KIIT World School, Pitampura, Ranks 3rd in Times School Survey, secures position among Top 30 in Delhi State in Cfore Survey

Delhi – KIIT World School, Pitampura, has proudly earned the 3rd rank in the Times School Survey for North Delhi Schools and has secured position in top 30 best schools in Delhi State in the Cfore School Survey. These prestigious recognitions highlight the school’s continued commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development.

Under the dynamic leadership of Principal Sangeeta Bhatia, the school has reached new heights of success. “These rankings are a reflection of our dedication to creating a nurturing environment where students excel both academically and personally,” said Principal Bhatia. The school’s focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and ethical values has set it apart as one of the leading institutions in North Delhi.

The Times School Survey is one of the most respected platforms that evaluates schools on various key parameters including academics, infrastructure, and extracurricular activities. Meanwhile, the Cfore School Survey recognizes schools that demonstrate innovation in teaching and excellence in student engagement. KIIT World School’s consistent presence in these surveys affirms its position as a top institution dedicated to comprehensive education.

KIIT World School continues to stand out for its blend of academic rigor and co-curricular excellence. With a student-centric approach, the school encourages hands-on learning, leadership development, and skill-building activities that prepare students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Big Hello Launches Its Eighth Retail Experience Store in Bengaluru’s Electronic City

Bengaluru, 14 October 2024: Big Hello, a specialty fashion brand for plus-sized people, has recently inaugurated its eighth retail experience store in the heart of Bengaluru’s Electronics City Phase 1. The new store adds to existing Big Hello stores in Koramangala, JP Nagar, and several other locations in Bengaluru and brings world-class plus-size fashion within easy reach of the city’s discerning customers.

The new store brings a vibrant and distinctive shopping experience to plus-sized fashion customers. All Big Hello stores are designed as ‘Experience Stores‘ and feature vibrant interiors with dancing mannequins and excellent and engaging customer service, representing the lively and happy spirit of the brand. Big Hello is the first brand in India to provide a dedicated lounge for its customers to sit and shop comfortably, enhancing their retail shopping experience.

“Our newest store in Electronic City adds to our fast-growing footprint throughout Bengaluru and will offer our customers easy access to fashionable, high-quality clothing. We’re proud to bring our thoughtfully curated collections to the fashion-conscious community here,” said Modita Tripathi, Brand Head at Absolute Brands, the parent company of Big Hello.

The newly inaugurated Big Hello store presents an extensive collection of ethnic Indian and Western apparel for both men and women. In addition to clothing, customers can explore a diverse range of handcrafted accessories, all designed with a focus on fit and comfort. This new store opening marks the expansion of Big Hello retail footprint to a total of 18 locations, including prominent cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntur, and Indore.

Big Hello has existing stores in Bengaluru in locations like Koramangala, Mantri Mall, Kamanahalli, RMZ Galleria Mall, JP Nagar, Jayanagar, and New Bel Road, offering local shoppers even more convenience and choice.

Big Hello intends to open 50 more stores throughout India in the current financial year as part of the company’s rapid growth strategy, focusing on key regions like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala.

Les Entretiens Debuts in India: Visionaries Unite to Discuss Mumbai’s Transformation to a Global Metropolis

Mumbai, India – October 14th, 2024: The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), in collaboration with the prestigious Les Entretiens, is delighted to present the inaugural Asia edition of Les Entretiens in Mumbai on Friday, October 18th, 2024, at the iconic Royal Opera House in Mumbai. This historic event, themed “Mumbai 2047 – The Rising of a Global Metropolis,” will be graced by His Excellency Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, among other dignitaries.

 Founded in 2003 by Mr. Jérôme Chartier, a former member of the French Parliament and Mayor of Domont (Val-d’Oise), Les Entretiens brings together thought leaders, top decision-makers, and influential personalities from various sectors. The India edition marks a significant step in fostering Indo-French collaboration, featuring more than 20 prominent figures from both countries, including business leaders, policymakers, and academics.

 Co-chaired by Mr. Sumeet Anand, Founder & CEO of IndSight Growth Partners and former IFCCI President, and Ms. Florence Verzelen, Executive VP at Dassault Systèmes, the event will delve into critical discussions surrounding Mumbai’s transformation into a global metropolis by 2047. Topics of focus will include the city’s infrastructure, sustainable consumption, education, urban culture, and the future of mobility.

 Mr. Jerome Chartier, Founder of Les Entretiens, shared his enthusiasm: “For twenty years, “Les Entretiens” have taken place in France and abroad in locations where human history, in all its forms and subtleties, is ever-present. These places serve as receptacles for moments of sharing and reflection that allow us to engage for the progress of humanity. These moments exist thanks to the galaxy of the friends of Les Entretiens around the world, nourishing the spirit of the Enlightenment through fruitful dialogue with other civilizations. Tirelessly, the community of Les Entretiens works towards the progress of humanity.

