All posts by Sujata Achary

Manipal, Karnataka, February 24, 2025 – The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), initiated the third batch of the Leadership Development Program (LDP) today. This exclusive three-day residential program is hosted at the MAHE campus in Manipal and features a series of nine meticulously designed training modules aimed at enhancing the leadership capabilities of academic leaders.

The FICCI LDP has brought together a diverse group of academic leaders including Directors, Deans, Registrars, Senior Professors, etc from various Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The program is developed to orient professionals with advanced knowledge and leadership skills essential for managing the complexities of modern academia and shaping them to become ‘future-ready’.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Co-Chair, FICCI Higher Education Committee and Vice-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, in his keynote address, highlighted the fundamentals of leadership, discussing its various layers and significance in personal, organizational, and societal contexts. Emphasizing the need for a structured approach to identifying and nurturing potential academic leaders, Lt. Gen. Venkatesh also addressed the challenges faced by stakeholders within the education ecosystem. These include stakeholder consciousness, managing expectations, budgeting and financing, industry partnerships, and regulatory compliance. He further highlighted the essential attributes expected of an academic leader in today’s rapidly evolving and transformative times. He emphasized the growing significance of developing a comprehensive sense in research, operational and strategic management, team-building skills, and proficiency in accreditation and ranking. He further underscored the critical importance of succession planning in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to ensure robust governance, innovation, and effective talent risk management, thereby ensuring readiness for future leadership transitions.

Prof. (Dr.) Rajan Saxena, Advisor, FICCI Higher Education Committee and Former Vice Chancellor, NMIMS, articulated the urgent need for developing readiness to embrace change. He stressed the importance of anticipating and preparing for future challenges to avert potential disasters, overcome stagnancy, and address systemic issues, which could otherwise lead to low enrollment and demoralization within the academic community. Prof. Saxena observed that the success of students and the relevance of HEIs hinge on recognizing the shifting dynamics of the job market. He pointed out the cyclical challenges that may at times persist until institutions adapt to these changes. He advocated for a continuous focus on adding value to students, industry, and society at large. He highlighted that the transformation in education begins with leadership at the top and permeates throughout the faculty and administrative levels.

Dr. Rajesh Pankaj, Director & Head – Education & Skills, FICCI, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the significant complementary efforts and benchmark standards set by private higher education institutions in India. These institutions, he noted, play a crucial role in equipping a global workforce with competent and relevant skills. Dr. Pankaj emphasized that the vision of the FICCI LDP is centered around capacity building within HEIs. He elaborated on how FICCI as an association is uniquely positioned to, integrate fresh insights from both industry and academia to forge structured leadership that meets critical benchmarks and significantly impacts HEIs.

The modules cover critical aspects of academic leadership including change management, talent management, research and innovation, technology integration, fostering a learning culture, financial sustainability, internationalization, and industry partnerships. These sessions are designed not only to enrich and upgrade the participants’ skill sets but also to immerse them in an environment that promotes substantial growth and networking opportunities. Participants will engage in real-time case studies, interactive sessions, and collaborative learning experiences that mirror the complexities and nuances of modern higher education.

This program masterfully blends theoretical foundations with practical insights to stimulate thoughtful discussion and inspire decisive action. Facilitated by esteemed leaders who are pioneers of change in their respective fields, its primary goal is to reimagine the role of academia in a transformative world. By focusing on critical areas such as technology integration, research innovation, and sustainable practices, the program is meticulously designed to equip leaders with the necessary tools to effectively shape the future of education.

The FICCI Leadership Development Program is a significant step toward empowering academic leaders to effectively lead and implement progressive policies, ensuring their institutions remain at the forefront of educational innovation and excellence.

