Category Archives: News

HCLTech partners with Hockey Victoria to support Melbourne Cobras

MELBOURNE and NOIDA, India, Mar 11 —HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today announced a partnership with Hockey Victoria to support the Melbourne Cobras franchise, which will debut in the Hockey One League this year.

The Melbourne Cobras is the eighth franchise to join Australia’s premier domestic hockey competition. As part of Hockey Victoria’s vision to build a globally connected and inclusive franchise, the Melbourne Cobras will bring together Indian international players alongside leading local talent, strengthening the future of the sport in the region while celebrating the diversity of the community.

As part of the partnership, HCLTech will design and develop a digital fan engagement platform for Hockey Victoria and the Melbourne Cobras. Going beyond traditional sponsorship, HCLTech will apply its global experience in building large-scale digital platforms for sports organizations to enhance fan engagement across digital channels.

The platform will feature live match insights, interactive content and personalization, helping fans across Australia and India connect more closely with the team and the sport.

“We are proud to partner with Hockey Victoria to launch the Melbourne Cobras,” said Sonia Eland, Executive Vice President and Country Manager, Australia and New Zealand, HCLTech. “We have helped leading sports organizations around the world build strong, scalable fan platforms and we are excited to bring that experience here to create a more connected fan experience and help grow hockey across Australia and India.”

Andrew Skillern, Chief Executive Officer of Hockey Victoria, said, “The launch of the Melbourne Cobras represents a defining moment for Hockey Victoria and for the future of our sport. From the outset, our vision was to build a team that reflects the diversity of our community while showcasing world-class hockey talent on an international stage. Partnering with HCLTech enables us to offer a truly innovative and inclusive experience for fans.”

Ember Sports Ignites the Future of Baseball and Softball Training With Launch of Mobile-First VR Platform

GNLU Report Highlights Policy Pathways for Crypto-Asset Regulation in India

New Delhi, March 10: 

The Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), in partnership with the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF), on Tuesday formally launched its project report titled “Crypto-Assets in India: Assessing the Case for Regulation” at an event held at The Lalit, New Delhi. The report presents a comprehensive examination of India’s current approach to crypto-assets and outlines a structured framework for regulation aimed at balancing innovation, investor protection and financial stability.

The report underscores that India is at a critical juncture in shaping its regulatory architecture for digital assets. While the government has introduced certain fiscal and compliance measures in recent years—such as the taxation of virtual digital assets and the extension of anti-money laundering obligations to crypto intermediaries—the absence of a dedicated statutory framework continues to create regulatory ambiguity for market participants. The study argues that a coherent and forward-looking regulatory regime is essential to ensure that India remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global Web3 ecosystem. The report puts forth various models of regulation by different existing regulators, along with a new model of self regulation under government oversight till the time a robust regulatory ecosystem is established.

The launch event brought together senior members of the judiciary, leading legal practitioners, policy experts and representatives from the digital asset industry to deliberate on the future trajectory of crypto regulation in India.

The event was attended by Justice Hima Kohli, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India, who shared her views on the evolving legal and regulatory landscape surrounding digital assets. Other distinguished speakers at the event included Justice M. R. Shah, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India; Justice Ravi Tripathi, Former Judge of the Gujarat High Court; Dr. Lalit Bhasin, President of the Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF); and Prof. (Dr.) S. Shanthakumar, Director of Gujarat National Law University.

Justice Hima Kohli, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, said, “Crypto assets illustrate the broader challenge that legal systems face when technological innovation evolves faster than legislative processes. Today, with the global crypto market exceeding $2.4 trillion and India emerging as one of the largest markets with millions of users, the policy debate is no longer about whether such technologies should exist but about how they should be regulated. The task before policymakers is to craft a balanced framework that protects financial stability, ensures investor protection and transparency, while allowing innovation in blockchain and digital technologies to continue.”

