Category Archives: News

Archie Sarna Chopra: The Vision Behind Gaia by Archie

Archie Sarna Chopra, Founder of Gaia by Archie, has been redefining the fashion landscape in Faridabad with her multi-designer store. A graduate of NIFT Bangalore (2018), she began her career at Orient Craft Export in Gurgaon in 2018 and worked there for three years, gaining a deep understanding of the practical aspects of running a business and later worked with William E. Connor, gaining valuable industry insights before launching her venture.

In her free time, Archie explores her creativity through painting and sketching while staying actively engaged with the latest fashion trends and emerging designers.

Archie’s vision for Gaia by Archie stemmed from a desire to bring premium fashion to tier-2cities, bridging the gap between local shoppers and high-end designer wear. She saw an unmet demand and wanted to offer customers access to exclusive, curated pieces without the need to travel to metros like Mumbai or Delhi.

Gaia by Archie collaborates with emerging designers who bring fresh perspectives and unique storytelling to their collections. Archie focuses on bringing together distinctive, edgy brands that are not overly mainstream but cater to fashion-forward customers seeking exclusivity.

Archie believes digital transformation and e-commerce growth will continue shaping Indian fashion while preserving its rich heritage, and with an increasing appetite for global trends and a growing base of talented designers, India is poised to become a major player in the global fashion scene while staying true to its rich cultural heritage.

Gaia by Archie prioritises personalised customer service, ensuring every shopper finds pieces that align with their unique style. Archie’s passion for discovering new designers and fostering talent remains at the heart of her brand’s philosophy.

She envisions expanding Gaia by Archie to more tier-2 cities, making curated fashion more accessible. Excitingly, the store will soon introduce menswear and kidswear, further diversifying its offerings.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Gaia by Archie continues to bring the best of contemporary fashion to its customers, redefining boutique shopping in India.

Thinking of Studying in Grenada? Here Are the Five Must-Know Facts for Indian Students

India, June 10, 2025: As more students from India explore opportunities to study in Grenada, West Indies, many have questions about life on the island. As the southernmost island of the Windward Islands, Grenada consists of Grenada, and its sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The island is roughly 100 miles north of Venezuela, with an approximate population of 126,000.

From safety and accommodations to local culture and activities, this latest guide by St. George’s University (SGU), School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies provides five key information to help prospective students make informed decisions.

How safe is campus life in Grenada?

Grenada is considered a safe destination for students, with a level-one rating from the US Department of State, which simply advises students to exercise normal precautions, as they would anywhere. In addition, SGU’s security officers patrol the university grounds 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year.

SGU has implemented several safety measures on campus, including surveillance cameras, smoke detectors, and sprinklers in all buildings. The campus also has a command center, established in 2016, serving as the emergency response hub. Students can also access the ‘SGU Safe’ app, providing location-based emergency assistance.

What are accommodations like in Grenada?

Medical students must live on campus during their first term. SGU’s residence halls provide central air conditioning, internet access, laundry facilities, and regular cleaning services. Rooms are furnished with twin-sized beds, desks, chairs, closet space, and bookshelves. Kitchen facilities include a refrigerator, cooktop stove, and microwave.

After the first term, students may choose to live off campus. Many off-campus accommodations include air conditioning, and some even have pools. Most housing options are within a five-mile radius of the university and conveniently located along the bus route.

What should students know about shopping?

Grocery shopping in Grenada is convenient, with several supermarkets accessible by bus or private vehicle. Students can also visit local markets, such as St. George’s Market Square on Saturday mornings, for fresh produce, gifts and specialty items.

Many essentials can be purchased locally. It’s also common for students leaving Grenada to sell their belongings at affordable prices for freshmen.

What are the most popular holidays in Grenada?

Major holidays celebrated in the US, such as Christmas, Easter, and New Year’s Day, are widely observed in Grenada. Additionally, the island has its own unique festivities, the most famous being Spicemas—Grenada’s Carnival—held annually on the second Monday and Tuesday of August. The event features vibrant music, dancing, and elaborate costumes.

What are some fun things to do in Grenada?

