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Three new board members bring expertise in law, workforce development and nonprofit leadership.

(St. Louis, Mo., October 9, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently announced the appointment of Ruth Binger, Sarah Kirschner, and Megan Price to its board of directors. Board members are eligible to serve up to three consecutive three-year terms.

Ruth Binger is President and Principal Attorney at Danna McKitrick, P.C., a mid-sized law firm, where she has served as a partner for 30 years. As a private practice attorney, she brings deep expertise in legal strategy, business management, and organizational leadership. Binger has been a board member of the Associated Industries of Missouri (AIM) for 23 years and facilitates multiple peer advisory boards for independent business owners.

Sarah Kirschner recently served as Executive Director of Central Reform Congregation. She brings knowledge of the nonprofit sector and of CCAMO when she previously served as a board member and Board Chair in 2009. Additional prior experience includes leadership positions as Vice President of Human Resources and Vice President of Operations at technology startups, where she oversaw management training, compensation strategy, and recruiting. Kirschner also contributes her time to the community as secretary for MERS/Goodwill and as a board member for the National Council of Jewish Women.

Megan Price is Executive Director of the Missouri Works Initiative, a nonprofit sponsored and supported by the Missouri AFL-CIO. She leads five Apprenticeship Ready Programs that have successfully placed more than 400 individuals into sustainable careers in the skilled trades through Registered Apprenticeships. Price previously served as Chief of Staff in the Missouri State Senate.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ruth, Sarah, and Megan to our board,” said Robin Phillips, CEO of Child Care Aware of Missouri. “Each of them brings a wealth of talent and experience that will strengthen our mission to ensure all Missouri families have access to safe, affordable, and high-quality child care.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

Chennai, October 9, 2025: A new report released by Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai “Building Entrepreneurial Legacies: Understanding the Role of Family Offices”, reveals that family-owned businesses contribute to nearly 70% of India’s GDP and over 60% of national employment, underscoring their indispensable role in India’s economic growth story.

The report was unveiled at the Family Business Conclave 2025, jointly hosted by Great Lakes Institute of Management and the Madras Management Association (MMA), on the theme “Creating Entrepreneurial Families – The Role of Family Offices.”

The study, authored by Dr Raj Krishnan Shankar, Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship at Great Lakes, highlights how family offices are emerging as critical enablers for governance, legacy planning, and intergenerational entrepreneurship. With India witnessing a rapid rise in private wealth and generational transitions, family offices are increasingly becoming the nerve centres that balance tradition with transformation.

Key findings from the report include:

• Family-owned businesses contribute 70% of India’s GDP, with projections suggesting this could rise to 80–85% by 2047.
• Family enterprises account for over 60% of national employment, particularly within MSMEs.
• India’s top 300 business families hold a combined net worth of ₹134 lakh crore (US$1.6 trillion), employing over two million people.
• The number of organised family offices in India could cross 1,000 by the next decade, reflecting the increasing need for structured wealth and succession management.

Said Dr Raj Krishnan Shankar, Lead Author of the report and Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship at Great Lakes Institute of Management: “Family businesses are the invisible backbone of India’s economy. They don’t just create wealth, they create continuity. As India’s business families collectively manage over a trillion dollars in private wealth, the real challenge is no longer growth, but governance. That’s where family offices come in, as strategic engines that preserve values, professionalise decision-making, and ensure that entrepreneurship doesn’t fade with succession but strengthens through it.”

The conclave featured Mr C.K. Ranganathan, Chairman & Managing Director, CavinKare, who delivered a powerful keynote address on creating entrepreneurial legacies. Drawing from his own experience, he emphasised that meritocracy must triumph over hierarchy in family-run businesses and that the value of money must be deeply understood, not merely enjoyed.

Said Mr C.K Ranganathan: “Money is a responsibility, not just a privilege.” He added: “Business acumen is about common sense, emotional intelligence, and sound math. Success matters, but learning matters more, because when families handhold too much, they take away the opportunity to learn. The real mantra is simple: fail fast, fail cheap, and keep learning.”

