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Springer Nature's India Research Tour 2025 Visits Institutions in Greater Noida, Aims to Strengthen Research and Innovation in Uttar Pradesh

Springer Nature’s India Research Tour 2025, which was flagged off at the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) earlier this week, has reached Greater Noida, marking an important milestone in its journey across the country.
 

Springer Nature’s India Research Tour 2025 visits institutions in Greater Noida, aims to strengthen research and innovation in Uttar Pradesh
 

The India Research Tour 2025 is a national initiative led by Springer Nature in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and ICSSR and is set to cover 29 institutions across 15 cities in 7 states between6 October and 13 November 2025.It will engage with researchers, policymakers, and academia enroute focusing on advancing Open Access and Open Science, strengthening research integrity, encouraging e-book adoption, supporting editorial board member recruitment, and promoting diversity and inclusion in research.
 

The team met with academicians, researchers and students at the Bennett University, Sharda University, and Jaypee Institute of Information Technology. Following these engagements in Greater Noida, the tour will travel onwards to Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Lucknow.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, Managing Director, Springer Nature India Private Limited, said, “Greater Noida exemplifies how education, research, and industry can come together to shape India’s future. As this region drives both knowledge creation and manufacturing excellence, the research ecosystem here will be critical to helping India achieve its ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Through the India Research Tour, we aim to support institutions in Greater Noida and across the country in advancing open science, promoting research integrity, and empowering researchers to contribute meaningfully to national growth.”
 

Greater Noida has rapidly emerged as a leading hub of higher education and research in Western Uttar Pradesh, hosting globally connected universities and institutes. The research produced from this region holds the potential to contribute significantly to the overall growth of Uttar Pradesh and to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
 

Located at the heart of the Noida-Greater Noida-Yamuna Expressway industrial belt, this region is also a powerhouse of India’s manufacturing sector. By deepening research collaboration and knowledge sharing, the innovations from these universities can play a vital role in enhancing manufacturing capabilities, boosting industrial output, and fostering technological self-reliance – not just for Uttar Pradesh but for the entire nation.

NGO Smile Train India Wins Doing Good for Bharat Awards 2025 by CSRBOX in the Healthcare Category

Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused NGO, has been honoured with the “Doing Good for Healthcare” award at the Doing Good for Bharat Awards 2025. The recognition celebrates Smile Train India’s impactful and sustained efforts to empower local medical professionals and to support free, safe, and high-quality cleft treatment across the country.

Smile Train India recognised as one India’s most credible honours in the CSR and sustainability space

The Doing Good for Bharat Awards, a flagship segment of the 12th India CSR and ESG Summit (ICES 2025), took place on 9th October 2025 in New Delhi. Recognised as one India’s most credible honours in the CSR and sustainability space, the “Doing Good for Healthcare” category highlights Smile Train India’s holistic approach to improving access to cleft care, from surgery to speech therapy and comprehensive rehabilitation, ensuring every child born with a cleft has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Expressing her gratitude, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train, said, “This recognition is a powerful validation of our work in India and the impact we’re making by creating smiles and changing lives. Our network of partner hospitals and medical professionals across the country continues to make a lasting difference, one child at a time. We share this honour with every partner, donor, and well-wisher who believes in our work.”

With over 35,000 children born with clefts in India each year, many face bullying and isolation due to their facial differences. If left untreated, cleft can lead to difficulties in eating, hearing, speaking, and breathing. However, timely medical interventions can dramatically transform their lives, giving them the opportunity to thrive physically, socially, and emotionally.

Over the past two decades, Smile Train India has supported more than 750,000 cleft surgeries and continues to work with a network of 130+ medical partner hospitals in 30 states and Union Territories in India to support 100%-free and quality cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care for children in need. Through its “teach a person to fish” model, Smile Train empowers local medical professionals with training, funding, and resources to deliver safe, timely care. This sustainable model strengthens healthcare systems, allowing communities to become self-reliant and continue transforming lives for generations.

UPES Placement Season 2026 Kicks Off to a Stellar Start

UPES has opened its Placements 2026 season with strong early outcomes, reflecting renewed recruiter confidence and the university’s industry-integrated learning model. Since the start of the current placement season in September, 505 students have been placed with 533 offers extended by 59 recruiting organisations that made selections. Overall, 63 companies have participated in this season’s recruitment drive so far.

