9, Jul 2025
35,000 Saplings, One Greener Tomorrow – Som Distilleries Deepens Its Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Bhopal, 9th July 2025: In a proactive step towards a greener future, Som Distilleries and Breweries Limited (SDBL) has launched a large-scale plantation drive, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company has undertaken the plantation of 35,000 saplings across its facilities and surrounding communities, further strengthening its long-term vision of environmental stewardship beyond a single day of action. This initiative highlights SDBL’s dedication to creating a lasting positive impact on both the ecosystem and the communities it serves.
What began as a simple initiative five years ago has now evolved into a sustained green drive aimed at restoring ecological balance, increasing green cover, and fostering community participation. The extensive plantation effort, spanning industrial, urban, and rural areas near SDBL’s production hubs, has been carried out in collaboration with employees, local authorities, and environmental volunteers.
Speaking on this initiative, Mr. Nakul Sethi, Director Strategy & Finance, SOM Distilleries & Breweries Ltd said, “We see sustainability as a responsibility, not a campaign. The 35,000 saplings we’ve planted represent a commitment to nurturing life and leaving behind a greener, healthier planet for the next generation. With this initiative, Som Distilleries reaffirms its pledge to “Brew Responsibly, Grow Sustainably”-every day of the year.”
SDBL continues to lead by example, integrating environmental practices in its operations- from reducing water and energy consumption to eco-conscious packaging and recycling systems. The saplings chosen include a mix of native and fruit-bearing trees, ensuring biodiversity and tangible benefits for the local environment and communities.
Regular care and monitoring of the saplings will be maintained through partnerships with community stakeholders and SDBL’s internal green teams.
This green movement has also become a unifying force within the company, with employees volunteering time and effort to personally contribute to the plantation and upkeep efforts. The initiative has helped build a culture of environmental consciousness across all levels of the organization- encouraging staff to not just participate in corporate campaigns, but also adopt green practices in their daily lives.
Looking ahead, SDBL aims to scale up its sustainability roadmap by exploring innovative solutions such as rainwater harvesting, carbon footprint tracking, and circular waste management. With strong alignment to India’s broader climate goals and ESG frameworks, the company envisions playing a key role in shaping a cleaner, greener industrial future.
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- By Neel Achary
9, Jul 2025
TVS ILP Lists India’s Largest Warehousing InvIT on NSE, Raises Over ₹1,300 Crore
Speaking at the listing ceremony, Ravi Swaminathan, Founder & Vice Chairman, TVS Industrial & Logistics Parks Private Limited said: “Today is a momentous day for our Infrastructure Investment Trust, not only because it marks our listing. It also marks 20 years since the inception of the partnership between TVS SCS and Ravi Swaminathan Family, when we incorporated TVS ILP on 8th July 2005. Together we were driven by a steadfast belief in India’s logistics sector, and we visualised a bold future in India’s infrastructure Industry. What began as a bold vision has today positioned TVS ILP as India’s first corporate developer in Grade A warehousing. Over the last two decades, TVS ILP has consistently redefined the standards of warehousing and industrial infrastructure in India. Our journey has been driven by deep sectoral expertise and an unwavering focus on quality and execution.
Talking about the investment, Vikram Kumar, IFC’s Regional Industry Director for Infrastructure and Natural Resources in Asia and the Pacific said: “India’s warehousing sector is evolving rapidly, transitioning from fragmented, unorganized facilities to large-scale, sustainable logistics parks built to global standards. We are proud to partner with TVS InvIT in this transformation. Our investment supports not only the scaling of energy-efficient warehousing solutions but also the establishment of the company’s Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT)—a structure with enormous potential to deepen India’s capital markets. We hope the partnership will help crowd in long-term institutional capital, create new benchmarks in operational excellence, and drive sustainability across India’s logistics ecosystem.”R Dinesh, Chairman, TVS Supply Chain Solutions Limited added: “The listing of the TVS Infrastructure Trust is not only a proud milestone for TVS ILP, but also a defining moment for India’s warehouse infrastructure ecosystem. At TVS SCS, we have always believed in the transformative power of integrated infrastructure to enable efficient and scalable supply chains. Our partnership with the Ravi Swaminathan family, forged two decades ago, was built on shared values, long-term commitment, and a common vision for India’s logistics future.
