5, Dec 2024
Govardhan Ecovillage’s ‘LiFE 2024’ Conference Focuses on Sustainability Through a Bharatiya Lens, Led by HG Gauranga Das

India, Nationwide Release:

Delegates from across India assembled at the packed NSE Auditorium in BKC, Mumbai on 27th November witnessed a special event – “LiFE 2024: Conference on Bharatiya Perspective on Sustainability”. This uniquely themed Conference was organized by Govardhan Ecovillage (GEV) – India’s prominent UNWTO winning eco-tourism destination. The Conference was conceptualized by and organized under the able guidance of Gauranga Das, Director, GEV.

During recently concluded 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) at Baku, Azerbaijan, and G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, India has reiterated its commitment towards meeting climate change and UNSDGs. Over the past few years, India has established itself as a role model for other countries by setting and pursuing ambitious climate and sustainable development goals.

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Ancient Bharatiya perspective is extremely relevant for sustainability and sustainable development in modern context. Age-old Indian wisdom is fundamental in dealing sensibly with the sensitive environment and ecosystems, while balancing the economic progress and development. A well-structured, targeted, and continuous effort at all levels can work miracles to overcome nagging environmental challenges globally. While on one hand, India has a challenge to deal with its own carbon footprint, on the other hand, it has an opportunity to showcase applications of its ancient perspective in the modern context to re-establish its position as the ‘Vishwa-Guru’ and lead the world for a better, safer and more sustainable future.

Two central themes of the Conference (1) Consciousness, Culture & Sustainability and (2) Leveraging Sustainability Economics echoed throughout the sessions by the expert speakers. The basic tenets of age-old Indian culture leading to ideas around ‘conscious consumption’, ‘cleanliness led wellness’, ‘culture of respect for natural resources’, ‘best from the waste’, ‘living in harmony with nature’, ‘use of recyclable products’, ‘optimized production-distribution-consumption-reuse chain’, ‘trusteeship approach’, and the like – which were the spotlights of the event.

Another key idea deliberated in the conference was how to effectively leverage modern technologies in a way complimentary to ancient Indian practices to enhance sustainability at scale – at the individual, family, social, national and global levels. This will certainly optimize the use of resources and consumption, bring in efficiencies in product value chains, optimize distribution chains, and increase recyclability through responsible product development.

Enhanced focus on renewable energy and methods of adopting energy-friendly lifestyle will also be key to our balanced progress, as we march ahead towards becoming the world’s third largest economy in terms of overall GDP.

A structured approach to develop Indian Knowledge System on sustainability, centered around Indian traditional roots, wisdom literature, scientific yet practical outlook, nature-friendly living, and sustainability embedded in rich cultural traditions, that becomes foundational to multi-faceted sustainability initiatives was proposed and well-appreciated. Delegates also expressed their whole-hearted commitment in one voice for a wide-spread education of Indian traditional systems and practices that collectively lead to conservation of environment and natural resources.

The event brought together Subject Matter Experts from the Indian administration, academia, industry, and social impact sectors, who mesmerized the audience by their deep knowledge, and shared actionable insights on achieving sustainability through the integration of ancient Indian principles and modern technologies.

In addition to leading academicians from IIT’s, the esteemed panel of speakers included Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Hon. Governor of Maharashtra; Gauranga Das; Shri S Gurumurthy – well-known corporate & legal advisor.

The Hon. Governor emphasized that development and environmental preservation are two sides of the same coin. He stated that India’s accelerating progress must go hand in hand with the conservation of natural resources. Stressing the role of humanity as trustees of the planet’s resources, he urged that it is our collective responsibility to hand over a healthier, more sustainable Earth to future generations.

Gauranga Das spoke about an approach to sustainability rooted in Bharat’s traditional wisdom and culture, highlighting the concept of Ashta Lakshmis. He explained that Lakshmi encompasses far more than material wealth, extending to broader dimensions of prosperity. He seamlessly aligned this perspective with the conference theme, LiFE 2024: Bhartiya Perspective on Sustainability.