Justice M. R. Shah, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, said, “With nearly 12 crore Indians already investing in crypto assets, it is no longer possible to simply ignore this sector. In a globalised digital economy, attempts to stop such technologies are neither practical nor effective. The real need is for a clear regulatory framework that ensures transparency, prevents misuse and protects the interests of investors. The government’s decision to tax income from virtual digital assets is an important first step, but comprehensive regulation will be essential to strengthen confidence in this emerging ecosystem.”

Justice Ravi Tripathi, Former Judge, Gujarat High Court, said, “In an era where technology is rapidly transforming society and the economy, institutions cannot afford to ignore emerging developments such as crypto assets. Academic institutions have an important role to play in studying such complex issues and contributing thoughtful recommendations to policymakers. Initiatives like this report demonstrate how research and informed dialogue can help shape regulatory thinking on technologies that already exist and are increasingly influencing economic activity.”

Prof. (Dr.) S. Shanthakumar, Director, Gujarat National Law University, said, “What began as a classroom discussion on a regulatory grey area eventually evolved into a national research initiative. With nearly 12 crore Indians engaging with crypto assets despite the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework, we felt it was important for academia to contribute to the policy conversation. Through stakeholder consultations in Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi involving developers, exchanges, regulators and legal experts, the university sought to understand the technology and its challenges. The report ultimately presents five possible regulatory models, leaving policymakers with practical options to consider while shaping India’s approach to crypto regulation.”

Drawing on comparative regulatory models and global policy developments, the report highlights that several major economies have moved toward clear regulatory frameworks for crypto-assets. It notes that the absence of a comprehensive domestic framework in India has contributed to regulatory uncertainty, with implications for capital flows, industry development and technological innovation.

The report calls for a calibrated regulatory approach that combines institutional oversight with coordinated participation from relevant regulators. It recommends a framework that strengthens consumer protection, addresses risks relating to financial stability and illicit finance, and simultaneously supports the development of blockchain-based innovation within India.

The project was guided by an eminent advisory board comprising Justice M. R. Shah, Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India; Justice Ravi Tripathi, Former Judge of the Gujarat High Court; Rajkumar, Former Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat; J. P. Gupta, Former Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat; Dr. Keshav Kumar, Former DGP and Director, Anti-Corruption Bureau; Senior Advocate N. S. Nappinai; Prof. Vijaya Bhaskar Marisetty, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Chair Professor at IIM Visakhapatnam; Prof. M. K. Bhandari, Founder, ILTES and expert in Blockchain, AI, FinTech and Law; Chittu Nagarajan, Online Dispute Resolution expert; Advocate Mitali Gupta; Kalyanjit Hatibarua, Managing Director, Flugelsoft Group of Companies; and actor Kabir Bedi.

A Viral Menu with a Strong Message: India Gate’s Not Your Biryani Sparks Conversation on Respect This Women’s Day

 New Delhi, Mar 10: KRBL Limited, a global leader in the food industry and the parent company of the World’s leading Basmati Rice Brand, India Gate Basmati Rice, has launched its new campaign, #NotYourBiryani, this International Women’s Day. With this initiative, the brand takes a resolute stand against everyday language that disguises objectification as praise. Words like ‘Hot,’ ‘Spicy,’ and ‘Sizzling’ are no longer exclusive to the kitchen, used so carefreely to describe women that their original culinary meaning now seems almost secondary.

The core of the campaign is the viral #NotYourBiryani Menu Card. Designed like a restaurant menu, it places these words firmly back in their rightful setting. ‘Spicy’ is a flavour that brings heat to a dish, not a passing remark. ‘Hot’ refers to temperature or taste, not a comment on their appearance. ‘Sizzling’ celebrates layered flavour, not a person’s identity. The visual is simple, striking, and impossible to ignore. These words belong on our plates, not in the way we speak about women. 

Online, the campaign gains momentum through voices that resonate with young audiences, including Nayab Midha, Ayesha Khan and Harshita Gupta, supported by hundreds of nano influencers who share their own stories with #NotYourBiryani. Real-time brand conversations keep the tone sharp and relevant. Furthermore, on Women’s Day, a Vox Pop takes the conversation straight to the public. The message also extends offline with bold billboards. The campaign culminates in a powerful reminder: she’s a woman, not your biryani. The words used to describe flavour, heat and spice belong on a plate, not as labels that reduce women to something meant for commentary or consumption.