Imad N Fakhoury, IFC’s Regional Director for South Asia said: “Warehousing is central to India’s manufacturing, agribusiness, and logistics sectors. IFC’s investment will help bring high-quality warehousing solutions to tier-2 cities and under-served regions like eastern India, bridging infrastructure gaps and driving more inclusive, regionally balanced growth. This partnership with TVS demonstrates how strategic private sector collaboration through platform approaches like InvITs can strengthen India’s capital markets, scale up private capital mobilization, advance sustainability, and create jobs to support long-term economic development.”
9, Jul 2025
“Excelia climbs global impact rankings, becoming a pick for purpose-driven Indian students”
Mumbai, 9th July 2025: Excelia Business School (France) has received global recognition for its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and positive impact, following strong results in two major international benchmarks: the Positive Impact Rating (PIR) for Business Schools 2025 and the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025.
Speaking about the school’s double recognition, Bruno Neil, CEO of Excelia, said: “These recognitions affirm Excelia’s longstanding commitment to shaping responsible leaders who will drive sustainable transformation across industries and societies. As we continue to expand our international partnerships, we are proud to share this vision with our Indian students and partner universities. India is home to a generation of future changemakers, and we are eager to engage them in building a more inclusive and impactful future through education.”
In the latest edition of the Positive Impact Rating, Excelia Business School ranks among the Top 5 French business schools and is listed in the Top 60 worldwide. The PIR, now in its sixth year, is a unique rating created by students, for students. It reflects how learners perceive their institutions’ societal relevance and contribution to a better world. Excelia achieved Level 4, designating it as a Transforming School—a category reserved for institutions actively working to improve society through their teaching, research, and governance.
The PIR results were announced during the PIR Global Summit. Excelia was particularly praised for its strong institutional governance, with leadership visibly committed to a social purpose. The school’s internal culture was also highlighted for aligning deeply with its stated values, while its student support systems were recognised for helping learners translate their values into action.
Excelia’s commitment to sustainability has also been recognised in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025, which assess over 2,300 higher education institutions worldwide based on their contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For the second consecutive year, Excelia was included in the overall rankings and achieved a place in the Top 300 globally. Among the seven French management schools featured, Excelia ranks second, placing it among the national leaders in this highly competitive field.
Excelia earned particular distinction for its efforts related to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), where it ranked 49th globally, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), where it achieved 44th place. These outcomes reflect the school’s integration of CSR, ethics, and sustainability across both academic content and institutional practices.
These achievements strengthen Excelia’s reputation as a forward-looking business school for globally minded, impact-oriented students. With campuses in France and a growing international presence, Excelia is becoming an increasingly attractive choice for Indian students and partners who value innovation, inclusion, and long-term societal impact.
9, Jul 2025
Shiv Nadar University Chennai Hosts First Convocation, Confers Degrees to 404 Graduates Across Disciplines
Chennai, 9th July 2025: Shiv Nadar University Chennai, a pioneering institution in higher education, marked a historic milestone as it hosted its First Convocation Ceremony at the Justice Pratap Singh Auditorium. The event celebrated the achievements of 404 graduates from across 11 Indian states and 1 union territory, reflecting the university’s growing national footprint.
Chief Guest Ms. Renuka Ramnath, Founder & CEO of Multiples Asset Management Ltd., Mumbai, delivered the Convocation Address. She was joined by Mr. Shikhar Malhotra, Trustee, Shiv Nadar Foundation, Mr. R. Srinivasan, Chancellor, Shiv Nadar University Chennai, and Dr Sriman Kumar Bhattacharya, Vice-Chancellor. The ceremony was also attended by members of the university’s Governing Council, distinguished faculty, proud families, and guests from academia and industry.
