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Hyderabad, Dec 8: The BioAgri Inputs Producers Association (BIPA) announces the 5th edition of BioAgri 2025, a premier conference and expo dedicated to promoting sustainable biological agriculture.

The event is scheduled for 10–11 December 2025 at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad.

BIPA, the oldest registered body for agricultural biology under the Societies Act, represents over 100 active members committed to advancing safe, sustainable, and biologically derived solutions that reduce dependence on conventional agrochemicals. The association supports its members through expert guidance in regulations, product technologies, and policy advocacy.

This year’s BioAgri 2025 will host over 200 delegates from the agri-input industry and feature 40 exhibition stalls showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovative biological solutions.

Renowned experts will deliver sessions on sustainable farming practices, biotechnology innovations, climate resilience, and emerging market trends. The conference offers abundant networking opportunities for global stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators. The expo will highlight the latest technologies, products, and services transforming the agricultural sector.

BIPA’s BioAgri 2025 stands as a testament to the growing momentum behind sustainable agriculture—providing a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation.

New Delhi Dec 8:- Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari extended his warm good wishes for the launch of cultural leader, artist, filmmaker, and author Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan’s landmark project Ekaa  The One. Unveiled on December 4th, 2025, at Siri Fort Auditorium II, South Delhi, the art-and-spirituality initiative delves into the divine feminine through a powerful collection of 64 paintings inspired by the sacred 64 Yoginis.

The event marked the launch of Ekaa  The One: The 64 Yoginis Trail, an 81-day travelling exhibition spanning 16 states and the preview of Y64 – whispers of Unseen directed by Jain Joseph, it’s about Dr. Beena’s decade-long spiritual and artistic journey across India’s ancient Yogini temples. Through original paintings, research, and field insights, the initiative brought a powerful feminine spiritual tradition to contemporary audiences in a renewed and compelling form. Art Curator Shahazada Khuram is playing a role on the team ok Ekaa the One project to connect this to the artist community.

The warm message shared by  Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari lent significant weight to the event, signalling strong recognition for the years of artistic and cultural research behind the project. His message underscored the relevance of the initiative and affirmed the value of the collective artistic effort.

Introducing his remarks, Shri Nitin Gadkari said,

“I am grateful to Dr. Beena Unnikrishnan and Dr. Bibek Debroy for their meaningful efforts. Through her paintings, Dr. Beena has beautifully revived the ancient 64 Yogini tradition and brought its spiritual depth into public view. Our history, culture, and heritage are India’s great strengths, and as we progress in science and technology, our living traditions remain equally important.”

He further added,

“Dr. Beena’s decade of dedicated research and her commitment to art, heritage, and community deserve sincere appreciation. I also fondly recall my association with Late Dr. Debroy and Smt. Suparna Banerjee Debroy, whose understanding of history and tradition has greatly enriched this initiative. Their combined contribution offers a thoughtful and inspiring perspective to this revival. I wholeheartedly appreciate their work.”

The evening also featured a screening of Y64: Whispers of the Unseen, a documentary by filmmaker and founder of NEO Film School, Dr. Jain Joseph. The documentary chronicles Dr. Unnikrishnan’s travels to dispersed Yogini shrines and the creative process behind each artwork.

The event also  scholar Dr. Bibek Debroy, an early patron and supporter of Ekaa  The One, whose encouragement provided crucial platforms that helped bring the project to national attention. His wife, Ms. Suparna Banerjee Debroy, continued to extend her support to the initiative and its cultural mission.

“This launch marks the beginning of a journey to bring the Yoginis back into public consciousness,” said Dr. Unnikrishnan. “The Yoginis revealed themselves to me over more than a decade not through texts or temples alone, but through listening, waiting, and surrendering to what wanted to emerge. Each painting became a sacred encounter, and now I invite others to experience these timeless feminine energies in their own way.“

Dr. Beena’s work revives an often-overlooked spiritual tradition, bringing forward principles of coexistence, intuitive wisdom, cyclical time, and transformative leadership: concepts embedded in Yogini philosophy and profoundly relevant today.

