19, Mar 2025
Whistling Woods International to Offer 5-Day Screenwriting Workshop for Aspiring Writers in 2025

whislist

Whistling Woods International is hosting its 5-day Annual Screenwriting Workshop in 2025, and it promises to be a transformative experience.

This workshop is led by the renowned Anjum Rajabali – Screenwriter & HoD of Screenwriting at WWIand will be presented in a hybrid format, making it accessible to participants from various locations. The workshop offers an immersive environment that combines essential craft teachings with invaluable knowledge from industry icons.

Whether you’re an emerging writer looking to hone your skills or a seasoned professional seeking fresh perspectives, this workshop is designed to enhance your storytelling abilities and provide insights from top experts in the industry.

The annual workshop will cover the craft of Film and series writing as well as character psychology, the Navrasas and the Hero’s Journey. This time, apart from the lucidly taught basics of scriptwriting, a rich gathering of guest speakers – Shridhar Raghavan (Pathaan), Sriram Raghavan (Andhadhun), Sneha Desai (Laapataa Ladies), Niren Bhatt (Stree 2), Ishita Moitra (Rocky Aur Rani kii Prem Kahaani, Call me Bae), Juhi Chaturvedi (Piku), Sudip Sharma (Paatal Lok 1&2) & Arati Kadav (Mrs) will provide valuable insights in the domain and is surely set to elevate your screenwriting journey.

19, Mar 2025
5 Key Platforms That Simplify Tuition Payments for Indian Students Pursuing Education Abroad

Managing tuition payments while studying abroad can be challenging due to fluctuating exchange rates, processing delays, and hidden fees. Fintech platforms have stepped up to simplify the process of paying tuition fees for Indian students studying abroad by offering secure, fast, and transparent payment solutions. Whether it’s managing cross-border transactions, securing competitive exchange rates, or handling large payments, these platforms provide the tools and support necessary to make international tuition payments hassle-free. Here’s a list of the top platforms that are transforming financial services for Indian students settling abroad.

Beacon

Beacon is a purpose-built financial solution designed specifically to help immigrants in Canada, including Indian students, settle with ease and build their future confidently. Through its All-in-One Super App, Beacon offers a comprehensive suite of financial tools that address the unique challenges faced by students and immigrants. From managing cross-border transactions to paying tuition fees and education loans, Beacon streamlines every step of the process. Its user-friendly platform allows students to handle their finances effortlessly while benefiting from competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. A standout feature of Beacon is the ability for NRIs in Canada to pay Indian bills directly from the app without incurring additional charges — a game-changer for students managing expenses across borders. More than just a financial tool, Beacon provides confidence and clarity to students through tailored support and guidance, helping them transition smoothly into Canadian life. The company’s approach combines innovation and empathy, ensuring students feel secure and supported during one of life’s most significant transitions.

Wise

Wise (formerly TransferWise) is well-known for its low-cost international money transfers and real-time exchange rates. Indian students can use Wise to send tuition payments directly to universities with minimal fees and faster processing times. The platform’s multi-currency wallet allows students to hold and exchange multiple currencies, which is particularly useful for managing expenses while studying abroad. Wise’s user-friendly interface and clear fee structure make it easy for students to track their payments and ensure their tuition is processed without unnecessary delays or hidden costs.

Western Union

Western Union remains one of the most trusted platforms for international money transfers, including tuition payments. With a wide global network and multiple payment channels — online, in person, and through the app — Western Union offers flexibility for Indian students managing their finances abroad. The platform provides competitive exchange rates and quick processing times, ensuring tuition payments reach universities on time. Its long-standing reputation and secure transfer system make Western Union a reliable option for students and families looking for a straightforward way to handle tuition payments.

PayMyTuition

PayMyTuition is a specialized platform that connects directly with educational institutions, allowing students to pay their tuition fees in their local currency without hidden fees. It supports various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and alternative payment options, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Since PayMyTuition works directly with universities, payments are processed quickly and securely, ensuring students meet their tuition deadlines without complications. Its direct integration with educational institutions provides an added layer of convenience and reliability for international students.