The conclave also hosted dynamic discussions with leaders from Mehta Hospitals, TSM Group, Sargam Metals, and Maya Appliances, among others, who shared their perspectives on succession planning, governance frameworks, and preparing the next generation to lead with purpose and accountability.

Said Sam Mehta, Director of Mehta Hospitals, sharing his perspective on evolving family business structures: “A family business is about stewardship, not just ownership. A family office isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for structure and longevity. You must prove yourself outside the family name, bring that experience back, and earn credibility as both an entrepreneur and an investor.”

Said Yash Merchant, Director – Brand Marketing & Alumni Relations, Great Lakes Institute of Management, in closing remarks: “At Great Lakes, we are building a community of family business owners and next-gen leaders through research, dialogue, and education. The goal is to help families professionalise, innovate, and stay entrepreneurial across generations.”

The event featured the launch of the Great Lakes Insight Dossier and engaging discussions on succession planning, family constitutions, and the evolving role of the next generation in business leadership.

New Delhi, October 9, 2025: Women in Aviation India, a dynamic movement for the women, by the women, driven by a shared passion to share their valuable insights & experiences and break gender barriers, continue their efforts to create a more inclusive aviation world by empowering the next generation.

Women in Aviation India (WAI) celebrated the 10th edition of its flagship initiative Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) with an inspiring event in Gurugram. The landmark occasion marks a decade of empowering young girls to explore careers in aviation and aligns with the  Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, and his powerful belief that “When women prosper, the world prospers.”

Since its inception in 2016, GIAD has grown into a transformative movement, reaching over 50,000 girls across 30+ cities, from metros to remote towns, with the invaluable support of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The initiative continues to bridge the gender gap in a sector long dominated by men by fostering awareness, education, and mentorship.

The Gurgaon program featured motivational sessions by women leaders including Capt. Anushree Varma, Chief Advisor, Top Crew Aviation and Capt. Poonam Gaur, Co-founder & Director, Air Taxi, and Ms. Sonia Kapila, Senior Soft Skill & Aviation Instructor, Bird Academy who inspired students from Diksha School with enriching stories of determination and success, and shared interesting insights about the opportunities in the industry. The interactive program introduced participants to aviation’s diverse career paths, highlighting the importance of STEM education, skill development, and mentorship. Watching the young students aglow with enthusiasm and curiosity was a heartwarming moment indeed as they penned their thoughts and dreams into essays.

Similar successful outreach programs were also recently in Noida and Hyderabad, and the GIAD 2025 series will continue to spread its wings across the length and breadth of the country in the coming weeks. The 10th anniversary celebrations of GIAD will culminate in December 2025 with the iconic ‘Giving Wings to Dreams Awards’, a national platform to recognize women who have made significant contributions in the field of aviation and have also helped empower other women.

Speaking on the milestone, Mrs. Radha Bhatia, President, Women in Aviation India said, “In the last decade, we have moved ahead, one determined step at a time and have grown from strength to strength every year. Our work is a testimony of great teamwork by our invaluable members, their unwavering passion and commitment to see women flying high and achieving milestones that once seemed impossible! I am eternally grateful for the constant support of Shri Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu (Hon’ble Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India), the Secretary, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, GoI and all its affiliated stakeholders. I am also grateful to the schools and colleges who welcomed us warmly to inspire and engage with their students. I am also very grateful to each and every member of Women in Aviation India, who stood by us and worked shoulder to shoulder. Today GIAD celebrations are not just events, they are a movement. We are proud that thousands of young girls across India have now met role models, flown drones, experienced an airport ecosystem and most importantly discovered that aviation is not a distant dream, it is a career within easy reach. Let’s together work towards breaking the barriers and advancing gender parity within the aviation industry. Tomorrow looks bright and promising for our young girls who will be a part of India’s epic growth story!”

