5 Educational Toys for Creative Learning and Play

Discover a wide range of toys that are all intended to encourage children’s creativity and learning. These toys support holistic development with exercises that foster fundamental skills and puzzles that foster cognitive progress. Revive the fun of old-fashioned games, inject humor into your conversations, and play freely with construction blocks that foster imagination and critical thinking. These thoughtfully chosen toys combine amusement and knowledge, ensuring that kids get something worthwhile out of their playtime. 

1- Skillmatics- Art & Craft Activity 

Foil Art & Craft Activity – a fantastic and mess-free method to let your child’s creativity fly! This fascinating kit allows children to create amazing images of planets, astronauts, shooting stars, and more, enabling hours of creative play.

The collection contains more than 100 foam stickers, 100 colorful foil sheets, 10 image canvases, googly eyes, and an instruction booklet. The technique is simple and enjoyable: choose a picture canvas, attach the glittery foil sheets using the stickers provided, and watch the artwork come to life! While having fun, children learn important skills including creative expression, pincer grasp, hand-eye coordination, and bilateral hand coordination. Parents will love that this creative activity is mess-free, making it appropriate for home, playdates, art courses, and even the school.

  1. Toyshine- Wooden Angle Geometric Blocks Stacker

For children, the Toyshine Geometric Blocks Stacker is an educational toy that combines sturdy wood construction with security. It’s made for small hands, with 20 vibrant block pieces and 15 posts, encouraging fine motor skills and spatial reasoning. International safety standards are met while longevity is ensured by the non-toxic water paint finish. This brain-boosting puzzle encourages imaginative play in young minds, which promotes cognitive growth and problem-solving abilities. Its timeless style and colorful geometric shapes give it visual appeal, which makes it the perfect toy for fostering learning and creativity in a safe play setting.

  1. Funskool- Play, Read & Learn India Toy Map  

The Funskool Play & Learn India Map Puzzle is an engaging educational toy for children. Children will find the Funskool Play & Learn India Map Puzzle to be an interesting educational toy. With its intricate map of India separated into states and union territories, this puzzle offers students an engaging and entertaining method to learn geography. Each puzzle piece is made to fit together effortlessly with vivid colors and sturdy construction, promoting spatial awareness and problem-solving abilities. This puzzle is best suited for kids who are five years old and older since it fosters an appreciation for India’s diversity and geography while also aiding in cognitive development. The Funskool India Map Puzzle provides hours of fun and a pleasant means of fostering learning, whether used for recreation or educational purposes.

  1. RATNA’S- Flip Frog into The Pond Party & Fun Games Board Game   

Flip Frog, a popular game that not only rekindles good memories for adults but also offers delicious amusement for children, will transport you back to your joyous childhood days. The principle is simple yet exciting: leap and flip frogs to victory! The game aims to gather all of your frogs in the center of the pond. The actual test of ability and precision is catapulting and successfully flipping each frog into the water. As the frogs gently glide in the air, players compete to be the first to complete the task and emerge victorious. This classic game not only brings back memories for adults but also captures children’s imaginations with its comical frog-flipping movement. The friendly rivalry, along with the excellent art of flipping frogs, guarantees that Flip Frog is a beloved and amusing game for all ages, instilling laughter, togetherness, and a sense of joyful nostalgia. 

  1. FunBlast DIY Plastic Building Blocks 

A fun and adaptable toy for kids, the FunBlast Plastic Building Blocks Puzzle is made to encourage creativity and improve fine motor skills. With the help of this set of vibrant, interconnecting construction blocks, kids can construct a limitless number of buildings and forms, encouraging imaginative play. These blocks are made of sturdy plastic and provide hours of pleasure. The puzzle component gives the game a captivating twist while promoting cognitive growth and problem-solving abilities. This toy is appropriate for kids of different ages and provides both educational and entertaining value. The FunBlast Building Blocks Puzzle offers a dynamic play experience that fosters learning and creativity, whether building tall towers or figuring out the puzzle.

