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30th August 2025, Bhubaneswar: Commemorating over three resplendent decades in their pursuit of artistic excellence, Srjan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Odissi Nrityabasa will host their 31st Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra (GKCM) Award Festival 2025 from September 5–9, 2025 at Rabindra Mandap at 7 pm each day. The Award Festival has remained steadfast in adhering to its founding vision by the late maestro and Padma Vibhushan awardee Guru Shri Kelucharan Mohapatra to nurture and perpetuate profound appreciation for our invaluable heritage by celebrating the performing Arts at their best. A prominent highlight in the cultural calendar of Odisha, the prestigious Award Presentation ceremony takes place on the final evening following four nights of exceptional dance, music, and theatre performances, culminating with the finale by Guru Ratikant Mohapatra’s celebrated Srjan ensemble.

As always,on the concluding evening, Srjan presents the coveted lifetime achievement award to veterans of the classical universe for their immeasurable contributions to the Arts. This year, Smt. Madhavi Mudgal, distinguished Odissi dancer, Guru, choreographer, and Padma Shri awardee; and Shri Alekh Chandra Samal, eminent Odissi vocalist and music educator will be conferred with the Shalimar’s Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award 2025, accompanied by a prestigious sum of Rs. 1,00,000/- and a citation. The Shalimar’s Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Yuva Pratibha Samman 2025 with a cash award of Rs. 25,000/- and citation, recognizingtwo remarkable performing artists under the age of 40 years from the fields of classical dance and Odissi music will be bestowed upon Smt. Shatabdi Mallik for Odissi dance and Shri Muralidhar Swain for Odissi music. In a new introduction this year, Guru Ratikant Mohapatra, Director, Srjan has instituted the first Shalimar’s Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Kala Samman for established performing artistes from the fields of dance, music, and theatre, between 40–55 years of age for their noteworthy contributions and continued dedication to their Art forms. The Shalimar’s Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Kala Samman 2025, with a sum of Rs. 50,000/- and a citation will be awarded to Shri Raghunath Das and Shri Arnab Bandyopadhyay, both of whom have made a notable impact to the Odissi fraternity. In instituting this award, Guru Ratikant Mohapatra aimed to address the lacuna in recognising those committed and meritorious artistes who have matured over the years to become seasoned performers, teachers, and educators in their respective fields.

The inaugural evening of the Award Festival will commence with a much-awaited duet Odissi dance recital by the celebrated mother-daughter duo of Odissi dance, Smt. Sujata Mohapatra and Preetisha Mohapatra. They will present Satyakama Jabala, a testament to exemplary motherhood choreographed by Guru Ratikant Mohapatra. Day two will feature recitals by acclaimed artistes from the fields of Hindustani and Carnatic music. The first performance of the evening will be a Hindustani vocal recital by eminent singer Shri Kumar Mardur, who has drawn upon his influences from Kirana, Gwalior, and Jaipur gharanas to create a powerful gaayaki of his own. The audience may witness soulful renditions of Khayaal, Thumri, Dadra, Bhajans, Kannada Daas Sahitya, Vachana Sahitya, and Kannada Bhavageete. As the festival approaches its half-way mark, the audiences will again witness dance performances. Shri Samrat Dutta and Shri Santanu Roy, the versatile Bharatanatyam Guru-Shishya duo will present Dashamahavidya, a choreographic work of Shri Samrat Dutta portraying the ten forms of Parashakti from Tantra, depicting the journey of human life through varied emotions and stages, toward ultimate spiritual completeness. This will be followed by a group Odissi dance performance by Smt. Chinmayee Dwaraknath and the Temple of Fine Arts. They will present a bouquet of Odissi dance presentations including Vinayaka Smaraneand Shri Rama Bhajan, choreographed by Guru Ratikant Mohapatra, and Mrutyujaya, a composition by Smt. Chinmayee Dwaraknath.

The penultimate evening will feature the only theatre performance of the festival, a performing Art that is intricately connected to the Odissi of today. Shri Nalini Nihar Nayak and the Newquest Repertory, a pioneering theatre organisation of Odisha that aims to resurrect the rich heritage of theatre, will present Byaghra Rohan, a satirical play about the destructive nature of hedonistic human beings who aim to tame a trapped tiger to prove their heroism, a desire that leads to disastrous consequences.

