• Offers Self-Sampling HPV DNA Test by Roche for early detection

• Metropolis achieves 100% concordance in verification of Self-Sampling HPV DNA test, aligning with WHO Recommendations

Ameera Shah-led Metropolis Healthcare Limited, India’s second-largest and most respected pathology laboratory chain, today announced its collaboration with Roche Diagnostics India and Neighbouring Markets to introduce the self-sampling human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA test for cervical cancer screening. The launch of this test aims to expand access to cervical cancer screening across India by addressing social and economic barriers, making early detection more convenient for women, including those in Tier 2, Tier 3, and Tier 4 towns.

Leadership team of Metropolis Healthcare and Roche Diagnostics

Cervical cancer is preventable and yet, India contributes to 21% of the world’s total cases of cervical cancer¹. Currently, it accounts for nearly 79,000 deaths among Indian women each year, which is roughly two thirds of diagnosed cases². This indicates late-stage intervention which can be avoided by taking precautionary measures such as early screening.

The HPV DNA test, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a first-choice screening method for cervical cancer prevention³, can help bridge the gap. This cutting-edge test detects 14 high-risk HPV types in a single tube and is a clinically validated, FDA-approved, and WHO-prequalified solution. It ensures reliable and accurate diagnosis, paving the way for early intervention and better outcomes. The self-sampling HPV DNA test empowers women to take control of their health by enabling them to self-collect their samples for testing comfortably and easily. It addresses significant barriers such as stigma, discomfort, and limited access to healthcare facilities.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Surendran Chemmenkotil, Chief Executive Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Limited, said, “Cervical cancer remains a major health challenge for Indian women, despite being preventable through early screening and vaccination. By introducing advanced screening tools like the HPV DNA test, in collaboration with Roche Diagnostics India, we aim to expand access to early detection across the country. At Metropolis, we are committed to leveraging our robust scientific expertise, extensive laboratory network, and strong partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers to ensure widespread access to this essential test. Together, we are working toward a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat.”

“Considering that as per a 2020 NHFS survey, only about 1.9% women in India are currently being screened, it is clear that more needs to be done to make cervical cancer screening accessible across India. Our cobas HPV DNA test provides women with a solution that allows them to overcome the potential embarrassment and discomfort that some may feel about undergoing cervical cancer screening process. I am confident that Metropolis Healthcare’s vast and established laboratory footprint will allow India to adopt cervical cancer screening at a large scale, especially in underserved areas,” said Mr. Rishubh Gupta, Managing Director, Roche Diagnostics India and Neighbouring Markets.

Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer and Senior Oncopathologist, Metropolis Healthcare Limited, said, “Cervical cancer’s slow progression offers a critical window for early detection, yet lack of awareness and timely screening remain significant barriers. The introduction of self-sampling high-risk HPV DNA testing is a major step forward, making screening more accessible and patient-friendly. At Metropolis, we believe that every scientific solution, regardless of its potential, must be validated for performance before being introduced into a live testing environment. We have successfully compared this platform with existing gold-standard technology and achieved good results with the self-sampling strategy, which is in line with WHO recommendations, advancing the potential for improved cervical cancer prevention.”

About Metropolis Healthcare Limited

Established in 1981, Metropolis Healthcare Limited is India’s second-largest diagnostic chain, led by visionary leader Ms. Ameera Shah, Promoter and Executive Chairperson. With over four decades of excellence, Metropolis has been a pioneer in delivering best-in-class diagnostic services to patients, healthcare providers, and corporates across India and Africa. The company’s extensive footprint spans 22 states, 3 Union Territories, and over 700 towns in India, supported by a robust network of more than 200 laboratories, 4,300 service centers, and over 10,000 touchpoints. Each year, Metropolis serves millions of individuals by providing actionable health insights that empower better clinical outcomes.

Metropolis offers a comprehensive range of more than 4,000 tests and profiles, including advanced tests for diagnosing cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and various genetic abnormalities. The company’s commitment to quality and accuracy is reinforced by its consistent CAP proficiency score of over 98% for the past decade, placing it among the top 1% of laboratories worldwide for quality assurance. The Metropolis philosophy is built on the pillars of technological superiority, a warm, patient-centric approach, and reliable diagnostic reports.

