World Animal Protection appreciates the announcement of National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance 2.0 by Union Health Minister, J P Nadda. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Nadda emphasized that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern that can only be addressed through collective action. He noted that the journey began in 2010 with initial discussions, followed by the launch of the first National Action Plan – AMR in 2017. “While AMR is a multisectoral issue and requires a One Health Approach for its containment, only when each sector, i.e., human, animal, agriculture and environment sector are committed for action to contain AMR, can the One Health approach be successful,” the Press Information Bureau release reads. World Animal Protection has provided substantive input to the development of this plan and appreciates the linkage to animals in this document and hopes this will lead to better animal welfare as well as improved human health.

Poor conditions in a factory farm Credit: World Animal Protection

Antimicrobial Resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, endangering both human and animal health, the environment, food security, economic development and equity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1.27 million deaths occurred from drug resistant infections in 2019. Today, antibiotics are globally used for therapeutic purposes, prophylactic measures, and as growth promoters in commercial animal production systems. The use of antibiotics in chickens is expected to triple in India by 2030 compared to 2015 as a consequence of the increasing consumer demands and intensive farming practices. 90% of the total antimicrobials used in farms are released to the environment through animal excreta like urine and faeces.

“The unregulated use of antibiotics in poultry may have serious implications for developing economies, especially for India, the biggest consumer of antimicrobials in the world. This includes a possible increase in export rejections and trade loss due to the stringent import policies in countries like the EU on the use of non-therapeutic antimicrobials for animal/animal-based products. There is ample literature linking the indiscriminate use of antibiotics with the rapid development of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in various livestock sectors, including poultry and aquaculture in India,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma, Country Director, World Animal Protection in India.

The studies have found that about 90% of the total antimicrobials used in farms are released to the environment through animal excreta (urine and faeces). This release is a cause of concern as antimicrobials can persist for long periods, contributing to the development and selection of resistant bacteria, which are then open to infect both poultry and humans living nearby. There is an emerging concern globally on AMR, and India is working at various levels to minimise the risks associated with it. Toxics Link has developed a series of reports on antibiotic pollution and its impact on the overall environment. In this context, to understand the existing scenario of antibiotic pollution from poultry on the overall environment and a factor in the development of AMR, Toxics Link, in collaboration with World Animal Protection, conducted a study on the presence of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes (ARG) in the environmental matrices surrounding poultry farms in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The lab-based study established that the environmental samples surrounding poultry factories contained facultative pathogens and opportunistic pathogens, along with ARGs against many of the antimicrobials classified under World Organisation of Animal Health(OIE) and WHO’s list of Critically Important Antimicrobials.

Link: bit.ly/WAP_Factory_Farming_Health_Impacts

Film accompanying report at this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpV_aC_vkKg

These are classes of antimicrobials essential for the treatment of specific diseases, including those from non-human resources (e.g., Glycopeptides and Tetracycline). Furthermore, the study identifies gaps in the current regulatory framework for antimicrobial drugs and recommends amendments to the current system, highlighting the need for the adoption of newer policies and incentives against the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in the poultry sector.

“In the wake of the COP 30 conference in Belém in Brazil and the announcement by the Union Health Minister, World Animal Protection takes these recent occasions to emphasise that the use of antibiotics in any kind of intensive animal farming and rearing is only done with due diligence. We further highlight that high animal welfare is a key solution to reducing the need for antibiotics, as healthier animals require fewer medical interventions. Improving welfare conditions in the animal farming sector must therefore be an integral part of India’s AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) Action Plan,” says Gajender Kumar Sharma.

Zumba Fitness has announced that Beto Perez, the creator of Zumba, will bring his signature energy to Bengaluru for a high-intensity Zumba Master Class at Algorythm in Nexus Shantiniketan Mall. The event is expected to draw Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN) members and Zumba enthusiasts from across the country for a rare opportunity to dance with the visionary who transformed global fitness culture with the power of music and movement.

