13, Aug 2025
IIT Roorkee, Jal Shakti Ministry Partner to Modernize Irrigation Systems
IIT Roorkee Joins Hands with Jal Shakti Ministry to Modernize Command Area Development (M-CAD)
IIT Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India , 13 August 2025: In a significant step toward transforming irrigation practices and advancing rural sustainability, the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) wing of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.
The partnership aims to strengthen the Modernization of the Command Area Development (M-CAD) Programme through focused research, capacity building, and policy innovation. It is focused on improving how water is delivered to farmlands across India. Through research, training, and policy recommendations, this collaboration will help farmers access more efficient, sustainable, and reliable irrigation practices.
This collaboration holds special relevance for Uttarakhand, where efficient water management is critical due to hilly terrain, fragmented landholdings, and increasing climate variability. The partnership is expected to pilot and scale innovative irrigation models that can serve as templates for both the Himalayan and plain regions of the country.
The MoU signing ceremony was graced by Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, who emphasized the need for a robust and contextualized approach to irrigation modernization. She stated, “There is a critical need for documentation of CAD modernization efforts across India, indigenization of irrigation technologies such as center pivot tailored to Indian conditions, and inclusion of women in Water Users’ Associations and decision-making.”
The Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (CSRD), established at IIT Roorkee in 2024, will serve as a hub for research, innovation, and training to support M-CAD initiatives. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. V. K. Malik, Dean, Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy (SRIC), said “that the Centre will engage in collaborative projects to build knowledge, develop scalable models, and enhance the capacity of stakeholders involved in sustainable rural development.”
Given Uttarakhand’s unique topography and agricultural practices, IIT Roorkee’s expertise will play a vital role in contextualizing solutions for hill and semi-hill areas, ensuring that rural and remote communities benefit directly from modern irrigation techniques and inclusive water governance.
Reflecting on the significance of this collaboration, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, remarked, “This partnership reaffirms IIT Roorkee’s commitment to national development and societal well-being. Through this initiative, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the modernization of India’s command area, ensure inclusive participation of rural communities, and support evidence-based policymaking. This aligns directly with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 and the goals of Jal Shakti Abhiyan, strengthening water security and agricultural resilience for future generations.”
The MoU was signed by Shri. Anuj Kanwal, Commissioner, CADWM wing, Ministry of Jal Shakti & Prof. Vivek K Malik, Dean SRIC IIT Roorkee. Prof. Ashish Pandey, Head, Centre for Sustainable Rural Development, IIT Roorkee, Prof. Kritika Kothari, Department of Water Resources Development & Management, and Joint Faculty, CSRD & Shri Ashok K Jeph, Director, CADWM wing from the Ministry have played a crucial role and were actively involved in formalizing this collaboration.
The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in aligning academic excellence with national development priorities. It harnesses IIT Roorkee’s multidisciplinary strengths to tackle ground-level challenges, paving the way for a more self-reliant and sustainably developed rural India. This collaboration represents a transformative step in bridging cutting-edge research with grassroots realities. By uniting the technical expertise of IIT Roorkee with the strategic vision of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the initiative aims to empower farmers, enhance irrigation efficiency, and foster inclusive rural growth. More than just a technological intervention, this partnership is about creating a meaningful impact, uplifting communities, revitalizing agricultural ecosystems, and contributing to India’s ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.
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- By Neel Achary
13, Aug 2025
AiR-Atman in Ravi Unveils Mission to Spark Inner Awakening through Bring Back Consciousness Wristbands
Bengaluru, 13 August 2025: Renowned Author, Spiritual Mentor, Happpiness Ambassador, and Philanthropist, AiR – Atman in Ravi, has set out on a worldwide transformational quest to help people move beyond the mind and discover the truth in consciousness. AiR with his committed team has embarked on the mission to do so by passing out “Bring Back Consciousness” (BBC) wristbands to encourage everyone across the globe to switch from the mayhem of the mind to a state of perpetual bliss through illumination.