Zee Business emerges as the leading YouTube Live channel During Budget Day, asserting dominance in news broadcasting

Zee Business emerges as the leading YouTube Live channel During Budget Day, asserting dominance in news broadcastingAmidst the fervent anticipation surrounding the Budget Speech, Zee Business once again affirmed its unrivalled position in the realm of financial journalism, seizing the spotlight as the most-watched channel on YouTube Live at 12:00 PM. Surpassing its industry peers, Zee Business shattered previous viewership records, delivering insightful coverage and expert analysis during pivotal events.

As per Data Beings, Zee Business captivated its widespread audience with comprehensive insights into market trends and economic developments, as the most popular Livestream in terms of Average views during a 12-hour period from 000Hrs till 1200 Hrs on 1st February, 2024.

Not only this, ZEE Business’ live views count even crossed a whopping 1,75,000 Live views during Finance Minister’s budget speech.

In comparison to Industry peers like Republic Bharat, TV 9 Bharatvarsh, News 18, India TV, CNBC Awaaz, Aaj Tak, ABP News, Zee Business consistently attracted higher viewership, reaffirming its position as the preferred destination for those seeking insightful analysis and updates on the stock market and economic affairs.

This remarkable achievement not only underscores the unwavering trust and credibility that millions of viewers place in Zee Business but also solidifies its position as a trailblazer in financial journalism, boasting a substantial viewership share of 25.03% when compared with even the Hindi general news category. In an industry landscape where competition for viewership is fierce, Zee Business continues to stand out as the preferred destination for those seeking accurate and timely financial information.

With its commitment to excellence and leadership, Zee Business remains at the forefront of delivering unparalleled value to its audience, reaffirming its status as the nation’s premier source of financial news. Emphasizing on the success of the livestreaming on the Budget, Anil Singhvi, Managing Editor, Zee Business, said “In commemorating Zee Business’s outstanding feat of leading YouTube Live viewership during the Budget Speech, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our viewers for their invaluable support. We take great pride in Zee Business’s performance during the livestream, which underscores our dedication to providing accurate and insightful financial news. This accomplishment reiterates our unwavering commitment to delivering timely updates and comprehensive analysis, further establishing Zee Business as the foremost destination for nuanced coverage of market trends and economic insights.”

Madhu Soman, Chief Business Officer at Zee Business & WION, further highlighted, “We’re incredibly thrilled by our success during the Budget Speech on YouTube Live. Our primary aim has always been to offer our audience the finest in financial journalism, and surpassing our peers in viewership is a validation of our efforts. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work of our team. Zee Business has consistently been at the forefront of financial journalism. Our dominant presence on YouTube Live during the Budget Speech further emphasizes our unwavering commitment to providing unmatched value and excellence to our valued viewers.”

As the nation’s premier source of financial reportage and analysis, Zee Business continues to set new standards for quality and reliability in news broadcasting.

Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India’s leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

Imagine Fest 2024 Returns: A Vibrant Tapestry of Art, Culture, and Ideas Awaits

Imagine Fest 2024 Returns: A Vibrant Tapestry of Art, Culture, and Ideas AwaitsNew Delhi, India 02nd February 2024: Art enthusiasts and cultural connoisseurs, get ready to immerse yourselves in a world where imagination knows no bounds. The fifth edition of the much awaited Imagine Fest will return on February 10 and 11, 2024, at PSOI Club, Nehru Park.

This year’s festival is poised to redefine accessibility to art, making it not only more visually appealing but truly attainable for all. Renowned and up-and-coming artists from all over India will present a diverse array of works, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents. With key galleries highlighting the rich heritage of India, presenting a fusion of traditional and contemporary art forms. Carefully curated to ensure both diversity and quality, the festival offers an unparalleled showcase of artistic excellence.

With a theme to offer a showcase for ‘India’s rich culture and how it influences the world stage.’ The Fest includes 40+ art galleries including Dhoomimal Gallery, Art Magnum, Easel Stories, Galerie Art Eterne, among others. Some of the prominent artists include Reenu Khadelwal, Pankaj Bhawdekar, Ruki Chatterjee, and many more. The fest also includes art walks by eminent figures like Manu Mansheet Rai.