Beto Perez, Co-Founder and Creator, Zumba Fitness

Participants may begin gathering at the venue from 5 pm onwards. Beto will guide attendees through the session with the trademark energy and presence that has shaped the global Zumba experience for years.

The event will provide a platform for the Indian Zumba community to connect with the global movement it represents. Instructors, long-time practitioners, and first-time participants are invited to come together to celebrate fitness in a setting of positivity and shared enthusiasm.

The Bengaluru master class represents a special opportunity for Zumba fans across India to experience Beto’s expertise firsthand. The event will bring together movement, music, and community in a celebration of Zumba’s global impact, with 14 of Zumba’s Education Specialists from across India flying in to support Beto on stage.

Beto will be attending a training for new Zumba instructors on 23rd November at the Royal Dance Space Koramangala – a rare opportunity to take the Zumba training and become a licensed instructor with the creator of the programme.

Tickets for the masterclass on 22nd November are available at: www.townscript.com/e/zumba-master-class-with-beto-perez-424443.

Register for the Zumba Basic 1 instructor training on 23rd November here: www.zumba.com/en-US/training/2025-11-23_B1_Bengaluru_IN_Beto_Perez.

About Zumba Fitness, LLC
Founded in 2001, Zumba is the largest branded dance fitness company in the world – reporting more than 15 million weekly participants, in 200,000 locations, across 185 countries. Zumba® blends world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography for an effective workout that empowers participants to become their best selves – mind, body and soul. In addition to its original Zumba program, the company offers 10 Zumba specialty classes – from aquatic-based to those specifically designed for active older adults and children. In 2016, Zumba launched its first non-dance, HIIT workout STRONG Nation®, where music acts as the main motivator. In 2023, Zumba launched CIRCL Mobility®, a revolutionary new program designed to unlock the body’s full potential through flexibility, breathwork, and mobility exercises. The Zumba® lifestyle is rounded out by the company’s many consumer product offerings, including video games, VR +MR experiences, original music, activewear and footwear, and interactive Fitness-Concert™ events. For more information about Zumba’s programs and products, or to find a live class, visit zumba.com. Follow us on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.

The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) today felicitated Shri B.V. Naidu, Chairman, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), with the First STPI Commendation Award at the STPI Awards Ceremony held during Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2025 facilitated by Dr. Sanjay Tyagi, Jurisdictional Director, STPI. The recognition honours Shri Naidu’s decades-long leadership in building Karnataka’s global technology prominence and his sustained contributions to India’s IT, innovation, and digital economy landscape.

Shri B.V. Naidu, Chairman, KDEM, was awarded the First STPI Commendation Award for his contributions to Karnataka’s tech and innovation ecosystem

The award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional, long-term impact on India’s technology ecosystem—through institution building, industry development, policy leadership, and innovation-driven economic transformation. Shri Naidu, one of Karnataka’s most respected technology leaders, has been instrumental in shaping the state’s IT narrative for over three decades, driving landmark initiatives across government, industry bodies, and emerging tech clusters.

Shri Naidu’s legacy includes several prestigious honours, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and the TiE Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award, recognising his role in accelerating entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and regional technology development across the state.

The selection for the STPI Commendation Award was undertaken by a distinguished jury panel comprising senior industry leaders, policy experts, and technology institution heads. The award ceremony at BTS 2025 highlighted the collective contributions of national technology champions who continue to drive India’s digital transformation.

During the ceremony, senior industry members reflected on Shri Naidu’s impact in shaping Karnataka’s technological rise—from steering the growth of Bengaluru’s IT export ecosystem to driving the state’s regional tech expansion through the Beyond Bengaluru mission. His leadership has been pivotal in enabling the development of future-ready tech clusters, fostering industry–government partnerships, strengthening deeptech, startups, GCCs, and expanding Karnataka’s impact on global innovation and engineering ecosystems.

