9th October 2023 PedalStart, India’s rapidly growing community for startup founders, is proud to unveil its latest initiative, the “PedalUp Cohort”. This groundbreaking program is specifically designed to accelerate the growth journey of startups incubated within PedalStart, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and support needed to scale their businesses rapidly.

PedalStart has been a driving force in the Indian startup ecosystem, nurturing and empowering entrepreneurs to realize their visions. The launch of the PedalUp Cohort reaffirms the organization’s commitment to catalyzing innovation and entrepreneurial excellence across India. Startups from different domains and stages including Edtech, Logistics, Fintech, Healthcare, Cleantech, Mobility, Gaming, Sports, and Agri have become a part of the Cohort. PedalStart intends to deploy 2.5Cr in each cohort and incentivize startups with certain cash prizes and rewards.

Manas Pal and Aditya Darolia, Co-Founders of PedalStart expressed their enthusiasm for the PedalUp Cohort program, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the PedalUp Cohort, a program designed to provide an express lane for our incubated startups’ growth. The launch of the PedalUp Cohort is a significant milestone in our quest to catalyze India’s startup ecosystem. This program is an embodiment of our commitment to rapid, meaningful growth for startups incubated within PedalStart”.

They further commented, “With the PedalUp Cohort, we’re not just shaping startups; we’re shaping the future of innovation in India. As we embark on this new chapter, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire PedalStart community, our mentors, partners, and the brilliant founders who have chosen to be a part of our journey”.

The PedalUp Cohort is an exclusive program for startups incubated within PedalStart. It aims to empower these startups by offering them an intensive 6 weeks accelerator experience.

The program includes a multitude of benefits, such as:

Tailored Mentorship: Selected startups will work closely with a handpicked group of seasoned mentors and industry experts. These mentors will provide invaluable guidance, share their industry insights, and help startups overcome the challenges of building and scaling their businesses.

Access to Funding: Recognizing the critical role of capital in a startup’s growth journey, PedalStart will facilitate connections with potential investors and venture capitalists within its extensive network. Startups within the PedalUp Cohort will have the opportunity to secure funding to fuel their expansion plans.

Networking Opportunities: Building a robust professional network is paramount for startup success. Participants in the PedalUp Cohort will gain exclusive access to networking events, workshops, and opportunities to connect with other like-minded founders and potential collaborators.

Resource Hub: Startups will gain access to a diverse array of resources, encompassing co-working spaces, legal and financial advisory services, essential tools necessary for their growth journey, and certain cash prizes as well.

At present, PedalStart is concurrently running 3 cohorts, hosting more than 100 startup founders from different domains and stages. Each of these cohorts is highly focused on achieving specific outcomes and will be repeated regularly to expedite the acceleration journey of startup founders.

Uttar Pradesh,9th October 2023 Galgotias University, an institution of higher education, has emerged as a focal point of interest and collaboration during its participation in the 33rd Annual Conference of the European Association for International Education (EAIE) held at Rotterdam, Netherlands.

At the India Pavilion of the recent EAIE event, which brought together universities from across the globe, Galgotias University took centre stage. More than 50 prestigious universities from Denmark, Turkey, France, Italy, Taiwan, Australia, Thailand, and various countries in Latin America have expressed enthusiastic interest in partnering with Galgotias University on initiatives encompassing joint degree programs, twinning partnerships, student exchange programs, and research collaborations. Representatives from these esteemed institutions are scheduled to visit the Galgotias University campus in the forthcoming months to nurture these collaborations.

Dhruv Galgotis, CEO of Galgotias University, shared “Participation in the 33rd Annual Conference of EAIE is a testament to our dedication to global education standards and our commitment to providing world-class opportunities to our students. This conference presents a valuable platform for us to exchange ideas, explore new collaborations, and showcase our contributions to the international education community.”

