Category Archives: News

DPDP Act Marks a Permanent Shift: Urgent Call for Businesses to Embed Data Protection at Their Core

Synopsys Marks 30 Years of Operations in India with Inauguration of New Bengaluru Site

Bengaluru, India, September 23, 2025, Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNPS), the global leader in engineering solutions from silicon to systems, celebrated 30 years of operations in India with the opening of a new research and development facility in Bengaluru. Synopsys president and CEO, Sassine Ghazi, and Synopsys exec chair and founder, Dr. Aart de Geus, spoke at the inauguration of the new office at Bagmane Capital. The new facility spans more than 455,000 square feet, providing ample space for advanced R&D in EDA, semiconductor IP, verification and system design solutions to enable global and regional customers to bring next-generation technologies to market. Ghazi commented on the significance of the company’s presence in India, which spans seven cities, including offices of recently acquired simulation and analysis leader, Ansys. 

“India has been a key part of the Synopsys story for 30 years,” said Sassine Ghazi, President and CEO of Synopsys. “From our very first R&D center in Bengaluru, to the blooming network of engineers and partners that we have here now, India is an important center of innovation and talent. As India is building its semiconductor future, Synopsys can provide the holistic, silicon-to-systems design solutions that technology R&D teams need to realize their innovations,” he added.

30 Years of Synopsys in India

Synopsys commenced its India operations in 1995 with an R&D center in Bengaluru, followed by a field organization in 1997. At present, approximately one-third of Synopsys’ global workforce is based in India – with the majority in engineering roles. From facilitating semiconductor manufacturing to leading advances in automotive, AI, and next-generation computing, Synopsys’ India teams are in the forefront in solving the industry’s most complex problems. 

Over the past 30 years, Synopsys has played a pivotal role in the advancement of India’s technology and semiconductor ecosystem. The company collaborates with more than 100 leading global and regional organizations, including market-leading semiconductor design centres, AI startup companies, and regional design and manufacturing firms, empowering them to accelerate the delivery of innovative solutions with greater efficiency and proficiency.

Synopsys’ Ansys acquisition

The 30 years in India milestone of Synopsys comes shortly after the company completed its acquisition of Ansys in July 2025. It is a bold move that unites leaders in silicon design, IP, simulation, and analysis. This integration expands Synopsys’ total addressable market to 31 billion dolar, accelerating the company’s strategy to deliver advanced engineering solutions for the AI era using multiphysics simulation tightly integrated with the full EDA stack.

With Ansys’ predictive simulation capabilities part of Synopsys, engineers across industries, including semiconductors, automotive, aerospace, industrial, and healthcare, can innovate faster, reduce time-to-market, and improve real-world product performance. Synopsys expects to deliver the first set of combined solutions in the first half of 2026.

As India advances its semiconductor industry ambitions, Synopsys will continue to aid as a mission-critical enabler and trusted advisor. The new office inauguration in Bengaluru reflects Synopsys’ dual commitment: continue to grow India as a global innovation hub and leverage its integration with Ansys to re-engineer engineering from silicon to systems.

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Kicks Off Festive Season with Cake Mixing & Grape Stomping

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Rings in the Festive Season with a Lively Cake Mixing and Grape Stomping Celebration

Mumbai / Hyderabad, 23nd September 2025: Novotel Hyderabad Airport ushered in the festive season with its much-loved Cake Mixing and Grape Stomping celebration on Sunday, 21^st September 2025. The event, which has become a cherished tradition for the hotel, was made even more spectacular this year with the unveiling of a 25-foot-long cake displayed inside the Food Exchange. This surprise element, along with the lively grape stomping and cake mixing, created an atmosphere of joy and festivity for all guests.

The celebration began with the traditional cake mixing, where guests joined hands with the culinary team to blend dry fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices with rich flavors to prepare the base for the hotel’s signature Christmas cakes. The grape stomping added a playful touch, reminiscent of old-world winemaking, with participants thoroughly enjoying the fun-filled activity.

