All posts by Sujata Achary

24th Feb. 2025, Gandhinagar, Gujarat When India started developing its own GenAI LLM (Large Language Model), AI Expert and Tech Analyst Mr Sumant Parimal believes that India should lead the world with Philosophical AI (Artificial Intelligence), where India gives thought leadership and philosophy on AI opportunities, particularly targeted towards people, governments and businesses problems.

While participating in an AI panel discussion at IIT Gandhinagar during the CoLab 2025 event recently, Mr. Sumant Parimal, Chief Analyst of 5 Jewels Research at Innogress spoke about the need for clear thought, leadership, and philosophy for developing various AI technologies and applications and suggested the need for targeted AI solutions for various problems mankind and businesses are facing. “AI developments should be targeted and focused towards removing poverty, climate change, and natural calamities risks, removing inefficiencies and enabling other ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) & SDG goals. India is known for its philosophies and its thought leadership; hence India should lead the World with Philosophical AI, in which AI Technology development should follow philosophical thought leadership on AI” said Mr Sumant Parimal while giving his thought in the AI Panel discussion at IIT Gandhinagar during recently held CoLab 2025 event.

While addressing a question on the framework of AI adoption by enterprises Mr Sumant Parimal said “AI should be adopted in a such a manner that organizations should become autonomous, running in auto pilot mode, making CxOs- CEO, COO, CFO, CMO etc. invisible, which shall fasten enterprises response towards the changing business and market needs”.

On a question on the emerging AI skill sets required for the industry such that educational institutions like IITs/NITs adapts to that Mr Parimal added “While coding part of the AI development may get automated with the time, but data management skill sets and business domain related skill sets are going to be most critical for making industry to adopt AI technologies and applications in the successful way. Today AI systems development faces unique challenge to gather and harness reliable and unbiased data sets, which can be used for training various AI models including LLMs. Various types of data sets are spread across various sources in multiple formats, we need large number of data analyst, data managers, and business analysts to harness useful data sets and to bring it into the ambit of AI Systems and AI models for giving strategic business outcomes. Industry also needs emerging skill sets on Quantum Cybersecurity and Quantum-AI for making early adopting of Quantum Computing in industry”.

While addressing IIT Gandhinagar students Mr Sumant Parimal emphasized the need to develop Techno-Business skill sets, which essentially means engineering students should not only limit their new knowledge to AI Technologies, but should also learn about the key challenges businesses and the world are facing, and how to align their new AI solution developments with those emerging needs of the businesses and the world.

New Delhi, February 24, 2025 – Mr. Ashok Virmani, Advisor to Shinryo Suvidha Engineers India Pvt. Ltd., has been honored with the 2025 F. Paul Anderson Award from ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers). The award, which represents the society’s highest recognition for exceptional contributions to the global HVAC&R industry, was conferred upon him during the 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference held in Orlando, USA.

Mr. Virmani is the first Indian to receive this prestigious award, which highlights his remarkable leadership in advancing energy efficiency, engineering excellence, and sustainable practices in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) sector. The F. Paul Anderson Award is named after F. Paul Anderson, the 1927-28 President of the American Society of Heating and Ventilating Engineers, and is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service to ASHRAE and the HVAC&R industry.

On receiving the award, Mr. Ashok Virmani said, “I am deeply honored to receive the F. Paul Anderson Award from ASHRAE at the Winter Conference in Orlando. I would like to thank ASHRAE for this esteemed recognition, and it is satisfying to note that my contributions to the global HVAC sector over the years have been recognized. As the industry continues to evolve, I remain dedicated to advancing solutions that address its future challenges.”

Mr. Ashok Virmani is a life member of ASHRAE and currently, Advisor to Shinryo Suvidha Engineers India Pvt. Ltd. He has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing HVAC practices in India and internationally. He founded Suvidha Engineers India Pvt Ltd in 1983, and under his leadership, the company became a recognized leader in delivering cutting-edge HVAC solutions in India. In 2018, the company was acquired by Japanese HVAC major, Shinryo Corporation and renamed Shinryo Suvidha Engineers India Pvt. Ltd.

