Category Archives: News

Venus Remedies Acquires Exclusive In-Licensing Rights to MET-X, Boosting India’s Pharma Portfolio

Mumbai, February 25, 2025: Venus Remedies Ltd. a leading Indian pharmaceutical company renowned for its longstanding expertise in combatting antimicrobial resistance (AMR), today announced that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Infex Therapeutics, a UK-based anti-infectives specialist for the clinical development of MET-X. This agreement authorizes Venus Remedies to spearhead the clinical development, registration, and commercialization of MET-X, an innovative metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) inhibitor. The initial development phase will focus on integrating MET-X with meropenem to tackle drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, with Venus Remedies holding exclusive marketing rights within India.

In India, meropenem resistance is reported to be as high as 62-87% in WHO critical priority pathogens like K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii as per the ICMR’s Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Surveillance Network-Annual report 2023, with as high as 50% being directly attributable to MBL prevalence.

Under the terms of the agreement, Venus Remedies will commence with a Phase I trial involving healthy volunteers in India, evaluating MET-X in combination with meropenem. Following successful Phase I outcomes, the focus will shift to Phase II/III trials targeting drug-resistant Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (cUTIs), prevalent in hospital settings.

 This strategic move is aligned with Venus Remedies’ extensive experience in antibiotic R&D and critical care, enhancing its leadership in the Indian critical care landscape. The company’s formidable position in meropenem marketing and manufacturing will facilitate the integration of MET-X into existing and prospective antibiotic strategies.

 All trials conducted in India will adhere to international standards, compliant with regulations from the FDA, EMA, and MHRA, which will also support further development and global commercialization efforts for MET-X. The agreement grants both Infex Therapeutics and Venus Remedies the option to expand their collaboration to include other MET-X/beta-lactam combinations under mutually agreed terms.

MET-X is Infex Therapeutics’ broad spectrum MBL-inhibitor, targeting Gram-negative bacteria. These pathogens produce MBL enzymes to deactivate beta-lactam antibiotics, such as meropenem, and evade antibiotic clearance of disease. MET-X blocks MBL resistance, restoring antibiotic activity. The drug is being developed to be one of the first broad-spectrum MBL inhibitors to address a wide range of bacterial species and MBL-resistant strains, such as E.coli and K.pneumoniae. The treatment has shown best-in-class performance in animal studies to date. The development of new agents to overcome MBL antibiotic resistance in such Gram-negative bacteria is a World Health Organisation (“WHO”) critical priority.

Mr. Saransh Chaudhary, President, Global Critical Care, Venus Remedies Ltd and CEO, Venus Medicine Research Centre, said: “This early-stage introduction of MET-X into the Indian market leverages our decades-long dedication to AMR-focused R&D and our prominent role in critical care and antibiotic therapies. This partnership is perfectly poised to enhance our antibiotic arsenal with meropenem and explore further beta-lactam combinations, ensuring high-quality research and a significant market presence.”

Mr. Pawan Chaudhary, Chairman and Managing Director, Venus Remedies Ltd, added, “The in-licensing of MET-X is a major step forward in providing breakthrough solutions for drug-resistant infections, a serious threat to India’s healthcare ecosystem. Our aim is to develop an effective solution against MBL-producing pathogens, fulfilling a critical healthcare need and continuing our commitment to transformative therapies and sustained innovation in critical care.”

India faces a significant burden of MBL-producing pathogens in hospital settings, and no approved MBL inhibitors currently exist in the country. The development and exclusive in-licensing of MET-X underscores Venus Remedies’ commitment to providing a cutting-edge solution where it is needed most and creating long-term value for stakeholders.

Dr. Peter Jackson, CEO of Infex Therapeutics, said: “I am delighted about this agreement with Venus Remedies, which will facilitate the comprehensive clinical development of our MET-X program in India. By leveraging Venus Remedies’ robust expertise in critical care antibiotics, we can accelerate MET-X as our second clinical-stage drug program. Crucially, the international standards of these trials will also support future regulatory filings in the UK, U.S., Europe, and other global markets. MET-X has shown best-in-class performance in preclinical studies and could be game-changing for patients suffering from Gram-negative, MBL-resistant infections.”