The afternoon was further elevated by a specially curated Sunday Brunch. Guests relished a selection of local favorites such as Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani and Awadhi Paneer Korma, alongside global specialties including Chicken Tori Katsu and Root Vegetable Gratin. A vibrant mix of salads and live grills added to the indulgence, offering something for every palate.

Speaking on the occasion, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager of Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “The Cake Mixing and Grape Stomping is a tradition that brings immense joy to both our guests and our team. This year, the 25-foot-long cake was our way of making the event even more special, creating a memorable experience for everyone who joined us. We are proud to usher in the festive season with such enthusiasm and warmth.”

Pastry Chef Divya Goppanagari, who led the cake mixing, shared, “This event is very close to our hearts as it marks the beginning of the festive season in our kitchen. The mix of fruits and spices prepared today will slowly mature, giving our Christmas cakes their signature richness and flavor.”

Head Chef Amanna Raju added, “Our Sunday Brunch was designed to complement the festivities, combining the essence of local cuisine with global favorites. It was wonderful to see our guests savor these dishes while celebrating such a joyful tradition.”

The day was further elevated by live music, laughter, and the contagious festive cheer that filled the air. With this successful celebration, Novotel Hyderabad Airport kickstarts the festive season and sets the tone for an exciting line-up of holiday festivities in the months ahead.

Atlantis Dubai Raises Over Half a Million Dollars for Conservation & Sustainability Through Atlantis Atlas Project

ATLANTIS DUBAI ANNOUNCES OVER HALF A MILLION DOLLARS OF FUNDING SINCE THE  INCEPTION OF ATLANTIS ATLAS PROJECT IN SUPPORT OF CONSERVATION AND  SUSTAINABILITY

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, 22nd september 2025: Atlantis Dubai announces the selection of seven local and international  conservation and sustainability projects set to receive funding from the Atlantis Atlas Project Contribution  Programme 2025-26 cycle. From June 2024 to May 2025, for every green meeting event and marine  animal experience participated in by a guest, Atlantis Dubai contributed a portion of earnings, resulting in  a $123,000 (USD) fund, which aims to support projects that help protect the ocean and our environment.  Since the programme was launched in 2021, the initiative has now raised over half a million dollars  ($509,000) and supported 30 projects. 

Since April, organisations around the world have been invited to apply for funding, after which proposals  were assessed against their contributions to scientific advancement, conservation, and sustainability by  the internal Atlantis Dubai Conservation & Science Committee. Atlantis Atlas Project currently focuses on  four key groups of wildlife: sharks, rays, dolphins, and coral reefs, and a key threat to their existence in  the wild; marine pollution. This year, the Contribution Programme will continue to support six  organisations from previous years, as well as welcoming one new organisation.  

2025-26 New Project Partner 

A new partner this year is the Mohammed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund to support and  encourage UAE youth under 18 who are passionate about conservation by offering funding, mentorship,  and hands-on experience. It will engage local young people through schools, media, and social campaigns,  highlighting a joint commitment to biodiversity and empowering the next generation of environmental  leaders.

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2025-26 Returning Project Partners 

A further year of funding has been initiated with Zayed University and lead UAE-based researcher, Dr Ada Natoli, for the UAE Dolphin Project, which supports boat-based research of local dolphin populations.  During the first three years (2021-2024) this project conducted a total of 142 boat surveys spanning a  distance of 11,106 km along the UAE coastline and totalling 591 observational hours, recording 44  sightings across three species of dolphins and porpoises. Over four consecutive years, the survey has  yielded unprecedented insights into the presence, behaviour, and habitat preferences of cetaceans in an  urban marine environment. Now, in collaboration with Xclusive Yachts, the project will go into its 5th year  of surveys and acoustic monitoring of marine mammals within UAE waters, focusing on the Northern  Emirates waters to better inform conservation actions. 

