Archives July 2025

Mihup Leads India’s Voice AI Revolution with 9 Years of Innovation and Inclusion

15th July, Kolkata, India: Mihup, a pioneering voice AI platform, is marking nine years of transformative impact in India’s technology landscape. Leveraging artificial intelligence to drive digital inclusion, Mihup established itself as a market leader in enhancing voice-first conversation effectiveness between businesses and customers, with AI models trained in understanding local languages seamlessly.

The company has developed proprietary voice AI that understands regional Indian languages, dialects, and mixed languages like ‘Hinglish’, ‘Benglish’ and more. With powerful automations across speech analytics and virtual agent communication, Mihup enables intuitive and natural interactions for various enterprise use cases across industries. In fact, the company powers voice assistance in more than 1 lakh vehicles on Indian roads.

“Mihup was born from a belief that language should never be a barrier to accessing technology,” said Tapan Barman, Co-founder and CEO of Mihup. “For us, building a truly vernacular voice AI platform is not just about technology – it’s about inclusion. India’s next billion users, especially those from the hinterland, will have a mobile in their hands far more likely than a school or college degree. For them to engage well with the services and products they use, voice will be their go-to-medium compared to text. This voice-first digital experience will run on the rails of strong vernacular language-trained AI models that can understand multiple languages and their nuances to deliver natural conversation experiences. ”

He also added, “When we empower people to interact naturally in their native language, we don’t just break technological barriers – we create opportunity, dignity, and access for all. Over the past nine years, our journey has been about building India’s first truly vernacular voice AI platform  – not just as an innovation, but with a mission to achieve inclusion. Today, as millions adopt voice technology across urban call centres and rural regions, we’re proud to be shaping a future where AI truly speaks the language of the people.”

Mihup’s differentiated offerings include MIA (Interaction Analytics), MAA (Mihup Agent Assist) and AVA (Automated Virtual Agent) – plug-and-play solutions with easily configurable integrations delivering enterprise-grade performance from day one. These tools provide multilingual support, 100% interaction audit & analysis, actionable insights, and reliable performance even in offline or low-bandwidth conditions. This makes Mihup a trusted voice AI provider across BFSI, automotive, telecom, and other high-impact sectors.

Already embedded in more than 1 lakh devices, Mihup’s voice technology is now expanding into commercial vehicles and two-wheelers, while also gaining rapid adoption in enterprise and customer service ecosystems. The company, fresh from a  Rs 50 crore venture funding round in October 2024, is also preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) within the next two years.

By combining deep linguistic intelligence with robust, edge-ready AI infrastructure, Mihup continues to set the benchmark for voice AI in India – delivering smart, scalable, and culturally relevant voice solutions that put users first.

Special Ops 2 Cast Visits Rashtrapati Bhavan

Special Ops 2 Cast Visits Rashtrapati Bhavan — A Landmark That Defines Power, Process, and Protocol

RASTRAPATI BAWAN

New Delhi, July 15th, 2025 — As Special Ops 2 gears up for release, its core team — actor Kay Kay Menon, Parmeet Sethi, Karan Tacker and director Shivam Nair — made their way to one of Delhi’s most iconic institutions, Rashtrapati Bhavan, where they witnessed the Change of Guard ceremony, a striking display of ceremonial precision and tradition. From its grand architecture to the constitutional weight it carries, Rashtrapati Bhavan isn’t just a building — it’s where power meets protocol echoing the very themes Special Ops 2 navigates: systems, structures, and the inner workings of the Indian state.

Kay Kay Menon, who reprises his role as the formidable intelligence officer Himmat Singh, said, “As someone who plays a character deeply involved in the system, it was surreal to be present at one of the most important places in India. The ceremony, the energy, the space — it was an experience unlike any & it all felt very real and aligned with the world of Special Ops 2.”

Karan Tacker, who plays the field agent Farooq Ali, added, “Delhi has always been a very special location for me because it’s where I shot my younger portions for Special Ops for the first time. Returning here for this extremely prestigious ceremony was an absolutely surreal experience. The grandeur, discipline, and sheer energy of the moment gave us all goosebumps.”

Director Shivam Nair shared, “Rashtrapati Bhavan is one of the most iconic symbols of our democracy — where protocol, purpose, and power converge. Witnessing the Change of Guard ceremony was a humbling experience. It served as a reminder of the discipline, order, and tradition that quietly uphold the functioning of our country. As storytellers, such moments offer deep reflection and inspiration.”

