Continuing its winning run at the national competitions, Chandigarh University (CU) won the Overall Championship Trophy at the 38th Inter University National Youth Festival-2024-25 organised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) by winning 24 medals including 11 Gold, 4 Silver and 2 bronze medals in 28 competitions which featured over 2400 students from 148 universities across India.

Winning Team of Chandigarh University along with the overall championship trophy during 38th AIU Inter University National Youth Festival

Chandigarh University became the Overall Champion at the 38th Inter University National Youth Festival-2024-25 with its contingent of 49 students demonstrating excellence across various categories by winning 1st position in 11 competitions including Procession, Cartooning, Rangoli, Western Vocal Solo, Western Instrumental, Group Song Western, Folk Dance, Elocution, Debate, Skit and Mine.

With its marvelous performance, Chandigarh University team also has earned accolades and medals by securing 2nd position in 4 competitions including Non-Percussion, Folk orchestra, Classical Dance and One act play. Chandigarh University students also secured 3rd position in two competitions including College and Percussion, 4th position in Light Vocal Indian and 5th position in Classical Vocal solo.

Congratulating Chandigarh University students for their outstanding performance at 38th Inter University National Youth Festival, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chandigarh University Chancellor, Satnam Singh Sandhu said, “With this Chandigarh University has become the only private University in India to win AIU’S Overall Trophy three times in five years. Prior to this, Chandigarh University had has lifted the Overall Championship Trophy at the 36th AIU Inter-University Youth Festival 2023 and 35th AIU Inter-University Youth Festival held in 2020. Chandigarh University had also lifted the Overall 1st Runners-up Trophy at the 37th AIU Inter- University Youth Festival 2024. This shows the dominance of Chandigarh University in the field of culture at the national level since its inception in 2012. Its inspiring to see Chandigarh University students excel not just academically but also in cultural pursuits.”

Besides becoming ‘overall champion’, this outstanding performance helped Chandigarh University secure 1st position in overall Literary competitions, overall 2nd position in Theatre, Music and Dance categories in the 38th Inter University National Youth Festival-2024-25. Held at Amity University from 3 March to 6 March, this Festival brought together 2407 students from 148 universities across India to showcase their talents, creativity, and cultural diversity in 28 competitions. Over 1000 universities from various parts of the country competed in the AIU’s zonal competitions. All the 148 teams which participated at 38th Inter University National Youth Festival 2024-25 were the winners of zone-wise inter-university competitions held by AIU into 8 Zones i.e. Central, Southeast, South, West, East, Northeast, North and Northwest Zone.

Chandigarh University had earlier emerged as the overall champion at the 38th Inter-University North Zone Youth Festival 2025) at Punjab University, Chandigarh. This was for the fourth time that Chandigarh University lifted the overall North-Zone AIU Trophy by winning 26 trophies in different categories including 1st position in eight competitions, 2nd position in 5 competitions, 3rd position in 7 competitions in addition to 1st Overall trophy in Theatre, Dance, and Literature, 2nd Overall trophy in Music and 3rd Overall trophy in Fine Arts and Procession.

Expressing delight over the outstanding performance of Chandigarh University students, Chandigarh University Senior Managing Director Deep Inder Singh Sandhu said, “We are proud of the talent showcased by our students in the 38th Inter University National Youth Festival which is a vibrant platform for the expression of creativity, talent, and innovation among our young minds. Chandigarh University’s becoming the overall champion by securing top honors across multiple categories in this prestigious competition highlights the exceptional versatility and talent of the students. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our students. Their efforts, combined with the invaluable guidance and support from our faculty and staff, have played a crucial role in making this victory possible.“

“Since its inception, Chandigarh University has taken pride in nurturing exceptional talent in theatre, dance, and music. Our focus is on promoting new talent and mentoring them for success, with a strong emphasis on holistic development. We equip students with the skills needed to excel in their fields, and as we celebrate this achievement, we remain committed to fostering creativity and shaping individuals who will contribute significantly to society,” he added.

He also shared that a budget of Rs 4 Crore has been allocated by the university to promote culture, art, and theatre on the campus. In addition, Chandigarh University offers scholarship to more than 150 students every year based on their talent.

“With an aim to promote new talents in fields of art and culture and mentor them for greater heights of success, Chandigarh University has always laid a special emphasis on holistic development of students and enrich them with all the skills required to make a mark in respective fields. Department of Student Welfare with competent Directors and artists organizes various workshops and conferences to train students in the field of art and culture. In addition, several curricular events are organized from time-to-time to enable students to realize their potential and showcase their talents,” Deep Inder Singh Sandhu added.

