23, Jun 2025
Startupbootcamp Australia and BRK Ventures Launch Energy Transition Pre Accelerator
Startupbootcamp Australia partners with BRK Ventures to launch Pre–Accelerator Program for Energy Transition Startups
Ahmedabad 23rd June 2025 : Startupbootcamp India (SBC India) has been set up as a joint venture between Startupbootcamp Australia, a global network of industry-focused accelerators, and BRK Ventures, an organization focused on supporting early-stage startups. SBC India is opening a highly specialised pre-accelerator programme for very early stage clean energy focused business ideas.
The programme aims to catalyse breakthrough solutions for India’s clean energy future by supporting early-stage startups with mentoring, funding, and growth support.
The pre-accelerator programme will support climate-aligned innovation in 6 high impact domains that include:
AI-Driven Energy Systems and Smart Grids: Making energy systems smarter, more efficient, and reliable using AI.
Renewable integration and smart energy infra: Tools for seamless renewable integration while maintaining grid stability.
Next-Generation Energy Storage & Grid Flexibility: Advanced battery systems, storage methods, and orchestration software
Green Hydrogen: Driving decarbonization in manufacturing and heavy industries through hydrogen innovation
Net Zero & Decarbonisation: Enabling individuals, businesses, and communities to drive systemic climate action
Blockchain-Enabled Decentralized Energy Markets: Leveraging blockchain for automation, trust, and decentralization in energy.
SBC Australia has worked with global corporations like Shell, Mitsubishi Corporation, Bosch, EnergyAustralia, China Light and Power, Alliander, AusNet, BP, GE, Schneider Electric and tech partners like Google, Microsoft, AWS. Their entry into India in partnership with BRK is designed to identify groundbreaking opportunities in the clean tech startup ecosystem.
Commenting on the launch of the programme, Trevor Townsend, CEO, Startupbootcamp Australia, said, “We’re excited to partner with BRK Ventures to launch Startupbootcamp India and support the next wave of climate tech innovation. India has the talent, urgency, and scale to drive impactful climate solutions that resonate both locally and globally. By backing early-stage founders in energy transition sectors, we aim to foster commercially viable ventures that accelerate decarbonisation and create meaningful international collaboration opportunities.”
Kamal Bansal, Managing Partner, BRK Ventures, added, “India’s energy transition needs a 360 degrees approach to battle several problems like increasing pollution in large cities, flooding, climate change affecting agricultural produce and much more. We are keen to be a partner in finding solutions that can help India emerge as a powerful $35 trillion economy by 2047. Our belief is to support climate tech focused startups in their very early days with strategic partnerships like SBC Australia to position Indian startups solving India and global climate change problems.”
SBC India, which is launching its first programme in India, is expecting over 300 applications as they hit the last date of receiving them by July 31st. The programme goes live in August for a duration of 3 months. There will be a showcase day organised in Nov 2025 with marquee VCs and early stage investors to evaluate the businesses for funding and further growth support.
The pre-accelerator program has been designed to help the entrepreneurs at idea and seed-stage, in creating a roadmap to roll out their ventures through access to resources, community and funding. The programme will also help the selected founders by connecting them into a network of industry experts who mentor on Startupbootcamp programs globally with an aim to provide both an international and local perspective of business challenges in the clean-tech sector and specific help and assistance in the challenges of starting and scaling a clean tech company.
BRK Ventures brings local knowledge and capital to fill the early-stage funding and support gap, especially for pre-revenue and climate-focused startups, by building a bridge to global accelerators and markets. The partnership will accelerate innovations across the most pressing climate and energy challenges, enabling startups working in areas like AI, blockchain, hydrogen, and renewable systems to commercialize their technologies and drive measurable impact in India’s net-zero journey.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
21, Jun 2025
3F Oil Palm Launches Mega Plantation Drive in Dima Hasao, Assam under NMEO-OP
Mumbai / Digandu Village, Dima Hasao, Assam | 21 June 2025: To boost domestic edible oil production, 3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd., in collaboration with the Government of Assam, launched the annual mega oil palm plantation drive under the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) at Digandu Village 5, Dima Hasao district on Friday.