Parmeet Sethi spoke with awe and appreciation, “I’ve visited many places in my life, but there’s something deeply powerful about stepping into Rashtrapati Bhavan. The sense of history, the legacy it carries, and the silent strength it exudes are overwhelming. Being here made me reflect on how much history, tradition, and protocol exist behind the scenes of power. It was fascinating to see it up close.

While Special Ops 2 takes on missions across the world, it stays rooted in New Delhi — a city full of history, with institutions that shape the country every day!

~ Watch the return of India’s most elite covert team as Special Ops 2 streams exclusively on JioHotstar from July 18th, 2025. ~

AI Appreciation Day – Insight from Experts

Zscaler: Suvabrata Sinha, CISO-in-Residence

“AI Appreciation Day is a timely reminder that we’re witnessing a dual transformation one of innovation and one of responsibility. Our ThreatLabz 2025 AI Security Report analysed over 536 billion AI transactions and revealed both the enormous potential of AI and the growing complexity of its misuse. From agentic AI to deepfake platforms and AI-enhanced phishing, the risks are evolving as fast as the technology itself.

India is leading AI/ML transaction volumes in APAC, highlighting the region’s accelerated digital transformation. But this rapid adoption also brings real-world challenges navigating compliance, managing costs, and bridging talent gaps in securing AI at scale. As we celebrate how far AI has come, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on how we’re safeguarding its future. Embedding AI into enterprise strategy is no longer a choice but ensuring trust, governance, and resilience around it must be a shared priority across industries. The balance between innovation, precision, and protection will define the next era of intelligent transformation.

Lenovo ISG: Amit Luthra, Managing Director, Lenovo ISG India

“AI Appreciation Day is a timely reminder that AI is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s a business-critical imperative today. Yet, many organizations are limited not by vision, but by the realities of their infrastructure and readiness. Lenovo’s CIO Playbook 2025 reveals that 63% of enterprises in India favor hybrid or on-premises environments for AI workloads, underscoring the urgent need for secure, scalable, and low-latency infrastructure. As AI advances, it is transforming how data is analyzed, decisions are made, and business outcomes are achieved. At Lenovo, we see the future in Hybrid AI — a secure, flexible, and distributed model that empowers AI to operate wherever it delivers the greatest impact: in the cloud, on-premises, or at the edge. India’s AI journey is still emerging, with 49% of organizations currently evaluating or planning adoption. This signals a meaningful shift from hype to tangible impact, as enterprises focus on building a strong foundation for sustainable growth. On this AI Appreciation Day, it is time for organizations to move beyond experiments and embrace AI as a core driver of growth, inclusion, and real-world value.”

F5: Pratik Shah, Managing Director India & SAARC, F5

“On AI Appreciation Day, it is important to reflect not just on the significant advancements in artificial intelligence, but also on our shared responsibility to deploy it with purpose, trust, and long-term value. For Indian enterprises, the adoption has shifted from pilot project to platform readiness. Going forward, AI is expected to orchestrate end-to-end processes, replacing traditional management consoles with natural language interfaces and programmable platforms.

While every app we interact today leverages AI to some extent, this widespread adoption underscores the critical importance to secure these AI-powered applications, ensuring organizations can safely continue to harness their full benefits. Even our 2025 State of Application Strategy Report revealed that 96% of organisations are deploying AI models. As AI becomes core to business operations and competitiveness, platforms must offer flexibility without compromising security. We need to focus on making AI practical, secure and scalable from optimizing interference performance to securing data pipeline for enterprises to move with promptness, assurance, and control. Our mission is to help enterprises build the infrastructure they need to move forward with confidence, control, and resilience to support growing demands.”

Cloudera: Mayank Baid, Regional Vice President, India & South Asia

“On AI Appreciation Day, we honor the extraordinary advances in Artificial Intelligence and its power to redefine our world. Over the years, AI has become a key enabler of digital transformation. In fact, our recent survey, titled The Future of Enterprise AI Agents, revealed that 84% of Indian respondents said they have implemented AI agents in the past two years, and 98% plan to expand their use in the coming years.

At Cloudera, we are committed to the rapid deployment of trusted AI by enabling organizations to integrate any AI model with secure and governed data across hybrid environments. By empowering Indian businesses to derive AI-driven insights securely while retaining full control over their infrastructure, we are supporting greater agility, compliance, and insight-driven innovation. This aligns seamlessly with Digital India’s goals and the nation’s digital upskilling efforts”.

