SGT University‘s Faculty of Commerce and Management and the Corporate Connect Centre successfully organised an exclusive HR Meet titled “Re-Envisioning HR in the Era of AI” – bringing together top corporate leaders to decode how artificial intelligence is transforming the human resource industry.

SGT University leadership and faculty gathered with industry experts for the “HR Meet” Event

The Vice-Chancellor of SGT University, Prof. (Dr.) Hemant Verma, set the table by talking about the relevance of the topic at hand. “The HR department is quite possibly the most crucial wing of an organisation that determines its future as much as it impacts its present.” He welcomed all the esteemed guests of the meet and shared his excitement to hear and learn from their imparted wisdom.

Pro Vice Chancellor, SGT University, Prof. (Dr.) Jawahar Mal Jangir highlighted HR’s shift to a strategic, tech-driven role and called for stronger industry-academia collaboration. Dr. Kirti Dutta, Dean FCAM, highlighted that the era of “Human AI Resources” is dawning and thanked the industry for the partnership to build a job-ready workforce.

The event featured 2 separate panel discussions, featuring HR leaders from all corners of corporate India.

The first panel on “The Changing Face of HR – AI as a Game Changer” featured Ms. Sonal Kapur Sinha (Esme Consumer), Col. Tarun Vohra (Lumax Industries Ltd.), Mr. Pradeep Pandey (Grant Thornton), and Mr. Harsh Priya Arya (Jay Bharat Maruti Ltd.) and was moderated by Mr. Siddhant Chandel (ISDC). It was a freewheeling discussion where each guest talked about the latest AI and analytics integrations that they are using in their HR functions.

“Tools and technologies, including AI, are designed to augment our capabilities. Today, organisations seek individuals who can learn, adapt, and enhance their skills to stay current with technological advancements, driving organisational growth and success,” said Mr. Pradeep Pandey, Partner at Grant Thornton.

The second panel discussion on “Ethics, Empathy, and the Human Touch – Finding Balance in an AI-Driven HR World” featured Ms. Meetu Singh (KPMG), Mr. Gaurav Mehta (CVENT), Mr. Mukul Mathur (Rays Power Infra), Mr. Yogesh Raheja (Thinknyx Technologies), and was moderated by Dr. Vineet Mangal (Beewise Consulting). This discussion was focused on the Human in HR and how, in the midst of this revolution, we must not forget about the emotional intelligence that is actually needed to manage organisations.

Meetu Singh (KPMG) spoke eloquently on this topic. “Strong governance and proper validation are essential when implementing AI in HR or business operations. If not guided with the right prompts, AI can reinforce stereotypes and yield inaccurate or biased results-even when working with a strong database,” she said.

Mukul Mathur (Rays Power Infra) also added to the discussion, “AI is a powerful tool for processing and analysing large volumes of data. However, the final decision-making should remain with humans, who must apply critical thinking to interpret and use the insights smartly.”

The HR Meet was proudly supported by notable partners: ISDC (Knowledge Partner), Samatrix.io (Gold Sponsor), and Amar Ujala (Media Partner), who contributed to the events successful execution.

The event received exceptional feedback from SGT University students and faculty members, with each one of them promising to use the insights gained here in their future work. SGT University vows to continue holding such meets, which bring contemporary corporate knowledge to its campus.

Website: sgtuniversity.ac.in/index

The Aiwan-E-Ghalib Auditorium turned into a lyrical haven on Saturday evening as Nisschal Zaveri took the stage for Andaaz, an evening that paid homage to the soul of Urdu poetry through music that felt both personal and lasting.

Ghazal singer, producer and composer Nisschal Zaveri

The concert opened with Zaveri’s original composition “Kabhi Kaha Na Kisi Se” in Raag Miyan Malhar. Through a mix of classics and new compositions, he brought a fresh voice to the works of poets like Ghalib and Faiz.

A standout moment was the qawwali “Kar Qubool“, composed by Zaveri and performed for the first time. Its energy had the audience on their feet. The performance closed with a heartfelt version of Ghalib’s “Hazaron Khwahishein Aisi.“

Speaking after the concert, Zaveri said, “Ghazals hold a kind of stillness that lets you reflect. I wanted the music to feel real, without chasing applause. It was about creating a space where people could connect with the words in their own way, at their own pace. That’s what I hope they felt.”