With the invaluable support of likeminded partners like Millenium Aero Dynamics, Make My Trip, Bangalore International Airport, GMR Hyderabad International Airport, Blue Dart Aviation, Top Crew Aviation and TravTalk and the constant support of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, the banner of Girls in Aviation Day will fly across more than 15 cities this year! We wholeheartedly invite aviation experts, institutions, corporate entities, students, teachers and academic institutions to come together to be a part of this mission.

Amit Badlani, Managing Director of Vihaan Clean & Green Tech and Go Green Mechanisms Pvt. Ltd., Honoured for his contribution towards sustainability by  Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel

Ahmedabad, 9th October 2025: Amit Badlani, Managing Director of Vihaan Clean & Green Tech and Go Green Mechanisms Pvt. Ltd., has been felicitated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, for his outstanding contribution to environmental protection and sustainable industrial growth.

This honour acknowledges Mr. Badlani’s 17-year legacy of advancing cleaner, greener industrial ecosystems through innovative wastewater management and pollution control technologies. Under his leadership, Vihaan Clean & Green Tech, a subsidiary company of HyFun Foods, has developed world-class Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems that have set new benchmarks in environmental responsibility and operational excellence.

The recognition also comes on the back of Vihaan’s consistent community-driven initiatives  including afforestation programs, sustainable infrastructure projects, and clean technology integration  all aimed at fostering environmental balance alongside industrial progress. Earlier this year, the company’s World Environment Day initiative, which saw the plantation of 400 trees in collaboration with the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), was lauded by GPCB officials for its tangible environmental impact and long-term commitment to green development.

Speaking on the recognition, Amit Badlani, Managing Director of Vihaan Clean & Green Tech and Go Green Mechanisms Pvt. Ltd said, “This honour is a collective achievement  it belongs to every engineer, operator, and visionary who believes in building industries that coexist responsibly with nature. At Vihaan, we see sustainability not as a goal, but as a practice. Every project we execute is a step toward a cleaner tomorrow, where progress and preservation move together in harmony.”

The award ceremony, attended by senior government officials including Hon’ble Minister of State for Home, Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Shri Harsh Sanghvi, along with policy-makers and industry leaders, underscored Amit Badlani’s leadership in championing sustainable industrialization, aligning closely with India’s Vision 2070 for Net-Zero Emissions.

Through his ventures, Amit Badlani continues to redefine how industries approach environmental management — turning sustainability from a compliance mandate into a strategic growth driver for the future.

From Food Security to Global Leadership: Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Calls for a Self-Reliant and Value-Driven Agriculture

9th October 2025, New Delhi: Addressing the 120th Annual Session of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Addressing the 120th Annual Session of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan,Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, said that the Indian ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family” continues to guide the country’s approach to global development. This spirit of universal goodwill defines our civilization. It is not a philosophy of selfishness, but of collective well-being,” Shri Chouhan said.

“India has always believed that the entire world is one family. Yet, in this interconnected and volatile geopolitical environment, we must chart our own course — one that balances global friendship with national interest,” Shri Chouhan said.

Under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is not being constructed — it is being reconstructed — as a proud, prosperous, powerful, and self-reliant nation,” the Minister affirmed.

He stressed that every citizen and institution must contribute to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047, adding that agriculture will remain the backbone of India’s economic and social fabric.

Highlighting that nearly 46% of India’s population is engaged in agriculture, the Minister underlined the Government’s focus on self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in food production and farmer welfare.

“Food security must go hand in hand with farmer prosperity,” he said. “We must ensure that our farmers not only feed the nation but also earn with dignity and stability.”

To achieve this, he emphasized the need to enhance per-hectare productivity, strengthen seed quality through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and accelerate mechanisation to empower small and marginal farmers.

Highlighting the Government’s agricultural priorities, Shri Chouhan said the nation’s goal must go beyond food security to encompass nutrition security and Atmanirbharta in all aspects of agriculture. While India has achieved surplus production in rice and wheat, he said, the next frontier is achieving self-reliance in pulses and oilseeds.

He noted that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Indian scientists are working on advanced research in genome editing, hybrid seeds, and high-yield varieties to enhance productivity and reduce costs.