 This progress must be welcomed and never suffocated by fear or hatred. It is with a strong sense of freedom and meaning that we must accompany its movement. This movement will take place in Mumbai on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the Royal Opera House, one of the city’s most iconic historical venues. With the first « Les Entretiens de Mumbai » we are opening, thanks to the perfect organization orchestrated by the French Chamber of Commerce in India, a new chapter of these unique moments of dialogue between civilizations for the progress of humanity. We will project ourselves into 2047, when Mumbai will become one of the largest metropolises in the world, and we will think together about how we must anticipate the emergence of Mumbai2047 starting now.”

 He further adds, “Thank you to the wonderful French delegation that has agreed to come share their visions and reflections. Thank you to the high-level Indian speakers for welcoming us for this significant moment of sharing intelligence and culture ahead. These first « Les Entretiens de Mumbai » are made possible thanks to all the organizations and companies listed on the poster below. Without them, none of this would be possible. We sincerely thank them all for their commitment.”

 “We are pleased to organise the 1st edition of Les Entretiens de Mumbai/ The Mumbai Interviews 2024 on October 18th 2024, by the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in partnership with the prestigious French conference – Les Entretiens. Les Entretiens brings together the leading minds of France to discuss the future through the lens of the philosophy of the Enlightenment. Indian civilisation has contributed to global thought through its ancient traditions and knowledge, a contribution that has continued since our independence in 1947. India’s ambition of becoming a developed country by 2047 coincides with the 50-year celebration of the Indo-French strategic partnership. With Les Entretiens de Mumbai/ The Mumbai Interviews, we will bring together brilliant minds from India and France to discuss the future of Indian cities, under the theme of ‘Mumbai 2047 – The Rise of A Global Metropolis”, quipped Mr Sumeet Anand, Founder & CEO of IndSight Growth Partners and former IFCCI President.

 Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General of IFCCI, added, “”Les Entretiens coming to Mumbai is a remarkable milestone in Indo-French relations. This prestigious platform will bring together leaders from both countries to engage in thoughtful dialogue on Mumbai’s future as a global metropolis. We are honoured to host such a significant event and believe the ideas and collaborations that emerge will contribute meaningfully to the growth and transformation of this metropolis.”

 The key sessions will feature engaging discussions on topics such as “Vision of Mumbai 2047,” “Transformative Transport Infrastructure,” and “Building a Sports Culture for a Global City.”

 Some of the distinguished attendees and speakers include:

•  Ms. Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, Former Minister of Sports and Olympic and Paralympic Games
• Ms. Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, Former French Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Research
• Ms. Monique Canto-Sperber, French Philosopher & Current Director, CNRS
• Mr. Jean-Jacques Santini, Advisor to Chairman & CEO, BNP Paribas Group
• Mr. Vincent Montagne, President & CEO, Media-Participations
• Mr. Vincenzo Vinzi, President & Dean, ESSEC Business School and President, Conference des Grandes Ecoles
• Mr. Nadir Godrej, Managing Director & Chairman, Godrej Industries Ltd
• Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder upGrad & Swades Foundation
• Mr. Atul Ruia, Chairman, The Phoenix Mills Ltd
• Mr. Bijoy Jain, Architect, Studio Mumbai

 Supported by the French Embassy in India and the French Institute in India (IFI), Mumbai – Les Entretiens promises to be an insightful platform where leaders from across sectors will share their perspectives on Mumbai’s growth trajectory and vision for the future. The knowledge partnerships with Avid Learning and ISEG Foundation, underscores the event’s commitment to fostering an inclusive dialogue on the urban and cultural evolution of the city.

Cleo County’s Durga Puja: A Heartfelt Homecoming Amidst the Festivities

Noida, 14thOctober, 2024: Cleo County’s Durga Puja has a way of tugging at your heartstrings, especially for those who’ve grown up with the sound of dhaak and the smell of fresh shiuli flowers marking the beginning of autumn. It’s not a grand pandal with lavish decorations like some of the others you find across Delhi. Instead, it’s a humble gathering of Bengali families who come together to create a Puja that feels like home—intimate, familiar, and filled with love.

 “When I first moved to Delhi, I used to visit the bigger pandals in CR Park and Kashmere Gate,” says, a resident, but the one here at Cleo County is different. It’s not about the show—it’s about the community. We don’t just attend; we participate in everything, from making the flower garlands to preparing the bhog. It takes me right back to my childhood, where everyone had a role, and Puja wasn’t something you watched; it was something you lived.”

 What sets Cleo County’s Durga Puja apart is the feeling that everyone’s involved, whether it’s reciting the pushpanjali prayers, organizing the cultural programs, or serving the traditional khichuri bhog. You won’t find the glitz of the CR Park pandals here, but you’ll find the warmth of shared memories, laughter, and stories that make this Puja unforgettable.

 “I remember, last year, after the sandhi puja, we all sat down for dinner together. Someone’s grandmother told us tales of how they celebrated back in their village, and it was like the entire room was transported back to Bengal,” recalls Mrs Sen. That’s what makes this Puja different—you don’t just celebrate, you reminisce.”

