All posts by Neel Achary

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a Fortune Global 500 company, and one of India’s leading oil and gas companies, announced today that Shri Sanjay Khanna has assumed additional charge as the Chairman and Managing Director of the company. Currently he serves as the Director (Refineries) in the company.

Shri Sanjay Khanna, Director (Refineries) with Additional Charge of Chairman and Managing Director, BPCL

A Chemical Engineering graduate from National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalli and Postgraduate in Finance Management from Mumbai University, he has over 3 decades of experience in refinery operations and technical services.

He anchored several prestigious projects for setting up new process units in Refineries at Mumbai, Kochi and Numaligarh.

Prior to becoming Director (Refineries) he headed Kochi and Mumbai Refineries of BPCL. As executive Director of Kochi Refinery, he played a key role in commissioning the first ‘Niche Petrochemical’ project of BPCL, Propylene Derivative Petrochemical Project (PDPP).

Shri Sanjay Khanna also serves as a Director on the Boards of Bharat Petro Resources Limited and Ratnagiri Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited. Additionally, Shri Khanna is also the current Chairperson of ‘Technical Committee for petroleum Refineries’ under Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG)

New Delhi, April 29, 2025: The entire campus of IILM Lodhi Road pulsed with energy and intellect this Thursday as students, faculty, and dignitaries gathered to witness a defining moment in the university’s calendar — the conferment of the IILM Distinguished Global Thinker Award to Professor Ranjay Gulati, renowned Harvard Business School professor and a globally acclaimed voice in the field of organisational leadership.

A scholar who comfortably bridges the worlds of academic precision and real-world transformation, Professor Gulati is known for challenging business orthodoxy and elevating conversations around what truly drives performance. From his dual undergraduate degrees at Washington State University and St. Stephen’s College, to a Master’s from MIT Sloan and a Ph.D. from Harvard, his journey is one of deep academic rigour and fearless curiosity.

As the 14th honouree in a celebrated line of global thinkers, Professor Gulati took the stage with a powerful keynote on his groundbreaking book “Deep Purpose: The Heart and Soul of High-Performance Organisations.” What followed was no ordinary academic session. It was a wake-up call; a rallying spark for leadership that dares to feel.

In a talk that felt more like an awakening than a lecture, Professor Gulati spoke candidly about the real purpose that is not just performative but profoundly embedded into the DNA of leadership. Students leaned in, faculty took notes, and minds visibly shifted gears. “Why do great companies fail?”. That question sparked an intense exploration. From denial to overconfidence, strategic drift to cultural inertia, he laid bare the importance of strategy that any great organisation should have. Drawing from his conversations with global changemakers, Gulati illustrated how purpose isn’t a poster on the wall, but a pulse that must start from within. “At Microsoft, they asked every employee to define their personal purpose before aligning with the company’s. Because how do you live a shared purpose if you’ve never sat with your own?”

Citing a quote that dates back to 1200 BC, he left the room with a lingering reflection: “You are what your deepest desire is. As your desire is, so is your intention. As your intention is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny.”

Setting the tone for the evening was a warm welcome address by Dr. Harivansh Chaturvedi, Director General of IILM. “We are proud to build not just professionals skilled in strategy, but leaders grounded in values and purpose. Through this award, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing institutions and individuals who touch minds, hearts, and souls”, he said. Adding gravitas to the event was the Chief Guest, Retd. Justice Hima Kohli who graced the occasion with her presence. Justice Kohli, known for her judicial leadership and advocacy of mediation, environmental stewardship, and family law, reminded attendees of the moral compass required in all fields of leadership.

The evening wasn’t just about honouring a thinker. It was about igniting a generation, one ready to lead with soul, not just strategy. From budding entrepreneurs to future policymakers, students left the session visibly inspired. As the evening proved, IILM continues to set the launchpad for leaders who are rewriting the rules with clarity, courage, and conviction. Beyond the award, the lecture reflected IILM’s core philosophy of preparing future leaders to drive with deep purpose and a strategic mindset to create lasting impact.

Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome, now available from Histria Books.

Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of Fire Works in the Hamptons (A Magic in the Hamptons Book 3) by Celia Jerome. This novel is published by Histria SciFi & Fantasy, an imprint of Histria Books encompassing outstanding, innovative works in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.

A HOT TIME IN THE HAMPTONS

Graphic novelist and Visualizer Willow Tate can draw images of beings from the neighbouring realm of magic, possibly drawing them from their world to ours in the process. So why has she foolishly decided to make the hero of her next book a fire wizard?