At present Shinryo Suvidha Engineers India Pvt. Ltd. employs over 400 professionals across nine locations in India, offering comprehensive HVAC solutions, including design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning. The company has successfully executed numerous projects in India and abroad, with a focus on providing high-quality HVAC products such as chillers, cooling towers, and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems.

Mumbai, 24th February 2025: Zouk, a proudly Indian lifestyle brand, welcomes National Film Award winner Kriti Sanon as its Brand Ambassador. Known for her effortless style and strong connection to modern Indian fashion, Kriti perfectly embodies Zouk’s vision of blending tradition with contemporary design.

Zouk has redefined bags by infusing them with Indian craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and modern functionality. With this collaboration, the brand aims to further strengthen its presence in the bag space, reaching more consumers who appreciate style with functionality.

Disha Singh, Founder of Zouk, shared her excitement about the partnership, stating, “Kriti’s confidence and authenticity make her a great fit for Zouk. She represents the modern Indian consumer—someone who values heritage but also embraces contemporary trends. With her on board, we’re excited to introduce Zouk to even more people.”

Pradeep Krishnakumar, Co-Founder of Zouk, added, “Partnering with Kriti Sanon is a big step forward for us. Her influence and love for Indian craftsmanship align perfectly with our vision of creating stylish, functional, and thoughtfully designed handbags.”

Kriti Sanon expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “Zouk’s approach to design instantly resonated with me. Their bags beautifully blend traditional Indian elements with modern aesthetics. I love brands that tell a story, and Zouk does that effortlessly. I’m excited to be part of this journey and represent a brand that truly celebrates contemporary Indian fashion.”

With over 12 lakh happy customers, Zouk continues to expand its presence both online and offline. The brand has opened exclusive stores in Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Lucknow, and Gurgaon, bringing its unique designs closer to consumers. Strengthening its commitment to functional and stylish everyday essentials, Zouk has also recently launched its women-first luggage line, designed to cater to modern Indian travelers.

Delhi, February 2025:Lenzing Group, a global leader in wood-based specialty fibers, successfully concluded its participation at Bharat Tex 2025, reinforcing its commitment to India’s evolving textile landscape. The event served as a pivotal platform for collaboration, bringing together stakeholders from spinners to brands and highlighting the integration of the entire supply chain.

At Bharat Tex 2025, customers explored the innovative world of TENCEL™ and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ fibers at the Lenzing booth, experiencing firsthand how these fibers are setting new standards in sustainability and performance. Visitors engaged with a comprehensive selection of products crafted withTENCEL™ Lyocell A100, TENCEL™ Lyocell LF, TENCEL™ Lyocell x Micro, TENCEL™ Lyocell Fill, and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ Black. These fibers enhance fabric versatility, blend-ability, insulation, and color fastness, making them ideal for applications across fashion, home textiles, and performance wear. The response from Indian garment makers, mills, brands, and designers was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the growing demand for eco-conscious and high-performance fibers in categories such as denim, home textiles, intimate wear, and traditional Indian apparel like sarees and kurtis.

Jayaraman, Vice President – Global Sales– “Bharat Tex 2025 has been a phenomenal platform that truly reflects the dynamism and innovation of India’s textile industry. The engagement we’ve seen—from mills to brands, from emerging designers to global buyers—underscores India’s pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable textiles. At Lenzing, we are proud to support this transformation with cutting-edge fiber technologies, and the strong collaborations here reaffirm India’s growing role in responsible textile manufacturing”

Avinash Mane, Senior Commercial Director – AMEA & NEA, Lenzing Fibers, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Bharat Tex 2025 has once again proven to be a remarkable platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange. Our innovations continue to align with the diverse needs of the Indian textile industry, combining sustainability with advanced fiber solutions. We look forward to strengthening our relationships and driving the future of responsible textiles in India.”