On the final evening, after the Award Ceremony, the Srjan ensemble will take stage and premiere the innovative choreography of Guru Ratikant Mohapatra—Duryodhana. Based on a concept by Dr. Srinibas Ghatuary and the script of Pt. Nityananda Misra, Duryodhana has been set to the music composition of Shri Rupak Kumar Parida, musical arrangement of the late Shri Tarakanta Panda, with the rhythm composition, music overview, and choreography of Guru Shri Ratikant Mohapatra. The Srjan ensemble’s sculpted and rigorously trained dancers will be aided by the brilliant light designing of Shri Debiprasad Mishra, as they continue their commitment towards preserving classical integrity under the visionary mentorship of Guru Ratikant Mohapatra.

Srjan benefits from the valuable institutional support of Sri Sri University, Cuttack. The 31st GKCM Award Festival is aided by the CSR Initiatives of MGM Minerals Ltd., Odisha Mining Corporation Limited (OMC), Shalimar’s Shalimar Chemical Works Pvt. Ltd., Ruchi Foodline. The festival is further supported by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Department of Odia Literature Language and Culture, Government of Odisha.The festival sponsors include State Bank of India (SBI), National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), Shalimar’s Coconut Oil, Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL), Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Ltd. (IMFA), and Priyadarshini Silks. The Royale Midtown Hotel is its hospitality partner. Dharitri and Orissa Post, and Narthaki.com are the media partners and web partner respectively. The festival is entirely curated, conceptualized, and designed by Ratikant Mohapatra, with program execution by Debiprasad Mishra.

Mumbai / Gangtok, August 30, 2025: Medhavi Skills University (MSU), Sikkim, hosted its grand Orientation Ceremony “PRARAMBH” for the incoming Batch of 2025 at Manan Kendra, Gangtok, marking the beginning of an academic journey for its newest cohort of students. The event brought together an august gathering of policymakers, industry experts, academicians, students, and parents, reflecting the University’s strong reputation as a hub for skill-integrated higher education.

The ceremony began with a formal welcome for students and parents, followed by the arrival of esteemed guests. The programme opened with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, the National Anthem led by the University’s Cultural Club, and a soulful welcome song by MSU’s student ensemble. A specially curated video showcase of MSU’s journey highlighted the institution’s rapid growth and impact since its inception.

In his Opening Address, the Hon’ble Founder and Chancellor of MSU inspired the students to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and embrace skills-driven education.

He emphasised: “At MSU, we have always aspired to bridge the gap between education and employability. Our vision is not only to provide degrees but to cultivate innovators, leaders, and socially conscious citizens. As you step into this new chapter, let curiosity and resilience be your guiding companions. MSU is and will always remain a student-first institution—our greatest asset and true strength lies in our students”

The event also featured engaging addresses from eminent dignitaries, including Shri Raj Shekhar Joshi, Vice-Chairman of SETU Ayog (Erstwhile Planning Commission), Uttarakhand; Mr. Rakesh Prasad, AVP-HR at Indigo Airlines; Mr. Debmalya Banerjee, Regional Director, Indian Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Pankaj Mathur, Senior General Manager, Felix Hospital; and Mr. Kalappa KB, CHRO, Chai Point. Each of them shared valuable insights on future skills, employability, and industry-academia collaboration, underlining the importance of holistic learning.

The ceremony was enriched with a series of cultural performances, including semi-classical, Nepali, Assamese, Arunachali, Newari, and fusion dances, alongside captivating musical renditions by the University’s Music Skill Drill students and the University Band, The Troopers. These performances reflected the vibrancy and diversity of the MSU community.

A moment of institutional pride was shared when the University celebrated its national recognition as the 4th-ranked university in the Outlook-ICARE Rankings 2025. The milestone was commemorated with a felicitation ceremony and the screening of a documentary on 13 years of MSU’s journey and achievements.

The Hon’ble Pro-Chancellor and Co-Founder of MSU lauded the collective effort of faculty, staff, and students in achieving this milestone.

He remarked: “India’s strength lies in the skills and aspirations of its youth. At Medhavi Skills University, we are not just preparing students to seek jobs, but to create them. As the nation moves towards becoming a global powerhouse, I urge our students to embrace innovation, self-reliance, and nation-building. Let us pledge to be job givers, not just job seekers, and contribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.”

The highlight of the ceremony was the Keynote Address by the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim, Mr. Justice Biswanath Somadder. In his inspiring speech, he urged students to pursue education as a tool for nation-building: “Education is not simply about acquiring knowledge; it is about cultivating integrity, empathy, and responsibility. Universities like Medhavi Skills University are shaping a generation of learners who are equipped with both intellectual capability and practical skills, making them valuable not only to the workforce but to society as a whole.”

Post-lunch sessions included ice-breaking activities for the new batch, motivational addresses by School Heads and the Office of Student Affairs, and a briefing on the Foundation Programme schedule, designed to ease students’ transition into university life. The ceremony concluded with a Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, students, and parents for their presence and support.

