Pune came alive this Independence Day with a grand celebration that blended patriotism, entertainment, and powerful brand collaborations. At the heart of this vibrant event was Bank of Maharashtra, the title sponsor and driving force behind an evening that seamlessly merged national pride with cinematic magic.

L-R: Mansha Singh, Vinay Kanojia, Hiteshi Gitay

On the evening of August 14, as the nation eagerly awaited the midnight hour, select Puneites were already immersed in celebration. Bank of Maharashtra hosted an exclusive screening of the highly anticipated film War 2, offering complimentary tickets to its special guests. The atmosphere was electric – with the tricolor held high, cheers echoing through the auditorium, and the collective spirit of pride palpable in the air.

This wasn’t just another movie screening. It was an expertly curated experience brought to life by BrandM, the event management agency that transformed the Bank’s vision into an unforgettable reality. From seamless coordination to swift execution, BrandM assembled a coalition of partners and orchestrated a celebration that was both timely and timeless.

Adding a touch of sophistication to the event was Seasons Banquet, one of Maharashtra’s most respected names in hospitality. Their involvement brought elegance and excellence, ensuring the venue matched the grandeur of the occasion.

Guests were further delighted by exclusive goodie hampers, thoughtfully curated to extend the joy beyond the big screen. Among the highlights were beauty gifts from Vibes Beauty and Wellness, inviting attendees to indulge in self-care through their premium treatments and wellness services. These weren’t just gifts – they were tokens of appreciation, offering a personalized touch to each guest’s experience.

This Independence Day, Pune didn’t just celebrate – it experienced a symphony of patriotism, partnerships, and pure joy, led by Bank of Maharashtra and a league of exceptional collaborators.

India was often called the ‘Sone ki Chidiya’ or the ‘Golden Eagle’ since time immemorial. It is a nation steeped in rich cultural history, philosophy which shaped the ancient world order. The wealth, in terms of knowledge, goods, precious metals made every traveller to Indian shore marvel at the richness of the country.

To celebrate the re-emergence of our nation in today’s global order and ahead of the country’s Independence Day, MMTC- PAMP, Indias only LBMA-accredited Good Delivery Gold & Silver refiner and recognised as the purest precious metal brand in Asia and India, unveils the ‘Sone ki Chidiya’ Gold Coin.

MMTC- PAMP celebrates India’s ‘Nayi Udaan’ with launch of Sone ki Chidiya 10gm Gold Coin

This stunning 10-gram, 99.99%+ (999.9+) purity octagonal coin is a tribute that captures the essence of India’s remarkable transformation with a spirit of‘Nayi Udaan’, a sentiment of taking new flight for a rising new hope, of a new India. The limited-edition coin celebrates both the nations illustrious golden legacy and its boundless future potential.

Celebrating India’s rising status with the launch of this limited-edition minted product offering, Mr Samit Guha, Interim CEO and CFTO, MMTC-PAMP said, “This coin is more than a precious metal, it is a symbolic representation of India’s rise in this new world order. As our nation spreads its wings, taking a Nayi Udaan, across industries from technology to space exploration, from renewable energy to global leadership, the Sone Ki Chidiya captures this moment of national ascendancy.”

This collectors’ limited-edition item ‘Sone ki Chidiya’ Gold coin draws inspiration from Indias rich history as the worlds most prosperous civilisation. Today, as India emerges as a global economic powerhouse, technological innovator, and cultural ambassador, this coin serves as a tangible reminder of the nations incredible journey from its golden past to an even more promising future.

The front side of the coin features Indias geographical outline with a majestic golden bird soaring skyward, symbolising the nations rise with renewed strength, pride, and purpose with Nayi Udaan embossed. The reverse side showcases the words ‘Sone Ki Chidiya’ in Hindi alongside a flock of birds in graceful flight – representing collective progress, unity in diversity, and the freedom to achieve limitless possibilities.

Crafted with the finest Swiss craftsmanship and the purest gold, the ‘Sone ki Chidiya’ coin offers investment value and emotional connection. As a limited-edition collectible, this coin is a representation to India’s rich heritage and legacy with a timeless design that bridges tradition with new aspirations.

