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Toronto, September 5, 2025 : The Bharat Pavilion was formally inaugurated today at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, marking the debut of WAVES Bazaar in North America, India’s first international e-marketplace for film, media, and AVGC-XR sector. The Pavilion was inaugurated by Shri Ajay Nagabhushan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India and Mr. Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, Acting Consul General of India in Toronto, in the august presence of Mr. Cameron Bailey, CEO, TIFF.

This year’s Bharat Pavilion focuses on WAVES Bazaar. Organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), WAVES Bazaar is a global e-marketplace bringing together creators and buyers from film, television, streaming, gaming, animation, music, and AVGC-XR. The platform facilitates networking, buyer-seller interactions, project showcases, and collaborations, enabling Indian creators and international stakeholders to engage in meaningful partnerships.

Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, Shri Ajay Nagabhushan said “Bharat Pavilion at TIFF is not only a celebration of India’s cinematic excellence but also a platform to build global partnerships. For the very first time, India is being represented at TIFF by a delegation comprising solely of women-led film projects. From over 200 applications within a week, six outstanding projects were selected by an expert international jury through the WAVES Bazaar platform. These extraordinary filmmakers are not just attendees, they are emissaries of a new era, one where women’s voices, visions, and stories are center stage on the global cinematic platform”.

Talking about the significance of the upcoming WAVES Bazaar event to be held on 6th September, 2025, on the sidelines of TIFF, Mr. Nagabhushan said “WAVES, a landmark initiative of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, held at Mumbai in February, is resonating across the world and its impact and reach can also be seen in Canada. WAVES Bazaar event here will witness a series of activities including panel discussions, round table, policy dialogue and series of B2B meetings between Indian and International delegates.”

Mr. Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh stated “Toronto is home to a vibrant film industry and a large Indian diaspora. The launch of WAVES Bazaar at TIFF is a timely step towards strengthening India–Canada cultural and business ties.”

Mr. Bailey highlighted TIFF’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural partnerships and acknowledged India’s growing influence in the global cinematic landscape. Widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in international cinema, Mr. Bailey has transformed TIFF into a truly global film festival, championing diversity, amplifying new voices, and creating a global platform for groundbreaking storytelling.

The multi pronged discussions after the inauguration focussed on the importance of WAVES and its outcomes, WAVES Bazaar’s potential as a bridge between Indian and international creative economies, and explored the possibility of collaborating in establishing a dedicated Film Market at TIFF in the near future with Indian content taking centre stage. Such an initiative would serve as a catalyst for co-productions, content exchange, and industry collaboration between India and North America.

The Bharat Pavilion at TIFF 2025, curated by NFDC, serves as a dynamic hub for global networking, B2B meetings, and film industry exchanges, underscoring India’s growing leadership in the international media and entertainment sector.

Indore, 5^th September 2025: Prime PR, the youngest and fastest growing public relations firm, was presented with the 14th Quality Mark Awards 2025 in the category of PR & Communications, by Hon’ble Cabinet Minister Shri Kunvarji Bavaliya as Chief Guest, Shri Dilip Sanghani, Chairman – IFFCO as Guest of Honour, renowned Bollywood actor Sharman Joshi. The awards ceremony was organized by Quality Mark Trust at Narayani Heights, Ahmedabad on 26th August, 2025, under the concept of ‘Make in India’.

Prime PR, established in 2020, is well-connected with over 60 cities across India, with its team that works 365 days a year, which includes PR professionals and publicists, strategists and influencers, and linguists and media managers. Prime PR also works with flourishing start-ups, as well as the MSME and Make in India projects.

On the occasion, Mr. Phool Hasan, Founder and Managing Director of Prime PR said that “Prime PR is a strong supporter of on-going learning and development for public relations professionals. We have resilient networks in tier 1, tier 2, and tier 3 cities. Our network-wide team has been distinguished for its media relations skills through delivering high-quality projects and developing long-term partnerships with our clients. The recognition we got at Quality Mark Awards 2025 will boost our morale to work with more creative and strategic acumen. ”

Prime PR provides a vast range of services to its clients, which includes Public Relations, Brand Management, Conducting Press Conferences, Release Dissemination, PR Analysis, Planning & Strategy as well as Digital Marketing, Influencers Management, Image Building, Crisis Management, Investor Relations. Prime PR deals with the public relations for Government and Public Affairs also. Prime PR has extensive experience in planning and implementing high-impact initiatives that boost brand exposure and revenue.