Based on the offers received so far, the highest CTC stands at Rs. 52 lakh per annum, with the top 10% average at Rs. 23.79 LPA. Early placements reflect a healthy mix of technology, consulting, digital, manufacturing, legal and energy employers. Salesforce, Oracle, EY, KPMG, Deloitte, Razorpay, Britannia, NielsenIQ and ExxonMobil headline the list of marquee brands on campus, alongside volume hiring from leading technology and consulting firms.

Commenting on the strong start, Mr. Manish Madaan, Registrar, UPES, said, “Placements 2026 have begun on a steady, positive note, reflecting the strength of our industry-academia linkages. At UPES, a transdisciplinary, industry-integrated curriculum, that’s grounded in research, live projects and mentorship, prepares our students to add value from day one. I am grateful for the continued trust of our recruiting partners. Building on UPES’s recent record of 100% placements over successive years, we expect this cycle to close near full placement across schools.”

The start of the season has set a good momentum across schools at UPES, led by the School of Computer Science, which has already recorded 380 placements across IT services, fintech and product roles, with a highest CTC of Rs. 52 LPA and a top10% average of Rs. 26.44 LPA. The School of Business has seen 69 placements so far, anchored by consulting, consumer, digital and analytics roles, at EY, Deloitte, KPMG, Britannia and Nielsen IQ, with an average CTC of Rs. 8.90 LPA, while the School of Law has registered 18 placements at an average of Rs. 8.44 LPA across leading firms and corporate legal teams. The School of Advanced Engineering has begun with 25 placements spanning core engineering, EPC and energy employers, with an average CTC of Rs. 8.19 LPA. Early offers also flowed in for the School of Design, the School of Health Sciences & Technology, and the School of Liberal Studies & Media.

In terms of the sectors, so far placements are concentrated in IT & ITeS (about 75%), spanning software engineering, data, cloud, cybersecurity and platform roles; Research & Consulting (about 9%) across strategy, risk, digital transformation and analytics; and Energy/Power/Utilities & EPC (about 7%), with core engineering, project and operations roles, while Legal (about 3%) and steady hiring across Healthcare/Pharma, FMCG/Consumer, Oil & Gas, Industrial Automation and Manufacturing round out the current mix.

For more information, please visit www.upes.ac.in.

About UPES

Established through the UPES Act, 2003, of the State Legislature of Uttarakhand, UPES is a top-ranked, UGC-recognised, private university. As per the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, UPES has been ranked 45 among universities, with a rank of 18 in Law, 36 in Management, and a rank of 43 in Engineering. As per the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, UPES now stands in the 501-600 band globally and 5th in India, improving from 7th in 2025. Notably, in Research Quality, UPES climbed 57 positions in just one year to be ranked 299 globally. In addition to this, the university has been ranked the No.1 private university in academic reputation in India by the QS World University Rankings 2025. It is among the top 2% of universities in the world.

UPES has also been accredited by NAAC with a grade ‘A’ and has received 5 stars on Employability (placements) by globally acclaimed QS Rating. The university has had 100% placements over the last five years. 50+ faculty members from UPES feature among the world’s top 2% researchers as per Stanford University list.

UPES offers graduate and postgraduate programs through its seven schools: School of Advanced Engineering, School of Computer Science, School of Design, School of Law, School of Business, School of Health Sciences & Technology, and School of Liberal Studies and Media. The UPES family includes 19100+ students, 1,500+ faculty and staff members and a thriving community of 38000+ alumni.

Tanishq Champions Gold Exchange Initiative and Unveils ‘Mriganka’ Collection for this Festive Season

As the festive season draws near, Tanishq, India’s largest jewellery retail brand from the House of Tata, introduces its festive highlight of the season, ‘Mriganka,‘ a collection inspired by mythical worlds and imaginative realms. The latest collection is a gateway into the mystical lands and a realm where floating palaces, celestial gardens, and ethereal creatures come alive in gold. Inspired by India’s age-old love for storytelling and symbolism, each piece in Mriganka is a poetic tribute to the festive spirit. Bringing this world to life is former Miss World and actor Manushi Chhillar, who perfectly embodies the spirit of Mriganka – bold, imaginative, and strikingly otherworldly.

