Manipal Academy of Higher Education organized the 1^st Convocation for its graduating cohort of online students on 8^th February 2025. The convocation was held for 426 students who successfully completed postgraduate programs including MBA (Master of Business Administration), MSc in Business Analytics, MSc in Data Science, PGCP in Business Analytics, and PGCP in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, through a 100% online mode. The in-person convocation ceremony was held in Manipal, at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) campus.

Over 426 students graduated at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) campus

As per UGC guidelines, “The online degree is recognized as equivalent to the conventional degrees offered on campuses and students can apply for all job opportunities and higher education as per their eligibility.” Manipal Academy of Higher Education launched its first batch of online degree programs in September 2022.

The Convocation was inaugurated by the Chief Guest of the day, Dr HS Ballal – Pro Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education. The event was presided over by other top dignitaries including Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh – Vice Chancellor, Dr Narayana Sabhahit – Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science), Dr Sharath K Rao – Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr Dilip G Naik – Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr Madhu Veera Raghavan – Pro Vice Chancellor (MLHS & Head – MAHE Bangalore campus), Dr Giridhar Kini P – Registrar, Dr Vinod V Thomas – Registrar, Evaluation, Dr Manojkumar Nagasampige, Director – Directorate of Online Education, and the Guest of Honor, Mr Ambrish Sinha, CEO – UNext Learning.

Addressing the graduates’, Dr Ballal said, “This unique event marks a significant milestone not only in the lives of our graduates, but the history of our institution as we adapt to the evolving times.“

The online graduates comprised of working professionals from diverse backgrounds and industries. The graduates were thrilled to visit the university campus and were excited to receive their degree certificates and meet their peers & faculty in person.

To learn more about the online programs offered by Manipal Academy of Higher Education or enroll, visit www.onlinemanipal.com.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education is one of India’s leading academic and research institutions with a NAAC A++ rating and prestigious Institution of Eminence (IoE) recognition. The institution has been offering world-class education across diverse streams since 1953. It is ranked #4 by NIRF and has a track of notable alumni like Satya Nadella, Vikas Khanna, and Dr Devi Prasad Shetty.

MAHE’s integrated Learning Management System (LMS) gives access to extensive e-learning material, recorded sessions, webinars, doubt clearing sessions, quizzes, assignments, and more. MAHE’s online learners get free access to Coursera courses and certifications during the course of the program. MAHE’s online learners are also offered placement assistance in the form of skill assessments & enhancement, industry-readiness sessions, resume building, and virtual placement drives.

MAHE currently offers 7 degrees & certification programs in online mode and caters to 8,600+ learners across 7 programs from 44 countries and over 25 states.

Asyad Group, Oman’s global integrated logistics provider, reinforces its leadership in international trade and breakbulk logistics at Breakbulk Middle East 2025, held in Dubai on February 10-11. Engaging with key industry players, Asyad drives discussions on the transformation of global supply chains, the future of breakbulk logistics, and the increasing significance of the GCC and MENA regions in global trade connectivity.

Asyad Participates In Breakbulk Middle East 2025

Juma Al Uraimi, Acting Chief Commercial Officer at Asyad Group, underscores the Group’s vision for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable logistics sector. “The landscape of breakbulk logistics is rapidly evolving, driven by the intersection of large-scale industrial projects, digital innovation, and sustainability imperatives,” he says. “Asyad is committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies and integrated multimodal solutions to enhance trade flows and position Oman as a critical gateway in global supply chains.”

Asyad’s leadership contributes to key panels examining digital transformation in logistics, supply chain optimization, and infrastructure investment, reinforcing Oman’s emerging role as a strategic logistics hub linking global markets. Discussions also focus on the rising demand for logistics solutions supporting renewable energy projects.

Reggy Vermeulen, CEO of the Port of Duqm, emphasizes Oman’s growing role in the energy transition, with logistics playing a critical role in transporting wind turbines, solar panels, and other oversized equipment essential for clean energy infrastructure.

Juma Al Maskari, Director at Asyad Logistics, highlights the projected USD 300 billion expansion of contract logistics, underscoring Asyad’s role in streamlining global trade and optimizing supply chain costs. He emphasizes how Oman’s geographic positioning and logistics infrastructure provide a competitive advantage for international businesses.

Asyad’s leadership in hydrogen logistics is also a focal point, with Tom Anneberg, VP Commercial Strategy & Product Development, showcasing the Group’s support for large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia ventures in Salalah Freezone. These projects reinforce Oman’s role as a key player in the global clean energy supply chain.