The evening was anchored by Dastangoi artist Syed Sahil Agha. Among the guests was Shazia Ilmi, National Spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Zaveri was supported by Shamshir Ali on tabla, Arshad Khan on esraj, Rohan Kadam on keyboard, Abshar Ahmed on guitar, Eshwar Dayal on percussion, and Shashank Saha for sound engineering.

Andaaz brought music and poetry together in a way that stayed with the audience long after the concert ended. For many, it was a return to a genre that continues to resonate across generations, carried forward with Zaveri’s distinctive touch.

Instagram Link: www.instagram.com/nisschalzaveri/hl=en

Jagran Lakecity University proudly marked its 12th Foundation Day recently, with a vibrant celebration attended by distinguished guests, students, parents, faculty members and staff. Shri Bharat Sharan Singh, Chairman, MPPURC and Shri Radhelal Gupta, Chairman, State Bar Council graced the occasion as special guests. The event was held at the university’s sprawling Chandanpura campus, reflecting JLU’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and celebrated landmark achievements.

Celebrating Twelve Years of Purpose, Progress & Pride

Around 282 academic excellence awards and scholarships were presented along with 68 markers cups, 46 sports scholarships that commemorated academic achievements of outstanding students, recognizing their dedication and achievements across various disciplines. In addition, the university awarded the prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarships, further encouraging high academic standards and supporting talented learners.

Jagran Lakecity University honoured well-known journalist Shri Anurag Dwary, Resident Editor, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh, NDTV and Ramnath Goenka Awardee 2025, with its prestigious Ignited Minds Award for his stellar contribution to the practice of journalism.

On the occasion, Jagran Lakecity University and Indian Institute of Creative Skills, an institution affiliated with NSDC Academy and operated by Media Entertainment Skills Council under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, announced an exciting collaboration to establish a world-class creative centre at the university. This partnerships aims to empower and train individuals in the creative skills industry, providing top-notch education and opportunities.

The event coincided with the news that Jagran Lakecity University has been ranked number One multidisciplinary private university in Madhya Pradesh by EducationWorld India Higher Education Rankings 2025-2026. JLU is also ranked amongst top twenty three in all private universities in India in the same category. The award was received by Vice Chancellor JLU Prof. Dr. Nilanjan Chattopadhyay in Delhi.

JLU Ranked #1 in Madhya Pradesh & #23 in India by EducationWorld 2025-26

“Jagran Lakecity University takes impetus from and immense pride in its four pillars, amongst which student centricity is instrumental in all that we do,” said Prof Nilanjan Chattopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, Jagran Lakecity University. He further added, “The Foundation Day of the university is a reminder for all of us to never stop in our pursuit of high-quality education that capacitates the students to not just transform their lives but also the lives of the entire community. JLU being ranked number one in Madhya Pradesh in recently announced EducationWorld India Higher Education Ranking 2025-26 is a testament to our vision and impact.“

The Foundation Day celebrations also featured a series of captivating cultural programs, showcasing the diverse talents of JLU’s student body through dance, music, and drama performances. These artistic displays underscored the university’s holistic approach to education, blending rigorous academics with vibrant cultural engagement. Jagran Lakecity University continues to be a leading private university in Madhya Pradesh, offering over 50 degree programs and fostering an environment where students from across India and abroad thrive.

The 12th Foundation Day event not only celebrated past achievements but also reinforced JLU’s vision of igniting minds and changing lives through quality education and community spirit.

Following the widely referenced launch of its industry-first Enrollment Index 2025, Meritto today released a Trends Report titled “The Impact of Re-inquiries, Engagement, and Velocity in Student Enrollments“, shedding light on a new frontier in enrollment intelligence. While the original index spotlighted the growing dominance of digital channels, this new report shifts focus to the quality of engagement, revealing how students who re-engage through multiple touchpoints contribute significantly more to enrollments than those who inquire just once.

