Category Archives: News

G.D. Goenka Jr. School Triumphs with Best Indoor Air Quality Award at IAQ Excellence Recognition

New Delhi, February 20, 2025: G.D. Goenka Jr. School, Vasant Kunj, has been recognised for having the Best Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) at the SIE IAQ Excellence Awards. This accolade acknowledges the school’s exceptional efforts in ensuring a healthy and safe indoor environment for its students, teachers, and staff.

Sharing his delight at the recognition, Mr Nipun Goenka, Managing Director of G.D. Goenka Group, said, “We are immensely proud to receive the Best IAQ award. At G.D. Goenka, we believe that a healthy learning environment is fundamental to the holistic development of our students and we will continue to be at the forefront of adopting innovative solutions to nurture future leaders.”

G.D. Goenka Jr. School has implemented the YOGa Clean Air Bubble (Y-CAB) system, a cutting-edge air purification technology validated by IIT Delhi. This system has transformed the indoor air quality for students and staff, ensuring a safer and productive learning environment.

The Y-CAB system effectively reduces particulate matter levels to an impressive 2 µg/m³ and lowers CO2 concentrations, providing fresher air for everyone

The SIE IAQ Excellence Awards highlight the significance of creating healthier learning spaces and realise the proactive measures taken by schools to improve indoor air quality.

GenZCFOs’ CA Manish Mishra Attends PM Modi’s Keynote at ET Global Business Summit

Delhi, February 2025 – The highly anticipated ET NOW ET Global Business Summit 2025, Asia’s largest business summit, commenced at the iconic Taj Palace in Delhi. Day 1 set the stage for dynamic discussions on economic growth and global collaboration, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s keynote address offering a compelling vision for India’s future.

Under the theme “Evolve, Emerge, Expand,” PM Modi highlighted India’s growing global influence, sustainable economic progress, and the power of partnerships. He emphasized that 25 crore people have risen from poverty in the last decade, reinforcing India’s position as a key driver of global economic expansion. His speech underscored India’s commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth.

CA Manish Mishra, Founder, GenzCFO said “India’s economic momentum is a testament to its resilience and innovation. As we embrace digital transformation and sustainable growth, businesses must align with this vision to drive long-term prosperity.”

The summit, a premier platform for business leaders, policymakers, and innovators, will continue to feature high-profile discussions on the future of industries, digital transformation, and sustainable business practices. Global thought leaders are set to engage in insightful dialogues shaping the next decade of economic progress.

As ET Global Business Summit 2025 progresses, it promises to drive impactful conversations that will redefine India’s business landscape and strengthen its global standing.

Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department Kicks Off Latest Initiative for Safer Roads

Maharashtra, India – February 18, 2025:

In India, reports indicate that only 25% of motorists fasten their seatbelts and as a result, 83% of casualties among car occupants are due to not wearing a seatbelt. Despite numerous awareness campaigns, seatbelt usage remains alarmingly low.

To support the importance of road safety, the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department (MMVD) has introduced an innovative initiative—The Buckle Hack—a creative design hack that turns every commercial vehicle into a seatbelt reminder. The initiative incorporates buckle-shaped stickers into the reflective tape on commercial vehicles, ensuring a constant visual cue to encourage every motorists on the road to buckle up.

Through this pioneering effort, MMVD aims to significantly impact road safety, inspiring citizens to adopt safe driving practices and reducing the risk of casualties.

Speaking about the idea, Mr. Bharat Kalaskar, Additional Commissioner, Motor Vehicles Dept., Govt. of Maharashtra, said, “People often forget to buckle up, and that is a big cause of casualties and fatalities. This is an all-important reminder of the importance of seat belts for our safety, and we want this initiative to reach every driver in the State of Maharashtra.”

The campaign is part of Road Safety Awareness Month and is currently an ongoing initiative, being rolled out across various cities in Maharashtra, including Mumbai. This simple creative improvisation, called ‘The Buckle Hack’ transforms a standard safety feature in commercial vehicles into a dynamic awareness tool, promoting responsible driving habits and saving lives.

Zing Presents ‘Udaan’, A Platform to Inspire and Empower Youth Through Authentic Experiences

February 18, 2025 – Zing, India’s leading youth entertainment channel, has launched ‘Udaan’, an initiative aimed at bringing forth real-life stories of courage, resilience, and achievement. With this, Zing ventures beyond its vibrant content offerings to tap into the motivational space, fostering a deeper connection with young audiences.

