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VELS University School of Law Marks its Decennial Year with Supreme Court and Madras High Court Dignitaries

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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VELS University School of Law Marks its Decennial Year with Supreme Court and Madras High Court Dignitaries

The School of Law, VELS Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), a premier law institution in Chennai, marked its decennial year with grandeur at the University campus in Pallavaram, Chennai.

VELS University School of Law, a premier law institution in Chennai, marked its 10th year of excellence with grandeur at the University campus

The occasion was graced by eminent Judges of the Supreme Court of India and High Court of Madras. Hon’ble Mr. Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Judge, Supreme Court of India, was the Chief Guest. Hon’ble Mr. Justice R. Mahadevan, Judge, Supreme Court of India, attended as the Guest of Honour, while Hon’ble Mr. Justice Manindra Mohan Srivastava, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, joined as the Distinguished Guest.

Several Judges of the Madras High Court, including Hon’ble Mr. Justice M. Nirmal Kumar, Hon’ble Mr. Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan, Hon’ble Mr. Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy, and Hon’ble Mrs. Justice R. Kalaimathi, graced the occasion as Special Guests. The event also witnessed the presence of Mr. S. Prabakaran, Vice Chairman, Bar Council of India, Mr. P.S. Amalraj, Chairman, Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, and Dr. S. Sivakumar, Senior Professor, Indian Institute of Legal Studies (Delhi) and former Member, Law Commission of India.

The program commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, Vels Group of Institutions. Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chancellor of VELS University, felicitated the dignitaries and, in his Presidential Address, lauded the remarkable journey of the School of Law while encouraging students to embrace challenges as opportunities.

Dr. S. Ambika Kumari, Dean of VELS School of Law, highlighted a decade of achievements, including excellence in legal research, Moot Court competitions, and the institution’s rising reputation among law colleges in India. Prizes were also awarded to students who excelled in the inter-college moot court competitions.

Mr. S. Prabhakaran, Vice Chairman, Bar Council of India, praised the Chancellor’s vision, noting that the School has grown from 90 students to over 2,000 registered advocates with the Bar Council.

The distinguished Justices shared their thoughts with students and faculty:

Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, in his keynote address, emphasized the transformative role of legal education in shaping a just society. He urged law students to uphold integrity and fairness in their legal careers, stressing the importance of ethical practice. He also appreciated the School of Law for instilling values alongside academic rigor.

Justice R. Mahadevan, addressing as Guest of Honour, commended the rapid progress of VELS School of Law within a decade and highlighted the need for lawyers to adapt to the evolving demands of technology and globalization. He encouraged students to pursue continuous learning, especially in emerging areas such as cyber law and intellectual property rights.

Chief Justice of Madras High Court Justice Manindra Mohan Srivastava commended the School’s alumni who have risen as judges and successful advocates, reminding students that law is not just a livelihood but a service to society.

Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy stressed the growing importance of mediation and arbitration in modern legal practice.

Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan urged students to actively participate in moot court competitions and develop their advocacy skills.

Justice M. Nirmal Kumar emphasized the nobility of legal education and the qualities expected of advocates.

Justice R. Kalaimathi praised the institution’s accomplishments and extended her best wishes.

The Decennial Year celebrations kicked off in September 2025 with the Tamil Moot Court Competition, fostering regional language advocacy. October will feature the vibrant Law Fest, with inter-collegiate competitions, debates, and cultural events. From October 2025 to March 2026, a series of events such as Conferences, Seminar, Workshops, Endowment and Special Lectures by distinguished jurists and legal experts have been proposed to be conducted.

About VISTAS
VELS Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) was declared a deemed-to-be University in 2008 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India. With over 18,000 students and 1,100 faculty members, it offers 100+ programs across diverse fields including Medicine, Engineering, Law, Pharmacy, Nursing, Commerce, Maritime Studies, and Agriculture. VISTAS is recognised as one of the best deemed universities in Chennai for higher education.

The University is recognized by UGC, AICTE, NMC, INC, PCI, BCI, DGS, and NCTE, holds NAAC A++ accreditation, has 11 NBA-accredited programs, and enjoys UGC 12(B) status. In the 2024 NIRF rankings, VISTAS was placed in the 101-150 band overall, with its Pharmacy discipline ranked 61st.

About VELS School of Law
Established in 2015, VELS School of Law in Chennai offers integrated five-year law programs, a three-year LL.B., and LL.M. programs in multiple specializations, along with a Ph.D. in Law. With over 2,500 students and 85 faculty members, the School combines rigorous academics, Moot Court competitions, legal internships, and community legal aid programs. Recognised for producing skilled advocates and socially responsible legal professionals, it has emerged as one of the best law schools in Chennai.

For more details kindly visit www.vistas.ac.in.

STEM Education: Equipping India’s Next Generation for a Future-Ready Workforce

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STEM Education: Equipping India’s Next Generation for a Future-Ready Workforce

India’s education sector is witnessing a great shift as schools across the country embrace STEM education, an interdisciplinary model combining Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to gear young learners for a technology-driven, innovation-led future. Through this model, students are encouraged to connect classroom theories with real-world applications, explore solutions and think critically.

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Chetanya Sahu, CEO, ABL Education & Author of the Book “Future Ready School”


From Tier-1 city classrooms to schools in smaller towns, STEM education is reshaping the way children engage with knowledge. By encouraging hands-on experience, problem-solving, and critical thinking, this approach goes beyond rote memorization to connect classroom theories with real-world applications.


Building Skills for the Future
Educators argue that STEM is not about teaching isolated subjects but creating an integrated learning ecosystem that mirrors real-world scenarios where knowledge from multiple fields is applied simultaneously. “STEM builds logical reasoning and adaptability, preparing students not only for traditional careers but also for entrepreneurial journeys,” say education experts.