Mr. Phool Hasan said, “We understand the difficulties generally faced by our clients, be it corporates, or individuals like doctors, bankers or other social opinion makers who are very keen to express their views on various burning topics in the society, but have no approach to the right platform, so through our service namely, article placement, we felicitate them with proper platform to voice their concerns in time. Digitally sound, and strategically efficient, Prime PR adopts the conceptualised method to do Public relations and communications through a sustainable process, and achieve the objectives set by our clients, as the actual satisfaction of our client is our motto. ”

Mr. Phool Hasan, a senior PR & Communication strategist since last 18 years, has been the key person to several of Corporate India’s significant events. He specialises in brand activation, media relations, public relations, and press conferences. Mr. Phool Hasan has been recognised for his contributions to many major project successes with Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., ICICI, Pepsico, IIFA Awards, Amazon India, Axis Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential, HDFC Life, PGI, ORRA, TAFE, METRO Cash & Carry India, Asus India, Mankind Pharma, Glenmark Pharma, Khelo India Youth Games, Marico, CII, and many others.

By – Mr Vivek Singh,Home Credit India’s CEO

The recent GST rationalization, which simplifies tax slabs and corrects the inverted duty structure, is a highly progressive and timely reform that will significantly boost consumption and support our fast-growing economy. This move will have a meaningful impact on middle-class households, where a large portion of income is spent on daily necessities. By lowering the GST on everyday items like packaged foods, personal care products, and kitchenware to the 5% bracket, families will see a direct reduction in their monthly expenses. We anticipate this will help lower inflation by over a percentage point.

At the consumer level, we expect to see a dual effect. Lower prices will likely lead to increased spending on fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), durables, and electronics. Additionally, families may choose to use some of their savings to build stronger financial buffers. The timing of this reform, just before the festive season, is particularly significant. It will boost consumer confidence and fuel demand for aspirational purchases, from home appliances to two-wheelers—categories where our EMI financing plays a key role.

For Home Credit India, this signals stronger demand for affordable and transparent financing solutions that help households manage both their essential and aspirational needs.

Beyond the immediate benefits, this reform will have a powerful multiplier effect apart of stimulating demand in supporting industries and reinforcing financial inclusion. This GST rationalisation is more than just a tax simplification; it is a catalyst for long-term economic growth that empowers consumers and strengthens the financial ecosystem.

In a world where experiences are the ultimate currency, travellers seek more than just a method of payment. They require a key—a meticulously crafted tool that transforms travel from a routine journey into a seamless, all-in-one companion. For the Indian traveller in 2025, the right credit card is no longer just a piece of plastic; it is a statement of intent, a passport to a world of privileges, and a silent concierge in their pocket.

From quiet airport sanctuaries to exclusive hotel suites and intelligent foreign exchange savings, these are the five cards that promise effortless and rewarding travel in 2025:

RBL World Safari Credit Card

For the globally minded traveller, the RBL World Safari credit card, powered by Mastercard, is India’s first card exclusively designed for overseas travel. It comes with many exciting benefits, such as:

• Zero foreign currency markup, complimentary airport lounge access (two domestic visits per quarter and three international visits annually).
• A ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher on activation, along with milestone rewards on annual spending.
• Comprehensive insurance benefits covering lost baggage, delayed flights, and overseas medical emergencies so you’re always protected on the move.
• A 24×7 global concierge service further elevates your travel by assisting with reservations, itineraries, and emergencies.
• Complimentary golf rounds and lessons along with Golf Concierge service exclusively available to Mastercard cardholders.

HDFC INFINIA Credit Card (Metal Edition)

Synonymous with exclusivity, the metal edition of HDFC INFINIA credit card delivers unmatched travel luxury and rewards, including:

• 2% forex markup.
• Priority Pass lounge access worldwide for both primary and secondary cardholders.
• Unlimited complimentary golf rounds and lessons at leading courses globally.
• 5X reward points on SmartBuy travel bookings, with a 1:1 redemption value on flights and hotels.
• 24×7 concierge service, zero liability on lost cards, and premium global assistance.

IDFC FIRST Bank Mayura Metal Credit Card

Crafted for discerning travellers, the IDFC FIRST Mayura Metal credit Card on Mastercard network combines industry-first features like zero forex markup with premium lifestyle privileges. It comes with:

• Zero foreign currency markup on international transactions.
• 8 complimentary lounge or spa visits per quarter (4 domestic + 4 international) and railway lounge access and guest privileges.
• A trip cancellation cover up to ₹50,000 and comprehensive travel insurance.
• Up to 60X reward points on spends, redeemable for travel, dining, and lifestyle experiences.
• Curated movie and golf privileges, fuel surcharge waiver, roadside assistance, and premium offers from top brands.

