Category Archives: News

Alliance Pre-University College Invites Applications for Science and Commerce Streams

Mumbai / Bengaluru, 17 May 2025: Alliance University, Karnataka’s first Private University established in 2010 and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), is pleased to announce the opening of admissions for the 2025 academic year at Alliance Pre-University College.

The College offers courses in Science and Commerce streams. In the Science stream, students can choose between two subject combinations: PCMB or PCMC. For the Commerce stream, students can opt for either CEBA or SEBA.

Alliance Pre-University College offers integrated training for JEE, NEET, K-CET, and CA Foundation, with a curriculum aligned to these competitive exams. The programs focus on conceptual clarity, academic rigor, and future pathways in engineering, medicine, science, commerce, and business. Students benefit from expert-designed materials, regular revision, and testing to strengthen analytical and reasoning skills for exam success.

Dr. B.H.S Thimmappa, Principal at PU College stated, “Alliance Pre-University College is committed to academic excellence and mentoring students to think independently, act responsibly, and lead confidently. We are dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of Alliance Education in shaping individuals who are ready for both academic and real-world challenges.”

Merit scholarships are available to students who score highly in the SSLC / Class 10 / equivalent board exams. In addition, students enrolled in the Pre-University program may also become eligible for exclusive merit-based scholarships in undergraduate programs offered at Alliance University across disciplines such as business, commerce, law, engineering, sciences, media studies, design, and liberal arts.

The College supports a hands-on, practical approach to education with well-maintained laboratories, a well-stocked library, digital learning resources, and collaborative spaces. Dedicated sports and cultural facilities further support the holistic development of students. The infrastructure is designed to be accessible and adaptable, meeting the evolving needs of learners.

Career counselling at Alliance Pre-University College is personalized and comprehensive. Students receive guidance from subject experts and mentors who help them align academic interests with career goals. Through aptitude assessments, real-world insights, and exposure to diverse fields, the college ensures that students make informed decisions instead of following conventional career paths. Workshops and guest lectures by Alliance University faculty further enrich the academic experience and prepare students for future studies.

Gloocal Communications Honored with ‘Gems of Maharashtra’ by Times Network for Excellence in Digital Marketing & Public Relations Solutions

Mumbai: Gloocal Communications Pvt. Ltd. has been felicitated with the prestigious Gems of Maharashtra award by Times Network for its outstanding contribution to the fields of Digital Marketing and Public Relations Solutions. The award was presented by the Hon’ble Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of Maharashtra.

With over a decade of experience, Gloocal Communications has been a trusted name in the domain of PR and Communications. The company has successfully partnered with leading brands across diverse sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, travel & tourism, D2C, startups, solar energy, automobiles, and retail, among others. Known for its innovative strategies, impactful campaigns, and client-centric approach, the agency has earned multiple accolades from prestigious industry platforms.

In response to evolving communication trends, GC Digital, a sub-vertical of Gloocal Communications, has emerged as a frontrunner in the digital space, particularly in the area of visual storytelling and integrated digital marketing solutions.

Bhaskar Tare, Director of Gloocal Communications & GC Digital, expressed, “Recognition is always a motivational boost to do more and chase excellence. It’s an acknowledgment of our team’s relentless efforts, creativity, and the unwavering trust of our clients. At Gloocal, our philosophy has always been client-first, and that focus continues to help us build credibility and long-term partnerships. This honour is dedicated to all our stakeholders and clients.”

Parag Dhurke, Director of Gloocal Communications & GC Digital, added, “This award is a testament to our commitment towards delivering innovative communication strategies that drive real impact. We are proud to represent Maharashtra on this prestigious platform and remain committed to setting new benchmarks in PR and digital marketing.”

Bangalore women suffering serious biochemical pregnancies welcome motherhood

Bengaluru: Vidya (name changed), from Bangalore, has successfully conceived after enduring repeated IVF failures due to biochemical pregnancies, a condition where implantation would occur but fail to progress. Despite undergoing multiple fertility treatments, she was unable to achieve a sustained pregnancy, leading the couple to seek a more specialized approach at Indira IVF, Bangalore. Following a detailed evaluation, a tailored treatment strategy was implemented, which ultimately resulted in a successful pregnancy.