With over 60% of logistics providers investing in AI, IoT, and automation, the industry undergoes a digital transformation. Asyad remains at the forefront, harnessing its USD 4.1+ billion logistics ecosystem to drive innovation, enhance trade efficiency, and strengthen Oman’s position as a global logistics powerhouse.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at

www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/.

When it comes to investing, a common tendency is to follow the herd – invest in stocks that are gaining in popularity or selling those that are out of favour. However, better opportunities can often be found by going against the tide and spotting or leveraging trends that the market is yet to recognise.

Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund follows a contrarian investing strategy

This is what makes the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund comparatively different. The fund follows a contrarian investing strategy, seeking to generate long-term return potential by investing in undervalued opportunities.

The New Fund Offer period for the scheme began on Thursday, February 6^th, 2025, and is on till Thursday, February 20^th, 2025.

This article tells you more about the distinct features of the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund and how it seeks to leverage contrarian investing to create the potential for long-term wealth building.

Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund and contrarian investing

Contrarian investing is a strategy where investors go against popular market trends. The core belief is that markets often overreact to news and act out of fear, greed or overconfidence, causing some stocks to be undervalued or overvalued.

So, instead of following the crowd, the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund will seek out fundamentally strong stocks that others are avoiding because of temporary fear or bad news and sell stocks that others are chasing. Thus, it will seek to identify hidden opportunities. These could arise from business cycles, management transitions, underappreciated growth opportunities, turnaround stories, temporary business disruptions and cyclical movements, among others.

This approach will allow the fund to buy stocks at undervalued rates and potentially earn returns over time if the market recognises the security’s intrinsic value.

Here are some key features of contrarian investing:

• Goes against market trends – Invests in stocks that are currently out of favour; avoids stocks that are overpriced owing to popularity.

• Focuses on undervalued stocks – Looks for companies with potential for long term growth that the market has overlooked.

• Requires patience – Investments may take time to show returns.

• Based on deep research – Involves analysing fundamentals rather than following market sentiment.

• Seeks long-term gains – Aims to benefit when the market corrects itself.

• Minimizes emotional decisions – Avoids panic selling and trend-driven buying.

Professional management

Contrarian investing requires patience, research, and confidence, as it may take time for the market to correct itself and reflect a stock’s intrinsic worth. It can also be risky, as not every contrarian approach – especially one not grounded in strong fundamental and behavioural analysis – may pay off. This is where the mutual funds offer an advantage, as they are professionally managed. With the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund, our investment experts will make buy and sell decisions regarding the portfolio, based on contrarian investing strategies, allowing even laypersons and new investors to benefit from this nuanced approach.

Balancing risk and reward across market caps

Combined with this contrarian approach is the benefit of diversification. Being a multi cap fund, this scheme invests across large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks. Large cap stocks lend relative stability to the portfolio, while mid cap and small cap stocks offer significant long-term growth potential, though with more risk.

Moreover, historical stock market data shows that the winning market cap changes across market cycles – meaning that not any single market cap always comes out on top. In some years and cycles, large caps have outperformed, while in others, mid caps or small caps have been the leaders. Thus, by combining all three in its portfolio – with a minimum 25% exposure to each – the fund will seek to leverage diverse market opportunities.

*Past performance may or may not be sustained in the future.

Who should invest in this fund

The Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund could be suitable for investors who:

• Prefer a long-term approach rather than short-term speculation

• Seek long-term wealth creation with 5+ years

• Are comfortable with market fluctuations

• Want a diversified portfolio with disciplined exposure to large cap, mid cap, and small cap stocks

How to invest in the Bajaj Finserv Multi Cap Fund

Investors participating in the New Fund Offer period (i.e. from February 6^th, 2025, to February 20^th, 2025) can buy units at a face value of Rs. 10 each. When the fund reopens for subscription in a few business days, investors can purchase units at the prevailing Net Asset Value. The investment routes include:

• Directly through Bajaj Finserv AMC offline or online (www.bajajamc.com)

• Through a registered mutual fund distributor

• Through Registrar and Transfer Agent KFintech

• Through aggregator platforms

Investments, both Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) and lumpsum, start at Rs. 500. Those considering starting an SIP in the scheme can take the help of a mutual fund SIP calculator to plan their investments. Lumpsum investors can similarly use a lumpsum calculator.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Lords Mark Industries Limited, a distinguished company known for its diverse portfolio, has been awarded the prestigious NavaBharat CSR Award 2025 in the Healthcare category. The grand ceremony took place at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai, where industry leaders and achievers were recognized for their exceptional contributions to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Lords Mark Industries Limited Honoured at NavaBharat CSR Summit & Awards 2025

Mr. Sachidanand Upadhyay, Managing Director, Lords Mark Industries, was recognized as a CSR Hero for his outstanding efforts in driving impactful healthcare initiatives. On his behalf, Mr. Vinay Sarda, Director, Lords Mark Industries Ltd., received the award from Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra.

