Manipal cGMP Forum & 3rd National cGMP Day Celebrate Excellence in Pharmaceutical Quality with Historic Postal Cover Release

Manipal, 11th October 2025: The Centre for cGMP at Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MCOPS), a constituent Institution of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, hosted the inaugural Manipal cGMP Forum alongside the 3rd National cGMP Day celebration, marking a significant milestone in advancing pharmaceutical quality and manufacturing standards in India.

The event’s centrepiece was the release of India’s first Special Postal Cover dedicated to current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)—a pioneering initiative conceived by Dr Girish Pai K, Coordinator, Centre for cGMP, MAHE, in collaboration with Sri. Bharat Shah, National President, IDMA, and Dr. George Patani, Senior Vice President, IDMA.

The Special Postal Cover was unveiled in the presence of eminent dignitaries, including Sri. Bharat Shah (National President, IDMA), Sri. K Raja Bhanu (Director General, Pharmexcil), Mrs. Aditi Kare Panandikar (Hon. General Secretary, IDMA), Sri. Amit Raj Sinha (MD & CEO, Sigachi Industries Ltd), Sri. K Prakash (Chief Postmaster General), Dr. Sharath Rao (Pro-Vice Chancellor, MAHE), and Dr. Srinivas Mutalik (Principal, MCOPS).

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, emphasized the significance: “This marks a momentous milestone as we celebrate 2025 as the ‘Year of Excellence in Industry-Academia Collaborations.’ The Special Postal Cover is expected to generate nationwide awareness on the importance of cGMP and medicine quality.”

Sri Bharat Shah, National President of IDMA, announced IDMA’s proud sponsorship of this maiden initiative, remarking, “We believe this is a pioneering initiative to raise awareness not only among industry professionals, academia and regulators, but also among dispensing pharmacists, the patient community and the general public.”

Dr. Girish Pai K presented the Centre’s inspiring journey since its 2023 inception, highlighting pioneering initiatives including the cGMP Awareness Series, cGMP Lecture Series, cGMP CONNECT Newsletter, and the Train the Pharmacists program. He described the Special Postal Cover as “a symbol of national recognition and respect for cGMP,” expressing gratitude to IDMA and Sri Bharat Shah for their generous sponsorship.

Dr. Pai also welcomed the inclusion of cGMP as an elective in the PCI-prescribed BPharm syllabus, calling it “a timely development, coinciding meaningfully with the third National cGMP Day celebrations.”

The forum featured several notable achievements and presentations. The prestigious National cGMP Day Award 2025 was conferred upon Mr. Ananthakrishna Padiyar, Chief of Quality, Cipla Ltd, Mumbai, in recognition of his exemplary contributions to pharmaceutical quality. Phase II of the MANIPAL cGMP MUSEUM was unveiled as a digital tribute to Dr. TMA Pai, generously sponsored by Sri. Mehul Shah, MD, Encube Ethicals Pvt Ltd. The latest edition of the cGMP CONNECT Newsletter, Vol 2, Issue 2, was also released during the event. Expert sessions were delivered by Mr. Dinesh Kashikar, Senior Consultant, Zenshin Pharmatek LLP, who elaborated on Revised Schedule M Guidelines, and Mr. Allen Dass, GM, Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd, who addressed Quality Issues and Business Impact. Best Poster Awards were presented to deserving participants with certificates, cash prizes, and Special cGMP Gifts sponsored by Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Under the theme “cGMP for Sustainable Quality” (unveiled in April 2025), the conference featured plenary sessions, poster presentations, interactive industry-academia dialogues, and engaging student activities, including a Quality Jingle, Innovation Pitch, and Tree of Quality—fully sponsored by Akums.

Held at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium, Manipal, the forum successfully bridged the gap between revised Schedule M guidelines and academic understanding, bringing together industry leaders, academia, students, and regulatory experts.

The concept of National cGMP Day was initiated by Dr. Girish Pai K in 2023 and has been celebrated annually in collaboration with IDMA, PCI, FOPE, Pharmexcil, and other leading industry bodies.

The Centre for cGMP at MAHE expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, sponsors, and guests for making the Manipal cGMP Forum and National cGMP Day 2025.