Attendees can expect a carefully curated series of art walks, art workshops, soulful music and other fun activities. Prepare to be intellectually stimulated, inspired, and left with a fresh understanding of art.

Among the many highlights that await attendees are:

An Open Air Art Fair that transforms a boulevard of trees into a stunning exhibition space, adorned with artworks priced between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 5,00,000. Witness the live art and kids can participate in Children’s Art Studio.

In order to cater to every taste and interest. Imagine has come up with great musical performances among various other entertaining events.

A ‘Palette of Palate’, featuring over 10 of Delhi’s premier cafes, delis, and dessert houses, ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate the festival experience.

“This year’s Imagine Fest promises to be a sensory feast for art lovers of all levels,” says Aditi Kapoor, Co-Founder & Director at Imagine Fest. “With a curated selection of over 40 galleries showcasing both established and emerging talent, you’ll discover fresh perspectives and hidden gems alongside timeless classics. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply looking for a vibrant and inspiring weekend, Imagine Fest has something for everyone.”

“Get ready to witness India’s rich culture and how it influences the world stage at Imagine Fest 2024,” says Ruchi Sibal, Co-Founder & Director at Imagine Fest. “From traditional masterpieces to contemporary creations, the festival offers a curated journey through India’s rich artistic heritage. You’ll be amazed by the talent on display and leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and influence of Indian art on the world stage.”

Imagine Fest is more than just a festival; it’s a movement, a catalyst for creative expression and intellectual exploration. It’s a platform that celebrates emerging talent and a beacon for art lovers.

Join us at Imagine Fest 2024 and let your imagination soar to new heights. Together, we’ll embark on a journey of artistic discovery, intellectual exchange, and cultural celebration.

Infiniti Mall decodes implication for retail advancement in India: Union Budget 2024


Infiniti Mall decodes implication for retail advancement in India: Union Budget 2024 
Sharing his thoughts on the Union Budget 2024, Mr. Gaurav Balani, DGM-Marketing, Infiniti Mall shared, “The insights unveiled by the Union Budget 2024 indeed project a favorable growth trajectory for the economy and display the remarkable performance of the nation throughout the years. An increase in the average income of people by 50% is a significant milestone and we expect it to positively impact retail sales, leading to an increase in customer willingness to spend on shopping, recreation and leisure. Further, the presence of a dedicated freight corridor, together with the three economic corridor programmes under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan will help us reduce logistic costs and elevate efficiency while serving customers. We further hope for the moderate inflation period to be monitored and maintained at minimal levels to ensure sustainable growth. Lastly, the introduction of an increase in threshold for presumptive taxation for retail businesses from INR 2 crore to INR 3 crore is a well-appreciated move and will assist in achieving higher revenue figures.”

 

The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City Attains Prestigious LEED Gold Rating

The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City Attains Prestigious LEED® Gold RatingHyderabad, February 02nd, 2024: The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City, under the ownership of Chalet Hotels Limited, proudly announces the USGBC LEED® Gold Rating, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable development.

The certification was officially presented by Mr. Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan, Managing Director of GBCI India for Southeast Asia & the Middle East to Mr. Sanjay Sethi, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Chalet Hotels Limited, and Mr. Deep Preet Bindra, General Manager – The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, earlier today. This recognition underscores Chalet Hotels’ dedication to upholding advanced global sustainability standards and marks a significant step toward realising sustainable development goals.

The five star hotel’s LEED GOLD certification highlights its conscientious use of water, electricity, and land. Featuring a cutting-edge rainwater harvesting system with a capacity of 165 cubic meters per day, the property excels in water efficiency. The system, consisting of storage and recharge pits, surpasses 90% efficiency, providing ample flushing water for a week. Moreover, the property achieves over 40% water efficiency through integrating water-efficient fixtures, waterless urinals, and the utilisation of treated water.

Additionally, a state-of-the-art Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 400 cubic meters per day has been installed, significantly reducing the demand for potable water. The treated water from the STP is judiciously employed for irrigation, cooling tower operations, and fulfilling flushing requirements, further contributing to the property’s commitment to sustainable water management.

