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Environment Minister of India, Delhi CM and others participate in ISKCON Creators Summit

Environment Minister of India, Delhi CM and others participate in ISKCON Creators Summit, Inspire Youth to Embrace Culture and Wellness

New Delhi, September 4, 2025: The ISKCON Creators Summit 2025 witnessed 500+ digital creators and influencers gathering at The Zora Delhi Convention Centre on September 2, 2025. Shri Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Union Cabinet Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, participated as the Chief Guest along with the Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi, who was the Special Guest at this summit on “Bharatiya Culture, Tourism & Wellness”. Shri Kapil Mishra, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Culture, Art, Legal and Labour, Govt of NCT-Delhi, attended as Guest of Honour.

While there have been other social media summits,this was first of its kind which brought together some of India’s most impactful content creators such as Ranveer Allahbadia (BeerBiceps), Faizal Khan (Khan Sir), Richa Anirudh, Alakh Pandey (PhysicsWallah), Anand Kumar (Super 30), Aman Dattarwal, Sonu Sharma focusing on promoting sharing and promoting India’s traditions and culture.

Speaking at the summit, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi, said,m“I commend ISKCON for bringing together young influencers on one platform to inspire the younger generation towards the path of culture, unity, and nation-building. In today’s time, it is essential that our youth remain connected with their roots and develop a deep sense of pride and responsibility towards our Swadesh. Such initiatives play a significant role in guiding the energy of young India in the right direction, fostering values of harmony, wellness, and love for the nation.”

The lead behind this initiative Sriman Yudhistir Govinda Das, Trustee & Country Director of Communications, ISKCON India, said, “Today, there is a dire need for India’s story to be shared with the world. From our culture to cuisine to lifestyle to philosophies, it has over the millenniums demonstrated how to make progress and be in harmony with the nature, other beings and our own selves. The digital medium is one of the strongest forces shaping the mindset of today’s generation. ISKCON’s aim is to guide creators to use their influence responsibly to spread wellness, positivity, and our culture. We plan to bring forth more initiatives where culture meets creativity to help the youth connect with their roots and build a prosperous future.”

In his keynote address, Shri Bhupender Yadav, Hon’ble Union Cabinet Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India said, “India’s culture and heritage are among the most profound in the world. Our values, traditions, and diversity make us unique as a nation. If creators highlight these treasures with authenticity, it will not only strengthen our youth but also enhance tourism and project India’s soft power across the globe.”

The summit emphasized guiding Gen Z to reconnect with their roots and embrace a lifestyle grounded in wellness and cultural values. The evening opened with soulful kirtans by ISKCON devotees, followed by panel discussions among the influencers wherein they shared their journey, challenges and the opportunities, along with insightful talks by ISKCON mentors.
The event concluded with the felicitation of select creators for their contributions to spreading spirituality, culture, and wellness in innovative ways. The summit reinforced ISKCON’s long-standing role in nurturing youth and preserving India’s rich traditions.

Child Care Aware of Missouri Hires Community Support Specialist

Affrika Blackmon brings 10 years of social services experience to the growing nonprofit.

(St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 4, 2025) Child Care Aware of Missouri (CCAMO) recently named Affrika Blackmon as one of its Community Support Specialists. With more than 10 years of experience in social services, Blackmon will focus on connecting families, child care providers, and community members with the information and support they need through Missouri’s statewide Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) system.

Blackmon’s newly created position is made possible by a contract with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood, which provides dedicated focus in serving Missouri families with young children in need of help. In her position, she will represent CCAMO and serve the Missouri Childhood Resource and Referral (MCRR) Center, which provides crucial child care subsidy navigation for parents going to school or taking a job and connects families to essential resources across the state including locating child care.

Prior to joining CCAMO, Blackmon was the Social Service Coordinator for Volunteers of America and a Senior Social Services Specialist at the Department of Mental Health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Criminal Justice from Ashford University in San Diego, California.

“We are delighted to have Affrika bring her deep commitment and proven leadership in social services to our organization,” said CCAMO CEO Robin Phillips. “Her expertise will be instrumental as we work to break down barriers to ensure every Missouri family can find and access quality child care.”

Founded in 1999, CCAMO is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on a comprehensive early childhood education experience through impactful programs and partnerships. The organization’s services include workforce development, child care business supports, advocacy and policy work, and its new Child Care Keeps Missouri Working, a regional campaign offering concierge solutions to businesses undergoing employee recruitment and retention challenges due to the overwhelming shortage of quality child care options. For more information, call (314) 535-1458 or visit www.mochildcareaware.org.

