19, Feb 2025
Singapore-based Surbana Jurong Joins Hands with PLPB for IndusPark in Punjab
• Region’s First World-Class Industrial Park to Drive Economic Growth and Job Creation
• PLPB IndusPark aims to attract investment and industries across the globe and set new benchmarks
• Strategically located on the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC), the project is planned to have a span of over 150 acres
19 February 2025: PLPB, a dynamic new-age real estate and infrastructure development company, has announced a strategic collaboration with Singapore-based Surbana Jurong to develop PLPB IndusPark, Punjab’s first world-class industrial park. The agreement was signed in Singapore in the August presence of the Real Estate delegation under the CII Learning Mission.
Slated to span over 150 acres of greenfield land near Rajpura in the Patiala district, the project would have a strategic locational advantage with direct access to the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC), ensuring seamless logistics and supply chain efficiencies for manufacturers, esp. SMEs and MSMEs.
PLPB IndusPark is set to facilitate manufacturing units under orange and green categories, in compliance with the central and state government guidelines. The park aims to attract investments from industries across the globe seeking sustainable and compliant infrastructure while fostering employment opportunities for Punjab’s skilled workforce.
Sharing his enthusiasm for the partnership, Sumit Singla, CEO, of PLPB, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Surbana Jurong, a globally renowned urban and infrastructure consulting firm. This collaboration marks a new chapter in Punjab’s industrial growth, setting the foundation for a globally competitive manufacturing hub. As an organization, we are aligned to facilitate the industry players with all necessary support to engage with various stakeholders and assist in handholding and representing them as per the need to set the future-ready industrial ecosystem that fosters innovation, sustainability, and economic prosperity for the state of Punjab.”
Key Highlights of PLPB IndusPark:
• 150-acre integrated industrial hub near Rajpura, Patiala district.
• Strategic connectivity to the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC).
• Focus sectors: Agro/Food Processing, Textiles (hosiery & garments), Auto Components, and Warehousing
• Comprehensive master plan and engineering design developed by Surbana Jurong.
• Aims to boost industrial growth and employment in the region.
• Handhold and facilitate stakeholders’ engagement for future-ready industrial ecosystem
Speaking on the occasion, Raman Kumar, Director of Programme Management, Surbana Jurong said. “MSMEs are considered the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing a substantial portion to the overall GDP which estimates to 29% to India’s GDP. Partnering with PLPB is an onward step to leverage overall GDP as projected by Krishnamurthy Subramanian in India@100: Envisioning Tomorrow’s Economic Powerhouse, who believes that India has the potential to do far better and that it could possibly become even a $55 trillion economy in less than 25 years.”
With landmark projects such as Singapore Changi Airport and Noida International Airport under their portfolio, Surbana Jurong has been instrumental in shaping industrial development across India in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.
Applauding the partnership, Ashwinder R Singh, VC & CEO, BCD Group and Co-Chair CII, Real Estate Committee (NR) said, “PLPB IndusPark is a bold step towards redefining Punjab’s industrial future—fostering innovation, empowering MSMEs, and driving sustainable growth. As part of the CII mission, I applaud PLPB’s vision to create a global manufacturing hub that will inspire industries and uplift communities. Together, we are building not just infrastructure, but a legacy of progress and prosperity for Punjab.”
Punjab has the significant state economy in India, with ₹8.02 lakh crore (US$93 billion) in gross domestic product (GDP) for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The state’s economy is primarily driven by agricultural production and small and medium-sized enterprises. As per Invest Punjab, over the last four years, the state has witnessed over ₹30,000 crores of investments in agro-food processing, manufacturing, steel and alloys, and textiles and apparel.
PLPB has redefined Infrastructure with Innovation at the forefront by creating new benchmarks in industrial and commercial real estate. The company’s flagship project, ‘The Wellness City, ’ exemplifies a holistic approach to urban development, focusing on mental, physical, and spiritual well-being in work and living environments. PLPB IndusPark continues this legacy by fostering a business-friendly and people-centric industrial landscape.
