Author: Rabindra

Cambridge University Press & Get Set Learn Launch Young Pioneers Program, Supporting Viksit Bharat and Skill India Ahead of Independence Day

16th August 2024, National: Ahead of the 78th Independence Day celebrations, Cambridge University Press & Assessment and Get Set Learn, an Arvind Mafatlal Group company, today announce their collaboration aimed at promoting 21st century skills among learners in India.

As part of this collaboration, they are launching Young Pioneers – a three-stage entrepreneurship programme for learners in schools. The programme aims to help develop important 21st-century skills, such as creativity, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Developed for grades 7 to 10, the programme integrates curriculum-based learning with expert-led masterclasses, mentorship, and projects for entrepreneurial skills development.
At a time when the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) and the recent budgetary allocations emphasise skill-based learning, Young Pioneers aims to develop entrepreneurial skills in learners through experiential learning. It also aligns with the Skill India Initiative, which is geared towards offering industry-relevant training and skill enhancement to youth, thereby developing a skilled workforce that contributes significantly to economic development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Arun Rajamani, Managing Director at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, South Asia, observed, “The Young Pioneers programme aims to upskill learners through a balanced curriculum, learning resources, teacher training and support along with masterclasses and projects. It will equip young learners with important 21st century skills like creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. This programme aligns with our focus on empowering learners with future skills to help them navigate the challenges of a complex world and find solutions to diverse problems of the future.”

The programme aims to equip learners with practical skills in creating and presenting ideas by incorporating teamwork, communication, and real-world experiences.

“With India’s vision of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy by 2027, it is important to foster an entrepreneurial mindset to nurture future skills among the young generation while they are still in school to enhance innovation and experiential learning. These learners will be the driving force behind sustainable growth, creating solutions that address real-world issues and thereby adding significant value to society,” said Ameet Zaverii, CEO & Co-founder at Get Set Learn.

“We are seeing a wave of change in the type of skills required today. In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, equipping K12 students with essential skills is paramount. Developing a robust skillset that prepares young minds for the challenges of tomorrow but also fosters the ability to create value in an increasingly competitive economy,” he added.

While students prepare for future skills, the programme recognizes the importance of upskilling teachers with the latest industry knowledge and teaching methodologies, ensuring they can effectively guide and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Cambridge University Press & Assessment brings a legacy of academic excellence and a commitment to holistic education. Get Set Learn, on the other hand, offers expertise in building and co-creating innovative skill building programmes. The Young Pioneers programme will make a significant impact on the educational landscape, preparing students to meet future challenges with confidence and competence.

Over three years, they will progress through Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced stages by focusing on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and engaging in masterclasses and mentorship from industry experts. Shortlisted learners will get an opportunity to showcase their ideas to entrepreneurs and industry experts.

The Healthy Binge and Zepto partners with Times Prime to deliver ‘Azadi ka Swad’ this Independence Day

Bengaluru, August 16, 2024 —Times Prime, India’s premier digital membership program, is excited to announce its special Independence Day campaign, ‘Azaadi ka Swaad’, in partnership with Zepto and The Healthy Binge. This exclusive initiative promises to deliver the spirit of festivity and health to homes across Bangalore.

The Times Prime ‘Azaadi ka Swaad’ campaign gives Zepto Pass customers a chance to receive a complimentary pack of snack, exclusively curated by Times Prime and The Healthy Binge, on orders above Rs. 299.

This year’s campaign aims to evoke the nostalgic joy of Independence Day while embracing contemporary health trends. By distributing these specially curated gifts, Times Prime is celebrating the diversity and unity that make India unique.

Harshita Singh, Business Head and Founder of Times Prime, expressed her excitement for the campaign: “As we celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day, we are thrilled to launch Times Prime ‘Azaadi ka Swaad’ in Bangalore. This campaign showcases our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and promoting wellness. Partnering with Zepto’s rapid delivery service and The Healthy Binge’s nutritious snacks, we’re offering a festive yet health-conscious experience.”