Dr. Shyam Gupta, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist at Indira IVF

For years, Vidya faced immense emotional and physical distress as each unsuccessful attempt left her without answers. While embryos were forming and implantation was taking place, the pregnancies failed to develop further, indicating deeper underlying issues that needed to be addressed. Recognizing this, the medical team devised a comprehensive plan focused on enhancing ovarian function, improving embryo quality, and ensuring the uterine environment was optimally prepared for implantation. By carefully modifying each aspect of the treatment cycle, they were able to significantly improve her chances of a sustained pregnancy.

Dr. Shyam Gupta, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist at Indira IVF, explained, “When patients face repeated IVF failures despite embryos implanting, it becomes essential to look beyond standard protocols and identify the precise barriers to a successful pregnancy. By optimizing ovarian response, addressing possible immune-related implantation failures, and fine-tuning the treatment plan to suit Vidya’s specific needs, we were able to create an environment conducive to embryo development. This approach was key in overcoming the challenges she had faced for so long.”

Her case stands as a testament to the power of personalized, science-backed fertility care in overcoming even the most complex infertility challenges. With continuous advancements in reproductive medicine, more couples struggling with repeated setbacks now have access to innovative treatments designed to address the root causes of infertility. Indira IVF remains committed to undertaking these evidence-based, individualized treatment strategies, ensuring that every hopeful parent receives the best possible chance of achieving their dream of parenthood.

Beat the Heat Desi-Style with Mango Drinks from The Tastes of India on Audible

Scorching summer heat got you craving something refreshing? As the temperature rises, there’s nothing quite like a chilled drink to cool you down and keep you feeling refreshed. And what better than the king of fruits, mango? Good news is, we’ve gathered some of the best summer mango drinks from ‘The Tastes of India Podcast’ on Audible that you can whip up to beat the heat. These are not only easy to make but also packed with delicious flavours – a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying the season. 

Want more? Tune into the podcast for step-by-step guidance and more drink ideas to keep your summer breezy and delightful!

Raw Mango Sattu Drink

Ingredients:

1. Roasted chana: 200 gm
2. Roasted cumin powder: 1 tsp
3. Black salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
4. Onion: 2 tsp, chopped
5. Green chilli: 1 tsp, chopped
6. Raw mango: 5 tsp, chopped
7. Cold water: 1/2 litre
8. Lemon: 1 large, juiced

Method:

• Start by placing the roasted chana into a mixer grinder and blend it until it forms a fine powder.
• In a bowl, combine the freshly ground sattu powder with roasted cumin powder, black salt, chopped onion, chopped green chilli, chopped raw mango, cold water, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• Stir everything together until well-mixed, and your refreshing sattu drink is ready to serve! Enjoy!

Mango Mastani 

Ingredients:

1. Ripe Mango: 2 cups, peeled and cubed
2. Full Fat Milk: 1 cup, chilled
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: 4 scoops
4. Mango: 8 tbsp, chopped (or as needed)
5. Almonds: 2 tsp, chopped
6. Pistachios: 2 tsp, chopped
7. Tutti Frutti: 2 tsp, optional
8. Glazed Cherries: 2, optional

Method:

• In a blender, combine mango cubes and milk. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
• Take a tall glass or pitcher. Layer the glass with 2 tbsp chopped mango, 1/4 cup mango shake, and 1 scoop vanilla ice cream.
• Add another 2 tbsp chopped mango, pour in 1/4 cup more mango shake, and top with the second scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• For the finishing touch, sprinkle chopped pistachios and almonds on top.
• Garnish with tutti frutti, extra mango cubes, and glazed cherries as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Aam ka Panna 

Ingredients:

1. Raw Mango: 2
2. Roasted Cumin Powder: 1 tsp, or to taste
3. Black Salt: 1 tsp, or to taste
4. Salt: to taste
5. Water: 4 cups
6. Sugar: 3–4 tbsp, or to taste (optional, based on mango tartness)
7. Mint Leaves: a handful, fresh
8. Ice Cubes: as required

Method:

• Rinse the raw mangoes and wipe them dry with a clean cloth.
• On a gas stovetop, place a roti or papad rack and set the mangoes on top.
• Turn the mangoes at regular intervals to ensure they roast evenly. The peels should become charred.
• Once roasted, slide a knife along one of the sides of the mangoes. If the knife slides easily without resistance, it’s done!
• Let the mangoes cool to room temperature. Alternatively, you can soak them in water for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process.
• Peel the burnt skin off the mangoes once they’ve cooled. Scrape the cooked mango pulp into a bowl using a sharp-edged spoon or knife.
• Add the roasted cumin powder, black salt, regular salt, and mix well.
• Add 4 cups of water and stir everything together. Adjust the water to your preferred consistency. If you like your aam ka panna thick, reduce the water quantity.
• Crush a few mint leaves in a mortar and pestle and add them to the aam panna. Stir to infuse the mint flavour.
• Now you have two types of aam panna – one plain and one with mint!
• Add ice cubes to the aam panna for that perfect chill. Serve immediately, best enjoyed cold!

Pune’s Billabong High International School Amanora Toppers Shine with an Impressive 95.6% in CBSE 2025 Results

Pune, [14th May 2025 ] – Billabong High International School, Amanora, is delighted to announce the outstanding performance of its first cohort of Grade X students in the CBSE Board Examinations 2025. With a focus on personalized learning, the school continues to nurture learners who excel both academically and beyond, preparing them to meet the challenges of the future.

Billabong High International School remains committed to fostering creative thinkers through a dynamic curriculum and a global perspective. The school’s neuroscience-based curriculum, combined with personalized attention, ensures that learners not only excel academically but also develop critical life skills.

Ms. Aditi Mukherjee, School Leader of Billabong High International School, Amanora, expressed her pride in the learners ‘ accomplishments, “The journey to this day has been filled with anticipation and effort, and our learners have truly risen to the challenge. Educating this batch was not just an academic endeavour but a shared journey of growth and discovery. We pushed them to see their potential, encouraging them to set goals and strive relentlessly towards them. Today, their hard work has paid off, and they have made us immensely proud.”

The school’s tailored approach to education has led to impressive outcomes, with Tamizh Inniyan emerging as the Grade X topper with 95.6%. Other high achievers include Ayushman Suryawanshi (94.80%), Arika Vitthal Gangi (94.0%), and Siddhanth Deepak Nair (90.60%).

Outstanding Academic Achievements Highlighting Excellence in Information Technology

● Ayushman Suryawanshi demonstrated exceptional proficiency by scoring a perfect 100 in Information Technology.

● Arika Gangi also showcased a remarkable performance, securing an impressive 99 in the same subject

School Topper Tamizh Inniyan shared, “I am deeply grateful to my school, principal, teachers, and parents for their constant support in helping me get great results in board exam. My school provided the perfect environment to grow academically and personally. My teachers guided me patiently, always encouraging me to give my best. My parents stood by me with love, motivation, and strength throughout the journey. Balancing studies with sports kept me disciplined, focused, and energized. This journey was not easy, but the support around me made it meaningful and enjoyable. Thank you all for being part of my success—I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Billabong High International School’s success is a testament to the collective effort of the learners, teachers, and the school community. This year’s exceptional CBSE results underscore the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing not just academic achievers but well-rounded, future-ready leaders.

Oxford International Digital Institute Named ‘Rising EdTech Organisation of the Year’ at Ed-Falcon Global Awards 2025

14th May 2025: Oxford International Digital Institute (OIDI) has been recognised as the ‘Rising EdTech Organisation of the Year’ at the prestigi

ous Ed-Falcon Global Awards 2025, held during the EdTalk World Conference in New Delhi recently. The award was presented by Dr Maria Efstratopoulou, Head of the Department of Special Gifted Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, to Ratnesh Mishra, Regional Director Oxford International Digital Institute South Asia. The award recognises OIDI’s contribution to digital education and its efforts to make education more accessible to learners everywhere.