India, 11th october 2025: Diwali is the season of lights, sweets, and scrumptious home-cooked meals. Amidst the excitement of decorating your home and preparing for celebrations, cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming. This festive season, KAFF makes it effortless with appliances designed to simplify your kitchen tasks while adding a modern touch to your culinary space. From quick snacks to elaborate festive meals, here are the top four KAFF appliances that every kitchen should have this Diwali.

1. KAFF Coffee Machine  Brew Joy This Diwali

Diwali celebrations are incomplete without a perfect cup of coffee shared with loved ones. KAFF’s Coffee Machine lets you brew café-style beverages effortlessly at home from rich espressos to frothy cappuccinos. Designed for precision and convenience, it ensures every cup is aromatic and full-bodied. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet festive morning, this coffee machine adds warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to your celebrations.

2. KAFF Convection Oven  Perfect for Baking and Roasting

Be it baking delectable cakes or roasting marinated vegetables for your Diwali celebration, the KAFF Convection Oven is an essential addition to your kitchen. Its state-of-the-art heating technology provides uniform cooking, while multiple preset modes make it convenient to cook a range of dishes. From classic mithai to gourmet breads, this oven is your one-stop solution for festive baking and roasting.

3. KAFF Induction Cooktop  Fast and Energy-Efficient Cooking

The KAFF Induction Cooktop is made with speed, precision, and safety in mind. With its super-speedy heating technology, you can prepare complex Diwali dishes in record time, and the temperature control guarantees flawless consistency. Lightweight, portable, and energy-saving, this device is perfect for small kitchens or when additional cooking space is required for festive gatherings.

This Diwali, KAFF appliances make it easier than ever to create delicious, festive meals with minimal hassle. Upgrade your kitchen and enjoy a celebration filled with taste, convenience, and joy!

NIFTEM-K Signs Strategic MoUs with IIIT Hyderabad and IIT Hyderabad to Strengthen Research, Innovation, and Academic Collaboration

Hyderabad, October 11, 2025 : National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K)  an Institute of National Importance (INI) under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India — has entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with two premier institutions: the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT-H) and the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IIT-H). These strategic collaborations aim to foster excellence in research, innovation, academic exchange, and human resource development in food technology, digital transformation, and allied sectors.

The MoUs were formally exchanged between Prof. Sandeep Kumar Shukla, Director, IIIT-H, Prof. B. S. Murty, Director, IIT-H, and Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K. These agreements mark the beginning of partnerships designed to leverage the complementary strengths of NIFTEM-K and the two institutes to address national and global challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Under the MoUs, the scope of collaboration includes several key areas:

• Research and Development: Joint development of industrially funded and government-supported projects, with outcomes including publications, patents, and technology transfers being jointly owned by the partnering institutions.
• Capacity Building: Organization of workshops, seminars, conferences, symposia, and hands-on training programs to enhance knowledge and practical skills in food science, food engineering, postharvest management, interdisciplinary sciences, data analytics, and food business management.
• Internships and Placements: Facilitation of student internships and placements, supporting professional development and bridging academia with industry.
• Joint Certificate Programmes: Launch of joint certificate programs (physical or online), subject to mutual agreement and statutory approvals, aimed at promoting industry-ready skills and knowledge.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi emphasized, “These collaborations bridge the gap between food technology, digital innovation, and interdisciplinary research, creating new opportunities for students, researchers, and the industry.”

This dual MoU initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening India’s food innovation ecosystem, combining NIFTEM-K’s expertise in food science, processing, and entrepreneurship with IIIT-H’s technological prowess and IIT-H’s research excellence.

Dubai, 11 October 2025 – JMR Infotech, a global leader in digital transformation and banking technology solutions and an Oracle Platinum Partner, will participate in Oracle AI World 2025, taking place October 13–16 in Las Vegas. The company will demonstrate how AI, combined with Oracle technologies, can help organizations make smarter decisions, improve efficiency, and accelerate growth.

Building on nearly two decades of experience delivering banking technology solutions globally, JMR Infotech combines deep domain expertise with AI-driven innovation to help organizations transform how they operate and make decisions. At Oracle AI World 2025, the company will showcase solutions that leverage intelligent applications, agentic AI for rapid implementations, and AI-powered accelerators — designed to help enterprises turn data into actionable insights, accelerate digital initiatives, and achieve measurable
business impact.

