For many, the magic of winter begins with snow. Each snowflake, a quiet marvel of uniqueness. Capturing this spirit of individuality and snowy wonder is the new MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD Cold Moon. Launching on December 4, the day of the Cold Moon, each model features a unique snowflake that has been lasered onto its moon phase indicator, ensuring that, just like snowflakes, no two timepieces are ever the same!

MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD Cold Moon

Crafted in a white hue that evokes the snow-covered landscapes of the winter season, this new watch features the same dial layout as its predecessors, complete with Swatch’s earth phase innovation and a moon phase indicator adorned with OMEGA’s Moonshine Gold. This model is adorned with signature illustrations from the world of Snoopy at the 9 o’clock position, but this time reimagined with a snowy twist.

Like all Bioceramic MoonSwatch models, this timepiece is crafted from Swatch’s patented Bioceramic and boasts many of the OMEGA’s legendary Speedmaster Moonwatch iconic features, including an asymmetrical case and the famous tachymeter scale with the dot over ninety.

The OMEGA X Swatch logos are proudly displayed on its dial and crown, and its mission statement is engraved on the back of its case. The battery cover features an Earth-inspired design, while the white VELCRO rubber strap adds a stylish touch.

This MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD will be available worldwide from December 4, 2025, the day of the Cold Full Moon, until the last day of winter on March 20, 2026, at all Swatch stores carrying the Bioceramic MoonSwatch Collection. However, after December 4, 2025, it will only be available when snow is falling in Switzerland. So, even countries that have never seen snowflakes will wait with excitement for the next snowfall.

MISSION TO EARTHPHASE – MOONSHINE GOLD 
SO33W701L
Case material: white Bioceramic case, crown and pushers
Case diameter: 42.00 mm
Case thickness: 13.75 mm
Lug-to-lug distance: 47.30 mm
Quartz movement: chronograph (seconds only) with moon
phase and earth phase indicators
Water resistance: 3 bar
Glass: box-shaped in biosourced material; an “S” engraved in the center in reference to the Swatch logo
Dial: white opaline with OMEGA X Swatch, Speedmaster and MoonSwatch logos; recessed subdial, hour markers coated with Grade A Super-LumiNova (green emission).
Moon phase indicator with sparkly dark blue moon phase disc featuring two full moons coated with OMEGA’s Moonshine Gold. Secret detail in UV ink (blue emission).

Earth phase indicator featuring Earth set against a star-speckled backdrop and oceans coated with UV ink (blue emission).
Hands: hours, minutes and tip of the chronograph seconds
hand coated in Grade A Super-LumiNova (green emission)
Bezel: white Bioceramic bezel with tachymeter scale
featuring white markers
Strap: white VELCRO rubber strap, white Bioceramic loop

Sri Sri Naisargik LLP has entered into an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding with Unique Organic Inputs to promote and scale Sri Sri Naisargik PROM, a scientifically validated Phosphate Rich Organic Manure created through a patented cold pressed technology. The agreement was formalised in the presence of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and represents a significant step towards strengthening soil health, supporting farmers and improving environmental quality across India.

In the presence of Gurudev, Sri Sri Naisargik LLP and Unique Organic Inputs exchange an MoU to advance scalable production of Sri Sri Naisargik PROM in India

For many years, India has relied heavily on chemical Di Ammonium Phosphate for crop nutrition. Chemical DAP is imported in large quantities, placing a substantial financial burden on national resources. A large portion of the product becomes fixed in the soil and remains unavailable to plants. This reduces efficiency and disturbs the natural balance of the soil. Continuous and long term use has contributed to altered soil pH levels, increased electrical conductivity, loss of organic carbon and a decline in microbial activity. These changes have gradually degraded soil fertility and large areas of farmland have become dependent on repeated chemical application. As yields begin to decline, farmers are required to apply increasing quantities of chemical DAP each season simply to maintain the same output. This cycle places economic pressure on farmers and contributes to long term deterioration of agricultural land, while also increasing the subsidy burden on the government and affecting national economic stability.