Every product created by MMTC-PAMP goes through a rigorous purification process to ensure 99.99%+ (999.9+) the purity of the metal. To validate the authenticity, every MMTC-PAMP product carries a unique number and comes packaged in Assayer Certified Minted Cards. Each gold and silver product bought from MMTC-PAMP offers positive weight tolerance, which guarantees that every coin or bar one buys weighs more than the listed weight, ensuring customers receive the highest value for their investment. MMTC-PAMP products are available at their exclusive stores, leading jeweller partners, online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart, or directly from MMTC-PAMP’s official website, www.mmtcpamp.com/shop.

About MMTC-PAMP
A joint venture between Switzerland-based bullion refinery, PAMP SA, and MMTC Ltd., a Miniratna and Government of India Undertaking. MMTC-PAMP is the only LBMA-accredited gold & silver good delivery refiner in India and is accepted across global commodity exchanges and central banks. The company seamlessly marries Swiss excellence with Indian insights. MMTC-PAMP India Pvt. Ltd. is internationally recognized as an industry leader in bringing global standards of excellence to the Indian precious metals industry.

MMTC-PAMP has received several awards since its inception from local and global industry bodies for Refining, Brand and Sustainability. Notably, MMTC-PAMP is Indias First Precious Metals Company to have Science-based Emissions Reduction Targets Approved by SBTI. Recognized by the Asia and India Book of Records, MMTC-PAMP is acclaimed as the country’s only brand providing the purest gold and silver coins and bars with 99.99%+ (999.9+) purity levels and positive weight tolerance to consumers. Adding to its laurels, MMTC-PAMP was honoured as India’s Most Trusted Brand of the Nation at The Brand Story- Indian Brand and Leadership Conclave & Awards, 2024.

• The pond is key to sustaining biodiverse flora and fauna spread over 12acres

• Support by Bisleri includes door-to-door plastic collection and segregation for continued plastic waste management and make a “Zero Plastic to Landfill Village“

In a significant step towards environmental restoration and community engagement, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., under its flagship CSR initiative “Bisleri Greener Promise,” inaugurated a rejuvenated pond and plantation drive to develop Biodiversity Park at Abupur Village, Ghaziabad. The pond rejuvenation, supported by Bisleri, aims to revive local ecosystems while fostering sustainable community participation. A key part of the support provided by Bisleri includes a door-to-door plastic waste collection program in collaboration with NGO, IPCA, aimed at ensuring proper waste segregation, recycling, and maintaining cleanliness in and around the village.

Bisleri International Inaugurates Rejuvenated Pond and Plantation Drive to Develop Biodiversity Park at Abupur Village, Ghaziabad

The inauguration was graced by Shri Vidya Kumar Bhushan, Retd. IFS, Former PCCF & HOFF, Punjab; Smt. Shweta Pawar, Gram Pradhan, Abupur Village, Shri Ashish Jain, Director, Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA), and Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., alongside community leaders, volunteers, and school students.

Mr. K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International said, “At Bisleri, sustainability is a responsibility that we embrace with every initiative. The rehabilitation of the pond and development of the Abupur Biodiversity Park reflect our belief that environmental restoration and community well-being go hand in hand. By conserving water, promoting biodiversity, and encouraging responsible plastic management, we aim to create a lasting positive impact that future generations can inherit with pride.”

Adding to this, Mr. Vidya Bhushan Kumar, Retd IFS Officer, Former PCCF & HOEFF, Punjab remarked, “Flourishing ecosystems are the foundation for thriving communities. The rejuvenation of the Abupur pond and biodiversity park showcases how local stewardship and sustainable practices can revive nature’s balance while creating lasting benefits for people and wildlife alike.”

Biodiversity Park in Abupur Village, Ghaziabad is developed around the greenery belt of the pond area to fight air pollution and boost biodiversity. It features diverse plant species: like Amaltas, Bael, Arjun, Bahera, Kadam, Jamun, Pipal, Bottle Brush, Boughen villa, Khus grass etc. The rejuvenated pond, coupled with the plastic waste collection support, will ensure the longevity of the park’s biodiversity.

The pond rejuvenation and plastic collection drives are a part of Bisleri’s Greener Promise, a commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future through focused initiatives in water stewardship, plastic management, and biodiversity conservation.

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 a 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.

As Independence Day approaches, Independence Day sales are here too. It’s a great time make the most of the festive offers and upgrade home appliances. Among the many choices, a 5 Star refrigerator is one of the smartest and most practical buys.