For more information, please visit www.metropolisindia.com or click on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn

References:

1. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10291770/
2. gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/356-india-fact-sheets.pdf
3. WHO recommends DNA testing as a first-choice screening method for cervical cancer prevention
4. Cervical Cancer: Formulation and Implementation of Govt of India Guidelines for Screening and Management – PMC

Expleo, the global engineering, technology, and consulting service provider, will exhibit at the 15th edition of Aero India, from 10-14 February, 2025, at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The biennial event brings together global leaders, defence experts, and innovators, truly making it ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities.’

Expleo and Aero India

The global aerospace sector is growing rapidly, and India – with its expanding talent pool, competitive manufacturing capabilities, and government-backed initiatives like ‘Make in India‘ – is emerging as a hub for aerospace and defence capability centres, driving innovation and scalability. Aero India 2025 will showcase India’s ambitions to strengthen its aerospace and defence ecosystems while advancing the local market and growing global partnerships.

Driving India’s aerospace ambitions
Aligned with the Aero India 2025 BRIDGE Conclave (Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement), Expleo plays its part in strengthening aerospace resilience through innovation and collaboration. With a proven heritage in aerospace engineering expertise, advanced digital infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce, Expleo provides global and Indian organisations with the ideal environment to navigate industry challenges and build a future-ready aerospace ecosystem.

Expleo will be at Hall G 5.3a to showcase its solutions and capabilities to improve efficiency, scalability, and sustainability, including:

• Smart Series: A powerful suite of digital tools that automate repetitive high-volume tasks in manufacturing and assembly processes.

• Avionics LRUs Certification: Compliance solutions to simplify the certification of avionics software and hardware, meeting stringent global standards such as DO 178 C and DO 254.

• End-to-end Aerostructure Solutions: Expertise in full lifecycle design and analysis (including static, F&DT & FEM) of complex aerostructures-covering both metallic and composite materials for commercial and military platforms.

• Sustainable Aerospace Components: Next-generation technologies including hydrogen control units, advanced FADEC systems, and composite recycling solutions for greener aerospace manufacturing.

• Integrated Aerospace Data Solutions: Systems that enable seamless data flow across the lifecycle, supporting real-time decision-making, predictive maintenance, and enhanced safety.

Phani Tangirala, MD & CEO of Expleo, India, said, “Aero India is the perfect platform to demonstrate how Expleo integrates engineering excellence with digital innovation to address the aerospace industry’s evolving challenges. Our focus on speed, savings, and safety ensures clients can stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape. With more than 4,000 skilled professionals in India and a strong track record with leading OEMs, we are committed to advancing an Atmanirbhar Bharat while building global partnerships for long-term growth and resilience.”

As part of the multi-day programme, Expleo will also engage with prospective talent recruiting for roles such as stress engineers, automation engineers, and design architects.

Learn more about Expleo at Aero India 2025.

To learn more about Expleo’s aerospace offerings, visit our aerospace hub.

Signify, (Euronext: LIGHT) the world leader in lighting, has announced its association with dynamic superstar and Nation’s love Rashmika Mandanna as the brand ambassador. This alliance comes ahead of the summer season, reinforcing Signifys commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, and customer centricity.

Signify onboards Rashmika Mandanna as their brand ambassador

With Rashmika Mandanna, renowned for her stellar performances, style, and pan-India appeal, Signify aims to tap the younger audience that in increasing playing an eminent role in the country’s consumption story. This association will mark a new chapter, as it strengthens the brands commitment to inspire, celebrate and engage with consumers in India.

Commenting on the association Sumit Joshi, CEO & MD – Signify, Greater India, remarked, “At Signify, we believe in bringing the best of innovations to our customers in line with our #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision. We are delighted to welcome Rashmika Mandanna to the Signify family as the brand ambassador for our Ecolink and Philips brands. Her vibrant personality and commitment to her craft align perfectly with our principles of innovation, utmost quality, and cutting across generations. We are sure that our upcoming association with her will be loved by customers across the nation.”

Highlighting Signify’s strategy Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India, said, “Rashmika Mandanna, with her dynamic presence and integrity, truly embodies the values that Signify upholds. This partnership marks a new milestone in Signifys journey to engage the younger audience. With Rashmika on board, we look forward to further enhancing our engagement with the Indian consumers and kick off the season with our new high energy summer campaign.”