The award recognises OIDI’s innovative work in the field of digital education, particularly through its AI-powered platforms such as the Oxford English Language Level Test (OELLT), the Spotlight language placement test, and the blended higher education programmes offered through the Oxford International Pathway College (OIPC). These initiatives have enabled learners worldwide to demonstrate English proficiency remotely, undergo personalised assessments for accurate course placement, and prepare effectively for university studies, resulting in strong academic outcomes.

Speaking on the recognition, Ratnesh Mishra of Oxford International Digital Institute said – “We are proud to be recognised for pushing the boundaries of what digital education can offer learners around the world. At OIDI, we believe in creating meaningful, technology-driven solutions that expand global learning opportunities. This recognition motivates us to continue building inclusive, accessible, and high-quality pathways for learners around the world.”

The Ed-Falcon Global Awards, held annually in conjunction with the EdTalk World Conference, acknowledge exceptional contributions to education across multiple categories, with a particular focus on innovation, scalability, and impact. The two-day event brought together leading professionals from academia, government, and the EdTech industry to discuss the future of education and share insights on emerging trends.

APM Terminals Pipavav Concludes Second Edition of Future Leaders Program with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University

Ahmedabad, India – Building on its mission to shape India’s maritime future through innovation and skill development, APM Terminals Pipavav (GPPL), in partnership with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University (GMU), has concluded the second season of the Future Leaders – Foundation Program. This initiative is a key milestone in equipping India’s next generation of maritime professionals with the right mindset, global exposure, and future-ready capabilities.

 Held over five days at GMU’s GIFT City campus, the program combines cutting-edge immersive learning with industry mentorship. It’s a direct outcome of the tripartite MoU signed at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 and reflects GPPL’s continued alignment with the Government of India’s Skill India and Maritime India Vision 2030.

 This year, 36 participants underwent an intensive curriculum delivered by global subject matter experts. The sessions covered everything from virtual reality-based port and shipboard simulations to legal case studies, sustainability challenges, and supply chain management using Maersk’s renowned “Farm to Fridge” model. Participants also honed their teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities through scenario-based exercises and collaborative problem-solving modules.

 The program serves as a launchpad for the upcoming Virtual Reality Centre of Excellence (VR CoE) at GMU—India’s first immersive learning hub designed for the maritime, logistics, and heavy industry sectors. Backed by Maersk’s global training ecosystem, the CoE will offer high-impact leadership and safety training using advanced simulations. It aims to upskill students and young professionals with global best practices and create pathways for international collaboration across Maersk CoE locations in Japan, Saudi Arabia, the US, and Taiwan.

 This initiative strengthens GPPL’s long-term commitment to developing a competitive and sustainable maritime workforce. It is also a testament to Gujarat’s growing role as a maritime education and innovation hub. Through strong industry-academia collaboration, the program is helping bridge the skill gap and prepare India’s youth to lead on the global maritime stage.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Mr. Girish Aggarwal, Managing Director of APM Terminals Pipavav, said: “This program is more than an academic exercise. It’s a platform where the future of India’s maritime sector takes shape—young, curious minds are exposed to innovation, global practices, and sustainability. We are immensely proud to see the second season conclude successfully and remain committed to equipping India’s youth with the right tools to lead tomorrow’s maritime transformation.”

The second edition concluded with an engaging closing ceremony at Gujarat Maritime University, graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Sanjeevi Shanthakumar (Chancellor, GMU), Dr. Tanuja Kaushik, Dr. Abhay Singh Thakur, and facilitators from Maersk Training including Capt. Jaspreet Singh Puri, Porchelvan Arun, and Pricilla Stephen. Their collective guidance and participation marked the successful culmination of a high-impact learning journey.

