Category Archives: News

KIIT World School Hosts CBSE Pre-Subroto Cup Football Tournament

Gurugram: KIIT World School, Sohna Road, hosted the CBSE Pre-Subroto Cup Central Zone Football Tournament for Under-15 and Under-17 Boys and Under-17 Girls categories. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of young athletes from various schools. The event was graced Sagar Raikwar from CBSE Bhopal and Adil and Rahul from the Haryana Football Association.

The tournament saw seven teams comprising around 108 students compete in different categories. Participating schools included Navy Children School, KIIT World School (Pitampura), New Era Public School (Dwarka), among others. Navy Children School secured the first position in all three categories – Under-15 Boys, Under-17 Boys, and Under-17 Girls. KIIT World School (Pitampura) also performed remarkably and finished as the first runner-up in all categories. The winning teams will now advance to the finals of the tournament.

Speaking on the occasion, KIIT World School, Principal Neelima Kamrah said, “Such events not only provide a platform for students to showcase their sports talent but also help them build confidence, discipline, and team spirit. It is a matter of pride and inspiration for us to host this tournament. These competitions play an important role in the holistic development of students.”

NXP Reaffirms Sustainability Commitment on World Environment Day, Aligns with India’s Net Zero Vision

By-Mr. Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director at NXP Semiconductors

“At NXP, caring for our environment and our workforce are deeply interconnected. This World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a sustainable future through measurable action — from reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions and scaling renewable electricity, to recycling over 89% of our waste and 55% of our wastewater. Supported by global certifications, strong oversight, and continuous workforce training, our efforts are rooted in accountability and action. These steps not only reflect our global ESG goals but also align closely with India’s Net Zero ambitions — a national mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070. Together, we’re turning environmental ambition into action, and action into long-term impact.”

This World Bicycle Day, Sony SAB artists share how cycling helps them recharge and reflect

Mumbai, June 2, 2025: The energetic artists of Sony SAB, Shabir Ahluwalia, Naveen Pandita, Sheehan Kapahi, and Deshna Dugad are pedaling their way to fitness, fun, and freedom this World Bicycle Day! For these actors, cycling isn’t just a mode of transport: it’s a lifestyle choice that fuels their body, clears their mind, and adds a sense of joy to their busy routines. Whether it’s Shabir who rides to the set, Naveen finding balance through scenic rides, Deshna escaping screen time for some two-wheeled ‘me-time’, or Sheehan, who has a heartwarming memory to recount, each artist shares how cycling has become a meaningful part of their lives. Here’s how they’re making every ride count!

 Shabir Ahluwalia, who plays the role of Yug in Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil, said, “Cycling has been a game-changer for me. I cycle to the set at least twice a week, and since it’s about 20–25 km one way, that’s nearly 40–45 km a day. It’s not just a great workout, but it also clears my mind, keeps my energy up, and sets a positive tone for the day. Whether riding through the city or on a more scenic route, cycling gives me a sense of freedom and balance that no other activity does. It’s one of the most sustainable and effective ways to stay active, and I genuinely look forward to it every week.”

 Naveen Pandita, who essays the role of Ashwin in Pushpa Impossible, said, “For me, cycling is more than just a fitness activity, it’s therapy on two wheels. In between shoot schedules and city chaos, riding clears my mind and brings me back to balance. I feel this day is a reminder that the simplest things, like a bicycle ride, can bring the most joy. Plus, it’s a great way to stay fit without hitting the gym!”

 Deshna Dugad, who plays the role of Rashi Patel in Pushpa Impossible, said, “My elder brother taught me how to ride a two-wheeler cycle, and once I got the hang of it, I taught my best friend too! We’d go cycling in the mornings or after tuition, meet friends, and even head out for snacks. I have two cycles—one with gear and one without—and I proudly say I can ride in any outfit, whether it’s a saree, dress, or suit! Cycling makes me feel free, like I’m flying without wings. It’s always been my little escape from screens, studies, or stress. On World Bicycle Day, I think every teenager should try swapping their phones for pedals, even if it is just for a while. It’s fun, healthy, and the best kind of ‘me-time’.”

