Archives January 2025

Headline: Advanced materials helping soldiers tread lightly and aerial vehicles safely lift off

Subhead: Lightweighting has emerged as the No.1 priority in defence and aerospace for applications across the board – from lighter aerostructures to comfortable bulletproof vests. Materials science has helped address this challenge. Advanced ceramic- and graphene-based nano-composites are not only leading for being high-performance but also uncompromising when it comes to safety.

Body text:

The most competent man-at-arms of medieval times faced structural problems on the battlefield from the very armour meant to protect them. Not only did their iron suits interfere with vision and speech, but their sheer weight rendered them clumsy and slow. The modern-day soldier cannot afford such impediments during combat. From the tactical, mobility and economical standpoints, their armour must serve them to the best advantage, keeping them agile and battle-ready in a combat zone.

Given geopolitical tensions, India wants to up the ante in its defence preparedness with an expanded budget to accommodate modernisation. At this juncture, light-weighting has emerged as the foremost question – how to reduce movement impairment caused by significant weight burden while ensuring the highest protection for man and machine? It is at this intersection that materials science has come to play an indispensable role.

Protection done right while keeping it light

The weight-performance conundrum has been a long-standing one. A soldier could be carrying as much as one-third of their body weight, up to a maximum of 40 kg. The bulletproof jacket (BPJ) alone weighed over 10 kg earlier. While the idea was to protect vital body parts, this greatly compromised their safety and comfort while affecting their ability to move quickly. This held, especially in unexpected combat situations.

The imperative of lightweighting without compromising on strength has brought materials science to the fore in defence and aerospace. Over the years, R&D has led modern personnel protective equipment through several iterations to finally arrive at advanced ceramics. Reaction Bonded Silicon Carbide (RBSiC), Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) and high-purity alumina have all proven their mettle in both these spheres. They are extremely lightweight while ably protecting soldiers and military vehicles against multiple hits. Army veteran Lt Gen H S Panag writes that battle casualties can be reduced by two-thirds with contemporary BPJs.

Therefore, the evolution in ceramic armour tech for lighter and more resilient bulletproof jackets and armoured vehicles can help them perform more efficiently in an evolving threat landscape.

Taking to the air safely with nanomaterials

Meanwhile, nanotechnology has climbed new heights. By allowing materials to be manipulated at the atomic and molecular levels, they have enabled ground-breaking advancements in materials science. As a result, nano-composites, nano-coatings, and other advanced materials have emerged, bringing greater flexibility and core strength, with negligible weight that are crucial for aerospace applications.

Graphene is the new wonder-kid in materials science. Nearly 1000x lighter than paper and 200x stronger than steel, it could very well emerge as the material of choice for this strategic sector. Nanomaterial-reinforced composite materials, particularly graphene-reinforced polymers, have the potential to build next-gen structural components for various aerospace applications. When compared with components designed using standard composites, they present advanced mechanical properties at the same or lighter weight. Some of these include remarkable mechanical strength, superior toughness and stiffness, greater electrical and thermal conductivity, exceptional fire retardant capabilities, and higher barrier to moisture and gases.

They can also be uniquely designed, with particularly desired characteristics to fulfil specific purposes. As an example, graphene-reinforced structural components using high-purity graphene powders, graphene-based nano-composites and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) can render Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones faster, smaller, and more efficient. This can be attributed to being far lighter while boasting extreme strength and higher durability.

Moreover, UAVs play an important role in recon and transport of materials. They can be built with the capability to perform multiple airdrops of essential medicines to forces stationed in remote regions.

Vehicle armour: taking the lighter route

Amphibious wheeled armoured fighting vehicles such as the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) are a hat-tip to India’s indigenous defence development capabilities. These terrain-agnostic vehicles need to be equipped with armour that helps them comfortably navigate while remaining extremely light on their feet and well-protected against projectiles. This calls for add-on composite armour engineered with advanced technical ceramics that ably fulfil all these criteria. In a testament to CUMI’s expertise, we were recently awarded the Transfer of Technology by DRDO-DMRL to manufacture add-on composite armour for WhAP and other armoured vehicles.