Mahadivya Sangam at Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Bangalore

Mahadivya Sangam at Akshar Yoga Kendraa Marks Historic Milestone with the Divine Presence of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji and Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji

Bangalore, 1st September, 2025: In a historic and spiritually uplifting gathering at Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru, the august presence of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji, the current pontiff of the Sri Pejavara Adhokshaja Matha, Udupi, Karnataka, infused the event with inspiration, divine grace, and timeless wisdom. The occasion, celebrated as Mahadivya Sangam, brought together seekers, yogis, and devotees for a rare confluence of yoga, spirituality, and service.
One of the most significant highlights of the event was the formal announcement of two landmark initiatives, envisioned by Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji, aka Grand Master Akshar Ji and Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa. To underline their spiritual and social significance, these initiatives were blessed and announced by the revered Jagadguru himself, ensuring that they were placed before society with divine sanctity and guidance.

Global Delegation to Asia

The first major announcement marked a bold stride in Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s international expansion. A special delegation has already been dispatched to regions including China, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and North-East Asian countries with the mission to establish robust foundations of yoga education.

As part of this initiative, a second delegation of senior master teachers will travel in September 2025. Their mission is to train and certify 10,000 professional yoga teachers over the next two years through Ministry of AYUSH-accredited Teacher Training Programs.
This pioneering effort not only strengthens Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s global footprint but also ensures that the true essence of yoga knowledge reaches diverse communities, fostering health, peace, and cultural exchange across Asia.

300-Acre Transformative Project in Odisha

The second announcement unveiled a visionary 300-acre development project in Odisha, a state deeply revered for its spiritual and cultural legacy. This monumental campus will embody a holistic approach to service and education, anchored in dharmic values and compassion.

Key features of the Odisha project include:

• A Gau Shala housing 1,000 cows, dedicated to preservation, care, and the continuation of India’s sacred traditions.

• A fully functional academic school (Classes 1–10) offering completely free education to underprivileged, needy, and deserving children.

This initiative goes beyond infrastructure—it represents Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s commitment to service through knowledge and transformation, empowering future generations through education, values, and opportunities.

Words of Inspiration from Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji

On the occasion, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Jagadguru’s presence and blessings. He noted:

“These initiatives symbolize our dual mission: to spread the light of the Himalayan tradition of yoga across the world and to uplift communities within India through education, compassion, and service. With the blessings of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji, these projects will not only create opportunities but also inspire generations to live with discipline, devotion, and selflessness.”

Blessings from Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji

In his address, Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji commended the vision and dedication of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji, emphasizing the importance of blending spiritual practice with service to humanity. He blessed the initiatives and encouraged seekers to participate wholeheartedly in building a society rooted in dharma, compassion, and wisdom.

A Defining Moment for Akshar Yoga Kendraa

The announcement, made during the Mahadivya Sangam 2025, marked a defining moment in Akshar Yoga Kendraa’s journey. Already celebrated worldwide for its achievements—including 21 Guinness World Records in yoga—this event further underscored the institution’s dual commitment: advancing yoga as a universal discipline and strengthening the social fabric of communities through noble projects.

With a vibrant digital following of over 2.5 million and more than 8,000 media features worldwide, Akshar Yoga Kendraa continues to amplify the reach of yoga, making it accessible, practical, and transformative for all.

The convergence of Sri Sri Vishwaprasanna Teertha Swamiji blessings with the visionary leadership of Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar Ji made the Mahadivya Sangam not just a gathering, but a spiritual milestone — one that will be remembered as the dawn of a new era of yoga, seva, and global transformation.

Hotel Sahara Star Celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with Devotion and Grandeur

Mumbai, 1st September 2025: Hotel Sahara Star embraced the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi with a vibrant and heartfelt celebration, creating a memorable experience for guests and team members.

The hotel showcased an eco-friendly idol of Lord Ganesha, elegantly adorned with floral arrangements, toransand festive accents that set a sacred and welcoming ambiance. Daily rituals included soulful Aartis, bhajans and the offering of ChappanBhog along with traditional prasad like modaks, fostering a sense of devotion and communitythroughout the celebrations.

Adding to the festive spirit, Mr. Romie Dutt, Executive Director of Aamby Valley City & Hotel Sahara Star, joined the team in the celebrations. He shared, “At Sahara Star, Ganesh Chaturthi is not just a festival but a tradition that unites us all in devotion and joy. Welcoming Bappa to our hotel is always a privilege and though His stay with us was brief, the blessings and positivity He leaves behind remain with us throughout the year.”

The festivities culminated with an energetic Ganpati Visarjan ceremony, filled with the beats of dhol, chantsand dancing, as a heartfelt farewell was bid to Bappa, with a promise of His grand return next year.

