All posts by Neel Achary

New Delhi, August 24, 2025 – PharmEasy, one of India’s leading digital healthcare platforms, has released a comprehensive report titled ‘Dengue: The Silent Threat of the Monsoon Season’, based on over 120,000 diagnostic tests conducted between April 2022 and December 2024 across all 28 states & union territories. The findings reveal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra as India’s dengue hotspots in the said period.

According to the report, Karnataka registered 32,886 cases in 2024, followed by Tamil Nadu with 27,378 cases and Maharashtra with 19,385 cases. Kerala, despite a smaller overall caseload, reported 128 deaths, underscoring the severity of the disease in certain pockets. The surge in cases is not limited to the top three states. Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat also reported significant numbers, with Delhi and Uttar Pradesh showing sharp seasonal spikes during the post-monsoon period.

A notable trend is the shift toward earlier testing, with people now getting tested in May on average, as compared to June in previous years. Data also shows that individuals aged 11–30 are most likely to test positive. Among those affected, men under 50 have higher positivity rates, while women over 50 tend to experience more severe complications.

Cases typically peak between August and October, a period marked by high humidity levels of 60-78% and temperatures exceeding 27°C, conditions ideal for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes. The report also notes a correlation between rising dengue cases and increased Google search activity on the topic, indicating strong public concern during outbreak months.

“Dengue remains one of India’s major seasonal health concerns, especially during and after the monsoons. Most recover after a short illness, but for some, it can lead to complications due to a drop in platelet count, plasma leakage, bleeding, or low blood pressure. It isn’t just about case numbers; it’s also about preparedness. Not ignoring a high fever, getting tested early, focusing on prevention and timely care still remain our strongest defence.” – Gaurav Verma, CBO, API Holdings (PharmEasy)

The report emphasises preventive measures such as using repellents, wearing full-sleeved clothing, eliminating stagnant water sources, and installing protective screens or nets. It calls for targeted interventions in high-incidence states, intensified surveillance, and the prioritisation of high-risk groups identified in the data.

The report by PharmEasy is based on data patterns observed from dengue testing conducted by PharmEasy Labs during the period of April 2022 to December 2024. The insights presented are derived solely from PharmEasy’s internal data and may not be representative of broader national or regional trends. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.

Hyderabad, August 24, 2025: The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) organised a one-day Global Corporate Summit on the theme Driving Resilience, Innovation & Global Collaboration at its office in Red Hills on Saturday.

The summit brought together about 200 industry leaders from across the world to collaborate on pressing global challenges and explore ways to drive sustainable growth, innovation, and international partnerships.

Delivering the keynote address, Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Former Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of External Affairs, said that one of the foremost responsibilities of modern-day diplomats is to actively support businesses. “It is not just about political dispatches or delegations; we need to help enterprises in scaling exports and accessing markets. There is no shortage of foreign investments. What investors look for are credible, investible projects,” he said.

Highlighting a key concern, Dr. Sayeed added, “The sword looming large on us now is the US Reciprocal Tariff regime. These tariffs are increasingly being used as a political instrument to pressure countries into negotiating for favourable deals. But India will not buckle down. While many countries continue to trade with Russia, India is being singled out. America is America. Our response must be to diversify and scout for new markets. We cannot put all our eggs in one basket.”

He further observed that Telangana, with its strong presence in Pharma, is relatively safe since the sector is exempted from these tariffs. However, manpower-intensive sectors such as textiles, gems and jewellery would be adversely affected. “The Telangana Government should immediately form a task group with trade bodies to devise strategies. I understand that Telangana’s exports are about USD 90 billion, of which engineering goods contribute 39% and pharma 31%,” he noted.

In his welcome address, R. Ravi Kumar, President, FTCCI, said, “In today’s interconnected world, businesses face both unprecedented opportunities and daunting challenges. From navigating complex global trade agreements, embracing digital transformation, and building resilient supply chains, to fostering international collaborations, success now demands agility, foresight, and innovation.”