The Orientation Programme “PRARAMBH” successfully set the tone for the academic year ahead—blending academic vision, cultural heritage, industry insights, and student engagement, underscoring MSU’s mission to nurture globally competent and socially responsible graduates.

Hyderabad, August 29, 2025 — His Excellency Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Telangana, inaugurated the National Conference on “India @ 2047” today at Hotel Taj Krishna, Hyderabad. The one-day event was organized by the Education Promotion Society for India (EPSI) and brought together over 200 thought leaders, educators, researchers, and policy-makers.

Key dignitaries present at the conference included: Dr. M. R. Jayaram, President EPSI & Chancellor, Ramiah University; Dr. Sekar Viswanathan, Vice President, EPSI; Dr. H. Chaturvedi, Alternate President, EPSI; Dr. Veda Prakash Mishra, Senior Vice President, EPSI; Prof. V Balasikta Reddy, Chairman, Telegana Council of Higher Education; Dr. Archana Mantri, Vice Chancellor, Anurag University; Dr Rangarajan Mahalakshmi K, Chairperson Vel Tech Deemed to be University; Mr. Nirmalya Pal, Co-founder of Campusutra.com and Debrin Synergy; Dr. V Jayashree, Dean & Director at Vishwa Vishwani Institute of Systems And Management, Hyderabad and over 200 educators, professors, researchers, and institutional leaders participated in this landmark event, all committed to reshaping the future of Indian higher education.

In his address, the Hon’ble Governor emphasized the crucial role of higher education in realizing the vision of a developed India by 2047, as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji.

“This is an important gathering of thought leaders, educators, and nation-builders,” he said. “As we look ahead to India’s centenary of independence, the role of higher education becomes more pivotal than ever.”

Quoting Swami Vivekananda, the Governor remarked, “Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man.” He stressed that universities must not merely function as knowledge factories, but as sanctuaries that nurture the inner potential of India’s youth.

India currently has over 1,100 universities and nearly 45 million students, making it one of the largest higher education ecosystems in the world. However, the Governor noted, “Our task is not just expansion, but transformation—towards quality, innovation, inclusivity, and global competitiveness.”

Highlighting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformative roadmap, he noted its emphasis on multidisciplinary learning, digital transformation, skill development, and global engagement.

His Excellency outlined five key focus areas for transforming higher education: Global Competitiveness: Elevating Indian universities to global ranks through cutting-edge research and international collaborations.

• Skill Development & Employability: Aligning curricula with industry needs and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Equity & Inclusivity: Ensuring access to quality education for all, regardless of gender, background, or geography.
• Research & Innovation: Turning universities into engines of innovation across sectors like industry, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Value-based Education: Instilling ethics, values, and national consciousness alongside academic and technical training.

“As Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan once said, ‘The end-product of education should be a free creative man, who can battle against historical circumstances and adversities of nature.’ This is the ideal we must strive for,” the Governor said.

The Governor also praised Hyderabad as a shining example of how education, technology, and innovation can transform a region into a global hub. Telangana, he noted, has built a reputation for nurturing world-class institutions and cutting-edge research ecosystems.

Two key sessions structured the day’s deliberations: Session I: Re-imagining Indian Higher Education for Global Competitiveness and Session II: Empowering Institutions for India @ 2047

“These two themes—competitiveness and empowerment—are the twin pillars that will guide India’s higher education journey,” the Governor told the audience.

EPSI, the organizer of the event, was established with the objective of promoting, expanding, and developing the education sector in India. It works closely with government and other stakeholders to resolve critical challenges in higher education.

“India’s journey towards becoming a global knowledge superpower by 2047 hinges on how well we bridge the gap between academia and industry. Conferences like these provide the much-needed platform for collaborative thinking, policy innovation, and transformative action,” said Mr. Nirmalya Pal, Co-founder of Campusutra.com and Debrin Synergy, one of the delegates. Campusutra.com is a leading educational portal whose case study has been featured at Harvard Business Studies.

Dubai, UAE, 29 August 2025: Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, the first Emirati woman to serve as Director General of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), extended her warmest congratulations to the UAE leadership on the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day, praising the nation’s strong commitment to empowering women and enhancing their presence across all sectors. She affirmed that the journey of Emirati women, under the guidance and patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, has become a global model for women’s empowerment and for engaging women in shaping policies and development initiatives while showcasing the vital role of Emirati women both locally and internationally.

On this occasion, Dr. Tarifa said: “This year’s Emirati Women’s Day, celebrated under the theme ‘Hand in Hand, We Celebrate 50 Years’, reflects a lasting partnership that embodies five decades of empowerment and collective progress. The achievements of Emirati women extend beyond social and economic participation, reaching vital fields that shape the future of the nation and the world, such as science, innovation, and sustainability.”