5 Daily Habits You Can Follow for Healthy, Pain-Free Joints

By-Dr. Kumardev Arvind Rajamanya, Head of Department (HOD) & Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

Think about the last time you went up the stairs, bent down to grab something, or even just lifted your arms above your shoulders. You probably didn’t even think about your joints – until they started hurting. The truth is, we overuse our joints, assuming they’ll just keep on running smoothly for years to come. But like the rest of our body, our joints need attention and care as well to stay healthy. Whatever your age, joint pain can sneak up on you. It doesn’t just happen to athletes or the elderly—it can happen to anyone who isn’t taking proper care of their body.

Mentioned are 5 simple habits that should be practiced daily to have healthy and pain-free joints for years.

1. Stay Active with Low-Impact Exercises – Exercise prevents stiffness and strengthens the muscles that protect your joints. A 30-minute walk, swim, cycle, or yoga loosens up your joints without overdoing it. If you work at a desk all day, get up and stretch every hour to loosen your joints.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight to Reduce Joint Stress – Being overweight puts pressure on your joints, especially the hips and knees, leading to faster wear and tear. Eat healthy by including plenty of whole foods in your diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Losing a few kilos reduces joint stress by a significant proportion.

3. Stay Hydrated to Maintain Joint Lubrication – Cartilage, which cushions the joint, is made up of 70-80% water and dehydration leads to stiffness and pain. Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily, consume water-dense foods like cucumbers and oranges, and reduce caffeine as well as alcohol, which dehydrate the body.

4. Develop Muscles Around Your Joints – Stronger muscles act as shock absorbers for your joints, reducing stress and risk of injury. Train your muscles 3-4 times a week with resistance bands, dumbbells or bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges. Having a strong core also assists in posture, avoiding unnecessary joint stress.

5. Stretch Daily and Rest Appropriately – Stretching increases flexibility and reduces joint stiffness while resting enables joints to heal and recharge. Stretch for 5-10 minutes in the morning and before bed. Prioritize quality sleep and rest when needed to avoid overuse injury.

Joints are similar to the hinges on a well-used door – if cared for, they allow movement effortlessly and comfortably. Neglect, on the other hand yields stiffness, creaking and pain. How can joint problems be most effectively avoided? Take small steps, be consistent and create healthy habits. Regular exercise, healthy weight, proper hydration, muscle strength development, and providing joints with sufficient rest are all contributing elements to a lifetime of pain-free movement. There is no need for expensive supplements or radical exercise routines. Instead, incorporate a few well-thought-out daily habits that can help the body improve.

Dance Jodi Dance Reloaded 3 Premieres March 1st

Chennai, February 25th, 2025: Zee Tamil, known for delivering high-quality entertainment and celebrating real talent, is set to bring back one of its most popular dance reality show Dance Jodi Dance Reloaded 3. Over the years, Zee Tamil has been a pioneer in identifying and promoting exceptional talent, and Dance Jodi Dance has been a platform for aspiring dancers to showcase their skills. The new season is all set to premiere on March 1st, airing every Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

 The new season of Dance Jodi Dance is all set to hit your television screens, and the new season is sure to enthral everyone. The auditions for season 3 took place all over Tamil Nadu, and 24 contestants have been selected. These 24 contestants will now compete in mega auditions, from which top 12 will be selected. These finalists will be paired with well-known celebrities, giving them a unique opportunity to perform alongside them. These 12 pairs will compete against each other, pushing their limits in their journey towards stardom.

 Adding to the excitement, this season introduces a new judge to the panel, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, who will join Sneha and Baba Bhaskar in evaluating the contestants. The hosting duo also promises to be a treat, with Manimegalai joining Mirchi Vijay as the show’s anchors. Their chemistry and energy are expected to bring a fun-filled vibe to the show, making it even more engaging for viewers.

 Zee Tamil has always been committed to providing a platform for real talent, turning aspiring individuals into achievers. Dance Jodi Dance Reloaded 3 will not only showcase exceptional dance performances but also feature different dance style, testing the contestants’ versatility. With electrifying performances and top-tier entertainment, this season promises to be a visual treat for the audience. A perfect show for the entire family, Dance Jodi Dance Reloaded 3 is set to deliver non-stop entertainment and incredible talent in one stage.

Healthark Shines a Light on Emerging Trends in India’s Life Sciences and Healthcare GCC Sector

February 2025 – At Pre-BioAsia 2025, Healthark unveiled its latest whitepaper, LSHC GCC Outlook 2025, offering an in-depth analysis of India’s rapidly expanding Life Sciences and Healthcare (LSHC) Global Capability Centers (GCCs). The report highlights how India is solidifying its position as a global hub for healthcare innovation, with the sector projected to surpass 2,500 centers and employ over 4.5 million professionals by 2025, exceeding $100 billion in value by 2030.