Tanishq’s Mriganka festive collection, featuring Manushi Chhillar, celebrates mythical worlds and imaginative realms, alongside the Tanishq Gold Exchange offer

Inspired by mythical creatures and fantastical blooms, Mriganka is crafted to be as spectacular as imagination, as sublime as dreams. Crafted using advanced techniques such as stone-on-stone jadau, Badroom, Chandak, Ras Rava, and intricate jaali layering, the collection features an eclectic mix of coloured kundan, enamel detailing & 3D motifs. Each piece a portal that transports the wearer into the fantastical world of Mriganka, where myth and artistry entwine. Whether it’s cascading harams echoing the grandeur of a palace, statement rings inspired by mythical creatures, or versatile pendant sets designed for multiple styles, Tanishq’s Mriganka offers a diverse yet cohesive experience, reimagining festive jewellery for the modern Indian woman.

To bring the festive cheer, the first time ever, Tanishq is offering consumers a 0%* deduction on gold exchange across all karatages (as low as 9 KT) till October 21, 2025, making it easier for every Indian to participate in this nation-building effort.Tanishq is also spearheading one of the country’s largest gold exchange campaigns, championing India’s journey towards self-reliance. While India’s true gold reserves lie not in mines but in households estimated to hold around 25,000 tonnes of gold-much of this wealth remains untapped. At the same time, nearly 99% of the country’s gold is imported each year, creating a dependence that slows the nation’s vision of self-reliance. Through this initiative, Tanishq encourages families to unlock the value of their existing gold, transforming it into contemporary designs while collectively reducing the need for imports. To reinforce this vision, Tanishq has partnered with Sachin Tendulkar, a symbol of trust and integrity, to represent the movement’s core values and inspire every Indian to participate in this transformative effort.

Ajoy Chawla, CEO, Jewellery Division, Titan Company Limited, said, “Every time a family exchanges even one gram of old locker gold, they not only unlock value for themselves but also contribute to the nation by reducing imports. That is the power of gold exchange-personal joy with a national impact. With our first-ever 0% deduction offer across karatages (even as low as 9kt) this festive season, we are making it easier for every Indian to participate in the vision of making our nation self-reliant.

Speaking about the collection, Revathi Kant, Chief Design Officer, Titan Company Limited, said “At the onset of the festive season, we are delighted to introduce ‘Mriganka’ an opulent celebration of imaginative world of our dreams, painted with the rich heritage of our Indian stories and tales. This collection is set in the magical land, where majestic palaces peek through clouds, mystical beings of exquisite beauty, and rare exotic blooms come alive in gold. Every piece is infused with mystical charm, crafted with intricate artistry; from high-brilliance of Kundan, coloured stones and accents of enamel, to sculptural 3D forms and layered textures – help capture the beauty of this magical world in products that are bold, expressive, and fashion-forward in spirit. It is only through Tanishq’s deep design expertise, legacy of intricate craftsmanship, and creative vision that a fantastical universe like Mriganka can be transformed into wearable works of art. With this collection, we offer our consumers not just jewellery, but an invitation into a world of wonder; one that elevates the festive experience with joy, beauty, and awe. Mriganka is imagined from another realm, created to delight the senses and celebrate the many moods of modern festivity.

About Tanishq
Tanishq, India’s most-loved jewellery brand from the TATA Group, has been synonymous with superior craftsmanship, exclusive designs and guaranteed product quality for over two decades. It has built for itself the envious reputation of being the only jewellery brand in the country that strives to understand the Indian woman and provide her with jewellery that meets her traditional and contemporary aspirations and desires. To stress on their commitment to offer the purest jewellery, all Tanishq stores are equipped with the Karatmeter which enables customers to check the purity of their gold in the most efficient manner. The Tanishq retail chain currently spreads across 500+ exclusive boutiques in more than 300 cities.

CAAT Reports 10 Years of Success as Thailand Tops Global Aviation Safety Scores at 91.35%, Surpassing the Global Average by Over 20%

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) announced the results of the audit on the civil aviation safety oversight system under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme – Continuous Monitoring Approach (USOAP CMA) of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), conducted from 27 August to 8 September 2025.

The preliminary results, covering only the areas under CAAT’s direct responsibility showed a preliminary score as high as 91.35%, nearly 20% above the global average of 70.50%.