He added that FTCCI has always played a catalytic role in connecting industry with policymakers, fostering dialogue, and supporting enterprises in their growth journey. “This summit is another step in that direction—reaffirming our commitment to serve as a bridge between business, government, and global stakeholders.”

In his introductory remarks, Ritesh Mittal, Chair of the Corporate Laws, IBC & ADR Committee of FTCCI, said the summit had the privilege of hosting eminent thought leaders and practitioners including Sri Siddharth Vishwanathan, Ms. Mubarrakka Lokhandwala, Sri Ayub Shaikh, and Sri Kamal Jain.

The day-long summit featured high-powered technical sessions on: India–UK FTA: A New Era of Trade & Investment; Innovation & Investment Without Borders: Unlocking Growth in Emerging Global Markets; Digital Trade & Innovation: The AI Edge Redefining Business Intelligence AND Resilient & Sustainable Supply Chains: Strategies for a Volatile World.

Sultanpur, 24th August 2025: Bank of Baroda, one of India’s leading public sector banks, organized a Mega Camp at Amhat village in Sultanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, on 23rd August 2025. The camp was held as part of the nationwide Saturation Campaign launched by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, Government of India. The campaign, which runs from July 1 to September 30, 2025, aims to ensure 100% coverage under financial inclusion and social security schemes at the Gram Panchayat (GP) and Urban Local Bodies (ULB) level.

As the convenor of the State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC) in Uttar Pradesh, Bank of Baroda played a key role in organizing the event.

The programme was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri M. Nagaraju, IAS – Secretary, Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance; Shri Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Bank of Baroda; Shri Ankur Kaushik, IAS, Chief Development Officer, Sultanpur; Shri Shailendra Kumar Singh, Convenor of Uttar Pradesh State Level Bankers’ Committee & Zonal Head, Lucknow Zone and Shri Mithlesh Kumar, General Manager & Zonal Head, Varanasi Zone. Over 1,000 local citizens attended the event.

In his keynote address, Shri M. Nagaraju, Secretary , DFS emphasized the importance of financial inclusion and accessibility of banking services to every citizen. He highlighted how the Government’s Financial Inclusion schemes play a pivotal role in empowering underserved segments of society by providing equitable access to formal financial services. The Government remains committed to every section of society by extending the flagship initiatives such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), and Atal Pension Yojana (APY). He further shared that the saturation campaign reflects their resolve to reach every Gram Panchayat and Urban Local Body to ensure that all eligible citizens benefit from these schemes. He also interacted with Business Correspondents (BCs), Self Help Group (SHG) members, and other participants at the camp.

Commenting on the initiative, Shri Debadatta Chand, MD & CEO, Bank of Baroda, said,
“At Bank of Baroda, we believe that true financial inclusion goes beyond account opening—it is about empowering individuals to actively participate in the financial system and benefit from government-backed schemes. This Mega Camp in Sultanpur reflects our commitment to strengthening trust and ensuring that every household has access to essential banking services. The energy and involvement of the community here is very encouraging and motivates us to take this mission forward with greater resolve.”

As part of the programme, claim cheques under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) were handed over to beneficiaries. Certificates of Insurance under PMJJBY and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), along with enrolment acknowledgment receipts under the Atal Pension Yojana (APY), were distributed to newly enrolled beneficiaries. Re-KYC process under eligible PMJDY accounts were carried out. The Chief Guest also visited the stalls. In addition, Business Correspondents (BCs) and BC Sakhis were felicitated for their excellent performance.

Representatives from all banks operating under the Uttar Pradesh State Level Bankers’ Committee actively participated in this Mega Camp.

This Mega Camp exemplifies unwavering commitment of Banking fraternity to furthering the Government of India’s vision of universal financial access and comprehensive social security coverage.

24 August 2025: The Annual IC3 Conference & Expo 2025, held at Jio Convention Centre, in Mumbai on August 20–21, brought together more than 1,500 educators, school leaders, counselors and university representatives from across 95 countries to address one of the most urgent challenges facing India’s youth: student mental health and well-being. The conference, centred on the theme “Counseling as a Culture”, marked the launch of the Student Suicides Aversion Report-Mental Health & Well-Being, Volume III: The Student Well-Being Pulse Report, an extensive survey based on responses from 8,542 students across India by the IC3 Institute.