Dr. Alzaabi added: “At the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), we witness every day the contributions of Emirati women in advancing food security and agricultural prosperity, as well as in strengthening water security and building resilience to climate change. Emirati women scientists and researchers have demonstrated that empowerment translates into practical solutions that serve society, align with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development, and reinforce the nation’s position as a global hub for agricultural innovation.”

Dr. Tarifa concluded: “On this national occasion, we celebrate the ability of Emirati women to combine personal ambition with national duty, and we reaffirm that the UAE’s sustainable and prosperous future will be built on the equal contributions of both women and men, working side by side.”

Ahmedabad, 29 August 2025: The 14th edition of the prestigious Quality Mark Awards 2025, organized by Quality Mark Trust, was successfully held on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, at Narayani Heights, Ahmedabad. The grand black-tie gala ceremony witnessed participation from leading industrialists, dignitaries, policymakers, and distinguished professionals from across India. 

This year, the awards recognized over 35 organizations across diverse sectors for their exceptional performance in maintaining quality standards, innovation, sustainability, and overall business excellence.

The Quality Mark Awards 2025 ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished dignitaries. The event was honoured by Shri Kunvarjibhai Bavaliya, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Water Resources and Water Supply, Food, Civil Supply and Consumer Protection and  Guests of Honour included Shri Dilip Sanghani, Chairman of IFFCO, and Shri Ratnasekhar Ji, Traffic Manager of Deendayal Port Authority, Shri K K Maurya DGM ORDNANCE Factory Dehu Road with Shri Jayram Desai President APMC. The event also featured Bollywood star Mr. Sharman Joshi as a Celebrity Guest, adding glamour to the celebration. Their presence contributed significantly to the grandeur and prestige of the evening.

The awards ceremony was held in association with Deendayal Port Authority, and Official Magazine Partner World Economic Magazine reinforcing the commitment to promote a quality-centric approach within India’s growth story.

Speaking on the occasion, the organizers Hetal Thakkar said, “The Quality Mark Awards aim to honour those who strive not just for profit, but for purpose-driven excellence. Recognizing such efforts inspires others to uphold the standards of quality across industries.”

Also Organizer Arvind Vegda added that the event concluded with a networking dinner, leaving a lasting impression on industry stakeholders and media alike. The Quality Mark Awards continue to serve as a symbol of credibility and recognition for organizations that pursue consistent innovation and quality leadership.

Here is List of Winner Quality Mark Awards 2025

1	Deendayal Port Authority
2	Ordnance Factory Dehuroad
3	Ammunition Factory Khadki
4	Dariya Shipping Agencies Pvt. Ltd
5	Lions Den Resort – Gir
6	Sahana System Limited
7	Vraj Jewellers
8	Patang Re-Evolve
9	Pareshbhai Goswami
10	Sentop Agro Industries Limited
11	Flowchem Engineering Pvt. Ltd.
12	Amit Fiber Decor
13	Designlux Pvt. Ltd.
14	Raj Bhaa Films
15	Manilal & Sons
16	Gajali Lifescience LLP
17	Star Plast Industries Pvt. Ltd.
18	Envirokraft Associates
19	Baroda Moulds & Dies Pvt. Ltd.
20	Raymond Lifestyle  Limited
21	Hitech Projects Limited
22	Trinix  Pharma Private Limited
23	Petrotec Retail Petroleum equipment India Pvt. Ltd.
24	Aditya Microdynamic
25	Varni Chemicals
26	Neelam Realtors Builder’s & Developers
27	The Best Agriseeds
28	K-Lite Industries Pvt. Ltd.
29	VP Productions & Events
30	Shah & Co. Dist. Pvt. Ltd.
31	Jstechno Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
32	Tirupati Creation
33	Chandulal Talakchand Thakkar
34	Prime PR

29 August 2025: Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, proudly celebrates 37 years of an incredible journey in redefining healthcare journey we began together and continue together with trust, excellence, and compassion at the core.

Since its inception in 1988 Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad has been a pioneer in bringing world-class healthcare to the region. Over the past 37 years, the hospital has introduced cutting-edge technology, advanced medical expertise, and patient-centric care that has set benchmarks in clinical excellence and innovation.

From being the first to introduce several medical milestones to becoming a trusted name for comprehensive healthcare, Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad has grown alongside its community empowering lives, nurturing hope, and saving millions.