Is that why the strange fire bugs suddenly appear at the East Hampton fire works display and then start heating things up in and around the little Long Island town of Paumanok Harbor? These miniature arsonists are causing a whole lot of trouble, and when a baby swallows one and begins to cry flames, Willy knows she needs professional help to put a damper on the situation.

This time, the Department of Unexplained Events sends a fire fighter, Piet, a man whose very presence prevents fires from starting. With a tabloid reporter focusing his attention on Willow’s activities and a science teacher determined to turn the fireflies into an energy source, Willow will be hard-pressed to keep the town’s secrets safe.

Not only does she need to find a way to send the fireflies back to their own dimension, but she and Piet—who are starting to generate some heat of their own—have to track down a real arsonist who seems determined to set the area ablaze…

Celia Jerome lived in Paumanok Harbor near the tip of Long Island, New York. She believed in magic, yard sales, and small dogs.

Fire Works in the Hamptons by Celia Jerome., 439 pp., ISBN 978-1-59211-917-9, is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. The book is also available in eBook. Titles published under the various imprints of Histria Books are distributed worldwide by the Independent Publishers Group (IPG). For information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com

7181 N. Hualapai Way, Suite 130-86, Las Vegas, NV 89166 USA

HistriaBooks.com

(561) 299-0802

Authority Kicks off Event in Kuwait to Showcases Generative AI’s Potential to Boost GCC Economy by $150 Billion

Kuwait City, Kuwait, 29 April 2025: The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), has launched today (Tuesday, 29 April 2025) a pivotal workshop in Kuwait under the theme ‘Empowering the Future Grid: Exploring the Application of Generative AI in GCC Power Systems’.

Taking place until Wednesday (30 April 2025) at the Hilton Garden Inn, the event convenes key leaders from the Gulf electricity sector alongside global technology pioneers Microsoft, Oracle, and NVIDIA. 

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the global energy landscape, the Gulf region stands at the forefront of this transformation. According to recent studies, AI could contribute up to $150 billion to the GCC’s economy, representing about 9% of the region’s total GDP.

GCC utility companies today demonstrate one of the highest levels of AI readiness globally, fuelled by strategic investment and vision.

Through initiatives like this workshop, GCCIA fulfils its core mandate of promoting integration, collaboration, and competitiveness among Gulf electricity systems. The Authority firmly believes that Generative AI will be a cornerstone technology in enhancing the operational resilience, sustainability, and global competitiveness of the region’s power networks — supporting not only internal connectivity among GCC countries, but also ambitious future plans for interconnection with Europe and international energy markets.

In this context, Eng. Ahmed Al Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, stated: “Today, we gather at the intersection of innovation and necessity. As the energy landscape evolves into a cleaner yet complex future, so too must our approaches and technologies for our future grids. Generative AI represents a frontier with the potential to transform our power grids into more resilient, efficient, and intelligent systems.”

He added: “Recognizing such needs, EPRI has just launched the Open Power AI Consortium representing a significant step forward in harnessing the power of AI to transform the energy sector. By fostering collaboration between technology leaders and energy partners, the consortium aims to create a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable power industry for the future through implementation of AI progressing from augmentation applications to Auto-piloting and ultimately reaching Autonomous application in operation and maintenance. The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are limitless as AI continues to unlock new potential in energy management and optimization.”

A Strategic Platform for Gulf Utilities to Shape the Future

The event’s agenda, developed with significant leadership from GCCIA and regional utilities, focuses on real-world case studies, best practices, and brainstorming sessions led by Gulf power sector experts.

Participants are sharing firsthand insights into how AI is already enhancing their operations and discussing strategies to scale adoption further across the region. Day one of the workshop witnessed the active participation of representatives from across the GCC power systems, who engaged in dynamic knowledge-sharing discussions. These interactions reaffirmed a collective determination to harness the full potential of AI in alignment with the visions of Gulf leadership — driving progress in sustainability, regional connectivity, and global competitiveness.

Beyond showcasing innovation, the workshop critically examines lessons learned from international AI deployment failures, where only 35% of organizations were confident their infrastructure could support AI solutions. By learning from these experiences, Gulf utilities aim to build smarter, future-proof AI systems that drive tangible value across their networks.

Over two days, sessions explore how Generative AI is transforming grid planning, operations, and asset management. Leaders from Microsoft share insights on leveraging the Copilot platform for energy operations, while Oracle and NVIDIA present cutting-edge AI applications for the power sector. EPRI experts contribute technical perspectives, collaborating with Gulf utilities to develop actionable roadmaps for AI integration.

