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Rajasthan has emerged as a powerful example of how public-private collaboration can move the needle on gender equity. Today, it is at the forefront of pioneering models that bridge government schemes, NGO efforts, and grassroots participation. A growing number of partnerships are now working across sectors to ensure that girls not only enter classrooms but thrive well beyond them. From foundational learning and digital access to nutrition and community support, the state is building a stronger, more inclusive future, an initiative at a time.

Here is a snapshot of five standout partnerships powering progress for girls:

Sampark Foundation Champions Early Learning for Every Child

Strong foundations build bright futures, especially for girls just entering the world of classrooms. Through a visionary five-year MoU with the Rajasthan Council of School Education (RCSE), Sampark Foundation is transforming government schools from classes 1 to 8. By bringing in interactive teaching methods, digital resources, and teacher development, this partnership is unlocking foundational literacy and numeracy skills. Young girls who are too often at risk of falling behind now have a better start, and classroom learning becomes a launchpad for lifelong achievement.

Educate Girls Unlocks Doors With Shiksha Setu Yojana

Educate Girls is working closely with the Government of Rajasthan under the Shiksha Setu Yojana to help more adolescent girls and young women return to education. This initiative is part of a larger effort to support girls in accessing future opportunities in skilling, employment, and entrepreneurship. As a part of this, Educate Girls is working alongside the Directorate of Women Empowerment to reach girls in remote communities, so they know that giving education a second chance is not just possible, but within their reach.

Moinee Foundation Connects Girls to Tomorrow’s Opportunities

For girls growing up in smaller towns and remote communities, digital access can be life-changing. The Moinee Foundation, based in Jaipur, is closing the digital divide in partnership with Rajasthan’s Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and district-level education bodies. Their programs bring computer labs, engaging digital content, and robust teacher training to secondary schools. This focus on digital empowerment gives girls the tools and confidence they need to thrive in a technology-driven world.

Anil Agarwal Foundation’s Nand Ghars Light Early Pathways

The Anil Agarwal Foundation is nurturing Rajasthan’s littlest learners and their mothers by rolling out 25,000 modernized “Nand Ghars” (next-generation Anganwadi centres) in collaboration with the Women & Child Development Department. Renewed in January 2025, this effort transforms early childhood spaces with integrated pre-primary education, nutrition, healthcare, and livelihood support for women. Every Nand Ghar becomes a beacon of opportunity, giving young girls a healthy, stimulating start and helping mothers support their daughters’ journeys from the very beginning.

World Vision India Rallies Communities for Girls’ Health

Behind every healthy schoolgirl is a community that cares. World Vision India’s partnership with Rajasthan’s Women & Child Development Department targets nearly 500 Anganwadi Centres across districts like Alwar and Udaipur to strengthen nutrition, health, and outreach. By deploying “Poshan Doots” and empowering local self-help groups (SHGs), the program mobilizes women and girls, improves tracking, and revives grassroots support networks. The result? Girls who are not only present in classrooms, but also nourished, confident, and surrounded by champions in their own communities.

ONGC, BP Exploration (Alpha) Ltd, and Reliance Industries Ltd Sign Joint Operating Agreement for Offshore Block in Saurashtra Basin

New Delhi , 29 July 2025: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), in partnership with BP Exploration (Alpha) Ltd and Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has formally signed a Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) for offshore exploration of Block GS-OSHP-2022/2, awarded under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) Bid Round-IX. The agreement was signed on 28 July 2025 at ONGC’s Deendayal Urja Bhavan, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

The block, located off the western coast in the Saurashtra Basin, spans an area of approximately 5,454 square kilometres and is classified under Category-II basins. The consortium, with ONGC designated as the Operator, is set to undertake exploratory activities aimed at assessing and harnessing the hydrocarbon potential of the region.

The signing ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, Mr. Manoj Kumar, Director (Finance), BP Exploration (Alpha) Limited; and Mr. Avinash Kumar Pathak, Senior Vice President, Reliance Industries Limited, including Mr. Arunangshu Sarkar, Director (Strategy & Corporate Affairs), ONGC; Mr. Om Prakash Sinha, Director (Exploration), ONGC; and Mr. Sanjay Baveja, Chief (Exploration- JV & BD).

This agreement marks a significant milestone in collaborative energy exploration and reflects the consortium’s shared commitment to advancing India’s energy security and contributing to the nation’s long-term energy goals.