Flywire

Flywire is another leading platform for tuition payments, known for its secure and transparent payment process. Flywire allows Indian students to pay their tuition fees directly to universities in over 240 countries, offering real-time tracking and multiple payment options, including UPI, bank transfers, and credit cards. The platform’s transparent fee structure ensures that students know exactly how much they are paying, with no hidden charges. Its 24/7 customer support also provides peace of mind, making it a reliable choice for international tuition payments. Flywire’s ability to handle large transactions quickly and securely makes it a preferred option for students and educational institutions alike.

19, Mar 2025
SEBI Gives Green Light to LG Electronics India for IPO Launch

LG Electronics Inc. subsidiary LG Electronics India Limited, the market leader in India in major home appliances and consumer electronics (excluding mobile phones) in terms of volume for the three months ending June 30, 2024, as per the Redseer Report, mentioned in the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP), has received final observation from the capital markets regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), to raise funds through an initial public offering (IPO).
The Company had filed its IPO papers with Sebi on December 6, 2024.

The IPO with a face value of ₹10 per equity share, is entirely an offer for sale up to 10.18 crore equity shares by LG Electronics Inc.

LG Electronics India, a subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., was established in 1997 and has maintained its position as the market leader in India’s home appliances and consumer electronics industry for 13 consecutive years (2011–2023) by value market share in the offline channel, according to a Redseer Report mentioned in the DRHP.

When compared to listed industry peers like Havells India Ltd, Voltas Ltd, Whirlpool of India Ltd, and Blue Star Ltd, LG Electronics India achieved the highest revenue from operations and earnings per share (EPS) in fiscal 2024.

For fiscal 2024, the company reported a revenue of ₹21,352 crore, marking an increase from ₹19,868.24 crore in fiscal 2023. Profit after tax rose by 12.35% to ₹1,511.07 crore from ₹1,344.93 crore during the same period. In the three months ending June 30, 2024, revenue was ₹6,408.80 crore, with a profit after tax of ₹679.65 crore.

The company holds a dominant market position across various product categories, including washing machines, refrigerators, panel televisions, inverter air conditioners, and microwaves. According to the Redseer Report, for the six months ending June 30, 2024, these products commanded a significant share in the offline channel, which represents approximately 80% of the major home appliances and consumer electronics market (excluding mobile phones) in India by value.

Globally, LG Electronics is recognized as the leading single-brand home appliances company by revenue for 2023, as per the Redseer Report. Catering to both B2C and B2B markets within and outside India, the company offers same-day installation, repair, and maintenance services for its products.

With 27 years of experience in India, LG Electronics India has cultivated deep consumer insights, enabling it to meet the unique demands of Indian customers. LG Electronics India boasts the largest distribution network among its peers, covering both urban and rural regions through 36,401 B2C touchpoints. Its after-sales services are facilitated through 949 authorized service centers nationwide, supported by an extensive supplier base of 280 vendors with an average relationship tenure of 11 years as of June 30, 2024.

Morgan Stanley India Company Private Limited, J.P. Morgan India Private Limited, Axis Capital Limited, BofA Securities India Limited, and Citigroup Global Markets India Private Limited are the book-running lead managers and KFin Technologies Limited is the registrar to the issue.

19, Mar 2025
Dmart Leases 35,000 Sq Ft Space at Migsun Mi Gente Mall, Ghaziabad, in Landmark 29-Year Deal

Ghaziabad,19th March 2025 – Dmart, India’s leading hypermarket chain, has signed a 29-year 11 Months lease agreement with Migsun Group for 35,000 sq ft of retail space at Migsun Mi Gente Mall in Raj Nagar Extension, Ghaziabad at a monthly rental value of Rs 21 lakh. This deal also highlights Migsun Mi Gente Mall’s emergence as a prime retail destination in Ghaziabad. Earlier, Dmart had purchased 47,000 sq ft of space at Migsun’s Rohini Central Sector 22 Rohiini Project for Rs 108 crores. Migsun Group is a leading real estate developer in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Strategically situated in Raj Nagar Extension—a rapidly developing residential and commercial hub—Migsun Mi gente Mall is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including 24/7 security, ample parking, high-speed elevators, and uninterrupted power supply. Dmart’s presence is expected to attract significant footfall, catering to the daily needs of the area’s growing population while enhancing the mall’s status as a one-stop retail hub.

