The Economic Times is excited to announce the fifth edition of the Nextech Human Capital Summit 2025, set to take place on February 19th and 20th at The Leela Ambience, Gurugram. This flagship event will feature over 80 speakers, including renowned global thought leaders, and is expected to attract more than 2,000 attendees. The summit will serve as a pivotal platform for discussions around the intersection of technology and talent, emphasizing Indias ambition to become the worlds largest human capital hub.

Witness Indias Transformation into a Global Human Capital Powerhouse at the ET Nextech Summit

“India is on the brink of a human capital revolution,” states Amit Gupta, Business Head of ETB2B vertical. “As global conglomerates gather here, were witnessing a unique moment where AI potential meets human innovation.” With a powerful blend of demographic advantage, technological expertise, and a skilled workforce, India is poised to lead in talent development.

The summits theme, Elevate Work in the AI Age, calls upon organizations to adopt proactive strategies for workforce development. Attendees can expect engaging sessions featuring case studies, panel discussions, and fireside chats led by industry pioneers. Key topics will include enhancing economic growth, ensuring equity, driving climate action, and improving well-being through innovative workforce strategies.

“We are proud to be the presenting partner at the Nextech Human Capital Summit,” states Dr. Pawan Goyal, Chief Business Officer, Naukri. “For over 25 years, Naukri.com has been at the forefront of shaping India’s workforce. Being an industry leader, we continue to invest in next-generation talent solutions, harnessing the power of AI to decode and tap into the full potential of Indias vast talent pool. We look forward to exchanging ideas to elevate work in this AI age and advance India’s journey as a global leader in human capital.“

Notable speakers include Ray Wang (Founder & Chairman of Constellation Research), Alexandra Levit (Founder & CEO of Inspiration at Work), and Ashneer Grover (Former Co-founder & MD of BharatPe), among others.

The event will also feature complementary programs such as the Leaders League forum for collaborative thinking on HR Tech trends and the Nextech Masterclass Series led by global experts.

For registration and additional information, visit hr.economictimes.indiatimes.com/nextech.

ITALICA (PIL Italica Lifestyle Ltd.), a leading name in innovative and stylish furniture solutions, has unveiled its latest collection of wedding chairs – Regal and Crown. The collection boasts sleek, modern designs that exude luxury and refinement.

Regal and Crown – Wedding chair collection by ITALICA

Perfect for weddings, family or corporate gatherings as well as luxurious celebrations, these chairs feature modern and sophisticated designs that fits every occasion. Crafted from high-quality plastic materials, these chairs ensure style, comfort and durability, making them an impeccable choice for unforgettable events.

Regal and Crown collection is highly durable, withstanding the rigors of frequent use and harsh environments. The sturdy frame, reinforced legs, and heavy-duty construction ensure stability and safety. These stunning wedding chairs will undoubtedly enhance the ambiance of any celebration, providing guests with unparalleled comfort and sophistication.

Key features of the Regal and Crown collections include

• Elegant, modern designs that complement any wedding theme

• Durable, high-quality plastic construction for long-lasting performance

• Comfortable, ergonomic design for optimal guest experience

• Easy to clean and maintain for hassle-free event planning

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Yogesh Jangid, Head & VP Marketing & Communications – PIL Italica Lifestyle Ltd. said, “Reinforcing our commitment to combining aesthetic appeal with functionality, we at Italica are thrilled to launch our latest collection of wedding chairs – Regal and Crown. As the name itself describes, these chairs are the perfect blend of luxurious design with regal sophistication. They are easy to handle, pocket friendly, strong and yet so elegant.”

Regal and Crown collection is perfect for every occasion. Be it weddings, receptions, corporate events, conferences, fine dining restaurants & banquets, luxury resorts & hotels or home dcor.

Discover the perfect blend of style, comfort, and practicality with Italicas Regal and Crown wedding chairs. These chairs are now available for purchase through Italicas website, authorized distributors, dealers and select retailers.

For more information, product inquiries, and to explore Italica’s complete range of innovative furniture solutions, please visit italica.com.

Parimatch is thrilled to announce an exclusive opportunity for football fans to own a piece of history and showcase their passion for the game. From January 21 to February 4, anyone can participate in a contest to win an official jersey signed by Argentina national teams most renowned players.

Parimatch Offers Fans a Chance to Win Jerseys Signed by legendary players of the Argentina national team

To enter the contest, participants are invited to complete a football quiz. After answering five football-related questions, entrants will be included in a draw for these prized jerseys. The contest is open until February 4, with winners selected through a random shuffle and announced on the same day on the Parimatch Instagram and quiz webpage.

