Author: Neel Achary

StarAgri strengthens its Board with the appointment of Ms. Upma Goel as Non-Executive, Independent Director

Mumbai, May 11: StarAgri, India’s largest integrated agritech company, has announced the appointment of Ms. Upma Goel as a Non-Executive, Independent Director on its Board. She joins a distinguished Board of industry leaders, including Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattanaik, who serves as Independent Director & Non-Executive Chairperson, and Ms. Mangala Prabhu, Non-Executive Independent Director.

Ms. Goel is a Chartered Accountant and an Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) certified Independent Director, with over three decades of extensive experience across banks, NBFCs, and diversified financial institutions. Her areas of expertise include board governance, audit and risk oversight, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, enterprise risk management, and regulatory compliance. She also brings significant experience in overseeing technology-led transformation initiatives, including finance digitisation, enterprise system integration, and data-driven risk and reporting frameworks. In her capacity as Non-Executive, Independent Director, she will play a strategic part in overseeing StarAgri’s business governance and risk management, while bringing independent judgment to the Board’s decision-making.

Ms. Goel succeeds Mr. Chandrashekar Guruswamy Aiyar, who served StarAgri’s Board as Non-Executive, Independent Director for a decade. His cessation is in accordance with provisions of the Companies Act 2013, which limit an independent director’s tenure to two consecutive five-year terms. The Board thanks Mr. Aiyar for his significant contributions to the organization’s growth during his tenure.

Commenting on her appointment, Amith Agarwal, Co-founder & CEO, said:

“We are pleased to welcome Ms. Goel to the Board. Her deep experience in financial governance, risk oversight, large-scale transformation; and leadership experience with some of India’s most respected brands will add strategic value as StarAgri enters its next phase of growth. Her guidance will strengthen our commitment to robust governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that our growth ambitions are matched by discipline and integrity.”

Previously, in her executive career, Ms. Goel has held senior leadership positions at Piramal Enterprises, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, and L&T Finance Holdings. She has led financial strategy, capital allocation, IPO execution, and M&A transactions, and has been closely involved in post-merger integration, including technology and systems alignment.

Commenting on her new role, Ms. Goel said:

“As the sector plays an increasingly vital role in the nation’s development, I look forward to working with the Board and management to support the Company’s strategic objectives and contribute to strengthening governance and risk management frameworks.”

Ms. Goel currently serves as an Independent Director on the Boards of Religare Finvest, Care Health Insurance, Agriwise FinServ, and FarmersFortune (India), and is also a Director on the Board of Star Agriwarehousing and Collateral Management Limited.

CEO Business Leadership Awards 2026 Honours Visionary Business Leaders in New Delhi

New Delhi, May 11, 2026: The CEO Business Leadership Awards 2026 by MS Talks concluded successfully on May 9 at The Grand Hotel, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi. The event brought together leading entrepreneurs, CEOs, innovators and industry professionals for an inspiring evening dedicated to celebrating leadership, resilience and business excellence.

On the occasion, Minister Shri Ashish Sood, Minister for Home, Education, Power and Urban Development, Government of Delhi-NCT, said,

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the CEO Business Leadership Awards 2026, who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, visionary leadership and innovation across the business community. Platforms like these play a significant role in strengthening the collaboration between governance and industry, thereby contributing to India’s economic progress.”

The evening also witnessed the launch of Silent Hijack, a book authored by Indu Tiku Kohli. The launch added a thoughtful literary dimension to the occasion and further enriched the spirit of learning, leadership and inspiration.

A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion on “Beyond Profit: Leadership Responsibility in Sustainability & Nation Building.” The session featured esteemed industry leaders including Simin Askari, Harpreet Datta, H. S. Cheema and Deepak Bharara. The discussion was moderated by Author Sherry, International Public Speaking Coach and Founder & Chairman of MS Talks, who led an engaging conversation on responsible leadership, sustainability and nation-building.

The CEO Business Leadership Awards 2026 recognised individuals and organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance, strategic vision, innovation and impactful leadership across industries. The platform also encouraged meaningful networking and exchange of ideas among business leaders, founders and professionals.

Speaking about the success of the event, Author Sherry, Founder & Chairman of MS Talks, said,

“The CEO Business Leadership Awards is not just about honouring achievements; it is about recognising the journeys, challenges and determination behind successful leadership. We are grateful for the overwhelming participation and support received from the business community.”

Award Winners – CEO Business Leadership Awards 2026

The evening highlighted inspiring leadership journeys, meaningful business innovations and the growing influence of Indian entrepreneurs on the global stage.