Migsun Mi Gente is the only Lease Model air condition Mall of Ghaziabad with complete offering i.e. Hyper, Anchors, Food Court, Multiplex, Family entertainment centre, Exclusive Brand Stores, Fine Dine Restaurants/ Bars & Clubs which none other mall has in this part of Delhi NCR. All the shops of the mall are visible from atrium. It is one and only properly zoned mall of Ghaziabad. The Mall has international touch with complete glass building and 100% marble flooring making it competitive with the best malls of India. It is going to be first AI enabled Mall

“We are thrilled to welcome Dmart to Migsun Mi Gente Mall. It reflects our mall’s potential to drive commercial success. It is also a strong endorsement of our strategic planning and the region’s growth potential. We are confident this partnership will set new benchmarks for retail experiences in Ghaziabad and reinforce the mall’s position as a catalyst for economic growth,” says Yash Miglani, MD, Migsun Group.

The 29-years 11 Months lease single long-term Agreement gives confidence in Raj Nagar Extension’s growth trajectory. For Dmart, the space will serve as a key hub to cater to Ghaziabad’s expanding consumer base. Meanwhile, for Migsun Mi Gente Mall the occupancy of a renowned anchor tenant like Dmart is expected to attract further brand interest.

19, Mar 2025
Asia Kitchen by Mainland China, Pune Offers a Taste of Northern Thailand with Chef Tanya

Pune, 19th March 2025 – Food enthusiasts of Pune are invited to experience the vibrant and authentic flavours of Northern Thailand at Asia Kitchen by Mainland China, as they present an exclusive Northern Thai Food Festival. 21st March 2025 onwards, guests will be taken on a gastronomic journey curated by the esteemed Chef Tanya, a culinary expert with years of experience perfecting the art of Northern Thai cuisine.

  Thai cuisine, renowned for its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements, will be showcased in its purest form. Chef Tanya has meticulously crafted a menu that celebrates this symphony of flavors, using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes with a touch of innovative flair.

Asia Kitchen Pune Image1

 A Culinary Adventure Awaits:
Begin your exploration with a delightful Northern Thai twist on the classic salad, Pineapple Som Tam. Indulge in mouth-watering selection of appetizers, including Chef Tanya’s personal favourites: Thai Spring Rolls (Poh Pea Tod), Chicken Satay (Satay Kai), Spicy Tamarind Chicken Wings (Pik Kai Tod Nam Makram), Classic Thai Crab Omelette (Khai Jeaw Poo), and Prawn In Blankets (Goong Salong).

 Continue your journey with classic Northern Thai mains, such as the fragrant Thai Green Curry (Gaeng Keaw Wan), the rich Chiang Mai Chicken Curry with Vermicelli Noodles (Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiew), the robust Lamb Massaman Curry (Gaeng Massaman Kae), the savory Stir-Fried Mushroom (Hed Pad Namprik Paow), and the delicate Banana Leaf Wrapped Fish (Hor Mok Pla Yang).

 Satisfy your sweet cravings with traditional desserts like Red Rubies (Tub Tim Grob). Complement your meal with specially crafted cocktails, including the Blushing Dragon, Krabi Dreams, Summer in Phi Phi, Tom Kha Colada, and Kaffir Collins, each inspired by authentic Thai ingredients and culture.

 This festival is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive cultural experience. Each dish reflects the perfect balance of flavors, aromas, and textures that define Thai cuisine, transporting you to the bustling streets of Northern Thailand.

19, Mar 2025
Celebrating Culinary Excellence: The Ultimate Star Winners of 2025 Revealed by Culinary Culture

Bengaluru, 19th March 2025 – India’s most credible and influential restaurant rating platform, Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, concluded its spectacular second edition, honouring the best of Indian gastronomy.

This year’s event expanded beyond Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Goa, and Chennai, introducing four new cities—Hyderabad, Bhopal, Kochi, and Amritsar. With this expansion, the platform now covers 10 of India’s top culinary destinations, capturing the rich diversity of the country’s evolving food landscape.

Since its inception, the Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, supported by Lavazza, has set a new benchmark in restaurant evaluation, using rigorous, anonymous inspections to recognize India’s most outstanding dining establishments.

This year, 40 new restaurants earned Ultimate stars for the first time, while six restaurants were promoted from 3 to 4 stars. One restaurant entered directly into the elite 5-star category in its first year—an achievement reserved for the very best.