 Sheehan Kapahi, who plays the role of Atharva Wagle in Wagle Ki Duniya-Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey, said, “I’ve always loved cycling — it’s one of the first things that ever made me feel independent. One of my favourite memories ever is riding with my sister while my dad jogged beside us. I still remember it suddenly started pouring, but instead of rushing back, we just kept going. My dad kept his hand on the back of my neck the whole time, just to make sure I wouldn’t fall, and even though we were all soaked, it was so much fun. When we finally got home, my mom had made hot pakoras for everyone and hot chocolate just for me and my sister. That whole evening still feels like a warm memory I can go back to anytime. I think more people should take time out to cycle. It helps your body, clears your mind, and sometimes… creates the kind of memories you never forget.”

Vertiv Accelerates AI Infrastructure Evolution in Alignment with NVIDIA 800 VDC Power Architecture Announcement

Mumbai, India- June 2 2025 – Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure, today confirmed its strategic alignment with NVIDIA’s announcement of an AI roadmap to deploy 800 VDC power architectures for the next generation of AI-centric data centers. Paving the way for future-ready designs, Vertiv’s 800 VDC power portfolio is scheduled for release in the second half of 2026 — ahead of NVIDIA Kyber and NVIDIA Rubin Ultra platform rollouts.

Vertiv aligns with the NVIDIA AI roadmap to stay one GPU generation ahead, enabling customers to deploy their power and cooling infrastructure in sync with NVIDIA’s next-generation compute platforms. Vertiv provides end-to-end power, cooling, integrated infrastructure and services to support AI factories and other data center deployments.

As rack power requirements in AI environments scale beyond 300 kilowatts, 800 VDC enables more efficient, centralized power delivery by reducing copper usage, current, and thermal losses. Vertiv’s upcoming portfolio will feature centralized rectifiers, high-efficiency DC busways, rack-level DC-DC converters, and DC-compatible backup systems, expanding its broad, end-to-end power management portfolio that already includes a robust AC power train.

“As GPUs evolve to support increasingly complex AI applications at giga-watt scale, power and cooling providers need to be equally innovative to provide energy-efficient and high-density solutions for the AI factories. While the 800 VDC portfolio is new, DC power isn’t a new direction for us, it’s a continuation of what we’ve already done at scale,” said Scott Armul, executive vice president of global portfolio and business units at Vertiv. “We’ve spent decades deploying higher-voltage DC architectures across global telecom, industrial, and data center applications. We’re entering this transition from a position of strength and bringing real-world experience to meet the demands of the AI factory.”

Vertiv’s experience in DC power spans more than two decades of ±400 VDC deployments, broadened by strategic acquisitions during the early 2000’s. These solutions support critical loads in global telecom networks, integrated microgrids, and mission-critical facilities. This foundation establishes Vertiv as a trusted leader in the safe design, deployment, and operation of higher-voltage DC architectures, with proven scale, portfolio, and long-term serviceability.

“ It is important development and opportunity for Vertiv to march next level journey of High Density Accelerated Computing Infrastructure.” said Subhasis Majumder, VP/GM at Vertiv India. “We have been in DC Power space for more than two decades serving Telecom and Industrial segment. With this collaboration, we are enhancing our portfolio to support Innovative AI Factory at large scale with minimising energy losses ”

Designed for homogeneous AI zones in hyperscale environments, Vertiv’s 800 VDC portfolio is a key pillar of its “unit of compute” strategy — a systems-level design engineered to enable all infrastructure components — to interoperate as one modular and scalable system, matching infrastructure demands of next-generation GPUs. Vertiv’s support for both AC and DC architectures is a strategic differentiator in the evolving AI data center landscape.

World No Tobacco Day Gathering Brings Tears, Hope, and Healing to Cancer Warriors and Their Families

NEW DELHI, June 2, 2025 – In a room filled with both tears of pain and tears of joy, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital’s Head and Neck Cancer Support Group event on May 31st proved that healing extends far beyond medicine. The “Let’s Stand Against Tobacco” gathering, held on World No Tobacco Day, created an unforgettable tapestry of human resilience, expert guidance, and profound connection that left attendees forever changed.
Over 150 patients, survivors, families, and healthcare professionals gathered at the Onco OPD Reception Area, transforming what could have been a clinical space into a sanctuary of hope and understanding.