With over 80 student clubs, SGU’s campus life is just as vibrant as its academics, offering students plenty of opportunities to connect, unwind, and explore their passions. Among the most active cultural groups is the Indian Cultural Student Association (ICSA), which plays a key role in celebrating Indian traditions and cultivating cultural exchange. ICSA organizes signature events each semester, including the vibrant ICSA Show – a colorful celebration of Indian music, dance, and traditions that draws participation from across the student body. The group also hosts festive gatherings such as Diwali celebrations, Holi Day, and themed cultural nights, offering Indian students a sense of home and introducing the broader SGU community to Indian culture.

Beyond campus, students can explore Grenada’s natural beauty through hiking trails in lush rainforests or water activities like snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking. Many students earn their PADI dive certification and explore Grenada’s famous underwater sculpture park. The island also offers rich cultural experiences with local chocolate factories, spice plantations, and marine excursions, allowing students to immerse themselves in Grenadian culture and lifestyle.

IIM Raipur Teaches Good Governance at Chintan Shivir 2.0

Mumbai, 10 June 2025: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, a leading institution recognized for #BuildingBusinessOwners, successfully hosted Chintan Shivir 2.0 in collaboration with the Government of Chhattisgarh. In the 2-day residential program, the cabinet ministers, including the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, engaged on this dynamic platform for introspection, strategic dialogue, and policy innovation, aimed at accelerating the state’s inclusive and sustainable development.

Distinguished academicians and experts from premier institutions, including Dr. Ravindra H. Dholakia, Professor Emeritus at IIM Ahmedabad; Dr. Himanshu Rai, Director of IIM Indore; Uday Mahurkar, former Central Information Commissioner and senior journalist; and Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, former Rajya Sabha MP and President of ICCR, graced insightful discussions. Dr. Rajendra Pratap Gupta, a leading health policy expert and advisor to the government, and Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the PM’s Economic Advisory Council, also contributed their subject matter perspectives.

The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, along with Cabinet Ministers, senior bureaucrats, and eminent scholars. Together, they engaged in an intensive and collaborative dialogue on critical governance challenges, reform priorities, and strategic development roadmaps.

In his valedictory address, Hon’ble Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated, “Chintan Shivir 2.0, conducted through the collaboration of IIM Raipur and the Chhattisgarh Department of Good Governance, was a successful initiative where cabinet members were introduced to relevant topics that will help in running the government more efficiently. The topics chosen and the speakers were remarkable, and their teachings will greatly support us in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.”

Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, said, “We are honored to facilitate this exchange of ideas among policymakers and thought leaders. Chintan Shivir 2.0 is a reflection of our belief that academic institutions must go beyond classrooms and actively engage in real-world governance and leadership challenges. This platform not only fosters collaborative thinking between policymakers and scholars but also aligns with our larger mission of creating evidence-based, inclusive, and future-ready public systems. We are proud to support the Government of Chhattisgarh in its journey towards sustainable, citizen-centric governance and the broader national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.”

During the IIM Raipur retreat, Chhattisgarh State Ministers stressed the need for a culture-sensitive development model combining local traditions to ensure sustainable prosperity in post-Naxal Chhattisgarh. Fiscal discipline to cut compulsory expenditure, raise capital outlays, and aim for 12% annual growth is needed to realize the vision of a developed state and India by 2047. Ministers stressed that leaders must prioritize long-term societal outcomes over short-term gains, demonstrating transformational leadership through personal accountability and ethical governance rooted in cultural values. In the state, fostering cultural unity was highlighted as essential for national integration and building social capital.

The program included sessions on “Seva, Sankalp, aur Seekh” (Service, Resolve, and Learning), and concluded with the inauguration of the “Sushasan Vatika” (Good Governance Garden) via a symbolic tree-planting ceremony.

Shiv Nadar University Delhi NCR’s Young Thinkers Forum Summer School Draws Record Participation

Greater Noida, 10th June 2025: With artificial intelligence, robotics, and environmental action on the agenda, this year’s Young Thinkers Forum (YTF) Summer School at Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, saw record participation from high school students across India. Over 110 students from 50 schools across 15 states attended the week-long residential program, which concluded this week on the university’s Greater Noida campus. Designed to introduce young minds to university-style learning, the program offered students from Grades 9 to 12 to explore multidisciplinary subjects through hands-on workshops, field visits, and project-based learning.

