New Delhi, Dec 8:-SIA-India has called for the launch of a National Satellite Connectivity Mission (NSCM) to ensure uninterrupted digital governance and public service continuity in ~40,000 Gram Panchayats where terrestrial links repeatedly fail due to topographical challenges, multi-week outage cycles, and chronic disaster exposure. These are not lagging-rollout zones but permanently connectivity-fragile geographies across the Himalayas, North-East hilly belts, Nicobar island chain, LWE corridors, desert interiors and cyclone-recurrence coastlines.

SIA-India states that satellite backhaul at Gram Panchayat is critical for enabling terrestrial Wi-Fi/4G networks to function continuously in geographies where fibre routes fail structurally. Satellite is not a fallback, it is the only resilient mode, and the budgetary ask is not simply a universal subsidy; it is a hard-geography mandate.

India’s official connectivity ledger also reinforces the continuity need beyond episodic outages. BharatNet records as of June 2025 show that out of 6,55,968 total villages, only 2,02,107 have been covered, leaving 4,53,861 still outside functional reach, and although 1,04,574 Wi-Fi hotspots have been installed, only 766 remain active.

As per the records, only 5,034 Gram Panchayats are currently connected via satellite, representing barely one-tenth of the continuity-vulnerable footprint, which more accurately spans ~40,000 connectivity fragile Gram Panchayats. Further, given the profile of these regions, satellite remains the only feasible continuity mechanism; the ~40,000 GP cluster cited is rather a conservative baseline, with upward revision anticipated.

The association urges that this is not a technology-preference debate but a structural reality in which satellite and fibre must function as equal continuity pillars—together forming a resilient policy-achievable layer.

Recently, we have seen continuity breakdowns across India’s most fragile geographies shift from exceptional events to predictable patterns. In Great Nicobar, the September 2025 submarine-cable break triggered a complete communication blackout for several days, cutting off residents, health units, security posts and civil administration until emergency VSAT deployment restored minimal connectivity BSNL enabling partial messaging and Airtel air-lifting a V-SAT terminal to Campbell Bay to activate basic 2G service.

In Himachal Pradesh, the August 2025 landslide cycle left 1,155 of 1,761 telecom sites non-functional in Chamba, with restoration plateauing at 65% despite continuous field deployment demonstrating that in elevation belts, cyclone corridors, island chains and forest interiors, terrestrial recovery is measured in weeks, not hours, and that these zones are no longer temporary dark-spots but enduring non-terrestrial continuity regions.

Similar structural fragility persists across the North-East,  where 3,841 villages remain outside mobile coverage, including 1,735 in Arunachal Pradesh alone.

SIA-India therefore, positions satellite capacity not as an alternative nor a competitor, but as a co-equal sovereign communication layer to ensure uninterrupted access to DPI rails (Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker), telemedicine grids, school networks, maritime/border command links and NDMA warning channels.

“Satellite and terrestrial networks serve India best when deployed as parallel continuity pillars, each operating where the terrain allows them to succeed,” said Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India.

“The National Satellite Connectivity Mission simply recognises that nearly 40,000 Gram Panchayats fall in permanent hard-geography zones where restoration cycles run into weeks, and physical rebuilds repeatedly fail. This is not a universal subsidy proposition, but a geography-defined continuity mandate. A dedicated USOF window with VGF support aligns with the Ministry of Finance’s own treatment of digital access as core social infrastructure—no different in governance necessity from health, education and water systems”

The proposed NSCM aligns with BharatNet Phase-III, NDMA’s multi-hazard modernisation, island command infrastructure, Digital India backbone continuity and Vision India@2047’s principle that last-mile access cannot be contingent on road access, ridge stability or monsoon survivability.

Global public-sector models have all converged on one principle: where terrain, climate and distance make fibre unrecoverable within governance timelines, satellite is formalised as the continuity backbone. The United States (BEAD, RDOF) classifies satellite as a mandated layer for permanently hard-to-reach districts; Australia (Sky Muster, STAND) routes disaster corridors and island chains through satellite backhaul; and Europe (Secure Connectivity, GOVSATCOM) embeds sovereign satellite nodes to preserve command, civil protection and public-service access during terrestrial failure. These frameworks recognise satellite as not an alternative technology, but the only viable continuity architecture for state services and emergency communication.