The rise of LSHC GCCs in India is driven by the country’s vast technology talent pool, cost efficiencies, and a dynamic business environment fostering research, innovation, and operational excellence. Key trends fueling this momentum include the increasing adoption of provider-assisted and Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) frameworks—now accounting for nearly 90% of new GCC setups—reflecting a growing preference for agile, flexible operations. Between 2021 and 2024, 48% of GCCs in India adopted a provider-assisted service model, a trend set to accelerate as companies seek operational scalability and specialized talent pools.

Hyderabad, in particular, is emerging as a key hub for GCCs, benefiting from strong government support and a thriving life sciences ecosystem. The city, along with Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune, contributes nearly 75% of the total talent for LSHC GCCs in India. Hyderabad alone has witnessed strong leasing momentum, with GCCs securing 24.8 million sq ft (MSF) of commercial space in 2024—almost tripling from 9.1 MSF in 2022—raising their share in overall commercial leasing from 13% in 2022 to 28% in 2024.

Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary of Telangana’s IT and Industries & Commerce Departments, remarked, “GCCs have become a key driver of economic growth, creating opportunities for startups through pilots, proof-of-concept (PoC) projects, and work orders. Hyderabad is emerging as a major hub for global capability centers of leading firms, especially with 800 GCCs expected across India. The city already hosts 110+ Forbes Global 2000 GCCs, employing 190,000+ professionals, supported by strong government initiatives such as Genome Valley, Pharma City, and the Telangana AI Mission (T- AIM). These initiatives are positioning Hyderabad as a powerhouse for life sciences innovation.”

The whitepaper also highlights how government policies are fostering a conducive environment for life sciences manufacturing and R&D, further accelerating India’s leadership in global healthcare operations.

Shakthi M. Nagappan, Director of Life Sciences and Pharma for the Government of Telangana, emphasized, “Innovation and digital transformation within the life sciences sector are very crucial. Government policies are creating an environment conducive to both life sciences manufacturing and R&D. With India’s AI and big data analytics talent pool projected to reach ~633,000 professionals by 2025 and the country aiming for 30 million digitally skilled professionals by 2026, Telangana is taking a leadership role in AI-driven drug discovery, genomics, and real-world evidence (RWE) analytics. Additionally, 43% of the workforce in LSHC GCCs is now dedicated to core healthcare and R&D functions, solidifying India’s role as a global life sciences hub.”

Global pharmaceutical and healthcare companies are leveraging these centers for critical functions, including drug discovery, clinical trials, regulatory support, and data-driven healthcare insights. According to research, the number of Forbes Global 2000 companies with GCCs in India is expected to grow by 44%, from 450+ in 2024 to 650+ by 2030, reinforcing India’s status as a preferred destination for global healthcare operations.

“LSHC companies like BMS, Novartis, Evernorth, Sanofi, and others are increasingly establishing their GCCs in India to drive innovation, efficiency, and digital transformation”, noted Sudeep Krishna, Co- Founder & President, Healthark. “These centers serve as R&D and innovation hubs, focusing on drug discovery, clinical trials, and real-world evidence (RWE) analytics, while also supporting regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance, and compliance operations. The number of LSHC GCCs in India is set to increase from 100 in 2024 to over 160 by 2030, with workforce projections reaching 420,000+ professionals. AI and automation adoption is accelerating, with over 70% of small molecule chemistry projects in Indian GCCs already leveraging AI for drug discovery. These centers are also integrating advanced analytics, digital therapeutics, and AI-powered regulatory compliance automation, making India a critical innovation hub for global pharma and medtech firms.”

The future of LSHC GCCs in India is shifting towards compact and agile setups, with a strong push from pharmaceutical, medtech, and biotech companies. By 2030, over 60% of new GCCs are expected to be hybrid or fully digital-first, leveraging AI, automation, and cloud-based solutions for global operations. These shifts are positioning India as a key hub for AI-driven drug discovery, personalized medicine, and regulatory compliance automation, further attracting global investments.