The report reveals a crisis cutting across grades, gender, and geographies. While academic pressure remains the dominant stressor, students report persistent emotional distress, lack of access to professional support, and widespread uncertainty about their futures.
Key Findings from the 2025 Student Well-Being Pulse Report

Emotional distress among students is widespread. One in five rarely experiences calmness, motivation or excitement, and girls continue to be disproportionately affected, reporting nearly twice the rate of persistent sadness compared to boys. Forty percent of students do not know where to go in school for mental health support, while nearly half have never received structured career counseling, a key source of anxiety about their future. Three out of four Grade 12 students fall short of the recommended 7–8 hours of sleep on school nights, driven largely by academic overload and relentless overthinking. Yet, there are positive signs: more schools today acknowledge the importance of counseling, and awareness among students on where to access support has been steadily rising. The Supreme Court has also underscored the urgent need for robust school-based counseling systems, adding both momentum and legitimacy to this critical movement.

Commenting on the findings, Ganesh Kohli, Founder of the IC3 Movement, said, “This is no longer a silent problem. It is a visible and urgent crisis. While more schools are now offering counseling and students are increasingly aware of where to seek help, almost half of our students still remain unsure, and career anxiety continues to steal their sleep and peace of mind. Mental health cannot be treated as optional. Every school must make counseling and emotional support part of its core infrastructure, while expanding access, broadbasing programs, and equipping teachers and staff as trained gatekeepers. Our children deserve nothing less.”
Gendered and Hidden Struggles

The report underscores deep gender disparities. Girls are more likely to internalise stress and avoid professional help, while non-binary students report the lowest overall well-being. Friends are often the first point of contact for students in distress, yet most peers lack the training to provide effective support.

Career Anxiety and Academic Overload

Uncertainty about the future is among the top three stressors for students. Without clear and consistent career guidance, many feel adrift, compounding the academic pressure that defines much of adolescence. Sleep deprivation, especially among senior students, is at critical levels and directly linked to screen use before bedtime and chronic overthinking.

As the IC3 Movement enters its 10th year, the 2025 Annual IC3 Conference & Expo in Mumbai marked a defining moment in its journey to embed counseling into the fabric of education. Bringing together more than 1,500 educators, counselors, university representatives, and changemakers from 95 countries, the event highlighted both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead broadening access, training educators as gatekeepers, and creating systemic support structures across schools.

The conference featured over 35 expert-led sessions, pre-conference workshops, and the Inner Child Workshop, helping educators reflect on their own formative experiences and connect more deeply with students. Senior education leaders, including Dr. Indu Shahani (ATLAS SkillTech University), and Shri Sanjay Kumar (Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India), shared insights on embedding mental health and counseling into everyday school functioning, while stressing the shared responsibility of families, institutions, and communities.

As the host of this event, ATLAS SkillTech University will play a pivotal role in supporting the initiative. Sharing her thoughts, Dr. Indu Shahani, Founding President & Chancellor of ATLAS SkillTech University, India said “I am proud to support this important gathering. I feel deeply honoured to be part of a platform that is shaping the future of education and student well-being. What makes this conference meaningful is the way it positions counseling not as an option, but as a culture that must exist in every school. I look forward to joining conversations that advance this belief and help ensure that every young person receives the guidance they deserve during their formative years. For me, this is not only about education, but also about nurturing futures with care and purpose.”
Keynote reflections came from renowned voices such as Boman Irani, Devdutt Pattanaik, and Gauranga Das, while the Presidential Forum brought together Ratna Pathak Shah, Soha Ali Khan, Ronnie Screwvala, and other luminaries to discuss purpose, well-being, and the role of collaborative support for young people.

