Avaamo, announced the launch of Avaamo Agents, a groundbreaking set of digital workers who will augment the workforce and enhance enterprise operations through automation, efficiency, and innovation.

Avaamo Agents is a group of trusted autonomous AI agents with powerful new capabilities and takes advantage of advances in Agentic reasoning and combines Avaamo’s experience in enterprise workflows, security and compliance to deliver a new kind of Digital worker. The agents will help companies to scale their workforce exponentially with human-like intelligence 24/7.

Avaamo Founders: Ram Menon, Founder and CEO (Right) and Sriram Chakravarthy, Founder and CTO (Left)

This suite of the first AI-powered healthcare agents includes Ava for care scheduling, Aaron for payment processing, Amber for health coverage guidance, and Alex for lab report access. These agents represent a new generation of digital workers, enabling organizations to scale their workforce exponentially with human-like intelligence, available 24/7. Each agent provides seamless, secure, and accurate support- helping healthcare organizations deliver better care with greater efficiency.

Why Avaamo Agents Matter

With Avaamo Agents entering the workforce to augment the skills shortage and current labor demands, repetitive tasks in dozens of areas can be delegated to Avaamo Agents to process and manage efficiently.

• Customer support queries are resolved faster.

• Employee questions no longer go unanswered for days.

• Healthcare inquiries-from claims and insurance to medical tests-are processed swiftly.

• Avaamo Healthcare Agents provide secure, multilingual, 24/7 support.

• Autonomous AI workforce built for scalable, high-impact efficiency.

• Avaamo Agents ensure rapid deployment, robust security, and compliance.

The New Digital AI workforce is India’s future

The AI digital workforce vision goes beyond mere automation. Avaamo is creating intelligent digital workers that dont just assist – they execute independently across healthcare, employee support, and customer service. These arent tools or interfaces; theyre autonomous agents of change that operate 24/7 across every channel of the enterprise.

“Indias AI industry is set to grow to $1 trillion by 2030, AI-enabled automation adoption will be the foundation for organizations to automate, gain cost efficiency, and generate fresh opportunities for worker reskilling. Todays launch signifies a key milestone at which organizations transition to adopting AI, building an AI-first economy and defining the future of work,” said Ram Menon, CEO and Co-founder of Avaamo.

With government-led initiatives such as Digital India and Make in India, enterprises have an ideal environment to harness AI by redeploying human talent for higher value activities and delegating lower- level repetitive tasks to the AI digital worker.

India needs to lead the AI revolution not just participate in it. Organizations that take the lead in integrating AI digital workers into their global workforce strategy will gain a first-mover advantage and establish themselves as global pioneers in AI-powered business transformation.

About Avaamo

Avaamo is an advanced multimodal Agentic AI platform empowering global enterprises to automate and deliver outstanding self-service experiences. Our patented AI technology spans voice transcription, natural language understanding, generative AI, and call center automation. Avaamo supports self-service interactions across Healthcare, HR, IT, and customer service for leading global companies. Facilitating over 2 billion interactions annually in 114 languages, Avaamo seamlessly integrates with 200+ common enterprise applications. Visit avaamo.ai to witness how Avaamo is shaping the future of Agentic-enabled enterprise. Join us at the forefront of innovation!

Women Listed, a pioneering platform dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, proudly hosted the much-anticipated 4th edition of the ‘Celebrating Excellence: Entrepreneur Awards 2024‘ which took place at the India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. Spearheaded by Ms. Meeta Gutgutia, the event spotlighted exceptional women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and professionals across industries including fashion, health & fitness, education, media, social enterprises, and beyond.

Women Listed, Celebrating Excellence Awards 2025

Since its inception in 2021, the ‘Celebrating Excellence’ Awards have served as a prestigious platform to recognize resilience, leadership, and innovation in women-led businesses. With each passing year, the awards have grown in stature, bringing together an inspiring mix of entrepreneurs, experts, and changemakers. This edition was bigger, bolder, and more impactful, celebrating the trailblazers who are redefining success across diverse fields. Our honorable jury was Ms. Poonam Barua, Dr. Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, Dr. Prerna Kohli respectively.

The 4th edition of the ‘Celebrating Excellence Awards 2024’ witnessed a power-packed agenda featuring inspiring keynote addresses, an evening of well-deserved recognition, and insightful discussions with a panel spotlighting “‘Why Visibility Matters to Women Entrepreneurs in India’ with Meeta Gutgutia, Founder of Women Listed & Co-founder of Ferns N Petals (FNP) and Sipping Thoughts, Ms. Poonam Barua, Founder & CEO of WILL Forum India, and Ms. Simran Khara, Founder & CEO of Koparo Clean as panelists.

