• A massive benchmark set across the industry with 200M + impressions for the TVC

• In line with the digital-first marketing strategy, the campaign ran across social media, TV and top news platforms tapping customers nationwide

• Further to Signify’s #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision the TVC highlights Philips’ lighting propositions across segments

Signify, (Euronext: LIGHT) the world leader in lighting, is celebrating the resounding success of its recent television commercial Hum Raaton Mein Sooraj Ugaate Hain’ featuring the Indian cricket legend, Rahul Dravid. Power packed with an energetic anthem, the TVC, which was launched ahead of the festive season, has struck a chord with the customers, surpassing expectations as they continue to shower Signify with their trust, love, and appreciation.

Illuminating the future: Signify TVC Hum Raaton Mein Sooraj Ugaate Hain reaches 200M+ viewers

Bringing in a health mix of digital and traditional marketing initiatives, the campaign garnered over 200 million impressions. Rolled out with a launch teaser on 22 news channels, followed by a high-impact, 60-day TV campaign across social media, leading news channels, outdoor advertisements and POSMs. It also had a prime-time presence on popular shows like KBC, Big Boss and during the India/NZ test series.

Commenting on the success of the campaign, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India, said, “We are immensely proud of the significant impact our campaign has created. The performance metrics speak volumes about the reach and engagement we have achieved. Our association with Rahul Dravid has indeed been a game-changer, helping us connect more with millions across the country. We have received incredibly positive feedback from our audience, which reaffirms our belief in the power of innovative lighting solutions to transform lives. This campaign has set a new benchmark for us, and we look forward to building on this momentum with more innovative and impactful campaigns in the future.“

Commenting on the success of the campaign, Rahul Dravid, Former Captain and Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team, said, “The success of Hum Raaton Mein Sooraj Ugaate Hain campaign is a testament to Signify’s leadership, legacy and innovation. The campaign beautifully captures how light empowers us to overcome challenges. Just like in cricket, where consistent practice illuminates the path to victory, Signifys commitment to a better world inspires me. Im proud to partner with them on this journey.”

The campaign has received extremely positive feedback from audiences across India. The association with Rahul Dravid has helped amplify the brands engagement with the Indian consumer leading to a measurable increase in brand awareness, consideration, and favourability. Building on the momentum of this successful campaign, Signify plans to roll out more innovative and impactful campaigns going ahead.

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.

Malkist, the iconic sandwich cracker biscuit brand loved for its unique 14-layer crackers with delicious cheese filling, has launched an indulgent new flavour – Malkist Double Chocolatey. Crafted to delight the chocolate enthusiasts, it has a rich coating of velvety chocolate within the brand’s signature crunchy crackers which are also chocolatey. This double chocolatey taste gives a snacking experience like never before.

Malkist launches New Double Chocolatey cream biscuit

To support the launch, Malkist has unveiled a television commercial that beautifully captures moments of joyful bonding and playful indulgence of its consumers. The creative features an interesting story centred around a father-son duo, highlighting how Malkist Double Chocolatey becomes a part of their everyday bonding moments. Through humour and a touch of curiosity, the story emphasizes the irresistible appeal of the new Double Chocolatey flavour while creating a strong connect with the viewers.

Sonal Dabral, founder of Tribha, the creative consultancy for the new creative, and also the director of the film, shared, “We wanted to keep the story simple and snappy-just a father, a son, some playful banter, and the irresistibility of Malkist stealing the show. All packed into 20 seconds of engaging storytelling“

Speaking about the launch, Rituraj, Marketing Head of Mayora India, expressed excitement about the new addition to Malkist’s portfolio. He said, “Malkist Double Chocolatey takes indulgence to the next level by combining Malkist’s unique 14 layered crunchy crackers with rich Double Chocolatey flavour. We are thrilled to introduce this treat to chocolate lovers across India and are confident that it will become a favourite snack for all occasions, just like the most-loved Cheese flavour!.”

