Mobius Foundation organised a panel discussion on ‘Biosphere Reserves: Strategies for Sustainable Development and Conservation’ at the Constitution Club of India. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and conservationists from UNESCO, WWF, and various academic institutions to deliberate on the role of biosphere reserves in India’s ecological future. Discussions emphasised Mobius’ vision for safeguarding biodiversity, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Release of the Coffee Table Book on Climate Liability, Justice, and Jurisprudence by Mobius Foundation

Mr. Pradip Burman, Chairman, Mobius Foundation addressing the event said, “Biosphere reserves serve as critical pillars of a sustainable future. Collaborative efforts are essential to preserving these declining valuable ecosystems, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from their ecological and economic contribution.”

The panel featured prominent speakers, including Dr Benno Boer, Chief of Natural Sciences at UNESCO (South Asia Regional Office); Dr Priya Gupta, Lead, Governance, Law & Policy at WWF India; Dr Erach Bharucha, Director of Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research; Dr Aditya Joshi, Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Manipur, and Advisor at Mobius Foundation;and Mr Praveen Garg, President of Mobius Foundation.The discussion was moderated by Mr. Abhilash Khandekar, Senior Journalist.

The panellists pointed out how insufficient community engagement and inadequate livelihood alternatives often lead to conflicts between conservation goals and local needs. Threats from unregulated development, invasive species, and large-scale projects pose significant risks to the ecological integrity of these reserves. Further, funding and an unequal distribution of benefits hinder effective management and sustainable development initiatives. Inadequate research and monitoring infrastructure hinder effective conservation planning.

The discussion explored major opportunities under the themes of biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration, strengthening governance and policy frameworks, sustainable livelihoods and integrating indigenous knowledge into conservation efforts. Dr Benno Boer, Chief of Natural Sciences at UNESCO (South Asia Regional Office) stressed the importance of robust governance mechanisms and collaborative approaches among stakeholders and said, “Biosphere reserves are living laboratories where we can apply, test, and demonstrate best practices for human living in harmony with nature. Active community participation in planning, management, and zonation is crucial to their success.”

Dr Erach Bharucha, Director of Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Environment Education and Research emphasised the need for long-term planning and said, “Without dedicated legal frameworks for biosphere reserves, conservation efforts remain fragmented. Strengthening governance and scientific research along with greater financial investment, policy support, and cross-sectoral collaboration is crucial for sustainable development.”

Dr Priya Gupta, Lead, Governance, Law & Policy at WWF India said, “Conservation should be approached with a local perspective, as it has a global impact. Biosphere reserves are biocultural reserves, where cultural systems play a crucial role in the survival of biodiversity.”

Dr. Aditya Joshi, Advisor of Mobius Foundation shared some case studies of different biosphere reserves where the interventions address the main challenges. He stated “Biosphere reserves are the cultural and biodiversity hotspots and through diverse approaches, integration of multi-stakeholder groups and successful models can lead towards balancing conservation with sustainable development.”

Recognizing the critical role of biosphere reserves in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Global Biodiversity Framework, several key recommendations emerge. Strengthening community engagement by prioritizing participatory approaches and providing alternative livelihoods is crucial. Investing in robust research and monitoring infrastructure is essential for effective conservation planning and management. Promoting sustainable practices like organic agriculture, ecotourism, and renewable energy within biosphere reserves is vital. Exploring innovative funding mechanisms, such as carbon credits and biodiversity offsets, is necessary to support long-term conservation efforts. Fostering collaboration among government agencies, local communities, researchers, and the private sector is crucial for effective and integrated management.

Mr Praveen Garg, President of Mobius Foundation, concluded, “Biosphere reserves represent a unique opportunity to protect our natural heritage while promoting sustainable development. Today’s discussion highlights the path forward: collaboration, education, and integrated governance with multi-stakeholder groups. We must act now to safeguard these vital ecosystems for future generations.”

About Mobius Foundation

Mobius Foundation is committed to advancing sustainable environmental practices, biodiversity conservation, and climate justice. Through events, research, and partnerships, the foundation aims to foster collaborative efforts to address global environmental challenges and promote sustainable development worldwide.