New Delhi, Dec 08: The National capital is set to host one of the most significant global academic gatherings in the field of neurosciences as Stroke & AI 2025, a two-day international conference, begins on 13th December at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Organized as the midterm meeting of SNVR and an initiative of We Care Stroke, the event will bring together world-renowned neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurointervention specialists, data scientists, and AI innovators to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming stroke prediction, diagnosis, intervention, and long-term recovery.

With stroke continuing to be one of the top causes of death and disability globally, the need for technological innovation in early detection, rapid decision-making, imaging support, and personalised rehabilitation has never been greater. Stroke & AI 2025 aims to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and cutting-edge digital tools by providing a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among leading minds from around the world.

The two-day conference will feature expert talks, panel discussions, case-based sessions, and live demonstrations focusing on the integration of AI in acute stroke care, predictive analytics, automated imaging interpretation, workflow optimization, and post-stroke rehabilitation. Participants will gain insights into how rapidly evolving technologies ranging from machine learning and big data analytics to robotics and virtual simulation—are poised to redefine global standards of stroke management.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Dr. Kameshwar Prasad, Chairperson, emphasized the urgency of implementation of AI-driven solutions in stroke care. He said

“Stroke care is at a turning point. While traditional clinical expertise remains invaluable, the scale and complexity of stroke management today demand advanced digital support systems. Artificial intelligence has the potential to dramatically shorten diagnostic delays, guide decision-making within the golden hour, and personalize rehabilitation strategies. Stroke & AI 2025 is our collective effort to bring global innovators under one roof to chart the roadmap for the next decade of neurocare.”

Dr. Biplab Das, Organising Secretary, highlighted the collaborative vision behind the event, said

“This conference is not just an academic meeting, it is a movement. Stroke & AI 2025 brings clinicians, researchers, and technologists into the same conversation to ensure that advancements in AI translate into meaningful clinical outcomes. By integrating AI with advanced treatment procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy, perfusion imaging, and precision-guided neurointervention, we have the potential to completely transform the treatment paradigm. These technologies can drastically shorten decision-making time, enhance accuracy, and ultimately curb the morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. With participation from leading experts from India and abroad, we aim to spark collaborations that will accelerate innovation, improve patient access, and reshape the future of comprehensive stroke management.”

The Organizing Committee features prominent leaders including Dr. Vinit Banga, Dr. Bhupesh Kumar, Dr. Piyush Ojha, Dr. Soumya Ranjan, Dr. Debasish Hota, Dr. Ankit Gupta, Dr. Nikhil A Kumar, and Dr. Mohit Juneja, who have contributed to designing a rich scientific program that encompasses both clinical and technological frontiers of stroke medicine.

With limited seats and strong interest from professionals across Asia, Europe, and the United States, Stroke & AI 2025 is poised to become a landmark event that will influence policy, practice, and innovation in stroke care for years to come.

Hyderabad, Dec 8: Sports Tech Podium 2025, a first-of-its-kind, single biggest platform for Sports Tech, concluded at T-Hub on Saturday late evening. 

The full-day conference brought together India’s fastest-growing sports innovation ecosystem—startups, investors, tech leaders, corporates, athletes, federations and policymakers.

The Sports Tech Podium platform is supported by the Government of Telangana, the Sports Authority of Telangana, leading venture funds, angel networks, universities, and national innovation institutions—strengthening Hyderabad’s emergence as India’s Sports Tech & Innovation Capital.

Startups and investors who participated included Centre Court Capital, LegaXy, Impetus Sports Capital, Hyderabad Angels, TDV Partners, Anthill Ventures, and SucSeed Innovation Fund.

Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Govt of Telangana, was the chief guest

Telangana has unveiled an ambitious Olympic dream—to ensure representation in every sport India competes in when the country hosts the 2036 Olympic Games, said Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Government of Telangana, while speaking at Sports Tech Podium 2025, organised at T-Hub, stated Karthik Yanamandra, who organised the Sports Tech Podium in a press note issued in the city today.

