Archives June 2025

Hyderabad, June 5, 2025 – Hilton today announced the signing of two hotels in partnership with GMR Group-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) under its Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Hotels & Resorts brands. The hotels will be located at GMR Aerocity, New Delhi – India’s first global business district with world-class hotels, restaurants and premiere future-ready offices at Delhi International Airport. These developments bring Hilton’s luxury and full-service brands to the heart of the capital’s best-connected hospitality and commercial district. The projects strengthen Hilton’s presence in New Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), an area already home to four Hilton properties.

The signing includes the debut of Waldorf Astoria in India’s capital, and underscores Hilton’s long-term commitment to India’s fast-growing luxury market. The hotel will feature 150 rooms and suites, signature dining experiences, large event spaces and indulgent wellness amenities. Guests will also experience Peacock Alley, the iconic gathering space at the heart of every Waldorf Astoria. In addition, the 350-room Hilton at GMR Aerocity will be the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in New Delhi, bringing business and leisure travelers new, sophisticated facilities, dining options and social spaces, along with Hilton’s globally renowned hospitality.

Chris Nassetta, president & CEO, Hilton, said, “The signing of a Waldorf Astoria and Hilton in Delhi Aerocity with our partners at GMR-led DIAL underscores Hilton’s long-term commitment to India. As we continue to accelerate our growth in South Asia, these landmark properties and partnerships play a pivotal role in expanding Hilton’s portfolio and delivering exceptional, elevated experiences for global travelers. This signing marks a significant step forward in Hilton’s growth trajectory in the region and reinforces our role in shaping the future of the Indian hospitality market.”  

Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Corporate Chairman, GMR Group, said, “Partnering with Hilton to bring Waldorf Astoria and Hilton to GMR Aerocity reflects our continued commitment to bring world-class global brands to Aerocity, thereby positioning the facility as a force multiplier for Delhi’s tourism and business economy. Hilton’s global standards align well with our ambition to build GMR Aerocity as a strategic destination establishing new benchmarks in urban and hospitality infrastructure.”

Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “The introduction of Waldorf Astoria and our flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand to GMR Aerocity marks a major milestone in our India growth strategy, bringing timeless luxury and modern hospitality to the capital. This signing is another step in our goal to grow our India portfolio to 10 times its current size in the next decade, supported by vast infrastructure investment and increasing appetite for travel.”   

Aman Kapoor, CEO, Airport Land Development, GMR Group, said, “This partnership positions GMR Aerocity, New Delhi, as a globally benchmarked destination, reinforcing its role as an unparalleled strategic urban centre connecting India to the world. Our vision has always been to create integrated, world-class destinations that drive economic and social impact. Partnering with Hilton for these two renowned brands reflects our commitment to bringing best-in-class experiences to one of the region’s most important travel and business hubs”

Waldorf Astoria is defined by its rich history of effortless luxury, elegant service and culinary mastery.  Waldorf Astoria in GMR Aerocity will join iconic Waldorf Astoria properties in key destinations around the world, such as Waldorf Astoria New York, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund and Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre.

The signing also brings Hilton another step forward on its trajectory to grow its luxury presence to 150 hotels in the Asia Pacific region in the coming years. In the coming years Hilton will open Waldorf Astoria properties in Jaipur, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Shanghai, Tokyo, Xi’an and Hanoi.

In India, Hilton’s luxury brand portfolio is set to quadruple and will soon include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Signia by Hilton alongside two existing Conrad Hotels & Resorts properties in Bengaluru and Pune. In May, Hilton announced that LXR Hotels & Resorts would be coming to India, with The Den, Bengaluru.

Hilton is regionalizing its brands and expanding its brand portfolio in India to cater to different price points and stay occasions to meet the evolving needs of Indian travellers. The company will double its current five brands (Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton) to 10, adding Waldorf Astoria, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Signia by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton and Spark by Hilton in the coming years.

Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Hotels & Resorts participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Bengaluru, 5^th June 2025: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. is proud to commemorate a significant milestone in its manufacturing journey with the completion of 10 years of operations at its Chennai Factory. Reinforcing its role as a critical production base for both domestic and global markets, the company also celebrated the roll-out of its 5 millionth two-wheeler from this state-of-the-art facility—an Aerox 155 Version S that marked the milestone.

Over the past decade, the Chennai plant has become a cornerstone of Yamaha’s global operations to serve both Indian customers and export markets. It currently manufactures Yamaha’s hybrid scooter range including the RayZR 125 Fi and Fascino 125 Fi, along with the performance-oriented Aerox 155 Version S. From an export standpoint, the facility also produces the FZ series, the Saluto range, and the Alpha scooter—reinforcing the factory’s role in delivering Yamaha’s trusted quality to diverse global markets. More than 30% of the factory’s total output is exported, reflecting its manufacturing strength and global relevance.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Itaru Otani, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies, said: “The Chennai factory holds strategic importance in Yamaha’s global manufacturing network. It exemplifies our unwavering focus on people, processes, and products—driven by skilled employees, synchronized operations, and a strong commitment to global quality standards. As one of Yamaha’s most modern manufacturing facilities worldwide, it has supported India’s mobility aspirations while reinforcing its role as a trusted exporter to global markets. As we celebrate the roll-out of the 5 millionth two-wheeler, I extend my deepest appreciation to our dedicated employees, vendor partners and passionate customers who have made this journey possible. We will continue to progress, and Chennai factory will keep playing a major role in addressing the evolving customer demands in Indian and overseas markets.”

Spread across 177 acres, the Chennai factory operates with a unique integrated model—109 acres dedicated to IYM and 68 acres to co-located vendor partners—enabling seamless synchronization under a unified ‘One Factory’ concept. This approach has enhanced manufacturing efficiency, speed, and supply chain integration, making the facility one of Yamaha’s most advanced in the world.

Over the last decade, the Chennai manufacturing facility has been consistently upgraded to support Yamaha’s evolving premium product strategy—producing high value-added motorcycles and scooters with small to midrange engine displacements. With India’s stringent emission regulations, Yamaha Motor Company Ltd. identified an opportunity to position this plant as a global export hub, delivering products that meet the highest standards of performance and compliance. Today, the factory supports Yamaha’s portfolio across segments—ranging from premium models for Indian customers to those tailored for markets in Europe, Latin America, ASEAN, and beyond. With its focus on quality, digital systems, and sustainable technologies, the facility is well-prepared for the future of smart and eco-friendly manufacturing.

Demonstrating Yamaha’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, the plant houses an installed solar power capacity of 4450 kW, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and supporting green manufacturing practices. The facility incorporates state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced technologies for zero-water discharge and recycle/reuse of wastewater. It is also designed for maximum use of sunlight, and the buildings are compatible with solar power system installation. All common utilities are centrally located to minimize distribution loss and ensure centralized management, making it a model of sustainable industrial planning.

As Yamaha celebrates this dual milestone, the Chennai plant stands as a testament to the brand’s long-term commitment to make-in-India as a strong manufacturing and development hub of world-class two-wheelers. This achievement marks a significant step forward in strengthening Yamaha’s motorcycle business in Indian market with the unwavering support and loyal partnership of our enthusiastic customers who continue to inspire us at every step to push the limits of innovation and performance offering unique and enriching experiences worldwide.

India, June 05, 2025: Great Learning, a leading global edtech company in higher education and professional training, has released the fourth edition of its annual ‘Upskilling Trends Report 2025–26’.

The report is based on comprehensive primary research involving over 1,000 professionals across India, spanning various sectors, age groups, cities, industries, and educational backgrounds. This diverse respondent base offers a broad perspective on upskilling trends, job sentiment, and the evolving impact of technology on careers. The findings reflect growing optimism around AI, increased confidence in job retention, despite ongoing technological disruptions, and a strong willingness among professionals to explore new roles and invest in upskilling, especially in high-demand fields like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.