A 5 Star refrigerator is built to use less power, which cuts down monthly electricity bills. Over time, these savings really add up. These fridges also offer better cooling, smart features, and more space inside, making them a practical and valuable addition to any home. And now, with the latest refrigerator offers and financing options from Bajaj Finserv, upgrading has never been easier.

Why a 5 Star Refrigerator Tops the Independence Day Sale List

Bajaj Finserv makes it simple for customers to buy a new 5 Star refrigerator without using up all their savings. Choose from top brands at over 1.5 lakh partner stores in 4,000+ cities across India. With an Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh, buyers can split the cost of their fridge into simple monthly instalments. Select models have zero down payment offers, so there is no need to pay anything upfront. Shoppers can also check if they qualify for a loan online in just a few minutes, making the shopping quick and easy.

Top-rated 5 Star refrigerators with exciting deals and EMI options

Make the most of the Independence Day sale by upgrading to a 5 Star refrigerator that ensures energy efficiency and long-term savings. Here are some of the top models available on the Bajaj Finserv Bajaj Mall with zero down payment and EMIs starting as low as Rs. 1,425 /month.

Disclaimer: The features, availability, and pricing of each model are subject to change and may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official website.

Note: Bajaj Finserv’s financing options can be used to split any purchase above Rs. 5,000 into Easy EMIs.

Beyond refrigerators, customers can also explore the latest offers on a wide range of electronics and other home appliances. It is the perfect time for a complete home upgrade.

Bigger savings with the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator

To help customers get the best deals, Bajaj Finserv has introduced the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator. This tool brings together all available discounts in one place – helping buyers save more without any extra effort.

Here’s how the calculator helps

• Brand offers – Discounts given by manufacturers (like LG or Samsung)

• Dealer offers – Price cuts or cashback at partner stores (like Croma or Vijay Sales)

• EMI benefits – Easy EMI plans or zero down payment on select products

How it works

1. Visit the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator on the Bajaj Finserv website

2. Choose a product category like refrigerators and select the brand

3. Set a budget to find options that match the desired price range

4. View total savings – brand deals, store offers, and EMI benefits

5. Find the nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store with the selected product

This tool helps customers see the full value of available deals, so they don’t miss out on any savings.

How to buy a 5 Star refrigerator with Bajaj Finserv

Buying a new 5 Star refrigerator during the Independence Day Sale is easy with Bajaj Finserv. Heres how customers can complete the process:

• Browse models – Customers can explore top refrigerator brands on Bajaj Mall or visit any nearby Bajaj Finserv partner store.

• Use the Maha Bachat Calculator – By selecting the product category, brand, and budget, customers can quickly view their savings.

• Check loan eligibility – By entering their mobile number online, customers can see their pre-approved loan limit. This helps in planning the purchase in advance.

• Visit the nearest store – With over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India, customers can easily find a store nearby.

• Choose Easy EMI Loan at checkout – Customers can opt for a flexible repayment plan with tenures ranging from 1 to 60 months.

• Complete the purchase – After providing basic documents, the purchase can be completed quickly through in-store approval.

Upgrade smart this festive season

This Independence Day sale, customers have the perfect chance to make a smart and responsible purchase. A 5 Star refrigerator is more than just a festive buy – it’s a smart home upgrade that brings savings and comfort for years to come.

With tools like the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator and easy financing through Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI Loan, there is no need to delay. Customers can walk into a Bajaj Finserv partner store today and take home their new refrigerator on Easy EMIs.

India, please meet your beauty hall of fame, class of 2025. The winners of this year’s Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards are here – bigger, bolder, and officially the country’s most popular and most celebrated brands and products. From viral Korean-beauty sensations and cult homegrown heroes to dermat-approved staples and internet-breaking new launches, this year’s winners are a snapshot of what’s hot, what’s next, and what India’s beauty lovers can’t stop adding to cart.

Nykaa Best in Beauty 2025 Biggest Beauty Winners

With over 1.6 million votes casted, a star-studded jury, and categories that capture today’s beauty zeitgeist, NBIB 2025 is where innovation, influence, and India’s voice take center stage. From March 24 to May 10, the Nykaa app became India’s ultimate beauty ballot box, where the process was simple: log in, explore nominees across 58 categories, and vote for your ride-or-die favourites. Hair, skin, makeup, and new hits like “Viral Products“and the “Impact Award”, every tap crowned 2025’s beauty best. When voting closed, our powerhouse jury of experts stepped in, merging what India loves with what the industry lives for, to crown the year’s most iconic winners.