More than 200 of India’s top restaurateurs, chefs, and team members flew into Bengaluru for the Ultimate Star Revelation Ceremony 2025, making it an unparalleled gathering never before seen in India. The event was a landmark moment for Indian gastronomy, proving that India finally has the ‘Stars That Matter.’

This year, the Ultimate Restaurant Ratings honoured:
• 66 restaurants with 3 stars
• 22 restaurants with 4 stars
• 4 restaurants with the highest 5-star distinction

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NIGHT

Special Award Winners
• Iconic Restaurant of the Year: Vidhyarthi Bhavan, Bengaluru
• Opening of the Year: Banng, Delhi NCR
• Restaurant Manager of the Year: Mirelle Pingfu, Mumbai
• Mixologist of the Year: Arijit Bose, Bengaluru
• Sustainable Restaurant of the Year: Naar, Kausali

5-Star Winners (4 Restaurants)
• Bengaluru: Farmlore
• Chennai: Avartana
• Delhi NCR: Indian Accent
• Mumbai: Papa’s (New Addition)

4-Star Winners (22 Restaurants)

Bengaluru: Karavalli, Lupa, Naru Noodle Bar
Chennai: Kappa Chakka Kandhari, Southern Spice
Delhi NCR: Bukhara, Dum Pukht, INJA, Megu, The China Kitchen
Goa: Cavatina, Hosa, Praça Prazeres
Kochi: Karthiyayini, Restaurant Chef Pillai
Kolkata: 6 Ballygunge Place, Avartana
Mumbai: Americano, Ekaa, Masque, O Pedro, Trèsind

3-Star Winners (66 Restaurants)

Amritsar: Beera Chicken House, Kulwant Singh Kulchian Wale, Grain by Elgin, Kesar Da Dhabha, Makhan Fish and Chicken Corner, Phulkari
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Oota Company, Central Tiffin Room, Kappa Chakka Kandhari, Kopitiam Lah
Bhopal: Hakeem’s, Shahnama, Shri Balaji Namkeen, Under the Jamun Tree
Chennai: Erode Amman Mess, The Farm, Gossip Bistro
Delhi NCR: Comorin, Dhilli, Loya, Olive Bar & Kitchen, Omo, Tres, Shang Palace, Swan
Goa: Bawri, Bomras, Izumi, Jamun, Slow Tide, The Second House, Grumps, Heliconia, Petisco
Hyderabad: Aidu, Dum Pukht Begum’s, Once Upon A Time, Simply South, The Spicy Venue, Rü
Kochi: Grand Pavilion, Malabar Cafe, Paragon, Rice Boat
Kolkata: Royal Indian Restaurant, Sienna, Sonar Tori, The Blue Poppy Thakali, Popo’s
Mumbai: Avartana, Indian Accent, Izumi, La Loca Maria, Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra, Mizu Izakaya, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, Soam, Swati Snacks, The Bombay Canteen, Wasabi by Morimoto, Bandra Born, Otra, Seefah, The Table

Vir Sanghvi, Chairman of Culinary Culture, said:
“At Culinary Culture, we have always pioneered initiatives that shape India’s F&B industry. From the first-ever street food awards to India’s first chef ranking platform, our mission remains the same—to celebrate excellence in an honest, transparent, and bias-free manner. The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is another game-changing first for India, and we are thrilled to see its growing influence and the incredible response it has received. I am especially excited about including the cities of Amritsar, Bhopal, Kochi, and Hyderabad this year, as they don’t often receive the national recognition they truly deserve.”

Raaj Sanghvi, CEO of Culinary Culture, added:
“Diners now recognize our plaques as a mark of excellence, reinforcing trust while also benefiting restaurants. Unlike other rating systems that charge fees or involve external influences, the Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is India’s first and only truly independent restaurant rating system—one that the industry respects and acknowledges. Our ratings are dynamic—restaurants are re-evaluated anonymously and regularly, allowing them to gain or lose stars based on consistency and performance. This is why the best in the industry show up, because they know these are the only Stars That Matter.”