India is also keenly exploring indigenous light combat vehicle prototypes and that not only aid reconnaissance and surveillance, but also swift deployment, with easy manoeuvrability. This assumes greater significance in combat zones located in high-altitude regions with rarefied air and mountainous terrain where lightweight armour can be a critical decisive factor.

This will enable India’s defence forces not only gain tactical but also performance advantage. Greater fuel efficiency and easy mobility will facilitate more advanced protection for our troops.

A secure supply chain ‘made in India’

The ‘Make in India’ campaign has definitely gathered momentum since inception. As per government data from October 2024, India’s indigenous defence ecosystem is home to nearly 16,000 MSMEs and more than 430 companies that are licensed. In the last four years, 13,000 items listed by the Department of Defence Production on the SRIJAN portal have seen success in indigenisation by the private sector.

While these are definitive steps to Atmanirbharta, the campaign’s real goal can ensure India has a truly strong and secure supply chain. This can be attained only when the entire product lifecycle is realised within the country. As an example, essential products such as bulletproof vests and armoured vehicles – our first line of defence on-ground – use advanced ceramics as the base material to design armour. To define ‘Made in India’ here and the complete replacement of imports, it is pivotal for the raw materials to be produced in India. This will create a truly made in India product. Presently, CUMI is the only company in India that can supply fully backward integrated ceramic armour materials in this section.

Outlook

Advancements in indigenous materials science research holds the key to self-sufficiency and also the opportunity for India to lead innovation globally in aerospace and defence. Projects leveraging Industry Academia collaboration like those involving leading material science companies such as CUMI with DRDO’s Centres of Excellence at elite universities in the country will enable cutting-edge innovations required by this sector.

Mumbai/New Delhi, January 30, 2025: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces the launch of Aakash Invictus, a groundbreaking and first-of-its-kind Advanced program for JEE preparation designed for the best and brightest engineering aspirants. This elite, high-intensity, personalized, AI driven and result-oriented initiative is engineered to enable students preparing specifically for IITs or reputed Universities abroad.

Aakash Invictus brings together around 500 best JEE Faculty, offering unparalleled mentorship backed by a track record of success in guiding over one lakh students to IITs. The curriculum is cutting-edge and meticulously designed for ambitious students aiming for top IIT ranks. The program features integrated phygital learning and exclusive study resources, ensuring precision-focused, AI-enabled, and adaptive preparation for JEE Advanced.

The rigorous program includes a comprehensive revision and testing module that emphasizes targeted preparation during the final stages before the JEE (Advanced) exam. Students will benefit from specialized curriculum, doubt-clearing sessions and a meticulously crafted test series aimed at maximizing their performance. Aakash Invictus will have small batches so as to give more personalized attention to students.

Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, MD & CEO of Aakash Educational Services Limited, emphasized the program’s significance, stating, “Aakash Invictus is not just a coaching program; it is a transformational journey for students aiming to secure top IIT ranks. This program brings together top-notch faculty with decades of experience, cutting-edge teaching methodologies and personalized, AI and tech-driven learning. Over the years, our educators have successfully mentored millions of students to secure admissions in top IITs. The study material has been completely revamped, covering the entire curriculum and developed by some of the best experts in the industry. We firmly believe this is the best—if you can create better material, we will award you and welcome you to our team.”

He further added, “This programme, which started a few months ago has already attracted 2500+ top students. Built on three key pillars – innovative pedagogy and courseware, expert faculty and advanced AI tools – Aakash Invictus will set new benchmarks in JEE preparation. All these brand-new features are backed by the credibility, trust, and technical expertise of Aakash.”

MUMBAI/BENGALURU | January 30, 2025: Alliance University proudly presents the fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival (ALF 4.0), a three-day extravaganza celebrating literature, culture, and intellectual dialogue, scheduled from February 13 to February 15, 2025. This year’s theme, “The Asian Century”, highlights Asia’s profound impact on global culture, politics, economy, and art, offering an exceptional platform for literary enthusiasts, academicians, policymakers, diplomats, and cultural connoisseurs to engage in meaningful conversations and immersive experiences.

