27, Feb 2025
CavinKare Ability Awards 2025: Six Exceptional Disability Advocates Honoured for Their Achievements
Bengaluru, 27th February 2025: Honouring six exceptional achievers with disabilities from across the country, CavinKare, in collaboration with Ability Foundation, one of the nation’s leading NGOs, hosted the 23rd edition of the CavinKare Ability Awards in the city today. Recognizing their relentless pursuit as changemakers who challenged societal norms, the event witnessed several dignitaries like Shri A R. Rahman, Dr. Vinod Surana & Dr. Mariazeena Johnson expressing solidarity with the cause. The evening also featured a captivating Mohiniyattam performance by the esteemed Kalaimamani Gopika Varma and her troupe, further enriching the event’s spirit of inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. C K Ranganathan, Chairman and Managing Director, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd. said, “I am very happy to celebrate the incredible achievements of individuals with disabilities who have defied limitations and set new benchmarks for excellence. The CavinKare Ability Awards stands as a testament to their resilience, talent, and indomitable spirit. At CavinKare, we take immense pride in recognizing and honouring these extraordinary achievers, whose inspiring stories encourage us all to embrace inclusivity and challenge societal perceptions. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a more empowered and inclusive society where every individual is inspired to dream big and achieve beyond boundaries.”
Congratulating the recipients Ms. Jayshree Raveendran, Founder & Hon. Executive Director, Ability Foundation, made her point by saying: “Today, as we gather to celebrate remarkable accomplishments, we are not merely recognizing individual successes, we are also amplifying the powerful voices of a diverse community. Through these awards, millions of India’s disabled individuals are speaking, loud and clear, asserting that they deserve to be noticed, accepted, and celebrated for who they truly are. Each recipient here embodies the resilience of countless others who are still striving to break free from the constraints imposed by society. As they break these constraints, it is imperative that society, in turn, acknowledges their vast potential and fosters an environment where their contributions are just waiting to be utilized.”
The recipients of this year’s awards were meticulously selected by an eminent panel of jurors, which included Mr. Madhan Karky, Lyricist and Screenwriter; Ms. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation; Justice (Retd.) Prabha Sridevan, Former Judge of the Madras High Court; Mr. Kapil Viswanathan, Co-founder of Krea University and President of IFMR; and Mr. S. Sethuraman, Chartered Accountant.
Established in the year 2003, the CavinKare Ability Awards have been recognizing exemplary services as well as accomplishments of achievers with disabilities. This esteemed national award is divided into three categories: the CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence, the CavinKare Ability Mastery Awards and CavinKare Ability Special Recognition Award.
The recipients of CavinKare Ability Awards 2025 are:
CavinKare Ability Special Recognition Award:
Sarah Sunny, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Sarah Sunny is India’s first deaf lawyer to argue before the Supreme Court, marking a historic step toward an inclusive legal system. Despite systemic barriers, including the lack of sign language interpreters trained in legal terminology, she persisted, advocating for accessibility in the judiciary. Raised in Bengaluru, she studied law at St. Joseph’s College and got enrolled as an advocate in 2021. Her success challenges stereotypes and paves the way for greater representation of deaf professionals in law.
CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence:
Poonam Shroti, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Poonam Shroti is a passionate disability rights advocate who was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition that causes fragile bones. Despite facing numerous challenges, Poonam defied societal expectations by completing her education and thriving in the corporate world. She founded Uddip Social Welfare Society to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly in India’s tier-two cities, through education, employment, and advocacy. Uddip’s initiatives have impacted hundreds, promoting inclusion, dignity, and independence.
CavinKare Ability Mastery Awards:
Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh, Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh is a celebrated Indian Para Swimmer and advocate for disability rights. After being diagnosed with paraplegia due to a tumor, Shams turned to sports, achieving remarkable success. He holds the World Record for the Longest Open Sea Swim by a Paraplegic and has won 31 national medals. He is a 2018 Asian Para Games participant. Shams has also earned an MBA and launched initiatives like the Active Wheelchair Project to improve mobility for people with disabilities. Honoured with numerous awards, including the President’s Best Sportsperson with Disability Award, Shams continues to inspire with his vision for greater accessibility and inclusion in sports. At the Reykjavik International Games in January 2025, he further strengthened his legacy by securing six medals-one gold, three silver, and two bronze, while setting a new National and Asian record in the 200m Breaststroke.
