The 2026 ICC T20 World Cup is approaching the business end of the tournament, and we will soon be left with four teams and three matches that will decide the champions of the ongoing biennial tournament.

The tenth edition of the T20 World Cup has not disappointed the fans as several associate teams proved their worth in the group stages, and the Super Eight stage has also surprised at every juncture so far, with an unthinkable script in store for us for the semi-finals as well.

England became the first team to seal a semi-final spot, albeit the English team does need to fill a few holes if they want to lift the T20 World Cup for the third time. The likes of Jos Buttler and Tom Banton look short of runs, while Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell also need to improve their consistency with the bat in hand.

Apart from England, it’s a toss-up between New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, with the Kiwis seeming like the side which has the most potential to defeat opposition sides in their upcoming matches.

In the other group, South Africa and the West Indies are front-runners to make it to the semi-final, but one should never rule out a team like India, which can still work wonders and win both matches by a huge margin to reach the semi-final stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Let’s have a look at the top five prominent names who could influence the semi-finals of the 2026 edition of the ICC T20 World Cup:

#5 Axar Patel (India)

Axar Patel will have to contribute as a genuine all-rounder in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup

Axar Patel has emerged as one of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket over the last couple of years, and the fact that he was elevated to the vice-captain role in the Indian T20 team spoke loads about his pivotal contributions and current standing in the team.

In the 2024 T20 World Cup final, the Indian side was in a precarious position after three of their top four batters, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav, had returned to the pavilion. At that moment, Patel stepped up and built a solid partnership with Virat Kohli, contributing 47 runs off 31 balls, which helped the Blues lift the trophy after 17 years.

India was in a similar position against South Africa in the Super Eight stage, but their vice-captain wasn’t able to bail them out as he was dropped by the team management on his home ground.

Axar’s return to the team in place of Rinku Singh or Washington Sundar could provide India a much-needed boost, which just might propel them into the semi-final if other results go their way.

#4 Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand)

Lockie Ferguson’s ability to strike crucial wickets in the powerplay overs has come to the fore, even on flat pitches of the M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The fast bowler dismissed both in-form opening batters, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, and also scalped the important wicket of the dangerous Quinton de Kock against South Africa.

Ferguson’s variations and the wily method of delivering both the new ball and the old ball would be crucial against Sri Lanka and England, as the pitches on offer in Colombo and Pallekele offer more assistance to fast bowlers compared to the pitches in Chennai and at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Kiwis’ first fixture in the Super Eight stage was abandoned due to rain, which would put more pressure on the side from down south to perform against hosts Sri Lanka and a formidable English side which has already sealed their berth in the semi-finals.

#3 Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies)

While skipper Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer have been in superb form at the top of the order, Sherfane Rutherford could be the X-factor for the Caribbean side when the big moment arrives for the West Indies.

Rutherford has hit 11 maximums in the ongoing T20 World Cup, the joint second-most as of statistics after the end of Zimbabwe vs West Indies where he hit 31 runs off 13 balls to help his side put up 254 runs on the board.

The southpaw has scored 157 runs at a strike rate of 189 and has been dismissed only once, in the first match against Scotland which even signifies that Rutherford could bat even higher but Darren Sammy might reserve him for death overs which has benefitted the team so far.

#2 Tristan Stubbs (South Africa)

Like Sherfane Rutherford, Tristan Stubbs has been the bonafide finisher for his side and has been dismissed only once in the tournament so far against Afghanistan. Even against the Afghans, Stubbs rose to the occassion in the Super Over battle smashing 10 runs when the Proteas needed 11 off 3 balls and then smashed a maximum in the second Super Over as well.

Tristan Stubbs has proven his mettle as a reliable finisher for South Africa alongside David Miller

The 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up would be hoping that the triumvirate of Dewlad Brevis, Stubbs, and Miller works wonder in the semi-final as well. Apart from his Super Over exploits, Stubbs also dominated against Canada with an unbeaten innings of 34 runs off 19 balls while his innings of 44 runs off 24 balls against India.

The Proteas would be relying on the brilliance of Stubbs and David Miller as the duo showcased in the Super Over against Afghanistan and also in the Super Eight stage fixture against India, where the likes of Varun Chakravarthy and Hardik Pandya had no answers to their destructive shot-hitting abilities.