Karan Korke, Co-founder, The Healthy Binge remarked: “We’re delighted to join Times Prime ‘Azaadi ka Swaad’. Our commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with this campaign, which celebrates India’s diverse tastes and the spirit of independence. The Healthy Binge is excited to contribute to the happiness and health of families in Bangalore with a range of baked chips made with millets like ragi and jowar”

Devendra Meel, Chief Business Officer of Zepto, commented: At Zepto, we are essentially delivering happiness in 10 minutes. Collaborating with Times Prime on ‘Azaadi ka Swaad’ allows us to extend that joy nationwide, delivering not just products, but a piece of India’s rich heritage and celebration to millions of homes – in just 10 minutes!

This Independence Day, experience the perfect mix of health and convenience with The Healthy Binge’s millet-based snacks delivered by Zepto, courtesy of Times Prime’s ‘Azadi ka Swad’ campaign.

Travel, Family, or Binge-Watch? Hunch Uncovers Gen Z’s Independence Day Plans

Independence Day weekend is a time when Gen Z embraces various activities that reflect their interests and values. Whether it’s travelling, spending time with family, binge-watching shows, or having sleepovers, each choice offers a unique way for this generation to unwind, connect with others, and make the most of the holiday break. A recent poll generated by a user on the Hunch app asked its Gen-Z community how they are choosing to spend their weekend. Let’s delve into the diverse ways in which these respondents choose to celebrate Independence Day weekend and the significance of these activities in shaping their experiences and memories during this festive time. Hunch is a social discovery app that allows users to make connections and meet with like-minded people.

A recent poll on Hunch has unveiled fascinating insights into approximately 10.1k Gen Z voters’ preference of ways of spending their Independence Day weekend. A riveting 34.9% of the voters confessed that they would spend their weekend travelling because they value experiences and adventure. They see travel during this time as a way to explore new places, meet diverse people, and create lasting memories. For many of these individuals, travelling provides an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, learn about different cultures, and gain new perspectives. The long weekend provides a perfect opportunity for travel, as those who are working may only need to take an additional day off to enjoy an extended break. This group of respondents enjoys travelling during Independence Day weekend to seek new experiences, make memories, and embrace the spirit of exploration.

24.8% of the voters also feel that this weekend is a blessing because they can spend more time with their families. It’s a chance to create special memories, participate in family traditions, and strengthen relationships. Family time during holidays like Independence Day allows these respondents to disconnect from their busy lives, share laughter and stories, and enjoy moments of togetherness. Whether it’s having a barbecue, watching fireworks, or playing games, spending time with family provides a sense of connection and belonging that is important to this group of voters.

While 22.6% of young voters feel that this is the best time for binge-watching their favourite shows and series. Binge-watching allows them to escape into different worlds, follow intriguing storylines, and immerse themselves in the characters’ lives. It can be a form of entertainment and a way to de-stress from their daily routines. Plus, with the convenience of streaming services, these respondents can easily access a wide variety of shows and movies to binge-watch during the long weekend. So, it’s a popular way for this group to kick back, chill, and indulge in their favourite series or movies.

17.6% of the voters feel that due to their hassle-filled daily lives, sleepovers with their friends or other favourite people take a backseat. Sleepovers allow them to have quality time together, share stories, play games, watch movies, and just enjoy each other’s company. It’s a chance to relax, have late-night chats, and experience a sense of camaraderie. Sleepovers during holidays like Independence Day provide an opportunity for this group of respondents to strengthen friendships, have a good time, and make the most of the long weekend.

In conclusion, the Hunch poll reveals diverse preferences among the Gen Z respondents for spending their Independence Day weekend. Whether they choose to travel, spend time with family, binge-watch shows, or have sleepovers, the common thread is the pursuit of connection, relaxation, and enjoyment. These activities reflect the varied interests and values of this group, from seeking adventure and new experiences to cherishing moments with loved ones and friends. For these respondents, Independence Day weekend serves as a time to unwind, create memories, and celebrate in ways that resonate with their individual preferences and desires for fun and connection.