Job Retention Confidence Rises Sharply in 2025–26, Especially Among Professionals in Large Firms and Tier-1 Cities

The report indicates that 73% of professionals are confident about retaining their jobs this year, an 11 percentage point increase from the previous year. Confidence levels vary by location and company size, with 31% of professionals in Tier-1 cities feeling ‘extremely confident’ about job retention, compared to only 18% in Tier-2 cities. Additionally, 85% of professionals in companies with over 5,000 employees express confidence in job retention, while the figure drops to 58% among those in companies with fewer than 50 employees.

AI Disruption Met With Resilience: 78% of Professionals Optimistic About Career Impact

As professionals navigate the evolving job landscape shaped by AI and automation, a sense of adaptation is becoming increasingly apparent. 78% of professionals now express a positive outlook towards AI’s impact on their careers. Interestingly, MBA and B.Com graduates are more optimistic (89% and 84%, respectively) than those from B.E/B.Tech backgrounds. This is likely influenced by recent trends in India’s IT sector, where many large companies, traditionally major recruiters of entry- and mid-level talent, have reduced hiring due to increased AI adoption. This shift has sparked widespread discussions about AI’s effects on tech jobs, shaping the outlook of professionals with technology degrees.

Upskilling Gains Momentum as 81% of Professionals Prioritise Future-Proofing Skills in FY2026

In FY 2026, 85% of professionals recognize the importance of upskilling to future-proof their careers, an increase from 79% last year. Intent to upskill remains strong, with 81% planning to invest in acquiring new technical skills this year. 

Professionals in Tier-1 cities are especially motivated, with 46% rating upskilling as ‘extremely important,’ compared to 26% in Tier-2 cities. Company size also influences this outlook — 93% of employees in large firms (1000–5000+ employees) see upskilling as important, versus 75% in companies with under 50 employees.

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning top the list of interest areas for upskilling, followed by Software Development (36%) and Cybersecurity (35%). Notably, there’s a shift from preferring Master’s degrees in FY2025 to favoring shorter certificate programs in FY2026. This change highlights a focus on cost-effectiveness, targeted learning, and immediate applicability, reflecting the rising acceptance of micro-credentials by employers, and a strategic approach by professionals to enhance employability in an evolving job market.

Mumbai / Hyderabad, 5th  June 2025: Novotel Hyderabad Airport is set to transport guests to the vibrant souks and spice-laden kitchens of North Africa with its exclusive “Taste of Morocco” food festival. Scheduled every Saturday night from the 7th to 28th June 2025, this culinary experience promises an authentic Moroccan feast, rich in heritage, soul, and flavour.

As part of the hotel’s ongoing commitment to celebrating global cuisines, “Taste of Morocco” invites guests to indulge in handcrafted tagines, fragrant couscous, and a carefully curated menu featuring timeless Moroccan classics. Signature dishes like Shoraba ma sherwja, a traditional Moroccan soup, and Dijaj Mashwi, char-grilled chicken infused with Moroccan spices, will set the tone for an evening filled with exotic aromas and soulful bites. Guests can also sample staples such as Hummus, Muhammara, and Labaneh served with freshly baked pita, alongside live stations offering succulent chicken and paneer shawarmas, crispy falafels, and a range of rich desserts like Baklava, Basbousa, and the delicate milk pudding Mahalabia.

Speaking about the cuisine, Chef Amanna Raju, Head Chef at Novotel Hyderabad Airport, shared, “Moroccan cuisine is a mosaic of Mediterranean freshness, Berber soul, and Arabic depth. Through this festival, we’re bringing together the bold flavours and humble techniques that define the region’s culinary legacy. Every dish is a journey from the spices we use to the way we cook, and I’m excited for our guests to experience it firsthand.”

Adding his thoughts, Mr. Sukhbir Singh, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “We are always looking for ways to offer more than just a meal; we aim to provide an immersive experience. ‘Taste of Morocco’ is part of our commitment to delivering global culinary adventures right here in Hyderabad. Our team has worked passionately to recreate an authentic Moroccan evening with traditional flavours, ambience, and warm hospitality.”