The festival promises an extraordinary lineup featuring over 120 speakers, including voices from over 25 countries. Esteemed participants include Javed Akhtar, celebrated Indian screenwriter and lyricist; Asako Yuzuki, renowned Japanese author; Palki Sharma Upadhyay, India’s voice of the Asian Century; Anil Kumble, one of Asia’s greatest sportsmen; Sanjay Patel, Indian American animator, director at Pixar, and Oscar nominee; Rajdeep Sardesai, renowned Indian journalist; and Perumal Murugan, distinguished Indian author.

Asia, often hailed as the cradle of civilizations, has long been a hub of innovation, storytelling, and wisdom. From ancient philosophical texts to contemporary narratives challenging power structures and exploring identity, Asian literature and culture have consistently illuminated the essence of the human experience. ALF 4.0 celebrates this legacy while exploring Asia’s dynamic rise as a global powerhouse.

Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership, Department of Language & Literature, Alliance University, remarked, “The theme of The Asian Century embraces Asia’s resurgence as a dominant economic and cultural force on the global stage. Hosting this festival in Bangalore, a city at the forefront of this transformation, underscores our commitment to fostering intellectual dialogue and cultural celebration.” He added that ALF aligns with Alliance University’s mission to position Bangalore as India’s intellectual capital and establish the university as a hub for art, culture, and ideas.

The festival will open with insightful sessions on regional literature and translation, highlighting Kannada and Tamil literary traditions. A mesmerizing performance of Chhau dance, rooted in the traditions of West Bengal, will further enrich the cultural tapestry of the event. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive sessions, including Q&A discussions, meet-the-author events, and book signings, fostering deeper connections with literary luminaries.

Expanding its reach, ALF 4.0 incorporates modernity with live-streamed sessions and curated digital highlights, ensuring accessibility for audiences worldwide. This initiative underscores Alliance University’s commitment to promoting intellectual and cultural dialogue across both physical and virtual platforms.

The festival will explore timely themes such as Asia’s economic ascendancy, the rise of Asian athletes, the intersection of migration, diaspora, and belonging, as well as environmental and demographic challenges. Sessions will also examine Asia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of education, sports, and innovation on the global stage. Cultural showcases, including musical performances, film screenings, and exhibitions, will conclude the festival, celebrating Asia’s illustrious past and its promising future.

Maharashtra, January 30, 2025: Sahyadri Hospitals, Maharashtra’s largest chain of multispecialty hospitals, introduces a one-of-a-kind brand mascot, VK, as part of its latest campaign to steer health awareness and education across the state. The uniquely crafted mascot character Vichaar Kar (VK) features along with Bollywood icon Anil Kapoor (AK) in a video series of intriguing AKVK Show. This initiative represents a fresh approach to engaging communities with healthcare conversations that are both relevant and impactful.

 Rooted in Sahyadri 2.0 – a transformative growth phase for the hospital chain, the AKVK Show is part of Sahyadri’s new campaign For Life. Aimed at sparking meaningful conversations about health and wellness, the show tackles topics that matter to every family—preventive care, wellness and the importance of timely medical intervention—adding a touch of relatability through the language and cultural flavour.

 “At Sahyadri, we believe in going beyond treatment to promote and sustain optimum health and fitness levels among the community. With the ‘Sahyadri – For Life’ campaign, we want to emphasize our role as a trusted healthcare partner for Maharashtra who stands by patients through every phase of their medical journey, offering hope and ensuring the best medical outcomes. We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Anil Kapoor as a voice of this campaign,” said Mr. Abrarali Dalal, Managing Director and CEO of Sahyadri Hospitals.

 Talking about the unique concept of the AKVK Show, Chief Marketing Officer of Sahyadri Hospitals, Mr. Manish Rai said, “With his witty dialogues, wisdom and unique approach to life, VK is not just a mascot but the voice of the common man in Maharashtra. VK is designed to simplify complex healthcare topics, breaking them down into relatable, everyday conversations. When paired with Anil Kapoor’s vibrant charisma, the AKVK Show creates a unique dialogue that is not just informative but also culturally relevant and impactful for our communities”.

 With VK’s character carefully crafted to align with the typical characteristics of ‘Common man’ and the distinctive ‘Puneri’ charm, the AKVK Show is a perfect example of global appeal seamlessly blending with regional authenticity. The show will roll out across multiple platforms, including print, Out-Of-Home (OOH), radio, OTT platforms and digital channels, ensuring it reaches every corner of Maharashtra with a message that feels like home.

