Bengaluru hosted a pan-India college-student ideathon, the EcoInnovators Challenge, focused on creating sustainability related solutions leveraging emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and other science-based innovations. The ideathon was a collaborative effort between Global Learning Council (hosted by the Villars Institute, Switzerland), in partnership with Axilor Ventures and Pratithi Investments. A similar ideathon, in partnership with School Net, was held last week in New Delhi for high school students.

GLC Ideathon event – Winners with key dignitaries

The initial phase of the GLC EcoInnovators Challenge was launched in October 2024, attracting over 2600 registrations and resulting in the submission of more than 250 ideas. From this initial pool, 13 teams were selected and invited to submit their solution demonstrations. Demonstrating strong inclusivity, this competition saw participation of top-tier colleges in India including the IITs, NITs, VIT, as well as colleges from non-metropolitan areas such as Dehradun (Uttarakhand), Raipur (Chhattisgarh), Sasaram (Bihar), and Tiruchengode (Tamil Nadu).

In the Ideathons second phase, a Demo Day was held yesterday at the Infosys Science Foundation, with around 100 additional students specially invited from selected colleges in Bengaluru. The finalists presented a variety of ideas and solutions related to areas such as biodiversity, water pollution, circular economy business model, air pollution, and energy management. A masterclass on “Towards Sustainable Development: Planetary Boundaries and the Potential of AI” was also conducted.

Team Navachar, Navya Tiwari and Navjivan Kumar Mehta from O.P. Jindal University (Raigarh, Chhattisgarh) secured the top prize. As a recognition of their achievement, the team members have received an invitation to attend the Global Learning Conference organized by GLC in Switzerland scheduled in June 2025.

Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys, Chairman of Axilor Ventures, and Advisory Board Member of GLC, said, “In its second edition, I am glad that the GLC ideathon has expanded in scope and reached more students across India. I am glad that the jury / evaluation process has learned from the first year and become more robust. I encourage students to use their own creativity and ideation rather than just rely on technologies such as generative AI.”

Subra Suresh, Founder and President of the Global Learning Council, added, “This Ideathon fulfils the key objectives of both GLC and Villars Institute – nurturing the creativity of young people in solving inter-generational challenges, improving the learning outcomes of students, and encouraging the use of science and technology to ensure our planet’s vibrant ecosystems. I am delighted that student teams chosen from the Bengaluru and New Delhi Ideathons will join us in Switzerland and interact with other students and global leaders.”

Other distinguished guests who attended the event include S.D. Shibulal, Co-founder Infosys, Anna Celner, a global business leader, Indumathi Nambi, Professor at the School of Sustainability, IIT Madras, and V. Ganapathy, Co-founder and CEO of Axilor Ventures.

JK Cement Ltd., one of the leading building materials company, announced its successful bid for 250 million tonnes (MnT) of high-quality limestone reserves for the next 40 years in Lakhpat Punrajpur, Kutch, Gujarat, with the Request for Proposal floated by Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. (GMDC). This marks a strategic milestone for JKCement and further strengthens its growth trajectory and operational footprint in Gujarat.

(L to R): Mr Roopwant Singh, MD, GMDC, Mr. Anuj Khandelwal, Business Head – Grey Cement, JK Cement Ltd.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Amit Kothari, Group President – Group Strategy & New Business Development, JK Cement Ltd., said, “The successful bid for the Lakhpat limestone block underscores our commitment to driving growth and operational excellence in Gujarat. This strategic partnership not only strengthens our resource base but also highlights our focus on ensuring a steady supply of premium raw materials for high-quality cement production. Moreover, this milestone aligns with our vision of sustainable development, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to Gujarat’s industrial ecosystem and economic growth.”

The strategic partnership of limestone block positions JKCement for long-term resource security. The reserves guarantees a steady supply of high-quality limestone, that will enable JKCement for consolidating its presence in the West market in the near future.

About JK Cement Ltd.
JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975.

The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 24.2 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd.

In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth.

Dave & Busters, America’s premier entertainment and dining destination popular for its arcade games, social gaming, bowling, and immersive experiences, announces its highly anticipated entry into the Indian market with its flagship outlet at Mantri Avenue in Koramangala, Bangalore. This marks a significant milestone for the brand as it expands internationally for the first time, to India, offering guests a unique blend of American and locally inspired Pan-Asian cuisine alongside a wide array of exciting entertainment options.

The first Dave & Busters Outlet in India, Bangalore

This expansive 27,000 sq ft venue will offer a state-of-the-art midway filled with world-class games, many of which are being introduced to India for the first time, such as Godzilla VR, NBA hoops, Pacman roller, and so on. Guests can also experience competitive social gaming and Indias first bowling experience, which features Nitro Lighting and Sparks combined. These cutting-edge attractions promise a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere designed to create lasting memories for friends and families.

