All posts by rekha nair

New Delhi, June 3, 2025: Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, has announced the signing of its newest property, Cygnett Park Itanagar, in the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh. The strategically located property, just 800 meters away from the Donyi Polo, Arunachal Pradesh Airport, will mark Cygnett’s second hotel in Itanagar and is scheduled to open less than two years from now.

With this new signing, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of the first branded hospitality chains to establish a presence in the region is steadily moving toward a 600-key footprint in Northeast India. The group currently operates four hotels in the region, with eight additional properties in various stages of development and pre-opening.

“The Indian government is committed to the development of Northeast India. The union government has made a significant investment in infrastructure projects, including national highways, the railway network, and telecommunications, in the region. The corporate world is looking at the Northeast with optimism, which has also created positive business sentiments. We expect a balanced demand for our new property, from leisure, business, MICE to a robust wedding segment,” said Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, founder & managing director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts.

Cygnett Park Itanagar boasts excellent connectivity while being embraced by the serene natural beauty of Itanagar’s landscape. The city has several important tourist sites, including Ita Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, Ganga Lake, and Gompa Mandir.

The 100-keys property spread out in two acres will features over 6,000 sq. ft. of versatile banqueting space, accompanied by an adjoining lawn. The other amenities of Cygnett Park, Itanagar include a club lounge, Roof top Speciality restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, swimming pool, spa, gym and recreation zones.

“Cygnett Park Itanagar will be a refreshing urban resort designed with contemporary aesthetics, sustainable architecture, and five-star amenities. True to the Cygnett Park brand ethos: Green, Refreshing, and Wellness-focused; this property aims to offer a rejuvenating stay for the modern traveller,” added Mr. Sarkar.

As Cygnett Hotels & Resorts moves ahead with its target to establish itself as a 100-plus strong hotel group in the coming years, the hospitality chain is expected to open 10-12 properties across the country annually.

Mumbai 29th May 2025:– Syncom Formulation ( India ) Ltd , a Speciality Pharmaceutical Formulation company reported its excellent performance for 4th quarter and year ended 31st March 25.

Q4 FY2025 Performance highlights (compared to Q4 FY2024):
Revenue from operations at Rs.14888 Lacs against Rs.7457 Lacs.; up 100%.
EBITDA at Rs.2469 Lacs against Rs.1252 Lacs; Up 97%;
Profit after tax at Rs.1769 Lacs against Rs.740 Lacs.; Up 139%;

FY 2025 Performance highlights (compared to FY2024):
Revenue from operations at Rs.46501 Lacs against Rs.26339 Lacs; Up76%.
EBITDA at Rs.7157 Lacs. againstRs.4317 Lacs.; Up 66%;
Profit after taxatRs.4943 Lacs. againstRs.2531 Lacs.; Up 95%;

Segment wise Performance

About Syncom Formulations (India) Limited

Established in 1988, Syncom Formulations (India) Limited has grown into a leading name in the Indian pharmaceutical sector. The company has consistently posted profits since inception and is renowned for delivering high-quality pharmaceutical formulations across diverse therapeutic segments.

“We are proud of our performance this year, which reflects the success of our strategic initiatives, operational efficiency, and strong demand in both domestic and international markets. We remain committed to expanding our global presence and delivering sustained value to all stakeholders.”

Global Presence

Syncom has built a strong international footprint, operating in nearly 25 countries with a portfolio of over 400 registered products. The company’s focus on quality, affordability, timely delivery, and excellent customer service has cemented enduring relationships with clients globally and ensured consistent performance.

Domestic Initiatives and Growth Strategy

In India, Syncom operates through multiple focused divisions, each addressing specific healthcare segments. With a strong field force of around 1,000 Medical Representatives (MRs) strategically placed across the country, the company is well-positioned for accelerated growth.

These MRs will be pivotal in expanding market coverage, deepening doctor engagement, and driving the company’s presence in untapped territories. Combined with robust marketing initiatives, Syncom’s strategy will reinforce its position as a key player in the domestic pharmaceutical market.

May 28, 2025: Artificial intelligence is accelerating the early detection of developmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), potentially allowing children to begin therapy earlier and significantly improving their long-term outcomes.

That has made ASD a proving ground for the use of AI in pediatric medicine. Numerous pilot projects have shown promising results and hope that machine learning techniques can be applied to other conditions.

Why It Matters

The parents of children with ASD tend to notice developmental challenges some time before the child turns 3 years old. However, there are frequently lengthy delays in testing and diagnosis. In many countries, the typical age of diagnosis is between 5 or 6 years old.

On top of that, ASD tends to be diagnosed through questionnaires rather than blood testing or genetic testing. As a result, there are concerns about standardization of the responses and children are frequently misdiagnosed.