#1 Sam Curran (England)

Sam Curran is the most proven all-round option and the third senior-most player of the team in terms of appearances for the national team amongst the current squad members. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Curran failed to produce his best as he scalped only 3 wickets in 5 matches and bowled at an economy rate of almost 10, failing to complete his quota of overs in most fixtures.

While Curran has made some useful contributions with the bat in his hand in this edition, the left-arm seamer has proved to be indispensable due to his excellent death bowling skills and the ability to pick wickets with the new ball and in the middle overs as well.

When it seemed like Italy could run England close in the death overs, Curran produced his best with figures of 3/22 in three overs, scalping the crucial wicket of Grant Stewart, who was closing in on his half-century while playing at a strike rate of more than 200.

Similarly, when Nepal was cruising in the run-chase against the Englishmen, Curran dismissed the dangerous Dipendra Singh Airee and then defended 10 runs in the final over against a well-set Lokesh Bam as well to help his side make it to the Super Eight stage unscathed.

AUTHOR: Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

Celebrating the spirit of International Women’s Day 2026, Ladies Who Lead (LWL), India’s premier leadership and networking platform for women professionals, is hosting a series of high-impact, exclusive leadership conversations across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru under the theme “Give to Gain.” The initiative is bringing together an influential cross-section of leaders from business, entrepreneurship, and public life in curated high-trust conversations, reiterating the importance of knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and collective progress in shaping the future of women’s leadership in India.

L to R – D.Y. Chandrachud (former Chief Justice of India), Aabha Bakaya (Founder of Ladies Who Lead)

These member-exclusive conversations features a distinguished line-up of leaders shaping India’s economic and institutional landscape, including D. Y. Chandrachud, former Chief Justice of India; Shefali Goradia, Chairperson of Deloitte South Asia; Ipsita Dasgupta, Senior Vice President and Managing Director at HP India; Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director and CEO of HDFC Life; Manisha Girotra, CEO of Moelis India; and Radhika Gupta, Managing Director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund. Through candid discussions and personal reflections, the leaders highlight insights on navigating complex leadership journeys, building resilient organisations, and the importance of women supporting and mentoring one another.

Anchored around the theme “Give to Gain,” the series emphasises the power of women leaders paying their knowledge and experiences forward. The conversations explore how mentorship, access to networks, and community-led learning can unlock opportunities for the next generation of women leaders and entrepreneurs.

“‘Give to Gain’ reflects the spirit of what our community stands for. When women leaders openly share their journeys, insights, and networks, they create pathways for many more women to step into leadership with confidence. At Ladies Who Lead, our goal is to build spaces where these conversations happen with honesty, generosity, and purpose. The collective power of women lifting each other up is what truly moves the needle,” said Aabha Bakaya, Founder of Ladies Who Lead.

Founded by Aabha Bakaya in 2021, Ladies Who Lead, today, is one of India’s most influential platforms for women professionals and entrepreneurs, creating high-trust rooms for dialogue between women leaders and corporate changemakers. Through curated leadership dialogues, mentorship sessions, and community-driven learning experiences, LWL continues to strengthen a growing ecosystem where women can connect, collaborate, and accelerate their professional journeys.

As the community continues to expand its footprint, including its recent international chapter launch in Dubai, Ladies Who Lead is building an exclusive global network of women leaders committed to sharing knowledge, opening doors, and enabling each other to succeed. By bringing together leaders across sectors and industries, the platform continues to play a meaningful role in advancing conversations around women’s leadership and building a stronger, more connected professional community.

About Ladies Who Lead
Ladies Who Lead (LWL) is a premium, members-only leadership and networking platform committed to empowering women professionals across India. Founded in 2021 by veteran business journalist Aabha Bakaya and business leader Aditya Ghosh, LWL brings together a diverse community of over 1,500 women leaders across 50+ industries. With curated events, high-intent networking, mentorship, and a robust digital platform, LWL enables women to connect, collaborate, and grow. The platform’s vision is to see more women in leadership roles and to create an ecosystem where women can lead boldly, drive impact, and inspire change.

For more information, please visit www.ladieswholead.in.

The Rotary Club of Chennai Legends, in association with Rotary International District 3234, organised Rotosew, an initiative to donate 225 motorised sewing machines to women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the city, in commemoration of International Women’s Day, to support them in starting their own tailoring ventures.