PayU, one of Indias leading digital financial services providers, has announced a partnership with AdvantageClub.ai, a global AI-powered leader in the engagement, rewards, and well-being space, to re-define employee engagement, rewards & recognition, wellness solutions (OPD plans, annual health checkup, and wellness challenges), sales incentive automation, flexible benefits, surveys, moments that matter, and communities on a single platform. The integration of AdvantageClub.ai on PayU Checkout will enable AdvantageClub.ai users to seamlessly pay for their digital purchases using their rewards or wallet balance, creating a frictionless shopping experience.

Integration of AdvantageClub.ai on PayU Checkout will enable AdvantageClub.ai users to seamlessly pay for their digital purchases using rewards or wallet balance

With a user base of over 5.5 million users, a presence in over 100+ countries, 1000+ clients, and 10,000+ brand options, AdvantageClub.ai is renowned for its 95%+ reward redemption rate, making it a preferred choice for corporate rewards. This partnership expands the scope of PayU’s merchant partners to drive more customer retention, increase transaction volumes, and deliver superior value to their users. By combining PayU’s robust payment ecosystem with AdvantageClub.ai’s innovative loyalty platform, this collaboration will also transform customer engagement while unlocking growth opportunities for Indian businesses.

Key Highlights of the Partnership

• Seamless Rewards Redemption: AdvantageClub.ai users can seamlessly redeem their loyalty points or wallet balances at checkout on PayU’s merchant platforms, enhancing ease and convenience for consumers.

• Boosting Merchant Engagement: Merchants gain access to AdvantageClub.ai’s loyalty ecosystem, enabling stronger customer retention and boosting overall transaction value.

• Scalable Corporate Rewards Ecosystem: With 1,000+ corporate clients and a high reward redemption rate, AdvantageClub.ai empowers employees and corporates with unparalleled engagement solutions.

• Expanding Reach: This partnership integrates a niche loyalty partner into PayU’s platform, further solidifying PayU’s leadership as one of India’s largest loyalty rewards program aggregators.

Nikhil Mehta, Senior Vice President – Partnerships & Payments Strategy – PayU, said, “As one of Indias largest loyalty & rewards program aggregators, PayU is focused on expanding its loyalty & rewards partner portfolio to accelerate growth for every business. Our partnership with AdvantageClub.ai to integrate their solutions on PayU checkout will pave the way for the future of loyalty rewards redemption in the country. With such integrations, we continue to deliver innovative, value-driven solutions for our merchants and users alike, translating into better business growth and enhanced online shopping experiences.”

Sourabh Deorah, Co-founder and CEO of AdvantageClub.ai said, “Our collaboration with PayU, an industry-leading payment gateway, is a milestone in bridging the gap between corporate rewards and digital transactions. Together, we are simplifying rewards redemption at checkout, enhancing convenience for millions of users, and driving meaningful engagement for merchants. This synergy of innovation and impact is redefining the rewards experience, creating a win-win ecosystem for employees, corporates, and businesses globally.“

About PayU
PayU, one of Indias leading digital financial services providers with Prosus as an investor, operates businesses that are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India and offers advanced solutions to meet the digital payment requirements of the Indian market. PayU India companies aim to create a full-stack digital financial services platform to serve all (tapped and untapped) financial needs of customers through technology solutions.

PayU provide payment gateway solutions to online businesses through its cutting-edge and award-winning technology and has empowered 5 lakhs+ businesses, including India’s leading enterprises, e-commerce giants and SMBs. It enables businesses to collect digital payments across 150+ online payment methods such as Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Net Banking, EMIs, pay-later, QR, UPI, Wallets, and more. It’s a preferred partner in the affordability ecosystem, offering the maximum coverage of issuers and easy-to-implement integrations across card-based EMIs, pay-later options and new-age cardless EMIs. PayU offers e-commerce brands best-in-industry success rates while ensuring a seamless checkout experience.

About AdvantageClub.ai

AdvantageClub.ai is a global AI-powered employee engagement, rewards, and wellness platform with offerings like rewards & recognition, wellness solutions including OPD plans, Annual health checkups, and wellness challenges, sales incentive automation, flexible benefits, surveys, moments that matter, and communities on a single platform. It provides end-to-end solutions to facilitate employee engagement by digitizing the company’s R&R policies, allowing them to drive better employee retention and happiness. AdvantageClub.ai has over 5.5 million users, with a presence in over 100+ countries, 1000+ clients, and 10,000+ brand options. Established in 2016, AdvantageClub.ai is the brainchild of UCLA postgraduates Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, who identified employee engagement as a space to create disruption using AI, data mining, and analytics. Headquartered in San Francisco, AdvantageClub.ai has an impressive client portfolio featuring Air India, BCG, Biocon, Concentrix, HCL, Hexaware, L&T, Tech Mahindra, Tata Steel, Teleperformance, and many more.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education organized the 1^st Convocation for its graduating cohort of online students on 8^th February 2025. The convocation was held for 426 students who successfully completed postgraduate programs including MBA (Master of Business Administration), MSc in Business Analytics, MSc in Data Science, PGCP in Business Analytics, and PGCP in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, through a 100% online mode. The in-person convocation ceremony was held in Manipal, at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) campus.