Mr A Venu Madhav, CEO of Fresh and Honest Pvt. Ltd. (Lavazza India), said:
“Lavazza is proud to partner with Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, which stands as India’s first and only annual star rating system for restaurants. Lavazza has long been committed to quality and craftsmanship, values that align perfectly with the goals of the Ultimate Restaurant Ratings. Our longstanding tradition of excellence in the coffee industry complements the mission of this pioneering platform in its quest to recognize and reward culinary brilliance. By collaborating with Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings, we are proud to contribute to the recognition of outstanding culinary achievements and the promotion of India’s vibrant culinary culture.”

The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is proudly supported by Lavazza, Johnnie Walker, Veeba, Bisleri Vedica, and Newby Tea—brands that share the vision of elevating India’s vibrant F&B industry.

How the Ratings Work

India’s first and only restaurant rating system of its kind, the Ultimate Restaurant Ratings follows a meticulous, anonymous, and merit-based evaluation process, making it a trusted benchmark for Indian gastronomy.

⭐⭐⭐ 3 Stars – Very Good
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars – Excellent
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars – The Ultimate

Unlike traditional restaurant awards in India—many of which are influenced by sponsorships, advertising pressures, or fees paid by restaurants for nominations—Culinary Culture’s rating system is built on integrity. Each restaurant is evaluated anonymously by full-time referees through a rigorous multi-stage process, which includes nominations, anonymous screenings by Food Referees, in-depth debates, and a final distillation process to ensure only the most deserving establishments receive recognition.

The platform remains entirely independent and does not accept any fees from restaurants for nominations or inclusion.

19, Mar 2025
Bill Gates Interacts with Drone Didis in India, Celebrates Their Role in Tech Innovation

Mumbai / New Delhi, 19th March 2025: Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation and former Microsoft CEO, visited IARI, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, where he engaged with three Drone Didis trained under the Namo Drone Didi Scheme by Marut Drones.

The demonstration featured rural women flying Marut AG365 Drones, highlighting the transformative role of technology in rural livelihoods and increasing their family income.

bill gates

Commenting on the development, Prem Kumar Vislawath, CEO and Co-Founder of Hyderabad based Marut Drones, said, “It’s a proud moment to see the women trained by Marut Drones are interacting with Mr. Bill Gates. Watching them operate drones confidently truly reflects how technology can ensure economic empowerment and break barriers of a traditionally male dominated industry. The presence of global leaders like Mr. Bill Gates, visiting India and witnessing firsthand the impact of drone technology at the grassroots level is a strong validation of how India’s drone ecosystem is truly challenging the gender norms in rural India and creating financially independent women entrepreneurs.”

The company has provided comprehensive training sessions to all three Drone Didis hailing from Bihar and provided refresher sessions to ensure smooth operations and demonstrations.

Marut Drones is the first in India to receive dual DGCA approval for manufacturing and remote pilot training and continues to champion government initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi Program.

19, Mar 2025
CrowdStrike and NVIDIA Revolutionize Cybersecurity with Cutting-Edge Agentic AI Technology

Daniel Bernard, CrowdStrike

CrowdStrike announced groundbreaking agentic AI innovations built on NVIDIA AI software, setting a new standard for AI-powered cybersecurity. When running NVIDIA NIM microservices internally, CrowdStrike Charlotte AI Detection Triage enabled, on average, automated detection triage at 2x the speed of its initial launch with 50% fewer compute resources, reducing alert fatigue and maximizing SOC efficiency. The collaboration between CrowdStrike and NVIDIA is pioneering the next era of cybersecurity with advanced reasoning models to deliver even more intelligent automation, enable real-time decision-making and enhance precision to help security teams respond to threats with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

According to the 2025 CrowdStrike Global Threat Report, adversaries can now break out from initial access in as little as 51 seconds. Traditional security tools can’t keep up, overwhelming analysts with a flood of alerts and leaving organizations vulnerable. By continuing to test and innovate with full-stack NVIDIA AI accelerated computing, CrowdStrike customers will continue to gain the automation, intelligence and scale needed to outpace modern threats. This strategic collaboration also explores NVIDIA Llama Nemotron reasoning models to enhance detection accuracy, equipping security teams to stop attacks with even greater speed and precision.

“The future of cybersecurity is agentic AI – where advanced reasoning models power intelligent automation to work seamlessly with human analysts to stop breaches faster than ever,” said Daniel Bernard, chief business officer at CrowdStrike. “By combining CrowdStrike’s AI-native Falcon platform with NVIDIA AI, we’re working to deliver the next evolution in security operations. This is just the beginning – together, we’re redefining how organizations scale, secure and accelerate their defenses with the power of agentic AI.”

