Category Archives: News

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham to Lead Dialogue on Eco Interventions for Sustainable Development Goals

Hyderabad, February 1, 2025: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi Campus, is set to host a three-day international conference titled “Synergizing Eco Interventions for Achieving SDGs” from March 5 to 7, 2025, at the serene Kochi Brahmasthanam campus. Organized by the Departments of Commerce and Management and Visual Media and Communication, the event aims to explore innovative pathways toward achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through eco-friendly interventions and collaborative approaches.

Abstract submissions has started from January and will remain open till on February 10, 2025.

The conference will feature dynamic panel discussions, interactive workshops, and hands-on training sessions, covering themes such as climate action, biodiversity conservation, green technology innovations, and circular economy. Renowned experts, including Dr. Harsha Bhargavi (Ministry of Culture, Government of India), Dr. Erik Bean (Indiana Tech University, USA), and Dr. Nirmalya Mukherjee (Centre for Public Health Research), will lead discussions on critical topics like green commerce, media’s role in SDGs, and AI for sustainability.

Participants will get an opportunity to engage in creative competitions, including poster design, short films, and photography, celebrating innovation in environmental advocacy. Workshops on eco-product creation, AI tools for sustainability, and organic farming further enriched the hands-on learning experience.

Experience Shinjini Kulkarni’s Captivating Kathak Recital ‘Kasturi’ at 27th Vasantotsav 2025

The evening of 27th Vasantotsav 2025 will witness an enthralling performance by Kathak danseuse Shinjini Kulkarni on February 4, 2025 at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, where she will enlighten the stage with her performance Kasturi- The Eternal Search.

Inspired by the allegory of Kasturi Mrig, the musk deer, that roams the vast forests in search of an intoxicating fragrance that emanates from within, her performance delves into the exploration of the eternal search, the illusion of seeking outside what already resides within.

Event Details

Name of the event: Kathak virtuoso Shinjini Kulkarni to Illuminate the Stage with a pulsating recital Kasturi – The Eternal Search at 27th Vasantotsav 2025

Artist Name: Shinjini kulkarni
Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Kamani Auditorium, Mandi House, New Delhi

The Artist dedication and passion has always garnered the audience’s affection and blessings with her powerful performances that are a unique amalgamation of creative approaches and skilled style. As the part of Vasantotsav 2025, an annual prastuti of Kalashram by Pt. Birju Maharaj ji, Kulkarni’s solo recital will not just exhibit the finesse of Kathak but also invite the audience to mirror the journey of self-discovery, revealing that the fragrance we seek is not in the world around us, but in the essence of our own being.

Devendra Fadanvis unveils Marathi version of Skill India Digital Hub

Pune (Maharashtra): In order to foster an inclusive and robust skilling ecosystem in Maharashtra, Honourable Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadanvis unveiled Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) platform in Marathi language on occasion of Vishwa Marathi Sammelan 2025 at Fergusson College in Pune on Friday.

Shri Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Ajit Pawar, launched the Marathi version of SIDH which will enable professionals, students, and researchers to engage more effectively with valuable content, ensuring wider knowledge dissemination across Maharashtra.

By breaking language barriers, this initiative fosters linguistic inclusivity and empowers citizens with essential information in their mother tongue, as envisioned in NEP 2020. The platform will assist youth in skilling themselves in over 7000 skill courses that includes Industry 4.0 courses, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Drone technology to name a few.

Shri Uday Samant, Minister of Marathi Language of Maharashtra, Shri Shrirang Barne, Member of Lok Sabha, Smt Neelam Gorhe, Member of Maharashtra Legislative Council, Sri Siddharth Shirole, Member of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Shri Bapusaheb Pathare, Member of Legislative Assembly, along with Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC and MD NSDC International and other eminent dignitaries from various fields graced the occasion.

Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC, was felicitated by the Hon’ble Minister Shri Uday Samant, for his instrumental role in shaping SIDH into a pioneering initiative that is transforming knowledge accessibility. Shri Tiwari has been at the forefront of driving innovation, integrating technology with education, and ensuring that skill development reaches every corner of the nation. His relentless efforts have positioned SIDH as a model for linguistic inclusivity and empowerment.

Speaking at the ceremony and reinforcing the central government’s commitment to skilling and digital empowerment, Shri Tiwari said, “SIDH has nationally recorded more than 1.26 crore registrations in over a year. It is offering thousands of skilling courses, and with the unveiling of the Marathi version, NSDC is showcasing the utility of the platform to empower millions of Marathi-speaking youth and help them unlock their career prospects.”