India, 4th June 2025 – Les Roches, ranked No. 2 worldwide in higher education for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings, 2025), officially launches the world’s first postgraduate program exclusively dedicated to luxury private aviation. Developed in a strategic partnership with Jetex, a global leader in private aviation services, the program supports the increasing demand for highly qualified talent in one of the fastest-growing segments of the luxury hospitality industry.

Spanning one academic year, the Advanced Diploma in Private Aviation Management combines rigorous Swiss academic instruction with direct industry immersion. During the first semester, students study across Les Roches’ international campuses in Marbella, Crans-Montana, and Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches engaging in subjects including the global private aviation industry, aviation management systems, luxury client experience, effective communication in aviation and brand ambassador leadership in a lifestyle environment.

In the second semester, enrolled students undertake a guaranteed six-month internship with Jetex in the United Arab Emirates and will apply their learning in a real-world private aviation environment in a strategic location known for its world-class infrastructure, and rising volume of private air traffic.  After completing the internship, participants may graduate with the in Private Aviation Management or extend their studies by one semester to earn a Master’s of Advanced Studies in Hospitality Management with Specialization from Les Roches.

“Thanks to Les Roches’ global campus network, this program enables students to live and learn in three top luxury tourism locations: Abu Dhabi-United Arab Emirates, Geneva–Swiss Alps, and Málaga–Costa del Sol,” said Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches. “By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we aim to prepare graduates to seamlessly step into leadership roles. This global immersion not only introduces students to diverse cultures and key markets but also equips them with a comprehensive understanding of international best practices—empowering them to thrive in the increasingly dynamic and competitive global luxury private aviation sector.”

“At Jetex, we have always been committed to supporting and empowering the next generations. We believe that the unique personalities and skills of Jetex talents are what fuel the very heart of the company’s excellence, entrepreneurship and innovation,” said Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex. “The partnership with Les Roches marks a significant milestone—not just for our company, but for the entire industry. By combining world-class academic excellence with real-world operational training, we are shaping a new generation of talent nurtured on innovation, sustainability and service excellence. We aim to empower each student with a strategic and tailor-made development path to launch their career and exceed their potential.”

To apply, candidates must complete an interview with Jetex, hold a university degree, be aged 30 or under and demonstrate an advanced command of English.

As with all Les Roches academic programs, this diploma is accredited by the Swiss Federal Government and by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) in the United States.

A Growing Industry Ready for Takeoff

The private aviation market, valued at $38.5 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to $55.2 billion by 2031, driven by rising demand, efficiency, and ultra-personalized service. In Spain alone, the sector supports over 21,000 jobs and contributes €3.1 billion to GDP.

As the global private aviation sector experiences a strong upward trajectory—with the market projected to grow from $28.01 billion in 2024 to $30.08 billion in 2025—Jetex continues to lead the industry with its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. This growth is fueled by increasing demand for bespoke travel experiences, sustainable aviation solutions, and cutting-edge technology. Jetex, recognized as a global leader in executive private aviation services, is at the forefront of this transformation, operating across 37 private jet terminals across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and South America.

 A Launchpad for Luxury Aviation Careers

The world’s favorite private aviation brand, Jetex is recognized for its award-winning private terminals (FBOs), charter aircraft management, ground handling, and global flight planning. Students will join in roles such as guest experience executive, crew support agent or flight coordinator. This immersion will be a unique opportunity to build critical industry skills and contribute to a world-class aviation brand. High-performing graduates will be considered for career opportunities at Jetex upon graduation.

The program will allow selected participants to benefit from merit-based partial scholarships, a guaranteed six-month internship, and potential job placement with Jetex for top-performing individuals.

In 2024, the UAE’s private jet activity reached historic heights. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, where the flagship Jetex Dubai is located, recorded an unprecedented 17,891 private jet movements. This represents a 7% increase from the previous year, cementing Dubai’s position as a key global hub for private aviation. Several factors are driving this growth, including Dubai’s reputation as a prime destination for international events, leisure, and business activities. The city’s robust tourism industry was further bolstered by the steady rise in international visitors contributed significantly to the increase in private jet movements.

