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Duville Estates Honoured at Outlook Business Spotlight 2025 with Dual Recognition in Sustainability and Design

Duville Estates Private Limited, a distinguished real estate brand and the name behind the landmark 31-acre Riverdale micro-township in Kharadi, Pune, has been recognised with two prestigious honours at the Outlook Business Spotlight: Nation Builders Excellence Awards 2025.

The company was recognized for its strong commitment to sustainability and it’s in house design-thinking, securing two awards – Platinum Green Builder of the Year andArchitectural Excellence in Residential Projects, highlighting the brand’s design-thinking-led approach.

The awards event was attended by Shri Ram Shinde, Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, and Chandrakant Salunkhe, Founder & President, SME Chamber of India, as Guests of Honour. The evening celebrated the exceptional winners of the Nation Builders Excellence Awards 2025, whose visionary leadership, innovation, and contributions across industries are shaping India’s growth story and driving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. Duville Estates’ dual recognition reflects its philosophy of balancing green, future-ready development with world-class architecture to create communities that redefine modern urban living.

Mr. Tushad B. Dubash, Director, Duville Estates

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Tushad B. Dubash, Director, Duville Estates, said, “These awards are a proud recognition of our efforts on two fronts – our commitment to green and sustainable development, and our focus on design-led, innovative architecture. At Duville Estates, we see building not just as construction, but as creating communities that bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. This recognition encourages us to continue raising the bar with responsibility, trust, and meaningful development.”

With a legacy spanning more than two centuries, Duville Estates stands among India’s most trusted developers. Its flagship township, Riverdale, has become a benchmark for modern community living in Pune, offering thoughtfully designed residential and retail spaces. Notably, Riverdale Grand, the latest development within the township, has achieved Platinum Pre-Certification by GEM (Green Energy Management), placing it among the highest-rated sustainable residential projects in the city.

By combining innovation with ethics and excellence, Duville Estates continues to redefine the landscape of urban real estate, building communities that inspire progress and responsibility in equal measure, with more on its sustainable practices available at www.duville.com.

About Duville Estates

Duville Estates is a renowned real estate developer operating in Mumbai and Pune, with a legacy dating back to 1810, making it the second-oldest family-run business in India. Recognized for delivering high-quality residential and commercial properties, the company is committed to redefining urban living through exceptional building design, modern amenities, and a customer-first approach.

Driven by the core values of ethics, trust, and transparency, Duville Estates focuses on creating strategically planned developments with zero-wastage apartment layouts that consistently exceed customer expectations. Its flagship 31-acre micro-township, Riverdale, exemplifies this vision with completed projects such as Riverdale Heights, Riverdale Residences, and Riverdale Suites, as well as upcoming projects like Riverdale Grove and Riverdale Grand.

A pioneer in sustainable living, Riverdale Grand has been awarded Platinum Certification by GEM (Green Energy Management), the highest green building certification making it one of the very few Five-Star Pre-Certified residential projects in Pune.

Innovation Just Found its New Address – JECRC University, Jaipur

Breaking through a pool of over 1,600 top talents across India, JECRC’s dynamic team “Social Pixelators” has clinched the First Prize at the prestigious ServiceNow University HackNow – India 2025, organized under the ServiceNow AI Skills Summit with support from Deloitte.

JECRC University’s Social Pixelators Team Triumphs national at ServiceNow HackNow 2025

The star team – Priyal Gupta, Saanvi Jain, Aaditya Mittal, and Kartikeya Sharma, all B.Tech CSE, 4th Year students, wowed the judges with their cutting-edge innovation, a “Social Media Engagement Tracker.”

This smart platform aggregates real-time brand data from Instagram and Facebook, conducts AI-powered sentiment analysis, and delivers actionable insights, all wrapped in a seamless ServiceNow dashboard.

Judged by a global panel including Jayney Howson, SVP – Global Learning & Development, ServiceNow, and senior architects from Deloitte, the JECRC innovators made it to the Top 5 Finalists before being crowned National Winners at the grand finale hosted at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre.

Their victory didn’t just earn them iPads, certificates, and thunderous applause, but also nationwide recognition for redefining how tech can serve business intelligence.