This year’s winners didn’t just fly off shelves; they left warehouses empty, gave stocking crews a serious workout, and kept delivery teams busier than a wedding season mehendi artist. It’s a celebration of products winning not just in carts, but in hearts and vanities across the country. And this year, the message is loud and clear: the future of Indian beauty is being shaped by real people, real routines, and real results.

Alongside the massive vote count, a panel of respected experts rigorously evaluated the entries across 50+ categories. The jury brought together a cross-section of beauty and cultural tastemakers: Celebrity Hair Stylist – Aanchal Morwani, Content Creator – Aashna Hegde, Actor – Aditi Bhatia, Executive Director and CEO, Nykaa Beauty – Anchit Nayar, Co-founder of Daniel Bauer Academy – Daniel Bauer, Dermatologist – Dr. Malvika Kohli, Jewellery Designer & Reality TV Star – Maheep Kapoor, Beauty and Wellness Editor – Shagun Khanna, Bollywood’s Rising star – Sharvari, and Celebrity Photographer – Taras Taraporvala evaluated the entries.

Commenting on the awards, Anchit Nayar, Executive Director & CEO, Nykaa Beauty said, “The Nykaa Best in Beauty Awards are a reflection of something far greater than product excellence; they honour the evolving relationship between Indian consumers and the beauty brands they choose to champion. As we celebrate the second edition, we’re witnessing a remarkable shift: what were once cult discoveries have now earned a place in daily rituals, and bold, breakthrough brands are rewriting the rules with every launch. At Nykaa, we’re proud to be the platform where these transformations unfold, where quality meets curiosity, and trust meets trend. This journey is made possible by our incredible brand partners who continue to push the boundaries of innovation and our consumers who continue to push them! Congratulations to this year’s winners, each one a testament to what modern beauty in India truly looks like.”

The winners capture the pulse of Indias evolving beauty habits. Dewy skin tints edged out heavy foundations, ceramide-rich moisturisers dethroned one-size-fits-all creams, and lip oils and vinyl lipsticks stole the show from traditional mattes. The fragrance category saw an uptick in skin scents and gourmand notes, while SPF-infused everything proved sun protection has officially become chic.

What the winners reveal about the next wave in Indian beauty:

• Skincare meets makeup: Smashbox Halo Tinted Moisturizer leading tint-meets-treat ambitions, a base product that works as hard for your skin as it does for your glow.

• K-Beauty is beauty, full stop: LANEIGE’s Bouncy Sleeping Mask and Lip Glowy Balm, plus TIRTIR’s Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation and I’m From Rice Toner, are proof that Korean beauty has moved from cult curiosity to everyday staple.

• Barrier-care is now a beauty baseline: CeraVe and Dot & Key with ceramide-rich, skin-fortifying favourites, because healthy skin is the new trend.

• Primer is the new power step: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer officially turned prep into an act of rebellion – for glowy, long-lasting makeup that doesn’t budge.

• DIY luxury with Indian roots: Kay Beauty’s Velvet Creme Blush, Hydra Creme Lipstick, and Matte HD Loose Powder show that home-grown can exceed global when prestige meets affordability.

• Swipes matter: Maybelline’s Sky High Mascara and Instant Age Rewind Concealer are proof that drugstore staples still write the consumer love story.

Discover the complete list of winners now on Nykaa.com, from cult heroes to new icons, shop the best in beauty as chosen by the industry’s finest and beauty lovers across the country!

With a community of over 37 million beauty lovers across 19,000+ pincodes and a curation spanning across 150,000+ SKUs of the best brands in the world, Nykaa isn’t just keeping up with what’s next, it’s defining it. The NBIB Awards 2025 are where beauty’s past, present, and future collide, and only the best make it through.

