22, Oct 2025
Securing India’s Energy Future: SPG 2025 Global Summit in Jaipur to Highlight AI and Deepwater Tech Strategies
NEW DELHI / Jaipur | 22 October, 2025: Pink city Jaipur is set to host the 15th Biennial SPG 2025 Global Summit from October 26-28, 2025, at the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre and Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), bringing together global energy leaders and technology innovators. Under the theme “Rock to Cloud: Geo-Exploration Empowering Energy Evolution,” the summit convenes at a pivotal moment as India reinvigorates its deepwater exploration mission and expands its quest for new hydrocarbon frontiers to ensure long-term energy security.
The summit is organised by the Society of Petroleum Geophysicists India (SPG), with the Chairman and CEO of ONGC serving as its Chief Patron.
With the country’s energy demand expected to nearly double by 2040, the upstream sector is focusing on unlocking new hydrocarbon basins and harnessing cutting-edge geophysical and AI-based exploration technologies. The SPG 2025 Global Summit will serve as a premier global platform for collaboration among energy leaders, scientists, and technologists driving India’s energy evolution. Over 700 delegates from more than 10 countries, including major global E&P companies and service providers, will participate. Leading organizations such as ONGC, ONGC Videsh, Oil India, Eliis, Dig Science, Baker Hughes, Shearwater, Sercel, Geosoftware, Beicip Franlab, Viridien , Emerson Aspentech and Solytics Partners will feature prominently.
India’s premier academic and research institutions will also be represented, including the IITs in Bombay, Madras, Roorkee, and Dhanbad, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Dibrugarh University, Andhra University, Banaras Hindu University, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, and Jadavpur University, among others. The event is further endorsed by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and the European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers (EAGE).
The technical programme will cover the complete exploration spectrum—from seismic acquisition, imaging, and reservoir characterisation to digital geophysics, cloud-based analytics, and AI-driven subsurface modelling. Sessions will spotlight deepwater exploration breakthroughs, advances in seismic processing, and emerging geoscientific research. The SPG 2025 Exhibition will showcase state-of-the-art technologies, including AI-powered interpretation systems, data management platforms, and high-performance computing tools designed to enhance exploration efficiency and predictive accuracy.
Complementing the technical sessions, a dynamic business programme will include an exclusive “Meet the Industry” forum to facilitate meaningful partnerships. Post-Conference Continuing Education (CE) Courses, led by global experts, will provide specialised learning opportunities. Demonstrating its commitment to nurturing young talent, SPG will host a Geoscience Career Symposium (GCS) connecting leading energy companies with students from top institutes. The Student Spotlight section will feature a national quiz, extempore competitions, and interactive panels. A Geological Field Excursion will offer participants hands-on training in the stratigraphy of Indian basins.
Amid Jaipur’s heritage and charm, the summit will also include a vibrant Cultural Evening featuring classical and folk performances. A curated Spouse Programme will run alongside, offering sightseeing, wellness sessions, handicraft exploration, and culinary experiences for accompanying guests.
Building on the success of SPG 2023 in Kochi, which drew 48 major companies and strong participation from both Indian and global players, SPG 2025 promises to reinforce collaboration and innovation across the energy ecosystem.
About Society of Petroleum Geophysicists India (SPG):
The Society of Petroleum Geophysicists (SPG), India, is a premier professional body dedicated to advancing the science and technology of petroleum geophysics. For over three decades, its biennial conferences have served as a global platform for innovation, knowledge sharing, and technological progress across the upstream energy sector.
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- By Neel Achary
20, Oct 2025
Welspun One Unveils Festive DVC ‘The Diary of a Diwali Box’
Welspun One Launches Festive Campaign ‘The Diary of a Diwali Box’ A Heartfelt Tribute to the Effort Behind Every Gift
Mumbai, 20th October 2025: Welspun One, India’s leading real asset developer, has unveiled its festive brand film, ‘The Diary of a Diwali Box’, a heart-warming story that trace the unseen journey of care, precision, and people behind every Diwali gift all through the festive season.