University leaders hailed this win as a “powerful reflection of JECRC’s hands-on learning ecosystem” – one that constantly bridges classroom knowledge with real-world problem solving and inspires a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Team Social Pixelators Secured #1 Among 1600 participants

Speaking about their journey, the Social Pixelators team credited their success to constant mentorship, relentless teamwork, and the vibrant innovation environment at JECRC University. “Being mentored by industry leaders and competing with India’s best minds – this experience was beyond transformative,” the team shared.

With this milestone, Jaipur has once again made its mark on India’s innovation map, and JECRC University hopes this win will ignite a new wave of creative problem-solvers who code, think, and build for impact.

Varun Dhawan, Neha Dhupia & Esha Gupta Honoured India’s Best Wedding Makers and Unveiled 5th Edition of The Great Indian Wedding Book 2025

It was a glittering evening where luxury met legacy as Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan presented India’s Best Wedding Makers at IBWM2025 conclave followed by versatile actor Neha Dhupia unveiling the 5th edition of The Great Indian Wedding Book (TGIWB) on Sunday, October 5, 2025, conceptualised by Copper Events at Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai. The celebration also witnessed the presence of glamorous Esha Gupta, adding further sparkle to the night of creativity, craftsmanship, and luxury. The Great Indian Wedding Book (TGIWB), India is most celebrated annual coffee-table book chronicling luxury weddings.

Indias Best Wedding Makers Conclave 2025 – The Great Indian Wedding Book launch

India’s Best Wedding Makers (IBWM) Conclave was more than an event; it was a celebration of the brilliant minds and skilled hands that craft weddings into experiences of a lifetime. From visionary planners and couture designers to jewelers, photographers, chefs, and dcor specialists, the conclave honoured excellence across every pillar of the wedding ecosystem. The unveiling of the IBWM Powerlist 2025 was a moment of recognition and pride; acknowledging visionaries who not only define trends but also shape India’s standing as a global destination for luxury weddings.

Pleased with the success of the event, Mr. Atul Pandey, Publisher of The Great Indian Wedding Book said, “We are honoured to present the 5th edition of The Great Indian Wedding Book, India’s flagship luxury wedding publication. Our vision was to create more than a book; it is a curated chronicle and a trusted reference point for families, creators, and brands navigating the luxury wedding space. With the launch of this edition and the unveiling of the IBWM Powerlist, we aim to set a benchmark that celebrates talent and places Indian weddings firmly on the global stage.

Speaking at the occasion, Bollywood Actor Varun Dhawan said,It’s an absolute honour to be here at the India’s Best Wedding Makers Conclave tonight. The energy in this room is truly inspiring, with so many visionaries from across the wedding world gathered to celebrate creativity and excellence. Indian weddings are not just events, they are living works of art, built with passion, imagination, and extraordinary effort. That is exactly what The Great Indian Wedding Book has always captured – the people, the ideas, and the innovations shaping this Industry.

Mr. Prateek Tandon, as Co-founder of India’s Best Wedding Makers added, “Bringing India’s Best Wedding Makers Conclave to life has been a truly fulfilling journey. Our vision was to create not just an event, but a platform that unites the most brilliant minds shaping the wedding industry today. By curating an ecosystem where creativity, commerce, and culture intersect, we are proud to have built a stage that honours excellence while inspiring the future of Indian weddings on the global luxury map.

Ms. Prachi Tandon, Co-founder of Copper Events said, “At Copper Events, we have always strived to deliver the finest solutions in the wedding industry. It is a matter of great pride for us to partner with India’s Best Wedding Makers and The Great Indian Wedding Book. We are truly honoured to have played a pivotal role in curating this landmark event, which has brought together astute clients, leading luxury brands, and the most exceptional talent from across the industry.”

Speaking at the occasion, Bollywood Actress Neha Dhupia said, “It was such a wonderful evening at the India’s Best Wedding Makers Conclave. The energy and creativity in the room truly reflected the spirit of the Indian wedding industry. The new edition of The Great Indian Wedding Book is incredibly beautiful and a must-have guide for anyone planning a big wedding, filled with inspiration, trends, and insights from the country’s top wedding experts.”

Speaking at the occasion, Bollywood Actress Esha Gupta said, “The new edition of The Great Indian Wedding Book is so beautiful! It captures the essence of Indian weddings with such style and detail. Kudos to the team and one must have it to plan a beautiful wedding. Being at the India’s Best Wedding Makers Conclave was an incredible experience. The atmosphere was electric, surrounded by the most talented people who are redefining how India celebrates love and luxury at weddings.