Speaking on the recognition, Shri B.V. Naidu, Chairman, KDEM, said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the First STPI Commendation Award. This recognition belongs to the countless innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and ecosystem builders who have worked together to shape Karnataka’s technology leadership. Our collective mission has always been to build globally competitive tech clusters, strengthen digital capabilities across the state, and ensure Karnataka remains at the forefront of India’s innovation-led growth. I remain committed to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, engineers, and institutions that will define India’s digital future.”

This honour further reinforces Shri Naidu’s continued efforts through KDEM and other national platforms to accelerate India’s digital economy, create high-value jobs, and build sustainable innovation ecosystems that contribute to nation-building.

Trehan Iris, a distinguished name in India’s real estate landscape with a legacy of developing wellness-centric and future-forward communities, has announced a strategic collaboration with Knox, a boutique fitness and wellness brand renowned for its design-led, holistic training approach. This partnership marks a significant step towards reimagining luxury living by integrating a comprehensive, health-first lifestyle experience into Trehan Iris’ upcoming residential project in Gurugram. 

Knox, the ultimate fitness and wellness destination, is coming soon to Sector 80, Gurugram

The development will feature an exclusive Knox Studio, conceived as an experiential wellness hub offering high-performance fitness training, mindful movement practices, and a vibrant calendar of community-driven engagements. By uniting architectural sophistication with progressive wellness philosophies, Trehan Iris and Knox are setting a new benchmark for urban residential living, where personal well-being, social connection, and contemporary comfort seamlessly converge.

“At Trehan Iris, our goal has always been to create environments that nurture balance and inspire purposeful community living” said Aman Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan Iris. “Through this collaboration, we’re introducing a new dimension of residential experience, one that connects people through movement, shared wellness goals, and a collective sense of vitality.”

Knox, celebrated for its precision-focused programs, aesthetic design sensibility, and strong sense of community, will extend its philosophy into the residential space for the first time. The studio will offer specialized training modules, adaptive workout formats, and lifestyle-led events designed to foster both physical growth and emotional resilience. 

“Our collaboration with Trehan Iris allows us to extend the Knox experience into the home environment,” said Joel Pinto, Co-Founder, Knox. “Together, we’re building more than a fitness space, we’re creating a lifestyle ecosystem where residents can move, connect, and thrive.”

Trehan Iris’ Gurugram project is envisioned as a modern habitat that blends intelligent design with holistic living. The Knox-led wellness initiative will introduce customized fitness routines shaped by globally accredited trainers and programs that integrate body conditioning with mental well-being, offering residents an elevated, future-ready lifestyle.

With this collaboration, Trehan Iris reaffirms its leadership in creating integrated ecosystems where design, health, and community come together to define the next chapter of urban living.

About Trehan Iris
Building on a legacy of over 7 decades, Trehan Iris is now reimagining urban development through the lens of wellness. With more than 15 million sq. ft. delivered across 100+ landmark projects-including IRIS Broadway Gurgaon, IRIS Broadway Greno West, an ongoing 1 million retail led, mixed use development, IRIS Tech Park, and IRIS Cyber Tower-the company has consistently demonstrated innovation, quality, and trust. Moreover, Trehan Iris is also expanding its presence in the south with a 5-star hotel and IT Park in Bangalore along with other upcoming residential projects in Gurgaon and a commercial & retail development in Noida. Additionally, these upcoming projects will focus on wellness, further enhancing lifestyle and ecosystem. With this new chapter, Trehan Iris is committed to make wellness an integral part of all future developments. 

About Knox
Knox is a modern sanctuary for those who treat well-being as a way of life, not a checkbox. Designed as a high-performance haven, it blends precision training with deeply considered wellness rituals to elevate both body and mind. Every programme is bespoke, every experience intentionally crafted, and every detail engineered to move you closer to your most powerful self. 

More than a studio, Knox is a private culture- a collective of individuals who value excellence, consistency and community. Members don’t just train side-by-side; they grow together, celebrate progress together, and become part of something rare. With world-class equipment, immersive workshops, curated events, and a signature environment that feels both refined and energising, Knox sets a new benchmark for luxury wellness. It is where performance meets presence, and where a life well-lived truly begins. 