In terms of registrations, Maharashtra is among the top five states in the country while in terms of user traffic, at 30 per cent nationally, it stands next to Uttar Pradesh. With the unveiling of the Marathi version, the popularity and registration of the skilling courses and the platform will further go up. Marathi is among the 23 languages in which the platform can be accessed.

The most popular courses in the state include, web design, cybersecurity, kisan drone operator. Over 43,000 female users have enrolled in various online courses, with over 80 per cent being under the age of 30. The top sectors attracting enrolment from the state include IT-ITeS, entrepreneurship, and electronics among others.

People learn more effectively in their native language, so the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, along with NSDC, has been working to offer skilling courses in local languages to maximize results.

“With the unveiling of the Marathi version of SIDH, we are trying to ensure that language is never a barrier to skilling. It aligns with vision of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises the importance of regional language communication in education and skill development. We are enabling the youth of Maharashtra and the global Marathi community to seamlessly integrate into India’s employment and digital skilling ecosystem.” Shri Tiwari said, underscoring the significance of regional inclusivity and digital transformation.

SIDH is a comprehensive digital platform that has been developed to access skilling opportunities, career guidance, and opportunities both in India and abroad. Maharashtra is the largest economy in India, so the demand for a skilled workforce would be maximum.

With the aim of making the state a USD 1 trillion economy by 2028, a district-wise Skill Gap Analysis Report was conducted in the state in 2023 by the Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Department (SEEID).

The survey engaged with over 1500 industries and over 200,000 trainees across the state to understand skill gaps in traditional and new-age sectors and identified electronics, automotive, agriculture, BFSI, and IT/ITeS among the sectors for immediate intervention.

The 2023 survey also conducted a language proficiency of the labour force, and found that majority of the staffs in the sample, laid huge emphasis on the proficiency of Marathi language. Over 95 percent of industry respondents expected the workforce to know Marathi, while over 83 percent Hindi.

Maharashtra being a hub for industry and commerce, this initiative will provide young aspirants with the necessary resources to upgrade their skills and integrate into the workforce efficiently.

Experience the Natural Path to Wellness: Forever Living Products Redefines Health

Forever Living Products offers the best consumable products based on Aloe Vera to the public, products that are proven to promote lasting wellness and health. Forever is the world’s largest producer, manufacturer and distributor of Aloe Vera products worldwide and manages its own production and commercial chain, “from plant to product to you”. They are constantly developing innovative products and a wider range of products aimed at both helping people to adopt a healthy lifestyle but also offering an income opportunity for those with business ambitions.

Founded by Rex Maughan, Forever Living Products (1978, USA) has offices worldwide in over 160 countries and is active in Direct Sales through self-employed entrepreneurs (Forever Business Owners). Since then, Forever Living Products has been dedicated to seeking out nature’s best sources for health and beauty and sharing them with the world. They have a passion for helping others look better and feel better, and pride that comes from doing things a little differently. They own their own aloe fields, manufacturing facilities, research and development, quality control laboratories and even our own distribution channels. They use clinically tested ingredients, with innovative technology.

Forever Living Products India is transforming lives under the leadership of Mr. Harish Singla. Mr. Singla has been responsible for providing strategic, financial and operational inspired leadership for various FMCG organizations. He holds a degree in Engineering and is an alumnus of prestigious IIM Ahmedabad. Having an exceptionally strong leadership ability, Strategic mindset, professional business acumen, outstanding problem solving skills, excellent ability to lead and manage and continually drive effective results, Mr. Singla is a dynamic thought leader who drives revenue growth through employee engagement.

Lately, the company ventured into local manufacturing and has launched products in Nutrition, Personal and Skincare category – Forever Bhringraj Hair fall Control Oil, FAB Energy drink, Energy bars, Radiance by Forever, Hand Sanitizer and Aloe Herbal Infusion.

The Future of Free Entertainment in India: Amazon MX Player’s StreamNext Reveals 100+ New Shows

The first edition of Amazon MX Player’s – StreamNext event featured global marketing leaders like Sir Martin Sorrell, Benedict Evans and prominent entertainment industry personalities. The star-studded event showcased the evolving landscape of content consumption in India and how Amazon MX Player is becoming a transformative partner to advertisers for building strong and memorable brands. Amid stellar appearances by Bobby Deol (Aashram 3), Suniel Shetty & Jackie Shroff (Hunter 2), Remo D’Souza & Malaika Arora (Hip Hop India 2), Ashneer Grover (Rise and Fall) and more, Amazon MX Player showcased its remarkable slate of over 100 new shows for 2025.