The award is a testament to Lords Mark Industries unwavering commitment to social welfare, particularly in the healthcare sector. Through its various CSR initiatives, the company has exemplified the true spirit of philanthropy, inspiring change, and fostering progress toward building a New India.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Sachidanand Upadhyay, Managing Director, Lords Mark Industries said, “At Lords Mark Industries, we believe that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right. This recognition reinforces our commitment to driving meaningful change through sustainable and impactful healthcare initiatives. As we work towards a Viksit Bharat, we remain dedicated to empowering communities and fostering a healthier and stronger India.”

Lord’s Mark Industries operates through key subsidiaries, including LordsMed, Lord’s Mark Insurance Broking Limited, Lord’s Mark Biotech, Lords Mark Microbiotech, and Lords Automative Private Limited, along with verticals in renewable energy products and paper. Committed to innovation and excellence, the company continues to expand while upholding the highest quality standards. Diversification remains the foundation of Lord’s Mark Industries sustained growth and success.

About Lord’s Mark Industries Ltd
Incorporated in 1998, Lord’s Mark Industries Private Ltd. (Lord’s) has made impressive growth starting from paper to LED to Renewable energy and making grand in the medical diagnostic industry. Lord’s and its subsidiaries have made a mark in Electric Vehicle, Genome Testing, Pharma and Healthcare. Growth through diversification has become the trend setter and has been the cornerstone of success at Lord’s.

Websitelordsmark.com.

The 6^th edition of Pluxee Select, the exclusive webinar series designed to inspire, educate, and empower Pluxee consumers, once again delivered an enriching experience. As a platform that connects attendees with visionaries from diverse fields, Pluxee Select continues to spark meaningful conversations and learning.

Pluxee Selects 6^th edition featuring Rahul Bose delivered an enriching experience for users

This edition featured Rahul Bose-acclaimed actor, social activist, and president of the Indian Rugby Federation-who shared his remarkable journey of passion, purpose, and perseverance.

Since its inception, Pluxee Select has been a gateway to knowledge and inspiration, featuring industry leaders who bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights. Past editions have hosted luminaries such as Saina Nehwal, Ashwin Yardi, Anshoo Sharma, Paddy Upton, and Lisa Ray, each adding depth to this knowledge-sharing initiative.

Harish Sarma, Marketing and Product Director, Pluxee India, said “Pluxee Select is where knowledge meets inspiration. By bringing leaders from different walks of life to share their experiences, we empower our consumers to grow-both personally and professionally.”

The latest edition received an overwhelmingly positive response, reinforcing Pluxee’s mission to make life more joyful and meaningful for everyone. As Pluxee continues to innovate, consumers can look forward to more engaging and insightful sessions with thought leaders from various domains.

As a trusted partner in the world of employee benefits, Pluxee is redefining workplace engagement and well-being. Through innovative, tech-driven solutions-from meal benefits to holistic well-being offerings-Pluxee is committed to creating personalized and sustainable experiences for employees and organizations alike. Pluxee Select is one such initiative that brings the power of knowledge, leadership, and inspiration directly to its consumers.

About Pluxee India
Pluxee is a leader in employee benefits and motivation, supporting businesses in attracting, engaging, and retaining talent through a broad range of solutions across Meal, Wellbeing, Learning, Rewards & Recognition & whole range of other offerings. With 27+ years of expertise in India, Pluxee partners with 11,000+ companies across the public and private sectors also fostering a trusted network of 150,000+ merchant partners on meal and 5 million+ merchants on other benefits. Every day Pluxee India works to support 3.5 million+ consumers in 1,800+ towns nationwide.

Powered by innovative technology and a dedicated team, Pluxee India delivers meaningful and personalized experiences through a single card and app to enhance the well-being of its consumers at work and beyond. Carrying forward a 45+ year global legacy, Pluxee is committed to creating a positive impact on local communities, promoting sustainability, and enabling its stakeholders to do what matters the most.