Capillary Technologies, a global customer engagement and loyalty SaaS company, today marked a major milestone with its public listing. The event represents the second IPO from the portfolio of Avataar Venture Partners, reaffirming the firm’s reputation as a VC that backs global technology businesses from India. 

Aneesh Reddy (L) Mohan Kumar (R)

Avataar first partnered with Capillary in 2019. Since then, Capillary has evolved into a platform serving global companies. Capillary works with 19 of the Fortune 500 clients/brands (data as of June 2025). 

Mohan Kumar of Avataar Venture Partners said, “This milestone reinforces our belief that India can produce global, publicly-listed leaders built on profitability and governance, such as Capillary and RateGain. It also illustrates the value of a patient-capital mindset in supporting founders through their long-term journeys.” 

Aneesh Reddy, Founder & CEO, Capillary Technologies, added, “Avataar has been more than an investor; they’ve been a long-standing partner through key phases of our scale journey. Their team has been alongside us as we institutionalised the processes required for global expansion. Today’s listing is a new beginning and a validation of the long-term partnership approach that has enabled us to go the distance and reach this milestone.” 

As one of India’s leading funds with over $1 billion deployed, Avataar focuses on partnering with founders at scale as they expand globally and accelerate growth. 

Avataar continues to demonstrate a differentiated model for venture capital in India: building companies for longevity, not valuation, and bridging the gap between private capital and public-market readiness. 

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) convened the inaugural National Animal Wellbeing Summit 2025 at the India Habitat Centre, bringing together policymakers, veterinarians, startups, and industry leaders working in the space of animal health. The Summit underscored the urgency of clear, science-based regulations for the pet food sector, wider adoption of standards, and coordinated action across government, industry, veterinary professionals, and pet parents.

The session titled “From Awareness to Innovation: Driving Companion Animal Health” focused on India’s rapidly expanding companion-animal ecosystem and the need to move from intent to implementation. Moderated by Mr. Salil Murthy, Managing Director, Mars Petcare India, the session featured Ms. Priyanka Mehra, Scientist E/Director, Food & Agricultural Department, Bureau of Indian Standards; Ms. Pallavi Anand, Business Head, South Asia Region, Nestle Purina Petcare; Mr. Dhanu Roy, Founder & Director, Right4Paws; and Mr. Aniruddha Rajurkar, Chief Executive Officer, SAVA Healthcare.

Speakers emphasized a single-window regulatory pathway and mandatory standards for pet food over time, with BIS voluntary standards as an immediate foundation. They highlighted the importance of evidence-based nutrition, label literacy, awareness and education campaigns, responsible back-of-pack claims, and veterinary engagement to drive real-world health outcomes for pets.

Referencing a recent industry position paper on India’s pet food sector by Rödl & Partner, the discussion noted that India’s pet population was estimated at ~42.2 million in 2024 and could exceed 100 million by 2035; the pet food market was valued at ~USD 720 million in 2024 with potential to reach ~USD 2 billion by 2035. The paper also observes that dog food accounts for 85%+ of the market, while cat food is the fastest-growing segment, that e-commerce is a key growth enabler, and that manufactured pet food penetration remains below 10% of households—underscoring the need for clear, science-aligned standards and regulatory clarity.

During the panel discussion, Salil Murthy, Managing Director, Mars Petcare India, highlighted, “Pets that once lived outside our homes are now part of our bedrooms and daily routines, reflecting a profound shift in family dynamics. Our recent survey tells us that pets’ presence actually helps improve the mental well-being of everybody in the family. The emotional bond is getting stronger day by day.”

Salil further stated, “Pet food is a rapidly growing industry, but is one of the few that still does not have a comprehensive set of regulations that govern quality ingredients, nutrition, and labelling. The work being done by the BIS on voluntary standards is, therefore, so critical. It is an important attempt to ensure we find a common baseline for safety and quality, and these standards have the potential to go on and become a regulation and mandatory for all players.”