In India, weddings are far more than ceremonies, they are identity statements. They serve as milestones where heritage, aspiration, and design come together with the grandeur of global luxury. With over 32 lakh weddings every year and an industry valued at nearly Rs. 4.7 lakh crore, weddings are not just personal celebrations but the very heartbeat of India’s cultural economy. They also stand as the ultimate stage for luxury, shaping and influencing couture houses, jewelers, hotels, automotive brands, and spirits companies alike.

Resonating with the opulence of India’s wedding industry, The Great Indian Wedding Book and its flagship annual platform, the India’s Best Wedding Makers (IBWM) Conclave, stand as both a showcase of excellence and a benchmark of credibility, filling a long-standing gap for an authoritative platform that honours creativity and innovation with objectivity. More than recognition, they offer permanence documenting the finest talent, setting new standards, and elevating Indian weddings onto the global stage of luxury and influence. Much like cinema has its festivals, fashion its runways, and literature its prizes, Indian weddings now have their own true marker of prestige.

Petromin Express India launches ‘Petrofit’ and ‘Petrofit Plus’ – Tech-enabled Vehicle Health & Protection Plans for Indian Car Owners

Petromin Express India, a leading provider of quick, reliable, and affordable automotive services, today announced the launch of two innovative customer-centric offerings – Petrofit and Petrofit Plus. The launch underlines the company’s commitment to delivering tech-enabled, transparent, and value-driven vehicle care solutions tailored for Indian customers.

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Driving innovation forward! Petromin Express India launches Petrofit and PetrofitPlus – empowering car owners with smarter, safer, and more transparent vehicle care

Petrofit introduces the Electronic Vehicle Health Check (EVHC) – a structured digital diagnostic service that provides customers with an instant, detailed report on their vehicle’s condition and key systems. With EVHC, car owners gain complete visibility into their vehicle health, helping them make informed decisions and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Building on this foundation, Petrofit Plus offers an all-in-one Vehicle Protect Plan designed to provide peace of mind to car owners. The comprehensive plan includes:

  • Roadside Assistance (RSA): 24/7 nationwide support covering breakdown towing, fuel delivery, battery jump-start, key lockout, and minor onsite repairs.

  • Document Protection Cover: Reimbursement for loss or damage of essential documents such as RC and Driving Licence, up to INR 3,000.

  • Group Personal Accident (GPA) Cover: Complimentary personal accident insurance providing up to INR1 lakh financial protection in case of accidental death.

  • Engine Extended Warranty: Protection for key engine components (as per terms and conditions), available for vehicles less than 9 years old and under 1.5 lakh kilometres.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Ashnut Chopra, Managing Director, Petromin Express India, said, “With Petrofit and Petrofit Plus, we are delivering on our promise to provide Indian customers with innovative, affordable, and trustworthy mobility solutions. Petrofit builds transparency by giving customers a clear digital view of their vehicle health, while Petrofit Plus protects them against unexpected costs and risks, offering true peace of mind on the road. These offerings reflect our vision of combining Petromin’s global expertise with local insights to serve India’s rapidly growing automotive market.”

Benefits for Petromin Express India Customers

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Extended warranty provides essential protection for engine components, safeguarding customers against unforeseen repair costs.

  • Convenience: Roadside assistance offers immediate support for breakdowns, enhancing the overall driving experience for Petromin Express India customers.

  • Cost Savings: Prevents unexpected expenses, allowing customers to budget effectively for vehicle maintenance.

  • Increased Peace of Mind: Customers can drive confidently, knowing they have access to professional assistance and extended coverage.

  • Customer Loyalty: Offering these valuable services strengthens customer trust and loyalty to the Petromin brand.

Petromin Express India operates with the mission of redefining automotive aftersales through technology integration, customer convenience, and affordable pricing. With these launches, the company strengthens its positioning as a trusted partner for Indian car owners – one that not only services vehicles but also safeguards customers against unforeseen breakdowns, expenses, and risks.

About Petromin Express India

Petromin Express India, a Petromin subsidiary, delivers quick, reliable, and standardized automotive services in a strategic partnership with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). Operating service centers at HPCL fuel stations across Bengaluru and Chennai, the company provides customers with convenient access to essential car care, including oil changes, tyre services, batteries, and maintenance.