Over 426 students graduated at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) campus

As per UGC guidelines, “The online degree is recognized as equivalent to the conventional degrees offered on campuses and students can apply for all job opportunities and higher education as per their eligibility.” Manipal Academy of Higher Education launched its first batch of online degree programs in September 2022.

The Convocation was inaugurated by the Chief Guest of the day, Dr HS Ballal – Pro Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education. The event was presided over by other top dignitaries including Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh – Vice Chancellor, Dr Narayana Sabhahit – Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Sharath K Rao – Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr Dilip G Naik – Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr Madhu Veera Raghavan – Pro Vice Chancellor (MLHS & Head – MAHE Bangalore campus), Dr Giridhar Kini P – Registrar, Dr Vinod V Thomas – Registrar, Evaluation, Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director – Directorate of Online Education, and the Guest of Honor, Mr Ambrish Sinha, CEO – UNext Learning.

Addressing the graduates’, Dr Ballal said, “This unique event marks a significant milestone not only in the lives of our graduates, but the history of our institution as we adapt to the evolving times.“

The online graduates comprised of working professionals from diverse backgrounds and industries. The graduates were thrilled to visit the university campus and were excited to receive their degree certificates and meet their peers & faculty in person.

To learn more about the online programs offered by Manipal Academy of Higher Education or enroll, visit www.onlinemanipal.com.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education is one of India’s leading academic and research institutions with a NAAC A++ rating and prestigious Institution of Eminence (IoE) recognition. The institution has been offering world-class education across diverse streams since 1953. It is ranked #4 by NIRF and has a track of notable alumni like Satya Nadella, Vikas Khanna, and Dr Devi Prasad Shetty.

MAHE’s integrated Learning Management System (LMS) gives access to extensive e-learning material, recorded sessions, webinars, doubt clearing sessions, quizzes, assignments, and more. MAHE’s online learners get free access to Coursera courses and certifications during the course of the program. MAHE’s online learners are also offered placement assistance in the form of skill assessments & enhancement, industry-readiness sessions, resume building, and virtual placement drives.

MAHE currently offers 7 degrees & certification programs in online mode and caters to 8,600+ learners across 7 programs from 44 countries and over 25 states.

Asyad Group, Oman’s global integrated logistics provider, reinforces its leadership in international trade and breakbulk logistics at Breakbulk Middle East 2025, held in Dubai on February 10-11. Engaging with key industry players, Asyad drives discussions on the transformation of global supply chains, the future of breakbulk logistics, and the increasing significance of the GCC and MENA regions in global trade connectivity.

Asyad Participates In Breakbulk Middle East 2025

Juma Al Uraimi, Acting Chief Commercial Officer at Asyad Group, underscores the Group’s vision for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable logistics sector. “The landscape of breakbulk logistics is rapidly evolving, driven by the intersection of large-scale industrial projects, digital innovation, and sustainability imperatives,” he says. “Asyad is committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and integrated multimodal solutions to enhance trade flows and position Oman as a critical gateway in global supply chains.”

Asyad’s leadership contributes to key panels examining digital transformation in logistics, supply chain optimization, and infrastructure investment, reinforcing Oman’s emerging role as a strategic logistics hub linking global markets. Discussions also focus on the rising demand for logistics solutions supporting renewable energy projects.

Reggy Vermeulen, CEO of the Port of Duqm, emphasizes Oman’s growing role in the energy transition, with logistics playing a critical role in transporting wind turbines, solar panels, and other oversized equipment essential for clean energy infrastructure.

Juma Al Maskari, Director at Asyad Logistics, highlights the projected USD 300 billion expansion of contract logistics, underscoring Asyad’s role in streamlining global trade and optimizing supply chain costs. He emphasizes how Oman’s geographic positioning and logistics infrastructure provide a competitive advantage for international businesses.

