Category Archives: News

Varanasi Accelerates Mobility Improvements with Innovative Data-Driven Solutions

Varanasi, March 26, 2025: The Sustainable Cities Challenge (SCC) — organized by the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) — brought together 10 global innovators for an Innovator Academy held under the $9 million global Sustainable Cities Challenge. Developed in collaboration with the Municipal Corporation of Varanasi, Varanasi Smart City, Challenge Works, and World Resources Institute, the Varanasi Sustainable Cities Challenge aims to identify and scale data-driven solutions for managing crowd movement in the old city of Kashi.

India’s spiritual hub, Varanasi, attracts millions of visitors each year. While this influx energizes the local economy, it also results in mobility issues — making the need for innovative solutions the key to ensuring safety, accessibility, and efficiency in mobility for residents, tourists, and vulnerable communities.

A key highlight of the workshop was a crowd-mapping workshop, led by Shri Akshat Verma (IAS), Municipal Commissioner, Varanasi Municipal Corporation, and CEO & Director of Varanasi Smart City Limited. The workshop featured insights from a crowding survey conducted by WRI India and The Urban Lab, which were showcased through an interactive exhibition. The exhibit demonstrated how real-time crowding data can enhance mobility planning, improve accessibility, and transform pedestrian experiences in rapidly growing urban centers.

The workshop was also attended by dignitaries including Shri S. Rajalingam, IAS, District Magistrate, Varanasi; Shri Pramod Kumar, IPS, DCP Gomti Zone; Shri Himanshu Nagpal, IAS, Chief Development Officer Varanasi; Shri Rajesh Kumar Pandey, ADCP Varanasi; Shri Satyam Mohan, Chief Executive Officer, Varanasi Cantonment Board; Shri Shambhu Sharan, SDM, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Shri Arpit Gupta, Station Director, Varanasi Railway Station; Shri Prakash Chandra, Additional District Magistrate, Varanasi; Smt Savita Yadav, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Varanasi; and Shri Amrendra Tiwari, Chief Engineer (Civil) Varanasi Smart City Limited.

“I hope that this workshop and all our future collaborations will result in a fruitful outcome for the city of Varanasi. Through the Challenge, we will be able to solve that in due time.” said Shri Akshat Verma (IAS). “I hope that we will utilize this opportunity and bring the best from the city and from all the innovators.”

Pras Ganesh, Executive Program Director, Toyota Mobility Foundation, added, “Varanasi is a city steeped in history, yet despite the best efforts of the city administration a growing number of pilgrims and tourists have created mobility challenges that are very much of the present. The SCC Innovator Academy is giving us a glimpse into how data and technology can help reimagine movement in such a complex urban setting. By integrating insights from the community, we can create human centric data solutions that are not just efficient but also inclusive and sustainable.”

Kathy Nothstine, Director of Cities and Societies, Challenge Works, remarked, “Cities everywhere are struggling to manage crowding and mobility efficiently. What’s exciting about this initiative is how it brings together global innovators to tackle these challenges head-on. By leveraging data and technology with people’s real experiences, we can turn urban mobility problems into opportunities for smarter and more inclusive urban futures.”

“Urban mobility is evolving rapidly, and real impact comes from bridging innovative technology with on-the-ground solutions,” said Pawan Mulukutla, Executive Program Director – Integrated Transport, Clean Air & Hydrogen, WRI India. “Through the SCC Innovator Academy, we’re seeing how data-driven approaches can genuinely improve how people move in dense city environments like Varanasi.”

The workshop also provided a collaborative platform for city officials, urban planners, and mobility and technology experts to exchange knowledge on scalable solutions for urban crowding challenges. The exhibit and workshops reinforced the critical role of data-driven innovations in shaping the future of urban mobility in India.

OTTplay Awards 2025: Rana Daggubati and Priya Mani Celebrate Major Wins

Hyderabad, March 2025: The best of the Telugu film industry – Rana Daggubati, Priya Mani and director Pradeep Maddali – were honored for their stellar work on OTT at the prestigious OTTplay Awards 2025, which was held at JW Marriott, Sahar, Mumbai.