Miranda Tomkinson, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Miranda Tomkinson is a lecturer in the Department of Special Education at NIEPMD, with a focus on Deafblindness and Special Education for Multiple Disabilities. As the first Deafblind individual in India to complete a major in Special Education, Miranda holds three postgraduate degrees and has cleared the UGC NET exams in Sociology and Education. He is known for his innovative teaching methods and research contributions, including his work on assistive technologies like NUANCE DRAGON. Through his blog, YouTube channel, and upcoming book, Miranda advocates for greater inclusion and awareness for individuals with Deafblindness and multiple disabilities.
Arshad Pandit, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Arshad Pandit is an Associate Professor at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) and a pioneering researcher in medical genetics and cancer diagnostics. In 1995, Arshad’s life was dramatically changed when he was shot by terrorists, leaving him paraplegic. Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges, he went on to earn a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in Immunology. He has secured over 12 crores in research funding and developed a hand-controlled driving system for independence. Arshad today mentors individuals with disabilities, promoting mobility, independence, and integration into society.
Jilumol Mariet Thomas, Thodupuzha, Kerala
Jilumol Mariet Thomas, born without arms due to thalidomide syndrome, is a self-employed graphic designer and a member of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association. She uses her feet for tasks like typing, sketching, and creating digital artwork. Jilumol holds the 2021 Best Painter of the Year Award and is also a skilled foot painter with works displayed in exhibitions. In 2023, she became the first female in Asia without arms to receive a four-wheeler license. Jilumol has also ventured into dubbing for Malayalam cinema and is a motivational speaker.
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27, Feb 2025
Haier Introduces India’s Unique Colourful Kinouchi ACs, Merging Style and Innovation
India, 27th February 2025: Haier Appliances India, the No. 1 global major appliances brand for 16 consecutive years, is setting a new benchmark in home cooling with the launch of its exclusive colourful range of Kinouchi Air Conditioners. Aimed at transforming modern homes, this premium series seamlessly blends avant-garde aesthetics with superior performance.
The Kinouchi Limited Edition air conditioners blend cutting-edge technology with premium colourful finish, redefining home aesthetics beyond just cooling. As Indian consumers become more design-conscious, they seek appliances that align with their lifestyle and personal taste. Keeping this in mind, Haier India introduces this exclusive range, offering a perfect combination of functionality and style, ensuring the air conditioners deliver outstanding efficiency while seamlessly enhancing the overall décor of the home.
Available in three sophisticated shades—Black, Morning Mist & Moonstone Grey—the Kinouchi series seamlessly integrates with diverse interiors, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize both performance and aesthetics. More than just high-performance cooling solutions, these newly launched Haier ACs serve as statement pieces that reflect modern lifestyle choices. With this launch, Haier India reaffirms its commitment to customer-inspired innovation, ensuring consumers no longer have to choose between efficiency and elegance—they can have both, perfectly complementing their stylish homes.
Commenting on the launch of the Kinouchi Air Conditioner series, Mr. NS Satish, President, Haier Appliances India, said, “At Haier India, prioritizing the evolving needs of consumers has always been fundamental to our ethos. As the only brand in India offering colourful range of Limited-Edition AC series, we continue to set industry benchmarks in premium aesthetics and advanced cooling solutions. The new Kinouchi Limited Edition reflects this commitment, offering premium design while ensuring efficient and unmatched cooling. Committed to creating customer-inspired innovations, all our air conditioners, including the latest Kinouchi Dark Edition, are manufactured in India and meticulously designed for the Indian market.”
Advanced Features for Superior Cooling & Efficiency
The Kinouchi Limited Edition AC is engineered to transform home cooling with its intelligent technology. Powered by AI-driven Supersonic Cooling, it delivers 20X faster cooling in just 10 seconds, even in extreme temperatures up to 60°C. Frost Self-Clean Technology ensures 99.9% sterilization, circulating clean air within minutes for a healthier indoor environment.
With HEXA Inverter Technology, the AC dynamically offers heavy duty performance based on real-time conditions, optimizing efficiency and ensuring long-term durability. The 20-metre-long air flow with Turbo mode provides uniform and powerful cooling across the room, creating a consistently comfortable environment.