While organic PROM products are present in the market, Sri Sri Naisargik PROM stands apart because of its manufacturing method and biological integrity. It is produced using a patented cold press technology that preserves the activity of fourteen beneficial microbial consortia added during production. No high temperature machinery, boilers or chemical accelerators are used, which ensures that the microorganisms remain alive and functional when the product is applied to fields. Many PROM products available commercially rely on heat based or rapid processes in which the beneficial microbes cannot survive. In some cases, microbes are added after processing, which does not allow them to integrate with the organic base. Sri Sri Naisargik PROM undergoes a carefully structured forty day microbial enrichment cycle that strengthens its biological quality and ensures consistent soil restoration. The product has been reviewed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, which has stated that it is an organic replacement for chemical DAP. It is also approved by the National Biodiversity Authority, confirming its scientific and ecological compliance.

Sri Sri Naisargik PROM is created using desi cow dung as the primary medium, which establishes a sustainable economic pathway for gaushalas. Many gaushalas face challenges in caring for non milking cows and bulls due to limited economic value. By ensuring a consistent demand for cow dung, the initiative supports their financial stability and strengthens long term cattle care. A structured utilisation system for cow dung can also reduce the presence of stray cattle on roads, contributing positively to public safety and rural harmony.

The benefits for farmers are significant. Sri Sri Naisargik PROM contributes to soil regeneration by improving soil structure, increasing organic carbon and enhancing microbial activity. These elements support stronger root development and healthier crop growth. By offering a natural source of phosphorus, the product helps restore long term fertility and reduces dependence on chemical inputs. As the product will be produced within India, its pricing and availability are expected to remain stable, enabling farmers to avoid the fluctuations associated with global fertiliser markets and imported chemical inputs.

The environmental benefits are equally important. The  patented cold pressed technology used for production consumes significantly less energy compared to high temperature chemical processes. Since no heat based machinery is used, the production process does not release smoke or high temperature emissions. When applied to soil, Sri Sri Naisargik PROM does not trigger harmful reactions that release toxic gases, which is a common concern with chemical fertilisers. It increases the organic carbon content of soil and supports natural carbon sequestration, contributing positively to long term climate resilience. As cow dung is processed through a controlled aerobic method, methane emissions that would otherwise escape from open accumulation in gaushalas are reduced, creating a measurable environmental benefit.

The government also stands to benefit from the adoption of Sri Sri Naisargik PROM. The substantial subsidy burden associated with chemical DAP can be reduced as this product provides a lower cost organic alternative that is produced entirely within the country. Reduced dependence on imported fertilisers saves foreign exchange and contributes to greater national self reliance. A cost effective organic input allows the government to support farmers while improving economic efficiency across the fertiliser sector.

The MoU between Sri Sri Naisargik LLP and Unique Organic Inputs reflects a forward looking commitment to healthier soil, more resilient farming systems and environmentally responsible agricultural practices. The partnership aims to strengthen farmers, support gaushalas and contribute to a more sustainable and self-reliant future for Indian agriculture. Sri Sri Naisargik PROM represents an effort to unite scientific innovation with natural resources in order to create long term benefits for the nation’s agricultural landscape.

India is becoming increasingly capable at treating disease, yet the number of people who need treatment continues to grow. Chronic and lifestyle-related illnesses are appearing in larger numbers and at earlier stages of life, even as hospitals, diagnostics, insurance and digital health systems expand. This widening gap between the growth of the health economy and the health of the population set the tone for the Ahmedabad Dialogue on The Business of Health, organised by Ahmedabad University’s Bagchi School of Public Health.

Panellists discuss the future of India’s health economy at the Ahmedabad Dialogue on The Business of Health at Ahmedabad University

The discussions looked closely at how growth in the health economy should be understood. The size of the sector is one lens, but another is whether the population becomes healthier over time. Policy viewpoints from Dr Vinod Paul of NITI Aayog, insurance experiences shared by Dr Rashmi Nandargi of Bajaj General Insurance and perspectives on healthcare delivery from Dr Atul Mohan Kochhar of National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) contributed to deep deliberations on this question. What emerged is that India has the institutional strength and scientific capability to treat disease at scale, yet this does not translate into a reduction of chronic disease that are largely preventable through modification of lifestyle, environmental and commercial determinants.