The campaign is being amplified across television, digital platforms, and social media to ensure widespread visibility. You can watch it here: www.youtu.be/Sy1BRTKAgkA.

Malkist Double Chocolatey is now available at all major retail outlets and online platforms across the country, in three convenient packs perfect for sharing or on the go enjoyment. Known for its delicious flavours such as Cheese, Cappuccino, and now Double chocolatey, Malkist continues to innovate and elevate the snacking experience while mesmerizing the consumers with its signature 14 crunchy layer crackers.

About Malkist

Malkist is a unique sandwich cracker biscuit with 14 crunchy layers and innovative toppings such as Cheese, Double Chocolatey, Cappuccino and Caramelized Sugar. This makes Malkist delicious and truly irresistible. Malkist is loved by everyone with an active lifestyle who needs a healthy and tasty snack to keep them energized.

About Mayora India

Mayora India, a rapidly growing FMCG company, is part of the MAYORA Group headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia. Its FMCG portfolio in India includes Kopiko in the Confectionery category; Malkist and Coffee Joy in Biscuits; Choki-Choki and Beng Beng in Chocolates; and Caf Blend in the Beverages category.

Malkist, Cant Resist!

Based in Chennai, India, Suryadev TMT, a major integrated steel manufacturer in South India, has launched a new campaign celebrating inner strength, resilience and excellence. As part of this campaign, the brand is proud to announce Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, Chess Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, and former Indian Formula 1 Driver Narain Karthikeyan, three of the legendary figures in their respective domains, as its Brand Ambassadors.

Suryadev TMT Launches New Campaign Focused on Inner Strength with Three Iconic Brand Ambassadors

The “True Inner Strength” campaign highlights the unyielding qualities that define not only the finest steel but also the spirit of India’s heroes. Each ambassador brings their unique story of perseverance and achievement to the campaign, making them perfect representatives of Suryadev’s values.

A trailblazer in Indian cricket, Ashwin has consistently proven his mettle on the world stage. Known for his strategic brilliance and adaptability, Ashwin’s journey from a young cricketer in Chennai to one of the most successful bowlers in cricket history epitomizes inner strength. Vishwanathan Anand, India’s first chess Grandmaster and a five-time World Chess Champion, has inspired generations with his unwavering focus and intellectual prowess. His legacy resonates with Suryadev’s commitment to precision and enduring quality. A pioneer in Indian motor sports, Karthikeyan’s journey to becoming India’s first Formula 1 driver reflects courage, determination, and an unrelenting drive to succeed. His story aligns seamlessly with the resilience that defines Suryadev TMT.

“At Suryadev, we believe that true strength comes from within-a principle that guides our manufacturing process and inspires our values. Ravichandran Ashwin, Viswanathan Anand, and Narain Karthikeyan embody this principle in their respective fields, making them the perfect ambassadors for our ‘True Inner Strength’ campaign,” said Naman Aggarwal, Chief Marketing Officer, Suryadev TMT.

Speaking on their association with Suryadev, Indian cricketing legend Ravichandran Ashwin shares his enthusiasm for the collaboration “I’m very excited and proud to be associated with Suryadev, one of South India’s largest integrated manufacturers of steel and among the most respected names in the industry. As a cricketer, I know the importance of inner strength, resilience, and performance under pressure. Suryadev TMT bars embody these qualities, bringing unmatched durability and strength to every structure. It’s a matter of pride for me to stand with a brand that builds a stronger future for our communities, driven by the same values of dedication and quality that I believe in.”

Chess legend Viswanathan Anand remarked “As a chess player, I’ve always championed the qualities of inner strength and resilience, vital both on the chessboard and in life. I take pride in partnering with Suryadev TMT, a brand that reflects these values through the exceptional quality and strength of its steel. Suryadev’s dedication to excellence resonates with the precision and endurance I pursue in every match. It’s a privilege to align with one of South India’s largest integrated steel manufacturers, committed to forging a stronger and more resilient future.”