S Gurumurthy Ji outlined a four-pronged approach to advancing India’s journey towards sustainability. He called upon concerned individuals to unite in transforming development into a greener, more sustainable endeavor. He also reflected on India’s traditional way of life, which emphasizes harmony with nature and minimal resource consumption, contrasting it with the consumption patterns of the West.

Other speakers, including Prof. Varadraj Bapat, IIT Mumbai, SJMSOM; Prof. Ganti S Murthy, IIT Indore; Ar. Hiten Sethi, Founder, HSA; Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, IIT, Mumbai.

The Conference was organized in association with Kotak School of Sustainability – IIT Kanpur, NIT – Warangal, and Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). National Stock Exchange (NSE) was the Venue Partner, and Nityo Infotech, Global IT Services & Solutions Company, was the Banquet Sponsor.

Towards the end of the Conference, Gauranga Das led the team of delegates to define a roadmap and create an executable plan as an effort to contribute meaningfully to the cause of sustainability and sustainable development.

Delegates from various walks of life, including policymakers, academicians, industry professionals, researchers, and corporates, and a large number of students were in attendance – highlighting the growing awareness about sustainability in today’s highly motivated young generation.

Govardhan Ecovillage is committed to play its role in sustainability in the district of Palghar, Maharashtra. This Conference was one such initiative to address the pressing issues through constructive actions that create high social impact.

5, Dec 2024
KT Professional’s Dhruv Sayani Receives Prestigious Pioneer of the Year Award for Transforming the Haircare Industry

Mumbai, December 2024: Dhruv Sayani, the visionary founder of Ccigmaa Lifestyles Pvt Ltd and CEO of KT Professional, has been honoured with the prestigious “Pioneer of the Year” award in Beauty Innovation at the Icons of India Awards, organized by Times Applaud. This accolade recognises his contributions to the Indian hair care and beauty industry and his commitment to providing innovative, high-quality, and accessible hair care solutions. The award was presented by Indian actress and 90’s sensation, Karishma Kapoor.

 As the leader behind KT Professional, India’s first salon-approved keratin protein hair care brand, Dhruv’s passion for hair care innovation has positioned him as a trailblazer in a market traditionally dominated by imported products. His vision for Ccigmaa Lifestyle and KT Professionals has not only reshaped the hair care industry but also empowered consumers with premium, natural, and result-driven products that address diverse hair challenges.

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With access to global hair care knowledge, Dhruv Sayani saw an untapped opportunity in the Indian market. While imported products largely focused on moisture, volume, and colour protection, the Indian consumer’s hair care needs went much beyond these aspects. Recognizing this gap, Dhruv launched KT Professional with the aim to provide Indian users with keratin-focused products that catered to a wider range of hair concerns, all while ensuring that the products were free from harmful chemicals, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan.

 Dhruv Sayani, MD Ccigmaa Lifestyles commented, “I’ve always believed that hair care goes beyond just a cosmetic solution. It’s about creating products that nourish, strengthen, and restore hair at its core, At KT Professional, we focus on innovations, creating high-quality, results-oriented solutions that cater to 18 different hair challenges, ensuring that we serve not just salons, but individual users as well. This award reflects our dedication and the trust our customers have in our products.”

 Since its inception, KT Professional has expanded its footprint across India, reaching 28 states, 86 cities, over 27,000 salons, and more than 150 beauty stores. Additionally, KT Professional’s range of products is available on 18+ e-commerce platforms, bringing salon-quality hair care to the fingertips of consumers across the country.

 Dhruv’s journey in the hair care industry is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality. He not only identified the growing demand for salon-quality products in the Indian market but also addressed the specific needs of Indian hair types with scientifically backed formulations. His focus on natural ingredients, sustainability, and cruelty-free practices has set new industry standards, earning him recognition as a leader in beauty innovation.

 The Icons of India Award highlights Dhruv’s pivotal role in transforming the Indian beauty and personal care landscape. Under his leadership, KT Professional continues to grow as a trusted name in hair care, helping consumers achieve healthier, stronger, and more beautiful hair.