“The Malpani Group is committed to bringing new experiences and entertainment to India. By bringing Dave & Busters to India, we look forward to elevating the gaming and arcade experience,” said Shreya Malpani, the Director of the Malpani Group. “With Bangalores booming food and beverage scene, there is a strong demand for a place where friends and families can have fun and spend time together. Dave & Busters perfectly fills this gap, offering a space for families, friends, colleagues, and people of all ages to enjoy. Dave & Busters will also be progressively expanding across India, with plans to open 15 new locations shortly, beginning with the next store launching in Mumbai. The inaugural store in Bangalore will pave the way for an exciting journey that promises growth and success for both our companies.”

Talking further about Dave and Buster’s opening in India, the Chief International Development Officer at Dave & Busters, Antonio Bautista, says, “This is a momentous occasion for Dave & Buster’s as we expand into India, a market with a dynamic culture and a growing appetite for premium entertainment. Bangalore, known for its energy and innovation, is the ideal city to launch our journey in India. Partnering with the Malpani Group marks a pivotal milestone in our global growth strategy, as we continue to bring the ‘Eat, Drink, Play, and Watch’ experience to new audiences worldwide. With a robust pipeline spanning seven countries across four continents in 2025, this launch reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class experiences and introducing our brand to one of the most vibrant and exciting regions in the world.”

This partnership between Malpani Group and Dave & Buster’s Entertainment Inc. supports Dave & Buster’s expansion strategy of combining global expertise with local market insight. Each Indian location will feature a tailored menu with regional flavors, localized pricing models, and unique gaming experiences designed to resonate with local audiences.

Founded in 1982, Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc. operates over 200 venues globally, offering a blend of dining, drinking, gaming, and socializing. Dave and Busters India will offer a diverse menu at the in-house restaurant with a seating capacity of over 300 pax. From American classics, Pan-Asian specialties, with their signature dishes like the Busters Smashed Burger, Chicken Wings, Kebab Platter, 5 Cheese Flatbread, and the Bangalore Summer Fresco. Beyond the delicious food, the curated drinks menu features Mr. Perfect, What the Fish, Happiness in Hand, Saffron Sour, and various mocktails as well.

Dave and Buster’s offers a wide range of games, starting from a price range of Rs 160 up to Rs 799, featuring Mario Kart, Halo 4P standup, D&B Vw Plush crane, Fruit Ninja, Jurassic Park Theater, Super Mania, Dance Dance Revolution and so much more.

With Bangalore leading the charge, Dave & Buster’s is poised to become a household name in India, offering guests a one-of-a-kind destination to eat, drink, play, and socialize like never before.

For more information on Dave & Buster’s India visit- www.daveandbustersindia.com

About Dave & Buster’s

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Coppell, Texas, Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc., is the owner and operator of over 200 venues in North America that offer premier entertainment and dining experiences to guests through two distinct brands: Dave & Buster’s and Main Event. Dave & Buster’s locations feature a unique combination of dining, games, and immersive entertainment, making it a global leader in the competitive socializing space.

About The Malpani Group

The Malpani Group from Sangamner, India is a well-diversified business house with interests in renewable energy, FMCG products, real estate, hotels, and more. However, the groups success story goes beyond its diverse portfolio of businesses. Currently, the Malpani Group is one of the leading owners and operators of amusement and waterparks in India. They operate Indias largest theme and water park, Imagicaa, along with five other parks in India. Their amusement and water parks have become popular destinations for families, thrill-seekers, and tourists, offering a unique and immersive experience for all ages.

Tavasya SSF, a Category 1 Special Situations Fund, announces the successful initial close of its second scheme “Tavasya Mudrikaran Scheme II” – a scheme with a fund size of Rs. 200 Crores which was launched on 01^st January 2025.

Mr. Navneet Garg, Founding Partner, Tavasya Capital Managers LLP (Investment Manager)

Tavasya SSF is a Category I Alternative Investment Fund (Special Situation Fund) established in the last quarter of 2023. The fund was set up by Ms. Shivani Singla and Mr. Navneet Garg who bring in a blend of experience spanning the international markets and the distressed assets space in India.

The initial close of the second scheme comes within six months of the successful close of the first scheme of Tavasya SSF with a fund size of Rs. 400 Crores.

Tavasya Mudrikaran Scheme II intends to co-invest with leading Asset Reconstruction Companies of the country to acquire debts of distressed companies.