A recurring theme was the structure of incentives within the system. Most financial activity begins only after illness has occurred. Hospitalisation triggers revenue. Insurance becomes relevant after health deterioration. Providers are remunerated most when procedures are complex. Prevention, in contrast, remains largely outside the core economic model. This is the result of how health systems have developed globally, and India now faces the implications as the burden of chronic disease expands.

Technology was examined through this same lens. Precision diagnostics and advanced care will continue to save lives, yet some of the most promising applications of technology lie earlier in the chain of care. Digital tools and artificial intelligence can support primary doctors, emergency responders and community health workers by providing better visibility of risk, disease prediction and earlier intervention. The shift in outcomes will come only when prevention works at a population scale.

Equity received close attention. Communities that experience disadvantage often face chronic disease earlier and with greater economic exposure. When preventive systems reach these populations in time, the gains are significant. Productive years are preserved, and the long-term social and economic cost of ill-health is reduced. Equity therefore becomes central to the sustainability of the health economy rather than an optional extension of it.

Designed as a top-tier thought leadership platform, the Ahmedabad Dialogue reflects Ahmedabad University’s liberal arts and interdisciplinary approach, where complex questions are examined from multiple perspectives rather than through a single disciplinary lens. Ahmedabad Dialogue aims to provide a setting for careful thinking on subjects that influence India’s future. The focus of this edition was on understanding how the country’s expanding health capacity can translate into healthier and longer lives.

Insights from the panel discussion and the six thematic roundtable deliberations will be consolidated and shared in the coming weeks to contribute to policy thinking across government, industry and the public health community. The aim is to support deeper reflection on how the growth of the health economy can advance the well-being of people in India.

About Ahmedabad University

Ahmedabad University is a leading private, non-profit research university offering students a liberal education focused on interdisciplinary learning, practice orientation, and research thinking.

The University has been

• Recognised by the Government of Gujarat as a Centre of Excellence. 

• Accredited with ‘A’ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

• Awarded Leadership and Management Team of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards Asia 2025.

• Awarded a 5-star rating, the highest awarded in the Gujarat State Institutional Rating Framework (GSIRF) for 2021-22 and 2023-24, by the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG), Department of Education, Government of Gujarat.

• Awarded the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) International Award for Excellence 2024 for our University Centre.

• Awarded a ‘Platinum Rating’ by the Indian Green Building Council for sustainability and green practices.

• Recognised by the UGC under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, becoming one of the very few private research universities to have been awarded this recognition for select research universities.

• Recognised as a Highly Commended University for Teaching and Learning Strategy of the Year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2023.

• Awarded the AACSB’s Innovations That Inspire Award 2023 for its Foundation Programme.

• Awarded Gold Rating by the Indian Green Building Council for achieving the Green Building Standards at our University Centre. 

The University, established in 2009, is rooted in the vision of one of India’s finest educational foundations, the Ahmedabad Education Society, which was founded in 1935 by nationalist leaders. Programmes at the University range from bachelors to doctoral levels in humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and management through its 13 Schools and Centres: 

Amrut Mody School of Management | Bagchi School of Public Health | School of Arts and Sciences | School of Engineering and Applied Science | Ahmedabad Design Lab | Centre for Heritage Management | Centre for Learning Futures | Global Centre for Environment and Energy | International Centre for Space and Cosmology | Sahyog: Centre for Promoting Health | Stepwell Centre for Asian Futures | The Climate Institute | VentureStudio

An urban university, Ahmedabad promotes independent-mindedness and diversity across all dimensions of its activity and helps students mature into critical thinkers who are analytically equipped, practically oriented, and contextually aware global citizens. The University provides a contemporary educational framework that brings liberal arts, sciences, and the professions to engage together in creating new knowledge for addressing complex challenges of the society and in offering majors that merge the boundaries of disciplines to prepare students for the new economy.