5, Dec 2024
Innovation Takes Center Stage as Nibav Home Lifts Launches Its Biggest Facility Yet in Chennai

Bengaluru, 05th December 2024: Nibav Home Lifts, Asia’s largest home elevator brand, has inaugurated its fifth and largest manufacturing facility located in Chennai. With this strategic addition, the company will increase its overall production capacity from 7,500 units to 15,000 units per year from across all its manufacturing facilities. Strategically located in SIPCOT – Irungatukottai, the state-of-the-art unit is sprawled across 1,00,000 sq.ft. and will dedicatedly manufacture the company’s latest home elevator range – Nibav Series 4. With this move, the company will also generate 450 job opportunities across functions in the region.

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The new facility has highly efficient manufacturing lines and packaging to ensure higher output and decrease the wastage of resources. The factory also boasts of advanced features like latest laser cut machines, CNC machines, powder coating unit, robotic machineries and test tower. With laser-sharp focus on innovation and quality, Nibav Home Lifts in this new facility also has set-up a dedicated R&D lab that will focus on further strengthening the design and technology behind Nibav’s Air-driven home lifts.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr Vimal Babu, CEO and Founder Nibav Home Lifts said “We are proud to announce the opening of our new flagship manufacturing facility in Chennai, which marks a pivotal moment in Nibav’s journey. This new facility is not just the largest of its kind in the home elevator industry, but it also sets a new benchmark in terms of scale, efficiency, and innovation. With this expansion, we are poised to meet the growing demand for our products across 12 countries and beyond, while ensuring that we maintain the highest standards of quality and service. We are also excited to create job opportunities in Chennai, contributing to the local economy and fostering skill development in advanced manufacturing.”

“As we set this new industry record, our focus remains on bringing innovative, accessible, and reliable home elevator solutions to homeowners around the world. This expansion underscores our commitment to not only meeting global demand but also contributing to the growth of the regions where we operate, driving both local and international economic progress.” He further added.

In line with its sustainability goals, Nibav Lifts has embedded eco-friendly practices into both the construction and operations of the new facility. The plant features an efficient manufacturing line designed to minimize resource wastage and optimize energy usage, reflecting Nibav Lifts’ commitment to responsible manufacturing and environmental stewardship.

As Nibav Lifts continues its path toward becoming the world’s largest home elevator manufacturer, this facility will be key in enabling the company to expand its reach to additional global markets, reinforcing its role as a leader in innovative and accessible home mobility solutions. This expansion represents a firm step in Nibav Lifts’ long-term strategic goals, enhancing its manufacturing standards, reducing delivery timelines, and fostering product innovation on a global scale.

4, Dec 2024
Devish Ahuja Cast as Gaurav in Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan

Devish Ahuja Cast as Gaurav in Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum DhadkanShemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan continues to keep viewers engaged with its emotional highs, and the story takes an exciting turn with the entry of Devish Ahuja. Known for his remarkable performances in iconic mythological roles, Devish now takes on the role of Gaurav, Purvi’s fiancé. a character full of charm, ambition, and mystery. His arrival promises to add depth and intrigue, making him a compelling addition to the story.

Expressing his excitement about joining Main Dil Tum Dhadkan, Devish Ahuja shared, “I am absolutely thrilled to portray Gaurav. Before this, I have played several roles rooted in mythological stories, which are vastly different from my character now. Gaurav is a refreshing change for me, offering a completely new experience. That’s what made me say yes to this role—it’s an opportunity to explore uncharted territory as an actor.”

He Adds “I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of this new journey, which comes with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Gaurav is a character that truly resonates with the essence of the show, as it beautifully captures the balance between traditional principles and the embrace of modern changes. And I feel This duality in his personality adds a lot of depth, making him both relatable and intriguing.I’m confident that viewers will connect with him and enjoy the unique dynamic he adds to the show.

So now will Gaurav be the perfect match for Purvi, or will his strong feelings lead to unforeseen consequences?