The plantation has been established on a 20-hectare site owned by Mr. Maijen Hagjer, a local farmer dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices. A formal program was held at the Digandu Community Hall near to the plantation site.
3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading integrated oil palm companies, is playing a pivotal role in Assam’s oil palm development efforts. Representing the company, Mr. Srinivasarao Kilari, Vice President, said “At 3F Oil Palm, we strongly believe that oil palm cultivation can be a transformative crop for the North-East. Our mission is to empower farmers through sustainable agriculture, ensuring long-term income stability and access to markets. We are committed to providing world-class planting material and timely technical guidance. This plantation in Dima Hasao is just the beginning and our focus is on building an entire ecosystem of support that benefits both farmers and the environment.”
The event was graced by Ms. Rupali Langthasa, Member, Autonomous Council, Diyungbra, Dima Hasao District, as the Guest of Honour, who expressed strong support for initiatives that contribute to farmer empowerment and local economic development.
Key government officials present at the program include Ms. Narmada Khersa, District Agriculture Officer, Dima Hasao; Ms. Kalpana Barman, State Nodal Officer – Oil Palm; Mr Pankaj Sharma, Zonal Head; Mr Jevin D. Thousen, District Nodal officer; Mr. P. Dutta, General Manager – Northeast Region, 3F Oil Palm Pvt. Ltd.; Ms Sujatha Phonglo ADO of Diyungbra block, Gram Pradhans of 11 villages participated.
Their presence highlighted the collaborative spirit between the government and private sector in implementing NMEO-OP’s objectives in Assam and the wider North-East region. The event concluded with ceremonial planting at the site, symbolizing a shared vision for a greener, more self-reliant agricultural future.
21, Jun 2025
Yashoda Medicity Hosts Yoga Sangam to Champion Preventive Healthcare on Yoga Day 2025
Ghaziabad/NCR, June 21, 2025: On the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, Yashoda Medicity hosted Yoga Sangam, in collaboration with the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) and with the support of the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
The program started with a live telecast of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s speech, followed by a yoga demonstration. He emphasized how yoga has become a global practice, cutting across geographies and generations. He also discussed the deeper significance of yoga as a means of public engagement and harmony, and the ultimate objective of collective well-being.
Over 500 participants, including healthcare professionals, members of nearby societies, and yoga enthusiasts, gathered at Yashoda Medicity for the event, where they performed asanas and breathing exercises under the guidance of certified trainers, as part of the Common Yoga Protocol.
This year’s theme of “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” was at the center of the event, reflecting the ethos of healthy living and eco-friendly living.
Distinguished guests such as Professor R.M. Acharya from Swami Vivekananda Yoga University and Shri Mahendra Nath Pandey, Former Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises of India, graced the occasion. They were joined by key stakeholders, Dr. Upasana Arora, Dr. P.N. Arora, Dr. Sunil Dagar, and other employees at Yashoda Medicity, who actively participated in the session. Their presence underscored the importance of integrating traditional wellness practices into modern healthcare.
Yoga Sangam mirrored the increasing popular interest in health and awakening living. With collective participation central to the event, it highlighted Yashoda Medicity’s sustained efforts towards holistic well-being and preventive care among people.
Speaking on this, Dr. Upasana Arora, Managing Director of Yashoda Group of Hospitals, said, “Yoga is a powerful way to support mental well-being. It lowers stress and provides a sense of calmness and balance. It was heartening to see so many participants, from our doctors and staff to residents from nearby societies, and passionate yoga enthusiasts, come together at Yashoda Medicity for this meaningful session. The collective energy and intent with which everyone participated truly reflected how deeply people value preventive care and mindful living.”
