8, Jul 2025
Tata Steel’s Noamundi, Joda East and Khondbond Mines Receive Star Rating Awards for Sustainable Practices
Chandigarh, July 8, 2025: Tata Steel’s Noamundi Iron Mine, Joda East Iron Mine, and Khondbond Iron and Manganese Mine were honoured with the prestigious Star Rating Awards by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, in a felicitation ceremony held at the Rajasthan International Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan, on Monday.
The Company’s Noamundi Iron Mine in Jharkhand won the 7-Star Rating Award, becoming one of the three mines in India to receive this honour. It is for the first time, since the Awards’ inception in 2016, that mines have been awarded a 7-Star Rating, recognising their extraordinary efforts in the field of scientific and sustainable mining. Noamundi iron mine has been receiving a 5-Star Rating every year since inception of the coveted award in 2016. Joda East has been rated a 5-Star mine for the fourth time while Khondbond Iron and Manganese Mine received its maiden 5-Star Rating Award.
The Star Rating system, awarded by the Ministry of Mines, assesses mining operations based on operational efficiency, environmental management, safety standards, community engagement, and sustainable practices.
G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Coal and Mines, Government of India, Bhajan Lal Sharma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Rajasthan and Satish Chandra Dubey, Hon’ble Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Government of India, graced the occasion. Atul Kumar Bhatnagar, General Manager, OMQ, and D Vijayendra, Chief, Noamundi, received the award for the Noamundi Iron Mine. Similarly, Rajesh Kumar, Chief, Joda, received the award for the Joda East Iron Mine. G V Satyanarayana, Chief, Khondbond, and Awnish Kumar, Chief, Planning, OMQ, received the award for the Khondbond Mine.
“Tata Steel strives to follow innovative and responsible mining practices, contributing to mineral conservation, environmental protection, and community development. This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable mining for a greener and more inclusive future,” said Sandeep Kumar, Vice President, Raw Materials, Tata Steel Limited.
Tata Steel have been an industry leader in implementing cutting-edge technologies and industry-best mining practices to achieve benchmark performance across its mining operations. The Company’s CSR initiatives in its mining regions focus on education and skill development, health and sanitation, livelihood, and overall welfare of proximate communities.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
8, Jul 2025
Vishwa Jagriti Mission Announces the Sacred Celebration of Guru Purnima Mahotsav, 2025
Vishwa Jagriti Mission’s most awaited spiritual gathering of the year, Guru Purnima Mahotsav 2025, was inaugurated yesterday, July 7th, at the hallowed grounds of Shakti Tent (The Golden Decor), Sector 12, Rohini, Delhi. With the divine presence of Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj and Dr. Archika Didi, the Mahotsav has begun radiating its sacred energy, drawing seekers, devotees, and spiritual aspirants from all corners of the world. The celebrations will continue till July 10th, offering four full days of transformative spiritual experiences and divine connection.
Rooted in the ancient wisdom of guru-disciple lineage, this four-day celebration is more than just an event. It is a luminous celebration of divine knowledge, transcendental guidance, and soul awakening. At its heart lies the remembrance and veneration of the Guru who is the eternal source of light who dispels the darkness of ignorance and ushers in inner illumination.
This year’s four-day spiritual congregation encompasses:
Guru Mantra Siddhi Sadhana: A sanctified meditative discipline to invoke mantra power and awaken latent inner energies
Divya Shaktipaat Kriya: A transmission of divine energy that purifies, elevates, and realigns one’s subtle body
Guru Mantra Deeksha: The most sacred initiation into the timeless vibrational essence of the Guru’s mantra
Bhakti Satsang: Soul-stirring spiritual discourses, devotional music, and sangha that uplifts the collective consciousness
In his opening message, Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj shared his vision for the Mahotsav: “A true disciple does not merely follow the Guru, he becomes a reflection of the Guru’s light. Guru Purnima is that sacred juncture where the heart blossoms in surrender, and the seeker receives the silent message of the cosmos.”