This initiative highlights Parimatchs ongoing efforts to bring fans closer to their favorite game through unforgettable engagements. As a regional partner of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Parimatch continues to promote the sports growth and foster a vibrant football culture across the region. The brand’s mission is to bring football fans closer to the game they love and offer extraordinary opportunities to celebrate their favorite sport.

For more details and participation, please visit the contest website.

About Parimatch

Parimatch is the #1 global gaming platform. Since 1994, Parimatch has grown to be enjoyed by 3,000,000 active users worldwide. It is trusted by the worlds top athletes and celebrities like Trinidadian cricket stars Nicholas Pooran and Sunil Narine. Also, Parimatch partners with the Argentine Football Association as the regional sponsor.

For more information: Parimatch.

Azuga, a Bridgestone Company and leader in fleet telematics, today announced that it has received the Great Place to Work Certification™. This prestigious recognition, which reflects the insights and feedback of its employees, reinforces Azuga’s deep commitment to building a dynamic and inclusive workplace that prioritizes professional growth, well-being, work-life balance, trust, pride and collaboration.

Team Azuga: Driving success together

“Azuga’s workforce represents top talent, all focussed in pioneering innovative solutions focused on our customers needs,”said Jeremy Collins, CEO of Azuga.“Our exceptional performance in the Great Place to Work survey, particularly in the Pride Index, is a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture where our employees can thrive-solidifying our position as one of the best software companies to work for globally.”

Azuga’s dedication to its people, collaborative work culture, robust DEI initiatives, career growth opportunities, workplace flexibility and commitment to social responsibility have been pivotal in earning its recognition as a Great Place to Work. The company champions work-life balance and places a high value on employee benefits and drives a culture of innovation.

Expressing pride in the certification, BadrinathA.K., Managing Director-India Operations, shared, “Since Day 1, our teammates have been the heart of our company and we are committed to fostering a culture of respect, transparency and innovation, where they can thrive, grow and feel valued daily. Recognizing these founding principles as a Great Place to Work certified company reflects the hard work, dedication and passion of our team.”

Employees appreciate the balance between hard work and well-being, with initiatives that promote teamwork while ensuring personal time. The global fleet telematics Leader got top marks for Pride, Hospitality, Community and Intimacy.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Azuga stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”

Thomas Kuruvila, Vice President of Human Resources commented on this achievement, “At Azuga, we value employee feedback, which strengthens our supportive culture. Through strong mentorship and open communication, our employees stay motivated and engaged. Being recognized as a Great Place to Work is a significant milestone, and we remain focused on enhancing employee experiences and fostering a positive, collaborative workplace.”

For more information about Azuga Telematics, please visit us at www.azuga.com

About Azuga

Azuga, Bridgestones globally trusted fleet management solution, provides innovative end-to-end solutions for commercial fleets, government agencies, insurance companies and automotive industry suppliers through an integrated approach of hardware technology, fleet management applications, driver gamification, video telematics, and data analytics. The award-winning Azuga Fleet solution powers over 14,000 commercial fleets, from small to large enterprise.

SOLIZE Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President & CEO: Yasutoshi Kudo) signed a MotoGP sponsorship agreement for 2025 with the IDEMITSU Honda LCR Team, competing in the MotoGP class.

On the left: Somkiat Chantra; on the right: Lucio Cecchinello, Principal of IDEMITSU Honda LCR

IDEMITSU Honda LCR is a racing team headquartered in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Since 2006, the team has been competing in the MotoGP class, the pinnacle of motorcycle racing.

Somkiat Chantra will participate in the 2025 season with the IDEMITSU Honda LCR Team as the first Thai rider to compete full-time in the MotoGP class, starting with the Thai GP. Meanwhile, SOLIZE also plans to establish an overseas subsidiary, SOLIZE (Thailand) CO., Ltd. in Thailand in February 2025, in addition to its existing overseas subsidiaries in China, India, and the US, to further expand business in the ASEAN region.

SOLIZE will support Somkiat Chantra through this sponsorship agreement as a partner taking on the world from Thailand.

Since its establishment, SOLIZE has been using digital technology to innovate in the digitalization of manufacturing and digital manufacturing. We have been providing services to the auto industry, including the R&D divisions of the motorcycle and car industry, and have many engineers with strengths in this area. Through this sponsorship, we aim to appeal to stakeholders in the motorcycle business, as well as provide technological assistance in races.