The BBC initiative is not merely a campaign but a deeply personal and passionate mission for AiR. “The mind is a source of misery, ignorance, negativity and desire,” says AiR – Atman in Ravi. “It bombards us with up to 50,000 toxic thoughts a day, acting like a mind-killer—a weapon deadlier than any other weapon. The BBC wristbands serve as a constant reminder to tame the monkey mind and make it a monk by flipping to consciousness—a state of awareness, peace, love and bliss.”
The concept of BBC, which began just weeks ago, is rooted in the idea that our consciousness is often clouded by negative thoughts, much like dark clouds obscure the sun and sky. By wearing a BBC wristband, individuals are reminded to conquer the mind’s destructive tendencies and the monsters it creates—fear, worry, stress, anxiety, regret, shame, guilt, anger, jealousy, and pride—and activate their intellect to discriminate and choose the path of clarity and Enlightenment. “One who has conquered the mind is greater than one who has conquered anything in the world. It is only when the mind is stilled and we are in consciousness that we can attain our ultimate goal—Enlightenment, Moksha,” AiR emphasizes.
AiR’s mission of distributing consciousness reminder wristbands does not have specific goals or limits. AiR and his team aim to reach as many people as they can, around the world, and to share the profound importance of awareness and inner awakening until every individual has been touched by this enlightening experience. “This is not a campaign; it is my mission,” AiR affirms.
13, Aug 2025
Mukand Sumi Special Steel Commissions New Blooming Mill from Danieli India
Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. Places Order for
New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited
Mumbai, 13th August: Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. (MSSSL) is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its growth journey with the placement of an order for a state-of-the-art New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited, a global leader in metallurgical equipment and solutions.
The Letter of Intent (LoI) for this landmark project was formally handed over by Mr. Niraj Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., to Mr. Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, Chief Executive Officer, Danieli Group, during a high-level strategic meeting held recently. This investment marks a major leap forward in Mukand Sumi’s commitment to technological advancement, enhanced production capabilities, and quality leadership in the specialty steel sector. The new blooming mill will be capable of rolling up to 200 mm Diameter rounds from blooms up to 380mm x 420 mm, providing enhanced flexibility and improved quality control & optimisation of the product-mix across product lines.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Vipul Mashruwala, President, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., said: “This is more than just a capacity expansion – it’s a statement of our intent to lead the future of special steel manufacturing in India. Partnering with Danieli ensures that we are equipped with the best-in-class technology to meet rising domestic and global demand with precision, reliability, and sustainability.”
The upcoming Blooming Mill, to be installed at Mukand Sumi’s plant in Hospet, Karnataka, is expected to significantly boost the company’s capability to produce high-quality special steel products with better yield, improved surface quality, and increased productivity. This is in line with MSSSL’s long-term vision to cater to growing demand across sectors such as automotive, engineering, Bearing, Oil & Gas, energy, and infrastructure.
12, Aug 2025
Yoga and Child Health: Mental and Physical Well being Through Indian Traditions
By – Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder – Akshar Yoga Kendraa
Work – Yoga and Spiritual Leader
In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, children are increasingly vulnerable to lifestyle disorders, emotional instability, and declining physical health. Amidst these growing concerns, the timeless wisdom of Yoga offers a holistic solution. Deeply rooted in Indian tradition, Yoga is not merely a fitness routine but a way of life — one that fosters physical vitality, emotional balance, and inner peace, particularly essential during the formative years of childhood.
The Himalayan Siddhaa Path, a sacred yogic lineage, emphasizes a spiritual yet practical approach to well-being. This path integrates traditional Yogic practices with contemporary needs, making it particularly effective for children growing up in a rapidly changing world. Incorporating asanas (postures), pranayama (breathwork), dhyana (meditation), and mantra chanting, this tradition nurtures both the body and mind, ensuring a balanced growth trajectory for young practitioners.
Physical Health: Strengthening the Foundation
Childhood is a critical phase for physical development. Yoga helps children build muscular strength, enhance flexibility, and improve coordination. Regular practice of simple postures like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Vrikshasana (Tree Pose), and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) can significantly improve posture and stamina. These asanas not only promote blood circulation and digestion but also activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping children feel calmer and more grounded.