The audit covered all eight key areas, namely:
1. Primary Aviation Legislation and Civil Aviation Regulations (LEG)
2. Civil Aviation Organization (ORG)
3. Personnel Licensing (PEL)
4. Aircraft Operations (OPS)
5. Airworthiness of Aircraft (AIR)
6. Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation (AIG)
7. Air Navigation Services (ANS)
8. Aerodromes and Ground Aids (AGA)

The preliminary results, covering only the areas under CAATs direct responsibility -namely legislation, civil aviation organization, aircraft operations, airworthiness, personnel licensing, air navigation services, and aerodromes – showed a preliminary score as high as 91.35%, nearly 20% above the global average of 70.50%. ICAO will be sending a draft report to be reviewed within 90 days after the audit is completed, and the official scores are expected to be announced on ICAOs website around February 2026.

Thailand achieved a perfect score of 100% in two areas – Aviation Legislation (LEG) and Civil Aviation Organization (ORG) -exceeding the global average by 20-30%. This is ample evidence that Thailand currently has a modern and comprehensive aviation legal framework aligned with international standards, along with a strong, well-structured civil aviation authority on par with the worlds leading aviation nations. It also demonstrates how far Thailand has come since being placed under the ICAO “Red Flag” in 2015, underscoring the countrys progress towards becoming a globally recognized aviation hub.

Thailands Aviation Safety Development Path

  • January 2015: Thailand (then under the Department of Civil Aviation) underwent an audit that identified 33 Significant Safety Concerns (SSC). As a result, ICAO issued a “Red Flag,” with Thailands Effective Implementation (EI) score at 33.53%.

  • September 2017: CAAT (Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand) resolved all deficiencies, leading ICAO to remove the Red Flag; the EI score rose to 41.11%.

  • May 2019: All remaining deficiencies were addressed (except in AIG, due to ICAOs shortage of AIG experts). The EI score increased to 65.83%.

  • September 2021: ICAO conducted an Offsite Validation focusing solely on AIG, with the EI score recorded at 66.08%.

  • January 2022: ICAO updated its audit protocol from the PQ2017 Edition to PQ2020 for the USOAP-CMA, affecting the Effective Implementation (EI) scores of all states. Thailands EI score was adjusted to 61.60%.

  • July 2025: ICAO introduced the new PQ2024 Edition, the latest set of criteria for USOAP-CMA audits.

Preliminary Results

  • Current Score (before the audit): 61.60%

  • Preliminary Score: 87.71%

  • Preliminary Score (for areas under CAATs direct oversight – legislation, civil aviation organization, aircraft operations, airworthiness, personnel licensing, air navigation services, and aerodromes): 91.35%

  • Global Average: 70.50%

CAAT devoted the full expertise of its personnel to prepare for this USOAP CMA audit, the largest in the past decade since 2015. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of CAAT explained CAATs approach to the ICAO assessment that “ICAO provides Thailand with a checklist, questions, and guidance – the same procedure applied worldwide. Each CAAT division responsible for its respective area must work with its own team, covering legislation, operational procedures, and inspections of operators to ensure compliance with CAAT standards, thereby demonstrating the Authoritys oversight capability. Afterwards, ICAO reviews what CAAT has documented, such as regulations and operating procedures, to verify whether CAAT officials enforce them correctly, including applying penalties when operators or licensed personnel violate rules or laws. All these elements contribute to the high scores awarded by ICAO. This process reflects a comprehensive and transparent implementation of aviation law in line with international standards.”

CAAT will perpetually enhance and uphold the standards through ongoing development. Significantly, this achievement was not accomplished by CAAT solitarily but through the collaboration of all stakeholders – including Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd., Airports of Thailand Plc., the Department of Airports, the Civil Aviation Training Center, airlines, and all relevant partner agencies. Their collective efforts drove this mission to success, giving confidence that Thailand will continue to advance steadily towards becoming a safe and reliable aviation hub for the region and the world.

“Normally, ICAO conducts audit programs for its 193 member states, with around 12-20 countries assessed each year. Given Thailands high score in this audit, it is expected that, in terms of managing safety risks among member states, there will likely be a considerable interval before Thailand is reviewed again. Over the past decade, Thailand has been among the countries most frequently audited by ICAO. In addition, the checklist used by CAAT for this assessment was the latest 2024 version, which is more efficient. From now on, ICAO will be using this checklist to evaluate all member states before the cycle returns to Thailand,”Air Chief Marshal Manat concluded.