Established in 1927, FICCI is India’s oldest and largest apex business organization, playing a pivotal role in propelling India’s economic growth and industrialization. As a non-government, not-for-profit organization, FICCI serves as the voice of India’s business and industry, facilitating dialogue, influencing policy, and building bridges across sectors.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education, an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be a University, is renowned for its academic excellence and comprehensive educational offerings. By hosting the LDP, MAHE underscores its commitment to fostering educational leadership that can drive significant impacts in the realms of higher education and beyond.

Bangalore February 2025: The Rotary Club of Bangalore, Lavelle Road, is proud to Announce The Inauguration of “Kala for Vidya,” an annual art exhibition cum sale. This esteemed event, initiated in 2005, aims to support the education of underprivileged children at Rotary Bangalore Vidyalaya (RBV).

The news me of this year’s Exhibition is “Ephemeral Permanence, Stories of Nature.” it promises to be a spectacular showcase of art, featuring renowned artists from across India, alongside emerging talent. The event will present a diverse range of art forms, from traditional to contemporary.

Through their works, the artists will delve into the fleeting moments of beauty, the delicate balance of life, and the enduring power of nature.

The Rotary Club of Bangalore has been dedicated to providing quality education, free uniforms, food, and books to 540 children from underprivileged backgrounds at RBV. “Kala for Vidya” is a testament to the club’s commitment to Empowering these deserving children through education.

We invite art enthusiasts and supporters of education to join us in this noble endeavor. Together, let us paint a brighter future for these children.

EventDetails:

Date: March 1st and 2nd 2025 Time: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM

Venue: ITC Windsor Manor Bengaluru

Chandigarh, 24 February 2025: Celebrated singer and composer Papon captivated audiences at ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025 during the session “Rhythm Divine: Growing Up with Music for the Soul.” He reflected on his musical upbringing, journey to Bollywood, and the deep connection that he shares with music.

“I was fortunate to be born into a family where music was a way of life. It was always like a mehfil at home,” he shared. His father, known as the Bihu Samraat, introduced him to a world of melodies, from traditional Assamese tunes to legends like Ghulam Ali and Jagjit Singh.

Speaking about his musical evolution, Papon credited Delhi and Mumbai for shaping his craft. “Delhi taught me a lot – the language, the nuances, and the depth of music,” he said. However, Bollywood was never a planned destination for him. “I never set out for Bollywood. The people here are incredibly supportive – they believed in me.”

On the story behind his stage name, he revealed that ‘Papon’ was originally a nickname. When he asked legendary lyricist Gulzar about using his real name, Angarag Mahanta, Gulzar Sahab responded, “Your real name is beautiful, but you look and sound like Papon (‘Tum Dikhte sunte papon hi ho) And the name stuck.”

For Papon, music has always been an intimate experience, whether singing at home or performing for thousands. “Concerts are just an extension of what I used to do, singing for a few people at home. Now, it’s for five thousand, but the feeling remains the same.”

The session concluded on a soulful note as Papon mesmerized the audience with his music, leaving everyone in the magic of rhythm and melody.

ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, themed ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier,’ brought together thought leaders and innovators to discuss India’s growth in a rapidly evolving world. The summit explored key challenges and opportunities, including climate change, geopolitical shifts, and advancements in AI. The two-day summit brought together a confluence of ideas from global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions of a better, more sustainable world for all.

Kolkata, 24 February 2025: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) announced the Centenary Marathon Run 2025 at a press conference held at ICC Tower. The event, scheduled for February 23, 2025, will mark a historic milestone, celebrating a century of ICC’s legacy while promoting fitness and sportsmanship. Dignitaries present at the announcement included Anirban Dutta, Secretary, IFA & Member, ICC Sports Committee; Sanjay K Jain, MD, T.T Limited & Chairman, ICC National Textiles Committee; and Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General, ICC. They also revealed the names of star athletes and eminent personalities who will be part of the highly anticipated run. The Centenary Marathon aims to bring together professional athletes, corporate leaders, and fitness enthusiasts, reinforcing ICC’s commitment to fostering a culture of sports and well-being.