 Moments That Moved Hearts
The event’s most powerful moments came during the patient journey segments, where survivors Mr. Harinder, Mr. Manoj Jain, and Mr. Pushpinder shared their deeply personal stories. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as Mr. Harinder spoke about the day he thought his voice would never matter again, or when Mr. Manoj described how his family’s unwavering support became his lifeline during the darkest treatment days.

 Dr. Shubham Garg, who delivered the opening remarks, reflected on the day’s impact: “Witnessing these brave souls share their journeys reminded everyone present that head and neck cancer patients face challenges that touch every aspect of their identity – their voice, their ability to eat, their confidence. Today proved that when we create space for their stories, we create space for healing.”

 The lamp lighting ceremony became an especially poignant moment, with survivors and their families lighting candles together, symbolically illuminating the path for others still fighting their battles.

 Expert Care Meets Human Compassion
Dr. Manish Tandon, Clinical Director, whose welcome address set the tone for the day, observed: “What struck me most was seeing patients who had been suffering in silence suddenly realize they weren’t alone. When we treat head and neck cancer, we’re not just addressing a medical condition – we’re helping rebuild shattered confidence and restore families torn apart by fear. Today, I watched hope being reborn in real time.”

 The comprehensive health talks by leading experts including Dr. Ambesh Singh, Professor Dr. Amit Gupta, and the holistic support sessions led by chief physiotherapist Dr. Jayaprakash Jayavelu and senior psychiatrist Ms. Sandhya Sharma provided attendees with both cutting-edge medical insights and practical coping strategies.

 A Day That Changed Perspectives
The event’s cultural performances by Ms. Priya, Ms. Chhavi, Ms. Neha, and Mr. Saurabh brought moments of pure joy, proving that life’s beauty persists even through cancer’s challenges. Families were seen laughing together, some for the first time in months.

 Dr. Prahlad Prasad Agrawal, Director of Operations, who delivered the closing vote of thanks, was visibly moved: “I’ve been in healthcare for decades, but days like today remind me why we do this work. Watching patients who entered feeling isolated leave with phone numbers of new friends, seeing families who felt helpless gain practical tools for support – this is medicine at its most profound. Every patient here reminded us that behind every diagnosis is a human story of incredible courage.”

 Building Lasting Connections
Perhaps the most significant outcome was the formation of an ongoing support network. Attendees exchanged contact information, planned future meetups, and several volunteered to mentor newly diagnosed patients. The poster and slogan competition winners were celebrated, but the real victory was the community that emerged.

 Looking Forward
The overwhelming response has prompted Dharamshila Narayana Hospital to announce plans for monthly support group meetings, ensuring that the connections and healing that began on World No Tobacco Day will continue throughout the year.

 As one attendee shared, “I came here feeling broken and invisible. I’m leaving knowing that my battle matters, my story has power, and I’m not fighting alone anymore.”

Johnson Controls Marks 140 Years, Boosts Sustainability Focus in Middle East & Africa

DUBAI, UAE June 2, 2025 – Johnson Controls , the global leader for smart, safe, healthy, and sustainable buildings, is celebrating 140 years of achievements and industry-firsts. Since its founding in 1885, Johnson Controls has continuously improved the built environment, delivering the first automatic sprinkler and then the first room thermostat shortly thereafter. Today, Johnson Controls is serving customers throughout the building lifecycle with one of the largest portfolios of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment and controls in the world, coupled with a world-class fire protection and smart security portfolio. The company is laser focused on enhancing and protecting essential buildings ranging from data centers to advanced manufacturing, education to hospitals to pharmaceutical labs, creating environments that improve society and help customers run mission-critical operations.