Notably, 18% energy efficiency is achieved through a commitment to renewable energy, Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in chiller and pumping systems, and the use of Electronically Commutated (EC) fans for Air Handling Units (AHU) and Ceiling Suspended Units (CSU). Furthermore, the property proudly procures 100% of its electricity from renewable sources.

The hotel’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond energy and water conservation. It includes the reuse of manure for landscape areas through an organic waste composter, provision of adequate daylight to guest rooms, along with reusable bath amenities to reduce single use plastic usage, enhanced indoor air quality through the implementation of a ‘no smoking’ policy, and provision of in house bottled water to ensure zero plastic policy of the hotel is adhered to through all its initiatives. The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City also proudly hosts an exclusively electric vehicle fleet with 100% charging infrastructure, contributing to a greener and more sustainable tomorrow. The fully powered EC charging station further solidifies the hotel’s commitment to various other Green Hotel initiatives. As a beacon of innovation and eco-conscious leadership, the hotel is poised to inspire others on the journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Sanjay Sethi, MD & CEO, Chalet Hotels Limited said, “I take great pride to receive the LEED GOLD certification for our hotel, The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City. Responsible design and construction are integral components of our sustainability ethos, positively impacting the planet earth.”

Deep Preet Bindra, General Manager, – The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace said, “In the realm of sustainable development, our team of empowered women take the lead with purpose and grit. With the prestigious USGBC LEED® Gold Rating, our commitment shines brightly, forging a legacy of responsible business practices. We’ve not just constructed a beautiful hotel but woven a tapestry of positive impact on the world – proving success is measured not just in achievements but in lasting contributions to a sustainable future.”

Mr. Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan, Managing Director, Southeast Asia & Middle East of GBCI India said, “GBCI is immensely proud to present The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City with the prestigious LEED® Gold Rating. This achievement, marked by an all-women operated team, underscores the hotel’s commitment to advanced global sustainability standards. The Westin Hyderabad HITEC City serves as a symbol of inspiration for the hospitality industry, setting a remarkable precedent for sustainable practices. In a world focused on eco-conscious leadership, this accomplishment will act as a catalyst for a more resilient and sustainable future.”

Skyview By Empyrean, A Winter Honeymoon Paradise

Skyview By Empyrean, A Winter Honeymoon ParadiseThere’s something enchanting about romancing your partner in the lap of nature during the winter season. Imagine being surrounded by the breathtaking views of the majestic snow-capped Pir Panjal range from the warmth and comfort of your wood-panelled room! Only at Skyview by Empyrean, a cosy mountain harbour located in Jammu’s Sanget-Patnitop area, will you get to experience some of the most exciting and romantic moments with the love of your life!

Here’s how:

Indoor Romance 

The property offers a total of 15 premium rooms and luxury suites that offer views of the mountains and the Skyview Gondola. From the wood-panelled Gondola View Luxury Rooms inspired by the natural environment of the region, you can soak in the picturesque setting of Sanget Valley. The Mountain View suites and rooms offer magnificent views of the Himalayas over lush green forests, epitomising luxury, comfort and warmth — just the right ingredients for you to brew that romance. Whether you’re sharing a cup of ‘chai’ in your private balcony watching flaming sunrises and sunsets, or partaking in deep conversation by the roaring fireplace, there is a corner on the property to match the mood.

Firing Up The Taste-Buds 

Food and romance are known to have a deep connection, what with some of the most romantic relationships starting with a meal together! At Skyview’s Banana Leaf restaurant, love blooms and how! This luxurious dining space features a variety of global and regional cuisines prepared with love by a team headed by Skyview’s highly-decorated Executive Chef, who creates an immersive culinary experience that will leave you smacking your lips in satisfaction! From Chinese to Continental to mouth-watering desserts, there is a delicacy that will uplift the palate of every kind of food connoisseur. For a quick bite, newly-married couples can head over to Skyview Café for a taste of their famous sizzlers. For those who want to just chill and stay in, room service is just a call away.