The organisers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the event sponsors and partners for their valuable support, including Jupiter Laminators, Rosa Herbalcare, Promotion Connects, The Perfume Theka and Fineworks360. The event was also supported by media partners TIO and Divya Punjab News.

The event concluded with the awards presentation ceremony, followed by networking interactions among attendees, reflecting the spirit of collaboration, shared learning and collective growth within India’s business ecosystem.

 

MDI Gurgaon Announces June Executive Programmes for Industry Professionals

Gurugram, India, May 11: Management Development Institute Gurgaon (MDI Gurgaon), one of India’s leading business institutions, has announced its Executive Development Programmes scheduled for June 2026 as part of its annual Management Development Programme calendar. The June cohort brings together a set of short-duration programmes for working professionals across levels, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, analytics, finance, marketing, and managerial capability. The programmes will be delivered at the MDI Gurgaon campus through faculty-led sessions, case discussions and peer learning formats.

Prof. Sumita Rai, Dean-IC, MDI Gurgaon, said, “Executive education today needs to remain closely aligned with the realities of the workplace. Our programmes are structured to reflect this need. Each course is designed with a clear focus on application, so that participants can relate classroom learning to their professional responsibilities. We continue to see interest from professionals across sectors who are looking to strengthen their understanding of core business areas. Through these programmes, we aim to provide a learning environment that is rigorous, relevant and grounded in practice.”

The June schedule includes Advanced Business Analytics focuses on analytical tools and methods used in business decision-making. Participants are introduced to data interpretation, modelling approaches and the use of analytics in solving organisational problems. The programme is relevant for professionals working with data across functions.

Finance for Non-Finance Executives is designed for professionals who do not have a formal finance background. It covers core financial concepts, reading financial statements and understanding cost structures, enabling participants to engage more effectively in financial discussions within their organisations.

Neuroscience in Marketing examines consumer behaviour through insights drawn from neuroscience. The programme provides an understanding of how individuals respond to marketing stimuli and how these responses can inform communication strategies and product positioning.

The June programmes form part of MDI Gurgaon’s wider annual calendar of Management Development Programmes. Throughout the year, the institute offers a broad set of courses across domains such as finance, marketing, human resources, operations and strategy. This year-round schedule reflects MDI Gurgaon’s continued focus on supporting professionals at different stages of their careers through structured executive education.

All programmes are conducted on campus, allowing participants to engage directly with faculty and peers. The format encourages discussion, exchange of perspectives and contextual learning, contributing to a well-rounded academic experience.

Hong Kong’s Sculptural, Nature Inspired Dining Concept – PARKSIDE@NINA CWB Opens Today

11 May 2026, Hong Kong: PARKSIDE@NINA CWB opens today as the latest chapter in Hong Kong’s nature–inspired dining scene. Designed by award-winning Atelier E – the creative studio behind PARKSIDE@NINA, featured among the 50 Most Beautiful Cafés in the World – the new retreat blends sculptural interiors and botanical elegance with a menu of international favourites and Asian inspirations. A partnership with Nina Hospitality, the restaurant is nestled within Nina Hotel Causeway Bay beside the lush greenery of Victoria Park. PARKSIDE@NINA CWB introduces a fresh expression of PARKSIDE@NINA’s philosophy while expanding its vision of dining rooted in nature across the city.

 Spanning more than 3,000 square feet and accommodating over 100 guests, the interiors are defined by dramatic oversized calla‑lily‑inspired lighting installations and inverted flower forms that hover overhead, creating a surreal, dreamlike canopy. A curtain wall floods the space with natural sunlight, while curvilinear seating and planter‑integrated banquettes soften the geometry and encourage intimacy. The interiors reflect the creative pedigree established at PARKSIDE@NINA, while unveiling a bold new statement in Causeway Bay.

 PARKSIDE@NINA CWB’s menu highlights a vibrant and indulgent range of dishes that balance beloved Asian classics with refined Western favourites. Appetisers include the delicate Smoked Salmon in Mini Cone (HK$138), crispy golden Korean Fried Chicken (HK$98), robust Garlic Flat Bread (HK$138) and silky Beef Carpaccio (HK$158).

 Regional signatures such as the fragrant Hainanese Chicken Rice (HK$228) and aromatic Nasi Goreng (HK$168) are joined by Hong Kong’s beloved specialty – comforting Wonton Noodle Soup (HK$158). These are presented alongside gourmet mains including the succulent PARKSIDE Wagyu Beef Burger (HK$168), tender Grilled Beef Tenderloin (HK$378), juicy Roasted Australian Lamb Rack (HK$348), and buttery King Prawn with Miso Butter (HK$288).