The proceedings began with a ceremonial academic procession and the invocation, followed by the formal declaration of the Convocation by Chancellor R. Srinivasan. Degrees were conferred across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Engineering, Commerce and Economics.
The graduating batch included:
· 257 students from the School of Engineering
· 93 students from the School of Commerce
· 41 students from the School of Science & Humanities
Addressing the Class of 2025, Shikhar Malhotra, Trustee, Shiv Nadar Foundation, said: “This isn’t just a graduation – it’s a moment of creation. The Class of 2025 didn’t just study here; they built something extraordinary from the ground up. As the very first graduating class, they have shaped the spirit, culture, and direction of Shiv Nadar University Chennai in ways that will echo for decades. They placed their trust in a new institution and, in doing so, became the architects of its legacy. Today, they don’t just leave with degrees – they leave as pioneers, changemakers, and ambassadors of the Shiv Nadar vision.”
Chief Guest Ms. Renuka Ramnath, Founder & CEO of Multiples Asset Management Ltd., Mumbai said: “Success does not come from joining a big name – it comes from having the courage to think originally and act fearlessly. When I chose to pioneer private capital investment in India, there were doubts and whispers that I was stepping back in my career. But I believed in the opportunity, even when it was invisible to others. Today, private capital flows into India have grown from a few hundred million dollars to over $60 billion annually. That’s the power of conviction. My message to every graduate is this: question assumptions, don’t be afraid of failure, and define success on your own terms. Above all, stay balanced, stay grounded, and never forget to lift others as you rise.”
Mr Srinivasan, Chancellor, Shiv Nadar University Chennai said: “This convocation is not only a celebration of academic achievement, but a reaffirmation of our belief that education is the most powerful force for transformation. The graduates here today will carry forward the legacy of excellence envisioned by Shiv Nadar, and shape a future where knowledge, innovation, and ethics lead the way.”
Dr Sriman Kumar Bhattacharya, Vice-Chancellor, Shiv Nadar University Chennai lauded the graduates for their resilience, particularly in navigating the challenges of a post-pandemic world. He reiterated the university’s commitment to research-led education, interdisciplinary learning, and preparing global-ready professionals.
The ceremony also celebrated academic excellence and leadership, with gold medals and silver medals conferred upon outstanding students.
The convocation concluded with an emotional hat-toss moment, as graduates pledged to uphold the values of their Alma Mater and contribute meaningfully to society as professionals, changemakers, and responsible citizens.
The event witnessed participation from nearly 1200 attendees, marking the culmination of years of academic pursuit and reaffirming the university’s mission to empower the next generation of innovators, ethical leaders, and changemakers.
9, Jul 2025
MTR Launches ‘Minute Fresh Sambar Paste
Bengaluru, India — 09th July, 2024: MTR, a reputed Indian packaged foods brand, announces the launch of its latest product — MTR Minute Fresh Sambar Paste. A chilled paste that delivers sambar in just 5 minutes. Simply add your cooked vegetables to boiling water and paste and enjoy a bowl of delicious sambar.
In today’s fast-paced kitchens, idli and dosa have become go-to meals. But preparing sambar feels like a hassle, with its time-consuming dal cooking and tadka preparation. At MTR, sambar has always been a cherished dish. And now, understanding the evolving needs of urban households, MTR brings a convenient, no-compromise solution that keeps the taste intact.
Key highlights of the product:
- Ready in just 5 minutes
- Dal and tadka included
- No added preservatives
- Perfect companion to MTR Fresh Idli & Dosa Batter
The product is available in a 200g pack, priced at ₹99, and can be purchased on quick commerce platforms as well as at retail stores near you in Bengaluru. It’s the easiest way to enjoy fresh, flavourful sambar — quickly and effortlessly.
