Category Archives: News

Sidhvi Pandit Becomes India’s Youngest International Taekwondo Black Belt

 11th september 2025,india;In a historic milestone for Indian martial arts, Sidhvi Pandit from Jaipur has become the youngest Indian to achieve an internationally certified Taekwondo Black Belt (DAN/POOM) from Korea, the birthplace of the discipline. The certification not only places her among the youngest achievers globally but also marks a moment of pride for India’s martial arts community.

At such a young age, Sidhvi has already proven her talent on both national and state platforms winning a Silver medal at the National Taekwondo Championships and a Gold medal at the State Championships, both under the official federation associated with the Indian Olympic Association.
This international DAN/POOM recognition further strengthens her profile as one of India’s brightest young sporting talents, combining skill, discipline, and global credibility.

Speaking on the achievement, Coach Nitin Joliya said:
“This is just the beginning for Sidhvi. The black belt is a symbol of hard work, resilience, and focus. Achieving it at such a young age and being internationally certified is truly commendable. She is an inspiration for children across India and sets a new benchmark for aspiring martial artists.”

With this milestone, Sidhvi now joins the elite ranks of internationally recognized martial artists and aspires to represent India on global platforms, further strengthening the country’s presence in martial arts worldwide.

FTCCI hosts awareness program on new kVAh Billing Regulation

Hyderabad, September 11, 2025 : An Awareness Program on the recently introduced kVAh Billing Regulation for Telangana Businesses was held at FTCCI on Wednesday.

Sri Sikinder Reddy Thandra, Co-Founder & CEO, Coral Innovations Pvt. Ltd., was the key speaker at the program. Speaking on the occasion, he said:

“The shift to kVAh billing is not just about paying electricity bills differently—it is about how efficiently enterprises use power. Businesses that do not actively manage their Power Factor risk hidden costs and a steep rise in energy expenses. With smart monitoring and corrective measures, companies can not only avoid penalties but also turn energy efficiency into a competitive advantage.”

Optimising the electricity bill must be everyone’s priority, he added.

Telangana DISCOMs have recently introduced kVAh-based billing for all commercial and industrial consumers. This new regime makes Power Factor management a critical area for every enterprise. A low or leading PF not only increases costs but also places an unnecessary financial burden on industries.

R. Ravi Kumar, President of FTCCI, said: “FTCCI, as the voice of trade and industry, felt it is important to create awareness among our members and the larger business community on this transition. Today’s program has been specially designed to provide insights into billing implications, share practical solutions, and showcase case studies that will help businesses reduce hidden penalties and improve efficiency in power usage.”

Giving his introductory remarks, P. Vijay Gopal Reddy, Co-Chair – Energy Committee, FTCCI, said: “The shift from kWh to kVAh billing is not just a technical adjustment; it is a paradigm change in energy cost management. For businesses, especially SMEs and industries with high power usage, understanding this change is crucial. If ignored, it can silently increase power bills by 10–20% without any increase in consumption. But with proper awareness and corrective action, it can also become an opportunity to optimise costs and improve operational efficiency. Our objective of this program is to equip you with the right knowledge, practical tools, and real-time examples so that your businesses can adapt smoothly to this regulation.”

KK Maheshwari, Senior Vice President of FTCCI, was among the 100-plus attendees who graced the occasion.

Team Kapal Gears Up for September 19 Release

Kolkata, 11th September, 2025: The cast and crew of the upcoming Bengali drama Kapal came together for an exclusive one-on-one media interaction at Priya Cinema, ahead of the film’s theatrical release on 19th September 2025.

The event was attended by lead actors Kanchana Moitra, Raja Sarkar, and Sukanya Dutta, along with producer Aaryan Ghosh. Also present were the film’s music directors Pandit Pinaki Bose and Bob SN, who spoke about the film’s emotionally resonant score and its role in deepening the storytelling. Produced under the banner of SGF (Suvendu Ghosh Films), Kapal is written and directed by Suvendu Ghosh. The screenplay and dialogues were written by Rashi Iqbal, Sayantan Roy, and Suvendu Ghosh.

Set against the backdrop of a quiet Bengali town, Kapal explores how faith, fear, and power intertwine in the lives of ordinary people. The story revolves around the arrival of a mysterious spiritual figure whose influence gradually unsettles the community. As personal beliefs clash with harsh realities, long-hidden secrets begin to surface. The film delves deep into the human psyche, asking: when does belief become blind, and how far will people go to protect what they think is sacred?

Producer Aaryan Ghosh shared “Kapal is not just a film – it’s a mirror to society. It reflects how easily fear and faith can be manipulated, and how quickly lives can unravel in the name of belief. I’m incredibly proud of our team for bringing this layered story to life with such honesty and depth.”