Reflecting on the findings, Dr. Purav Gandhi, Founder and CEO of Healthark, stated, “India’s LSHC GCC landscape is undergoing a paradigm shift, driven by a confluence of technological advancements and strategic collaborations. As global healthcare organizations continue to recognize India’s unique capabilities, we anticipate sustained investment in next-generation talent and innovation frameworks. Between 2021 and 2024, nearly 81% of GCCs in India prioritized regulatory compliance, particularly in transfer pricing, cybersecurity, and global health authority interactions. Cost efficiencies remain a key factor, with healthcare companies spending 30-50% more in their home countries compared to operations in India. The sector’s rapid expansion, combined with the rise of compact GCCs specializing in AI diagnostics, health informatics, and genomics, is set to redefine India’s leadership in global healthcare operations.”

DGP Robin Hibu Advocates for Skill-Based Education as Key to Career Development at MSU

Sikkim/Mumbai, February 25, 2025: Director General of Police Shri Robin Hibu IPS, visited the Medhavi Skills University campus for an engaging interactive session with students. The visit focused on exploring MSUs state-of-the-art skill development facilities and inspiring students to pursue careers driven by excellence and public service.

Shri Robin Hibu, a strong advocate for industry integrated skill-based Higher education and founder of the NGO Helping Hands, was warmly welcomed by MSUs Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor, Shri Kuldip Sarma, along with esteemed faculty members. During the visit, the visionary leaders discussed collaborative skill development initiatives to expand opportunities for students in the Northeast. MSU, in partnership with Helping Hands, also operates the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Ziro, dedicated to equipping youth with industry-relevant skills of Arunachal Pradesh.

Shri. Hibu, during the campus tour, visited the laboratory buildings to explore cutting-edge labs specializing in emergency care, microbiology, clinical biochemistry, optometry, radiology, hematology, and physiotherapy. His visit also included an inspection of campus infrastructure, including academic spaces, digital learning facilities, student hostels, and the universitys ongoing infrastructure projects.

Shri. Robin Hibu interacted with students and faculty members, gaining firsthand insight into MSUs skill-integrated academic programs and industry-oriented training modules. Shri Hibu, known for his contributions towards empowering youth and marginalized communities, engaged in meaningful discussions with students and faculty, sharing insights from his vast experience in law enforcement and social service.

Following the campus tour, Shri. Hibu delivered a keynote address at the universitys seminar hall. He emphasized the role of skill-based education in empowering Indias youth. He encouraged students to discover their passion and cultivate expertise that aligns with the evolving demands of the job market.

Speaking at the occasion, Shri Robin Hibu said, “It is heartening to witness the dedication of Medhavi Skills University towards skill development and industry-academia collaboration. Institutions like MSU play a crucial role in shaping the future of India by equipping students with practical skills and knowledge.”

Pro-Chancellor Shri Kuldip Sarma emphasized the impact of such interactions, stating, “Shri Robin Hibus visit inspires students to excel in skill-based learning. By honing their skills, they shape their futures while contributing to Indias progress. We are committed to strengthening Indias education ecosystem by nurturing talent, enhancing employability, and empowering students to make a meaningful impact.”

KKFI Members Celebrate Recognition at TOISA-2024 with CM Yogi Adityanath’s Blessings

Delhi 25 Feb 2025: Four members of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) – Nirmala Bhati, Prateek Waikar, Aakash Balyan, and M.S. Tyagi (General Secretary, KKFI) – were honored at the Times of India Sports Awards 2024 (TOISA-2024), felicitated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The event, organized in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Government, recognized outstanding contributions across various sports.

 Speaking at the ceremony, CM Yogi Adityanath highlighted the importance of investing in sports, stating, “We strongly believe that investment in sports will never go to waste. It will give constructive energy for nation building.”

 Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho Kho Federation of India, expressed his appreciation for the recognition of Kho Kho athletes, saying, “This honour reflects the growing prominence of Kho Kho in India’s sporting landscape. It is encouraging to see traditional sports getting the acknowledgement they deserve.”