Asyad’s leadership in hydrogen logistics is also a focal point, with Tom Anneberg, VP Commercial Strategy & Product Development, showcasing the Group’s support for large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia ventures in Salalah Freezone. These projects reinforce Oman’s role as a key player in the global clean energy supply chain.

With over 60% of logistics providers investing in AI, IoT, and automation, the industry undergoes a digital transformation. Asyad remains at the forefront, harnessing its USD 4.1+ billion logistics ecosystem to drive innovation, enhance trade efficiency, and strengthen Oman’s position as a global logistics powerhouse.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at

www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/.

When it comes to investing, a common tendency is to follow the herd – invest in stocks that are gaining in popularity or selling those that are out of favour. However, better opportunities can often be found by going against the tide and spotting or leveraging trends that the market is yet to recognise.

Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund follows a contrarian investing strategy

This is what makes the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund comparatively different. The fund follows a contrarian investing strategy, seeking to generate long-term return potential by investing in undervalued opportunities.

The New Fund Offer period for the scheme began on Thursday, February 6^th, 2025, and is on till Thursday, February 20^th, 2025.

This article tells you more about the distinct features of the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund and how it seeks to leverage contrarian investing to create the potential for long-term wealth building.

Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund and contrarian investing

Contrarian investing is a strategy where investors go against popular market trends. The core belief is that markets often overreact to news and act out of fear, greed or overconfidence, causing some stocks to be undervalued or overvalued.

So, instead of following the crowd, the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund will seek out fundamentally strong stocks that others are avoiding because of temporary fear or bad news and sell stocks that others are chasing. Thus, it will seek to identify hidden opportunities. These could arise from business cycles, management transitions, underappreciated growth opportunities, turnaround stories, temporary business disruptions and cyclical movements, among others.

This approach will allow the fund to buy stocks at undervalued rates and potentially earn returns over time if the market recognises the security’s intrinsic value.

Here are some key features of contrarian investing:

• Goes against market trends – Invests in stocks that are currently out of favour; avoids stocks that are overpriced owing to popularity.

• Focuses on undervalued stocks – Looks for companies with potential for long term growth that the market has overlooked.

• Requires patience – Investments may take time to show returns.

• Based on deep research – Involves analysing fundamentals rather than following market sentiment.

• Seeks long-term gains – Aims to benefit when the market corrects itself.

• Minimizes emotional decisions – Avoids panic selling and trend-driven buying.

Professional management

Contrarian investing requires patience, research, and confidence, as it may take time for the market to correct itself and reflect a stock’s intrinsic worth. It can also be risky, as not every contrarian approach – especially one not grounded in strong fundamental and behavioural analysis – may pay off. This is where the mutual funds offer an advantage, as they are professionally managed. With the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund, our investment experts will make buy and sell decisions regarding the portfolio, based on contrarian investing strategies, allowing even laypersons and new investors to benefit from this nuanced approach.

Balancing risk and reward across market caps

Combined with this contrarian approach is the benefit of diversification. Being a multi cap fund, this scheme invests across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. Large cap stocks lend relative stability to the portfolio, while mid cap and small cap stocks offer significant long-term growth potential, though with more risk.

Moreover, historical stock market data shows that the winning market cap changes across market cycles – meaning that not any single market cap always comes out on top. In some years and cycles, large caps have outperformed, while in others, mid caps or small caps have been the leaders. Thus, by combining all three in its portfolio – with a minimum 25% exposure to each – the fund will seek to leverage diverse market opportunities.

*Past performance may or may not be sustained in the future.

Who should invest in this fund

The Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund could be suitable for investors who:

• Prefer a long-term approach rather than short-term speculation

• Seek long-term wealth creation with 5+ years

• Are comfortable with market fluctuations

• Want a diversified portfolio with disciplined exposure to large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks

How to invest in the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund

Investors participating in the New Fund Offer period (i.e. from February 6^th, 2025, to February 20^th, 2025) can buy units at a face value of Rs. 10 each. When the fund reopens for subscription in a few business days, investors can purchase units at the prevailing Net Asset Value. The investment routes include:

• Directly through Bajaj Finserv AMC offline or online (www.bajajamc.com)

