All posts by K S Krishna

New Delhi, 23rd December 2024: IIT Delhi organized its 11th Alumni Day on December 22, 2024, at the Lecture Hall Complex (LHC), under the theme “Engage, Enrich, Empower: Celebration of an Emotion.” This momentous occasion brought together alumni, students, and other dignitaries to celebrate the spirit of camaraderie and innovation that defines the IITD community.

The day commenced with Registration and Hi-Tea, followed by opening remarks by Dr. Kamalika Banerjee, Convener of Alumni Day 2024. Mr. Maneesh Jaiswal, President of the IITD Alumni Association (IITDAA), delivered a warm Welcome Address, setting a celebratory tone. Reflecting on IIT Delhi’s achievements and aspirations, Prof. Nilanjan Senroy, Dean of Alumni Relations, said, “This event is a testament to the lifelong bond between our alumni and their alma mater. Together, we are not only reminiscing but also building a bright future for the institute and society at large.”

The Chief Guest, Mr. Dharmendra (IAS), Chief Secretary of the Delhi Government, addressed the gathering, emphasizing, “IIT Delhi’s alumni are a shining example of how education can create leaders who drive change at every level of society. Their contributions resonate globally, and events like these foster the energy and ideas needed for nation-building.”

In his inspiring Keynote Address, Mr. Sumant Sinha, CEO & Chairman of ReNew, observed: “The future of sustainable development and energy innovation lies in the hands of institutions like IIT Delhi and its alumni. This gathering shows the power of collective intellect and collaboration.

Guest of Honor, Mr. Jyoti Bansal, an internationally renowned entrepreneur said, “Innovation flourishes in communities where diversity and out-of-box thinking are celebrated. IIT Delhi and its alumni embody that spirit, pushing boundaries and building solutions that matter.”

Thematic sessions were one of the highlights of the day. The session “Being the Change: Change-makers Building Bharat” featured luminaries such as Padmashri Prof. Anil Gupta, who commented, “The true essence of change-making lies in grassroots innovation and empathy for the underprivileged.” The other panellists were Mr. Rajesh Aggarwal (IAS), who said, “It’s inspiring to see IIT alumni not just excelling in their fields but also contributing to societal transformation in profound ways.”

The session “Earth 2.0: Sustainability Innovators” featured some thought leaders like Mr. Alok Aggarwal and Dr. Anjan Ray, who shared their insights on sustainability challenges and innovative solutions. Mr. Aggarwal observed, “Sustainability is no longer a choice; it’s an imperative. IIT Delhi has a pivotal role in nurturing eco-conscious innovators.”

A special session, “Parallel Universe: Celebrating Mavericks and Unconventionals,” felicitated doyens of their streams like the worldwide-renowned bridge player, Mr. Rajeswar Tewari: “Unconventional paths lead to extraordinary destinations and events like these encourage such journeys.”

The Startup Pitch Tank was another standout segment wherein budding entrepreneurs presented innovative ideas to a panel of industry leaders, including Mr. Amit Jain, Founder of CarDekho, who said, “Entrepreneurship thrives in ecosystems that encourage bold ideas. IIT Delhi continues to foster such ecosystems.”

The program concluded with a grand cultural extravaganza featuring Shaan, whose soulful performance at the Open Air Theatre (OAT) enthralled the audience. A networking dinner gave alumni and guests a chance to reconnect reminisce and strengthen bonds within the IIT Delhi community.

The success of the event was facilitated by the sponsors, Central Park, Spinny, Realme, Eightfold.ai, Dyna Aircon, IFFCO, Risk Berg, and Canara Bank. The organizing team is also thanked, as it worked tirelessly to make this day a true celebration of emotion, connection, and inspiration.

Summing up the spirit of the day, IITDAA President, Mr. Maneesh Jaiswal, said “Alumni Day is more than an event; it’s a celebration of our collective identity. It strengthens the bond between our past, present, and future, creating a legacy of impact and inspiration.

Over 60,000 alumni worldwide, IITDAA continues to bridge the gap between the alumni and the institute. Relationships fostered by this body contribute to nation-building and societal transformation. Alumni Day will remain a cherished occasion for going back into nostalgic memories, sharing success stories, and inspiring the younger generation to dream big and take bold strides toward a brighter future.