More importantly, Yoga is non-competitive. It allows children to grow at their own pace, fostering a positive self-image and healthy body awareness. This intrinsic motivation and confidence often translate into improved performance in academics and sports, encouraging lifelong habits of wellness.
Mental Well-being: Cultivating Emotional Resilience
Mental health among children is often overlooked, yet it is fundamental to their overall development. Practices such as pranayama and meditation, integral to the Himalayan Siddhaa Path, play a vital role in enhancing concentration, reducing anxiety, and managing emotional turbulence. Techniques like Anulom Vilom and Bhramari breathing are known to calm the mind and improve neural function.
Children who meditate regularly tend to exhibit better emotional control, heightened empathy, and reduced aggression. These are essential qualities that help them navigate peer relationships, academic pressure, and personal insecurities with confidence and grace.
Family Values and a Sustainable Future
Yoga, when practiced as a family, becomes a powerful bonding tool. It revives Indian family values such as discipline, respect for elders, empathy, and self-discipline. Parents who engage in Yoga with their children set a living example of mindfulness and well-being, fostering an environment of trust and shared purpose.
Moreover, teaching children to align with nature through Yogic living — eating sattvic food, respecting natural cycles, and reducing consumption — prepares them to become eco-conscious citizens. Yoga thus contributes to a sustainable future, where physical health, mental clarity, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
The essence of Yoga lies in balance — between the physical and mental, the self and the society, the present and the future. By introducing children to Yoga, especially through the Himalayan Siddhaa Path, we are not only enhancing their health and emotional intelligence but also sowing the seeds for a more compassionate, resilient, and sustainable world.
Let Yoga be the thread that weaves together generations, values, and visions — nurturing not just the child, but humanity’s collective future.
12, Aug 2025
Studio Abrash Unveils Morris Rug Collection – Where Art Nouveau Meets the Loom
We’re delighted to introduce The Morris Collection – the latest chapter in Studio Abrash’s portfolio of luxury hand-knotted rugs. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the Arts and Crafts movement and the visionary work of William Morris, this collection is a heartfelt tribute to nature, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.
Morris draws deeply from the aesthetics of English gardens- think curling vines, acanthus leaves, flowering tulips, marigolds, and daisies rendered in lyrical, flowing forms. Each design is a visual ode to symmetry and softness, capturing the delicate interplay of structure and spontaneity found in the natural world.
Hand-knotted in premium hand-spun wool and pure silk, the rugs exude a rich texture and gentle sheen. The colour palette evokes the mood of vintage botanical prints and 19th-century tapestries with earthy greens, muted blues, dusty rose, and antique gold harmonising effortlessly with both classic and modern interiors.
The Morris Collection balances ornamental detailing with quiet restraint. Its compositions are thoughtfully constructed, making them ideal for a range of settings from contemporary apartments to heritage homes where elegance and storytelling go hand in hand.
Studio Abrash offers complete customisation across design, size, shape, colour, texture, fibre, and budget. Woven by master artisans across India, every rug is a slow-made masterpiece crafted with care, imbued with meaning, and built to be cherished across generations.
12, Aug 2025
Ambrane Launches PowerMini 20: 20,000mAh Pocket Powerbank for Phones and Laptops
New Delhi, 12th August 2025: Ambrane, a leading Made-in-India consumer electronics brand renowned for its innovative power solutions, has announced the launch of its latest addition to the powerbank portfolio, PowerMini 20, a compact yet high-capacity 20000mAh powerbank built to power both smartphones and laptops with ease.
The PowerMini 20 is available in black, blue and golden colour options and is priced at INR 1999. It can be purchased via Ambrane India’s official website, as well as on Amazon, Flipkart, and their official website.