Beyond academic excellence, STEM fosters creativity, teamwork, communication skills, and socio-emotional learning, competencies vital in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence.


Overcoming Challenges
Despite its promise, STEM adoption in India faces multiple roadblocks. The absence of a national framework often leaves schools experimenting independently, while the integrated nature of learning means results may take time to reflect. Additionally, without proper structuring, implementation can become costly.


The Importance of Early Exposure
Research indicates that early childhood is the most critical phase for cognitive development. Introducing STEM at this stage nurtures sharpens problem-solving skills, and builds confidence through experiential learning. Such early interventions equip students for emerging industries, where 70% of jobs by 2035 are expected to demand STEM-based skills.


Kr8ivity League: A Festival of Creativity
Accelerating this movement is the Kr8ivity League, a national-level competition that challenges students to showcase their skills in Coding, Robotics, and Entrepreneurship. Regional rounds take place across multiple cities, with winners advancing to the finale at IIT Delhi.


Described by organizers as a “festival of creativity,” the event attracts thousands of students from progressive schools nationwide. The 2025 edition is now open for registrations, inviting schools, students, and parents to participate. For more details, visit www.KreativityLeague.com.


Looking Ahead
With India’s ambition to become a Viksit Bharat by 2047, equipping its youth with future-ready skills is both an opportunity and a responsibility. By adopting STEM education at scale and fostering platforms like the Kr8ivity League, India can cultivate a generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will power the nation’s growth story.

The article has been authored by Chetanya Sahu, CEO of ABL Education and author of the book Future Ready School

Aurigo Software Expands Autodesk Integration to Offer Integrated Capital Planning to Facility Owner-Operators

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Aurigo Software Expands Autodesk Integration to Offer Integrated Capital Planning to Facility Owner-Operators

Aurigo Software, North America’s leading capital planning software provider, today announced a fully integrated solution that brings together Aurigo’s capital planning product with Autodesk Construction Cloud, a comprehensive construction management solution that connects workflows, teams, and data across every stage of a project, from design and planning through building and operations. The new integration enables Autodesk’s facility owner and operator customers to seamlessly connect long-range strategy and funding decisions with downstream project execution.

Aurigo Primus Plan and Autodesk Construction Cloud

Project teams can now integrate Projects, Budgets, Commitments, Change Orders, and Expenses between Autodesk Build Cost Management and Aurigo Primus Plan for planned vs. actual performance updates.

Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate that construction across multiple sectors of the economy is on the rise, including data centers, manufacturing, and healthcare. Planning and finance teams need modern tools to address the complexity of these capital programs. Capital owners who are already utilizing Autodesk’s best-in-class construction solutions will now be able to collect, prioritize, program, and track performance of their projects from their very inception, before any asset is designed or built. By moving the management of capital programs upstream, risks can be identified early, and returns on investments can be calculated more easily.

“With the integration, we are creating a single, connected loop for capital assets, starting in planning and moving to design, construction, and maintenance,” said Balaji Sreenivasan, CEO and Founder of Aurigo Software. “By connecting Aurigo’s capital planning expertise to the breadth of execution offered by Autodesk Construction Cloud, every investment decision carries through to delivery, allowing owner-operators to make the right decisions faster.”

Today, Aurigo manages more than $450 billion in capital programs across 40,000 projects, making it an ideal planning solution for North America’s largest capital owners. Building on this expertise, the company introduced Aurigo Primus, the industry’s first AI-powered capital planning system purpose-built for facility owners.

With Primus, users can define project charters, model funding scenarios, and forecast outcomes. The platform goes beyond traditional approaches to include predictive analytics and generative modeling to enable smarter portfolio optimization, risk assessment, and cost control. When paired with Autodesk Construction Cloud, owners can publish approved projects and budgets into downstream workflows, while instantly synchronizing commitments and actuals from the field to understand their portfolio performance in real time.

“Autodesk and Aurigo share a commitment to helping owners deliver smarter, more sustainable assets,” said Sidharth Haksar, Vice President, construction strategy & industry partnerships at Autodesk. “By integrating Aurigo’s capital planning platform with Autodesk Construction Cloud, we are connecting the why, what, and how of every program, helping our customers deliver with greater accountability and transparency at every stage of the lifecycle.”

To learn more, visit www.aurigo.com/autodesk.

About Aurigo Software

Aurigo builds software that helps build the world. Aurigo provides modern, cloud-based solutions for capital infrastructure and private owners to help plan with confidence, build with quality, and maintain their assets efficiently. With more than $450 billion of capital programs under management, Aurigo’s solutions are trusted by over 300 customers in transportation, water and utilities, healthcare, higher education, and government on over 40,000 projects across North America. Aurigo helps capital program executives make better decisions based on proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning technology. Aurigo is a privately held U.S. corporation headquartered in Austin, Texas, with global offices in Canada and India. Learn more at www.aurigo.com.

Autodesk and Autodesk Construction Cloud are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Zen Mobility Launches Pixi Pod and Pico Pod for Urban EV Needs

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Zen Mobility Launches Pixi Pod and Pico Pod for Urban EV Needs

Zen Mobility, an emerging player in sustainable urban mobility solutions, announced the launch of its latest electric vehicles – Pixi Pod and Pico Pod. This expansion adds to the company’s range of solutions for India’s micro-mobility and short-haul logistics sector.