Mumbai, December 23, 2024: The IPRS Stage made a historic debut at the Serendipity Arts Festival 2024 in Panaji, Goa, marking a groundbreaking collaboration between one of the nation’s foremost art festivals and IPRS, the sole representative body of authors and composers of music in India. This partnership reflects a shared mission to discover, promote, and celebrate the hidden music and talent of our nation. From December 15 to 22, the event celebrated India’s rich musical diversity by bringing traditional, folk, and undiscovered talent to the forefront, connecting artists with audiences and industry insiders on an unprecedented platform.

From the enchanting Mythical Melodies by Dr. Ulka Mayur to the mesmerizing Discovering Hidden Melodies of India by Folks Wagon and the spellbinding Jaadoo Bastar by Daira, the performances celebrated India’s rich musical heritage while shining a spotlight on the exceptional talent that defines our nation. These acts not only bridged the gap between traditional and contemporary music but also underscored the critical role of folk and regional music in keeping India’s cultural identity alive. By blending age-old traditions with contemporary expressions, they highlighted the enduring relevance of these art forms and emphasized the need to nurture and sustain them for future generations.

On December 19, the panel discussion, “Navigating Intellectual Property Rights in the Music Industry,” featured industry experts Rakesh Nigam, CEO of IPRS, Atul Churamani, MD Turnkey Music and Publishing Pvt. Ltd., Mayur Puri, leading lyricist, author, director, actor and IPRS Board Member, and Rafael Pereira, Managing Partner Tinnuts, Executive Trustee – India Music Exchange. The session provided valuable insights into copyright, royalties, and essential best practices, emphasizing the critical need to protect intellectual property rights in today’s rapidly evolving music landscape. It underscored the evolution of the Indian music industry and highlighted the robust framework of the country’s copyright law, designed to safeguard the interests of creators and rights holders. The discussion further stressed the importance of fair enforcement to promote creativity, ensure equitable remuneration for all stakeholders, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for music.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Mayur Puri, songwriter, actor, and IPRS Board Member, shared, “The IPRS Stage is more than a platform for performances; it’s a celebration of legacy. By uniting diverse musical genres, IPRS highlights the richness of our nation’s cultural heritage and musical diversity. It’s truly inspiring to witness artists, including those from the remotest corners of the country, gaining well-deserved recognition and appreciation. This initiative plays a vital role in ensuring our cultural roots thrive in contemporary times, while also introducing audiences to a treasure trove of music that fosters pride and deepens appreciation for our artistic heritage.”

Commenting on the partnership with IPRS, Smriti Rajgarhia, Director, Serendipity Arts said, “It’s been a great pleasure to associate with IPRS. We started the festival to bring together partners from the cultural industries that contribute to the context in which practice is created and furthered. Our panels with IPRS, which were streamed live online, are now an archive of this partnership. The artists that performed on the IPRS stage were unique and created magic that we will remember fondly as one of the highlights of Serendipity Arts Festival 2024. From Ulka Mayur’s Mythical Melodies, to Madhur Padwal and Daira’s Jaadoo Bastar, each of these performances highlighted the incredible talent and rich tapestry of India’s musical landscape.”

Madhur Padwal of Project Folks Wagon expressed, “We, the artists of Project Folks-Wagon are excited and honoured to be a part of the inaugural episode of the IPRS stage at the Serendipity Arts Festival 2024. It’s an amazing opportunity to contribute to such a vibrant and creative event. We have always believed that folk and traditional music holds immense healing, energetic and entertaining power. Reviving the folk and traditional music of our country is not only important but essential in recent times. It is our sincere effort to contribute to its sustainability in the long run. A special mention to IPRS for taking up this initiative in collaboration with the Serendipity Arts Festival, providing folk and traditional artists with a valuable opportunity to share their art with a wider audience and contribute to reviving the fading Indian folk music.”