Narain Karthikeyan, India’s pioneering Formula 1 driver, highlighted the synergy between his values and the brand – “As a professional racing driver, I understand that true success stems from inner strength and unwavering resilience. This philosophy aligns perfectly with my partnership with Suryadev TMT, a brand renowned for its exceptional quality and robust strength in TMT bars. Suryadev TMT bars are engineered for superior strength and exceptional resilience and embody the very essence of durability and reliability. I am immensely proud to collaborate with one of South Indias largest integrated steel manufacturers. Together, we are not only creating a strong foundation for structures; we are also fostering a foundation of strength and pride for the future“.

The campaign will feature a series of inspiring television commercials, digital content, and outdoor and print advertising that showcases the ambassadors of inner strength. Through this initiative, Suryadev aims to connect with its customers on a deeper level, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for reliability, durability, and excellence.

Through this collaboration, Suryadev TMT continues its commitment to shaping a stronger India, both in infrastructure and spirit. The brand aims to inspire individuals and communities to embrace their inner strength and build a resilient foundation for success. With three of India’s most iconic figures championing the brand, Suryadev TMT continues to solidify its legacy as a leader in the steel industry. The company invites its customers and stakeholders to join the “True Inner Strength” movement and celebrate the resilience that defines us all.

For more details, please visit www.suryadev.in.

Sancta Maria International School, Hyderabad, has brought home the prestigious Best Delegation Award at the first-ever in-person International Schools Partnership Model United Nations (ISP MUN), held at Tenby International School, Setia Eco Park, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Sancta Maria Students receiving Best Delegation Award at ISP MUN Malaysia 2024

The grand event witnessed participation from over 250 students representing 70+ ISP schools across continents. Over five days of dynamic debate, cultural exchanges, and impactful intellectual collaboration, participants engaged with global leaders, tackled real-world challenges and honed essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and diplomacy.

Sancta Maria’s stellar delegation comprised Harnidh, Aripra, and Sujaya, guided by teacher mentors Dr Rositta Joseph (ISP MUN Programme In-Charge) and Mr Neeraj Shankar (Department Lead, Languages). Demonstrating exceptional prowess, the team outperformed on all fronts to secure the highest honour – The Best Delegation Award.

In addition to the Best Delegation Award, Sancta Maria students achieved remarkable individual accolades:

1. Sujaya – Award of Excellence, COP

2. Harnidh – Award of Excellence, UNHRC

3. Aripra – High Commendation, UNESCO

The ISP MUN Malaysia 2024 provided students with an unparalleled platform to explore global issues, negotiate solutions, and build cross-cultural connections. The experience also included regional excursions, cultural celebrations, and meaningful engagements that fostered growth beyond the classroom.

Ms Hemalatha Sanjay, Principal of Sancta Maria International School, congratulated the team, saying, “This is a proud moment for Sancta Maria. Our students have demonstrated exceptional skills and commitment, setting a benchmark on the global stage. Achievements like these reflect the progress we are making in preparing our learners to become confident global citizens equipped to lead and inspire.”

This milestone achievement is a testament to Sancta Maria’s commitment to empowering students to excel as global citizens and thought leaders.

For more details about Sancta Maria, visit www.sanctamaria.in.

Mr Anil Dua has joined as a partner and Co-founder of the SAR E-Mobility Division, which comprises Lectrix and Mooving businesses. A seasoned leader with a proven track record across diverse industries, Mr Dua brings the group over three decades of unparalleled expertise in strategic leadership, digital transformation, and brand-building.

Mr. Anil Dua, Co-founder, Lectrix EV and Mooving

Most recently, Mr. Dua served as the Group CEO of Dish TV, where he steered the company through transformative milestones, including the merger with Videocon D2H. Before Dish TV, Mr Dua held pivotal roles at OTE Group in Oman, Hero MotoCorp, Unilever, and Gillette. At Hero MotoCorp, he was instrumental in the iconic rebranding from Hero Honda to Hero, doubling volumes and tripling turnover during his tenure. His strategic contributions have earned him numerous awards, including the IAA Marketer of the Year and recognition among Indias Top 50 Brand Leaders.