Dr. Archika Didi, known for sharing her timeless teachings and wisdom from Gita, added: “This Mahotsav is a celebration of inner elevation. When we connect with the Guru, we align not only with divine grace but also with our true, fearless, and radiant self.”
On the sacred morning of 10th July, the principal Guru Purnima Darshan shall be held, a moment of transcendental grace, where devotees shall offer homage to the Guru’s feet and receive his divine blessings.
In years past, the resonance of Guru Purnima Mahotsav has transcended national boundaries. From Delhi’s ashram to disciples and seekers across Canada, Hong-Kong and Dubai. This spiritual festival has kindled devotion, service, and transformation across continents.
As the sacred lunar day of Guru Purnima draws near, Vishwa Jagriti Mission opens its arms to seekers of peace, wisdom, and divine connection. Bring your family, your longing, your questions, and your heart and be part of this rare communion of the spirit.
8, Jul 2025
Kotak Securities’ Kona Kona Shiksha Reaches Over 73,000 Youth in FY25
Total Impact achieved: 2.9 Lakh Students Since Inception
Mumbai, 8 July 2025 – Kotak Securities Limited (KSL) announced a significant milestone in its flagship CSR initiative, Kona Kona Shiksha, which reached 73,957 young Indians in FY25 alone. Since its launch in July 2021, the financial literacy programme has empowered 291,539 students across the country with essential financial knowledge.
Driven by collaboration with the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), Kona Kona Shiksha aims to build financial awareness and capability among India’s youth. In FY25, the programme was conducted in 283 cities, covering 914 colleges. Since inception, NISM has delivered 3,750 sessions across 2,957 colleges in 543 cities, supported by a network of over 400 trained resource persons.
Each student undergoes a comprehensive 10-hour training module, culminating in an online assessment and certification by NISM. The curriculum covers personal finance, investment fundamentals, securities markets, and financial planning—equipping students with the skills to make informed financial decisions and explore careers in financial services.
Shri Sashi Krishnan, Director, NISM, commented on this milestone, “We take immense pride in the transformative impact of this initiative. In partnership with Kotak Securities, Kona Kona Shiksha has empowered lakhs of young Indians with the knowledge to navigate the complex world of finance and investments. The overwhelming demand for financial literacy across the country reaffirms our mission— and we are committed to reaching even more students in the year ahead, building a financially aware
and confident generation.”Shripal Shah, MD & CEO, Kotak Securities added, “At Kotak Securities, financial literacy is not just a CSR initiative – it’s our core commitment. Kona Kona Shiksha reflects our deep belief in empowering India’s youth with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions. Each year, we’re proud to see this programme grow, reaching more students across the country and helping build a financially aware generation. Our collaboration with NISM continues to be a driving force in expanding this mission across Bharat, and we remain dedicated to making financial education accessible and impactful.”
Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the programme’s relevance and effectiveness. In addition to Kona Kona Shiksha, Kotak Securities also supports education and livelihood initiatives through its CSR partnership with Kotak Education Foundation (KEF).
8, Jul 2025
Abbott Launches Digene Insta On The Go – Instant Relief from Acidity, Anytime, Anywhere
Bangalore, INDIA 08 July 2025 – Abbott is redefining on-the-go wellness with the launch of Digene Insta On The Go—a ready-to-use antacid solution that delivers relief in just 2 seconds. With Digene Insta On The Go, Abbott has introduced a ready-to-use, water-free solution that fits seamlessly into the fast-paced lives of today’s consumers. It provides fast and effective relief from acidity, heartburn, and indigestion.1
Developed for people with busy lifestyles, this fast-acting formula acts in just 2 seconds2—delivering convenience. Each 10 ml sachet is ready to use and effectively targets acidity and gas-related discomfort. It is designed for instant use, without the need for water, mixing, or measuring. Simply tear open the sachet and sip for direct relief. Digene Insta On The Go is now available in refreshing mint flavor at ₹50 for a pack of five single-use sachets.