“AI excels at identifying subtle behavioral and genetic patterns that humans may overlook due to cognitive biases or limitations, ensuring more consistent and objective early diagnoses,” said IEEE Senior Member Dheerendra Panwar.

Emerging Methods

Researchers have used a variety of methods to detect ASD. One method used sensors and imaging to detect changes in speech and language skills. IEEE Fellow Shrikanth Narayanan was awarded the IEEE 2025 James L. Flanagan Speech and Audio Processing Award for that line of research.

Brain scans have also emerged as a screening tool. One group of researchers used machine learning to determine that children with autism applied different amounts of force and moved their fingers differently while playing touchscreen games, providing yet another avenue for diagnosis. Because that research is noninvasive, other researchers furthered touchscreens as a diagnostic tool and invented ways to distinguish autism from other, closely related conditions.

Next Steps

While the research has been promising, most of the results are still in the experimental phase and little has been done in clinical settings.

So far, one smartphone app has gained FDA approval as a diagnostic screening device for autism, though it should be used in conjunction with other medical information.

But the success of AI-driven autism studies have driven hope for diagnostic tools in other areas, like dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression, according to a paper found in IEEE Xplore.

Research in this area continues. If upcoming larger trials continue to show accuracy and efficiency, AI-driven developmental assessments could become a normal part of 18- or 24-month well-child visits.

May 26, 2025: The first 1,000 days of a child’s life—from conception to their second birthday—are widely recognized as the most critical period for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) has championed this vital cause through its flagship initiative, the Born Learning Campaign (BLC).

More than just a program, “1st 1000 Days” is a nationwide movement under BLC, built on the belief that early childhood care not only shapes individual lives but also defines the future of our society. In alignment with key government frameworks such as the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), Poshan 2.0, Saksham Anganwadi, and the Aspirational Districts Program, the campaign is transforming how communities nurture their youngest members.

Transformative Impact at Scale

With over 20 lakh lives touched and 11,000+ Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) impacted across Bengaluru, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, the campaign’s targeted interventions ensure every child gets a fair start in life:

Key Interventions:

Maternal Health & Nutrition: Hygiene awareness, exclusive breastfeeding education, and immunization drives.

Community Education: Engaging parents—especially mothers—in their child’s growth through regular health and nutrition meetings.

Frontline Worker Training: Empowering Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Helpers (AWHs) with Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) best practices.

Tangible Health Support: Distribution of nutrition kits, neonatal kits, and essential teaching-learning materials to improve care environments.

Fast Facts:

Geographic Reach: Bengaluru Urban (Karnataka), Patna (Bihar), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Osmanabad (Maharashtra)
AWWs Trained on First 1000 Days: 1,122
Neonatal Children Reached (0–3 months): 4,264
Parents Engaged in Child Development: ~84,000
AWWs and AWHs Trained in ECCE: 5,189
Nutrition Kits Distributed: 589
Neonatal Kits Distributed: 5,555
Anganwadis Equipped with Teaching & Learning Materials: 1,649

“Every Anganwadi transformed, every mother empowered, and every child supported marks a step toward a healthier, brighter future. When we nurture our youngest, we build a stronger tomorrow,”

United Way Bengaluru’s “1st 1000 Days” campaign proves that collective action, aligned with policy, and driven by grassroots involvement, can shape generations.

20th May, 2025, New Delhi – Kanika Tekriwal, Founder & CEO of JetSetGo Aviation and a trailblazing force in India’s private aviation sector, made a striking red carpet appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

Wearing a regal creation by iconic Indian designer Anamika Khanna, Kanika stunned in a hand-embroidered gold Durga cape paired with a structured gharara. The look steeped in symbolism and finesse, was brought to life with a bold mix of jewellery by Roma Narsinghani and Studio Metallurgy.

The ensemble paid homage to tradition while exuding fearless modernity.

As the visionary behind JetSetGo, often dubbed the “Uber of Indian skies,” Kanika’s debut at Cannes is a celebration of both cultural identity and entrepreneurial spirit. Her red carpet presence marks a compelling moment where design, ambition, and representation converge on a global platform.

Bold, dynamic, and unapologetically original, Kanika’s Cannes appearance reinforces her role as a new-age leader redefining luxury, mobility, and the global narrative of Indian women in business and culture.

20th May, 2025 – New Delhi —Managing Director of Aza Fashions, Devangi Nishar Parekh, made a historic debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, spotlighting the strength and sophistication of Indian fashion entrepreneurship on a global stage.

More than a moment of personal achievement, Devangi’s red carpet appearance at Cannes was a bold affirmation of India’s evolving Design — and the critical role women are playing in driving it forward. As a second-generation entrepreneur and one of the most influential voices in India’s luxury fashion industry, Devangi brought with her not just style, but purpose. Under her leadership, the platform has become a launchpad for emerging designers and a powerful
advocate for homegrown talent.