Catch all the winners here: www.nykaa.com/nykaabestinbeauty2025-winners/lp

The Jury:

The NBIB Awards 2025 Jury

About Nykaa

Nykaa’s vision is to bring inspiration and joy to people everywhere, every day. Born from a desire to make beauty a mainstream choice, the Nykaa journey began in 2012 as a digital-first, consumer-tech beauty company. Falguni Nayar’s entrepreneurial leap with Nykaa tapped into an underserved beauty retail market, disrupting the ecosystem and putting India in the global spotlight. Today, Nykaa has expanded its offerings to include fashion and B2B, launching platforms such as Nykaa Fashion, Nykaa Man, and Nykaa Superstore. Nykaa has also expanded into the Middle East through its omnichannel beauty offering ‘Nysaa’.

Over the years, Nykaa has steadily captured the hearts of consumers, serving 45 million customers (as of 30 Jun’25) through its online platforms and 250 offline beauty destinations (as of 31st July’25), while building loyal communities through engaging and educative content.

House of Nykaa – Nykaa continues to build its house of brands with a sharp focus on innovation and consumer delight. Nykaa Cosmetics, Dot & Key, Kay Beauty, Nykaa Collections, Nykaa Wanderlust, Nykaa Perfumery, Earth Rhythm alongside celebrated fashion labels such as Nykd by Nykaa, KICA, 20 Dresses, RSVP, and Gajra Gang, have become household names, consistently delivering inspiration and high-performing products to consumers.

Nykaa’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and customer-centricity has cemented its position as the retailer of choice for international brands looking to enter the Indian market. With Nykaa’s Global Store, a gateway to some of the world’s most coveted brands, the company harnesses its powerful supply chain and marketing expertise to create a flawless shopping experience. Trusted by renowned global names like Charlotte Tilbury, Elf Cosmetics, Urban Decay, Foot Locker, Revolve, and Cider, Nykaa has empowered these iconic brands to connect with Indian consumers and make a lasting impact in the market.

Nykaa has been recognized with prestigious accolades, including a place in the TIME100 Most Influential Companies List and the Isidoro Alvarez Lifetime Achievement Medal at the World Retail Congress in Barcelona. Falguni Nayar, Founder and CEO, has also won personal honors such as EY Entrepreneur of the Year and Power Businesswoman by Forbes Asia.

Youth-powered solutions took center stage at the BRICS CCI Youth Leadership Dialogue 2.0, hosted by the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BRICS CCI) from August 4 to 12, 2025. Organized under the esteemed patronage of Mr. Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman of BRICS CCI, President of the BRICS CCI Young Leaders Vertical, and grandson of former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, the seven-day program called for harnessing the ideas, energy and skills of India’s youth to tackle the nation’s development priorities. During the summit, engagement with leaders from politics, diplomacy, governance, entrepreneurship and business equipped participants with insights to shape their future global leadership roles.

BRICS CCI Youth Leadership Dialogue 2.0

Aligned with International Youth Day celebrations, BRICS CCI Young Leaders Dialogue 2.0 further built on the success of its inaugural edition and reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young Indians to drive national growth and global leadership. With India poised to have one of the world’s largest working-age populations over the next two decades, the Dialogue emphasized the need to actively involve young leaders in shaping policy, governance and societal transformation. The summit brought together a carefully selected group of young participants from across the country, providing them with skills, insights and networks to lead with impact.

Mr. Shastri highlighted the event’s transformative purpose, stating, “Empowering young leaders is not just about imparting knowledge, it is about equipping them with the confidence and networks to shape the global narrative.” The summit witnessed the participation of the BRICS CCI Core Committee, including Mr. Harvansh Chawla, Chairman; Dr. BBL Madhukar, Co-Chairman & Director General; Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, Vice Chairman and Mr. Ruhail Ranjan, Treasurer, BRICS CCI.

Over the course of seven days, participants engaged with a distinguished lineup of speakers and influencers. Among the notable figures were Lt. Gen D.V. Kalra (Retd.), Air Vice Marshal Rajeev Sharma (Retd.), and Rear Admiral A.S. Sethi (Retd.), who shared insights on leadership, discipline, and technological challenges. The diplomatic segment featured Mr. Mikhail Antsiferov, Third Secretary, Russian Embassy; Ms. Leticia Marranghello, Second Secretary, Political Section, Embassy of Brazil; Mr. Peter Mahafha, First Secretary, Political, South African High Commission; Amb. Amarendra Khatua, former High Commissioner of India to Argentina; Mr. Zhang Yefei, First Secretary, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, alongside senior civil servants IPS Parvez Hayat, IPS Shashank Jaiswal, and IRS Sukhad Chaturvedi. The entrepreneurial and corporate leadership sessions included Mr. Bibin Babu, Co-Founder of Paycio; Mr. Prann Sharma, President of Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Pvt Ltd and BRICS CCI Governing Body Member; Mr. Jitendra Sharma, CEO of Hairoriginals; Mr. Vikas Dua, HR Head India, Weber Shandwick; Mr. Ankit Jhamb, Chief Learning Officer, Grant Thornton Bharat LLP; Mr. Anuj Gautam, Founder of Label-AG among others.