Axis Horizon Credit Card

For travellers with a passion for exploration, the Axis Bank Horizon credit card powered by Mastercard serves as a gateway to seamless, rewarding journeys. Its key features include:

• EDGE Miles—Earn 5 Miles per ₹100 on flight and travel bookings, and 2 Miles per ₹100 on everyday spends. Redeem them at 1:1 value for flights, hotels, and more.
• Complimentary airport lounge access with up to 32 domestic visits and 8 international visits annually.
• A welcome gift of 5,000 EDGE Miles and 1,500 renewal miles every year.
• 1% fuel surcharge waiver and exclusive dining perks through EazyDiner discounts.
• Lost card liability insurance up to ₹10 lakh and protection across trips.

Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards Credit Card

Perfect for IndiGo loyalists, the Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards credit card ensures smarter, more affordable journeys in the skies. It comes with:

• A welcome IndiGo flight ticket worth ₹3,000 plus 6E Prime benefits valued at ₹1,099.
• 6% rewards on IndiGo bookings, 3% on dining, groceries & entertainment, and 2% on other spends.
• 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits annually.
• Lower convenience fee on flight bookings and seamless 6E Rewards redemption.
• Milestone bonuses and faster airport check-in and boarding when flying IndiGo.

Whether jet-setting for business or leisure, these credit cards redefine what it means to travel smart in 2025. With features that blend luxury, security, and savings, they serve as trusted companions for the modern Indian traveller. Choose the one that aligns with your lifestyle and let every journey be as rewarding as the destination itself.

Affrika Blackmon brings 10 years of social services experience to the growing nonprofit.

(St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 4, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently named Affrika Blackmon as one of its Community Support Specialists. With more than 10 years of experience in social services, Blackmon will focus on connecting families, child care providers, and community members with the information and support they need through Missouri’s statewide Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) system.

Affrika Blackmon

Blackmon’s newly created position is made possible by a contract with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood, which provides dedicated focus in serving Missouri families with young children in need of help. In her position, she will represent CCAMO and serve the Missouri Childhood Resource and Referral (MCRR) Center, which provides crucial child care subsidy navigation for parents going to school or taking a job and connects families to essential resources across the state including locating child care.

Prior to joining CCAMO, Blackmon was the Social Service Coordinator for Volunteers of America and a Senior Social Services Specialist at the Department of Mental Health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Criminal Justice from Ashford University in San Diego, California.

“We are delighted to have Affrika bring her deep commitment and proven leadership in social services to our organization,” said CCAMO CEO Robin Phillips. “Her expertise will be instrumental as we work to break down barriers to ensure every Missouri family can find and access 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.

TruAlt Bioenergy and Sumitomo Corporation Ink Landmark Bioenergy Agreement in Tokyo During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Japan Visit

New Delhi, 03 September 2025 – In a landmark moment for Indo–Japanese cooperation, TruAlt Bioenergy Limited (TBL), India’s leading producer of biofuels, and Sumitomo Corporation, one of Japan’s largest integrated trading and investment groups, formally announced an ongoing discussion of a strategic bioenergy partnership during the Japan–India Next-Generation Economic Forum, held in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Prime Minister of Japan Mr. Shigeru Ishiba.

The agreement will mark a new milestone in the India–Japan partnership, uniting India’s ambition to achieve energy sovereignty and emerge as a global hub for biofuels with Japan’s expertise in advanced decarbonization technologies under the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM). It reflects the shared resolve of both nations to accelerate the goals of the Paris Agreement, enhance energy security and foster sustainable, inclusive economic growth.

The collaboration lays out a clear roadmap for investments, beginning with the development of four state-of-the-art Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants in Karnataka and Maharashtra. These projects are expected to create around 700 direct and indirect jobs and unlock an additional 800 to 1,000 livelihood opportunities. Building on this foundation, the partnership will expand into future projects in ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) sectors that are critical to India’s clean energy transition and the global decarbonization agenda. To implement this vision, a Joint Venture Company (JVC) will be established, with TruAlt Bioenergy holding 51% and Sumitomo Corporation 49%. The initiative is designed to enhance farmer incomes, drive rural industrialization, and strengthen India’s energy self-reliance, while laying the groundwork for scaled investments in ethanol and SAF in the years ahead.

The Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) will serve as a cornerstone of this collaboration, channeling Japan’s advanced low-carbon technologies into India’s bioenergy sector while ensuring transparent crediting of greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions. By linking investment with measurable climate outcomes, the JCM will accelerate India’s bioenergy transition, reinforce Japan’s decarbonization contributions, and strengthen both nations’ Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). More importantly, it sets a global precedent for how bilateral partnerships can transform climate ambition into concrete action combining technology, finance and sustainability at scale.