Hyderabad, Dec 8: Sports Tech Podium 2025, a first-of-its-kind, single biggest platform for Sports Tech, concluded at T-Hub on Saturday late evening. 

The full-day conference brought together India’s fastest-growing sports innovation ecosystem—startups, investors, tech leaders, corporates, athletes, federations and policymakers.

The Sports Tech Podium platform is supported by the Government of Telangana, the Sports Authority of Telangana, leading venture funds, angel networks, universities, and national innovation institutions—strengthening Hyderabad’s emergence as India’s Sports Tech & Innovation Capital.

Startups and investors who participated included Centre Court Capital, LegaXy, Impetus Sports Capital, Hyderabad Angels, TDV Partners, Anthill Ventures, and SucSeed Innovation Fund.

Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Govt of Telangana, was the chief guest

Telangana has unveiled an ambitious Olympic dream—to ensure representation in every sport India competes in when the country hosts the 2036 Olympic Games, said Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, Government of Telangana, while speaking at Sports Tech Podium 2025, organised at T-Hub, stated Karthik Yanamandra, who organised the Sports Tech Podium in a press note issued in the city today.

“Our Olympic mission was clear right from the drafting of the Telangana Sports Policy. The goal is to produce athletes across all disciplines and ensure Telangana is present in every sport India participates in at the 2036 Olympics,” said Jayesh Ranjan, participating in the panel discussion, stated Karthik.

Participating as Chief Guest in a panel discussion titled ‘Grassroots to Global: India’s Sports Tech Rise’, moderated by Karthik Yanamandra, the senior bureaucrat spoke about the State’s vision to build sports capability from the ground up.

“The Chief Minister himself is a sports enthusiast who has given Telangana’s sports ecosystem unprecedented support. The policy includes everything needed to identify and grow new-age sports talent,” Jayesh noted.

He added that the Government intends to gradually move away from direct involvement in sports operations, encouraging private sector participation and industry-led growth. “We are even coming up with a dedicated Sports University,” he announced.

Jayesh further revealed that during the Telangana Rising Global Summit on December 8–9, a major MoU is expected to be signed between Dubai Sports City and GMR Sports for a large-scale Sports City project in Telangana.

360D Sports, an initiative of INVE Sports Venture LLP, has announced the launch of a dedicated Sports Accelerator Sprintx designed to guide Sports, wellness, and fitness startups with venture support, investment pathways, and scale-up strategies. Jayesh Ranjan unveiled the logo of the same. It is supported by Sports Authority of Telangana, Woxsen University, Hyderabad Angels and HNDRD.

Highlighting Hyderabad’s strengths, Jayesh said the city’s advanced ecosystem in Life Sciences, defence and aerospace, and Information Technology naturally positions it as a preferred destination for global sports investments. “Infrastructure defines industry growth—we already have a strong foundation to build on,” he stated.

Aditya Reddy, Co-Founder & CEO, Game Point, said the first wave of sports tech in India began at the grassroots level through digital booking platforms, accessible coaching and organised tournaments. “Now, deeper technology is integrating into performance, analytics and broadcasting—even small events get live coverage today,” he said.

Only about 10% of India’s population plays sports passively, and just 0.01% participates in serious competitive sports. Cricket continues to dominate as the country’s largest sport with an estimated 655 million fan base. But as sporting policies strengthen and India hosts global events—including the Commonwealth and Olympics—the base of serious players is expected to expand rapidly. Even if just 10% of passive players move into serious participation, the sports ecosystem will unlock a massive business opportunity, he explained. To put this into perspective, many Unicorns in India operate with customer bases of only 25 to 50 lakh. Compared to that, the untapped sports market presents one of the most promising investment opportunities today, he emphasised, said another panellist, Ratnakar Samavedam, CEO and Managing Partner of Hyderabad Angels.

In another discussion, it was observed that the global Sports Tech market, currently valued at USD 19 billion, is projected to reach USD 40 billion by 2030, growing at a 16% CAGR, far above the global average of 10%.