Vegas Mall Celebrates Independence Day with Third Annual Dwarka Cyclothon-A Ride for the Nation

Celebrating 78th Independence Day, Vegas Mall organized the third edition of the Dwarka Cyclothon—A Ride for the Nation. The event commenced with the auspicious lighting of the lamp by esteemed guests, including Smt. Kamaljeet Sehrawat, MP West Delhi, and Dr. Balram Pani, Dean of Colleges—Delhi University, followed by the flag-hoisting ceremony.

Participants of all ages enthusiastically joined the cyclothon to celebrate India’s freedom. The event concluded successfully with a mesmerizing dance performance by school children, adding a vibrant touch to the patriotic atmosphere.

Mr. Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President of Vegas Mall, expressed, “We believe in fostering a sense of community and national pride. The overwhelming participation in the Dwarka Cyclothon reflects the strength and unity of our people, and we’re proud to be a part of this celebration of independence.”

All participants were awarded certificates and medals in recognition of their participation and dedication, making the event a memorable success. Vegas Mall remains committed to fostering community spirit and patriotism through such meaningful initiatives.

Cornitos Celebrates Independence Day with Kite Flying for Orphanage Kids, Embracing ‘Joy of Celebrating Freedom

August 2024 – In a jubilant celebration of Independence Day 2024, Cornitos, India’s leading snack brand, took to the skies with a heartwarming event that left smiles and laughter soaring just as high. On August 13th, the Welfare Home for Children in Delhi became the epicenter of a colorful spectacle as Cornitos orchestrated a Kite Flying Activity that united the spirit of freedom with the joy of childhood.

 The day was filled with excitement and creativity as the children at the orphanage participated in various activities. The celebration began with a vibrant Kite Flying Activity where each child received a Cornitos’ kite, which they eagerly decorated and launched into the sky. The kites, adorned with Corny stickers, added an extra touch of joy as the children flew them with great enthusiasm.

 Manoj Singh, Marketing Head at Cornitos, expressed his enthusiasm about the event, stating, “At Cornitos, we believe in creating joyful experiences and supporting our communities. This Independence Day, we were thrilled to bring a little extra happiness to the children at the Welfare Home. Seeing their smiles as they flew kites and enjoyed a special meal was truly rewarding.”

 The festivities were further enhanced by delightful dance performances and poetry recitals by the children, showcasing their talents and adding to the day’s lively atmosphere. Following the kite flying and performances, the children enjoyed a music class, and the event concluded with a hearty lunch, making the day even more memorable. In addition to the excitement of the kite flying, Cornitos provided a day’s meal for the children, ensuring they enjoyed a nutritious and satisfying lunch.

 Cornitos also provided an array of their popular snacks, ensuring that the celebration was not only visually striking but also enjoyable for the taste buds. The snacks, which included a variety of Cornitos’ best offerings, were a hit among the children and added a delightful touch to the day’s festivities.

The Kite Flying Activity was more than just a celebration; it was an opportunity for Cornitos to engage with the community and bring smiles to the faces of children who are often underserved. The event reflected Cornitos’ commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to creating positive experiences for those in need.

 The success of the Kite Flying Activity underscores Cornitos’ ongoing efforts to support and uplift communities through meaningful and enjoyable events. By fostering a sense of unity and celebration, Cornitos continues to demonstrate its commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

LIXIL Felicitates the India Winners of the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2024-25 at LIXIL Experience Centre in Mumbai

India, 16th August, 2024: LIXIL, the manufacturer of pioneering water and housing products, honored the outstanding achievements across the property industry at the Asia Pacific International Property & Hotel Awards 2024-25 in Bangkok in May. The Indian winners of this esteemed award were recently felicitated at the LIXIL Experience Center in Mumbai.

The event witnessed the gathering of industry stalwarts in architecture, interior design, real estate, and property development. The felicitation ceremony, organized by LIXIL’s brands GROHE and American Standard, recognized 55+ India Award Winners across various categories celebrating the highest levels of achievement in these fields.