Meritto Enrollment Index Trends Report

The new report underscores a striking trend: While first-time inquiries account for the lions share of total leads (88.8%), they contribute only 55.68% of enrollments, with a modest conversion rate of 0.63%. Whereas 44% of student enrollments are driven by just 11.20% of re-inquired leads.

Among re-inquiries, secondary inquirers, those who engage with an institution through secondary sources, convert at a rate four times higher (2.69%), contributing 24.52% of enrollments despite representing only 8.64% of total leads. Tertiary inquirers, though comprising just 2.56% of all leads, convert at an even more impressive 7.24%, delivering 19.80% of enrollments.

The report reveals the critical role that timing plays in student enrollment decisions. While the majority of applications are submitted within the first five days of inquiry, those submitted after 30, 60, or even 90+ days indicate significantly stronger intent. In fact, students who complete applications even after 90+ days contribute to 6.5% of enrollments.

To help institutions navigate this evolving landscape, the report introduces a refined behavioral framework, segmenting students into three distinct categories: The Prepared Mind, On the Fence, and Unaware. Each group requires a tailored approach, ranging from seamless, low-barrier application experiences for ThePrepared Mind, to personalized nudges for those On the Fence, and deeper, more engaging interventions for the Unaware.

“This Trends Report of the Enrollment Index reveals a powerful shift from volume-first approaches to intent-first strategies,” said Naveen Goyal, Founder & CEO of Meritto (A Product of NoPaperForms). “As student behavior becomes increasingly non-linear, educational institutions need more than just leads, they need a framework that helps them identify high-intent leads early, re-engage effectively, and adapt to the evolving student journey. The insights shared here offer exactly that, helping institutions shift from assumptions to strategies grounded in real behavioral intelligence.” he further added.

The trends report underscores that the future of enrollment lies not in moving the fastest, but in engaging with intent and understanding student needs at every touchpoint. It calls on institutions to adopt dynamic, responsive engagement strategies that prioritize re-engagement, reduce mid-funnel drop-offs, and adapt to the unique rhythms of each prospective student’s journey.

Where the first edition of the Enrollment Index provided a comprehensive roadmap for educational institutions to optimize their strategies by analyzing regional trends, top-performing channels, and key conversion challenges, this edition urges them to personalize and prioritize. It’s a call to action for enrollment teams to move beyond funnel templates and towards dynamic, responsive engagement strategies grounded in student behavior, not assumptions. The report is now available for download at: Meritto Enrollment Index Trends Report.

About Meritto

Meritto is the flagship product of NoPaperForms. It is the Operating System for Student Recruitment and Enrollment, enabling educational organizations to grow revenue, boost productivity, optimize marketing ROI, and enhance student experiences. Meritto serves over 1,200 institutions across Higher Ed, EdTech, K-12, Study Abroad, Coaching, and Upskilling sectors.

About the Meritto Enrollment Index

The Meritto Enrollment Index is an industry-first initiative that maps the evolving dynamics of student recruitment and enrollment in India. Anchored in data, the Index provides enrollment teams, marketers, and education leaders with deep, actionable intelligence from traffic channel performance and regional trends to behavioral insights that shape student conversions. With each edition, Meritto advances the industrys understanding of what drives student decisions and what institutions must do to meet them where they are.

Deepak Pareek, storyteller, media entrepreneur, and the voice behind the much-loved podcast ‘The Chill Hour’, has been awarded ‘Best Show Host’ in the Arts & Entertainment category at the prestigious India Audio Summit & Awards 2025. With this honour, Deepak Pareek’s heartfelt podcast journey has earned national recognition which marks a defining moment in Pareek’s journey as a content creator dedicated to meaningful, unfiltered conversations.

Deepak Pareek receiving Award at IASA 2025 for his Podcast – The Chill Hour

Launched with a simple yet powerful vision to create a space for real talk, vulnerability, and personal growth, The Chill Hour Podcast has now become a staple in India’s growing podcasting scene. Over the course of 100 episodes, Deepak has hosted a wide range of voices from across industries: celebrated actors like Gajraj Rao, Adah Sharma, and Raghav Juyal; cultural icons like Shalini Passi; and rising stars from the worlds of sport, comedy, entrepreneurship, and art. His interviews dive deep into topics including mental health, self-improvement, relationships, creator economy, true crime, and modern-day identity.