 Strategically aligned with the Government of India’s Skill India Mission, the program highlights how strategic collaboration between industry and academia can drive meaningful talent development for the maritime sector.

WPI Falls to 0.85%—Disinflation Strengthens Case for June Rate Cut, Says MP Financial’s Mahendra Patil

By- Mahendra Patil, Founder and Managing Partner, MP Financial Advisory Services LLP for your kind perusal.

“India’s inflation landscape has turned benign, with retail inflation (CPI) moderating to a near six-year low of 3.16% in April 2025 and wholesale inflation (WPI) plunging to just 0.85%. This dual disinflation, led by a sharp correction in food prices and easing fuel and primary article costs, offers a substantial macroeconomic tailwind. With food inflation at the consumer level down to 1.78% and WPI food inflation easing to 2.55%, the pricing environment is increasingly favorable for rural consumption recovery.

This broad-based softening in inflation, particularly at the wholesale level, strengthens the case for the Reserve Bank of India to continue the rate cut cycle in the June policy meeting as well. Such a move would lower borrowing costs, revive capex appetite among corporates, and offer rate-sensitive sectors such as housing, automobiles, and MSMEs a timely boost.

However, the mild uptick in core inflation segments like health (4.25%), education (4.13%), and housing (3%) suggests services inflation remains sticky. Nonetheless, the current environment is ideal for a calibrated monetary stimulus to revive growth amid global trade uncertainties and moderate commodity prices. Lower input cost inflation as reflected in the WPI will also help firms protect margins without hiking prices, thereby supporting profitability and private sector investment momentum.”

Keysight and SPHEREA Join Forces to Strengthen European Aerospace and Defense Testing Capabilities

May 14, 2025

Keysight Technologies, Inc. , has collaborated with SPHEREA to offer customers improved testing capabilities in the aerospace and defense (A&D) sector. By joining forces, Keysight will combine its expertise in high-performance electronics tests and measuring systems with SPHEREA’s design and integration capabilities, to support the shifting requirements in the A&D space.

As European nations increasingly prioritize defense independence and aim to remain compliant with stringent export control regulations, this collaboration offers a timely and strategic response to these needs. The deployment of next-generation measurement technologies is critical to national security, but it is also essential to align with the need for EU-designed solutions to support self-sufficient and strategic autonomy.

Keysight and SPHEREA are working together to address this challenge, providing customers with local solutions that are built on trusted technology. As part of the agreement, the deployment includes the delivery of Keysight’s Radar Target Generator (RTG) and Electronic Warfare (EW) testing solutions, featuring frequency expansion from 18 GHz to 40 GHz, which led to a successful tender for a leading military alliance. The solution consists of Keysight’s AXIe-based high-performance embedded controller with low latency and signal processing, arbitrary waveform generation, and its latest low phase-noise synthesizers.

“Our partnership with SPHEREA enables us to deliver an innovative, scalable solution. The accurate radar test solution is designed with our European R&D expertise, and delivery capabilities to provide future-ready tests that meet the evolving needs of our defense customers,” said Thierry Locquette, EMEA VP and GM at Keysight.

“We are proud to cooperate with Keysight using our deep RF expertise to develop the commercial off the shelf (COTS) Up and Down Converter (UDC) with 1 GHz bandwidth in a short time frame. Together, we fulfilled the customer’s needs for advanced capability within a condensed timeline,” said Julien Pulice, Group CTO Deputy at SPHEREA.

The joint effort will reinforce the push for greater autonomy in safety-critical applications across radar and electronic support measures (ESM) systems, aligning with the EU’s national security goal for defense resilience and sovereignty, free from foreign export restrictions and controls.

ISRL Season 2 Sees Record Re-Registrations From International Supercross Legends

New Delhi, 14th May, 2025: The Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), the world’s first-ever franchise-based Supercross championship, has witnessed an unprecedented response to its Season 2 rider registrations that opened late last month. The league has recorded an astounding 89 registrations in just the first three weeks, with all major athletes from Season 1 already confirming their participation for the upcoming season.