This model of investment blends the stability of Asset Reconstruction Companies with the flexibilities offered by Alternate Investment Funds platforms.

This investment strategy has found favour with evolved investors which is evidenced from the fact that despite the SSF category being a new investment theme, the Tavasya Mudrikaran Scheme II, was met with investor commitments from leading domestic family offices and HNIs.

Statements from the Founders

“This growing interest from sophisticated domestic investors reflects the market perception of higher certainty in outcomes in distressed assets transactions in India and bodes well for this sector,” Shivani Singla – Founding Partner, Tavasya Capital Managers LLP (Investment Manager).

“We believe that with blend of a deep understanding of the distressed asset space in India and proprietary access to distressed opportunities, Tavasya SSF is uniquely positioned to identify and deploy in opportunities at levels lower than their intrinsic values and deliver superior portfolio returns to our investors,” Navneet Garg – Founding Partner, Tavasya Capital Managers LLP (Investment Manager).

• The workshop activities covered various types of cyber-attacks such as spyware, viruses, ransomware, and worms as well as “cyber hygiene” and cyber security measures to protect digital assets

The Chennai-based Unified Voice Communication, a leading Voice over IP (VoIP) service provider in India and Philippines, recently organised a one-day workshop on cybersecurity. This initiative aimed to equip IT networking and infrastructure management professionals with the latest knowledge and tools to counter evolving cybersecurity threats.

Unified Voice Communication Conducts Cybersecurity Workshop; Announces Partnership with VTF University, USA

The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from IT professionals such as IT heads, system administrators, network engineers, and infrastructure management experts across IT and ITES sectors in the city. The sessions were led by two eminent cybersecurity experts: Mr. Tarun Malhotra, Lead Auditor in Cybersecurity, and Mr. Dheeraj Sharma, Cybersecurity Specialist.

The topics covered included: The workshop covered various types of cyber-attacks such as spyware, viruses, ransomware, and worms known as malware; phishing, spoofing, backdoor trojan, password attacks, IoT attacks, and cryptojacking. Participants were sensitised to use strong passwords, update software, exercise caution before clicking on links from unknown sources, enable multi-factor authentication, and other “cyber hygiene” measures.

During the event, Unified Voice Communication announced a significant partnership with VTF University, USA-a nonprofit organisation dedicated to advancing cybersecurity education globally. Under this collaboration, Unified Voice Communication has been appointed as the program’s representative and subject matter expert in India. This partnership will enable the delivery of specialized certification programs, workshops, and interactive training sessions in cybersecurity, further enhancing professional education for Indian IT professionals.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Krishnan Nagarajan, Director, said that taking strong cybersecurity measures provide a wide range of benefits for organisations such as: protection of sensitive data, prevention of financial loss, business continuity, enhanced reputation, rapid incident response, increased customer trust, and compliance with regulations.

He also pointed out that cyberattacks have grown increasingly sophisticated. However, human error remains the leading cause of damage to digital assets. It requires the right knowledge and tools to prevent cyberattacks.

Mr. Krishnan Nagarajan added that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility among internet service providers (ISPs), system administrators, and end users. “Hence, as a leading ISP committed to fostering a safe digital environment for our clients, we organised this workshop to share insights into the latest cybersecurity threats and trends. And to provide hands-on experience for the participants in configuring firewalls, setting access controls, and ensuring compliance with security standards such as HIPAA and SOC2.”

On the strategic collaboration with VTF University, he noted “We are proud to collaborate with VTF University to deliver cutting-edge cybersecurity education and training. Participants will earn 1 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credit for every 50 minutes spent in Unified Voice Communication-led sessions, helping professionals maintain their skills and credentials.”

For more details, please visit: www.unifiedvoice.in

About Unified Voice Communication
Unified Voice Communication, headquartered in Chennai, offers a comprehensive range of telecom services, including: VoIP solutions, Free unlimited calls, Business SMS, and Virtual receptionists. As a Tier 1 service provider with over 20 years of expertise and a team of 100+ professionals, the company has a strong presence in the Indian cities of Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, Noida, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, besides Manila and Delaware. Its offerings include inbuilt call analytics, single routing plans, and SIP termination protocols, ensuring seamless and efficient communication solutions.

HDFC Life is delighted being the preferred life insurance partner of SATYA MicroCapital Ltd. which will help in improving access to life insurance in underserved areas. This collaboration underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing the financial security needs of diverse population and expanding access to life insurance in regions where it is most needed.