Galgotias University is not only making waves and setting new benchmarks in Indian higher education but is also making a significant impact with its pioneering pedagogical advancements, research and innovation focus, and steadfast commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. This unique approach has attracted universities worldwide to join hands and collaborate.

The recognition extended to Galgotias University during the event was further underscored when Mrs. Reenat Sandhu, Ambassador to the Netherlands, expressed her deep admiration for the institution’s achievements and approach, presenting it with a well-deserved certificate of appreciation. This acknowledgment underscores Galgotias University’s unwavering dedication to global education and its commitment to forging meaningful partnerships on the international stage.

During the conference, Galgotias University shared its valuable insights and experiences in international education. With a dedicated focus on innovation, cross-cultural learning, and academic excellence, the university has played a pivotal role in preparing students for a globalised world. The institution is enthusiastic about engaging with educators, institutions, and experts from around the world to further enrich its international programs and initiatives.

The 33rd Annual Conference of EAIE proved to be a vibrant hub of knowledge and collaboration, attracting attendees from diverse backgrounds, including universities, colleges, and educational organizations. Galgotias University looks forward to actively contributing to meaningful discussions and forging new partnerships that will advance the cause of international education.

New Delhi,9th October 2023 Taboola, a leading content discovery platform, celebrated its 10-year anniversary in India recently. Over the past decade, Taboola’s journey has demonstrated its capabilities, making remarkable strides, achieving valuable growth for its customers, and delivering measurable impact across Indian digital advertisers. To celebrate this milestone, Taboola hosted a gala event where key leaders – Eldad Maniv, President & COO, Ran Buck, SVP Global Revenue, Chanan Fogel, VP, APAC, Brenda Chung, Regional Director, APAC, Kanika Mittal, Country Manager, India were present along with key partners, advertisers, and publishers.

The growth of Taboola can be attributed to its robust partnerships with leading brands & advertisers and publications such as NDTV, India Today, Network 18, Zee Media, Indian Express, Jagran New Media, One India, Amar Ujala, Asianet, The Hindu, Hindustan Times, ABP Digital, Dinamalar, Malayalam Manorama, The Print, Lokmat, and Outlook India, to mention a few from the last decade. These partnerships have not only contributed to Taboola’s popularity and growth as a preferred platform but have also bolstered its brand leadership in the Indian market, enabling a strong value proposition for partners and advertisers in India, transcending culture, languages, and geographies.

Commenting on this milestone, Adam Singolda, Founder and CEO, Taboola, said, “A decade ago, we embarked on a journey to redefine content discovery in India, and today, as we celebrate our 10-year anniversary, we take immense pride in the strides we have made. Over these ten years, we have had the privilege of becoming an integral part of India’s digital advertising landscape, helping our partners, publishers, and advertisers connect with audiences in meaningful ways. Our enduring commitment to fostering discovery and engagement has not only driven our success but also contributed to the broader digital transformation of this vibrant nation. We look forward to many more years of partnership and growth in India as we continue to shape the future of content discovery together for audiences and our customers.”

At Taboola’s grand 10th-year anniversary celebration, the event began with an auspicious lamp lighting by Taboola’s Vice President of APAC, Chanan Fogel. The hallmark of this milestone gathering was a captivating fireside chat on ‘Leadership in an Era of Rapid Digitization and AI’, chaired by Kanika Mittal and the panel comprised Eldad Maniv and Shireesh Joshi, Chief Business Officer of ONDC. The discussion covered the changing paradigms of the digital landscape with a key focus on the impact and possibilities of AI for publishers and brands. It also delved into the profound transformation brought about by generative AI and recommendation engines, underscoring innovative technologies that have eclipsed traditional mediums.

With a key focus on personalization and optimization, Taboola’s AI capabilities have empowered advertisers and publishers to deliver more relevant and engaging content to their target audiences. Taboola’s Generative AI capabilities can generate content and copy for ad creative, such as titles, images, and headlines. With it, brands that have tried this technology were able to reduce their time spent on generating ad creatives and produce high-performing creative assets for their campaigns.