 For those dining in groups, the menu features highlighted dishes perfect for sharing, such as Baby Suckling Pig (HK$288) served with cherry tomato, roasted potato and honey mustard, and Black Pepper Braised Beef Short Ribs (HK$238) accompanied by sweet potato fries.

Guests can also savour artisan wood‑fired sourdough pizzas and hand‑crafted pasta dishes, including the umami‑rich Japanese Smoked Tuna with Free Range Egg Pizza (HK$178), aromatic Tiger Prawn Casarecce (HK$188), earthy Morel Mushroom Risotto (HK$178), and crispy Soft Shell Crab Linguine Aglio e Olio (HK$198).

Desserts complete the experience with a selection that is both playful and luscious. Highlights include the airy, delicate Lychee & Hibiscus Pavlova (HK$98), sinful Caramelized Banana (HK$98), and the decadent Wood Fossil Chocolate Cake (HK$88), a signature creation that pays homage to the restaurant’s design inspiration.

From 18 May 2026, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB will open daily from 7 a.m. with breakfast offerings that span wholesome à la carte favourites – such as Avocado Toast, freshly made pancakes, and Greek yogurt bowls – alongside global breakfast set menus from HK$138, featuring comforting Chinese dim sum and wonton noodle soup, hearty American classics, and Japanese breakfast staples.

PARKSIDE@NINA CWB also serves delightful set lunch options: three courses starting from HK$178 per person and four courses from HK$198 per person. These lunch menus feature a variety of starters like Tuna Niçoise Salad, Greek Salad or Caesar Salad with Smoked Salmon, followed by mains such as Cajun Rubbed Roasted Half Chicken, Pan-Fried Sea Bass, or Grilled Prime Beef Sirloin (add HK$65). In the evening, a four-course set dinner is available from HK$428 per person, featuring Salmon Tartare, Cream of Mushroom Soup and main course options such as Grilled Beef Prime Rib Eye (add HK$65) or Saikyo Miso Halibut Fillet. Both lunch and dinner sets include a choice of coffee or tea.

An intimate private dining room for up to 10 people is designed with warm wood finishes and subtle botanical accents that mirror the restaurant’s sculptural interiors. This refined, secluded enclave provides a stylish setting for family gatherings, business dinners, or special occasions.

Anchored by a sleek, sculptural bar framed with warm lighting and botanical accents, the space transforms into a contemporary social hub each evening. Stocked with an extensive international wine selection of more than 20 labels, alongside creative cocktails and refreshing mocktails, the bar adds a convivial dimension to the restaurant.

Signature cocktails blend international spirits with Asian inspirations, from the distinctive Thyme Zone (HK$98), combining smooth whisky and a peach afterglow, and Hong Kong Sling (HK$98) to the aromatic Yuzu Espresso Martini (HK$98) and indulgent Whisky Sour Crème Brûlée (HK$118). Guests seeking lighter options can enjoy inventive mocktails such as Ruby Groove (HK$78) with yuzu and cranberry, or the whimsical Magic Potion (HK$78) with butterfly pea tea and tropical fruit.

A dedicated highball series highlights Baijiu, Soju and Japanese whisky, while a large wine list spans Old and New World labels, encompassing red, white, rosé and sparkling selections. Draught beers, aperitifs, artisan teas and specialty coffees are also offered.

From sunrise breakfasts to late‑night cocktails, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB moves with the rhythm of the city. Each part of the day carries its own energy – mornings begin with fresh starts, afternoons invite power luncheons, relaxed teas and catch‑ups, evenings bring the buzz of happy hour and dinner, and vibrant nights unfold over socialising at the bar.

With its striking interiors, natural sunlight streaming through floor‑to‑ceiling glass, and distinctive wood fossils integrated into the design, PARKSIDE@NINA CWB is poised to become one of the city’s most distinctive lifestyle hotspots. It embodies the spirit of contemporary urban dining, presenting a curated menu of Asian classics and Western favourites in a welcoming setting, complemented by inventive cocktails and an extensive wine list.

PARKSIDE@NINA CWB is located on the first floor of Nina Hotel Causeway Bay at 18 King’s Road, Tin Hau, Hong Kong. It is currently open from 12 noon to 11 p.m. daily, and will extend its operating hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m beginning on 18 May 2026, offering an all-day dining experience.

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