Cairn Oil and Gas Vows to Boost Output for India’s Energy Aatmanirbharta

Cairn Oil & Gas reaffirms commitment to enhancing production from the field for India’s energy aatmanirbharta

New Delhi, 1st September 2025 : Cairn Oil & Gas, part of Vedanta Limited, and India’s largest private oil and gas exploration and production company, has completed 16 years of First Oil from its legacy Mangala field in Barmer, Rajasthan. Discovered in 2004 and brought into production in 2009, Mangala remains the largest onshore oil discovery of its time. Since inception, the field has produced over 535 million barrels of oil equivalent (mmboe), playing a vital role in meeting India’s energy needs and driving socioeconomic progress in Rajasthan.

Cairn’s operations in Barmer have transformed the region’s economy, with the district’s GDP rising by over 650%, creating employment, entrepreneurial avenues, and sustainable livelihoods. With an untapped reserve base of 650 mmboe, the Rajasthan basin continues to hold immense potential to power India’s growing energy demand.

The Mangala field has also been a hub for world-class innovations. Cairn commissioned the world’s longest continuously heated and insulated pipeline (~705 km) from Rajasthan to Gujarat, executed the world’s largest Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) project and jet pump network.

To achieve energy security and build national energy sovereignty amid evolving geopolitical scenarios, the company continues to invest in exploration and enhance recovery, to unlock the additional reserves and sustain long-term production from the fields. Cairn implemented India’s largest commercial ASP injection in Mangala last year, boosting recovery by additional 20%, and is set to begin Phase two of ASP injection across its Rajasthan fields.

After the successful Tight Oil project in Aishwariya, the same is planned to be executed in Barmer Hills basin.

Cairn has awarded contracts to global leaders such as Halliburton, Nabors, Baker Hughes, and Weatherford to bring advanced technologies and best practices to India’s largest onshore field. In addition, nearly two dozen global technical experts have been onboarded, many of them stationed in Barmer, to execute high-capex exploration and production campaigns.

Beyond its core operations in the region, Cairn’s social impact programmes in areas of healthcare, sanitation, education, and women empowerment have positively impacted 197 million lives in the last six years. The company’s flagship women-led initiatives, such as Jiji Bai, Maru Udaan, and the Handloom Center, have empowered over 6,500 women through skill development, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy programs.

As a key private player in India’s energy landscape, Cairn Oil & Gas is committed to contributing 50% of the country’s domestic oil and gas production, while progressing towards its vision of a sustainable, energy-secure future.

Kshitij Naveed Kaul snatches victory with late flourish at Kolar Open 2025 Powered by ZION Hills

Kolar, Karnataka, August 30, 2025: Delhi’s Kshitij Naveed Kaul snatched victory with an incredible late flourish at the INR 1 crore Kolar Open 2025 Powered by ZION Hills played at the ZION Hills Golf County located near Kolar in Karnataka.

Kshitij Naveed Kaul (74-69-71-65), who was overnight fifth and six shots off the lead, staged an unbelievable comeback on day four with a tournament low of seven-under 65 highlighted by three birdies and an eagle on the last four holes that took his total to nine-under 279 and gave him a two-shot victory on the most windy day of the week when the wind speed crossed 30 km per hour.

It was 24-year-old Kaul’s fifth professional win. Kshitij’s winning cheque of INR 15 lakh pushed him up five spots to eighth position on the PGTI Order of Merit with his season’s earnings moving to INR 48,00,847.

Shaurya Bhattacharya (70-72-66-73), another Delhi-based professional and the overnight leader by three shots, posted a final round of 73 to finish runner-up at seven-under 281. Shaurya thus climbed four spots to sixth position in the PGTI Order of Merit.

Gurugram’s Dhruv Sheoran (67) signed off in third place at four-under 284.

Pune’s Udayan Mane, who set the course record of 67 in round two, carded a 74 in the fourth round to close the week in tied fourth at three-under 285. Honey Baisoya (72) of the DLF Golf & Country Club, Gurugram, also took a share of fourth place.

Nepal’s Subash Tamang, who was playing at his home course this week, finished sixth at two-under 286.

Kshitij Naveed Kaul announced himself as a contender early in the day when he produced some fabulous drives and wedge-play to pick up four birdies on the first six holes. Kaul then endured a tough stretch dropping three straight bogeys from seven to the ninth as a result of finding the water hazard once and missing a couple of short putts. However, he did recover well after finding the water on the seventh to make an 18-footer for bogey.