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- By Sai Krishna
17, Feb 2025
Team MRF Tyres Enters The British Rally Championship
James Williams & Max Mcrae To Lead MRF Challenge
Chennai, February 17, 2025: MRF, India’s No 1 Tyre Manufacturer, today announced their participation in the prestigious and highly competitive British Rally Championship 2025 and inclusion as official tyre suppliers for the 2025 season. Having dominated the European Rally Championships, Team MRF Tyres now seeks to extend their superiority in the UK. Leading the MRF challenge will be drivers James Williams and Max Mcrae.
The decision to participate in the BRC 2025 underscores MRF’s commitment to showcasing the capabilities of Indian engineering and manufacturing on the international stage. With a rich heritage in the Motorsport Tyres and a reputation for producing high-performance tyres, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the world of rallying.
“We are excited to take on this new challenge and represent India on the global motorsports platform,” said Arun Mammen Vice Chairman & Managing Director of MRF. “The British Rally Championship is a prestigious event that attracts the best drivers and teams from around the world. Our participation in this event will not only demonstrate the quality of our products but also inspire Indian motorsports enthusiasts and foster a sense of national pride. We are confident that our tyres will perform exceptionally well in the BRC 2025. Our engineers have been working closely with rally experts to develop the right products that can withstand the rigors of the sport and provide our drivers with the necessary grip and stability to compete at the highest level.”
The two professional drivers will leverage the company’s extensive research and development capabilities to develop tyres that are specifically tailored for the demanding conditions in the nine round event throughout the year in 2025. The first round of the 2025 season gets underway in Beverley- East Yorkshire UK ,at the East Riding Stages Rally on 23 February
TEAM MRF Tyres are winners in the FIA European Rally Championship in 2022 and 2023. Dominating the Italian Gravel Rally Championship for 4 years in a row, MRF tyres has also succeeded in Norway and Latvia IN January 2025 with the Snow Tyres. Brand MRF is already a tyre of choice in Hi performance rallies in Australia , New Zealand and South America. The company’s commitment to developing high-performance tyres has been evident through its participation and successes in various national and international championships.
Profile – James Williams, is a Professional Rally Driver. In 2015 he was adjudged as the UK young driver of the year. And from then on he has had good success in various championships. He was the winner of the Rally Isle of Man in 2024 and the Goodwood Festival of Speed winner in the same year. Apart from Rally driving, he is also a brand ambassador and public speaker.
Profile – Max Mcrae UK based Max McRae is excited by his first full British Rally Championship campaign. The 20-year-old Scot tackled four BRC rounds last season, but will step-up to the full six-event calendar in 2025. He closed out last year on the highest possible note, with fastest time on the final stage of the season-closing Cambrian Rallly. Max comes from a family with a rich history in rallying. With eight British titles to the McRae name already (five for Jimmy, two for Uncle Colin and one for father Alister), Max is well aware of the weight of expectation. Much as Max is keen to continue in that same vein, he’s realistic about his experience of – and the competition in – the premier British series. Of the four events he started in a Ford Fiesta Rally2 last season, he finished three of them comfortably in the top-10, including a fine fourth on the Cambrian.
14, Feb 2025
MUMBAI’S ICONS, CAPTURED IN TIME
AN EXHIBITION BY PRADEEP CHANDRA AT MUSEO CAMERA
Gurugram, Feb 14: Museo Camera will present “Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra,” a captivating exhibition showcasing the photography of Pradeep Chandra. The exhibition, curated by Aditya Arya, Director of Museo Camera, will run from February 16th to 27th, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai (then Bombay) through the lens of one of India’s most celebrated photographers.
Pradeep Chandra, a veteran photojournalist, returns to Delhi after 45 years to share his extraordinary collection of images. Having spent a decade in Delhi in the 1970s, contributing to publications like Hind Pocket Books, Saptahik Hindustan, Kadambini, Sushma Shama, and Youth Times, and working with Delhi Press as a staff photographer, Chandra’s return to the city of his early career is a homecoming. His lens has captured the essence of Bombay’s dynamic culture, its influential personalities, and its transformative moments over the years, making this exhibition a significant cultural event.
“Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra” is a visual chronicle of the city’s evolution, featuring iconic figures from various fields. The exhibition features an impressive array of portraits, including luminaries from the art world such as M.F. Husain, Tyeb Mehta, F.N. Souza, and Mario Miranda. Film enthusiasts will recognize legendary actors like Ashok Kumar, Dev Anand, Amitabh Bachchan, and Sanjay Dutt, alongside glimpses of cinematic moments, such as Rajat Sharma interviewing Sharad Pawar on the sets of Aap Ki Adaalat.
Beyond the realm of arts and entertainment, Chandra’s lens has also captured historical and spiritual figures. The exhibition features poignant portraits of the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, and spiritual leader Osho Rajneesh. Music aficionados will appreciate images of maestros like Hariprasad Chaurasia, Amjad Ali Khan, Bhimsen Joshi, Zubin Mehta, and Ustad Zakir Hussain. The political landscape is also represented, with photographs of prominent leaders from Indira Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi to L.K. Advani and Narendra Modi.
This exhibition is more than just a collection of photographs; it is a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on Bombay’s rich history and its diverse population. Pradeep Chandra’s work, borne from his time with esteemed publications like The Indian Post, The Indian Express, The Illustrated Weekly of India, and Bombay Times, encapsulates the spirit of the city. His images are not merely snapshots; they are stories frozen in time, capturing the essence of their subjects and the era they represent.
Curator Aditya Arya’s vision brings these powerful images together, creating a narrative that resonates with both long-time residents and those new to the city. “Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra” is a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in photography, history, and the vibrant culture of Mumbai.
Exhibition Details:
Title: Bombay Through the Eyes of Pradeep Chandra
Venue: Museo Camera
Dates: February 16th – 27th
Time : 11 am to 7 pm
Curator: Aditya Arya
14, Feb 2025
The Perfect Valentine’s Day Gifts: Tech, Style & Innovation for Your Loved One
Love is in the air! With just a few days left until Valentine’s Day, the hunt for the perfect gift is in full swing.
Why settle for the usual chocolates and flowers when you can surprise your loved one with something practical, stylish, and innovative?
Dreame Technology
This Valentine’s Day, skip the clichés and opt for a gift that truly enhances your loved one’s everyday life. Whether they are a tech whiz, a trendsetter, or someone who takes pride in a pristine home, Dreame Technology has the perfect pick. From high-speed hairstyling tools to hands-free cleaning powerhouses, these smart and stylish gifts add a touch of luxury, convenience, and innovation to any lifestyle.
Here are some standout picks that your loved one will cherish:
1. Dreame Airstyle: The Ultimate Gift for the Chic & Fashion-Forward partner
For the style-savvy partner who loves changing up their look, the Dreame Airstyle is the ultimate beauty essential. This all-in-one styling powerhouse effortlessly dries, curls, and straightens, while advanced airflow technology ensures silky-smooth results with minimal heat damage. Whether they are aiming for red-carpet curls or sleek sophistication, this tool delivers flawless, salon-worthy hair from the comfort of home. Give the gift of effortless glamour—anytime, anywhere!
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 19,999
2. Dreame Pocket High-Speed Hair Dryer: Compact Power for On-the-Go Styling
A must-have for anyone who loves looking their best, the Dreame Pocket High-Speed Hair Dryer is lightweight, foldable, and ultra-portable. Designed with a 110,000 RPM motor and negative ion technology, it ensures rapid drying while protecting hair moisture. Jet-setting across the globe, dressing up for a dazzling night out, or getting ready for an unforgettable occasion, this sleek dryer ensures salon-perfect styling with effortless speed and precision.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 7,999
3. Dreame H12 Dual: A Gift for Those Who Love a Spotless Home
Show your love with a gift that keeps things effortlessly clean. The Dreame H12 Dual is an all-in-one wet and dry vacuum, designed to tackle spills, dust, and pet hair with ease. With dual cleaning modes and an advanced water recovery system, it ensures streak-free floors. Thoughtfully designed for convenience, it’s a perfect gift for someone who loves a pristine living space.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 33,999
4. Dreame L10 Prime: The Smart Cleaning Gift That Says ‘I Care’
For the busy partner who loves a clean home but not the hassle, the Dreame L10 Prime is the perfect solution. With intelligent navigation, automatic mop lifting, and powerful suction, this robot vacuum ensures spotless floors with zero effort. Smart scheduling allows customized cleaning, making it an ideal time-saving companion for any household.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 45,999
5. Dreame IPL Hair Removal Device: A Luxury Self-Care Essential
Pamper your partner with the gift of smooth, salon-quality skin at home. The Dreame IPL Hair Removal Device offers painless, long-lasting hair removal with adjustable intensity levels. Its ergonomic design and fast-flash mode make the process quick, effective, and safe ensuring they feel confident and radiant every day.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 9,999
This Valentine’s Day, ditch the ordinary and wow your loved one with a gift that blends innovation, luxury, and everyday ease. Whether it’s a high-tech beauty essential, a sleek home upgrade, or a gadget that makes life smoother, Dreame Technology has the perfect pick. Give a gift that keeps on giving—every single day.