Dr. Jejoe Karankumar, Director of Medical Affairs at Abbott said, “Acidity can strike without warning – during a hectic workday, while traveling, or even on your daily commutes3,4. This ready-to-use, handy solution delivers rapid relief within seconds and is effective for over two hours1. Backed by the trust of a legacy brand, it blends proven efficacy with unmatched convenience—all in a compact, pocket-friendly format designed for life on the move.”
The development of this new format was deeply rooted in consumer insights that revealed a growing demand for fast, discreet and portable solutions to manage acidity. These insights guided Abbott to reimagine the delivery of relief, resulting in a water-free, single-use sachet that aligns with the spontaneous and mobile nature of modern lifestyles. By listening closely to consumer pain points and preferences, Abbott has created a solution that not only meets but anticipates the needs of today’s fast-paced world.
To amplify the launch, Digene has rolled out a high-impact, integrated campaign: “Acidity Kaheen Bhi Ho, Digene Insta On The Go”. This digital-first initiative spans outdoor activations, retail touchpoints, and online platforms—ensuring visibility where it matters most. The campaign includes engaging films such as the Multiplex Film, the Bus Film, and the Adventure Film.
Digene Insta On The Go is a new addition to the Digene range, India’s No.1 antacid brand6 offering consumers another option for managing acidity. Now available at major pharmacies and online platforms across India, Digene Insta On The Go complements Abbott’s trusted range of antacid solutions, including Digene Gel and Tablets.
8, Jul 2025
Aster RV Hospital successfully organizes Blood Donation Camp at SBI LHO Bangalore
Bangalore, 08 July, 2025 – Aster RV Hospital and Aster Volunteers Mobile Medical Services (AVMMS) recently organized a mega blood donation camp. The camp was conducted at the Aster SBI LHO, Bangalore. The camp saw 153 generous employees donating their blood to aid patients in various hospitals.
Mr. Sudhindra Bhat, COO – Aster RV Hospital said, “At Aster RV Hospital, we believe that saving lives is not limited to clinical expertise—it also means nurturing a spirit of compassion, empathy, and collective responsibility within the community. We are overwhelmed with response to our recent blood donation camp, where 153 individuals came forward to donate blood and contribute to saving countless lives. This initiative reflects the compassion and civic responsibility that define our community. At our hospital, we believe that healthcare extends beyond hospital walls — it’s about building a culture of care, awareness, and proactive engagement. Blood donation is one of the most selfless acts, and we thank every donor, volunteer, and staff member who made this camp a success. Their participation not only strengthens our emergency preparedness but also helps ensure timely support for patients in need. We remain committed to hosting more such initiatives and fostering a stronger, healthier, and more connected society.”
The success of this camp reinforces Aster RV Hospital’s dedication to community health, and similar initiatives will continue to be held in the future.
8, Jul 2025
Samsung Introduces Future-Ready Mobile Security for Personalized AI Experiences
GURUGRAM, India – July 08, 2025: Samsung Electronics today announced a new set of security and privacy updates rolling out with its upcoming Samsung Galaxy smartphones with One UI 8. These updates reinforce Samsung’s commitment to delivering powerful, trusted mobile technology in a rapidly evolving digital world by introducing new protections for on-device AI, expanding cross-device threat detection and enhancing network security with quantum-resistant encryption.
Next-Generation Mobile Security for AI Personalization
Samsung is introducing Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP), a new architecture designed to safeguard the next generation of personalized, AI-powered features, as its latest innovation in mobile security. KEEP creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments within the device’s secure storage area, ensuring that each app can access only its own sensitive information and nothing more.
Supporting Galaxy’s Personal Data Engine (PDE), KEEP helps secure a user’s deeply personal insights — such as routines and preferences — that enable features like Now Brief and Smart Gallery search. These insights stay entirely on-device, protected by KEEP and further secured by Knox Vault, Samsung’s tamper-resistant hardware security environment. The result is a seamless foundation for Galaxy AI that delivers personalized intelligence while keeping data tightly contained and under the user’s control.
