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India, September 29, 2025 — TK Elevator, a global leader in elevators, escalators and cutting-edge mobility solutions, has announced the opening of its new office in Srinagar, strengthening its presence in Jammu & Kashmir. The new facility marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy in India and underscores its commitment to providing world-class products and services to customers across the region. The Srinagar office will support installation, maintenance and modernization projects, ensuring faster service, improved customer responsiveness and local availability of spare parts. 

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is currently witnessing a surge in infrastructure projects, hospitality developments, residential complexes and commercial establishments. With significant government investments and private sector participation, the city is poised to become a key growth centre in Northern India. TK Elevator’s presence in Srinagar positions the company to directly support these developments by offering safe, sustainable and innovative mobility solutions for upcoming hotels, shopping centres, hospitals, residential apartments and public infrastructure projects.

TKE new office is strategically located at the gateway to Srinagar, Hyderpora, which is a rapidly developing commercial and residential hub with seamless connectivity to the Srinagar Airport, National Highway and key business districts. Its proximity to hospitality, retail and infrastructure projects makes it an ideal location for companies seeking visibility, easy access and future growth opportunities.

Commenting on the opening, Manish Mehan, CEO & MD, TK Elevator India, said, “We are delighted to inaugurate our new office in Srinagar. This expansion is a reflection of our commitment to be closer to our customers, offer faster service, and support the remarkable infrastructure growth taking place in Jammu & Kashmir. With this office, TK Elevator is well-positioned to deliver global standards of safety, reliability and innovation to our customers in the region while creating local employment opportunities and fostering stronger partnerships.”

With a vast network of 4 regional offices, 21 branches and 84 service centres across India, TK Elevator continues to bring its engineering excellence and customer-centric approach to diverse sectors including residential, commercial, hospitality and infrastructure. The new Srinagar office reinforces this network, ensuring that customers in Jammu & Kashmir have direct access to TK Elevator’s best-in-class products, after-sales service and expertise.

Mumbai, September 29, 2025: Liberty General Insurance Ltd. has launched its brand campaign, fronted by acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat. Running from September to December 2025, the campaign takes a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on road rage—reminding people that peace of mind and safety should always come before anger on the road.

The campaign goes beyond just highlighting a social issue; it captures a very real tension point that millions of drivers face every day. Road rage often begins with small sparks—an abrupt stop, a wrong turn, or an impatient honk—that can quickly escalate into conflict. By portraying these everyday situations with a humorous yet meaningful twist, the film emphasizes that it is possible to choose calm over conflict when one feels secure and protected. Insurance plays a vital role here—it provides the assurance that even if an unexpected incident occurs, there is a safeguard in place to handle the consequences. This creative approach allows Liberty General Insurance to underline its brand promise: being a steady partner for customers in moments that could otherwise spiral into chaos.

Speaking on the launch of the campaign, Mr. Jayesh Khatri, President & Head – Retail Distribution & Marketing, Liberty General Insurance Ltd. said, “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and in a country like India where accidents and road rage incidents are frequent, insurance plays a critical role in ensuring protection and peace of mind. This campaign uses everyday situations to remind people that staying calm is not only wiser, but also easier when you know you are backed by the right insurance partner. At Liberty, we see ourselves as more than an insurer—we are a brand that stands for trust, responsibility, and meaningful engagement with our customers and partners. Our focus has always been on building long-term relationships and creating a sense of confidence that stays with people through life’s uncertainties.” 

Jaideep Ahlawat’s commanding presence adds weight to the campaign’s message, while a network of regional influencers will extend the campaign to audiences across India. By engaging diverse voices, Liberty General Insurance ensures the message resonates widely, creating a powerful cultural and digital impact. 

The campaign has been conceptualised and executed by Wondrlab.

Introduction to Mann Ki Baat and Its Significance

Mann Ki Baat, a monthly address hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Akashvani, has emerged as a significant platform for fostering a direct connection between the leadership and the citizens of India. First launched in October 2014, this innovative initiative aims to bridge gaps in communication and actively engage the populace in various societal discussions. The program not only allows the Prime Minister to voice his thoughts and concerns but also serves as a medium for citizens to share their experiences, suggestions, and grievances.

Each episode of Mann Ki Baat typically covers a diverse range of topics, including advancements in technology, sustainable development, cultural heritage, and national identity. By addressing these various issues, the Prime Minister underscores the importance of collective participation in realizing the vision for a progressive India. As a result, the program has become a vital tool in promoting governmental initiatives and encouraging civic involvement across the nation.