Priyanka Mehra, Scientist E/ Director, Food & Agricultural Department, Bureau of Indian Standards, said, “As India’s pet food market grows rapidly with rising pet ownership and demand for safer, high-quality nutrition, we remain committed to strengthening sector standards. Pets are now an important part of our families, and we believe regulated, high-quality products are essential. By encouraging transparent public consultation and drawing on expertise from labs, academia, and manufacturers, we aim to ensure that every standard is scientifically sound and practical to implement. Together, we can support the industry in delivering reliable, high-quality products that promote the well-being of pets across the country.”

Pallavi Anand, Business Head, Nestle Purina Petcare, South Asia Region said, “As pet parenting becomes increasingly intentional and outcome-driven, especially with 80% of today’s pet parents being first-timers as per a recent survey, there is a heightened responsibility on the industry. With this rapid shift from home food to formulated nutrition, we must ensure that every product delivers exactly what it claims, both in terms of safety and nutritional value. Standards and claim validation are critical not just for building trust, but also for protecting the very companions we serve. Competition and growth are positive signs, but only if we collectively uphold quality, transparency, and scientific rigor so that every pet gets the right product, at the right price, and with assured quality.”

Key themes from the session included:

• Establishing a dedicated regulatory framework for petfood, grounded in BIS voluntary standards as a near-term baseline.

• Advancing evidence-based nutrition and claims substantiation; strengthening label transparency and consumer education.

• Scaling veterinary engagement and One Health alignment across nutrition, healthcare, and responsible digital access.

• Encouraging multi-stakeholder collaboration to convert standards into practice and improve pet wellbeing outcomes nationwide.

In closing, the session reaffirmed the collective commitment to building a cohesive and future-ready framework for the companion animal sector. Speakers noted that the industry stands at a pivotal juncture, where decisions made today will shape its long-term direction and the quality of care available to pets across the country. With aligned efforts among regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, veterinary professionals, and pet parents, the sector is well-positioned to advance responsibly and contribute to a more informed, resilient, and compassionate ecosystem for animal well-being.

Creating that stellar resume is like trying to solve one of those puzzles where every piece will fit, but not really. Enter Naukri Pro’s AI Resume Maker, your new go-to partner in job hunting, designed to turn the “Where do I even start?” moment into “Wow, that looks impressive!”

Naukri’s Pro AI Resume Maker

The Naukri Pro – AI Resume Maker is an advanced online self-service platform that allows job seekers to create professional resumes that appeal to recruiters effortlessly. Whether you’re a fresher searching for your first opportunity or an experienced professional eyeing the next move, this AI tool keeps your resumes polished, powerful, and perfectly tailored to land in the right hands.

So, what makes it special?

Forget spending hours tweaking margins or guessing what “ATS-friendly” even means. Naukri’s AI Resume Maker simplifies it all with:

• Customizable, professional templates : Choose a design that mirrors your vibe, classy, modern, or minimalist.

• Smart AI-powered content tweaks : Refine your phrasing and highlight your achievements so your skills don’t get lost in jargon.

• Seamless Naukri profile import : Already have a Naukri account? Just pull in your profile and auto-fill your resume in seconds.

• ATS-optimized formats : Ensure your resume clears recruiter screening systems with flying colors.

• Real-time preview & easy download : Edit, preview, and download instantly, no waiting, no stress.

With just a few clicks, your resume is ready to impress, whether you’re applying on Naukri, LinkedIn, or any other job platform.

Because first impressions count – and yours just got an upgrade

Your resume isn’t just a document; it’s your first handshake with opportunity. The AI Resume Maker uses intelligent algorithms to polish your profile, sharpen your tone, and present your skills in a way recruiters can’t ignore.

And it doesn’t stop there. As part of Naukri Pro, users also get access to premium features like profile enhancement, hidden job invitations, AI mock interviews, and skills insights —everything needed not just to apply for a job but to ace the entire process.