“Today’s gathering is all about bringing together the vast reach of Amazon MX Player, with ad tech that leverages Amazon’s trillions of customer signals,” said Girish Prabhu, Head of Amazon Ads India. “It’s about enabling all brands, not just the ones selling on Amazon, to reach and deliver relevant advertising to over 250 million unique users in India. It’s about directly measuring outcomes from the very top of the funnel to the very bottom. Full funnel advertising is here!”

With hit Originals, reality shows, and MX Vdesi content that includes K-dramas, Mandarin, Turkish shows and more, Amazon MX Player is one of India’s largest entertainment destinations. “There is no other streaming service in India that offers such a massive selection of content for free,” said Karan Bedi, Head of Amazon MX Player.

Bedi also highlighted that the MX Player app is one of the most downloaded apps in India with over 1.4 billion downloads on Play Store. In addition, Amazon MX Player can be seamlessly accessed across a wide range of surfaces including India’s largest eCommerce app Amazon.in, on Prime Video, and Fire TV. This widespread availability ensures that customers can enjoy shows on their preferred channel. “Amazon MX Player is uniquely positioned to drive the shift from linear television to video streaming, its reach is already at par with some of the leading general entertainment channels in India.”

Amogh Dusad, Head of Content, unveiled an exciting lineup of more than 100 new shows set to launch in 2025, including 40 new Hindi originals and returning seasons of India’s beloved and award-winning shows like Aashram, Hunter, Jamnapaar, Half CA, Hip Hop India, Sixer, Who’s your Gynac and Playground. New series with innovative story lines were also announced, such as Bhay centering around an Indian paranormal investigator, The Titan Story, which tells an inspiring tale of India’s first super brand, along with a new reality show – Rise and Fall, a unique competitive format where players begin as equals, vying to become a ruler or remain a pauper. Viewers can also look forward to a new MX Vdesi series every week, dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, alongside an extensive movie library. Dusad shared how the service leverages deep consumer insights to craft fresh storylines that are rooted and authentic, while rapidly experimenting with new content formats. “We are committed to keeping India entertained—free of charge!”

The event also showcased the marketing fraternity an expanded suite of new interactive and shoppable ad formats for Amazon MX Player. These formats include in-stream shoppable ads where viewers can browse a product during ad breaks, immersive formats where brands can effectively communicate their message. Viewer interaction with such native ad formats is 6-7 times higher as compared to other industry offerings. “Our audiences are highly engaged viewers and we have a strong understanding of their shopping patterns, an advantage that only Amazon MX Player can provide. Even brands that don’t sell products or services on Amazon can connect to customers through this premium world of content and by levering our first-party shopping signals, to enhance their campaign effectiveness”, said Aruna Daryanani, Director, Amazon MX Player. Om Jha, Director of Media & Partnerships at PepsiCo, shared insights on how the service has contributed to their brand’s success.

University of Southampton Delhi Launches Prestigious Scholarships for Indian Undergraduate and Graduate Students

National, 31st January 2025: University of Southampton Delhi has announced two prestigious scholarship schemes, Delhi Presidential Scholarship and Future Talent Scholarship.

These are competitive scholarships for aspiring undergraduate and graduate Indian students with an aim to recognise, nurture and encourage exceptional talent. Eligibility criteria information and scholarship applications will be available in the last week of February to all those applying to study at the University from August 2025.

The Delhi Presidential Scholarship is a competitive scholarship awarded to one undergraduate and one graduate and covers tuition fees for the entire course duration. Aspiring students must exhibit continuous academic rigour and exemplify the University’s community spirit and values to attain the scholarship and to sustain it throughout their respective course duration. The recipients of the scholarship will be announced in June 2025 for the graduate programme and in July 2025 for the undergraduate programme.

The Future Talent Scholarship is a competitive scholarship designed and offered by University of Southampton Delhi for up to 12 undergraduate and graduates, offering INR 220,000 contribution towards the first-year tuition fees. The scholarship is available to applicants across all the six programmes offered by the University for August 2025 entry. Recipients will be awarded based on strong past academic achievements and their scholarship application. The shortlisted recipients will be announced in two tranches, in June 2025 and then in July 2025.

Andrew Atherton, Vice-President International and Engagement at the University of Southampton, said: “We are proud to offer these scholarships, which are designed to recognise and reward academic excellence and will provide real, tangible support for students embarking on their higher education journey.