The Contribution Programme will continue to support the UAE’s leading social enterprise Goumbook to  build upon their ‘Save The Butts – Waste to Value’ campaign. This year’s project will focus on expanding  the Empowering Ocean Stewards project, which combines ocean literacy, citizen science, and data  collection to study microplastics in UAE waters. It aims to engage high school students through workshops,  training over 100 youth in sampling and analysis, while linking microplastics pollution to coral reef health  and climate change. The Project outcomes include open-access data, building local conservation capacity,  and fostering regional collaboration through the MENA Oceans Network, advancing education,  awareness, and sustainability. 

The Atlantis Atlas Project Contribution Programme will provide a further year of funding to support the  IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group, led by UAE-based Dr Rima Jabado. Sharks and rays are a key  conservation focus for Atlantis Atlas Project, and this IUCN specialist group is the leading authority on the  status of sharks, rays, and chimaeras globally. They remain pivotal in the development and  implementation of conservation strategies for these species, including the publication of the Global  Report on the Status of Sharks, Rays and Chimaeras, last year.  

Funding will also be provided to SAFE Shark and Ray, adding to our focus on these marine animals. This  project will develop standardised methods for genetic sampling and data storage of threatened sharks 

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and rays in human care. It will create an accessible Genetics Database, support testing, and gather data.  The information will guide breeding, reintroduction, and rewilding efforts, supporting global conservation  of these species. 

Funding will also be continued for the Whale and Dolphin Protection Team at Environmental Voluntary  Foundation (EVF) and its project to further understand the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin in Kuwait  waters. The study will continue to investigate the status and support the conservation of this endangered  species through boat surveys located in the southern area of Khiran. 

Finally, another year of funding has been initiated with Marine Megafauna Foundation led by Simon  Pierce. Last year, the Marine Megafauna Foundation was supported in launching the Oman Whale Shark  Project, which successfully identified and tagged individual whale sharks while engaging local  stakeholders. Expanding research in the Gulf of Oman, a vital yet threatened habitat, the project involves  divers, snorkelers, and marine operators in a citizen science program. Through photo-identification and  tagging, it tracks whale shark abundance, movements, and threats, generating data to guide ecotourism  best practices, strengthen conservation, and support the protection of this endangered species. 

Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Marine Animal Operations and Sustainability, Atlantis Dubai,  commented: “We are extremely proud to share that, since the inception of Atlantis Atlas Project, we have  raised over half a million dollars and supported 30 impactful initiatives. This year’s seven selected projects  showcase remarkable expertise, creativity, and innovation in advancing ocean conservation and  environmental protection, while aligning with our shared sustainability goals. At Atlantis Dubai, driving  conservation beyond our destination and transforming our operations within it are both essential pillars  of Atlantis Atlas Project’s long-term vision. Together, these efforts reflect our collective commitment to  creating measurable, positive change for our planet and its people.” 

Turkish Airlines Launches Flights to Port Sudan

Bengaluru, 22 September 2025: Connecting more destinations across Africa than any other global carrier, Turkish Airlines has launched flights to Port Sudan, increasing its number of destinations in Africa to 63. The national flag carrier will operate its Port Sudan flights as two weekly frequencies until 29 September, and by this date as three weekly frequencies on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Commenting on this new route, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat said; “As Turkish Airlines, we are delighted to launching flights to Port Sudan, one of historically and strategically significant port cities in Africa. The launch of this route marks an important step in connecting Port Sudan’s commercial potential, cultural heritage and tourism values to the world. We believe that these flights will build new bridges in many areas from trade to tourism, and from education to cultural exchange. We will continue to expand our network in Africa, and connect the continent with the rest of the world.”

Turkish Airlines guests will be able to travel from Istanbul to Port Sudan until 31 March 2026, with tickets purchased by 15 December 2025, starting from USD 585; and from Port Sudan to Istanbul starting from USD 638. These promotional fares are based on Turkish Airlines’ official website and may vary in sales offices and agencies.

Flight Schedule:

All times are in LMT:

Port Sudan, Sudan’s largest port city, is located on the Red Sea coast and serves as the country’s gateway to international trade. The city is a critical hub for exports of oil, agricultural products and natural resources, providing significant industrial and logistical contributions to Sudan. Reflecting both the African and Ottoman heritage, Port Sudan offers cultural diversity through its traditional markets, historical landmarks and sea tourism.