Zen Mobility launches Pico and Pixi Pod

Over the past year, Zen Mobility’s three-wheeler Micro Pod has been adopted by platforms including Zomato, Blinkit, Porter, Flipkart, Amazon, and Delhivery. Developed over seven years, the Micro Pod addressed practical challenges in ‘large order’ deliveries, providing an alternative to overloaded two-wheelers and underutilised vans. From concept to category-creator: Zen Micro Pods have logged 8.5 million+ km in just two years, completing over 5.6 million deliveries.

The launch of Pixi Pod and Pico Pod comes at a time of rapid change in urban transport and delivery patterns. These vehicles are built for durability and practical use, aiming to serve personal mobility and urban logistics networks in the future.

Product Highlights

Pixi Pod

  • The Urban Workhorse: Sleek two-wheeler designed for personal use, shared mobility, or light cargo transport.

  • Capacity: Passenger 1+1 or 1+light cargo box | Battery: 2.3 kWh swappable LFP | Speed: up to 45 km/hr | Range: 80-100 km

  • Starting Price: Rs. 65,000

Pico Pod

  • The Ultimate Delivery Beast: Next-Gen two-wheeler designed for heavier loads and enhanced stability

  • Capacity: Rider + Cargo (up to 50kg) | Battery: 3.8 kWh swappable LFP | Speed: up to 45 km/hr | Range: 80-100 km | Cargo volume: 15 cu. ft.

  • Starting Price: Rs. 1,11,000

Both vehicles include suspension systems, LED lighting, and options for refrigerated or insulated cargo boxes for food, pharma, and cold-chain deliveries.

Commenting on the launch, Namit Jain, CEO and Founder of Zen Mobility, said, “Consumers today expect fast deliveries, convenience, and affordability-it’s no longer a luxury, it’s the standard. With our new Pico Pod and Pixi Pod, we’re introducing vehicles that are nimble, long-lasting, and highly affordable-built to support the gig economy, personal mobility, and last-mile delivery networks. Our approach is simple: deliver the highest quality and reliability at the lowest cost. These vehicles reflect that promise. Designed for India with global potential, they cater to the evolving needs of our domestic market while also serving the fast-growing regions in the MENA and Southeast Asia. At Zen, this isn’t just the launch of new vehicles-it’s the start of a mobility movement: making sustainable, efficient, and dependable transport accessible to all, while shaping the future of urban commerce worldwide.”

Availability

Pre-bookings open 25 September 2025, with deliveries starting 7 October 2025 through Zen Mobility’s official channels and authorized partners across major urban centers in India.

About Zen Mobility

Zen Mobility is a visionary electric vehicle company committed to redefining sustainable mobility in India. Focused on innovation, design, and impact, Zen develops tailored EV solutions that empower businesses, reduce emissions, and transform urban transportation. From purpose-built logistics vehicles to smart personal mobility solutions, Zen is accelerating India’s transition to a cleaner, greener, and more efficient future.

Charting the Path to a Robust Digital Backbone for Viksit Bharat

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Charting the Path to a Robust Digital Backbone for Viksit Bharat

The highly anticipated Bharat Digital Infra Summit 2025 took place on September 23, 2025, bringing together top policymakers, industry leaders, and technology innovators. The summit focused on accelerating the countrys vision for a robust and inclusive digital infrastructure. The one-day event served as a critical platform for strategic discussions on the future of Indias digital landscape. The agenda covered key areas vital to achieving “Digital Bharat,” including the expansion of 5G and fiber networks, the role of data centers and cloud computing, and the development of secure digital public infrastructure (DPI) for all citizens. The Bharat Digital Infra Summit is an annual gathering dedicated to advancing Indias digital infrastructure agenda. It serves as a forum for stakeholders to collaborate on solutions, share best practices, and influence policy to ensure Indias digital growth is sustainable, equitable, and secure.

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Sundeep Kathuria, BIF, Manoj Singh, DIPA, Anil Tandan, BIF, Shashi Dharan, Bharat Exhibitions, Manish Sinha, DoT, A Robert J Ravi, BSNL, Tejinder Pal Singh Jaggi, Altius

Mr. Shashi Dharan, Managing Director, Bharat Exhibitions exclaimed in his welcome address, “Todays conversation is not just about laying down more fiber or deploying more towers. Its about building a holistic, resilient, and robust digital backbone that can support the ambitions of a Viksit Bharat. Its about bridging the urban-rural divide and ensuring that the promise of a digital economy reaches every village and every citizen.”

Brig. Anil Tandan, Director General, Broadband India Forum in his introductory speech said, “The BIFs work is inextricably linked with the development of digital infrastructure in India. They operate under the belief that a robust digital infrastructure is the foundational layer for a truly digital and inclusive economy. The summit is very well timed as the country is moving forward in technological advancement in unprecented pace. The concept of Viksit Bharat by 2047 is deeply intertwined with the development and expansion of digital infrastructure.”

Chief Guest, Shri Manish Sinha, Member (Finance), – Digital Communications Commission, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications in his speech said, “The DoTs contribution to Viksit Bharat is multi-faceted, focusing on both foundational infrastructure and citizen-centric services. It is our duty to formulate policies and regulations for Indias telecom sector. We are looking ahead to drive the digital infrastructure required to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. The DoTs strategy focuses on creating a secure, ubiquitous, and future-ready digital ecosystem that is inclusive for all citizens. Right from facilitating the 5G rollout, including spectrum auctions and streamlining Right of Way (RoW) rules to expedite infrastructure deployment. Its also leading the Bharat 6G Vision, with the goal of making India a global leader in 6G technology by 2030.”