Commenting on the launch, Sunay Bhasin, CEO, MTR foods business unit, said, “At MTR, sambar isn’t just another product, it’s a legacy. Our products are crafted with authenticity and are deeply rooted in the South Indian culinary heritage. Sambar has always been an integral part of our journey. With Minute Fresh Sambar Paste, we are bringing that same authentic taste and promise of quality in an even more convenient format. This paste has been thoughtfully created to stay true to freshness, which is why it has a short shelf life and no added preservatives. All the essential ingredients that go into making a traditional sambar, including dal and tadka, are already part of the paste. It serves as a ready base for the homemaker, who can customise it by adding vegetables the way her family loves.
This launch follows MTR’s deep understanding of local flavours and a strong commitment to quality. As more consumers seek convenience without cutting corners, Minute Fresh Sambar Paste ensures a complete, satisfying meal is always within reach.
9, Jul 2025
iQOO Announces Exclusive Deals for Amazon Prime Day Sale
New Delhi, July 9, 2025: iQOO, the high-performance smartphone brand, has announced exciting offers for the upcoming Amazon Prime Day Sale, exclusively for Prime members. The sale will be live from July 12 to July 14, featuring amazing deals on some of iQOO’s top-rated smartphones: iQOO Z10 Lite, iQOO Z10x, iQOO Z10, iQOO Neo 10R, iQOO Neo 10, and iQOO 13. The newly launched iQOO 13 Ace Green will be available for purchase starting Prime Day.
These iQOO smartphones have consistently ranked among the top in their categories, garnering excellent customer feedback and establishing themselves as some of the highest-rated 5G devices on Amazon.
During the Prime Day sale, prime members can avail a wide range of attractive offers-
The iQOO Neo 10R makes a bold statement with its stunning 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display, featuring a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ certification for rich, vibrant visuals. It holds the title of India’s slimmest smartphone equipped with a massive 6400mAh battery. When it’s time to recharge, the 80W FlashCharge technology powers the device up to 50% in just 26 minutes and fully charges it in only 55 minutes. Additionally, its remarkable peak brightness of 4500 nits ensures excellent visibility even under harsh lighting.
The latest addition to the Z series, the iQOO Z10 Lite features the segment’s biggest 6000mAh battery, designed for all-day entertainment and productivity. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G processor and IP64-rated for dust and water resistance, it ensures reliable performance with smooth connectivity. Its 50MP Sony AI main camera paired with a 2MP bokeh lens captures crisp, detailed shots with natural depth. The 6.74-inch HD+ LCD display supports a 90Hz refresh rate and up to 1000 nits brightness, offering a smooth and immersive viewing experience even under direct sunlight.
iQOO Z10x is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 5G chipset, delivering consistent and reliable performance, supporting smooth multitasking, accelerated app launches, and responsive gaming experiences. It offers a 6500mAh battery that ensures prolonged performance. With 44W FlashCharge support, the device powers up quickly, charging from 1% to 50% in just 40 minutes.
The iQOO Z10 is a true game-changer, combining powerful performance with sleek design. It features a massive 7300mAh battery, yet maintains an ultra-slim profile of just 0.789 cm—making it one of the slimmest and longest-lasting smartphones available. With 90W FlashCharge technology, it powers up to 50% in just 33 minutes. Its stunning Quad-Curve Display, offering a peak brightness of 5000 nits, delivers crystal-clear visuals even in the brightest lighting conditions. Powered by the Snapdragon® 7s Gen 3 Mobile Platform, the iQOO Z10 delivers robust performance and enhanced efficiency for everyday use and demanding tasks alike.
