Archives February 2025

New Delhi, February 17, 2025:

Noted English litterateur and founder of British Lingua, Dr Birbal Jha, is to receive the esteemed English Literary Gem Award 2025 for his remarkable contributions to language training in India and the world of English literature.

Dr Birbal Jha will be presented with the covetous award in recognition of his relentless efforts in empowering individuals through English education and his significant literary impact on society.

Dr Jha has long been a social advocate for English education as a tool for social and economic empowerment. His contributions have touched the lives of millions, helping bridge linguistic barriers and fostering social mobility through language proficiency. His literary works and educational initiatives have played a crucial role in shaping the English learning landscape in India.

Through his nationwide campaign “English for All,” Dr. Birbal Jha has transformed the lives of millions by making English learning accessible to people from diverse backgrounds. His books, including Celebrate Your Life, Spoken English Kit, and English SIM, besides Lingua Bulletin, have provided invaluable guidance to learners, equipping them with essential communication skills for personal and professional growth.

Dr Jha’s pioneering efforts in English language education have empowered countless individuals, enabling them to secure better employment and lifestyle and actively participate in India’s global integration. His approach to English education has created a more inclusive learning ecosystem, enabling millions to access opportunities that were previously out of reach.

Dr. Jha has played a pivotal role in democratizing English skills in India by breaking socio-economic barriers and making language learning affordable and practical for all sections of society. His unique andragogy and outreach programs have ensured that even those from underprivileged backgrounds can gain fluency in English, enhancing their career prospects and self-confidence.
The award ceremony by Arogya Srijan Nyas is set to take place on February 26, 2025, at the India International Centre, New Delhi where he will be honoured for his profound contributions to literature, education, and social initiatives through language.

“Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions to English education and literature have been transformative. His dedication to empowering individuals through language aligns perfectly with our mission to integrate health and education for national progress.”, said Ajit Kumar, the convener of the programme.

Dr. Birbal Jha has been honored with numerous awards, citations, and accolades, including the National Education Excellence Award (2010), Man of Works (2011), Person of the Year (2014), Star of Asia Award (2016), Great Personality of India Award (2017), Bihar Achiever Award (2017), Paagman Award (2017), Youngest Living Legend of Mithila (2017), Global Skills Trainer Award (2022), Kavi Kokil Vidyapati Award (2023), Mithila Vibhuti Award (2022), Maa Janki Award (2023), Siksha Shikhar Samman (2023), and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Award (2024).

Dr. Birbal Jha is a multifaceted personality, widely recognized as a noted author, global skills trainer, and visionary social entrepreneur. His work transcends boundaries, as he passionately advocates for social justice and community empowerment through his impactful initiatives as a social campaigner and cultural crusader. With a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage, Dr. Jha has led numerous efforts to enrich society.

In addition to his remarkable contributions to social causes, Dr Jha is a talented lyricist and songwriter, who uses his creative expressions to inspire change. As a social worker and leader, he has consistently worked towards uplifting marginalized communities, striving to create a more equitable world. A masterful mass communicator, he has helped countless individuals unlock their potential through his expertise in communication skills training, guiding them towards personal and professional excellence.

Dr. Birbal Jha’s diverse roles reflect his unwavering dedication to making a difference and bridging the gap between education, social justice, and community development. His journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership and the transformative impact of effective communication.

February 2025, National – Embark on a captivating journey at The Writers Bar for an unforgettable book reading session with Indian Author and Columnist, Twinkle Khanna.

 On 17th February 2025, Raffles Udaipur invites you to an enchanting evening in the esteemed presence of Twinkle Khanna. Dive deep into the pages of her latest masterpiece and experience a literary evening like no other. The evening will begin with the Anandini & Bili Hu experience upon arrival, accompanied by live acoustic music, setting the stage for an unforgettable night filled with excitement and anticipation.

Bathed in the gentle glow of ambient lighting, Twinkle Khanna will grace the stage, offering a glimpse into her creative world as she shares captivating insights and powerful excerpts from her latest book, Welcome to Paradise. Following this enthralling reading, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to engage with Twinkle Khanna in a thought-provoking interactive session, delving deeper into her creative journey and the inspiration that fuels her work.