Jayafar Moidu, Founder & CEO of JMR Infotech, will represent the company at Oracle AI World and will be available to meet with attendees to discuss practical ways and tailored strategies to leverage AI for business impact.

“Oracle AI World is an ideal platform to explore the possibilities of AI in enterprise transformation,” said Jayafar Moidu. “We look forward to engaging with industry leaders, sharing insights from our global experience, and helping organizations make AI work for their business.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore how JMR Infotech can partner with them to unlock AI’s potential and drive meaningful transformation across their organizations.

Kathak, Cinema, and Fragrance Come Together in a Spellbinding Tribute to Shri Krishna

London, October 10, 2025: In a memorable and soulful evening at the Nehru Centre, London, the International Samarpan of the Shri Krishna Leela Collection was held in the august presence of Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Deputy Director, Nehru Centre, London, and renowned Kathak artist Richa Srivastava. The evening gracefully wove together art, fragrance, film, and devotion, celebrating Krishna—a tribute to India’s timeless cultural and spiritual heritage.

The evening commenced with a divine invocation of “Om Krishnaya Vasudevaya Haraye Paramatmane,” invoking Lord Krishna’s boundless grace. This was followed by the screening of a short film on the Shri Krishna Leela Collection, showcasing the artistic journey, craftsmanship, and spiritual inspiration behind the fragrances that translate divine stories into sensory experiences.

Following the film, Mr. Prashant Kumar, CMD, Mode Retails Sales and Marketing Pvt. Ltd., and Founder of Ramalaya & JPSR Prabhu Shriram, addressed the gathering. In his inspiring speech, he shared how fragrance can become a form of prayer and philosophy, connecting people with India’s cultural consciousness.

“Each of our creations is not just a product; it is a living story — a confluence of bhava (emotion), bhakti (devotion), and sugandha (fragrance),” said Mr. Kumar. He further added that as India reclaims its place as Vishwa Guru, it offers the world pathways of harmony, sustainability, and consciousness through its ancient wisdom and culture.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Deputy Director, Nehru Centre, London, remarked, “This International Samarpan beautifully represents India’s cultural diplomacy, where fragrance, art, and dance together communicate the universality of Krishna’s message of love and harmony.

The highlight of the evening was a mesmerizing Kathak performance by Richa Srivastava, themed “Krishna in Kathak.” Her dance depicted three divine Leelas:

1. Kaliya Mardan – symbolizing the victory of purity and nature over evil,
2. Vastra Haran – representing Krishna as the compassionate protector and eternal Nayak, and
3. Radha Krishna Thumri – expressing the divine union of love and consciousness.

Her performance enthralled the audience, bringing alive the spiritual essence of Krishna’s eternal play through movement, rhythm, and expression.

The Shri Krishna Leela Collection, unveiled during the event, is a fragrant tribute to Lord Krishna’s divine wisdom and joy. Each fragrance embodies a distinct Leela – Makhanchor’s innocence, Govardhan’s gratitude, Sudama’s humility, and Raas Leela’s transcendental love. Curated under the Ramalaya initiative by JPSR Prabhu Shriram, the collection serves as an artistic confluence of India’s devotion, craftsmanship, and sensory storytelling.

The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the Shri Krishna Leela Collection to the Nehru Centre representatives, symbolizing India’s offering of love, balance, and harmony to the world.

The event reaffirmed India’s growing leadership in cultural diplomacy and soft power, where fragrance, film, and performance together create a universal dialogue of peace, devotion, and consciousness.

KLM celebrates 106 years of connection with the US with a special Delft Blue house in the heart of Leiden

India, 10th Oct 2025: KLM marked its 106th anniversary by unveiling a new Delft Blue house: the former sexton’s residence, Villa Rameau, located next to the Pieterskerk in Leiden. The Pilgrims stayed here for twelve years before they set sail on the Mayflower to America in 1620.

106 years of transatlantic ties: from pilgrims to Joint Venture

The Pilgrims’ journey began a lasting connection across the Atlantic, one that KLM has proudly continued for 106 years. As the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name, KLM has played a key role in linking the Netherlands and Europe with the United States. As part of the Air France-KLM Group and in Joint Venture with Delta Air Lines, KLM carries millions of passengers each year between Europe and the US, serving a network of fifteen US destinations. These connections support the economies and prosperity on both sides of the ocean.