About Chandigarh University
Chandigarh University is a NAAC A+ Grade University and QS World Ranked University. This autonomous educational institution is approved by UGC and is located near Chandigarh in the state of Punjab. It is the youngest university in India and the only private university in Punjab to be honoured with A+ Grade by NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council). CU offers more than 109 UG and PG programs in the field of engineering, management, pharmacy, law, architecture, journalism, animation, hotel management, commerce, and others. It has been awarded as The University with Best Placements by WCRC.

For more information, please visit www.cuchd.in.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the 450-bedded Namo Hospital in Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The Rs. 460 crore facility is a state-of-the-art healthcare institution, designed to provide advanced medical services to the region. The Prime Minister also launched multiple public welfare projects worth over Rs. 2,500 crore, including new hospitals, schools, and critical infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing public services and healthcare accessibility.

PM Modi Inaugurates Indias 1st AI Total Knee Replacement Robotic System – MISSO at Namo Hospital, Silvassa

During his visit, PM Modi reviewed the 3D model of the upcoming hospital, appreciating its modern medical infrastructure. A significant highlight of the event was the demonstration of Misso, India’s first indigenously developed AI-powered robotic system for knee replacement surgery, presented by Meril’s CEO, Mr. Vivek Shah.

“At Meril, we are committed to developing innovative, world-class technologies that not only enhance surgical precision but also improve clinical outcomes and patient recovery. Misso represents a proud milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in advanced medical technology,” said Mr. Vivek Shah, CEO, Meril.

This cutting-edge technology is poised to revolutionize orthopedic surgeries in India, offering greater precision and improved patient outcomes.

The Prime Minister expressed keen interest in the innovation and technological advancements driving India’s healthcare sector. He emphasized the importance of indigenous medical technology in making high-quality healthcare more accessible. The launch of Namo Hospital marks a crucial step in strengthening India’s medical ecosystem and reaffirms the country’s commitment to world-class healthcare infrastructure.

About Meril Life Sciences
Meril is a leading global medical device manufacturing company based in India that has been pivotal in establishing India as a leader in the global medical devices industry. The companys strong focus on research and development (R&D) and commitment to quality have allowed it to offer cutting-edge medtech solutions in more than 150 countries. Additionally, Meril has a large presence in India with wholly owned subsidiaries in the USA, UK, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Brazil, South America, Australia & Asia.

With its strong commitment to innovation and quality, Meril has transformed healthcare in India and created significant footprints across the globe. Through global partnerships and the use of advanced technology, the company prioritizes quality and adherence to international standards, fostering a thriving R&D environment. Merils efforts have effectively established India as a center for medical device innovation and production.

In June 2024, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an advisory on ‘Gender Equality in the Civil Aviation Sector,’ urging industry stakeholders to increase the representation of women in various roles to 25 per cent by 2025. The advisory emphasises the need to promote greater female participation in the aviation workforce and implement leadership and mentorship programmes for women. It also recommends return-to-work policies for women resuming their careers and specialised training programmes for cabin crew to expand their skill sets.

Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman Sky One

In line with this push for gender equality, pilot recruitment has emerged as one of the most pressing areas of demand in the aviation industry. Earlier this month, while launching the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for Pilots, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said that India will need approximately 20,000 pilots shortly to support the sector’s rapid growth.

Taking a cue from the Minister’s words, industry experts highlight that since pilots are the backbone of civil aviation, encouraging more women to enter the profession will not only help meet the growing demand but also accelerate progress toward the DGCAs goal of achieving 25 pc female representation in the sector.

“Recently, we have seen reports of the Ministry of Civil Aviation informing Parliament that one in every seven pilots employed by six major airlines in India is a woman, which is a highly positive development. According to official data, women make up 15 per cent of India’s pilot workforce, compared to the global average of just 5 to 6 per cent. So, attracting more women to the profession will be a major step toward achieving gender parity in the aviation sector,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.

He adds that increasing the number of women pilots can help reduce reliance on foreign pilots and strengthen the domestic talent pool. “A well-structured action plan should be implemented to encourage more women to pursue careers in aviation, beginning with early awareness programmes. Educating young girls about aviation and its diverse career prospects along with opportunities to interact with successful professionals can spark their interest and fuel their aspirations,” says Mr Mirchandani.

He says that collaborative efforts between organisations like Women in Aviation International, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, and leading women aviation professionals can play a major role in increasing awareness. “Scholarships, government schemes and educational loans specifically designed for girls can help them overcome the financial challenges associated with pilot training, particularly in the case of low-income families,” adds Mr Mirchandani.