Elastic: Karthik Rajaram, Area Vice President & General Manager, Elastic India

“AI has rapidly evolved over the last few years – it is now able to learn and create a wide range of creative responses far quicker than humans. Fueling this evolution is search, which enables AI applications not only to learn but also to extract value from data. Search underpins effective AI applications by providing fast and accurate access to data. While not immediately apparent, search drives many of the applications and services that we use frequently. For example, India’s largest jobs and professional networking platform, Apna, uses AI and search to connect 50 million registered users and 600,000 employers. The service provides users with highly relevant and personalised job notifications while connecting employers with candidates that match their hiring criteria. AI and search also play a massive role in providing real-time visibility into business-critical systems and ensuring that they run at peak performance. This visibility across multiple data sources enables companies to unify their security operations into a single platform, improving threat detection, reducing false positives, and strengthening their security posture. By fusing search with AI, companies can unlock the full potential of their structured and unstructured data to make better decisions, maximise efficiency and elevate customer experiences. As India seeks to establish itself as a leader in AI through the IndiaAI Mission, Elastic is proud to support the country’s AI vision with technologies that are open, adaptive, and capable of providing a real-time, complete view of all data.”

CrewAI: João Moura, CEO, CrewAI

“AI Appreciation Day is more than a celebration of technology — it’s a reflection on how AI is reshaping the way we work, where human and AI collaboration drives lasting value. At CrewAI, we believe the future lies in multi-agentic driven workflows: intelligent agents that operate with autonomy, align with business goals, and collaborate with people as capable teammates. These agents aren’t just responding to prompts — they’re reasoning, coordinating, and driving complex workflows end-to-end. Through our partnership with Cloudera, we help organizations operationalize these agents securely across hybrid environments, ensuring performance at scale without compromising compliance or control. As AI adoption accelerates, enterprises need more than models — they need orchestration, oversight, and alignment with real-world business outcomes. The move from experimentation to integration hinges on trust, and we’re proud to help build that foundation”

Techno Digital: Amit Agrawal, President

“Artificial intelligence is only as powerful as the infrastructure that fuels it. At Techno Digital, we recognize that AI innovation begins with robust, sustainable and scalable digital infrastructure. From GPU-optimized clusters and liquid-cooled high-density compute to latency-sensitive AI workloads at the edge, our infrastructure is built to meet the speed, scale, and diversity AI demands.

We are accelerating the decentralization of AI by building India’s largest network of interconnected network of data centers, bringing compute closer to communities, devices, and users. Our mission is to enable AI innovation by focusing on localised AI model training and inferences using GPUs and diverse regional data, ensuring that AI solutions are sustainable, efficient, and accessible for everyone. We are committed to building a digital framework that is sustainable, efficient, and accessible for everyone. Our core focus is to ensure that AI serves every citizen — not just those in metro cities, but across the length and breadth of the country.

On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a digital backbone that supports ethical AI, fosters collaboration, and transforms lives – one intelligent node at a time.”

Intuitive.Cloud: Jay Modh, Founder & CEO of Intuitive.Cloud

“AI is fast becoming the backbone of intelligent enterprise across industry verticals. At Intuitive.Cloud, we are co-building the Data Intelligence and AI-led future with scale, agility, security and governance where enterprises can accelerate the context-aware intelligence and transformation with trust and confidence.” said Jay Modh, Founder & CEO of Intuitive.Cloud. “India is not just a talent hub; it’s emerging as a global engine of applied AI innovation. It’s estimated that AI could contribute over $500 billion to the Indian economy and $4 Trillion to the world economy in the near term, underscoring the scale of transformation already underway. The priority now isn’t adoption but orchestration, for high-quality data, responsible AI, security, and governance delivering measurable business outcomes. It is about value over volume, about impact over noise, delivering continuous modernization at the speed of business. At its best, AI augments, not replaces, human potential, reducing the inefficiencies and chaos in the system. The real opportunity is to build intelligently, scale responsibly, and lead with clarity.”

Bajel Projects Limited to boost its galvanization and product manufacturing capacity to support the ‘Make in India’ Initiative

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India – 15th July 2025: Bajel Projects Limited (Bajel) announced a significant proposed investment of ₹170 crore to more than double its galvanization capacity at its Ranjangaon facility in Maharashtra. This strategic expansion, set to increase output from over 40,000 metric tons (MT) per annum to more than 100,000 MT per annum, mirrors Bajel’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, enhance operational efficiency, and capitalize on the burgeoning power transmission market. With this investment, Bajel will also enhance its production capabilities in transmission towers, monopoles, lighting towers, high masts, etc.