The Writers Bar is timeless and elegant, with colonial-inspired design that exudes sophistication. A bibliophile’s discreet haven, it boasts a well-stocked intimate library, brass counters, textured walls, and chandeliers that shimmer with pearls of light.

 With over 3,000 books lining its shelves, the space invites guests to immerse themselves in the history of great literary works created within its walls. To make the evening even more special, attendees will have the chance to get their personal copies of the book signed by Twinkle herself. As the night unfolds, guests will be treated to a delightful hi-tea spread, offering a chance to mingle, converse, and enjoy the company of fellow literature lovers in an atmosphere of charm and warmth.

“Raffles Udaipur is delighted to host this extraordinary book reading session. We are pleased to welcome Twinkle Khanna, whose literary brilliance will undoubtedly captivate our guests. The audience at Raffles Udaipur is in for a truly immersive experience, as they indulge in a night of insightful conversation and literary discovery,” said Mr. Rajesh Namby, General Manager of Raffles Udaipur.

James Williams & Max Mcrae To Lead MRF Challenge

Chennai, February 17, 2025: MRF, India’s No 1 Tyre Manufacturer, today announced their participation in the prestigious and highly competitive British Rally Championship 2025 and inclusion as official tyre suppliers for the 2025 season. Having dominated the European Rally Championships, Team MRF Tyres now seeks to extend their superiority in the UK. Leading the MRF challenge will be drivers James Williams and Max Mcrae.

The decision to participate in the BRC 2025 underscores MRF’s commitment to showcasing the capabilities of Indian engineering and manufacturing on the international stage. With a rich heritage in the Motorsport Tyres and a reputation for producing high-performance tyres, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the world of rallying.

“We are excited to take on this new challenge and represent India on the global motorsports platform,” said Arun Mammen Vice Chairman & Managing Director of MRF. “The British Rally Championship is a prestigious event that attracts the best drivers and teams from around the world. Our participation in this event will not only demonstrate the quality of our products but also inspire Indian motorsports enthusiasts and foster a sense of national pride. We are confident that our tyres will perform exceptionally well in the BRC 2025. Our engineers have been working closely with rally experts to develop the right products that can withstand the rigors of the sport and provide our drivers with the necessary grip and stability to compete at the highest level.”

The two professional drivers will leverage the company’s extensive research and development capabilities to develop tyres that are specifically tailored for the demanding conditions in the nine round event throughout the year in 2025. The first round of the 2025 season gets underway in Beverley- East Yorkshire UK ,at the East Riding Stages Rally on 23 February

TEAM MRF Tyres are winners in the FIA European Rally Championship in 2022 and 2023. Dominating the Italian Gravel Rally Championship for 4 years in a row, MRF tyres has also succeeded in Norway and Latvia IN January 2025 with the Snow Tyres. Brand MRF is already a tyre of choice in Hi performance rallies in Australia , New Zealand and South America. The company’s commitment to developing high-performance tyres has been evident through its participation and successes in various national and international championships.

Profile – James Williams, is a Professional Rally Driver. In 2015 he was adjudged as the UK young driver of the year. And from then on he has had good success in various championships. He was the winner of the Rally Isle of Man in 2024 and the Goodwood Festival of Speed winner in the same year. Apart from Rally driving, he is also a brand ambassador and public speaker.

Profile – Max Mcrae UK based Max McRae is excited by his first full British Rally Championship campaign. The 20-year-old Scot tackled four BRC rounds last season, but will step-up to the full six-event calendar in 2025. He closed out last year on the highest possible note, with fastest time on the final stage of the season-closing Cambrian Rallly. Max comes from a family with a rich history in rallying. With eight British titles to the McRae name already (five for Jimmy, two for Uncle Colin and one for father Alister), Max is well aware of the weight of expectation. Much as Max is keen to continue in that same vein, he’s realistic about his experience of – and the competition in – the premier British series. Of the four events he started in a Ford Fiesta Rally2 last season, he finished three of them comfortably in the top-10, including a fine fourth on the Cambrian.