Narrated through the eyes of a Diwali gift box, the film serves as a symbolic storyteller that experience the joy of giving first-hand. The narrative follows the box’s journey from Welspun One’s Grade A warehouses to homes across India, capturing how logistics, empathy and innovation come together to power the country’s festive spirit.
Rooted in the brand’s purpose of “Building For Abundance,” the campaign highlights how each of Welspun One’s developments, i.e., Pulse, Proxima, and Gateway represents far more than physical infrastructure. They represent a new benchmark of reliability and innovation that helps the businesses scale efficiently while staying connected to the communities they serve.
Neeraj Balani, Chief Customer Officer, Welspun One, said “Our parks are not just built to store and move goods, they are built to move possibilities. ‘The Diary of a Diwali Box’ is a simple yet powerful reminder that behind every unboxing moment lies an ecosystem of precision, empathy, and purpose. It celebrates the people and processes that make India’s festive spirit come alive.”
By adopting the point of view of the box itself, the film brings innocence and wonder to an industrial setting, blending scale with sentiment. It is among the first in the category to reinterpret warehousing and logistics through a consumer-centric, cinematic lens, reflecting Welspun One’s distinctive ability to merge operational excellence with emotional intelligence. The campaign is released across Welspun One’s social media platforms and digital channels through the Diwali season.
20, Oct 2025
Legacy, Grace and Grandeur Converge as Welham Girls’ School Observes 68th Founders’ Day
Dehradun, 20th October 2025: Welham Girls’ School, the premier legacy all-girls school in Dehradun, came alive with joy and nostalgia on its 68th Founders’ Day as faculty, students and alumnae commemorated the founding visionaries Miss Hersilia Susie Oliphant and Miss Grace Mary Linnell, who took the brave step of laying the foundation of an all-girls school way back in 1957 to shape confident and compassionate young women. A vibrant two-day programme celebrated the essence of its thriving legacy while embracing the exciting promise of tomorrow in a joyful confluence of learning, creativity, and achievement.
The festivities began with the Annual Sports Meet, which saw the school grounds coming alive with spirited displays of athletics, track events, karate, and aerobics, reflecting Welham’s deep commitment to physical fitness and holistic education. Students who had excelled in sports, including several state, national, and international medallists, were felicitated for their achievements in the concluding Prize Distribution Ceremony.
Gracing the sports meet as the Chief Guest was Sonya Philip, Founder and CEO of Learning Matters and an alumna from the Batch of 1975. She commended the school for nurturing well-rounded individuals who pursue excellence with empathy and integrity.
This edition of the Founders’ Day was special as the Class of 1975 marked their Golden Jubilee year and the Class of 2000 their Silver Jubilee year. It called for endless laughter, talks, and reliving that Welham feeling once more that continues to bind all who have lived it.
The main Founders’ Day programme had Ambassador Gaitri Issar Kumar, former High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, gracing the event as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, she said, “It is truly wonderful how the small school started by Ms. Linnell and Ms. Oliphant has now grown into such a reputed institution. Your motto, Aartt Shanti Phala Vidya, seems more relevant than ever before. It reminds us that education builds wisdom, the wisdom to use our learning for the betterment of this planet. The school’s ability to blend tradition with contemporary relevance makes it a living institution of thought and action.
Romesh Sobti, President, Board of Governors, Welham Girls’ School Society added, “Welham is, in many ways, a living laboratory for education. It is far more than a school; it is an enduring community of women. Our vision is to make the school future-ready. We are building AI fluency at all levels, helping students understand how AI technology works and the impact it creates, enabling them to engage with technology thoughtfully. We are making our curriculum truly transdisciplinary.”
Adding to the joyous reflections, Vibha Kapoor, Principal, Welham Girls’ School, said, “Today is not only a celebration of achievements but also a moment of reflection, on the journey of our girls and the true purpose of a boarding school like ours. At Welham, education goes far beyond academics; it builds character, nurtures resilience, and equips young women to thrive in a rapidly changing world. This year, we inaugurated Echoes of Eternity, our very own school museum that lovingly preserves Welham’s story and honours our founders, Ms. H. S. Oliphant and Ms. Grace Mary Linnell. Welham will continue to nurture young women who carry forward a legacy of excellence and empathy, one that would make our founders smile with pride, knowing their vision lives on.”