K J Somaiya Institute of Management & Jio Creative Labs Launch Work-Integrated MBA in Marketing Communications

K J Somaiya Institute of Management partners with Jio Creative Labs for work-integrated MBA in Marketing Communications A First-of-its-Kind Industry-Academia Collaboration

National, 22nd September 2025: K J Somaiya Institute of Management (KJSIM), one of India’s leading management institutes, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Jio Creative Labs (JCL), the advertising and communications arm of Reliance Jio. As part of this strategic collaboration, they have welcomed the inaugural batch of the two-year MBA in Marketing Communications (2025–27). Every student is guaranteed a summer internship at Jio Creative Labs, where they will participate in live projects and work on real campaign briefs from the outset.

The curriculum combines foundational management courses with cutting-edge specialisations tailored to today’s digital-first marketing landscape. Core subjects such as Integrated Marketing Communication and Consumer Behaviour are complemented by advanced modules including Brand Storytelling, Generative AI, Influencer Marketing, Customer Experience Design, Immersive Technologies, Celebrity and Reputation Management, and Luxury Brand Marketing. In their final year, students will undertake a capstone project that demonstrates their ability to merge strategic thinking with creative execution.

The programme follows a blended learning model: three days of academic instruction at KJSIM’s Vidyavihar campus, paired with two days of immersive studio learning at Jio Creative Labs’ headquarters in the Bandra-Kurla Complex. This structure enables students to apply classroom concepts directly to real-world campaigns, ensuring continuous industry engagement throughout the two years.

Congratulating the new batch, Dr Raman Ramachandran, Director and Dean of K J Somaiya Institute of Management, said, “This is a truly unique programme in India. It is based on work-integrated learning. By the end of these two years, students will not only understand concepts but also know how the industry truly works. Our vision has always been to bring academia and industry closer so that students graduate work-ready. This programme is a collaboration between two institutions with strong legacies of innovation and education.”

Aditya Bhat, Head of Jio Creative Labs, added, “The inaugural cohort has the unique opportunity to engage deeply with both classroom learning and real-world projects. By building a strong foundation over these two years, students can prepare themselves for long-term success. Continuous learning and adaptability are key. What is learned here and at JCL is just the beginning. In a rapidly evolving world, especially with AI, degrees alone are not enough; knowledge, adaptability, and a commitment to learning will define the future.”

Through this collaboration, K J Somaiya Institute of Management reinforces its commitment to reimagining management education. By fostering industry-led alliances and embedding experiential learning into its programmes, KJSIM continues to innovate new models of education that equip students with the skills and adaptability required to excel in India’s dynamic marketing and communications sectors. 

Asha Geetanjali 2025: BITS Pilani Hyderabad to Host Landmark Book Launch, Village Adoption

Hyderabad, 22 September 2025: BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus is proud to host Asha Geetanjali 2025 on 21st September 2025,  in its auditorium  a transformative event that celebrates grassroots action, social impact and community empowerment. The occasion will mark the launch of the book “Amma Vodi Na Telangana”, the adoption of Patha Routa Sankepalli village, and the unveiling of a dedicated website to scale these initiatives.

The event will be graced by an eminent lineup of dignitaries including The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana Sri Jishnu Dev Varma will serve as Chief Guest, joined by the former Governor of Haryana Sri Bandaru Dattatreya. Union Minister Sri Kishan Reddy, Telangana Ministers Sri Jupally Krishna Rao and Smt. Seethakka, along with local representatives such as Sri Etela Rajender (MP) and Sri K. Venkataramana Reddy (MLA), Smt Kova Laxmi (MLA), Sri Palvai Harish Babu (MLA), and other MLAs and MPs, will also be present. With an expected audience of 1,700–2,000 participants, Asha Geetanjali 2025 will be one of the most significant gatherings of community stakeholders in recent times.