On July 10, 2025, a Bhumi Pujan ceremony took place at the Ranjangaon manufacturing plant. The auspicious event was graced by Chairman Mr. Shekhar Bajaj, with the presence of employees and the leadership team from Bajel Projects and Bajaj Electricals. Commenting on future growth, Mr. Bajaj highlighted the strategic imperative to expand manufacturing capacity. He reminisced about the foundation of the manufacturing plant in the early 2000s while lauding the late Shri. Anant Bajaj’s significant contribution to the growth of the plant over the years to support the EPC business. He also stressed the importance of being more aspirational, goal-oriented and striving for increased production volumes, especially leveraging the capabilities of the new galvanized plant.

The phased expansion, scheduled between Q4 FY26 and Q4 FY27, will be funded through a judicious mix of internal accruals and debt. This decision comes as Bajel’s Ranjangaon unit is currently operating at an impressive 98% utilization rate, highlighting the immediate need for increased capacity. This substantial investment will not only support Bajel Projects’ growing captive demand but also enable the company to seize increased sales opportunities in both domestic and international markets. The enhanced capacity is poised to significantly strengthen Bajel’s position as a key player in the power transmission sector, contributing to the nation’s infrastructure development.

The global power transmission market is experiencing robust growth, driven by escalating electricity demand, rapid urbanization and industrialization, and the increasing integration of renewable energy sources into existing grids. Governments worldwide are investing heavily in upgrading and expanding their power transmission networks to accommodate rising energy needs and to ensure reliable and efficient electricity supply. India is witnessing significant growth due to its expanding economy and large-scale infrastructure development projects, positioning companies like Bajel Projects Limited to contribute significantly to this growth.

Commenting on this pivotal development, Mr. Rajesh Ganesh, MD and CEO of Bajel Projects Limited, stated, “The significant capacity expansion reflects our steadfast adherence to the ‘Make in India’ vision. By more than doubling our galvanization output, we are not only bolstering our operational efficiency and meeting the surging demand in the power transmission market but also solidifying our contribution to the nation’s self-reliance. This investment also highlights our confidence in the robust growth trajectory of the Indian economy and our dedication to delivering world-class products and services.”

Medusa Beverages partners with One Source to elevate brand communication

New Delhi, India, 15 July 2025 – Medusa Beverages, a leader in crafting innovative and premium beers, has announced its partnership with One Source, a leading integrated marketing consultancy. The collaboration will focus on reputation management, strategic communication, and amplifying Medusa Beverages’ brand presence across key markets.

Founded in 2017, Medusa Beverages disrupted the Indian beer market by introducing a mid-strength beer with a 5.9% alcohol content that balances taste, hit, and drinkability, catering to evolving consumer preferences. In just six years, the company has achieved remarkable growth, emerging as the third-largest beer player in Delhi with a 7% market share. Today, Medusa Beverages offers a variety of beers, including its flagship Medusa Beer, Medusa Air, Medusa Premium Strong Ale, and its latest collaboration with Warner Brothers for Medusa House of the Dragon Beer. At One Source, the mandate will be spearheaded by lead counsel on the account, Dyutiman Basu, reporting into Co- lead for Corporate Communication, Honey Mehra and the national team.

“At Medusa Beverages, we have always believed in pushing boundaries and creating a unique beer-drinking experience for our consumers. As we continue to expand our footprint, our partnership with One Source will enable us to craft compelling narratives, engage with our audience more effectively, and strengthen our position as a category leader in the industry,” said Avneet Singh, Founder and CEO, Medusa Beverages.

Sandeep Rao, Managing Director, One Source, added, “Medusa Beverages is a brand that has redefined the beer-drinking culture in India. Our approach as a consultancy is to align with our partners’ business objectives and drive impactful communication strategies. We are excited to work with Medusa Beverages and look forward to building a strong, resonant brand story that connects with beer enthusiasts across India.”

One Source, with its offices in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, serves a diverse clientele across sectors, including consumer goods, BFSI, technology, and startups. The consultancy has built a reputation for delivering strategic marketing solutions across branding, content marketing, digital marketing, and corporate communication.