Apollo Hospitals celebrated its anniversary with a blend of entertainment and recognition, highlighting the contribution of its dedicated staff. The event featured an engaging skit titled “Nato Unna Apollo” performed by the hospital staff, depicting the journey of Apollo and its commitment to patient care over the years.

As part of the celebrations, Shri Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Group, felicitated senior employees who have played a pivotal role in the organization’s success. Their long-standing service and dedication were recognized as vital in establishing Apollo’s reputation as a leader in healthcare excellence.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr.Tejesvi Rao Veerepalli, Teleangana Regional CEO Apollo Hospitals said “This milestone is not just a celebration of our achievements but a tribute to the trust our patients have placed in us and the unwavering commitment of our medical teams. Together, we have built a legacy of healing and continue to move forward with the same passion and dedication.”

As Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad looks to the future, the commitment remains strong to continue providing holistic healthcare, harness the power of technology and research, and ensure accessible, affordable, and quality treatment for all.

The event witnessed active participation from the hospital’s leadership and staff, including DMS Dr. Ravinder Babu, Mr. Harkaran, COO, Senior Doctors, and operations teams, whose collective efforts contributed to the grand success of the celebrations.

New Delhi, 28th August 2025: M1xchange, India’s leading RBI-licensed Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) platform, announced its partnership with Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, to introduce Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) on its platform. With this, M1xchange becomes the first TReDS platform in India to integrate an insurance partner into its ecosystem. This partnership establishes the insurer as the fourth stakeholder in the TReDS ecosystem, joining MSMEs, buyers and financiers.

The inclusion of Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) on the M1xchange platform is set to significantly boost confidence among banks and financiers. By mitigating credit risk, the offering will unlock greater liquidity on the platform, empowering MSMEs with vital working capital to drive their growth. The integration is also expected to attract more corporates, who will benefit from enhanced financing limits, thereby strengthening the overall supply chain finance ecosystem.

As part of this collaboration, insurance coverage will be customised to the credit profile of each buyer and seamlessly embedded within the M1xchange platform. With integrated claim processing, stakeholders can expect a smooth and transparent experience. This innovation simplifies access to secure financing for MSMEs while reinforcing the resilience and inclusivity of the wider supply chain finance framework.

Sundeep Mohindru, Promoter & Director, M1xchange, said, “ The partnership with Tata AIG marks a significant step in expanding the scope of TReDS. By adding Trade Credit Insurance as the fourth participant on our platform, we are enabling financiers to take larger exposures and creating more opportunities for MSMEs to access timely working capital. This will also expand the risk-taking ability of the platform, while encouraging wider participation from financiers and corporates. Our goal is to build a stronger and more liquid trade finance ecosystem, empowering India’s 6.3 crore MSMEs to grow and compete effectively.”

Deepak Kumar, Senior Executive Vice President, TATA AIG General Insurance Company Limited, said “We are pleased to collaborate with M1xchange to bring Trade Credit Insurance to the TReDS ecosystem. This partnership will provide financiers with an added layer of risk protection while ensuring MSMEs can access working capital with greater confidence. Together, we aim to mitigate payment risks, enhance the flow of trade credit in the economy, and support the growth of MSMEs through secure and reliable financial solutions.”

Additionally, M1xchange is the first to expand the scope of TReDS with its innovative Small-to-small financing initiative. This initiative has successfully brought tier 2 and tier 3 MSMEs into the formal credit system, enabling them to benefit from early payments without collateral at competitive rates.

Bengaluru, August 28, 2025 – United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), in collaboration with its CSR partners, commemorated World Lake Day with an engaging and educational event at Kannamangala Lake, Bengaluru. The celebration brought together corporates to highlight the importance of urban lakes and their crucial role in sustaining the ecological and social fabric of the city. World Lake Day is a reminder that lakes are not just water bodies; they are life-sustaining ecosystems, community hubs, and cultural landmarks.

The event covered a guided lake walk and a bird-watching session, allowing people to appreciate the biodiversity supported by the lake ecosystem. As part of the immersive experience, attendees engaged in hands-on water testing activities to understand the health of the lake, learning about water quality indicators and how pollution impacts aquatic life. Interactive ‘Learn and Play’ sessions were organized to make environmental education fun and accessible.

Corporates also had the opportunity to explore the lake’s ecosystem, understand the threats it faces, and discuss ways to preserve such water bodies. They also gained hands-on experience in measuring water clarity, helping them understand the physical indicators of water health. It also revealed that the oxygen levels in the lake were within a healthy and appropriate range, indicating relatively stable aquatic conditions. The event concluded with a collaborative reflection session, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and community action in lake conservation efforts.

United Way Bengaluru continues to drive lake conservation initiatives under its flagship program ‘Wake the Lake’, empowering citizens and corporates alike to become stewards of their local water bodies.