Johnson Controls continues to innovate with our ever-growing portfolio of nearly 8,000 patents and billions of dollars invested in engineering, research, and development in recent years. While portions of the business have been around longer, with its Grinnell and York brands celebrating more than 150 years in existence, the company is united in its inventive spirit and end-to-end partnership with customers. From original engineering and design of equipment to installation, service and ultimately replacement and upgrade, the company is about trust and deep commitment to customers.

“As we mark Johnson Controls’ 140th anniversary, this moment serves not only as a celebration of our global legacy, but also as a powerful reflection of our journey and growth in the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Over the years, we’ve proudly supported the region’s transformation through cutting-edge building technologies, energy efficiency solutions, and smart city innovations that are helping realize the bold ambitions of national development strategies. Our presence in the region is more than a business footprint—it is a long-term commitment to empowering local talent, nurturing strategic partnerships, and co-creating solutions that enhance sustainability, resilience, and digital readiness across industries,” said Devrim Tekeli, vice president & general manager, MEA, Johnson Controls.

”As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to accelerate technology-driven innovation, support decarbonization efforts, and contribute meaningfully to the future of smart infrastructure. Together with our customers, we are excited to shape the next phase of growth starting right here in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic and forward-thinking regions,” added Tekeli.

Looking ahead, Johnson Controls has a more simplified portfolio serving customers over the lifecycle of a building. Combined with world-class service teams reaching more than four million customers anywhere and at any time, our customers are saving money, energy and time. The portfolio is further enabled by digital, integrating IoT and connecting equipment, harnessing award-winning AI and machine learning, and offering enhanced real-time analytics – making buildings smarter than ever before. Whether it’s protecting from extreme weather conditions, mitigating rising energy prices, or developing the latest technology, Johnson Controls is a trusted partner with global expertise and local presence to serve customers now and in the future.

FSSAI delay in issuing licences could leave India’s PET Recycling Industry on the brink of bankruptcy, warns APR Bharat

New Delhi, June 02, 2025: The delay in granting of licences by FSSAI, to the factories set up by recycled PET manufacturers is likely to push a majority of these companies into bankruptcy, the Association of PET Recyclers (Bharat) – APR Bharat, said.

The industry has set up a total capacity of 4 lakh MT at an estimated investment of Rs 7500-8000 crore to produce recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) for generating food-contact packaging material. Companies have adopted state-of-art technology and set up their factories adhering to standards approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While a handful of them have received the FSSAI nod, as many as 15 plants, which are fully commissioned, are still awaiting clearance from the regulator to commence commercial production.

It is to be noted that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), had in 2022, issued guidelines on the mandatory usage of 30 per cent recycled food-grade plastic content into PET packaging bottles by beverage manufacturers, which were to come into effect from April 1, 2025. In the same year (2022-23), FSSAI came out with guidelines for recycling of post-consumer PET for food contact applications and five licences were issued and r-PET supplies have been used by brand owners since then, providing for a field validation on the use of r-PET, as was also acknowledged by FSSAI.

The revised FSSAI guidelines, which should have been in place at least 2-3 months before 1st April’25, were actually notified only in the last week of May 2025, which has further extended the timelines for licence issuance to more than nine applications pending with FSSAI since Dec’24/Jan’25.

“Following regulatory guidance by MoEFCC and FSSAI in 2022, and based on the understanding that this would give a huge impetus to the demand for r-PET in packaging bottles by beverage manufacturers, the industry started building capacities and a majority of them have been fully commissioned since January 2025. The nine applications pending with FSSAI has resulted in capacities lying idle. A majority of these investments have a significant component of debt and any delay in commencing operations could force these companies into bankruptcy,” Shailendra Singh, Director General, APR Bharat said.

Close to 50 per cent of the new investment is funded through bank debt. “If commercial production does not commence soon then these companies may face a huge fund crunch and may find it difficult to service the loan leading to most of these accounts turning into NPA (non-performing asset),” Singh added.