Reacting to the win, Deepak Pareek said, “This award means the world to me, not just because it recognizes the work, but because it celebrates honest storytelling. The Chill Hour started as a passion project, a quiet space for real conversations in a loud world. To see it grow into something that touches so many lives, and now to be acknowledged on this stage, feels both surreal and deeply grounding. This one is for every guest who’s trusted me with their story, and every listener who’s made space in their lives for these conversations.”

From producing compelling conversations to building a thriving community of over 4 lakh followers, Deepak’s work continues to bridge storytelling with purpose. With this award, The Chill Hour enters an exciting new chapter, one that promises deeper dialogues, wider reach, and a growing impact on Indias cultural conversation.

Created and hosted by Deepak Pareek, ‘The Chill Hour’ is a podcast that brings together voices across entertainment, entrepreneurship, wellness, and culture for raw, reflective conversations. The podcast has completed 100 episodes and is available on all major audio & video platforms.

Among the other notable winners, Akashwani won a total of six Awards in various categories and former Union Minister Smriti Iranis programme ‘Nai Soch Nai Kahani – A Radio Journey with Smriti Irani’ was named Series of the Year on radio at the India Audio Summit and Awards, IASA 2025.

The third edition of the IASA awards was held in Mumbai on 25^th April, 2025. Director General of Akashwani Dr Pragya Paliwal Gaur graced the India Audio Summit and Awards 2025 as the guest of honour. India Audio Summit and Awards is a pioneering initiative dedicated to recognizing and honouring exceptional audio excellence and audio content production across Indias vibrant landscape. This platform seeks out and celebrates the most captivating and ground- breaking audio content, showcased on diverse platforms, from the realm of audiobooks to podcasts, radio, audio advertising and cutting-edge technology. The celebration embodies a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring a fair and unbiased forum for acknowledging trailblazing achievements.

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), a leading global medical technology company in partnership with Joint Commission International, launched their marquee patient and healthcare worker safety program Preventing Risks of Infections and Medication Errors (PRIME) in IV Therapy in 6 hospitals across India. These hospitals include Apollo Hospital, Greams Road, Chennai, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, Amala Institute of Medical Sciences, Thrissur, Apollo Hospital, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad and Apollo Hospital, Visakhapatnam).

Certification handing over at BD-JCI PRIME program

Since its launch in 2019, PRIME has been implemented in 30 hospitals from India so far. During the 6 months of the PRIME program, the participating hospitals are exposed to a unique programmatic approach towards patient safety. This comprises of goal setting, constant progress review, tele-consultations with experts and scientific updates through webinars. The hospitals, upon successful completion of the course are certified with PRIME – a Gold Standard benchmarked safety program.

Speaking about JCIs continued partnership of PRIME with BD, the Principal Consultant for Medication Management and Safety, Joint Commission International (JCI) said, “JCI is proud to have contributed to the advancement of patient safety through the development and continued mentoring support of the PRIME program, which is a unique training program which focuses on fundamental skills relating to medication preparation, medication administration and vascular access management.”

Participants from 6 new hospitals at BD- JCI PRIME program on infection prevention

Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India/South Asia said, “Aligned with our purpose of advancing the world of health, BD has been at the forefront of implementing safe and innovative technologies and training HCP’s continuously towards best practices and developing infusion capabilities for enhanced patient care and healthcare worker safety. Preventing risk of infection and medication error in healthcare settings is a key imperative to ensure patient and healthcare worker safety. Cognizant of this and committed to safe medical practices in hospitals, our PRIME program in partnership with JCI helps hospitals improve clinical outcomes and deliver quality patient care and safety.”

Both JCI and BD have continued to support the hospital healthcare professionals, management and staff with the PRIME program – both virtually and in-person, despite the challenging environment during and post the pandemic, witnessing the enhanced engagement and improved practices and patient outcomes.

About BD
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics, and the delivery of care. BD helps customers enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety, and expand access to health care.

Parimatch, the #1 global gaming platform, has launched a new ad to celebrate its ongoing partnership with the Argentina Football Association (AFA)-the reigning FIFA World Cup champions. The campaign is a bold invitation to football lovers all over the world to join the Team of Champions and win big!

