24, Oct 2025
‘Game of Thrones’ Star Nikolaj Coster-Waldau Showcases Odisha’s Mangrove Restoration in UNDP Series
UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and ‘Game of Thrones’ star Nikolaj Coster-Waldau highlights Odisha’s mangrove restoration story in global documentary series
Bhubaneswar, 24th October, 2025 : The second season of the acclaimed series ‘An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet’, hosted by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Goodwill Ambassador and ‘Game of Thrones’ star Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, premiered on Wednesday. It features the mangrove restoration work under the Enhancing Climate Resilience of India’s Coastal Communities (ECRICC) initiative in Odisha. ECRICC is a collaborative effort of the Green Climate Fund, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, and the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Government of Odisha, with implementation support from UNDP.
The opening episode, titled ‘Protect’, follows Coster-Waldau’s visit to Bagapatia village in Kendrapara district, where communities displaced by rising sea levels and coastal erosion are rebuilding their lives through climate-resilient practices. The episode captures how local women and men are restoring mangroves and safeguarding their coastline as part of the ECRICC project.
In the show, Coster-Waldau who is also a climate advocate, travels across continents, spotlighting communities creating practical solutions to environmental challenges. The Odisha segment, which begins around the 15-minute mark of the premiere, showcases the importance of community-led action. The episode also highlights stories from Denmark and Ecuador and weaves a global narrative of optimism and climate action.
The six-part series will air Wednesdays on Bloomberg Originals, available on major streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Samsung TV+, and LG channels. It will also air on Bloomberg TV and will be available on-demand on Bloomberg.com and YouTube.
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- By Neel Achary
24, Oct 2025
AIOS Calls for an Immediate Ban on Carbide Guns and Improvised Firecrackers
New Delhi/ Hyderabad, October 24, 2025…..The All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS), the world’s largest professional society of eye specialists, has issued an urgent national appeal to the Central and State Governments and District Authorities for an immediate ban on carbide-based and improvised explosive firecrackers that have caused a sharp rise in severe eye injuries, particularly among children, this festive season. These crude “carbide bombs” or “carbide guns” are chemical explosives capable of causing permanent blindness, disfigurement, and disability.
AIOS has demanded a nationwide crackdown, FIRs against manufacturers and sellers, and disruption of the supply chain for calcium carbide and related materials. The Society has also called for an intensive public awareness campaign and hospital emergency preparedness to prevent further ocular injuries.
“Ban carbide firecrackers now — protect every eye, every child.” says AIOS
The All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) represents over 28,000 eye specialists across India.
Ophthalmologists and hospitals across several states have reported a surge of severe ocular burns and trauma, particularly among children, caused by so-called “carbide bombs” or “carbide guns” — crude explosive devices made from calcium carbide and water that release explosive acetylene gas. These are chemical bombs, not conventional firecrackers, and they cause: Blinding chemical and thermal burns, Corneal destruction and irreversible vision loss and Permanent disfigurement and disability
With Chhath Puja and other festivities approaching, continued use of such hazardous devices could lead to another wave of preventable blindness and severe facial injuries.
AIOS demands immediate Government Action
1. Nationwide Ban and Crackdown
• Immediate ban on manufacture, sale, transport, and use of carbide-based firecrackers.
• Ban can be enforced by the central and state governments and district administrations
• Enforce strict compliance through police, district administrations, and pollution control authorities.
2. Public Awareness Campaign
• High-visibility campaigns on TV, radio, print, digital, and social media.
• Special focus on schools and parental education to prevent children from experimenting with these devices.
3. Emergency Hospital Preparedness
• Maintain 24-hour ophthalmic emergency readiness.
• Ensure adequate supplies for eye irrigation, surgical repair, and trauma management.
4. School and Community Vigilance
• Strict prohibition of device use by children and youth.
• Report possession or use to local authorities.
5. Legal Action and Supply Chain Disruption
• Register FIRs under explosives, consumer safety, and public health laws.
• Disrupt the supply chain of calcium carbide and other component materials, both offline and online.
The rise in these preventable, blinding injuries is alarming and unacceptable. We urge the Government to act decisively and immediately to save vision and lives, said Dr Partha Biswas, President, AIOS in a press statement issued today.