New Delhi: Over 650 fitness professionals from across India came together at Bharat Mandapam in the capital for FITCRAFT 2.0, a high-impact confluence of knowledge, strategy, and community. Organised under the Anytime Fitness Aspire Academy, the day-long event marked a significant moment for India’s fitness ecosystem, uniting over 500 certified coaches and 150 high-performing sales professionals under one roof.

Designed as a knowledge-driven summit, FITCRAFT 2.0 focused on changing industry trends, hands-on training, and the future of holistic wellness services. The event brought together some of the most prominent voices in the health and fitness space, including industry experts such as Dr. Richa Mishra and Mr. Kushal Pal Singh, and global trainers like Dan Wynes and Sucheta Pal, along with leading recovery brands StickFit and Hyperice.

Sucheta Pal shared her insights on the importance of training new moms safely during the post-pregnancy phase, emphasizing the need for guidance on what exercises to embrace and which to avoid. She highlighted how tailored workouts can support physical recovery while improving emotional well-being.

Key sessions covered a wide spectrum from sales strategy and member experience to exercise science, recovery, and business transformation. Breakout tracks such as Sales Meets Soul and Real Talk: Wellness Journeys offered attendees deeper insights into emotional intelligence, behavioral coaching, and the evolving expectations of the modern fitness consumer. The event also featured a special address by celebrity guest Rahul Dev, acclaimed actor and model, who spoke about his personal fitness journey and the growing importance of holistic well-being. His presence underscored the message that consistency, mindfulness, and inner strength are as vital as physical health.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Vikas Jain, Managing Director, Anytime Fitness (India), said, “FITCRAFT 2.0 is a reflection of where the fitness industry in India is headed: toward deeper expertise, greater empathy, and a stronger sense of purpose. The future of fitness lies not confined in better workouts, but in better human connections, stronger communities, and more meaningful member experiences.”

The event culminated with an awards and recognition segment, celebrating standout performers across coaching, club operations, and member impact. With over 20 interactive sessions, live demonstrations, and a tightly curated curriculum, FITCRAFT 2.0 reinforced its mission of building skill, scale, and service excellence across India’s fitness arena. Through education, community-building, and inspiration on a single platform, FITCRAFT 2.0 successfully set a new benchmark for internal upskilling events in the fitness domain – making it a celebration of strength & a masterclass in strategic evolution.

New Delhi, July 24, 2025: Enviro Infra Engineers Limited , a prominent EPC Player in Water & Waste-Water Treatment across PAN India, has announced a significant step forward in its growth journey by strengthening its foot hold in the Reuse Treatment Technologies including Tertiary Treatment and Ultrafiltration Technologies. The Company has secured two (2) prestigious projects from Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). The highlights of the Projects are as under:

1. EPC of 20 MLD STP with Tertiary Treatment Facility followed by Ultrafiltration system for 10 MLD, along with Operation & Maintenance thereof for ten years.
2. EPC of 15 MLD STP with Tertiary Treatment Facility followed by Ultrafiltration system for 7.5 MLD, along with Operation & Maintenance thereof for ten years.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Sanjay Jain, Chairman, Enviro Infra Engineers Limited, said: “We are proud to have secured these prestigious projects from BWSSB, which not only reinforce our technical capabilities in delivering complex wastewater and tertiary treatment infrastructure but also reflect the trust that BWSSB has placed in us. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality, sustainable, and timely solutions that contribute to the nation’s water management and sanitation goals. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of engineering and execution.”

With this win, EIEL further strengthens its position as a national player in water and wastewater EPC solutions, aligned with India’s long-term environmental goals.

National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) to Host North Zone Regional Abilympics & Conference 2025 in Lucknow on August 1–2; Disability empowerment Minister Narendra Kumar Kashyap to Inaugurate

Lucknow, July 25, 2025 — After the successful South and West Zone editions, the North Zone Regional Abilympics & Conference 2025 is set to take place on August 1–2, 2025, at the Atal Convention Centre, Lucknow. This regional edition will bring together 100+ Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi, showcasing their skills across multiple trades. The event will be inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Narendra Kumar Kashyap, Minister for Backward Classes, Welfare Disabled Empowerment, Uttar Pradesh. Sarthak Educational Trust has established its presence across four cities in Uttar Pradesh – Lucknow, Ghaziabad, Varanasi and Prayagraj, through its Skill Building and Employment Centres dedicated to Persons with Disabilities. Till date, Sarthak has successfully trained and placed over 15,000 youth with disabilities in the state, enabling them to lead dignified and financially independent lives.