Rotary Club of Chennai Legends and Rotary District 3234 Donate 225 Sewing Machines to Women

Prior to the distribution of the sewing machines, the Rotary Club of Chennai Legends conducted a two-month vocational training programme for the beneficiaries in stitching kids’, men’s and women’s garments at its Rotary Skill Development Centre located at Dr. MGR Janaki College of Arts and Science for Women.

AKS Rtn. Er. Muruganandam M, RI Director (2025–27) and RI Vice President (2026–27), attended the event as the Chief Guest, while AKS Rtn. Vinod Saraogi, District Governor (2025–26), was the Guest of Honour. The event was also graced by Rtn. Ravi Sundaresan, District Governor Nominee (2028–29); PDG Rtn. Sridhar J, RRFC (2026–27); Rtn. NS Saravanan, Immediate Past District Governor; Rtn. Dr. Kumar Rajendran, Project Chair, Rotary Club of Chennai Legends; and Rtn. Dr. M. Durga Mohan, Chair – CSR, Rotary Club of Chennai Legends.

The Rotary Club of Chennai Legends had donated 200 sewing machines under the Rotosew initiative last year and plans to make the programme an annual feature. The club is also seeking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from corporate houses to expand the reach and impact of the initiative.

In her comments, Rtn Dr. Durga Mohan said, “Rotosew is not just about donating sewing machines; it is about enabling women to build sustainable livelihoods with dignity. Through our two-month vocational training programme, the beneficiaries are trained in stitching kids’, men’s and women’s garments, equipping them with practical skills that are immediately marketable. With the growing demand for tailoring and customised apparel, this skill offers strong opportunities for self-employment and income generation. Beyond training and equipment, we are also working to create market linkages by connecting these women with corporate customers and bulk orders, helping them establish steady income streams.”

Recently, the Rotary Club of Chennai Legends in association with Rotary Dist 3234 had organised Gift of Mobility, an initiative under which 225 bicycles along with helmets were distributed to school-going girls to support continuity in education and ensure their safety while commuting. As part of the initiative, the club also conducted a hands-on road safety programme to equip the students with the knowledge and confidence to ride safely.

For more details: cl@ri3234.org

Marking the spirit of International Women’s Day, Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) organised a special programme honouring inspiring women from governance, entrepreneurship, and sports. The event celebrated the achievements of accomplished women while also supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Kushmitha Ganesh, Vice-President, Vels Group of Companies & Director of VELS Jollywood Studios & Adventures, honored women employees for their achievements

The programme featured distinguished guests including Kavitha Ramu, I.A.S., Director of Museums, Government of Tamil Nadu; entrepreneur Swarnamugi Raghupathy; and international rifle shooter Elavenil Valarivan, who interacted with students and shared insights from their professional journeys.

Delivering the welcome address, Dr.Preethaa Ganesh, the Vice President of the VELS Group of Institutions emphasised that education and financial independence are the strongest foundations for women’s empowerment. She highlighted that when women are educated and financially independent, they gain the confidence to make independent choices and stand up for themselves.

VELS University’s Founder Chancellor, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, and Pro Chancellor, Dr. Arthi Ganesh, graced the event.

Addressing the gathering, Kavitha Ramu, I.A.S., spoke about the importance of shared responsibility in society and how men and women must work together to build an equitable and progressive community. Entrepreneur Swarnamugi Raghupathy shared her inspiring journey and encouraged students to transform ideas into successful ventures through discipline, focus, and perseverance. International shooter Elavenil Valarivan spoke about the mental strength required in sports and the importance of resilience while handling pressure at the highest level of competition.

As part of the celebrations, VISTAS distributed seed funding of INR 2 lakh each to three women entrepreneurs under the VELS Fund initiative. The programme also introduced the V Fund Accelerator Programme for Women Entrepreneurs, aimed at supporting early-stage women-led startups through seed funding, incubation, capacity-building programmes, and mentorship from industry leaders under the VELS Innovation Council.

On the occasion, VISTAS also congratulated Ms. Priyanka S., a Ph.D. scholar in Biotechnology, who has been selected for a fully funded International Training Programme on Modern Organic Agriculture in Jiangxi Province, China, under the supervision of global experts from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), Thailand. She is one among seven selected trainees worldwide and the only scholar from India, alongside participants from Ecuador, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

The institution also appreciated G. A. Swathika, an international volleyball player and B.Sc. (IT) third-year student, who represented India at the Under-18 Asian Championship held in Thailand and recently won a silver medal at the National Volleyball Championship.