Let this season of light not become a season of darkness. Ban carbide firecrackers now. Protect every eye, every child, added Dr Jeevan Singh Titiyal, President Elect, AIOS
Dr Mohan Rajan, Vice President, AIOS, adds that every child’s eye is precious. These crude explosive devices are destroying vision and lives. We must act now to protect children and prevent lifelong suffering from blindness
Dr Santosh G. Honavar, Honorary Secretary, AIOS, says AIOS calls on authorities, schools, and parents to ban carbide firecrackers and raise awareness. Together, we can ensure the festival of lights does not turn into a season of darkness.
Carbide and improvised firecrackers are not mere festive hazards—they are chemical explosives causing permanent blindness. Immediate government intervention is crucial to stop this preventable tragedy. – Dr Manoj C Mathur, Treasurer, AIOS
For Further Information: All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) AIOS Secretariat, New Delhi, email: secretary@aios.org, Mobile/WhatsApp: +91-98483-04001
24, Oct 2025
Kotak Mahindra AMC Launches Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF
Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Limited launches Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF
Hyderabad, 24th October, 2025: Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company Ltd. (“KMAMC” / “Kotak Mutual Fund”) is pleased to announce the launch of Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF, an open-ended scheme replicating/tracking the Nifty Chemicals Index. The scheme opened for public subscription on October 23, 2025, and will close on November 6, 2025.
The Nifty Chemicals index tracks the performance of the top 20 stocks from the chemicals sector, selected based on a 6-month average free-float market capitalization from the Nifty 500 Index, with a preference to stocks available for trading in the derivatives segment at NSE. The weight of each stock in the index is based on its free-float market capitalization. The index is reconstituted semi-annually and rebalanced quarterly.
The Indian chemical industry is 6th largest producer globally, with over 80,0001 commercial products. The sector is witnessing robust growth driven by rising domestic demand, global supply chain shifts, and strong policy support. India’s competitive advantages in labour cost, R&D capabilities, and government incentives have positioned it as a preferred destination for global chemical manufacturing and investment.
Nilesh Shah, Managing Director, Kotak Mahindra AMC, commented on the launch: “India’s chemical sector is at a pivotal stage, driven by strong domestic demand, global supply chain realignment, and supportive government policies. As per NITI Aayog report, the Indian chemical sector is expected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2040. With the launch of the Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF, we aim to provide investors with a transparent and cost-effective way to participate in this growth story”
Devender Singhal, Executive Vice President & Fund Manager, Kotak Mahindra AMC added; “India is expected to account for more than 20% of the incremental global consumption for chemicals over next two decades2. Factors such as China +1, India’s strong R&D and technological capabilities, and continued government support would also drive demand. With the chemical sector currently trading at long-term average valuations, investors have a potential entry point to participate in this growth story with the Kotak Nifty Chemicals ETF.”
Source:
- Source: IBEF Report, As per latest data available
- Source: Mckinsey Report, March 2023
24, Oct 2025
Salesforce hosts the 3rd edition of the Trailblazing Women Summit in India
Bengaluru, India, 25 October, 2025: Salesforce, the world’s #1 AI CRM*, successfully hosted the third edition of its Trailblazing Women Summit in India, in Bengaluru. The summit, themed “Become an Agent of Change,” saw participation from 300+ in-person attendees and 300+ live virtual participants, aiming to inspire and empower the next generation of women leaders and allies.
The summit featured thought-provoking discussions with leading women professionals across industries on how AI is reshaping the future of work and leadership. Drawing from their personal journeys, the speakers shared strategies on how to adopt AI, develop future skills, mentor effectively, and cultivate inclusive leadership. They emphasized that becoming an “agent of change” means navigating transformation with resilience, driving innovation, and inspiring the next generation of leaders to thrive.
Key leaders included Soujanya Aluri, Chief Digital Officer, TVS Credit; Bhargavi Sridharan, Head of Aditya Birla Capital Digital & ABC One; Monika Phartyal, CIO, Page Industries; Carol Furtado, Executive Director, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank; and Romi Jatta, Group Chief Purchase Officer, Usha International. They highlighted personal journeys, the role of mentorship, and practical strategies to navigate AI-driven transformation while remaining agents of change in their organizations.
Salesforce leaders including Molly Q. Ford, VP, Culture & Engagement, Salesforce; Relina Bulchandani, EVP, REWS, Salesforce; Mankiran Chowhan, Managing Director & SVP, Sales & Distribution, Salesforce India; Sugi Venkatesh, SVP, ES Business Partner, Salesforce India; Sonali Kalyanikar, RVP, Sales, Salesforce India; and Parul Jain, VP, Software Engineering, Salesforce India, also shared insights on leveraging technology to empower teams, build inclusive workplaces, and foster a culture of continuous learning.