Widely known as the “Olympics of Abilities” or the “Work Skill Olympics for People with Disabilities,” the Abilympics are organized by the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI) in collaboration with Sarthak Educational Trust, supported by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), TPCDT, and IndusInd Bank. This regional competition culminates in a grand celebration of ability, skill, and determination — reaffirming the potential of Persons with Disabilities to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society through vocational excellence.

To further bridge the gap between skills and livelihoods, an inclusive job fair will also be held on Day 1 of the event, bringing together leading companies that are actively hiring and supporting inclusive employment practices. The fair will provide on-the-spot interview opportunities and career guidance to skilled PwD candidates across various sectors.

The event will feature live skill competitions in trades such as Photography, Painting &Decorating, Basket Making, Crochet, Massage, Hairdressing, Cake Decoration, Character Designing, Engineering Design, and more — paving the way for national and international representation. In addition to the vocational competitions and job fair, the two-day event will feature a National Conference that brings together leaders from government, corporates, NGOs, academia,. Discussions will center around inclusive skilling, employment gaps, and building sustainable systems of empowerment. Recent insights from Sarthak Educational Trust’s Global Resource Centre highlight the urgent need for systemic reform: over 64% of India’s 2.68 crore PwDs remain unemployed, there is a 70% shortage of trained rehabilitation professionals, and fewer than 60 certified accessibility auditors serve the entire country.

“This is more than a competition. It’s a movement to unlock economic dignity, confidence, and careers for millions of PwDs across India,” said Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Secretary-General of NAAI and Founder & CEO of Sarthak Educational Trust. “At Sarthak, we are not just building skills—we are building futures. Our mission to empower 10 million PwDs and facilitate over 2 lakh sustainable job placements by 2027 is what drives our every effort.”

Winners from the North Zone will qualify for the National Abilympics to be held in New Delhi in November 2025, where Team India will be selected to represent the country at the 11th International Abilympics in Finland (2027).This edition is not just an event, it is a call for inclusive skilling, better representation, and systemic change.

“I Will Be the Bridge Between Telangana Industry and Union Government”: BJP State President N. Ramchander Rao Assures FTCCI Members

Railway Ministry is considering Regional Railway Ring Road to complement RRR: TG BJP Chief

Hyderabad, July 24, 2025: In his first non-political public interaction after taking over as the President of the Telangana unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mr. N. Ramchander Rao addressed over 300 industrialists at a special interactive meeting organized by the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) on Wednesday till late evening.

Themed “Roadmap for Inclusive Industrial Growth in Telangana” with a focus on the MSME sector, the meeting served as a platform for dialogue between industry and political leadership.

“I will be the bridge between the Telangana industry and the Union Government,” declared Mr. Rao, emphasising his commitment to raise the state’s industrial issues with the Centre and ensure necessary policy support and attention.

“BJP has often been labelled as a corporate-friendly government. But can a country grow without its industries and entrepreneurs? Industries, both big and small, are nation builders. They generate employment, produce goods and services, pay taxes, and create wealth,” he stated.

Highlighting the global success of Non-Resident Indians, he remarked, “Indians thrive abroad but not always in India. This gap is often a result of policy and governance. However, in the past 11 years under the NDA regime, India has seen substantial progress — particularly in MSME growth and skill development. A dedicated Ministry for Skill Development was a landmark step,” he added.

On Telangana’s Industrial Landscape, Mr. Rao called for decentralisation of industrial development in Telangana. “Development is concentrated in and around Hyderabad. Tier-II and Tier-III cities must also grow. Inclusive growth is the need of the hour.”

He shared that the Railway Ministry is considering a Regional Railway Ring Road to complement the proposed Regional Ring Road (RRR), creating new connectivity corridors for industry.

Mr. Rao urged youth to shift from a job-seeking mindset to becoming job creators and called for healthy competition among states and companies to drive growth.

“There’s no discrimination by the Union Government based on ideologies. Initiatives like UPI are transforming the nation and proving our collective strength,” he said.

Welcoming the gathering, FTCCI President Mr. R. Ravi Kumar stated, “This is the first time a state party president is addressing our members — and it won’t be the last. We believe continuous engagement between industry and political leaders is essential for progressive governance.”

Mr. Srinivas Gabriella, Chairman of FTCCI’s Industrial Development Committee, emphasized the disparity in district-wise development. “Just five districts around Hyderabad are developing. Local sourcing must be promoted. Women’s employment is still in single digits — this needs urgent attention.”

Mr. Shekhar Reddy, CMD, CSR Estates Ltd and former CII President, said, “We have the potential to outcompete China. Our long-pending concerns like GST and Stamp Duty must be resolved.”