India’s first smartphone with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, the iQOO Neo 10 is built for flagship-grade performance. It features a Q1 Supercomputing Chip, a massive 7000 mm² vapor chamber cooling system, and a 7000mAh Silicon BlueVolt battery—the biggest battery ever in a Neo. With 120W FlashCharge, the phone charges at lightning speed. The 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display supports a 144Hz refresh rate and 5500 nits peak brightness, while the camera setup includes a 50MP Sony OIS primary camera, 8MP ultra-wide, and a 32MP 4K front camera. Available in Inferno Red and Titanium Chrome.
iQOO 13, features the world’s first Q10 2K 144Hz Ultra Eyecare display and a dynamic Monster Halo, which flashes to provide real-time alerts for calls, messages, gaming, and music. Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the iQOO 13 achieves an impressive AnTuTu score exceeding 3 million. This powerful chipset is complemented by iQOO’s proprietary Supercomputing Chip Q2, which brings together 2K Super Resolution and 144 FPS game frame interpolation, surpassing industry standards to deliver an unparalleled viewing experience. The iQOO 13 also boasts an impressive camera setup: a 50MP Sony IMX 921 VCS true-color camera, a 50MP Sony IMX 816 telephoto camera, and a 50MP ultrawide lens. Available in three exciting colour variants: Ace Green, Legend and Nardo Grey.
9, Jul 2025
MAHE BLRU Helps Upgrade 3 Government Schools in Yelahanka, Bridging Critical Infrastructure Gaps
Bengaluru, July 9, 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bengaluru campus, in collaboration with Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), was inaugurated a multipurpose hall constructed for Avalahalli Government School, Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The aim of the initiative is to uplift and improve educational infrastructure for government schools and promote community development.
The newly built multipurpose hall was inaugurated by Sri. S.R. Vishwanath, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from Yelahanka along with Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P., Additional Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, and Ms. Mahalakshmi Naik from MEMG and BEO Ms. Shailaja from Yelahanka North 4 were also present.
The initiative features the construction of a multipurpose hall at Avalahalli Government School, the provision of quality furniture to Allalasandra Government School, Yelahanka 4 Government School, and Avalahalli Government School, and the development of dedicated, hygienic girls’ washrooms at both BEO School and Avalahalli Government School, all aimed at fostering a safer, more inclusive, and empowering learning environment.
Speaking about the initiative, Sri. S R Vishwanath said, “Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Manipal groups are doing societal contribution in my constituency by installing 22 water purifiers in government primary health care centers, furniture’s, multipurpose hall and washrooms for girls in government schools in my constituency”. He also mentioned that “We are proud to have the Manipal Academy of Higher Education in Yelahanka constituency”. He has also requested MAHE to support all government schools in Yelahanka in future also.
Prof. Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice-Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru Campus, said, “This initiative is an example of MAHE Bengaluru’s enduring commitment to societal progress and community welfare. At MAHE Bengaluru, we believe that providing robust infrastructure and safe environments is fundamental to nurturing the potential of every student. Every child deserves access to a quality educational environment, and government schools should be well-equipped, as they serve most of our population and play a crucial role in shaping the future of our society”
The newly constructed multipurpose hall will serve as a space for both academic and extracurricular activities, thereby enhancing the quality of educational engagement. The distribution of furniture and improvement of sanitation facilities are additional steps towards strengthening MAHE’s legacy of social responsibility and impactful contributions towards nation-building.
9, Jul 2025
Who is the Real Gauri? New Promo of ‘Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri’ Leaves Everyone Stunned
Sometimes, a single twist in a show changes the entire storyline. That’s exactly what’s happened in Sun Neo’s hit show ‘Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri’. Until now, we’ve all seen Eshaa Pathak as the beloved Gauri. But the latest promo has left everyone stunned. Just when viewers thought they knew Gauri’s story, a brand-new twist has shaken things up completely. This unexpected turn has raised big questions and brought suspense to a new level.