Through its leadership, GCCIA underscores the enormous opportunity for Gulf utilities to invest in AI technologies to support sustainability goals, reduce carbon emissions, enhance system interoperability, and strengthen resilience across the entire Gulf region.

By empowering Gulf utilities with advanced AI capabilities, GCCIA is helping to position the region as a global model for smart, sustainable, and integrated electricity systems — ensuring secure, efficient, and competitive energy networks for decades to come.

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Unveils Pelli Sandadi 2.0,  A Redefinition of Modern Matrimony

Vijayawada, 29 April 2025 — Novotel Vijayawada Varun proudly introduces Pelli Sandadi 2.0, an all-encompassing luxury wedding package meticulously designed to blend cultural sophistication with contemporary elegance. The grand unveiling will take place today at 5:30 PM in the hotel’s convention.

Priced at ₹5,55,000, this thoughtfully curated package consolidates all essential elements of a wedding—bespoke décor, gourmet & traditional cuisine, curated entertainment, and seasoned event orchestration—into a seamless experience under one roof. It embodies the mantra: One Package | Zero Stress | Infinite Memories.

“Weddings are monumental life events, and the journey to the altar should be as memorable as the ceremony itself,” remarked Mr. Manish Pathak, Hotel Manager, Novotel Vijayawada Varun. “With Pelli Sandadi 2.0, we have reimagined the planning process into a harmonious, stress-free celebration.”

The overwhelming success and positive response to Pelli Sandadi Package One among our guests inspired the creation of this upgraded edition, offering even greater luxury, personalization, and convenience.

This upgraded offering is envisioned for discerning modern couples seeking a harmonious fusion of tradition, luxury, and convenience. Attendees of the launch will witness live wedding set-ups, immersive showcases, and curated tastings from the hotel’s master chef – Mr. Shivarama Krishna. Novotel’s elite in-house planners and select vendor partners will be available for consultations, helping guests conceptualise their dream wedding.

Pelli Sandadi 2.0 signifies Novotel’s unwavering commitment to transforming Vijayawada’s wedding landscape with elegance, affordability, and elevated hospitality.

If there’s one thing Amit Gandhi has learned over two decades in healthcare—it’s that real transformation isn’t just driven by systems, technology, or capital. It’s driven by people. By leaders who step up in the face of complexity and uncertainty and choose to make a difference. That belief has now taken the shape of a new podcast: The Healthcare Tribe.

Launched by Amit, a healthcare industry expert and the founder of The Insight Tribe (www.theinsighttribe.com), the podcast is a space for thoughtful, real conversations with the people shaping the future of healthcare. These are leaders you may have read about or worked with—executives, clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors—but this time, you’ll hear their stories.

The turning points. The setbacks. The decisions that defined them. “Healthcare is one of the most complex sectors to build in. Everyone talks about innovation and disruption—but what about the people behind it all? What really drives them? That’s the question I wanted to explore,” says Amit.

Each episode dives deep into the personal and professional journeys of these changemakers—what shaped them, what they’ve learned, and what they believe it truly takes to lead in healthcare today. But it doesn’t stop there. The podcast also offers a window into the current landscape of each speaker’s domain, unpacking trends, challenges, and insights that

are relevant to anyone working in or around healthcare.

The idea is simple: to inspire and empower healthcare professionals by sharing leadership journeys that matter. And to build a community that believes leadership—more than anything else—is what will define the future of healthcare.

The Healthcare Tribe with Amit Gandhi is now streaming on Youtube and Spotify. Because behind every healthcare breakthrough, there’s a leader with a story worth sharing.

New Delhi, 29 April 2025: ZS, a global management consulting and technology firm, has released its India social responsibility report for 2024. The report highlights the impact of its initiatives on 85,655 beneficiaries through social programs and strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. With a donation of INR 9.3 crores in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ZS collaborated with 20 nonprofit partners to address critical societal challenges in four key areas: healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and environment and sustainability. The firm’s 2,246 volunteers contributed a total of 7,663 hours to programs in these focus areas, demonstrating ZS’s commitment to meaningful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities.

Commenting on the report, Mohit Sood, regional managing principal at ZS, said, “Access to quality healthcare, education and sustainable livelihoods remains a critical challenge. At ZS, we recognize that meaningful transformation requires strategic action beyond mere intent. Through ZS Cares, we leverage our expertise, resources and partnerships to create a tangible impact where it matters most. In FY 2024-25, we enabled healthcare access to over 72,000 individuals, empowered 7,707 students through STEM education, scholarships and mentorship programs, and supported 713 individuals in achieving financial independence. As we continue this journey, our focus remains clear—to improve life and how we live it.