KEEP’s system-level structure allows it to scale across Galaxy AI innovations. In addition to PDE, it now protects Now Brief, Smart Suggestions and other on-device features that rely on user-specific inputs — enabling more advanced AI experiences without compromising privacy. With KEEP, Samsung is redefining how mobile devices safeguard data in the background to elevate privacy from a setting to an embedded design principle.
Smarter, More Connected Threat Response With Knox Matrix
As AI becomes more integrated across the ecosystem, Samsung is advancing protections that offer not just stronger security, but greater transparency and control for users, with Knox Matrix leading the way. Through One UI 8, Samsung is evolving Knox Matrix to deliver more proactive and user-friendly protection for connected Galaxy devices. When a device is flagged for serious risk — such as system manipulation or identity forgery — it is designed to automatically sign out of the Samsung Account, cutting off access to cloud-connected services to prevent threats from spreading.
Users are notified across their connected Galaxy devices and guided to the ‘Security status of your devices’ page, where they can review the issue and take action. Even devices without the latest security status updates trigger a yellow-level warning, helping users respond before vulnerabilities grow.
Together, these updates make Samsung Galaxy’s ecosystem-level protection more dynamic, intuitive and visible, empowering users to maintain trust across all their devices with more confidence and clarity.
Secure Wi-Fi Strengthened With Quantum-Resistant Encryption
In continuation of its commitment to quantum-safe security, Samsung is bringing post-quantum cryptography to Secure Wi-Fi, extending the trusted approach first introduced on the Galaxy S25 series through Post-Quantum Enhanced Data Protection (EDP). Secure Wi-Fi is now being upgraded with a new cryptographic framework designed to strengthen network protection against emerging threats, particularly those anticipated in the era of quantum computing. This enhancement secures the key exchange process at the core of encrypted connections, helping ensure robust privacy even over public networks.
Quantum computing, once fully realized, could undermine many of today’s data protection methods. By integrating post-quantum cryptography, Secure Wi-Fi is built to withstand future attacks that capture encrypted data with the intent to break it once quantum technology matures — a tactic known as “harvest now, decrypt later.” This upgrade fortifies the secure tunnel between Galaxy devices and Samsung servers, reinforcing the integrity of data transmissions in high-risk environments like public Wi-Fi.
In addition to this future-ready foundation, Secure Wi-Fi offers a suite of advanced privacy features:
- Auto Protect: Automatically activates in public places like cafés, airports or hotels, securing Wi-Fi connections without requiring user action.
- Enhanced Privacy Protection (EPP): Encrypts internet traffic and routes it through multiple layers, combining packet encryption and relay to anonymize device information and help prevent tracking.
- Protection Activity: Provides visibility into protection history by showing which apps and networks were secured and how much data was encrypted over time.
A Trusted Platform With Built-In Safeguards
In addition to its latest innovations, Samsung continues to strengthen the core protections that underpin the Galaxy experience. These features reflect a multi-layered security approach that protects across hardware and software, while giving users greater visibility and control:
- Knox Vault secures sensitive credentials such as passwords, PINs and biometrics in a physically isolated environment, helping to keep them protected even if the main operating system is compromised.
- Auto Blocker helps provide defense by default, blocking unauthorized app installs, restricting command-based attacks and mitigating risks from potential zero-click threats.
- Advanced Intelligence Settings gives users the option to turn off online data processing for AI features, so personal information can stay on-device, fully under their control.
- Enhanced Theft Protection helps protect personal data even in high-risk situations such as robbery, using safeguards like Identity Check and Security Delay to prevent unauthorized access.
This latest set of updates reinforces Samsung’s long-standing commitment to mobile security that evolves with innovation. It strengthens on-device privacy for personalized AI with KEEP, expands transparency and user control through Knox Matrix, and introduces quantum-resistant protection to Secure Wi-Fi for a more future-ready Galaxy experience. As new security challenges emerge, Samsung remains focused on delivering safeguards that are built in, always on and ready for what’s next.