Affordable plans, premium results

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Each plan includes complete access to Naukri Pro and its suite of powerful career tools.

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It’s like having a smart, experienced friend by your side, one who knows what recruiters want and helps you put your best foot forward.

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Try it now: Naukri Pro AI Resume Maker

Because the right job starts with the right resume, and with Naukri Pro’s AI Resume Maker, you’re already halfway there.

About Naukri

For over two decades, Naukri.com, the leading job platform in India, has been benefitting millions of professionals in finding the right opportunities. With tools like Naukri Pro AI Resume Maker, the company is one step closer to its mission to make job searching simpler for everyone through smart technology combined with human understanding, one resume at a time. Job seekers can also download Naukri app to explore opportunities, apply instantly, and manage their job search seamlessly.

The Art of Living Social Projects has been recognised once again on the national stage, the 6th National Water Awards, 2024 in the ‘Best Civil Society’ category,  instituted by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to celebrate outstanding contributions towards a Jal Samridh Bharat. This honour marks the second consecutive year that The Art of Living Social Projects has been celebrated at the National Water Awards – an affirmation of the organisation’s commitment, consistency, and deep-rooted impact in water rejuvenation across India.

Shri C.R. Patil, Hon. Union Minister of Jal Shakti, presents JSJB 1.0 Award in Best NGO category to The Art of Living

A Second National Recognition: JSJB 1.0 Award

Adding to this achievement, The Art of Living Social Projects was also named one of the distinguished winners of the JSJB 1.0 Award in the Best NGO category for exemplary work under Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari. This award acknowledges outstanding efforts in mobilising communities, enhancing water security, and advancing participatory water management at scale.

Both honours were presented at a single ceremony on 18th November 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, in the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and received by Br. Pragyachaitanya, Chairman, The Art of Living Social Projects and Prasana Prabhu, Chairman, Sri Sri Rural Development Program Trust (SSRDP) and Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences & Technology Trust (SSIAST) – marking a moment of immense pride for the organisation and its vast network of volunteers and partners.

Shri C.R. Patil, Hon. Union Minister of Jal Shakti presents Best Civil Society award for outstanding contribution towards a Jal Samridh Bharat

A Moment of Collective Pride

These recognitions reinforce a core belief: scientifically grounded, community-led water restoration is essential to revitalising India’s rural and semi-urban landscapes.

Through initiatives such as the desilting of rivers and lakes, watershed revival, groundwater recharge, and strengthening local water-user groups, The Art of Living Social Projects has consistently demonstrated how large-scale transformation is possible when science, community participation, and sustained commitment come together.

The Path Forward

Guided by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s vision of caring for both people and the planet, The Art of Living Social Projects continues its mission with renewed vigour. The organisation remains dedicated to:

• Reviving rivers, lakes, ponds, and traditional water bodies

• Strengthening community institutions for long-term water stewardship

• Supporting climate-resilient rural livelihoods

• Building partnerships that ensure scientific precision and scalable impact

Over the years, this work has earned appreciation from national and international institutions alike, reflecting the strength of collaborative action and the dedication of people on the ground.

Today, these dual national honours stand as a reminder – and an inspiration – that a water-secure future for India is not a distant aspiration, but a reality being built, together.

About The Art of Living Social Projects 

The Art of Living, a non-profit, educational, and humanitarian organisation founded in 1981 by the world-renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is committed to addressing India’s pressing water challenges. Through its large-scale River Rejuvenation Projects, the organisation works to mitigate water scarcity by restoring rivers, reviving ecosystems, and improving the quality of life for communities across the country. 

For More Details: waterconservation.artofliving.org

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For Devansh Bajaj, a B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering (Batch of 2027) student at Galgotias University, achieving a Rs. 60 LPA total package at Microsoft is not just a personal milestone, it’s a reflection of how curiosity, persistence, and structured mentorship can shape exceptional outcomes. His journey from a passionate learner to securing a role with one of the world’s most innovative tech companies illustrates the power of industry-focused education that blends academic rigor with hands-on learning.