The brand is anchored on four commitments-Honest Pricing, Genuine Parts, Certified Technicians, and Warranty Coverage-ensuring transparency, quality, and trust in every service. Supported by Petromin’s global expertise spanning more than five decades, Petromin Express India is positioned to scale its presence significantly, with a strategic vision of expanding to 1,000 service centers by 2030.

For further information, please visit www.petromin.in.

MAHE Establishes ICMR-MAHE Centre for Advanced Research with Rs. 12.84 Crore ICMR Grant

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, inaugurated the ICMR-MAHE Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) at the Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), following the award of a Rs. 12.84 crore grant from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The Centre is led by Dr Naveen Salins, Professor and Head of the Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care at Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, as Principal Investigator, with Dr Arun Ghoshal, Assistant Professor, serving as Co-Principal Investigator.

MAHE inaugurates ICMR-MAHE Centre for Advanced Research with Rs. 12.84 crore grant

The inauguration was honoured by Dr Ashoo Grover, Scientist G and Head, Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, who was the Chief Guest, and Dr Roopa Shivashankar, Scientist E (Medical), Division of Delivery Research, ICMR, as the Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Dr H. S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and organised by Dr Sharath K. Rao, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), MAHE. Dr Anil K. Bhat, Dean of KMC Manipal, and Dr Cherian Varghese, Director of the Prasanna School of Public Health, participated in this inauguration. In his address, Dr Ballal emphasised that the partnership between ICMR and MAHE represents “the highest level of national recognition for MAHE’s research culture” and reflects the University’s enduring commitment to “science that heals and research that transforms.” Dr Sharath K Rao outlined the roadmap for health research at MAHE.

The Centre for Advanced Research (CAR) aims to fill a vital gap in India’s healthcare system-the need for ethical, compassionate, and evidence-based care for patients with advanced and terminal illnesses admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICUs). The centre will develop and assess a Multifaceted Comprehensive Appropriate Care Package (MCACP) that incorporates palliative care principles within critical care environments. This initiative builds on MAHE’s pioneering BLUE MAPLE framework, created and implemented at Kasturba Hospital and KMC Manipal, which has shaped national end-of-life care standards. The CAR will now expand this work nationwide, establishing a multi-centre collaborative network comprising ten clinical centres and seven technical partners.

The Centre’s work spans multiple disciplines-medicine, nursing, bioethics, health economics, law, and public health-reflecting MAHE’s belief in the “One Health-One Humanity” approach to research and innovation. By co-developing and testing a nationally scalable model of appropriate care for ICU patients with advanced illness, the CAR aims to influence policy, improve health-system responsiveness, and generate evidence that aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MAHE has a longstanding legacy of promoting research, innovation, and translational impact. The establishment of the ICMR-MAHE CAR strengthens MAHE’s position as a leading contributor to India’s health-research ecosystem. It reaffirms its mission to integrate science, ethics, and empathy in healthcare delivery. The Centre for Advanced Research will serve as a national and global reference point for ICU and palliative-care research, setting new benchmarks for interdisciplinary and implementation science in India.

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 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Enjoy a Family Reunion this Autumn with Air Canada

Air Canada customers planning to visit friends and relatives this autumn can earn up to 15,000 Aeroplan bonus points when booking single or return flights from India to London or Canada.

Travel with Air Canada

Members of Aeroplan, Air Canada’s frequent flyer programme, can also get up to 20,000 bonus points if connecting via Montreal or Toronto to another Canadian destination such as Calgary, Vancouver and Winnipeg. Or when travelling to destinations beyond Canada within the airline’s route network.

The offer is open to travellers who book eligible one-way or return flights between 1 October and 29 October 2025 – perfect for Indian customers planning to visit family and friends in Canada and beyond. The North American country is also ideal for newlyweds looking to spend their honeymoon in an incredible destination.

Customers must travel between 1 October 2025 and 30 June 2026 to receive the bonus points.

Bookings can be made in Indian Rupees on Air Canada’s website, ensuring a seamless experience for Indian customers.

The coming months are a busy and exciting time for Indian families who criss-cross the world to spend time with their loved ones. This Aeroplan offer gives them an added incentive to redeem their bonus points for special occasions such as long-awaited family reunions! We wish everyone a joyous autumn season,” said Arun Pandeya, General Manager, Air Canada.