8, Jul 2025
TIPS Globeducate Named ‘Trailblazer of Tamil Nadu’
The Indian Public School (TIPS) Globeducate named ‘Trailblazer of Tamil Nadu’ by the education minister Mr. Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi
Chennai, July 8, 2025: The Indian Public School (TIPS), one of the leading schools in the country which is part of globally renowned education network Globeducate Group, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Trailblazer of Tamil Nadu” at a ceremony graced by the Honourable Minister for School Education, Mr. Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, at Hotel Pullman, Teynampet.
The Times of India’s initiative, “Trailblazers of Tamil Nadu,” celebrates the inspiring journeys of emerging entrepreneurs and achievers who are reshaping the state’s economic and innovation landscape. This prestigious platform honours individuals whose determination, ingenuity, and leadership are not only fueling the success of their own ventures but also making a meaningful contribution to Tamil Nadu’s broader progress and development.
Honourable Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, who is widely recognised for spearheading a range of transformative student welfare initiatives, praised TIPS Globeducate Chennai for its future-ready curriculum that fosters not only academic excellence but also essential life skills and holistic development. Addressing the larger gathering of achievers, he urged them to extend their impact to the grassroots level and actively mentor the youth, emphasising the importance of inclusive progress.
Mrs. Rita Gopalakrishnan, School Director of TIPS Globeducate Chennai, received the award on behalf of the institution. She remarked, “Being named a Trailblazer is both an honour and a responsibility. This recognition reflects our unwavering belief in purpose-driven education, where academic rigour meets character-building. We dedicate this award to our students, educators, and families who bring this vision to life every day.”
Mr. Jairam Balakrishnan, CEO of TIPS Globeducate, added, “This recognition by the Times of India reaffirms our mission to nurture global citizens who are equipped to shape a better world. At TIPS, we are deeply committed to helping students find their voice by encouraging them to engage with world events, reflect on their values, and stand up against ignorance and intolerance. This honour inspires us to keep pushing boundaries in how education empowers the next generation with purpose, empathy, and courage.”
As one of India’s most progressive K12 institutions offering the IB curriculum, TIPS has consistently been at the forefront of delivering global curriculum with local relevance, empowering students to become future-ready, socially responsible citizens.
8, Jul 2025
Federal Bank Powers Digital Donations at Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple
Federal Bank is proud to announce the successful enablement of digital donation payments for Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, marking a historic milestone as the first temple in Kerala to go live on the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) under the ‘Donations’ category of NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India).
This integration now allows devotees to make offerings through any UPI-enabled app, including Federal Bank’s Mobile Banking App, GooglePay, PhonePe, BHIM UPI, and more. The facility offers a safe, seamless, and convenient way for devotees across the globe to participate in temple donations—anytime, anywhere.
Speaking on the initiative, M V S Murthy, Chief Marketing Officer, Federal Bank said, “We are honoured to be part of this significant step in the digital transformation of temple donations. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple now becomes a pioneer in Kerala by embracing a platform under BBPS. Technology makes in convenient to express gratitude. The human at the core, is supported by digital at the fore.”
O B Arun Kumar, Guruvayur Devaswom Board Administrator said, “We are happy to be the first temple in Kerala to have embraced this technology to enable all devotees from across the World to offer their offerings from anywhere in the world to Guruvayur temple on special occasions or new beginnings.”
This collaboration not only modernizes religious contributions but also reflects Federal Bank’s commitment to making digital banking accessible and meaningful across all sectors, including India’s revered cultural and spiritual institutions.
8, Jul 2025
IIT Bombay and ICICI Foundation partner for expansion of biomedical innovation hub
Mumbai: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay and ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth (ICICI Foundation), the CSR arm of ICICI Bank, have forged a partnership to expand the biomedical innovation hub at the country’s premier technology and engineering institute. Under this partnership, ICICI Foundation has pledged ₹70 crore to set up additional floors at the Biomedical Engineering and Technology Innovation Centre (BETIC) at IIT Bombay and equip this area with advanced facilities.