Among the core highlights on the first day, an insightful career counselling session on ‘Subject Choices and Career’ set the conversations rolling. The interactive session guided parents of Classes VIII and X students on aligning subject selection with individual strengths and aspirations while highlighting the comprehensive guidance offered by the school’s Careers Department.
The second day witnessed a series of creative exhibitions under the theme Neti Neti – Neither Defined, Nor Undefined. Students explored this philosophical idea of boundless inquiry through scientific experiments, mathematical models, psychological studies, historical interpretations, and art installations. The displays reflected critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and innovation, inviting visitors to engage with the idea of questioning definitions and embracing ambiguity.
Evenings were set aside for cultural exuberance as the school auditorium transformed into a theatre of laughter and wit with the inaugural student production of Arsenic and Old Lace. The play, brought to life by 14 talented student actors, combined humour, suspense, and farce in a delightful performance that enthralled the audience. The second day’s schedule saw a dance drama, Anhad Naad taking the audience on a mystical exploration of the eternal cosmic vibration, the ‘unstruck sound’ that transcends time and form. Through intricate choreography and evocative storytelling, students traced the seeker’s journey of awakening the seven chakras, symbolising the path to inner peace and unity.
The celebrations concluded on a reflective note, honouring the spirit of the founders and the generations who have carried their vision forward. Rooted in tradition yet attuned to the times, Welham Girls’ School continues to inspire learning that is thoughtful, purposeful, and timeless.
20, Oct 2025
Brihaspathi Technologies secures INR 106 cr IP-enabled video surveillance contract from MSRTC
Hyderabad / Mumbai,20th October 2025: Brihaspathi Technologies Ltd., a leading provider of intelligent transportation and surveillance solutions, has been awarded a prestigious project worth approximately INR 106 crore by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), which entails the implementation of an advanced IP-based video surveillance system integrated with a state-of-the-art Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC).
The solution aims to significantly enhance passenger safety, fleet monitoring, and operational efficiency across MSRTC’s extensive network of depots, bus stands, and operational facilities throughout Maharashtra.
Under the terms of the work, Brihaspati Technologies will undertake the installation of high-definition CCTV surveillance systems at 658 bus stands and stations across the State, covering an estimated fleet size of 15000 buses. The IP cameras and edge devices will be deployed, connected through a secure cloud-enabled architecture and monitored centrally from the ICCC.
The project’s key objectives include, establishment of a 24×7 Command and Control Center for statewide visibility of bus depots and terminals; enabling real-time monitoring and incident response through AI-enabled video analytics. Also included are strengthening women and passenger safety through proactive surveillance measures.
The project is expected to help in streamlining fleet management, traffic movement, and asset protection across MSRTC’s operations.
Commenting on the project, Mr. Rajasekhar Papolu, Managing Director, Brihaspathi Technologies Ltd. said, “ This project underscores our commitment to enabling safer and smarter public transport systems. We are proud to partner with MSRTC in deploying a robust, technology-driven surveillance ecosystem that aligns with the Government of Maharashtra’s vision for safe mobility and digital governance.”
The MSRTC IP Video Surveillance Project is part of the Corporation’s broader digital modernization roadmap, reinforcing its commitment to safety, transparency, and efficiency across the public transport network that serves millions of passengers daily.
Once operational, the ICCC will serve as the nerve center for statewide security operations, offering real-time situational awareness and data-driven decision-making for MSRTC administrators and law enforcement authorities.
20, Oct 2025
Samsung Expands Care to Cover Home Appliances in India
Samsung Expands Samsung Care+ Service to Include Warranty Plans for Home Appliances in India
Kochi, 20th October 2025: Samsung, India’s leading consumer electronics brand, today announced the expansion of its Samsung Care+ service to include Extended Warranty plans for home appliances including Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Air Conditioners, Microwave ovens, and Smart TVs. As celebrations fill homes across the country, Samsung aims to make this festive period even more rewarding by offering consumers greater peace of mind through enhanced protection and convenience. Customers can now choose from plans that range from 1-4 years, offering comprehensive protection and convenience, with prices starting as low as INR 2 per day.