 Further elaborating on the campaign’s broader messaging, Mr. Manish Rai adds, “The campaign also introduces a direct and reassuring message to the public: You and Us. There are only two people responsible for your health and wellbeing—YOU and US. This emphasizes the individual’s role in maintaining their health, supported by our world-class doctors and surgeons, equipped with the latest global medical technology, ready to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions. This reassures the community that while self-care is crucial, Sahyadri’s dedicated teams are always ready to provide the best possible care.”

 Sahyadri Hospitals has always been at the forefront of innovative healthcare solutions with a robust network of 11 state of the art facilities across Maharashtra. Apart from this campaign, Sahyadri also has a robust expansion pipeline that would further strengthen its position as the largest chain of hospitals in Western India.

Mumbai, January 30, 2025: The manufacturing sector is undergoing a profound transformation, and at the heart of this change lies a new approach to workplace culture—one that is grounded in fairness, transparency, and inclusivity. As India’s manufacturing industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the need for companies to prioritize not just technological innovation, but also the well-being of their workforce, has never been more critical. The organizations recognized as India’s Best Workplaces™ in Manufacturing for 2025 are leading the way by creating environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and genuinely connected to their work.

As the manufacturing sector embraces the shift toward Industry 5.0, companies are realizing that employee well-being is a crucial engine for this transformation. While technological progress remains a priority, the role of people in this evolution is equally important. Over the past five years, there has been steady progress in improving work-life balance, management approachability, and employee involvement, helping to combat the burnout that has long challenged the sector.

Today, employees in the Best Workplaces are 2.7 times more likely to stay in psychologically healthy environments, and the overall view of manufacturing as a great place to work has risen to 87% in 2025. This increase reflects the growing recognition that the future of manufacturing is not only about machines and automation but about cultivating a culture that nurtures the people behind the production lines.

On this note, Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work®, India, said “India’s manufacturing sector is driving progress, contributing 17% to the nation’s GDP. With initiatives like Make in India and the production Linked Incentive schemes, the foundation is laid for India to become a global manufacturing hub. Four key pillars—Competence, Operations, Resilience, and Emerging Talent and Markets (C.O.R.E.)—are steering this growth, ensuring a positive impact on the workforce. These priorities focus on advanced technologies, infrastructure, and nurturing a diverse, skilled workforce. At the core of this progress are the people. Insights from our latest study, involving over 8 lakh employees, show that 87% feel positive about their workplaces—highlighting the sector’s progress in fostering employee satisfaction. As the industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the focus isn’t just on smarter machines but on fostering workplaces that prioritize employee well-being. To combat employee burnout, organizations are taking steps to improve work-life balance, make leaders more approachable, and enhance employee engagement. Leading organizations are building culture of trust and psychological safety, and when employees feel valued, they are 2.7 times more likely to stay. To overcome challenges, organizations need to continuously listen and empower their employees, to shape industry’s future.

He also added, “India’s strength lies in its youthful, dynamic workforce and a culture rooted in resilience and teamwork. Key drivers of growth include combining human creativity with technology, enabling inclusive opportunities, and cultivating purpose-driven leadership. These strategies reflect a deep commitment to excellence. Ultimately, the future of manufacturing isn’t just defined by what we produce but by the people who make it possible. With India’s unique strengths, determination, and vision, the nation is taking the right steps in shaping the global manufacturing landscape.”

Frontline employees, who are the backbone of the manufacturing engine, are particularly impacted by this shift. At India’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing, their engagement is driven by a culture that values their contributions, ensures fair evaluations, and provides clear opportunities for career growth. These workplaces are designed to be places where enjoyment and camaraderie are part of the daily experience, and where employees feel their efforts are recognized and rewarded. Leadership in these companies understands that the well-being of their frontline teams is integral to the overall success of the business.

Meanwhile, office-based employees, who play a key role in driving innovation and strategy, are engaged through deeper connections to the company’s purpose and a strong sense of trust in their leaders. These employees value leaders who prioritize emotional wellness and psychological safety. As they face unique challenges, such as ensuring alignment across teams and departments, these companies focus on attracting the right talent for critical roles, strengthening team dynamics, and providing robust leadership development programs. Together, these elements ensure that both the frontline and office-based employees are equipped to excel and lead in an environment where vision and impact align seamlessly.