He identified food processing and value addition as national priorities and invited the Chamber to collaborate with the Ministry in this effort.

“I urge PHDCCI to partner with us in identifying models for value addition, Mechanisation suited for small and marginal farmers, Storage and shelf-life enhancement technologies and agri-startups tailored to the needs of small farmers,” he said, suggesting that a joint working team be formed between the Ministry and PHDCCI to develop actionable solutions.

The Minister also highlighted the Government’s continued support for initiatives such as the Dalhan Atmanirbharta Mission (Chana–Masoor) to strengthen pulse production, and reaffirmed that Indian farmers will be protected from unfair external pressures.

Encouraging innovation, Shri Chouhan said the Government has a strong policy framework to promote agri-startups and entrepreneurship, recognizing agriculture, commerce, and trade as key drivers of India’s economic growth.

He praised the Chamber’s proactive role in supporting India’s development agenda:

“PHDCCI and Indian industry are our true partners in growth. I deeply value the Chamber’s contribution to nation-building over the past 120 years,” Shri Chouhan said.

The Minister also urged industry support for the Government’s proposal on ‘One Nation, One Election’, noting that synchronized elections will enhance administrative efficiency and policy continuity.

He concluded with a call to embrace ‘Swadeshi’ with quality, blending indigenous strength with global competitiveness.

“Let us adopt Swadeshi, but with the highest standards of quality. Together, we can make India the food basket of the world,” he said, congratulating PHDCCI on completing 120 years of service to the nation.

Welcoming the Minister, Shri Hemant Jain, President, PHDCCI and Group Managing Director, KLJ Group of Industries, said, that Shivraj ji embodies the spirit of leadership rooted in service. His vision of rural empowerment and agricultural prosperity reflects the very essence of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ — where every farmer is an entrepreneur and every village a center of growth.

Proposing the Vote of Thanks, Shri Rajeev Juneja, Senior Vice President, PHDCCI & Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mankind Pharma Ltd., expressed gratitude to Shri Chouhan for his inspiring address and reaffirmed PHDCCI’s commitment to working closely with the Government of India to strengthen India’s agricultural ecosystem and global competitiveness.

The session was also graced by Shri Anil Gupta, Vice President, PHDCCI & Chairman-cum-Managing Director, KEI Industries Ltd.; Shri Sanjeev Agrawal, Immediate Former President, PHDCCI & Group Chairman, MMG Group; Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI; former Presidents; members of the Managing Committee; and distinguished dignitaries from industry, academia, and the diplomatic corps.

Marking 120 years of legacy, leadership, and partnership, the Annual Session of PHDCCI, themed “India’s Rise as a Trusted Global Partner,” reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to advancing India’s economic transformation through innovation, inclusion, and collaboration.

Gurgaon, India, October 9, 2025: MDI Gurgaon, one of the premier business schools in India, held a Leadership Lecture on the theme “Collaboration Across Countries: Roadmap for a Sustainable Future” at the MDI Gurgaon Auditorium, featuring Mr. Erik Solheim, Former Minister of Environment, Norway, and former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program. The lecture was facilitated by the Centre for Ethics, ESG Initiatives and Responsible Organisations (CERO), MDI Gurgaon’s institutional centre promoting sustainability, ethical leadership, and responsible management practices.

This session brought together students, faculty, and industry leaders to discuss the importance of collective responsibility and cross-border collaboration for a sustainable and inclusive future. Mr. Solheim delivered a powerful lecture about the need for a new global architecture for peace and development with respect for state sovereignty, saying that to change borders is a “recipe for war.” Mr. Solheim also added, no nation should interfere in another nation’s internal affairs, and there needs to be a global framework for trade in which all nations benefit, and suggested deep structural reform of global institutions to move from a culture of bureaucracy to a culture of delivering.

Reflecting on collective responsibility and sustainability, he said, “True progress comes when nations, organisations, and individuals come together to share a vision. Working across borders is not just an opportunity; it is our responsibility to build a sustainable future for all.”