Les Roches continues to shape the future of luxury industries by aligning academic excellence with real-world market needs. Graduates receive up to five job offers upon graduation and join a powerful Alumni network of 13,000+ professionals in senior roles across the global hospitality, luxury, and tourism industry.

Palak says, “I’m truly very excited for this Sun Neo’s show as it’s a big opportunity for me. When I got the call for the audition and they described the character, I instantly felt that it was made for me. It’s a grey-shade character – not completely positive, not completely negative  and I’ve always enjoyed playing such layered roles. They allow you to explore emotions in a different way. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be selected, but luckily I was – and I’m over the moon about it.” 

By Dr. Srigopal Mohanty, Senior consultant in Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Center, Cuttack

Tobacco and alcohol are frequently discussed when talk about head and neck cancer.  However, another participant is emerging—quieter, less well-known, but increasingly dangerous: the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV.

HPV has long been connected with cervical cancer in women, but is now recognized as a substantial cause of head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal malignancies that affect the tonsils and back of the throat.  What’s more worrying is that this trend is becoming increasingly prevalent among Indian men.

What is HPV, and how does it affect the head and neck?

HPV is a genus of viruses that spreads via skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity.  While many strains are innocuous and resolve themselves normally, some high-risk strains (particularly HPV 16 and 18) might cause aberrant cell alterations.  These alterations can eventually lead to cancer.

HPV infection of the mucosal surfaces of the throat and mouth is common in the head and neck region.  Unlike tobacco-related cancers, which develop after years of exposure, HPV-related cancer can harm people who have never smoked or drunk. Many individuals diagnosed with this type of cancer are otherwise healthy, without tobacco or alcohol intake history. Additionally, tobacco and alcohol consumption is prevalent among Indian men, which interact with existing HPV infection and further increases the head and neck cancer risk.

Why Indian Men Should Pay Attention

The rising prevalence of HPV-related head and neck cancer among Indian men is worrying, especially given the low level of public awareness. Discussions about HPV often focus on women’s health and cervical cancer, but men are also vulnerable—both as carriers and, increasingly, as patients.

Social changes, growing urbanisation, life style alteration including multiple sexual partners and oral sex contribute to increased HPV exposure.  However, the idea that men should be vaccinated against HPV or checked for related concerns remains unprecedented, in India.  This gap in awareness needs to be addressed immediately.

Recognize the symptoms

HPV-related head and neck cancer do not typically present with evident warning signals.  Early signs may be subtle and readily overlooked.  People do not consider seeing a doctor because the damaged areas (such as the base of the tongue or the tonsils) are not apparent during routine self-checks.

As the condition progresses, symptoms may worsen, persistent sensation that something is lodged in the throat, hoarseness, swelling in the neck, ear pain, unexplained weight loss.  If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is time to contact a doctor.

Diagnoses and Treatments

Early detection is critical to effective treatment.  If symptoms are present, an ENT specialist or oncologist will most likely order a physical examination, imaging, and potentially a biopsy, to confirm the diagnosis.

HPV-related cancers are seen to respond better to therapy than those caused by tobacco.  Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these may be used to treat the condition.  In some circumstances, newly targeted treatments or immunotherapy can be considered.  Early detection generally assures favourable outcomes.

Post-treatment care is vital.  Because these malignancies impair key activities, including speech and swallowing, patients may require speech therapy, nutritional counselling, and psychiatric treatment, to improve their quality of life, and their self-esteem.

Prevention begins with awareness.

Although the vaccination is well-known for its ability to prevent cervical cancer, it is also effective in protecting men against HPV-related head and neck cancers.

Encouraging vaccination before exposure, ideally during child hood and adolescence, can dramatically lower the risk of HPV infections and HPV related cancers in adulthood. 