The star-studded event honored outstanding performers and storytellers from across India and Tollywood actors brought home major laurels, with Rana Daggubati, Priya Mani and Pradeep Maddali winning the awards for Best Talk Show Host, Best Actor in a Comedy (Movie) and Best Director (Series), respectively.

While Rana, who had won the honor for The Rana Daggubati Show, could not attend the event, wife Miheeka Daggubati, who was also an integral part of the show, collected the award on his behalf.

Meanwhile, Priya Mani had won the award for her performance in the Aha show Bhaamakalapam 2, collected the trophy in the presence of her Family Man S1 co-stars Manoj Bajpayee and Neeraj Madhav. Cheering her on were South actors Nimisha Sajayan, Jyotika, Vedhika and Parvathy Thiruvothu, who had also won major categories at the third edition of OTTplay Awards.

Arete’s 2024 Crimeware Report Provides Deep Dive into Ransomware and Extortion Data

Hyderabad, March 26th, 2025 –– Arete, a pioneering leader in incident response, counter extortion services, and cyber risk management, released its 2024 Annual Crimeware Report, highlighting key trends and notable shifts in the cyber threat landscape. Arete’s global teams gather data and insights from every aspect of the threat lifecycle, providing comprehensive visibility to inform analysis of the threat landscape. Leveraging data collected from Arete’s response to ransomware and extortion attacks throughout 2024, the report explores data and insights from the frontlines of incident response, including median demands and payments, notable threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), the most impacted industries, and frequently observed malware and tools.

Key findings within the report:

· Only 29% of ransomware and extortion victims made a payment to the threat actor in 2024, down from 32% in 2023. As organizations continue to improve their cybersecurity posture and recovery capabilities, threat actors come away empty-handed more often than not

· Threat actors adapted to the increase in law enforcement pressure, with new threat groups rapidly emerging, partnerships forming between groups, and an air of distrust enveloping the threat landscape.

· Most ransomware and extortion activity in 2024 was opportunistic in nature, with threat actors targeting certain technologies or exploiting vulnerabilities as opposed to focusing on a specific industry.

“This report synthesizes Arete’s frontline data from thousands of cyber engagements in 2024,” said Chris Martenson, Arete’s Chief Data Officer. “Using these unique insights, we will continue to protect our clients, inform our partners, and evolve our solutions to combat cyber extortion.” Martenson added.

The 2nd Asian Yogasana Sports Championship to be Held in India in April 2025

New Delhi, India, March 26, 2025: The 2nd Asian Yogasana Sports Championship, originally scheduled for March 29-31, 2025, will now take place on April 25th – 27th 2025 in New Delhi. The revised dates accommodate requests from international teams for additional preparation time and ensure wider participation, while also being mindful of the holy month of Ramadan.

Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Yogasana Bharat, the championship aims to further establish Yogasana as a global competitive sport while honouring its deep-rooted traditions.

The event will bring together top Yogasana athletes from across Asia, providing a platform to showcase their strength, flexibility, and precision. It is a step toward positioning Yogasana as a mainstream sport and advancing efforts for its inclusion in global multi-sport competitions.

Dr Sanjay Malpani, President of Asian Yogasana, highlighted the championship’s growing significance, “The shift in dates reflects our commitment to making the event truly inclusive and competitive. With greater participation, the championship will further strengthen Yogasana’s presence as a serious global sport. We look forward to welcoming athletes from across Asia to New Delhi for a world-class event.”

Dr Jaideep Arya, Secretary General, World Yogasana, stated, “This championship is a celebration of Yogasana’s transformation from an ancient practice to a globally recognized sport. The extended timeline ensures athletes are better prepared, leading to a more competitive and inspiring event. We remain dedicated to advancing Yogasana as a mainstream sporting discipline.”