For more information visit www.pluxee.in.

• Manipal Marathon 2025 A Grand Success with Over 20,000 Runners.

• Over 7,000 virtual runners from across the globe took part in the event.

• Over 300 visually impaired individuals and more than 200 participants with physical disabilities took part in the event.

Over 20,000 runners participated in the 7^th edition of Manipal Marathon 2025 organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), one of the largest student-led marathons in India. The resounding success of the 7^th edition of the Manipal Marathon reiterated the MAHE’s commitment to health, fitness, innovation, inclusion, and community engagement. The theme for this year’s marathon is “Innovation in Motion: Embracing Technology for Health & Fitness“.

Runners in action at the 7th edition of Manipal Marathon, celebrating fitness, inclusion, and innovation

A groundbreaking addition to this year’s event was the “Manipal Global Virtual 5K Run,” introduced for the first time in India. This unique initiative allowed runners from all over the world to participate remotely, making the marathon more inclusive and accessible to a global audience. As many as 7000+ runners from all over the world participated virtually.

300 visually impaired and 200 physically challenged shine at Manipal Marathon 7th Edition

Over 100 international athletes from across countries USA, France, Germany, England, Trkiye, Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, Japan, Uganda, Malawi, Congo, Ghana, Sudan, Abu Dhabi UAE, and Australia participated in the marathon with great enthusiasm and cheer. However significant highlight of the Manipal Marathon is its strong focus on inclusivity collaboration with Samarthanam Trust & Ganga Foundation encouraged participation from over 300 visually impaired and over 200 physically challenged individuals from across India.

Electrifying start to the Manipal Marathon 7th Edition

MAHE extends its heartfelt gratitude to its title sponsor, ICICI Bank, SBI, UNEXT, BOBCARD and all other sponsors for their unwavering support in making Manipal Marathon 2025, a resounding success.

The event was graced by respected dignitaries including:

• Shri Shashi Kumar Nayak, Zonal Head, ICICI Bank, Karnataka flagged off the 42K

• Shri Alok Kumar Dwivedi, Deputy General Manager, SBI, flagged off the 21K Run

• Shri Ambrish Sinha, Chief, UNEXT Learning, who flagged off another 10K Run

• Shri Ravindra Rai, Managing Director & CEO, BOBCARD Limited, flagged off the 5K Run

Along with Shri Yashpal Suvarna, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Udupi, Dr. K Vidya Kumari, I.A.S., Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate, Udupi, Dr. Ranjan Pai, President, MAHE Trust, Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice-Chancellor, MAHE. The event was further distinguished by the presence of university officials and esteemed dignitaries from the district and other sponsors.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, said, “The Manipal Marathon is more than just a race; it is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. This year’s theme, ‘Innovation in Motion,’ reflects our dedication to integrating technology into health and fitness.”

Addressing the gathering Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh VSM, (Retd) Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “Technology is reshaping the way we approach fitness. This marathon highlights the power of digital transformation in engaging runners worldwide and promoting a healthier future.”

Fitness enthusiasts and students from across districts performed Zumba & fitness sessions to celebrate the Manipal Marathon

The names of the winners across various categories are:

Full Marathon (42 KM)

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Sachin Poojary

2^nd Prize: Nanjundappa M

3^rd Prize: Cheruiyot Daniel

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: Lesharge Senait Kefelegn

2^nd Prize: Aasa TP

3^rd Prize: Shakuntala Devi

Half Marathon (21K)

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Ankush Hakke

2^nd Prize: Kiptoo Abraham

3^rd Prize: Shivam Yadav

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: KM Laxmi

2^nd Prize: Nandini G

3^rd Prize: Molleshwari

10K Marathon:

Fastest Male

1^st Prize: Love Chaudhary

2^nd Prize: AR Rohit

3^rd Prize: Ankit Indoliya

Fastest Female

1^st Prize: Smitha D R

2^nd Prize: Nitu Kumari

3^rd Prize: Shreya M

For media inquiries and further information, please contact: the Director PR and Communications Ph: 08202922953 or dpr.manipal@manipal.edu

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Times Prime, Indias premier digital lifestyle membership platform, announces its third annual Members Fest, reimagined with a Valentines Day theme. The “Love All Members Fest” will run from February 7th to 14th, offering exclusive deals and daily giveaways through partnerships with leading lifestyle and entertainment brands.