ICAI Hosts Convocation Ceremony Across 15 Centers Pan India; Confers Membership to 13,737 Newly Qualified Chartered Accountants

Kolkata, 26 August 2025: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), a statutory body established under an Act of Parliament, organized a grand Convocation Ceremony simultaneously across 15 locations in India to confer certificates of membership to newly qualified Chartered Accountants and felicitate rank holders.

The Convocation was held at New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ghaziabad, Ernakulam, Vijayawada, Ahmedabad, Pune, Indore, Jaipur, Chandigarh and Ludhiana. A total of 13,737 newly enrolled Chartered Accountants were awarded their membership certificates, marking the beginning of their professional journey.

The Convocation ceremonies commenced concurrently across all centers, with Smt. Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson, Competition Commission of India (CCI), inaugurated the event as the Chief Guest from New Delhi. The New Delhi ceremony was led by CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, President, ICAI and CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice-President, ICAI, in the august presence of Central Council Members—CA. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, CA. (Dr) Sanjeev Kumar Singhal and CA. Hans Raj Chugh, along with CA. (Dr) Jai Kumar Batra, Secretary, ICAI.

While Addressing Newly Qualified Chartered Accountants from New Delhi, Smt. Ravneet Kaur, Chairperson, CCI, stated, “I congratulate all the newly graduating Chartered Accountants. This day marks a celebration of your hard work, sleepless nights and your unshakeable determination to succeed in one of the most difficult examinations in the country. ICAI is acknowledged for its excellence, ethics and influence and continues to play a pivotal role in nation-building by contributing to corporate governance, taxation, auditing standards, sustainability and digital financial systems. The CA qualification will open numerous opportunities for you, not only in your career but also in your personal growth. With the rapid adoption of technologies such as AI, blockchain, and algorithmic pricing, continuous learning will remain essential to ensure transparent, efficient, and sustainable growth.”

She further added, “Chartered Accountants play a vital role in translating principles into practice, ensuring that market practices remain transparent, ethical, and compliant with regulatory frameworks. The trust placed in their signature is immense, impacting clients, stakeholders, markets and public interest. As professionals, you are the custodians of independence, objectivity and integrity in every valuation and decision you make.”

On this occasion, CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, President, ICAI, congratulated the newly enrolled Chartered Accountants and said, “Receiving the membership certificate is a defining milestone that marks your transition from students to professionals. Indian Chartered Accountants are called partners in nation-building, and soon they will be recognized as partners in global building, strengthening India’s growth while reinforcing international financial systems. You are the future torch bearers of the profession and I urge you to embrace innovation, remain committed to lifelong learning and lead with integrity and values that will not only uphold the dignity of the profession but also enhance India’s credibility on the global stage.”

With over 65% of our population under the age of 35, the youth are not only the future of this nation, but also the present drivers of innovation, consumption and progress. With ICAI conferring membership to 13,737 newly qualified Chartered Accountants, this addition to the profession further strengthens India’s talent pool. As India moves towards becoming the third-largest economy, these young Chartered Accountants will be the greatest asset. Each of these new members holds the power to shape India’s destiny. As new professional avenues such as forensics, sustainability and artificial intelligence emerge, Chartered Accountants, who have closely witnessed the evolution of technology, will take the lead in these initiatives and contribute to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

While addressing the gathering, CA. Prasanna Kumar D, Vice-President, ICAI, said, “Chartered Accountants are not just service providers, they are strategic business solution providers driving the economy forward. The profession offers dynamic opportunities across practice, employment, entrepreneurship, taxation, audits, technology and ESG. Ethics is non-negotiable; integrity, transparency and sound judgment will form the foundation of trust in your work. I would request each one of you to carry forward the legacy of the profession with pride and contribute meaningfully to India’s economic growth story.”

The President ICAI also administered the oath to the newly inducted members. ICAI conducts convocation twice a year to award the Certificate of Membership to newly enrolled members, celebrating their entry into the CA fraternity. This prestigious event serves as a platform to unite young professionals under the esteemed Chartered Accountancy fraternity, fostering a deep sense of belonging and connection with both the profession and the Institute. Through rigorous training and a stringent examination process, only individuals who demonstrate outstanding knowledge, intelligence, dedication and proficiency are qualified to become Chartered Accountants.

Addressing the Convocation Ceremony, CA. Sanjib Sanghi, Council Member, ICAI, lauded the role of parents in shaping the success of the newly qualified Chartered Accountants. He stressed that their future must be built on trust, perseverance, resilience, and integrity. Highlighting the concept of NEST-Networking, Entrepreneurship, Skill, and Technology-he explained its importance in their professional journey.