Travellers with up to 20,000 bonus points could use as little as 6,000 to redeem a flight in the US or 7,500 to fly within India with one of Air Canada’s partner airlines. They can also redeem their points by flying direct from Mumbai to London Heathrow during the winter season (October 2025 to March 2026).

Canada is an ideal destination for honeymooners or Indian people wanting to reconnect with friends and relatives now living in the North American country.

Visitors can enjoy an autumnal or wintry vacation in a nation boasting beautiful forests, magnificent mountain peaks and bustling cities. Indian travellers will be able to explore the spectacular outdoors and enjoy the cozy charm of cabin-life in a setting adorned with bright yellow, burnt orange and vibrant red leaves during the fall and covered in a blanket of pristine snow throughout winter.

Among the many great places to visit, highlights include Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, and the mirrored lakes of Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, Quebec. Elsewhere, Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and British Columbia offer rich, diverse experiences for history, art and food lovers, making Canada one of the most exciting and activity-packed autumn destinations for couples, families and friends.

Aeroplan members can earn and redeem rewards such as flights, hotels and car rentals and ride shares with Air Canada partners. They also receive free wifi and texting onboard, allowing passengers to stay connected with friends and family.

Elite status members benefit from special privileges when travelling such as free checked bags, Maple Leaf Lounge access and cabin class upgrades.

Visit www.aircanada.com to book tickets and for more information about Air Canada’s partners.

About Air Canada
Air Canada is Canadas largest airline, the country’s flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the worlds most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada’s Aeroplan program is Canada’s premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world’s largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental partners. Through Air Canada Vacations, it offers more travel choices than any other Canadian tour operator to hundreds of destinations worldwide, with a wide selection of hotels, flights, cruises, day tours, and car rentals. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada’s passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada’s climate ambition includes a long-term aspirational goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. For additional information, please see Air Canada’s TCFD disclosure. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OTCQX in the US.

Inside the European Design of the VF 7

In an age of technology and individual expression, buying a car is no longer just about getting from point A to point B. For many, it has become a way to project identity. Out of the crowded field of SUVs in the Indian market, the VinFast VF 7 is emerging as a new symbol for those who want to stand apart. Young, independent drivers who value difference over convention are looking to it as their statement of choice.

Breaking away from the sameness of India’s SUV crowd, the VinFast VF 7 stands out with a Torino Design-crafted look and character that make it less a utility vehicle and more a personal signature on wheels

The VF 7 avoids the ordinary. At first glance, it strikes a bold note with a sporty, modern language drawn up by the Italian studio Torino Design. The front carries a V-shaped badge set inside a wing-like strip of daytime running lights. The body follows a fastback profile, its roof tapering neatly toward the rear. Slim tail lamps stretch across the back, producing a sharp visual effect that is easy to recognize on the road.

Some owners say it feels unlike any petrol SUV they have seen. One creative professional chose it because the look is so different: “Sporty, but still refined. When I drive through the city, it draws attention. Friends ask me about it because it doesn’t resemble any of the common SUVs out there.” His view echoes what early adopters in other markets have noticed: the VF 7 is styled to be seen.

European-Bred Exterior

The design team calls its approach “Asymmetrical Aerospace“. Sharp lines and taut surfaces echo aircraft forms, while flush handles cut drag and wide 19-inch wheels steady the body. A clean diffuser and sculpted bumper finish the rear with balance.

These are more than styling tricks. Smooth underbody panels ease airflow, and an acoustic windshield quiets the cabin. Air curtains at the headlamps shave resistance. Together, they deliver efficiency and calmer cruising, welcome on long Indian highways.

Proportion matters too, with length over 4.5 meters and a 2,840 mm wheelbase. That balance gives the SUV confidence without the burden of bulk, and it reflects a goal the designers had from the start. As a representative of Torino Design explained, “The VF 7 was born to fulfill that dream by preserving the soul of concept design in a commercial vehicle.”(1)

We spent more than 80,000 hours working on the entire VF 7 project to achieve the car you see today,” he added.

Sensory Interior, Minimalist but Warm

Inside, the cockpit takes on a “few but fine” approach: A 12.9-inch central screen floats above the dash, supported by a color head-up display that projects data at eye level. A piano-like gear selector sits within easy reach, replacing bulky levers with simple taps.