This initiative is being spearheaded by the Director Prof Soumyo Mukherji and the Dean Prof Yogeeswari Perumal, of BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, who have mobilized institutional, faculty, and student resources to ensure the event is not just ceremonial but rooted deeply in sustained action. Significant involvement from students is central: beyond helping organise logistics, hosting sessions, and outreach, large teams from four major student‐led clubs — NIRMAAN, BITS Embryo, SAFHAR and SPIC MACAY — are integral to how the programmes are structured and will be executed.

• NIRMAAN (BITS Hyderabad Chapter) is bringing its expertise in volunteer‐led social leadership, education outreach, and community development. Given its history at BITS Hyderabad, NIRMAAN volunteers will lead many ground-level activities in Patha Sankepalli, assist in organising school and village level sessions, coordinating with local officials, managing feedback from beneficiaries, and helping mobilize the self-employment empowerment component.
• BITS Embryo contributes its strength in knowledge-sharing, connecting students with alumni and experts. The club will manage the lecture series and interactive workshops associated with the book and website launch, curate content for the website, host panels or talks that align with Nagendra’s field journey (visits to government projects, schools, villages), and mentor students in research or documentation related to the empowerment initiatives.
• SAFHAR (Students’ Association for Heritage And TouRism) will bring a cultural, heritage, and local identity dimension to the event. SAFHAR’s involvement includes curating parts of the programme that celebrate Telangana’s culture, perhaps organising heritage walk elements or displays, helping contextualize the villages visited, ensuring the events are inclusive of local narrative, and making sure that the adoption of the village also respects the local heritage, traditions, and tourism potential.
• SPIC MACAY (BITS Hyderabad Chapter) will enliven the event with cultural performances, classical arts, and interactive sessions. Their role involves arranging performances, music or dance segments that draw on Telangana’s classical and folk arts traditions, bringing a sense of cultural dignity to the programme, helping in making the launch emotionally resonant, and supporting student artists in contributing.

Authored by Smt Rayapudi Asha Latha and her son, Sri Rayapudi Nagendra, a Ranji Trophy cricketer trained in the United Kingdom, Amma Odi – Na Telangana chronicles the extraordinary journey of the mother and son duo, across Telangana. During the course of this journey, they visited more than 8,000 villages, 4,000 government schools, 429 government hospitals and all thermal power plants and over 700 industries in Telangana. This experience not only shaped the book but also inspired a commitment to empower 100 Adivasis through adopting a village to encourage and empower self employment for a sustainable Telangana.

BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus: A Platform for Social Impact
As one of India’s leading higher education institutions, BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus has long been committed to blending academic excellence with societal responsibility. Through student-led rural development programs, technology-driven social innovations and partnerships with government agencies, the campus continues to pioneer models of inclusive growth. Hosting Asha Geetanjali 2025 underscores BITS Hyderabad’s dedication to fostering impactful collaborations that translate ideas into tangible benefits for communities across the state.

“Sri Nagendra’s journey epitomises the power of empathy, commitment and action. By hosting Asha Geetanjali 2025, we are proud to amplify stories of transformation and strengthen our efforts to align institutional resources with the needs of society”, remarked the Dean of BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus.

AIIGMA Celebrates 50 Years with Regional Safety Seminar on Gas Cylinder Rules in Hyderabad

AIIGMA marks 50 years with ‘Regional Safety Seminar on Gas Cylinder Rules and Industry Standards’ at Hyderabad!

Hyderabad, 22nd September 2025: The All India Industrial Gases Manufacturers Association (AIIGMA), the apex body representing the interests of the industrial and medical gases industry in India, commemorated its 50th anniversary by hosting the Regional Safety Seminar on Industrial and Medical Gases, with reference to Gas Cylinder Rules 2016 & SMPV (Unfired) Rules 2016; today at the Hotel Westin, Mindspace, Hyderabad. The Seminar was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Shri V. K. Mishra, Jt. Chief Controller of Explosives – Hyderabad Circle, PESO, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India; and delivered the Keynote address at the Seminar and was graced by Mr Saket Tiku, President, AIIGMA; Mr Rajiv Guptha, General Secretary AIIGMA and Shri Shankar Ghosh, Director, Shell-N-Tub Pvt Ltd,; among others. Over 200 delegates from all over India attended the one-day Seminar.