India, Dec 8: TOTO India continues its commitment to fostering dialogue and inspiration within the design Fraternity through its latest chapter of Architect Talk this time in Namma Bengaluru. The event brought together leading architects, designers, and industry professionals for an engaging and interactive evening exploring the intersection of design, culture and innovation.

The highlight of the session was an exclusive talk on Water’s edge of the human’ by celebrated Japanese architect Mr. Akihisa Hirata, known for his unique approach that blends organic structures with modern functionality. Winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale, Mr Akhisa Hirata San is celebrated worldwide as an architect who turns imagination into spaces that feel alive. Architect Hirata shared insights into his key works, including the Tree-ness House Tokyo,2017, Art Museum & Library, Ota Gumma,2017, Global Bowl Tokyo,2021, HARAKADO Tokyo,2023.

From the vertical gardens of Tree-ness House in Tokyo to the open embrace of the Art Museum & Library in Oto, his works whisper of forests, light, and movement… creations where design becomes ecology.

Speaking about the event highlights TOTO India leadership showcases the brand’s consistent growth and long-term commitment towards the Indian market. They shared that TOTO India has recorded a growth rate of more than 120 percent year on year, aiming to reach a turnover of approximately INR 500 crore. The company aims to further strengthen its presence by expanding its retail footprint, introducing new product innovations tailored for Indian consumers, and deepening engagement with architects and designers across key cities.

During the talk, Mr. Akihisa Hirata shared his vision of architecture at the boundaries of humanity, where life and space intertwine. Through Entanglement and Reverberations, he explores new ways of shaping connections and resonances in the age of environment and life.

The Bengaluru Architect Talk served as a bridge for creative collaboration, highlighting how thoughtful design and advanced technology can come together to shape better living environments. Through initiatives like these, TOTO India continues to strengthen its relationship with the architect and design community, offering them inspiration, innovation, and insights from some of the most visionary minds in the field.

Powered by Stayfree Tampons, Neha Dhupia and Anita Lobo unite thousands once again as GoFloRun 2025 concludes with an unforgettable celebration of strength, solidarity & stigma-free conversations at Dome SVP Stadium, Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 08: What began as a spark last year returned as a blazing movement this morning, GoFloRun 2025 turned the Dome SVP Stadium, Mumbai, into a powerhouse of energy, courage, and community as 1500+ women came together to celebrate fitness, menstruation-positive conversations, and the spirit of sisterhood.

Powered by Stayfree Tampons, and led by actress and wellness advocate Neha Dhupia along with co-founder, ex-national level athlete, and entrepreneur Anita Lobo, the second edition of GoFloRun proved that when women unite with purpose, the impact reverberates far beyond the track. The flag-off moment was a star-studded show of solidarity with Varun Sood, singer Neeti Mohan who recently launched her single Mirza. A special highlight was the presence of entrepreneur and musician Ananya Birla, who went beyond ceremonial duties: she not only flagged off the run but also laced up her shoes and participated, perfectly embodying the GoFloRun ethos of strength, commitment and community.

The event kicked off with a high-energy boxing warm-up session at the Dome SVP Stadium, followed by the 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km run categories, drawing participation from women across age groups, backgrounds, and cities. From working professionals and young students to homemakers, athletes, and first-time runners, every participant added her voice to a shared mission: normalizing menstrual health conversations and celebrating women’s wellness without judgment or hesitation.

Supported wholeheartedly by Stayfree, the event continued its mission of creating safe spaces for women to laugh, connect, share stories, and embrace their health journeys openly. This year, GoFloRun also partnered closely with Dome, under the leadership of Managing Director Mazhar Nadiadwala, to elevate the scale, comfort, safety, and celebratory spirit of the run.