Wearing a custom handcrafted metallic cord concept saree by acclaimed designer Rimzim Dadu, Devangi’s look blended sculptural innovation with timeless elegance — a fitting metaphor for her journey with Aza Fashions, India’s premier multi-designer platform that champions homegrown labels and emerging talent. Complementing her outfit, Devangi adorned sustainable, lab-grown diamond jewellery from Araiya by Aza, reflecting her commitment to responsible luxury and modern craftsmanship.

But this wasn’t just about the outfit or jewellery. Devangi’s presence on one of the world’s most prestigious cultural platforms marked a significant moment for Indian retail, fashion entrepreneurship, and the representation of South Asian women in global luxury spaces. Devangi joined a cohort of global changemakers and creative leaders, spotlighting South Asia’s rising influence at one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events. In doing so, she carried forward a vision rooted in innovation, inclusion, and heritage — bringing Indian craftsmanship and entrepreneurial ambition to a world stage that is finally ready to listen.

“For me, Cannes wasn’t just a red carpet — it was a platform,” Devangi shared. “A platform to represent Indian creativity, craftsmanship, and the quiet strength of women entrepreneurs who are transforming industries from within. Walking that carpet, I carried not just a designer look and sustainable jewellery, but also the stories of hundreds of Indian designers and artisans who are ready for the world stage.”

Over the past decade, Devangi has been instrumental in shaping how luxury retail in India looks and feels — building Aza into a space that balances commercial success with community impact. Her support of innovative design, women-led labels, and ethical luxury has positioned her as a leader who understands both business and culture.

Poised, driven, and visionary, Devangi Nishar Parekh’s Cannes debut was not just a celebration of fashion, but of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. As Indian design continues to gain global recognition, voices like hers will continue to lead the way — not just with what they wear, but with what they build.

19th May, 2025- New Delhi — Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions and one of India’s leading voices in luxury fashion retail, continued her Cannes journey with a series of standout looks that celebrated India’s rich textile heritage and contemporary design brilliance.

In a striking creation by Anamika Khanna, Devangi donned a refined satin pantsuit in a soft beige tone that brought an understated elegance to the Cannes stage. The look highlighted India’s lesser-known lacework traditions, with delicate handmade detailing placed along the shoulders, hem, and trouser cuffs. Accentuated by hand-painted floral motifs reminiscent of Mughal miniatures and Kalamkari art, the silhouette embodied a poetic balance between structure and softness. Modern yet steeped in heritage, the outfit brought together East and West, craft and couture—each detail a quiet ode to Indian artistry reimagined for the global stage.

Her second look, once again by the celebrated Anamika Khanna, was a vibrant, print-led celebration of India’s cultural and geographic diversity. The flowing skirt and blouse featured abstract brushstroke motifs in a palette inspired by the country’s vast landscapes—from the pinks of Jaipur to the blues of Jodhpur. Intricate embroidery around the neckline and waistband drew from traditional crafts such as Kasuti, mirror work, zardosi, and gota patti. The result was a richly layered visual narrative—each thread a reflection of India’s artisan legacy and the spirit of unity in diversity.

For her third appearance, she wore a striking creation by Nupur Kanoi: a fully embroidered bustier paired with a flowing jacket featuring signature fringe detailing and coordinated pants.

From the designer’s latest collection Maya, the look was hand-embroidered using traditional techniques like kantha, 3D beadwork, and sequin sheeting—fusing age-old craft with modern ease. A perfect reflection of the India Modern aesthetic, the outfit carried both heritage and global appeal.

Devangi Nishar Parekh said, “Wearing pieces that speak so deeply to India’s culture and craftsmanship at Cannes has been incredibly meaningful. Each look I chose was rooted in storytelling, from intricate handwork to artistic prints, and reflects what Aza stands for: bridging tradition and modernity with a global voice.”

With a discerning eye for curation and a deep respect for artisanship, Devangi’s presence at Cannes reinforces her role as a powerful ambassador for Indian fashion. Through her style, she continues to champion homegrown creativity on one of the world’s most influential cultural stages.

13th May, 2025, New Delhi — Devangi Nishar Parekh, Managing Director of Aza Fashions, is set to make her debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025 — a milestone that reflects her commitment to showcasing India’s rich fashion heritage on a global stage.

Raised in the U.S. and now based between Mumbai and Kolkata, Devangi brings a global sensibility to her work. Her understanding of fashion as a bridge between identity and culture, particularly for the Indian diaspora, continues to shape Aza Fashions as a platform that presents Indian design in a modern, globally resonant way.