Actress Kanchana Moitra said “This role pushed me to explore emotions I hadn’t touched in my previous work. My character’s journey is raw, intense, and deeply human. Kapal is the kind of cinema that doesn’t just entertain – it provokes. I believe audiences will be moved and challenged by it.”

With the media interaction generating buzz, Kapal is poised to offer a powerful cinematic experience – blending realism, drama, and emotional storytelling. Audiences can catch the film in cinemas across West Bengal from 19th September 2025.

Hybrid Neurosurgery at MGM Malar Hospital Saves Brain Tumour Patient

Chennai, September 10th, 2025: Hybrid neurosurgery performed at MGM Malar Hospital successfully removed a large brain tumour from a woman, preventing her paralysis from worsening and averting potential life-threatening complications.

 The nine-hour marathon hybrid procedure combined two approaches: a minimally invasive endovascular procedure to cut off the tumour’s blood supply, and an open microsurgical procedure, performed with a high-powered operating microscope, to remove the tumour. The woman had been suffering from severe headaches for six months, and in the last two months developed weakness in her right arm and leg. She sought treatment at MGM Malar Hospital after her condition worsened.

The medical team carried out a six-vessel brain angiogram— a 360-degree vascular map of the brain — to pinpoint the tumour’s blood supply and plan the operation. With meticulous preparation and execution, the procedures were completed successfully, thanks to the expertise of the hybrid neurosurgery team led by Dr. A. Aravinth Kumar, Consultant, Neurosurgery & Endovascular Neuro-Interventions. The medical team also comprised professionals from neuro anaesthesia, interventional anaesthesia, Intensive Care and neuro rehab departments. The patient has now made a full recovery.

In his comments, Dr. Aravinth said, “We are happy to have saved the life of the patient with this timely and challenging intervention. What helped us was our deep understanding of brain anatomy both endovascular and microsurgical techniques, and the measures needed to reduce neurovascular risks — all of which were crucial to the success. Any delay could have led to irreversible paralysis, and the growing tumour posed a constant life-threatening danger. Brain tumours in adults are rare – they occur only in about 1% of the population. The cause is generally unknown and is mostly genetic. The public should never ignore persistent headaches or progressive weakness in any part of the body. They must seek medical advice immediately.”

Explaining the procedures, he said the endovascular step was necessary to reduce the tumour’s blood supply, making its removal safer and minimising the heavy blood loss that is common in neurosurgeries. This was followed by a highly complex microsurgical procedure to remove the tumour. Performing both procedures back-to-back in a single sitting, without damaging the brain’s delicate structures, was a major challenge for the team.

Prime Video to Premiere Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle on September 25

MUMBAI, India—September 10, 2025—Prime Video, India’s most-loved entertainment destination, today announced September 25 as the global premiere of its highly anticipated talk show—Oppo presents Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle co-presented by Kohler and Kalyan Jewellers. With a new episode dropping every Thursday, Prime Video’s latest unscripted Original brings together the firecracker chemistry of the ever-charismatic Kajol and the brilliantly witty Twinkle Khanna as co-hosts for the very first time and features a sparkling guest list in its first season. With Kajol’s infectious energy and Twinkle’s trademark sass, the talk show—produced by Banijay Asia—is set to deliver an unlimited dose of entertainment, unfiltered moments, laughter, and surprises with some of the most celebrated names in Indian cinema.

 “A star-studded guest lineup and conversations that are fresh, spontaneous, and entertaining—Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle goes beyond the usual celebrity chatter, offering audiences moments packed with wit, candid revelations, and a dash of mischief,” said Nikhil Madhok, Director and Head of Originals, Prime Video, India. “Our show is anchored by two phenomenal hosts whose humor and candor shine through every conversation, that promises to keep audiences completely immersed.”

Mrinalini Jain, Group Chief Development Officer–Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India, said, “Two Much puts the spotlight on Kajol and Twinkle—not just as hosts, but as women with distinct voices, curious minds, and sharp instincts. The show is about what they want to ask, what they care about, and how they choose to show up—unfiltered, funny, and deeply honest. With some of the biggest names opening up in ways we rarely see, it’s conversation at its most real. In Prime Video, we found the perfect partner to back a show that celebrates conversation, not just celebrity—and that’s what makes this format feel so fresh.”

Goldee Patnaik, Head of PR and Communications at OPPO India, said, “OPPO aims to inspire youth to live in the moment, pursue their passions, and create their own remarkable stories. Our partnership with Prime Video for this exciting new talk show is a natural fit. With its vibrant, unfiltered format and a sparkling guest list, the show will surely resonate with a generation that values authenticity, creativity, and meaningful conversations.

Ranjeet Oak, Managing Director – K&B South Asia at Kohler said, “At Kohler, we believe in celebrating originality and bold voices. Partnering with Prime Video for an enigmatic talk show with hosts like Kajol and Twinkle perfectly reflects this ethos, and we are proud to be associated with a show that promises to elevate customer experience with unlimited entertainment and candid conversations.”