Neha Dhupia shared,

“The first time I ever ran a marathon, I ran alone with my coach. Today, as we embark on the 2nd year of GoFloRun, I run with the spirit of 1500+ women, each one taking a step toward changing the future of girls from different parts of the country. From where we began to where we stand today, so much has evolved. What has changed most is the outlook and support of men toward the cause of menstrual hygiene awareness. That shift alone makes us believe we are truly on the right path. With every passing year, we hope more women immerse themselves in the idea of health, fitness, and self-love, and come forward as a community for GoFloRun, not just individually, but collectively. From the moment we opened the gates to the moment we welcomed both the first and the last finishers, I’m reminded that the entire GoFloRun team is moving in the right direction. We are bringing about change, one step at a time, one family at a time, at our own pace, just like GoFloRun itself. Because what we’re building here is not just a run – it’s a legacy. A legacy of confidence, conversations, and choices that the next generation of girls will grow up believing in. And if even one young girl learns that her health matters because of this movement, then GoFloRun has already succeeded.”

Anita Lobo, Co-founder of GoFloRun, added,

“When we began GoFloRun, I was terrified, not of the run, but of whether women would truly resonate with a movement that asks them to open up about something so personal. But today, at the Dome SVP Stadium, looking at thousands of women running with their hearts first, I realised again how unstoppable we are when we come together. GoFloRun has always been about more than kilometres. It’s about the unspoken stories women carry: the pain we ignore, the strength we don’t acknowledge, the expectations we quietly manage. Today, those stories came alive. This community feels like a family now one that celebrates you, lifts you, and reminds you that you’re not alone. Thank you to all the partners who have come onboard for amplifying this mission and for helping us turn a simple idea into a truly transformative movement. GoFloRun 2025 has set an example of what women can do for themselves and for each other—when they run as one.”

Supriya Srinivasa, Director Marketing, Fem Care, Stayfree, said,

“Stayfree’s partnership with GoFloRun for the second year spotlights the importance of menstrual health. Our mission has always been to normalize period conversations and create a world where no girl or woman feels shame, fear or discomfort about periods. In this journey, the role of family, including the men as fathers and sons play a critical role, a change we have been striving to drive through our campaign, ‘Its Just a Period’ and it’s heartening to see men coming out to support this cause. Our association with GoFloRun is another step we are taking to bring alive our mission. It is inspiring to see thousands of women and their allies come together today to run, connect, and open up about menstrual health. This movement proves that periods is not just a women’s issue, it’s a human one.”

Mazhar Nadiadwala, Managing Director, Dome, shared,

“Hosting GoFloRun 2025 at NSCI Dome has been an honour. The energy, the purpose, the unity transformed the stadium into something more than a venue; it became a heartbeat. At Dome, we are committed to supporting events that bring communities together and create meaningful impact. GoFloRun is one such movement, and today’s incredible turnout shows how powerful this initiative truly is.”

The GoFloRun concluded with participants celebrating their collective journey—a testament to Anita Lobo’s vision of uniting women under the banner of fitness, empowerment, and menstrual health awareness. The success of this event marks a new chapter for women’s wellness initiatives, with Anita’s leadership at the heart of its triumph.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dec 6: The National Center for Non-Profit Sector (NCNP) has wrapped up the first International Nonprofit Forum (Beyond Profit) in Riyadh, held under the patronage of Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi, who also chairs the NCNP Board of Directors.

The three-day forum drew more than 3,800 participants, including senior officials, representatives of public, private, and nonprofit entities, international organizations, philanthropic foundations, social entrepreneurs, and corporate social responsibility leaders.

More than 100 local and international speakers from 20 countries took part in over 30 panel discussions, alongside an executive program and a series of more than 25 workshops. Sessions examined the future of the nonprofit sector and how to deepen its economic and social impact by strengthening enablers, expanding partnerships, and drawing on international experience.

During the forum, NCNP announced two new initiatives: the Nonprofit Insurance Initiative “Wasaq” and the Nonprofit Research Awards. Both aim to support people working in the sector, stimulate research and knowledge, promote innovation, and build the institutional capabilities of nonprofit organizations.

The event also saw the signing of more than 43 agreements and memorandums of cooperation and understanding, covering organizational development, scientific research, capacity building, digital transformation, and data management. The agreements are intended to broaden partnerships, empower nonprofit organizations, and enhance their readiness and effectiveness.