Mr. Udit Sheth, President of Yogasana Bharat, expressed his vision: “India continues to lead the way in establishing Yogasana as a competitive sport. The revised dates are fantastic to allow all nationalities to participate at their best such that we have a world class event with complete participation.”

With Yogasana gaining global recognition, this championship is expected to attract significant attention from the international sporting community, reinforcing its place in competitive sports and paving the way for its inclusion in future multi-sport events.

SkillSchool Sets Ambitious Goal to Provide 1 Million Free Skilling Opportunities

Delhi NCR– 26 March, 2025 – SkillSchool, a leading education platform and a valued subsidiary of SNVA Edutech, has recently announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide 1 million free skilling over the next three years. This initiative will equip individuals all across India with essential career-oriented skills, ensuring greater employability and professional growth in an evolving job market.

SkillSchool is heading towards skill-development workshops in collaboration with the International Centre for Advanced Studies and Research (ICASR), directly aiming to empower and inspire professionals all over the world. It strives to provide individuals the finest skills they require to not just get stable employment but to cultivate desired and thriving careers as well. The registrations for these free courses have started. The interested learners who wish to upscale their skills can visit www.skillschool.co.in for further details.

Vivek K Singh, Chairman and CEO, SNVA Edutech – SkillSchool, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch: “We are at a pivotal moment in the evolution of education, professions are calling for exceptional skills, and SkillSchool is elevating to the challenge by transforming access to high-quality, career-oriented education. Our 1 Million Free Skilling Opportunities campaign is the obvious answer to this requirement, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their location, can unlock their full potential. The SkillSchool family extends an invitation wholeheartedly to students and dedicated professionals from all over India to join this life-changing initiative and make their career rewarding and successful.”

In a recent strategic collaboration, SkillSchool and BCCM have partnered with La Pinoz Pizza, one of India’s fastest-growing pizza chains. The agreement, signed last week in Chandigarh, underscores SkillSchool’s dedication to bridging the gap between education and industry, equipping skilled professionals to support La Pinoz Pizza’s expansion plans.
SkillSchool commits to bridge the global skill gap by offering a wide range of industry-specific courses in technology, business, healthcare, and many more. This initiative is curated to upscale the learner with cutting-edge expertise, empowering them to excel in the digital era.

ECOFY Receives USD 12.5 Million Funding from IFU to Propel India’s Green Transition

New Delhi, 26th March 2025: Ecofy Finance Private Limited, India’s green-transition-focused NBFC, today announced it has secured a USD 12.5 million long-term loan facility from the Investment Fund for Developing Countries (IFU), a development finance institution owned by the Government of Denmark.

Ecofy aims to address the critical last-mile climate finance gap in India’s consumer, transportation and small business sectors. With ambitious targets, the NBFC plans to finance over 1 million electric vehicles and more than 1.5 GW of rooftop solar within the next 6-7 years.

This will support decarbonisation of the transportation sector and power consumption of households and small businesses in India. The electric vehicles financed through Ecofy will reduce a range of harmful air pollutants caused by fossil fuel vehicles.

A part of the financing provided by IFU would be directed towards individuals and SMEs, who typically find traditional financing channels less accessible and therefore to a large extent are excluded from acting as green consumers.

Vivek Khandelwal, Treasury Head at Ecofy, said, “This investment is a pivotal moment for both, Ecofy and the green finance ecosystem in India. The long-term capital provided by IFU empowers us to scale our climate-focused lending solutions while breaking down barriers for underserved borrowers. By combining innovative financing models with a strong commitment to sustainability, we aim to enable access to electric vehicles and rooftop solar, and to drive systemic change toward a cleaner, more inclusive economy.”

Vibhor Singhal, Investment Manager at IFU, said “IFU is very pleased to support Ecofy in its pursuit to provide accessible climate finance to the masses. This investment aligns well with IFU’s strategy, as India is a core focus country and climate mitigation and access to finance are key impact priorities for IFU.”

The financing from IFU, structured as long-term debt capital, is part of the green strategic partnership between India and Denmark, which was established in 2020 when the prime ministers of both nations signed the agreement.