In another significant initiative, five students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds were awarded admission letters with complete scholarships through the ODL programme. Among the beneficiaries was a married woman with two children whose determination to pursue higher education despite financial challenges deeply inspired the audience.

The event concluded with an encouraging message urging students especially young women to pursue their aspirations with confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. Through such initiatives, VISTAS continues to promote women’s empowerment, support entrepreneurship, and expand access to higher education.

For more details about Vels University kindly visit www.vistas.ac.in.

Ekatra Retail Ventures, co-founded by Pavitra Gandhi, Sunny Sakaria, Sussanne Khan, Vasuki Punj, and Chirayu Yardi, proudly announces its debut in the world of lab-grown diamond jewellery with Shristi Ratna, a diamond crafted with 108 facets, symbolizing a cosmic journey. Spearheaded by a strong female vision, the launch signals the start of a thoughtfully curated, women-led journey in accessible luxury and lifestyle.
 

L–R: Sussanne Khan, Pavitra Gandhi, Jennifer Winget, Apoorva Mukhija, Vasuki Punj, Pragya Kapoor 
 

Shristi Ratna is a proprietary lab-grown diamond meticulously engineered with 108 precisely crafted facets to redefine brilliance. Developed through advanced geometric design and master craftsmanship, each facet is strategically designed to enhance light performance, depth, and fire. Serving as the central inspiration for the brand’s flagship launch collection, Shristi Ratna is the defining signature around which every creation is thoughtfully designed. More than a gemstone, it represents the seamless harmony of science, precision, and human artistry captured within a singular, extraordinary stone.
 

Co-founder and Design Director Sussanne Khan, along with celebrated personalities Jennifer Winget, Apoorva Mukhija, and Pragya Kapoor, will also join the team at Ekatra to unveil distinct story-led collections reflecting their individual journeys and creative interpretations for Ekatra Jewels in the near future. Rahul Dayama also joins as a partner and brings deep expertise in building and scaling modern consumer brands.
 

Marking a significant milestone for the brand, the official website will be launched on 8^th March 2026, inviting audiences into an immersive digital experience that brings to life the philosophy, artistry, and collections behind the concept.
 

Speaking on the launch, Pavitra Gandhi from Ekatra Retail Ventures shared, “Partnering with Sunny Sakaria, Vasuki Punj, and Chirayu Yardi marks the beginning of an incredibly exciting journey for us. Bringing Sussanne Khan on board as Creative Director has been one of our most defining decisions, a reflection of our shared commitment to innovation, bold creativity, and delivering truly disruptive experiences in the world of jewellery.”

With its debut, Ekatra Retail Ventures sets out to redefine lab grown diamond jewellery – blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary storytelling, where every facet tells a story and every creation becomes a personal cosmos.

Galgotias University is proud to announce another student achievement in its culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Keshav Madan, a B.Tech. Computer Science Engineering student from 2023-2027, has founded Saivyy Technologies Private Limited (saivyytechnologies.in). This deep-tech company aims to change how businesses manage data using artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, and intelligent automation. 

Galgotias University student Keshav Madan, B.Tech Computer Science Engineering, founder of AI automation startup Saivyy Technologies

Keshav started his company while studying in 2025 at Galgotias University. The company helps organizations in leveraging the full potential of their data by transforming large, complex datasets into useful, real-time actionable intelligence. The company uses AI, machine learning, and big data technologies to create solutions that provide an ecosystem for improved efficiency, predictive insights, and data-driven decision-making.

Saivyy Technologies Private Limited helps businesses streamline operations, reduce manual processes, and gain insights that support planning and digital transformation. The company works to address the complexities of enterprise data by installing scalable big data infrastructure, machine learning models, automation frameworks, and intelligent workflows into existing systems. Its technology stack blends predictive analytics, natural language processing, and strong data engineering frameworks to deliver high-quality solutions.

Keshav Madan’s journey shows how universities can be centers for innovation and entrepreneurship. With solid mentorship, industry partnerships, and incubation support, Galgotias University empowers students to turn their ideas into impactful ventures, As India speeds up its digital transformation.