As an IIT Delhi alumnus with an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad, Mr. Duas stellar academic background complements his professional journey. His leadership philosophy, marked by innovation and collaboration, aligns seamlessly with SAR Groups mission to accelerate Indias transition to sustainable mobility.

Commenting on the joining, Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, Founder of SAR Group, said, “Mr. Duas passion for operational excellence and brand building makes him a transformative force in any organisation. His remarkable ability to lead with clarity and purpose has set new benchmarks in every role he has undertaken. At SAR Group, we are excited to join hands as co-founders and leverage his strategic vision with unparalleled experience to redefine the future of electric mobility and propel us toward our goal of becoming a leader in sustainable transportation. His focus on driving growth, innovation, and operational rigour aligns perfectly with our mission.”

Commenting on his new role, Mr Anil Dua said, “I am thrilled to join hands with SAR Group, a group with a remarkable history of creating household brands and delivering customer-focused solutions. Electric mobility is still in its early stages, making this an exciting time to collaborate as the industry evolves. With its comprehensive ecosystem approach-Lectrix EV as the OEM and Mooving as the energy service provider-SAR Group is well-positioned to redefine mobility. I look forward to applying my experience to foster growth and drive innovation in this rapidly transforming industry.”

With Mr Dua on board, Lectrix EV and Mooving will strengthen their market positions, expand their product portfolios, and make electric mobility more accessible and sustainable. His visionary leadership will undoubtedly steer both companies toward a future of transformative growth and industry leadership.

About Lectrix EV

Lectrix EV is the e-mobility arm of SAR Group and was launched in 2020. The company is driven by a passion to provide reliable and advanced electric two-wheelers to consumers. With an initial investment of Rs 300 crore and supported by a production facility with an annual capacity of 1.5 lakh EVs, Lectrix EV plans to add a wide range of electric two-wheelers to its portfolio. With a keen focus on technology and innovation, the company aims to disrupt the electric scooter segment with technologically advanced products provided at affordable prices.

About Mooving

Mooving is a sustainable mobility solutions company specialising in battery as a service (BAAS), battery-swapping infrastructure, and EV leasing services. It offers eco-friendly, cost-effective, and efficient transportation options tailored for individuals and businesses. Through its innovative EV leasing model, Mooving ensures affordability and flexibility while reducing ownership barriers. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and a robust battery-swapping network, Mooving is driving the shift toward cleaner energy and promoting a greener future in urban mobility.

India’s most iconic lifestyle and entertainment supplements, Bombay Times and Delhi Times, have officially kicked off their 30th Anniversary celebrations in grand style. Marking three decades of covering and defining glamour, entertainment, and culture, the celebrations began with Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who unveiled a special tribute to Bombay Times in the form of a life-size front page of the paper at The Times of India office.

30 Years of Bombay Times and Delhi Times

Street Carnival Brings Nostalgia to Life
Adding to the celebratory fervor, a vibrant experiential street carnival is now underway outside The Times of India office. The carnival, which runs from December 19 to December 20, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and relive three decades of Bombay Times’ unforgettable moments.

Highlights of the carnival include: Streets decked with vintage Bollywood movie posters and a red-carpet experience. Photo booths for fun, nostalgic snapshots and entertainment artists like Golden Statue Man, Mirror Man and Jugglers. Interactive fun counters such as tarot readings and bracelet making corner.

Celebrities like Ram and Gautami Kapoor, Taha Shah, Arjun Bijlani, Iqbal Khan, Sheeba and many others were also spotted enjoying the celebrations, exploring the walk-through timeline and posing at photo booths.