Bonding Over Adventure

For adventurous honeymooning couples who love to spend time outdoors during winter, there are a plethora of exciting activities to pump up the adrenalin rush and create the perfect setting for bonding. Other than taking long romantic walks exploring the 22-acre mountain harbour in all its glory, couples can also sign up for scenic gondola rides to Patnitop and back, mountain biking, archery, ATV, ziplining or even hop on to the magic carpet ride!

Riding Into The Sunset On A Gondola

Environmentally-aware honeymooners will be delighted to learn that Skyview by Empyrean is India’s first Sustainable Tourism Destination, certified by The Responsible Tourism Society of India. Furthermore, the sustainable ride on the highest CEN-Certified Ropeway in Asia (in terms of ground clearance) is the stuff dreams are made of! Enroute you are treated with unfiltered aerial views of pristine mountain ranges, lush forests and clear blue skies that will uplift your spirits! The fact that this ropeway is not only net zero, it significantly minimizes traffic, air, and noise pollution, makes the experience all the more au-naturel!

Patnitop Calling 

The property offers easy accessibility to Patnitop, an enchanting hill station that is just 10 minutes away. An ideal destination for honeymooners, Patnitop offers a range of attractions for couples. For those seeking blessings for their new life as a married couple, the Sudh Mahadev temple and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi temple are close by. Boating at Mansar lake or spending quality time at Natha Top either paragliding, skiing or taking a walk amidst nature are also very popular among tourists.

Budget Quote from Srinivasan Viswanathan, Chief Executive Officer of Vibrant Energy

Budget Quote from Srinivasan Viswanathan, Chief Executive Officer of Vibrant Energy“We applaud  the government’s budget announcement for its strong commitment to sustainable and green initiatives. The focus on providing free electricity to one crore households through rooftop solarization is a commendable step towards ensuring energy security and reducing environmental impact. This initiative, aligned with Vibrant Energy’s commitment to advancing sustainable practices, serves as a model for responsible development. It delivers a dual benefit by alleviating financial burdens on households and fostering cleaner energy sources.

The budget’s strategic allocation of Viability Gap Funding for 1GW offshore wind energy is a critical support required to bolster the renewable energy footprint in the country. Other initiatives to support the electric vehicle ecosystem and the promotion of bio-manufacturing are welcome initiatives for achieving net-zero targets. These steps not only contribute to a greener and more resource-efficient economy, but they also generate considerable economic possibilities, including entrepreneurship in EV infrastructure and employment for youth with technology skills. Vibrant Energy looks forward to actively participating in these initiatives, contributing to India’s journey towards a cleaner and more resilient future.”

Fabindia Welcomes Spring with ‘The Big Spring’

Fabindia Welcomes Spring with 'The Big Spring'02nd February, 2024: As the new year and the Spring season unfolds, Fabindia invites fashion and lifestyle enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a celebration of style, craftsmanship, and sustainability with the “Big Spring”. Spring is all about freshness and what better time to launch the Spring campaign than at the beginning of the new year. It is a celebration where fashion meets traditional handicrafts and quality meets affordability. And it’s all happening across their 350+ stores and online on fabindia.com and the fabindia App, from 9th Jan 2024 onwards.

The Big Spring represents a fusion of tradition and elegance, offering a curated range that not only captures the vibrant spirit of spring but also echoes Fabindia’s commitment to artisanal fashion. Whether you are revamping your office wardrobe, attending a ceremony or planning a vacation, their latest deals and styles have got you covered.

Shop from a curation of contemporarily designed kurtas, saris, shirts and trousers. Complete the look with trendy accessories including fine Indian jewellery, bags and footwear. The choices also extend to the fabHOME collection on home linens, décor and gifting concepts. And of course, Bigger Bags lead to Bigger Savings.

Talking about the Big Spring at Fabindia, Mr. Ajay Kapoor, President Retail, Fabindia said, “The onset of Spring has always held a special place for our patrons to upgrade their wardrobes and home décor. We would be offering cotton and fine linens adorned with Indian hand block prints and traditional crafts in everyday apparel for work, at home and on the move to premium woven silks and silk blends celebrations and weddings. We look forward to making the shopping experience for our customers all the more unforgettable across all our stores. This Spring will certainly be Big on Style, Bigger on Offers and the Biggest on Smiles.”