Material choice speaks to the model’s European sensibility, with buyers choosing between black vegan leather for a sportier feel or mocca brown for a warmer mood. Infinity trims add a fixed glass roof that fills the cabin with daylight even on a monsoon afternoon. These touches make the VF 7 feel as crafted as it is engineered.

Comfort in the VF 7 comes from a mix of thoughtful details, beginning with its long wheelbase that opens rear legroom, ventilated seats that cool passengers in Delhi’s summer heat, dual-zone climate control that adapts to different preferences, and acoustic glass that blocks out the chaos of urban traffic, while ambient lighting and an eight-speaker audio system turn long night drives into something quieter and more composed. Each feature adds up, not as luxuries piled on, but as deliberate choices aimed at making daily use less tiring and more rewarding.

The VF 7 also carries a suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and a camera-based fatigue warning. These systems matter in India’s traffic, where steady focus can be hard to maintain. They reduce strain, which is as much a design goal as styling.

By pairing Italian-sketched aerodynamics with a calm, tech-rich cabin, the VF 7 stands as more than just another entry in the EV market. It offers Indian buyers a mix of style and substance, a car that looks distinctive on the outside and feels considered on the inside.

(1)dantri.com.vn/o-to-xe-may/bi-mat-dang-sau-hanh-trinh-tao-ra-thiet-ke-vf-7-cua-torino-design-20231215205517749.htm

Economists Late Lord Meghnad Desai, Lord Nicolas Stern, Shri Bimal Jalan and Dr. Shankar Acharya Conferred with Top TIOL Fiscal Awards

  • Kerala bags ‘TIOL National Taxation Award’ in ‘Reformist State'(Silver) category

  • CMA Harkesh Tara receives 1st ‘Facilitator’ award in individual category

  • SRM School of Law receives ‘Gold’ in newly introduced Law Universities category

  • TIOL marks Silver Jubilee of its foundation

Former Chief Justice of India Justice Sanjiv Khanna conferred Economists Late Lord Meghnad Desai, Lord Nicolas Stern, and duo of former RBI Governor Shri Viman Jalan and former Chief Economic Advisor Dr. Shankar Acharya with ‘TIOL Outstanding Diaspora Award 2025′, ‘TIOL Kautilya Global Award 2025‘ and ‘TIOL Fiscal Heritage Award 2025‘ respectively in a ceremony held late evening on 6th October, 2025 at Hotel Taj Palace here. Late Lord Meghnad Desai’s wife Smt. Kishwar Desai received award for his husband.

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TIOL Awards Ceremony 2025

On the occasion, Chairman of 15th Finance Commission and noted Economist Shri N. K. Singh also moderated a lively discussion with Lord Nicolas Stern and Dr. Acharya on ‘How should India navigate the current geo-economic and geopolitical turmoil’.

Earlier ‘TIOL National Taxation Awards‘ were given in various categories, including ‘Reformist State’ to Kerala (Silver); CGST Zone awards to Pune (Gold) and Hyderabad (Silver); Customs Zone awards to Mumbai Zone 1 (Gold) and Chennai (Silver); State VAT/SGST category awards to Assam (Silver); CMA Harkesh Tara received ‘Facilitator’ award in Gold category and AZZ TaxCorp in Silver category; In the ‘Corporate’ category (Turnover Above Rs. 5000 Crore), Gold went to Max Life Insurance, and Caterpillar India Engineering Solutions Pvt. Ltd received award in ‘Silver’ category, whereas for the category of ‘Corporate (Between Rs. 500 to Rs. 5000 Crore)‘, ‘Gold’ went to Gujarat Ambuja Exports Ltd and Watson Pharma Pvt. Ltd received award in ‘Silver’ category; And, in the newly introduced category of Law Universities, SRM School of Law received ‘Gold’ category award. The awards were handed over by the former Chief Justice of Tanzania Justice Mohamed Chande Othoman, H.E. Anisa Mbega, Ambassador of Republic of Tanzania, Mr. Sandeep Bhatnagar, Member of TIOL Jury Penal, Smt. Bhawani Rana, Dr. Bishwambher Pyakuryal and Shri Madhu Kumar Marasini, Jury Penal Members of Nepal Chapter of TKF and other dignitaries.