Established in 1975, AIIGMA serves as a common platform for manufacturers, suppliers, and equipment providers in the gas industry, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and advocacy for safe practices, innovation, and growth in the sector. AIIGMA continues to be actively engaged in policy discussions, industry seminars, international collaborations, and safety initiatives. The upcoming seminar in Hyderabad is part of its ongoing efforts to reinforce safety, technology, and sustainability in the gases industry.

Speaking on the occasion Chief Guest Mr. V K Mishra, Jt. Chief Controller of explosives-Hyderabad Circle, PESCO, Ministry of commerce & Industry, Government of India; in his keynote address said, “congratulations to AIIGMA on completion of 50 years and during this period, AIIGMA has grown by leaps and bounds. Some excellent work was done by the industry during the crisis like COVID; however, we need to retrospect if we had done our best or was there space to do better, such introspection helps to handle future crisis more efficiently. During that period, liquid oxygen storage and cryogenic cylinder installation, were two major issues which could have perhaps facilitated better management. Reflect on such issues and ensure better management in future. AIIGMA did a wonderful work in supporting the industry and entrepreneurs. To maintain high safety standards, need to rigorously emphasis on identification of cylinders, periodic testing and condemnation of unused cylinders.”‘              

Mr. Saket Tiku, President, AIIGMA; said, “over the last five decades AIIGMA has emerged as the voice of the Indian Gas Industry, working tirelessly for the growth of our sector, while ensuring the safety, compliance, innovation remain at the forefront. Here, I would like to touch upon a very important development, in the light of the recent trade tariffs imposed on India, it has become imperative for all of us to focus on manufacturing more within India, of course we also recognize the practical reality, as there are certain products which are not manufactured in India. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister has been emphasizing on manufacturing of Semi-conductor chips within India, for producing these semi-conductor chips, we need specialty gases with ultra-high purity, rare gases etc., which are not available in India. Many of which may not have so much demand in India to make it viable to produce here. Till the volumes of such gases become viable to produce, they will continue to be imported. Going forward AIIGMA will be emphasizing increasingly on make in India products, to become self-reliant. At the heart of this entire thing lies safety, which becomes non-negotiable. We conduct regular trainings on safety, which are subsidized by AIIGMA. Safety is crucial in our industry, therefore depute your technical staff for these trainings, benefit from them and avoid mishaps.”    

Mr. Rajiv Guptha, General Secretary AIIGMA; “our gas industry carries a significant responsibility to ensure the highest standards of safety, today’s seminar is a testament to that commitment. As we focus on the crucial Gas Cylinder Rules, 2016 and Assembly Rules, 2016; a thorough understanding and sincere adherence to these rules are not just regulatory requirements but are the foundation of our safety culture and a pledge to protect lives and property. Let’s use this opportunity to share insights and collectively raise the bar for safety in our sector.”

IHM Hyderabad Hosts 4th Season of Budding Events, Showcases Exceptional Talent

The Institute of Hotel Management, Hyderabad, hosts the 4th Season of the Budding Events, unearths exceptional talent!

Hyderabad, 22nd September 2025: The Institute of Hotel Management, Hyderabad (IHM-Hyderabad), a central government institute under the Ministry of Tourism, ranked the third best institute, successfully; hosted the 4th Season of the Budding Events, comprising of National Budding Professional Competition (Manager) and National Budding Chef Competition, at its premises at DD Colony, Vidyanagar, Hyderabad. The four-day mega event, which concluded today, witnessed the participation of 8 teams in the Budding Professional and 13 teams in the Budding Chef from leading IHMs, SIHMs, and private hospitality institutes from across India and Hyderabad. 