JUST CORSECA
JUST CORSECA, a renowned brand in audio innovation, is offering a range of premium portable speakers – Sonic Sphere and Sonic Stream, as gifting options this Valentine’s Day. Combining style with superior sound quality, these truly meaningful products bring enjoyment in your partner’s daily lives.
1. JUST CORSECA Sonic Sphere –
The Sonic Sphere is engineered to deliver powerful and immersive audio experiences with its impressive 450W output. It comes equipped with two wireless microphones, making it ideal for karaoke nights or professional gatherings. Its multicore sound system enhances deep bass and audio clarity, providing a dynamic listening experience. It is a perfect gifting option for those seeking powerful sound with unmatched convenience.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 29,999
2. JUST CORSECA Sonic Stream –
The Sonic Stream isn’t just a speaker—it’s an experience. With its ergonomic design and powerful 360W output, it delivers crystal-clear, room-filling sound, making every moment special. Its True Wireless Stereo (TWS) feature lets users connect multiple speakers for an immersive audio experience, perfect for cozy date nights or lively celebrations. The portable design with a built-in handle makes it easy to carry anywhere—whether for a romantic getaway, a picnic under the stars, or simply enjoying music at home. A gift that blends style, convenience, and performance, the Sonic Stream is the perfect way to share love through music.
Buying Link – Amazon
Price – INR 20,999
URBAN
Surprise your girlfriend/wife this Valentine’s Day with a glamorous Smartwatch from URBAN, a leading home-grown technology brand.
1. URBAN Stella
For those who prefer a sophisticated yet bold look, URBAN Stella is a masterpiece in glamour and innovation. The diamond-cut bezel, faux diamond-studded design, and rotating crown create a mesmerizing jewellery-like appeal. Its 1.2” Super AMOLED display with high contrast and always-on mode makes it a standout accessory, perfect for any occasion. A built-in hydration alert, sleep monitoring, and stress tracking ensure that users stay on top of their health while looking effortlessly chic. It is a perfect gift to surprise your girlfriend/wife this Valentine’s Day.
Buying Link – URBAN’s website
U&i
Surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day with TWS earbuds and neckbands from U&i, one of India’s most popular lifestyle tech accessories brands. Combining style, innovation, affordability and superior sound quality, these gifts make every moment special—whether it’s enjoying music together or staying connected on the go. Show your appreciation with something innovative and thoughtful, ensuring every day feels special, stress-free, and filled with love.
1. U&i Entry 15 TWS with ENC
Entry 15 TWS brings a perfect blend of performance and comfort. With an outstanding 40 hours of music time and 30mAh earphone battery, this model ensures uninterrupted entertainment. Featuring a 5.4 Bluetooth version, smart touch controls, and an 11mm driver, it delivers superior audio quality and connectivity. Available in three vibrant colors, this TWS is both stylish and functional, designed for users who value high-quality sound and convenience.
Price – INR 620
2. U&i Entry 10 Neckband
The Entry 10 Neckband is built for those who need durability and extended usage. With a remarkable 300 hours of standby time and 30 hours of music and talk time, it guarantees uninterrupted use. Its magnetic earbuds offer convenience, while the noise reduction feature ensures clarity during calls and music playback.