“Our Olympic mission was clear right from the drafting of the Telangana Sports Policy. The goal is to produce athletes across all disciplines and ensure Telangana is present in every sport India participates in at the 2036 Olympics,” said Jayesh Ranjan, participating in the panel discussion, stated Karthik.

Participating as Chief Guest in a panel discussion titled ‘Grassroots to Global: India’s Sports Tech Rise’, moderated by Karthik Yanamandra, the senior bureaucrat spoke about the State’s vision to build sports capability from the ground up.

“The Chief Minister himself is a sports enthusiast who has given Telangana’s sports ecosystem unprecedented support. The policy includes everything needed to identify and grow new-age sports talent,” Jayesh noted.

He added that the Government intends to gradually move away from direct involvement in sports operations, encouraging private sector participation and industry-led growth. “We are even coming up with a dedicated Sports University,” he announced.

Jayesh further revealed that during the Telangana Rising Global Summit on December 8–9, a major MoU is expected to be signed between Dubai Sports City and GMR Sports for a large-scale Sports City project in Telangana.

360D Sports, an initiative of INVE Sports Venture LLP, has announced the launch of a dedicated Sports Accelerator Sprintx designed to guide Sports, wellness, and fitness startups with venture support, investment pathways, and scale-up strategies. Jayesh Ranjan unveiled the logo of the same. It is supported by Sports Authority of Telangana, Woxsen University, Hyderabad Angels and HNDRD.

Highlighting Hyderabad’s strengths, Jayesh said the city’s advanced ecosystem in Life Sciences, defence and aerospace, and Information Technology naturally positions it as a preferred destination for global sports investments. “Infrastructure defines industry growth—we already have a strong foundation to build on,” he stated.

Aditya Reddy, Co-Founder & CEO, Game Point, said the first wave of sports tech in India began at the grassroots level through digital booking platforms, accessible coaching and organised tournaments. “Now, deeper technology is integrating into performance, analytics and broadcasting—even small events get live coverage today,” he said.

Only about 10% of India’s population plays sports passively, and just 0.01% participates in serious competitive sports. Cricket continues to dominate as the country’s largest sport with an estimated 655 million fan base. But as sporting policies strengthen and India hosts global events—including the Commonwealth and Olympics—the base of serious players is expected to expand rapidly. Even if just 10% of passive players move into serious participation, the sports ecosystem will unlock a massive business opportunity, he explained. To put this into perspective, many Unicorns in India operate with customer bases of only 25 to 50 lakh. Compared to that, the untapped sports market presents one of the most promising investment opportunities today, he emphasised, said another panellist, Ratnakar Samavedam, CEO and Managing Partner of Hyderabad Angels.

In another discussion, it was observed that the global Sports Tech market, currently valued at USD 19 billion, is projected to reach USD 40 billion by 2030, growing at a 16% CAGR, far above the global average of 10%.

India, Dec 8: TOTO India continues its commitment to fostering dialogue and inspiration within the design Fraternity through its latest chapter of Architect Talk this time in Namma Bengaluru. The event brought together leading architects, designers, and industry professionals for an engaging and interactive evening exploring the intersection of design, culture and innovation.

The highlight of the session was an exclusive talk on Water’s edge of the human’ by celebrated Japanese architect Mr. Akihisa Hirata, known for his unique approach that blends organic structures with modern functionality. Winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale, Mr Akhisa Hirata San is celebrated worldwide as an architect who turns imagination into spaces that feel alive. Architect Hirata shared insights into his key works, including the Tree-ness House Tokyo,2017, Art Museum & Library, Ota Gumma,2017, Global Bowl Tokyo,2021, HARAKADO Tokyo,2023.

From the vertical gardens of Tree-ness House in Tokyo to the open embrace of the Art Museum & Library in Oto, his works whisper of forests, light, and movement… creations where design becomes ecology.