“With the unveiling of Villa Rameau as our 106th Delft Blue house, we’re not only celebrating our birthday, but also the importance of connection and resilience,” said Marjan Rintel, President & CEO of KLM. “These values are reflected in the story of the house and the Pilgrims, and they’re also at the heart of KLM. For 106 years, we’ve been building global connections. Especially in challenging times, this house reminds us how vital it is to stay connected. It’s a small symbol with a big story about how we keep innovating and shaping the future of aviation.”

A rich Leiden history

Villa Rameau, now home to the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, has a storied past. The Pilgrims’ first harvest festival here, inspired by the Relief of Leiden, eventually became what Americans know as Thanksgiving, a tradition still honored every year at the Pieterskerk. Later, the Rameau family, residents of the house, played a crucial role in the local resistance during World War II. This spot in Leiden stands for perseverance in turbulent times and forging new bonds, values KLM holds dear.

Peter Heijkoop, Mayor of Leiden, said: “It’s an honor that Villa Rameau, with its unique history and central place in Leiden, is now part of the KLM miniature house collection. This house tells an important part of Leiden’s story, from the Pilgrims to the resistance. We’re proud to see this story shared with the world in this special way.”

10th October 2025, Kochi: Turkish Airlines, the flag carrier of Türkiye, and Air Algérie, the flag carrier of Algeria, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and revise Codeshare Agreement with a broadened scope. Agreements were signed by the Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi and Air Algérie CEO Hamza Benhamouda at Air Algérie’s Headquarters in Algiers with senior executives from both airlines in attendance.

The MoU establishes a framework for enriched cooperation, including an expanded codeshare agreement. In addition to increased connectivity, the two carriers will explore joint initiatives in cargo interline services, aircraft leasing, catering, lounge access, maintenance and ground handling operations. Turkish Airlines and Air Algérie also plan to cooperate on environmental projects, sustainability initiatives, and training programs. The partnership aims to support business growth while fostering cultural, social, and economic exchange between Türkiye and Algeria.

Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi stated: “Our continuing partnership with Air Algérie reflects our commitment to long-term, sustainable collaboration. This agreement marks a key step in deepening ties between both airlines. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we remain committed to expanding cooperation across multiple areas to provide greater benefits and options for our guests. We are confident this partnership will enrich cultural and economic connections between Türkiye and Algeria and drive mutual growth.”

Air Algérie SpA CEO Hamza Benhamouda said: “We are honored to welcome the Turkish Airlines delegation to our headquarters in Algiers, as we continue to strengthen the ties between our two airlines and our two coutries. We are very pleased with this new milestone in our strategic partnership with Turkish Airlines. This comprehensive agreement, covering multiple areas of cooperation and the exchange of expertise, will undoubtedly bring mutual benefits to both our companies and to our passengers.”

New Delhi, 10th october 2025: The special handloom expo, “Journey of Threads” , organized by the National Design Centre with the support of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, began today at Handloom Haat, Janpath. The week-long exhibition will run until 16th October 2025, celebrating India’s rich heritage and craftsmanship in traditional handlooms.

Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the expo features 75 handloom weavers, self-help groups (SHGs), and cooperatives from across the country, offering a vibrant showcase of India’s textile traditions. The initiative aims to promote traditional handlooms while connecting artisans directly with buyers, exporters, and wholesalers, providing them better market access and recognition.

Visitors can explore a wide range of handloom products, including silks, cotton sarees, suit-dupatta sets, shawls, stoles, bedsheets, home furnishings, dhotis, kurtas, and rugs—all under one roof. Participating states include Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

This initiative by the Ministry of Textiles is a step towards reviving the handloom industry, supporting artisans, and promoting India’s traditional products globally.

Event Details:

• What: Special Handloom Expo – Journey of Threads

• When: October 10–16, 2025

• Time: 11 AM – 8 PM

• Where: Handloom Haat, Janpath, Connaught Place, New Delhi

• Access: Nearest Metro – Janpath Station (Gate No. 2), near Janpath Market

Thiruvananthapuram, October 10, 2025: The Department of Maternal and Fetal Medicine and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at KIMSHEALTH, in association with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), will host FETOMAT 2025 – Current Updates in Feto-Maternal Medicine, a two-day international conference dedicated to the latest advancements in maternal and fetal health. The conference will be held on October 11 and 12, 2025, at O by Tamara, Thiruvananthapuram.