ICC, a leading national chamber headquartered in Kolkata with a strong presence across India and global representation offices, is organizing the event under the theme “Run with Passion, Celebrate with Legacy.” The marathon will feature two race categories: an 11 KM Run, designed as a competitive segment for professional athletes, and a 3.5 KM Run, open to participants aged 18 to 60. To drive competition, cash prizes will be awarded across both categories, with the 11 KM winners receiving ₹20,000 (1st), ₹15,000 (2nd) and ₹10,000 (3rd), while the 3.5 KM winners will receive ₹10,000 (1st), ₹7,000 (2nd), and ₹5,000 (3rd).

The run will commence from Red Road, offering a scenic route through the city, starting at Mohammedan Sporting Club and concluding at George Telegraph Sports Club, which is also celebrating its 100th anniversary this year – a happy coincidence!

The flag-off ceremony at 5:30 AM will feature an esteemed line-up of personalities, including Mr. Aankur Patni, Vice Chairman, Ion Exchange; Ms. Jyotirmoyee Sikdar, former MP Lok Sabha and Olympian with double gold medals in the Asian Games; Ms. Pranati Das, gymnast; Mr. Rahul Banerjee, archer; Dr. Sutapa Roy, Principal of Vidyasagar College for Women; Ms. Chaitali Das from Jute Story and Rakshak Foundation; Md. Iqbal, model; Mr. Kalyan Kar from the IT sector; Ms. Deblina Kumar; Mr. Debdut Roychowdhury, Founder and Director of Hatchlab Innovations Private Limited; and Ms. Sangita Sinha, Miss Asia Grand Universe.

National, February 24, 2025: Multi-award-winning Indian-American songwriter Savan Kotecha has teamed up with Universal Music India, Republic Records, and Represent to launch a game-changing initiative set to redefine India’s pop music scene. This groundbreaking collaboration will spearhead the largest nationwide talent hunt to discover and develop India’s first globally positioned boy band, aiming to captivate audiences across the country and beyond.

Savan Kotecha, a 17-time Grammy nominee, Oscar & Golden Globe nominee, and the recipient of multiple Billboard Music Awards, BMI Awards, and ASCAP Awards is known for crafting chart-topping hits for Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, One Direction, Justin Bieber, and more. His vision extends to cultivating a thriving teen pop economy in India.

With a dynamic blend of A&R expertise, strategic marketing and a teen pop approach, this collaboration marks a bold step toward developing India’s next generation of pop superstars.

Reflecting on his mission, Savan Kotecha shares, “For too long, Indian youth have looked outside for their pop and teen idols. Boy bands from around the world have shaped entire generations, and now, it’s India’s turn. We want to create a group representing India’s diversity, dreams, and aspirations while igniting an unprecedented wave of fandom and paving the way for the Indian Teen Pop economy.

Adding to this, Sanujeet Bhujabal, Managing Director, Universal Music Group India & South Asia, said, “Our i-Pop strategy has been laser-focused on fostering a younger, Gen Z and Gen Alpha-driven soundscape in India. Now, with Savan, we’re taking this vision global by creating India’s first true pop boy band. This will be the biggest, most ambitious pop project and talent hunt India has ever seen, and we are beyond excited to bring this to life. At the same time, we’re committed to introducing and building a long-term teen pop economy in India.

Aayushman Sinha, Founder of Represent and a key management partner in this initiative, added, “What we want to build with this initiative is going to be a catalyst for the overall growth of the Indian pop culture ecosystem. We’re excited to get into a new era of talent development – something India and Indian artists have never seen before. We’re honoured to partner with Savan, UMG India and Republic to write this new chapter in Indian Pop Culture together. More importantly, this is about shaping a structured teen pop economy in India—one that fosters sustainable careers for young artists and cements pop music as a dominant cultural force.”

To bring a sharp, nuanced take to curating India’s first contemporary boy band, the project has partnered with Jugaad Motion Pictures. Beyond assembling a talented group of musicians, Jugaad is shaping the band’s collective identity—one built on personality, ambition, friendships, and conflicts.