Explore the stunning offerings within Fabindia’s Big Spring celebration, featuring an array of dazzling pieces that are sure to captivate your senses.

Nuvoco Vistas Expands Footprint in Hyderabad with Cutting-Edge Ready-Mix Concrete Plant in Medchal

Nuvoco Vistas Expands Footprint in Hyderabad with Cutting-Edge Ready-Mix Concrete Plant in MedchalHyderabad, 02nd February, 2024: Nuvoco Vistas Corp. Ltd., India’s fifth-largest cement group, takes another significant step towards reinforcing its commitment to quality and efficiency with the inauguration of its brand new Ready-Mix Concrete Plant in the bustling metropolis of Hyderabad. The new plant is 5th in the region and is conveniently located at Medchal, expands Nuvoco’s ability to meet the region’s expanding need for construction materials.

By establishing the Medchal plant, the company solidifies its market-leading position. This adds to its existing facilities located in Miyapur and Jeedimetla, which are within 35 km, and Uppal & Patencheru, which are 40 to 60 km away. Located near industrial, commercial, and residential developments, Medchal offers high potential for growth. The plant’s strategic location ensures quick market access thereby reducing traffic disruptions and fulfilling Nuvoco’s commitment to operational excellence.

This state-of-the-art plant is fully equipped to meet a wide range of customer requirements, providing top-quality concrete solutions for various development projects across the region. The plant will cater to several localities within a 10-15 km radius, including Medchal, Kallakal, Shamirpet, Gundlapochampally, Kompally, Dulapally, and Kandlakoya. With a capacity of 60 Cum/Hour (M1 Grade), the facility can produce all grades of concrete, including Value Added Products (VAP).

Mr. Prashant Jha, Chief of the Ready-Mix (RMX) Concrete and Modern Building Materials business at Nuvoco Vistas expressed his excitement at the inauguration of this latest plant, stating, “The newly opened facility strengthens the company’s position in Hyderabad. It also plays a vital role in shaping the dynamic construction ecosystem of Medchal and its neighbouring areas. This expansion affirms the company’s commitment to meeting the changing demands of the construction sector.

Nuvoco adheres to the highest quality and environmental standards and focuses on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The company remains committed to contributing to the construction industry’s growth and development in India.

ICC hails Budget’s Holistic Vision for Viksit Bharat

ICC welcomes the Interim budget announcements aimed at Viksit Bharat. Although there are no tax tweaking as expected but the Budget is a ‘Statement of strong Intent”, said ICC statement released today.

ICC appreciates Govt.’s commitment to reduce fiscal deficit and setting a target of 5.1% for the upcoming year and finally taking it to 4.5% by 2026. This reflects a strong commitment from Government to lower borrowings and inject liquidity in the economy which may come back in the form of asset price bubbles and unsecured loan driven consumption.

In the Interim Budget 2024 has proposed to raise capital expenditure by 11.1% to ₹11.11 lakh crore. ICC  lauds the Government’s unveiling of a long-term plan and sustaining Capex and Infrastructure development as a key engine of growth. The increased investment is poised to stimulate private capital expenditure and it will not only drive economic growth but also create increased employment opportunities.

Income Tax benefits for Start Ups have been extended till 31.3.25. We hope concessional  Corporate Tax Rates for new Investments would be maintained in main budget 2024. The Interim Budget 2024 announced a corpus of Rs 1 lakh crore will be established with 50-year interest-free loan tech-savvy growth. This will encourage private sectors to scale up Research and innovation significantly in sunrise domains. ICC lauds this initiative, as this was one of our key recommendations to raise R& D (which is currently less than 1%) as a proportion of GDP .

The focus on targeted Incentives for agriculture/farmers, carbon neutrality by 2070, building one crore rooftop solar units, green energy, connectivity, rural housing, integrated tourism projects is praiseworthy. The Budget balances growth and inflation very well. At the same time provides continuity, direction to growth initiatives. ICC welcomes the statement on the development of Eastern region and transforming the region into a growth engine for the nation.