The Asia Pacific Property Awards is one of the biggest and most recognized awards in the industry across the region and is a branch of the International Property Awards (IPA). LIXIL has been a partner with IPA for the past six years now. This association has been instrumental in showcasing exceptional projects from across the Asia Pacific region, elevating the recognition of talented architects, designers, and developers.

Mr. Tushar Verma, Leader, Marketing, India&Subcon, LWT IMEA, said, ” Our partnership with IPA has been a catalyst in showcasing India’s architectural marvel on the global stage. As we witness the rapid growth and urbanization in India, we must be mindful of the critical role sustainable design plays in shaping our future. At LIXIL, we are dedicated to nurturing this connection between innovation, sustainability, and design excellence that meets India’s aspirations and sets new benchmarks for the world. We are delighted to felicitate the Indian winners, and this victory validates our architectural and design community and their exceptional architectural designs at an international level.”

LIXIL, through its American Standard and GROHE brands, demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting and appreciating industry talent. By partnering with IPA, LIXIL aims to promote thoughtful, inclusive design that prioritizes health, well-being, and sustainability. This aligns with the company’s vision of making better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere, while also recognizing the innovative minds behind these projects.

WES and NSDC Partner On Enhancing Digital Verification of Academic cords from India

Mumbai: The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and World Education Services (WES) have partnered to streamline the verification and transfer of digital academic credentials from Indian education institutions and boards to WES.

“NSDC and WES are united in their mission to empower the young generation through education, economic advancement and social inclusion. This new partnership enhances WES’s ability to provide even better support to the people and organizations we serve. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary at WES, we know that India will be an important part of our global future, and it is an important part of the future of our organization. Through this partnership and others, we will be able broaden and deepen our impact as we seek to support global mobility and advance opportunity in India and beyond.” said Esther T. Benjamin, CEO and Executive Director of WES.

The partnership will provide real-time and comprehensive support to applicants and issuing institutions and recipients. By leveraging blockchain technology, NSDC ensures a secure and transparent method of sharing information, significantly enhancing document security and minimizing the risk of fraud. This partnership represents another important milestone for WES towards increasing the global mobility of students and immigrants while upholding the TRUST and authenticity of academic credentials.

Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC and MD NSDC International, also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating “At NSDC, we are committed to leveraging innovative technologies to enhance the credibility and efficiency of academic credential mobility. This partnership with World Education Services marks a significant step forward in our mission to facilitate global mobility for Indian students and professionals. By reducing application processing times from 5-6 weeks to merely one week in most cases, we are streamlining the verification process and ensuring secure, swift transfer of verified academic records. This collaboration not only eases administrative burdens but also strengthens the foundation of trust and transparency in academic qualifications. We are excited about the transformative potential of this collaboration and look forward to empowering countless individuals to achieve their educational and professional goals worldwide.”

Together, NSDC and WES are committed to empowering individuals with seamless access to global educational and professional opportunities, fostering a future of trust, transparency, and success.

Siddha Group Illuminates Siddha Sky In Tricolour To Celebrate Independence Day

Kolkata, 16h August, 2024: Siddha Group, a leading real estate player in Eastern India, commemorated the Independence Day by illuminating its flagship project, Siddha Sky, in the colors of the Indian flag. The illumination symbolized the group’s unwavering commitment to national pride and unity.

Siddha Sky’s iconic skyline was decked with vibrant shades of saffron, white, and green, reflecting the spirit of freedom and patriotism. This spectacular display was witnessed by the people of Kolkata, as we celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day.

“Independence Day is a time to honour the vision and sacrifices of our ancestors. By illuminating Siddha Sky, we not only celebrate our nation’s independence but also express our collective pride and commitment to India’s growth and prosperity”, said Mr. Aayushman Jain, Director, Siddha Group.

Fresh Bus Raises INR 87.5 Crore Series A to Expand Route Network and Scale Operations

Bengaluru August 16, 2024: All-electric, digital-first intercity bus startup Fresh Bus has raised INR 87.5 Crore ($10.5 million) through its Series A funding round. The Series A financing was led by international early-stage transportation-focused VC fund Maniv, with participation from Shell Ventures, Alteria Capital, and existing investor Riverwalk Holdings.