Mumbai, 21st February 2025: Blix Education, India’s leading STEM-focused toy platform has recently announced the launch of ‘Build-A-Machine’, a 7-in-1 mechanical engineering kit to promote hands-on learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The toy brings real-life mechanical systems to young learners’ fingertips while encouraging them to explore and engage through building and experimenting.

The ‘Build-A-Machine’ kit comes with 100+ high-quality pieces that make learning interactive for 5 years and above the age of children. It enables them to construct and explore a variety of mechanisms including Scotch Yoke, Scissor Lift, Rack and Pinion Lift, Power Press Machine, Giant Whee,l, and more. As a result, it combines education and fun to spark interest in STEM learning from an early age.

Elated with the launch announcement, Mr. Abbas Gabajiwala, founder and CEO of Blix said, “Our mission at Blix Education is to make STEM learning accessible, engaging, and fun for children. Build-A-Machine is designed to ignite curiosity and introduce kids to the fascinating world of engineering through hands-on play. It empowers young learners to explore and experiment.”

Built with a STEM-based approach, ‘Build-A-Machine’ has a distinctive feature that operates without batteries. This allows children to experience the movement and functionality of machines in a completely manual and immersive way.

The newly launched toy functions as an innovative learning tool that introduces children to core engineering concepts in a fun and interactive way. By assembling different mechanical structures, they develop problem-solving skills, spatial awareness, and a deeper understanding of real-world mechanics. The kit stimulates creativity and logical thinking, making it an ideal addition to classrooms and home learning environments.

Parents, educators, and young innovators can purchase the STEM toy from leading toy stores, educational retailers, and online marketplaces.

New Delhi, India – February 21, 2025 – ZF Group, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, as well as active and passive safety technology, proudly announces the opening of India’s first ZF [pro]Tech plus workshop in New Delhi. This milestone represents a significant step in ZF’s ongoing efforts to enhance technological capabilities, local expertise, and customer service excellence in the country.

ZF Aftermarket has a considerable legacy of workshops of over 40 years. This newly inaugurated workshop is part of ZF’s well-recognized ZF [pro]Tech network, which since 2012, has been empowering workshops by providing technical knowledge, training, and service data of OEMs.

The workshop in New Delhi was inaugurated by Markus Wittig, Global Head of Business Line Passenger Car, ZF Aftermarket, and Vijay Khorgade, Head of Business Line Pass Car IMEA. Rolly Chadha, Head of European Motor Works and the owner of this workshop, led the inaugural celebration. This event underscores the success and global importance of this initiative, highlighting ZF’s dedication to empowering its partners worldwide.

Markus Wittig, Global Head of Business Line Passenger Car, ZF Aftermarket stated, “I am very pleased with this launch of India’s first ZF [pro]Tech plus workshop. This reiterates our commitment and ambition in the Indian market. With this facility, we will be able to provide unparalleled support to our workshop partners, enhancing their capabilities and ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry in India. It also marks the start of a nationwide roll-out of our workshop concept in India.”

According to ACMA, the Indian automotive aftermarket grew by 10%, from 10.6 Bn USD to 11.3 Bn USD, in FY 2024, due to an increase in vehicle parc and increasing formalization of the repair and maintenance market.

Vijay Khorgade, Head of Business Line Passenger Car IMEA added, “For India, ZF Aftermarket is setting the benchmark for workshop expectations in terms of technology and quality. By offering technical know-how and training, we enable our partners to deliver exceptional service and support to their customers. As most of us know Indian automotive market is on the cusp of an evolution, and the ZF [pro]Tech plus concept enables workshops to keep pace with the new technologies and advances in mobility, making them relevant and ready for the future.”