Ms. Meeta Gutgutia, Founder, Women Listed quotes, “The Celebrating Excellence Awards is more than just recognition at Women Listed- it’s a movement empowering women entrepreneurs. Following its successful 4th edition, our mission to uplift, connect, and celebrate their resilience has resonated across India. With over 3,000 women-led businesses in the community, Women Listed continues to foster an ecosystem where women thrive, lead, and inspire. We are thrilled to associate with the WILL India Forum as a partner for their April leadership program. Additionally, expert-led online learning sessions will be introduced for women entrepreneurs starting next month.”

The winners list is as follows:

• Vishakha Bhaskkar, Founder, Angrakhaa

• Megha Arora, Owner, 3TENX

• Meeta Nagpal, Co-founder, Musical Dreams

• Akshi Khandelwal, Founder & CEO, Butterfly Ayurveda + Caf Swasthya

• Nishita Thakur, Co-founder & Business Head, KidsCur

• Praneeta Kumar Shringi, Co-founder, Design Answers

• Nilfa Saha Karamakar, Founder & Director, Niyat Films and Production

• Nira Shah, Founder, Little Fingers

• Samiksha Khanna, Co-founder & Principal Architect, Unorthodox Designs

• Pooja Bhagwat, Founder, Ink & Bliss Calligraphy & Design

• Shikha Agnihotri, Founder, Right Side Story

• Palak Jain, Founder & CEO, Paws For Greens

• Nidha, Founder & CEO, Morningwala

• Prachi Kasliwal Dashora, Founder & Director, Sherringwood World School

• Vani Talwar, Co-founder, Tidy Up & The Powder Room

About Women Listed:

Women Listed is a dynamic initiative designed to empower, connect, and amplify the voices of women entrepreneurs across India. By providing a platform for networking, marketing, learning, and collaboration, Women Listed has built a thriving community of over 3,000+ women-led businesses and professionals. The organization remains committed to fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem where women can thrive, lead, and inspire.

Website: womenlisted.com.

• In the presence of H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India

• Releases exclusive survey on the Workplace Wishlist 2025 by UpGrad

The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce (IFCCI) organised the Fifth Edition of its flagship event, the HR Conclave and Awards 5.0 in New Delhi, bringing together CEOs, CHROs, & Global Thought Leaders from the Indo-French Business Community organized under the aegis of the IFCCI HR Committee which comprises of CHROs and HR Heads from over 100+ French & Indian Companies. Several leading French & Indian business groups like Accor, Airbus, Air Liquide, Amadeus, BNP Paribas, Capgemini, L’Oreal, Michelin, Naval Group, Pluxee, Total Energies, SBS, Sonepar, Trilegal are some of the active members of the IFCCI HR Committee.

Indo-French Chamber’s HR Conclave 5.0 recognises French companies’ HR Business Potential & workforce led business growth

Sharing his views on this occasion,H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to Indiasaid, “The IFCCI HR Conclave & Awards celebrates the dynamic human and economic ties between France and India. HR leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future talent ecosystem, and we must recognize the immense opportunities for Indian alumni of French institutions. 2025 should mark the beginning of a new era – one where the French industry in India takes the lead in showcasing how France is contributing to hiring talent in India. These alumni are the finest ambassadors of French academic excellence, and their success strengthens our shared future.”

A key moment at the IFCCI HR Conclave & Awards 2025 was upGrad Enterprise’s exclusive launch of The Workplace Wishlist 2025 – a snapshot report uncovering the skilling priorities and preferences of the Indian workforce. The launch featured a masterclass by Ms. Shirin Rai Gupta (Director – Marketing, upGrad Enterprise) and a thought-provoking fireside chat with Mr. Suraj Chhetri (VP & Head of HR, Airbus India) and Ms. Natasha Singh (Director HR India, SBS). The report revealed compelling insights, including the growing demand for AI skills, the retention impact of employer-led skilling, and the critical yet overlooked role of soft skills – what Suraj aptly termed as “power skills.” The discussion reinforced a clear takeaway: investing in learning is no longer optional, but essential for workforce and business growth.