Don’t miss out on the unfolding drama as Gaurav’s character adds depth and unpredictability to Main Dil Tum Dhadkan Monday to Saturday 8.30pm sharp.

4, Dec 2024
Hyderabad to Host 29th European Union Film Festival with 24 Acclaimed Films in 29 Languages

29th European Union Film Festival Brings 24 Award-Winning European Films to HyderabadHyderabad, December 04th, 2024: After a remarkable success in New Delhi and the ongoing screenings in Kolkata, the 29th edition of the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) is set to bring the best of European cinema to Hyderabad. This annual celebration of European cinema is a vibrant tribute to the Indo-European partnership, highlighting a shared love for art and culture. The festival promises a captivating cinematic journey through 26 award-winning films in 31 languages, offering a window into European society, culture, and people. Organised by the Delegation of the European Union to India in collaboration with the embassies of EU Member States and Hyderabad Film Club, the Hyderabad edition will take place from December 6 to December 15 at Prasad Labs Preview Theatre (Road No.2, Banjara Hills).

The Hyderabad edition of EUFF will open with the acclaimed French comedy-drama Jim’s Story (Le Roman de Jim). Written and directed by the talented Jean-Marie Larrieu and Arnaud Larrieu, this cinematic gem made a splash at the 77th Cannes Film Festival with its World Premiere and is sure to captivate audiences in Hyderabad, a city with a passion for cinema. Adapted from Pierric Bailly’s novel of the same name, Jim’s Story is a poignant exploration of human relationships, fatherhood, and life’s complexities. This beautiful film promises to enchant viewers and set the tone for an unforgettable festival experience.

The festival will feature films from Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Ukraine. This thoughtfully curated selection of films includes some of the most talked-about European movies that have earned recognition at prestigious international film festivals. Highlights include La Chimera, Baan, Jim’s Story, Afire, What a Feeling, Animal, An Irish Goodbye, Restore Point, The Man Without Guilt, The Teacher Who Promised The Sea, and many more. This diverse selection promises an enriching cinematic experience, offering profound explorations of human emotions, perspectives, and narratives.

Inviting everyone to embark on a cinematic journey through Europe. Hervé Delphin, the Ambassador of the European Union to India, remarked, “Hyderabad, we’re back. We’re thrilled to return to the city that lives and breathes cinema, with its vibrant film industry. The festival will showcase top selection of award-winning European films from renowned international festivals, offering a unique #WindowtoEurope through the cinematic lens. Europe and India are bound by a shared passion for cinema and storytelling, and the EU Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of this unity. I invite you to EUFF 2024; feel free to walk into any screening, sit in the cinema dark room and embark on a luminous cultural journey of entertainment and reflection with a European touch.”

Veronica Flora and Valerio Caruso, curators for EUFF 2024, added, “This year’s curation delves into the turmoil of the human soul and the often unfathomable complexity of daily life and seeks vital pathways toward peace, brotherhood, and solidarity in an increasingly uncertain future. The 29th edition of EUFF India promises to take audiences on a cinematic journey, surprising them with new experiences by presenting a rich array of genres and languages. It explores the unexpected landscapes of the imagination, revealing the ghosts of the present, while celebrating humankind’s resilience and its relentless pursuit of love and collective fulfilment.”

The President of the Hyderabad Film Club Mr. K V Rao said, “We appreciate the Delegation of European Union to India for providing a cinematic window to Europe, showcasing the continent’s finest films and fostering cross-cultural understanding.”

The secretary of Hyderabad Film Club, Mr BSS Prakash Reddy further elaborated on the collaboration, “The Hyderabad Film Club has a long association with Delegation to the European Union in bringing the best of European cinema to Hyderabad. The club has conducted 10 European Union Film Festivals, so far, in Hyderabad.”

One of the most anticipated and loved film festivals, EUFF 2024 promises an eclectic mix of cinema, with each film offering a fresh perspective, an idea, and unique insights into people and cultures that resonate universally. Showcasing the crème de la crème of contemporary European cinema, the festival marks the India premiere of several European films, including, What A Feeling, Because I Love Bad Weather, Stairway To Heaven, Death is a Problem for the Living, Jim’s Story, Without Air, Black Velvet, The Last Ashes, Blood on the Crown, Baan, Horia and The Man Without Guilt.