Special issue coming on December 21st
To celebrate the 30-year journey of Bombay Times and Delhi Times, both the iconic brands will be bringing out a special issue that will take readers on a nostalgic ride back to the 90s-the era that reshaped both the entertainment world and lifestyle journalism.

Launched in 1994, these publications recognized, ahead of almost all others in the space, that what entertained and engaged readers-Bollywood, fashion, food, fitness, and high society-was just as relevant to the reader as the hard news around politics and the economy. They created a new space that has grown stronger and more vibrant over three decades.

This special issue will take you back to the mid-90s, revisiting a time when movies ran for 25-50 weeks, cassette tapes needed pencils to rewind, and Page 3 became synonymous with flamboyance and aspirational living. It will feature untold stories of iconic names and their journeys over these three decades, along with a nostalgic look at people and stories that defined the era.

Don’t miss this special edition-a heartfelt tribute to the past and a soft reminder of how decisively Bombay Times and Delhi Times have shaped entertainment and lifestyle media. Grab your copy tomorrow!

Reflecting on the milestone, Sivakumar Sundaram, CEO, Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd., said, “Completing 30 years of Bombay Times and Delhi Times is a moment of immense pride. These publications have become an integral part of our readers’ lives, capturing the pulse of India’s entertainment and lifestyle landscape. The 30th Anniversary celebrations are our way of expressing gratitude to our readers, partners and the world of showbusiness for their unwavering support through the years.”

Hong Kong, China

As one of the most festive cities in Asia to celebrate Chinese New Year, Hong Kong boasts a vibrant range of celebrations around every corner. In recent years, a lot of traditional customs have been modernised with novel interpretations, blending cultural heritage and innovation for an unparalleled festive experience. Among the highlights is the myriad of fortune-enhancing activities that attract travellers to various temples, where they can immerse themselves in refreshing spiritual traditions like never before.

Clockwise: Hong Kong Well-Wishing Festival, Man Mo Temple, Prayer Request inside the Taisui Yuenchen Hall, LED Wishing Wall

Wong Tai Sin Temple: Fortune-Seeking Meets Interactive Technology

Visit the Wong Tai Sin Temple to seek blessings for the year ahead, where it is best known for its reputation of making most wishes come true. Every Chinese New Year, droves of worshippers flock to the temple on the night of New Year’s Eve (i.e. 28 January 2025), racing to offer the sacred “first incense” to the deity at midnight on the first day of the year, symbolising a propitious beginning and a good omen.

If you miss the midnight rush, visiting Wong Tai Sin during the first lunar month is also considered an auspicious way to kick off the new year. Many people who wish for a year of smooth sailing like to pay respect to their respective Taisui (the 60 deities in charge of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs combined with the five elements of Chinese astrology) at the beginning of the year, making the Taisui Yuenchen Hall one of the most popular spots at Wong Tai Sin Temple. The magnificent hall features a starry LED sky dome with constellations that create an otherworldly atmosphere. Worshippers standing beneath the dome can hear their own voices echo as they pray, creating a sense of divine connection. When placing the petition document into the cabinet in front of the Tai Sui shrine, worshippers will be greeted by a misty special effect with glowing red light, symbolising the deities’ acceptance of the devotee’s intentions.

What’s more, the temple offers an interactive LED wishing wall at its Cultural Centre for Wong Tai Sin Belief and Customs. Upon entering their name and wishes digitally via a QR code, visitors can see them displayed instantly on the wall that stretches from the centre exterior to the interior, across the ceiling, witnessing their wishes “ascend to heaven”.

Opening Hours during Chinese New Year

Taisui Yuenchen Hall will be closed on 28 and 29 January 2025. It will be open to the public from 30 January 2025 onwards,
Timings: 30 January 2025: 12:00-17:00, 31 January to 12 February 2025: 8:00-17:00 and 13 February 2025 onwards: 8:00-16:30

Note: During the Chinese New Year period, visitors born in a specific zodiac year can access the Taisui Yuenchen Hall for free.