PrintWeek Awards 2025: Manipal Wins Top Honour, Full Winners List Revealed

The 15th edition of the PrintWeek Awards 2025 celebrated the finest achievements in India’s print, publishing and packaging industry at a grand awards night hosted by Haymarket Media India. The evening brought together industry leaders, innovators and creative minds to honour outstanding performance, quality and sustainable innovation across the country’s most dynamic printing businesses.

Winners for PrintWeek Awards 2025

In his opening address, Ashish Bhushan, Country Head – India, Haymarket Media, set the tone for the evening by applauding the innovation, collaboration and resilience that define the Indian print and packaging community. “We come together not only to celebrate achievements but also the spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives our industry forward,” said Bhushan. “This year, we received entries from more than 100 companies and over 1,000 print samples, proof that print in India continues to raise benchmarks in R&D, sustainability and technology. Our goal at Haymarket Media India is to create a stronger voice for the industry through knowledge-sharing and meaningful collaborations.”

Bhushan also announced new initiatives for 2025, including the Year of the Printed Book in partnership with Bindwel, a nationwide celebration of India’s book printing community, and an upcoming label industry project led by WhatPackaging magazine. Both initiatives aim to highlight excellence and strengthen industry engagement throughout the year.

The biggest winners of the evening were Letra Graphix and Brilliant Printers, each taking home three awards across diverse categories.

Letra Graphix shone across digital and packaging segments, winning Digital Printer of the Year, Label Printer of the Year (both joint wins), and Packaging Converter of the Year – Pharma. Brilliant Printers matched this feat with wins for Book Education Company of the Year, Book Printer of the Year – Education (joint), and Green Company of the Year – Large (joint), earning praise for quality, sustainability and forward-thinking innovation.

Manipal Technologies clinched the top honour, PrintWeek Company of the Year, and also won Book Printer of the Year – Specialty and Trade. Accepting the award, the Manipal Technologies team said, “It’s been an incredible 25 years in print. The recognition we receive today is a testament to our team’s commitment to creating sustainable value for all stakeholders. These are exciting times, full of innovation and change, and we’re proud to be part of this evolving journey.

Other key winners included Parksons Packaging, Printmann Group, Parakh Flexipacks, Khetan Corrucase, Replika Press, and Silverpoint Press. CDC Printers was named Factory of the Year, while ITC Packaging and Printing Business earned Customer Service Company of the Year. Prachi Jain from IIT Roorkee was recognised as Student of the Year for her research on scalable bio-based packaging.

In a first for the Awards, PrintWeek introduced knowledge-sharing sessions as part of the celebration, an initiative aimed at fostering dialogue and learning among industry leaders. Bhushan noted that these new formats mark a shift from a traditional awards night to a more holistic industry platform “a celebration of excellence, exchange and evolution.

The PrintWeek Awards 2025 reaffirmed that India’s print and packaging industry continues to grow as a global benchmark of creativity, craftsmanship and sustainable innovation, proving once again that the power of print remains timeless.

About PrintWeek

PrintWeek is a nationwide title that covers issues and news of the Indian print industry. PrintWeek has a print run of 11,000+ which is delivered to print professionals in more than 350 cities across India. Every month, PrintWeek gives its readers new insights into today’s printing topics ranging from commercial printing, sheetfed, web offset, digital, inkjet and outdoor. Added to this is an eclectic collection of original and thought-provoking features spanning topics from fine art production to print’s most colourful characters along with profiles of industries and key print cities, and individuals who have had a profound effect on the Indian print community.

Bisleri International Partners with KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation to Champion Sustainability in Sikkim’s Schools

Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading packaged drinking water company with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, has joined hands with the KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation (KCEF) to promote responsible plastic use and recycling across schools in Sikkim.

Bisleri International & KATALYTIC Charter Educational Foundation (KCEF) Unite for a Greener Tomorrow in Sikkim Schools

As part of Bottles of Change, the collaboration will conduct year-round awareness sessions in charter schools, encouraging students to creatively repurpose used plastic into functional and artistic objects, also engaging over 214 Schools to redefine plastic responsibility in Sikkim. The most innovative and impactful student creations will be recognized and awarded-celebrating youth-led action in environmental stewardship.