Moreover, Mann Ki Baat carries profound significance in strengthening national unity and identity. By highlighting stories of ordinary citizens who positively impact their communities, the program elicits a sense of pride and inspiration among listeners. Through this engagement, it fosters a spirit of solidarity, as the Prime Minister emphasizes the power of collective efforts and Swadeshi values for the nation’s progress. In the modern context, where fragmented narratives can often overshadow the essence of unity, initiatives like Mann Ki Baat remind citizens of their shared responsibilities and the framework of cooperation necessary for nation-building.

The popularity of this platform is evidenced by its growing listenership and audience interaction, indicating that Mann Ki Baat resonates well with the ideals of transparency, inclusivity, and national pride. As it continues to evolve, the program stands as a testament to the instrumental role of communication in shaping public discourse and fostering a unified national consciousness.

The Call for Swadeshi Products

Prime Minister Modi’s recent appeal for citizens to embrace Swadeshi products during the festive season resonates deeply with the core values of self-reliance and community support. The term ‘Swadeshi’ originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Swadesha,’ which translates to ‘one’s own country.’ It embodies a spirit of nationalism and advocates for the consumption of locally produced goods. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on Swadeshi highlights not only an economic strategy but also an opportunity to nurture the rich cultural heritage that is inherent in local craftsmanship.

Advocating for Swadeshi products serves multiple purposes. First and foremost, it encourages the support of local industries, which are often the backbone of many communities. By choosing to buy local, consumers contribute directly to the livelihoods of artisans and small business owners, ultimately leading to job creation and economic stability within their regions. This decision empowers communities and fosters a sustainable economic ecosystem, which is particularly crucial in the wake of global challenges that have impacted many sectors.

Moreover, embracing Swadeshi is not just an economic endeavor; it is a celebration of one’s cultural identity. Each local product carries a unique story and reflects the traditions and artistry of its makers. This connection to cultural heritage can instill a sense of pride among consumers, as they recognize the value of their purchase as a means to preserve and promote their own culture. Such initiatives not only enhance the economy but also strengthen community ties and national unity.

In essence, the call for Swadeshi products encourages a conscious consumer movement that aligns with a vision of sustainable growth, cultural pride, and economic progress. As individuals and communities come together to support local handmade goods, they contribute to the larger goal of a self-reliant and prosperous nation.

Vocal for Local: A Transformative Mantra

The concept of ‘Vocal for Local’ emerged as a significant initiative advocated by Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses and products in India. This mantra not only encourages consumers to take pride in their indigenous goods but also aims to foster self-reliance and bolster the economic framework of the country. By prioritizing the consumption of local products, India can strengthen its economy, promoting a robust system that is less dependent on foreign imports.

At its core, Vocal for Local seeks to invigorate the socio-economic landscape of India through the encouragement of local entrepreneurship. By directing attention to locally made goods, this movement provides small businesses and artisans with the necessary support and visibility to thrive. This approach not only preserves traditional crafts and skills but also nurtures a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. The focus on local production can lead to job creation, positively influencing employment rates across various sectors.

The broader implications of this initiative also extend to sustainability. When consumers choose local products, they often contribute to reducing carbon footprints, as these items typically require less transportation, thereby minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, local sourcing can lead to better utilization of resources, supporting sustainable practices within communities. As India continues to face global economic challenges, promoting local industries not only helps in generating economic resilience but also fosters community bonding and cultural pride. Ultimately, Vocal for Local stands as a transformative mantra that encourages individuals and communities to rethink their consumption patterns while revitalizing the local economy.

Embracing the Festive Spirit: Practical Tips for Celebrating with Swadeshi

As the festive season approaches, integrating Swadeshi products into your celebrations not only enhances the festive spirit but also supports local artisans and promotes the richness of Indian culture. Here are some practical tips to embrace this movement during your festivities.

First, consider sourcing local handicrafts for your decorations and gifts. You can visit local markets or craft fairs where artisans display their creations. These markets often feature unique items such as handmade pottery, traditional paintings, and intricate textiles, showcasing the talent of local craftsmen. Utilizing platforms that connect consumers directly with artisans can also enhance your shopping experience while ensuring that your purchases contribute to the local economy.

Next, explore the importance of traditional clothing during festivities. Wearing garments crafted from indigenous fabrics, such as handloom sarees or khadi dresses, not only adds an authentic touch to your celebrations but also promotes sustainability. You can find these garments in local boutiques or online stores specializing in Swadeshi fashion. By choosing to don attire from local weavers, you support their livelihoods and celebrate the craftsmanship that embodies India’s rich heritage.