As IC3 moves into its next decade, these conversations underscore the Movement’s commitment: counseling must not only be accessible but integrated, proactive, and capable of shaping the holistic development of every student. To further this mission, IC3 has also introduced new formats such as IC3 On Demand, a customized model of engagement where events are designed in partnership with mission-aligned institutions to achieve shared goals with high impact; and the IC3 Regional Conferences, enhanced platforms that build on the Regional Forums to support educators and counselors across regions in addressing the evolving needs of students worldwide.

Hyderabad, August 23, 2025 – Dewi Collective, an exclusive community for women, celebrated a remarkable milestone with its first official meeting at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, Hitex, bringing together visionaries, entrepreneurs, and dreamers for an evening of empowerment, collaboration, and inspiration.

The event was graced by Chief Guest ‘Pradhaan Dewi’ – Ananthika Sanilkumar (of 8 Vasanthalu fame) and Guest of Honor – Madhoo Nekkanti, fondly known as Bebakka (Bigg Boss fame), whose presence added glamour and encouragement to the evening.

Ananthika Sanilkumar unveiled Dewi Magazine, a platform designed to spotlight every member, celebrate their journeys, and inspire them to reach greater heights.

Speaking during the meeting Ananthika said, ” It is an honor to be part of this momentous occasion, the first official meeting of the DEWI Collective. Today, we gather to celebrate the power of women, their dreams, and their empowerment. It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of women who are driving change and innovation in their respective fields. I commend the organizers and members of the DEWI Collective for their dedication and passion. Your efforts will undoubtedly inspire and empower women to chase their dreams and make a lasting impact.”

Some key highlights of the meeting include: a vibrant showcase of creativity and innovation by Dewi members and local women-led businesses, inspiring presentations by Dewi members about their ventures, encouraging collaboration and networking, hypnotherapy and past life regression sessions by Sowmya Bhas of DoubleYou Therapies, promoting mental well-being and self-discovery and the launch of Anantha – Give Wings to Your Dreams, a unique program to help women pursue long-forgotten passions and aspirations.

The founding leadership team with Honorary Chairperson: Satyavathi Prasanna Madipadige, Chairperson & Founder: Dr. Neelima Vemula, Vice Chairperson & Co-Founder: Dr. Kalyani Guduguntla, Co-Founder & Brand Custodian: Pallavi Nagalla speaking at the launch said, “This first official meeting and the launch of Dewi Magazine mark the beginning of a movement. Our vision is to celebrate every woman’s journey, give a voice to her dreams, and create a community where women inspire and uplift each other.”

The event was powered by strong partnerships and generous sponsors: Kanaka Vastra Silks, Visista Gold and Diamonds, Vasavi Ventures, TP Holidays, and SpaceQubes, all of whom share Dewi Collective’s vision of celebrating and empowering women.

Patna, August 22: A one-day seminar on ‘Job Avenues and Employability Skills’ was organized on Friday at Ganga Devi Mahila Mahavidyalaya under the chairpersonship of Principal Prof. Vijay Lakshmi. The event featured Dr. Birbal Jha, noted linguist and founder of British Lingua, as the chief speaker.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jha said that in today’s society, women play a vital dual role—within the family and in the professional sphere. In this context, education becomes not only a means of personal development but also a powerful tool for empowerment and self-reliance. “With the right guidance at the right time, and by developing appropriate skills, young women can elevate their careers to new heights,” he remarked.

Dr. Jha urged students to introspect and choose careers based on their interests and capabilities. He emphasized that career selection should not be limited to just securing a job but should be seen as a life-defining decision.

Also addressing the seminar was aviation expert and founder of Millennium Air Hostess Academy, Mr. Manish Kumar, who spoke in detail about the growing opportunities in the aviation sector. He noted that with the continuous expansion of airports and airline fleets in India, there is a significant rise in employment prospects in the industry. He highlighted career paths such as air hostess, ground staff, and travel management.

The seminar aimed to introduce students to diverse career options and equip them with the skills necessary for employment. A large number of students participated in the session and engaged in meaningful discussions with the speakers.

The seminar was held under the guidance of Dr. Urvashi Gautam, in-charge of the Placement Cell of the college. She stated that such programs help build students’ confidence and prepare them to thrive in a competitive environment.