Honoring 95 Years: Sugatsune’s Journey in Revolutionizing Hardware Solutions

With a legacy spanning 95 years, Sugatsune has been a pioneer, consistently setting global benchmarks in the design and manufacturing of high-quality hardware solutions since its establishment in Japan in 1930. Drawing on its Japanese heritage, the company is renowned for its unwavering commitment to quality, durability, and innovation. With nearly a century of expertise, Sugatsune has established itself as a trusted name across diverse sectors, including residential, office, architectural, and industrial applications.

Sugatsune has built a legacy of excellence, offering hardware solutions known for their exceptional longevity, low maintenance, and superior performance. With decades of expertise, the brand provides a diverse range of products, including high-quality hinges, locks, handles, drawer slides, and motion systems. It is also a pioneer in unique sliding systems, advanced wardrobe and cabinet door hardware, lift-assist stays, sophisticated shelving systems, wardrobe solutions, and more.

Mr. Anil Rana, Managing Director of Sugatsune, says: “At Sugatsune, we remain committed to engineering innovative, high-quality hardware that seamlessly integrates into diverse applications. Our dedication to excellence ensures that we continue to exceed customer expectations by providing durable, precision-engineered solutions that stand the test of time.”

Sugatsune showcased its latest range of engineered hardware solutions at Indiawood 2025, offering attendees an exclusive opportunity to explore innovative products designed for seamless functionality and modern aesthetics. Featured highlights included:

MFU-1200 Flush Sliding System – A seamless door system that blends effortlessly with adjacent walls, creating a sleek and modern finish. It has received prestigious awards like the iF Design Award and Interzum Award for its outstanding innovation and design excellence.

FD40 Slide Fold System – A versatile sliding and folding door solution, ideal for covering large spaces while occupying minimal space. Its parallel stacking design allows smooth and effortless operation, optimizing space flexibility.

HES1F-140 Fully Adjustable Slim Frame Concealed Hinge – A minimalist floor-to-ceiling frame with a fully adjustable concealed hinge. It ensures smooth operation and a streamlined modern look, perfect for contemporary interiors.

HES2S Surface Mount Concealed Hinge – A compact and sturdy hinge with a 125° opening angle. Its surface-mount design eliminates the need for a frame cutout, making it ideal for marble or stone frames where enhanced durability is required.

SPV-S40 Pivot Hinge – A spring-tensioned pivot hinge that enables automatic door closing with reliable performance. Its easy installation and smooth operation make it suitable for various door applications.

ALT-ST15 Pocket Door System – A soft-close pocket door system designed for smooth and quiet operation. It features five-speed precision closing and a space-saving retractable design, tested for 40,000 cycles to ensure long-term performance.

FD-80 Frameless Glass 80 Kg Sliding Door System – A frameless glass sliding door system that handles up to 80 kg. It features dual soft-closing for smooth and secure operation. Its trackless bottom design ensures easy cleaning and a sophisticated, modern appearance, making it ideal for office partitions, pantry areas, and residential spaces.

GH-J130 (Gravity Hinge) – An innovative hinge designed for shower and office cubicles, offering a smooth soft-closing mechanism. It self-closes from 0 to 70 degrees and self-opens from 70 to 90 degrees for seamless functionality.

Miles4Meals 2025: IIIT-Bangalore’s Charity Run to Support Underprivileged Kids

Bangalore, March 26, 2025: Miles4Meals 2025, organized by IIIT-Bangalore in partnership with Akshaya Patra Foundation, is back with its 10K & 5K marathon on April 6, 2025, at the IIIT-Bangalore Campus. This isn’t just a race, it’s a pledge to fight classroom hunger.

With every stride, participants will contribute to providing nutritious mid-day meals for underprivileged children, ensuring they receive the nourishment they need to learn and thrive. Last year, the event successfully funded meals for 5,500 children, thanks to the incredible support of 200+ runners, 50+ volunteers, and 3 generous sponsors. This year, the organizers aim to expand their impact with even greater participation.