Dr. P.N. Arora, Chairman and Managing Director, Yashoda Group of Hospitals, added, “Yoga is a simple yet powerful practice that encourages people to take ownership of their well-being. It was encouraging to see individuals from all age groups come together with a common goal of prioritising health, mindfulness, and balance. That collective participation is what gives such initiatives lasting impact.”
21, Jun 2025
Medanta Marks International Yoga Day with Grand Celebration Focused on Wellness
Gurugram, June 21, 2025 – Medanta – The Medicity, one of India’s leading multi-specialty hospital and ranked as the country’s Best Private Hospital by Newsweek for six consecutive years, spearheaded the celebrations of the 11th International Yoga Day. In collaboration with the Art of Living Foundation, Medanta hosted two large-scale events at the hospital — on the lawns and in the auditorium — which saw nearly 200 participants, including Dr. Kartikeya Bhargava, Senior Director, Electrophysiology, Cardiac Care, Medanta, who emphasized the importance of integrating yoga into daily life for better heart health and overall well-being.
Further, amplifying the message of holistic health, Medanta extended the celebrations to local communities by helping to organize special yoga sessions in collaboration with RWAs in Gurugram and Noida, as well as at New Delhi’s Defence Colony Club.
Together, the events engaged more than 1,000 individuals across Delhi-NCR, underscoring Medanta’s commitment to preventive healthcare and community well-being in line with this year’s theme — Yoga for One Earth, One Health.
Highlighting the importance of Yoga in everyday life, Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta, stated, “Yoga is one of the most powerful tools we have for preventive healthcare. It strengthens the body, calms the mind, and enhances immunity — all of which are essential for a healthy life in today’s fast-paced world. Practices like Pranayama and Anulom Vilom help improve lung capacity, regulate blood pressure, and manage stress — a key contributor to many chronic illnesses. Regular yoga practice strengthens the body, boosts immunity, and supports heart health. At Medanta, we believe that true healthcare begins long before disease strikes, and yoga plays a vital role in empowering individuals to take charge of their health. This vision strongly resonates with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to celebrate International Yoga Day — not just as an annual event, but as a global movement to promote holistic well-being. We must embrace yoga not just as a one-day celebration, but as a way of life — for a healthier, stronger, and more resilient society.”
Dr. Kartikeya Bhargava, Senior Director, Electrophysiology, Cardiac Care, Medanta said, “We witnessed enthusiastic participation at Medanta this Yoga Day, and it was heartening to see people from all walks of life embrace this powerful practice. While yoga’s roots go back over 2,000 years, its relevance in modern medicine continues to grow. Yoga has been shown to improve cardiovascular function, help regulate blood pressure, and enhance autonomic balance, which is crucial for heart health. Beyond that, it plays a significant role in reducing stress, anxiety, and chronic pain, while also improving flexibility, sleep quality, and emotional well-being. For patients with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis, yoga offers a safe and effective complementary therapy. Integrating it into our daily lives can truly empower individuals to take proactive steps toward holistic, long-term health.”
Medanta remains at the forefront of driving awareness, promoting preventive care, and advancing evidence-based integration of yoga into modern medical practice — reaffirming its commitment to building a healthier, more conscious society.
21, Jun 2025
Bank of Baroda Marks Yoga Day 2025 with Focus on Employee Wellness
Mumbai, 21st June, 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, celebrated the International Day of Yoga 2025 across all its offices as part of its comprehensive BOB Employee Health and Wellness Framework. Demonstrating its long-term commitment to employee well-being, Bank of Baroda launched daily live online Yoga & Meditation sessions in November 2024, to encourage employees and their families to invest 30-minutes every day in their physical and mental health.
On International Day of Yoga, the Bank organised in-person Yoga sessions for employees across locations, led virtually by a certified Yoga instructor. Further, it recognised staff members who have consistently attended the online yoga sessions since Nov 2024.