Reflecting on the significance of the summit, Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, Salesforce South Asia, said, “True impact comes when we lead with purpose, nurture talent, and create opportunities for others to shine alongside us. My advice to young women aspiring to lead is to step forward with confidence, seek mentors, and lift others as you rise. For women advancing in their careers, continue learning, challenge the status quo, and build inclusive teams that amplify diverse voices.”
Mankiran Chowhan, Managing Director & SVP, Sales & Distribution, Salesforce India, added, “It is inspiring to see so many women leaders and allies come together to share their stories and strategies for navigating change. As we embrace the agentic AI era, it is essential to leverage the full spectrum of talent and perspectives. By adopting AI with purpose and inclusivity, we can drive innovation while building more equitable and dynamic workplaces. The remarkable women participating in this summit will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our industry.”
The Trailblazing Women Summit is a celebration of talent, ambition, and the transformative power of inclusion. Key takeaways from the summit included the importance of adaptability, mentorship, and allyship in accelerating careers and building equitable organizations.
24, Oct 2025
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Max Factor Makeup Kit
India, 24th October, 2025: Max Factor Makeup Kit, This Diwali, gift your loved ones the ultimate glam upgrade with the Max Factor Makeup Kit, a thoughtfully curated set of beauty essentials she’ll adore. Featuring the Masterpiece 2-in-1 Lash wow Mascara for bold, the Facefinity 3-in-1 Foundation for flawless coverage, Masterpiece Nude Palette for on-the-go touch-ups, this kit is designed to elevate every look. Add a pop of color with the Colour Elixir Lipstick. Elegant, timeless, and packed with beauty must-haves it’s the perfect Diwali gift to celebrate sparkle.
Availability – Nykaa, Myntra, Amazon, Tata Cliq, Health & Glow, Dabur NewU and Shoppers Stop
24, Oct 2025
JMR Infotech Powers AI-Driven Compliance at Cooperative Bank of Oromia
JMR Infotech Powers AI & ML-Driven Compliance Transformation at Cooperative Bank of Oromia with Successful FCC Studio Go-Live
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia / Dubai, 24th October, 2025: JMR Infotech, a global leader in digital transformation and banking technology solutions, has successfully gone live with Oracle Financial Services Crime and Compliance Studio 8.1.2.7 (FCC Studio) at Cooperative Bank of Oromia (Coopbank).
This marks Phase 2 of JMR Infotech’s ongoing Financial Crime and Compliance Management (FCCM) engagement with Coopbank. The latest phase introduces Automatic Scenario Calibration (ASC) an AI and ML-powered system that automatically calibrates detection thresholds based on historical transaction data. ASC delivers optimized alerts across all scenario categories, reducing false positives, minimizing missed critical alerts, and enhancing operational efficiency. By analyzing alert patterns, ASC ensures a balance between risk coverage and workload management, empowering Coopbank to strengthen compliance, make informed decisions, and proactively manage financial crime risks at scale.
Shimelis Legesse, Chief Information Officer, Cooperative Bank of Oromia, said:
“This implementation is a key milestone in our compliance transformation journey. The solution enables us to manage financial crime risks more effectively while improving operational efficiency. We appreciate the dedication and expertise of JMR Infotech and Oracle throughout this project.”
Suresha Ramachandra Iyer, President & Head – Enterprise Risk and Analytics, JMR Infotech, added:
“The successful FCC Studio go-live reinforces our commitment to delivering intelligent, scalable, and practical compliance solutions. By leveraging AI and ML, Coopbank can optimize alerts, reduce false positives, and enhance operational efficiency — allowing the compliance team to focus on high-risk cases and proactively manage financial crime risks.”
This successful go-live underscores JMR Infotech’s focus on providing innovative, intelligent, and scalable compliance solutions that help banks meet evolving regulatory demands while driving digital transformation.
24, Oct 2025
Jonita Gandhi and Progressive Brothers to Open for Enrique Iglesias in Mumbai
October 24, 2025: Multi-Grammy Award-winning music icon Enrique Iglesias is set to illuminate the MMRDA Grounds in Mumbai on October 29 and 30, 2025, marking his highly anticipated return to India. Joining him as the official support acts will be the talented Indo-Canadian singer Jonita Gandhi and the electrifying EDM duo Progressive Brothers.
Jonita Gandhi states, “It’s truly a dream come true to share the stage with Enrique Iglesias. I grew up listening to his music, he’s such an icon. I’m incredibly excited to connect with fans and bring my energy to this concert.”