The event also welcomed Mr. Nishaanth Balashanmugam, the CEO and Director of Green Hydrogen India (GH2 India), who is actively involved in catalysing India’s green hydrogen future, underscoring the vital link between global dialogue and national action on sustainability. He also addressed the gathering, discussing India’s rising leadership in the clean energy space, followed by how innovation and cross-border partnerships in green hydrogen can help accelerate the transition to sustainability and energy security at a global scale.

The lecture focused on how ethical leadership and ESG (environmental, social, governance) principles are essential enablers of global collaboration. Using case studies and discussion, speakers and participants examined the significance of responsible leadership in achieving sustainable business and civil society outcomes.

The gathering convened MDI faculty, students, alumni, and corporate leaders, reinforcing MDI Gurgaon’s position as a thought leader in responsible management education. Through global experts and conversation, MDI Gurgaon continues to advance sustainability, ethics and leadership for change in the real world.

Mumbai, 08 Oct 2025: Managing your credit just got easier. CRIF High Mark, one of the country’s leading credit bureaus, today launched its Consumer Credit Management Platform along with the CRIF Grameen Credit Score a first-of-its-kind credit score designed especially for rural India. Developed as part of the Union Budget 2025–26 vision and backed by the RBI’s directive to improve rural credit access, this platform is aimed at enabling Indians to take control of their credit health, plan their financial future, and access loans more easily.

The Consumer Credit Management Platform acts as a personal financial companion, helping users track, monitor, and improve their credit profile all in one place. Whether planning to buy a home, upgrade a lifestyle, or start a business, the platform provides the tools to achieve financial goals faster. Users can track their credit score history, simulate upcoming score changes, receive alerts for any credit activity, monitor late payments, benchmark their credit score with their peers, and raise disputes if there are discrepancies. By giving consumers actionable insights, the platform helps avoid delays in loan approvals and supports smarter financial decisions.

The CRIF Grameen Credit Score brings the benefits of credit visibility to rural India. Tailored to suit the behavioural pattern of the rural population, it allows lenders to make more informed decisions while helping rural consumers establish a strong credit identity. This opens up opportunities for securing loans, growing businesses, achieving personal goals, driving financial inclusion, and empowerment across the country.

CRIF High Mark is an RBI-regulated credit information company that has data privacy and protection at its core, ensuring that consumer data is safe, accurate, and unbiased. With tools like score simulation, social comparison, and real-time alerts, CRIF empowers users to actively manage their credit profile and take steps to improve it over time, turning numbers into meaningful actions.

Ramkumar Gunasekaran, Wholetime Director, CRIF High Park, said: “Financial empowerment starts with knowing where you stand. Our new Consumer Credit Management Platform and Grameen Credit Score make it simple for Indians  whether in cities or villages to track, understand, and improve their credit health. It’s about helping people access opportunities, achieve dreams, and achieve financial growth responsibly”.

Cais, Joona and Tempestini secure a decisive team effort in the last round of the season, sealing the third crown for MRF Tyres after 2022 and 2023.

October 8th, 2025: Team MRF Tyres secured the prestigious FIA European Rally Championship team title during the Croatia Rally. This victory marked a remarkable milestone for the team, which is from India’s No 1 tyre manufacturer, MRF Tyres. The season was highly competitive and intense, culminating in a dramatic finale that was decided only in the final round, underscoring the team’s resilience and skill throughout the championship.

Following victories in 2022 and 2023, the ERC championship has been reclaimed by Team MRF Tyres, a testament to the collective effort and dedication of their drivers and co-drivers. Throughout this period, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resilience, successfully representing their colors across various European events. The team’s success is attributed to a diverse roster of talented individuals from multiple countries, each contributing their skills and determination to achieve outstanding results.