Hyderabad, August 22, 2025: The 8th Edition of Sports Expo India 2025, along with India Process Expo & Conference (IPEC) and Eco Sustain Expo, began simultaneously at Hitex Exhibition Centre, Madhapur, today.

While the Sports Expo is a two-day event (August 22–23), the India Process Expo & Conference and Eco Sustain Expo will run for three days (August 22–24).

The Sports Expo was inaugurated by Shri Vakiti Srihari, Minister for Sports & Youth Services of Telangana; Shri Shiv Sena Reddy, Chairman, Sports Authority of Telangana (SATG); and Mr. Jay Prakash, Head of Corporate Communications, NMDC, in the presence of Mr. T.G. Srikanth, Business Head, Hitex, and Mr. Rajesh Vetcha, Race Director, NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2025.

The India Process Expo & Conference and Eco Sustain Expo were inaugurated by Dr. Jatoth Ram Chander Naik, Deputy Speaker, along with Prof. K. Purushotham Reddy (Eminent Environmentalist), Dr. Addanki Dayakar, MLC, Sri Sircilla Rajaiah, Chairman, APSFC, Dr. G. Rajender Reddy, Former Chairman, AP Bhoodan Yagna Board, and Sri C.S.S. Rao, MSME DFO, Hyderabad, Joint Director & HOD.

Speaking after inaugurating the Sports Expo, Minister Vakiti Srihari said, “Our Hon’ble Chief Minister Revanth Reddy garu’s vision is to make Telangana a Healthy State. The government is giving strong impetus to sports, and the State Sports Policy is a step in that direction. If a small nation like South Korea can produce 36 Olympians, why not India with 140 crore people?”

Shiva Sena Reddy urged everyone to join hands with the Government in making Telangana the “Active Lifestyle Capital of India.” “A healthy state is a wealthy state,” he said.

Mr. Rajesh Vetcha announced that Hyderabad Runners Society will host 5K and 10K runs as part of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon in conjunction with the expo. The 5K run will be held on August 23, starting and ending at Hitex, while the 10K run will be held on August 24, starting from Hitex and ending at Gachibowli Stadium.

At the industrial expos, Dy Speaker Dr. Jatoth Ram Chander Naik emphasised: “India has the world’s largest youth population, yet many remain unemployed. Industries must go rural, as that is where the majority of our people live.”

He, along with other dignitaries, also unveiled the Indian Green Gas Equipment Manufacturers Association (IGGEMA) and its logo.

Prof. K. Purushotham Reddy criticised the dilution of CSR, stating: “CSR is not charity—it is corporate responsibility. No corporation has the right to pollute our environment.”

Dr. Addanki Dayakar, MLC, stressed the importance of green energy in rural India, while Sri Sircilla Rajaiah called for urgent solutions to the solid and liquid waste menace.

R. Balakrishna explained IGGEMA’s purpose: to give voice to industries in the southern region, which until now lacked a dedicated platform.

Sports Expo features 60 exhibitors and showcases eSportEx – India’s first hybrid pavilion combining traditional sports with competitive gaming. Over 2,500 players and YouTube celebrities are expected to participate.

India Process & Eco Sustain Expos feature 270 exhibitors demonstrating innovations in manufacturing and sustainable technologies.

Key attractions at the Sports Expo include:

• Pedal Pulse Cycling Event (Aug 23, 4:00 p.m.) with 1.5 km, 3 km, and 6 km categories
• Pickleball Tournament with 70+ players; Hyderabad now has over 300 pickleball courts
• Callisthenics, MMA & Boxing demonstrations, Hydrox Fitness Challenge

Speaking about two industrial expos, Mr. T.G. Srikanth, Business Head, Hitex, said: “The expos encourage knowledge exchange, collaboration, and business growth. Eco Sustain Expo, in particular, aligns with the global shift towards sustainable manufacturing and green technologies.”