Guest of Honour, Shri A. Robert J. Ravi, ITS, Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. stated, “We at BSNL is tasked with laying an extensive fiber network to provide last-mile connectivity to millions of households and institutions, ensuring that even the most remote communities can access e-governan ce, e-health, and e-education services. We are working tirelessly for taking the digital infra of India to new heights.” He highlighted the role of operators’ role in formulating 56 and furthermore 6G in the country. He also stressed upon the adoption of technologies like AI, cloud services, and blockchain is creating new opportunities and driving efficiency across various sectors, from healthcare to logistics. The government is actively working on creating a favourable policy environment to support this digital transformation, with a focus on areas like AI, quantum computing, and cyber security. Indias journey is a global benchmark for how technology can be leveraged to drive inclusive growth and governance. He also mentioned that BSNL is coming up with its own indigenous technology this September to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi.

The Summit also witnessed the Release of White Paper titled ‘Digital Infrastructure for Viksit Bharat: A 2047 Roadmap‘ for Inclusive Growth authored by Shri Sundeep Kathuria, Advisor, Broadband India Forum.

Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh, Director General, Digital Infrastructure Providers Association said in his address, “For Viksit Bharat to become a reality, Indias infrastructure must be future-ready. DIPAs members are at the forefront of deploying the passive infrastructure required for 5G and beyond. They are working on fiberizing tower sites, a crucial step for handling the massive data traffic that comes with 5G. The association also promotes the adoption of smart infrastructure like small cells and in-building solutions to ensure seamless connectivity in urban areas, supporting the vision of smart cities and a digital-first economy.“

Smt. Padma Jaiswal, IAS, Secretary to Government to the state & Union Territories and Secretary, Government of Puducherry, Mr. Nijamuddin, ITS, Director (NBM), Department of Telecommunications, Mr. Puneet Anand, Head of Product Management & Development Wireless Connectivity RF, HUBER+SUHNER, Shri Jitendra Garg, ITS, PGM (BTCL) Head, BSNL Corporate Office, Shri Sharad Singh, Ex Vice President, National Highways Logistics Management Ltd., Shri Vivek Dua, ITS, Principal General Manager (CNP), BSNL, Mr. Priyabrata Das, Managing Director | One Consulting : TMT, PwC India, CA Manoj Misra, Director – Regulatory Affairs, Indus Towers Limited, Mr. Santanu Das, Head – Regulatory, ALTIUS, Shri Ashok Kumar, Director (LP-A), Department of Telecommunications, Shri Umang Das, Chairman Standing Committee of Chairs in BIF were other eminent speakers of the Summit.

The highly ancipated summit was partnered by Department of Telecomunnications, Ministry of Communications, BSNL, ALTIUS, Pratap Technocrats, HUBER+SUHNER, Quadgen Wireless Solutions, LMES iConnectWe, Spectra Televentures, Shaildhar Telecom Services, SAARTEK, Communications Today, The Marcom Avenue, Digital Infrastructure Providers Association, ITU-APT Foundation of India and Broadband India Forum.

Asian Chemicals Forum 2025 Convenes in Mumbai to Shape the Future of Chemical Regulation and Sustainability

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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Asian Chemicals Forum 2025 Convenes in Mumbai to Shape the Future of Chemical Regulation and Sustainability

The Asian Chemicals Forum (ACF) 2025, Asia’s premier platform for regulatory dialogue and sustainable chemical management, is set to take place on October 8-9, 2025, at the ITC Maratha in Mumbai.

Asian Chemicals Forum 2025 – 2nd Edition Conclave

Jointly organized by the Regulatory Representatives and Managers Association (RRMA) and the Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF), with Global Product Compliance (GPC) as the principal sponsor, will bring together a global confluence of government regulators, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics. The forum is dedicated to fostering in-depth dialogues on chemical safety management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices across Asia and beyond. As the principal sponsor, it will gather a global confluence of government regulators, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics. The forum is dedicated to fostering in-depth dialogue on chemical safety management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices across Asia and beyond.

A Forum for Action, Not Just Dialogue

Building on the success of its inaugural 2023 event, ACF 2025 will provide a unique forum for in-depth exchange on chemical safety management, compliance, and sustainability practices. With global regulations evolving rapidly, the conference is designed to help businesses, regulators, and stakeholders anticipate change and drive responsible growth within the industry. ACF 2025 will address the most pressing issues facing the chemical industry through carefully selected themes.

Key themes

  • Global Regulatory Impacts on the Asian Market

  • Challenges and Opportunities for the Chemicals Sector

  • GHS Developments and Their Implications on the Asian Market

  • Global Framework on Chemicals Targets and Indicators

Event Highlights

Delegates will benefit from a dynamic two-day program, featuring

  • Keynote speeches from international experts at UNEP, OECD, and ECHA.

  • Expert-led panel discussions with government policymakers and business leaders tackling major industry challenges.

  • CEO Roundtable on building sustainable chemical portfolios.

  • Compliance Expo Asia 2025 is an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge innovations in compliance services and sustainability solutions.

  • RRMA Annual Gathering and training, offering in-depth regulatory knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Why Attend ACF 2025

ACF 2025 is a must-attend event for professionals aiming to stay at the forefront of chemical regulation and sustainability. Attendees will

  • Engage directly with global experts and regulatory authorities from Asia and Europe.

  • Explore cutting-edge innovations for chemical risk management and compliance.

  • Gain exclusive insights into upcoming regulatory trends and sustainability practices.

  • Network with policy leaders, CEOs, and industry pioneers through dedicated sessions and exhibitions.

  • Position their company as a leader through speaking, sponsorship, and exhibition opportunities.

“ACF 2025 is more than a conference; its a catalyst for collaboration and change,” the organizers state. “We are curating an essential dialogue to help the industry navigate evolving regulations and drive responsible chemical management forward. This forum is the best opportunity to get ahead of policy shifts, ensure compliance, and position your organization for sustainable growth.”