Vijay Nirani, Founder & Managing Director of TruAlt Bioenergy, said:

“Biofuels lie at the heart of India’s quest for energy sovereignty and are integral to our Panchamrit commitments of lowering carbon intensity and expanding renewables. This partnership with Sumitomo Corporation represents the convergence of their global expertise in sustainable enterprise and TruAlt Bioenergy’s leadership in India’s biofuels sector. Anchored in the Joint Crediting Mechanism, it is designed not only to accelerate India’s clean energy transition but also to contribute meaningfully to Japan’s climate commitments. Together, we are laying the foundation for India to emerge as a global hub for biofuels while empowering farmers, strengthening rural economies and building a resilient, green future for generations to come.”

Pharma’s Next Decade Will Be Shaped by Cross-Industry Partnerships and Workforce Evolution: Novartis’ Amitabh Dube

Mumbai, 1st September 2025: “,The trends and partnerships we see today will define the next decade of the pharmaceutical industry. Innovation will no longer be confined to pharma alone – it will increasingly be driven by collaborations across technology, healthcare delivery, and policy frameworks” said Mr. Amitabh Dube, Country President and Managing Director, Novartis in India, while addressing students of the Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management (SPPSPTM), NMIMS, Mumbai, at a session organised by B-Gyaan, The Management Club.

He stressed the need to balance affordability with innovation. “India faces unique challenges with access to early diagnosis and equitable healthcare delivery. Innovation must directly address unmet medical needs without leaving vast populations behind,” he said.

Mr. Dube further reflected on the growing importance of public health campaigns. Drawing parallels with past AIDS and HIV awareness initiatives, he noted, “Campaigns need more than strong messages – they need delivery mechanisms tailored to regional languages, rural contexts, and diverse audiences. With nearly 60% of our population residing in rural India, inclusivity in communication is non-negotiable.”

Discussing global trade and its influence on pharma, he observed, “While tariffs have minimal immediate impact, global pricing pressures and evolving regulations demand agility. Companies must balance sustainability with affordability while maintaining patient access.”

Speaking to Dr. Jagannath Sahoo, Dean of SPPSPTM, Mr. Dube emphasised the importance of preparing students with the right mix of scientific knowledge, management acumen, and adaptability. “Mindset and adaptability will be the biggest differentiators. The workforce of tomorrow must be agile enough to learn, unlearn, and relearn continuously.”

Degrees were conferred upon the graduating students of SPPSPTM, and awards were presented to high performers, all-round achievers, faculty, and staff, recognising excellence across academics and leadership. Mr. Dube appreciated the School’s focus on integrating pharmacy education with technology and management, noting that this equips graduates to contribute meaningfully to research, healthcare delivery, and leadership roles in the global pharma ecosystem.

Hyderabad, 1st September 2025: Under the aegis of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority, Ministry of Corporates Affairs, jointly organised Niveshak Shivir in Hyderabad on 30th August 2025 at Haryana Bhavan, Secunderabad. This outreach initiative aimed to assist shareholders in reclaiming unpaid dividends and unclaimed shares, thereby reducing the volume of unclaimed investor assets in the system, while also empowering investors to safeguard their investments.

The Shivir was organized in collaboration with leading Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) including BSE, NSE, NSDL and the Registrar and Transfer Agents (RTAs) – KFin Technologies Limited, Bigshare Services Private Limited, Purva Sharegistry India Private Limited and MUFG Infoline Private Limited. Attendees included students, entrepreneurs, retail investors, and corporate professionals.

The event was graced by Smt. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of IEPFA and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs; Shri Jeevan Sonparote, Executive Director, SEBI; Shri Sunil Jayawant Kadam, Executive Director, SEBI; Lt. Col Aditya Sinha, General Manager, IEPFA; Shri Binod Sharma, General Manager, SEBI; along with other senior officials from SEBI, IEPFA, MIIs, and RTAs.

Additionally, IEPFA and SEBI, along with other MIIs, launched an insightful Investor Guide developed by CDSL. The guide provides a step-by-step process to help investors resolve their queries related to the claims process.

IIM Bodh Gaya Convenes Conference on ‘Tourism-Led Employability’, in Collaboration with NITI Aayog and Planning & Development Department, Government of Bihar

Bodh Gaya, 1st September, 2025: The Indian Institute of Management, Bodh Gaya, convened a one-day conference on Tourism-led Employability, in collaboration with NITI Aayog and the Planning and Development Department, Govt. of Bihar, to realign Bihar’s tourism agenda with employability, sustainability, and economic inclusion.