Mr. K. Sudhir Reddy, President, Telangana Industrialists Federation, highlighted the absence of mega industries in the state over the past 16–17 years. “MSMEs thrive when large industries co-exist.”

The interactive session concluded with an engaging Q&A, reflecting the stakeholders’ hope for more such open platforms.

New Delhi, July 23, 2025

In a momentous event held at the Siri Fort Auditorium, New Delhi, on July 23, 2025, Dr. BRC Clinic@Home – India’s extensive network of over 500 clinics – joined forces with the India Book of Records and the Vietnam Book of Records to commemorate the birth anniversaries of national icons Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The program served as a tribute to visionary ideals and progressive health innovation, bringing together thought leaders from India and Vietnam.

The highlight of the occasion was the official release of “Green Gold: The Neem Farmacy,” a groundbreaking book authored by Dr. Biswaroop Roy Chowdhury (Dr. BRC). In his address, Dr. BRC emphasized the immense potential of Neem, describing it as “the safest, fastest and the most evidence-based medicine in the world.” The launch was further marked by the convocation of 1,000 graduates from the first batch of the certified Neem Therapy Practitioner’s Course – an unprecedented milestone in integrative medicine education.

The book was formally launched by the chief guest Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. His presence lent official recognition and encouragement to the holistic health movement, and he inspired the audience with a message that celebrated resilience, sustainable innovation, and the intersection of traditional knowledge with modern wellness.

The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished international guests, including Prof. Chu Bảo Quế, Chairman of the Policy and Development Consultative Council of the Vietnam Federation of UNESCO Associations (VFUA); Mr. Trương Quang Hải, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam; and Dr. Nguyen Hoang Anh (Julia), Vice-Chairwoman of the Vietnam Records Organization and General Secretary of WorldKings – each of whom helped foster cross-border support for cultural and therapeutic advancements.

Mrs. Neerja Roy Chowdhury, Managing Editor of the India Book of Records , attended the event and conferred the prestigious Heritage Heroes Award upon Mr. Trương Quang Hải for his exemplary efforts in preserving cultural heritage and inspiring communities in Bac Giang Province, Vietnam.

The launch of “Green Gold: The Neem Farmacy” stands as a beacon of alternative medicine, scientific rigor, and global collaboration, reinforcing Neem’s relevance in contemporary healthcare and community transformation.

On the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) and global cricket expansion:

“When the European T20 League came about, I saw a market primed for a professional T20 league. I truly feel we can make a difference here, and that’s why I chose this as my foray into proper cricket. The ETPL is being played in three very unique and iconic countries—Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. These are all World Cup-playing teams and have been giant killers at various points in time. With cricket now being introduced in the Olympics, this feels like the right moment. These three markets are screaming for their own professional T20 leagues. Most ICC nations already have them. This league can serve as a launch-pad for local talent who can rise through the ranks and break onto the world stage. I believe the talent exists; it’s the platform that’s missing. I hope, God willing, ETPL will provide that.”

Elaborating further, he added: “We are committed to world-class gameplay that’s on par with the best leagues. We aim to attract top global names. This is cricket as you have never seen it. We also have a mandate to support the women’s game. We hold rights for both, men’s and women’s leagues and hope to launch the women’s ETPL within the first three to five years. I’m biased, but I hope some of our Indian girls are part of it.”

On the social impact of cricket, IPL, and evolution of Indian players:

“In India, there’s hardly anyone among our billion-strong population who doesn’t love cricket. The sport is deeply embedded in our culture. The BCCI has done a great job in marketing it, creating superstars for children to idolize. To build and promote a sport, you need stars. Cricket has become a true social leveller. Whether you are from Karnataka, Assam, or Punjab, anyone has a real chance to wear the Indian jersey. On the field, everyone is equal—it’s your talent that speaks. The IPL changed lives. Before it, only the top 16 cricketers could dream of a professional career with Team India. Now, budding cricketers with talent and ambition have a legitimate platform. There’s no other system in the world that offers the kind of opportunities IPL does.”

On IPL breaking Mumbai’s dominance and promoting diversity:

“Before the IPL, a large portion of the national team used to come from Mumbai, which had the strongest cricketing association. Yes, players came from other regions too, but the dominance was clear. Post-IPL, the landscape changed. Now, we have players from Ranchi, like MS Dhoni, and Delhi has produced outstanding talent. Cricketers are emerging from all parts of India. IPL and similar leagues have democratized cricket in this country. IPL is the biggest platform for young players—not only to showcase their skills but also to learn from legends.”