Featured International Speakers

ACF 2025 will host global leaders from UNEP, OECD, ECHA, UNITAR, BASF, University of Copenhagen, Ministry of Environment Japan, Peking University, FSSC, and the Chemical Industries Association of the Philippines, among others. Confirmed speakers include

  • Geert Dancet (RRMA & Founding Executive Director, ECHA)

  • Jacqueline Alvarez (UNEP)

  • Bob Diderich and Eeva Leinala (OECD)

  • Oliver Wootton (UNITAR)

  • Joonas Alaranta (ECHA)

  • Agnes Lau (BASF, Singapore)

  • Nadirah Binti Mohamad (DOSHA, Malaysia)

  • Albert A. Samuela (Chemical Industries Association, Philippines)

  • Xenia Trier (University of Copenhagen, Denmark)

  • Dr. Koki Takaki (Ministry of Environment, Japan)

  • Dr. Jianguo Liu (Peking University, China)

  • Ante Batinic (FSSC 24000)

Distinguished National Speakers

India’s leadership in regulatory science, academia, and industry will be represented by

  • Dr. Ekta Kapoor (GLP Authority India)

  • Shikhar Jain (CII)

  • Dr. Nadeem Khan and Dr. Abhay Deshpande (JRF)

  • Dr. Satish Wagh (CHEMEXCIL)

  • Anil Jauhri (RRMA)

  • Ravi Kapoor (ICC Sustainability Committee)

  • Ramkumar Shankar (Sanmar Group)

  • Dr. Vishal Choudhary (Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser – PMO)

  • Chintan Joshi (TATA Chemicals)

  • Rupark Sarswat (India Glycols Ltd)

  • Sagar Kaushik (UPL)

  • Dr. Sudha Kannan (Aditya Birla)

  • Satish Sinha (Toxics Link)

  • Dr. K. Patel (IIT Roorkee)

  • Dr. Shalini Singh (SABIC)
    ​

ACF 2023: Building Momentum

The Asian Chemicals Forum 2023, held on September 5-6 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, marked a significant milestone for the region’s chemical industry. The hybrid event drew more than 250 global professionals, regulators, and industry leaders, creating a powerful platform for dialogue on chemical safety, the UN Framework, and the management of PFAS.

With its combination of expert-led panels, focused regulatory training, and high-level networking, ACF 2023 set a new benchmark for collaboration and knowledge exchange in the sector. The event’s success firmly established the Forum as a landmark gathering shaping the future of chemical management across Asia and beyond.

Looking Ahead: ACF 2025

Building on this momentum, ACF 2025 in Mumbai is poised to expand both its scope and impact. The upcoming edition will bring together an even larger international community of regulators, policymakers, business leaders, NGOs, and academics, making it the most comprehensive event yet on chemical regulation and sustainability in Asia. With a sharper focus on emerging regulatory frameworks, global sustainability goals, and cross-sector collaboration, ACF 2025 aims to set the agenda for the future of responsible chemical management in the region.

Registration and Sponsorship

Secure your participation at ACF 2025 today. Explore sponsorship and exhibition opportunities to showcase your leadership in compliance and sustainability. Visit our registration page to reserve your place.

About ACF and Organizers

The Asian Chemicals Forum (ACF) is jointly organized by the Regulatory Representatives & Managers Association (RRMA) and Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF). GPC serves as the knowledge partner and principal sponsor. Building on the success of ACF 2023, the Forum continues to provide a leading platform for dialogue, regulatory harmonization, and sustainable industry practices across Asia and beyond.

The ACF conference covers a wide range of topics related to safe chemical use management and will engage 25+ expert speakers from governmental departments, industry leaders, NGOs, and academics from key regions and countries in Asia, Europe, and the USA.

Organizers and Partners

ACF 2025 Organizers and Partners

Joint Organizers

  • Regulatory Representatives & Managers Association (RRMA)

  • Helsinki Chemicals Forum (HCF)

Knowledge Partner & Principal Sponsor

  • Global Product Compliance (GPC)

Industry Association Partner

  • Indian Chemical Council (ICC)

Institutional Partner

  • Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS)

Export Promotion Partner

  • CHEMEXCIL

Media Associate

  • Enhesa

Program Partners

  • OECD

  • ECHA (European Chemicals Agency)

  • European Commission

  • UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme)

  • UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research)

Supporting Organizations

  • United Nations

  • World Health Organization (WHO)

  • International Labour Organization (ILO)

Trade Association Partner

  • Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC)

Tetra Pak Start-up Challenge Winner, ZUMI, Launches Lactose-Free, No Refined Sugar Milkshakes

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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Tetra Pak Start-up Challenge Winner, ZUMI, Launches Lactose-Free, No Refined Sugar Milkshakes

Beanery Foods, a Hyderabad-based startup, has launched a range of lactose-free, no refined sugar, clean-label milkshakes, crafted for those with lactose intolerance, digestive sensitivities and the fast-growing community of health-conscious Indians seeking smarter indulgences. Launched under the brand name ‘Zumi‘, the naturally creamier and sweeter lactose-free formula is gentler on the gut and sweetened with monk fruit and jaggery, making it a healthier alternative. The product is now available across three cities, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai via www.zumifoods.com and amazon and will soon be available on quick commerce platforms.

Tetra Pak start-up challenge winner, ZUMI, launches Lactose-Free, No Refined Sugar Milkshakes

ZUMI is one of the winners of Startup Challenge 2024 by Tetra Pak India, in partnership with Startup India, an initiative aimed at fostering innovation in India’s F&B ecosystem. Through the programme, Zumi received comprehensive support in product development, mentorship, and commercialization, along with access to Tetra Pak’s Product Development Centre in Chakan for hands-on assistance in product formulation and testing.