Bengaluru, February 17, 2025: Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone startup, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited (HFCL) at Aero India 2025. This collaboration combines HFCL’s expertise in advanced payload systems with Garuda Aerospace’s leadership in UAV manufacturing and deployment, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s UAV ecosystem.

The partnership between Garuda Aerospace and HFCL will drive innovation across critical sectors, including defense, agriculture, surveillance, industrial inspection, disaster response, and logistics. HFCL will focus on designing advanced payloads such as EO/IR sensors, LiDAR, and AI-driven communication systems, while Garuda Aerospace will integrate these technologies into its UAV platforms, ensuring seamless deployment for both commercial and defense applications.

Under this MOU, drones will be equipped with AI capabilities to support various applications, including disaster management with thermal imaging drones for search, rescue, and damage assessment. Industrial inspections through high-resolution cameras and 5G-enabled drone networks for smart city surveillance will also be tapped. Additionally, AI-powered cargo drones will optimize logistics and urban mobility. Real-time monitoring and analytics for the Namo Drone Didi and Viksit Bharat initiatives will also support farmers. The partnership will further involve joint research in AI, machine learning, and sensor fusion technologies, driving the development of next-gen UAV systems with extended flight times, autonomy, and swarm capabilities. This strategic alliance strengthens India’s self-reliance in UAV technology, aligns with the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, and positions both companies to drive global market expansion through indigenous manufacturing and innovation.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder & CEO, Garuda Aerospace, said “At Garuda Aerospace, we’re building a foundation for next-generation drones that will strengthen UAV technology. This collaboration gives Garuda a significant competitive advantage, enabling us to offer our customers the most advanced drone solutions available. The integration of high-performance payload technology for our drones will benefit various sectors, reducing our reliance on foreign suppliers and boosting our ‘Make in India’ initiative.”

Mr Sampathkumaran S T, Executive President (Defence Business), HFCL said “The partnership with Garuda Aerospace represents a powerful synergy. HFCL is committed to driving technological innovation across sectors. By combining our technological strengths, we are together building a future where drones are integral to national security, economic growth, and humanitarian efforts. We’re proud to be part of this ‘Make in India’ initiative and excited to see the impact of our joint efforts on a global scale.”

The partnership promises to accelerate large-scale drone deployment, boosting indigenous manufacturing and creating opportunities for global market expansion. By driving innovation in UAV technology, Garuda Aerospace, and HFCL are poised to lead India’s journey toward self-reliance in advanced defense and technology solutions.

Bengaluru, India, February 17, 2025 – Noida International Airport (NIA) today announced a collaboration with Kyndryl (NYSE: KD), the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, to manage the airport’s modern technology environment and 24X7 support model. Kyndryl will draw on its more than three decades of experience managing and transforming airlines and airports in India and around the world, to provide NIA with the latest frameworks, advanced delivery services, and governance practices to ensure best-in-class technology-driven operations.

As a greenfield airport, NIA aims to offer customers a memorable experience while traveling through its terminal. With technology at the center of that experience, Kyndryl will work with NIA to build a robust IT foundation by reviewing existing architecture, establishing frameworks to effectively steer policies, implementing technology delivery changes, security services, asset management, and managing risks and audit compliance during operations.

Kyndryl will also manage NIA’s IT estate on Kyndryl Bridge, accelerating the automation of its IT infrastructure, while monitoring the real-time health and performance of its systems. Kyndryl Bridge, an AI powered open integration platform, will be core to the airport’s 24×7 technology support system, helping the airport proactively detect and mitigate issues before they impact operations and customers’ experience at the airport. Kyndryl will also implement robust information security services including first response systems to cyber security incidents, security policy administration and health status monitoring.

Speaking on the collaboration Christoph Schnellmann, Chief Executive Officer, of Noida International Airport said, “At Noida International Airport, our commitment to excellence drives every decision we make. Partnering with Kyndryl allows us to leverage their global expertise and innovative solutions to create a world-class airport that prioritizes passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency. Kyndryl’s proven track record in managing complex IT environments ensures that we are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern aviation.”