“A considerable proportion of tuition fees will be invested in scholarships making it possible for many of those who enrol to receive financial support when they meet our academic excellence or widening participation criteria.

“By studying at University of Southampton Delhi, students will be part of a global academic community, with access to the same high-quality resources, expert faculty, and UK-style education that Southampton is renowned for.

“These scholarships will empower our students to excel in their academic pursuits and become future leaders and innovators, prepared to make a lasting impact on society.”

Pre Budget Expectation Quotes by Experts

 Pankaj Dhingra, Managing Partner, FinTram Global LLP

“Budget 2025 presents an opportunity to make tax filing more accessible and transparent for everyone. Leveraging AI-based income tax systems can not only streamline processes but also help identify fraudulent practices efficiently, ensuring fairness and accountability.

Further, revising outdated tax slabs and increasing the 80C deduction – that has remained unchanged for years – will provide a much-needed relief to taxpayers.

Next, to boost entrepreneurship, introducing tax holidays and other benefits for startups and young entrepreneurs can provide the necessary impetus for innovation and job creation for common man.

Additionally, reducing GST on education to 5% will make learning and skilling more affordable, empowering students to invest in their future.

If implemented thoughtfully, these measures can create a simplified, inclusive, and growth-oriented tax framework for all.”

Mike Capone, CEO, Qlik

“The AI race won’t be won by creating the most sophisticated model; it’ll be won by embedding AI into business systems to generate tangible economic value. Global leadership in AI should be measured by its application, not just its invention.”

Niranjan Nayak, Managing Director,  Delta Electronics India 

 We are optimistic about measures to propel India’s technology and AI sectors, which are pivotal for the nation’s economic transformation. Advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital infrastructure are driving global competitiveness, and this budget presents a unique opportunity to reinforce India’s leadership in these domains.
Opportunities such as higher R&D incentives, policies to promote AI adoption across industries, and investments in digital upskilling will help build a future-ready workforce. Upgrading digital infrastructure—particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities—could effectively democratize access to technology and spur regional growth.
By incentivizing sustainable technologies and AI-driven solutions for energy management and manufacturing, economic growth can be aligned with environmental goals. A robust focus on collaboration between the government, academia, and the private sector will be key to accelerating India’s journey toward becoming a global technology hub.
At Delta Electronics India, we are committed to supporting India’s digital ambitions through innovative, energy-efficient solutions that empower industries to achieve operational excellence and sustainability.”

 “We want Union Budget 2025, to focus on driving India’s transition to a greener, more sustainable economy. At Delta Electronics India we are particularly keen on seeing robust measures aimed at accelerating the growth of the EV sector, which plays a pivotal role in reducing the country’s carbon footprint. We are positive about the upcoming budget and are expecting it to offer good incentives to facilitate the growth of EV infrastructure, particularly charging networks, which is an essential element for such wide adoption.
One of our major expectations is the implementation of financial incentives and tax rebates that would promote both public and private investments in EV charging infrastructure. This would form a good foundation for the adoption of EVs throughout the country. Furthermore, we expect to see more focus on public-private partnerships, which will help ease the process of charging station rollouts, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities where infrastructure development has been relatively slow.
We also look forward to increased funding on R&D initiatives that push energy-efficient technologies, especially in making renewable integration with the infrastructure for EVs. This will not only meet the objectives of Delta in supporting an enhanced greener India but most importantly ensure long-term sustainability and innovation.
We are looking forward to a budget that not only supports the EV ecosystem but also puts India at the forefront of global sustainable energy and mobility. And at Delta, we will be committed to actively playing a part in this transformation, building a sustainable future for India.”

 “India stands at the unique juncture where the demographic dividend has offered an unparalleled opportunity for nations economic growth and for social transformation. The Union Budget 2025-26 can support the nation potential, particularly through sectors like electronics and telecom that are critical to India’s technological and economic future.

To add more value and increasing the domestic production, the government can expand the scope of PLI schemes to cover a broader range of components and technologies. Strengthening the supply chain ecosystem with focused investments in infrastructure, skill development, and capacity building will be important. Research and development incentives through tax benefits can accelerate innovation and make India a global leader in advanced technologies.

We also believe that sustainability should form the core of India’s growth strategy. The government can introduce benefits and reform in form of performance-based incentive system to recognize companies that consistently exceed environmental standards and investing continuously in sustainable practices. Expedited environmental and forest approvals, clearances, and permits to such organizations will not only encourage sustainable practices but also attract long-term investments.