Advancing AI-Powered Security Operations

The latest AI innovations and initiatives from CrowdStrike, accelerated by NVIDIA AI software and tools, are delivering breakthrough advancements for the SOC:

● Faster, More Efficient Triage: Charlotte AI Detection Triage, built on NVIDIA NIM microservices, part of NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform, enabled CrowdStrike internal security teams to process detections 2x faster than its initial launch with 50% fewer GPUs, optimizing response times and reducing operational costs.

● Smarter, More Accurate Threat Detection: CrowdStrike is working with NVIDIA to test reasoning models that enhance detection accuracy, reduce false positives and enable security teams to focus on real threats with greater precision.

● AI-Driven Security Automation: CrowdStrike and NVIDIA are leading the charge in autonomous SOC operations, developing AI agents that assist analysts in triage, response and analysis at scale – laying the foundation for the future of security automation.

“Enterprises need AI that doesn’t just react but anticipates – intelligent systems with advanced reasoning that adapt, decide and respond in real time,” said Kari Briski, Vice President of Generative AI Software for Enterprise at NVIDIA. “Our collaboration with CrowdStrike brings accelerated computing and advanced reasoning to cybersecurity, delivering agentic AI that automates system responses, enhances security operations and helps enterprises stay resilient in a dynamic digital landscape.”

19, Mar 2025
Indian Chamber of Commerce Marks Milestone with 15th India Corporate Governance and Sustainability Summit

New Delhi, March 19, 2025: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) successfully hosted the 15th edition of the India Corporate Governance & Sustainability Vision Summit & Awards at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi, as part of its Centenary Celebrations. The event brought together distinguished policymakers, industry leaders, and sustainability champions to discuss the evolving landscape of corporate governance and sustainability in India.

Indian Chamber of Commerce Hosts 15th Edition of India Corporate Governance & Sustainability Vision Summit & Awards

The summit featured distinguished dignitaries, including Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Hon’ble Member of NITI Aayog, as the Chief Guest; Anil Razdan, Former Power Secretary, Government of India; Mr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, Sr, Advisor, Deloitte India, Dua Consulting and Centre for Responsible Business. With India emerging as a global leader in sustainable growth, the discussions at the summit underscored the critical need for businesses to embrace governance models that balance economic expansion with environmental and social responsibility. Along with it they also released a knowledge document on “Next -generation Fuels”.

Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog, Government of India echoed this sentiment, emphasising the collaborative efforts required to drive India’s sustainable growth narrative and said, “The program, organized today, focuses on how sustainability can be integrated into corporate governance and the importance it should be given. The key takeaway from today’s discussion is that organizations should minimize resource consumption, recycle, redesign, and remanufacture. By doing so, we can reduce overall consumption and make more efficient use of the natural resources available to us. This will ensure that future generations also have access to these resources. Corporate responsibility is not just about building a massive empire while everything around us remains underdeveloped. We must also consider the growth and development of our surroundings. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plays a significant role in this regard. The evolution of corporate governance in India, from 1953 to the present, has now reached a stage where sustainability, transparency, shareholder interests, and independent directors have become integral aspects. New elements are continuously being incorporated into corporate governance, leading to increased efficiency, a greater impact on sustainability, and governance that is open, transparent, and ethical.”

In his keynote address, Mr. PK Satija, Chairperson of ICC – National Expert Committee on Minerals and Metals, emphasized the growing significance of corporate governance and sustainability in shaping India’s future. He stated, “Sustainability is no longer a choice; it is an imperative. Businesses must move beyond compliance to embrace governance models that prioritize environmental stewardship, ethical leadership, and social inclusivity. As corporate leaders, we have a duty to ensure that our economic aspirations align with India’s larger sustainability vision.”

Mr. Anil Razdan, Former Power Secretary, Government of India said, “Sustainability is not just about compliance with laws; it is about fulfilling our responsibility to future generations. As the most populous nation, India must take the lead in protecting the environment, conserving water, and ensuring cleaner air. Wealth and progress mean little if our air is unbreathable and our natural resources depleted. Businesses must go beyond statutory obligations and embrace a deeper commitment to sustainability. The younger generation is building not just for their lifetime but for the future of humanity. It is time we rethink our approach—balancing development with environmental responsibility—to create a truly sustainable and thriving world.”