Commenting on the campaign, Kunal Sharma, Vice President – Marketing and Organised Trade, KRBL Limited, said,

“As a trusted kitchen staples partner of India, we recognise the central role that women play in shaping the community and culture, and how connection to food is woven into the social fabric of the country. At India Gate, this belief is reflected in our core philosophy, the Taste of Indian Values, which celebrates respect, dignity, and the cultural principles that bind households together. With #NotYourBiryani, we wanted to gently but firmly put certain words back where they belong. The idea is not to shame, but to spark reflection. Respect begins with everyday language, and as a household brand, we believe it is our responsibility to use our voice to challenge what has been normalised for far too long.”

India Gate has long been part of everyday meals across India. With that presence comes responsibility. #NotYourBiryani is more than a campaign. It is a cultural wave aimed at young, socially active audiences who shape conversations online and offline. With #NotYourBiryani, India Gate turns a familiar phrase into a powerful reminder. The language we use matters. Spice is for food. Respect is for people. 

K&L Gates Among First Law Firms Globally to Earn ISO/IEC 42001:2023 AI Governance Certification

Comau’s Hyperflex wins the Solution Award – Robotics Innovation Award at MecSpe 2026

This Women’s Day, Good Flippin’ Burgers and Bombay Teen Challenge Celebrate Women’s Creativity with Handcrafted Tote Bags

This Women’s Day, Good Flippin’ Burgers, India’s most loved burger brands, is marking the occasion with an initiative that goes beyond the usual celebrations. Across its 60+ outlets, customers will find more than burgers. Each outlet will feature limited-edition tote bags handcrafted by women at Bombay Teen Challenge, a residential empowerment center in Mumbai. The bags reflect their care, skill, and creativity, turning everyday retail spaces into platforms where talent and opportunity are celebrated.

 Set Beautiful Free Creations, part of Bombay Teen Challenge (BTC), provides long-term care, education, and vocational training for women who are rebuilding their lives. Its programs in tailoring, embroidery, jewelry, apparel, micro greens, and hair and beauty equip women to create work that is meaningful, visible, and valued. Through this collaboration, their craft reaches thousands of customers, giving pride, confidence, and recognition to every woman involved.

The women at Bombay Teen Challenge, trained in tailoring and embroidery, contribute focus, patience, and artistry to every bag. Priced at Rs. 695, the totes are initially available at dine-in outlets, with plans to expand to delivery and online channels. Proceeds are reinvested into producing new bags with evolving designs, ensuring the initiative continues to grow and provide meaningful opportunities over time.

“This initiative allows Good Flippin’ Burgers to transform our reach into real impact,” says Viren D’Silva, Co-founder of Good Flippin’ Burgers. “Every bag carries skill, creativity, and pride. By showcasing the work of women at Bombay Teen Challenge, we are creating a platform where talent is visible and Women’s Day becomes more than a celebration. Each bag tells a story, and our stores become a place where opportunity is tangible and recognized.”

“Good Flippin’ Burgers has created a space where our women’s talent is celebrated,” says Deborah Devaraj, Founder of Set Beautiful Free Creations. “Every tote bag represents skill, care, and opportunity. This partnership transforms creativity into something tangible, showing how brands can make a lasting and meaningful impact.”

Launching on 8th March 2026, the tote bags are available at all Good Flippin’ Burgers dine-in outlets. This ongoing initiative will continue to feature new designs, expanding both the creative possibilities and opportunities for the women at Bombay Teen Challenge. By combining scale, reach, and purpose, Good Flippin’ Burgers demonstrates how a QSR brand can create real social impact, making Women’s Day a celebration of skill, creativity, and meaningful engagement.

Chef Hari Nayak Returns to Four Seasons Resort Maldives for Another Unmissable Residency

Hari Nayak is heading back to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and for lovers of Indian cuisine with a contemporary edge, this is one to mark on the calendar. 