Food plays an integral role in festive celebrations; thus, embracing local flavors is essential. Opt for indigenous foods and ingredients, favoring traditional recipes that highlight regional cuisine. By sourcing spices, lentils, and sweets from local farmers’ markets, you ensure that your feasts are not only delicious but also reflective of the diversity and flavor of Indian culture.

Finally, share your experiences on social media to foster a community-driven movement. Document your journey of celebrating with Swadeshi products and encourage others to participate. Creating a hashtag specific to your celebrations can help connect fellow enthusiasts and inspire a broader audience to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Each choice you make contributes to a larger narrative that honors Indian traditions and supports the vibrant community of artisans. Embracing Swadeshi in your festivities can undoubtedly enrich the celebratory experience.

New Delhi, 29th September 2025 – Aditya A. Shriram, Deputy Managing Director, DCM Shriram Ltd., has been elected as the new President of the Alkali Manufacturers Association of India (AMAI) — the apex body representing the ₹36,000 crore Alkali and Chloro-Vinyl industry in India. Prashant J. Mahale, Senior Executive Vice President, Reliance Industries Ltd., has taken over as the new Vice President of AMAI. The appointments were announced at the 48th Annual General Meeting held in New Delhi.

Aditya A. Shriram is an Industrial Engineer from Cornell University and holds an MBA from London Business School. With extensive experience across various businesses and functions within the DCM Shriram Group, he is a strong advocate for sustainable growth, ethical business practices, and high ESG standards.

Prashant J. Mahale brings over 35 years of leadership experience in sectors including petroleum downstream, petrochemicals, chlor-alkali, specialty and bulk chemicals, and the pulp & paper industry. At Reliance Industries, he has held key leadership roles with P&L responsibility, managing feedstock operations, strategic procurement, and commercial contracts. A Chemical Engineer by training, he has completed executive programs at ISB Hyderabad, Darden School of Business (University of Virginia), and XLRI Jamshedpur.

AMAI represents Indian producers of caustic soda, chlorine, soda ash, PVC, CPVC, and other related products — vital inputs for a wide array of industrial and consumer goods. The industry plays a key role in supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative by fulfilling the country’s domestic demand despite challenges from global competition and cheap imports.

Key applications of:

• Caustic soda include aluminium processing, textiles, chemicals, soaps & detergents, and pulp & paper.

• Soda ash is used in glass manufacturing, detergents, and silicates.

• Chlorine is essential for PVC, chlorinated paraffin wax (CPW), chloromethanes, water disinfection, and chemical synthesis.

AMAI also leads pioneering efforts in chemical safety training, especially for handling hazardous substances such as chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, and bleaching agents, which are critical for disinfection but require safe handling practices.

Thiruvananthapuram, September 29, 2025: Sammohan 2025, the National art festival for children with disabilities, concluded today with a vibrant showcase of creativity, resilience, and possibility. Organised by the Different Art Centre (DAC) under the leadership of magician and social innovator Gopinath Muthukad, the two-day national festival brought together over 200 participants from eight states, proving that disability is no barrier to talent.

The festival stage came alive with a wide range of performances — from classical dance, theatre, and music to magic, painting, and folk art. Each act reflected the participants’ determination to challenge stereotypes and celebrate their abilities. The closing ceremony saw enthusiastic participation from families, educators, and disability advocates, underlining the festival’s growing role as a platform for inclusion.

Reflecting on the festival’s vision, Gopinath Muthukad, Founder and Executive Director of DAC, said:

“Sammohan is not just a festival; it is a movement to change mindsets. These children have shown that disability does not define them — their courage and talent do. As we look ahead to Sammohan 2026 on September 26 and 27, we carry forward this spirit of inclusion and hope.”

This year’s edition also highlighted DAC’s broader mission, including the upcoming International Institute for People with Disability (IIPD) in Kasaragod, which will integrate therapy, education, and livelihood training under one roof.

The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), India, in collaboration with the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), presented the inaugural International Film Festival of India – Vision Asia Award at the 30th edition of BIFF.

The award was conferred by Shri Prakash Magdum, Managing Director of NFDC, to acclaimed filmmaker Shahram Mokri for his film Black Rabbit White Rabbit. The film was chosen as the Best Film under the Vision Awards initiative by a distinguished jury that included Mr. Pankaj Saxena, Artistic Director of the International Film Festival of India; filmmaker Mr. Haobam Paban Kumar; and noted cinematographer Mr. A. Sreekar Prasad.