Adding to it, Mr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, Sr, Advisor, Deloitte India, Dua Consulting and Centre for Responsible Business said, “Corporate governance and sustainability are inextricably linked, reflecting the evolving nature of responsible management. As companies are increasingly held accountable for both their ethical and environmental impact, governance has evolved from mere compliance to a more holistic approach. Responsible management, grounded in financial probity, transparency, and accountability, ensures that decisions are not only legally sound but ethically responsible. Corporate governance and sustainability aren’t separate goals but rather two sides of the same coin. Together, they drive responsible business practices that foster long-term growth and societal well-being.”

Mr. Omesh Garga, Climate Change and Sustainability Services Partner, EY India said, “Organizations that embed safety, compliance, and innovation into their culture don’t just protect value—they create it. The industry today demands not just adherence to regulations but a commitment to excellence that transforms challenges into competitive advantages. Ultimately, innovation isn’t limited by technology, but by the depth of collaboration. As leaders, it is our responsibility to drive this cultural shift, ensuring that sustainability and governance become cornerstones of long-term success.”

The event also recognized industry pioneers who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to corporate governance and sustainability through the Corporate Governance & Sustainability Vision Awards, conferred by ICC. The summit focused on key themes, including the Corporate Governance & Sustainability Vision Awards 2025, the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), and Board Oversight of Environmental Responsibilities, encouraging leaders to embed ESG principles into corporate strategy for long-term value creation. Additionally, discussions emphasized the importance of sustainability reporting, the role of regulatory frameworks such as SEBI’s Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR), and the necessity of industry-government collaboration to drive India’s transition to a net-zero future.

The summit concluded with a strong consensus on the need for businesses to embed sustainability into their core operations. As India accelerates its journey toward becoming a net-zero economy, industry leaders emphasized the importance of innovation, responsible leadership, and collaborative action in achieving long-term sustainability goals.

19, Mar 2025
Kotak Mahindra Bank Launches ‘Hausla Talks’ to Empower and Celebrate Relentless Determination

Bengaluru, March 19th, 2025 – Kotak Mahindra Bank (“KMBL” / “Kotak”) announced the launch of ‘Hausla Talks’, a powerful platform to sharing real stories of ambition, courage and success.

 Hausla Talks is a key pillar of Kotak’s new brand philosophy, ‘Hausla Hai Toh Ho Jayega’, reinforcing Kotak’s commitment to evolving as a Bank and establishing itself as the go-to financial services organisation for the Aspirational Indian.

 As a challenger brand in the Indian BFSI sector, Kotak has always been guided by the ethos of dreaming big and acting with confidence. At a time when ambition drives progress in the country, the Hausla Talks platform will showcase extraordinary individuals—both Kotak customers and employees —who dared to dream big, face adversity head-on, and emerged victorious across all walks of life.

 The inaugural episode features the Hausla Hero—Swati Bedekar speaking about breaking social and economic barriers to launch the Sakhi Project, providing biodegradable, low-cost sanitary napkins to rural women. The following episodes of ‘Hausla Talks’ celebrates Sirisha Raju and Kaamya Karthikeyan; each sharing their journey of overcoming challenges to achieve extraordinary success. Sirisha shares her story of defying small-town limitations to become a pilot while Kaamya highlights how endurance, patience, and trust helped her overcome financial challenges to become the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits challenge in 2024.

 Kedarswamy Ravangave, Executive Vice President – Marketing, Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “At Kotak, we believe that ambition, when met with the right support, can create extraordinary success stories. ‘Hausla Talks’ is a testament to that belief—spotlighting individuals who dared to dream big and had the resilience to turn those dreams into reality. Through this platform, we aim to fuel India’s unstoppable spirit, reaffirming our commitment to being the financial partner that empowers ambition at every stage.”

 With Hausla Talks, Kotak Mahindra Bank is not only celebrating stories of resilience but also reinforcing its role as a catalyst for India’s growth story. This initiative marks the beginning of a bold new chapter—one where ambition meets opportunity, and every aspirational Indian has the financial support to turn possibilities into reality.