To recognize outstanding performances, Miles4Meals 2025 offers a prize pool of ₹1,50,000, making the event even more rewarding for participants. Last year, 95-year-old Mr. N.S. Dattatreya participated in the marathon, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to making a difference. From students to seniors, everyone is welcome to run for a purpose.

Participants will also enjoy an RFID-timed bib race for precise performance tracking. All the participants completing the race will be awarded medals and receive a lifetime certificate to commemorate their achievement. To keep the energy high, there will be Zumba sessions, while refreshments will be available to keep everyone energized. Medical support will also be on hand to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees. Adding to the excitement, the event will feature an exhibition arena, packed with fun games, food and merchandise stalls offering a dynamic and engaging experience for participants and visitors alike.

Veteran musician Sri Ushakanth passes away

Hyderabad, 26th March 2025: Sri Ushakanth, a legendary musician and iconic figure in Hyderabad’s cultural landscape, passed away today at 12:40 pm. A multifaceted talent, he excelled as a lyricist, singer, composer, and music director.

Musical Legacy

Sri Ushakanth’s impressive repertoire includes:

– Musical ballets: Sri Datta Gadha, Kalyana Ramam, Geetha Govindam, Aandal Kalyanam, and Sapta Chala Sankeerthanam

– TTD projects: Palikedidi Bhagavatamata

– Acclaimed musical album: Chilaka Palukulu (Telugu Nursery Rhymes)

Awards and Recognition

Sri Ushakanth received numerous prestigious awards, including:

– Ghantasala Award (2003)

– National Awards for SIVA Ganga (Musical Ballet) and CHALO-DELHI (Children’s Film)

Sri Ushakanth is survived by:

– Son Dr. Sreekanth, a senior consultant at Apollo Hospitals and singer-composer;

– Daughter-in-law Dr. Suseela, a doctor and dancer;

– Son-in-law Mr. Sunder Lakshman, Vice President of Mahathi’s Music Academy;

– Daughter Smt. Radhika Lakshman, an accomplished singer;

– Granddaughter Ms. Rohini, IT consultant, dancer, and singer and

– Grandson Sreenigam, a budding doctor and singer.

The final rites of Sri Ushakanth will be performed at Mahaprasthanam, Jubilee Hills, on Wednesday, March 26, morning.

Bill Gates Commends Indian Health-Tech Startup Sunfox, Gaining International Recognition

25th March 2025, India – At the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) headquarters, Sunfox Technologies was showcased as one of the five breakthrough healthcare technologies selected for its potential to transform global health. The event, which brought together some of India’s most impactful medical innovations, was further marked by the presence of renowned philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

Spandan, a pioneering technology in cardiac monitoring, stood out for its ability to make hospital-grade cardiac care accessible and affordable. In a one-on-one conversation with Bill Gates, Spandan’s impact on reducing cardiac mortality worldwide was acknowledged and praised.

Reflecting on the experience, Rajat Jain, Founder of Sunfox Technologies, stated, “Being at ICMR HQ among India’s most promising healthcare innovations was an incredible honor. Hearing Bill Gates recognize Sunfox Technologies’s potential to change the world was both humbling and energizing. It reinforced our mission to make high-quality cardiac monitoring accessible to millions.”

Bill Gates, impressed by the innovation, emphasized the broader impact of India’s healthcare advancements, stating: “At Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), I saw how India’s homegrown innovations are saving lives. Fetal monitoring systems are helping mothers and newborns, real-time TB detection is catching cases sooner, and streamlined delivery systems are bringing medicine to remote communities faster. These breakthroughs aren’t just changing health outcomes in India—they have the power to change the world.”

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Sunfox Technologies is poised to address this challenge by placing life-saving technology into the hands of millions. With its innovative approach to affordable, real-time cardiac monitoring, Sunfox Technologies has the power to significantly reduce cardiac-related fatalities and improve healthcare accessibility worldwide.