The initiative will also feature a mega cleanliness drive led by students from charter school students, and local communities. By combining Bisleri’s expertise in sustainability outreach with KCEF’s strong educational network, the partnership aims to embed sustainable habits within classrooms and nurture a culture of environmental responsibility among students and educators alike.

Speaking on the association, Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., said, “At Bisleri, we have consistently focused on engaging young minds to drive the message of sustainability. Through initiatives like ‘Bottles for Change’, we aim to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among students and empower them to lead by example. Earlier this year, we signed a MoU with National Book Trust and Centre for Environment Education to create and distribute an educational book on plastic waste management for Indian schools. Our partnership with KCEF is another step towards nurturing a generation that not only understands the importance of recycling and responsible plastic use but also actively contributes to building a cleaner, greener future.”

Adding to this, Ms. Kunzang Choeki, Founder & Director of Katalytic Charter Educational Foundation, added, “Education has the unique ability to transform how people think and act. Through this partnership with Bisleri, we’re bringing sustainability into the heart of classrooms and communities across Sikkim. By empowering students to take ownership of environmental action, we’re nurturing a generation that practices sustainability every day and inspires others to follow.”

This collaboration underscores Bisleri’s long-standing commitment to promoting responsible plastic use, recycling, and community participation. Together with KCEF, Bisleri aims to build a shared culture of accountability- empowering youth to lead the way toward a more sustainable future.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the countrys largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Staying Relevant in Changing World and Keep Learning is Key to Success, says Ronnie Screwvala During Masterclass at Chandigarh University

To empower students with experiential learning and real-world industry exposure, Chandigarh University has launched the ‘CU X MASTERCLASS’ program, a visionary initiative aimed at redefining higher education through impactful engagement with industry leaders and entrepreneurial innovators. The program was inaugurated by Ronnie Screwvala, a renowned filmmaker, entrepreneur and philanthropist, who delivered the first masterclass under this series at Chandigarh University on Monday.

Prominent Film Producer, Entrepreneur & investor, Ronnie Screwvala Inaugurating ‘CU X MASTERCLASS’ program at Chandigarh University

The CU X MASTERCLASS initiative is designed by Chandigarh University to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical industry insights, offering students a platform to engage directly with some of the most influential industry leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators across diverse domains including media, technology, entrepreneurship, finance, design, public policy and social innovation.

Under the Masterclass programme, Chandigarh University will organize interactive masterclasses led by distinguished professionals and thought leaders, enabling students to learn from their experiences, success stories and challenges. These sessions are structured to go beyond traditional lectures, fostering dialogue, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving through live case discussions and mentorship.

Addressing the gathering of students, Ronnie Screwvala, a renowned Filmmaker & Entrepreneur said, “The alphabet X is something thats going to haunt us in our careers because each one of you will have to reflect today, what is the X factor in your career, what are you going to build for the future It’s very timely that we are calling these sessions CU X because the X factor today is what you will have to rediscover every single day. Today, staying relevant is one of the most important challenges for all of us, and that doesnt just mean with knowledge or technology, but in how we continuously reinvent ourselves. Your self-conviction, not just your social media voice, is what allows you to take your career and life to the next level.”

Screwvala added, “The SME sector, or the small and medium-scale industry sector, in our country is driving more innovation than almost anywhere else in the world. In fact, India today ranks among the top five countries in space innovation, which reflects the spirit of creativity and enterprise that defines our nation.”

It’s important to remember be innovative. When you copy something, you can never truly create value, because you can’t copy completely. Original thinking is what builds real worth and lasting impact,” added he.

Sharing his own life experiences and his professional journey till now, Screwvala said, “Some of you may want to continue a family business, some may seek jobs and some may explore careers, but today in India, the future is also about self-employment. There was no Start-up India, no Shark Tank India, no VC investors or angel investors. Most parents thought it looked bad because nobody wanted to hire you, so deciding to start your own business was risky. But a low sense of entitlement sets your expectations differently and allows humility to guide your choices. That sense of entitlement has allowed me to be grounded and rediscover myself every day.”

Screwvala further added, “If you want to be self-employed or become an entrepreneur, one of the most important traits you need is the ability to stick around and outlast. Perseverance often matters more than timing, because when you are starting something whether it is big or small there is no good time or bad time. The right time is when you decide to begin. We all set our own time limit to achieve success, when things do not happen according to our plan, we call it failure. Because to achieve success, you have to work hard. It is not necessary that you get success according to your own time. Keep working hard.”