Speaking about the event highlights TOTO India leadership showcases the brand’s consistent growth and long-term commitment towards the Indian market. They shared that TOTO India has recorded a growth rate of more than 120 percent year on year, aiming to reach a turnover of approximately INR 500 crore. The company aims to further strengthen its presence by expanding its retail footprint, introducing new product innovations tailored for Indian consumers, and deepening engagement with architects and designers across key cities.

During the talk, Mr. Akihisa Hirata shared his vision of architecture at the boundaries of humanity, where life and space intertwine. Through Entanglement and Reverberations, he explores new ways of shaping connections and resonances in the age of environment and life.

The Bengaluru Architect Talk served as a bridge for creative collaboration, highlighting how thoughtful design and advanced technology can come together to shape better living environments. Through initiatives like these, TOTO India continues to strengthen its relationship with the architect and design community, offering them inspiration, innovation, and insights from some of the most visionary minds in the field.

Hyderabad, Dec 08:  FootDoctor Hospital organized a walkathon in Hyderabad to raise awareness on diabetic foot care an increasingly critical health concern as India continues to hold the highest number of diabetes cases in the world. The event was inaugurated by former Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu, along with Tollywood actor Sushant, KIMS Hospitals Chairman & Managing Director Dr. Bollineni Bhaskar Rao, and Delhi Public School Chairman Ramesh Gorantla.

Experts highlighted that 15–25% of diabetics are at risk of developing foot ulcers, and many may eventually require amputation if early symptoms are ignored.

Key Messages from Dignitaries

Shri Venkaiah Naidu emphasized the silent onset of diabetes, stating that many people remain unaware until complications develop.
He urged citizens to adopt an active lifestyle through walking, yoga and physical exercise, warning that dependence on gadgets and smartphones has reduced physical activity significantly. He further stressed the importance of timely treatment for foot ulcers, loss of vision, and injuries, to prevent severe outcomes including amputation.

Ramesh Gorantla, Chairman, Delhi Public School, expressed concern over the rising incidence of diabetes among younger individuals. He said minor injuries in diabetics take longer to heal, and if untreated, can lead to amputations. He added that early foot screening for children, especially those involved in sports, can prevent long-term complications such as flat feet.

Tollywood actor Sushant highlighted that awareness about foot-care specialists is still limited. He urged the public to seek specialized foot clinics at the earliest signs of abnormalities, especially given the growing prevalence of diabetes.

Dr. Bollineni Bhaskar Rao, CMD, KIMS Hospitals, noted that nerve damage in diabetics often masks pain, leading to neglected ulcers. He stated that 85% of diabetic amputations occur due to untreated foot ulcers, and timely treatment is crucial to prevent such outcomes.

Dr. Narendranadh Meda, Director & CEO, The Foot Doctor Hospital, stressed that even small wounds can turn severe if ignored due to neuropathy. Regular diabetes check-ups, including dedicated foot examinations, can significantly reduce the risk of amputation. He added,“Our goal through this walkathon is awareness timely care saves feet, saves lives.”

App Launch & New Technology for Personalized Foot Protection

During the walkathon, FootDoctor Hospital launched the Dr. Wound App, enabling patients to receive safe at-home wound care with real-time monitoring by specialists reducing hospital visits, time, and cost.

Additionally, the hospital introduced a custom footwear technology that creates personalized shoes based on precise foot measurements, offering enhanced protection and helping diabetic patients prevent injuries.

Powered by Stayfree Tampons, Neha Dhupia and Anita Lobo unite thousands once again as GoFloRun 2025 concludes with an unforgettable celebration of strength, solidarity & stigma-free conversations at Dome SVP Stadium, Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 08: What began as a spark last year returned as a blazing movement this morning, GoFloRun 2025 turned the Dome SVP Stadium, Mumbai, into a powerhouse of energy, courage, and community as 1500+ women came together to celebrate fitness, menstruation-positive conversations, and the spirit of sisterhood.