He also underscored the importance of airlines adopting gender-neutral recruitment policies to ensure women have equal opportunities. “Equally important is retaining existing women pilots through supportive schemes, inclusive leave policies and strict enforcement of zero-tolerance policies against sexual harassment,” concludes Mr Mirchandani.

Kick off your shoes, sip tropical drinks and feel the upbeat spirit of Patong Beach, Phuket’s most vibrant tourism hub, at Endless Summer Beach Club – the exciting new drink, culinary and nightlife venue at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort.

Endless Summer Beach Club – Where stunning views meet vibrant vibes in the heart of Patong, Phuket

Nestled on the edge of Patong Beach, overlooking the golden sand and shimmering sea, Endless Summer blends the laid-back bliss of a beachside hideaway with the dynamic energy of a nightclub. With live DJs, sunset events and after-dark parties – plus creative cuisine and cool drinks – this stylish venue sets the stage for every occasion.

Throughout the day, Endless Summer invites all ages to unwind and soak up the poolside vibes. Whether lounging on a cozy daybed, catching some rays on a sun lounger, or taking a dip in the infinity pool, families, friends and couples can all enjoy enchanting afternoons, enhanced with a wide range of refreshments and panoramic views of Patong’s crescent-shaped bay and the endless Andaman Sea.

Then, as day turns to night, Endless Summer turns up the energy levels as it transforms into a lively venue for evening drinks, beachfront meals, and upbeat parties. Revelers can look forward to a dazzling line-up of live music, as talented Thai and international DJs spin the tunes and set the mood, from chilled beachside vibes to high-energy club beats. A constantly evolving calendar of fresh experiences, such as weekend brunches and exclusive parties, will excite residents and visitors alike.

An eclectic all-day dining menu showcases international favorites and sharing plates, all crafted using premium, locally sourced ingredients. Seafood is a specialty, with a selection of oceanic delicacies either grilled to perfection or served raw and pure, including the finest French oysters and the signature iced seafood bucket. A series of tropical-inspired main courses, such as healthy salads and sublime sandwiches will cater to every comfort food craving, and the live grill presents the finest produce from land and sea, including whole grilled Andaman sea bass and prime Australian ribeye steak. Whether at the end of a meal or just as a daytime treat, guests can indulge their sweet tooth with delectable desserts, including local specialties like pineapple & mint salad, Phuket banana pancakes, and more than 10 flavors of gelato or sorbet.

Endless Summer is also a haven of mixology with handcrafted drinks such as the signature Velvet Sunset (cherry, grapefruit & lime) and Endless Summer Margarita (homemade pineapple agave, pineapple & lime), plus shared jugs, drink buckets, and draft drinks – including craft ales from Phuket’s Full Moon Brewworks. And of course, guests can also sip fine drinks by the glass or bottle, premium spirits with mixers, tropical juices and plenty of soft drinks.

Endless Summer Beach Club is open daily from 11am till midnight (11:00 – 00:00 hrs). So, whether couples are searching for a chic setting for romantic sundowners or friends are planning to ignite their night with fun conversations and sparkling seafront parties, Endless Summer can set the scene for every occasion. Come and discover how this vibrant venue is redefining the social scene in Patong Beach!

Want to see what’s waiting for you at Endless Summer Beach Club Click here to check out our video!

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 (0) 76 349 888, email cy.hktcp.fbsales@marriott.com, or visit endlesssummerbeachclub.com.

To learn more about all the dining and social venues at Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort, please click here.

Download hi-res images here.

About Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With over 1,310 locations in over 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travelers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests are able to work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. For more information or reservations, visit courtyard.marriott.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

• Located in Navallur, the residential community comprises 118 luxury 3,4 & 5 BHK independent villas with exclusive land ownership.

• Sprawled across 6 acres of land, DRA Inara boasts of 50+ thoughtfully designed amenities with 3BHK homes starting at Rs. 1.70 crores.

DRA, the pride of Chennai’s real estate, today announced the launch of its first-ever luxury independent villa community- DRA Inara, in the city. The project boasts of 118 exquisite luxury units with complete and exclusive land ownership, a first-of-its-kind offering in the Chennai real estate market. With a significant investment of Rs. 100 Crores, DRA Inara is located in Navalur, one of the fastest growing micro-markets on Chennai’s IT corridor – OMR.