Looking ahead, Taboola reaffirms its commitment to the Indian market. The company is optimistic about cementing its leadership in the Indian market through customized solutions and innovative offerings to meet local needs by harnessing India’s strengths and abundant talent pool. The recent appointment of Kanika Mittal as Taboola’s Country Manager for India signifies the company’s vision to strengthen its leadership for the Indian market, aiming to fuel innovation, enhance customer and community experiences, and deliver outstanding results to partners and clients. Taboola India has experienced substantial growth in the country, becoming the largest office by headcount in the company’s Asia operations. These teams encompass numerous functions, including sales and marketing, customer support, professional services, and management functions.

9th October 2023, Mumbai: Pinky N. D. Kansara, a renowned REBT Practitioner and a passionate advocate for emotional well-being, gender equality, and inclusive workplaces, is thrilled to announce the launch of her debut book “Belong to Yourself.” This book is a powerful exploration into the realms of self-discovery, self-empowerment, and self-love, aimed at guiding readers on a journey toward embracing their authentic selves and building healthy, meaningful relationships.

Pinky N. D. Kansara’s mission, encapsulated in the tagline “empower, inspire, uplift,” is perfectly reflected in her latest offering, “Belong to Yourself.” In a world that often pressures individuals to conform, “Belong to Yourself” encourages readers to imagine a life where they can be themselves without fear of rejection or constant validation-seeking, and turn their pain into power, providing practical and rewarding ways to embark on the journey of self-empowerment and authenticity.

“Belong to Yourself” touches on a wide range of topics, from self-love, and empowerment to dealing with challenging circumstances, including menopause and mid-life crises, to healing from past wounds and nurturing emotional well-being. Pinky N. D. Kansara shares her invaluable insights and guidance to help readers navigate life’s complexities with resilience and grace.

Speaking about her debut book, Pinky N. D. Kansara says, ” For me, writing of “Belong to Yourself” was like a divine birthing process! As a single woman in her 50s, with no partner orkids, this book represents not only the culmination of my life’s work but also a legacy I leave for the world. The ethereal journey from the inception of an idea that has dwelled within me for countless years to the tangible manifestation of “Belong to Yourself” has been nothing short of extraordinary. And I am deeply excited to share it with the world. This book is not just a collection of words; it’s a testament to the power of authenticity and self-empowerment. I hope that readers will find solace, strength, and a renewed sense of self as they embark on this transformative journey with me.”

As a dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment and inclusivity in the workplace, Ms. Kansara is acutely aware of the challenges faced by Gen Z, women, and Millennials in their professional and personal lives. She believes in fostering a positive work environment within corporations and equipping individuals to overcome setbacks and thrive in their personal lives while also building successful careers. Her work as an REBT practitioner and promoter of Employee Emotional Wellbeing (EEW) is dedicated to reshaping corporate structures and promoting balanced work environments that contribute to a healthier work culture for all.

With “Belong to Yourself”, Ms Kansara aims to spread awareness and inspire people to embark on a journey of self-acceptance and authenticity. Her empowering messages are relatable and relevant for individuals from all walks of life, and can inspire them to break free from societal constraints and embrace their uniqueness. The book promises to be a beacon of hope for those seeking to transform their lives, find their inner strength, and create more meaningful connections.

“Belong to Yourself” is available for purchase on Amazon India and Flipkart, starting from October 3rd, 2023. It can also be ordered through the publisher’s website, www.peachblink.com/shop.

9th October 2023: Post the astounding success of Bigg Boss OTT, JioCinema, India’s leading streaming platform is all set to launch the Indian adaptation of the globally renowned reality series, Temptation Island. The iconic series that is one of the biggest dating reality shows in the world is an exciting addition to JioCinema’s rich repertoire of unscripted content. For the first time ever in India, couples will be seen putting their relationship to test in front of the entire nation in the enchanting setting of a tropical paradise called “Temptation Island.”