2026 Sony Photography COMPETITION LAUNCH

New Delhi, 2nd June 2025: The 19th edition of the Sony World Photography Awards is open for submissions and free for all to enter on worldphoto.org. The Sony World Photography Awards is a definitive platform for the celebration and discovery of contemporary photography. Since its first edition in 2007, the Awards has recognised the seminal images and stories that shape our visual language and is one of the most prestigious photographic awards programmes in the world, providing global exposure and new opportunities for photographers. Organised by Creo, the Awards form the core part of Creo’s photography programming strand, the World Photography Organisation. Sony supports the Awards to help the continued development of photographic culture by giving a global platform to today’s talent.

Photographers worldwide are invited to submit to the Awards’ four competitions:

● Professional, celebrating outstanding series of work between five to 10 images across 10 categories;

● Open, rewarding the best single images of the year across 10 categories;

● Youth, championing images by emerging talent aged 19 and under;

● and Student, highlighting the projects of photography students across the globe.

Additional initiatives include the National & Regional Awards, the Latin America Professional Award, the Japan National Award, and the Alpha Female Award, as well as the Sustainability Prize.

Entry to the Awards is free and photographers are judged anonymously by a panel of industry leading judges.

INSIGHTS

Introduced for the 2025 Professional competition and returning for a second year, Insights is an additional prize element that sees the 10 category winners joining a day of tailored sessions in London with leading industry figures. From a range of commercial and institutional backgrounds, these experts offer the photographers specialised guidance on ways to continue to widen their platform and to find new opportunities to showcase their work; from insights into private collectors of photography, to sessions on photobook publishing, and behind the scenes access to the acquisition process of public collections.

STUDENT COMPETITION BRIEF: TOGETHER

For this year’s Student competition, photographers are asked to respond to the brief Together. Togetherness can take many meanings, shapes and forms. It is a subject rich for exploration. Throughout history photographers have looked at life in communities in both the human and the natural world, considering the ways that individuals exist as members of a group.

For this year’s brief, students are invited to explore the theme of togetherness from any angle they choose, looking at the concept in its broadest sense. From intimate stories of camaraderie, to big and small communities working towards shared goals, to places and spaces that bring us together, and patterns of connection in the natural world – the brief invites students of photography to consider the innate need for sociality in all living beings.

Images can be taken on any device, shot in any style, and approached from any angle. While creative responses are encouraged, photographers must stick to the brief.

2026 PRIZES AND DEADLINES

The Sony World Photography Awards is open to submissions from 1 June 2025. Full competition and category descriptions can be found at worldphoto.org.

Deadlines for submission across the Awards’ four competitions are:

Professional: 13 January 2026, 13:00 GMT

Open: 6 January 2026, 13:00 GMT

Student: 28 November 2025, 13:00 GMT

Youth: 6 January 2026, 13:00 GMT

All category winners of the Professional, Open, Youth and Student competitions will receive digital imaging equipment from Sony. In addition, cash prizes of $25,000 (USD) will be presented to the Photographer of the Year, $5,000 (USD) to the Open Photographer of the Year and $5,000 (USD) to the winner of the Sustainability Prize. The winner of the Photographer of the Year title will also be rewarded with a solo presentation of their work as part of the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition in London the following year. All winning and shortlisted photographers’ works will be exhibited at the annual Sony World Photography Awards exhibition in London and will then be toured internationally. The winning images will also be published in the annual Awards’ book.

HCG Aastha Cancer Centre & HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad Leads ‘Wheels of Change: Ride Against Tobacco Initiative’, on World No Tobacco Day

Ahmedabad, June 2,  2025 — In a spirited initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre and HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad, came together on World No Tobacco Day, organized ‘Wheels of Change: Ride Against Tobacco’. The event comprised a two-part community initiative that blended physical activity and creative expression; through a bike rally and a zombie-themed dance performance. It was flagged off by Doctors and promoted public health education, through placards carrying motivational anti-tobacco messages.

The bike rally that started from HCG Aastha Cancer Centre and concluded at Teapots Desi Café, drawing participation from bike-rider groups, families, healthcare professionals, and residents of the city. A brief awareness session followed, where HCG doctors and fitness experts shared insights on the impact of tobacco and the importance of timely lifestyle changes. Participants also received eco-conscious giveaways such as plant saplings and reusable straws, to promote healthier living habits.