Companies like Saivyy Technologies highlight the role of young innovators in shaping the country’s technology landscape. Galgotias University continues to set benchmarks with such inspiring stories of Galgotian who aim to achieve big.

About Galgotias University 
Galgotias University is among the World’s Leading Universities in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS Rankings) and Times Higher Education (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 this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education. Galgotias has also been accredited with NAAC A+ grade in its very first cycle. All this in a record time of 14 years only. 

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.

These recognitions reflect Galgotias University’s strategic focus on teaching quality, research impact, internationalization, and industry relevance, and its mission to shape globally competent graduates prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. 

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd. (“Axis Max Life”), formerly Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., released new insights on working women cohort from the fifth edition of its flagship India Retirement Index Study (IRIS 5.0). The study evaluates urban India’s retirement preparedness across three key indices, Financial, Health and Emotional Preparedness, measured on a scale of 0 to 100.

Working Women Record Uptick in Retirement Preparedness, Though Emotional Concerns about loneliness Persist, says Axis Max Life’s India Retirement Index Study 5.0

The Retirement Index score for women stands at 49 (out of 100) in 2025, close to the national score of 48. Notably, the index has risen from 44 in 2022 to 49 in 2025, marking a five-point increase, which is slightly above than the overall national growth over the same period from 44 in 2022 to 48 in 2025.

Sumit Madan, CEO and Managing Director, Axis Max Life Insurance, said, “The ‘Health-Wealth’ focus is no longer theoretical; it’s becoming the new standard for retirement preparedness. While women are leading the charge in overall readiness, we recognize that their health preparedness is also growing year-on-year. As life insurers we have also made it our priority to refine our retirement solutions by embedding proactive health and lifestyle features that help our policyholders maintain their vitality throughout their silver years.”

Key Findings of the Women Cohort

• Health Preparedness: The study, conducted in partnership with Kantar, women’s Health Preparedness Index rose from 40 (2022) to 47 (2025), marginally outperforming the national growth rate (41 (2022) to 46 (2025).

• The Emotive Index: Despite health-wise uptick, psychological preparedness is unsteady. The Emotional Preparedness Index for women dropped from 60 to 58 over the same period. This dip was slightly sharper than their male counterpart which remained stable at 59. 

• The Loneliness Factor: The fear of loneliness has increased among women—from 69% to 74%— at a time when the all-India level has remained unchanged, indicating a growing emotional sensitivity within this cohort.

In line with gains in the Health Index, the share of women undergoing regular or occasional health check-ups has risen from 57 percent in 2022 to 60 percent in 2025, ahead of the national average of 55 percent. Nearly 43 percent of women report engaging in daily physical workouts, in line with all India average.

Confidence about future well-being has also strengthened. The proportion of women who believe they will remain fit and healthy during their retirement years has increased marginally from 79 percent in 2022 to 82 percent in 2025, moving ahead of the broader national sentiment, which has largely plateaued.

That said, formal risk protection continues to evolve. Health insurance adoption among women has grown from 42 percent in 2022 to 48 percent in 2025, though the pace trails the national growth rate from 43 percent to 50 percent.

Emotional Preparedness Reflects Emerging Sensitivities
Despite the uptick in health index, emotional anxieties continue to influence retirement perceptions among women.

Concerns around financial and environmental security remain largely stable among women. Around 73 percent worry about financial dependence on children, and 79 percent remain concerned about the impact of changing environmental conditions on their retirement years, suggesting persistent but not escalating anxieties.

The proportion of women who feel totally secure about receiving familial support in retirement has increased directionally from 49 percent in 2022 to 53 percent in 2025, in line with the national growth rate from 51 percent to 55 percent.

Read more about the India Retirement Index Study: www.axismaxlife.com/iris-india-retirement-study-index 

About India Retirement Index Study 
India Retirement Index Study is an annual retirement study by Axis Max Life conducted in partnership with KANTAR. The study evaluates India’s readiness for a healthy, peaceful, and financially secure retirement across three indices Financial, Health, and Emotional Preparedness each measured on a scale of 0 to 100. The fifth edition surveyed 2,242 respondents across 28 cities, including new segments such as gig workers.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd., is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

IRDAI Registration. No – 104
Company Information Number – U74899PB2000PLC045626

About Kantar 
Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape the marketing strategies that shape their future. To know more, visit www.kantar.com 

On the eve of International Women’s Day, M3M Foundation reiterated its commitment to the social and economic empowerment of women across the country, stating that the true strength of India’s development lies in its women. Empowering women through education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and livelihood opportunities forms the foundation of sustainable social transformation.