Get ready for captivating storytelling, riveting performances, and stunning visuals that deliver a truly visceral experience.

4, Dec 2024
Navjyoti Foundation Confers ‘Organic Campus’ Award to Vedatya

Vedatya Receives 'Organic Campus' Recognition from Navjyoti Foundation

New Delhi, 4th December 2024: Vedatya, one of India’s leading higher educational institutes in Delhi NCR has been awarded the prestigious ‘Organic Campus’ Award by the Navjyoti Foundation in recognition of its proactive approach to embedding sustainability and organic practices across its campus. This accolade highlights Vedatya’s ongoing commitment to creating an environmentally responsible and sustainable educational environment.

The award was presented to Mr. Amit Kapur, Director of Vedatya Institute, during a grand felicitation ceremony on November 24, 2024, held in celebration of the Navjyoti Foundation’s 23rd Foundation Day. The event was graced by Mr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, and Dr. Kiran Bedi, Founder of Navjyoti India Foundation, alongside a gathering of distinguished experts, thought leaders, and sustainability advocates.

Mr. Amit Kapur, Director of Vedatya Institute, stated, “This recognition is not just a reflection of our efforts at Vedatya but a reaffirmation of our core belief that sustainability must be at the heart of everything we do. By fostering organic practices and eco-conscious initiatives, we are helping shape the future of education and contributing towards a more sustainable and responsible society.”

The award highlights Vedatya’s continuous commitment to environmental sustainability, further strengthening the institute’s vision of building a greener future through education and action.

4, Dec 2024
“Mohrey” Trailer Released: A Thrilling Tale of Blood Ties and Betrayal on Amazon MX Player

Amazon MX Player Unveils Gripping Crime Drama "Mohrey": Trailer Out Now
Mumbai, 04th December 2024: The countdown has finally begun! Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, is gearing up to premiere Mohrey, a crime drama delving into the depths of betrayal and fractured brotherhood. The streaming service today unveiled the trailer of the series, offering a glimpse into the intertwined lives of heroes and anti-heroes battling with their inner demons. Created by Banijay Asia, Mohrey boasts a stellar cast featuring Jaaved Jaaferi, Neeraj Kabi, Aashim Gulati, Pulkit Makol, Gayatri Bharadwaj, and Pradnya Motghare, Mohrey is all set to release on Amazon MX Player from 6th December for free.

The trailer gives a glimpse into the lives of, Arjun and Michael, who find themselves on opposite sides of the law. Arjun, an undercover police officer planted as a mole in Bosco Salvador’s crime empire, faces off against Michael, Bosco’s informant within the police force. Bound by fate and their father’s mysterious past, they are thrust into a clash of loyalty, revenge, and survival. Set against the backdrop of Dariyawada, a fictional neighbourhood in old-town Bombay, the thrilling crime-series will set the pulses racing of audiences with an exciting ensemble lighting up the screens.

Amogh Dusad, Head of Content, Amazon MX Player, shared, “With Mohrey, we’re proud to present a story that is emotionally compelling yet thrilling. The series captures the complexities of relationships and the fine line between right and wrong, offering a deeply character-driven narrative centered on loyalty, vengeance, and power. At Amazon MX Player, we are committed to creating stories that push boundaries, and Mohrey exemplifies how impactful narratives can truly captivate and engage the audience.”

Speaking about his character Bosco Salvador, Jaaved Jaaferi stated, “Bosco is a character shaped by survival, ambition, and an unyielding drive to take charge of his destiny. Stepping into his shoes was a distinctive challenge because he is far from ordinary– he’s layered, vulnerable, and incredibly strategic. Mohrey delves into human emotions and conflicts. It’s a story about the scars we carry and the lengths we reach for redemption. I’m excited for viewers to unravel Bosco’s world and the chaos that defines it.”