Instituted to celebrate emerging and innovative talent in Asian cinema, the Busan Vision Awards highlight unique and independent voices shaping the future of filmmaking. The recognition of Black Rabbit White Rabbit underscored the award’s mission to honor bold narratives and artistic excellence across the continent.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Prakash Magdum remarked that the award represented not only a celebration of cinematic brilliance but also the spirit of collaboration between India and South Korea. He emphasized that it was a proud moment for IFFI to partner with BIFF in recognizing the future of Asian cinema.

The Vision Asia Award, in its inaugural year, marked a significant step in strengthening cultural exchange and fostering creative partnerships between India and South Korea, further deepening the shared cinematic legacy between IFFI and BIFF.

“The Reserve Bank of India and the government have, this year, taken bold steps to stimulate consumer spending through measures such as REPO rate cuts, tax revisions and GST rationalisation to increase domestic consumption. However, with the recent volatility in the economy, the housing demand is beginning to show signs of clear moderation from the momentum witnessed over the past five years. To ensure that this momentum is maintained, and buyers are further encouraged, a timely rate cut could provide the much-needed impetus to housing market and maintain the upward cycle in real estate.”

Mumbai, 26 Sep. 2025: Data Security Council of India today launched a nationwide multistakeholder Cyber Security Awareness Drive to promote digital safety and create a safer cyberspace for all. The campaign was formally flagged off by Shri Ashish Shelar, Minister for Information Technology, Govt. of Maharashtra and other dignitaries from Maharashtra Cybercrime Dept., SEBI, SBI, BSE.

October is globally celebrated as the Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM). To champion the cause, DSCI with the help of its supporting partners will promote cybersecurity awareness and digital safety encouraging citizens, businesses, and stakeholders to join hands and spread the word to stay safe online. To symbolise the joint efforts of the government and industry, the time-honoured ‘Ring the Bell’ tradition at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) was utilised as a symbol of commitment to raise awareness and promote cyber safety.

The theme for 2025 is ‘Cyber Suraksha Drive’ inspired by the vibrant spirit of Indian Truck Art. The campaign, throughout October, will deliver a truckload of safety information to Stay Safe Online. Beyond its colourful aesthetics, the campaign will cover key areas such as social media safety, digital payments, app and account security, email safety, AI-driven scams and cybercrime redressal. Citizens will be informed about rising cybercrime incidents and sensitised on how to stay safe. All awareness material and artefacts are available at: https://www.dsci.in/cyber-security-awareness-month-2025/

The CSAM awareness drive is supported by India Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) of Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, CERT-In and other industry partners CRED, HDFC Bank, IIFL Finance, Bangalore International Airport Ltd, Protectt.ai, Providence, Punjab National Bank, QRC Assurance and Solutions, SQ1 Security, Target and ZS Associates.

Launching the awareness drive, Shri Ashish Shelar, Minister for Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra, said, “We as a country are a living example for the world as a digitally progressive country. The time has therefore come to work through public-private synergy and leverage our collaborative strength to build digital resilient systems and prevent cybercrimes. The Maharashtra Government has established a task force to formulate a comprehensive Cybersecurity Policy to secure the state’s IT and digital infrastructure.

The Cyber Suraksha Drive by DSCI is a multistakeholder approach. As urban, semi urban and rural individuals are using digital platforms, more and more citizens are falling victim to cybercrimes. Therefore, this week, this month, the drive for cyber security awareness is a much-needed drive for the country that has over 700 million internet users.”

At the CSAM opening ceremony, Vinayak Godse, CEO, DSCI said, “Digital solutions have enabled citizens to connect online for business, transactions and communication with increased volume and velocity. Albeit this has also led adversaries to defraud citizens and commit cybercrimes which put citizens and businesses at risk. Hence, end-user awareness has become very critical as growing challenges demand stronger confidence in individuals to protect themselves and overcome cyber threats.

The Cyber Security Awareness Drive aims to bring everyone together from different small cities and organisations in this journey and impart cyber education. I would like to thank the government and industry partners for coming forward and supporting us in this cause driven awareness initiative.”

Kolkata, 26th September, 2025: This Dussehra, the City of Joy is set to witness a spectacular celebration of the triumph of good over evil as Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad Committee & Sanmarg present East India’s grandest Dussehra event at Central Park, Salt Lake, on 2nd October 2025. Keeping with tradition, the evening will feature the burning of a towering 60-feet Ravana effigy, along with 50-feet effigies of Meghnad and Kumbhakaran.