Jai Inder Singh Sandhu, Managing Director, Chandigarh University, said, “CU X Masterclass exemplifies Chandigarh University’s commitment to providing a world-class, future-ready education. By connecting students with inspiring industry leaders, we are creating a platform where learning goes beyond classrooms where ideas flourish, curiosity is nurtured, and students are empowered to become innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”

Through CU X MASTERCLASS, Chandigarh University reinforces its commitment to providing a world-class, future-ready education ecosystem. The programme complements the university’s academic framework by integrating experiential learning and industry exposure into the student journey, preparing them not just for jobs but for leadership, entrepreneurship, and meaningful contributions to society,” added Sandhu.

The launch event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions and an interactive session with Screwvala which was attended by senior university officials, faculty members, industry partners and students.

About Chandigarh University

Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the fields of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

Website address: www.cuchd.in

Fortis Hospital Mulund Expands Specialty Care With Launch of Dedicated Oncosciences & Gastrosciences Wing

Fortis Hospital, Mulund, today inaugurated Fortis Cancer Institute and the Institute of GastroSciences, a transformative expansion that underscores Fortis’ commitment to advancing comprehensive, patient-first healthcare. The new wing was inaugurated by acclaimed actor and cancer survivor Ms. Mahima Chaudhry, whose presence brought inspiration and hope to patients and caregivers alike. The inauguration ceremony brought together doctors, caregivers, and members of the community in a celebration of resilience and recovery.

Mahima Chaudhary and Fortis’ Dr Narayani, Dr Beri, Dr Dhabhar & Dr Rathod felicitate cancer warriors, at the inauguration of Institute of GastroSciences & Fortis Cancer Institute

The state-of-the-art new wing that houses the Fortis Cancer Institute and the Institute of GastroSciences, brings together cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, advanced treatment modalities, and an empathetic care environment. Designed for healing the body and mind, the space reflects Fortis Hospital Mulund’s vision to create an ecosystem where clinical excellence meets compassion, a hub of hope and healing for patients & families navigating complex health challenges.

Speaking about the specialized wing, Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO, Fortis Healthcare, said, “At Fortis, our mission is to continuously elevate the standard of care through innovation, integration, and compassion. The launch of the Fortis Cancer Institute and the Institute of GastroSciences at Mulund reflects our unwavering commitment to building centers of excellence that combine clinical depth with an environment of healing and hope. It is a reaffirmation of our vision to make advanced, ethical, and empathetic healthcare accessible to every patient.”

Fortis Cancer Institute will serve as a multidisciplinary hub integrating Medical, Surgical, and Radiation Oncology, along with advanced Genetic and Molecular Oncology, Palliative Care, and Digital Oncology Services. Patients will benefit from personalized therapies such as Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and robotic surgeries, supported by holistic programs including Psycho-Oncology, nutrition counselling, Yoga, and survivorship clinics. The department will be helmed by Dr. Boman Dhabhar, Director – Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Mulund, who said, The Fortis Cancer Institute brings together the full spectrum of oncology services under one roof – from precision diagnostics and personalized therapies to supportive and rehabilitative care. By integrating medical, surgical, and radiation oncology with advanced molecular and genetic insights, we aim to deliver treatment that is not only effective but also compassionate. Our focus is on improving outcomes, enhancing quality of life, and supporting every patient through each stage of their cancer journey.”

Complementing it, the Institute of GastroSciences offers comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and management of gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic disorders. Equipped with advanced endoscopic and interventional technologies such as ERCP, EUS, capsule endoscopy, cholangioscopy, double-balloon enteroscopy, high-resolution manometry, shock wave lithotripsy, weight-loss (Bariatric) endoscopy, 3rd space endoscopy and therapeutic endoscopic resections, the department ensures a full spectrum of care – from early diagnosis to minimally invasive treatments.

The department will be helmed by Dr. Vipulroy Rathod, Director – Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital Mulund, who said, “The Institute of GastroSciences has been designed to offer comprehensive and minimally invasive solutions for patients with gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic conditions. With the integration of advanced technologies, we are able to diagnose and treat complex cases with greater precision and safety. Our focus is on early detection, precision intervention, and post-procedure recovery, ensuring that every patient receives holistic and evidence-based care.”