In the run-up to the Bank’s 118th Foundation Day on July 20, Bank of Baroda also announced the launch of the ‘Rise with Yoga’ campaign, an initiative to motivate employees to experience the many benefits of regularly practicing yoga.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “At Bank of Baroda, the health and welfare of our employees is our top priority. Yoga offers numerous benefits – it improves fitness, reduces stress and promotes overall well-being – that contribute meaningfully to both personal fulfillment and professional excellence. Our focus on our employees’ health and wellness represents our commitment to creating an environment where every employee can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.”
Bank of Baroda has prioritised health and wellness as a core strategic initiative. The Bank’s Employee Health and Wellness Framework is comprehensive & holistic by design, covering Physical Health, Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing and Other Health & Wellness initiatives.
21, Jun 2025
ITC Maurya Celebrates International Yoga Day with a Soulful Morning of Movement and Mindfulness
On the occasion of International Yoga Day, ITC Maurya hosted a revitalising morning of wellness on 21st June 2025, bringing together guests for a serene Aqua yoga experience at the hotel’s tranquil poolside venue.
Nestled in the Capital’s exclusive Diplomatic Enclave, offering an enviable view of the green ridge, the experience offered a harmonious blend of moments and mindfulness adding to the sense of calm and rejuvenation.
With this year’s global theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” — encouraging a deeper connection with oneself, community, and planet, the event had the attendees including wellness enthusiasts social media figures and in-house guests.
The morning commenced with a grounding Aqua yoga, performed in the hotel’s serene pool, designed to awaken the senses. In synergy with the experience at Kaya Kalp blending timeless traditions with our expertise to leave you in a state of pure tranquility. Offering a blend of movement and stillness surrounded by natural elements and under gentle light, the experience fostered a sense of harmony between body, breath, and environment.
The session concluded with special breakfast creations by master chefs, highlighting seasonal, local, and nutrient-rich ingredients. From energising cold-pressed juices and antioxidant-packed smoothies to handcrafted granola bowls and traditional delicacies made with millets and healing spices—the menu was a celebration of nourishment rooted in sustainability.
Aligned with ITC Hotels ethos of Responsible Luxury, the celebration reflected a conscious approach to well-being- one that nurtures the self while remaining rooted in sustainable and mindful living. Rooted in traditional Indian philosophies of health, wellness and inner calm, Kaya Kalp – the Spa opens its doors to the world of Ayurvedic and holistic therapies designed to de-stress and detox while relaxing and rejuvenating every guest. ITC Maurya facilitates the pursuit of holistic well-being & fitness by offering a conducive sleep environment, healthy cuisine offerings, personalized fitness regimes, and exclusive amenities & facilities.
21, Jun 2025
Vishnu Manchu says Kannappa is his version of Lord Of The Rings in IMDb’s ‘Behind The Scenes’
Kannappa, the highly anticipated mythological drama, is set to release in cinemas later this month. Starring Mohanlal, Prabhas, Vishnu Manchu, Akshay Kumar and Kajal Aggarwal, amongst others, the film is directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh. Manchu recently appeared in IMDb’s original series ‘Behind The Scenes’ where he shared insights into what went behind writing the film and what audiences can look forward to.
Vishnu Manchu
Manchu said, “Kannappa is a true story which has happened in India. It’s a story about an atheist who becomes Lord Shiva’s greatest devotee. This is a journey of self realization and I kind of resonated with the script when I heard it, and here I am, after 10 years of working on the script, bringing it to the world to see.”
Sharing his inspiration behind making the film, Manchu revealed, “In 2014, there was a scriptwriter who wanted to make this movie, and approached me. For me, when he was narrating it to me, I was already making it larger than life, trying to make it big. Since then, my journey began and I started developing the script and making it large, working on the pre-production, doing the storyboarding and everything.”