The final day was marked by keynote addresses from Shri Rajesh Nagar, Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Deptt. (Independent charge) and Minister of State for Printing & Stationery Deptt. ( Independent Charge), Government of Haryana; Dr. Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi, Special Invitee to the National Executive of the BJP and Former Cabinet Minister of Punjab; Dr. Madhukar Gupta, Commissioner, State Election Commission, Rajasthan; Dr. Dnyaneshwar Manohar Mulay, Former Member, National Human Rights Commission; Mr. K.J. Alphons, IAS (Retd.), Former Union Minister for Tourism, India, and Former MLA; Air Marshal Ravi Kapoor (Retd.), Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command; Mr. Sushil Sharma, CEO and MD, Marwari Catalyst; Mr. Anku Jain, Managing Director, MediaTek India and Mr. Nishant Sama, Co-Convener, BRICS CCI Young Leaders. Also featured was a keynote session by Mr. He Meng, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China. The Dialogue further saw active participation from diplomatic representatives of Bolivia, Russia, Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Egypt, and Iran, among others.

All participants were awarded globally recognized merit certificates in recognition of their active involvement and commitment to global leadership. By engaging with prominent figures from politics, diplomacy, governance, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership, participants gained invaluable knowledge and perspectives to shape their future roles in global leadership. The summit successfully cultivated a dynamic and diverse cohort of future leaders prepared to drive positive change in India and across the world.

Saifco Cements Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of JK Cement Ltd – one of the leading cement companies of India, today announced the launch of JK Super Cement brand in Kashmir, marking a significant milestone in the journey ahead. This move signals the operational rollout of JK Cement’s recent acquisition in the region and aligns with its broader ambition to support infrastructure and economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.

JK Super Cement being launched in Kashmir, Strengthening Presence in Northern Markets

JK Super Cement, the company’s flagship grey cement brand known for its superior strength and durability, will now be manufactured and made available across key districts of Kashmir, to improve the availability for local infrastructure projects and consumers.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd said “JK Super Cement’s entry into the Kashmir market is a natural extension of our long-term strategy in the North. With the region witnessing a surge in public infrastructure projects and housing development, local production allows us to serve this demand efficiently. Further, Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Joint Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd, added. “More importantly, it allows us to translate our vision of sustainable and inclusive growth into tangible action. By investing in local manufacturing capabilities, building skills, and creating employment opportunities, we’re ensuring that the benefits of this launch extend well beyond cement supply. This is about strengthening the local economy, empowering communities, and building the kind of self-reliant ecosystem that will support Kashmir’s growth for decades to come.”

Saifco Cements will begin full-scale distribution in key districts including Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipore, Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian & Pulwama of Kashmir. With plans for deeper market penetration through a strong channel partner network and direct engagement with builders, contractors, and public sector stakeholders, the on-ground team has also been ramped up to provide technical support, quality assurance, and training to local builders and contractors to ensure smooth adoption. By producing and distributing locally, the company is creating new employment opportunities across the value chain.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Suhail Manzoor Guna, Director, Saifco Cements Pvt. Ltd said, “This is a proud moment for us. Launching JK Super Cement brand in Kashmir is not just a business move-it’s a step towards demonstrating our commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant Jammu & Kashmir.” Further, Mr. Dawood Altaf Guna, Director, Saifco Cements Pvt Ltd, added, “We are committed to supplying top-quality cement to support the region’s growing construction and infrastructure needs while also generating meaningful employment and contributing to local economic development.“

Aligned with the ‘Make in India‘ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat‘ vision of the Government, JK Cement’s investment in local manufacturing reflects its deep commitment to building self-reliant infrastructure capabilities. The launch of JK Super Cement in Kashmir builds on JK Cement’s ongoing efforts to expand across India, following recent market entries in Bihar and capacity enhancements in several other states. The company now boasts of a growing presence in various markets of India, reinforcing its position as a leading force in the country’s cement and construction ecosystem.