Sharing her thoughts on the partnership, Rashmika Mandanna, said, Im elated to join the Signify family and equally excited to embark on this journey, sharing their inspiring story with the world. Their 130-year legacy of innovation and quality speaks volumes, and I admire their commitment to sustainability and focus on creating lighting solutions that enhance peoples lives.”

Rashmika Mandanna will be representing the Signify brands in India, providing an opportunity to connect with a diverse audience. Loved for her style, grace, resilience, and charisma, Rashmika Mandannas image harmonizes seamlessly with the brand ideals, facilitating a deeper and broader consumer engagement.

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 2023, we had sales of EUR 6.7 billion, approximately 32,000 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 seven consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for four 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.

The India Leaders for Social Sector (ILSS) and the Koita Foundation announced a strategic partnership to launch the Koita Centre for Digital Transformation (KCDT), a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs) across India to leverage digital technologies for greater impact.

From L – R: Archana Ramachandran, COO, ILSS; Anirban Choudhury, Head, KTDC; Anu Prasad, CEO and Founder, ILSS; Rekha Koita and Rizwan Koita, Co-founders, Koita Foundation

The KCDT will serve as a hub for digital transformation in the social sector, providing SPOs with access to cutting-edge training programs, valuable resources, and expert guidance. Given the urgency and criticality for the social sector to adopt digital transformation and embrace digital effectively in a scaled fashion, this strategic partnership will create a one-of-a-kind institution to support and accelerate the digital transformation of SPOs across India.

“This partnership with the Koita Foundation marks a significant milestone in ILSSs journey to enhance long-term and sustainable leadership within the social sector,” said Anu Prasad, Founder and CEO of ILSS.“KCDT will play a crucial role in equipping SPOs with the digital tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century. Our mission is to drive digital transformation of NGOs and social enterprises across India and enable them to serve beneficiaries in a more effective, efficient and scalable manner.”

Through a comprehensive suite of offerings, including the flagship Digital Transformation for Social Impact (DTSI) Program, the KCDT will equip SPO leaders with the knowledge and skills across four focus areas. The first is to increase reach and inclusivity, by enabling SPOs to expand their programs reach and make them more accessible to marginalized communities. The second is to cultivate a digital mindset, wherein by embracing digital tools, SPOs can advance their missions effectively. The DTSI will also facilitate the strengthening of data-driven decision-making, to enhance transparency, accountability, and impact assessment. And finally, fostering innovation and collaboration to drive impactful partnerships within the social sector.

“We are thrilled to partner with ILSS to launch the KCDT,” said Rizwan Koita, Co-founder of the Koita Foundation. “I strongly believe that it is by leveraging technology that SPOs can significantly enhance their impact and reach. In that sense, the KCDT will be a vital resource for the sector, fostering innovation and driving meaningful social change.”

Simply put, KCDT will provide a holistic ecosystem for SPOs seeking to leverage digital technologies. From structured training programs and knowledge forums like conferences and masterclasses, KCDT will spotlight valuable thought leadership and industry best practices. It will also generate valuable knowledge products, including research reports on sector-specific digital challenges.

“The KCDT embodies our shared commitment to empowering the social sector,” added Rekha Koita, Co-founder of the Koita Foundation. “This is a big step towards creating an inclusive and sustainable future for all.”

KCDT also offers the Digital Toolbook for Social Impact (DiTSI) – a comprehensive digital transformation compendium – including actionable resources such as technology tools and service provider directories etc. to enable nonprofits to take the first steps in their digital transformation journey. The DiTSI platform will evolve into a dynamic and collaborative DT Marketplace for the social sector, facilitating information and knowledge exchange, with training courses and sectoral case studies, research papers, connecting SPOs with resources like mentors, volunteers to name a few.

The Koita Foundation will provide significant financial support to the KCDT over the next five years, enabling ILSS to develop and deliver high-quality programs, conduct impactful research, and build a strong community of practice for digital transformation in the social sector.

“KCDT, through market-leading educational programs, knowledge products and platforms like DiTSI, will make human-centered digital transformation accessible and possible for nonprofits,” said Anirban Chaudhury, Head of KCDT. “We are deeply honoured and excited to partner with Koita Foundation in designing and building KCDT by combining sectoral context with industry best practices.”