Dr. Payal Kanodia exchanges the MoU with Rekha, Founder of Mahila Swarojgar Samiti in the presence of MLC Hansraj Vishwakarma, Smt. Poonam Maurya, and Prashant Ji (VHP) in Varanasi

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, was speaking during the launch of the “Weaving Change – Weaving of Heritage” campaign in Kashi (Varanasi), the parliamentary constituency of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Although the campaign has been launched from Varanasi, its objective is to connect 40,000 women across the country with skills, entrepreneurship, and sustainable rural livelihoods through traditional Indian arts and crafts. Through this initiative, the traditional skills of rural women will be linked with modern markets, design innovation, and digital platforms to realize the vision of “Rural to Global.”

The inauguration programme was organized in Bairwan Panchayat of Arajiline Block in Varanasi district in collaboration with Mahila Swarojgar Samiti, where more than 500 women from nearby villages participated. According to Dr. Kanodia, when women are provided with opportunities, skills, and resources, they not only empower their families but also strengthen the entire society. She further stated that through various programmes of the Foundation, efforts are being made across several states to make women self-reliant by connecting them with skill training, entrepreneurship, and livelihood opportunities.

Through M3M Foundation’s ‘Kaushal Sambal’ programme and other community initiatives, thousands of women are being provided with skill development training, entrepreneurship guidance, and livelihood opportunities, enabling them to play a significant role in strengthening their families economically.

On this occasion, several dignitaries and social representatives were present, including Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee of M3M Foundation; Praveen Singh Gautam (BJP District General Secretary); Arvind Singh (BJP Vice President); Prashant Ji (Vishwa Hindu Parishad); Vaishali Tai Joshi and Anant Prabha Ji (Vishwa Mangalya Sabha).

In the presence of MLC Shri Hansraj Vishwakarma from Varanasi Rural and District Panchayat President of Varanasi, Smt. Poonam Maurya, an MoU for the project was exchanged between Dr. Payal Kanodia and Rekha Chauhan, Founder of Mahila Swarojgar Samiti.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia emphasized that rural women play an extremely significant role in preserving India’s traditional arts and crafts. She stated that “Weaving  Change – Weaving of Heritage” is not just a project but a movement aimed at connecting the skills of rural women with entrepreneurship while taking India’s heritage from “Rural to Global” on the world stage.

She also highlighted that M3M Foundation’s work in Varanasi is not limited to livelihoods and women’s empowerment, but also extends to the preservation of religious and cultural heritage. As part of the development of Eknath Bhavan located at the historic Durga Ghat in Kashi, the Foundation has reconstructed the sanctum (garbhagriha) and assembly hall of the Vitthal Temple, developed an Annakshetra, and built a dharamshala for pilgrims and spiritual seekers. In addition, a community hall for social and cultural activities has also been developed.

This initiative is a significant step toward realizing the vision of “Vocal for Local” and “Virasat se Vikas” championed by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Through this campaign, efforts will be made not only to provide a new identity to the skills of rural women but also to bring India’s rich artistic traditions to the global platform.

Rekha Chauhan, Founder of Mahila Swarojgar Samiti, said that this partnership will provide thousands of women from Varanasi and surrounding rural areas an opportunity to transform their traditional skills into enterprises, enabling them to become self-reliant.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, M3M Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen women’s participation in the nation’s development by promoting their skills, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

“Skill in every hand, dignity in every home — this is the true direction of women’s empowerment.”

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is a leading social development organization working extensively in the areas of education, skill development, healthcare, environmental conservation, sports, and community development. Through its various programmes-Kaushal Sambal, iMpower, Sankalp, Sarvoday, Lakshya, and VanJeevan-the foundation is empowering the lives of lakhs of people across several states in India. The foundation aims to build self-reliant communities, connect women and youth with skills and entrepreneurship, and contribute to India’s social and economic progress through the vision of “Heritage to Development” and “Rural to Global.”