Rolly Chadha Head of European Motor Works and the owner of this workshop expressed his enthusiasm, “We have been associated with ZF Group for several years now. As a legacy distributor, we are aware of the technology and quality ZF Aftermarket represents and we are thrilled to be part of the ZF [pro]Tech Plus network as the first-ever workshop. The comprehensive support and expertise provided by ZF Group will undoubtedly elevate our service standards and help us better serve our customers.”

Purpose and Impact:

Closely aligning with ZF Aftermarket’s strategy of “Maximizing Mobility Uptime,” ZF [pro]Tech workshops provide technical know-how, training, and mounting instructions to workshop partners. All ZF [pro]Tech workshops benefit from extensive support provided by ZF’s aftermarket experts, ranging from technical data and service campaigns to marketing support and a state-of-the-art training program. This holistic approach ensures that workshops are well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern automotive technology and deliver superior service to their customers. For distributors, ZF [pro]Tech workshops aim to generate secondary sales points by promoting ZF products at the workshop level. These workshops also play a crucial role in ZF’s long-term strategy, ensuring superior service, localized solutions, and a sustainable future for mobility.

The ZF [pro]Tech workshop concept is available in two versions: ZF [pro]Tech Start and ZF [pro]Tech Plus. In addition to all the advantages of ZF [pro]Tech start, the latter offers further benefits such as personal on-site support and annual participation in technical training on changing topics. There is currently already a network of more than 140 ZF [pro]Tech start workshops across India. ZF Aftermarket plans to significantly expand this network with both ZF [pro]Tech Start and ZF [pro]Tech Plus workshops within the next two years.

Expanding Presence in India:

With the launch of ZF [pro]Tech Plus, ZF Aftermarket continues to expand its presence in India, bringing world-class technology and expertise closer to its customers. The ZF [pro]Tech plus workshop in New Delhi is a significant milestone in ZF’s journey towards next-generation mobility and paves the way for further opportunities for distributors and workshops in North, South, and Western India.

Noida, 21st February 2025: AAFT, one of India’s Largest Creative Educational institutes, recently announced the appointment of Nikkhil Beri, a Grammy award-winning producer, as the Industry Dean at AAFT School of Music. As a music producer and mix engineer, Mr. Beri has spent nearly two decades working with genres that range from Folk, Spiritual, Pop, Pop Rock to Acoustic. His work has taken him on a journey around the world, mixing for the Grammy-winning recording “Divine Tides” and collaborating with various musicians, from emerging talents to industry bests. He has also served as a sound engineer for Royal Caribbean Cruises, handling sound in some of the most advanced entertainment venues at the sea. His dedication to making high-quality music is evident in every mix, making them stand apart from the rest.

As the new Dean of Industry, Mr. Beri’s wealth of experience and niche knowledge about the ground reality will help students develop technical know-how and navigate the industry successfully. His mentorship will encourage students to explore their creativity to their fullest potential. With him on board, AAFT is excited to take its music program a notch higher and provide students with a practical learning experience, supervised by a true industry expert.

On his appointment Mr. Nikkhil Beri said, “Music is on the brink of a transformative future, and I believe it is essential for every student at AAFT to understand music in all its facets truly. My goal is to guide them through this journey, helping them explore and master every aspect of music. This vision will not only redefine the music industry but also create a completely new definition of what the music industry can be. Together, we will empower students to become innovators in the music world and reshape the industry’s future.”

Akshay Marwah, CEO of AAFT, shared, “We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Mr. Nikkhil Beri as the Industry Dean for the School of Music at AAFT. Grammy Award-winning music producer with a dynamic career in the global music industry, Mr. Beri, brings unparalleled expertise and creativity to our institution. Under his guidance, it will be a new horizon for AAFT to set benchmarks in academic excellence while allowing students to learn from one of the most accomplished and respected professionals in the industry.”

With an illustrious 31-year legacy, At AAFT, creativity and practicality is the central focus of the curriculum and the institution’s priorities, nurturing a vision in aspiring musicians that enables them to leave a mark in the industry. AAFT remains committed to providing top-tier programs that equip aspiring musicians with the skills and vision to excel in the global Interior landscape.