In a world flooded with content, ‘Udaan’ stands out by providing a platform for unsung heroes—individuals who have faced challenges head-on and emerged victorious. After carefully screening multiple profiles, Zing handpicked speakers whose stories deserved recognition, ensuring that every session leaves a lasting impact.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr.Pankaj Balhara, Business Head, Zing, said:

 “At Zing, we have always championed the power of storytelling through our marquee shows like Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya and Aye Zindagi, which have deeply connected with young audiences. With Udaan, we take a step further by bringing real, inspiring stories that resonate with the youth—stories of passion, struggle, and triumph. It’s our way of engaging with young minds beyond entertainment—by igniting purpose and ambition.”

The inaugural edition featured four remarkable speakers:
???? Babar Ali, known as the “Youngest Headmaster in The World” by BBC at the age of sixteen, inspired with his story of starting a free school at the age of nine and shed light on how education has the power to uplift entire communities.

???? Gaurav Dixit, an architect turned entrepreneur specializing in sustainable architecture and the Winner of the Global Housing Technology Challenge 2021, which was awarded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his contributions to the field, emphasized the urgent need for sustainable architecture, urging the next generation to build responsibly.

???? Madhusudhan Naik, founder of the sustainability-focused enterprise Living Things, known for his awards like the MSINS Maharashtra Startup Week Award 2021 in the sustainability sector highlighted how sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand, encouraging young minds to take action.

???? Shubhada Dayal, founder of Brainologi, shed light on the importance of early education and how empowering families can create a lasting impact. She emphasized, “Education begins at home, and parents play a critical role in shaping young minds.

ForYou Chapter 4 of Be Good Tribe’s Wellness Festival to Unfold in Delhi on March 1st, 2025

New Delhi, February 2025– Be Good Tribe is excited to announce the return of its flagship wellness festival, Be Good #ForYou – Chapter 4, set to take place on March 1, 2025, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, India Gate, New Delhi. This much-anticipated event continues to build on its legacy of promoting holistic well-being, mindfulness, and sustainability, bringing together some of the most renowned wellness experts, artists, and thought leaders from across the globe.

 A Holistic Experience for the Mind, Body, and Soul Since its inception, Be Good Tribe has been a beacon for individuals striving to cultivate a balanced and conscious lifestyle. The fourth chapter of this transformative festival is set to offer an immersive and enriching experience, blending the power of music, wellness practices, and thought-provoking discussions to inspire and empower attendees.

 What to Expect at Be Good #ForYou – Chapter 4:
● Live Musical Performances: The festival will feature a diverse lineup of musical performances, including the internationally acclaimed American artist, Nahko Bear, renowned for a fusion of styles often called world music or worldbeat. Their lyrics present a message of social and environmental consciousness. Also performing is upcoming Indie artist and composer Pulkit Jain, and the electrifying Parikrama

Mega & Friends, a twelve-member ensemble celebrating multi-generational musical collaborations.
● Expert-Led Wellness Workshops: Attendees can participate in a variety of curated wellness sessions hosted by FindYourFit, designed to rejuvenate and heal.
Highlights include:
○ Artistic Yoga with celebrated yogi Bharat Thakur
○ Sacred Stretch with esteemed wellness expert Mini Shastri
○ Jah Moves with movement specialist Arpita Dutta
○ Acupressure Techniques with Geet Taneja
○ Guided Meditation with the insightful Puneeta Roy
● Pet-Friendly Zone with PetFed: Experience the joy and therapeutic benefits of animal companionship in a specially curated pet-friendly space, ensuring relaxation and happiness for all attendees.
● Engaging Panel Discussions: The festival will host four engaging panel discussions from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring distinguished spiritual leaders, psychologists, and wellness experts who will explore mental health, mindfulness, and holistic living themes. These insightful conversations aim to foster self-awareness, healing, and transformative growth. Highlights include:
○ Cross-Generational Discussion: Curated and moderated by Priti Srivastava and Radhika Verma from Dayarani
○ Keynote Address: Delivered by Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji
○ Celebrity Panel:
○ Conversation with Nakho: Moderated by Yamini Singh
○ Q &A Session followed by the live performances

A Message from Be Good Tribe

 “Be Good #ForYou is more than just a festival—it’s a movement towards conscious living, self-care, and collective well-being. Our vision this year is to expand our offerings, ensuring an even more diverse and enriching experience. We want every attendee to leave feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and empowered to embrace a more mindful way of life,” said Poonam Lal, Spokesperson for Be Good Tribe.