Uttishtha 2025 at IIM Kashipur Concludes Successfully, Celebrating Innovation and Excellence

India, February 25, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur successfully concluded Uttishtha’25, its flagship entrepreneurship summit, which witnessed two days of engaging discussions, competitions, and startup showcases. Organized in collaboration with FIED, IIM Kashipur and supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, the event brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and students, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

 The second day of Uttishtha’25 commenced with the Expo Inauguration, where emerging entrepreneurs and industry leaders displayed groundbreaking innovations in Agri-Startups, MSMEs, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations). The Expo served as a vital platform for entrepreneurs to exhibit their business models and interact with potential investors and mentors. Throughout the day, attendees explored cutting-edge innovations across various industries, solidifying Uttishtha’25 as a premier entrepreneurship summit. The event successfully brought together over 15,000 attendees and saw participation from 200+ Agri-Startups, MSMEs, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations) and 2,000+ business schools, making it one of the most impactful entrepreneurship summits in the region. With inspiring success stories, cutting-edge startup showcases, and invaluable networking opportunities, Uttishtha’25 has set a new benchmark in fostering entrepreneurial excellence.

 The event was graced by an esteemed panel of guests, including Dr. Deepak Murari, Joint Director, Directorate of Industries, Uttarakhand; Santosh Kumar Sinha, Deputy General Manager, SIDBI; Dr. Deepak Kumar Pandey, Assistant Director, Higher Education Department, Government of Uttarakhand; Dr. Shyam Kapri, Assistant Dean (Training & Placement), Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun; Khalid Wani, Founder & Director, KWCG; S.K. Verma, Deputy Director, Technical Education Department, Government of Uttarakhand; Dr. Amit Kumar Dwivedi, Professor & Director – Government Project Department & Regional Director – Northern Regional Office, EDII; Devendra Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, KVS Premier Group; and Pankaj Yadav, Chief General Manager, NABARD.

 The school engagement activities were another key highlight of the day, inspiring young minds to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. Events such as career counseling, MBA insights sessions, and science fairs introduced students to diverse opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. Enthusiastic participation was seen in drawing, poster-making, essay writing, stick-building, and fancy dress competitions, further encouraging students to showcase their talents and innovative thinking.

 Reflecting on the success of the event, Prof. Safal Batra, Director of FIED at IIM Kashipur, stated, “Uttishtha’25 has once again reinforced IIM Kashipur’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. The overwhelming response from entrepreneurs, students, and industry leaders underscores the growing relevance of startup ecosystems in shaping the future of business. We are proud to provide a platform where ideas transform into actionable business solutions.”

 During the entrepreneurship summit, the atmosphere buzzed with energy during the prize distribution ceremony, where winners of various competitions, including Udaan, Hult Prize, B-Plan, and Social Entrepreneurship competitions, were felicitated. These competitions provided a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas and receive valuable feedback from seasoned industry professionals.

Viraj Profiles Honored with EEPC National Award for Export Excellence in Recognition of 2021-22 Achievements

Viraj Profiles Pvt. Ltd., a global leader in stainless steel long products, has been conferred with the National Award for Export Excellence for 2021-22 in the Bright Bar and Miscellaneous product group, Large Enterprise category. Exporting its products to more than 90 countries across the globe, the esteemed award by EEPC India is an acknowledgment to Viraj Profiles’ outstanding export success and commitment to India’s economic development.

The esteemed award recognizes Viraj Profiles’ strong global presence and diverse product portfolio and showcasing it as a Make in India brand that is dedicated to delivering high-quality stainless steel products to customers worldwide. Viraj Profiles has earlier been a recipient of the SEEPZ-SEZ HIGHEST EXPORTER Award among EOU’s in 2010.

The Managing Director of Viraj Profiles, Rakesh Chauhan, spoke about the company’s proud moment, saying, “We dedicate this award to our customers, partners, and employees who have supported us in our journey to excellence.”

The National Award for Export Excellence is a prestigious accolade bestowed by the Government of India to recognize outstanding export performance by engineering goods companies. The award recognizes exporters who have triumphed in the face of a variety of worldwide market challenges.

Collective Action Key Focus of Workshop on Sustainable Crop Residue Management

S M Sehgal Foundation organized an Inter-Stakeholder Knowledge Exchange Workshop to mobilize collective action for sustainable crop residue management (CRM) at Gurugram, Haryana. The event brought together key stakeholders including policymakers, researchers, agriculture experts, industry representatives, and farmers to deliberate on innovative solutions for reducing crop residue burning and promoting sustainable alternatives.