• On the first day of the convocation, 746 students were awarded degrees.

• A total of 12 received their PhD degrees today

• Gold medals were awarded to 3 students across various streams.
   

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, concluded the first day of its 33rd Convocation celebrations at the MAHE Bengaluru campus on Saturday. The ceremony highlighted MAHE’s strong commitment to developing graduates equipped for an AI-driven world, fostering innovation, academic rigor, and excellence across diverse fields. A total of 746 students received their degrees, including 12 PhD awardees, and 3 outstanding students were honoured with the prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal for their exceptional academic achievements.
 

Chief Guest Ms. Rajkamal Vempati being felicitated by Pro Chancellor Dr. H. S. Ballal during the 33rd Convocation of MAHE Bengaluru
 

The ceremony began with MAHE Pro Chancellor Dr. H. S. Ballal declaring the convocation open followed by a warm welcome from Dr. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro-Vice Chancellor – MLHS and MAHE Bengaluru. He congratulated the graduates and emphasized the vital role of parents, calling them the true investors and pillars of every student’s success. He urged students to honour their parents’ trust and share their achievements as they step into the world.
 

Delivering the convocation address, Chief Guest Ms. Rajkamal Vempati, Group Executive and Head of Human Resources at Axis Bank, noted that today’s graduates are entering an unpredictable world increasingly defined by AI. Career paths are no longer linear, and the first job may challenge everything learned from textbooks. Yet these uncertainties are exactly where real learning begins. In a time when machines can write faster, summarise instantly, and automate tasks once seen as uniquely human, she reminded graduates that their strongest abilities remain human. “Machines learn from data; human beings learn from friction,” she said, underscoring that AI cannot sense hesitation, ask “why,” or make judgment calls. The future, she noted, belongs to those who use technology as an enabler while bringing curiosity, clarity, and critical thinking to all they do.
 

This focus on embracing the future aligns seamlessly with the transformative vision of Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, who outlined a bold roadmap to strengthen the academic and research ecosystem at MAHE Bengaluru. The key upcoming initiatives include a 7-qubits Quantum Computing Facility, an I-Factory for smart manufacturing, a Humanoid Lab for robotics and AI, and a 6G testbed for next-generation communication. The Manipal University Technology Business Incubator (MUTBI) will also open a satellite center in Bengaluru to support startups and technology incubation. The Academic expansion will continue through new dual-degree, joint-degree, and pathway programs with leading international universities, along with an AI-based consultancy center to drive industry collaboration and applied research.
 

Continuing its focus on academic excellence and innovation, the ceremony celebrated outstanding individual achievements. Rianna Chattopadhyay (Bachelor of Design, SMI), Mohnishraja K (LL.M. in Data Privacy and IT, MLS), and Dibyabha Deb (Electronics and Communication Engineering, MIT) were awarded the prestigious Dr. T.M.A. Pai Gold Medal 2025 in recognition of their exceptional academic performance.
 

The gold medalists expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing it as the culmination of guidance and mentorship at MAHE Bengaluru. It reflected lessons learned beyond textbooks and the patient guidance of professors who fostered critical thinking and meaningful impact. For them the achievement symbolizes not just academic excellence, but the shaping of a professional mindset and approach to creating real-world value.
 

The first day of the convocation at MAHE Bengaluru not only celebrated academic achievements but also highlighted the institution’s commitment to preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving world. With a strong foundation in innovation, research, and critical thinking, MAHE continues to empower its students to navigate uncertainties, embrace emerging technologies, and contribute meaningfully to society. As the graduates’ step into the future, they carry forward not just degrees, but the vision, resilience, and skills cultivated at MAHE, ready to make a lasting impact in their fields and in the world.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education
The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3^rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life.

As a part of its 33^rd Convocation, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), one of India’s premier institutes, successfully conducted the 2^nd Convocation for its online learners. The ceremony, held on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the MAHE Bengaluru campus, marked a significant milestone in MAHE’s commitment to continuous learning and access to quality, world-class education.