Join the Team of Champions: Messi, Martnez, Fernandez in New Parimatch Ad

The video features two teams preparing for the game-AFA’s football stars, including Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez, Enzo Fernandez, Emiliano Martinez, Nicols Tagliafico, and the global fanbase behind them-millions of Parimatch players from around the world! While the athletes lace up their boots and warm up in the dressing room, fans gear up in Parimatch colors and make predictions on their favourites.

As the match begins and the game heats up, the line between players and fans blurs. On and off the field, they play for the same team-their hearts beat in unison, and every moment on the pitch sparks a shared emotion. A goal on the field echoes with a win in the Parimatch app-reinforcing the core message: One Game. One Passion. One Team!

Released at the peak of the football season, the ad perfectly captures the excitement of the global football community. Argentina, currently FIFAs top-ranked team, has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, achieving this before the conclusion of the qualifiers. Therefore the campaign’s message is clear: now is the time to stand together, believe in victory, and join the Team of Champions.

To further fuel the passion, Parimatch features a comprehensive lineup of football betting options across all major leagues-from Europe’s elite competitions to South America’s biggest showdowns. It’s all happening now-so don’t just watch the action, head to Parimatch and back your favourites.

“With this campaign, we wanted to highlight the powerful connection between the athletes on the field and the fans who live every moment alongside them,” commented the Parimatch Press Office. “As the Regional Sponsor of the Argentina National Team, our ongoing partnership with AFA is rooted in shared values-excellence, passion, and the relentless pursuit of victory. The Team of Champions is a tribute to everyone driven by the love of the game-whether youre scoring goals on the pitch or cheering for your heroes with a phone in hand.”

“At AFA, we are proud to continue our collaboration with Parimatch, our fifth Regional sponsor that shares our passion for football and our commitment to excellence,” said Leandro Petersen, Commercial and Marketing Officer of AFA. “This campaign captures the spirit of unity between our players and the millions of fans who support Argentina around the world. Together with Parimatch, we celebrate the idea that football is more than a game-it’s a global community united by passion and belief.“

Enjoy the video, join the Team of Champions with Parimatch, and win big this football season!

Managing unexpected or planned expenses has become easier than ever with the Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan. Whether it is for a dream wedding, higher education, medical emergency, or a long-awaited home renovation, individuals can now avail of a personal loan of up to Rs. 55 lakh, with a hassle-free application process and quick disbursal.

Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan

Bajaj Finance Limited, one of Indias leading financial services companies, offers a personal loan solution that brings flexibility, speed, and convenience to the forefront. With no collateral required and minimal documentation, this loan is an ideal option for salaried and self-employed individuals looking to manage their expenses comfortably.

Key Features of the Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan

• High Loan Amount: Borrow up to Rs. 55 lakh to fund your needs without compromising your aspirations.

• Flexible Tenure: Choose a repayment period ranging from 12 months to 96 months, based on your financial comfort.

• Instant Approval: Get approval in just a few minutes with an easy online application process.

• Minimal Documentation: Submit basic KYC documents, income proofs, and other documents to complete your application.

• Quick Disbursal: Once approved, the loan amount is credited to your account within 24 hours*.

• No Hidden Charges: Transparent terms and competitive interest rates make planning easy.
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These personal loans aim to provide customers with the flexibility to manage their expenses seamlessly while enjoying a simple, digital, and fast experience.

Plan Your Finances Better with the Personal Loan EMI Calculator

One of the standout tools provided by Bajaj Finance is the personal loan EMI calculator, available online for free. This easy-to-use tool helps applicants estimate their monthly EMIs based on the loan amount, tenure, and interest rate. By using the calculator, customers can plan their repayment journey smartly, ensuring they borrow within their comfort zone.

Here’s how the personal loan EMI calculator can assist:

• Instant EMI Estimate: Enter the desired loan amount and tenure, along with the interest rate, to view your potential monthly instalment instantly.

• Customisable Planning: Adjust the variables to find a combination that best fits your financial needs.

• Better Financial Management: Understand your repayment schedule beforehand to avoid any future financial strain.
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Using the personal loan EMI calculator ensures that borrowers can make well-informed decisions, avoiding surprises later.