For more information on the Joita Centre for Digital Transformation, visit indialeadersforsocialsector.com/koita-centre-for-digital-transformation.

About ILSS

India Leaders for Social Sector (ILSS) is a learning and leadership development organisation focussed on building leadership capacity for India’s social sector. Through a range of programs across areas of Women’s Leadership, Fundraising, People Practices, Board Leadership and Governance, Digital Transformation and Leadership, ILSS equips crossover and sector-grown leaders with the knowledge, skills and mindset necessary to navigate the complexities of India’s social sector and make a meaningful contribution.

About Koita Foundation

The Koita Foundation, founded in 2017 by Rizwan and Rekha Koita, empowers NGOs and drives digital health adoption in India. Focusing on NGO transformation, the foundation helps high-impact organizations scale through digital tools and data-driven strategies. In digital health, it partners with leading institutions like IIT Bombay, Ashoka University, and national bodies to establish centers of excellence and advance nationwide initiatives. KF has supported over 25 NGOs across healthcare, education, and livelihood sectors.

Anantara Hotels & Resorts, the experiential luxury brand of Minor Hotels, unveils its first property in India-Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur. Serving as a peaceful gateway to the Pink Citys many cultural attractions, the luxurious retreat is a sanctuary of verdant grounds and palatial architecture. By overlaying royal design with immersive cultural experiences, Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur offers a window into a bygone era when some of India’s oldest dynasties-known as proud warriors and patrons of the arts-ruled Rajasthan.

Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel

Grand and intricately decorated, on approach, Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur emerges like a resplendent “garden of jewels” it is named after. To create a building that speaks to the area’s history, the architects drew from a classical Rajasthani ancestral palace, blending this sense of royal heritage with modern elegance synonymous with Anantara. Graceful arches frame the faade, while traditional bay windows, known as jharokhas, add beauty and classic appeal to the exterior, inviting natural light and scenic views. Overhanging structures like chhajjas provide both decorative refinement and practical shade.

Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel – Sheesh Mahal (Restaurant)

Rooms and suites

Overlooking the serene inner courtyard or the city, 150 rooms and suites connect guests to India’s past through hand-crafted details such as intricate tikri glasswork, hand-carved woodwork and golden leafing. Rich textiles in understated neutrals add heritage charm to Premier and Deluxe Rooms, while Deluxe Family Rooms ensure comfortable multi-generational stays that blend modern conveniences and old-world opulence.

Travellers staying in the 70-sqm Jewel Bagh One-Bedroom Suite will find a separate living room with cosy window beds, perfect for curling up with a book and a cup of tea after a day of adventuring. The breezy private terrace at Anantara One-Bedroom Terrace Suite (65 sqm) promises to be especially alluring during the balmy winter months, inviting relaxing Jacuzzi soaks and outdoor dining with panoramic views. Similarly, the Presidential Two-Bedroom Suite, spanning a generous 173 sqm, is perfect for those looking for a combination of indoor splendour and access to the outdoors.

Elevated dining

The hotel’s Executive Chef, Sunil Jajoria, has spent 20 years honing his mastery of heritage Indian recipes, resulting in dishes that blend modern sensibilities and traditional Rajasthani techniques. His skills are on full display at signature restaurant Sheesh Mahal, a jewel box adorned with mirror mosaics and coloured glass inspired by Rajasthan’s iconic Mirror Palace. In addition to local and international cuisines, Sheesh Mahal serves craft cocktails such as Jewel of Jaipur (a Whisky Sour twist), Pink City Punch (guava lemonade with tequila) and Royal Tea (Captain Morgan with masala chai and plum).

Amrit Mahal, the all-day dining venue, is a family-friendly space with vibrant dcor and an open kitchen, perfect for casual meals indoors or outside by the pool. Here, dining options range from international buffet to Indian la carte classics, and during breakfast, live flute music ensures the day starts on a relaxing note. The cosy Rajputana Chowk is a relaxed gathering spot for guests to unwind over specialty coffees, handpicked teas and refreshing lemonades served in a setting reminiscent of traditional chowks, or marketplaces. For a truly royal experience, guests can try Designer Dining by Anantara. Throughout the night, four exquisite courses made by a private chef are served by a butler at four different venues, each tailored to complement the magic of the setting.