HDFC Life and SATYA MicroCapital Ltd. Collaborate to Strengthen Financial Inclusion with Life Insurance

SATYA MicroCapital Limited operates across 26 states and nearly 350 districts with a network of over 830 branches. The organisation has been working towards bridging the financial inclusion gap by supporting a significant number of rural women entrepreneurs and fostering local economies. The partnership seeks to build on SATYA’s existing efforts by introducing life insurance as an additional layer of financial security.

HDFC Life brings a diverse portfolio of products designed to meet the needs of individuals across different demographics, along with a proven record of delivering on its promises, as reflected in a claim settlement ratio of 99.50% for FY24. The partnership aims to align these strengths with SATYA’s grassroots presence and technology-driven approach to reach previously untapped communities.

Sharing his views on the collaboration, Vivek Tiwari – MD & CEO, SATYA MicroCapital Limited, stated, “We are extremely ecstatic to partner with HDFC Life, which marks a significant milestone in our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs across India. By integrating life insurance services into our offerings, we not only enhance the financial security of our clients but also provide them with the tools they need to thrive on their entrepreneurial journeys. This collaboration reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting women in achieving their dreams while ensuring their families are protected. Together with HDFC Life, we aim to create a robust ecosystem that fosters growth, resilience, and sustainability for every woman entrepreneur we serve.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Vineet Arora – Chief Business Officer – Distribution, Data & Technology, HDFC Life, commented, “This partnership reflects our shared vision of extending financial security to more people across India. SATYA MicroCapital’s work in promoting financial independence and inclusion aligns closely with HDFC Life’s mission to make insurance accessible to all. Together, we aim to take meaningful steps towards achieving the broader goal of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’.”

• ReNews Gift Warmth campaign achieved a major milestone, distributing 1 million blankets since 2015, and supporting vulnerable communities nationwide

• The 10th edition provided around 200,000 blankets this winter, reinforcing ReNews commitment to social impact

ReNew Energy Global Plc (Nasdaq: RNW, RNWWW), a leading decarbonization solutions company, has successfully concluded the 10th edition of its annual Gift Warmth campaign. Marking a historic milestone, ReNew has achieved its ambitious target of distributing one million blankets since the initiatives inception in 2015, with the final batch distributed at the ongoing Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Sh. Pushkar Singh Dhami, Hon’ble CM of Uttarakhand, distributed blankets in Dehradun under ReNew’s ‘Gift Warmth’ campaign, which has provided 1 M+ blankets since 2015

This year, ReNew distributed around 200,000 blankets across key regions, including Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, NCR, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat. The Kumbh Mela distribution on 23 January, at the hands of Shri Nand Gopal Gupta, Minister for Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI & Investment Promotion, Uttar Pradesh government, brought the total to a remarkable one million blankets. This milestone underscores ReNews steadfast commitment to aiding vulnerable communities during harsh winters.

This year’s campaign witnessed the presence of leaders at the blanket distribution drives, including Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, in Rudraprayag; Shri Vijay Sharma, Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, in Raipur; Shri Inder Singh Parmar, Cabinet Minister in Madhya Pradesh, in Ujjain and Ratlam, and Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Minister of State for Forest, Environment & Climate Change Odisha in Mayurbhanj. Their participation underscored the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to supporting vulnerable communities during the harsh winter months.

The Gift Warmth initiative has grown significantly over the past decade, addressing the severe impact of extreme winters on underserved populations, which have become more frequent and intense due to climate change. Working closely with local authorities, ReNew has ensured the effective identification and support of individuals and communities most affected by cold waves, extending its outreach to shelters and remote areas. This year alone, blanket distribution drives reached district, tehsil, and village levels, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals.

Ms. Vaishali Nigam Sinha, Co-founder and Chairperson of Sustainability, ReNew, reflected on this remarkable journey, “Gift Warmth embodies ReNew’s mission to create a meaningful social impact. Achieving the milestone of distributing one million blankets is a testament to the dedication of ReNewers and the unwavering spirit of collaboration with local communities. It is inspiring to see how this initiative has evolved into a movement of compassion and care, and we remain committed to scaling such impactful efforts in the future.”

ReNew’s Gift Warmth campaign sources blankets from small-scale businesses, reinforcing its commitment to supporting local economies alongside providing critical winter relief. What began as a modest endeavour to prevent cold-related hardships has become a landmark initiative in ReNew’s community engagement efforts.

For more information, visit www.renewfoundation.in.

About ReNew

ReNew is a leading decarbonization solutions company listed on Nasdaq (Nasdaq: RNW, RNWWW). ReNews clean energy portfolio of ~17.4 GWs on a gross basis currently, is one of the largest globally. In addition to being a major independent power producer in India, we provide end-to-end solutions in a just and inclusive manner in the areas of clean energy, digitalization, storage, and carbon markets.

For more information, visit www.renew.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.