Dr. Ulka Mayur, who led Mythical Melodies, added, “The IPRS stage is a remarkable initiative that brings into focus regional artists and India’s rich musical traditions. By bringing these voices to the forefront, it safeguards our cultural heritage while giving it the recognition it deserves on a larger stage. This effort is not just about celebrating music; it’s about preserving the soul of India’s diversity and ensuring it thrives for generations. IPRS is truly leading the way in honouring and reviving the roots of our nation’s creative legacy.”

Savi Shrivastav of Daira’s Jaadoo Bastar highlighted the significance of this opportunity, “The IPRS programming for festivals is really instrumental in providing a voice and a platform to unique and unexplored artists. We are elated by the support provided by IPRS and the fact that they identified the novelty in the special collaboration with Jaadoo Bastar. Daira’s Jaadoo Bastar is a folk fusion IP between Mumbai’s Art-Rock band Daira and the folk musicians of Bastar in Chhattisgarh. It is a celebration of different tribal tunes fused with Hindi lyrics and new age songwriting. The concert showcases an aroma of the rich culture in the state of Chhattisgarh and also demonstrates that music has absolutely no boundaries (Daira). Thanks to IPRS, the concert will be performed for the first time outside the state of Chhattisgarh.”

With the overwhelming response received, the IPRS Stage has solidified its position as a transformative platform for nurturing and showcasing India’s unparalleled musical diversity.

Rishab Chadha Unveils a Turbulent Journey as Vidhaan in ‘Swipe Crime’: A Tale of Betrayal, Innovation, and the Web’s Dark Side

Mumbai, India/23rd December 2024 – Rishab Chadha, known for his compelling performances, takes on the role of Vidhaan in the highly anticipated series Swipe Crime. This riveting narrative dives deep into the digital age, exploring how the shimmering facade of the tech world hides dark secrets, vulnerabilities, and chaos.

Vidhaan is not just any character. He’s a young, visionary entrepreneur grappling with the fragility of trust, the weight of financial instability, and the personal cost of preserving what he cherishes most—a work of art that’s more than just a creation; it’s his soul. This story isn’t just about technology or ambition; it’s about human connections, betrayal, and the lengths one goes to for redemption.

As the series delves into the crimes that fester within the vast labyrinth of the internet, Vidhaan (Rishab) becomes a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, walking the fine line between survival and destruction. With Rishab Chadha’s nuanced portrayal, Swipe Crime promises to captivate audiences and spark dialogue about the shadows lurking in our digitally-driven lives.
Here are five tantalizing questions with Rishab Chadha that give a glimpse into the enigma of Swipe Crime:

1. Vidhaan is such a layered character. What drew you to this role?

Rishab Chadha: Honestly, Vidhaan is every bit the young entrepreneur we admire and fear becoming. He’s brilliant, driven, but also painfully human. When I read the script, I was drawn to his vulnerability—this idea that even someone so tech-savvy and seemingly untouchable could be undone by betrayal and the chaotic underbelly of the web. It’s not just his struggle; it’s his heart, his fight to save something that defines him. That was irresistible for me as an actor.

2. The series heavily explores the theme of web crime. What’s Vidhaan’s connection to the digital world?

Rishab Chadha: Vidhaan comes from a small town with a lot of dreams and aspirations, as the show precedes you’ll see how inclined he is towards using his knowledge to build something that is pathbreaking. Being foresighted, he just wants to keep all his loved ones together. His entrepreneurial journey is built on innovation, dreams and the zeal to make lives easier. The story intricately shows how the web can empower you one moment and destroy you the next. Vidhaan’s world is upended when he’s caught in a web of deceit, blackmail, and cyber manipulation.

3. Betrayal plays a significant role in the story. Can you tell us more about Vidhaan’s friendships and how they shape his journey?

Rishab Chadha: Friendships are the foundation of Vidhaan’s world, but they also become his Achilles’ heel. The series explores how those closest to him are the ones capable of the deepest betrayal. It’s heartbreaking and maddening, watching someone so brilliant crumble under the weight of trust misplaced. These betrayals aren’t just personal—they threaten his business, his identity, and his very sense of self.