After draining a birdie on the 10th, Kshitij, who won his last title in November last year, came up with a dream finish when he sank a couple of long birdie putts on the 15th and 16th and followed that up with a chip-in for birdie on the 17th and a mammoth 30-feet eagle conversion on the 18th.

Kshitij, armed with a hot putter, thus turned the tables on Shaurya Bhattacharya, the leader for most part of the day, right at the end. With the rule of preferred lie in application in round four, Kaul’s 65 did not count as a course record.

Kshitij said, “I stayed patient all day and focused on hitting quality shots. All aspects of my game were sharp this week especially the driving and putting. All the work done in the off-season seems to have paid off. It’s nice to win in tough conditions such as these. It makes the win all that more satisfying

In the final stretch, I was just trying to hit one good shot after another. The winds made it very challenging to control the distance and dispersion of the ball. But I knew if I kept producing good shots, I would finally come through.”

Shaurya Bhattacharya made three birdies and bogeys each on the front-nine to hold on to his lead. However, he stumbled with three bogeys between the 11th and 15th after which he couldn’t recover despite two birdies on the last three holes.

United Way Bengaluru Celebrates World Lake Day with CSR Partners at Kannamangala Lake

Bengaluru, August 28, 2025 – United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), in collaboration with its CSR partners, commemorated World Lake Day with an engaging and educational event at Kannamangala Lake, Bengaluru. The celebration brought together corporates to highlight the importance of urban lakes and their crucial role in sustaining the ecological and social fabric of the city. World Lake Day is a reminder that lakes are not just water bodies; they are life-sustaining ecosystems, community hubs, and cultural landmarks.

The event covered a guided lake walk and a bird-watching session, allowing people to appreciate the biodiversity supported by the lake ecosystem. As part of the immersive experience, attendees engaged in hands-on water testing activities to understand the health of the lake, learning about water quality indicators and how pollution impacts aquatic life. Interactive ‘Learn and Play’ sessions were organized to make environmental education fun and accessible.

Corporates also had the opportunity to explore the lake’s ecosystem, understand the threats it faces, and discuss ways to preserve such water bodies. They also gained hands-on experience in measuring water clarity, helping them understand the physical indicators of water health. It also revealed that the oxygen levels in the lake were within a healthy and appropriate range, indicating relatively stable aquatic conditions. The event concluded with a collaborative reflection session, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and community action in lake conservation efforts.

United Way Bengaluru continues to drive lake conservation initiatives under its flagship program ‘Wake the Lake’, empowering citizens and corporates alike to become stewards of their local water bodies.

Standard Chartered opens its largest branch premises in Eastern India

Kolkata, August 26, 2025: Standard Chartered today announced the launch of its largest branch in East India, in Kolkata. The relocated branch situated at 4 Little Russel Street is an affirmation of Standard Chartered’s long relationship and continued commitment towards the city, which hosted the Bank’s first branch in India in 1858. Since then, the bank has forged a deep relationship with India spanning more than 165 years.

This newly relocated branch was inaugurated by PD Singh, CEO, India and South Asia, Standard Chartered, Aditya Mandloi, Head, Wealth & Retail Banking, India and South Asia, Standard Chartered and Nitin Chengappa, Head Affluent Distribution & Branch Banking, India, Standard Chartered, in presence of other senior colleagues from the Bank.

Moving from the erstwhile 19 NS Road branch, the new location blends history with modernity. It combines old world charm with best-in-class infrastructure to reflect the harmonious blend of old and new. The branch will be the fulcrum of the Bank’s endeavour to further deepen not just its multi-generational client relationships but also leverage new opportunities in the Affluent, Global Indian and SME segments in Kolkata as well as East of India.

The designated Affluent Banking Centre within the branch is designed to serve the financial needs of clients, supported by the Standard Chartered Group’s global network, advanced technology, and wealth strategies delivered by experienced relationship managers.

Aditya Mandloi, Head of Wealth and Retail Banking, India and South Asia, Standard Chartered, said, “Standard Chartered’s journey in India began over 165 years ago in Kolkata, and with the opening of our largest branch in East India at Russel Street, we are proud to continue that legacy. The new branch reaffirms our commitment to supporting clients at every stage of their personal and business journey, with personalised wealth solutions, seamless global connectivity, cutting edge technology and relationships built to serve generations”

Nitin Chengappa, Head Affluent Distribution & Branch Banking, Standard Chartered Bank, India, said, “It is with immense pride that we announce the opening of the relocated branch in a city, where the Bank operations began, back in 1858. The new premises reflects our ambition to deepen our relationship in East of India, offer world class products and services and grow the market. Kolkata, today is a hub of traditional enterprises as well as SMEs and even start-ups and Standard Chartered Bank is well positioned to offer bespoke services, based on our knowledge of the market and backed by a global network bank expertise.”