Price – INR 270
14, Feb 2025
Spectrum@Metro to Host Daawat-e-Ishq – A Celebration of Love Through Food
Noida, 14th February 2025:- Spectrum@Metro, located in Sector 75, Noida, is set to host Daawat-e-Ishq on February 14, blending love and flavors into an unforgettable experience for Valentine’s Day. This exciting live music and food festival will create an immersive celebration of romance through India’s rich and diverse culinary heritage, offering couples and food enthusiasts a memorable evening of togetherness. Renowned singer Danny will be performing live, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere with his mesmerizing melodies.
The festival, themed “Flavors of Love,” aims to unite people through the exquisite tastes of India. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to savor authentic regional specialties, each dish symbolizing the warmth and passion of its origin. From decadent desserts to aphrodisiac-inspired delicacies, Daawat-e-Ishq will offer a gastronomic journey filled with love. The event will also feature interactive sessions with renowned chefs showcasing dishes perfect for a romantic evening.
As a vibrant live music and food fest, Daawat-e-Ishq will offer visitors an unparalleled experience where melodies and flavors come together. The festival will feature soulful live performances, captivating musical acts, and a diverse selection of delectable cuisines. The immersive atmosphere will make it a must-visit Valentine’s Day celebration, bringing together music lovers and food enthusiasts for a night of joy and togetherness.
Ajendra Singh, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Spectrum@Metro, said, “Daawat-e-Ishq is not just a food festival; it is a tribute to love and togetherness. We invite visitors to experience this extraordinary culinary affair where every flavor tells a story of romance. Whether you’re here for a romantic dinner, a fun-filled evening, or simply to explore delicious cuisines, this event promises something special for everyone.”
Spectrum@Metro is a premier retail and entertainment destination in Sector 75, Noida, known for its vibrant events and diverse experiences. Daawat-e-Ishq is a celebration of love, flavors, and the joy of togetherness. Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a romance seeker, or looking for a memorable Valentine’s outing, this festival promises an experience to cherish.
13, Feb 2025
Social Beat Brings Fortune’s 25-Year Journey to Life through Digital Storytelling
Social Beat, one of India’s leading digital marketing agencies, successfully executed a comprehensive digital campaign for Fortune Foods to celebrate the brand’s 25-year milestone. Titled ‘Swaad Ka Safaar,’ the campaign aimed to bring alive the values and legacy of Fortune Foods through the love of Ghar Ka Khana, engaging audiences across generations through nostalgic and relatable storytelling.
The campaign’s creative approach resulted in a series of AI-generated videos and a brand-new 25-year logo launch film, encapsulating Fortune’s journey from then to now. The use of AI-driven creative assets brought a modern touch to the brand’s legacy content, ensuring relevance for both existing and new customers.
Commenting on the campaign’s success, Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, Social Beat, said: “Fortune Foods has been a trusted name in Indian households for 25 years, representing a rich culinary heritage. Our objective was to create a campaign that not only celebrates this milestone but also resonates with people of all ages. The success of this campaign demonstrates the power of digital storytelling in building emotional connections with consumers.”
Jignesh Shah, Head of Digital, Fortune Foods, added, “Completing 25 years is a monumental achievement for Fortune Foods, and it was important for us to celebrate this milestone with our customers who have been part of our journey. Social Beat’s innovative approach to digital storytelling through Ai generated videos helped us convey the brand’s legacy and emotional connect in a way that truly resonated with our audience. The results speak for themselves, and we look forward to more collaborations with Social Beat in the future.”
The campaign was executed in three phases: pre-launch, launch, and sustenance, with key highlights including the unveiling of Fortune’s commemorative logo and a heartwarming 25-year journey video made by Social Beat that struck an emotional chord with audiences. The campaign across key cities including Bangalore, Delhi NCR, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Pune, garnered massive digital traction with over 36 million impressions and a reach of 11.7 million users.
The campaign has set a new benchmark for digital-first brand celebrations in India. Social Beat continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, delivering impactful campaigns that drive brand growth.