Audi India launches Audi Dash Cam – A smart security companion for every drive

Mumbai, July 15, 2025: Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, today launched the Audi Dash Cam in India. Priced at INR 68,000/-, the Audi Dash Cam represents a leap forward in in-car surveillance and security technology. It is compatible with all Audi models and can be retrofitted or ordered with new car deliveries. The system goes beyond traditional recording devices to deliver comprehensive vehicle protection. Whether customers are driving through busy streets or parking their vehicles, the Audi Dash Cam provides an extra pair of eyes to help detect damage and other untoward incidents. The Audi Dash Cam sets a new benchmark in performance with its crystal-clear QHD resolution, smart battery protection, and seamless control via an advanced mobile app. It’s engineered to meet Audi’s stringent standards for safety, integration, and durability.

The Audi Dash Cam addresses critical automotive security challenges with advanced parking mode functionality that records when motion or impact is detected while the vehicle is stationary. This provides essential evidence in hit-and-run incidents or vandalism cases, offering protection when owners are away from their vehicles. The system also helps protect against staged accidents and fraudulent claims by providing comprehensive recording capability that serves as an independent witness to events. Its mobile app integration allows customers to access recorded footage.

 Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The launch of Audi Dash Cam is a reflection of our continued commitment to delivering advanced technology solutions that enhance the ownership experience for our customers. This system provides round-the-clock protection, offering complete peace of mind to Audi customers whether they are driving or parked. With comprehensive recording capabilities and smart connectivity features, the UTR sets new standards in automotive security technology.”

Key Features:

Recording and storage:

  • Videos recorded onto the internal SD card
  • iOS and Android app compatibility
  • Event functions through the mobile app

Protection modes:

    • Event mode for incident recording
    • Park mode with motion detection
    • Mobile app integration

Security benefits:

  • Accident documentation for insurance claims
  • Parking protection against hit-and-run incidents and vandalism
  • Protection against fraud and staged accidents
  • Real-time footage recording of driving incidents
  • Surveillance capability when parked

The Audi Dash Cam is now available across all Audi India dealerships. Existing Audi owners can have it retrofitted during their next service visit, while new customers may choose to have it installed at the time of vehicle delivery.

Indiranagar Gets a New No-Fuss Hangout Spot! Bricks Bar and Kitchen Opens a New Outlet in Bangalore

Bangalore, 15th July 2025: Sensing the demand for casual yet vibrant hangout spots, BRICKS Bar & Kitchen is debuting its second outlet in Bangalore, this time at Indiranagar. Located in the heart of the city, near the Domlur Flyover, this will be a rooftop establishment pairing the beauty of lush greenery with the bustle of regular life below.

bricks

Built on the premise of strong foundations that go beyond bricks and mortar, the place is more than just a hangout. It aims to cement friendships and relationships over a round of chilled cocktails and quick bites. It is the kind of place to build stories brick by brick, fostering a sense of community among neighbourhood regulars, music lovers and casual drinkers who enjoy the comfort of a familiar spot to unwind. Live music, a laid-back vibe and comfortable seating create an ambience one will keep returning to. The management quotes, “Whether it’s an after-work drink, a weekend hangout, or a live music night, you’ll always find good company, great drinks, and a space that feels like your own.”

The menu taps into familiar flavours. From the classic bar bites, Indian favourites like Tandoori grills and Tawa specialities, Chinese starters to Continental staples, the variety in the food menu caters to every palate. The beverage lineup covers all types of drinks, easygoing beers and straight pours to crafted cocktails that’ll impress the experimental sippers.

With its earthy brick walls, little touches of greenery, and warm wooden accents, the space creates a cosy sanctuary to hang out regularly. Whether it’s a spontaneous beer-and-fries catch-up or a long overdue ‘wine and whine’ session with your BFFs, BRICKS could become your go-to spot. The place also plans to host live bands, DJ nights, fun social evenings and sports screenings to ensure everybody keeps having a good time.

The new opening will save you the troubles of googling for the ‘best hangout places in Indiranagar’. Head to BRICKS and lay a beautiful foundation of good memories over food and drinks.

IIM Jammu Inaugurates Five-Day Holistic Orientation Programme for incoming batches and New State-of-the-Art Hostel Complex

Delhi, 15th July 2025:  The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu commenced its five-day Holistic Orientation Programme with a grand inaugural ceremony on 14th July 2025 at its picturesque Jagti campus. The event marked the formal induction of the 6th Batch of Ph.D., 4th Batch of Ph.D. (Working Professionals), 10th Batch of MBA, 4th Batch of MBA in Healthcare Management, and the 5th Batch of Executive MBA (EMBA) into the vibrant academic community of IIM Jammu.
 