Powered by Stayfree Tampons, and led by actress and wellness advocate Neha Dhupia along with co-founder, ex-national level athlete, and entrepreneur Anita Lobo, the second edition of GoFloRun proved that when women unite with purpose, the impact reverberates far beyond the track. The flag-off moment was a star-studded show of solidarity with Varun Sood, singer Neeti Mohan who recently launched her single Mirza. A special highlight was the presence of entrepreneur and musician Ananya Birla, who went beyond ceremonial duties: she not only flagged off the run but also laced up her shoes and participated, perfectly embodying the GoFloRun ethos of strength, commitment and community.

The event kicked off with a high-energy boxing warm-up session at the Dome SVP Stadium, followed by the 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km run categories, drawing participation from women across age groups, backgrounds, and cities. From working professionals and young students to homemakers, athletes, and first-time runners, every participant added her voice to a shared mission: normalizing menstrual health conversations and celebrating women’s wellness without judgment or hesitation.

Supported wholeheartedly by Stayfree, the event continued its mission of creating safe spaces for women to laugh, connect, share stories, and embrace their health journeys openly. This year, GoFloRun also partnered closely with Dome, under the leadership of Managing Director Mazhar Nadiadwala, to elevate the scale, comfort, safety, and celebratory spirit of the run.

Neha Dhupia shared,

“The first time I ever ran a marathon, I ran alone with my coach. Today, as we embark on the 2nd year of GoFloRun, I run with the spirit of 1500+ women, each one taking a step toward changing the future of girls from different parts of the country. From where we began to where we stand today, so much has evolved. What has changed most is the outlook and support of men toward the cause of menstrual hygiene awareness. That shift alone makes us believe we are truly on the right path. With every passing year, we hope more women immerse themselves in the idea of health, fitness, and self-love, and come forward as a community for GoFloRun, not just individually, but collectively. From the moment we opened the gates to the moment we welcomed both the first and the last finishers, I’m reminded that the entire GoFloRun team is moving in the right direction. We are bringing about change, one step at a time, one family at a time, at our own pace, just like GoFloRun itself. Because what we’re building here is not just a run – it’s a legacy. A legacy of confidence, conversations, and choices that the next generation of girls will grow up believing in. And if even one young girl learns that her health matters because of this movement, then GoFloRun has already succeeded.”

Anita Lobo, Co-founder of GoFloRun, added,

“When we began GoFloRun, I was terrified, not of the run, but of whether women would truly resonate with a movement that asks them to open up about something so personal. But today, at the Dome SVP Stadium, looking at thousands of women running with their hearts first, I realised again how unstoppable we are when we come together. GoFloRun has always been about more than kilometres. It’s about the unspoken stories women carry: the pain we ignore, the strength we don’t acknowledge, the expectations we quietly manage. Today, those stories came alive. This community feels like a family now one that celebrates you, lifts you, and reminds you that you’re not alone. Thank you to all the partners who have come onboard for amplifying this mission and for helping us turn a simple idea into a truly transformative movement. GoFloRun 2025 has set an example of what women can do for themselves and for each other—when they run as one.”

Supriya Srinivasa, Director Marketing, Fem Care, Stayfree, said,

“Stayfree’s partnership with GoFloRun for the second year spotlights the importance of menstrual health. Our mission has always been to normalize period conversations and create a world where no girl or woman feels shame, fear or discomfort about periods. In this journey, the role of family, including the men as fathers and sons play a critical role, a change we have been striving to drive through our campaign, ‘Its Just a Period’ and it’s heartening to see men coming out to support this cause. Our association with GoFloRun is another step we are taking to bring alive our mission. It is inspiring to see thousands of women and their allies come together today to run, connect, and open up about menstrual health. This movement proves that periods is not just a women’s issue, it’s a human one.”

Mazhar Nadiadwala, Managing Director, Dome, shared,

“Hosting GoFloRun 2025 at NSCI Dome has been an honour. The energy, the purpose, the unity transformed the stadium into something more than a venue; it became a heartbeat. At Dome, we are committed to supporting events that bring communities together and create meaningful impact. GoFloRun is one such movement, and today’s incredible turnout shows how powerful this initiative truly is.”