2nd Convocation of MAHE Online Education was held at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Bengaluru campus on November 30, 2025

Recognizing the achievements of 1380 graduates from across 24 states and 4 Union Territories in India and 21 countries across the globe, MAHE Online reaffirmed its vision of empowering learners beyond geographical boundaries. Graduates from various postgraduate programs such as MBA, MSc Data Science, MSc Business Analytics, and PGCP, who successfully completed their degrees through MAHE’s comprehensive online learning platform were honoured and celebrated. The diverse cohort of learners included working professionals, entrepreneurs, homemakers, and students from both rural and urban areas who leveraged digital education to advance their careers, pursue their academic aspirations, and strengthen their commitment to lifelong learning.

Visionary Voices Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE declared the convocation open, followed by a warm welcome address by Dr Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities and Social Sciences), MAHE, where he congratulated all the graduates for their remarkable achievements recognizing their efforts.

“Dear graduates, it is a great honour for me to stand before you today. Our Directorate of Online Education (DOE) has more than 13,400 students from 55 countries, literally representing all the continents. Our DOE also collaborates with leading corporations to deliver customised online certifications, upskilling and reskilling micro-credential programs empowering working professionals to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” said and Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, presenting a comprehensive overview of MAHE and its long-held legacy.

In her convocation address, Ms. Paroma Chatterjee, CEO, Revolut India – Chief Guest, reflected the learnings of her own journey reminding graduates that, “Building a legacy requires continuous learning. Deep cultural emotion has been one of my most important takeaways. Truly embrace personal responsibility, keep your energy high through every up and down, and remember that consistency is the most resounding message I want to leave with all of you today.”

Mr Ambrish Sinha, Chief Executive Officer, UNext Learning – Guest of Honour remarked, “To all the graduates here today, you are the future. You are graduating at a time when India’s industries are transforming at lightning speed. Our healthcare system is expanding, our digital economy is accelerating, and our supply chains are going global. The world needs leaders who can think across data, strategy, technology, and people. And you represent exactly that kind of talent. And if there is one thing your journey has proven, it is this: you are ready for what comes next. Congratulations again.”

The ceremony also saw the presence of other senior leadership including Dr Vinod V Thomas, Registrar, Evaluation, MAHE, Dr Sharath Kumar Rao K, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE, Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor (MAHE Mangalore Campus), Dr P Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director, DOE, MAHE and along with other distinguished dignitaries and Heads of Institutions.

Premium Education Designed for Real-World Success

The convocation also featured many compelling stories from graduates whose careers and lives had significantly evolved through MAHE’s online programs. Many shared achievements such as promotions, new entrepreneurial ventures, global opportunities, and meaningful career transitions. Accessible from tier-2 and tier-3 cities as well as international locations, MAHE Online has enabled thousands to pursue world-class education without geographical or professional constraints.

About MAHE Online

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is one of India’s leading academic and research institutions. It is ranked #3 by NIRF, along with a NAAC A++ rating and prestigious Institution of Eminence (IoE) recognition. The institution has been offering world-class education across diverse streams since 1953. MAHE’s online learners get free access to Coursera courses and certifications during the tenure of the program. They are also offered placement assistance in the form of skill assessments & enhancement, industry-readiness sessions, resume building, and virtual placement drives. MAHE currently offers 10 degrees & certification programs online mode and caters to 13,000+ learners across 55 countries and over 25 states. 

To know more about MAHE’s online degree programs and certifications, visit www.onlinemanipal.com/institution/mahe

About Online Manipal

Online Manipal is the digital home of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU). These three Manipal universities, accredited with NAAC A++ and NAAC A+, offer UGC-entitled online degrees equivalent to on-campus programs. Since its inception in 2021, Online Manipal has empowered over 150,000 learners to realize their potential by providing them with accessible, affordable & industry-relevant degrees and new-age certifications in a 100% online mode. Online Manipal’s integrated learning platform gives access to extensive e-learning material, recorded sessions, webinars, doubt clearing sessions, quizzes, assignments, and more.

To know more, visit www.onlinemanipal.com.