4. The show touches on the intersection of technology and crime. How relevant do you think this theme is today?

Rishab Chadha: It couldn’t be more relevant. We live in an age where our entire lives—our secrets, finances, and even relationships—are stored online. Swipe Crime is a chilling reminder of how vulnerable we are, especially when technology is used against us. It’s a wake-up call for every young person who believes they’re invincible behind a screen. The series doesn’t just entertain; it makes you question how much of yourself you’re willing to expose to the digital world.

5. If you had to describe Swipe Crime in three words, what would they be?

Rishab Chadha: Thrilling, unsettling, and haunting.

With Swipe Crime, Rishab Chadha not only delivers a powerful performance but also sheds light on the intricate and often dangerous realities of the modern tech-driven world. The series is more than just entertainment—it’s a scandalous exposé on the fragility of trust, the cost of ambition, and the perilous double-edged sword of technology.

Catch Swipe Crime on Amazon mx player, and prepare to be drawn into a story that’s as gripping as it is cautionary.

Delhi, 23 December,24 : The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the third largest hospitality association in the world, has shared its recommendations to the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, aiming to address the ongoing human resource shortages and skill gaps faced by the hospitality industry. As one of India’s most vital sectors contributing to economic growth, employment, and cultural exchange, the hospitality industry is facing significant challenges, including declining enrolments in hospitality programs, skill gaps, workforce shortage and retention issues, along with policy gaps. These issues are hindering the sector’s growth potential and its ability to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global tourism landscape.

The hospitality industry is currently facing several challenges that are limiting its growth and ability to meet global standards. These challenges include mismatch between the education system and industry needs, a lack of practical, real-world exposure for students, and insufficient collaboration between academic institutions and hospitality establishments. There is a shortage of skilled frontline workers, as many hospitality programs focus on training for managerial roles, leaving a gap in essential operational staff.

To address these issues, FHRAI has made several key recommendations, including establishing a central portal by NCHMCT to connect hospitality establishments with students for internships and placements. Stronger partnerships between academic institutions and the industry would enable structured internships, offering students exposure to multiple departments. FHRAI also recommends updating hospitality curriculums every 3-5 years to align with industry trends, introducing a feedback mechanism for internships, and balancing the allocation of seats for both managerial and frontline roles. Additionally, real-world projects like event planning and property management would help students gain practical experience and be more job-ready.

Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, FHRAI said, “The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of India’s economy, and addressing the HR and skill gaps is critical for its growth. These recommendations are not just solutions for today, but investments for the future. We urge the Ministry of Tourism to consider these actionable points, as they will help create a sustainable and competitive workforce for India’s hospitality sector, while aligning with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. We are committed to working closely with the Ministry and other stakeholders to bring these recommendations to life, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for India’s hospitality sector.”

FHRAI Centre of Excellence (CoE) recently organised an HR Summit that brought together industry experts, educators, and regulatory bodies to discuss solutions to these critical issues. FHRAI CoE firmly believes that these reforms will not only resolve existing issues but also foster innovation, inclusivity, and competitiveness within the hospitality sector, aligning with India’s long-term tourism and economic growth goals.

~BoS Package for 500 MW (AC) Solar PV project on EPC basis with Single Point responsibility in Gujarat

~It includes comprehensive O&M contract for a period of three years

Mumbai; December 23, 2024: Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Limited (SWREL) (BSE Scrip Code: 542760; NSE Symbol: SWSOLAR), a leading renewable EPC is proud to announce that it has received LoI for a prestigious new order totaling approx. Rs 1,200 crore in Gujarat.

The company received an order for the Design, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction of a Balance of System (BOS) for a 500 MW (AC) Solar PV project on EPC basis. In addition to EPC with single-point responsibility, it will also include comprehensive O&M for a period of three years.

Speaking on the new order announcement, Mr. Amit Jain, Global CEO, of Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group shared, “We are proud to receive this prestigious order, which will support India and especially Gujarat’s transition towards clean energy. It is a matter of immense satisfaction for us that customers continue to repose their trust in our team to be a part of their growth in the domestic renewable market.”

“India is one of the world’s largest energy markets and must therefore focus on sustainable options to mitigate climate challenges while strengthening energy security, job creation and economic growth. We therefore remain confident about the future growth of India’s renewable energy sector and our increased role towards supporting it”, he added.

● 80% of students believe work experience on their CV significantly enhances their chances of securing high-paying jobs.