The upgraded Samsung Care+ service also introduce industry-first coverage for software updates and screen malfunctions (with no physical damage). This ensures that customers have complete peace of mind, not only for hardware issues but also for software performance and display concerns, making Samsung Care+ the most comprehensive appliance protection programme in the industry.
“We are committed to enhancing the customer experience, elevating home appliances ownership with unique benefits such as software updates and screen malfunction coverage, while expanding availability of Samsung Care+ Extended Warranty plans across all channels,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances, Samsung India.
Built on the pillars of Expertise, Reach, Reliability, Speed, Smart Service, Protection, and Sustainability, Samsung Care+ provides consumers access to over 13,000 Samsung-certified engineers, 2,500+ service centres, and 100% genuine Samsung parts, guaranteeing timely, high-quality service. Customers will get multi-lingual support in nine languages, while the Samsung app allows customers to track services and receive timely reminders for scheduled maintenance.
20, Oct 2025
Five Emerging Artists Shine at 34th Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation Awards
Dhoomimal Gallery concludes its two-week exhibition celebrating India’s next generation of contemporary artists
New Delhi, October 20, 2025: Dhoomimal Gallery, India’s oldest modern art gallery, successfully concluded the 34th Annual Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation (RJMF) Exhibition with an inspiring Awards Ceremony that marked the grand culmination of the two-week-long showcase. From 60 participants selected out of over 500 nationwide entries, five exceptional emerging artists, Santanu Dey, Shuvam Sen, Naina Somani, Soumitra Das, and Ayesha Sultana Pramanik; were honoured as winners.
This year, in recognition of the extraordinary quality and diversity of submissions, the jury decided to extend the awards to five winners instead of the usual four—a reflection of the remarkable creative talent on display. Each awardee received ₹1,00,000 along with continued mentorship and opportunities to advance their artistic journey.
Speaking about the awards, Uday Jain, Director of Dhoomimal Gallery, said, “This year’s edition truly stood out for the calibre and originality of the participating artists. The jury’s decision to honour five awardees is a testament to the depth of emerging talent in India today. The Foundation remains deeply committed to nurturing these voices and continuing my father’s vision of supporting the future of Indian art.”
The winners were selected by a distinguished jury panel comprising Vibha Galhotra, Rekha Rodwittiya, Anish Gawande, Arunkumar H.G., and Ina Puri—renowned figures representing diverse perspectives across art, curation, literature, and cultural discourse.
The 34th RJMF Exhibition, held from September 29 to October 15, 2025, presented over 120 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, and digital art. The showcase drew strong participation from collectors, curators, artists, and art enthusiasts, reaffirming Dhoomimal Gallery’s role as a leading platform for emerging Indian talent.
Instituted in 1991 by Smt. Uma Jain in memory of Ravi Jain (1936–2000)—the visionary gallerist who transformed Dhoomimal into a cornerstone of Indian modern art—the Ravi Jain Memorial Foundation continues to carry forward his belief that “for the art movement to perpetuate and grow, we must constantly nurture new talent.”
Over the past three decades, the RJMF Exhibition and Awards have evolved into one of India’s most respected platforms for emerging contemporary artists, offering visibility and recognition at formative stages of their careers.
Today, under the leadership of Uday and Sunaina Jain, the Foundation and Dhoomimal Gallery together remain dedicated to promoting contemporary voices, mentoring young artists, and shaping a vibrant ecosystem for Indian art.
19, Oct 2025
S.L. Raheja Hospital Mumbai Launches ‘Humraahi’ – A First-of-Its-Kind Neuro Support Group for Patients & Caregivers
~ Inaugurated by actor Arbaaz Khan, the Neuro Support Group ‘Humraahi’ combines compassionate care, expert guidance, and community support for patients & caregivers navigating neurological challenges ~
Mumbai, 19th October 2025: S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai proudly launched ‘Humraahi’ – a pioneering Neuro Support Group aimed at providing holistic care and support for individuals living with neurological disorders and their caregivers. The initiative addresses the critical gap in neurological and psychiatric care while helping break the stigma around conditions like Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Stroke.