Produced by Banijay Asia and powered by Too Yumm, Temptation Island will provide a unique opportunity for viewers to witness the ultimate relationship test. The couples will be tempted to sever old ties and explore new romances as they wilfully separate and immerse themselves in an environment filled with irresistible allure. Surrounded by charming singles, they will grapple with their feelings, confront unfamiliar temptations, and delve into their deepest desires. With its focus on relationships and human emotions, the reality series is expected to strike a chord with Indian viewers, offering them a unique and compelling viewing experience.

Mumbai, 9th October 2023: Amazon miniTV- Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently launched youth dance drama Campus Beats. The series has been receiving a lot of appreciation from viewers across the country since its release. Campus beats narrates the tale of two groups, OGs and the BGs (The Originals and the Backgrounders), who are talented dancers from the Mumbai University of Movement and Dance, better known as M.A.D. University. The show takes us through a wide array of emotions — friendships, love, freedom, and justice in a modern dance academy that is also divided across socio-economic classes. It features Shantanu Maheshwari, Shruti Sinha, Sahaj Singh Chahal, Tanvi Gadkari, and Harsh Dingwanii in pivotal roles, along with Tanya Bhushan, Dhanshree Yadav, Teriya Magar, Adnan Khan, and Rohan Pal.

Sahaj Chahal portrays the character, Neel, an individual who imposes authority onto the newcomers in the college and is part of the popular group. He embodies the typical male stereotype in order to mask his real worries. Sharing the experience of shooting for Campus Beats, Sahaj said, “Our shooting time on set was amazing and we made a lot of fond memories. Throughout the shoot, we constantly supported and encouraged each other to perform our characters well. Off-screen energy transformed into a wonderful on-screen chemistry between all of us. Honestly, I am flattered to be a part of such an amazing series”.

Shruti Sinha essays the role of Netra. A brilliant, liberated young woman who defies her tyranny while yet missing the awareness to thoroughly evaluate her own potential. Elaborating on her experience with co-actors, Shruti mentioned, “Shantanu, Tanvi, Sahaj, and others are amazing, all of them are so talented. The best part about all of us is that we’re always there to help each other. I know I was struggling initially a bit because hip-hop is not my style. I am trained in Kathak. Everyone was always on top to help me, and they guided me throughout the shoot. I used to irritate them multiple times with multiple questions, and they did not get annoyed even once.”

Campus Beats is streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV, which you can watch for free on the Amazon shopping app and on Fire TV. You can now also download the Amazon miniTV app on Playstore.

Mumbai, 9th October 2023: IRONMAN, the organizers of long-distance triathlon races around the world, announced their partnership with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, for the IRONMAN 70.3 India. The triathlon in Goa is considered one of the world’s most significant multi-discipline endurance challenges.

IRONMAN 70.3 is an event of long-distance triathlon races organized by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC). The 70.3 refers to the total distance in miles (113.0 km) covered in the triathlon race, consisting of a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) swim, a 56-mile (90 km) bike ride, and a 13.1-mile (21.1 km) run.

According to Deepak Raj, Chief Executive Officer of Yoska and franchise owner of the IRONMAN brand in India, “I am incredibly excited about our partnership with Herbalife for IRONMAN 70.3 India for the second consecutive year. Their dedication to fitness and knowledge about sports nutrition perfectly aligns with the spirit of this race. This collaboration between IRONMAN 70.3 India and Herbalife signifies a shared commitment to supporting sports enthusiasts and fostering a fitness culture across the nation.”

Panchali Upadhaya, Vice President – Sales, Marketing & Associate Communication at Herbalife India, added, “We are honored to be a part of this important event. Herbalife believes in the power of sports to uplift and empower individuals. We are dedicated to championing the cause of sports nutrition and developing the sporting ecosystem in India and beyond through our sports marketing initiatives. The partnership reflects our passion for the sporting community with the right nutrition, active lifestyle and encouraging athletes to achieve their full potential, especially while representing their countries at global events like IRONMAN 70.3.”