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Government of India, who attended as the Chief Guest. Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu, presided over the event and extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and the incoming cohorts. A special message from Dr. Milind P. Kamble, Chairman of the Board of Governors, IIM Jammu, was read by Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research.
Other distinguished guests included Shri Amitava Chatterjee, MD & CEO, J&K, Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta, Director, AIIMS Jammu; Bank; Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu; Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu; and Dr. Sarbjit Singh, Chairperson Admissions, IIM Jammu. Their presence added great value and perspective to the inaugural proceedings.
A major highlight of the day was the inauguration of the newly constructed hostel complex by the Chief Guest. The complex includes four modern hostels—Krishna, Sindhu, Narmada, and Yamuna—each equipped with 172 rooms, collectively offering 688 rooms in total. This development underscores IIM Jammu’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and a nurturing environment for its students. In line with the institute’s sustainability goals, Chief Guest, Dr. Jitendra Singh also planted a Rudraksh sapling near the hostel premises as part of a symbolic plantation ceremony.
The day’s proceedings continued with the formal inauguration of the Orientation Programme, which commenced with a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony and Saraswati Vandana, invoking the spirit of knowledge and learning.
The inaugural programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and Saraswati Vandana, invoking the blessings of knowledge and wisdom.
In his address, Chief Guest, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Govt of India congratulated Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu the faculty and staff for IIM Jammu’s impressive evolution into one of the fastest-growing IIMs in the country. He praised the institute’s inclusive and innovation-driven approach, calling it a model of national importance. Emphasizing the significance of youth in shaping a knowledge-driven India, he encouraged the students to actively contribute to the nation’s transformation under the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 as put forward by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. “This time is yours,” he remarked, inspiring students to stay rooted in values while embracing vision, versatility, and purpose. He also engaged directly with the students through an interactive Q&A session, addressing their queries, sharing insights from his experience, and encouraging them to think critically and make the most of their academic journey at IIM Jammu.
A message from Dr. Milind P. Kamble, Chairman, Board of Governors, read by Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu positioned the Orientation Programme as a pivotal beginning—an opportunity for students to engage with the institute’s ethos, connect with mentors and peers, and chart a meaningful academic journey. Dr. Kamble praised IIM Jammu’s swift ascent, including its attainment of dual international accreditations (BGA and EFMD) within a year, making it one of only five IIMs nationwide to achieve this unique distinction. He urged students to lead with curiosity, integrity, and compassion, stating, “Leadership is not just about leading—it is about learning, contributing to society, and growing with others.” He concluded with a call to action, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, extended a heartfelt welcome to all dignitaries and students. He shared the institute’s vision for inclusive growth and highlighted key initiatives such as the Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Skill Development (CEISD), Centre for Innovation and Transformation in Governance (CITaG), the Centre for Small Business Development Units, and the Centre of Happiness. He also spoke about India’s growing global footprint, noting the country’s projected rise as the third-largest economy, and encouraged students to take advantage of the world-class opportunities available at IIM Jammu. He also highlighted IIM Jammu’s exceptional achievement of securing two prestigious international accreditations—BGA Institutional Accreditation and EFMD Programme Accreditation for its MBA programme within a single year. This places IIM Jammu among the top five IIMs nationwide, and the only second- and third-generation IIM to attain both, marking a significant milestone in the Institute’s rapid ascent on the global higher education map.
Shri Amitava Chatterjee, MD and CEO, J&K Bank, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the incoming batch, applauding their decision to join one of India’s youngest yet fastest-growing IIMs — IIM Jammu. In his address, he emphasized the essence of adaptive leadership, urging students to know when to pause, when to step in, and when to move forward. He shared that true leadership lies in taking calculated risks, especially during challenging times, and that success is driven not just by competence and hard work, but by unwavering passion.
Guest of Honor, Shri Amitava Chatterjee, MD and CEO, J&K Bank, congratulated the incoming cohort and commended their decision to join one of India’s youngest yet most dynamic IIMs. He emphasized the importance of adaptive leadership and risk-taking in times of change, stressing that success stems not only from competence but from unwavering passion and the courage to act.
Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Gupta, Director, AIIMS Jammu, spoke about the unique MBA (Healthcare) program offered in collaboration with IIM Jammu and IIT Jammu. He highlighted the rapid digitization of healthcare under the Digital India Mission and noted that AIIMS Jammu is on track to become a fully paperless institution. He also spoke about the introduction of a robotic laboratory, demonstrating AIIMS Jammu’s commitment to integrating technology and innovation into medical education and services.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean, Faculty and Research, IIM Jammu, emphasized the importance of co-creating knowledge, adopting diverse teaching methodologies, and fostering an environment that prepares students to become innovative and responsible leaders of tomorrow.
Prof. Nitin Upadhyay, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, described the journey ahead as transformative and exciting. He encouraged students to embrace academic rigor, stay curious, and fully immerse themselves in the opportunities available to them.
Dr. Sarbjit Singh, Chairperson Admissions, IIM Jammu presented an overview of the incoming student profiles and urged students to make the most of their time at IIM Jammu.
The inaugural ceremony culminated with the national anthem and vote of thanks by Dr. Muqbil Burhan, Chairperson, Center for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Skill Development and Chairperson, Srinagar Campus, IIM Jammu. Dr. Parvathy B., faculty at IIM Jammu, served as the Master of the Ceremony, seamlessly anchoring the inaugural event with grace and professionalism.
Shri Venkatadri R. Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Chemicals Ltd highlighted India’s rapid transformation across sectors such as green energy, digital infrastructure, fintech, and tourism, noting how emerging disruptions are reshaping the business landscape. He emphasized the importance of case studies in sharpening strategic thinking and encouraged students to challenge assumptions as they prepare to become future leaders.
Shri Piyush Jain, CMO and CDO, Agilus Diagnostic emphasized that curiosity, adaptability, and the willingness to explore unconventional paths are key to sustained professional growth. He encouraged students to embrace diverse experiences, noting that some of the most rewarding journeys begin outside traditional boundaries.
The day began with an energizing session titled Maximize Happiness and Mindfulness, conducted by renowned yoga guru Shri Sahil Mehra under the aegis of Anandam – The Center of Happiness. The session focused on cultivating inner peace and emotional well- being among students. Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam and Media & Publication Division, along with Brigadier Neeraj Soni (Retd.), Co-Chairperson, welcomed participants and set the tone for the day’s engagements.
A self-introduction session followed, allowing faculty members and new students to connect in an open and welcoming environment. Prof. Nitin Upadhyay introduced the academic ethos of IIM Jammu with a session on “Academic Rigor and Code of Conduct,” followed by an overview of academic regulations and the student handbook presented by Shri Arup Bhattacharya, Administrative Officer – Academics.
In the evening, students attended a session on the 4-Tier Mentor-Mentee Program conducted by Brig. Neeraj Soni and Dr. Kamakshi Sharma, followed by refreshments, a cultural performance by artists from JKAACL, and the Director’s Dinner hosted by Prof. B.S. Sahay.
Day One of the Orientation Programme concluded on a vibrant note, blending tradition with innovation, introspection with celebration. The programme will continue until 18th July 2025, featuring leadership talks, academic briefings, industry sessions, alumni interactions, and immersive learning experiences designed to prepare students for a fulfilling academic journey ahead