ZS is deeply committed to driving positive social change and empowering communities across India. Through sustained volunteer engagement and strategic partnerships, ZS invests in initiatives that create a lasting impact. We focus on building a brighter future for individuals and communities, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable society.

“The impact created would not have been possible without the dedication of ZSers and the support of our NGO partners,” said Rohit Bhagwat, office managing principal and global ESG working group member at ZS.

He mentioned, “ZS will continue investing in sustainable initiatives that empower people and uplift communities. Together, we are not just supporting change, we are leading it. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, amplifying our impact and shaping a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

MUMBAI / April 29, 2025: Honourable Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan today inaugurated the newly revamped Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital in Wadala, Mumbai. A unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, the revamped 9,000 sq. ft. facility marks a major step forward in the group’s mission to offer advanced and accessible eye care across Maharashtra.

From Left to Right – Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan and Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital

The hospital has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with a modular operating theatre, a world-class laser refractive operation theatre, a modern optical retail and diagnostic display unit, and a fully stocked in-house pharmacy. Designed to deliver a seamless and all-inclusive eye care experience, the centre now offers a comprehensive range of ophthalmic services under one roof, including advanced treatments in Cataract, Retina, Cornea, LASIK, Glaucoma, Uveitis, Squint, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, and Oculoplasty.

The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge ophthalmic technology to support high-precision diagnosis and treatment. Key systems include the Alcon Constellation surgical unit and the 3D ARTEVO microscope for advanced retinal and cataract procedures, the WAVE LIGHT EX500 for high-speed LASIK, and laser platforms such as the ZEISS Green Laser and YAG Laser for retinal and posterior capsulotomy treatments. Diagnostic and imaging capabilities are powered by the NIDEK Mirante, ZEISS OCT 5000, Pentacam, ZEISS IOL Master, and B-scan, while clinical examinations are enhanced with tools like the indirect ophthalmoscope and applanation tonometer—ensuring comprehensive, world-class eye care under one roof.

Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the transformation of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, a unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, into a premier centre of excellence as part of the Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital network. This state-of-the-art facility exemplifies how cutting-edge medical innovation, when guided by a patient-first philosophy, can significantly raise the bar for healthcare delivery. I commend the entire team for their steadfast commitment to enhancing vision care across Maharashtra and for ensuring that world-class eye treatment is within reach for every citizen.”

Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital, said:” At Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, our journey in recent years has been marked by remarkable growth—not just in numbers, but in the depth and quality of care we provide. With a network of over 230 hospitals across India and abroad, including 30 hospitals in Maharashtra alone, our commitment to this state remains unwavering. This newly revamped hospital stands as a testament to our pursuit of clinical excellence, where advanced technology meets compassionate, patient-centric care—delivered by a team of highly skilled and dedicated specialists.

Prof. Dr. S. Natarajan, Medical Director of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, said: “This transformation marks a major milestone in our mission to offer world-class eye care. It strengthens our ability to reach more patients, train the next generation of ophthalmology leaders, and continue our legacy as a trusted name in eye health. I am deeply thankful to our team, partners, and supporters who made this possible.”

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital currently operates over 230 hospitals across 10 countries, including 18 in Mumbai and 30 across Maharashtra. The group serves more than 2 million patients annually and performs over 200,000 surgeries globally. Moving forward, it remains committed to expanding its presence by adding more facilities in both Maharashtra and Mumbai to further enhance access to quality eye care.

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote eye health, the hospital is offering free eye check-ups for senior citizens aged 50 and above, available until May 31.

Chennai’s real estate scene is picking up pace, fuelled by a rising demand for developments that aren’t just built to last but built for the future. For homebuyers and investors alike, choosing the right builder is as crucial as selecting the property itself. While many players operate in the market, only a few consistently deliver on quality, transparency, and long-term value.

The top builders in Chennai have set themselves apart by combining innovative design, superior construction standards, and customer-centric practices. Their projects are not only well-located but also legally sound and built to last.  In a city poised for infrastructural growth, the best builders are shaping Chennai’s skyline with integrity and vision. Understanding what makes them stand out can help buyers make more confident and informed decisions. 

Proven Track Record and Project Delivery History

One of the defining qualities of the top builders in Chennai is their consistent track record of delivering projects on time and as promised. Whether it’s residential communities or commercial developments, these builders have successfully completed multiple phases without compromising on quality or timelines. Their portfolio often includes landmark projects across prime neighbourhoods, proving their experience and expertise in the local market.