The event hosted at S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mumbai, brought together patients, caregivers, medical experts, and the community for an interactive session, offering therapeutic activities such as art and music therapy, expert guidance, and peer support. Bollywood actor and producer Arbaaz Khan inaugurated the event, lending visibility to the cause.
Dr Kaustubh Mahajan, Director – Neurology, S.L. Raheja Hospital Mahim – a Fortis Associate Mumbai, said, “Neurological disorders often co-exist with psychiatric conditions, which can make the journey extremely challenging for patients and families. Humraahi is not just a support group—it is a companion for patients and caregivers alike, providing guidance, community, and access to comprehensive care in a safe, empathetic environment.”
Arbaaz Khan, Bollywood Actor & Producer, commented, “This initiative is deeply personal for me. Being part of Humraahi today was truly inspiring. Meeting the patients and their caregivers, seeing their courage and resilience, and understanding the importance of such holistic support reinforced how critical awareness & community initiatives are. It made me realise the importance of early support, awareness, and holistic care. S.L. Raheja Hospital is not just providing medical care, it’s creating a community of hope. I am proud to be associated with the medical team here in this journey.”
Dr Kunal Punamiya, CEO – S.L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – a Fortis Associate, added, “At S.L. Raheja Hospital, we understand that healing isn’t just about treating the illness—it’s also about caring for the mind, body, and heart. ‘Humraahi’, an initiative deeply personal for us, brings together neurology and mental health, and aims to break the stigma and build a community that walks this journey together.”
To ensure accessibility, patients and caregivers from other hospitals and care homes across Mumbai can join the Humraahi Neuro Support Group for free by scanning this QR code. This allows participants to register easily, participate in sessions, and access resources and expert guidance without barriers. Members of the Humrahi group, including patients from SL Raheja Hospital and other hospitals, will be provided with Raheja Home Care services.
With one neurologist per million people in India, the launch of ‘Humraahi’ is a step towards bridging the neurorehabilitation gap, offering emotional, social, and clinical support to a community that has historically lacked structured guidance. Caregivers, who are often the primary decision-makers, also gain access to resources, peer networks, and expert insights to better support their loved ones.
18, Oct 2025
Celebrating India’s Entrepreneurial Spirit The 10th Edition of the ASCENT Conclave 2025
Mumbai, 18th October 2025: ASCENT Foundation, the peer-to-peer entrepreneurial learning platform founded and managed by Harsh Mariwala, Chairman of Marico Limited, proudly hosted the 10th Edition of its flagship event, the ASCENT Conclave, on Saturday, 11 October 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
Since its inception in 2012, ASCENT Foundation has grown into one of India’s most trusted and vibrant platforms for entrepreneurial learning and collaboration. Today, it brings together over 1,000 entrepreneurs from more than 40 cities across India. These leaders who collectively represent a turnover exceeding INR 1,28,000 crore and employ more than 1,00,000 people, building a powerful ecosystem of shared growth and collective impact.
The ASCENT Conclave, over the past decade, has evolved into a celebration of India’s entrepreneurial energy, serving as a space where founders exchange ideas, share experiences and inspire one another to scale higher. The 10th edition was the largest yet, uniting more than 700 entrepreneurs for thought-provoking sessions, authentic storytelling and real-world insights on navigating the rapidly evolving business landscape.
Fostering Growth Through Shared Learning
At the heart of ASCENT lies a simple yet powerful belief entrepreneurs grow stronger when they learn from one another. Through its peer group format, ASCENT has created a safe, non-competitive environment where business leaders openly share challenges and successes without fear or judgment. Beyond professional growth, ASCENT has also helped its members evolve personally building self-awareness, resilience, and empathy, helping them become not just better entrepreneurs but better individuals.