12, Feb 2025
Trustwell Hospitals has two new inductions
Doctors who bring value with experience
Bengaluru 12, February 2025– Trsutwell Hospitals Bengaluru has added strength to two departments mainly paediatric & general medicine with two big names in the medical fraternity in its growth path for the year as the chairman had mentioned in his earlier media reach out. This initiative will give added fillip to the team in its overall delivery to the patients. The hospital has experienced added footfalls which is reassuring to the patients residing in the south Bengaluru the Hospital also gets many international patients largely due to few speciality areas which only they cater to.
Dr T Radhakrishna MBBS & MD is a seasoned Consultant Physician with over 30 years of experience. He has treated over 25,000 patients in his distinguished career. He has earned a reputation for his expertise, compassion, and dedication to the well-being of those he serves. Dr Radhakrishna completed his MBBS and MD (General Medicine), from the prestigious Bangalore Medical College. He believes in a holistic approach to medicine, emphasizing the importance of understanding each patient’s unique circumstances. He is dedicated to building strong, trusting relationships with his patients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their healthcare decisions. His areas of expertise is Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus Dr. T Chandra Sekhar MD (Ped), DCH: A Distinguished Senior Paediatrician with Over 30 Years of Experience.
In his journey as a child specialist, he has treated to over 30,000 patients earning a reputation for his expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to paediatric healthcare. Dr. T Chandra Sekhar completed his MBBS at Bellary Medical College, DCH from Mysore Medical College and MD (Pae) in Mysore Medical College. He believes in a holistic approach to paediatric care, emphasizing the importance of understanding each child’s unique circumstances. He has participated in several national and international paediatric conferences, presented papers and was associated with UNICEF and ICMR. His areas of expertise are child nutrition, wheezy child, and infectious diseases.
Sharing his thoughts Guruprasad B R Director Strategy said, “myself & our entire team are absolutely delighted with the inclusion of the two doctors who come with vast experience in their respective domains. I can assure you that we shall use their experience for the fullest benefit of our patients & give them much needed care & speedy treatment”.
11, Feb 2025
IFMR and the Government of Meghalaya sign MOU to Enhance Data Systems, Foster Innovation and drive policy implementation
Sri City, February 11, 2025 – IFMR and Krea University hosted Synergy 2025, an annual flagship event designed to bring together leading academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape data-driven solutions for pressing developmental challenges. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the event catalyzed action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen governance mechanisms in India.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Krea University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nirmala Rao, noted that “Synergy is a unique platform for the academic community to engage, debate, and critically analyze some of the most pressing issues in development, focusing on solutions and action.”
A key highlight of the event was the inaugural N Vaghul Memorial Lecture, honouring the legacy of the late Shri Narayanan Vaghul. Delivering the inaugural lecture, Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the transformative impact of AI and the tectonic shifts in this space. He emphasized the role of foundational research and evidence in developing inclusive AI solutions rooted in the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
In line with the event’s focus on data-driven development, Synergy 2025 also marked a key milestone in strengthening government-academia collaboration. The Government of Meghalaya and IFMR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance data systems, foster innovation, and drive efficient policy implementation. The agreement, signed by Dr Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Government of Meghalaya and Mr Kapil Viswanathan, President, IFMR, builds on Meghalaya’s pioneering initiatives in data-driven governance and underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking.
The event also featured a keynote lecture by Dr Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor’s Professor of Economics, UC San Diego and a panel discussion on enhancing state capacity including dignitaries: Dr Sampath Kumar, Government of Meghalaya; Ms Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment; Dr Veena Srinivasan, Executive Director, WELL Labs, Dr. Karthik Muralidharan, and Ms Deepthi Reddy, Chief – Women Empowerment, Reliance Foundation.
Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Founder & Former President, of IIT Madras Research Park, delivered a special address that emphasized research and industry collaborations. Stressing the inherent risks involved in research, he underscored the need for mechanisms that encourage risk-taking, enabling breakthroughs that can redefine industries and improve lives.
A Unique Research Ecosystem Driving Change
The IFMR and Krea ecosystem is a hub for innovative thinking and action with a portfolio of eight interdisciplinary research centres: WELL Labs, LEAD at Krea University, JPAL South Asia, Centre for Digital Financial Inclusion (CDFI), Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre, Inclusion Economics India Centre, IWWAGE, and Sapien Labs Centre for the Human Brain and Mind, including partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, MIT, and policy entities such as NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, IFMR Graduate School of Business and the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences.