However, even as these companies continue to foster positive and inclusive cultures, challenges remain. The voice of employees consistently highlights the need for more action around psychological safety, care, and equitable growth. Best Workplaces have responded by implementing mechanisms for regular feedback, ensuring fair task allocation, and introducing flexible shifts to accommodate the needs of their workforce.

Bengaluru; 30th January 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE), a leading institution in higher education, is proud to announce the launch of Manam, a pioneering program designed to prioritize and support the mental and emotional wellbeing of its students. The initiative is part of MAHE’s continued commitment to fostering a holistic learning environment. This revolutionary program will be one of its kind in the country which will support workplace readiness for students. The program will enhance student’s emotional intelligence a much-required skill in any field of work.

Manam encompasses several innovative measures, including access to professional counsellors, peer support groups, a user-friendly website with self-support tools, and expert-led sessions on topics such as mindfulness, [Program Highlights: Optional, non-graded program: Students can voluntarily enroll in the program, which carries no grades or academic credits. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion, a valuable addition to their resumes. Eligibility and enrollment: The pilot batch will focus on second- and third-year undergraduate students, as well as postgraduate and Ph.D. students. Interested students can register through the Manam website. No additional fees: MAHE is offering the program at no extra cost as part of its regular curriculum.] sexual wellness, and movement therapy.

The program covers essential topics such as the body-mind-spirit connection, understanding the conscious and subconscious mind, nervous system regulation, dealing with insecurities (e.g., body image), working with emotions like anger and frustration, and creating personalized wellness plans. These topics are delivered through deeply interactive and experiential sessions, blending cognitive and energy practices to provide students with practical tools for emotional resilience.

The program aims to equip students with higher self-awareness and emotional intelligence (EI), which are increasingly sought after by employers. Many organizations actively assess EI during their recruitment processes, and completing this program will serve as a tangible testament to these skills. By investing in students’ emotional intelligence, MAHE positions itself as a forward-thinking institution that prepares its graduates to excel in today’s workplace.

Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Bengaluru, highlighting the pioneering nature of the initiative and its alignment with Global best practices, said, “At Mahe, we wanted to create a safe space where students could openly express themselves and find the support they need. To truly understand their concerns, we conducted surveys and engaged in meaningful conversations with students. This is how Manam was born-a platform designed to offer practical solutions while making the experience engaging and enjoyable.

What makes Manam special is its scale and accessibility. MAHE is the first institute in the country to implement such an initiative at this level, ensuring that every student has access to the program. We recognize that mental well-being is just as important as academic success, and through Manam, we are committed to fostering a culture of support, awareness, and growth and mental wellness .”

Our goal is simple: to equip students with the right tools, create a judgment-free environment, and encourage them to prioritize their well-being. This isn’t just about addressing challenges-it’s about empowering students to navigate life with confidence. At MAHE, we believe that change begins with understanding, and Manam is a step toward building a stronger, more resilient student community”.

Maheima Kapur, Core Facilitator. Manam, said, “Manam was created to normalize conversations around mental health, breaking the stigma that often prevents students from seeking help with counsellors. Through extensive student input, we designed a program that fosters self-awareness and empowers individuals to recognize when they need support.

With more than 7,000 students today and even more tomorrow, we know that counseling services alone aren’t enough. That’s why Manam lays a foundation for self-learning, helping students navigate their emotions while ensuring expert help is available when needed. From its name to its design, Manam speaks the language of Gen Z-making mental well-being accessible, engaging, and truly relevant to this generation”.

Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu, Deputy Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, focusing on the unique aspects of the program and its relevance to students, commented,” The key objective of Manam is to normalize conversations around mental and emotional well-being on campus and strip away the taboo and stigma associated with openly sharing and reaching out for support during difficult phases.

National, January 30, 2025 – EatSure, the flagship food delivery platform by Rebel Foods, the world’s largest internet restaurant company, has announced the launch of its first EatSure smart Foodcourt in Visakhapatnam. Located at Madhuwada, this will be the 7th physical store by EatSure in India. Spanning 1800 sq. ft. space, it is set to redefine dining in the city by offering a queue-less, fully digital ordering experience. Open daily from 9 AM to midnight, the foodcourt brings unparalleled convenience and variety under one roof.