“ASCENT was born out of the understanding that entrepreneurship can often be a lonely journey,” said Harsh Mariwala, Chairman, Marico Limited and Founder, ASCENT Foundation. “Through a robust network of trust and mutual learning, ASCENT has become a platform where entrepreneurs can share freely, collaborate meaningfully, and grow collectively. The 10th Edition of the Conclave is not just a milestone, but a reflection of how far Indian entrepreneurs have come and how much further we can go together in building a Viksit Bharat.”
Adding to this, Priyanjali Mariwala, Lead Director, ASCENT Foundation, said, “Over the years, ASCENT has nurtured a community that thrives on authenticity and collaboration. It is a space where diverse entrepreneurs spanning across sectors and scales come together to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and co-create solutions. The Conclave represents that spirit of collective learning and transformation.”
A Decade of Impact and Vision for 2047
The ASCENT community’s success stories reflect the multiplier effect of its model where one entrepreneur’s growth fuels opportunities for many others. By empowering 10 entrepreneurs who can in turn empower 10 more, ASCENT aims to build a cascading network of impact that strengthens India’s entrepreneurial backbone and contributes meaningfully to the nation’s $5 trillion economic aspiration.
As India proudly marches towards Viksit Bharat 2047, ASCENT continues to play a pivotal role in enabling entrepreneurs to capitalise on the “Indian opportunity” fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving sustainable growth.
A Platform for Ideas and Collaboration
The ASCENT Conclave 2025, in collaboration with Ideabaaz, a TV show that will serve as a national stage for Indian startups looking for support beyond fundraise, will amplify this spirit by providing a forum for founders to pitch, collaborate, and co-create innovative solutions. This unique partnership will encourage entrepreneurs to exchange ideas that could potentially reshape industries and contribute to India’s growth story.
Inspiring Voices, Transformative Conversations
This year’s Conclave featured inspiring voices such as Naseeruddin Shah, Veteran Actor and Theatre Artist; Pratik Gandhi, Actor and Host of Ideabaaz; Kapil Chopra, Founder of The Postcard Hotel and EazyDiner; Mithun Sacheti, Founder of CaratLane; and Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, among others. They shared their experiences on discipline, innovation, and resilience, key ethos that mirror the entrepreneurial journey. Their stories reinforced the idea that whether in business, art, or sports, success stems from passion, perseverance and a constant pursuit of excellence.
As ASCENT marks a decade of fostering entrepreneurial learning, collaboration, and impact, the 10th ASCENT Conclave 2025 stands as a testament to India’s collective spirit of enterprise a movement of founders helping founders, and a community that continues to power India’s growth story toward Viksit Bharat 2047.
18, Oct 2025
Central bank of India Financial Results for the Quarter Ended September 30th, 2025.
India, 18th october 2025: The Bank has reported robust performance for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, reflecting strong growth across business, deposits, advances, and asset quality.
Business and Deposits
The Bank’s total business witnessed significant growth, driven by both retail and institutional segments. Total deposits showed steady expansion, with CASA deposits contributing a substantial portion, reflecting a strong and stable deposit base.
Advances and Asset Quality
Gross advances increased, supported by growth across Retail, Agriculture, and MSME sectors. Asset quality improved, with both gross and net NPAs declining, supported by a strong provision coverage ratio.
Profitability
Net profit for the quarter recorded a marked improvement. Operating profit reflected some moderation due to changes in net interest income and non-interest income, while net interest income remained healthy. Return on assets and return on equity showed positive trends, highlighting efficient capital utilization.
Capital Adequacy and Network
The Bank’s capital adequacy remained strong, with Tier I capital improving over the previous period. The Bank continues to maintain a pan-India presence, with a wide network of branches, ATMs, and business correspondent points, serving customers across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas.
Outlook
The Bank remains focused on sustaining growth across deposits, advances, and profitability while maintaining strong asset quality and capital adequacy. Strategic initiatives in retail, agriculture, and MSME sectors, along with enhanced customer touchpoints, are expected to drive continued momentum in the coming quarters.