The milkshakes come in three delectable flavours inspired by the Indian desserts including Rose Kulfi, Rasmalai, and Chocolate- catering to varied palates across the country. Packaged in convenient, hygienic, ready-to-drink Tetra Pak packaging, Zumi’s milkshakes are designed for today’s on-the-go consumer, with each 200ml package serving delivers 6-7 grams of protein.

Lactose-Free Formula for Everyone

Lactose-free milk delivers the same rich nutritional profile as regular milk, while being easier to digest. This makes it a smarter everyday choice for a spectrum of consumers – from fitness enthusiasts, schoolchildren, and working professionals, to individuals with digestive sensitivities, and anyone seeking a healthier lifestyle. Milk is a dietary staple in India, and nearly 30% of consumers recognize their lactose intolerance-despite studies indicating that up to 70% may actually be affected. Zumi’s products are thoughtfully crafted to meet these varied dietary needs, transforming everyday indulgences into healthier, functional choices-without compromising on taste or experience.

Naturally Sweeter, Makes for a Dessert with No Guilt
Lactose-free milk is made by adding lactase [naturally occurring enzyme], which breaks down lactose into simpler sugars (glucose and galactose), making it naturally sweeter than regular milk. Combining lactose-free milk with natural zero GI sweeteners like monk fruit gives ZUMI Milkshakes it’s creamy rich taste which makes these milkshakes an ideal alternative to calorie-heavy desserts. Perfect when served straight from the pack, or even as a base for smoothies and healthy dessert recipes, Zumi’s shakes bring convenience, nutrition and delectable flavour to the table.

Commenting on the launch, Thapasya Vijayaraghavan, Founder, Zumi Foods, said, “We are excited to serve the ever-conscious Indian consumer with our clean, lactose-free, no refined sugar milkshakes and redefine how India snacks and indulges. At ZUMI, our vision is to make better-for-you indulgence a joyful, guilt-free choice for everyone, combining nutrition with exceptional taste. Lactose-free milk retains all the nutrition of regular milk while being gentler on the gut and naturally sweeter, making it a healthier choice for everyone-not just those with lactose intolerance. With the extraordinary support and mentorship of Tetra Pak and Startup India, we’ve transformed our vision into reality-redefining indulgence in India-where taste meets health, without compromise.“

Cassio Simoes, MD, Tetra Pak South Asia, added, “At Tetra Pak, we see it as our responsibility as an industry leader to nurture India’s food and beverage ecosystem. Zumi brings a refreshing perspective to India’s beverage space, combining functionality and flavour, and we are delighted to have supported their journey from concept to shelf through our Startup Challenge-providing access to our global expertise, infrastructure, and mentorship. As we continue to collaborate with promising entrepreneurs, our goal is to build a stronger, more sustainable F&B ecosystem that benefits consumers, startups, and the industry.”

Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Startup India said, “India’s startup ecosystem has become one of the most dynamic in the world, with over 180,000+ recognised startups across 770+ districts (as of August 2025). Nearly 52% of them are from tier-2 and 3 cities.

Home-grown startups are therefore in a unique position to combine global best practices with local insights, creating products that resonate with modern Indian consumers and push India’s reputation as a hub for food & beverage innovation. We are proud to support initiatives like Tetra Pak’s Start-Up Challenge and remain committed to fostering an ecosystem where these startups can scale, generate meaningful employment, and help India capture even greater value from its innovation landscape.”

With the launch of its no refined sugar, lactose-free milkshakes, Zumi Foods is setting a new benchmark for healthy indulgence in India. Over the coming year, the brand aims to expand its footprint across more cities, introduce new flavours, in paper-based Tetra Pak packaging – continuing its mission to make functional, clean-label beverages accessible to all.

Know more about Tetra Pak’s technology here: Tetra Pak – lactose-free milk production.

About Zumi Foods

Zumi Foods is a Hyderabad-based startup redefining everyday dairy with its range of lactose-free, no refined sugar, protein-rich, clean-label milkshakes. Founded by a young entrepreneur, Thapasya Vijay, who discovered her own lactose intolerance, the brand was born out of a need to create indulgent yet functional alternatives in a country where dairy beverages is a staple. Over time, she realized that lactose-free milk isn’t just for lactose intolerant, it can be gentler on the gut, naturally sweeter, and a healthier choice for everyone. With flavours inspired by India’s culinary heritage and crafted for the modern, health-conscious consumer, Zumi Foods is on a mission to make smarter, healthier indulgence accessible to all.

GST Reforms and Speedy Deliveries Drive Record Early Access Momentum for Flipkart Minutes, Attracting 45 Lakh Visitors and Doubling Orders; Fastest Delivery in Under 3 Minutes

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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  • Fastest iPhone delivered under 3 Minutes during the Early Access with the highest cart value being INR 1.57 lakhs

  • The GST cut gives a boost to the festive excitement, driving a 2.6X jump in new customers during Early Access among Black and Plus members as compared to the pre-festive period

  • Top-selling products across electronics included smartphones, earbuds, and Trimmers while ghee, atta and energy drinks topped the charts in daily essentials

  • During the peak hour, 1 in 5 shoppers ordered a phone through the smartphone exchange program, with the entire assessment being completed at the customers’ doorstep in around 30 minutes

Disclaimer: Data and insights are from Early Access of The Big Billion Days Sale (12 AM – 11:59 AM of 22nd September, 2025)

When the clock struck midnight on September 21, India’s biggest shopping festival began counting in minutes. During the Early Access of The Big Billion Days 2025, Flipkart Minutes recorded over 45 lakh unique visitors and a 2X risein order volumes compared to regular days. From the very first hour, The Big Billion Days on Flipkart Minutes reflected how India celebrates today – instant, joyful, and bigger than ever. Compared to the pre-festive period, new customers on Flipkart Minutes grew by 2.6X during Early Access of the sale. In the course of the first hour of Early Access (between 12 AM – 1 AM), the fastest delivery for an iPhone was completed in under 3 minutes.