27, Feb 2025
House of Moksha: Experience the Path to Liberation
New Delhi, 27th January 2025 Moksha Aromatics is proud to announce the launch of the House of Moksha (HOM), a premium luxury perfumery that effortlessly blends Western sophistication, Middle Eastern opulence, and the timeless allure of Indian ingredients. Crafted with a commitment to sustainability, HOM offers vegan, cruelty-free fragrances developed using eco-friendly practices. Founded by two visionary brothers, Mr. Ashish Khandelwal and Mr. Kushank Rahul Gupta, with the aim of creating a legacy group of brands in the cosmetics and skincare industry, HOM delivers exceptional products with the highest quality and affordability. HOM is set to redefine the luxury fragrance industry with its meticulously curated scents and innovative formulations, establishing a new standard for ethical and artisanal perfumery.
House of Moksha celebrates the art of perfumery through a harmonious blend of cultures, incorporating rare and natural Indian essential oils such as Mysore sandalwood, vetiver, and Himalayan saffron. By paying homage to India’s rich heritage while embracing global traditions, each perfume becomes a journey designed to evoke emotions, spark memories, and transport users to a state of “moksha”—ultimate bliss and liberation. With a vision to become a global pioneer in luxurious fragrances, HOM is dedicated to crafting scents that create deep emotional connections while celebrating cultural diversity.
HOM’s exquisite range includes two standout collections:
● Oud Collection: Tobacco Oud, Vetiver Oud, Saffron Oud, Leather Oud, and Rose Oud.
● Signature Scents: Citrus Musk, Scarlet Love, Orchard Bloom, Aqua Terra, and Greek God.
With over 15 years of experience in the fragrance industry, Ashish brings a wealth of expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.“Fragrance is a silent yet powerful expression of one’s personality. At House of Moksha, we strive to craft scents that not only enhance individuality but also resonate with the soul, creating a lasting impression.” – Ashish Khandelwal, Founder, CEO & Creative Director of House of Moksha
With a background in mechanical engineering and supply chain management with over 7+ years of experience in manufacturing and product development, Kushank has seamlessly combined technical precision with his lifelong passion for exclusive fragrances. “At House of Moksha, my goal is to create fragrances that transcend time, evoking cherished memories and unforgettable experiences. With a foundation in technical precision and a passion for exclusivity, I strive to craft scents that are not only exceptional in quality but also accessible to all, redefining the art of perfumery on a global scale.” – Kushank Rahul Gupta, Chief Operating Officer
HOM fragrances will be available through the brand’s official online store www.houseofmoksha.com and select luxury retail outlets , making it convenient for customers to experience the magic of HOM from anywhere.
HOM delivers unparalleled premium luxury with fragrances priced between Rs 2750 and Rs 3250 per bottle. This balance ensures that quality is accessible to fragrance enthusiasts seeking unique and memorable olfactory experiences.
The brand is poised for growth, with plans to expand its product range, launch exclusive limited editions, and establish itself as a global luxury brand. Its commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and inclusivity ensures it will remain a leader in the evolving fragrance industry.
27, Feb 2025
Welspun One Achieves Milestone with 100% Fund 2 Commitment, Introduces INR 1,000 Crore Co-Investment Program
Mumbai, February 27, 2025: : Within just eight months of its final close, Welspun One, India’s fastest-growing logistics and industrial (L&I) real estate manager, has successfully committed 100% of its Fund 2 – an INR 2000 crore fund, across nine Grade A assets. Fund 2 has secured a portfolio of highly differentiated, off-market opportunities in new-age warehousing assets – segments that are seeing increasing demand from occupiers and investors alike. These assets offer superior long-term returns compared to traditional warehousing, driven by evolving supply chain needs, rising e-commerce penetration, and a growing preference for tech-enabled, efficient logistics spaces.
Given the increasing scale and capital intensity of these investments, Welspun One is launching a co-investment program, targeting commitments of up to INR 1,000 crore, with strong visibility on INR 600 crore. This additional capital will provide Fund 2 with dry powder to tap into a ready pipeline of 5 million sq. ft., currently at advanced stages of closure. The fund’s portfolio is now expected to grow from its existing nine investments to potentially 14-15 investments.