Vedaanta Senior Living Celebrates Seniors: A Fun-Filled Day Honoring Coimbatore’s Senior Citizens on Senior Citizens Day

Vedaanta Senior Living hosted Senior Sangamam, an energy-charged, seniors-only cultural event in Coimbatore that brought together over 200 seniors from across the city for an evening of joy, performances, and celebration. Among them, 50 of Vedaanta’s residents joined in with glamour and choreographed moves for the flagship talent and fashion show, truly embodying the spirit of vibrant ageing.

Curated to mark Senior Citizen’s Day, Senior Sangamam was more than a wellbeing activity—it was a celebration of life. Seniors immersed themselves in a wide array of experiences including games, music, dance, puzzles, Mehendi art, cartoon sketches, a fashion walk, and more. The event showcased what Vedaanta Senior Living has always believed in—given the right platform, seniors shine with enthusiasm, creativity, and a competitive spirit.

The initiative was supported by RBL Bank and Aurva Gifts, who partnered to sponsor the event and extend special offers to the participating seniors. Senior Sangamam ’25 was highly appreciated by attendees, many of whom left not only with memorable gifts but also with new friendships and bonds to continue celebrating life together.

At the heart of this celebration was Vedaanta Senior Living—India’s fastest-growing senior living brand. Established in 2015, Vedaanta creates thoughtfully designed retirement communities across multiple cities, offering seniors a lifestyle that balances freedom, care, and comfort. With a strong focus on active minds and active bodies, Vedaanta blends medical, dining, and security services with opportunities for social engagement, cultural activities, and wellness programs. Life at Vedaanta is not just about living—it is about thriving, discovering new passions, and celebrating every moment.

With the success of Senior Sangamam in Coimbatore, Vedaanta now looks forward to scaling this initiative into a multi-city, multi-event celebration—creating many more opportunities for seniors to come together, share experiences, and celebrate life to the fullest.

Deccan Gold Mines Advances Toward Production at Altyn Tor Project in Kyrgyzstan

Mumbai/Kyrgyzstan, August 25, 2025: Deccan Gold Mines Ltd. (DGML), announced significant progress towards production at its Altyn Tor Gold Project in Kyrgyzstan. This milestone positions DGML as a pioneering Indian mining company creating a global footprint while contributing to the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of securing critical mineral resources for economic growth and strategic independence.

Key developments at the Altyn Tor site include:

• Commissioning of 11 new conveyors and successful trial runs of jaw and cone crushers.
• Installation of a new ball mill, expected to be operational by early September 2025.
• Preparations for commercial production of Dore bars from the gravity circuit by October 2025.
• Progress on tailings storage facility, power infrastructure, and civil works, ensuring the project remains on track despite challenging weather conditions.
• Ongoing resource drilling programme, with early indications suggesting a significantly larger orebody than previously estimated.

Commenting on the progress at Altyn Tor, Dr. Hanuma Prasad Modali, Managing Director of Deccan Gold Mines Ltd., said:

“With the ball mill foundation laid and key equipment advancing toward commissioning, Altyn Tor is on track despite the challenges of Kyrgyzstan’s early winters. Our drilling results suggest a significantly larger orebody, strengthening confidence in the project’s long-term potential. By covering the plant and putting in place contingency measures, we aim to ensure year-round operations and timely delivery.”

“Altyn Tor is more than a construction milestone — it reflects India’s emerging leadership in the global mineral economy. As the first Indian mining company investing in Kyrgyzstan, DGML is committed to ethical mining, cross-border collaboration, and building an inclusive ecosystem that benefits both nations. This project demonstrates that responsible mining and rapid execution can go hand in hand, while advancing India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision on the global stage.” adds Dr Hanuma.

The Altyn Tor Project marks the first overseas investment by an Indian mining and exploration company in Kyrgyzstan, enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries. Located in the highly mineralized Soltan Sary zone, the Altyn Tor (“Gold Mountain”) project is operated by Avelum Partners LLC, in which DGML holds a 60% controlling interest. The project hosts estimated resources of 4.65 million tonnes grading 1.21 g/t Au for 180 koz of gold, including tailings and low-grade stockpiles. Once operational, it will become the first Indian-owned gold production facility in Central Asia.

Strengthening India’s self-reliance in natural resources

Through its global projects, DGML is helping India reduce dependence on imported gold and critical minerals, thereby advancing the national Atmanirbhar Bharat mission. By combining technical strength, ethical practices, and sustainable development, DGML aims to demonstrate that Indian companies can responsibly lead in the global mining sector.