Lucio Cecchinello, Principal of IDEMITSU Honda LCR

We are delighted to start the partnership with SOLIZE for the 2025 season. Alongside Thai rider Somkiat Chantra, we are committed to giving our best on track and off track, and the agreement with SOLIZE is key for us as a team. Continuing to grow and thinking about the future, we believe the partnership will help both sides. We want to thank every member of the SOLIZE board for their sponsorship support.

Somkiat Chantra

2025 will be my first MotoGP season, a milestone for Thailand. The support from SOLIZE, a company with plans to expand and be present in Thailand, is important in this new journey of my sporting career. I am extremely proud to represent both my country and SOLIZE. I want to thank them for their unwavering support; I will give my best.

Yasutoshi Kudo, President & CEO, SOLIZE Corporation

SOLIZE conducts its everyday business activities with the corporate philosophy of “True evolution you can experience”. We define “evolution” as “exponential growth transcending existing boundaries” and “not as passive change responding to environmental change, but as proactive change made by the initiative of individuals”. We believe Somkiat Chantra’s promotion to MotoGP is proactive change made possible through his initiative, which embodies our idea of “evolution”. SOLIZE, on our part, is planning to establish SOLIZE (Thailand) Co., Ltd. in February of this year as the first step in our “evolution”. We support IDEMITSU Honda LCR and Somkiat Chantra as partners who are taking on the world from Thailand in 2025 aiming for the next stage in the “evolution”.

Yusuke Inoue, Senior Executive Officer, SOLIZE Corporation

As a partner in taking on a large challenge, I’m thrilled that Somkiat Chantra’s debut in MotoGP as a Thai racer coincides with the launch of SOLIZE (Thailand) Co., Ltd. I’ve also participated in the Motocross World Championship as the head of development, where I was fortunate enough to have had a front row seat to seeing top-level racers take on the world. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for the extraordinary effort Somkiat had to put into competing as a rider in MotoGP. SOLIZE will be supporting IDEMITSU Honda LCR and Somkiat throughout the season through this sponsorship agreement.

In today’s fast-paced world, creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning are vital to shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Suchitra Academy embodies this vision with its state-of-the-art Makerspace, a hub of exploration and invention designed to foster experiential learning. This dynamic facility encourages students to think beyond conventions and transform ideas into reality.

Inauguration of the Makerspace Lab at Suchitra Academy

The Makerspace at Suchitra Academy is a collaborative environment where innovation and practical problem-solving take center stage. Equipped with advanced tools, materials, and resources, it offers students the opportunity to create, tinker, and build. More than just a workspace, the Makerspace is a platform for acquiring critical skills and engaging in projects that blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on application.

Integrated into the curriculum, the Makerspace promotes critical thinking, technical proficiency, and teamwork. Students engage in projects that range from robotics and engineering to sustainability-focused solutions. By emphasizing hands-on activities, the Makerspace bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for innovation.

At the forefront of its initiatives are innovative projects that tackle real-world challenges. One of the standout solutions is HydroWatch, a water monitoring and analysis system utilizing dissolved oxygen sensors to remotely track water quality through a dashboard. Ideal for applications like swimming pool management, it exemplifies the practical value of student-led innovation. Other notable projects include the Smart Garden Assistant, an IoT-based system that monitors soil, weather, and plant health while automating watering and offering plant care tips, and the Automated Cleaning Bot, a cost-effective and efficient solution for maintaining cleanliness on school premises. The Makerspace has also developed the Smart Scrub, a prototype designed to clean and stack plates in dining areas, ensuring effective cleaning and better time management. Leveraging artificial intelligence, students have created an AI-based Health Monitoring System and an Automatic Mind Map Generator, providing insights into health and education while enhancing productivity. Additionally, the Makerspace focuses on global goals such as Zero Hunger, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, aligning its projects with sustainable development objectives.

Students present their projects to Mr. D. B. Venkatesh Varma, Former Indian Ambassador to Russia and Spain during the MS Lab Inauguration

To provide students with comprehensive learning opportunities, the Makerspace curriculum is meticulously crafted to incorporate modern technologies and practices. Students gain hands-on experience in 3D designing and Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) projects, learning precision design and manufacturing. They explore IoT devices and Raspberry Pi applications, delving into connected systems and automation. Carpentry fundamentals are introduced using tools like AutoCAD and TinkerCAD, while Python programming, integrated with artificial intelligence concepts, equips students with essential coding skills for the future. This curriculum is guided by the Director Academics, with support from the Coordinator Academics, ICT Manager, Makerspace Coordinator, and a team of dedicated mentors. To ensure excellence, the academy collaborates with experts from T-Works and T-Hub, renowned hubs of technological innovation.