With this expansion, Welspun One’s aggregate portfolio will grow to ~22 million sq. ft., generating a projected net operating income (NOI) of approximately INR ~1,100 crore ($130 million) upon completion, leading to an AUM of $1.3 billion (INR 11,050 crores). Fund 2 is also tracking a mark-to-market gross return of ~24% equity-IRR, underscoring the strong financial performance and value creation driven by Welspun One’s disciplined investment strategy. This milestone comes at a time when India’s logistics and industrial (L&I) sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of ~15% YoY over the next 2 years crossing ~590 million sq. ft. in 2027.
Over the years, Welspun One’s strategic investments in high-growth, new-age assets continue to set industry benchmarks. The company’s projects at JNPA and Thane have attracted significant leasing interest, reinforcing their position as premium logistics and business hubs. At JNPA, nearly 30% of the warehousing inventory is already pre-leased at premium rents of INR 55-60 per sq. ft., underscoring the project’s strategic location and high-quality infrastructure. Similarly, the WTC Thane development is seeing strong pre-leasing traction, with commitments nearing closure at benchmark rates of INR 130-135 per sq. ft. for urban logistics and INR 150-160 per sq. ft. for commercial use, reflecting its differentiated offering. Overall, leasing momentum across the portfolio is robust, with total leasing for FY 2024-25 expected to reach ~2.5 million sq. ft., whilst maintaining zero vacancy.

Anshul Singhal, Managing Director, Welspun One, commented: “The rapid commitment of Fund 2 reaffirms our ability to efficiently deploy capital, identify high-quality opportunities, and execute with discipline. At Welspun One, we are building an institutional-grade platform backed by a team with deep decadal expertise in investment, development, and asset management. The launch of our co-investment program is a natural extension of this strategy, allowing us to capitalize on large-scale opportunities while maintaining prudent diversification. As we scale, our focus remains on delivering best-in-class industrial real estate solutions that not only generate superior returns for our investors but also contribute meaningfully to India’s evolving logistics infrastructure.”
27, Feb 2025
Gulf Oil Bolsters Marketing Team with Aarthy Sridhar’s Appointment as CMO
Mumbai, February 27, 2025 – Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd., a leading player in the lubricants industry, today announced the appointment of Ms. Aarthy Sridhar as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). With over 13 years of extensive experience in brand building and category leadership at Hindustan Unilever, Ms. Sridhar brings proven expertise in marketing strategy, portfolio transformation, and P&L management. In her new role, she will spearhead Gulf Oil’s marketing initiatives and brand strategy, driving the company’s continued transition towards becoming a marketing-driven organization.

Ms. Sridhar brings extensive FMCG expertise from her tenure at Hindustan Unilever, where she spearheaded strategic growth across multiple high-value portfolios including beauty, home care & ice creams. Her track record includes successful brand launches, category creation and driving premiumization and portfolio transformation across diverse brands such as Lakme, Surf excel, Comfort & Magnum.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Ravi Chawla, Managing Director & CEO of Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd., said, “We are excited to welcome Aarthy Sridhar to the Gulf family. Her deep FMCG expertise and proven success in brand building align perfectly with our marketing excellence agenda. In today’s rapidly changing industry landscape, where customer expectations are continuously evolving, she brings a fresh perspective that will accelerate our transition from traditional industrial marketing to a more dynamic, consumer-centric approach. Aarthy’s proven track record in brand architecture, product innovation, and strategic portfolio management will be instrumental in strengthening Gulf Oil’s market position and brand equity.”
Speaking about her new role, Ms. Aarthy Sridhar said, “I am delighted to begin my journey with Gulf Oil at this transformative time. Gulf Oil’s storied heritage combined with its progressive outlook presents immense potential for growth. I look forward to applying my consumer-centric experience to strengthen Gulf Oil’s market presence, foster innovation, and build sustainable growth through a comprehensive marketing approach.”
Ms. Sridhar holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) and a B.Tech in Information Technology from V.J.T.I. Mumbai. Her consistent track record of business transformation and expertise in modern marketing approaches will be crucial in elevating Gulf Oil’s brand presence and market share in an evolving industry landscape.