With its state-of-the-art fleet of 20 electric buses, Fresh Bus today provides seamless, convenient, affordable and eco-friendly travel on its current Bengaluru-Tirupati and Hyderabad-Vijayawada routes. Fresh Bus offers customers a digital-first customer experience, with best-in-class ticketing, real-time tracking of buses, a robust loyalty program, and more.

With this new injection of funding, Fresh Bus will expand its route network by adding 15 new routes and launching 150 e-buses soon. The new round will finance Fresh Bus’ fast-growing fleet. Fresh Bus will use the funds to scale its operations, enhance its technological capabilities, and strengthen its strategic team to drive growth. Fresh Bus was previously backed by notable industry leaders including Kunal Shah, Founder & CEO, CRED, Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motors, and Deepak Garg, CEO & Founder, Rivigo. Earlier, Fresh Bus also secured 16 Cr as an investment from ixigo, a leading Indian OTA.

“Having served over 4 lakh passengers to date with an impeccable 95% OTP (On-Time Performance), an industry best, our goal is to establish a nationwide network and become the Indian market leader for intercity bussing in the upcoming years,” said Sudhakar Chirra, Founder & CEO of Fresh Bus: “We expect to scale to 1000 electric buses pan-India over the next four years, generate skilled employment opportunities for thousands of people and offer a green alternative for mass road transportation.”

Every day, over a hundred thousand bus services transport over 1 Cr Indians between the country’s cities, a market worth over INR 84,000 crore today. Since its inception, Fresh Bus has saved over 42 lakh liters of diesel, reducing nearly 15,000 tons of CO2 emissions – an impact equivalent to saving about 2.5 lakh trees.

“Fresh Bus is demonstrating that the wide-scale decarbonization of transportation is not a promissory burden but an already lucrative economic opportunity,” said Nate Jaret, partner at Maniv Mobility, a transportation-focused early-stage venture fund investing globally. “India’s intercity bus travel is ripe for disruption, and Sudhakar’s team is rapidly modernizing it through innovations in drivetrain, infrastructure, and customer experience.”

“Electrifying mobility in India offers a unique chance to improve air quality, cut emissions, and reduce costs. Fresh Bus leads in electric intercity travel, driven by a data-driven, customer-focused approach.”, said Robert Linck, Shell Ventures’ Chief Investment Officer.

“We are excited to double down on our investment and back the Freshbus team to create a sustainable and customer-first bus travel experience”, said Jai Sumer Singh, Partner at Riverwalk Holdings, an early-stage VC fund.

Bhai Parmanand Vidya Mandir Celebrates Independence Day with Pride

Delhi- Bhai Parmanand Vidya Mandir (BPVM), a top school in the region, proudly celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with a grand event that emphasized the spirit of patriotism and unity among students, staff, and the community. The celebration commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by the Chief Guest, followed by the national anthem sung by the school choir, resonating a sense of pride and honor.

The event was graced by a series of cultural programs, including patriotic songs, dances, and skits performed by the students, reflecting India’s rich heritage and diversity. Another key highlight of the day was the Investiture Ceremony, where newly elected student leaders were sworn in, symbolizing responsibility and commitment towards their school and peers.

The day’s highlight was a thought-provoking speech by the Academic Director, Mrs. Pratibha Sharma, who inspired the audience with her words of wisdom. In her address, Mrs. Sharma said, “Independence Day is not just a reminder of our hard-earned freedom but also a call to action for each one of us to contribute positively to our nation. At BPVM, we are committed to nurturing future leaders who embody the values of integrity, responsibility, and patriotism. Our students are the torchbearers of tomorrow, and we have to equip them with the knowledge and skills to shape a better future for our country.”

The celebration concluded with a pledge taken by students and teachers to uphold the values of freedom and work towards the progress and prosperity of the nation. BPVM continues to strive for excellence in education while fostering a deep sense of national pride and responsibility among its students.