At Banijay Asia, we aim to craft stories that resonate deeply on a human level, and Mohrey perfectly fits that vision. The series takes viewers into a world of raw emotions, intricate relationships, and high-stakes drama all set against the vibrant and intense backdrop of Mumbai. We’re thrilled to bring this tale to life with Amazon MX Player and are confident that the audience will be hooked from the very first episode,” said Rajesh Chadha, Chief Operating Officer of Scripted Division at Banijay Asia.

Mohrey will stream exclusively from 06th December on Amazon MX Player, available through its apps on mobile, Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

3, Dec 2024
Shree Cement conferred with CII Performance Excellence Awards 2024 for Renewable Energy Innovations

Shree Cement, one of India’s leading and fastest-growing cement companies, has been awarded the prestigious CII Performance Excellence Awards 2024 for its innovative solutions in renewable energy at its Solar, Wind and Hybrid Plants. The awards were presented during the valedictory function of the 23rd Edition of the Green Power Conference, CII’s flagship event on renewable energy, held in Chennai.

Shree Cement received accolades for three of its pioneering renewable energy installations: a 20 MWp Solar Plant in Beawar, Rajasthan; a 31.5 MW Wind Plant in Kushtagi, Karnataka; and a 10.5 MW Wind Plant in Jath, Maharashtra. These projects exemplify the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and innovative practices.

Commenting on the achievement, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement said, “This recognition reflects our relentless efforts to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations. At Shree Cement, we believe that renewable energy is not just a responsibility but a crucial step towards building a better future. These awards reaffirm our commitment to innovation and our drive to contribute meaningfully to India’s renewable energy goals. We are proud of our team’s dedication and will continue to lead with initiatives that make a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve.”

The awards were presented by distinguished dignitaries, including Beela Rajesh, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government (Department of Energy, Tamil Nadu); Ramesh Kymal, Chairman, Renewable Energy Council (CII – Godrej GBC); K S Venkatagiri, Executive Director, CII – Godrej GBC; and Dr. P Jayakumar, Chairman of the CII Performance Excellence Awards.

Shree Cement demonstrates its commitment to sustainability with a power portfolio exceeding 1 GW, including 517 MW from green energy. In FY 2023-24, 55.9% of its electricity needs were met through green sources. Key initiatives include a 20 MWp solar plant in Beawar, Rajasthan and wind plants in Kushtagi, Karnataka (31.5 MWp) and Jath, Maharashtra (10.5 MWp), collectively reducing CO2 emissions by nearly 98,000 tons annually. These plants significantly power its Beawar, Ras, Kodla and Patas units with renewable energy, reaffirming Shree Cement’s leadership in green energy adoption.

Shree Cement has been at the forefront of implementing measures to reduce its environmental footprint. With around 51% of its electricity generation capacity comprising of green sources, the company has adopted cutting-edge technologies and practices to enhance energy efficiency. The company’s water positivity stood more than 7 times during FY 23-24, verified by an independent agency. This was a result of the water conservation and rain water harvesting initiatives implemented across its operational locations and community. A few water conservation measures include the installation of Air Cooled Condensers (ACC), which have reduced cooling water consumption by 90%, and utilizing municipal treated sewage water for industrial use and greenbelt development.

The company’s renewable energy installations, coupled with its industry-leading innovative approaches, underscore its commitment to sustainability while setting benchmarks in green energy adoption. As Shree Cement moves forward with its vision to expand production capacity to 80 million tonnes by 2028, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of a cleaner, greener future.

3, Dec 2024
SpeakX Honored with Best Use of AI for Education & Livelihoods at Mint’s All About AI Awards

New Delhi, 3rd December, 2024 – SpeakX, a pioneering platform revolutionizing English learning through Generative AI technology, has been recognized at the Mint All About AI | Tech4Good Awards, sponsored by Salesforce. The award, in the category of Best Use of AI for Education & Livelihoods, highlights SpeakX’s innovative efforts to bridge the language divide and empower individuals across India.