Reinforcing this sentiment, Dr. Vishal Beri, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, added, “This new wing represents the evolution of Fortis Mulund as a true centre of excellence where clinical innovation, multidisciplinary collaboration, and human connection converge. Every element, from infrastructure to workflow, has been designed to deliver precision care with empathy. Our goal is not only to treat disease but to transform the patient experience ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors feels seen, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.”

Commenting on the milestone, Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra, said, “Mumbai continues to lead the transformation in specialty care, and this new wing is a testament to Fortis’ leadership in clinical innovation. By bringing together two critical specialties-Oncology and Gastroenterology under one roof, we are ensuring comprehensive, continuum-based care. The facility embodies our patient-first philosophy, with design and services curated to support physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.”

During the event, actor Mahima Chaudhry toured the facility, interacted with doctors and patients, and spoke about her personal experience as a cancer survivor. She shared, “Standing here today, I feel deeply moved. Having personally experienced the emotional and physical challenges of cancer, I know how important early detection, compassionate care, and support, both physical & mental, are in the healing journey that is full of hope. What Fortis Mulund has created here is not just a hospital space, it’s a sanctuary of courage, comfort, and clinical excellence that gives patients and families hope.”

The new Fortis Cancer Institute and the Institute of GastroSciences symbolizes Fortis’ continued investment in innovation, empathy, and excellence. Built to foster a continuum of care model, it integrates diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and survivorship programs under one umbrella.

About Fortis Healthcare Limited

Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 33 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 11 states. The Company’s network comprises over 5,700 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.

Safari Luggage Paints Travel Bright with ‘Shades Ahead’, Launching First on Flipkart’s Big Bang Diwali Sale!

Move over blacks and greys, luggage has entered a new era of colour. Safari, one of India’s leading luggage brands, in collaboration with Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, has launched Shades Ahead, a campaign that transforms travel gear into a bold lifestyle statement. Now live on Flipkart during the Big Bang Diwali Sale, the collection brings an explosion of colour, aspiration, and celebration to India’s travel culture.

Shades Ahead campaign by Safari

Shades Ahead celebrates the energy and individuality of today’s consumer millennials and Gen Z professionals who see luggage as an extension of their personality. The collection introduces two ranges, Froniq and Rovera, across six striking shades such as Sundune Yellow, Skyeglass Blue, Coral Orange, Misty Sage Green, Deeptide Navy, and Midnight Black. Combining Safari’s hallmark durability with expressive design, the collection is crafted for festive gifting, wedding trousseau, holiday escapes, and everyday journeys. Much like sneakers once redefined personal style, Shades Ahead signals a cultural shift in how India sees its travel gear.

Each colour in the collection is inspired by surreal worlds dreamlike landscapes visualised through AI. These imagined universes capture the essence of every shade: the warmth of Sundune Yellow, the cool serenity of Skyglass Blue, the calming freshness of Misty Sage Green, the vibrance of Coral Orange, the depth of DeepTide Navy, and the bold sophistication of MidNight Black. Together, they offer travellers not just a bag, but a story in every colour. To amplify the launch, Safari and Flipkart are rolling out AI-powered films, playful social banter, joint posts, stories, and targeted digital pushes, making Shades Ahead one of the most engaging festive campaigns of the season.

Sudhir Jatia, Managing Director, Safari Industries (India) Ltd., said, “With Shades Ahead, Safari is creating a colour-first movement in luggage. For too long, travellers settled for black and navy bags, but today’s consumer wants something bold, expressive, and festive. This collection is our answer to that shift. With Flipkart’s scale, we are ensuring these vibrant designs reach households across India during the Big Bang Diwali Sale.”

Kunal Gupta, Vice President, Flipkart Fashion said, “Big Bang Diwali sale is where India discovers what’s next. We are delighted to launch Safari’s Shades Ahead collection on Flipkart, bringing shoppers a colourful, design-led range that balances style with durability. By combining Safari’s innovation with Flipkart’s pan-India reach, we are enabling consumers from metros to smaller towns to celebrate, gift, and travel in style.”

The Shades Ahead campaign, featuring the Froniq and Rovera ranges in six bold shades, is available now on Flipkart, with special visibility and festive offers during the Big Bang Diwali Sale.