18, Oct 2025
Thomas Cook India Expands Senior Travel Segment with New Products and Partnerships
Thomas Cook India strengthens its position on high potential Senior’s Travel Segment through Product Innovation and Strategic Tie-ups
Mumbai, October 18th, 2025: While a lot has been said about India’s young demographic, the country’s senior population is also witnessing unprecedented growth, with those aged 60 and above projected to reach 347 million by 2050, accounting for 21% of the total population (PwC-ASLI Senior Care Report 2024 and UNFPA 2023). Recognizing this significant demographic shift and the rising aspirations of the 55+ community, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, is strengthening its focus on this high-potential segment.
India’s senior travellers today have the time and financial resources to travel. The overall growth in the economy has driven increased spending power, and the rise in nuclear families has resulted in seniors having more free time and accumulated income. This has led to a surge in demand for travel among the 55+ segment, which is now increasingly aspirational, adventurous, and experience-seeking.
In line with this growing demand, Thomas Cook India has partnered with Gen S Life, a leading lifestyle and community platform for the 55+ demographic. As part of this collaboration, the two brands will host an educational webinar, “Making Pilgrimage Travel Easy & Enjoyable for 55+” on Zoom on Wednesday, 29th October at 11 am. The free webinar is aimed at empowering senior travellers by addressing their unique travel needs through expert guidance. The session will feature renowned choreographer and traveller Sandip Soparrkar, along with Thomas Cook’s expert tour managers, offering practical travel tips, destination insights, and health advice tailored for senior travellers.
Drawing from Thomas Cook’s extensive spiritual circuits across India and its subcontinent, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Mathura, Vrindavan, Bodh Gaya, Pokhara in Nepal and South India’s Madurai, Tirupati, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari — the experts will highlight how convenience and premium comfort are built into every journey: from guided tours and VIP darshans to AC vehicle transfers; aerial Char Dham helicopter journeys that allow seniors to complete the pilgrimage in just 4 days, significantly reducing travel fatigue compared to the traditional 10-day road trip. The company’s Pilgrimage Plus portfolio transforms spiritual travel into a holistic holiday experience, blending darshans with immersive local exploration such as sunset views from the ghats, boating on the Ganges, visits to weavers’ villages in Varanasi, and curated cuisine and cultural trails led by local experts.
Attendees will also receive exclusive access to customized pilgrimage packages and special senior group offers.
To cater to the Seniors segment, Thomas Cook India will also be launching specialized Group Tours with itineraries which offer support for special dietary needs, handpicked elder friendly hotels with porterage, experienced tour managers accompaniment, entertainment evenings and high quality easy access vehicles to popular international destinations across Europe.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head, Holidays, MICE, Visa Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “In India, the silver economy is expanding rapidly in response to rising longevity, digital inclusion, and higher discretionary income. Seniors are no longer passive travellers; they are curious, confident, eager to explore and have both the means and the time to travel without compromise.
Our holidays are designed to meet their evolving needs, offering comfort, safety, and enriching experiences. Whether it’s a spiritual journey or a leisure escape, our aim is to make travel seamless and enjoyable for the 55+ community. Our partnership with Gen S Life is a natural extension of this vision, combining our travel expertise with their deep understanding of senior lifestyles to create truly inclusive and empowering travel experiences.”
Ms. Meenakshi Menon, Founder of Gen S Life, said, “For many seniors, a pilgrimage is a deeply personal and significant journey, but the logistics can often be a deterrent. Our partnership with Thomas Cook brings together safety, convenience, and community, allowing seniors to travel without hesitation. This initiative embodies our commitment to helping our community embrace new experiences with enthusiasm and ease. Through this webinar, we aim to spark the confidence in seniors to continue exploring the world, one spiritual destination at a time”.
Gen S Life is an app that offers a comprehensive ecosystem of curated services for the 55+ across health, wellness, finance, travel, safety, support, events, community and more. With over 40K downloads and 15000+ registered users, the platform is committed to empower seniors to lead healthier, safer, more connected, and fulfilling lives. An early believer in the Gen S Life vision, Thomas Cook continues to bring our members exceptional travel experiences at exclusive rates.