Signature experiences

Inviting guests to explore Rajasthan’s cultural heritage at their own pace, Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur offers a collection of signature experiences, both on and off the property. With the Royal Heritage Art Walk led by a resident artist, guests explore hand-painted murals and mosaics of the Rang Mahal ballroom within the hotel before joining a private session to create their own work of art. Another opportunity to learn by doing is the Spice Spoons cooking class, which starts at a bustling local market, before turning fresh ingredients into a traditional meal and enjoying it in true Rajasthani style, sitting on low stools and eating with hands.

For a walk on the wild side, guests can book a Private Safari and Heritage Tour taking them deep into Ranthambore National Park to meet Bengal tigers and other wildlife. Afterwards, a tour of the historic Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is followed by a picnic overlooking the wilderness. At the cultural village of Chokhi Dhani, pottery-making and turban-tying classes led by skilled artisans are paired with folk performances and a traditional feast. Guests can also explore Amber Fort during a private tour, milk cows in a local village and walk with giants at an elephant village.

Anantara Spa

The Anantara Spa, where Thai wellness traditions meet local expertise, features an on-site beauty salon and five treatment rooms for guests to rebalance with classic Ayurvedic therapies, and indulgent body treatments. Signature offerings range from exotic, like the Pao Ya fire therapy, to beloved spa classics like romantic couples’ journeys. Youngsters are not overlooked either, thanks to fruity scrubs and gentle massages, while daily yoga sessions in the serene Amer Bagh and a 24/7 fitness centre ensure routines continue uninterrupted.

Weddings and events

The property’s palatial setting and secluded location make it an attractive wedding and event destination. Guests can choose from five landscaped gardens, with the largest, Amer Bagh, accommodating up to 1,000 guests, while the pillarless Kohinoor Mahal ballroom can host up to 300 attendees indoors. Poolside Bawdi Bagh and the charming emerald lawn of Mor Bagh are ideal for more intimate ceremonies in a relaxed and picturesque setting.

Puneet Dhawan, Minor Hotels’ Head of Asia, commented, “The debut of the Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur Hotel is a proud milestone for Minor Hotels and the beginning of a bold new chapter in India. As the inaugural Anantara property in this remarkable country, the hotel reflects our commitment to marrying local tradition with world-class hospitality. India plays a crucial role as both a vibrant destination and a key market that inspires our global offerings, and Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur is the start of our accelerated growth to 50 properties in India within the next decade. We look forward to welcoming travellers into a new era of Indian hospitality.“

Ajay Gangwal, Managing Director of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, added, “It is an honour to collaborate with Minor Hotels in introducing the Anantara brand to India. This partnership has allowed us to blend local character and charm with world-class service, resulting in a hotel that is both a reflection of Jaipur’s rich history and a symbol of forward-thinking hospitality.“

Vimal Verma, General Manager of Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, said, “At Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, we are dedicated to curating an immersive experience that captures the vibrant soul of Jaipur. We have designed Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur to be more than just a place to stay-it is a gateway to the authentic flavours, stories, and artistry of Jaipur. Our guests can expect to journey through the city’s rich heritage right from our doorstep,“

Anantara Jewel Bagh is located 30 minutes from Jaipur International Airport. Stays start from USD 165 per night. For more information, please visit www.anantara.com/en/jewel-bagh-jaipur.

​

Editor’s Note:

About Anantara Hotels & Resorts

A luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, Anantara has connected guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations since 2001. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination to create unforgettable memories for every guest. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

Visit anantara.com for more information

About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 560 hotels, resorts and residences in 58 countries, pursuing its vision of crafting a more passionate and interconnected world. As a hotel owner, operator and investor, Minor Hotels fulfils the needs and desires of today’s global travellers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a collection of related businesses. Minor Hotels is rapidly accelerating its global growth ambitions, aiming to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026.

Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme.

ART Housing Finance (India) Limited is proud to announce its fourth consecutive Great Place To Work certification. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to fostering a positive and supportive work environment for our employees. We are dedicated to maintaining our high standards and ensuring that ART Housing Finance remains an employer of choice.