With the theme “Bridging Beginnings and Beyond”, the conference reflects a commitment to holistic care; from preconception planning and pregnancy management to postpartum wellbeing; ensuring comprehensive health for both mother and child. The scientific program, structured into three sessions each day, will feature 50 expert-led topics, addressing contemporary challenges and innovations in feto-maternal medicine. A distinguished panel of national and international faculty will contribute to enriching knowledge and fostering collaborative learning.

“KIMSHEALTH is proud to host this conference, uniting leading doctors from India and abroad to share insights and discuss the latest developments in perinatology and fetal medicine,” said Dr. M. I. Sahadulla, Chairman and Managing Director, KIMSHEALTH.

Dr. John Smoleniec, Conjoint Professor, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Liverpool Hospital,  New South Wales, Australia, and Dr. Suresh S, Director of Mediscan, Chennai, and a pioneer in fetal medicine in India, will be among the notable speakers sharing their clinical experiences with the delegates.

Key highlights include panel discussions on “Late Anomalies: Detection, Dilemma, and Decision-Making” and “Evaluation of the Small Fetus”, where experts will deliberate on the role of multidisciplinary care in managing high-risk pregnancies.

The conference will also mark the launch of Kerala’s first Perinatal Mental Health Clinic in the private sector, designed to support the emotional wellbeing of expectant mothers and emphasize that mental health is as vital as physical health.

“Kerala has successfully reduced infant mortality to 5 per 1,000 live births, which is  on par with developed countries. This achievement has been made possible by the State’s advanced perinatal care,” said Dr. Vidyalekshmy R, Senior Consultant, Department of High-Risk Pregnancy and Perinatology, and Organising Secretary of FETOMAT-2025.

Hyderabad: October 10th 2025: Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, one of India’s leading edible oil brands, has signed the legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid as its brand ambassador. Rahul Dravid, popularly known as ‘Mr. Dependable’ for his disciplined lifestyle, a reputation of reliability, and consistency which resonates perfectly with Freedom Oils core values of consistent quality, trust, and dependability. 

Through this association, Rahul Dravid will feature in innovative campaigns across television, digital, and social media, inspiring families to embrace healthier cooking practices using ‘dependable’ Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil. The brand’s philosophy of ‘Eat Healthy and Live Healthy’ aligns seamlessly with Dravid’s belief in diligence, poise, conscious choices, and balance—values that not only shaped his cricketing career but also guide his personal way of life.

Freedom Healthy Cooking Oil and Rahul Dravid both embody what it means to be truly unique and trustworthy—each inspiring millions in their own right. Just as Dravid’s dedication and quiet resolve earned him the nation’s heart, Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil brings that same spirit into every home, promising purity and nourishment with every drop encouraging people to eat healthy and live an active life. 

“I have always believed that discipline and mindful habits are the cornerstones of a fulfilling life. Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil brings those values into the kitchen—inspiring people to lead an active and healthy life, without losing out on taste or nourishment. In my own home, ‘Freedom’ has become a trusted part of our meals, encouraging healthier and happier living. What we eat directly shapes how we feel, and I’m proud to partner with a brand that motivates families to eat consciously and enjoy every bite together,” said Rahul Dravid.

Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Gemini Edibles and Fats India Ltd, added: “We are honoured to welcome the Rahul Dravid to the Freedom family. His diligence, balance, and consistency mirror the values we uphold as a brand. We provide oils that are nutritious, light, and flavourful — helping families adopt healthier habits. Rahul’s presence will inspire households across the country to embrace mindful cooking, ensuring that everyday meals become a source of joy, balance, and well-being.”

According to Mr. Chetan Pimpalkhute, Head Marketing, Gemini Edibles and Fats India Ltd. “Having Rahul Dravid as the face of Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil is truly special. His dedication, balance, and mindful approach to life perfectly reflect our brand’s philosophy of ‘Eat Healthy and Live Healthy.’ Through this association, we hope to inspire families across India to adopt healthier cooking habits, make conscious choices in the kitchen, and enjoy meals that nourish both body and mind.”