CA. Ravi Kumar Patwa, Council Member, ICAI, noted that as India moves towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the CA profession will gain prominence. Urging members to uphold ethics, pay their membership fees, and serve society, he remarked, “If hard work is your weapon, success will be your slave.”

Guest of Honour CA. (Dr.) Debashis Mitra acknowledged parents’ contribution to the success of the new professionals. Emphasizing that ICAI, set up under an Act of Parliament, safeguards the nation’s financial health, he urged CAs to be fearless and innovative like Garuda, ICAI’s mascot. Stressing the values of Independence, Excellence, and Integrity, he envisioned ICAI being lauded by the Prime Minister in 2027 as the guardian of India’s financial stability.

Hyderabad, August 25, 2025 – The 14th edition of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2025, powered by IDFC FIRST Bank, witnessed an unprecedented turnout with a record-breaking 28,300 runners, making it one of India’s largest and most celebrated community sporting events. The marathon, held on Sunday, featured three categories—Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K—which concluded at Gachibowli, marking the official kickoff of India’s marathon season.

Flag-offs took place at two different locations with dignitaries, including Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad, and Mr. D. Joel Davis, Joint Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Hyderabad City, leading the ceremonies for the 10K and Full Marathons, respectively.

It witnessed unprecedented Participation and Community Engagement. A total of 28,300 runners, including 5,000 from over 150 Indian cities, registered for the marathon.

The event welcomed runners from all walks of life, including corporates, PSUs, the armed forces, government institutions, and civic bodies.

Notable corporate participation included Dr. Reddy’s with 701 registrations, which is the highest by any single corporate house, and they were recognised accordingly.  Aptar was recognised for 46% women’s participation. Arcesium, which donated ₹30 lakh, was recognised as the Top Corporate Charity Donor

The event saw the participation of 56 elite international athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, and India took part in the race. The marathon is the second-largest in India to hold a World Athletics Basic Label certification.

NMDC’s and IDFC’s employees and families actively participated in the event, showcasing the companies’ commitment to fitness and community.

Elite athletes and others received their prizes at GMC Balayogi Stadium, Gachibowli, from the hands of dignitaries such as Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Mr. Vinay Kumar, Mr. Shreepad Shinde, Mr. Toru Yamaguchi, Mr. Praveen Kumar, Mr. Saurabh Sharma, Mr. Nirish Lalan and a couple of Police Officers.

NMDC MARATHON 2025

PROVISIONAL RESULTS ELITE MARATHON OVERALL MEN – TOP 3

Rank                Name                                      Grosstime

 01                    CHERUIYOT KENYA                 02:17:27

 02                    URGA ETHIOPIA                      02:18:33

 03                    CHELUKO KENYA                     02:21:19

PROVISIONAL RESULTS ELITE MARATHON OVERALL WOMEN – TOP 3

 Rank                Name                                      Grosstime

  01                   KIBET KENYA                              02:39:27

  02                    KUMSA ETHIOPIA                     02:41:16

  03                   MEHARI ETHIOPIA                    02:45:15

 

PROVISIONAL RESULTS ELITE MARATHON OVERALL IND MEN – TOP 3

 Rank                Name                                      Grosstime

 01                   ANISH THAPA                            02:24:41

 02                    TIRTHA PUN                               02:27:18

 03                    KALIDAS LAXMAN HIRAVE      02:27:41

PROVISIONAL RESULTS ELITE MARATHON OVERALL IND WOMEN – TOP 3

Rank                 Name                                      Gross time

01                     BHAGIRATHI NON                   02:51:52

02                     ASHVINI JADHAV                     02:57:02

03                    JYOTI GAWATE                         03:12:10

PROVISIONAL RESULTS HALF MARATHON OVERALL MEN TOP 3

Rank                 Name                                      Nettime

01                     MOHIT CHOUDHARY               01:09:28

02                     MALLIKARJUN MS                    01:19:51

03                     AVIK PAL                                    01:20:16

                          

PROVISIONAL RESULTS HALF MARATHON OVERALL WOMEN – TOP 3

Rank                 Name                                      Nettime

01                     DIVYA S                                     01:32:23

02                     FARHEEN FIRDOSE                  01:32:57

03                     EKTA RAWAT                            01:38:11

                       

PROVISIONAL RESULTS 10K MARATHON OVERALL MEN – TOP 3

Rank                 Name                                      Nettime

01                     ABDUL SALAM                          00:34:19

02                     LAVISH RAWAT                         00:35:22

03                     B CHANDRA SHEKHAR            00:35:28

 PROVISIONAL RESULTS 10K MARATHON OVERALL WOMEN – TOP 3

 Rank               Name                                      Gross time

01                     KODAVATH SWAPNA                00:41:53

02                    GADDAM RAJESHWARI            00:43:35

03                    ABHILASHA BHAGAT                00:48:46

 

The total prize money was ₹48.55 lakh across male and female categories for all three races.