“At Kalyan Jewellers, we value conversations that are genuine, engaging and full of warmth. Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle captures exactly that–an effortless mix of humour, charm and unfiltered banter that audiences will truly enjoy. We are delighted to partner with Prime Video in presenting a show that feels both entertaining and refreshingly real,” said Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers.

South Indian Bank Launches Digital Loan Against Mutual Funds

Kochi, September 09, 2025: South Indian Bank has launched a new digital loan facility, ‘Loan Against Mutual Funds,’ enabling the customers to avail loans against their mutual fund investments. The loan application process is fully digital and paperless, ensuring swift disbursal with minimal procedures. This innovative service has been introduced in partnership with M/s Ark Neo Financial Services, which operates the digital platform DhanLAP.

“This initiative empowers the Mutual Fund investors to meet their immediate financial needs without compromising on their investment goals,” said Mr. Sanchay Kumar Sinha, Chief General Manager & Head – Retail Assets of South Indian Bank. “By leveraging digital technology, we aim to provide quick, secure, and flexible financial solutions that align with the customers’ evolving needs.”

Customers can easily apply for the loan by registering and completing KYC verification using their PAN and Aadhaar. Once verified, they can access funds based on their Mutual Fund investments to avail an overdraft. This facility is available to individuals aged from 18 to 75 years, irrespective of whether they are existing bank customers or not.

For Equity Mutual Funds, up to 50% of the fund’s value can be availed as a loan, while for Debt Mutual Funds, up to 70% is permissible. This process enables all investors to access funds when needed, without disrupting their investments, which continue to earn returns.

Thrilling Quarter Finals Set the Tone at Subroto Cup Sub Junior Boys

Thrilling Quarter Finals Set the Tone at Subroto Cup Sub Junior Boys (U-15)

Bengaluru, September 9, 2025: The Sub Junior Boys (U-15) category of the 64th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament entered the knockout stage today, with thrilling quarter-final encounters showcasing the skills and rising talent of young footballers across India.

QF 1: Minerva Public School (CISCE) vs. SFS Higher Secondary School (Nagaland)

Minerva Public School (CISCE) stormed into the semifinals with a commanding 10-0 win over SFS Higher Secondary School (Nagaland). Lhungdem (4’, 30’), Rimoson (25’), Akash (25’, 27’), Laishram (19’), Hidam (14’, 33’, 35’), and Gurtejveer (38’) all found the back of the net in a one-sided contest that underlined Minerva’s dominance.

QF 2: Manikpara Viveknanda Vidyapith (West Bengal) vs. St. John High School (Jharkhand)

In one of the most gripping clashes of the day, St. John High School (Jharkhand) edged past Manikpara Viveknanda Vidyapith (West Bengal), 3-2 to book their semifinal berth. Charan (2’) and Abhijit (36’) scored for West Bengal, but Jharkhand bounced back strongly through goals from Suraj (7’), Asish (30’), and Ishant (47’), sealing a dramatic victory.

QF 3: Mothers Pride Public School (Himachal Pradesh) vs. Vidyachal International School (Bihar)

Vidyachal International School (Bihar) secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Mothers Pride Public School (Himachal Pradesh). Sukhpreet (23’) gave Himachal the lead, but Bihar’s Shubham turned the match on its head with a brilliant brace (25+2’, 63’) to guide his team into the semifinals.

QF 4: Anand Niketen School (Gujarat) vs. River Side Natural School (Madhya Pradesh)

In the last quarterfinal, River Side Natural School (Madhya Pradesh) secured a 2-0 victory over Anand Niketen School (Gujarat). Lokesh was the hero of the match, scoring twice, once in the 7th minute and again in stoppage time (50+4’) to seal Madhya Pradesh’s place in the semifinals.

The quarterfinals brought out the best of young football, with fast-paced play, smart teamwork, and flashes of individual brilliance lighting up the field. From sharp finishing to resilient defending, the matches showed how these budding players are quickly adapting to the demands of competitive football on the global stage.

CII’s Flagship Event on Energy Efficiency Summit to be Organized in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, 09- September 2025 – The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is all set to host India’s largest conference on energy efficiency, the 24th Energy Efficiency Summit, from 16–18 September 2025 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), Hyderabad. 

 A flagship event of CII- Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre (CII – GBC), Hyderabad, the Energy Efficiency Summit is a major gathering of industry professionals, leaders, government, academia, alongside major industry associations and leading organizations from India and abroad for advancing energy efficiency practices. 

This year’s Energy Efficiency Summit, with the theme “Accelerating the Transition to a Low Carbon Economy through Energy Efficiency,” will bring together 2,500+ delegates and feature 100+ distinguished speakers, covering discussions spanning 18+ industry sectors.