PRO BROS state, “Opening for Enrique is an incredible honour. We can’t wait to bring our unique sound to the audience and set the stage for an unforgettable show!”
Produced by India’s leading live event company, EVA Live, this mega concert promises an unforgettable evening featuring a nostalgia-filled showcase of Iglesias’ extensive career, including both classic hits and contemporary chart-toppers. This tour marks Iglesias’ third visit to India, following his celebrated performances in 2004 and 2012. With tickets available on the District App and one show already sold out, over 50,000 fans are expected to attend across both days.
Enrique Iglesias is revered as one of the world’s most prolific musical icons, and attendees can look forward to an immersive experience enhanced by a dynamic setlist, world-class production and stunning visuals.
Jonita Gandhi started her journey by posting covers on YouTube, and has since released over 150 songs in more than 10 languages. She has collaborated with international artists like Ed Sheeran, The Chainsmokers and Michael Bublé, and shared stages with everyone from Shawn Mendes to Michael Bublé; establishing herself as one of India’s most versatile playback singers while successfully navigating a career as an independent artist—an impressive feat in the music industry.
Progressive Brothers, comprised of Sunny Sharma and Karan Bhalla, are a notable name in India’s electronic music scene. They have shared stages with globally recognized artists such as DJ Snake, David Guetta, Dimitri Vegas Like Mike, Tiesto Afrojack, Steve Aoki, Kygo, KSHMR and Martin Garrix, and have played at prestigious festivals like Sunburn Festival, VH1 Supersonic, Road To Ultra and Electric Daisy Carnival. They have released music on global labels such as Edm.com, Tiesto’s Musical Freedom, Spinnin’ Records and Chuckie’s Dirty Dutch Digital.
The event is powered by Mastercard.
23, Oct 2025
Beendani Actress Gauri Shelgaonkar on Bhaidooj: My Brother Is My Biggest Support
Prathaon Ki Odhe Chunri: Beendani Actress Gauri Shelgaonkar on Bhaidooj: My brother has always been my biggest support system
India, 23rd October, 2025: Sometimes, love doesn’t need grand gestures, it hides in the smallest acts of care. For actress Gauri Shelgaonkar, known for her role Ghevar in Sun Neo’s show ‘Prathaon Ki Odhe Chunri: Beendani’, Bhaidooj is more than just a festival; it’s an emotion that takes her back to her childhood memories with her elder brother.
While talking about her brother’s love, she says, “Bhaidooj has always been one of the most special festivals for me because it celebrates the pure bond between a brother and sister. My brother has always been my biggest support system; he’s caring, protective, and always looks out for me. Even during my shoots, he visits the set just to make sure I’m doing fine and looks after even the smallest things about me. This year, I have taken a leave from our show ‘Prathaon Ki Odhe Chunri: Beendani’ for Diwali, and I am so excited to spend these days with my family.”
Gauri further shared her childhood memories, saying, “I still remember one of the sweetest memories from our childhood. Back then, he didn’t earn anything, but he saved up his pocket money just to buy me a small hair clip to gift me on Bhaidooj. It might seem like a tiny gesture, but for me, it meant the world. I’ve kept that clip safely even today. It reminds me how pure and selfless a brother’s love can be.”
Prathaon Ki Odhe Chunri: Beendani is the tale of Ghevar, a fearless and spirited girl from Rajasthan whose life takes an unexpected turn when destiny places a newborn in her family. This twist of fate ties together two contrasting worlds, setting the stage for a journey filled with love, sacrifice, and long-hidden truths. Ghevar’s path is one of courage and resilience as she fights to protect what she holds closest to her heart.
23, Oct 2025
University of Winchester and Oxford International forge strategic partnership to expand global reach
India, 23rd October 2025: In a strategic move to enhance global engagement and attract a more diverse student body, the University of Winchester has announced a new partnership with Oxford International. It is a significant addition to the growing number of universities taking advantage of Oxford International’s rapidly growing Education Services offer. As a result a substantial first intake of students began their studies in September 2025 and there is a strong pipeline of applications for January 2026.
The University of Winchester will benefit from Oxford International’s comprehensive international market development services – spanning student recruitment, overseas marketing, admissions, enrolment, and compliance – all tailored for institutions to enhance and complement their existing in-house international infrastructure. Oxford International’s proprietary Admissions Engine will credibility check and support the application process from end-to-end enhancing effectiveness for students and the University.