The three expos—Sports Expo, India Process Expo & Conference, and Eco Sustain Expo—together create a powerful platform to promote health, innovation, sustainability, and industry growth.

August 22, 2025: Data Security Council of India (DSCI) today released a compendium of reports on Emerging Computing pathways. The compendium in three parts reveal India’s strategic positioning in neuromorphic, quantum, and photonic computing technologies that can overcome traditional computing limitations. The analysis maps India’s ecosystem development, government initiatives, and market opportunities in computing paradigms offering energy efficiency and performance improvements, positioning the nation for leadership in the next decade of technological innovation.

The study on Decoding Quantum Computing: Trends, Players & Opportunities provides comprehensive insights into an industry experiencing rapid technological evolution, with detailed analysis of hardware advancements, qubit technologies, and software stack developments. The report demonstrates how India’s National Quantum Mission and strategic research initiatives are creating opportunities while examining the complete global supply chain ecosystem and emerging patent landscapes.

The study on Brains of the Future: Advancing Neuromorphic Computing in India reveals how brain-inspired processing architectures can be transitioned from research concepts to commercial applications, with India positioning itself as a key player in this energy-efficient computing revolution. The analysis maps the global and Indian technology ecosystem highlighting strategic partnerships and government initiatives that are accelerating developments.

And the report on Photonic Computing: Technology, Market, and Adoption Trends examines how light-based processing can overcome the speed, energy, and scalability barriers of traditional electronics. With detailed market analysis and industry-specific applications, the study reveals India’s growing ecosystem contributions and government-funded initiatives that are positioning the nation in this transformative computing paradigm capable of performance improvements.

Launching the reports, Vinayak Godse, CEO, DSCI, said, “With the current pace of breakthroughs, traditional semiconductor-based computing will be complemented with hybrid computing that can solve the problem of energy consumption and processing speed. These reports published today and along with AI in Physical World share insights on how increasing computing power will revolutionize efficiency through multiple converging technologies.”

22nd August 2025, Kishangarh : From the luminous white domes of the Taj Mahal to the sleek, gallery-like penthouses of today, marble has always carried an aura that transcends trend. It is not simply a building material; it is permanence, poetry, and prestige carved into stone.

For centuries, civilizations have turned to marble when they wanted to create something the world would not forget. It is cool touch, soft sheen, and infinite variations have seduced emperors, architects, and artisans alike. Today, designers around the world continue to embrace marble for its ability to elevate a space — grounding it in tradition, while lending it a modern edge.

Below, five spaces from across the globe — each with its own character — prove that marble remains the language of timeless luxury.

The Eternal Muse — Taj Mahal, Agra

An eternal testament to love and craftsmanship, the Taj Mahal stands as the world’s most famous symbol of marble’s power to move the soul. While its luminous beauty has long inspired awe, today it is stones like India’s Pigus White that carry forward this legacy. Subtly shifting in tone with changing light — soft blush at dawn, radiant silver at noon, warm gold at dusk — Pigus White captures the same living, ever-changing beauty. Quarried from the heart of India, it continues a tradition that modern artisans like Tilak Marbles proudly preserve and reimagine.

The Parisian Salon — Haussmann Meets Modernity

In the heart of Paris, a restored Haussmann apartment reveals how marble can dance between centuries. The classic chevron floors meet Calacatta fireplaces, while sleek Carrara kitchen counters bring a whisper of modern minimalism. The interplay is deliberate: old-world romance anchored by the cool confidence of stone. It is the kind of restrained elegance that Tilak Marbles’ design partners often pursue — marrying heritage with contemporary ease.

The Dubai Penthouse — Sunlight in Stone

High above the marina, a penthouse wraps itself in expanses of beige and grey marble. By day, light spills across its surface like liquid gold, warming the cool undertones. By night, the polished veining reflects the glittering skyline, creating a private observatory of luxury. Sourcing such large, flawless blocks requires both precision and patience — the very qualities on which Tilak Marbles has built its reputation.