A Solution for Every Need

The Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan can be used for a variety of expenses, including but not limited to:

• Medical Emergencies: Get immediate access to funds without worrying about hospital bills.

• Home Renovation: Give your home a new look without depleting your savings.

• Education: Invest in your skills with a stress-free funding option.

• Travel and Holidays: Plan your dream vacation without financial worries.
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No matter what your need is, a personal loan from Bajaj Finance ensures that your goals remain within reach.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan, applicants should:

• Be a resident citizen of India

• Be aged between 21 years to 80 years*

• Be a self-employed individual or a salaried individual employed with a reputed MNC, public, or private company

• Have a CIBIL Score of 685 or higher
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*Higher age limit at the time of loan maturity.

Conclusion

With high loan amounts, flexible repayment options, and quick processing, the Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan is a reliable financial tool to manage all kinds of expenses with ease. Plus, with the personal loan EMI calculator at your disposal, planning your loan becomes simpler and more transparent.

If you are looking to manage your expenses smartly and conveniently, apply for a Bajaj Finserv Personal Loan today and take a confident step towards fulfilling your financial goals.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 69.14 million customers. BFL has the highest domestic credit rating of AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing, A1+ for short-term borrowing, and CRISIL AAA/Stable & [ICRA]AAA(Stable) for its FD program. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BB+/Positive and a short-term rating of B by S&P Global ratings.

To know more, visit www.bajajfinserv.in.

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) – an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center (WTC) locations in nearly 100 countries and territories – and World Trade Center Marseille Provence have successfully concluded the 55th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France.

The World Trade Centers Association’s 55th Annual Global Business Forum in Marseille, France, hosted by World Trade Center Marseille Provence focused on Navigating Global Trade

The four-day event, which took place April 6-9, brought together WTCA members and their global networks, including leaders from business, government, academia, and international organizations. Each gleaned new insights on shifting global trade dynamics, cross-border real estate investments, the importance of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and sustainability efforts. Over 400 attendees across more than 50 countries and territories, and nearly 120 WTC businesses, gathered to forge new global business connections, and to learn about specific opportunities in Marseille, a popular Mediterranean port city and the oldest city in France.

With the theme, “Gateway to the Mediterranean,” the Forum helped attendees amplify their businesses’ growth and international reach, further elevating WTCA’s core mission, “Connecting Businesses, Globally.” The event included more than 20 workshops, plus various keynotes, panels, local company tours and over 500 business-to-business (B2B) meetings. In addition, GBF attendees learned more about the Marseille region’s business climate, including: its strategic position as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets; the city’s wide range of thriving industries, from maritime and logistics, to digital technology and biotechnology; and its ongoing infrastructure investments. Select WTC businesses also participated in the “Connections Showcase” to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated with those they met at the WTCA GBF.

This year also marked WTCA’s first dedicated Real Estate Summit during the GBF. During this portion of the event, global experts analyzed the state of commercial real estate, including its role in driving economic growth, and ways in which sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation continue to shape the future of developments. Additional topics of discussion included hyper-growth areas like data centers and logistics facilities.

Amid shifting global policies and economic uncertainties, the WTCA network showcased at this year’s Forum how it continues to be a vital and resilient force, fostering dialogue collaboration and trust across borders. Sessions held throughout the GBF focused on how the role of trade organizations is not only increasingly relevant, but is more indispensable than ever as businesses are actively seeking guidance, access and a global perspective. Leveraging its unparalleled global network, WTCA showcased how its members bridge market gaps and open doors to new business opportunities, while also elevating a city’s global profile and connecting it to the world economy. To help in strategic business planning, WTCA’s members around the world are able to provide on-the-ground information and valuable resources that can be shared throughout the network to create more cross-border connections.