● 40% of students prefer work-linked degrees for the financial independence they offer

● 93% of students across India are familiar with work-linked degrees, showing a high level of awareness

● Less than 2% of education institutes currently offer work-linked degrees despite overwhelming demand

Mumbai, 23rd December 2024: A recent survey by TeamLease EdTech highlights a significant shift in how Indian students view higher education, with 85% endorsing Work-Linked Degrees as the future. Despite overwhelming demand, less than 2% of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) currently offer such programs, underscoring an urgent need for change.

Conducted with over 10,000+ students across India, the survey reveals how students are prioritizing practical exposure and employability. A remarkable 80% of students believe that work experience on their CV improves their chances of securing high-paying jobs, while 40% identify financial independence as a key driver behind their preference for Work-Linked Degrees. Moreover, 66% of students value flexibility in learning schedules, and 56% are drawn to on-the-job mentorship. Such models resonate deeply with students’ aspirations for learning that integrates seamlessly with their career goals. These findings reveal a need for HEIs to adopt more flexible, skill-oriented programs that align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and emerging student aspirations.

Awareness of work-linked degrees is exceptionally high, with 93% of students familiar with the concept. Metro cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai exhibit the highest levels of awareness. The survey also reveals the appeal of learning flexibility and on-the-job mentorship, which are key attractions for students, with 66% and 56% respectively, citing these as primary motivators. IT and Marketing roles dominate internship preferences, with 25% of students gravitating toward tech positions and 24% toward marketing, followed by opportunities in Banking and Finance (19%).

The report further delves into the factors influencing student decisions, with family and mentors having a major impact. Over 50% of respondents cited their parents as key advisors and 34% relied on mentors, emphasizing the need for inclusive communication strategies targeting families and educators. This alignment can foster broader acceptance and understanding of Work-Linked Learning programs among all stakeholders.

Commenting on the findings, Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, said, “The overwhelming student interest in Work-Linked Degrees highlights a tremendous opportunity for HEIs to reimagine their offerings. However, the low adoption rate by institutions is a significant challenge. Work-linked programs are a transformative model that empowers students with industry-relevant skills while creating a credible pipeline of job-ready talent. Universities must embrace this change to ensure their graduates are future-ready.”

Jaideep Kewalramani, COO and Head of Employability Business, TeamLease Edtech added,”The future of education is about creating a learning ecosystem that bridges academic theory with real-world industry skills. Work-linked degrees represent more than a trend. They need to be considered as a strategic response to the rapidly evolving job market, where adaptability and practical expertise are becoming as crucial as traditional academic credentials. By integrating academic learning with meaningful work experience, we’re not just preparing students for jobs, but empowering them to become agile, innovative professionals who can navigate the complexities of a workplace that are currently as dynamic as they can be.”

TeamLease EdTech is actively driving this transformation by equipping HEIs to implement Degree Apprenticeship programs through its platform, Digivarsity. By fostering partnerships with industries, creating modular and flexible learning pathways, and scaling outreach to underserved geographies, TeamLease EdTech is ensuring that Work-Linked Degrees are accessible to a diverse student population. These initiatives are enabling institutions to align with NEP 2020 too, making education more relevant to the demands of the modern workforce.

The survey methodology involved collecting responses from students based across metros and Tier-2 cities, ensuring representation from all regions the sample also included a nearly balanced gender representation, with 52% female respondents and 48% male respondents, ensuring an inclusive understanding of student perceptions. By analyzing these insights, TeamLease EdTech aims to drive dialogue among HEIs, policymakers, and industries to accelerate the adoption of Work-Linked Learning, creating a future where education and employability go hand in hand

Kisan Diwas honors the hard work and dedication of India’s farmers, who not only nourish the nation but also drive the growth of its rural economy. Here are stories of five farmers whose remarkable journeys highlight the transformation of traditional farming into entrepreneurial success. Their stories reflect the power of resilience, innovation, and community support, showcasing how empowering farmers with the right tools and knowledge is helping pave the way for a Viksit Bharat.

Supported by Project Unnati, an initiative by Anandana, they gain access to the tools and knowledge needed to boost productivity, adopt modern agricultural techniques, and contribute to a more sustainable rural economy.