Sports nutrition is witnessing significant growth in India, as athletes increasingly look to supplements to complete their nutritional intake for endurance training and optimal performance. H24 is a sports nutrition line developed based on the specific needs required by athletes in training, performance and recovery across a full 24 hours.

Globally, Herbalife sponsors over 150 athletes, teams, leagues, and national Olympic committees. In India, the organisation continues to support athletes across the globe, including the likes of Virat Kohli, Smriti Mandhana, Lakshya Sen, Manika Batra, Mary Kom, and Para-badminton player Palak Kohli, amongst others.

By actively collaborating with events like IRONMAN Triathlon 70.3, Herbalife continues to demonstrate its dedication to supporting athletes in their pursuit of optimal health, balanced nutrition and achieving their fitness goals. Through partnerships, initiatives, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact, Herbalife remains steadfast in its mission inspire healthy living.

New Delhi, 9th October 2023- Chitkara University, a beacon of excellence in the field of education, proudly bestowed the prestigious Honorary Degree of Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) upon Mr. Bharat Goenka, the illustrious Founder and Vice Chairperson of Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd, India’s leading Business Management Software provider. The award recognizes Mr. Goenka’s extraordinary contributions, transformative influence, and steadfast dedication to the realms of technology and business.

Hailed as the “Father of the Indian software product industry” and lauded with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award by NASSCOM in 2011, Mr. Goenka stands as an icon of innovation and entrepreneurship in the technology sector. As the founder of Tally Solutions, he has played a pioneering role in revolutionizing the landscape of business management software products, with a global user base exceeding 7.2 million.

The Honorary Doctorate was presented to Mr. Goenka by the esteemed Dr. Ashok K Chitkara, Chancellor of Chitkara University, and Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, during a grand convocation that celebrated his outstanding achievements.

Mr. Goenka’s journey commenced in 1984 when he received an IBM PC as a gift from his father, setting the stage for a technological revolution that would touch millions of MSME businesses worldwide. His ingenuity gave birth to ‘The Accountant,’ a revolutionary accounting software devoid of complex coding, which later evolved into Tally Solutions in 1999. Soon, Tally.ERP 9, the world’s first concurrent multi-lingual business accounting and inventory software, marked a paradigm shift, and the latest offering, TallyPrime, continues to set industry standards with its user-friendly interface and seamless experience. Under Mr. Goenka’s dynamic leadership, Tally has evolved from a simple accounting package for SMEs to a comprehensive business management software serving enterprises of all sizes and types.

Receiving the Honorary Degree, Mr. Bharat Goenka said, “I feel truly humbled and honoured to receive the Honorary Doctorate of Literature from an esteemed University like Chitkara. I have been blessed to be a part of Tally’s story and witness the unfolding of its magic over the years. It’s been my absolute privilege to meet and interact with the esteemed faculty and the bright students at the Chitkara University .”

Dr. Ashok K Chitkara, Chancellor of Chitkara University, Punjab, expressed, “Mr. Bharat Goenka’s legacy as a trailblazer and innovator will continue to inspire future generations, paving the way for a brighter and more innovative future for our nation and the world. The Honorary Doctorate is in recognition of Mr. Goenka’s tremendous contributions to the Indian software product industry, technological innovation, and entrepreneurial leadership. Chitkara University extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Bharat Goenka and confers upon him this well-deserved doctorate.”

Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor of Chitkara University, Punjab, commended Mr. Goenka’s exceptional contributions to the software product industry, emphasizing their profound impact on technological innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. She remarked, “Mr. Goenka’s relentless pursuit of innovation has ignited a revolution in technology. We honour his pioneering spirit and foresee his legacy inspiring countless future trailblazers.”