27, Feb 2025
Jio World Drive Partners with TIRA to Present ‘The Skin Affair’: A Luxe Beauty Experience

In an extraordinary fusion of luxury and wellness, Jio World Drive, Mumbai’s cultural epicenter, joins forces with TIRA to introduce ‘The Skin Affair’ – Mumbai’s most exquisite skincare festival gracing the city this March 8th and 9th. Set in BKC’s premier lifestyle destination at Jio World Drive, this curated beauty soirée redefines self-care, celebrating essential skincare rituals.
The event showcases 20+ skincare brands, featuring international sensations such as Youth To The People, Neutrogena, Pixi, and the Korean phenomenon Laneige, alongside cult-favorites like Beauty of Joseon and Cosrx. Beauty connoisseurs will discover revolutionary formulations from Allies of Skin juxtaposed with celebrated homegrown innovators Akind, Beauty by Bie, Minimalist, Plum, and Foxtale – creating an opportunity for both curious novices and sophisticated skincare virtuosos alike.
For those who equate good food with good skincare, The Skin Affair presents 10+ trailblazing, women-led culinary names. Indulge in delectable confections from Noa By The Nutcracker, MOTODO Pizzeria, Truefit Gourmet, The Gelato Bar, Wildflower Bakehouse, and more.
The Skin Affair is an immersive sensorial experience where sumptuous textures, intoxicating aromas, transformative ingredients, and electrifying performances come together to revolutionize beauty. The weekend features captivating performances programmed by Arré: All About Her, with a stellar lineup including Sumukhi Suresh, Vasudha Sehgal, DJ Suggahunny, W.I.S.H, Wild Wild Women, and more:
Visitors can unleash their creativity at 15 exquisitely designed DIY ateliers, featuring activities such as 3D Resin Art, LED Dried Flower Glass Jars, Calligraphy Art, DIY Candle Making, and more.
These hands-on experiences transform self-care into a multisensory delight, allowing attendees to craft, create, and connect. Beyond product exploration, The Skin Affair offers expert-led workshops on seasonal skincare, mindful beauty, and facial massage.
These intimate sessions simplify dermatology, helping attendees refine their routines with professional insights. What sets The Skin Affair apart is its inclusive spirit—an exclusive yet welcoming celebration of Women’s Day weekend with loved ones, including furry friends. Over two days, it reimagines self-care as a shared experience, where discovery, connection, and beauty come together. Book your tickets now!
27, Feb 2025
Google Cloud and Glance Join Forces to Redefine Consumer Experiences with Generative AI on Lock Screens and Ambient TVs
Bangalore, Singapore, Sunnyvale, Calif., 27 February 2025 ‒ Consumer internet company, Glance, and Google Cloud today announced a strategic partnership to bring the power of generative AI (gen AI) to millions of Glance-enabled smartphones worldwide. Through this collaboration, Glance will leverage Google’s AI models to develop consumer-facing AI applications designed to enhance and enrich user experiences on smartphone lock screens and ambient TV screens.
Glance, a pioneer in delivering AI-powered smart lock screen experiences, currently powers more than 450 million Android-based smartphones worldwide. The company has an active user base of more than 300 million across India, Indonesia, Japan, the United States, and other countries. It is now building the next generation of Glance, which aims to turn every user’s lock screen into the center of their digital experiences, integrating their news, sports, games, entertainment, fashion, and shopping with gen AI to create a ‘personal internet’ for the user.
Glance will leverage Google Cloud’s Gemini intelligence capabilities and Imagen’s state of the art image generation capabilities via Vertex AI to power Glance’s next-gen experiences. One of the first experiences is an immersive, gen AI-enabled commerce feature for the lock screen. This feature allows users to upload a single image (selfie or upload from gallery), which is then analyzed to infer their interests and preferences. Users can then use gen AI to generate personalized images that place them in relevant contexts, transforming their lock screen wallpapers. As users visualize themselves with various products, they can make real-time purchase decisions seamlessly from their lock screens.
“Our mission at Glance is to inspire users to become the best version of themselves through discovery-led experiences on surfaces powered by AI. We want to be the world’s largest consumer tech platform, reaching a billion screens by 2028, and our partnership with Google Cloud is key,” said Naveen Tewari, Founder & CEO of InMobi & Glance. “Our combined knowledge, AI capabilities, and expertise uniquely position Glance to deliver the next level of AI-driven experiences for smartphone users, supported by viable business models such as commerce and advertising.”