The conference brought together officers from key government departments, including Tourism, Rural Development, and Skill Development besides MSMEs, and C-Suite leaders from the industry to jointly develop draft tourism circuits and an actionable roadmap for tourism-led development across the State.
Shri Dhrijesh Kumar Tiwari, Joint Secretary at NITI Aayog, underscored that Bihar’s tourism development should focus on entrepreneurship that generates employment for others, turning heritage into homes, culture into careers, and faith into future opportunities. Echoing this emphasis on outcomes, Shri Nand Kishor, Managing Director of Bihar Tourism Development Corporation, highlighted that customer satisfaction remains central to the sector and that Bihar is building a holistic, seamless experience for visitors.
Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, noted that the institute, being home to students from more than 293 cities, represents a microcosm of the nation. It can play a key role in connecting Bihar’s rich culture and enlightenment to its tremendous potential and unlock more opportunities for the state.

The deliberations stressed that tourism must not only create experiences but also livelihoods. Clear objectives were highlighted to sensitise officers about tourism-led employment strategies, promote cross-sectoral coordination, encourage the adoption of technology and branding, and draw on national and global models to inform a long-term tourism-employability framework aligned with Bihar’s development goals and campaigns, such as “Dekho Apna Desh.”

The event was enriched by contributions from leading voices in the tourism and hospitality ecosystem, including Mr. Prasun Chaudhary, Founder, Daily Better; Mr. Anurag Katriar, CEO, Indigo Hospitality and President, NRAI (Mumbai Chapter); Prof. Nimit R. Chowdhary, Head of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Jamia Millia Islamia; Mrs. Vishaka Goyal, Co-founder, ClincSpots; Mr. Vikash Chandra, Director, Deloitte; Mr. Priyanko Chakraborty, Tourism Specialist, PwC; Mrs. Kiranpreet Kaur, HR Director, Marriott International; Dr. Aman Jain, CHRO, e2R Rail; Mr. Pradeep Kumar Singh, Chief Butler Operations Manager, Taj Group of Hotels; and Mr. Apoorva Gaur, General Manager, Hotel Maurya. Their diverse perspectives, drawn from industry, academia, and government, helped shape discussions on employability, skills, and investment opportunities.

The vision articulated was to reimagine tourism as a platform for rural livelihoods, women’s entrepreneurship, youth skilling, and cultural diplomacy, while aligning with the state’s agenda and India’s G20 priorities for green, digital, and inclusive tourism.

Adopting an interactive, expert-led methodology, the day combined keynote addresses, panel and group discussions, and technology demonstrations to develop practical, demand-driven solutions. Sessions provided tourist guides and local youth with guidance on soft skills, foreign languages, eco-guiding, and storytelling, while market-facing sessions helped local vendors, handicraft sellers, and food stall operators adopt best practices in packaging, hygiene, digital payments, and promotion.

The conference deliberations will be consolidated into a structured action plan that emphasises capacity building, the creation of innovative tourism circuits, and strong public-private partnerships to stimulate employment and investment in Bihar.

#Appointment reflects recognition of his leadership and organisational work in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

New Delhi, August 30, 2025:

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, a young leader known for his grassroots commitment and organisational abilities, has been formally appointed as the National Secretary (Organisation) of the Janata Party, in charge of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. The appointment was made by Janata Party National President Navneet Chaturvedi at a ceremony held at the Constitution Club of India.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Mallappa said, “I thank the leadership of the Janata Party, especially President Navneet Chaturvedi ji, for placing their trust in me. I am committed to working with full dedication to expand the organisation in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, and to serve the people with honesty and accountability.”

He further added, “My focus will be on expanding grassroots outreach, empowering local leadership, and building a strong, united organisation that reflects the aspirations of the people of South India. With the guidance of our national leadership, I will work with dedication to advance the values of the Janata Party and bring meaningful change in society.”

Dr. Mallappa also serves as the National Deputy Chairman of the National Bharat Sevak Samaj (NBSS) and has earned recognition for his achievements at just 25 years of age. His active engagement in public service, focus on youth participation, and proven organisational skills have made him one of the most promising young political leaders working for social and political change in southern India.

Speaking on the occasion, Janata Party President Mr. Navneet Chaturvedi said, “The Janata Party is moving forward with a clear vision of organisational growth and public service. We are pleased to appoint Dr. Bhargav Mallappa to this important responsibility. His dedication and experience will help us strengthen the party in southern India and take our message directly to the people.”