At Delta Electronics India, we align our efforts with the nation’s vision for a self-reliant and sustainable economy. A bold and inclusive budget that supports domestic manufacturing, technological innovation, and sustainability will pave the way for India to become a global manufacturing and technology hub, driving economic resilience and environmental stewardship for years to come.”

Ms. Rachna Kango, Senior Director, ESG and Strategic Marketing, Delta Electronics India

 “The Union Budget 2025 presents a fantastic opportunity to accelerate India’s energy transition and bolster its energy security. To meet the ambitious 2030 target of achieving 500 GW renewable energy capacity, enhanced budgetary allocations for emerging sectors like offshore wind and green hydrogen are crucial. Viability gap funding and financial support for solarizing MSMEs can drive wider adoption of clean energy solutions.

Incentives for the domestic manufacturing of solar panels, cells, and storage batteries will further strengthen the “Make in India” initiative and reduce import dependency. Additionally, a comprehensive energy transition policy is needed to outline a clear roadmap for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors and integrating diverse energy sources for a balanced energy mix. Such measures will play a pivotal role in advancing India’s renewable energy goals and ensuring sustainable growth.”

 Kalpana Apte, Director,FPA India

“The Union Budget 2025-2026 should facilitate the required resources for initiating HPV vaccination among eligible young girls under 15 years of age, in India, besides scaling population-based screening for cervical cancer among eligible women, through capacity building of mid-level providers, investment in HPV DNA testing and technology to improve the quality of screening in the outreach.

FPA India, has been actively engaged in promoting public awareness and action to prevent cervical cancer through our ongoing campaign Race To Erase Cervical Cancer.

We have provided over 1000 doses of HPV vaccines and more than 20,000 screenings for cervical cancer since the launch of the campaign in September 2023.

We envisage stepping up the campaign to complement and supplement the efforts of the Government of India towards early diagnosis and complete treatment for improving cervical cancer survival rates.

Budgetary allocation for procurement of HPV vaccines, roll-out of the vaccination drive through a targeted communication campaign, coupled with investment in highly sensitive screening tests and competency-based training of providers in the screen, triage and treat protocols in the public sector, will be a game-changer for improving equity and access to Cervical Cancer prevention in India.”

Ruchi Sogarwal, Director, Corporate Affairs – Takeda Biopharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd

“The upcoming Union Budget 2025-26 holds immense potential to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector and position India as a global pharmaceutical leader. By increasing public healthcare spending, fostering innovation through public-private partnerships, and investing in advanced research and development, the government can accelerate the delivery of cutting-edge therapies. These initiatives will enhance internal capabilities, drive drug discovery, and improve the accessibility of innovative medicines. Additionally, a robust allocation towards healthcare infrastructure, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, will ensure that quality care reaches underserved regions. We are optimistic that this budget will build upon the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering a healthier India while ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all.”

Naresh Kumar, Director of Sigma-HSE (India) Pvt. Ltd

We anticipate the Union Budget to emphasize industrial safety and compliance, particularly in high-risk sectors like oil & gas, chemicals, and manufacturing. Increased budget allocations for safety initiatives, stricter enforcement of compliance standards, and subsidies for safety audits, training, and equipment are critical expectations. Tax benefits for industries investing in advanced safety protocols and equipment can further encourage proactive adoption of risk mitigation measures. Additionally, policy frameworks that mandate periodic safety audits and promote global best practices will create opportunities for service providers to support industries in achieving compliance and operational excellence.

The sector also looks forward to government incentives for digital transformation in safety, including the adoption of IoT, AI, and predictive analytics for risk management. Support for R&D in innovative safety technologies and skill development programs for safety professionals can address talent gaps and drive innovation. Including safety equipment manufacturing under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme would boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. By addressing these areas, the Union Budget can foster a culture of safety, enhance industrial resilience, and support sustainable growth for process safety services providers in India.

Gaurav K Singh, Founder and Chairman- Womeki Group

The Indian real estate sector is a vital contributor to the GDP. The upcoming budget will focus on various measures to boost growth, affordability, and sustainability. The industry is expecting policies promoting affordable housing, rationalisation of GST, and incentives to promote green real estate. For Delhi NCR, infrastructure development and smart city initiatives remain key. Better road networks, metro expansion, and seamless connectivity to Delhi and surrounding areas will further enhance the region’s position as a top real estate investment destination. The growing commercial and luxury residential segments highlight the need for reforms which enable ease of doing businesses and streamlined approvals. The real estate market will reach new heights if the upcoming budget addresses these areas, attracting domestic and international investors. With supportive policies, Delhi NCR is poised to remain at the forefront of India’s real estate growth.