H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India

Emphasizing the critical role of HR leaders in steering businesses through uncertain times,Mr. Suraj Chettri, Chairperson of the IFCCI HR Committee and VP, Head of HR – Airbus India & South Asia, stated, “The IFCCI HR Conclave was curated to bring together Global Thought Leaders, CEOs, CHROs, and Industry Experts from the Indo-French network to explore how businesses can embrace change, unlock hidden potential, and drive growth through human capital. The future is arriving faster than we anticipate, and only those who adapt, collaborate, and innovate will thrive. True leadership lies in nurturing talent, fostering partnerships, and building a resilient ecosystem for long-term success.”

The Conclave served as a platform to discuss the core theme of the Conclave, Unlocking Business Potential for an Uncertain Tomorrow. The concept of HR 5.0 signifies a transformative shift where HR has evolved into a strategic partner to leverage advanced technologies, champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, and foster intentional collaboration across every level of the organization. It is about unlocking human and organizational potential in an age where agility, empathy, and purpose are the cornerstones of success.

The IFCCI HR Conclave 5.0 explored the paradigm shift by bringing together thought leaders, business visionaries, and HR experts to discuss how organizations can: Redefine leadership to navigate complexity with confidence; Continue aligning people strategies with business objectives to build future-ready organizations; Harness technology while centering on human-centric values; Embrace collaboration and inclusivity to drive meaningful, lasting impact.

Winners: IFCCI HR Conclave and Awards 5.0

HR Best Practices (Large Enterprise segment) – Airbus India

HR Best Practices (SME) – Systra India

Employee Wellness and Wellbeing Initiatives (Large Enterprise segment) – Capgemini India

Employee Wellness and Wellbeing Initiatives (SME) – SBS

Innovative Upskilling Initiatives of the Year Award – Saint Gobain India

Innovative Upskilling Initiatives of the Year (Large Enterprise segment) – Amadeus

DEIB Force Multiplier Award (SME) – Pluxee India

DEIB Force Multiplier Award (Large Enterprise segment) – Schneider Electric India

Planet-Impact HR Leadership Award – Accor India (AAPC India Hotel Management Private Limited)

Visionary CHRO Award – Ms. Vandana Tilwani, CHRO, Havas India & Chief Diversity Officer APAC, Havas

Jury Special Award – Khaitan and Co.

About Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI)
Established in 1977, the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the most active bilateral chambers in India. The Chamber has six offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune. IFCCI represents a dynamic business platform of over 750 member companies and 17 Sector Committees offering an extensive range of business services and giving access to people and information.

For more information, please visit www.ifcci.org.in.

The prestigious Everest Better Kitchen Culinary Challenge (EverestBKCC) Season 6 concluded in Jaipur after hosting regional rounds in 17 cities across India, covering East to West and North to South. Over 10,000 students from 250+ hotel management institutes nationwide participated, showcasing their culinary skills and creativity.

Winners of the Better Kitchen Competition alongside the Jury and Organizers

Sabeer Mandal, a student from Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal, emerged as the grand finale winner after competing in multiple rounds. He was awarded a trophy, a hamper, a scholarship worth USD 6,000, and a 12-month paid internship at a star property in the USA under the USJ1 visa as part of the WCE Chef Exchange Program (T&C applied).

The second position was secured by Ketki Kulkarni from AISSMS, Pune, while Ayushman Kudu from IHM, Mumbai took the third spot. The intense competition was held at the School of Hotel Management, Manipal University, Jaipur.

EverestBKCC continues to inspire and empower young chefs, serving as a launchpad for their careers. The competition followed the theme “Flavours of India,” with a focus on:

• Preserving and promoting regional cuisines.

• Encouraging healthier food choices among younger generations.

• Advocating for culinary tourism across India.

The event was made possible with Everest as the title partner and the support of Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), Uttar Pradesh Tourism, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Wisdom Career Education, MYMENU365, and Bio Nutrients (India) Pvt Ltd.

A distinguished panel of judges, including Chef Sudhir Pai, Chef Vivek Kadam, Chef Shantanu Gupte, Chef Ashish Bhasin, and Chef Vimal Dhar, evaluated the participants dishes, leading to a thrilling and competitive grand finale.

Ekkta Bhargeva, Publisher of Better Kitchen, shared the broader mission behind the event, “Our goal is to prepare students for future challenges while promoting regional Indian cuisines. By integrating local ingredients into global dishes and reviving lost recipes, we aim to inspire the next generation of chefs. This year, we are proud to offer scholarships worth INR 1 crore through the USA J1 WCE Chef Exchange Visitor Program, which includes a one-year paid internship in the USA, supported by our International Placement & Study Abroad Partner, Wisdom Career Education.”