Here are five extraordinary journeys that demonstrate the enduring power of these efforts:

Sowing Seeds of Change: Chenna Reddy’s Journey to Sustainable Farming: Once a plumber in Bangalore, Chenna Reddy returned to his ancestral land in Jangalapalli village, Andhra Pradesh, where water scarcity had left the soil barren. Through Project Unnati Mango by Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation, he learned modern techniques like Ultra High-Density Planting (UHDP) and drip irrigation.

These advanced methods not only enhanced fruit yield and quality but also reduced the need for fertilizers and pesticides. With training in climate-smart farming and crop management, Chenna transformed his unproductive land into a thriving mango orchard, proving that sustainable practices can rejuvenate even the most arid lands and reconnect farmers with their heritage.

Tulabati Badanayak: Blending Coffee Farming with Eco-Tourism: From Coffee Farmer to Eco-Tourism in the tribal village of Koraput, Odisha, Tulabati Badanayak has transformed her life and community through resilience and innovation. Once struggling to sustain her family as a coffee farmer, she adopted sustainable practices under Project Unnati Coffee, such as selective harvesting and sun-drying. These techniques improved her coffee quality, helping her secure better prices.

Beyond farming, Tulabati initiated an eco-tourism venture, leveraging the village’s natural beauty to create additional income streams. Today, she not only supports her family but also empowers other women by sharing her knowledge and fostering collective growth.

Engineering a Green Revolution: J.C. Punetha’s Orchard Success
Former textile engineer J.C. Punetha, at the age of 70, transitioned from a thriving industrial career in Ahmedabad to apple farming in Champawat, Uttarakhand. His decision was fueled by a desire to reconnect with nature and make productive use of his land.

Under the guidance of Project Unnati Apple, he planted saplings and implemented drip irrigation systems. Despite initial challenges and managing the farm remotely from his family in Ahmedabad, Punetha achieved remarkable success. His focus now is on expanding his orchard and helping fellow farmers adopt sustainable practices, proving that innovation and persistence can yield remarkable results.

Geetha Maheshwari: Empowering Her Community Beyond Farming
Geetha Maheshwari, a dedicated farmer from Theni, Tamil Nadu, has been cultivating the land for over a decade. A few years ago, she enrolled in a training program under Project Unnati Grapes and CENDECT KVK, where she learned advanced farming techniques, including pest management and the use of insecticides. This knowledge helped her double her income, significantly expanding her harvest.

Beyond farming, Geetha used the benefits of a subsidy scheme from KVK CENDECT to open a wedding hall, PSP Mahal, in her village, Chinnaovalapuram. The hall provides affordable services to underprivileged families, easing the financial burden of wedding arrangements. Geetha’s journey reflects not only her personal growth but also her commitment to empowering her community.

From Civil Service to Apple Farming: Khilanand Joshi’s Second Act
At 75, after retiring from government service, Khilanand Joshi returned to his village in Champawat, Uttarakhand, with a vision to revitalize his family’s farming legacy. Despite having no prior experience in sustainable agriculture, he embraced apple farming under Project Unnati Apple.

With the help of ultra-high-density plantation techniques and drip irrigation, Khilanand transformed his farm into a diverse agricultural hub. His efforts have not only yielded impressive apple harvests but also inspired his community to adopt modern farming methods. Employing ten workers, he has created a local ecosystem of employment and knowledge-sharing. Khilanand’s late but impactful start highlights that determination, and innovation can drive agricultural success at any stage of life.

December 23rd, 2024: NTPC Limited, India’s largest integrated power utility, organized its 33rd Corporate Communication Meet at Guwahati on the 16th and 17th of December 2024. The two-day event brought together over fifty communication professionals and a senior leadership team from the company to discuss best practices and future strategies pertaining to the area of corporate communication.

Shri A K Jadli, Director (HR) inaugurated the meeting virtually and launched three key initiatives: a comprehensive book on NTPC’s 50-year brand guidelines, a dedicated webpage commemorating the company’s 50th anniversary, and a film showcasing NTPC Bongaigaon’s Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM). He emphasized the robust internal and external communication adopted by the company and encouraged the young corporate communication executives to strive for excellence.