True to its name, the PowerMini 20 combines robust battery capacity with unmatched portability, redefining on-the-go charging convenience. Equipped with Ambrane’s proprietary BoostedSpeed™ fast-charging technology, the device delivers up to 35W output via its Type-C port, making it capable of charging even USB-C laptops efficiently. It also features an 18W USB-A port and comes bundled with an in-built Type-C cable, along with a detachable cable for added ease.
The compact design makes it an ideal everyday carry, while the premium glossy finish adds a stylish edge. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a hybrid worker, or simply always on the move, the PowerMini 20 provides a dependable power backup in a form factor that fits easily in your pocket or bag. Built with Ambrane’s trusted SafeCharge™ technology, the powerbank includes multi-layer protection against overcharging, short circuits, and overheating, ensuring safe and reliable performance at all times.
“With PowerMini 20, we’ve addressed a real user need, high-capacity charging without the bulk. People are tired of carrying heavy bricks around just to stay powered. This product is our answer: compact, lightweight, and strong enough to charge both mobiles and laptops. It’s designed keeping today’s users in mind, fast-paced, always on the move, and unwilling to compromise on style or performance.” said Mr. Ashok Rajpal, Managing Director, Ambrane India.
With the launch of PowerMini 20, Ambrane further strengthens its position as India’s largest powerbank brand, now commanding a dominant 25% share of the market and offering the widest portfolio of high-performance, Made-in-India powerbanks.
12, Aug 2025
Celebrate Independence Day With a Special Lunch at ITC Gardenia
Commemorate the epoch-making of the Independence Day at ITC Gardenia and relish succulent indulges permeated in the hues of the tricolor.
Treat yourself to a magnificent Patriotic Feast uniting customary dishes from across India, and celebrate the ethos of India at ITC Gardenia. Savour an extravagant festive lunch spread at Cubbon Pavilion, which comes together to offer a plethora of delicacies all adding up to an experience without compare. Indulge in traditional Indian delicacies like ghosht dum biryani, paneer masala, dal makhni, along with a range of desserts.
ITC Gardenia invites you to soak in devoted flavours that celebrates the solidarity and diversity of the nation, coupled with innate culinary offerings and exemplary service.
A Culinary Sojourn awaits you!
Promotion Dates
Friday, 15th August 2025
12, Aug 2025
Relaxo Footwears Launches “Freedom Bonanza Offer” to Celebrate Independence Day 2025
New Delhi, August 12, 2025: Relaxo Footwears Ltd., India’s largest footwear manufacturer, has announced the launch of its “Freedom Bonanza Offer” – a special Independence Day campaign packed with exciting discounts for customers across the country.
Running from August 8th to 17th, 2025, the campaign gives shoppers a chance to enjoy up to 20% off on their favourite footwear styles from Relaxo’s wide range of brands. All they need to do is scan the QR code available in stores or on digital platforms to receive a unique discount code, making the shopping experience easy, interactive, and fun.
The offer is applicable across popular brands like Sparx, Flite, and Bahamas, giving customers great options in trendy, comfortable, and high-quality footwear for every need.
This limited-time offer is exclusively available at Relaxo EBOs across India and is valid only on fresh stock. It cannot be combined with other ongoing schemes or discounts.
With its legacy of delivering comfort, quality, and style, Relaxo continues to celebrate special moments with its customers through value-packed offers and festive campaigns.
So go ahead- grab your perfect pair and step into freedom with style and big savings!
12, Aug 2025
Plaksha University celebrates first undergraduate convocation, marks strong career outcomes for the founding cohort
India, August 12, 2025: Plaksha University, a technology university reimagining higher education and research in India, celebrated a major milestone with the convocation of its founding BTech cohort, the Class of 2025. The event highlights Plaksha’s vision of nurturing a new kind of engineer who can address the challenges of an ever-evolving world. The university’s strong industry connects and the diverse career trajectories of its graduates, reaffirms Plaksha’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The graduating cohort was addressed by the chief guest, Dr V Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO at the university campus in Mohali, who emphasised the importance of lifelong learning. He said “Great students are shaped by great teachers and Plaksha has that strength. This is a true temple of knowledge, and it’s inspiring to see the calibre and purpose in its graduates. Keep learning, work hard, serve the country, and above all, be good human beings. You now have the chance to help build a Viksit Bharat, make it count.”
