul, Director Neurology, using state-of-the-art stereotactic navigation and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring to precisely implant electrodes in the movement-regulating areas of the brain.

Within days of the procedure, the patient showed a dramatic reduction in tremors, regained fine motor control, and was able to perform daily tasks with minimal support — a significant milestone after years of struggle.

“DBS is more than a procedure  it is a transformation for patients whose lives are restricted by movement disorders. Seeing such outcomes, especially in international patients who travel with hope, reinforces our commitment to precision care,” said Dr. Yashpal Bundela, Director Neurosurgery

The patient is currently undergoing post-surgical DBS programming sessions and rehabilitation, showing sustained improvement in movement and confidence.