The grand inaugural ceremony was graced by Chef Sudhakar N. Rao – Director/Principal, Culinary Academy of India and a proud Alumnus of IHM-Hyderabad; Mr. Anirban Kundu, Food & Beverage Manager, Taj Deccan, Hyderabad; Mr. Sanjay Thakur, Principal/ Member Secretary, IHM-Hyderabad; Ms. Rachna Agashe, HoD, IHM-Hyderabad; Mr. Puneet Razdan, HoD, IHM-Hyderabad and other dignitaries. The inaugural also set the tone for the competitions with inspiring addresses and enthusiastic participation from students across the country.

Participants in the National Budding Professional (Manager) 2025 category competed across diverse and industry-relevant events, testing their problem-solving, creativity, and operational skills. The categories included Online Test; Pitcharest- F&B Business Plan; SoP Detective – Error Detection & Correction; Floresque – Ikebana Competition; Front Desk Showdown – Service Recovery Skills; Takeoff – Product Launch Competition; Hotel Ecothon- Digital Junior Suite Designing; Sell Me This Pen – Selling Tactics and Hustle – Cocktail Making Competition. Based on cumulative scores from these events, the prestigious titles of Mr. Budding Professional (Manager) and Ms. Budding Professional (Manager) were awarded to the most deserving candidates.

National Budding Chef 2025 – Competitions & Awards

The Budding Chef Competition featured intense rounds across multiple cuisines and themes, bringing out the best of India’s culinary student talent in Regional Indian Authentic Cookery; International Surprise Basket and Cake Decoration Competition. The rigorous competitions tested participants’ culinary creativity, technical precision, and ability to work under pressure, culminating in the announcement of the National Budding Chef 2025 Champion Team. 

Valedictory Ceremony of National Budding Events 2025

The Valedictory ceremony hosted today, was attended by eminent industry stalwarts including Guest of Honour Celebrity Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi; Mr. Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC; Mr. Rohan George, Resident Manager, Green Park Hyderabad; Mr. John Biswas, Hotel Manager, Radisson Blu Banjara Hills; Chef Manpreet Singh Malik, Executive Chef, Taj Deccan and Mr.Sanjay Thakur, Principal/ Member Secretary, IHM-Hyderabad and gave away the prizes to the winners in the various categories. A key highlight of the event was the release of a Research Book on AI Trends in the Hospitality Industry, reinforcing IHM-Hyderabad’s commitment to innovation in hospitality education.

A series of vibrant cultural performances, including the recitation of mantras, Ganesh Vandana, soulful flute recitals, a Telangana folk dance (Bathukamma), and a thought-provoking Nukkad Natak on the theme of Swachhata added grandeur and depth to the evening, blending tradition, culture, and social awareness. 

Awards & Felicitations

The following awards were given to winners across competitions, during the Valedictory Ceremony, today.

Special Felicitations 

As a part of the International Housekeepers Week, the institute felicitated the following, for their exceptional role in Housekeeping

• Mr. Manikandan, Executive Housekeeper, Taj Deccan
• Mr. Bilbin K. Babu, Head of Department, Housekeeping, Taj Vivanta

National Budding Professional (Manager) 2025, Awards

• Ms. Budding Professional (Manager): Ria Shirookar, IHM Goa.
• Mr. Budding Professional (Manager): Sai Manish, Regency College of Hotel Management.
• Ms. Budding Professional (Manager) – Runner-up: Shreyshy, IHM-Chennai.
• Mr. Budding Professional (Manager) – Runner-up: Carlos Frank Marcas R., IHM-Chennai.
• Participant with the Most Contagious Smile: Roel Saldanha, IHM-Goa.
• Participant with the Best Demeanour: Abhishek Sahoo, SIHM Balangir.
• Participant with the most pleasing personality: Harsimran Singh Sodhi, SIHM Jabalpur.
• The Best Seller (Sales & Marketing Topper): Rashmeet Kaur, IHM Bhubaneswar.
• Topper – F&B Service: Shubhi Rajbhar, SIHM Jabalpur.
• Topper – Front Office: Athiya Khan, Regency College of Hotel Management.
• Topper – Accommodation Operations: Ariba Siddiqui, Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad.