Times Prime Launches Valentine-Themed Members Fest with Premium Brand Partnerships

The week-long celebration features IGP, Indias prominent gifting platform, as the title partner, providing Times Prime members with daily complimentary gifts throughout the festival. This strategic collaboration amplifies the festivals focus on premium lifestyle experiences and thoughtful gifting.

“Valentines season is about celebrating relationships, and were extending this spirit to our relationship with our members,” says Harshita Singh, Business Head of Times Prime. “By partnering with leading lifestyle brands, were creating a festival that delivers exceptional value and elevates our members lifestyle experiences.”

Key Brand Partnerships and Offers Include:

• Premium Dating Experience: Exclusive 2-month Tinder Plus memberships for select members

• Dining & Entertainment: Buy-one-get-one offers from Pizza Hut, complemented by Cinepolis couple movie vouchers worth Rs. 500

• Travel & Lifestyle: Ixigo flight discounts of Rs. 1,000, along with premium vouchers from DailyObjects and Geetanjali

• Beauty & Indulgence: Complimentary Renee lipsticks and Smoor chocolates at store locations

The festival also introduces all-day offers, including curated IGP products at Rs. 199, 30% off at Flower Aura & Bakingo, and exclusive discounts on the Times Prime Signature Collection at Giva.

New members can join Times Prime during the festival at a special rate of Rs. 1,059 (regular price Rs. 1,299), with additional benefits through payment partners Mobikwik and Pay with Rewards.

“This year, we are excited to be the Powered by Partner for Times Primes’ For the Love of All Members Fest, perfectly aligning with our campaign Amazing Gifts, Samay Par. At IGP, we are thrilled to treat Times Prime members with delightful surprises that enhance their celebration and make every moment even more special.” Sushant Shukla – AVP Digital Marketing.

“Having collaborated with Times Prime on several occasions, we’re thrilled to be part of another exciting celebration for its members. We’re passionate about rewarding users for their spending, and this fest provides the perfect opportunity to elevate their experience with even more savings and benefits.” Shailesh Gnanaprakasam, VP – Growth, Pay with Rewards.

About Times Prime

Times Prime, part of the Times of India Group, is Indias leading digital lifestyle membership platform, offering premium access to coveted brands across dining, travel, and entertainment sectors. The platform focuses on curating exclusive experiences and unmatched value for its member community.

Quintessence, an intra-school festival that celebrates passion, culture, and collaboration, was held on the Jamnabai Narsee Campus, Mumbai. The festival – a vision brought to life by Trustee Mr. Sujay Jairaj, in its third edition, is a testament to the collective enthusiasm of students from five schools, Jamnabai Narsee School in Mumbai, and GIFT City(Gujarat), Jamnabai Narsee International School in Mumbai & Chatrabhuj Narsee School in Mumbai and Pune.

Trustee Sujay Jairaj with Amruta Fadnavis at Quintessence 3.0 hosted at the Jamnabai Narsee Campus, Mumbai

This year, the spirited participation of more than 1,900 students in over 200 sports and performing arts events that happened simultaneously, across two days was witnessed.

“Quintessence is a testament to the diverse capabilities of our students. The exhilarating celebration of both athletic prowess and artistic talent provides students a platform to showcase their skills and creativity,” says Trustee Mr. Sujay Jairaj.

The name Quintessence, representing the most perfect example of a quality or class, perfectly aligns with the festivals essence. Symbolized by the logo Joie de vivre, denoting the exuberant enjoyment of life, Quintessence was conceived to foster a celebration of students talents, both on the field and in creative and performing arts.

Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, an Indian banker, Actor, Singer, and Social Activist who was present at the opening ceremony says, “Quintessence is more than just a festival – it’s a celebration of passion, talent, and teamwork. Seeing so many students come together at the Jamnabai Narsee Campus to express themselves through sports and the arts is truly inspiring. Platforms like these shape young minds, build confidence and create lasting memories.”

“This festival sparks personal growth, fosters teamwork, and highlights the joy of collective success. It’s a stage for collaboration and a true reflection of the dynamic spirit that thrives across our schools,” says Trustee Ms. Minal Thacker.

Quintessence continues to cultivate a sense of belonging and pride among the school communities, creating an environment where excellence and joie de vivre converge and is celebrated by the students, teachers & families. It’s a powerful reminder of how both athletics and the arts shape character, inspire excellence and create unforgettable memories.

Discover the true spirit of Quintessence:
Instagram – www.instagram.com/quintessence_intraschoolfest/
www.instagram.com/jamnabai.narsee.school/