In the recent promo, we see the entire Bundela family doing a pooja together. Suddenly, someone stabs Gauri in the stomach, and she collapses in Rudra’s arms, leaving him shattered and in tears. But just when we’re trying to process this shock, the camera pans to another Gauri, doing the same pooja with the family. And as she turns around, it’s not Eshaa Pathak it’s Garima Kishnani, looking exactly like Gauri. But wait – why is Jagdamba Devi calling her Gauri?
Who is this new girl? What’s even more surprising is that the entire Bundela family is silent, no one is questioning her identity. Have they all forgotten what the real Gauri looks like? Or has this new Gauri somehow taken control of them all? And the biggest question—is Eshaa Pathak being replaced? So many mysteries, so many doubts.
To find out the truth, keep watching Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri, every night at 8:00 PM, only on Sun Neo.
8, Jul 2025
Ashwin Sharma Named Cluster Marketing Director for Fairmont & Raffles Jaipur
8th July 2025: Fairmont & Raffles Jaipur announce the appointment of Ashwin Sharma as the new Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications. Ashwin brings over 17 years of experience in marketing and brand strategy across hospitality, media, and advertising.
In this role, Ashwin will lead integrated marketing and communication efforts across both Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur. He will focus on strengthening brand presence, enhancing guest engagement, and driving commercial growth. With a strategic approach to storytelling and a deep understanding of evolving consumer expectations, he aims to build a unified brand narrative that resonates across key domestic and international markets.
Ashwin’s career includes roles at Madison Creative, Ogilvy India, Zee Entertainment, and Havas Play (formerly Cake Group India), where he worked across a range of sectors to build integrated, impactful campaigns. He also led the marketing strategy for the launch of Pullman & Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, part of the Accor group, helping position the dual property as a prominent player in the capital’s hospitality landscape.
Rajat Sethi, General Manager, Fairmont Jaipur, stated, “Ashwin’s combination of strategic insight and creative vision makes him a strong addition to the team. His understanding of the hospitality landscape and evolving consumer mindset will be instrumental as we continue to shape the identity of Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur.”
Commenting on his appointment, Ashwin Sharma said, “Fairmont and Raffles Jaipur represent a unique blend of heritage and contemporary elegance. I look forward to building on their legacy and shaping compelling narratives that connect with guests and reinforce the brand’s presence in luxury hospitality.”
Ashwin’s appointment reinforces the distinct positioning of both hotels in India’s luxury hospitality space and reflects a continued commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
8, Jul 2025
Goodbye to boring Exams…
Hyderabad, July 8, 2025: Exams usually bring tension, especially when it comes to Maths. But what if children wrote an exam while singing, dancing, and vibing to loud music? SIP Academy turned this imaginative idea into reality, and Hyderabad played host to this musical mathematics marvel!
As part of the 21st Telangana Regional Prodigy 2025, SIP Academy conducted a never-before-seen “Concentration Round” — where over 3,100 kids, aged 6 to 12, solved sums amidst upbeat background music, proving that focus has no volume limit.
Held at Classic Convention Three, Shamshabad, the mega contest saw 3,100 students from 70+ SIP centres across Telangana test their skills in abacus and mental arithmetic. The competition involved solving 200 sums in just 11 minutes, across multiple levels of expertise.
The competition has three unique rounds.
- Abacus Round – For beginners using physical abacuses
- Visual Round – Students imagined abacuses in the air, solving problems mentally
- Concentration Round – The most exciting! Kids calculated while dancing and singing to loud music — and still stayed sharp.
The hall, filled with over 4,000 people including parents, volunteers, and 300+ invigilators, resembled a music festival — yet students stayed laser-focused. “It felt more like a celebration than an exam,” remarked one parent, amazed at the children’s calm amid chaos.
With a presence in 23 states, 1,000 centres, and over 10 lakh children trained in 22 years, SIP Academy is India’s largest children’s skill development organisation, with a global footprint in 11 countries. It holds five Limca Book of Records and is renowned for nurturing child prodigies with razor-sharp intellects.