Kapil Garg, Managing Director, Asian Energy Services Limited

“The oil and gas sector has experienced considerable momentum in recent months, and sustaining this growth hinges on focused policymaking in the Union Budget 2025. First and foremost would be the passage of the Oilfield (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, which can mark a turning point for the industry. The proposed changes will expedite approvals, simplify arbitration processes, and particularly benefit unconventional hydrocarbons like shale and coalbed methane, improving not only investments but also enhance resource utilization. Collaboration between public and private players must also be a priority. Initiatives like OLAP, DSF, and PEC have demonstrated the benefits of partnership in unlocking India’s hydrocarbon reserves. Expanding these frameworks and incentivizing private participation will further boost domestic production and reduce import dependency. The recent collaboration between ONGC and BP in Mumbai High can serve as a blueprint for public-private synergies for technological innovation and enhanced production outputs going ahead.

Another important aspect to consider is the need to rationalize gas pricing formulas to minimize price distortions faced by producers and consumers under the existing multi-pricing mechanisms. By adopting a more streamlined formula that aligns with previous frameworks linking gas prices to crude oil benchmarks, India can enhance accessibility to cleaner fuel. These moves would be even more effective if implemented alongside the long-pending inclusion of oil and gas in GST, particularly natural gas. Its implementation would simplify taxation, improve the fuel’s competitiveness, and foster greater adoption of natural gas as a cleaner energy source, in line with India’s energy transition goals. The industry would also benefit from capital allocations for expanding midstream infrastructure, including pipelines and gas terminals. India’s current pipeline network, at approximately 20,000 kilometers, falls short of meeting future demand. Expanding this network and modernizing fuel transport infrastructure are critical to de-bottlenecking supply chains and unlocking production potential in newly explored basins.

Sri Kumaraswamy Mineral Exports Boosts Akshaya Patra Foundation’s Efforts with Vehicle Donation

Bengaluru, Jan, 31st 2025: In a significant boost to its mission of feeding school children, The Akshaya Patra Foundation today received a generous donation of two delivery-vehicle vans from Sri Kumaraswamy Mineral Exports Private Limited. The handover ceremony took place at the company’s Cunningham Road office, marking a pivotal moment in the partnership.

Each of the donated vans has the capacity to carry 5,000 meals, extending the foundation’s reach to approximately 90 government & government-aided schools in the Bellary area. This contribution will play a crucial role in ensuring timely and safe meal deliveries to thousands of children, aiding their educational journey.

Mr. Dhananjay Ganjoo, Chief Resource Mobilization & Marketing Officer at The Akshaya Patra Foundation, attended the event. Expressing gratitude, Mr. Ganjoo stated, “This generous donation from Sri Kumaraswamy Mineral Exports Private Limited greatly enhances our logistical capabilities to serve children better. It is through such partnerships that we can continue to make a significant impact.”

The Akshaya Patra Foundation thanks Sri Kumaraswamy Mineral Exports Private Limited for their commitment to supporting child nutrition and education.

Addressing Supply Chain Challenges in the Indian Furniture Industry: Expectations from the Union Budget

By-Mr. Tushar Verma, Executive Vice President, REHAU

India’s furniture industry, valued at approximately ₹1.9 lakh crore in 2024, is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. According to the Furniture Industry Outlook Report 2024, this sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13-15% over the next five years. Yet, despite this remarkable growth, the industry faces significant supply chain challenges that hinder its true potential. As the Union Budget approaches, stakeholders in the furniture manufacturing ecosystem are eagerly awaiting measures that could help overcome these obstacles and drive the sector towards sustainable growth.

Polymers Manufacturing Challenges in India
The polymer manufacturing sector in India faces several significant challenges that hinder its growth and global competitiveness. One of the primary issues is raw material unpredictability, as fluctuations in global oil prices directly impact the cost of key inputs, creating financial strain for manufacturers. Additionally, the industry grapples with a shortage of skilled labor, limiting its ability to optimize production processes and adopt advanced technologies. Energy shortages further compound the problem, with frequent disruptions in power supply significantly affecting the energy-intensive polymer production processes.

Another critical challenge is the increasing focus on environmental regulations related to polymer waste, which demands significant investments in research and development to create sustainable solutions. The need to comply with global standards and regulations introduces additional costs and complexities, as manufacturers must align with international benchmarks to remain competitive. Moreover, continuous investment in research and development is essential to innovate polymer technologies, develop new applications, and improve existing products to compete in both domestic and international markets. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach between policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure the sector’s long-term sustainability and growth.