In addition to vaccination, maintaining good oral hygiene, engaging in safe sex, avoiding multiple sexual partners, and avoiding recognized cancer risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol, can help to lower the likelihood of acquiring HPV-related cancer.

Many Indian men, without the usual red flags of tobacco or alcohol use, are being diagnosed with head and neck cancers driven by HPV. This silent, but rising threat demands more than awareness—it calls for proactive action. 

Prevention through HPV vaccination is both safe and effective. It’s time to shed our inhibitions about HPV infection and advocate vaccination for men, boys and girls alike. Now it is time to prevent HPV related cancers before it becomes a threat to us. 

New Delhi, 4th June 2025: Fytika, a wellness brand that has made its mark by combining nature with contemporary science, has launched its new offering in the juice category, i.e., Sea Buckthorn Juice. The latest offering is a significant addition to the brand’s portfolio and supports its mission of providing effective wellness solutions rooted in ancient traditions.

Scientific studies have established the health potential of sea buckthorn, involving its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial activities. Such properties retain various functions of health, including cardiovascular, immune system, skin, and digestive health.

Traditionally known as the “Fruit of God, Heaven, and Warrior,” sea buckthorn has been revered in ancient medicine for centuries. The vibrant orange berry is one of the richest sources in nature of over 190 bioactive nutrients, including extremely powerful antioxidants, vitamins C, E, and A, and omega-3, 6, 7, and 9 fatty acids. Known for its support for heart health, immune system boost, skin texture improvement, digestive support, and anti-inflammatory benefits, sea buckthorn is now officially labeled a leading superfruit in functional nutrition.

According to Mr. Shivam Tyagi, Co-Founder & Director of Fytika, “We are proud to introduce our Sea Buckthorn Juice at a time when consumers are actively seeking clean, functional nutrition rooted in nature. With the global sea buckthorn market projected to grow from USD 508.1 million in 2023 to USD 1,391.6 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 10.6%, this launch aligns perfectly with rising demand. With its rich profile of over 190 nutrients, including omega fatty acids and potent antioxidants, this juice supports immunity, skin health, digestion, and vitality. We’ve developed it to be 100% natural, with no added sugar or preservatives, as today’s consumers demand both purity and performance. This launch embodies our passion for providing high-impact, science-driven wellness with each sip.”

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre proudly introduce Chef Shiiv Parvesh as their esteemed Director of Culinary, marking a significant milestone in the culinary landscape of this multi-dimensional lifestyle complex. With over 20 years of unparalleled expertise, Chef Shiiv Parvesh is set to bring his visionary approach to gastronomy to the heart of this renowned establishment.

Chef Shiiv Parvesh

A luminary in the culinary realm, Chef Shiiv Parvesh’s journey began with a profound inspiration from the flavors of his mother’s kitchen, leading him to pursue a postgraduate degree in kitchen management from the prestigious Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD). His illustrious career has seen him honing his craft at renowned hospitality brands such as Oberoi, Hyatt, and the Marriott Group of Hotels, where he not only mastered culinary arts but also left an indelible mark on the global stage.

Chef Shiiv Parvesh’s media presence is equally captivating, with interactive cooking shows and curated culinary events that have garnered admiration worldwide. His new role at Novotel Hyderabad & HICC signifies a pivotal leadership position in guiding kitchen teams across various domains, from F&B outlets to orchestrating culinary experiences for MICE, events, and weddings.

Renowned for his continual innovation and passion for learning, Chef Shiiv Parvesh’s culinary finesse has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Best Regional Cuisine Award 2018 by the International Federation of Chefs Association (IFCA). Beyond his culinary expertise, he finds inspiration in travel, exploring diverse cultures, and connecting with nature.

Rubin Cherian, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre, expressed his excitement about Chef Shiiv Parvesh’s appointment, stating, “As the Director of Culinary at Novotel Hyderabad & HICC, Chef Shiiv Parvesh will undoubtedly elevate the gastronomic experience, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of Hyderabad.”