The Team MRF Tyres lineup included Erik Cais and Igor Bagigal from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, respectively. Miklós Csomós, alongside Attila Nagy and Krisztián Kertészfrom Hungary; Callum Devinewith Niall Burns from Ireland. Chris Ingram from Great Britain paired with Alexander Kihurani from USA, Lauri Joona and Kristian Temonen from Finland, along with Roope Korhonenand Anssii Viinikka, also from Finland. Benjamin Korholafrom Finland, and the Norwegian duo Frank-Tore Larsen and Lars-Håkon Lundgreen, Stéphane Lefebvre with Andy Malfoy from France, Max McRae paired with Cameron Fair from Great Britain, and Mārtiņš Sesks with Renārs Francis from Latvia, and Jan Solans and Rodrigo Sanjuan from Spain, along with Simone Tempestini and Sergiu Itu from Romania, completed the diverse and talented roster.

Their collective effort underscores the importance of teamwork, strategic planning, and international collaboration in achieving success in competitive motorsport. The team’s ability to unify drivers from different backgrounds and harness their collective talent has been instrumental in reclaiming the crown and setting a high standard for future competitions.

The season was marked by strong performances, with team victories in Hungary and Poland and a one-two finish in Sweden, supported by consistent results on both tarmac and gravel. At the Croatia Rally, the final round of the series, the crews gave everything they had to secure the decisive points.

The event itself was a demanding challenge. The route was already tough and technical, and heavy rain on the final day made conditions even more complicated. Still, all three Team MRF Tyres crews finished inside the overall top ten, showing determination, resilience and strength from the technical package.

The best result came from Lauri Joona and Kristian Temonen (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2), who finished sixth overall. Making their debut on MRF Tyres, the Finnish crew drove a clean rally without mistakes, focusing on rhythm and consistency. They completed all ten special stages without issues, a strategy that paid off.

“It’s a big thanks to Team MRF Tyres. We had the chance to take on a really tricky rally, and we experienced everything you can face on a tarmac event. It was a big learning weekend and I’m happy to have contributed to earning the points that secured the Teams’ Title. Thanks to everyone involved,” Joona said.

Erik Cais and Igor Bacigál, also debuting on MRF Tyres with the Hyundai i20 N Rally2, finished seventh overall. The driver from Zlín showed the pace to fight for the podium, but setbacks on both legs cost him time. Despite this, Cais kept pushing to the end and played a key role in the final outcome.

“I am really happy with the Team title. Thanks to MRF Tyres we did a great job with strong support, and I am proud to be part of this. This was a really tough rally that brought many ups and downs. What matters most is the final result – a real team success,” Cais said.

Simone Tempestini and Sergiu Itu (Škoda Fabia RS Rally2) also placed in the top ten with tenth overall. The Romanian had to cope with issues that limited his ambitions but recovered positions in the heavy rain of the final day. He also came close to winning the Power Stage, missing the podium by only six tenths.

“For sure it was not our year. Sometimes we made mistakes, sometimes we were really fast, but we missed a bit of luck. A big thank you to our partners, MRF Tyres, the team and all the people who follow us every rally. Even if this was not our best event, I am happy to have contributed to the success. Let’s move on to the next one” Tempestini said.

2025 FIA European Rally Championship – Teams Championship

1. Team MRF Tyres pt. 208;

2. M-Sport Ford World Rally Team pt. 206;

3. TRT Rally Team pt. 133;

4. Kowax DST Racing pt. 120;

5. J2X Rally Team pt. 82;

6. Proformance Service KFT – Team Staff House pt. 66;

7. Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy pt. 55;

8. MRF Tyres Dealer Team pt. 37;

9. ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team im ADAC e.V. pt. 34;

10. F.P.F. Sport pt. 30

2025 FIA European Rally Championship – Drivers Championship

1. Miko Marczyk (Škoda) pt. 154;

2. Jon Armstrong (Ford) pt. 148;

3. Andrea Mabellini (Škoda) pt. 131;

4. Mads Østberg (Citroën) pt. 104;

5. Roope Korhonen (Toyota) pt. 60;

6. Isak Reiersen (Škoda) pt. 60;

7. Romet Jürgenson (Ford) pt. 50;

8. Mille Johansson (Škoda) pt. 49;

9. Simone Tempestini (Škoda) pt. 36;

10. Mārtiņš Sesks (Škoda) pt. 35

Pic Credit: Pexel

Introduction to the PM-KUSUM Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme was initiated by the Government of India in 2019 with the primary objective of promoting the adoption of solar energy within the agricultural sector. Recognizing the increasing energy demands of farmers, the initiative aims to enhance the resilience of rural economies while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.

Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, the government has set an ambitious target to install 30,800 MW of solar capacity across various agricultural applications. This includes the installation of solar power plants on barren or uncultivable land, grid-connected solar power projects, and solar pumps for irrigation. By providing access to solar energy, the initiative endeavors to alleviate the energy costs incurred by farmers, thereby enabling them to utilize electric pumps for irrigation at a fraction of their current expenditure.

The scheme is bolstered by a significant financial investment from both the central and state governments, aimed at facilitating the deployment of solar technologies across rural landscapes. By focusing on promoting renewable energy, the PM-KUSUM scheme not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also supports the protection of farmers’ interests. The reduced reliance on diesel and other fossil fuels for irrigation can lead to financial savings, while simultaneously fostering a greener planet.

In essence, the PM-KUSUM scheme serves as a vital step towards integrating renewable energy solutions into India’s agricultural framework. It is designed to empower farmers, enhance energy independence, and promote sustainable agricultural practices that align with the country’s broader climate goals. As the scheme progresses, challenges and setbacks must be addressed to ensure its successful implementation and to realize its full potential for the agricultural community.

Current Challenges and Setbacks

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting renewable energy through solar energy generation, has encountered a series of challenges that have significantly impeded its progress. Each of the scheme’s three components—setting up solar pumps, decentralised solar power generation, and grid-connected solar projects—has reported inadequate achievements relative to the established targets. For instance, as of the latest data, only about 35% of the allocated solar pumps have been installed, falling short of the anticipated objectives. Similarly, grid-connected solar projects across various states have shown sluggish development, with numerous regions failing to meet their specified timelines.

This lack of progress is exacerbated by the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted supply chains and delayed crucial installation processes. The pandemic led to a significant dip in workforce availability and has stymied project execution on multiple fronts. Additionally, the procedural delays often seen in state and central approvals have further stalled activities, culminating in missed deadlines and increasing frustration among stakeholders. Particularly in regions where implementation was already weak, such as certain rural and remote areas, the pandemic has amplified existing challenges, including limited access to resources and uncertainty in project funding.

Moreover, financial constraints and budget reallocations have surfaced as pivotal barriers. The limited availability of funds to support infrastructure development has deterred many potential beneficiaries from participating in the scheme. The increasing bureaucratic red tape has only added to the contention, creating a climate of uncertainty for investors and applicants alike. These systemic issues underscore the pressing need for an urgent reassessment of strategies and a more flexible adaptation to current circumstances. Without such adjustments, the PM-KUSUM scheme risks falling significantly short of its potential impact in the renewable energy sector.

Government Response and Future Plans

The central government has been actively addressing the challenges that have arisen within the PM-KUSUM scheme, particularly as it faces the pressures of achieving set targets within the existing timeline. Recent discussions suggest that an extension of the scheme’s deadline may be on the horizon, allowing for necessary adjustments to enhance its efficacy and reach. This proposed extension aims to mitigate the issues confronting stakeholders and ensure that intended benefits are realized, primarily for the agricultural sector.

In addition to a possible timeline extension, the government is contemplating revisions to the original targets of the PM-KUSUM initiative. These potential changes are critical, as they could significantly influence the pace at which farmers adopt solar energy solutions. By adapting the goals of the scheme to reflect current realities, the government acknowledges the need to foster an environment conducive to solar energy deployment. This adaptability could not only improve participation but also enhance the overall impact of the scheme on India’s solar energy landscape.