Sourcing Challenges: Ensuring Raw Material Availability

India’s furniture industry relies heavily on raw materials such as wood, metal, and engineered products like Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and Particle Boards. However, domestic production often falls short of the demand. For example, India imported MDF worth ₹3,700 crore in 2024, highlighting the gap in local manufacturing capacity. Additionally, fluctuations in import duties have further increased cost pressures for manufacturers.

To address these challenges, industry leaders are looking to the Union Budget for specific measures:

• Reduction in Import Duties: Lowering duties on key raw materials will help reduce costs for manufacturers and improve competitiveness in global markets.
• Incentives for Domestic Production: Extending the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to furniture components could promote investment in domestic MDF and plywood manufacturing.
• Sustainability Incentives: Policies supporting the use of certified, sustainable wood and alternative materials like bamboo can reduce the environmental impact and ensure long-term material availability.
• Logistics Bottlenecks: Bridging the Infrastructure Gap

India’s fragmented logistics network remains a key bottleneck for the furniture industry. As reported by the National Logistics Policy 2024, the average logistics cost in India is approximately 14% of GDP, significantly higher than the 8-10% range seen in developed countries. This inefficiency disrupts the timely delivery of components and finished goods.

Key measures anticipated in the Union Budget include:

• Investment in Infrastructure: Enhanced funding for multi-modal transport networks, including railways and inland waterways, would help ensure smoother and cost-effective transportation of bulky furniture components.
• Digitization of Logistics: Incentives for adopting digital platforms for real-time tracking, inventory management, and supply chain analytics could significantly reduce delays and inefficiencies.
• Warehousing Support: Grants or subsidized loans for setting up advanced warehousing facilities near industrial hubs would improve storage and distribution.
• Labor Shortages: Bridging the Skills Gap

The furniture manufacturing sector employs over 5 million workers, but there is a severe shortage of skilled labor. According to the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) Report 2024, more than 70% of workers in the sector lack formal training, leading to low productivity and compromised product quality. The rise of automation and digitization further amplifies the need for a technologically proficient workforce.

Measures proposed to address labor challenges include:

• Skill Development Programs: Expanding initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), tailored specifically for furniture manufacturing, could enhance worker capabilities in modern production techniques.
• Incentives for Workforce Retention: Offering tax breaks or subsidies for manufacturers investing in employee training and welfare could improve workforce stability and productivity.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations with furniture component manufacturers can create industry-relevant training modules and internships, improving overall skill levels in the sector.

 Rising Expectations from the Union Budget

The upcoming Union Budget is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s furniture industry. Key expectations include:

• Export Promotion Measures: Despite India’s furniture exports contributing less than 1% of global trade, export incentives such as tax rebates and easier credit access could help manufacturers tap into international markets, particularly in Europe and North America.
• Cluster Development Programs: Establishing furniture manufacturing clusters equipped with shared resources like advanced machinery, testing labs, and training centers could enhance small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
• Sustainability Grants: Financial support for adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy and recycling materials, would position India as a global leader in sustainable furniture production.

 The furniture industry is hopeful for several key measures aimed at enhancing its growth and competitiveness. One major expectation is the granting of infrastructure status to the sector, which would facilitate easier access to financing and incentivize investments in production and logistics infrastructure. The industry is also anticipating tax reforms and incentives, particularly the reduction of import duties on essential materials or tax deductions aimed at improving manufacturing and logistics processes, which would help reduce operational costs.

Additionally, the sector is eager for increased investments in skill development programs and support for technology adoption, especially in supply chain management, to drive higher productivity and efficiency. There is also a push for GST rationalization, with the hope that simplification or reduction of GST rates on furniture will make products more affordable, boosting both domestic consumption and export potential.

Another focus is the support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant part of the industry. Measures such as easier access to finance or subsidies could help formalize operations, improve supply chain management practices, and increase overall sector efficiency. Collectively, these expectations highlight the industry’s need for policy support that addresses critical supply chain management challenges, fostering enhanced competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

Expectations from Union Budget 2025 for the Polymer Industry
The polymer industry has high expectations from the Union Budget 2025 to address critical challenges and propel the sector toward sustainable growth. One of the key demands is the introduction of Production Linked Incentives (PLI) or tax benefits for adopting green technologies, encouraging manufacturers to shift toward environmentally friendly production practices. Reducing import duties on raw materials is another crucial ask, as it could stabilize costs, making Indian products more competitive both domestically and globally. Additionally, the industry seeks increased funding for research and development (R&D) to foster innovation, enabling the development of new polymer types and advanced applications.