Arpit Mittal, Founder of SpeakX, shared his thoughts on the recognition, saying, “This award affirms the potential of technology to transform education, particularly for communities that have been left behind. With only 8% of Indians speaking English fluently, many are unable to access opportunities in education, employment, and personal growth. SpeakX is committed to addressing this challenge by offering a solution that is both affordable and effective.”

Notably, the platform has gained significant traction in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where half of its users are based. SpeakX leverages AI-powered tools to provide personalized English lessons, enabling individuals from diverse backgrounds, including middle-income households, to enhance their prospects.

SpeakX has also been in the news for its collaborations and milestones. Its recent partnership with Cloud9 Hospital is helping nurses improve their English communication skills, which is essential for delivering better patient care. Additionally, SpeakX was selected for the prestigious Google for Startups Accelerator program, gaining access to advanced AI technologies and resources to enhance its learning platform further.

The platform’s growth has been remarkable, with more than 10,000 users subscribing monthly at an affordable rate of ₹299. This has helped SpeakX achieve an Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) of $500,000. Supported by $10 million in funding from Elevation and IndiaQuotient, SpeakX continues to strengthen its position in the global language learning market.

The Mint All About AI | Tech4Good Awards, sponsored by Salesforce, honor organizations using AI to create meaningful social impact. The event brought together industry leaders, technologists, and AI experts to explore how AI can address some of society’s biggest challenges. Innovations recognized at the awards showcased how AI is creating real-world solutions in education, healthcare, and more.

 

3, Dec 2024
Project Management Institute (PMI) Celebrates 50 Next Generation Project Leaders Shaping a Better World, South Asian honorees shine bright

December 3, 2024— Today, the Project Management Institute (PMI) celebrates 50 exceptional rising leaders who are transforming the world by leveraging their project management skills to tackle today’s most pressing challenges. As shown on the 2024 Future 50 list, these young leaders – all 35 and under – represent a diverse cohort of project professionals, including 6 from South Asia, who are reshaping the future across industries like healthcare, environmental science, technology, and social justice.

These standout professionals are building, creating, and leading transformative projects that not only solve complex problems, but also help pave the way for a more inclusive, sustainable future. As they demonstrate, effective project management and project professionals have the power to create meaningful change.

The recognition of these 50 leaders comes at a time when project management is more vital than ever. The world needs 2.5 million new project professionals each year by 2030 to fill the talent gap. As AI, climate change, and other macrotrends transform industries and create new opportunities for innovation, the demand for skilled project managers capable of driving this transformation has never been higher. Project management is ranked one of the top ten in-demand skills for 2024, according to a LinkedIn report.

“Many of the critical and complex challenges the world is facing will have to be addressed by a new generation of project professionals,” said Pierre Le Manh, President and Chief Executive Officer at PMI. “It is inspiring to see how they are channeling their passion, talent, and creativity to address climate change, technological disruption, inequality, and other pressing issues in our societies. They demonstrate the true power of project management to drive meaningful change, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions.”

Elaborating further on the Future 50’s significance, Mr. Amit Goyal, Managing Director, South Asia, said, “The PMI Future 50 exemplifies the transformative power of project management in shaping a better world. These outstanding young executives, who come from diverse backgrounds, are using their project management expertise to tackle the most important issues facing India and the rest of the globe. Their significant initiatives, which range from fostering inclusivity and increasing sustainability to spurring technological innovation, highlight the critical role that qualified project managers play in creating a more sustainable future for everybody. We are immensely proud to honor their accomplishments and the motivational work they are doing to bring about constructive change.”

Among the Future 50 honorees from India are Ananta Gopal Metange, spearheading a groundbreaking $10 million project for Collins Aerospace to localize Airbus Nacelle Cowl hardware. Ankita Bhatia, a senior program manager at Adobe, demonstrates exceptional business acumen. Kaushik Chandra L, recognized as a top performer, oversaw the complex execution of a rural drinking water project impacting over 200 villages in Karnataka. Swati Pundir, a trailblazer in AI, led a generative AI pilot project and Yazhinidevi Devarajan, founder of the award-winning Betawinds, empowers youth through soft skills training.