Additionally, Bharat Tex 2025 facilitated meaningful discussions with international buyers, signaling new opportunities for Indian-made textiles featuring Lenzing fibers in global markets. This trend is set to strengthen India’s position as a key player in sustainable textile manufacturing.

Bharat Tex 2025 has once again proven to be a landmark event, uniting the entire textile value chain and showcasing India’s growing influence in the global textile industry. This platform has sparked invaluable collaborations, fostered innovation, and reinforced the industry’s commitment to sustainability. As we conclude this edition, Lenzing celebrates the meaningful conversations, partnerships, and progress made toward a more responsible and resilient textile future. The success of Bharat Tex 2025 is a testament to India’s dynamic textile ecosystem, and we look forward to continuing this journey together, driving sustainable growth and innovation for years to come.

Chandigarh, February 24, 2025: Tata Tea is committed to promoting the importance of essential vitamins in our diets and addressing the growing issue of nutritional deficiencies. Tata Tea Gold VitaCare is enriched with vital vitamins, including Vitamin D, B12, B6, and B9, providing a convenient solution while you enjoy your everyday cup of tea. Two cups of Tata Tea Gold Vita Care deliver 30% of the daily vitamin intake for these four essential vitamins, all wrapped in an irresistible taste.

Health Benefits of Tata Tea Gold VitaCare:

• Vitamin D – Helps in the maintenance of normal bones.
• Vitamin B6 – Aids in the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
• Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) – Contributes to normal blood formation.
• Vitamin B12 – Supports normal energy-yielding metabolism.

Bengaluru 24th February 2025: JAIN Online, the e-learning arm of JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), has unveiled a 6-month Generative AI Certificate Program designed for aspiring learners and professionals seeking to upskill, transition their careers, or integrate AI into their work. This program will provide practical knowledge to help learners stay ahead in the rapidly advancing AI field and support entrepreneurs aiming to incorporate AI into their businesses.

Speaking about the program, Dr Raj Singh, Vice-Chancellor of JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), said, “The Generative AI Certificate Program is designed to equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in today’s AI-driven world. From understanding the basics to applying AI in real-world scenarios, this program will prepare individuals and businesses to harness the potential of AI effectively. As AI continues to shape industries, this program will offer a practical pathway to stay relevant and competitive.”

The AI job market has grown by 42% in the last two years, highlighting its role as a key economic driver. With AI hiring expected to grow by 14% in 2025, AI has become a vital part of India’s workforce today and in the future.

The program covers a range of topics, including an introduction to Generative AI, an overview of AI and Machine Learning, and the evolution of Generative AI. Learners will explore multi-modal AI, including image, audio, video generation, and 3D models. The program curriculum also focuses on creating applications and UI/UX designs using Generative AI without requiring coding expertise. Learners will identify automation opportunities to grow business efficiency, productivity, and accuracy by reducing repetitive tasks and human error. Additionally, the program will also help develop real-world AI applications across marketing, operations, design, coding, and more.

Palwal, 24 February 2025: Centre For Sight, a renowned eye care hospital known for its cutting-edge technology and trusted team of doctors, today announced the launch of its world-class eye care centre in Palwal, Haryana. This expansion aligns with the organisation’s commitment to making high-quality ophthalmic services accessible across the country, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel to Delhi.

The grand inauguration ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of Mr. Gaurav Gautam, Minister of State for Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurship – Haryana as Chief Guest along with several other notable dignitaries and luminaries from various fields.

Speaking at the event, Mr Gaurav Gautam welcomed Centre For Sight to Palwal and emphasized the significance of this initiative, noting that the introduction of such an advanced eye care facility would greatly benefit the people of the region. He said “I am delighted to witness the launch of Centre For Sight in Palwal, which brings advanced eye care services to our region. This centre is a testament to the progress we are making in ensuring that every citizen has access to high-quality healthcare, right in their vicinity. The state-of-the-art technology and expert team at this facility will undoubtedly benefit many and help in reducing the burden of preventable blindness in our community.”