By leveraging Oxford International’s global network and technology, Winchester gains a turnkey solution to compete more effectively on the world stage, while ensuring robust quality controls and exemplary student support. This model helps our academic partners remain globally competitive and enhances sustainability, even as the higher education sector faces intensifying international competition and policy changes.
The partnership with Winchester joins a series of new contracts with forward-thinking institutions that Oxford International has launched in our Education Services division. These include Health Sciences University (HSU) – a specialist health university with a 60-year legacy that partnered with Oxford International to expand its international reach and global impact – and Lincoln Bishop University (formerly Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln), which recently rebranded and opened to international students under the same model. Together, these collaborations demonstrate how smaller universities can be empowered to attract talent worldwide and thrive amid global demographic and market shifts.
As part of this strategic expansion Andy Cook, former Vice-Chancellor of Ravensbourne University London, will work closely with Oxford International’s team to ensure academic partners to maximise the benefits of these alliances.
Ravensbourne University was Oxford International’s first Oxford Direct partner and a flagship success story – under Andy Cook’s tenure, the university’s international student intake grew dramatically through the partnership. His first-hand experience in leveraging Oxford International’s model to transform Ravensbourne’s global student community will be invaluable in guiding Winchester and other partners to similar success.
David Pilsbury, Chief Development Officer at Oxford International, said of the partnership: “This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for the University of Winchester and for our Education Services portfolio. By combining Winchester’s academic excellence and community ethos with Oxford International’s global reach and recruitment expertise, we are opening up new opportunities for students and ensuring the University thrives internationally. We’re proud to support Winchester’s ambitions and help sustain its success in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.”
Sam Jones, Pro Vice-Chancellor of University of Winchester stated: “We’re thrilled to partner with Oxford International to welcome more students from around the world into our inclusive and values-driven community. Together, we’re creating new pathways to success for the next generation of global graduates.”
The new partnership’s first cohort of international students has begun their studies in September 2025, with additional programmes and intakes being developed for the coming academic year. Applications for the January 2026 intake are open and growing strongly.
23, Oct 2025
Samir Shah of Dvara Holdings selected for the 2025 Meaningful Business 100
Chennai, India, 23rd October, 2025: Samir Shah of Dvara Holdings has been named as one of this year’s Meaningful Business 100 (MB100), the annual award programme championing leaders combining profit and purpose to tackle complex social and environmental issues.
Evaluated by a panel of expert judges representing organisations like Google, Mastercard, Unilever SAP, Temasek and the World Economic Forum, winners were selected from over 900 nominations, across 86 countries. These outstanding social entrepreneurs, sustainability leaders, Corporate CEOs and impact investors were scored across five key areas: equity, impact, innovation, leadership and scalability.
As part of the ongoing MB100 programme, now in its 7th year, winners will gain access to investment opportunities, capacity-building resources, and pro-bono services from a range of leading organisations, including EY, Hogan Lovells, Forster Communications, Green Frontier Capital, Kenya Climate Ventures, and The Portman Estate. They also join the Meaningful Business community – a global network of social entrepreneurs, impact investors, and corporate sustainability leaders.
Commenting on the 2025 MB100, Tom Lytton-Dickie, Founder & CEO, Meaningful Business, said: “Firstly, a big congratulations to Samir Shah, whose inspiring work at Dvara Holdings demonstrates how combining profit and purpose can tackle complex social and environmental issues. The calibre of this year’s applications was exceptionally high, and we’re honoured to have Samir join our global community. We are looking forward to supporting their work in the coming years, as they scale their influence and impact.”
On being selected as part of the MB100 2025 cohort, Samir Shah, Executive Vice-Chair & Co-Founder, Dvara Holdings, said “This recognition is deeply meaningful—not just for me, but for the entire Dvara ecosystem. Our journey has been about building institutions that take the long view, solve deeply entrenched problems, and prioritise customer-centricity, trust, and resilience. I’m grateful to the MB100 community for celebrating this kind of impact, and I look forward to learning from and contributing to this community. I hope it encourages more mission-driven founders to stay the course, even when the road is complex.”
As one of the MB100 judges, Stasia Mitchell, EY Global Entrepreneurship Leader, added, “Congratulations to the MB100 Class of 2025! These inspiring leaders in social entrepreneurship, sustainability, corporate innovation and impact investing show how entrepreneurial thinking can be truly transformational. Chosen from over 900 nominations across 86 countries, they are delivering scalable solutions to global challenges by aligning purpose with profit. It was an honor to serve as a judge and see firsthand how they are shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