On working with director Mukesh Kumar Singh, Manchu said, “Mr Mukesh comes with a lot of experience on filming one of India’s greatest epic, Mahabharat. That was a super success and he was the man behind it. When he came in, he gave a few nuances which were phenomenal. The character arcs which he helped the actors achieve was absolutely brilliant. The credit for the performance of the actors goes to him.” Manchu added, “A major part of the movie was when Kannappa was an atheist. I was stuck with how to approach it. While writing it, I wrote the character. But as an actor, when I was trying to bring it on screen, a day before the shoot, I went and told him, ‘I still haven’t figured it out’. He just kept quiet then, and after an hour, he came back and he said, ‘Imagine you’re a tiger. A lion, even if it hunts, it lays back, the lioness does the thing. But you never see a tiger let down its guard or yawning or falling down or acting like a lion’.”
Sharing how life has changed for him after making this film, Manchu mentioned, “While making the movie, and after making the movie, and being and dwelling in this movie, I am right now living in a lot of positivity. I believe this is all Lord Shiva’s magic and it’s all his leela, what we believe in.” Manchu further shared, “One of the biggest surprises in this movie is gonna be Mr.Mohanlal’s character. People who are well versed with our Indian epics, they’re gonna be blown away by Mr. Mohanlal’s character and the episode of his”
Mentioning the inspiration while preparing for the film, Manchu said, “I’m a huge fan of The Lord of The Rings and this is my version of it”
21, Jun 2025
Superfoods For Sperm And Egg Health: A Couple’s Guide To Fertility Nutrition
By-Dr Bani Kumar Mitra, Founder & Chief Consultant, Abha Surgy Centre
With fertility-related issues becoming a growing concern among urban couples, medical practitioners and nutritionists are placing renewed emphasis on the role of diet in reproductive health. Amidst a surge in awareness about holistic wellness, superfoods—natural foods dense in essential nutrients are being increasingly recognised for their ability to enhance reproductive potential in both men and women.
For women, fertility begins with healthy ovulation and hormone balance. Superfoods such as leafy greens, avocados and berries are rich in folic acid, a vital B-vitamin that supports cell division and ovum development. Nuts and seeds, particularly flaxseeds and walnuts, offer omega-3 fatty acids that help regulate hormones and improve uterine blood flow. Antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries and pomegranates help fight oxidative stress, a known factor in declining egg quality with age.
Male fertility is equally influenced by diet. Zinc, found in pumpkin seeds and lentils, is essential for sperm production and testosterone levels. Selenium, abundant in nuts, boosts sperm motility. Vitamin C and E found in citrus fruits and almonds protect sperm from DNA damage. Tomatoes, high in lycopene, have been linked to improved sperm morphology and count.
Couples looking to conceive should focus on a whole-food, antioxidant-rich diet, avoiding excessive caffeine, trans fats and processed sugars, all of which are linked to hormonal imbalance and lowered fertility.
While superfoods alone may not offer a complete solution, their impact becomes significantly more effective when integrated with broader lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, stress management, and timely medical consultation. At a time when assisted reproductive technologies are witnessing a steady rise, returning to nature’s own resources may well serve as a foundational and nourishing first step in a couple’s path to parenthood.
21, Jun 2025
Vedanta Champions Indian Art and Culture with London Debut of ‘We The Women’
New Delhi, June 21, 2025: In a powerful celebration of voice, courage, and culture, We The Women – India’s premier women-led festival will make its landmark UK debut at the iconic Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios in London. Backed by Vedanta Founder & Chairman Anil Agarwal, this milestone edition highlights the group’s steadfast commitment to promoting Indian art & culture, talent, and inclusive storytelling on a global stage.
Curated by acclaimed journalist and author Barkha Dutt, We The Women has, over the years, become one of India’s most impactful cultural movements, spotlighting extraordinary individuals across cinema, public service, science, literature, and more. Following successful editions in Dubai and across India, the London chapter promises a compelling confluence of dialogue, performance, and inspiration.
Anil Agarwal’s vision to transform Riverside Studios into a thriving cultural hub for global Indian voices has now found new resonance through this festival. His long-standing commitment to nurturing talent and giving Indian art a world platform mirrors the essence of We The Women – a celebration of both heritage and progress.