The eminent personalities who addressed and engaged in lively discussion at TIOL Tax Congress and award ceremony included Dr. P. Thiaga Rajan, Minister of IT & Digital Services, Tamil Nadu, Shri N. Venkataraman, Additional Solicitor General of India, Shri M. K. Sinha, CEO, GST Network, Shri Shashank Priya, Member (GST), Ministry of Finance, Shri Sanjay Bahadur, Member – CBDT, Ministry of Finance, Shri Shailesh Haribhakti, Economic Thinker, Shri Rajesh Jindal, Principal DG (Systems), CBIC, Dr. Sanjay Bahl, DG, CERT-IN & Controller of Certifying Authority, Shri Ajay Vohra, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, Shri Pramod Kumar, former Vice President, ITAT, H.E. Anisa Mbega, Ambassador of Republic of Tanzania, Shri S. S. Khan, former member CBDT, Shri Sumit Dutt Mazumdar, former Chairman, CBEC, and Justice Shiva Kirti Singh, former Judge of Supreme Court of India and the Chairman of the Jury for TIOL Awards.

From Jerseys to Journeys of Care: Riyan Parag Transforms His Cricket Memories into Comfort for Shelter Animals

Indian international cricketer Riyan Parag has deepened his commitment to animal welfare with yet another heartfelt initiative. Earlier this year, he supported the recovery of Janam, a rescued dog from a Delhi shelter run by animal welfare advocate Manavi Rai, founder of Udgam Charitable Trust – marking the beginning of his personal journey in giving back to animals in need. That experience, guided by Manavis extensive work in the rescue space, inspired Riyan to think beyond one-off gestures and create long-lasting, sustainable impact.

Riyan with his furriend Janam

Now, in collaboration with Respun, a sustainable recycling unit, Riyan has given his cricket memorabilia a meaningful second life. His old jerseys spanning U-19 tournaments, his domestic cricket career, Rajasthan Royals, and even his time with Team India have been repurposed into cozy beds for shelter animals. These unique jersey-beds will not only provide warmth during harsh winters but also bring comfort to abandoned and rescued animals awaiting new homes.

From Cricket Jerseys to Cozy Beds: Riyan Parag, Manavi Rai & Respun Support Shelter Animals

YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watchsi=daKntS28_KadiNCz&v=407yU88-m1E&feature=youtu.be

Respun specializes in reimagining textiles into functional, eco-friendly products, and this partnership highlights how sustainability and compassion can intersect. By converting deeply personal cricket memorabilia into something that directly improves animal welfare, Respun and Riyan have created a model for how sports, community, and recycling can work together to drive meaningful social change.

Udgam Charitable Trust, which serves as Janams home, houses over 100 dogs in its Delhi shelter. Since its inception in 2020, the shelter has been run by a dedicated 15-member team and is equipped with an x-ray machine, a small operation theatre, a post-care room, visiting surgeons, and in-house paravets, making it one of the few grassroots shelters to provide such comprehensive medical care. Manavis vision extends far beyond Delhi; she believes such facilities should be replicated across India, ensuring that every city and village has accessible shelters and medical care for animals.

Speaking about the initiative, Riyan Parag said, “Every jersey Ive worn holds special memories, but I wanted them to serve a bigger purpose beyond my career milestones. Recycling them into beds for shelter animals felt like the perfect way to combine two things close to my heart, cricket and animal welfare. Janam has already changed the way I look at responsibility and compassion, and I hope this effort inspires others to support both sustainability and animal care.”

This initiative underlines how emotional sporting milestones can be transformed into practical, purpose-driven solutions for society. Riyans journey of giving back to society continues to grow stronger, with more unique collaborations with industry leaders like Respun on the horizon – blending care, community, and sustainability into his off-field legacy.

About: Udgam Charitable Trust

Founded in 2020 by animal welfare advocate Manavi Rai, Udgam Charitable Trust is a Delhi-based animal shelter dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of abandoned and injured animals.

  • Scale of Care: The shelter houses over 100 dogs at any given time.

  • Team Strength: A dedicated team of 15 members, including 2 in-house paravets, ensures smooth day-to-day operations.

  • Facilities: Equipped with an x-ray machine, a small operation theatre, a post-care room, and support from visiting surgeons, Udgam offers medical facilities that go beyond basic care.

  • Medical Collaborations: For specialized treatments, Udgam regularly works with CGS, The Eye Vet, and Animilia Hospital.