The Vizag EatSure Smart Foodcourt introduces a unique dining experience where customers can place orders using self-service kiosks or through the EatSure app. Notifications are sent via digital screens or WhatsApp once the order is ready, ensuring a hassle-free process with no waiting in long queues. Apart from the unique digital ordering experience, the EatSure foodcourt will be home to brands across food missions.

Our innovative food court revolutionizes dining convenience by enabling customers to order from multiple top-rated brands in a single digital transaction, with 60%+ of previous orders spanning more than 2 brands. Customers can now seamlessly enjoy dishes from Behrouz Biryani, Faasos, Oven Story Pizza, Lunchbox, Sweet Truth, The Good Bowl, Firangi Bake, The Biryani Life and ES Café – from biryanis and pizzas to wraps and desserts – in one unified order, eliminating multiple transactions and simplifying the entire dining experience.

Speaking about the launch, Sagar Kochhar, Co-Founder and CEO, EatSure, Rebel Foods, said, “With the opening of EatSure’s first foodcourt in Vizag, we are excited to bring a next-generation dining experience to the city. By integrating multiple brands under one roof and combining it with a digital-first approach, we aim to transform how customers enjoy their meals. By launching in the iconic city of Vizag, we are expanding our offline footprint in Andhra Pradesh, allowing us to cater to the growing demand for tasty and varied cuisines in the city. This launch is a testament to our vision of solving broken food-ordering experiences and offering unparalleled convenience to our customers.”

Vishnu Varma Kalidindi, Franchise Partner, said, “I’m thrilled to bring EatSure’s diverse culinary brands to Vizag, offering local food lovers a unique dining experience that celebrates variety and convenience. Our foodcourt provides multiple top-rated brands under one roof, transforming how people enjoy their meals in the city.”

Rebel Foods, which leads the direct-to-consumer revolution in online dining, is bringing it to life through EatSure’s virtual food court. The Vizag launch replicates the ease of a physical food court, enabling consumers to order from top brands in a single order. EatSure has also partnered with the IRCTC to transform train travel dining. Introducing the ‘Order Food on Train’ feature on its app, passengers can now easily order from a range of restaurants and have it delivered to their seats as they journey across the Indian Railway Network. With their growing omni-channel presence, the EatSure app has already captivated over 20 million users in 75+ cities across India.

The global baby care market has witnessed significant growth, with projections indicating that India’s Baby Care Product Market will reach USD 24.27 billion by 2027, expanding at a CAGR of 14.35%. A key factor driving this surge is the increasing disposable income of middle and upper-middle-class families, alongside the changing priorities of millennial and Gen Z parents. Today, parents are not just looking for functionality—they are seeking products that offer premium quality, sustainability, and reflect their ethical values.

This demand for premium baby products is reflected in the rise of brands that combine luxury with eco-conscious craftsmanship. The Baby Trunk, a leading luxury baby essentials brand, is setting a benchmark in this sector by offering sustainable, handcrafted, and organic products. The Baby Trunk’s latest product lineup includes:

Dreamland Reversible Quilts: Designed for children aged 5 and above, these quilts are hand-painted on GOTS-certified organic Egyptian cotton, offering a blend of comfort and imaginative design.

Mascot Collection: A charming range of plush companions crafted from natural materials, offering comfort and joy while promoting sustainability.

Plush Co-Ord Sets: Made from breathable, natural fabrics, these velour sets keep babies warm and stylish, with playful prints that resonate with modern parenting.

The Baby Trunk is not just meeting market demand but also addressing the rising consumer concern for the environment. Their products are free from harmful chemicals and made using sustainable practices, contributing to a healthier world for future generations. By prioritizing eco-conscious materials, fair trade craftsmanship, and minimalistic packaging, The Baby Trunk is aligning with the growing consumer preference for responsible luxury.

With India’s upper-middle class expected to make up more than 50% of overall consumption by 2030, the luxury baby product market is set for further expansion. Brands like The Baby Trunk are well-positioned to cater to this underserved segment, offering families a combination of style, comfort, and sustainability.