This remarkable early response outpaces last season’s registration timeline, where the league received 85 registrations after 3 months, ISRL is charted for a 2x growth vis-à-vis Season 1. The swift re-registration of established riders, including international superstars and Indian talent, demonstrates the immense excitement and growing demand for the league among athletes globally.

The global appeal of ISRL continues to grow, with registrations pouring in from across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Among the star athletes returning for Season 2 are Matt Moss, Jordi Tixier, Reid Taylor, Thanarat Penjan, Ben Hallgren and Thomas Ramette. They will be joined by three major international names: Alexander Fedortsov (USA), the 2025 ‘AMA SMX Next’ National Champion, Adrien Escoffier (France), a leading contender in the FIM World Supercross Championship, and Luke Clout (Australia), and 2024 P6 World Supercross Championship. India’s own top performers- Rugved Barguje, Ikshan Shanbhag, and Sarthak Chavan, who impressed in the previous season, will also be back in action. This blend of world-class international athletes and exceptional home-grown talent sets the stage for an exhilarating second season.

Eeshan Lokhande, Co-Founder, Indian Supercross Racing League, said, “The overwhelming response we’ve seen in just the first three weeks of Season 2 registrations highlights ISRL’s growing stature in the global motorsport arena. The swift return of all our top athletes from Season 1, along with a surge of new entries, is a powerful testament to the success and influence of our debut season. It’s a strong validation that fuels our team’s passion to take Season 2 to new heights to deliver a world-class experience for both riders and fans. We remain committed to pushing boundaries and further cementing ISRL’s status as a premier global Supercross destination.”

Matt Moss – “Yeah so the first season, obviously really good. I’m genuinely happy with how it all went. Traveling over was definitely a cultural shock at first, but in the best way possible. The people were amazing, the hospitality was top-notch, and above all, the racing was excellent. I’m looking forward to Season 2 and seeing what new additions and changes it brings. It’s exciting to see even more interest this time around, with riders coming in from the USA, France, and even more from Australia. I think the competition is going to step up—guys like Jordi and others will definitely keep us on our toes. I’m really looking forward to that and can’t wait for Season 2 to kick off.”

Rugved Barguje – Riding on a proper Supercross track in India felt like a dream come true. I was thrilled to compete in the Asia Mix category, but unfortunately, I was dealing with a thumb injury. Still, the adrenaline rush kept me going throughout the races. Now, with Season 2 approaching, I’m fully recovered and in a much better shape to ride. This time, my goal is clear- to secure a podium finish.”

Jordi Tixier – “Season 1 of ISRL truly exceeded my expectations, it was an outstanding experience. I genuinely enjoyed the people, the track, and the incredible energy of the fans. What stood out to me most was how passionate and dedicated the founders and team ISRL are to the sport. You could see their efforts reflected in every race, constantly evolving, improving, and listening to rider feedback. The growth from the first race in Pune to the final round in Bangalore was impressive. It’s clear they’re not just organizing an event, but building something special for the future of Supercross.”

Brendan Sipple – “I feel blessed to have been a part of Season 1. The tracks were amazing, the racing was intense, and the fans brought unmatched energy—it was just an all-round unforgettable experience journey. The teams and the overall organization were top-notch. The people behind the scenes worked tirelessly to ensure us, as riders, had everything we needed. They made sure the tracks were dialed in and that the entire event reflected the best of Supercross motorsport history. I’m really looking forward to coming back for Season 2. I’m excited to see what’s in store, to race in new cities, and to represent teams that are passionate about growing Supercross in India. It’s amazing to witness the sport gaining momentum here, and I can’t wait to be part of it again.”

The ISRL is set to return bigger and bolder, with Salman Khan joining as the official brand ambassador, boosting its visibility and appeal among mainstream audiences. Season 2 will run from October to December 2025, featuring multiple rounds across Indian cities and three racing categories: 450cc international, 250cc international, and 250cc India-Asia mix. Rider registration is open, with the mega auction coming soon. In partnership with FMSCI, the league continues to transform Supercross racing in India and gain momentum globally.