About JK Cement Ltd
JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement, and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 25.26 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd. In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth.

InfoComm India, the nations definitive tradeshow for Professional Audiovisual (Pro AV) and integrated experiences, has unveiled a forward-thinking agenda for its highly anticipated Summit. Taking place from 9-11 September 2025 at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, InfoComm India Summit is curated to provide deep insights into the most critical industry trends, from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and unified communications to the future of digital signage and immersive experiences. The Summit provides a roadmap for AV/IT professionals and end-users to navigate India’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

From hands-on technology demonstrations to high-level panel discussions, InfoComm India 2025 offers a dynamic platform for the region’s Professional Audiovisual and technology industry

“Indias rapid technological adoption, especially in AI, presents a massive opportunity, and InfoComm Indias role is to ensure our industry is ready to seize it,” said June Ko, Executive Director of InfoCommAsia. “This year, our Summit is laser-focused on AI readiness and industry upskilling. Through hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions developed with our partners, and premier training like AVIXAs first in-person CTS course in India, we are providing the essential tools for professionals to master these new technologies and drive innovation across all sectors.”

The Summit is set to feature a lineup of more than 50 distinguished industry experts and thought leaders from across India and the globe, spread across over 60 dynamic sessions. This year, the spotlight is on AI – how it integrates into AV workflows, and how professionals can apply it meaningfully across enterprise, education, government, and media environments.

Highlights of InfoComm India 2025 Summit include:

• Industry Leadership and Business Strategy: Opening day on 9 September will address pressing business and technology trends, kicking off with the highly anticipated Opening Panel – “Reimagining Boundaries: The Future of Business & Technology in 2030.” This dynamic session will explore the transformative impact of technologies like AI, IoT, and 5G on business innovation and customer interaction, offering actionable insights and strategic guidance. The distinguished panel features Dave Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, CEO of AVIXA; Kaushik Mukhopadhyay, Managing Director and CEO of AVID; and Amar Subash, Vice President and General Manager – Asia Pacific & India at Harman.

• Next-Generation Technology Insights: Sessions focusing on how emerging and disruptive technologies are revolutionising the digital landscape include “The Future of AI-Driven Digital Signage: Unlocking Context-Aware Experience”, “Quantum AI Transforming Pro AV and Smart Cities in the Next Decade”, and “Bridging Worlds: Smart AV and Video Conferencing Powering New-Age Learning.”

• Dynamic Panel Discussions: Bringing together senior industry leaders to share candid insights on critical issues such as “Beyond the Degree – Building Digital Agility for a Tech-Driven World,” “Data, Devices & Defense – Building a Cyber-Resilient Infrastructure,”

• Expert-Led Vertical Market Tracks: In partnership with top industry associations and government bodies, the Summit will feature specialised tracks developed to address the unique challenges of key sectors. Collaborators include:

• All India Institute of Local Self-Government (AIILSG) for the Smart Cities;

• Computer Society of India, Mumbai Chapter (CSI) for the Enterprise IT & Cybersecurity;

• ICT Academy for Education Technology;

• Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) for the Immersive Technologies;

• Invidis Consulting for the Digital Signage.

With India’s experience economy booming, mastering the art of an unforgettable guest journey is key. Leading this critical conversation is first-time InfoComm India Summit speaker, Stephen Thomas Cavit, an expert uniquely positioned to guide the way. As an Emmy Award-winning composer and the President of the TEA Asia Pacific Board, Stephen is at the forefront of the themed entertainment trend. He is set to share his perspective on blending creative artistry with business and technology, making his panel, Tools of Immersion: Designing the Guest Journey, a must-attend event. True immersion is felt, not just seen. I’ve built my career creating emotion through sound for the screen, and I look forward to sharing my insights at InfoComm India, alongside my experienced panel members.