“In India, there are many citizens who are yet to take their first flight. Improving people connectivity across India is imperative and supports critical infrastructure needs and the India Government’s national agenda. It’s a privilege to enter into a new customer engagement with Noida International Airport ahead of the airport launch as it allows us to bring into purview the entire gamut of technology, consulting, delivery, and sustainability services that Kyndryl offers as well as grow and develop along with the airport’s expansion and growth,” said Lingraju Sawkar, President, Kyndryl India.

Noida International Airport will combine Indian warmth and hospitality with Swiss technology and efficiency to develop a modern, user-friendly design, inspired by India. The first phase of the airport will feature one runway and one terminal, with the capacity to handle traffic of 12 million passengers annually. Upon completion of all four development phases, the airport will be able to cater to 70 million passengers per year.

Mumbai, 17th February 2025: Genesys International Corporation Limited, a company providing advanced mapping, survey, and geospatial services announced its financial results for the quarter that ended December 31, 2024

Key Highlights:

•  Consolidated Revenue for Q3FY25 stood at Rs. 90.93 Cr.
•  Consolidated EBITDA increased to Rs.44.40 crs from Rs.33.30 crs in the same quarter the previous year constituting 33.32% growth on a y-o-y basis.
•  Consolidated EBITDA increased to Rs.44.40 crs from Rs.30.38 crs in the previous quarter constituting 46.16% growth on a q-o-q basis. EBITDA Margin stood at 48.83 % compared to 41.60% on a q-o-q basis
•  Consolidated PAT increased to Rs. 20.66 Cr from Rs.15.86 Cr constituting 30.33% on a y-o-y basis and Rs.20.66 Cr from Rs.11.23 Cr constituting 84% on a q-o-q basis. PAT margin for the quarter was 22.73%

Commenting on the Results, Mr. Sajid Malik – Chairman & Managing Director said, “The results of this quarter reflect the ongoing execution of and increasing acceptance of our map stack. The use of Location intelligence will become more pervasive to solve many consumer, enterprise, and governance applications. The company has developed a wide array of capabilities in many critical applications and the results of that will also continue in the coming future. Notably, our performance reflects the successful delivery of key geospatial projects in the 3D digital twin space, paving the way for increased traction going forward.”

India, 17th February, 2025 – Axis Communications the market leader in network video, announces three robust thermal cameras offering outstanding thermal imaging, regardless of light and weather conditions. These cameras deliver reliable detection and verification with a low false alarm rate—all while protecting privacy. They feature a powerful sensor with extremely high thermal sensitivity.

AXIS Q1972-E offers high-resolution thermal imaging in a bullet form factor. With four lens alternatives (10 mm, 19 mm, 25 mm, and 35 mm), it ensures optimal installation. There are also two box thermal cameras available. AXIS Q2111-E comes with a 60 mm lens making it ideal for long-range detection to capture events taking place at great distances. AXIS Q2112-E offers high-resolution thermal imaging and a choice of lens options (10 mm, 19 mm, 25 mm, 35 mm, 60 mm) for a wider or narrower field of view, including long-range detection. The thermal box cameras can be mounted on a positioning unit (sold separately) to deliver a 360° unobstructed field of view.

These powerful thermal cameras deliver actionable insights to support informed decision-making. They come with AXIS Motion Guard, AXIS Fence Guard, and AXIS Loitering Guard preinstalled for proactive surveillance. Plus, AXIS Perimeter Defender is available with AI-based functionality for enhanced protection. Built on a powerful analytics platform, it’s also possible to add custom-made third-party analytics.

Key features include:

• High-resolution and long-range thermal detection
• Flexible mounting options
• Support for powerful analytics
• Lens options available
• Built-in cybersecurity with Axis Edge Vault

[Delhi, 17th Feb 2025] – Innisfree, the globally loved K-beauty brand, is accelerating its Quick Commerce journey by partnering with Zepto, one of India’s leading Quick Commerce platforms. After establishing a foothold in this rapidly growing sphere, Innisfree is now expanding its reach by making its best-selling skincare products available to more consumers with the convenience of ultra-fast delivery.

Innisfree had recently forayed into the Quick Commerce space, and this partnership with Zepto is a further step to amplify its presence on these channels. Whether it’s a quick restock of the iconic Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum or a last-minute skincare essential, Zepto’s rapid delivery will ensure Innisfree’s nature-powered products are just a tap away.