Devansh Bajaj from Galgotias University secures a 60 LPA offer at Microsoft, showcasing GU’s strong industry-ready learning ecosystem

When curiosity meets opportunity

Devansh’s fascination with technology began early, driven by the question of how software could simplify everyday life. This curiosity found direction at Galgotias University, where an outcome-driven curriculum, coding-centric culture, and innovation-driven environment helped him translate that interest into expertise. Choosing Computer Science wasn’t merely a choice of degree; it was a decision to dive deep into the logic, creativity, and structure behind modern technology.

Turning skills into success

At Galgotias, Devansh gained more than theoretical knowledge, he built capabilities that aligned with global industry standards. Through continuous focus on Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA), competitive programming sessions, and project-based learning, he developed the problem-solving acumen essential for high-impact tech roles.

Participation in hackathons, coding challenges, and innovation projects further honed his ability to design scalable, efficient solutions under real-world constraints. “Every project or coding competition was a new chance to test myself, learn, and grow. The ecosystem here keeps you motivated to push your limits,” Devansh shared.

Preparing for the global stage

What makes success stories like Devansh’s stand out is how early preparation begins at Galgotias. The Career Planning and Development Division (CPDD), along with dedicated faculty mentors, ensures that students receive sustained guidance through mock interviews, technical workshops, and mentorship programs that strengthen both technical depth and professional confidence.

His internship with Microsoft, accompanied by a monthly stipend of Rs. 1,00,000, became a turning point, allowing him to apply classroom learning to real-world systems and gain global exposure that paved the way for his full-time placement.

A testament to Galgotias’ excellence

Devansh’s achievement is not an isolated case but part of a larger success story emerging from Galgotias University’s industry-aligned learning ecosystem. The university’s focus on experiential learning, coding excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration continues to produce graduates ready to excel at top global organizations.

“Devansh’s success reinforces our commitment to nurturing future-ready professionals. At Galgotias, we create an ecosystem where ambition meets opportunity and innovation leads to impact,” said Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University.

About Galgotias University 

Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities—public and private combined—this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This significant achievement reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic arena and validates its consistent progress in global higher education benchmarks.

Hong Kong, (China)

Hong Kong is being transformed into a magical hub of festive cheer to make it Asia’s most enchanting seasonal destination. For Indian travellers looking for an international winter getaway just a few hours from home, Hong Kong’s WinterFest offers an accessible, vibrant, and picture-perfect holiday experience. The highly anticipated annual Hong Kong WinterFest was launched today in the beating heart of the city, Central. The showcase event is “Winter Wonderland in Central” with a spectacular 20-metre Christmas tree and a delightful giant toy-themed “Christmas Town” to mark the start of weeks of citywide seasonal celebrations. Visitors from around the world are invited to immerse themselves in the magic of the perfect winter fantasy.

Winter Wonderland Lights Up Central as the City Kicks Off a Season of Festive Delights

Hong Kong WinterFest Offers Endless Excitement as Dazzling Lights Make Central Shine

Step into a Dreamlike World of Winter with Giant Toys in Christmas Town

Statue Square Garden in Central has been transformed into a vibrant Christmas Town, where classic holiday melodies fill the air and create an enchanting winter atmosphere.  A miniature train operates every 20 minutes, complete with toot-toot sounds and steam effects before departure, offering visitors the opportunity to capture memorable photos. The Starlight Train Station, illuminated with twinkling lights, warmly welcomes everyone to embark on a joyful winter journey.

A Christmas market featuring 12 chalets will open on 28 November, offering a wide variety of seasonal food, festive gifts, and workshops for locals and tourists to enjoy as they celebrate the joyful season together.

For Indian visitors—especially families, couples, and young travellers seeking Instagrammable moments—Christmas Town’s immersive décor and vibrant market ambience mirror the experiential festive attractions that resonate strongly with Indian holiday preferences.