The partnership comes as Glance prepares to launch ‘Glance AI,’ a gen AI-powered platform designed to deliver immersive discovery experiences on both smartphone lock screens and TV ambient screens. To be launched in the U.S. market first, Glance AI aims to supercharge ordinary smartphones into AI phones through experiences that redefine content and commerce.
Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud added, “Generative AI technologies have the power to transform experiences for people around the world, and mobile phones are a key touchpoint. Glance can now harness Google Cloud’s cutting-edge gen AI technologies to develop groundbreaking applications across commerce, content, and more that will unlock new possibilities for customers.”
27, Feb 2025
Spring into Wellness: How Rasayanam Amla Juice Enhances Digestion and Detox

As spring unfolds with its promise of renewal and rejuvenation, it’s the perfect time to reset our health from the inside out. One of the most effective ways to support gut health during this seasonal transition is by incorporating Amla juice into your daily routine. Also known as Indian Gooseberry, Amla is a powerhouse of nutrients that aid digestion, enhance detoxification, and boost overall well-being.
The Importance of Gut Health in Spring
Spring is a season of renewal, and just as nature sheds the remnants of winter, our bodies also need a gentle detox. After indulging in heavy, warming foods during colder months, the digestive system may feel sluggish. This is where Amla juice comes in; it helps cleanse the gut, improve digestion, and prepare the body for the lighter, more vibrant foods of spring.
Rasayanam Amla Juice is crafted with the finest quality Indian Gooseberries, ensuring maximum potency and purity. Free from artificial additives and preservatives, it delivers a natural boost to digestion, immunity, and overall vitality. Whether you seek a daily wellness elixir or a seasonal detox aid, Rasayanam Amla Juice is an excellent choice to embrace the essence of spring with renewed energy.
Amla Juice: A Superfood for Digestion
Amla is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a natural remedy for digestive concerns.
- Enhances Digestion: Amla stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, helping break down food efficiently and preventing bloating or acidity.
- Regulates Bowel Movements: The high fiber content in Amla juice promotes regularity, preventing constipation and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
- Balances Stomach Acidity: Its alkaline nature helps neutralize excessive stomach acid, reducing the risk of acid reflux and indigestion.
Amla Juice for Detoxification
Spring is the ideal time to detoxify the body, and Amla juice serves as a natural cleanser by:
- Flushing Out Toxins: Its diuretic properties help eliminate toxins from the liver and kidneys, enhancing overall detoxification.
- Boosting Liver Function: Amla supports liver health by promoting the production of bile, which is crucial for fat digestion and toxin removal.
- Strengthening Immunity: With its high vitamin C content, Amla juice helps combat inflammation and supports the immune system in flushing out impurities.
“Amla is a timeless Ayurvedic remedy known for its incredible ability to rejuvenate the gut and overall health. Incorporating Rasayanam Amla juice into your daily routine during spring can help detoxify the body, enhance digestion, and restore balance from within,” says Ayush Aggarwal, Founder, Rasayanam.
27, Feb 2025
Vivo Ignite 2025 Sets New Milestone with 37,000 Registrations and 660+ Districts, Doubling Its Impact
27 February 2025, New Delhi – vivo, the innovative global smartphone brand, is thrilled to announce the tremendous response to the third edition of ‘vivo Ignite’, which has received over 37,000 registrations from 9,000 schools across more than 660 districts, covering over 85% of India’s total districts. Among the 112 aspirational districts defined by NITI Aayog, 80 districts have participated, highlighting the initiative’s deep reach and impact in empowering young innovators and providing them with opportunities to participate in such platforms across India.
Students from grades 8-12 submitted over 5,600 innovative project ideas as individual/ group entries under the ‘Tech for Good’ theme, showcasing their problem-solving skills and commitment to social impact aligned with United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The overwhelming participation highlights India’s youth’s creativity and passion for technology. Notably, this year’s participation has doubled compared to last year, significantly expanding the initiative’s reach and impact.