Dr. Mahipal Singh Sachdev, Chairman, and Managing Director of Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals, emphasized the mission to bring affordable world-class eye care to every corner of India, as one-third of the world’s visually impaired population resides in India. He stated that “Centre For Sight remains dedicated to ensuring that world-class treatment is available to patients across India, particularly in rapidly growing regions such as Palwal. The launch of this centre marks a significant step in expanding high-quality eye care services in Haryana, strengthening the hospital’s commitment to excellence and innovation.”

The new centre is equipped with advanced medical technology to provide a wide range of ophthalmic services, ensuring accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for various eye conditions. It offers specialized care for cataract surgery using micro-incision techniques and phacoemulsification, with premium intraocular lenses such as Trifocal, Multifocal, Toric, and EDOF IOLs. The facility also provides comprehensive glaucoma diagnosis and treatment, retina and vitreoretinal services, cornea transplants, and management of complex corneal conditions like keratoconus.

Additionally, it caters to both adult and paediatric patients with services in paediatric ophthalmology and squint correction. Serving as a centre of excellence for refractive surgery, the Palwal facility offers advanced vision correction solutions such as SILK, SMILE, and Contoura Vision, ensuring enhanced precision and faster recovery for those seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses. It also provides Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedures for individuals with high refractive errors, offering a safe and reversible alternative to traditional laser vision correction.

Centre For Sight is one of India’s leading networks of super-speciality eye hospitals, committed to providing advanced, high-quality, and affordable eye care services across the country. Founded by Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Mahipal Singh Sachdev, the organization has pioneered several breakthrough technologies in ophthalmology, ensuring that patients receive world-class treatments at par with global standards. With a team of over 350 expert doctors and a presence across 85 locations in 33 cities, Centre For Sight continues to set benchmarks in cataract, refractive surgery, cornea, glaucoma, retina, oculoplasty, and pediatric ophthalmology. The hospital group is actively involved in research and innovation, contributing to advancements in surgical techniques, diagnostic tools, and treatment technologies that benefit patients nationwide.

The establishment of the Palwal centre is part of Centre For Sight’s broader expansion strategy in Haryana, where it has strengthened its presence in key locations, including Rewari, Hisar, Bhiwani, and multiple centres in Gurugram and Faridabad. Spread over 6000 sq ft., the Centre has high-precision surgical suites, consultation chambers, and comprehensive diagnostic services, ensuring seamless care from consultation to treatment, providing a smooth and technologically advanced eye care experience.

Pratyush Pandey, CEO, of Upflex India steps Down from Anarock After Eight Years.

Pratyush Pandey, CEO of Upflex India, has announced his departure from Anarock after an eight-year tenure in various leadership roles. A founding member of the firm since its inception in 2017, Pratyush played a pivotal role in establishing and scaling three key business verticals—HVS, Warehousing & Industrial, and most recently, Upflex India.

His efforts in launching Upflex India, a joint venture with the world’s largest U.S.-based flexible workspace platform, proved highly successful. Within just two years, he led the venture to profitability, securing investment from WeWork India and achieving a valuation of ₹125 crore.

Pratyush began his real estate career in 2000 with Chesterton Meghraj which became later became Trammell Crow Meghraj, and was subsequently acquired by JLL India. He remained with JLL until 2017 before joining Anarock, where he played a key role in its expansion into new business domains.

While confirming his planned exit by mid-April 2025, Pratyush has remained tight-lipped about his next move.

Hyderabad, 24 February 2025 – The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Telangana (C4IR Telangana), in collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF), will convene global thought leaders, industry experts, and policymakers at BioAsia 2025 to explore the future of the bio-economy, accelerate digital health adoption, and advance workforce well-being. Scheduled for February 25-26, 2025, these high-impact discussions will reinforce Telangana’s position as a global leader in healthcare innovation and policy.

C4IR Telangana, in partnership with the World Economic Forum, will co-host two high-impact panel discussions focusing on critical themes in healthcare innovation:

· Strengthening the Global Bio-economy & Transforming Human Health through Generative Biology – Scheduled for February 25, 2025, and moderated by Brynne Stanton, Thematic Lead – Bio-economy, World Economic Forum, this session will explore how generative biology can reshape global health outcomes, overcome regulatory and technological barriers, and foster global collaborations.