 The workshop aimed to enhance collaboration among diverse stakeholders, share best practices, and explore sustainable solutions to address the challenges of crop residue management. Key focus areas of the workshop included the following:

 1. Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Encouraging the adoption of sustainable CRM practices to reduce air pollution and enhance soil health.
2. Facilitating Knowledge Exchange: Providing a platform to share innovative technologies and best practices that can improve crop productivity and offer alternatives to residue burning.
3. Sharing Community Experiences and Insights: Highlighting community experiences to foster collective learning and guide future interventions that are sustainable and impactful.

 Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare, Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI), agriculture universities like Punjab Agriculture University, industry experts from CII, The Nature Conservancy, Energy Harvest Charitable Trust, and Center for Science and Environment actively participated, emphasizing the need for a multi-stakeholder approach. Experts discussed successful case studies on innovative CRM models which have the potential to reduce burning incidents significantly.

 Special Guest, Dr. Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General, Fertilizer Association of India (FAI) shared, “Collective action and willingness can be the only way to address this issue. Lots of efforts are being made in this direction, and it needs a collective view and approach by several players, including the farmers.”

 During the workshop, the farming community members shared their experiences highlighting the importance of awareness on CRM, access to cost-effective farm machinery, and the significance of crop diversification. The knowledge exchange provided valuable experiential insights, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities from an inter-stakeholder perspective.

 Speaking at the event, Nishant Gupta, Social & Environmental Impact Advisor, Walmart.org, mentioned, “Sustainable crop residue management is critical for environmental protection, soil health and air quality improvement. Collaborative efforts are essential to scale up solutions that are both economically viable and ecologically sustainable.”

 Anjali Makhija, Trustee and CEO, S M Sehgal Foundation, said, “The workshop has been a vital platform for sharing innovative solutions and aligning stakeholders toward a common goal. The topical discussions will lead to convergence of efforts in this regard and pave the way for collaborative action.”

Veranda Learning’s New Era: Acquiring BB Virtuals and Navkar to Lead EdTech Innovation

CHENNAI, 25TH FEBRUARY 2025: Veranda Learning Solutions has taken a 40.41% stake in BB Publications Private Limited (“BB Virtuals”) and acquired 65% stake in Navkar Digital Institute Private Limited (“Navkar Digital”).

Veranda Learning will acquire an additional 10.59% stake in BB Virtuals by June 2025. The acquisitions amplify Veranda Learning’s position as a leader in commerce education across India and the company’s commerce vertical is expected to achieve a pro forma EBITDA exceeding Rs 120 crores for FY25.

BB Virtuals, founded by the renowned Chartered Accountant (CA) educator Mr. Bhanwar Borana, has established itself as a top-notch online platform for CA and commerce aspirants. With a strong focus on accessible and high-quality resources, BB Virtuals has trained over 200,000 students online, producing more than 500 all-India rank-holders. Notably, the top four All-India rankers in the November 2024 CA Final Results—Mr. Rishabh Ostwal (Rank 1, shared with Mr. Heramb Maheswari), Ms. Riya Kunjankumar Shah (Rank 2), Ms. Kinjal Ajmera (Rank 3), and Ms. Poonam Sheoran (Rank 4)—were students of BB Virtuals’ online platform, highlighting its impact on CA education.

Navkar Digital, founded by Mr. Hiteshkumar Shah, is a well-established offline education platform for Chartered Accountancy (CA), Company Secretary (CS), and Cost & Management Accountancy (CMA) aspirants in Gujarat. With over 17 years of teaching experience, Mr. Hitesh Shah has built a reputation for excellence in professional education, guiding thousands of students toward their career goals.

Prof. J.K. Shah, founder of JK Shah Classes, commented on the acquisitions, “By bringing in BB Virtuals and Navkar Digital into the Veranda ecosystem, we are building a powerful alliance that provides students pursuing commerce education with unparalleled academic support. This strengthens our mission to deliver exceptional learning experiences and expand our reach to aspiring finance professionals across India.”

Speaking about the collaboration, Mr. Hitesh Shah, Managing Director, Navkar Institute, stated, “We are thrilled to be part of the Veranda ecosystem, leveraging our combined strengths to grow the business and continue supporting students in achieving their professional dreams. This partnership will allow us to integrate technology-driven learning methodologies while retaining the rigor and discipline of our offline teaching model.”

Mr. Bhanwar Borana, Founder of BB Virtuals, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces with Veranda Learning. This partnership will allow us to extend our reach and continue providing top-notch resources and mentorship to CA and commerce students. Together, we aim to set new benchmarks in the realm of commerce education.”