In response, Chef Shiiv Parvesh expressed his honor to take on this role at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC, emphasizing his commitment to crafting memorable dining experiences for guests through creativity and innovation. He envisions each dish as an innovative masterpiece, promising an upscale culinary adventure for every dining moment.

Additionally, Chef Shiiv Parvesh also led the opening of ‘Permit to Grill’, a new restaurant concept at the hotel. By combining bold flavours with cutting-edge grilling methods, this exciting restaurant offers patrons an open-fire dining experience that values both regional and international influences.

Novotel Hyderabad & HICC welcomes Chef Shiiv Parvesh to lead the culinary voyage, promising a fusion of passion, expertise, and visionary flair that will redefine upscale dining in the city.

GURUGRAM/Bengaluru, India, June 04, 2025: Samsung R&D Institute, Noida (SRI-Noida) successfully hosted its third Startup Summit, a dynamic event designed to showcase disruptive technologies, foster meaningful collaborations, and spark conversations on the future of innovation.

The latest edition brought together AI-first startups and global tech leaders, focusing on cutting-edge advancements in healthcare, language models, audio deepfake detection, and extended reality (XR), among others.

The Summit highlighted the critical need for ethical AI, digital trust, and next-generation innovation through cross-functional collaboration. It served as a testament to Samsung’s unwavering commitment to strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem by leveraging robust technology partnerships, cross-industry collaboration, and talent acceleration.

This year’s event featured eight pioneering startups, including Sarvam AI, Jivi AI, HealthifyMe, ValidSoft, KOGO AI, NeoDocs, EnableX and Magnimus working at the intersection of AI, immersive technologies, healthcare, and natural language processing. These startups showcased their breakthrough products and explored potential pilot collaborations with teams from Samsung’s R&D centers, business units, and Samsung Ventures. The participating startups were carefully selected based on their innovation potential, strategic alignment with Samsung’s vision, and capacity to scale globally.

“As SRI-Noida continues to drive the research and innovation agenda, the success of the third Startup Summit underscores our mission to empower next-generation technology leaders through meaningful upskilling, sustained collaboration, and deep ecosystem engagement. This year’s edition was bigger, bolder, and more impact-driven—addressing contemporary challenges while enabling entrepreneurs to create solutions that are globally competitive and locally relevant,” said Kyungyun Roo, Managing Director of SRI-Noida.

List of participating startups included:

• Sarvam AI: A multilingual single model audio LLM platform
• Jivi AI: A large-language-model-based healthcare platform delivering AI doctor and analytics.
• HealthifyMe: An AI-driven nutrition intelligence engine for personalized dietary recommendations.  
• ValidSoft: A cutting-edge audio liveness detection system designed to combat deepfake call threats.  
• KOGO AI: Large Action Model (LAM) powering voice-driven applications.  
• NeoDocs: Mobile-based diagnostics for real-time, point-of-care health assessments.  
• EnableX: Real-time facial expression and feature-detection capabilities for enhanced user interaction.  
• Magnimus: Gamified XR-based fitness experiences driving engagement and well-being.  

A standout moment of the event was a dynamic panel discussion featuring startup founders and SRI-Noida leadership. The conversation explored the rise of AI agents, the need for personalized engagement in digital health platforms, and the imperative of transparent data governance. Panellists also emphasized the ethical deployment of AI and the critical role of trust in shaping user adoption.  

Discussions reinforced the growing importance of tailored user experiences and personalized feedback in motivating behaviour change and improving health outcomes. The Summit’s immersive format offered a 360-degree view of Samsung’s innovation network in India, fostering cross-functional collaborations, unlocking new synergies, and aligning startups with global technology trends. Participants praised the platform for facilitating deep-dive conversations with Samsung experts and accelerating product development and market readiness.  

By spotlighting emerging technologies in healthcare AI, language processing, deepfake detection, visual AI, and XR, the Startup Summit reaffirmed SRI-Noida’s pivotal role in driving transformational innovation. The event exemplified Samsung’s larger vision—co-creating a future-ready startup ecosystem that delivers meaningful, human-centered impact at scale.