This year’s London edition will feature an extraordinary lineup of speakers- former Union minister Smriti Irani, one of India’s most influential women in public life; to acclaimed filmmaker Karan Johar, the creative force behind some of India’s biggest cinematic hits and a trailblazer in mainstream storytelling; Shashi Tharoor, Indian politician, author, and former diplomat; megastar Kareena Kapoor Khan, an icon of Indian cinema known for redefining female stardom; and beloved actor Rashmika Mandanna, one of India’s fastest rising stars with pan-India appeal.
Cultural icons like Anoushka Shankar, Grammy-nominated sitar virtuoso and composer; Sudha Murthy, acclaimed author, philanthropist, and the first woman engineer at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company; and Meera Syal, celebrated British Indian writer, comedian, and BAFTA-winning actor, will also bring their unique voices to the stage, bridging heritage, creativity, and empowerment.
The festival will also spotlight stories of grit and patriotism, such as the women officers behind India’s recent Operation Sindoor, and recognise Changemakers of 2025 – trailblazers from the British Indian community and beyond.
“At Vedanta, we believe that progress must be inclusive, and stories have the power to transform societies. By bringing ‘We The Women’ to Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios London, we’re building bridges between cultures and empowering voices that deserve to be heard across borders,” said Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta and a passionate advocate for inclusion and equity. She added, “We are committed to a future where every voice matters and every story inspires change, and we hope we can bring many such stories to Riverside”
Barkha Dutt, curator of the festival, added “This will be an amazing day of conversation, community, celebration and inspiration. We have an absolutely stellar line-up of speakers- the best line-up of its kind – and I am delighted to partner with Vedanta in bringing this day of glamour, gravitas and grassroots to London. We are so looking forward to celebrating women and the men who champion women for a day of fun, festivity and food”.
We The Women is not just a festival – it is a movement that unites generations, geographies, and genders. With Vedanta’s support and Anil Agarwal’s cultural vision, this edition marks a significant step in taking India’s stories to the world.
Vedanta supports a variety of ancient art forms and grassroot artists in India including Dhokra and Saura arts in Odisha, and Ajrak block printing in Rajasthan. In addition, it extends support to various cultural and literary festivals in India such as the Jaipur Literature Festival and the Udaipur World Music Festival.
Vedanta Limited is a global leader in critical minerals, energy and technology operating a diverse portfolio of world-class assets. It is the world’s largest integrated producer of zinc, the fourth-largest global producer of silver, amongst the world’s top aluminium producers, India’s only private oil and gas producer, and one of its largest private power producers. With an eye on the future, the company is strategically expanding its business portfolio by venturing into rare earths, other critical minerals, and renewable energy.
21, Jun 2025
Anil Agarwal highlights Silver as the New-Age Safe Haven and Catalyst for Innovation
In a recent social media post, Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta, emphasized the growing strategic and investment significance of silver in today’s dynamic global landscape. Drawing a comparison with traditional safe-haven assets, he wrote, “Historically, in times of uncertainty, we know that the US dollar and gold become safe havens for investors. Now, in a very unpredictable world, where the dollar is no longer totally safe and gold prices are at record highs, silver is emerging as an investor safe haven.”
With silver prices soaring to a 13-year high of $37 per ounce, the surge is being driven not only by investor demand but also by its expanding role across emerging technologies such as solar cells, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, aerospace, and more.
Mr. Agarwal also issued a clarion call to India’s young entrepreneurs and jewellery designers to explore the untapped potential of silver as a viable and fashionable alternative to gold. “Silver jewellery also has great potential to compete with gold. An opportunity for young designers and startups,” he noted.
Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal has been a long-time advocate for reducing India’s silver import dependency and is committed to bolster the domestic value chain. Hindustan Zinc, Vedanta’s subsidiary, is among the top five global producers of silver, currently catering to nearly 10% of India’s silver demand. Looking ahead, Vedanta plans to double its silver output to 1,500 tonnes, supported by a bold and ambitious capacity doubling expansion plan.