The MoU was signed by Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay and Mr. Sanjay Datta, President, ICICI Foundation in presence of Mr. Pradeep Kumar Sinha, Chairman, ICICI Bank.
The new floors, named ‘IIT-ICICI BETIC Hub’, will significantly expand IIT Bombay’s capabilities in biomedical engineering, increasing its space five-fold to 19,700 sq. ft. The hub will foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders to develop affordable, cutting-edge medical devices and diagnostic solutions. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art resources for product development, medical grade manufacturing, safety testing, inspection, and packaging. This enhanced ecosystem will support med-tech startups and companies, train professionals in healthcare innovation, and generate high-value jobs, ultimately benefiting millions of patients.
Speaking on the collaboration, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, said, “This partnership exemplifies how industry-academia alliances can drive innovation towards real-world impact. With ICICI Foundation’s generous support, IIT Bombay is poised to revolutionise biomedical research and technology, addressing critical healthcare gaps in India, fostering home-grown solutions that are accessible, affordable, and scalable.”
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Sinha, Chairman, ICICI Bank, said, “Healthcare is a key focus at ICICI Foundation’s CSR initiatives. India’s unique healthcare challenges — high disease burden, vast rural populations, and affordability constraints—demand indigenous innovations in biomedical, tailored to its needs. Homegrown advancement will not only reduce dependency on imports but also foster cost-effective, cutting-edge medical solutions that can empower healthcare professionals and benefit millions across the country. The partnership between ICICI Foundation and IIT Bombay aims to meet this objective. The ‘IITB-ICICI BETIC Hub’ will facilitate the development of indigenous medical innovations ensuring affordable healthcare solutions to patients. We are delighted to collaborate with IIT Bombay to drive a meaningful change in the healthcare ecosystem.”
So far, ICICI Foundation has positively impacted over 2.5 million lives to receive treatment in 550 hospitals across the country through its initiatives in the healthcare sector. This includes building capacity in curative care, including cancer care, cardiac care, eye care, trauma and emergency care.
8, Jul 2025
KC GlobEd and ICT Academy, Tamil Nadu, Join Hands to Empower Faculty and Students in Commerce and Management Education
Chennai: In a significant step towards transforming how Commerce and Management are taught in Indian institutions, KC GlobEd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ICT Academy, Tamil Nadu. This collaboration aims to complement learning experiences and uplift the current capabilities of both faculty and students across the country.
Through this partnership, KC GlobEd will provide printed course materials, create custom class schedules, and assign qualified faculty to conduct in-person classes at participating institutions. As part of the partnership, faculty members participating in the program will receive jointly certified Faculty Development Program (FDP) certificates, with scope for further collaboration as mutually agreed.
“This partnership with ICT Academy is not merely an alliance, but a shared vision,” said CPA & CA Kamal Chhabra, Founder and CEO of KC GlobEd. “We are committed to building a stronger education ecosystem, where faculty are empowered to inspire, and students are prepared to thrive in the real world. By blending structured resources with personal guidance, we’re aiming to create classrooms that are both practical and powerful.”
This initiative is expected to bring an impactful change to the way institutions under ICT Academy operate. Faculty members will gain access to modern teaching techniques, better student engagement strategies, and insights into industry expectations, ultimately helping students become more confident and job-ready.
The FDPs will go beyond theory, focusing on both technical and soft skills like communication, collaboration, and leadership, to help educators deliver professional courses more effectively. The program also opens up opportunities for guest lectures, industry mentoring, and collaborative consulting, creating stronger ties between academia and industry.
Above all, the initiative hopes to enhance job satisfaction and work-life balance for educators by offering to them tools and recognition that make professional growth more worthwhile.
For KC GlobEd, this partnership marks an important milestone in its journey to expand reach, build brand credibility, and foster a deeper connection between institutions and the industries they serve. With more such collaborations on the horizon, the future looks promising for students, teachers, and institutions alike.