St. George’s University Leads the Charge in Transforming Medical Education via Transnational Education

India, February 18, 2025: Transnational education (TNE) refers to educational programs or courses provided in a country different from where the awarding institution is located. This approach helps students gain international experience, learn from different cultures, and develop global skills. At the same time, it offers students the opportunity to study closer to home, providing familiarity and comfort while pursuing their education.

For Indian undergraduates looking to study medicine, SGU, a School of Medicine in Grenada, in the West Indies, offers vital TNE experience via its long-standing partnership with the UK’s Northumbria University (NU).

Since the collaboration began in 2007, more than 2,500 SGU medical students have spent one or more years of their preclinical or medical degree program at NU. It provides an opportunity to undertake part of the Four-Year MD Program, or a Five- or Six-Year MD Tracks, identical to those delivered in Grenada.

In the Fall of 2024, SGU’s joint MD program with NU saw a significant increase in new student enrolments, from over 25 countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Hong Kong, Uganda, India, Nigeria, Kenya, Japan, Myanmar, South Korea, and Canada.

Among the students who graduated from SGU through the partnership with NU was Michele Obert, who joined the MD program in the class of 2019. “The Northumbria program felt like a family away from home. It was the opportunity that allowed me to explore topics in global medicine and distinguish myself from all the other SGU applicants come residency applications.”

David Anthonisz, Executive Director of International Student Recruitment at SGU, said: “Transnational education is growing rapidly with many universities around the world adopting this approach as part of their curriculum. SGU is no different, and since we partnered with NU, the results have been notable. More than 2,500 aspiring medical professionals have graduated from the SGU/NU MD program, enabling them to gain vital hands-on experience both in the UK and Grenada and broaden their international outlook and understanding through lectures delivered by highly-experienced staff. We believe TNE programs will go from strength to strength and we look forward to welcoming more students to embark on this journey at SGU.”

“Environmental Consciousness Should Begin Early for Students,” States Hon’ble Secretary General of Commonwealth Nations

Hyderabad, 18 February 2024: H. E. Rev. Hon. Patrcia Scotland – Hon’ble Secretary General of Commonwealth Nations visited the Heartfulness International School at Kanha Shanti Vanam Campus during the two-day ‘Sustainability in Classroom’ initiative hosted by Heartfulness Institute in the outskirts of Hyderabad. Hon’ble Secretary General was joined by Ms. Anna Rajkumar – Principal, Heartfulness International School and was led on a guided tour of the facility which is sustainability-driven and prioritizes training the students in environmental-consciousness very early on. Ms. Scotland was impressed by the pedagogy adopted in grooming the children to be the next generation of thought-leaders on environment and sustainability besides sound academics. Hon’ble Secretary General interacted with the students who welcomed her with Sanskrit shlokas. The primary students also performed Gujrati and Kenyan dance forms showcasing a diverse heritage and culture.

H. E. Rev. Hon. Patricia Scotland – Hon’ble Secretary General of Commonwealth Nations said about introducing students to environmental conscious on a young age, “When children are exposed to sustainability concepts at an impressionable age, it stays with them for a lifetime and moulds them into future leaders who can guard and lead the planet to a better future.” She added that she was impressed by Heartfulness International School’s initiative on bringing sustainability to classrooms with a practical approach.

Ms. Anna Rajkumar, Principal of Heartfulness International School, added about the relevance of Sanskrit in modern times: “We aim to produce very grounded leaders who learn the values through a treasure trove of Sanskrit language. It also unifies the students, helps them gain clarity of thought, and we train them early on to journal their observations of their experiments on plants and the environment around them.”

The Heartfulness International School is a unique school with the concept of not only housing sustainable infrastructure and biodiversity, but also groom the students through environmental values, enable students to use scientific curriculum wherein they test for themselves the viability of sustainable initiatives – AgriTecture, Hydroponics, Nature Farming, Microgreen Labs and make their reports on observations. The school integrates sustainability and green living ideas in school curricula from around the world and conveys the critical need to regenerating the action to climate change.

The focus is on making children the future thought-leaders on environment and climate change. They are also trained to keep in touch with their roots through the knowledge of Sanskrit to produce grounded leaders who can have a discovery-driven approach and detectability-based learning. The partners of the schools are Ministry of Education (Govt. of India), United Nations, ICRISAT, AICTE, ICAR.