ART Housing Finance (India) Limited received fourth consecutive Great Place To Work Certification

MD & CEO’s Statement

Mr. Vipin Jain, MD & CEO of ART Housing Finance (India) Limited, expressed his delight: “It’s time to celebrate-once again, we have been certified as a Great Place to Work for the 4th consecutive time! This achievement is a direct reflection of the incredible culture we’ve built together-one that fosters collaboration, innovation, and a sense of belonging.

Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to making this organization an exceptional place to work are what make this recognition possible year after year. This milestone is a celebration of you-our amazing team!

Let’s continue to grow, support one another, and make this workplace even greater.”

About ART Housing Finance (India) Limited

ART Housing Finance (India) Limited is a National Housing Bank-regulated Housing Finance Company headquartered in Gurgaon. With a strong presence across seven states and 41+ branches, we specialize in affordable housing finance, leveraging over a decade of industry expertise. To date, we have empowered more than 25,000 customers on their journey to homeownership.

Backed by a highly experienced management team, we are committed to continuous growth and expansion. Our mission is to accelerate homeownership for the under-served by providing essential financial support. We focus on building a high-quality, technology-driven, and innovation-led business, anchored in strong work ethics and best-in-class corporate governance. With a clear vision for the future, we are steadily expanding our footprint to serve even more customers in the years ahead.

For more details, visit www.arthfc.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting, and insights they need to make strategic people decisions.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Their mission is to help every place become a great place to work for all. Their recognition is the most coveted and respected in the world for elevating employer brands to attract the right people. Their proprietary methodology and platform enable organizations to truly capture, analyze, and understand the experience of all employees. Our groundbreaking research empowers organizations to build cultures that retain talent and unlock the potential of every employee. Since 1992, their Certification, Best Workplaces™ Lists, and global benchmarks have become the industry standard, built on data from more than 100 million employees in 150 countries around the world.

Learn more at www.greatplacetowork.in and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

• AI’s Role in Elevating GCCs’ Value, challenges, and opportunities in second-generation AI discussed

• Fourthwards Report: AI & the Future of GCCs – Navigating the GenAI Landscape, launched

Galent, an AI-native engineering firm, hosted the inaugural in-person edition of Fourthwards Roundtable series held in Hyderabad and Bangalore recently. The premium flagship programme brought together top industry leaders to shape AI-driven transformation in India’s Global Capability Centres (GCC) landscape.

Ashwin Bharath (CEO, Galent) moderates the Fourthwards roundtable with Francisco DSouza (Co-founder & Former CEO, Cognizant) and Sumeet Chabria (CEO, Thoughtlinks)

A total of 60 GCC leaders managing over 500K employees across 12+ Fortune 200 and 25+ Fortune 500 companies, across all major industry domains were part of the gathering.

Francisco D’Souza, Co-founder & former CEO, Cognizant, Sumeet Chabria, CEO of ThoughtLinks, and ex-Global COO/CIO of Bank of America and HSBC, and Ashwin Bharath, CEO, Galent and Executive Chairman, Revature led the conservations.

Fourthwards by Galent fosters cross-industry collaboration to help leaders navigate AI’s impact on global services, workforce transformation, and evolving service models. The discussions reinforced India’s leadership in AI-powered enterprise innovation and emphasized the need for collective action to unlock AI’s full potential. Held under Chatham House Rules, the discussions encouraged open conversations on AI’s opportunities and challenges.

The event highlights included a Fireside chat, moderated by Ashwin Bharath which explored AI’s role in reshaping GCC strategies to drive global innovation and value creation, a roundtable discussion led by Francisco D’Souza and Sumeet Chabria, facilitating candid conversations on AI strategy alignment, Generative AI differentiation, and scaling challenges. The series threw light on AI’s defining role in GCC evolution, showcasing how Indian GCCs are not just adapting to AI but actively driving innovation and creating new paradigms of value creation in the global services ecosystem.

The series highlighted how GCCs are evolving beyond service centres into core enablers of enterprise strategy and the advantage of having a unique ecosystem with top talent, reskilling capabilities and a collaborative environment not easily replicated at enterprise headquarters. The other takeaways included responsible AI adoption and how AI must drive business outcomes.