The start of this season has shown that celebrations are no longer planned for tomorrow; they are happening instantly, from ordering daily essentials like ghee, atta, and energy drinks to premium smartphones and laptops. Within this festive momentum, every cart told a story: in one city, a shopper combined dry fruits, pharmaceuticals, home essentials, and groceries in a single order, while another placed a Rs. 1.57 lakh premium cart featuring the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Smartphones remained a festive favourite, with 1 in 5 shoppers opting for the smartphone exchange program during the peak hour, where the entire assessment was completed seamlessly at the doorstep in around 30 minutes.

With the recent Next-Gen GST reforms, customers are celebrating not just faster deliveries but also tangible savings. Flipkart worked to ensure sellers passed on these benefits to the customers, making this festive season’s purchases more rewarding.

Early trends reveal how India is celebrating in the moment: from big-ticket gadgets moving as fast as midnight snacks to daily essentials arriving just before rituals begin

Festive Momentum Driven by Smartphones

  • iPhone16 emerged as the highest-selling item during the Early Access, and the fastest iPhone being delivered in under 3 minutes

  • 1 in 5 customers had already upgraded their phones through Flipkart’s smartphone exchange program, with doorstep assessments completed in around 30 minutes, marking a first-of-its-kind festive shopping innovation

  • Increasing trust in Flipkart Minutes for premium purchases like iPhones and flagship Android models signals a behavioural shift toward high-value instant commerce
    ​

Cities in Celebration Mode: Metros and Beyond

  • As compared to regular days, metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata saw a sharp 2X jump in orders

  • Pune and the tricity market, namely Ambala, Chandigarh, and Panchkula, witnessed a 4X surge in total orders, followed by an increase in Tier 2+ markets like Jaipur, Patna, Kanpur, and Mysore, showcasing the growing demand of quick commerce beyond metros

Powering Everyday Needs

  • Electronic products like boAt soundbars, trimmers, fitness bands, chargers, and iPads have seen a strong uptick with shoppers looking for both value and immediacy, driving demand for smart gadgets and accessories that support festive and gifting use cases

  • Shoppers looked for quick replenishment and last-minute stocking, with dry fruits and makhanas from brands like Farmley, Classic, and Zoff seeing strong traction, alongside energy drinks like Sting and Hell

  • Fossil and Peter England analogue watches recorded strong traction as shoppers looked for stylish yet practical festive buys for the season

Hemant Badri, Senior Vice President, Head of Minutes & Supply Chain, Customer Experience and ReCommerce, Flipkart Group, said, “This Big Billion Days marks a turning point in how India shops. For the first time, millions of customers are celebrating the country’s biggest shopping festival not just online, but instantly – with Flipkart Minutes delivering everything from ice creams to iPhones in just 10 minutes. Thanks to the recent GST reforms, this festive season has become even more fulfilling for customers as they are able to save more while shopping for their favourite products on Minutes. What excites us most is not just the scale, but the diversity of what Indians are choosing from, last-minute festive gifts and gourmet treats to trending smartphones, all delivered faster than ever imagined. The momentum we are seeing across metros and Tier II+ cities signals a cultural shift: shopping today is about immediacy, joy, and trust. At Flipkart, we are proud to be shaping this new chapter in India’s festive movement, where every order fulfilled in minutes is a celebration delivered.”

All blockbuster deals on Flipkart are live on Flipkart Minutes during The Big Billion Days 2025 sale. From essentials and electronics to festive foods and gifting must-haves, this season, Flipkart Minutes is turning instant delivery into a nationwide celebration of choice, value, and convenience, all in just 10 minutes.

About Flipkart

The Flipkart Group is one of India’s leading digital commerce entities and includes group companies Flipkart, Myntra, Flipkart Wholesale, Cleartrip, and super.money.

Established in 2007, Flipkart has enabled millions of sellers, merchants, and small businesses to participate in Indias digital commerce revolution. With a registered user base of more than 500 million, Flipkarts marketplace offers over 150 million products across 80+ categories. Today, there are over 1.4 million sellers on the platform, including Shopsy sellers. With a focus on empowering and delighting every Indian by delivering value through technology and innovation, Flipkart has created thousands of jobs in the ecosystem while empowering generations of entrepreneurs and MSMEs. Flipkart has pioneered services such as Cash on Delivery, No Cost EMI, Easy Returns, and UPI. These customer-centric innovations focus on enhancing digital payment offerings for all customers while making online shopping more accessible and affordable for millions of Indians.

For more information, please write to media@flipkart.com.

JBT Marel Inaugurates Global Production Centre in India to Strengthen Food Processing Innovation

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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JBT Marel Inaugurates Global Production Centre in India to Strengthen Food Processing Innovation

JBT Marel, a global leader in food processing technology, today inaugurated its Global Production Centre (GPC) in India, marking a major milestone in the company’s commitment to serve the Indian and Asia-Pacific markets with world-class solutions.

Left to Right: Augusto Rizzollo, EVP – APSC & Latin America, Bob Petrie -EVP – Prepared Foods, Brian deck CEO, Jack Martin -EVP- Supply chain officer

JBT Marel India Pvt. Ltd., Vivan Kohli Industrial Estate, Old Mumbai Pune Highway, Naigaon, Taluka – Maval, Vadgaon, Pune the new facility was inaugurated by Brian Deck, CEO JBT Marel, Augusto Rizzolo, Vice President and President Regions and Integration, Bob Petri, Vice President and President Met and Prepared Foods and Jack Martin, Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer.