As part of the forum’s activities, NCNP launched the Corporate Volunteering Network, an initiative to establish volunteering departments within private-sector organizations. The effort will connect stakeholders across sectors, increase the effectiveness of corporate volunteering, and encourage high-impact social contributions by developing practical guides, launching targeted initiatives, and boosting healthy competition in volunteer work.

NCNP also issued 29 Social Investment Certificates to nonprofit organizations, activating the Social Impact Investment Rules announced in August. The rules are intended to regulate the certification process, encourage entities to pursue social impact investment, and strengthen investor confidence in certified organizations.

The forum hosted the National Volunteering Award ceremony, where 37 winners were honored across 31 awards. The award includes four main pathways: Honorary, Institutional, Volunteer Initiatives, and Individual Volunteers.

Ahmed Al-Suwailem, NCNP CEO, said hosting the International Nonprofit Forum in Riyadh reflects the strong backing the sector receives from the Saudi leadership. He noted that the nonprofit sector is a key enabler of sustainable development under Saudi Vision 2030 and an important driver of building a more engaged and cohesive society.

Al-Suwailem described the forum as a global platform that brings together sector leaders and experts from around the world, opening up new space for collaboration and strategic partnerships. He said this strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as an international hub for social innovation and impact and as a key supporter of nonprofit sector development. According to Al-Suwailem, the forum aims to reimagine the role of the nonprofit sector as a driver of human progress by advancing governance, building partnerships, enabling innovation, harnessing modern technologies, and investing in talent and skills.

He added that the forum is expected to deliver concrete outcomes, from expanding professional networks and attracting new social investments to helping nonprofit organizations adopt leading global practices. This, he said, will contribute to building a more effective, inclusive, and sustainable nonprofit ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and beyond. By hosting the first edition of the forum, he noted, Saudi Arabia is helping steer the global transformation of the nonprofit sector and consolidating its role as a center for innovation and influence in this field.

The close of the forum coincided with International Volunteer Day on December 5, an annual occasion that celebrates volunteers and highlights the development value of volunteerism worldwide. The timing offered an opportunity to showcase the pivotal role of volunteers in the Kingdom’s nonprofit sector. Through its sessions, initiatives, and the launch of the National Volunteering Award, the forum reflected a new phase in which Saudi Arabia is building a more organized and impactful volunteer ecosystem.

The recognition of volunteers throughout the forum underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening a culture of giving and embedding volunteer work as a pillar of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030’s goals to boost community participation and expand the impact of the nonprofit sector at home and internationally.

Kottayam, Dec 06: KFON has achieved a major milestone in Kottayam, crossing 10,000 internet connections. The service continues to gain strong traction across homes, offices, and commercial establishments in the region.

KFON has delivered 7,730 household connections, along with connectivity for 473 BPL families and more than 1,800 government institutions, including the Collectorate. By offering high-speed internet at highly affordable rates, KFON continues to gain strong acceptance among the public.

The network footprint in the district has expanded to 2,295.3 km of optical fibre cable. Commercial services are delivered through an extensive partner network, comprising 380 Local Network Operators working across the district.

Mumbai, Dec 06: This December, West1, Aqua and Dusk come alive with festive cheer as they unveil a series of Christmas celebrations designed for families, friends and holiday lovers. From themed feasts to live entertainment, the season promises something for everyone  with two major highlights on 25th December 2025.

     Breakfast with Santa at Aqua 25th December

The most awaited family event of the season! Join us poolside at Aqua for a heartwarming Breakfast with Santa, highlighting a curated festive menu, seasonal décor and soothing live music. Kids can meet Santa, enjoy the cheerful ambience and start Christmas morning in the most magical way.