This season also introduced two new competitions, further expanding the platform’s reach:

• Better Kitchen F&B Young Masters Challenge

• Enzo Housekeeping Olympiad

Additionally, the Better Kitchen Bakery Champion, introduced last season, continued to spotlight young baking talents.

Winners of Better Kitchen Bakery Champion

First Position: Prachiti Dinesh Yadav, ITM IHM, Nerul, Navi Mumbai

Second Position: Yastika Anand, IHM Mumbai

Third Position: Neha James Mullur, Fr. Agnel Institute of Food, Crafts & Culinary Science, Verna, Goa

Winners of Better Kitchen F&B Young Masters Challenge

First Position: P Y Pranay, Christ (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru

Second Position: Kasa Muralikrishna, Chennai’s Amirta International Institute of Hotel Management, Hyderabad

Third Position: Swashray Arote, BVDU IHMCT, Pune

Winners of Enzo Housekeeping Olympiad

First Position: Nipun Kulkarni, IHM Mumbai

Second Position: Ajil Benny, Chavara Institute, Kochi

Third Position: Vinutha SV, Christ (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru

The EverestBKCC platform continues to set new benchmarks in culinary excellence, encouraging students to innovate while preserving the rich heritage of Indian cuisine.

Housing.com, India’s No. 1 Real Estate App, is set to roll out the 8th edition of its highly anticipated flagship online property event, Happy New Homes 2025 (HNH’25). Kicking off on March 10 and running through April 10, 2025, this month-long virtual property fest promises to be bigger than ever, expanding its reach to 34 cities across India. With top developers, exclusive deals, and a seamless digital homebuying experience, HNH’25 is poised to set new benchmarks in the online real estate landscape.

Housing.com is set to roll out its highly anticipated flagship online property event HNH’25

Building on the success of previous editions, including the highly successful Mega Home Utsav 2024 held during the festive season, HNH25 marks a significant evolution in the digital real estate landscape. It reflects the growing prominence of PropTech events in Indias real estate sector, connecting property seekers with over 4,400 developers and channel partners, offering an extensive selection of residential properties across metropolitan, Tier-II, and Tier-III cities.

Mr. Amit Masaldan, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Housing.com, expressed confidence in the events success, stating, “We anticipate Happy New Homes 2025 to create novel industry benchmarks in terms of audience engagement and sales. As the home buying landscape continues to evolve, our focus remains squarely on presenting consumers an unparalleled experience. As we solidify our position as the preferred one-stop platform for all home seekers across India, we are proud to emerge as ‘the trusted allies’ of consumers embarking on their property journey.”

Mr. Amit Masaldan further added, “Through HNH25, were pioneering innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of modern homebuyers. Our commitment extends beyond just showcasing properties – were creating a comprehensive ecosystem where transparency meets technology, enabling informed decision-making for every aspiring home seeker. The remarkable expansion to 34 cities this year reflects our dedication to making quality housing accessible across Indias diverse real estate landscape.”

The event features participation from industry leaders including Casagrande Builder Private Limited, Avant Group, Sumadhura Infracon Pvt. Ltd., DSR Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd., and DAC Developers, among others, showcasing their premium residential projects.

HNH25 brings a host of cutting-edge innovations to elevate the home-buying experience. One of the standout features this year is the introduction of professionally presented project videos, where expert anchors provide in-depth insights, bringing properties to life with engaging and informative walkthroughs. Additionally, every listing on the platform is meticulously verified, ensuring transparency and credibility for homebuyers. To make the event even more rewarding, consumers availing home loans through Housing.com during HNH’25 will receive assured cashback, adding significant value to their homeownership journey.

HNH’25 expands its footprint to 34 cities, bringing a wider selection of residential properties to homebuyers across the country. This year, the event welcomes newly added markets such as Guwahati, Raipur, Patna, Kochi, Surat, Dehradun, and Varanasi, further enhancing accessibility and offering an unparalleled array of housing options to suit diverse buyer preferences.

To maximize visibility and engagement, Housing.com has planned an extensive marketing campaign across multiple channels. The event will receive prominent coverage during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, supported by comprehensive promotions across leading digital platforms. The campaign strategy includes engaging social media content with video posts, complemented by a high-impact presence across OTT platforms, and digital media.

As online property fests continue to reshape the real estate landscape, Housing.com maintains its position at the forefront of digital innovation. The platforms commitment to excellence is reflected in its stellar app ratings of 4.5 on Android and 4.6 on iOS.

For more information about Happy New Homes 2025, visit Housing.com.

About Housing.com

Founded in 2012 and acquired by REA India (formerly known as Elara Technologies Pte. Ltd.) in 2017, Housing.com stands as Indias premier full-stack proptech platform catering to homeowners, home seekers, landlords, developers, and real estate brokers. Housing.com provides comprehensive listings for a wide range of properties, including new homes, resale homes, rentals, plots, commercial spaces, and co-living accommodations across India. Company is backed by robust research and analytics, offering a spectrum of real estate services encompassing advertising, marketing, sales solutions for real estate developers, personalised search & insights, virtual viewing, AR&VR content, home loans, end-to-end transaction services, and post-transaction support for both buyers and renters. Additionally, company offers a suite of online services through Housing Edge brand, including features like Pay on credit, movers & packers, lending services, online rent agreements, and an array of DIY services, catering to both customers and landlords. With a presence in 28 cities (tier I & II markets), Housing.com’ mission is to simplify the home buying, selling, and renting journey for its valued customers. REA India is a group company of global proptech leader, REA Group of Australia that is part of NewsCorp US.

Marking 25 years of academic excellence, JECRC has once again surpassed its own benchmarks in placements, reaffirming its dominance in North India’s recruitment landscape. With a thriving student community of 22,000 learners across its campuses, JECRC has become a premier destination for top recruiters seeking industry-ready talent.

Training and Placement Team at JECRC

As of February 20, 2025, JECRC campuses has recorded an outstanding 2,046 placements from 131 leading corporates across its campuses. The highest package stands at INR 33 LPA by Amazon, while the average package is INR 6 LPA. Notably, 876 students have secured offers exceeding INR 7 LPA, demonstrating the exceptional talent nurtured at JECRC.

Glimpse from JECRC Placement Fiesta

This year saw an overwhelming response from global IT giants, with 748 offers extended collectively by LTI Mindtree, Accenture, and Capgemini, reflecting their continued trust in JECRC’s graduates. Additionally, 825 offers have come from Fortune 500 companies, further cementing the university’s reputation as a top hiring destination.

JECRC’s emphasis on emerging technologies is evident, with 46% of placements in roles such as Data Analyst, R&D Engineer, Associate Software Engineer, Senior Analyst, Cloud Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst, and Product Developer. Startups have also shown great confidence in JECRC’s talent, contributing 30% of total offers, with 500+ opportunities from fast-growing start- ups like Blinkit, Zomato, WatchGuard, Blue Altair, and Catalog etc.

Beyond engineering, 923 offers are from programs including MBA, BBA, Hotel Management, Design, B.Com, Sciences, and BJMC-have secured placements with prestigious organizations. Major recruiters include AU Bank, Burger Farm, ITC, HDFC AMC, Tata AIG, IndiaMart, Bajaj Capital, PhonePe, Novotel, Oberoi, and MakeUrHome, among others.

JECRC’s Innovation Ecosystem: A Key Driver of Placements

JECRC’s remarkable placement success is driven by its dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. The JECRC Incubation Centre (JIC) has fostered 150+ startups, secured substantial funding, and empowered students with entrepreneurial expertise that enhances their employability. Recruiters actively seek JECRC graduates who have gained hands-on experience through startup projects, patent filings, and industry-focused innovations. Likewise, JU Makerspace provides cutting- edge learning opportunities in AI, robotics, IoT, and 3D prototyping, ensuring students develop practical, job-ready skills. Participation in national hackathons, coding challenges, and real-world problem-solving initiatives further strengthens their competitive edge in recruitment.

Thriving Coding Culture: Securing Top IT & Software Placements

JECRC’s dedicated coding ecosystem prepares students for competitive software development and IT placements.

• Regular hackathons, boot camps, and coding marathons enhance problem-solving skills.

• Strong presence on global platforms like Codeforces, LeetCode, and Google Kick Start.

• Coding clubs, GitHub campus programs, and CodeChef chapters ensure practical exposure, helping students secure roles in top tech firms like Amazon, HPE, Flipkart, and Verizon.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Empowering Students for Success

JECRC’s placement success is further strengthened by its world-class infrastructure, designed to provide a seamless learning and innovation experience.

Advanced Computer Centre

• This advanced Computer Centre is specializing in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

• Features high-performance computing systems and virtual simulation tools for hands-on training.

• Regular industry workshops and research projects, ensuring students gain practical expertise in high- demand skills.

J-Library: A Digital & Physical Knowledge Powerhouse

• Houses 50,000+ books, journals, and research papers across disciplines.

• Access to global research databases and e-learning resources.

• Tech-enabled learning spaces with digital archives, e-pods, and collaborative study areas.

A Dedicated Team Powering JECRC’s Placement Success

Behind these phenomenal placement numbers is an exceptionally dedicated team of 17 professionals from the Training & Placement Cell. Their relentless efforts, strong industry collaborations, and strategic training programs ensure that JECRC students continue to break records and achieve remarkable career milestones year after year.

With over 2,000 placements for three consecutive years, JECRC stands undisputed as North Indias top institution for recruitment, career development, and future-ready education.

Somaiya Vidyavihar University, a leading multi-disciplinary university, built upon the 84-year legacy of the Somaiya Vidyavihar, recently hosted the AIU All India Inter-University Squash (Men & Women) Tournament 2024-2025. The tournament saw enthusiastic participation from 33 universities nationwide, with 30 mens and 29 womens teams competing. In an exciting finale, Somaiya Vidyavihar University emerged victorious in both the mens and womens categories.

Somaiya Vidyavihar University wins Womens Championship at the AIU National Inter-University Squash Tournament 2024-25

The AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament held at Somaiya Vidyavihar University’s state-of-the-art sports facilities accommodated 450+ players and their coaches on the campus, providing an enriching sports environment to all the participants.

This year’s tournament showcased the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of university-level squash players nationwide. It also marked a record-breaking milestone with maximum participation thus far, setting a new benchmark in the history of AIIU Squash tournament.

In the Mens Category, Somaiya Vidyavihar University secured victory against Delhi University with a dominant 3-0 win. Led by Captain Rahul Baitha, the team showcased remarkable skill and teamwork. Om Semwal was the standout performer, defeating Ishan Jain (11-4, 11-2, 11-3). Suraj Chand overcame Ansh Tripathi (11-2, 11-4, 1-11, 11-1), while Deepak Mandal sealed the win by beating Rajasmani Sharma (11-2, 11-5, 11-2). The team also featured Avinash Sahani and Yash Bawale, who contributed to the squad’s overall success.

The Delhi University finished as the first runner-up, while Panjab University secured third place with a 3-1 win over the University of Kerala.

In the Womens Category, Somaiya Vidyavihar University emerged as champion after an intense 3-2 win over the University of Madras. Led by Captain Nirupama Dubey, the team fought hard to secure the title. Mona Chauhan was the game-changer, defeating Arlin Sahaya (11-1, 11-0, 11-1), while Nirupama delivered a stellar performance, beating Shrinidhi (11-1, 11-1, 11-1). Rani Gupta clinched the deciding match against Harshitha U V (11-9, 11-6, 11-6). The victorious team also included Khushi Jaspal and Suyash Chaudhari, all contributing to the hard-fought win.

The University of Madras finished as the first runner-up, while the University of Kerala secured third place with a 3-1 victory over the University of Mumbai.

Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, addressing during the Closing Ceremony, said, “My dream was to create a sports facility with superior amenities, providing access to world-class infrastructure for everyone. Today, I can confidently say that the sports facilities we have developed here surpass those only the kind a select few had access to, and we continue to expand them for everyone. At Somaiya Vidyavihar University, our goal is to create an outstanding hub for all sports. I am passionate about sports, and we believe they are essential for health, recreation, fostering sportsmanship, and nurturing champions.”

“The players performed amazingly well, showcasing exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Congratulations to all the players, coaches, managers, referees, volunteers, and the entire organizing committee for their dedication and hard work in making this event truly memorable. A huge congratulations to everyone for this phenomenal success“, said Mr. Aazaz Khan, Director, Somaiya Sports Academy.

The prestigious closing ceremony and prize distribution took place in the presence of eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Baljit Singh Sekhon, Joint Secretary (Youth Affairs & Sports), AIU, Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU), Dr Nandkumar Gilke, Registrar, SVU, Mr Sovan Basu, Director HR, Somaiya Vidyavihar,Mr Ashish Tambe, Director Public Relations, SVU and Dr Urmi Thakkar, Head, Campus Administration & Students Welfare, Somaiya Vidyavihar.

The remarkable success of this tournament was possible by the dedication of the participating teams, the support of AIU, and the tireless efforts of the Somaiya Vidyavihar University organizing committee and volunteers.

To know more about Somaiya Sports Academy, please click www.sportsacademy.somaiya.edu/en.

In a landmark real estate acquisition, the Managing Director of one of India’s leading financial institutions has purchased a Rs. 25.5 Cr luxury villa at Avas Living, Alibaug’s most sought-after wellness community. With marquee investors like Adar Poonawalla and distinguished homeowners like Virat Kohli, Ram Kapoor, Shobhaa De, and Amitabh Chaudhry, Avas Living continues to attract India’s elite seeking an unparalleled blend of luxury, wellness, and exclusivity.

Avas Living Villa in Alibaug

Alibaug has long been a premier retreat for industrialists, celebrities, and business leaders, and with major infrastructure developments like the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) and the Rewas-Karanja Bridge, the region is now more accessible than ever. These advancements are set to significantly cut travel time from Mumbai, making Alibaug an even more attractive destination for luxury real estate investments.

Avas Living, founded by Aditya Kilachand, has set a new benchmark in this space, offering turnkey villas that prioritize mindful living, cutting-edge wellness technologies and state-of-the-art design. Speaking about the decision to invest, the buyer shared, “I was looking for a home that goes beyond just luxury-it had to offer a lifestyle rooted in wellness, tranquility, and a sense of community. Avas Living checked all the right boxes, with its thoughtful design, seamless experience, and access to a like-minded network of individuals who value both privacy and well-being. It’s a place where I can truly disconnect from the city and recharge.“

The newly acquired villa is part of Avas Living’s exclusive gated community, renowned for its seamless blend of opulence and well-being. Residents will enjoy access to the world-class Avas Wellness Center, curated wellness experiences, and a vibrant community, along with the upcoming Avas Racquet Club-an elite destination for sports, fitness, and leisure.

This latest acquisition further reinforces the growing trend of luxury real estate investments in Alibaug, driven by enhanced connectivity and the region’s evolving status as a hub for ultra-premium living. With its focus on sustainability, design excellence, and a holistic lifestyle, Avas Living continues to redefine what it means to own a luxury home in India.

New research shows that eating walnuts for breakfast could improve brain function throughout the day. In a first of its kind study, researchers at the University of Reading found that eating a generous handful of walnuts (50g), mixed into muesli and yoghurt, resulted in faster reaction times throughout the day and better memory performance later in the day when compared to eating a calorie-matched breakfast without nuts.¹

Walnuts for Cognitive Health

The research, published this month in Food & Function, involved 32 healthy young adults aged 18-30 who consumed both the walnut-rich breakfast and the matched breakfast on separate occasions.^* Participants completed various cognitive tests while their brain activity was monitored in the six hours after eating each breakfast.

Professor Claire Williams, who led the research from the University of Reading, said, “This study helps strengthen the case for walnuts as a brain food. A hearty handful of walnuts with breakfast could give young adults a mental edge when they need to perform at the top of their game. Its particularly exciting that such a simple dietary addition could make a measurable difference to cognitive performance.”

The researchers suggest that walnuts mix of nutrients – including omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA), protein, and plant compounds, may enhance cognitive performance. Walnuts are the only nut to provide an excellent source of omega-3 ALA (2.7g/30g), which has been researched to support brain health, heart health and more.² Walnuts also provides 4 grams of plant-based protein along with a variety of other nutrients in just one handful.³

Walnut, Ricotta and Banana Toast

While these results build on past research, it is the first to examine the immediate effects of walnuts on brain function in young adults throughout a single day.

“This study went further by exploring how a dietarily achievable measure of walnuts could benefit our cognitive performance in a sample of healthy young adults aged 18-30. The group who had consumed the walnuts as part of their breakfast showed signs of better memory and greater mental flexibility when completing cognitive tasks at various points across the course of the day,” explains Williams. The results of this study offer promise for the role of walnuts in improving cognitive performance in young adults. More research, in larger and more diverse populations, is needed to confirm the results.

Strawberry Walnut and Date Smoothie

Putting this research into action is as simple as adding a handful of walnuts to your breakfast or trying out new recipes:

• Heart Healthy Omega-3 Banana Bread are the perfect grab and go breakfast.

• Sweeten up your breakfast and take the stress out of your mornings by preparing these overnight oats the night before with these Walnut Chia Overnight Oats.

• Strawberry Walnut Date Smoothie gets its nutty flavor from California walnuts and is sweetened with fresh strawberries and dates.

To learn more about the research supporting walnut consumption along with recipe ideas and inspiration visit californiawalnuts.in

References:

*This research was funded by the California Walnut Commission. The funder made no contribution during the design or implementation of the study, nor in the interpretation of findings or the decision to publish.

1. Bell L, Dodd GF, Jeavons M, Fisher DR, Whyte AR, Shukitt-Hale B, Williams CM. The impact of a walnut-rich breakfast on cognitive performance and brain activity throughout the day in healthy young adults: a crossover intervention trial. Food Funct. 2025 Feb 10. doi: 10.1039/d4fo04832f. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39924976.

2. Sala-Vila A, Fleming J, Kris-Etherton P, Ros E. Impact of alpha-linolenic acid, the vegetable omega-3 fatty acid, on cardiovascular disease and cognition [published ahead of print February 16, 2022]. Advances in Nutrition. doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmac016.

3. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. fdc.nal.usda.gov.

About the California Walnut Commission:

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 3,700 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts.

To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit californiawalnuts.in.

Sussanne Khan’s pioneering luxury interior and furniture brand – The Charcoal Project, opened its second retail gallery in Hyderabad, following the footsteps of its successful reception in Mumbai. The store spans 35,000 square feet across six thoughtfully curated levels, each offering a unique design experience blending Sussanne Khan’s signature aesthetic with exciting collaborations and partnerships. From elegant gifting accents and textured, eclectic interiors to immersive dining concepts and limited-edition gallery pieces, the store is a blend of innovation and craftsmanship. It features an exclusive floor dedicated to Gauri Khan Designs, a modern library-inspired space with playful geometry, and a rustic Barn House for creative discussions, complete with Sussanne’s personal studio and a sprawling indoor-outdoor lounge.

“The Charcoal Project, Hyderabad is a celebration of design at its finest-featuring unique works, limited-edition furniture, objects of curiosity, and a curated collection of fine art by talented artists. We cant wait to welcome you into this world of creativity,” says Sussanne Khan.

Sussanne Khan Unveils ‘The Charcoal Project’ in Hyderabad

” Bringing Gauri Khan Designs to Hyderabad through this collaboration is an exciting milestone,” shared Gauri Khan whose label has always stood for refined luxury, timeless aesthetics, and bespoke craftsmanship. “I’m delighted to showcase the signature collection of art, artefacts, home linen, decor and furniture from our label in a space that champions creativity and innovation.”

Celebrated individuals from the world of film, art, architecture, design and industry joined the grand launch in support of the star designers. Hrithik Roshan, Sonali Bendre, Shalini Passi, Arslan Goni, Bhavana Panday, Seema Sajdeh, Neelam Kothari Soni, Maheep Kapoor, Kunal Kapoor, Karishma Tanna, Larissa D’Sa, Deanne Pandey, Nandita Mahtani, Zoya Akhtar, Vikram Phandnis, Avinash Gowarikar, Pragya Kapoor, Shane and Falguni Peacock, and business leaders like Adar Poonawalla and Chirag Parekh were among those adding glamour to the evening celebrating the best of interiors and luxury living. Adding further warmth and welcome to the occasion was the presence of Sussanne’s family – her sisters Farah Khan and Laila Furniturewala, son Hridhaan Roshan and mother Zarine Khan as well as her partners in the project – Karan Bajaj, Nafis Ahmed and Rishabh Jain.

Gauri Khan Designs collaborates for a presentation of an exclusive bespoke range

Collaborations to Look Out For:

Janavi:Sussanne Khan x Janavi presents a collection as timeless as it is modern. Jyotika Jhalani says the collaboration transcends dcor, blending nature’s wonders with refined textiles, intricate craftsmanship, and regal aesthetics. Whether maximalist or minimalist, the collection’s rich hues of crimson, blue, and green bring a deeper connection to nature and comfort.

de Gournay: Known for its exquisite hand-painted wallcoverings. de Gournay’s ‘River Scenes of Bengal’ is a standout installation, alongside designs like Rousseau, Amazonia, and Chichester, all of which evoke breathtaking narratives through intricate, hand-painted artistry. These wallcoverings are available throughout the store, bringing a timeless luxury to the gallery’s expansive interiors. Each design tells a unique story-from the exotic Amazonia to the majestic ‘River Scenes of Bengal,’ inspired by the winding Ganges.

With its expansion into Hyderabad, The Charcoal Project continues to redefine India’s design landscape-one inspired space at a time. Now open to the public, the store offers an exclusive opportunity to experience world-class interiors and home dcor like never before.

This milestone was made possible through a two-year collaboration with Electronics Mart India Ltd (EMIL), a leader in retail, whose shared vision helped bring this project to life. Together, The Charcoal Project and EMIL have seamlessly blended Sussanne Khan’s design philosophy with a commitment to quality and innovation, creating a truly exceptional destination for luxury interiors.

info@cloverconnect.in.