The Cultural Centre for Wong Tai Sin Belief and Customs will be closed between 28 January and 12 February 2025. The Centre will be open to the public from 14 February 2025 onwards (closed on Thursdays).

For detailed opening hours of other buildings and halls in Wong Tai Sin Temple, please visit their website: www.wongtaisintemple.org.hk.

Encounter Digital Fortune-enhancing Experiences at Ease

Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan and Tin Hau Temple in Yau Ma Tei are two other popular temples adored by believers. Visitors to Man Mo Temple often pray for academic and career success, while Tin Hau Temple is a hotspot wishing for blessings, and is well-received by local worshippers and intrigued tourists alike.

These historical temples, which are both declared monuments, have been keeping up with the times by digitalising the worshipping experience. The introduction of self-service kiosks allows visitors from around the world to effortlessly purchase incense and offerings. To commemorate the experience, a blessing seal will be stamped on the shopping receipts, and you will get a unique keepsake to carry the good fortune around.

For those praying for prosperity, the “Kwun Yum Treasury Opening” on the 26th day of the first lunar month (i.e. 23 February 2025) is a noteworthy occasion. Eager devotees queue up outside Kwun Yum Temples on this auspicious day, all hoping to symbolically “borrow” wealth from Kwun Yum (the Goddess of Mercy) for the year ahead. Don’t worry if you miss this auspicious event, a number of temples in Hong Kong have got you covered by bringing the activity online. All you need to do is to register in advance, and you can “borrow” virtually on the day of treasury opening. Fortune tokens can then be collected from a selected temple during your next visit to Hong Kong within a designated period to complete the metaphoric “loan” with the Goddess.

For detailed opening hours of Sheung Wan Man Mo Temple, Yau Ma Tei Tin Hau Temple, and arrangements for online “Kwun Yum Treasury Opening”, please visit their website: temples.tungwahcsd.org.

The Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival: Tradition Illuminated with a Modern Twist

The Wishing Trees in Tai Po’s Lam Tsuen has long been a revered spot for wish-making. Every Chinese New Year, fortune seekers of all ages gather at the Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival, ready to test their luck by throwing the iconic wishing placards. According to tradition, visitors write their wishes on a piece of joss paper attached to an orange and toss it up to the tree. If it clings to the branches, it is believed the wishes will come true. The higher the placard hangs, the greater the chance of the wish coming true.

Moving with the times, the wishing trees have been enhanced with shimmering luminosity and glowing wishing placards, adding a magical touch to this amusing ritual. Visitors can also try the upgraded new rituals such as blessing lotus lanterns and love locks, alongside a series of exclusive activities in this joyous carnival. Nevertheless, from 30 January until 13 February, the Festival will be embellished with more photo-worthy moments created by floats from the International Chinese New Year Night Parade on display at Lam Tsuen.

Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival

Date: 29 January – 12 February 2025

Transportation: Take bus 63R from Tai Po Market and Tai Wo Railway Station,

*Lam Tsuen New Year Night Market will be held between 29 January and 4 February 2025. For details, please visit: www.instagram.com/hkwellwishingfestival.

Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year festivities are a symphony of tradition and innovation, from riveting temple hopping to timeless wishing rituals, the city is bursting with festive surprises. Get ready for your Chinese New Year trip to Hong Kong now and embrace a year filled with blessings and good fortune!

About Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked to market and promote Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and enhance visitors experience once they arrive. These include making recommendations to the Government and other relevant bodies on the range and quality of visitor facilities.

The HKTB’s missions are to maximise the social and economic contribution made by tourism to the community of Hong Kong and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a unique, world-class, and most desired destination.

In recent years, the importance of gender equity has come to the forefront as organizations, educators, and policymakers recognize its role in driving societal and economic progress. While gender equality ensures everyone receives the same treatment, gender equity goes a step further, addressing the unique needs of women and the systemic barriers they face to create equal opportunities for all.