Commenting on the same, Mr. Paul Lee, Country Head of Amorepacific said, “At Innisfree, we’re all about empowering our customers to take control of their beauty routines. With Zepto, we’re taking that empowerment to the next level by giving them the freedom to shop with us whenever, wherever they want.”

Ms. Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant Director & Head of Marketing added, “The future of commerce is quick, and we’re excited to partner with pioneering platforms to lead the charge. We’re all set to deliver fast, seamless, and quality experiences for our supportive consumers and help them make the most of their precious time.”

February 17, 2025: Audible, an Amazon company and the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling is pleased to announce the release of ‘Build an Epic Career,’ the latest audiobook by bestselling author, entrepreneur, and content creator Ankur Warikoo. Following the success of bestsellers like ‘Do Epic Shit,’ ‘Get Epic Shit Done,’ and ‘Make Epic Money,’ the author now turns his focus to helping young professionals navigate their professional journeys with confidence and clarity.

In today’s rapidly changing job landscape, conventional career advice can sometimes fall short. With this audiobook, Ankur Warikoo offers a fresh perspective on achieving success—one that prioritizes financial growth, fulfilment, and purpose. Written with Gen Z and Millennials in mind, Build an Epic Career is a guide to taking charge of one’s professional journey. His latest audiobook tackles career dilemmas with a central question: “What will make YOU build a truly EPIC career?” offering practical advice to help listeners carve their path to success.

Ankur Warikoo is a renowned entrepreneur, bestselling author, and popular content creator known for his take on entrepreneurship, career growth, and financial independence. Through his books, audiobooks, and videos, he has influenced millions with his actionable tips and advice. His ability to break down complex ideas into simple, actionable steps has made him a favourite among young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Commenting on the launch of the audiobook, author Ankur Warikoo said, “Making a career decision is one of the most important milestones in life, and the right guidance can make a huge difference. I’ve often heard from people how difficult it can be to figure out what they want to pursue professionally. That’s what inspired me to create ‘Build an Epic Career’ on Audible —a guide that will help young professionals make informed career decisions without feeling overwhelmed by jargon. What I love about audiobooks is that I can directly connect with my audience because I have narrated it. I hope that listeners find it actionable and inspiring and utilise it effectively to create a fulfilling and EPIC career. “

Self-development has always been one of the most favourite genres among Indian audiences, consistently ranking as a top category on the service. Audible’s 2024 year-end wrap reaffirmed this trend, revealing the strong and sustained interest in personal growth content. Recognising this, Audible continues to expand its diverse and extensive catalogue of self-development content, making expert guidance more accessible to listeners across India.

Hyderabad, 17th February 2025: Giri, India’s leading provider of spiritual and cultural products, proudly inaugurated its newest showroom in Padmarao Nagar, Secunderabad. This marks the third showroom in Hyderabad, further strengthening Giri’s presence in the region and reaffirming its commitment to serving the spiritual and cultural needs of devotees.

The grand inauguration ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Swami Pujanananda Ramakrishna Math, Hyderabad, as the Chief Guest. His presence added a spiritual significance to the occasion, highlighting Giri’s mission to provide authentic Vedic and traditional products to customers seeking divine and cultural enrichment.

Giri has long been a trusted name, offering an extensive range of products including divine idols, puja essentials, spiritual books, Carnatic music, traditional textiles, and much more. With the opening of this new showroom in Padmarao Nagar, Giri aims to make its vast collection of high-quality, authentic products more accessible to devotees and culture enthusiasts in the region.

“We are thrilled to open our third showroom in Hyderabad, reinforcing our commitment to uplifting and promoting India’s rich heritage. The Padmarao Nagar showroom will serve as a hub for spiritual seekers, providing an extensive range of products that cater to their devotional and cultural needs,” said Mr. Amar Girish, Sales Head, Giri Trading Agency Private Limited.

The inauguration event featured special pujas, spiritual discourses, and exclusive launch offers. Devotees and patrons are encouraged to visit the new showroom to explore the divine offerings of the Giri.