Other dignitaries present at the occasion included Manuel Kaufmann, Senior Director, DF & H APAC, Per Friberg, Senior Director, Prepared Foods; and Vikram Mulmule, Vice President, South Asia, Shivendra Singh, Operations Manager, South Asia Subcontinent, JBT Marel.

The GPC is designed to expand production capabilities and showcase cutting-edge processes that meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable food processing in the region.

Speaking at the ceremony, Augusto Rizzolo, EVP and President, Regions and Integration, said, “The Global Production Centre in India is a proud milestone for us and reinforces our commitment to driving innovation in food processing. This facility not only brings global expertise closer to our customers in South Asia, but also positions India as a key hub for advanced solutions that can serve the wider Asia region.”

India’s food processing industry is one of the largest in the world, contributing nearly 12% to manufacturing GDP and employing over 8 million people. Rising consumer demand for packaged and ready-to-eat foods, combined with government initiatives such as Make in India and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Food Processing, is rapidly positioning the country as a global hub for innovation.

JBT Marel’s new GPC is strategically located to support this growth by providing advanced, sustainable solutions for Indian companies while also serving as an export base for the Asia region.

With this launch, JBT Marel reaffirms its purpose to “Transform the Future of Food” and strengthen its focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric growth in one of the world’s most dynamic food markets.

About JBT Marel

JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE and Nasdaq Iceland: JBTM) is a leading global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food & beverage industry. JBT Marel brings together the complementary strengths of both the JBT and Marel organizations to transform the future of food. JBT Marel provides unique and holistic solutions offering by designing, manufacturing, and servicing cutting-edge technology, systems, and software for a broad range of food and beverage end markets. JBT Marel aims to create better outcomes for customers by optimizing food yield and efficiency, improving food safety and quality, and enhancing uptime and proactive maintenance, all while reducing waste and resource use across the global food supply chain. JBT Marel operates sales, service, manufacturing and sourcing operations in more than 30 countries.

For more information, please visit www.jbtmarel.com.

Signify Launches Philips LightTheatre: Brings Smart Immersive Entertainment for Indian Homes Ahead of the Festive Season

Ravindra Kirti Founder GGF
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0
Signify Launches Philips LightTheatre: Brings Smart Immersive Entertainment for Indian Homes Ahead of the Festive Season

  • Backed by Signify’s commitment to innovation and connected living

  • Creates a holistic immersive experience with HDMI Sync Box with TV backlight strip, Philips gradient light bars and gradient floor light

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, today announced the India launch of the revolutionary Philips LightTheatre, introducing a groundbreaking smart lighting solution designed to transform home entertainment into an unparalleled immersive experience. This innovative system seamlessly integrates dynamic lighting with visual and audio content, bringing movies, music, and gaming to life like never before.

Signify launches Philips LightTheatre

As consumers increasingly seek holistic entertainment solutions that go beyond the screen, the Philips Smart Entertainment Range is designed to meet this demand, offering an all-in-one solution that delivers a truly cinematic experience in the comfort of home.

Philips Smart Entertainment Range

The Philips LightTheatre is engineered to redefine how consumers interact with their entertainment. The system utilizes advanced Philips LightTheatre HDMI Sync Technology, which reads signals directly from video source via HDMI input, making lights dynamically respond to the colors on your TV screen for real-time accurate syncing. The system utilizes advanced Philips LightTheatre HDMI Sync Technology, which reads signals directly from any HDMI-connected device, instantly analyzes the colors and sounds, and projects ultra-accurate light effects onto the surrounding walls. Compatible with Philips gradient light bars, gradient floor light, and other Wi-Fi connected lights, creating a holistic immersive experience. This creates a captivating ‘light theatre’ effect that extends the on-screen action beyond the television, drawing viewers deeper into the content.

Talking about the product launch C Arun Kumar, Head of Consumer Business – Signify, Greater India said, “At Signify, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. In India, where digital entertainment is becoming a way of life, the quality of how people experience content has never been more important. Philips LightTheatre transforms everyday viewing into an immersive, cinematic experience, allowing people to not just watch but truly feel every moment. Whether it’s sports, music, or movies, with LightTheatre, we are redefining home entertainment as a seamless blend of technology, emotion, and lifestyle.”

Key features of Philips LightTheatre include:

  • Immersive HDMI Sync Technology: Reads HDMI signals directly, synchronizing lights with video and music in real time for dynamic effects.

  • Easy Plug and Play: Simple setup with effortless integration into existing home entertainment systems.

  • Multicolor Gradient Segments: Rich spectrum of customizable colors for personalized ambiance and effects.

  • WiZ App Control: Full control via the intuitive WiZ app to manage settings, select light scenes, and switch between four preset sync modes – Cinematic, Vibrant, Relaxation, Rhythmic or fine-tune brightness and intensity.

  • Expandable Ecosystem: The HDMI Sync Box works with any Philips Smart LED color-capable light that supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Users can link as many lights to the Sync Box as they like and make them sync with TV simultaneously.

  • Voice Control Integration: Works with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Siri Shortcuts for convenient hands-free operation.

The Philips LightTheatre promises to elevate movie nights, gaming sessions, and music listening to an entirely new dimension, making every moment more vibrant and engaging.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems and data-enabled services deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2024, we had sales of EUR 6.1 billion, approximately 29,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for eight consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for five consecutive years, placing Signify in the top one percent of companies assessed. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

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