Ipsita Kathuria, Founder & CEO, TalentNomics India

Organizations like TalentNomics are leading this movement for gender equity. Founded with a vision to empower women as confident and capable leaders, TalentNomics addresses these challenges head-on through mentorship, leadership training, and advocacy for equitable policies. With initiatives like Equiverse-a concept envisioning a universe where gender equity is the norm-TalentNomics fosters inclusive ecosystems and empowers women to rise as leaders and advocates for gender parity.

Why Gender Equity Matters
Gender equity is essential for creating a more harmonious and sustainable world where everyone has equal opportunities to prosper. Empowering women, who constitute 50% of the population, ensures balanced development, productive engagement, and inclusive decision-making. A gender-equitable world ensures that women are no longer subject to systemic disadvantages such as domestic violence or treatment as second-class citizens.

In workplaces, gender equity drives innovation, enhances employee engagement, and reduces attrition, particularly among women. Equitable practices dismantle long-standing barriers, enabling individuals to thrive professionally and contribute meaningfully. Diverse leadership teams, cultivated through gender-equitable policies, lead to better decisions, progressive organizations, and long-term sustainability.

In education, fostering equity ensures equal access to learning resources for women and girls, laying the groundwork for them to develop future ready skills and mindset and their leadership potential and opens doors to future opportunities.

The Challenges Women Face

Despite progress, women encounter persistent challenges in their journey toward equity:

• Bias in hiring and promotion: Stereotype beliefs often hinder women from being hired and ascending to leadership roles.

• Limited mentorship and sponsorship: A lack of access to mentors and role models restricts women from navigating challenges they face in their careers and impacts their growth opportunities.

• Systemic barriers: Inequalities at home, in education, healthcare, and societal expectations create additional hurdles for women.

Driving Change Through Initiatives
TalentNomics plays a pivotal role in advancing gender equity by addressing these challenges directly. Through its programs, the organization equips women with the skills and confidence needed to become leaders in their fields. Talentnomics has already empowered many women, who are now leading efforts to create gender-equitable workplaces and communities.

Equiverse, an initiative spearheaded by TalentNomics, envisions a future where equity is the norm. By fostering mentorship networks, leadership programs, and a supportive ecosystem, TalentNomics is not only advancing individual careers but also building a collective force of women leaders driving systemic change.

What Organizations Can Do to Foster Gender Equity

Organizations must take deliberate actions to ensure gender equity becomes standard practice:

• Walk the Talk: Leadership must visibly and consistently demonstrate their commitment to equity.

• Revamp Policies and Practices: Address systemic barriers by:

• Implementing fair hiring and promotion processes to prioritize diversity in leadership pipelines.

• Auditing growth opportunities to ensure balanced career progression for all employees.

• Offering flexible leave policies for caregiving responsibilities and ensuring workplace infrastructure supports women’s needs.

• Closing wage gaps by conducting regular pay audits and promoting equitable compensation.

• Support Mentorship Programs: Facilitate mentorship and networking opportunities for women to learn from experienced leaders and peers.

By embedding these principles into their cultures, organizations can break barriers and create a foundation where equity thrives.

The Role of Technology and Innovation
Technology is a powerful enabler for gender equity. AI-driven tools can identify gaps in hiring, pay, and career advancement, while digital platforms democratize access to mentorship and learning opportunities. Leveraging these innovations allows organizations to measure progress and implement effective solutions to achieve equity goals.

A Vision for the Future
A gender-equitable world is one where opportunities are not constrained by biases or systemic barriers. Women’s voices are heard, their contributions are valued, and they have equal access to leadership opportunities.

While significant strides have been made, much work remains to be done. With initiatives like those driven by TalentNomics, the path to a more equitable world becomes clearer. By aligning individual efforts with systemic changes, we can transform gender equity from an aspiration into a reality for future generations.

In the drought-scorched fields of Kesaramadu Gram Panchayat, Tumkur, Karnataka, hope flows anew. Powered by The Art of Living Social Projects in partnership with Wipro, the JalTara Recharge Structures Project is transforming the lives of farmers and rewriting the story of water scarcity in rural India.