The Summit will also feature two sector-focused conferences- the 21st edition of CII Power Plant Summit and 19th edition of CII PaperTech- which will explore critical innovations, technologies, and strategies in the thermal power plant and pulp & paper sectors respectively to drive environmental and climate transition.

A key highlight will be the 26th CII National Award for Excellence in Energy Management, recognizing the achievements of over 200 companies and individuals that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to sustainable energy practices.

The event will also feature over 100+ exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions, including a dedicated pavilion for low carbon technology innovations. 

Krishival Foods Limited Welcomes GST Cut on Nuts, Dried Fruits and Ice Cream

 Hyderabad, 9th September, 2025: Krishival Foods Limited has welcomed the reduction in the GST rate for nuts, dried fruits and ice cream as confirmed at the 56th GST Council meeting. The GST on products such as Brazil nuts, almonds, pistachios, and other dried fruits has been reduced from 12% to 5%, and on ice cream has been reduced from 18% to 5% effective September 22, 2025.

Commenting on the development, Sujit Bangar, Chairman, Krishival Foods, said, “The GST rate reduction is a transformative step for the packaged food sector. At Krishival Foods, we see this as a catalyst to accelerate category growth and strengthen India’s position as a fast-emerging market for premium nuts, dried fruits, and ice creams. We are committed to harnessing this momentum by expanding availability, innovating with new offerings, and ensuring that more consumers across India can access world-class products at affordable prices.”

 With upcoming festive season, this policy change move is expected to drive a stronger consumption across categories, particularly in packaged foods, making high-quality nuts, dried fruits, and ice cream more accessible to a wider segment of consumers.

IAC-Life Donates 400 Raincoats to Mumbai Traffic Police for Ganpati Visarjan

Mumbai, Sept. 09, 2025: The Insurance Awareness Committee (IAC-Life), formed under the aegis of the Life Insurance Council that represents all life insurers in India, as part of its continued commitment to public welfare, donated 400 raincoats last week to the Mumbai Traffic Police for the Ganpati Visarjan Day. The gesture is in appreciation of the critical role played by traffic personnel in ensuring public safety during the festive season, often under challenging weather conditions.

IAC-Life handed over raincoats to the Mumbai Traffic Police at multiple locations in Mumbai on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025. The raincoats were handed over to Shri Anil Khumbare, Joint Commissioner of Police Traffic, at the Traffic Police Headquarters at Worli and to Shri Pramjit Singh Dahiya, Additional Commissioner of Police Traffic, at Bandra (West).

Girgaum Chowpatty, Dadar Chowpatty and Juhu Chowpatty are key Ganpati Visarjan locations and bearing that in mind, raincoats were also handed over to Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Nilesh Kamble at Girgaum Chowpatty, Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Kanhaiyalal Shinde at Dadar and Sr. Police Inspector (Traffic) Shri Salim Tamboli at Juhu in the presence of senior representatives from the Mumbai Traffic Police.

This initiative aligns with IAC-Life’s ongoing national campaign, ‘Sabse Pehle Life Insurance’, which advocates prioritizing protection and preparedness; not just for individuals, but also for those who protect us daily.

Member, Insurance Awareness Committee (IAC-Life), said, “Our campaign ‘Sabse Pehle Life Insurance’ is rooted in the belief that protection comes first and that also means supporting the protectors of our cities. The Mumbai Traffic Police spend countless hours ensuring public safety, often in heavy rains and under demanding conditions. This initiative to donate raincoats is a small gesture to help frontline workers during Mumbai’s challenging monsoon. We chose Ganpati Visarjan for this distribution as it is a time when traffic police are on the ground managing large crowds in difficult weather. Through such initiatives, IAC-Life reaffirms its commitment to community engagement and to spreading the message of safety, security, and shared responsibility.”

Shri Anil Khumbare, Jt. Commissioner of Police Traffic speaking at the event said, “On behalf of all the Mumbai Traffic personnel, I would like to thank the Life Insurance Council for their generous contribution of raincoats. We truly appreciate this thoughtful gesture, especially as our teams continue to serve the city tirelessly through the challenging monsoon. We value your continued support and commitment to those who safeguard Mumbai, day and night, in all conditions.”

IAC-Life, representing all life insurers in India, to address the challenge of life insurance penetration, has launched the Sabse Pehle Life Insurance campaign with the aim of motivating every Indian, with renewed vigour, to make life insurance the foundation of their financial journey, turning rising awareness into meaningful action.

At its core, the campaign challenges the common habit of prioritising savings and investments while neglecting basic financial protection. It reaffirms that life insurance should be the starting point of any secure financial plan providing a strong foundation for long-term goals like children’s education, homeownership, and retirement.