The event featured an Ecosystem Showcase, where the research centres presented cutting-edge work across diverse themes, including financial inclusion, climate action, digital access, education, and public health. Faculty and students engaged with policymakers and thought leaders to explore solutions that can address India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the need for data-driven solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex challenges.
11, Feb 2025
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd reported 29% growth in Q3 Revenue
11 February 2025:
VST Tillers Tractors Limited (VST), India’s leading farm equipment manufacturer, today announced their financial results for the quarter and nine months ended Dec 31, 2024.
For the third Quarter, VST achieved a turnover of Rs 219.10 Cr, up of 29% from Rs 169.96 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The operational EBITDA is 19.55 Cr, up of 104% from 9.54 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The profit before taxes is Rs 3.84 Cr, down by 81% against Rs 20.33 Cr in the same period of the previous year in the Third quarter. The drop in profit before tax in Q3 is due to mark-to-market losses on investments of Rs 11.04 crores as against Rs 15.42 Cr profit in Q3 of last year.
On a year-to-date basis, the turnover is Rs 693.12 Cr, compared to Rs 694.61Cr for same period of last year. The PBT (profit before taxes) is Rs 89.32 Cr as compared to Rs 112.58 Cr of last year. PAT (Net profit) stood at Rs 69.49 Cr as against Rs 86.39 Cr last year.
4, Feb 2025
For the love of Math, Epsilon India Camp this summer
04, February 2025,Chennai: The journey from being a deeply enthusiastic Math learner to an extraordinary Math genius is just a camp away. This summer, Epsilon India Camp returns with an intense, fun and immersive summer programme for students aged 9 to 13.
Organised by the Raising A Mathematician (RAM) Foundation, Epsilon India is a residential summer camp that empowers mathematically gifted students by combining advanced mathematics education with personal and social development. Epsilon India draws inspiration from the highly regarded Epsilon Camp, founded in the USA in 2011 by veteran research mathematician Dr George R Thomas, founder of Epsilon USA, MathPath and MathCamp.
This year the camp is hosted at the lush green 40-acre campus of Krea University, a leading Liberal Arts and Sciences college situated in Sri City, 70 km from Chennai. Away from the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan, this self-sustained campus boasts of neighbours such as Sriharikota, Kalahasti, Tada and Pulicat.
Cost of accommodation is sponsored by Krea University. For details on other costs, please write to epsiloncampindia@gmail.com. This year the camp is slated from 29 April to 12 May 2025, and the last date for submission of online application is February 10, 2025. To learn more about the application process, visit www.epsilonindia.org.
The camp offers a rigorous curriculum covering a wide array of topics, including Methods of Proofs, Combinatorics, Geometry, Group Theory, and Number Theory. Students are selected on the basis of their performance in the qualification test, a letter of recommendation and an interview. Around 40-50 students are selected from all over India and overseas, out of hundreds of applications. Children spend two screen-free weeks, attending undergraduate-level courses each day, immersing themselves in their passion for the subject. Many participants of the Epsilon India camp perform exceptionally well in Mathematics, Computer Science and Science Olympiads apart from other prestigious competitions at the international level. The camp also offers children and their parents the opportunity to connect with like-minded families, sharing opportunities and perspectives.
The students will be taught primarily by professional Mathematicians, Scientists, Computer Scientists and Statisticians from both academia and industry. Participants will also have Teaching Assistants to help with homework and other academic queries. Counsellors will take care of the students’ socio-emotional needs. Past and current faculty and speakers include Dr S Muralidharan, former Chief Examination Coordinator for India’s official Mathematical Olympiads; Professor Manjul Bhargava, Princeton University, Fields Medalist and Padma Bhushan awardee; Professor Rajeeva L Karandikar, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee and former director of Chennai Mathematical Institute, Professor Rajiv Gandhi, founder of the PACT, Professor at Rutgers University-Camden, Professor K V Subrahmanyam, Dean of Studies, Chennai Mathematical Institute and more.