Going beyond traditional sessions, InfoComm India Summit will also feature new interactive formats designed for collaboration and practical skill-building. The Regional AV Roundtable & Mixer on Day 2 (10 Sept) will bring together manufacturers, integrators, and distributors for a candid discussion on bridging the gap between technical innovation and real-world usability. For those seeking practical skills, the Hands-On Workshop: “Mastering AV Networking” on Day 3 (11 Sept) will provide expert-led training on configuring and deploying essential AVoIP protocols.

The InfoComm India Summit is free to attend for all registered visitors, except for select training sessions and workshops, which require some fees.

AVIXA to Host First-ever In-person Training in India for CTS Preparation

In a significant milestone for professional development in the region, AVIXA will host its first-ever in-person “CTS 2: Applied AV and AV Project Process” training in India in conjunction with InfoComm India. Taking place on 7-9 September (beginning two days ahead of the tradeshow) onsite/in-person at JWC, this three-day course is a critical step for professionals to achieving the globally recognized CTS (Certified Technology Specialist™) designation.

Designed to equip participants with practical insights into applied AV project workflows-from system planning and documentation to implementation and client handover-making this training a milestone initiative in advancing AV expertise across the region. Sponsored by Harman, this is a separately ticketed course. Interested professionals can find out more and register via the AVIXA website.

Your Opportunity to Explore, Learn, and Lead

Visitor registration is now open. All AV, IT, and tech professionals are invited to discover the innovations shaping the future of India’s digital infrastructure. Register for free show entry at www.infocomm-india.com.

About InfoComm Asia Pte Ltd.

InfoCommAsia Pte Ltd. extends its influence through three marquee shows: InfoComm Asia; InfoComm China, Beijing; and InfoComm India. Each show features an exhibition that showcases the world’s most cutting-edge and in-demand professional audiovisual and integrated experience technology solutions and a summit that presents learning opportunities. The shows bring together professional audiovisual industry players and top-level decision-makers from across different markets to tap into the vast potential presented by pro AV solutions.

For more information, visit: infocomm-asia.com | infocomm-china.com |

India’s first ‘Freedom From Rote Learning‘ School Movement has already garnered more than 15 million pledges from teachers, students, parents, school leaders and other education leaders nationwide. Launched by LEAD Group, this 2025 Independence Day movement calls for an end to the biggest obstacle facing India’s education system today – rote learning, or the still-rampant practice of memorising facts without understanding. It marks India’s first truly nationwide push to transform learning culture in schools.

Indias First Freedom From Rote Learning School Movement

India has nearly 248 million school students studying in ~15 lakh schools. And yet, rote learning has held back the country’s education system for decades. As a result, a majority of students in India’s smaller towns and cities feel unprepared for 21st century careers. Talented yet lacking in skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and collaboration, these students struggle with low confidence levels because of a lack of conceptual understanding of subjects.

“15 million+ pledges prove India is ready to move from rote to real learning, fulfilling NEP 2020’s vision of turning every child into a thinker, not just a test-taker,” says Sumeet Mehta, CEO and Co-founder, LEAD Group. “By mobilizing millions and shaping India’s first and largest nation-wide movement to support deep, conceptual education, we’re building a nation of critical thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners,” he said.

“The Quit Rote Learning movement strikes at the heart of what education must become: not rote recall-oriented, but rooted in meaningful understanding and application. With millions already part of the movement, India is demonstrating its readiness to nurture curiosity, creativity, and competence in every learning space-exactly what our students need today,” added Smita Deorah, Co-CEO and Co-founder, LEAD Group.

LEAD Group invites educators, policymakers, parents, students, teachers and all Indian citizens to join this transformative mission: to pledge, adopt, and support a learning system where understanding triumphs over memorization. See more details at freedomfromrote.com.

About LEAD Group

LEAD Group is Indias leading Learning Systems company dedicated to transforming school education at scale. With a presence in 8,500+ schools across 400+ towns and cities, LEAD Group today reaches nearly 40 lakh students and empowers 60,000+ teachers. Since its founding in 2012, LEAD Group has been committed to delivering an international standard of education to schools across India. LEAD Group combines research-backed curriculum and pedagogy with cutting-edge technology to enhance student learning outcomes and teacher effectiveness. LEAD Learning System helps partner schools provide holistic education, equipping students with the skills and confidence to succeed in 21st century careers, and in life.

Founded by Sumeet Mehta and Smita Deorah with the mission to transform school education in India, the Group continues to set new benchmarks, inspiring the next generation of learners and educators.