• Through a registered mutual fund distributor

• Through Registrar and Transfer Agent KFintech

• Through aggregator platforms

Investments, both Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) and lumpsum, start at Rs. 500. Those considering starting an SIP in the scheme can take the help of a mutual fund SIP calculator to plan their investments. Lumpsum investors can similarly use a lumpsum calculator.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Lords Mark Industries Limited, a distinguished company known for its diverse portfolio, has been awarded the prestigious NavaBharat CSR Award 2025 in the Healthcare category. The grand ceremony took place at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai, where industry leaders and achievers were recognized for their exceptional contributions to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Lords Mark Industries Limited Honoured at NavaBharat CSR Summit & Awards 2025

Mr. Sachidanand Upadhyay, Managing Director, Lords Mark Industries, was recognized as a CSR Hero for his outstanding efforts in driving impactful healthcare initiatives. On his behalf, Mr. Vinay Sarda, Director, Lords Mark Industries Ltd., received the award from Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra.

The award is a testament to Lords Mark Industries unwavering commitment to social welfare, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through its various CSR initiatives, the company has exemplified the true spirit of philanthropy, inspiring change, and fostering progress toward building a New India.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Sachidanand Upadhyay, Managing Director, Lords Mark Industries said, “At Lords Mark Industries, we believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right. This recognition reinforces our commitment to driving meaningful change through sustainable and impactful healthcare initiatives. As we work towards a Viksit Bharat, we remain dedicated to empowering communities and fostering a healthier and stronger India.”

Lord’s Mark Industries operates through key subsidiaries, including LordsMed, Lord’s Mark Insurance Broking Limited, Lord’s Mark Biotech, Lords Mark Microbiotech, and Lords Automative Private Limited, along with verticals in renewable energy products and paper. Committed to innovation and excellence, the company continues to expand while upholding the highest quality standards. Diversification remains the foundation of Lord’s Mark Industries sustained growth and success.

About Lord’s Mark Industries Ltd
Incorporated in 1998, Lord’s Mark Industries Private Ltd. (Lord’s) has made impressive growth starting from paper to LED to Renewable energy and making grand in the medical diagnostic industry. Lord’s and its subsidiaries have made a mark in Electric Vehicle, Genome Testing, Pharma and Healthcare. Growth through diversification has become the trend setter and has been the cornerstone of success at Lord’s.

Websitelordsmark.com.

The 6^th edition of Pluxee Select, the exclusive webinar series designed to inspire, educate, and empower Pluxee consumers, once again delivered an enriching experience. As a platform that connects attendees with visionaries from diverse fields, Pluxee Select continues to spark meaningful conversations and learning.

Pluxee Selects 6^th edition featuring Rahul Bose delivered an enriching experience for users

This edition featured Rahul Bose-acclaimed actor, social activist, and president of the Indian Rugby Federation-who shared his remarkable journey of passion, purpose, and perseverance.

Since its inception, Pluxee Select has been a gateway to knowledge and inspiration, featuring industry leaders who bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights. Past editions have hosted luminaries such as Saina Nehwal, Ashwin Yardi, Anshoo Sharma, Paddy Upton, and Lisa Ray, each adding depth to this knowledge-sharing initiative.

Harish Sarma, Marketing and Product Director, Pluxee India, said “Pluxee Select is where knowledge meets inspiration. By bringing leaders from different walks of life to share their experiences, we empower our consumers to grow-both personally and professionally.”

The latest edition received an overwhelmingly positive response, reinforcing Pluxee’s mission to make life more joyful and meaningful for everyone. As Pluxee continues to innovate, consumers can look forward to more engaging and insightful sessions with thought leaders from various domains.

As a trusted partner in the world of employee benefits, Pluxee is redefining workplace engagement and well-being. Through innovative, tech-driven solutions-from meal benefits to holistic well-being offerings-Pluxee is committed to creating personalized and sustainable experiences for employees and organizations alike. Pluxee Select is one such initiative that brings the power of knowledge, leadership, and inspiration directly to its consumers.

About Pluxee India
Pluxee is a leader in employee benefits and motivation, supporting businesses in attracting, engaging, and retaining talent through a broad range of solutions across Meal, Wellbeing, Learning, Rewards & Recognition & whole range of other offerings. With 27+ years of expertise in India, Pluxee partners with 11,000+ companies across the public and private sectors also fostering a trusted network of 150,000+ merchant partners on meal and 5 million+ merchants on other benefits. Every day Pluxee India works to support 3.5 million+ consumers in 1,800+ towns nationwide.