The North Indian region emerged as a key hub for young innovators, contributing 41% of total registrations. Technology, Agriculture, and Climate Change were the most popular categories, collectively accounting for 38% of total idea submissions, reflecting students’ strong and growing inclination toward solving real-world challenges through innovation.
Expressing excitement over the overwhelming response, Geetaj Channana, Head of Corporate Strategy at vivo India, said, “The response to the third edition of vivo Ignite: T&I Initiative is a powerful reflection of the growing spirit of innovation among young minds in India. In just three years, we have seen participation soar—from 3,000+ registrations and 1,100+ submissions in the first edition to over 37,000 registrations and more than 5,600 submissions this year.
This growth is a testament to the increasing enthusiasm for using technology to drive social change. With our reach now extending to 9,000+ schools across 660+ districts, and participation doubling from last year, we are proud to see so many students eager to turn their ideas into real-world solutions.”
He also added, “This initiative is more than just a competition; it’s a movement, empowering students with the tools, mentorship, and platform needed to transform ideas into real-world solutions. We are grateful to our esteemed partners, including CIET-NCERT, IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, UN Global Compact Network India, and Shooting Stars Foundation, for their invaluable support in empowering these young innovators. Together, we are shaping a brighter tomorrow where technology serves a greater purpose.”
By providing a national platform for students to ideate, innovate, and address critical societal issues, vivo is shaping the next generation of problem-solvers through vivo Ignite. The initiative encourages students to harness technology for good, focusing on Software-Tech Innovations, Agriculture & Climate Change, and Community Development Innovations—all aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The competition unfolds in three stages, ensuring that students receive the right mentorship and exposure throughout their journey.
- Stage 1: Students submitted an image along with a brief description of their unique idea, which must not have been previously recognized. This phase ended on February 17, 2025.
- Stage 2: The top 200 zonal winners—50 from each zone (North, South, East, and West)—will be shortlisted and announced on February 28, 2025. These young innovators will participate in workshops and receive one-to-one mentoring. Shortlisted students will then submit a video explaining their working model/prototype and provide details of the project in a Project Display Board format. The Top 10 ideas will proceed to the Stage 3.
- Stage 3: Participants of the Top 10 ideas will receive further mentoring and workshop sessions from IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation to refine their prototype. They will present their final prototypes at the Grand Finale on June 7-8, 2025.
To ensure wide outreach, cutting-edge mentorship and expert guidance, vivo India has partnered with leading institutions including Central Institute of Educational Technology – NCERT (CIET-NCERT), IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation – Innovation Hub of IIT Madras, and UN Global Compact Network India (UN GCNI) as knowledge partners. This collaboration bridges academia, industry, and young innovators, ensuring students receive top-tier mentorship, access to advanced resources, and real-world insights to refine and scale their projects.
27, Feb 2025
Vignan Online Debuts Online MBA in Marketing to Elevate Professional Expertise
Guntur 27th February 2025: Vignan Online, the online learning arm of Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology and Research (Deemed-to-be-University), has launched a two-year Online MBA program in Marketing. The program is designed to help learners sharpen their marketing acumen and expand their career opportunities in an increasingly competitive business environment.
This 2-year duration program will offer an in-depth exploration of strategic and tactical marketing by combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Learners will gain insights into contemporary marketing trends, consumer behavior, digital strategies, and brand management with guidance from experienced faculty and industry professionals. The program will help learners and professionals to strengthen their expertise to apply innovative marketing approaches to real-world business challenges.
The program syllabus includes subjects such as Principles of Economics and Markets, Managerial Effectiveness and Ethics, Entrepreneurship, Marketing Management and Research, Operations Management, Consumer Behavior, Agricultural and Rural Marketing, Integrated Marketing, Global Marketing, B2B Marketing, Retail Marketing and Brand Management, Digital Marketing, and Data Analytics Communications. The program also features a research project, providing exposure to solving marketing-related challenges through analytical and strategic problem-solving.
During the program duration, learners will benefit from 120 study hours, interactive audio-video lectures, pre-recorded sessions for those unable to attend live classes, and short video modules for better comprehensive understanding. This flexible and structured approach will allow working professionals also to balance education with their other responsibilities while gaining practical expertise.
Graduates of the Online MBA in Marketing can pursue roles such as Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Market Research Analyst, Advertising Manager, Product Manager, and Business Development Manager.