The GoFloRun concluded with participants celebrating their collective journey—a testament to Anita Lobo’s vision of uniting women under the banner of fitness, empowerment, and menstrual health awareness. The success of this event marks a new chapter for women’s wellness initiatives, with Anita’s leadership at the heart of its triumph.

Bengaluru, December 08, 2025: Urban Vault, one of India’s fastest-growing managed workspace providers, has strengthened its enterprise portfolio by onboarding three major Japanese corporations—Nachi, Pioneer, and Komatsu—in Bengaluru.

With these new tenants, Urban Vault now delivers workspace solutions to more than 50 Global Capability Centres (GCCs) across key Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Pune, and Gurugram.

The addition of these Japanese industry leaders marks a significant milestone in Urban Vault’s growth journey and reinforces its position as the preferred workspace partner for global enterprises entering or expanding in India.

The company’s unique hybrid model—optimizing CapEx, reducing OpEx, and enabling seamless single-window management—has empowered organisations to achieve greater operational agility while effectively managing total occupancy costs.

Speaking about the onboarding of the new Japanese clients, Amal Mishra, Co-founder, Urban Vault, said:“The trust placed in Urban Vault by global giants like Nachi, Pioneer, and Komatsu reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class workspace solutions. Japanese companies value precision, reliability, and relationship-driven business models—principles that deeply resonate with us. Our goal is to continue setting new benchmarks in managed workplaces by offering environments that help enterprises scale seamlessly, operate efficiently, and feel at home in India.”

As the managed office sector continues to evolve, Urban Vault represents the next generation of workspace solutions by blending capital efficiency with high-quality execution and enterprise-grade operational excellence. Japanese corporations are known to prioritise trust, consistency, precision, and long-term reliability. These values closely align with Urban Vault’s workplace philosophy and have been instrumental in building deep partnerships within the Japanese business community.

Urban Vault has earned a strong reputation for its meticulous design standards, transparent delivery processes, hospitality-driven service culture, and ability to tailor workspaces to stringent global compliance norms—attributes especially valued by Japanese enterprises.

With rising interest from global corporations across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, automotive, electronics, and technology, Urban Vault is well-positioned to accelerate its expansion while continuing to redefine workspace excellence for some of the world’s most respected enterprises.

Over the years, UrbanVault has expanded its national portfolio to over 2.80 million sq. ft., managing 70,000+ seats across 80+ locations in Bengaluru, Pune, Gurugram, and other major cities. The company continues to demonstrate strong performance, with an expected run rate of over ₹250 crore in FY2025-26, 70%+ year-on-year growth, and 18% PAT.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dec 6: The National Center for Non-Profit Sector (NCNP) has wrapped up the first International Nonprofit Forum (Beyond Profit) in Riyadh, held under the patronage of Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi, who also chairs the NCNP Board of Directors.

The three-day forum drew more than 3,800 participants, including senior officials, representatives of public, private, and nonprofit entities, international organizations, philanthropic foundations, social entrepreneurs, and corporate social responsibility leaders.

More than 100 local and international speakers from 20 countries took part in over 30 panel discussions, alongside an executive program and a series of more than 25 workshops. Sessions examined the future of the nonprofit sector and how to deepen its economic and social impact by strengthening enablers, expanding partnerships, and drawing on international experience.

During the forum, NCNP announced two new initiatives: the Nonprofit Insurance Initiative “Wasaq” and the Nonprofit Research Awards. Both aim to support people working in the sector, stimulate research and knowledge, promote innovation, and build the institutional capabilities of nonprofit organizations.

The event also saw the signing of more than 43 agreements and memorandums of cooperation and understanding, covering organizational development, scientific research, capacity building, digital transformation, and data management. The agreements are intended to broaden partnerships, empower nonprofit organizations, and enhance their readiness and effectiveness.

As part of the forum’s activities, NCNP launched the Corporate Volunteering Network, an initiative to establish volunteering departments within private-sector organizations. The effort will connect stakeholders across sectors, increase the effectiveness of corporate volunteering, and encourage high-impact social contributions by developing practical guides, launching targeted initiatives, and boosting healthy competition in volunteer work.