Shri Arindam Sinha, Regional Executive Director, (ER-II) highlighted NTPC’s ambitious green energy targets and underscored the crucial role of corporate communication in achieving these aspirations. Shri Harjit Singh, Executive Director (Corporate Communication) stressed on the importance of integrity in the profession and outlined upcoming branding and publicity initiatives. Shri Akhilesh Singh, Head of Project (Bongaigaon) emphasized on the need to adopt rapidly advancing technologies in daily work. Shri KM Prashanth, General Manager (Corporate Communication) highlighted the essential skills of reading, writing, and listening for communication professionals. Shri Prabhat Ram, Regional Head of HR (ER-II) also shared valuable insights.

The meet also featured insightful sessions by industry experts, including:

Shri Shishir Sinha, Associate Editor, The Hindu Business Line, on Media Expectation & Crisis Mitigation Strategies
Shri Kiruba Shankar, Online Business Strategist, on leveraging AI for Brand Building
Shri K Ravindran, former GM (Corporate Communication), NTPC on reputation management from an NTPC perspective

Besides a session on Quizzing for Communication professionals was also conducted by Shri K M Prashanth, GM (Corporate Communication).

These sessions provided attendees with valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices in corporate communication. The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, equipping NTPC’s communication team to effectively navigate the evolving communication landscape.

Brahmapur, 23rd December 2024: Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) proudly announced the shifting and inauguration of its new Berhampur Regional Office premises at Ambapua, Ganjam. The grand ceremony was attended by the Bank’s Managing Director & CEO, Shri Ajay Kumar Srivastava, along with senior officials and distinguished customers.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Srivastava reaffirmed IOB’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth and development in Odisha. He highlighted how the relocation to the new state-of-the-art premises will enable the Bank to better cater to the evolving needs of its customers while emphasizing financial inclusion and economic empowerment.

In his address, Shri Srivastava remarked, “This relocation marks a new chapter in IOB’s journey in Odisha. The new premises will enhance our operational efficiency and help us deliver customer-focused, innovative banking services with greater dedication.”

The event was graced by the presence of Bhubaneswar CRM, Shri Gaurav Bharadwaj, Berhampur SRM, Shri Khurshid Rabbani, branch heads from various districts, and Regional Office officials. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by an interactive session with customers and stakeholders, showcasing IOB’s commitment to personalized banking and inclusivity.

This shifting and inauguration of the Berhampur Regional Office at Ambapua represents a key milestone in IOB’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Odisha, driving growth, innovation, and excellence in banking services.

New Delhi – 23 Dec, 2024: Luxurify, the premier designer hand-knotted carpet brand from the house of RKS Carpets, is set to transform the Indian luxury landscape. Backed by RKS Carpets’ 35-year legacy in global luxury, Luxurify blends timeless craftsmanship with modern elegance to create exquisite rugs for discerning homes.

At the heart of Luxurify is a commitment to heritage and sustainability. Partnering with over 10,000 skilled artisans, the brand preserves the centuries-old art of hand-knotting while empowering rural communities. Each rug is a masterpiece, reflecting the dedication of artisans and the richness of traditional craftsmanship.

The brand’s launch showcases three distinct collections curated by iconic Indian supermodels, each embodying a unique style:
Carol Gracias brings contemporary vibrancy with bold geometric patterns, abstract motifs, and lively color palettes, perfect for modern, dynamic spaces.
Rickee Chatterjee reflects modern luxury with minimalist designs, clean lines, neutral tones, and subtle textures that evoke calm and sophistication.
Deepti Gujral celebrates timeless tradition with intricate Persian, Turkish, and Roman-inspired patterns in opulent hues, appealing to lovers of classic elegance.

“We are proud to launch Luxurify as a beacon of sustainable luxury,” said Neha Baranwal, Partner at Luxurify. “Our goal is to honor India’s rich artistic legacy while providing customers with elegant, hand-crafted rugs that bring comfort and sophistication to their homes.”

With a focus on ethical practices, quality, and innovation, Luxurify is more than a brand—it’s a movement to preserve heritage and redefine luxury living.