As the driving force behind Aza Fashions — India’s leading multi-designer luxury retail platform — her appearance at Cannes highlights the growing global relevance of Indian craftsmanship.

The Cannes red carpet, known for blending cinema with couture, has become a space where fashion meets storytelling. Devangi’s participation echoes this spirit — uniting entrepreneurial vision with a deep commitment to India’s artisanal heritage, while highlighting the country’s increasing influence in the global luxury fashion landscape.

Under her leadership, Aza has evolved into a premier destination for curated Indian designer wear, featuring over 1000 labels and shipping to more than 75 countries through Azafashions.com. Her strategic vision has helped position Indian fashion in front of a discerning global audience, spotlighting both emerging talent and established designers alike.

Speaking about her upcoming appearance, Devangi Nishar Parekh said: “Cannes represents a unique intersection of creativity, culture, and global influence — and I’m truly honored to be a part of it. As someone deeply committed to championing Indian fashion, I see this as a moment to celebrate the artistry and talent our country has to offer. It’s a proud step forward, not just for me, but for the entire design community that’s shaping India’s global fashion identity.”

Her Cannes debut is a celebration of Indian creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship — inspiring a new generation to take Indian design to new frontiers.

13TH May 2025, New Delhi – Kanika Tekriwal, the dynamic Co-founder and CEO of JetSetGo Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd., is set to make her highly anticipated debut at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, marking yet another milestone in her inspiring journey.

A pioneering force in India’s private aviation industry, Kanika’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Fueled by ambition and resilience, she founded JetSetGo at the age of 22, redefining luxury air travel in India with a tech-first, customer-centric approach. Today, JetSetGo stands as India’s leading private aviation brand, serving the country’s elite with seamless, bespoke flying experiences.

Kanika’s Cannes debut is more than a moment of personal celebration—it symbolizes the growing presence of entrepreneurial voices at global cultural platforms. In a world where innovation, leadership, and influence increasingly intersect with art and culture, her appearance at Cannes reflects the evolving narrative of the modern-day changemaker.

Speaking about her Cannes debut, Kanika Tekriwal said: “Entrepreneurship, like cinema, is about the journey and telling stories that move people. To walk the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival is more than an honour — it’s a powerful reminder that leadership and creativity go hand in hand. This moment is a celebration of how far Indian entrepreneurship has come. I hope my journey inspires others to dream without limits and lead with purpose. I’m walking not just for myself, but for every changemaker daring to carve a new path.”

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in the French Riviera, is one of the world’s most iconic celebrations of cinema and creativity. As it continues to broaden its spotlight to include global trailblazers and thought leaders, Kanika’s presence marks a growing recognition of Indian entrepreneurs in global cultural arenas traditionally dominated by film and fashion.

Chennai/April 29, 2025 — Sundaram Finance Ltd., one of India’s most trusted NBFCs, is revising Deposit Interest Rates effective 1st May 2025, in line with the RBI’s repo rate revision announced recently. Revised rates for Senior Citizens are 7.70% for 12 months and 8% for 24 and 36 months. Similarly, for others, 7.20% for 12 months and 7.50% for 24 and 36 months.

The adjustments reflect Sundaram Finance Ltd.’s measured response to broader economic conditions and market dynamics and are a part of their financial strategy to align with current economic trends.

Recently, the company introduced a Digital Deposit facility, making savings simpler, safer, and more accessible than ever. Customers can conveniently invest and manage their deposits digitally through a seamless and secure process, enjoying peace of mind and attractive returns. This online transaction can be initiated through the company portal.

ABOUT SUNDARAM FINANCE

Sundaram Finance was established in 1954, and the company has today grown into one of the most trusted and diversified financial services groups in India providing financing for commercial vehicles, cars & utility vehicles, tractors and farm equipment, construction equipment, SME finance and a range of working capital products for financing diesel, tyres, insurance.

Through its subsidiaries and group companies, the company offers home finance, loans against property, mutual funds and investment management solutions and the full range of general insurance products and services. It has a nationwide presence of over 700 branches, over 1.1 lakh depositors and over 4.75 lakh lending customers.

Sundaram Finance’s vision is to be the most respected NBFC in the country and its mission is to deliver the Sundaram experience to all customers, big and small, in keeping with the ethos of the Company. Sundaram Finance embraces a philosophy that balances Growth with Quality and Profitability and remains rooted in its ideal of protecting and enhancing shareholder value. The founding philosophy of the company is that everything begins with the customer. Our founder, Late Sri T S Santhanam, enshrined in the company its core values – The Sundaram Way – that have been the company’s guiding light over the decades. The company is deeply rooted in its values and proud of its heritage, also constantly innovating in terms of technology and processes to deliver the unique Sundaram experience to its customers and stakeholders.