National Budding Chef 2025, Awards

• Champion of the National Budding Chef 2025: Andrea Vaz & Aditya Nair, IHM-Goa.
• Consolation Prize – Regional Authentic Indian Cookery: Andriyas Topno & Sinthia Horo, SIHM Balangir.

• Runner-up – Regional Authentic Indian Cookery: Rakesh Rout & Romit Pradhan Shiksha O’ Anusandhan University, Bhubaneshwar.
• Winner – Regional Authentic Indian Cookery: Radhika Rajwade & Badal Sahu, SIHM Raipur.
• Consolation Prize – International Surprise Basket: Vikruthi Sarangan & Saahas Reddy, Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad.
• Runner-up – International Surprise Basket: Rajbir Rana & Sanoop Wilson, IHM-Chennai.
• Winner – International Surprise Basket: Ayush Agarwal & Mohit Gurjar, SIHM Jabalpur.

• Consolation Prize – Let the Cake Tell Your Story: Andrea Vaz & Aditya Nair, IHM-Goa.
• Runner-up – Let the Cake Tell Your Story: Shrutika Sharma & T. Chandu, Regency College of Hotel Management, Hyderabad.

• Winner – Let the Cake Tell Your Story: Cibidaran & Abhishek Krishna, Indian Culinary Institute, Tirupati.
• Chef’s Hygiene Excellence Award : Janhavi Daiv & Souvik Das, IHM Ahmedabad.
• Chef with the Best Demeanour : Pooja Kha, IHM-Bhubaneshwar. 
• Chef with the Best Smile : Mohit Gurjar, SIHM Jabalpur.
• Chef with the Most Pleasing Personality : Vikruthi Sarangan, Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad

The event concluded with resounding applause, celebrating not just the winners but also the spirit of learning, collaboration, and hospitality excellence that IHM-Hyderabad proudly fosters.

SBI strengthens presence in Tamil Nadu with the inauguration of 14 new branches

Chennai, September 22, 2025: State Bank of India (SBI), the nation’s largest bank, has further strengthened its presence in India’s second largest state economy, Tamil Nadu, with the inauguration of 14 new branches, 2 Home Loan Centers, 2 modern Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs), and a Special Currency Administration Branch (SCAB). These initiatives, inaugurated by SBI Chairman, Shri Challa Sreenivasulu Setty during his visit to the Bank’s Local Head Office in Chennai, underline SBI’s focus on expanding its reach while supporting community development across the State.

Further to this, as part of the Department of Financial Services (DFS) campaign for the saturation of Financial Inclusion schemes, SBI Chairman virtually inaugurated 110 Gram Panchayat Camps aimed at bringing essential banking and financial services directly to rural communities. Senior officials from the bank, business correspondents were present at these camps where a large number of customers participated.

Additionally, under the bank’s CSR initiative, a cheque for INR1.47 crore was handed over to Shri Sudhan R, Retired IAS and the Member Secretary of the Namma School Foundation for the upgradation of 30 Government Primary Schools throughout Tamil Nadu, reinforcing the Bank’s dedication to improving the Educational Infrastructure.

Speaking on the occasion, SBI Chairman, Shri Challa Sreenivasulu Setty said, “SBI may already be India’s largest bank with over 22,980 branches, yet we see clear opportunities to deepen our presence where banking access is still limited. The new branches in Tamil Nadu are part of our effort to strengthen this physical connect while complementing it with initiatives like Gram Panchayat camps to drive financial inclusion at the grassroots. At the same time, we remain committed to giving back to society, and our support towards upgrading government schools reflects that responsibility. Our focus is to keep expanding in ways that create both economic and social value for the communities we serve”

“These initiatives are a reaffirmation to the Bank’s commitment to making banking more accessible and inclusive. By such undertakings, SBI is not just growing as a Bank but also contributing to the holistic development of the communities it serves”, he said.