We would be delighted to discuss how The Baby Trunk is contributing to this booming market and the rising demand for luxurious, eco-friendly baby products. Please let us know if you’d like to explore this growing sector and the exciting opportunities it holds for both brands and consumers.

Kolkata, 30th January, 2025: Techno India Group Public School (TIGPS), Garia, today hosted its annual cultural event, OJAS – Prakriti Naman: Nurturing Nature, Empowering Education. Held at the prestigious Jai Hind Auditorium, OJAS symbolized the flow of positive energy within individuals and highlighted the symbiotic relationship between nature and education.

The evening began with the inauguration ceremony in the presence of Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group, Ms Tania Sen, Principal, Techno India Group Public School, Garia, Ms Pauline Laravoire, Director of Sustainability, Techno India Group and RJ Arvind which was followed by a felicitation ceremony by the principal. A heartfelt welcome and introduction by the Principal, Ms Tania Sen, who presented the school’s accomplishments over the past few years. She took a moment to recognize the collective efforts of the students, parents, staff and management in making the event a resounding success. Ms Sen spoke about how the school’s educational journey has been guided by the principles of holistic growth and the spirit of learning that embraces not only academic success but also cultural enrichment.

The cultural extravaganza captivated the audience with a beautifully woven script that incorporated a stunning array of performances by students and their mentor teachers. The performances were a true celebration of Indian culture, emphasizing its deep connection with nature and the ethos of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The evening was filled with traditional dances, musical performances, and theatrical acts that seamlessly blended the themes of environmental consciousness and educational empowerment.

“We are proud to witness the flourishing of our students, whose talents are showcased in every performance tonight. This event is a testament of their dedication, creativity, and the nurturing environment at TIGPS Garia that promotes both academic and personal growth. Our commitment to the values of NEP 2020 is reflected in this celebration of nature and education,” said Ms Tania Sen, Principal, Techno India Group Public School, Garia.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, it is essential that we not only focus on academic excellence but also nurture the values of sustainability, creativity, and emotional well-being. OJAS exemplifies our commitment to holistic education, where we empower students to think beyond the classroom, to appreciate the beauty of nature and to contribute meaningfully to society,” said Prof Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group.

RJ Arvind, shared his insights on the power of education in transforming lives. Additionally, Ms Pauline Laravoire, Director of Sustainability, Techno India Group, delivered a thought-provoking address on the significance of sustainable practices and their role in shaping a better future.

In a special segment, the alumni members of the school were felicitated for their outstanding contributions and achievements, further inspiring the current generation of students to pursue excellence in all their endeavors.

30 January 2025: To cater to the evolving demands of high-net-worth individuals, Canara Bank, one of India’s leading public sector banks, has launched the “Canara Crest” Membership program, offering a personalized and premium banking experience. This first-of-its-kind initiative by the bank program is available exclusively to individual savings account holders who meet the eligibility criteria, providing them with personalized and priority services across any branch to enhance both their banking and lifestyle.

 The Canara Crest program is structured into two segments: CREST & CREST PLUS for customers maintaining balances between ₹10 lakh to less than ₹50 lakh and ₹50 lakh and above respectively. This Zero Cost Membership is available either by invitation for eligible existing customers or through the opening of a new savings account under the Canara Crest product, making it accessible to all those who truly value the finest in banking services. Eligible customers can easily join the program through a simple digital interface, assisted by a dedicated Relationship Manager, ensuring smooth and hassle-free enrollment.

 Canara Crest goes beyond traditional banking by offering a range of exclusive lifestyle perks. Members can enjoy premium dining offers through an Easy Diner Membership, a Fitpass Pro Max Membership with unlimited gym access, and exclusive stay benefits at luxury hotels with privileges like anytime check-in. The program also includes access to a second medical opinion by renowned physicians from across the globe, underscoring the emphasis on providing holistic benefits to members.

 With priority service across branches, dedicated relationship manager, round-the-clock direct call center support, and other banking benefits, Canara Bank’s Canara Crest membership program reflects its commitment to providing a superior banking experience ensuring that members receive the attention and convenience they deserve.

 Canara Crest program, a balanced blend of luxury services and banking conveniences, is a fresh take on premium banking in the Indian market. The bank sets a new benchmark in premium banking services, designed to meet the aspirations of today’s discerning customers.