Prasana Prabhu, Chairman, The Art of Living Social Projects inaugurates landmark JalTara project in Tumkur

Over nine months, from December 2023 to September 2024, this initiative has brought hope and water security to 154 farmers, rejuvenating over 500 acres of farmland through the construction of 500 recharge pits. Groundwater levels have improved, agricultural productivity has surged, and borewell water availability has significantly increased in many locations. Environmentally, the initiative has curbed water runoff while bolstering groundwater recharge. Inspired by this success, the partnership plans to expand the model to other drought-prone regions, bringing water security to more communities.

Breaking ground: JalTara recharge structure takes shape

JalTara: A Dual Shield against Drought and Floods

What makes JalTara truly extraordinary is its two fold impact – it combats both drought and flooding. During dry spells, the recharge structures replenish depleted groundwater, providing farmers with a sustainable lifeline for irrigation and household needs. When the rains arrive, these structures act as guardians, preventing soil erosion by curbing water runoff and protecting the fertile topsoil vital for agricultural health.

Efficient, adaptable, and economical, JalTaras design allows for rapid implementation without requiring heavy machinery or labor-intensive processes. Its versatility ensures it can be replicated across diverse terrains, offering an immensely scalable solution to India’s water woes.

From Parched Lands to Thriving Fields

Water scarcity isn’t just an environmental concern – it’s a daily battle for survival in rural areas. Farmers often grapple with failing crops, mounting debts, and dwindling livelihoods. The JalTara project addresses these struggles with a simple yet effective solution: recharge structures that replenish groundwater and reduce dependency on unpredictable monsoons.

For Chandrashekar, a farmer in Kesaramadu, the transformation has been remarkable. “With 16 recharge pits on my land, I’ve seen a rise in groundwater levels. My crops flourish, and irrigation is no longer a gamble,” he shares.

Satish, another beneficiary, echoes the sentiment: “Before JalTara, my borewell often ran dry, forcing me to consider costly alternatives. Now, with the recharge pit, water availability has doubled, and my farming costs have dropped.“

A Scientific Approach with a Human Touch

JalTara’s success lies in its blend of scientific precision and community involvement. It begins with meticulous groundwork:

• Surveys and Studies: Detailed assessments pinpoint the best locations for recharge pits, ensuring maximum effectiveness.

• Community Engagement: Farmers are actively involved, learning about water conservation and sustainable practices, encouraging them to take ownership of the solution.

• Green Initiatives: Saplings are distributed for planting, complementing the recharge structures and enhancing the region’s ecological balance.

This integrated approach addresses water scarcity while fostering long term environmental and socio economic resilience.

A Collaboration Driving Impact

The partnership between The Art of Living Social Projects, Wipro, local volunteers, and farmers turned the vision of water security into tangible outcomes. Farmers like Shreedhar, who once struggled with expensive borewell drilling, now advocate for recharge pits. “For a fraction of the cost of a borewell, I’ve built three pits that provide reliable water throughout the year,” he shares.

From Local Success to National Impact

The success in Kesaramadu has demonstrated how effective the JalTara model is in addressing water related challenges. The initiative has improved groundwater availability, revitalised agriculture, and restored environmental balance in the region. Its adaptability ensures that the model can be scaled to tackle drought and flooding challenges across India, paving the way for sustainable water management.

Beyond the Numbers

JalTara isn’t just about pits or percentages; it’s about empowering communities to reclaim their resources and livelihoods. It exemplifies how the combination of science, compassion, and grassroots action can yield transformational change.

As we look ahead, sustainable water management remains essential, not optional. Initiatives like JalTara show that when communities, organisations, and innovative solutions come together, the future flows with possibilities.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to peace, well-being, and humanitarian service founded in 1981 by the world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, collaborates with various organisations and the Government of India to combat water scarcity through numerous water conservation projects.

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