· Holistic Health and Well-Being Guidance for Employers – Taking place on February 26, 2025, this discussion, moderated by Sasikanth Dola, Partner – McKinsey Health Institute, will highlight the importance of employer-driven health programs, innovative approaches to holistic health, and collaborative frameworks aimed at enhancing well-being across the life sciences industry.

In addition to these panels, C4IR Telangana and the World Economic Forum will host three private workshops to bring together key stakeholders for in-depth discussions:

•  India Digital Health Activator Workshop – Aimed at accelerating digital health adoption in Telangana, this workshop will focus on overcoming barriers to health data exchange, developing impactful use cases for the Family Health ID, and proposing actionable recommendations to drive digital transformation. Attendees will include government leaders, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, tech innovators, and civil society representatives.
•  Global Workshop on Accelerating the Tech-Driven Bio-economy – This session will emphasize India’s leadership in the bio-economy, exploring opportunities to scale solutions, enhance regulatory frameworks, and drive technology-led innovations. Policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers will collaborate on shaping India’s contribution to the World Economic Forum’s 2025 Bio-economy Framework.
•  Thriving Together: Advancing Workforce Well-Being Across the Life Sciences Industry – Focused on collaborative pathways to enhance workforce well-being in the life sciences sector, this session will provide key insights to help shape a potential regional Healthy Workforces Program, led by C4IR Telangana, aimed at improving holistic health across the industry.

Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Industries & Commerce and IT, Government of Telangana, stated, “Telangana continues to drive innovation in healthcare and life sciences, and our collaboration with the World Economic Forum through C4IR Telangana is a testament to our leadership in shaping the future of the bio-economy and digital health. BioAsia 2025 will serve as a vital platform to foster global partnerships, catalyze transformative discussions, and drive actionable outcomes.”

Shyam Bishen, Head, of the Centre for Health and Healthcare and member of the Executive Committee, the World Economic Forum, commented, “Scaling digital health solutions is no longer optional—it’s essential. Through initiatives like the India Digital Health Activator, we are committed to breaking down barriers, enhancing data interoperability, and integrating AI-driven tools to empower both patients and providers.”

Shakthi Nagappan, CEO of BioAsia and Telangana Life Sciences, Government of Telangana, added, “Telangana has always been at the forefront of healthcare innovation. Our collaboration with WEF and C4IR Telangana will drive groundbreaking discussions and collaborations at BioAsia 2025, solidifying Telangana’s position as a global hub for life sciences and digital health.”

With C4IR Telangana and the World Economic Forum leading these transformative discussions, BioAsia 2025 promises to be a landmark event shaping the future of healthcare, digital health, and workforce well-being through innovation, policy leadership, and global partnerships.

Bengaluru, February 24, 2025 – Fastrack, India’s leading youth fashion accessories brand has introduced its latest unisex collection BARE, an innovative transparent watch that celebrates raw authenticity and unfiltered self-expression. The collection has already garnered recognition as one of the Top 50 Designs in the Product Design Category at the prestigious 24th CII India Design Summit 2024.

The BARE collection showcases a striking skeletal dial complemented by bold aluminum bezel rings in 6 vibrant colors, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary watch design. The collection makes bold fashion accessible to style-conscious youth across India.

With the tagline of “Too Bare To Care”, the campaign highlights the unique design of the watch while celebrating those who are not afraid to show who they are.

Speaking at the launch, Danny Jacob, Head of Marketing at Fastrack, said, “Today’s youth navigate a digital world brimming with hyper-curated, picture-perfect content. But what often gets hidden are the raw, unfiltered realities—flaws, slip-ups, bloopers—that make us beautifully human. It takes boldness and authenticity to show up as your true self in a world that favors perfection. We want to celebrate those fearless enough to embrace the messy, imperfect, and wonderfully real moments of being unapologetically human!”