   Christmas Day Brunch at West1 25th December

Continue the celebrations with the Christmas Cheer Brunch at West1, including:

• Appetiser from the kitchen
• Unlimited soft drinks & mocktails
• Live counters & live music
• Kids’ activities
• Christmas-themed décor and thoughtfully styled table setting

For those who wish to elevate their experience, the Bubbly Christmas Cheer Brunch offers sparkling wines, spirits and cocktails at INR 2799++ per person.

    Festive Add-ons Throughout the Hotel

Guests can also enjoy:

• Christmas Eve feasts at West1 and Aqua
• Live bands, resident DJs & singalongs
• Special Christmas-themed cocktail & mocktail menus
• Seasonal décor and activities across venues

Each space has been thoughtfully decorated to bring alive the warmth and wonder of Christmas.

A December to Celebrate Together

With delightful menus, festive entertainment and thoughtfully curated experiences, West1, Aqua and Dusk invite guests to come together and make this Christmas season truly memorable.

Chandigarh, Dec 05: Renault India, the wholly owned subsidiary of French automaker Renault Group, today announced the nationwide rollout of its flagship customer campaign – ‘Discovery Days’.

Scheduled from December 10 to December 22, 2025, the initiative invites customers to discover Renault’s new lineup, including the new Triber and new Kiger, through a series of engaging experiences at dealerships across the country.

Discovery Days has been designed as an opportunity for customers to interact with Renault’s cars in a festive, carnival‑like setting. Over two consecutive weekends, dealerships will host themed activities, immersive brand experiences, and personalized interactions, creating a welcoming environment for exploration and engagement.

To make the campaign lucrative car buyers can also get the following benefits:

• 0% Rate of Interest / Interest free financing on all models
• 50% waiver on processing fees
• Exchange benefits of up to INR 35,000 over and above the old car value
• Cash Benefits of up to INR 25,000 on new cars

 Venkatram Mamillapalle, Managing Director of Renault India, said:

“At Renault, our priority is to create meaningful experiences for our customers. ‘Discovery Days’ is not just about offers but about giving people the chance to explore the new Kiger and new Triber in a celebratory atmosphere. By combining engaging showroom activities with exclusive advantages, we aim to make every visit memorable and enjoyable.”

With the introduction of the new Kiger and new Triber, supported by GST benefits, Renault India has seen strong growth, with sales rising by 21% in October and 30% in November 2025 year on year.

Mumbai, Dec 5: Bank of Baroda (Bank), announced the launch of its latest advertising campaign featuring its global brand ambassador, Sachin Tendulkar. Building on the success of last year’s ‘Play The Masterstroke’ platform, the new campaign highlights the importance of making the right choices when pursuing life’s major goals – from buying a dream home or car to investing in one’s business. The campaign underscores that choosing the right financial partner is the true Masterstroke that helps turn aspirations into reality.

Aligned with the Bank’s retailisation strategy, the campaign focuses on four key products – Home Loans, Car Loans, MSME Loans through bob Digi Udyam and the bob Masterstroke Lite Savings Account – to drive customer acquisition and deepen market penetration. Through four warm, relatable and light-hearted films, the narratives draw from everyday experiences to showcase Bank of Baroda’s customer-centric offerings, seamless digital access and trusted services. Sachin Tendulkar, with his signature presence and authenticity, reinforces the message that the right financial partner can make all the difference.

Shri Shailendra Singh, Chief General Manager – HRM & Marketing, Bank of Baroda said, “Through Bank of Baroda’s new Masterstroke campaign, our aim is to empower every individual and support every dream, with the promise that choosing Bank of Baroda as their trusted financial partner can truly be a masterstroke. Sachin Tendulkar, our global brand ambassador, embodies the values of excellence & trust, making him the ideal choice to deliver the campaign’s core message.”

The campaign kicked off with a #WhatIsYourMasterstroke teaser which generated strong pre-launch buzz, and featured well-known influencers Jatin Sapru, cricket commentator and host, and Kamiya Jani, Founder & Editor-In-Chief at Curly Tales.

As part of a comprehensive 360° media strategy to ensure strong pan-India reach, the campaign spans television, print, social media, radio, outdoor, and cinema, and is being executed across multiple languages.