Mr. Goenka’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri award, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, recognizing his outstanding impact on trade and industry. His visionary leadership has not only transformed the technology industry but also empowered countless businesses to thrive.

Mumbai9th October 2023 Walplast, a leading name in the construction and building materials industry has been honoured by the prestigious “Realty+ Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” for its Self – Curing Plaster (Category – HB Products – Interior Decor and Sub Category – Harit Bharat Products – Wall Finishes), lauded for its exceptional contributions to sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.

The Realty+ Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 hold a distinguished reputation for recognizing and celebrating the endeavours of organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting green and sustainable initiatives within the real estate and construction sector. The awards program serves as a platform to acknowledge the remarkable commitment and innovative approaches that contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment in the building, construction, architecture, and co-working spaces.

Walplast has consistently been at the forefront of promoting environmentally conscious construction practices by offering a diverse range of products that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance energy efficiency, contributing to the overall sustainability of construction projects. For the award, the company submitted its flagship product, the Self-Curing Plaster, a water-saving, time-saving and strength-boosting solution that creates durable, low-maintenance buildings. This product is fully recyclable, containing 5% recycled materials, thus promoting sustainability and a circular economy. An expert panel of industry veterans and influencers judged the awards, recognizing the impact of Walplast’s innovations.

Mr. Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director of Walplast, enthusiastically shared his thoughts on this prestigious win, stating, “We are deeply honoured to receive the Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 from Realty+ in recognition of our steadfast commitment to sustainable construction practices. At Walplast, we envision a future where construction projects not only fulfill current needs but also safeguard the environment for generations to come. This award serves as a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating a greener and healthier India.”

Walplast’s innovative product lineup includes eco-friendly wall finishing materials, insulation systems, and energy-efficient construction technologies, all of which have played a pivotal role in minimizing the carbon footprint of construction projects nationwide. This prestigious accolade reaffirms Walplast’s dedication to environmental stewardship and underscores its mission to create a greener and healthier India. The company remains committed to investing in research and development, with a primary focus on advancing sustainable construction practices and further reducing the ecological footprint of the construction industry. Walplast’s ongoing efforts are aligned with its core belief in responsible and sustainable development, ensuring a brighter and greener future for India’s construction landscape

Mumbai,9th October 2023  Conceptualising the fusion of fashion, architecture, and technology into a cohesive textile installation, Minal Gala, a design student from Istituto Marangoni Mumbai, joined forces with the innovative Architecture studio Morphlab to present ‘Threads of Life.’ This captivating installation came to life within the inspiring setting of MorphLab in Mumbai.

The theory behind this installation was to display the odyssey of the magnificent, microscopic narrative that starts through the integration of the ovary and the sperm and eventually evolves into the creation of the wonderful voyage of life. This microscopic yet momentous event weaves a narrative rich in complexity and significance. Life’s symphony unfolds, intertwining threads of challenges and triumphs. Amid this intricacy, a serene clarity emerges, akin to the calm after a storm. This artistic odyssey, expressed through weaving, macramé, crochet, and braiding, comes to life with the touch of wool and cotton. White, red, orange, and yellow hues breathe life into the full spectrum of human experience.

Talking about the installation and her journey in creating it, Minal says, “Gratitude flows to those who believed in my vision, from my mentors, Mevin, Manuela, Janet, and Camille; to the owner of MorphLab who gave me the space to generate this art piece, Sahil Jain. This project serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities that life holds, reminding us that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s aspirations and that life, despite its ups and downs, is an exquisite journey enriched by remarkable experiences.”

Elaborating more on this installation Sahil Jain (Principal architect of Morphlab) states “Our studio space has evolved into a vibrant platform for art, where creativity knows no bounds. The installation seamlessly fuses with our product collection Nuolo, extending its essence into the realms of art. Minal’s creation serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities when design and art converge. Projection mapping by Floating canvas company adds another dimension to our vision, enriching the viewer’s experience with immersive storytelling.”