“Our annual Forum stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when business leaders from around the world come together in the spirit of collaboration – and that’s precisely where the WTCA network excels,” said John E. Drew, Chair, WTCA Board of Directors. “In today’s climate, WTCA remains committed to promoting free and fair trade, open markets and healthy competition. We believe these principles foster an environment that attracts investment, drives prosperity and fuels economic growth. Through our global network of independent WTC operations – built on trust and collaboration – we actively support these principles by facilitating international business connections and trade opportunities worldwide. This year’s GBF showcased the real value of connection: forging strategic partnerships between our WTCA members and local/international business delegates; opening new pathways to trade; and reaffirming our shared commitment to free, fair, and open commerce. Together, we will continue to ‘Keep Calm and Trade On.’ We are thankful to WTC Marseille Provence for hosting such a wonderful event to demonstrate the power of our global network.”

Speaking during one GBF session titled “Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025,” Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), outlined the intergovernmental organization’s role in navigating new trade policies, including the implementation or threat of tariffs. Her advice for GBF attendees was to remain level-headed and to consider not just the immediate effects, but the broader, long-term effects on global stakeholders.

Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence, also said of the event, “This year’s GBF underscored the vital role the Marseille region plays in shaping the future of international trade – we offer a thriving environment for innovation, industry and global collaboration. In partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Internationale) Provence Alpes Cte d’Azur, we united to host a B2B matchmaking platform that resulted in over 500 B2B meetings, connecting delegates from around the world with each other as well as with local Marseillaise companies. We are proud to have hosted an event that actually goes beyond dialogue – sparking real connections to catalyze regional and international business growth.”

The 2025 WTCA GBF concluded with a ceremonial announcement of next year’s host during a Gala Dinner sponsored by Turkish Airlines. The 56th annual WTCA GBF is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, USA from April 19-22, 2026, and will be hosted by WTC Greater Philadelphia.

Internationally acclaimed Curator Captain Rahul Bali curated the first ever Aizawl International Half Marathon in Mizoram in the most spectacular manner amidst a large number of dignitaries, celebrities and thousands of enthusiastic participants from across India and the globe.

Bollywood Actor Sara Khan and Sports Minister of Mizoram Pu. Lalnghinglova Hmar flagging off AIHM

This first-of-its-kind Half Marathon was jointly organised by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India in Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on Saturday 26th April 2025. The event marked a historic moment for Mizoram as it was not just a marathon, it was a step towards empowerment, development and national integration echoing the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modis vision of Developing North East and nation building.

Held under the aegis of Athletics Federation of India in association with KHELO INDIA Programme and FIT INDIA Movement, the AIHM saw the participation of more than 1500 runners from different states of India like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana and countries like England, Kenya & Ethiopia.

His Excellency the Governor of Mizoram Gen (Dr) V K Singh and the Honourable Chief Minister of Mizoram Pu. Lalduhoma were the Chief Patrons while The Sports & Tourism Minister of Mizoram Pu. Lalnghinglova Hmar along with GM NFR Sh. Arun Kumar Choudhary and ED RDSO Sh. Anil Verma were the Patrons. Advisor to Ministry of Railways, GOI and Ex GM NFR Sh. Anshul Gupta was the Mentor of this coveted sporting event which is bound to shape the future of sports in Mizoram.

The flag off ceremony also saw the presence of Popular Bollywood Actress Sara Khan, who flew in from Mumbai specially to attend this event as well as scout for some unexplored, exotic and mesmerising locations in Mizoram for her upcoming movie.

A lot of sponsors and partners like NF Railway, NEC, Mizoram Tourism, Sports & Youth Services Department of Mizoram, Department of LSDE, MPFA, Mizoram Athletic Association, Assam Rifles, Indian Army, Vietnam Airlines, JMV LPS Ltd, TEECL, GG Tronics, Bellurbis Technologies & Ardeco Design Build expressed their solidarity with Aizawl International Half Marathon and contributed immensely towards organising this mega event.

His Excellency the Governor of Mizoram Gen (Dr) V K Singh presided over the Prize Distribution Ceremony and gave away the prizes and medals to the winners of different categories of races namely 21.1k, 10k, 5k & Junior Race.

The Minister for Tourism & Sports Pu. Lalnghinglova Hmar said that Mizoram has never seen an International Half Marathon of such magnitude ever. He expressed his gratitude to AFI and Innovations India for their splendid efforts in making this event a grand success. The Sports Minister also announced that the Aizawl International Half Marathon will be an annual event and is expected to see many folds increase in the participation next year.