DRA Inara – Luxury Villa

Sprawled across 6 acres of lush, serene land, DRA Inara offers home owners a selection of 3,4 and 5 BHK luxury independent villas. The villa sizes range from 3, 4 & 5 BHK (1952 – 3697 sq. ft.) ensuring spacious and luxurious living for every homeowner. Strategically located in Navalur, one of Chennai’s rapidly developing residential hubs, DRA Inara offers seamless connectivity to major IT corridors, educational institutions, healthcare centers, and entertainment zones, making it an ideal choice for modern urban living.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director-DRA, said, “DRA has long been synonymous with trust and on-time delivery, and we take immense pride in bringing that commitment to the villa segment with Inara. As Chennai’s first-ever ultra-luxury villa project with exclusive land ownership, we are once again redefining the city’s real estate landscape, making it more customer-centric and beneficial for homebuyers. With an investment of Rs. 100 crores, we have meticulously designed Inara to set new benchmarks in luxury living. Every aspect of Inara has been crafted to provide an unparalleled living experience, from world-class amenities to a thoughtfully designed community that exudes luxury and comfort. Located in Navallur, one of Chennai’s fastest-growing residential hubs, this project enjoys unmatched connectivity and is poised for tremendous value appreciation. Inara is not just a home; it is a lifestyle investment.”

The community is meticulously designed to offer 50+ thoughtfully curated amenities, ensuring an elevated lifestyle that blends luxury with comfort. The development features a modern, world-class clubhouse with facilities such as a gym, indoor games, swimming pool, poolside loungers, steam room, shower room, and laundromat. Additionally, the community boasts a reflexology pathway, senior citizen seating, aroma and herb garden, barbecue lounge, solar-enabled street lights, avenue trees, 24×7 security, and power backup, catering to the needs of all age groups.

DRA Inaras luxury independent 3BHK villas start at Rs. 1.70 crores, setting a new benchmark for premium living spaces in Chennai. The project is registered under TN RERA – RERA NO: TN/35/BUILDING/0438/2024 (Dated 26.07.2024) & TN/35/BUILDING/0053/2025 (Dated 13.02.2025).

For further information about the project kindly contact +91 9840350001 or log on to drahomes.in/villas-in-omr-navalur-chennai/dra-inara

About DRA

DRA, with an impressive legacy of 40 years, has become a trusted name in the real estate industry, delivering world-class projects across Chennai. With more than 12,000 satisfied customers DRA is synonymous with trust, transparency, and timely delivery. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, DRA goes beyond just building apartments by offering its customers a ‘Home of Pride’ – thoughtfully designed living spaces that cater to evolving lifestyles and embody a sense of accomplishment and belonging. Innovations like the ‘Timeline Meter’ for project updates and the ‘Customer Delight Meter’ reflect their unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, while their online customer portal ensures hassle-free access to project details and documentation. Signature developments such as DRA Pristine Pavilion, Tuxedo,Ascot, Skylantis, Elite, Infinique and many others exemplify their commitment to blending modernity with value-driven investments. Recognized with awards like FICCI’s REISA and Times Business Awards, DRA holds the distinction of being Chennai’s first developer with 7-star grading. Their social responsibility initiatives include pond restoration and nurturing young sporting talent, which highlight their dedication to the community. Upholding their motto Timeless Home, Timely Delivery, DRA continues to inspire pride and trust in every home they create, turning dreams into lasting legacies.

Imagining a professional painter. Is it a man or a woman Now imagine a world free from gender stereotypes. This International Women’s Day, AkzoNobel India is celebrating its ‘Indradhanush’ women who are challenging the status-quo in the male-dominated industries of decorative painting with the transformative power of paint.

Kashmira Begum, our Indradhanush paint retailer now better supports her family with the incremental income in Horwah, West Bengal

In under four years, AkzoNobel’s social initiative, Project Indradhanush has created a new sustainable livelihood-driven ecosystem for more than 3,100 rural women in in more than 940 villages across seven states of India. Noteworthy that over 2,100 women are now vocationally trained, financially independent professional painters while another 1,000 women are successful paint-preneurs.

Celebrating every Indradhanush woman, Rohit Totla, Executive Director of AkzoNobel India said, “At AkzoNobel, we believe that communities flourish when women thrive. The true magic of Project Indradhanush lies in harnessing the untapped potential of rural women – from introducing opportunities in the paint industry and helping them develop livelihood-linked vocational skills to providing necessary resources for their success. What we’re most proud of is seeing our Indradhanush women carve out new careers and paint the future, both for themselves and their families. A future that’s more equitable, empowered and colourful for all.”