Global South Asian Collective DESI TRILL Launches Fashion Line And Hip-Hop Platform

India, 15th July 2025DESI TRILL, the pioneering South Asian global platform at the vibrant intersection of music, identity and streetwear, proudly announces two pivotal initiatives: the launch of its premiere DESI TRILL clothing line and the introduction of ‘RAP KAR – Home of Desi Hip-Hop’, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to cultivating and showcasing hip-hop talent from India and the South Asian diaspora.

These dual unveiling underscores DESI TRILL’s integrated vision, where sartorial innovation converges with musical expression to authentically celebrate South Asian identity. The exclusive fashion line redefines modern streetwear, encapsulating the dynamic ethos of global South Asian youth through a seamless fusion of rich traditional heritage and avant-garde aesthetics. Concurrently, RAP KAR is poised to elevate the genuine artistry and burgeoning talent within India’s vibrant hip-hop landscape.

The inaugural DESI TRILL collection features an array of meticulously crafted, culturally informed designs, including premium hoodies, t-shirts, exclusive unisex silhouettes, stylish cropped jumpers, and versatile foundational pieces. Each garment is fashioned from superior materials, ensuring both unparalleled comfort and enduring style. With accessible pricing commencing at INR 1500, DESI TRILL endeavors to democratize high-quality, culturally resonant fashion for a broad consumer base.