This reliability gives homebuyers peace of mind, especially when investing in new flats in Chennai. They have years of industry presence, and positive customer testimonials add to their credibility. Delayed handovers and construction uncertainties are minimal when you choose a trusted builder. Buyers today are more informed and value reputation over short-term discounts. The top builders in Chennai maintain project discipline backed by efficient execution and resource planning. This reputation for consistency has helped them stand out.

Commitment to Quality

Quality is non-negotiable for the top builders in Chennai. From the foundation to the finishing touches, they use premium-grade materials and advanced construction technologies that ensure long-lasting durability. Their attention to detail, whether it’s structural integrity, waterproofing, or insulation, translates into safer, better-performing homes. This dedication is especially vital for buyers looking at new flats in Chennai, where build quality determines long-term satisfaction and maintenance costs.

Additionally, these builders often partner with reputed architects and contractors to uphold high design and engineering standards. Rigorous site inspections and quality control protocols are part of their standard process.

They go beyond basic compliance, aiming to exceed expectations in every project. Investing with such builders guarantees not just a house but a well-crafted living experience. In a market full of options, this focus on quality helps the top builders in Chennai win the trust of buyers.

Transparent Legal Practices and RERA Compliance

Transparency and legal clarity are hallmarks of the top builders in Chennai. All their projects are registered under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), ensuring that homebuyers are protected under the law.

This means clear documentation, sanctioned plans, and no hidden charges; everything is upfront and honest. This is particularly important when purchasing new flats in Chennai, where documentation errors can lead to delays or legal hassles. These builders provide timely updates, offer digital access to project progress, and are open to buyer queries. From the agreement to sale deeds, each legal step is handled professionally and ethically.

The top builders in Chennai also assist customers in home loan processing and registration formalities. Their transparent operations not only comply with regulations but also foster long-term customer relationships. In a sector where trust can be hard to come by, this legal integrity truly sets them apart. 

Focus on Location and Connectivity

Strategic site selection is a clear advantage offered by the top builders in Chennai. Their projects are often located in well-connected areas with access to major roads, public transport, schools, hospitals, and commercial hubs.

Whether you’re considering a family home or an investment, location significantly impacts convenience and future resale value. Buyers exploring new flats in Chennai benefit greatly from such foresight, as these homes are positioned for both comfort and growth. From the rapidly developing suburbs to established urban zones, top builders plan with the bigger picture in mind.

They understand that connectivity is not just about roads; it’s about lifestyle. Access to green spaces, markets, and workplace hubs are all factored in. By building in emerging corridors with strong civic infrastructure, the top builders in Chennai ensure their developments remain relevant and desirable. This commitment to prime location planning is a cornerstone of their long-term success. 

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Construction Practices

Sustainability is a necessity, and the top builders in Chennai are leading the way. Their developments often feature rainwater harvesting, waste management systems and energy-efficient designs.

These initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but will also lower utility costs for residents. Eco-friendly construction is a growing priority among buyers of new flats in Chennai, especially those seeking healthier, future-ready homes. Green certifications such as IGBC or LEED are now common in projects from leading builders.

These builders also integrate sustainable materials and low-emission construction methods. Landscaping with native plants, better ventilation, and water recycling systems are a part of their design philosophy. By embedding sustainability into their practices, the top builders in Chennai are setting new standards for responsible urban living.

Strong Financial Stability

Financial strength is a critical factor that distinguishes the top builders in Chennai from smaller or less reliable builders. It allows them to fund projects without delays, absorb market fluctuations, and maintain consistent quality. Buyers of new flats in Chennai are assured that their investments are safe when dealing with financially sound companies.

These builders have partnerships with leading banks and financial institutions, which further ensures smoother transactions and quicker loan approvals. Their established brand equity often results in higher resale value and stronger rental demand for properties.

These builders also invest in customer service, after-sales support, and project maintenance, ensuring a complete experience. Their credibility is not just built on advertisements but on decades of solid performance and customer satisfaction. Choosing to buy from the top builders in Chennai is a decision backed by confidence and peace of mind.

Built on Trust: Why Top Builders in Chennai Stand Tall

The top builders in Chennai distinguish themselves through a blend of timely project delivery, commitment to quality, legal transparency, and strategic location planning. Their use of premium materials and eco-friendly practices ensures durable, sustainable living spaces. With all projects RERA-registered and supported by strong financial backing, these builders offer both peace of mind and long-term value to homebuyers.

Whether you’re investing or searching for new flats in Chennai, choosing a trusted builder such as Casagrand means better construction, smoother transactions, and future-ready homes built with integrity and care.

Photo by Timur Saglambilek: