VELS Medical College & Hospital (VMCH) in Chennai, conducted the White Coat Ceremony for the MBBS 2025–26 batch, marking the formal induction of the fifth batch of 250 medical students into the medical profession. The ceremony was held at the College Auditorium in the presence of dignitaries, senior faculty members, parents and students.
 

The event was presided over by Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Founder-Chancellor, VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS), and was graced by the Chief Guest, Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman, GEM Hospitals, an internationally acclaimed pioneer of laparoscopic surgery.
 

Newly inducted MBBS students receive academic kits during the White Coat Ceremony at VELS Medical College & Hospital, in the presence of Founder-Chancellor Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh
 

Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, Vels Group of Institutions, said it was both an honour and a privilege to welcome the gathering on the momentous occasion of the White Coat Ceremony of the fifth MBBS batch at VELS Medical College. She extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to the Chief Guest, Dr. C. Palanivelu, acknowledging his trailblazing role in introducing laparoscopic surgery to South India and his groundbreaking contributions to laparoscopic cancer surgery and advanced minimally invasive procedures, many of which have been performed for the first time in the world.
 

Dr. Preethaa Ganesh also welcomed Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh, Chairman of the Vels Group of Institutions, lauding his visionary leadership that has propelled VELS to national and global prominence, with over 51,000 students across 52 institutions worldwide, offering programmes from Pre-KG to Ph.D.
 

Highlighting the academic strength of the institution, she stated that VELS Medical College & Hospital is a constituent of VISTAS, a NAAC A++ accredited multidisciplinary Deemed-to-be University, with four campuses across Chennai at Pallavaram, Periyapalayam, Thalambur and Thiruvanmiyur, spread over 120 acres, offering programmes in Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Engineering, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Management Studies, Aviation, Maritime Studies, Law, Arts, Science and other emerging disciplines.
 

She further highlighted that within just five years of inception, VMCH has been recognised as Best Medical College of the Year and Best Affordable Hospital of the Year at the Six Sigma Excellence Awards, New Delhi, in addition to receiving several national and international recognitions, including the International Green College Award, 38th rank in India by the UI Green Metric World University Ranking, Most Promising Medical Institute of 2024 & 2025 by ARDORCOMM Education Leadership Awards, 5th position in India for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) by Global University Rankings, and the Institute of the Year – National (Medical) award by the Indian Education Awards 2025.
 

Addressing parents and students, she emphasised that the white coat symbolises not only knowledge and skill, but also integrity, humility, empathy and service to humanity, assuring students from 22 states across India that VELS provides a nurturing and inclusive environment that truly feels like a home away from home.
 

In his presidential address, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh noted that this ceremony marked the fifth MBBS batch of VELS Medical College & Hospital and the first batch with an enhanced intake of 250 students, compared to the earlier intake of 150. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to parents for believing in VELS and entrusting the institution with their children’s medical education.
 

Assuring parents that VELS would care for students as its own, Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh said that the institution would be a second home for students throughout their academic journey, including undergraduate studies and postgraduate training. He highlighted that postgraduate programmes are already being offered, with plans to introduce additional PG programmes in the coming years. He encouraged parents to remain actively engaged by staying in touch with Heads of Departments and periodically enquiring about their children’s academic progress.
 

He also proposed academic and research collaboration between GEM Hospitals and VMCH, particularly in the areas of research and faculty development. Emphasising institutional values, he said that while VELS maintains strict discipline, it also promotes a friendly and supportive faculty environment, encouraging students to learn with commitment while enjoying their campus life responsibly.
 

Addressing the gathering, Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman, GEM Hospitals, commended Dr. Ishari K. Ganesh for successfully managing a vast network of educational institutions and lauded his leadership and vision. He said he was deeply impressed by the advanced infrastructure at VELS Medical College & Hospital, ranging from emergency services to advanced diagnostic laboratories, and reassured parents that their children were in safe and capable hands.
 

Dr. Palanivelu advised students to adopt a healthy lifestyle, highlighting the growing lifestyle-related health challenges faced by the younger generation. He urged students to make wise use of the opportunities available to them, reminding them that while his own journey involved significant struggles, today’s students benefit from strong parental support and access to advanced facilities. He encouraged them to leverage technology and skill to solve real-world problems, practise medicine with compassion, and serve humanity with integrity rather than material greed.
 

A key highlight of the ceremony was the Wearing of the White Coat and the administration of the Hippocratic Oath, formally inducting the students into the medical fraternity. Academic gift hampers were distributed to the students.
 

The White Coat Ceremony 2025 at VELS Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, stood as a defining moment, reaffirming the institution’s mission to nurture compassionate, ethical and globally competent doctors dedicated to patient care and community service.

For more information, please visit velsmedicalcollege.com.

Since her debut in 2018 with the acclaimed film Kedarnath, Sara Ali Khan has become one of the most admired talents in Indian cinema. With standout performances in hits like Simmba, Atrangi Re, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, she has showcased both versatility and charisma, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in history and political science, Sara is admired not just for her acting, but also for her intellect and authenticity.

Sara Ali Khan – Longines Friend of the brand wearing PrimaLuna

Celebrating the association Sara said, “I’m delighted to begin an association with Longines, a brand I’ve long admired because we echo similar values. Their timeless elegance, and their respect for legacy truly resonates with me. Longines values authenticity, celebrates grace and precision, and inspires confidence. I couldn’t be happier to join them as Friend of the brand.”

India has always held a special place in the Longines story. The brand sold its first watches in the country in 1878 and has since been admired by generations of watch enthusiasts. Sara’s appointment strengthens this historic connection, bringing together Swiss watchmaking tradition with the elegance and spirit of modern India.

With this collaboration, Longines continues to celebrate individuals who embody elegance not only in style, but also in attitude: through authenticity, purpose, and grace.

About Longines 
Established in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, Longines’ expertise is steeped in tradition, elegance and performance. With its lengthy experience as an official timekeeper of world sports championships and partner of international sports federations, the Swiss watch brand has forged solid, enduring links with the world of sports over the years. Famous for the elegance of its timepieces, Longines is a member of the Swatch Group Ltd, the world’s leading manufacturer of timepieces. The brand Longines, with its winged hourglass emblem, is represented in over 150 countries.

In a moment of pride and inspiration, the World T20 Champion Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team visited M3M Foundation following their historic triumph at the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. The team met Dr Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, along with Mr Pankaj Bansal, Promoter, M3M India and Founder, Smart World, and Mrs Aishwarya Bansal, Co-founder, Smart World. The interaction and felicitation celebrated not only a landmark sporting victory but also the spirit of resilience, inclusion, and excellence that defines India’s para-sports movement—made even more significant as the world recently observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December.

Dr. Payal Kanodia of M3M Foundation, Pankaj Bansal of M3M India and Aishwarya Bansal of Smart World with the World T20 Champion Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team

Led by Captain Deepika T. C. of Karnataka and Vice-Captain Ganga S. Kadam of Maharashtra, and accompanied by Team Manager Ms Shika Shetty, the undefeated Indian team scripted history by winning the world’s first-ever global cricket championship exclusively for women cricketers with visual impairment. In a commanding final against Nepal, India restricted the opposition to 114/5 and chased the target in just 12.1 overs, showcasing confidence, skill, and teamwork.

The champions were welcomed and felicitated at M3M IFC, Gurugram, where Dr Payal Kanodia interacted closely with the team, acknowledging their extraordinary discipline, mental strength, and commitment to excellence. A World Kettlebell Champion herself, Dr. Kanodia shared reflections on the power of perseverance, focus, and self-belief—drawing parallels between elite sport and para-sport, and reaffirming the Foundation’s belief in sports as a powerful tool for dignity, confidence, and social inclusion.

The interaction also spotlighted M3M Foundation’s Lakshya Programme, a flagship initiative dedicated to identifying, nurturing, and supporting talented athletes across Olympic, Paralympic, and grassroots sports. Through structured mentorship, training support, and holistic development, Lakshya continues to empower sportspersons to compete and excel at national and international platforms.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, said, “These champions have not only created sporting history, but have also inspired the nation by redefining resilience and inclusion. Their achievement reinforces our belief that when opportunity meets determination, limitations dissolve. We are proud to celebrate women who embody courage, excellence, and equality.”

The visit concluded with an engaging dialogue, exchange of experiences, and a shared commitment to strengthening India’s para-sports ecosystem. The champions’ presence served as a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets courage, history is created.

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Theia Ventures, India’s specialist early stage fund focused on AI, deeptech, energy transition, and decarbonization, today announced that it has led a pre seed investment in Novyte Materials, an emerging AI material discovery company. This round also saw participation from Sandesh Paturi (Co-Founder, Venwiz) and Niharika Jain (Director, Chemvera) investors. This fund will support Novyte’s AI platform development and early pilots to accelerate the co-creation and collaborative discovery of new materials. The investment reinforces Theia’s commitment to backing transformative technologies that enable sustainable material innovation and next generation decarbonization aligned discovery.

Ajaz Khan, Founder and CEO, Novyte Materials

The process of discovering new materials remains one of the slowest and most resource intensive parts of innovation. Traditional development takes years, often decades, driven by extensive trial and error, fragmented experimentation, isolated lab data, and disconnected handoffs between computational prediction and real world validation. This slows progress across sectors that urgently need next generation materials for better performance, reliability, and sustainability.

Novyte is addressing this challenge with AI driven materials discovery that cuts R&D time by up to 10x and can reduce early stage physical testing costs by as much as 90%. Its generative AI system designs, validates, and reverse engineers novel materials using physics based simulations, supporting applications across composite materials, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and specialty chemicals.

As industries push toward cleaner energy, advanced manufacturing, and high performance systems, materials science has become the quiet force behind many breakthrough technologies. From advanced batteries and hypersonic flight to nuclear fusion and low loss transformers, the pace of progress is shaped by how quickly and accurately new stable materials can be designed and validated.

“As AI becomes foundational infrastructure for every industry, Novyte is bringing that transformation to materials discovery. Their system replaces years of lab work with intelligent AI-led design and real-time validation. We believe this will accelerate innovation across energy, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing,” – Priya Shah, Founder & GP – Theia Ventures.

“Innovation is currently capped by the physical limits of yesterday’s materials. Novyte removes that ceiling. By decoding complex chemical interactions with AI, we are turning the search for new materials into a predictable, scalable engineering process,” – Ajaz Khan, Founder & CEO – Novyte Materials.

Novyte is redefining materials engineering by fusing the precision of wet lab experimentation with the predictive power of dry lab modeling.

By working directly alongside R&D teams, decoding complex material interactions to engineer custom solutions, eliminates the guesswork of traditional discovery. The vertically integrated approach bridges the gap between testing and commercialization, replacing costly trial-and-error with predictable, validated pathways. The result is a continuously learning system purpose-built for applied industrial chemistry, creating a scalable foundation for reliable material discovery.

Novyte is incubated at ICT-NICE, the innovation and entrepreneurship hub of the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, and works closely with ICT’s research ecosystem while building its own dedicated R&D infrastructure, and synthesis lab.

Novyte will initially partner with specialty chemicals industries, polymers, paints, adhesives, and coatings that are advancing in their journey to identify alternative materials with improved features and performance. The company aims to reduce operational and R&D costs, shorten development timelines, and accelerate material discovery while ensuring that validation and scale are more predictable. The goal is to make the journey from lab to commercialisation seamless and achievable. The company is currently inviting collaborations and strategic partnerships.

This is Theia Ventures’ fourth investment from its new fund, which announced its first close anchored by British International Investment in October 2025. The fund counts Sarla Aviation (an electric aircraft company), Climitra Carbon (a biochar company catering to the steel industry) and Lemnisca (a bio-manufacturing company) as its first three investments, and the fund has committed to a few additional investments to be deployed within this financial year.

As the year-end holiday season approaches, digital travel platform Agoda reveals the most affordable domestic and international flight routes across Asia. Based on bookings made from September 2025 onwards for departures between December 20–31, Agoda reveals that Guwahati–Agartala (INR 1,300) emerged as India’s most affordable domestic route this festive season. For international travel, Ahmedabad–Bangkok (INR 65,00) stood out as the cheapest option for Indian travelers, offering an accessible gateway to one of Asia’s most beloved holiday destinations.

Agoda reveals India’s most affordable year-end flight routes for holiday travellers

The Christmas and New Year’s holiday season is one of the most significant travel periods of the year. With schools on break and many workplaces offering extended holidays, travelers seize the opportunity to embark on journeys, whether to reunite with family, explore new destinations, or simply unwind and spend quality time with loved ones. This convergence of cultural celebrations and vacation time off makes it one of the busiest and most cherished travel periods of the year, and for many travelers, it’s more important than ever to find the best deals to maximize the holiday experience.

For those traveling domestically, India’s Guwahati–Agartala (INR 1,300) route ranked as the third most affordable in Asia, following Thailand’s Udon Thani-Bangkok (INR 536) in first place, and South Korea’s Jeju-Seoul and Malaysia’s Bario-Miri routes (INR 805) tying for second place. Completing the ranks for the most economical domestic flights across Asian countries during the end-of-year period were India (INR 1,300), Indonesia (INR 1,600), Vietnam (INR 2,000), Japan (INR 2,200), and Taiwan (INR 4,000). These insights highlight the most affordable intra-country routes across Asia, helping travelers identify options that allow them to celebrate the festive season without overspending. 

For those traveling abroad from India, the Ahmedabad–Bangkok route, with fares starting at just INR 6,500, makes an excellent choice for those eager to experience Bangkok’s vibrant holiday atmosphere, when the city comes alive with dazzling lights, festive markets, and cultural celebrations. 

Across the region, Agoda’s data showed that the cheapest international flights in Asia were found in Malaysia and Indonesia, with fares such as Johor Bahru–Phuket and Pontianak–Kuching available at INR 2,200. These routes offer easy escapes to sunny islands and lush natural landscapes during the holiday season. Thailand followed closely, with flights from Krabi to Kuala Lumpur starting at INR 2,500. Rounding out the list of the most affordable intra-Asia international routes were South Korea (INR 2,800), Japan (INR 3,500), Taiwan (INR 4,100), Vietnam (INR 4,100), and India (INR 6,500).

Gaurav Malik, Country Director for the Indian Subcontinent and Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “Christmas and New Year are among the busiest travel periods for Indian holidaymakers, and finding value during this time can make all the difference. Our trends show that with the right route selection, travelers can still enjoy meaningful savings even in peak season. At Agoda, we’re focused on making these options easy to discover, helping travelers enjoy the festive holidays without overspending.”

With over 130,000 flight routes, more than 6 million holiday properties, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda ensures travelers can seamlessly combine their bookings in one convenient platform for a memorable holiday experience. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and visit Agoda.com to plan the perfect festive getaway.

About Agoda
Agoda, a digital travel platform, helps anyone see the world for less with its great value deals on a global network of 6 million hotels and holiday properties worldwide, plus flights, activities, and more. Agoda.com and the Agoda mobile app are available in 39 languages and supported by 24/7 customer support.

Headquartered in Singapore, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG) and employs more than 7,000 staff in 27 markets, dedicated to leveraging best-in-class technology to make travel even easier.

For more information, visit www.agoda.com
 

About the Data
The data presented in this press release is based on actual flight bookings made on Agoda between 1-September to 19 November 2025, for flights departing between 20-31 December 2025. The listed fares include all taxes and fees and are the cheapest booked fares across eight Asia Pacific markets: India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Note that fares can fluctuate: While the listed fares have been booked, Agoda cannot guarantee that these are still available for future bookings. 

The Telangana Rising 2047 Global Summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and global experts to chart a long-term vision for the state’s inclusive and sustainable growth. Organized by the Government of Telangana, the summit focused on the future of urban development, economic expansion, and equitable access to housing. As real estate plays a crucial role in shaping the state’s urban transformation, the sessions dedicated to affordable housing saw strong participation from both government and private-sector representatives.

Ajitesh Korupolu, Founder & CEO of ASBL with Sri Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Housing, and Information & PR, at the Telangana Rising 2047 Global Summit

ASBL’s Founder and CEO, Ajitesh Korupolu, was invited as one of only two developers from Hyderabad to join the distinguished panel discussion on “Investing in Inclusion: Prospects in Affordable Housing.” The conversation explored how Telangana can address the growing demand across EWS, LIG, MIG, and rental segments while encouraging private sector participation. Ajitesh brought a data-driven and structural perspective to the discussion, beginning with the need for the government to simplify the land side of the ecosystem, particularly in core city areas where the government holds significant greenfield and brownfield parcels. He emphasized that slum lands, which today informally serve affordable demand, can become strong formal housing assets if ownership structures are streamlined. He also highlighted how Hyderabad’s high-FSI regime is a key reason the city remains one of India’s most affordable metros, comparing per-sq-ft costs with cities like Bengaluru and Gurugram to showcase Hyderabad’s relative strength.

Building on this, Ajitesh stressed that future affordable housing models must balance ownership and rental pathways. With rising EMIs and limited financial bandwidth among households earning under INR 10-12 lakhs annually, he argued for a structured rental housing model supported by cap rates of 7-8%, backed by global institutions like IFC and ADB that already fund such initiatives. He emphasized that government innovation should focus on land ownership reforms, while developers must invest in R&D and construction efficiency. Speaking about technology, he noted that prefabrication is likely to become the most viable future solution for large-scale housing, provided transportation costs are optimized through decentralized manufacturing yards. He also pointed out the need for construction-worker training schools to adapt to new technologies as the sector transitions into more advanced building methods.

During the session, he also outlined how auction-based land allocation has already started functioning as a strong, transparent PPP model, removing legal uncertainties for developers. He encouraged policymakers to rely less on subsidies and more on unlocking market forces, noting that subsidy-heavy models burden the state exchequer without solving long-term affordability. Ajitesh expanded on the economic contribution of the construction sector, pointing out that housing generates significantly higher per-capita income opportunities compared to agriculture and manufacturing, and therefore must remain central to Telangana’s USD 1 trillion economy ambition. His core message for public-private partnerships was summed up in a clear principle: “The objective of the entire PPP model should be that the government does not lose money, the private sector makes money, and people find solutions.”

The panel also included an interactive segment where innovators were encouraged to participate in solving on-ground challenges. Responding to a question on construction automation, Ajitesh invited young entrepreneurs to collaborate with ASBL, noting active interest in technologies like autonomous tower cranes and RMC automation due to nationwide workforce shortages. He reiterated the company’s openness to supporting such innovations with real use-cases and potential capital participation.

In conclusion, the Telangana Rising 2047 Summit underscored the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to expand the supply of quality, affordable housing. Ajitesh Korupolu’s participation highlighted both ASBL’s growing leadership role and the importance of market-aligned, technology-driven solutions in shaping the future of housing in Telangana. The discussions at the summit are expected to inform the state’s upcoming Affordable Housing Policy, aimed at making urban growth more inclusive, efficient, and future-ready.

Somaiya Vidyavihar marked its 84th Foundation Day, reflecting on the institution’s journey since 1942 and its growing role in shaping learners across disciplines. The celebration featured Chief Guest Mr Uday Kotak, Founder and Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited, alongside Shri Samir Somaiya, President of Somaiya Vidyavihar and Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Lt Gen HS Kahlon, Secretary Somaiya Vidyavihar, Professor Ajay Kapoor, Vice Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Dr Satish Modh, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University and students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Shri Samir Somaiya felicitating Chief Guest Shri Uday Kotak

Founded in pre-independent India with a mission to expand access to education, Somaiya Vidyavihar today comprises a network of primary to higher education institutions, including Somaiya Vidyavihar University, and centres offering advanced academic programmes and research-driven learning. Over the decades, it has opened doors for learners from tribal regions, rural districts, agricultural communities, and first-generation families—empowering students with opportunities, mentorship, and global exposure.

YouTube link: www.youtube.com/live/Hxs-jqp_YtM?t=2569s

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Samir Somaiya, President of Somaiya Vidyavihar and Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, highlighted the institution’s commitment to education that is compassionate, relevant and rooted in purpose. “When we say ‘earn with a hundred hands and give with a thousand,’ it’s not just about individual contribution through CSR. It’s about nurturing countless students who, in turn, become changemakers for society. Somaiya Vidyavihar’s mission is to create citizens who dream of a better world, for their families, their communities, their culture, their country, and the world. Alumni like Akhil Kilawala and Dr Sarita Mali exemplify this journey, from beginnings in Mumbai to making a global impact, choosing to return, mentor, and give back.

He shared the journeys of Somaiya alumni who are contributing to global knowledge and innovation. Dr Sarita Mali, a first-generation learner from an underserved community and a 2014 graduate of K J Somaiya College of Arts and Commerce, is a US-based scholar who is ready to return to teach at Somaiya and support the next generation of learners. Akhil Kilawala, another distinguished alumnus, leads privacy-preserving on-device machine learning systems at Apple, shaping experiences for billions of users worldwide. Their stories, he noted, reflect the transformative possibilities unlocked through a Somaiya education at Somaiya Vidyavihar and Somaiya Vidyavihar University across generations.

Chief Guest Uday Kotak, Founder and Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd, one of India’s most respected financial leaders with nearly four decades in banking and economic reform, reflected on the institution’s ability to remain steadfast through India’s changing phases. He noted how Padmabhushan Shri Karamshi Jethabhai Somaiya’s vision, Dr Shantilal Somaiya’s dedication and Samir Somaiya’s commitment to strengthening education have anchored the institution across generations. He urged students to carry forward this legacy with purpose, passion and paranoia: purpose to understand their goals, passion to innovate through research, and paranoia to stay restless, challenge norms and lead change. He added, “It is the paranoids who change the world. Let us not follow; let us bring that change. An educational institution is the starting point of building the future generation, and I urge the trustees, the academia, and everyone here to build purpose, passion and paranoia in the next generation of Indians. Through all this, the Lakshman Rekha of ethics and conduct, whether we speak of Chanakya or the Somaiya Institute, cannot be underestimated. For an institution and a family to create future generations through education, without any personal gain, is a testament to the larger Somaiya Family, including the students”

A key highlight of the celebration was Navriti, an annual showcase of student-led innovations across engineering, applied sciences and school education. This year’s exhibition featured deep-tech solutions such as Embedded AI-enabled Microscopy, DrumVision for AI-powered music training, and Low-Light Image Enhancement using Deep Learning, as well as socially focused projects including Choices: An Anti-Drug Awareness Gaming Platform, a portable water purification device, agricultural tools, safety systems, and school-level science prototypes. The showcase reflected the institution’s emphasis on hands-on learning, interdisciplinary experimentation and real-world problem-solving.

The ceremony also honoured students, faculty and staff with awards recognising excellence in academics, research, athletics, community service and long-standing contributions. These recognitions reflect the dedication and talent that strengthen Somaiya Vidyavihar’s community every year.

As Somaiya Vidyavihar enters its 85th year, it continues to build an environment that blends academic rigour with empathy, curiosity and a deep sense of social responsibility—preparing learners to contribute meaningfully to the world.

In line with its #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision, Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, announced the launch of its flagship Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative in Chhattisgarh. The momentous inauguration was graced by the Hon’ble Union Home Minister of India, Shri Amit Shah, marking a powerful new chapter in rural transformation. Implemented in partnership with the Government of Chhattisgarh and Bharat Cares, this initiative will bring the glow of modern, energy-efficient LED streetlights to 70 villages across the Indravati Tiger Reserve area, paving the way for safer, more vibrant communities.

Signify I Har Gaon Roshan

Guided by the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, this milestone mirrors India’s ambition of Viksit Bharat, a developed, empowered nation. Har Gaon Roshan initiative aids in strengthening rural infrastructure, enhances community safety, and stimulates local economic growth. Signify’s expertise in sustainable lighting innovation, the Government of Chhattisgarh’s rural development priorities, and Bharat Cares’ deep community engagement form the foundation of this powerful collaboration, blending technology, governance, and grassroots action.

Hon’ble Union Home Minister of India, Shri Amit Shah inaugurating the Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative in Chhattisgarh

Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Government Affairs & CSR, Signify, Greater India, said, “Light is more than just illumination, it’s an enabler of safety, opportunity, and social connection. Har Gaon Roshan in Chhattisgarh demonstrates how government, industry, and community can unite to drive inclusive progress.  At Signify, we are committed to using the power of light to support inclusive development and contribute meaningfully to India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat, ensuring every village shines brighter. This partnership reflects the power of collective action in creating sustainable, long-term impact.” 

Bhomik Shah, Founder, Bharat Cares, said, “Chhattisgarh, with its rich natural resources and proud tribal heritage, stands at the cusp of meaningful change. Through our collaboration with Signify and the Government of Chhattisgarh under the Har Gaon Roshan initiative, we are enabling safer communities, supporting inclusive development, and strengthening harmony between people and nature.”

Built on a community-first model and implemented with support from district administrations and village representatives, ensuring that every installation meets local needs and achieves maximum impact. The new LED streetlights will boost public safety, unlock extended hours for commerce and community activities using energy-efficient technology. By enhancing accessibility after dark, the initiative enables more inclusive participation in social, educational, and economic life.

Across multiple states, Har Gaon Roshan has already illuminated numerous villages, underscoring Signify’s unwavering dedication to rural advancement. With each installation, the company reaffirms its mission: to transform lives, one village at a time, through sustainable lighting solutions that empower communities and inspire progress.

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

India must urgently recognise prosthetic care as a core pillar of public health, social inclusion, and national productivity, according to a new policy paper titled “Fixing the Mobility Divide: A Policy Roadmap for Accessible Prosthetic Care in India.” The paper has been prepared by Parashar Industries, in collaboration with the Kailash Kher Foundation, and was launched today for policymakers, government institutions, and key stakeholders.

India Needs a National Prosthetics Mission to Bridge the Mobility Divide, Says New Policy Roadmap

The policy roadmap makes a compelling case for establishing a National Prosthetics Mission and integrating comprehensive prosthetic care under Ayushman Bharat, arguing that mobility is not a matter of charity but a fundamental enabler of dignity, economic participation, and national resilience.

Nagender Parashar, Director, Parashar Industries

India witnesses a staggering number of amputations each year, driven by road accidents, diabetes, industrial injuries, and defence-related incidents. Yet, access to quality prosthetic care remains deeply fragmented, urban-centric, and unaffordable for a majority of citizens. Advanced prosthetic devices often cost several lakhs of rupees, while insurance coverage and long-term rehabilitation support remain inconsistent across states.

The policy paper highlights that without a unified national framework, amputees-whether soldiers, workers, or civilians-are frequently left dependent on fragmented services, outdated devices, and prolonged rehabilitation cycles. It calls for prosthetics to be treated as national infrastructure for human capital, aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.

Key Policy Recommendations

The roadmap proposes:

• Launching a National Prosthetics Mission to coordinate healthcare, defence rehabilitation, social justice, and skilling.

• Full integration of prosthetic care-including fitting, follow-up, and maintenance-under Ayushman Bharat and other public insurance frameworks.

• Strengthening indigenous manufacturing through Make in India, MSMEs, and innovation clusters to reduce import dependence.

• Establishing district-level prosthetic and rehabilitation hubs to bridge urban–rural disparities.

• Linking prosthetic rehabilitation with employment, skilling, and mental health support to ensure long-term reintegration.

Nagender Parashar, Director, Parashar Industries, said, “Prosthetics are not optional medical devices—they are instruments of dignity and productivity. Every amputee who regains mobility also regains the ability to contribute to the economy and society. A National Prosthetics Mission is not welfare; it is nation-building.”

Pilot Neeraj Sehrawat, Chief Strategy Officer, Kailash Kher Foundation, added, “Our work on the ground shows that lack of access to prosthetics traps families in cycles of dependency. Integrating prosthetic care into Ayushman Bharat will ensure that no citizen is denied mobility because of income or geography.”

Former Lok Sabha MP Dr Kirit P. Solanki noted, “This roadmap rightly places prosthetics at the centre of public policy—linking healthcare, indigenous innovation, and social justice. Universal access to prosthetic care is essential for an inclusive and progressive India.”

Prof. N.K. Ganguly, former Director General, ICMR, highlighted that prosthetic care must move beyond device delivery to holistic rehabilitation, supported by strong standards, skilled professionals, and outcome-based monitoring.

Nitish Sharma, Co-founder, PASG Advisory, said, “This policy roadmap provides a clear, implementable framework for government and industry. Integrating prosthetics with Ayushman Bharat and aligning it with indigenous manufacturing can transform India into a global hub for affordable and advanced prosthetic solutions.”

A National Imperative
The paper argues that investing in prosthetic care yields long-term economic dividends-by restoring livelihoods, reducing welfare dependency, strengthening defence rehabilitation, and creating a globally competitive manufacturing ecosystem.

As India positions itself as a leader in inclusive growth and advanced manufacturing, the policy roadmap calls on the government to act decisively and treat prosthetic care as a strategic national priority rather than a peripheral health intervention.

Shilton Hospitality, a homegrown multi-brand hospitality group headquartered in Bengaluru, announces its 20th-anniversary milestone as it outlines a strategic expansion plan featuring new resort and club properties across South India. The announcement reflects the company’s continued commitment to elevating guest experiences across regions, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Kabini, Chickmangalur, Coorg and Goa.

Mr Anil Nagpal, Director, Shilton Hospitality Pvt Ltd

Marking its anniversary year with industry recognition, Shilton Hospitality was recently honoured with the Certificate of Appreciation for Best Workplace & HR Practices at the 5th Edition Bharat CSR & Sustainability Summit & Awards 2025. The award acknowledges the company’s sustained efforts in building a people-first culture, robust HR systems, and an inclusive workplace environment that empowers teams across all its brands.

Over the past two decades, Shilton Hospitality has expanded into a diverse portfolio spanning business hotels, experiential resorts, casual dining, music festivals, serviced corporate residences and event catering formats. Its presence today includes key markets such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, and Kabini, with new developments planned in Coorg, Chikmagaluru, Goa and Bengaluru, including the upcoming Fireflies Chikmagaluru and Sinclair Club Yelahanka slated for 2026.

Shilton International

Under its umbrella, Shilton Hospitality manages a diverse portfolio of six core brands, each crafted for distinct consumer segments. Watson’s and Watson’s Cantina both serve as the group’s popular casual dining and bar destination, while Fireflies offers serene resort and forest getaway experiences for leisure seekers. Shilton Hotels caters to both corporate and leisure travellers through its business hotel offerings. For events and large-format dining, 22 Catering delivers comprehensive solutions for corporate gatherings, celebrations, weddings, and private occasions. Rounding off the portfolio is Starlight, a budget-friendly neighbourhood bar format designed to offer accessible and familiar social spaces.

Shilton Hospitality attributes its consistency to robust operational frameworks, leadership selection, and fail-safe systems designed to elevate guest experience. The company prioritises intensive staff training and a strong risk-management approach built on its internal ICE framework.

Mr Anil Nagpal, Director, Shilton Hospitality, shared his perspective on the milestone, “Completing 20 years is both a milestone and a moment of reflection for us. What began as a business hotel in Bengaluru has grown into a multi-brand ecosystem that caters to diverse traveller needs, while staying true to our roots in service, culture, and consistency. Assimilating from our ongoing ventures, our divested portfolio of large-scale events, being the founding partners of Echoes of Earth music festival and our future expansion into new wellness resorts and sports and recreation club formats, the group reflects on the essence of familiarity with comfort, community connection and evolving aspirations of our guests. With upcoming projects in Chikmagaluru, Coorg and Yelahanka, we are excited to deepen our footprint in South India while ensuring every property feels distinctly local and unmistakably a hospitality by Shilton.”

As Shilton Hospitality steps into its next phase of growth, the focus remains on expanding its resorts and club properties while strengthening brand experiences rooted in culture, sustainability, and operational excellence. With two major launches, Sinclair Club and Fireflies Chikmangalur planned for 2026 and continued momentum in its hospitality and F&B businesses, the group is poised for a transformative decade ahead.

About Shilton Hospitality
Shilton Hospitality is a Bengaluru-based multi-brand hospitality group with a 20-year legacy in business hotels, dining, resort experiences, serviced corporate residences and catering services. With a footprint across major South Indian cities and leisure destinations, the group is known for blending locally inspired design, thoughtful service, and sustainable operating practices. Its portfolio includes Watson’s, Watson’s Cantina, Fireflies Resorts, Shilton Hotels, Starlight, and 22 Catering. The company continues to expand through a fully owned-property model, ensuring consistency, quality, and long-term value across every brand it operates.