NCNP also issued 29 Social Investment Certificates to nonprofit organizations, activating the Social Impact Investment Rules announced in August. The rules are intended to regulate the certification process, encourage entities to pursue social impact investment, and strengthen investor confidence in certified organizations.

The forum hosted the National Volunteering Award ceremony, where 37 winners were honored across 31 awards. The award includes four main pathways: Honorary, Institutional, Volunteer Initiatives, and Individual Volunteers.

Ahmed Al-Suwailem, NCNP CEO, said hosting the International Nonprofit Forum in Riyadh reflects the strong backing the sector receives from the Saudi leadership. He noted that the nonprofit sector is a key enabler of sustainable development under Saudi Vision 2030 and an important driver of building a more engaged and cohesive society.

Al-Suwailem described the forum as a global platform that brings together sector leaders and experts from around the world, opening up new space for collaboration and strategic partnerships. He said this strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as an international hub for social innovation and impact and as a key supporter of nonprofit sector development. According to Al-Suwailem, the forum aims to reimagine the role of the nonprofit sector as a driver of human progress by advancing governance, building partnerships, enabling innovation, harnessing modern technologies, and investing in talent and skills.

He added that the forum is expected to deliver concrete outcomes, from expanding professional networks and attracting new social investments to helping nonprofit organizations adopt leading global practices. This, he said, will contribute to building a more effective, inclusive, and sustainable nonprofit ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and beyond. By hosting the first edition of the forum, he noted, Saudi Arabia is helping steer the global transformation of the nonprofit sector and consolidating its role as a center for innovation and influence in this field.

The close of the forum coincided with International Volunteer Day on December 5, an annual occasion that celebrates volunteers and highlights the development value of volunteerism worldwide. The timing offered an opportunity to showcase the pivotal role of volunteers in the Kingdom’s nonprofit sector. Through its sessions, initiatives, and the launch of the National Volunteering Award, the forum reflected a new phase in which Saudi Arabia is building a more organized and impactful volunteer ecosystem.

The recognition of volunteers throughout the forum underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening a culture of giving and embedding volunteer work as a pillar of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030’s goals to boost community participation and expand the impact of the nonprofit sector at home and internationally.

Kottayam, Dec 06: KFON has achieved a major milestone in Kottayam, crossing 10,000 internet connections. The service continues to gain strong traction across homes, offices, and commercial establishments in the region.

KFON has delivered 7,730 household connections, along with connectivity for 473 BPL families and more than 1,800 government institutions, including the Collectorate. By offering high-speed internet at highly affordable rates, KFON continues to gain strong acceptance among the public.

The network footprint in the district has expanded to 2,295.3 km of optical fibre cable. Commercial services are delivered through an extensive partner network, comprising 380 Local Network Operators working across the district.

Navi Mumbai, Dec 6: ITM Business School is set to conduct its upcoming MBA iConnect Scholarship Entrance Test (iSET) to be held on 16th December, 2025. The university has confirmed that the test will be held at its Kharghar campus along with multiple regional centres across India to ensure maximum accessibility for aspirants. The Application Deadline for Scholarship is 10th December, 2025.

The MBA iConnect Scholarship Entrance Test continues its legacy of offering merit-based scholarships of up to 100% on the first-year tuition fee, making high-quality management education more accessible to academically strong and motivated students. The test evaluates applicants on analytical ability, verbal reasoning, and business aptitude, identifying high-potential candidates for the prestigious MBA iConnect program.

“Our goal has always been to make high-quality management education accessible to deserving students across the country,” said Dr. Lakshmi Mohan, Director, Business School and ProVC, ITM Skills University. “With the December iSET cycle and the opportunity for scholarships of up to 100% on first-year tuition fees, we aim to empower talented aspirants from every region to pursue their MBA dreams without financial constraints.”

The MBA iConnect program, known for its immersive industry-integrated curriculum and strong placement outcomes with highest package shooting to 21 LPA for current batch, remains one of the most sought-after postgraduate management programs, and iSET serves as a key gateway for students aiming to join the 2026 academic cohort