The Italian Villa — Living with Legacy

On the shores of Lake Como, a 17th-century villa wears marble the way some people wear family heirlooms: effortlessly. The grand staircases curve with inlaid stone patterns, the bathrooms echo with the soft sound of water over marble basins. Here, stone is not an accent — it is architecture itself, layered with stories. Tilak Marbles channels this philosophy when crafting custom blocks for projects meant to last for generations.

The Jaipur Residence — A Modern Ode to Craft

Closer to home, a contemporary Jaipur residence highlights Indian marble at its most refined. Floors in rich, earthy-hued Indian marble create a visual continuity from courtyard to living spaces, while a hand-finished marble wall becomes an art installation. The design respects the material’s natural character, allowing its veining to become the home’s quiet narrative.

“For us, marble is not just a material — it is a living heritage. Every block we work with carries centuries of beauty within it, and we see ourselves as its custodians for the next generation.”
— Praveen Gangwal, Founder, Tilak Marbles

In the right hands, marble does not just endure — it shapes the spaces, and the lives, it touches. Across continents and centuries, it remains the ultimate marker of refinement. And at Tilak Marbles, that story continues to be written, one block at a time.

22nd August 2025: The Body Shop, a British-born ethical beauty brand, on the occasion of National Youth Day, the brand has announced the launch of its Youth Collective Council 2.0 (YCC 2.0) advisory board, marking an important step forward in the brand’s ongoing efforts to empower young voices and foster change. Building on the achievements of YCC 1.0, this new council reinforces The Body Shop’s commitment to integrating youth perspectives into its core business decisions, particularly in the areas of sustainability, social impact, and inclusivity.

YCC 1.0 was established in 2023 with a mission to make the company’s leadership more diverse and responsive to young changemakers. During its tenure, the inaugural council recommended several impactful initiatives, including gender-inclusive hiring and management practices, authentic representation of real-life, gender-diverse individuals in brand communications, and the introduction of Braille features in stores to improve accessibility for visually impaired customers. These initiatives have already been successfully implemented in 2024-2025 across The Body Shop India, setting new benchmarks for diversity and accessibility in the industry.

Taking this success, a step further, YCC 2.0 brings together four new youth leaders who will advise on key issues such as sustainability, green innovation, mental wellbeing and social advocacy. The new members in the council are:

Aakash Ranison, aged 30, is an environmentalist, author, and the Founder of Greener Earth Foundation. He is the Civil Society Representative for Paris Peace Forum & Delegate to UN Migration for UN COP

Naman Sonpar, aged 17, is a climate activist, TEDx Speaker and the Founder of Hari Koshish. Naman leads the “Voicing the Yamuna” campaign to raise awareness about river pollution, collecting 2200+ Kgs of waste. His work centers around Youth Advocacy and community oriented Climate Action.

Anoushka Jolly, aged 16, is a mental wellbeing advocate and the Founder of Kavach App. Anoushka’s work focuses on supporting adolescent mental wellbeing. She was awarded Pradhan Mantri Bal Shakti Puraskar 2023

Dwishojoyee Banerjee, aged 20, is a green economy catalyst and the Founder of The Soft Movement. Dwishojoyee’s “Paper Bag Project” has replaced over 5 Mn plastic bags with recycled newspaper alternatives

Each member will soon be sharing recommendations that align seamlessly with The Body Shop’s core values and ethical ethos, reinforcing our collective commitment to tackling climate change, strengthening environmental advocacy, advancing public engagement, and promoting a green economy.

Rahul Shanker, CEO, Quest Retail said, “Together, through innovation, inclusivity, and action, we aim to build a fairer, greener world because India’s youth are not just inheriting the challenges, they are championing the solutions. With YCC 2.0, The Body Shop India continues to strengthen its stance as a leader in ethical, sustainable, and inclusive beauty.”

India’s youth stand at the forefront of the fight for a sustainable and just future. The Body Shop’s Youth Collective Council 2.0 continues a powerful movement that entrusts young changemakers with the responsibility and opportunity to shape the business and communities. By embracing their ideas, passion, and commitment, The Body Shop reaffirms the belief that real change comes from empowering the next generation.