The Makerspace is equipped with cutting-edge tools to support diverse educational and creative objectives. Students work with technologies like robotics and IoT devices, including microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators, to build intelligent systems. 3D printers and scanners enable intricate prototyping for engineering, healthcare, and artistic projects. Advanced tools like CNC woodcutters, precision mini mills, and the laser cutter facilitate precision machining, engraving, and fabrication, while engineering blocks and gear systems provide hands-on understanding of structural engineering concepts like gear ratios and load distribution.

Suchitra Academy’s Makerspace has garnered recognition on prestigious platforms for its groundbreaking projects. At the IEEE YESIST12 competition, students presented solutions such as SEGAD, a system for monitoring poisonous gases, and Hyacinth Harvest, a project aimed at clearing polluted water bodies. Similarly, at IIT Madras’ Junior Make-a-Thon, students demonstrated their ingenuity with a project that converted plastic waste into electricity, showcasing their ability to address critical environmental challenges.

The academy’s annual Tinker Zone celebrates student creativity and innovation. This event features a wide array of projects, including smart irrigation systems for sustainable agriculture, solar-powered fans showcasing green energy solutions, and hydraulic claws and robots that highlight mechanical precision.

The Makerspace at Suchitra Academy exemplifies the transformative power of hands-on learning and creative exploration. By offering advanced tools and fostering a collaborative environment, it empowers students to design impactful solutions and address real-world challenges. As young innovators continue to push boundaries, they embody the spirit of creativity and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

BOOTSTART Spaces and Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., a pioneering name in coworking and managed office solutions, proudly celebrates eight successful years of empowering businesses. Following a Rs. 15 crore funding round, BOOTSTART is set to embark on an ambitious growth trajectory to redefine the coworking landscape in India.

BOOTSTART Coworking | Managed Offices | Shared Offices

Established in 2017, BOOTSTART has been a game-changer in the flexible workspace industry. With 2,000+ seats across 13 locations in Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Nagpur, the company serves over 170 clients, including startups, SMEs, and established corporations.

BOOTSTART offers a wide range of services: Dedicated Desks, Meeting Rooms, Private cabins, Virtual offices, and Fully Managed Office solutions, all designed to optimize real estate costs while ensuring a seamless and distraction-free experience for businesses.

• Vision: To build a dynamic and inclusive ecosystem of office spaces that support businesses in their long-term growth.

• Mission: To be the preferred workspace partner for businesses by offering exceptional office solutions and comprehensive support services.

• Values: Represented by the three arrows in BOOTSTART logo, the core values-Inspire, Support, and Grow-are central to the company’s philosophy, ensuring every business thrives in a workspace tailored for success.​

Ownership Change and Fundraise

In 2023, capital markets investor Neeraj Marathe acquired a majority stake from BOOTSTART erstwhile investors and joined as a promoter alongside the founders. Under his leadership, BOOTSTART underwent a complete transformation, introducing new systems and processes, hiring fresh talent, and streamlining operations.

This transformation culminated in a successful Rs. 15 crore fundraise in 2024, aimed at:

• Establishing new centers in existing cities.

• Upgrading current facilities.

• Investing in technology and systems.

• Scaling marketing efforts to enhance brand visibility.
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Expansion Plans

BOOTSTART is in the process of adding 2,000 seats across 1 lakh sq. ft., with new centers planned in:

• Mumbai: Ballard Estate and Colaba.

• Pune: Bavdhan, Baner, Viman Nagar, Dhole Patil Road, and Balewadi.

• Nagpur: A significant new facility.

These expansions are designed to cater to evolving client needs, offering premium features and innovative solutions.

Industry-First Features

BOOTSTART is introducing several unique amenities to enhance client comfort and productivity, including:

• A dedicated women’s lounge for networking and collaboration.

• A digital detox lounge, enabling clients to recharge and focus better.

Leadership Insights

“Our eight-year journey has been marked by steady growth, but we’re just getting started. With this funding and the support of our investors, we are ready to create spaces that inspire innovation and drive success,” said Yash Kankaria, Co-founder, BOOTSTARTSpaces.

“We have perfected our operational business model. Now is the time to fully realize our potential with larger, super-premium office spaces and industry-first features. Stay tuned for what’s coming next!” added Nikhil Oza, Co-founder, BOOTSTARTSpaces.