Sharing his thoughts, Sumeet Chabria, CEO of ThoughtLinks, and ex-Global COO/CIO of Bank of America and HSBC said, “What we witnessed was a remarkable convergence of ideas and strategies. The participating GCC leaders demonstrated how they’re leveraging AI to transform their operations from traditional service delivery centers to strategic innovation hubs.”

Ashwin Bharat, CEO of Galent, launched the Fourthwards Report: AI & the Future of GCCs – Navigating the GenAI Landscape, a definitive guide for industry leaders to understand and leverage Second Generation AI and said, “At Galent, we believe Generative AI & Agentic AI will open far more doors than they will close. However, true success requires GCCs and enterprises to work as one. AI adoption is moving at unprecedented speed, and when the shift happens, GCCs must lead the charge-not play catch-up.”

About Fourthwards by Galent

Fourthwards is Galent’s premier thought leadership series dedicated to AI’s role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It features exclusive roundtables and culminates in annual reports offering actionable insights on AI, regulatory landscapes, and workforce evolution.

About Galent

Galent is an AI-native digital engineering firm delivering enterprise-ready AI solutions. With a mission to help organizations lead in an AI-driven world, Galent provides cutting-edge platforms and strategies for digital transformation.

Learn more at www.galent.com.

Designed to celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty traditions, Shankara and celebrity stylist Ami Patel introduce two exclusive wedding gift boxes – the ‘Maharani Radiance Ritual Box’ and ‘Indrani Iconic Glow Box’, a curated collection of skincare products to elevate self-care during wedding celebrations.

Shankara collaborates with celebrity stylist Ami Patel to launch luxury bridal gift sets

Inspired by Indias heritage and natural beauty rituals, these curated sets are ideal for brides-to-be, grooms-to-be, and their loved ones. Each box brings together Shankara’s expertise in natural skincare with Ami Patel’s styling vision, offering a meaningful way to prepare for special moments.

Maharani Radiance Ritual Box

A luxurious 8-step skincare ritual designed for brides-to-be, bridesmaids and guests, featuring Shankara’s Gheesutra Face Emulsion, Gheesutra Cleansing Balm, Gheesutra Exfoliator, Gheesutra Strawberry Lip Butter, Illuminate Kohl Kajal, Brightening Serum, and Orange Body Scrub. Together, these products create a comprehensive ritual for glowing, healthy skin-an ideal addition to the bridal trousseau.

Indrani Iconic Glow Box

Inspired by the Queen consort of Lord Indra, this gift set celebrates auspicious beginnings associated with weddings. It features Kumkumadi Oil, Deep Cleanse Facial Ubtan with a Golden Spoon, Organic Sweet Almond Oil, and Illuminate Kohl Kajal perfect for enhancing one’s natural glow during life’s special occasions.

Ami Patel shares, “I’ve always admired Shankara’s philosophy of blending Ayurveda with modern science. Collaborating on these gift sets was an incredible experience, the Maharani Radiance Ritual and Indrani Iconic Glow gift boxes are perfect for the season, thoughtfully designed to bring a luminous glow to special moments.”

Astha Katpitia, Head of Shankara India, adds, “This collaboration is a celebration of grace, beauty, and tradition. The Maharani Radiance Ritual and Indrani Iconic Glow gift sets are not just about luxurious skincare, they are about creating an experience that resonates with the heart and soul of every bride. Ami’s impeccable eye for detail has brought our shared vision to life beautifully.”

These sets bring a radiant and holistic approach to skincare, making them ideal gifts for wedding celebrations.

Available at:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/shankaranaturalsindia

Website: www.shankara.in

Stores: Nexus Select CityWalk Mall (New Delhi), Pacific Mall (New Delhi), and Viviana Mall (Thane, Mumbai)

Under the aegis of the National Language Technology Mission (NLTM), the Bhasha Bandhu Hackathon has emerged as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity, addressing India’s linguistic challenges in its legal framework. Hosted at the Global Skills Park Auditorium in Bhopal, this transformative event marked a significant milestone in leveraging AI-driven solutions to make justice accessible to all, irrespective of language or location.