The 2025 edition featured more than 30 sessions across diverse subjects including mathematics, science, astronomy, entrepreneurship, robotics, botany, and design. A key highlight this year was the newly launched Robotics Tech Tinkers Program, which saw enthusiastic participation from students in grades 7 to 12. They gained practical experience by building robots and rovers, and also had the opportunity to interact with Alpha Mini Robots and humanoids.

Complementing the university’s own faculty-led academic workshops, the program brought in industry experts to deliver hands-on sessions. External workshops were led by organisations such as Sony India, WWF India, Milagrow Humantech, HCL Guvi, and Jitin Chawla’s Centre for Learning, offering students an insider’s view into emerging trends and real-world applications.

Vinnie Mathur, Chair of the Young Thinkers Forum, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, remarked, “The YTF Summer Program continues to inspire students across the nation with its sole aim to expand the boundaries of human knowledge through education. This year, we have once again successfully delivered a university experience to high schoolers by subjecting them to well-rounded and multidisciplinary hands-on skill building. We continue to work towards our vision and will return with even greater opportunities to unlock the immense potential of our country’s students.”

The internationally award-winning summer school program offered a rich mix of indoor and outdoor activities, hands-on engagements, and case studies. Students not only attended academic lectures but also focused on personality development and received career guidance. This year’s excursion to the Amarpur Harit Upvan, a reforested green space developed by SayTrees in collaboration with the HCL Foundation, allowed students to witness community-led environmental action firsthand.

Students left the program with new friendships, fresh perspectives, and meaningful experiences. This year, the program welcomed international participants as well. Launched as an early academic exposure platform, the Young Thinkers Forum Summer School has grown steadily over the years, attracting students from across India and beyond. With its unique blend of experiential learning, industry engagement, and academic mentorship, the program aims to inspire the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and changemakers.

The Westin Mumbai Garden City Achieves LEED Platinum Certification, Setting a New Sustainability Benchmark

Mumbai, 6th June 2025: The Westin Mumbai Garden City proudly announces it has been awarded the prestigious LEED Platinum Certification — one of the highest global recognition from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for energy and environmental design leadership. This milestone places the hotel among the world’s most elite sustainable properties, reflecting its unwavering commitment to environmentally responsible hospitality.

 Sustainability is deeply woven into the hotel’s DNA from eco-friendly infrastructure to daily operations. Recent initiatives include an upgraded sewage treatment plant (STP), ensuring that all treated water is reused for flushing, HVAC systems, and gardening. Guest rooms and public areas feature controlled showers and sensor-operated faucets to reduce water use, and a proactive maintenance system ensures optimal water efficiency. In the laundry, environmentally friendly green chemicals help save both water and steam.

 On the energy front, the hotel employs efficient LED lighting, a centralized HVAC plant operating on variable frequency drives, and carefully optimized boilers and laundry systems to reduce consumption. Additionally, the property champions the use of renewable energy sources, the elimination of single-use plastics, and sustainable sourcing in both culinary and operational areas — from serving cage-free eggs and sustainably certified seafood to procuring ethical linens and toiletries.

 “We are honoured to achieve LEED Platinum certification, which reflects the hard work and passion of our team in making every aspect of our hotel greener and more responsible,” said Sumeet Suri, General Manager, The Westin Mumbai Garden City. “Our guests can enjoy world-class luxury with the confidence that their stay contributes to a healthier planet.”

 Set amid Mumbai’s vibrant cityscape, The Westin Mumbai Garden City continues to redefine modern hospitality by blending contemporary elegance, wellness, and sustainability, showing that luxury and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand in hand.

Covid Testing Spikes 70 Percentage With 25-30 Percentage Positives As 3 New Variants Drive Rise In Cases

New Delhi: In view of rising COVID-19 cases, testing has surged by 70%, with 25–30% of those tested now confirmed positive. This surge reflects growing public awareness and willingness to get tested, especially as people no longer let fear hold them back from seeking help. Earlier, a large number of people avoided testing due to stigma or inconvenience, but increased understanding of COVID risks has led to this encouraging rise. Those detected with Covid-19 infection should follow the expert’s guidelines. And prevent the infection by adhering to the Covid protocol of masking, hand sanitizing, and social distancing.