The Elite marathon winners in both men’s and women’s categories were awarded: $6,000, $3,000, and $2,000 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places respectively (international) and ₹3 lakh, ₹2.5 lakh, and ₹2 lakh for Indian winners.  ₹1.5 lakh bonus was awarded for breaking the course record.  The Men’s Elite category witnessed a new course record and broke the old record. The top three of the half-marathon received Rs 50,000/-, Rs 40,000/-, and Rs 30,000/-, and 10 winners received Rs 25000/-, Rs 20,000/- and Rs 15,000/.

The 14th edition was hailed as the greenest Hyderabad Marathon ever: 30–35% of registrants opted out of T-shirts.  This year’s edition of the marathon reduced the use of flex boards.  Waste materials were collected and recycled.  In an inclusive move, rag pickers were engaged to collect and segregate waste, which was then sent for recycling, offering them both dignity and community involvement

The marathon raised ₹1.4 crore for 29 charity partners and NGO.  The target was to raise ₹3 crore by September 15, 2025.  This event has become a model for purpose-driven sports events in India

The event was the best example of volunteerism in India.  4000 volunteers, the highest in India for any marathon, helped orchestrate the event.  16 ambulances, 12 bike ambulances, 9 elite-specific aid stations, and 12 hydration stations were deployed.  Over 80,000 man-hours were invested in organising the marathon, involving 6 months of preparation

The support from the Telangana Government, GHMC, Police, Sports Authority, and sponsors made the event a massive success

The Elite, half, and full marathons were flagged off by DCP D. Joel Davis, Joint CP, Traffic, Hyderabad City and Shri K Praveen Kumar. Executive Director (Commercial), NMDC; Mr. Shreepad Shinde, Head Business Excellence, IDFC FIRST Bank, Toru Ymagishi; Saurabh Sharma, Director of Marketing at ASICS India

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. D. Joel Davis, Joint Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Hyderabad City, described the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon as “a true celebration of human potential,” acknowledging the determination and unity displayed by thousands of runners.

Mr. K. Praveen Kumar, Executive Director (Commercial), NMDC, shared that CMD Amitava Mukherjee has a deep passion for fitness, which reflects in NMDC’s support of the event. “At NMDC, we combine our expertise in mining with a commitment to fitness. We believe that a healthy population is the foundation of a strong nation. This marathon is a step toward building a fitter India.”

Mr. Shreepad Shende, Head of Business Excellence, IDFC FIRST Bank, added, “At IDFC FIRST Bank, we care for both the health and wealth of individuals. This event is one of the most sought-after marathons in India, and we are proud to be part of it.”

10K Run was flagged off by Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Cyberabad Police Commissioner, Mr. Shreepad Shende, Head Business Excellence, IDFC FIRST Bank, Nirish Lalan, Head Branch Banking South, IDFC FIRST Bank, Mr. Vinay Kumar, Director Technical, NMDC, and Shri K Praveen Kumar. Executive Director (Commercial), NMDC; Saurabh Sharma, Director of Marketing at ASICS India.

Speaking at the flag-off of the 10K Run, Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad, remarked, “It is a great honour to be here with nearly 10,000 enthusiastic participants. Their energy is contagious—I feel inspired and motivated to join in myself.”

“We at NMDC combine our mining expertise with a passion for fitness,” said Mr. K. Praveen Kumar, Executive Director, NMDC. “Fitness is essential for a strong nation.”

In a true display of commitment, Mr. Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC, not only flagged off the 10K Run but also actively participated and completed the race, setting an inspiring example of leadership and fitness.

The city owned the event.  Many walked on to the street to greet the runners.  80 cheer zones were voluntarily set up by the citizens to encourage and cheer up the runners.

“The 14th edition of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon has set new benchmarks with over 28,000 runners and the presence of international elites,” said Mr. Rajesh Vetcha, Race Director, NMDC Hyderabad Marathon. “Each year, our focus is on making the marathon more impactful, integrating global standards with meaningful charity collaborations and enhanced runner experiences.”

Established in 2007, the Hyderabad Runners Society is a not-for-profit organisation with over 22,000 active members. It promotes running as a healthy lifestyle choice and organises the annual NMDC Hyderabad Marathon, alongside year-round activities at 46 locations across the city.