The implications of these adjustments are manifold. For farmers, an extension and revised targets could translate into enhanced access to solar technology and financial support, enabling them to diversify their energy sources and reduce reliance on traditional methods. Such changes could also bolster the confidence of stakeholders, encouraging further investment in solar infrastructure that aligns with the broader objectives of sustainability and energy transition.

As the government navigates these challenges, the future of the PM-KUSUM scheme remains contingent upon its ability to remain flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of the agricultural community. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of renewable energy adoption in India, particularly within the agricultural sector.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for PM-KUSUM

The PM-KUSUM scheme, aimed at promoting solar energy usage in agriculture, has encountered various setbacks that have raised concerns about its efficiency and effectiveness. As the government contemplates a deadline extension, it becomes crucial to analyze both the current challenges and the measures being taken to address them. These challenges include procedural delays, financial constraints, and the need for stakeholder engagement. The scheme’s potential to positively impact farmers and enhance the agricultural landscape in India cannot be overstated. By integrating solar energy solutions, farmers can reduce dependency on traditional energy sources, lower costs, and increase productivity.

The prospect of a deadline extension allows for reevaluation of the existing obstacles, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to better align their objectives with the overarching goals of the PM-KUSUM scheme. However, prolonged timelines may also risk diluting the urgency of implementation. The government’s responses to these issues will play a fundamental role in shaping the scheme’s success. A collaborative approach, involving farmers, local authorities, and private sector actors, is essential to tackle these hurdles effectively.

Moreover, the long-term vision of the PM-KUSUM scheme extends beyond immediate benefits; it aims to instill a sustainable framework for agricultural practices powered by renewable energy. The drive towards solar energy can contribute significantly to India’s overall goal of sustainable development. Engagement of all stakeholders will ensure that the challenges are surmounted, facilitating smoother progress towards the revised targets of the scheme. By fostering a culture of collaboration and transparency, the PM-KUSUM initiative can be positioned not just as a short-term scheme, but as a cornerstone for a resilient agricultural future.

Manipal, October 08th, 2025: The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, inaugurated the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) at the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), following the award of a INR 12.84 crore grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The Centre is led by Dr. Naveen Salins, Professor and Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Arun Ghoshal, Assistant Professor, serving as Co-Principal Investigator.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. Ashoo Grover, Scientist G and Head, Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Chief Guest, and Dr. Roopa Shivashankar, Scientist E (Medical), Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and organised by Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE. Distinguished participants included Dr. Anil K. Bhat, Dean, KMC Manipal, and Dr. Cherian Varghese, Director, Prasanna School of Public Health.

In his address, Dr. Ballal noted that the collaboration between ICMR and MAHE represents “the highest level of national recognition for MAHE’s research culture,” underscoring the University’s commitment to science that heals and research that transforms. Dr. Sharath K. Rao further outlined MAHE’s strategic roadmap for advancing health research and innovation.

The Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) seeks to address a critical gap in India’s healthcare system the need for ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care for patients with advanced and terminal illnesses in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The Centre will design and evaluate a Multifaceted Comprehensive Appropriate Care Package (MCACP) integrating palliative care principles into critical care settings.

Building upon MAHE’s pioneering BLUE MAPLE framework, developed and implemented at Kasturba Hospital and KMC Manipal, which has already influenced national end-of-life care standards, the CAR will now expand this initiative nationwide. The project will establish a multi-centre collaborative network of ten clinical centres and seven technical partners, advancing the reach and impact of this transformative model.

Encompassing multiple disciplines medicine, nursing, bioethics, health economics, law, and public health the Centre embodies MAHE’s One Health–One Humanity philosophy. By co-developing and testing a scalable model of appropriate ICU care for advanced illness, CAR aims to inform policy, enhance health-system responsiveness, and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With a strong legacy in research, innovation, and translational excellence, MAHE continues to strengthen its role as a leader in India’s health-research ecosystem. The establishment of the ICMR–MAHE Centre for Advanced Research reaffirms the university’s mission to integrate science, ethics, and empathy in healthcare delivery, setting new national and global benchmarks in ICU and palliative-care research through interdisciplinary and implementation science.