Mumbai, 21 February 2025: “We discovered the market value of makhana before people even adopted it. Healthy snacking was an untapped space, and we saw the opportunity before it became mainstream,” said, Shashwat Goenka, Vice Chairman of the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, at the fourth edition of ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, in Mumbai today.

Participating in the session titled ‘The Next Generation: Making Business Better’, Shashwat Goenka expressed how his organization identified the potential of makhana early.

Adding to the conversation, Shashwat Goenka, said, “Indians have a very unique way of consuming things. They want the punch of flavor in their snacks, but they also want them to be healthy. That’s the balance we aim to perfect. We will always prioritize health, but the taste will trump everything else. If a product is not enjoyable, consumers will not come back to it.”

Speaking on reinventing traditional snacking, Shashwat Goenka noted, “We identified the space of healthy snacking in time. Our bhujias have 45% less saturated fat, but they don’t compromise on taste. Today, we offer a gamut of healthy snacks that cater to evolving consumer preferences. Consumption has changed in the last two decades.”

Talking about the evolution of quick commerce, Shashwat Goenka added, “Quick commerce has taken off, and Indian consumers today are more aspirational and willing to try new things. Continuous supply chain availability is key to meeting this demand. “

Speaking on competition and success in the snacking industry, Shashwat Goenka said, “There is a heat of competition in the snacking market. Technology is changing faster than ever, and faster adoption of tech is the key to success. However, it is important to have a work-life balance. The number of hours does not matter; productivity does. Mukesh Ambani is someone I admire in this space as he has perfect vision, as well as Elon Musk.”

The ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025, centered on the theme ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier’, will convene thought leaders and innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities in India’s ascendance in a rapidly changing world. In the face of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and technological advancements like AI, the summit delved into India’s role as both an ancient civilization and a demographic powerhouse in shaping the future. The two-day summit brings together a confluence of ideas by global thought leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers, covering transformative possibilities in science, medicine, social contracts, and global leadership, with experts from diverse fields offering bold visions of a better, more sustainable world for all.

New Delhi, 21st February 2025 – Aksum Trademart Pvt. Ltd., a leading B2B supply chain startup, has reported a remarkable 143% year-over-year revenue growth for FY24, reaching ₹240 crore. The company’s profit before tax surged over 700%, marking a significant milestone in its journey to redefine supply chains with sustainability and accessibility at their core.

Aksum, backed by Inflection Point Ventures (IPV), has expanded into over 40 cities across India, broadening its product portfolio to include polymers alongside steel, scrap, chemicals, and construction materials. Its 600+ unique SKUs and tech-driven procurement automation solutions have streamlined supply chain operations for corporates and MSMEs alike.

“We are ready to build on this momentum in FY25 with a continued focus on creating sustainable and efficient supply chains for corporates and SMEs while upholding strong corporate governance,” said Sumit Bhatia, Co-founder of Aksum Trademart.

Sustainability at the Core

Aksum has reinforced its commitment to sustainability by deriving over 50% of its revenue from scrap and secondary steel, helping businesses reduce waste, lower costs, and enhance operational efficiency. This initiative supports a circular economy, offering cost-effective and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional procurement.

Technology-Driven Growth & Financial Strength

Aksum’s digital-first approach has enabled seamless procurement, enhanced vendor-client collaboration, and real-time transparency. The company has also strengthened its financial foundation through partnerships with SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Yes Bank, offering working capital solutions to its clients.

To uphold transparency and governance, Aksum has appointed Grant Thornton as its statutory auditor, reinforcing trust among stakeholders.

As Aksum steps into FY25, it remains dedicated to leveraging technology, sustainability, and financial inclusion to build an efficient, responsible, and scalable supply chain ecosystem that empowers businesses of all sizes.