The distinctive aesthetic of the collection is the result of the visionary leadership of Shabz Naqvi and Ty-Ty Smith, whose creative synergy has masterfully interwoven heritage influences with modern streetwear sensibilities. This same innovative spirit propels RAP KAR, which meticulously chronicles the evolving hip-hop movement through unscripted freestyle sessions, candid behind-the-scenes glimpses, exclusive interviews, and competitive rap battles, collectively amplifying emerging voices to broader recognition.

Speaking about the DESI TRILL clothing line Ty-Ty Smith states, “Beyond mere apparel, the DESI TRILL clothing line embodies a potent cultural movement. It reflects the raw vitality, profound pride, and unyielding individuality of a generation that simultaneously honors its heritage and fearlessly pushes cultural boundaries. Each design narrates a unique story, echoing the diverse narratives of the diaspora and the underground, thereby empowering wearers to express their authentic selves.”

From the vibrant thoroughfares of Bombay to the dynamic diaspora communities of Birmingham, RAP KAR amplifies a diverse spectrum of voices while upholding its underground credibility. It furnishes young emcees, battle rappers, and storytellers with a platform to articulate their narratives, share their truths and forge communities on their own terms. The platform encompasses four dynamic content verticals: ‘Rap Kar Freestyles’, delivering unadulterated lyricism from underground to mainstream artists; ‘Rap Kar Interviews’ offering in-depth conversations with emcees and producers; ‘Rap Kar News’, providing exclusive insights and backstage access and ‘Rap Kar Events’ fostering live engagement through cyphers, rap battles and forthcoming plans for a flagship festival.

RAP KAR commenced with its ‘Rap Kar Freestyles’ series in January 2025 at Mumbai’s esteemed Crepdog Crew, garnering over 100,000 views and more than 400 comments across 13 freestyle performances hosted by notable figures FeniFina and DJ Panda.

Speaking about RAP KAR Shabz Naqvi states, “These launches convey a profound central message: aimed at those who proudly represent the diaspora, the underground or the vanguard. We are confident that India has been anticipating RAP KAR. Hip-hop has always transcended boundaries. For us at DESI TRILL, hip-hop music and culture have been transformative. We aspire to highlight the extraordinary talent, from established artists to those cultivating their craft in their private spaces—your voices deserve to be heard. RAP KAR is for you.”

Larry Wheels Backs MuscleBlaze Biozyme with KGF’s Garuda Ram in New Campaign

New Delhi, 15th July 2025: MuscleBlaze, one of India’s leading fitness nutrition supplement brands, has launched an exuberant digital film featuring global fitness influencer and world record-holding powerlifter Larry Wheels, who has over 8.5 million social media followers. Wheels endorses MuscleBlaze’s flagship product, Biozyme Whey, in the film, citing its clinically proven ability to deliver higher protein absorption. This digital film is created as a tribute to Indian action cinema and also features Garuda Ram, the popular action star from South of India best known for his role as the formidable villain in KGF against rocking star Yash. With Larry Wheels bringing global fitness credibility and Ram adding dramatic, mass entertainment appeal, the film positions MuscleBlaze as a leading global brand rooted in science-backed, performance-driven nutrition.

the protein

The hero product, Biozyme Whey—known as Biozorb in the global markets—recently received a U.S. patent for its EnzymePro® formulation after 6 years of rigorous research and validation. This makes MuscleBlaze the only brand in the world to receive this patent. Wheels, who has personally used Biozyme Whey for over three months, vouches for its formulation and high-quality nutritional profile. Since its founding in 2012, MuscleBlaze has consistently invested in rigorous product testing and global certifications. Biozyme Whey has also been independently blind tested in the USA (Informed Protein, Labdoor), UK (Informed Choice), and Asia (Trustified), making it one of the most trusted and tested whey protein products in the world.

Mr. Kaustuv Paliwal, Senior Vice President at Bright Lifecare said, “We are thrilled to have Larry Wheels onboard to showcase the nutritional power of Biozyme Whey. India faces a protein problem in terms of intake and absorption, and Biozyme Whey solves this with its clinically proven higher absorption formula.

Larry’s unmatched strength makes the global fitness community curious about his regime, and we are proud MuscleBlaze is part of it. Featuring KGF villain Garuda Ram adds energy and appeal. This campaign is a tribute to Indian cinema’s larger than life impact – just as Biozyme is having among all Fitness seekers.”

This campaign reinforces MuscleBlaze’s commitment to innovation, performance, and building a fitness lifestyle brand with mass appeal and global relevance.