Investments in infrastructure development, particularly in energy, are also vital to mitigate manufacturing disruptions caused by power shortages. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at skill development are necessary to equip the workforce with advanced manufacturing techniques and sustainable practices, addressing the industry’s labor challenges. Lastly, the industry looks forward to policy measures to improve ease of doing business, such as simplifying regulatory compliance and revising GST frameworks, to reduce operational burdens and encourage investment. These budgetary interventions, if implemented, could create a robust foundation for the polymer industry’s long-term growth and global competitiveness.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help Manage Learning Disabilities

By- Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry Director Prayatna

Learning disability is a neurodevelopmental condition that interferes with the ability to learn basic skills such as reading, writing, or mathematics. These challenges are not a reflection of intelligence but rather a sign that the brain processes information differently. Without appropriate intervention, individuals with learning disabilities often face academic struggles, low self-esteem, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Key signs to look for include:
1. Writing Challenges
• Persistent letter reversals ( e.g., confusing “b” and d”)
• Mirror writing (e.g., writing “saw” as “was”)
• Occasional letter substitutions (e.g., writing “e” instead of “a”; “pet” instead of “pat”)
These challenges are common in children under 7, but become a concern if they persist.

2. Academic Struggles
• Reading difficulties (e.g., decoding, phonetics, fluency)
• Writing challenges (e.g., organizing thoughts, spelling, letter formation, missing lines when copying from board)
• General messy or poor handwriting (e.g. irregular size, sloppy spaces between letters/words)
• Math struggles (e.g., understanding numbers, basic arithmetic concepts)

3. Memory and Concentration Issues
• Difficulty remembering instructions or sequences
• Poor focus, easily distracted

4. Following Instructions
• Struggling to follow multi-step instructions
• Difficulty with simple, one step directions
• Appears clumsy in his/her movements, often walking into objects

Role of Occupational Therapy in Helping Children with Learning Disabilities
Occupational Therapy is crucial in supporting children with learning disabilities by addressing specific challenges and fostering overall development. Therapy changes as the child grows, initially focusing on sensory integration, basic socialization, and self-help skills. Later, it helps develop social play, motor skills, and writing. By adolescence, the focus shifts to independent living, social skills, and vocational interests.

Here are some strategies to create an inclusive environment:
1. Offer clear, direct communication with simple language.
2. Breaking tasks down into smaller and more manageable chunks
3. Provide teachers with training on inclusive practices use visual cues (labels, color-coding) for better understanding.
4. Incorporate scheduled sensory activities like using therapy balls or cushions.
5. Establish a consistent daily routine and communicate changes in advance.
6. Use timers to help children anticipate activity transitions.

Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Learning Disabilities
Occupational Therapy helps to develop motor skills necessary for daily life, such as handwriting, dressing, and self-care. Children with learning disabilities often struggle with sensory processing, making it hard to focus and engage with their environment. OT addresses sensory challenges and teaches self-regulation, attention, and impulse control—essential for academic and social success.

Occupational therapy also enhances cognitive skills like problem-solving and memory, helping children become more independent. Social skills are improved through group activities, where the child practices turn-taking and sharing, leading to better interaction with peers and family. Additionally, OT supports teachers by modifying classroom settings to accommodate each child’s learning needs. An Occupational Therapist might recommend using a slant board to improve handwriting posture or providing fidget tools to help a child stay focused. They might also suggest adaptive seating, such as wobble cushions, to support children with sensory needs, or color-coded folders to assist with organization and memory retention.
Correct sitting posture is essential for children with learning disabilities, as it impacts their ability to focus, engage in learning activities, and perform tasks efficiently. Poor posture can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and difficulty in motor coordination. Occupational therapists often provide strategies and interventions to help children maintain proper posture.
Children with learning disabilities often face challenges in writing, including issues with handwriting readability. Therapists work with them to improve essential skills and enhance handwriting speed appropriate for the child’s age.
Additionally, therapists address pencil grip through guided practice and exercises aimed at improving wrist and shoulder stability, ensuring better control and coordination while writing. These strategies help the child engage better in learning and classroom activities.
Therapy is customized to each child’s strengths and challenges, ensuring it is both effective and supportive.
When learning difficulties go unrecognized, children may become frustrated and misunderstood, which can make the challenges even harder to overcome. By identifying learning disabilities early and providing the right support, we can help children thrive and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Early identification leads to better inclusion and a brighter future for all.