“BOOTSTART has always had strong brand recall and immense potential. The lack of capital had previously limited our growth, but this fundraise allows us to change the company’s trajectory. We are excited to grow bigger, better, and faster,” said Neeraj Marathe, Managing Director, BOOTSTARTSpaces.

For more information, visit www.bootstart.in.

Every year on February 2nd, World Wetlands Day reminds us of the vital role wetlands play in sustaining life. This day marks the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971, an international treaty recognising the critical importance of these ecosystems for both people and the planet.

Avian Paradise at Haiderpur Wetlands – a true haven for biodiversity

A prime example of this ecological treasure is the Haiderpur Wetlands, nestled within the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh, India. Spanning approximately 6,900 hectares, this Ramsar site is home to over 333 bird species and a wealth of flora and fauna, making it a sanctuary of biodiversity.

A symphony of wings at Haiderpur Wetlands

The theme for World Wetlands Day 2025, ‘Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future’ highlights the profound connection between wetlands and human well-being. Wetlands provide clean water, protect against floods, boost biodiversity, and offer recreational opportunities – all essential for a healthy and thriving society.

Yet, their immense value often goes unnoticed.

The Art of Living’s Commitment to Wetlands

The Art of Living Social Projects is dedicated to preserving and restoring these natural lifelines. Wetlands are nature’s reservoirs, recharging groundwater, preventing soil erosion, and acting as carbon sinks to combat climate change. Unfortunately, urbanisation and industrial activities have significantly degraded many wetlands.

At Haiderpur Wetlands, The Art of Living Social Projects has made a tangible impact. By engaging local communities, conducting educational workshops, and training youth as bird guides, the initiative has encouraged a sense of ownership and responsibility among the people. These efforts have transformed Haiderpur Wetlands from a neglected area into a vibrant haven for biodiversity.

Looking Ahead: Protecting Wetlands, Protecting Ourselves

This World Wetlands Day, The Art of Living Social Projects calls on individuals, organisations, and communities to join hands in safeguarding these critical ecosystems. Wetlands are more than water bodies; they are lifelines that sustain human well-being and environmental health.

Let’s honour the vital role of wetlands by committing to their preservation – not just today, but every day. Together, we can ensure that wetlands continue to nurture biodiversity, protect against climate extremes, and enhance the quality of life for future generations.

Because when wetlands thrive, so does humanity.

Explore The Art of Living’s role in transforming the Haiderpur Wetlands here.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living, a non-profit, educational, and humanitarian organisation founded in 1981 by the world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, works closely with the Government of India to relieve the country from water scarcity through various water conservation projects.

Follow at: www.instagram.com/artofliving.sp

Like at: www.facebook.com/artoflivingsocialprojects

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REVIVAL, a leading brand in the ready-to-cook mix industry, is proud to introduce its range of healthy, nutritious, and convenient millet-based products to a wider audience. Revolutionizing the way we approach healthy eating, REVIVAL aims to make nutritious meals easily accessible for all, with its 100% natural, ready-to-cook offerings now available on Amazon and Flipkart.

REVIVAL – ready-to-cook meals

Dedicated to promoting wholesome food habits, REVIVAL Foods specializes in millet-based products that deliver the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. These meals, crafted by expert food technologists, ensure a hassle-free cooking experience while prioritizing health and flavor.

The brand’s core philosophy is centered around making healthy eating effortless, offering a variety of ready-to-cook meals that save valuable time without compromising on quality. Each product is meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring every bite is delicious and packed with essential nutrients.

REVIVALs product lineup includes:

• Multi-Millet Bisi Bele Bath

• Multi-Millet Pongal Mix

• Multi-Millet Biryani Mix

• Mighty Mix Dosa

• Nutty Nib Millet Pancake

These delicious meals are crafted with the power of millets, a superfood known for its rich nutritional profile. REVIVAL Foods offers a truly holistic approach to convenient, healthy living, with products that are as nourishing as they are easy to prepare.

These millet-based products are now available for purchase on Amazon.in, Flipkart, and through the brands official website: www.revivalfoods.in. For more information or inquiries, customers can reach out to REVIVAL at +91 9344901205.

To stay connected and inspired, follow REVIVAL on Instagram: @eatrevivalfoods.

About REVIVAL Foods

REVIVAL Foods is on a mission to bring the power of millets to kitchens worldwide. With a focus on natural, nutritious ingredients, the brand offers convenient meal solutions that fit into any modern lifestyle. REVIVAL is committed to promoting healthy, balanced eating habits that do not compromise on taste or convenience.