Powered by innovative technology and a dedicated team, Pluxee India delivers meaningful and personalized experiences through a single card and app to enhance the well-being of its consumers at work and beyond. Carrying forward a 45+ year global legacy, Pluxee is committed to creating a positive impact on local communities, promoting sustainability, and enabling its stakeholders to do what matters the most.

For more information visit www.pluxee.in.

• Manipal Marathon 2025 A Grand Success with Over 20,000 Runners.

• Over 7,000 virtual runners from across the globe took part in the event.

• Over 300 visually impaired individuals and more than 200 participants with physical disabilities took part in the event.

Over 20,000 runners participated in the 7^th edition of Manipal Marathon 2025 organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), one of the largest student-led marathons in India. The resounding success of the 7^th edition of the Manipal Marathon reiterated the MAHE’s commitment to health, fitness, innovation, inclusion, and community engagement. The theme for this year’s marathon is “Innovation in Motion: Embracing Technology for Health & Fitness“.

Runners in action at the 7th edition of Manipal Marathon, celebrating fitness, inclusion, and innovation

A groundbreaking addition to this year’s event was the “Manipal Global Virtual 5K Run,” introduced for the first time in India. This unique initiative allowed runners from all over the world to participate remotely, making the marathon more inclusive and accessible to a global audience. As many as 7000+ runners from all over the world participated virtually.

300 visually impaired and 200 physically challenged shine at Manipal Marathon 7th Edition

Over 100 international athletes from across countries USA, France, Germany, England, Trkiye, Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, Japan, Uganda, Malawi, Congo, Ghana, Sudan, Abu Dhabi UAE, and Australia participated in the marathon with great enthusiasm and cheer. However significant highlight of the Manipal Marathon is its strong focus on inclusivity collaboration with Samarthanam Trust & Ganga Foundation encouraged participation from over 300 visually impaired and over 200 physically challenged individuals from across India.

Electrifying start to the Manipal Marathon 7th Edition

MAHE extends its heartfelt gratitude to its title sponsor, ICICI Bank, SBI, UNEXT, BOBCARD and all other sponsors for their unwavering support in making Manipal Marathon 2025, a resounding success.

The event was graced by respected dignitaries including:

• Shri Shashi Kumar Nayak, Zonal Head, ICICI Bank, Karnataka flagged off the 42K

• Shri Alok Kumar Dwivedi, Deputy General Manager, SBI, flagged off the 21K Run

• Shri Ambrish Sinha, Chief, UNEXT Learning, who flagged off another 10K Run

• Shri Ravindra Rai, Managing Director & CEO, BOBCARD Limited, flagged off the 5K Run

Along with Shri Yashpal Suvarna, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Udupi, Dr. K Vidya Kumari, I.A.S., Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate, Udupi, Dr. Ranjan Pai, President, MAHE Trust, Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice-Chancellor, MAHE. The event was further distinguished by the presence of university officials and esteemed dignitaries from the district and other sponsors.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The Manipal Marathon is more than just a race; it is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. This year’s theme, ‘Innovation in Motion,’ reflects our dedication to integrating technology into health and fitness.”

Addressing the gathering Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh VSM, (Retd) Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Technology is reshaping the way we approach fitness. This marathon highlights the power of digital transformation in engaging runners worldwide and promoting a healthier future.”

Fitness enthusiasts and students from across districts performed Zumba & fitness sessions to celebrate the Manipal Marathon

The names of the winners across various categories are:

Full Marathon (42 KM)

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Sachin Poojary

2^nd Prize: Nanjundappa M

3^rd Prize: Cheruiyot Daniel

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: Lesharge Senait Kefelegn

2^nd Prize: Aasa TP

3^rd Prize: Shakuntala Devi

Half Marathon (21K)

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Ankush Hakke

2^nd Prize: Kiptoo Abraham

3^rd Prize: Shivam Yadav

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: KM Laxmi

2^nd Prize: Nandini G

3^rd Prize: Molleshwari

10K Marathon:

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Love Chaudhary

2^nd Prize: AR Rohit

3^rd Prize: Ankit Indoliya

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: Smitha D R

2^nd Prize: Nitu Kumari

3^rd Prize: Shreya M

For media inquiries and further information, please contact: the Director PR and Communications Ph: 08202922953 or dpr.manipal@manipal.edu

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education