On sports film aspirations and a lifelong passion for sports:

“Sports films are my favorite genre because they celebrate the pride of the human spirit. They allow you to live the triumphs and setbacks that mirror real life. I’d love to act in or direct one someday. ‘I’m a film, sports fan. My earliest memories are of watching sports with my father. That’s when I fell in love with it. He studied and deeply appreciated the value of sport. He introduced me to all kinds of games, and it became a core part of my life. That’s why I’ve always been inclined to explore and invest in sports.”

From online classes and YouTube videos to multiplayer games and social media, kids are spending more time online than ever before. But with increased screen time comes greater exposure to risks like cyberbullying, phishing scams, and inappropriate content. The good news? A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping your child safe.

Cybersecurity brands such as Quick Heal, McAfee, and Norton offer practical tools and insights for digital parenting. Here are five effective ways to ensure your kids stay safe online:

1. Use Parental Controls and Safe Search Settings

Activate parental controls across devices, browsers, and streaming platforms to help filter out inappropriate or harmful content. Security suites from brands like Quick Heal, McAfee, and Norton offer dedicated parental control dashboards that let you set screen time limits, block suspicious apps, and monitor online behavior.

2. Educate Kids on Digital Risks

Start early by talking to your child about online threats such as stranger danger, oversharing, cyberbullying, and scams. Experts recommend age-appropriate conversations, using examples from real-world scenarios to make lessons stick. Cybersecurity companies like Quick Heal even provide resource guides and tips to help parents frame these conversations effectively.

3. Keep Software and Security Tools Updated

Outdated software and antivirus solutions are easy entry points for hackers. Whether you’re using Quick Heal, Norton, or McAfee, ensure that your security software is always updated with the latest threat definitions and real-time protection enabled.

4. Monitor Online Gaming Activity

Online games can be breeding grounds for cyber threats—whether it’s through in-game chats or hidden malware in pirated games. Monitor the games your child is playing, understand their ratings, and ensure gaming is done via secure platforms.

5. Be a Role Model in Digital Behaviour

Kids often mimic adult behaviour, so if you’re constantly glued to your phone or sharing too much online, they might do the same. Practice healthy screen habits, respect online privacy, and engage in safe digital practices as a family norm.

New Delhi, 23 July 2025 The Delhi Government is taking bold steps to redefine the capital not just as a political center, but as a Global Event Hub focused on creativity, entertainment, and soft power. A high-level roundtable chaired by Hon’ble Minister Shri Kapil Mishra brought together senior officials and major event industry leaders to shape a future-ready policy under the PPP model. The discussion aimed to make Delhi a key player in global cultural leadership by promoting sectors like art, cinema, music, literature and fashion.

Central to the discussions was the upcoming launch of a Digital Single Window Clearance System to streamline permissions for organizers. Suggestions included easing GST norms for destination weddings, simplifying event permissions at heritage sites, and improving access to government venues with fair rental practices. Stakeholders also highlighted the lack of affordable, world-class venues and proposed using vacant public lands and showcasing state-sponsored events on commercial platforms like BookMyShow.

Shri Kapil Mishra assured attendees of full government support, stating that upcoming reforms would ensure transparency in venue allocations and encourage private-sector partnerships. He emphasized the potential of Delhi’s 70–80 heritage sites for hosting cultural and private events and pledged to raise key issues with the Hon’ble Chief Minister. He concluded by reaffirming the city’s transformation under the ‘Branding Delhi’ initiative and confirmed a follow-up meeting to carry the dialogue forward.

Samit Garg, EEMA President and Director of E-Factor Experiences, said, “This gathering marks a pivotal moment in our journey to transform Delhi into a global hub for events. We are honored to spearhead this initiative, aligning with the city’s vision to become an event-friendly metropolis. With our collective expertise and unwavering commitment, we aim to elevate Delhi’s stature on the world stage of event destinations.”

Rajeev Jain, Chair of the Entertainment Committee at PHDCCI and Founder Director of Rashi Entertainment, said that “With robust support from Delhi Tourism and the government, our industry stands ready to usher in a new era of events in the capital. Together, we are poised to enhance Delhi’s appeal as a vibrant, event-friendly city, attracting global attention and fostering economic growth through world-class events.”

The meeting was attended by officials from the Department of Tourism, Art, Culture & Language and key figures from the Event and Entertainment Management Association (EEMA), Saregama, BookMyShow, Zomato, Lakshya Live, Eva Live, Team Works, Vibgyor, CS Direct and other major organizations.