For thousands of women, like 40-year-old Avanti Bai Dhakad – a seasonal agricultural labourer from Nagari village in Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh – Project Indradhanush has been life-changing. Through decorative painting, she found not only a source of stable income but also a newfound sense of confidence and independence. Likewise, Anil and Antim Balas dream of growing their income from their small general store is now a reality. After becoming paint-entrepreneurs, their monthly income has increased by 70%, giving them the hope and means to build a brighter future for their young children.

Initiated in Darrang, an aspirational district in Assam in 2021, Project Indradhanush has since then rapidly expanded, touching more lives with each passing year. Today, the initiative empowers rural women across nearly 270 villages in Villupuram, Thiruvallur and Kanchipuram districts of Tamil Nadu; over 480 villages in Howrah, Bankura, West Bardhaman, Purulia, East Midnapore districts of West Bengal; nearly 120 villages in Ujjain, Ratlam and Mandsaur districts of Madhya Pradesh; 30 villages in East Singhum, Jharkhand; and in the Nuh district in Haryana.

For more information, please visit www.akzonobel.co.in.

Gurugram-based firm combines expertise, transparency, and client-first values to empower informed real estate decisions, today and tomorrow. Asset Deals, a leading real estate consultancy based in Gurugram, completes the 14-year journey of transforming property transactions into trusted partnerships. While celebrating the occasion, the company also charted an ambitious roadmap for the future. Founded in 2009 by Mr. Vineet Chellani, the firm has grown from a local brokerage into a Delhi NCR powerhouse, driven by an unwavering commitment to integrity, client satisfaction, and community impact.

Asset Deals

A Vision Built on Trust, Fueled by Innovation
“Real estate isn’t just about transactions-it’s about shaping lives, today and for generations to come,” says Mr. Vineet Chellani, Founder & CEO of Asset Deals. With an MBA from IIFT and over 15 years of industry experience, Chellani’s leadership has anchored the firm’s reputation for transparency and reliability. “Our journey so far has been about setting benchmarks, but the road ahead is about reimagining them. We’re investing in cutting-edge tools to simplify property research, enhancing our B2B partnerships to unlock value for developers, and doubling down on training our team to anticipate market shifts. Every client today isn’t just a transaction-they’re a partner in our vision to make Delhi NCR’s real estate market synonymous with trust.”

Ms. Khushee Singh, COO of Asset Deals, highlights the firm’s evolving client-first philosophy, “The pandemic reshaped how people view property-homes are now sanctuaries, offices are hybrid spaces, and investments demand agility. We’ve adapted by curating tailored portfolios for remote work-friendly homes, sustainable commercial spaces, and future-ready investment opportunities. But our core remains unchanged: to listen deeply, guide patiently, and ensure every decision aligns with our client’s evolving aspirations. This balance of tradition and innovation is what sets us apart.”

Present Momentum: Bridging Ambition with Action
Today, Asset Deals serves as a bridge between Delhi NCR’s aspirational clients-individuals and businesses with monthly incomes exceeding Rs 1.5 lakh-and their property goals. Their 100% transparency guarantee, coupled with a dual focus on residential and B2B services, has positioned them as a catalyst for secure, strategic decisions.

The company has also recently launched virtual property tours and AI-powered market analytics tools to empower remote decision-making. Besides, it has also undertaken team Empowerment which includes upskilling 75+ employees with certifications in digital real estate management and client relationship tech, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Further, it has also partnered with local NGOs to provide housing guidance for underserved communities, aligning business growth with social responsibility.

With its eyes set on the future Asset Deals aims to expand its team prioritizing talent from Gurugram and Delhi NCR to drive inclusive growth. The firm will also strengthen its hyper-localized service hubs across Delhi NCR, ensuring clients receive personalized attention without compromising the warmth of a community-centric approach. Moreover, it will also push its ‘Green Properties’ vertical, curating eco-friendly residential and commercial spaces to meet the rising demand for sustainable living.

“Our growth isn’t just about numbers-it’s about deepening relationships,” explains Chellani. “We’re building a future where Asset Deals isn’t just a consultant but a lifelong partner. Imagine a client returning to us a decade later, not just to buy a second home but to invest in a project we’ve co-created. That’s the trust we’re nurturing.”

Ms. Khushee Singh adds, “The Delhi NCR market is dynamic, and so are we. From integrating blockchain for secure transactions to hosting monthly client education workshops, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve-while never losing sight of the human stories behind every deal.“

About Asset Deals
Asset Deals is a Gurugram-based real estate consultancy specializing in residential and B2B property solutions. Founded in 2009 on principles of transparency and client empowerment, the firm has guided thousands of clients through informed property decisions. With a growing team of 75+ professionals and plans to expand to 250 members by 2024, Asset Deals is redefining real estate through innovation, integrity, and community impact.