(L-R) Mr. Amul Kumar, Mr. Balendu Sharma, Mr. Girish Sharma, Mr. Raghuraj Rajendran & Mr. Amitabh Nag at Bhasha Bandhu launch, Bhopal

A Collaborative Vision Launched by Bhashini in collaboration with Microsoft, presented by ID8NXT, and powered by ID8DEVHUB, the hackathon embodies a collective commitment to inclusivity through technological advancements. It aims to dismantle language barriers in Indias judiciary, creating a future where justice is not only delayed but also made seamless through AI and natural language processing (NLP).

The event followed a two-phase launch-an online soft launch on January 23, 2025, which drew over 1,347 viewers, and an in-person physical launch on January 24, 2025, with over 500 registered participants. From technologists and legal experts to policymakers and academic innovators, the hackathon united a vibrant community driven by the shared mission of transforming Indias judicial landscape.

Powerful Opening Addresses

Shri Amitabh Nag, CEO of the Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD), delivered an inspiring keynote at the soft launch, emphasizing the pressing need to bridge language barriers in legal systems.

“Justice should be universal, transcending linguistic and regional divides. The Bhasha Bandhu Hackathon provides a platform for innovation that will redefine accessibility and inclusivity in our judiciary,” said Shri Amitabh Nag.

Anand Raman, Partner Director for Microsoft AI Platforms, echoed this sentiment, urging participants to focus on user-centric solutions:

“Build with empathy, simplicity, and scalability in mind. Let your solutions be the bridge between citizens and justice,” he said, highlighting Microsoft’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge AI to serve diverse linguistic communities.

Key Highlights

Inaugural Lamp-Lighting Ceremony The physical launch began with a ceremonial lamp-lighting by dignitaries, symbolizing hope and enlightenment. This was followed by a group photograph capturing the unity and enthusiasm that would define the events spirit.

Showcasing AI for Justice The hackathon featured live demonstrations of Bhashini and Microsoft’s AI-powered tools, including machine translation, speech recognition, and text-to-speech technologies. These tools are designed to enable seamless multilingual interactions, empowering participants to develop pioneering solutions for India’s judiciary.

Amul Kumar, representing Microsoft, conducted an engaging session on the practical applications of AI in bridging linguistic gaps, offering insights into the transformative potential of these technologies.

Innovative Problem Statements for Real-World Impact Participants were challenged to address four key areas of need:

• Mediation Awareness: Developing gamified apps to promote mediation as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism.

• Simplified Legal Filings: Innovating speech-to-text tools to simplify legal form submissions in regional languages.

• Legal Literacy Ecosystem: Building multilingual platforms to educate citizens about their rights and legal processes.

• Rural Outreach: Expanding access to digital legal platforms for rural and underserved communities.

The event was hosted by Stanford Dsouza and Sarthak Jain from ID8NXT, leading interactive sessions to spark innovative thinking among participants. The collaborative spirit was palpable as developers, legal experts, and policymakers came together to co-create solutions that will redefine India’s legal landscape.

Attul Sreenath, CEO of ID8NXT, added, “The Bhasha Bandhu Hackathon is not just about technology; it’s about transforming lives by ensuring justice speaks in every language. Together, we are helping shape a new era for India’s judiciary.”

A historic moment and a milestone

“Participating in the Bhasha Bandhu Hackathon is a unique opportunity to not only innovate but also contribute to a cause that will shape the future of India’s judiciary. I encourage all participants to push the boundaries of technology and come out as champions, creating solutions that will truly make justice accessible to everyone,” Raghuraj Rajendran, Secretary, Technical Education, Skill Development, and Employment, Government of Madhya Pradesh.

The Bhasha Bandhu Hackathon is more than an event; it is a movement to democratize access to justice. The solutions developed during this initiative will have a far-reaching impact, addressing linguistic and digital divides that hinder legal access for millions of Indians.

With over 1,000 AI-trained language models and tools provided by Bhashini and Microsoft, participants are empowered to create prototypes that enable real-time translations, legal literacy platforms, and voice-to-text aids.

“Bhashini’s efforts are contributing towards an AI powered and empowered Bharat where AI is accessible to every voice in every language,” said a representative from Microsoft in his address.

As the hackathon progresses toward its March 2025 goal of 10,000+ registrations, 1,000+ submissions, and 100+ prototypes, it is set to redefine legal accessibility for generations to come.

For more details and updates, visit www.bhashabandhu.com.