The event, now in its 13th glorious year, promises to be a captivating cultural extravaganza with sacred rituals, live performances, and a mesmerizing fire show before the grand burning of the effigies. The celebrations aim to provide a vibrant platform for citizens to connect with the rich culture and traditions of West Bengal, while celebrating the eternal victory of righteousness over malevolence.

Speaking to the media, Sri. Sanjay Agarwal, President of Salt Lake Sanskritik  Sansad, said, “Our mission has always been to blend devotion with community service. Through this celebration, we not only honor the spirit of Dussehra but also use the platform to spread awareness about our social initiatives, including education, healthcare, and charitable programs for the underprivileged. This festival is a celebration of culture, unity, and compassion.”

On this Occasion, Sri. Lalit Beriwala, Chairman of Trust Board of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad, said, “Our Dussehra celebration has grown to become East India’s largest, drawing thousands of devotees and visitors every year. This year, we have made special arrangements at Central Park Ground to celebrate the victory of good over evil in a truly grand manner. Besides the burning of a towering 60-feet Ravana effigy, we have planned a spectacular fire show and invited artistes from various states to enthrall the audience with captivating performances. The evening will also feature a series of traditional rituals leading up to the effigy burning, with an expected gathering of over 25,000 people. This event is not just a ritual – it is a powerful reminder of the timeless message of good triumphing over evil.“

Speaking to the media, Sri. Amit Poddar, Secretary of Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad, said, “Over the years, this event has become a symbol of Kolkata’s festive spirit and cultural pride. We are delighted to welcome citizens and visitors from across the city and beyond to witness the magnificent spectacle of Ravana Dahan. We have ensured extensive safety, seating, and entertainment arrangements so that families can enjoy the festivities in a joyful and secure environment.”

Thousands of devotees and visitors are expected to gather at the venue to witness this spectacular annual ritual. The celebration will also feature a host of cultural programs, food stalls, and engaging activities, making it a perfect evening for families and devotees alike. The festivities will begin on 1st October with a vibrant Dandiya Night, where citizens of Kolkata can dance to the lively beats of traditional Garba and Dandiya music. The evening will showcase live music, dazzling performances, and colorful celebrations, creating the perfect atmosphere to usher in the joyous spirit of Navratri.

India, September 26, 2025 — The Indian Institute of Management Indore has officially opened admissions for the second cohort of its flagship Chief Executive Officers Programme, aimed at preparing senior leaders and aspiring CEOs to navigate complex business landscapes and drive transformative growth in a digital-first world.

This 11-month programme is meticulously designed for experienced professionals with a minimum of eight years in the industry, equipping them to transition from functional management to strategic enterprise leadership. Through a blend of cutting-edge curriculum, peer learning, and direct engagement with top industry leaders, participants will gain the skills to lead with agility, resilience, and purpose.

Key Highlights of the CEO Programme:

• Four CEO-Led Masterclasses: Focused on strategic vision, executive presence, resilience, and excellence in Indian leadership.

• Curriculum Pillars: Technology & Analytics, Strategy, Leadership, and Customer Centricity.

• Interactive Pedagogy: Live faculty-led sessions, real-world case studies, and assessments delivered via TimesPro’s advanced Direct-to-Device platform.

• Campus Immersion: A three-day experience at IIM Indore to foster lifelong leadership networks and cross-industry collaboration.

• Executive Education Alumni Status: Upon completion, participants earn alumni privileges from IIM Indore, one of India’s elite ‘Triple Crown’ accredited business schools (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA).

The programme is crafted in response to global leadership shifts highlighted by organisations like the World Economic Forum and EY-Parthenon, which emphasize the urgent need for CEOs to adopt agile models, harness emerging technologies, and rebuild trust in the face of disruption and uncertainty.

Prof. Himanshu Rai, Director of IIM Indore, noted: “Our Chief Executive Officers Programme empowers senior leaders to navigate disruption with judgement and resilience. Combining rigorous academics with real-world relevance, this programme builds the strategic depth and digital fluency required to lead enterprises into the future.”

Sridhar Nagarajachar, Business Head at TimesPro, added: “We are proud to partner with IIM Indore on this transformative initiative. The programme enables leaders to embed innovation at scale, de-risk execution, and deliver sustained growth across industries and geographies.”

From mastering digital marketing and analytics to embedding customer-first strategies and innovation-led cultures, the CEO Programme is a comprehensive roadmap to C-suite readiness—tailored for leaders who want to shape the future, not just respond to it.