The Covid-19 curve still refuses to flatten in the country, and the cases are commonly seen in people of all age groups. The three emerging variants are JN.1, NB.1.8.1, and LF.7 are showing symptoms similar to the previous strain, mainly Omicron. The common symptoms are sore throat, fatigue, mild fever, cough, and occasional stomach upset or poor appetite. Moreover, loss of taste and smell is less common this time, but persistent cold-like symptoms will need timely attention. Initiate treatment without any delay for prompt recovery.

Dr. Pranav Gupta, Consultant and Head, Molecular Biology Apollo Diagnostic Delhi said, “Over approximately last 2-3 months, we are witnessing a spike in Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing by 70%, with 25–30% of samples testing positive. The rise in testing is a positive shift as people are now choosing awareness over fear. These new JN.1, NB.1.8.1, and LF.7 variants may present with mild flu-like symptoms, but without timely testing and patient isolation, they can spread rapidly and infect more number of people. Timely testing is crucial as it allows prompt intervention and improves one’s overall well-being.”

Dr. Gupta Added, “Even though a majority of people are vaccinated, it is necessary to take Covid-appropriate measures. Ensure to wear masks in crowded places, maintain good hand hygiene, and take vaccination and booster doses, avoid being around sick people, and report the symptoms to the doctor without any delay. Likewise, disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door knobs, handles and furniture. It is imperative for each and every one to take utmost care of their health and prevent Covid-19 infection.”

Whistling Woods International launches Plastic to Purpose Initiative on World Environment Day 2025

June, 2025, Mumbai- Whistling Woods International (WWI), Asia’s premier institute for Film, Communication, and Creative Arts, reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and innovation with the launch of a pioneering campus-wide initiative on the occasion of World Environment Day 2025.

 This year’s initiative takes a creative and eco-conscious leap forward, led entirely by the WWI community of sustainability warriors, who are at the forefront of collecting and transforming plastic waste into sustainable T-shirts. As part of this ongoing project, up to 50 kilograms of plastic waste is processed each month, gathered not just from the campus but also from surrounding areas. The waste is then repurposed into limited-edition garments, available exclusively at the WWI Student Store. More than just merchandise, these T-shirts serve as powerful symbols of student-led environmental action, showcasing how creativity and responsibility can drive lasting, positive change.

 Meghna Ghai Puri, President of Whistling Woods International commented on the initiative, “At Whistling Woods International, we believe that creativity must go hand in hand with sustainability. World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder, but our commitment to the planet goes far beyond just one day. Sustainability should be a way of life, integrated into everything we do. Through initiatives like these, we aim to inspire our students to lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to a greener future.”

 WWI’s dedication to sustainability is deeply rooted in its campus culture. For years, a dedicated plastic crusher machine has been operational on-site, converting waste into durable raw material for outdoor furniture and infrastructure, including benches placed across the campus. These year-round circular economy efforts highlight the institute’s ongoing mission to reduce its environmental footprint.

 The recycled T-shirt project aligns perfectly with WWI’s larger educational philosophy, where experiential learning, community engagement, and creative expression are tied to purposeful, real-world impact. Students are encouraged to become not only creative professionals but also responsible changemakers who understand the power of their choices, both artistic and environmental.

 This World Environment Day, WWI reminds us that small, consistent actions can create large, lasting change. By turning trash into textiles, the institute sets an example for academic institutions across the country, showing how environmental responsibility can be woven into the fabric of everyday life.

Yashoraj Tyagi, CEO of CASHe, Hails RBI’s 100 Basis Point Rate Cut as Game-Changer for Affordable Digital Lending

By-Yashoraj Tyagi, CEO, CASHe

“The RBI’s 100 basis point rate cut in 2025 marks a pivotal moment for the digital lending industry. Lower funding costs and improved liquidity enable us to offer more affordable credit, particularly to underserved and new-to-credit customers . This is especially impactful for short-term, unsecured loans, where borrowers are most sensitive to interest rates. While the outlook is positive, responsible lending remains key as we scale to meet rising demand.”

Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road Leads Awareness Drive on World Brain Tumour Day 2025, Urges Early Detection with “Think Fast, Act Early” Message

Mumbai-: On World Brain Tumour Day 2025, observed globally on Sunday, June 8, the spotlight turns toward an often-overlooked yet life-threatening condition. Established to raise public awareness and promote better understanding, this annual observance is a rallying point for patients, caregivers, doctors, and health advocates to unite for one mission — early detection, effective treatment, and stronger support for those affected by brain tumours.

Brain tumours affect people across all age groups and can have devastating consequences if not diagnosed and treated early. Symptoms are often vague or misinterpreted — chronic headaches, vision disturbances, imbalance, mood changes, or seizures — leading to delays in diagnosis. This year’s theme, “Think Fast, Act Early”, reinforces the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking medical help promptly.

Dr. Ashwin Borkar, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, emphasized the critical need for timely intervention says,

 “Brain tumours don’t always come with loud warnings. Many start with subtle symptoms that are easy to ignore or misattribute. But early diagnosis can be life-saving. On World Brain Tumour Day, we urge people to listen to their bodies, get regular health check-ups, and never overlook persistent symptoms. Awareness and timely imaging can make all the difference.”

Globally, brain tumours account for a significant portion of neurological diseases, with approximately 300,000 new cases diagnosed each year. In India, around 40,000 to 50,000 cases are reported annually — and rising. While some tumours are benign and treatable, others are malignant and aggressive, requiring complex neurosurgical care.

Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, is among the healthcare leaders offering advanced neurodiagnostic and surgical services. Equipped with high-resolution MRI (1.5 tesla), intraoperative neuroimaging systems and a team of expert neurosurgeons, the hospital provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s condition.

On the occasion of World Brain Tumour Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road is also organizing a public awareness drive that includes free neurological consultations, educational seminars, and outreach programs in residential areas. The goal: empower people with knowledge and reduce fear through facts.

Dr. Ashwin Borkar, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road further added, “The fight against brain tumours isn’t just clinical — it’s also social. Breaking the stigma, improving access to specialized care, and supporting caregivers are just as important. Together, we can build a community that’s informed, compassionate, and proactive.”

World Brain Tumour Day serves as a call to governments, healthcare systems, and communities worldwide to invest more in neurological research, improve screening protocols, and support survivors and families navigating life after diagnosis.

Bangalore Hospitals Organize PIA Marathon 2025 to Promote Employee Health Awareness

Bengaluru, June 9 2025: The Bangalore Hospitals, Jayanagar and Kengeri, in association with the Peenya Industrial Association (PIA), proudly organized the PIA Marathon 2025 on Saturday, June 7th. This health-focused event featured 3K, 5K, and 10K runs exclusively for members of the Peenya Industrial Association and employees from the manufacturing sector, under the inspiring theme “Peenya Runs Together – Entrepreneurs, Employees, and Energy.”

The marathon witnessed an overwhelming participation of 1200+ runners, reflecting the growing commitment of the manufacturing community towards health and fitness. The initiative aimed to raise awareness among industrial employees about heart health, spine wellness, and the importance of work-life balance through active physical engagement.

The event was flagged off by Dr. Abhishek Mannem, Medical Director and Consultant Spine Surgeon at Bangalore Hospitals, and Mr. Shiva Kumar R, President of the Peenya Industrial Association.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Abhishek Mannem emphasized the critical need for maintaining a balanced lifestyle and spoke about the advanced 640 Slice CT scan, available at Bangalore Hospital, that plays a vital role in early detection and prevention of heart attacks. He also highlighted the significance of spine health, particularly for industrial workers.

Mr. Shiva Kumar R appreciated the joint effort of Bangalore Hospital and PIA in bringing health awareness to Peenya’s workforce. He remarked that the marathon was not just a health initiative but also a much-needed break from the routine, providing a joyful and rejuvenating experience for employees.

At the end of the run, every participant was honoured with medals and certificates as a token of appreciation for taking a positive step toward a healthier life.

The PIA Marathon 2025 was more than just a race—it was a celebration of fitness, unity, and proactive health management for Peenya’s industrious community. It’s Nothing But Industrial Spirit in motion.