Uttar Dakshin Concert to Feature a Mesmerizing Jugalbandi by Pandit Ronu Majumdar and Vidwan R. Kumaresh

Hyderabad, February 18, 20205……Uttar Dakshin Concert is to be held in the city on March 1 at JNAFAU Auditorium, Masab Tank, Hyderabad, at 6 PM. It will be a Grand Jugalbandi. It will bring together two legendary maestros—Padma Shri Pandit Ronu Majumdar on the flute and Vidwan R. Kumaresh, the celebrated violinist from the Carnatic music tradition.

This much-awaited Jugalbandi will be organised jointly by Vivid Arts and Surmandal Hyderabad.

Pandit Ronu Majumdar, one of India’s most revered flautists, was recently honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri for his immense contributions to Indian classical music. His soulful renditions and unparalleled mastery over the bansuri have enthralled audiences worldwide. Vidwan R. Kumaresh, one of the most acclaimed violin maestros of the Carnatic music fraternity, is known for his dynamic and deeply expressive performances, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation.

Despite coming from two distinct classical traditions, both artists share a profound belief that the difference in styles is not a challenge but rather the richness of Indian classical music. They see their collaboration as a way of creating a holistic musical experience, where the intricate rhythmic and melodic structures of both styles merge into a unified, immersive soundscape.

Adding to this grand musical confluence will be Shri V. Narhari on the Tabla and Shri Tumkur Ravishankar on the mridangam, whose rhythmic brilliance will further elevate the concert.

The Uttar Dakshin series has consistently brought together the finest Hindustani and Carnatic musicians, fostering an artistic dialogue that celebrates the diversity and unity of Indian classical music. This Jugalbandi promises to be an unforgettable evening for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

NSDC CEO Ved Mani Tiwari Emphasizes Ethical Migration Powered by Skilling Initiatives

Mumbai, Feb 17, 2025: The youths and job seekers should avoid illegal migration routes, commonly referred as “donkey routes” for seeking opportunities in foreign countries and instead leverage NSDC International’s skilling initiatives for ethical migration, said, NSDC CEO and NSDC International MD Shri Ved Mani Tiwari.

In a message to the youths of India, Shri Tiwari emphasised on the process of ethical migration, and shared with media personnel here, how NSDC International with support of the central government has been developing pathways in collaboration with international governments in streamlining the migration process, as global market has lots of opportunities for skilled Indian youths.

“The world values skilled professionals, and with the right training, certifications, and ethical migration, the youths of India can build sustainable and long-term careers abroad. Taking illegal migration route is not only dangerous but also puts lives at risk. The youths can enrol themselves in skilling programs of NSDC International, which offer skilling programs and courses that are in demand in the global market,” Shri Tiwari said.

He said skill assessment centres have been set up for 100 trades across the country. “So effectively, anybody who believes that the person in the job is ready to go to Israel or Japan or Germany, they can simply present themselves to these assessment centres… we can provide a list of these assessment centres where their skills will be assessed and certified, and this is that they can apply for work visa also,” Shri Tiwari said.

He highlighted that NSDC International has been actively collaborating with international governments to create structured job opportunities for Indian youth. Recognizing India’s skilled workforce, several countries have approached NSDC International with employment opportunities. Israel has asked for 5,000 healthcare workers, an indication of demand for Indiana abroad. On similar lines, Germany and Japan continue to seek trained healthcare professionals.

To increase global employability, NSDC International is setting up global language labs offering training in Russian, Italian, Korean, and French languages. The initiative aims to break language barriers and increase the chances of Indian candidates, securing high-paying jobs overseas.

Shri Tiwari also said that NSDC is going to open 10 new international academies to empower youth in foreign languages and soft skills.

Since its inception in October 2021, NSDC International has created 88,924 overseas job opportunities across 22 countries. Through strategic collaborations with international governments and organizations, over 64,000 skilled Indian candidates have been successfully placed in countries, including in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

It has facilitated training and job placements across 19 industries, focusing on key sectors such as construction, mechanical, electrical & plumbing (MEP), and facility management.

“Skill yourself, choose the right path, and embrace global opportunities through ethical means. The future belongs to those who are prepared—let’s work together to shape a brighter tomorrow,” he concluded.

He said Isreal has asked for 20,000 skilled construction workers last year from India, besides the demand from the nation for 5,000 care workers.

He, further explained, about the enormous opportunities coming in the caregiving sector from across the globe, and NSDC International is in touch with agencies of foreign governments to inculcate right skills among the youths of our country to make them eligible for employment. “We believe that close to a lakh care-workers will start getting deployed (annually) in various parts of the world in about two years,” the NSDC CEO shared.