Chater Road is Transformed into “Starlight Boulevard” and Becomes a Must-Visit Christmas Photo Spot

A Christmas tree light installation with golden decorations will cast a warm festive glow over the entrance to Chater House. As visitors continue their journey beneath the golden canopy of light, they will reach “Noëlia at LANDMARK” within the LANDMARK ATRIUM where they can capture perfect photos in an interactive setting to create romantic winter memories.

Revel in Enchanted Celebrations at the Ultimate Winter Spectacles

Hong Kong’s winter festivities extend far beyond Central. Popular tourist spots and theme parks are rolling out exclusive holiday events as an exuberant party atmosphere sweeps the city and every street corner is caught up in the celebrations.

For visitors seeking a fun and dynamic holiday experience, don’t miss the giant inflatable playground Merry Balloon Park, which lands at the West Kowloon Art Park on 6 December and stays until 4 January. The venue will feature large photo installations of popular IP characters, a 7-metre inflatable Christmas tree, and a 40-metre track, allowing adults and children to enjoy an unprecedented and exhilarating holiday treat.

This winter, Ocean Park is teaming up with a globally loved IP to take you on an extraordinary underwater adventure. From mid-December, a group of mysterious characters will arrive in a submarine and dive into a beguiling underwater city, guided by our marine animal ambassadors — dolphins, manta rays, and sharks. Visitors can join them on an underwater journey filled with surprises beneath the sea. .

As Winter Lights Glisten Citywide, Capture Your Picture-Perfect Moment Everywhere

Dozens of unique photo hotspots across the city will provide the perfect backdrop for your own winter story, giving you the opportunity to capture the enchantment of the season and share the most heartwarming moments imaginable.

Other popular landmarks across the city will host themed festive displays. K11 MUSEA, the international cultural-retail landmark seamlessly connected to the iconic Avenue of Stars, will present large scale outdoor installations and a series of Christmas celebrations from late November into December, generating a fairytale atmosphere alongside Victoria Harbour. In the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, K11 Art Mall will also add to the seasonal cheer with a magnificent Christmas tree and themed pop-up stores, such as the “KIRBY’S PUPUPU MARKET in Hong Kong” by Nintendo (Hong Kong) Limited, which is the first POP-UP STORE outside Japan.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club, together with the heritage and arts landmark Tai Kwun, will host “HKJC x Tai Kwun – Simple Gifts of Joy 2025” from December 1 until January 4, transforming the historic compound into a sparkling winter landscape. The entire venue will become a giant advent calendar with a 12-metre Christmas tree and soft lighting, creating a magical scene that blends historic and contemporary elements. From December 12, Circus Plays will present a series of thrilling contemporary circus performances from local and international circus troupes to evoke childlike wonder from audiences of all ages. 

In Wan Chai, Lee Tung Avenue will host a Luminous Carnival from November 21 until January 1. This seasonal spectacle will feature an aerial Ferris wheel and an 8-metre Christmas tree crafted from over 20,000 LED lights. Combined with romantic snowfall the European-style boulevard will be transformed into a realm of sheer magic. A Luminous Symphony light-and-music show will be performed every day from 5:30 pm ,with lights dancing to seasonal melodies.

HKTB’s One-Stop “WinterFest Delights” Platform Collates Festive Hotspots and Offers

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is teaming up with tourism partners to launch WinterFest Delights. The promotion will feature a host of festive offers for dining, shopping, attractions, and transport, while the New Year’s Eve fireworks display will serve as one of the major highlights of the “Hong Kong WinterFest”, making a spectacular finale.

For Indian travellers—which represent one of Hong Kong’s fastest-growing tourism segments—these offers add exceptional value, making WinterFest both affordable and unforgettable.

About Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked with marketing and promoting Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and enhancing visitors’ experience once they arrive. These include making recommendations to the Government and other relevant bodies on the range and quality of visitor facilities.

The HKTB’s missions are to maximise the social and economic contribution made by tourism to the community of Hong Kong and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a unique, world-class, and most desired destination.