As part of the World No Tobacco Day initiative, HCG organized a creative performance at a prominent residential complex, featuring dancers dressed as zombies to raise awareness about the long-term harm tobacco inflicts on the body. Through expressive storytelling and impactful visual themes, the show shed light on how addiction silently deteriorates health. The performance drew a strong response from the audience and successfully sparked meaningful conversation, excitingly and especially, among young viewers.

Dr. Purvi Dave Patel, Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist, HCG Aastha Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, on the occasion of “World No Tobacco Day”, said, “Tobacco remains one of the top preventable causes of cancer, especially oral and lung cancers. This initiative served as an opportunity to start early conversations within the community especially among the youth regarding the hazards of tobacco use. Raising awareness is vital in preventing the initiation and reducing the consumption of tobacco, and HCG remains committed to actively supporting and participating in such initiatives.”

The Department of Cardiac Sciences at HCG Hospitals, Mithakhali, Ahmedabad, emphasized:

 “Such events facilitate proactive interactions that educate people about the risks of heart disease, stroke, COPD, infertility, and weakened immune systems resulting from tobacco use, including smokeless forms. Fortunately, quitting—even later in life—offers immediate and long-term health benefits, making awareness and early prevention critical in the fight against preventable cancers.”

Through this initiative, HCG reaffirmed its commitment to preventive care and community outreach. By combining health messaging with creative formats, including the activity of bike-riding and the medium of performance arts, ‘Wheels of Change’ inspired many to reflect on their choices and move toward healthier, tobacco-free living. The visible and substantive response received by this effort reflects the positive potential for ongoing auto-correction and adoption of healthier lifestyles, especially by the youth.

HCG Cancer Centre Brings Zombies to Nagpur Streets in Striking Anti-Tobacco Campaign

Nagpur, June 2nd , 2025 — In a unique public awareness campaign, organized on account of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ at HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur, brought the city to a standstill with an unprecedented on-ground initiative, that featured volunteers and HCG non-medical staff dressed as zombies. These differently dressed ones attracted the attention of passers-by in Nagpur’ Civil Lines, Samvidhan Chowk and many crowded areas. This unusual campaign aimed at delivering an impactful visual message about the harmful and life-draining effects
of tobacco use.

On “World No Tobacco Day”, a group of six enthusiastic NSS volunteers and two HCG non- medical staff, took to the streets of Nagpur, visiting traffic signals and high-footfall areas. Dressed as zombies, they held attractive placards, bearing anti-tobacco slogans, such as “ I died young, thanks tobacco”,”One puff at a time… I lost my life” “I’m gone. But you can still quit” and interacted with the passers-by to raise awareness about the long-term damage caused by tobacco consumption.

 The HCG Hospital initiated campaign was designed to symbolically represent how tobacco causes health to degenerate, turning vibrant lives into ghostly shadows. The effort successfully drew the attention of motorists, pedestrians, and commuters, many of whom stopped to engage and learn more about the cause.

 Alongside the street activity, HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur, also conducted awareness drive
within the hospital premises. These sessions focused on educating patients, caregivers, and
visitors about the dangers of tobacco use, early signs of related diseases and the importance
of preventive screening.

 Dr. Bhaskar Singh, Consultant Surgical Oncology at HCG Cancer Centre Nagpur, said, “Tobacco drains the body from within, often without revealing obvious signs of a progressive condition. Through the HCG zombie campaign, our intention was to create lasting impact on people’s mind. Awareness is the first step towards prevention and our objective was to spark that awareness across the city.”

 Ms. Neeta Rajwar, COO, HCG Cancer Centre Nagpur, added, “The HCG campaign reflects our ongoing commitment to community health. At HCG Cancer Centre, we believe that cancer care begins with education. If we can motivate even a few people to quit tobacco or go for early screening, we would consider it as a successful campaign. We continue to prioritize public health initiatives that goes beyond hospital walls, using creative outreach to address critical health issues.”

 This World No Tobacco Day, the message was loud, clear, and impossible to ignore—tobacco steals life, but awareness can help prevent that.