Describing it as an outcome of India’s soft diplomacy, he said, “Our care workers will be providing care and support to aging populations across the world.”

Shri Tiwari assured that NSDC International is working tirelessly to expand global employment avenues, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for India’s skilled workforce.

MEAI Hyderabad Chapter Hosts Insightful National Conference on Path to Atmanirbhar Bharat 2047 Through Mining

Hyderabad, February 17, 2025: The Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI), Hyderabad Chapter successfully hosted the first day of a two-day National Conference on the theme “Mining the Marvels: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.” The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and experts to deliberate on the future of the mining sector and its role in India’s journey towards self-reliance.

 The inaugural session was graced by Shri Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman-Cum-Managing Director (Additional Charge), NMDC Ltd., as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished guests included Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I, MEAI & Vice President, Tata Steel; Shri Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD (Additional Charge) & Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd.; Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL; G Dhananjaya Reddy, Vice President II, MEAI and Shri Joydeep Dasgupta, Director (Production), NMDC Ltd. The event was presided over by Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter.

 Delivering the keynote address on the theme of the seminar, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge), NMDC, said, “The role of mining in national development is crucial. He spoke about how the mining industry can bring social and economic impact in the communities. He emphasized the challenges of attracting young talent due to the remote nature of mining operations and urged MEAI to encourage students and professionals to consider careers in mining. Shri Amitava Mukherjee also highlighted NMDC’s commitment to Responsible Mining and spreading smiles through its community initiatives, setting industry standards as a leader in sustainable mining practices. He also resonated that it would be imperative to have a long term perspective to gain significant goals in the mining industry as it takes more than a decade, globally, to set up and generate thought-provoking revenues. Shri Mukherjee addressed policy challenges including India’s 100th ranking on the Fraser Index and the need for smoother policies to attract foreign direct investment. He stressed the importance of supporting local mining corporations to lower administrative costs and enhance resource utilization. Concluding his speech, he praised GoI’s ongoing efforts to improve exploration in critical minerals and technological advancements in mining, emphasizing the need for sustainability and innovation in the industry.”

 Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. and Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter, in his inaugural address, set the tone for the conference by outlining the progress made in India’s mining sector over the past decade. He provided insights into the current status of mining block allocations and how expedited processes are boosting productivity. He highlighted the role of AI-driven database management in improving exploration efficiency and discussed government initiatives aimed at fostering startups and private sector participation. Shri Vinay Kumar, also emphasized the employment potential of the mining industry, stating that it currently engages around 1.3 million professionals and has the potential to generate an additional 1.5 million jobs by 2047. He reaffirmed NMDC’s commitment to responsible mining and its strategic partnerships aimed at achieving 100 MTPA as part of the vision for Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047.

Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), CIL & Former CMD, CCL emphasized the urgent need to accelerate mineral exploration in India, citing how the country lags behind global mining leaders. He advocated for AI-driven data analysis and machine learning to improve exploration planning and highlighted the necessity of a single-window approval system to streamline administrative processes.

 Shri D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – I , MEAI & & Vice President, Tata Steel commended NMDC for instituting the NMDC CMD Excellence Award and spoke on the need for deep-sea exploration and self-reliance in critical minerals. He stressed the importance of policies that enhance domestic mining while encouraging low-carbon mining and increased scrap utilization for sustainability.

 The conference also featured technical sessions with expert presentations from academia and industry, focusing on key advancements in mining technologies, policy frameworks, and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, an exhibition featuring leading mining and steel companies, including NMDC, AN/MS, JSW, and NMDC Steel was organized alongside the conference.

 The MEAI Hyderabad Chapter also recognized the contributions of stalwarts in the mining sector on the first day of the event by honoring Shri B. Veera Reddy, Former Director (Technical), Coal India Limited, Kolkata and Former CMD, Central Coalfields Limited, Ranchi, Shri V. Laxminarayana, Dy. Director General, DGMS, Dr. N.K. Nanda, Former CMD(Additional Charge) and Director Technical, NMDC, Shri B. Surender Mohan, Former CMD, NLC India Limited, Er. K J Amarnath, Former CGM, SCCL and Shri M. Fasihuddin, Resident Director, Tata Steel Mines, for their invaluable service to the industry.

 The first day concluded with insightful discussions on the road ahead for India’s mining sector, reinforcing the industry’s role in national progress. The conference will continue on February 15 with further deliberations on critical aspects of mining innovation, policy, and sustainability.