Manavi started the shelter out of an urgent need to provide timely medical care and refuge to street animals. Her philosophy is rooted in compassion and justice for the voiceless: It is not just about feeding or caring for dogs anymore; it is about being the voice for the voiceless. My dream is that animals have rights, laws, and the respect they deserve and that rescuers, feeders, and caregivers are also valued for their service to society.

Respun

Respun is a sustainable recycling unit committed to giving textiles a meaningful second life. By repurposing fabrics into practical, eco-friendly products, Respun reduces waste and promotes circular economy practices.

At Respun, our focus has always been on creating products that merge sustainability with social good. Collaborating with athletes, organizations, and communities allows us to bring this vision to life in meaningful ways. Working with Riyan Parag to transform his treasured jerseys into beds for shelter animals is a perfect example of how recycling can be paired with compassion. What makes this initiative even more special is Riyans humility, for someone so young and successful to think of giving back in such a thoughtful way reflects his genuine care for animals and the planet. We believe recycling should not just be a process but a way of life, reimagining memories and milestones into products that care for both people and the planet.

Crompton Becomes the First Lighting Company with a Complete GreenPro Certified Solution Range

Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. (CGCEL), one of India’s leading consumer electrical companies, has achieved yet another sustainability milestone. The company’s Entire B2B Lighting Product Range has been awarded the prestigious CII GreenPro Certification (Type-1 Ecolabel) at the GreenPro Summit India 2025. This makes Crompton the first lighting company with a complete GreenPro Certified Solution Range.

Crompton Lighting Leads Towards A Sustainable Future

This recognition comes just a year after Crompton received its first GreenPro Ecolabel certification for its ceiling fans, underscoring the company’s commitment to driving environmental responsibility across product categories.

The GreenPro Ecolabel Certification is a prestigious recognition that validates a product’s environmental performance across its entire life cycle-from raw material sourcing and manufacturing processes, to energy efficiency during use, and responsible disposal or recycling at the end of life. In India, the certification is promoted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and is accredited by the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), ensuring it meets globally harmonized ecolabelling standards.

By securing this certification for its professional lighting range, Crompton demonstrates its commitment to offering genuinely sustainable solutions for the building materials, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.

Crompton’s Entire B2B Lighting Range is engineered to combine reliability, performance, and energy efficiency with sustainable practices. With GreenPro certified solutions spanning indoor, industrial, outdoor, solar, and high-mast lighting categories, Crompton is now uniquely positioned to support businesses and institutions in meeting their green building and sustainability goals.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr Promeet Ghosh, MD & CEO, said: “At Crompton, sustainability is at the core of our innovation. We are proud to be the first lighting company in India to achieve a complete GreenPro Certified Solution Range. This recognition adds to our growing list of sustainability accolades, including the earlier certification for our ceiling fan model, and affirms our commitment to global sustainable development goals and responsible practices. It reinforces our dedication to delivering high-performance, reliable products while making a meaningful impact on people as well as the planet. Together, these milestones reflect Crompton’s journey toward building a greener and more sustainable future for India.”

Crompton’s lighting solutions are designed to deliver superior illumination while ensuring energy efficiency, helping reduce power consumption and support sustainable living. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its eco-friendly innovations and projects:-

  • Energy Efficiency: Products designed to reduce power use while ensuring high performance.

  • Smart Solutions: Expansion of connected and sensor-based lighting for efficient usage.

  • Durability: Long-lasting products that lower waste and replacement cycles.

  • Renewable Adoption: Solar-powered and eco-friendly LED solutions for public infrastructure.

  • Green Innovation: New ranges in solar, tunnel, sports, and industrial lighting.

The CII GreenPro Certification is a significant milestone for Crompton as it continues to lead in sustainable practices in the consumer products sector.

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is committed to cultivating an environment that facilitates India’s development by working alongside industry, government, and civil society through advisory and consultative processes.

The Ecolabel Certificate is awarded to products that demonstrate strong environmental performance across their entire life cycle. Each product undergoes a comprehensive assessment covering raw materials, manufacturing processes, performance during use, and end-of-life disposal or recycling. This holistic evaluation ensures the product’s true sustainability. The certification was officially presented at the GreenPro Summit India 2025, where Crompton was recognized among the leaders of India’s sustainability community.

About Crompton

With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers.

The companys consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the companys storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of Indias Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.