The university’s first graduating batch saw strong career outcomes, securing roles across diverse functions such as data science, AI/ML, business analysis, software engineering, product management, and consulting. Of the students who opted for industry roles (65% of the eligible cohort), 100% successfully secured job offers.
The average CTC stood at little above ₹20 lakh per annum, with top offers reaching up to ₹60 lakh per annum. Top 25 percentile of the class received average CTC of ₹36 lakh per annum, underscoring the strong demand for talent trained in interdisciplinary and future-facing skills.
Prominent recruiters included Arcesium, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), D.E. Shaw, Flipkart, Fractal Analytics, Info Edge, Jefferies, McKinsey and Company, Wayground (formerly Quizizz) and Wayfair. Students secured positions in leading sectors such as Deep Tech, Startups, Consulting, BFSI, and Emerging Technologies.
In addition to placement outcomes, 27% of students chose to pursue higher studies and research, securing admissions from leading global institutions like Carnegie Mellon University, UPenn, University of Chicago, University of California San Diego, King’s College London, New York University, TU Delft among others. This underscores the academic rigor and research-driven approach at Plaksha, preparing students for advanced studies in cutting-edge fields. Remaining students have chosen to start their own startup ventures.
“This moment represents not just the graduation of a cohort but the emergence of a new model for tech education in India,” said Neeraj Aggarwal, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Plaksha University and Chair, Asia-Pacific at Boston Consulting Group. “Our first batch exemplifies what’s possible when students are nurtured in an ecosystem that encourages curiosity, leadership, and deep engagement with the world’s most pressing problems.”
“This is not just a proud moment for us and our students, these career outcomes reaffirm our belief in interdisciplinary learning, experiential education, and a strong focus on research,” said Prof. Rudra Pratap, Founding Vice Chancellor, Plaksha University. “Our graduates are stepping into roles that will shape the technological future of India. Whether joining global firms, pursuing research, or launching ventures, they reflect a commitment to building with purpose.”
The two-day convocation celebration brought together founding donors, global faculty, and industry leaders who have played a pivotal role in shaping Plaksha’s journey. Highlights included the inauguration of the Bharti Academic Building and a ceremonial address by the Hon’ble 14th President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind and the Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria on August 8, 2025. The event culminated in a celebration of the achievements and aspirations of the university’s first graduating cohort, reaffirming Plaksha’s mission to reimagine tech education in India on August 9, 2025.
12, Aug 2025
Hyatt Regency Pune Hosts Independence Day Brunch at Pune 14
Pune, India, 12th August 2025: Hyatt Regency Pune invites guests to commemorate the 79th Independence Day of India with a spectacular Independence Day Themed Brunch at Pune 14, the hotel’s signature all-day dining destination. This special celebration will be hosted on Friday, 15th August and Sunday, 17th August 2025, offering guests two opportunities to indulge in a vibrant feast of flavours inspired by the colours and spirit of the nation.
Guests can look forward to a lavish buffet featuring regional Indian favourites, live cooking stations, tricolour-inspired desserts, and an array of global specialties, all prepared by the hotel’s talented culinary team. To complement the dining experience, Pune 14 will be adorned with patriotic décor, live music, and a warm festive ambience perfect for families and friends to gather.
Highlights include:
• A grand buffet spread celebrating India’s culinary diversity
• Tricolour-themed desserts and artisanal sweets
• Live music performances enhancing the festive spirit
• Special activities for children and family-friendly entertainment
Event Details:
- Friday, 15th August & Sunday, 17th August 2025
- 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
- Pune 14, Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences
Speaking on the occasion, Ramandeep Marwah, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Pune, said:
“Independence Day is a time to reflect on our nation’s journey and celebrate the spirit of unity. Our Independence Day Brunch at Pune 14 brings together the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine with the warmth of togetherness, making it a memorable experience for our guests.”