 At the resort’s award-winning Indian restaurant, Baraabaru which is  named among CNN Travel’s Top 10 Maldives’ Finest Tables in 2022,  Chef Nayak continues his culinary dialogue with Head Chef Kishan Singh, blending coastal Indian traditions with global technique.

This season’s menu dives into regional favourites with personality: Gujarat’s Anda Ghotala, Kolkata’s Beguni, black garlic naan, barbecue butter chicken chops and a playful gulab jamun crème brûlée. A standout? His signature whole baked lobster with coconut turmeric sauce and lemon rice — bold, fragrant and unmistakably his.

Due to the ongoing war situation, Chef Nayak’s residency has now been postponed from March to May.

 

Visionet’s Suvarna Nikam Shares Insights on Women’s Day 2026

 By:- Suvarna Nikam, Global HR Head, Visionet Systems

“Organizations that truly succeed in advancing women do not rely on policy alone—they build cultures of collaboration, generosity, and shared learning. For women, especially at junior and mid-career levels, access to experience, mentorship, and visible role models often makes the difference between staying the course and quietly stepping away.

Many women enter the workforce with strong capability and ambition. Yet over time, systemic challenges begin to compound. Tough customer environments, unclear expectations, constant ambiguity, and the pressure to balance work with caregiving or motherhood often cause mid-to-senior-career women to pause, step back, or exit altogether. Breaking this cycle requires more than individual resilience from women—it requires an intentional relook at organizational design and how leaders share knowledge and opportunity.

At Visionet, the Elevate – Leadership Masterclass is a strong example of this philosophy in practice. Through Elevate, Visionet invites guest speakers from industry, customers, and leaders from their partnership ecosystem to share their leadership journeys—openly discussing real challenges, career pivots, failures, and lessons learned. Another impactful platform is “In Conversation with Leadership”, where Visionet’s internal leaders share their own stories—how they handled difficult customers, made hard trade-offs, recovered from setbacks, and balanced growth with personal responsibilities. These conversations create a safe, relatable context that allows women to see leadership as attainable, not abstract.

Also, male allyship ensures that women who bring balance, empathy, and innovation are not overlooked simply because they are quieter or less self-promoting. 

A give-to-gain culture recognizes that when leaders share knowledge, time, and opportunity, the entire organization benefits. Women who are supported stay longer, lead stronger, and become role models. When organizations invest in collaborative ecosystems grounded in generosity, they help build the future of leadership.”

Shree Cement Appoints Rachana Sharma as Head of Environment

Shree Cement Limited, one of India’s leading cement manufacturers with a strong focus on sustainability and responsible growth, has announced the appointment of Ms. Rachana Sharma as Head-Environment.

 With over two decades of experience in environment management and sustainability, Rachana Sharma brings deep domain expertise across the cement and large infrastructure sectors. She has led environmental governance, regulatory compliance and sustainability programmes across complex operations, delivering measurable outcomes. Prior to joining Shree Cement, she served as Head  Environment at JSW Cement, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening environmental management systems and advancing sustainability-led initiatives.

Welcoming her to the organisation, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement, said,

“We are pleased to welcome Rachana Sharma as Head Environment at Shree Cement. As sustainability becomes central to our growth strategy, with sharper focus on decarbonisation, resource efficiency and environmental stewardship, this role assumes significant strategic importance. Rachna’s brings strong domain expertise and proven leadership in environmental governance. Her experience will meaningfully advance our vision of responsible manufacturing and long-term value creation.”

Commenting on her appointment, Rachana Sharma, Head – Environment, Shree Cement, said,

 “I am excited to join Shree Cement at a pivotal phase of its growth journey, where sustainability and operational excellence are closely aligned. The company’s disciplined approach to responsible manufacturing presents a strong platform to drive measurable environmental outcomes. I look forward to working with teams across the organisation to strengthen governance, enhance compliance frameworks, and advance sustainability.”

With this appointment, Shree Cement continues to strengthen its leadership capabilities in line with its sustainability priorities.