 Even Runki Goswami, the well-known classical singer who resides in Cleo County, is deeply immersed in the spirit of this Puja. Despite her public life, Durga Puja here is a time for her to reconnect with her roots. “Every year, I look forward to this Puja,” she shares. “It reminds me of home, the simplicity of our family gatherings, and the pure devotion that made our puja special. Cleo County brings that same feeling, where everyone knows everyone, and it feels like one big family coming together.”

 While other pandals in Delhi may boast celebrity performances and elaborate decorations, Cleo County’s Puja is special for its heartfelt simplicity. It’s a place where you’re not just a spectator, but a part of the tradition. The mothers chat in the kitchen while stirring the payesh, the children rehearse for their play in the evening, and the men debate over cricket after the aarti.

 “This Puja feels like a bridge between where we come from and where we are now,” says another resident. “No matter where life takes us, Cleo County’s Puja brings us home.”

 The other cherished highlight of the Puja here is the dhunuchi dance. As the evening aarti begins and the rhythmic beats of the dhaak intensify, men and women alike gather with dhunuchis in hand, swaying to the beats in perfect harmony. It’s not just the women in their elegant taant sarees who take part—here, the men join in just as enthusiastically, clad in their crisp dhotis and kurta, performing the energetic dance that is equal parts prayer and celebration.

 “I’ve seen dhunuchi naach at other pandals across Delhi, but here it feels so personal,” says Mr. Mukherjee, when I see the men step forward, lifting the dhunuchi and moving with such grace, it reminds me of my father and uncles back home, and who always led the dance with pride.”

 In a city where many Durga Pujas have become more about spectacle, Cleo County’s Puja stands out for the way it holds on to the roots. It’s where traditions are not outsourced, but cherished, where the rituals are performed by the very people who gather to celebrate, and where the festival is not just observed but lived.

SLCM Partners with Punjab National Bank and Bandhan Bank to offer Unified Collateral Management Solutions

India, 14 Oct 2024: Sohan Lal Commodity Management (SLCM), India’s largest post-harvest logistics and Agri-solutions Company, proudly announces its strategic partnership with Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Bandhan Bank. The collaboration aims to offer ‘Unified Collateral Management Solutions’ to support farmers and Agri-stakeholders in procuring post-harvest credits at competitive rates across the nation.

For these partnerships, SLCM will leverage its patented and industry-proven technology ‘Agri Reach’ and support these banks by offering more efficient post-harvest credit and advanced storage services to its stakeholders. Agri Reach has significantly reduced post-harvest losses from 10% to just 0.5% (acknowledged by FICCI Report), benefiting millions of farmers and stakeholders in the entire supply chain.

Having market leadership with 15+ years of experience, the SLCM Group has built strong relationships and trust with 23+ leading banking institutions across India and Myanmar. The company has been continuously working with multiple banks as their Collateral Managers for Warehouse Receipt Financing and offering field-tested and scalable ‘Unified Collateral Management Solutions’ comprising digitized warehouse management platform, quality & quantity commodity management, risk management, and security services to name a few.

On the announcement of the new partnerships, Sandeep Sabharwal, Group CEO of SLCM, expressed, stating “Our partnerships with 16 banks in India have established us as a “preferred partner” for financial institutions across the industry. Our latest tie-ups with Punjab National Bank and Bandhan Bank are a testament to their invested faith in our innovative and scientific approach to post-harvest management platform. By leveraging our Phygital infrastructure and cutting-edge Agri Reach technology, we are enabling our banking partners to provide farmers with efficient and secure loans, reducing the risk of default and ensuring better financial access for the entire agricultural ecosystem.”

The partnership promises to give farmers and agribusinesses with a seamless experience by fusing the financial expertise of Bandhan Bank and Punjab National Bank with the innovative collateral management and warehousing solutions offered by SLCM, therefore ensuring that farmers can store their harvests securely while accessing much-needed financial support.

With a network spanning 19 Indian states, SLCM operates over 16,742 warehouses and 36 cold storages, offering end-to-end post-harvest solutions for more than 1,080 commodities (as of 30 September, 24). These partnerships will facilitate comprehensive finance and collateral management services for commodities like cotton, pulses, maize, spices, and mentha oil.

India’s Marketing Minds Unite to Launch CMO Fellowship Program for Aspiring Marketing Leaders

Bangalore, 14th October: Some of India’s seasoned marketing leaders have come together to launch the CMO Fellowship, an advanced marketing program focused on training mid-senior professionals to become better marketing leaders. The fellowship is led by Shahbaaz, Head of Marketing at Cult, alongside Sindhu Biswal and Sushant Sadamate from Buzzlab, a content-led growth consulting firm. For the program, they have partnered with Shawrya, Rajan, and Ayush from Metvy, a platform known for its immersive, mentor-led educational experiences such as the VC Fellowship by HireVC.

The fellowship is a 3-month program taught by marketing leaders from Cult, Ajio, PayTm, Landmark, Unacademy, and other major companies. Its mission is to help mid-senior marketing professionals become future-ready and excel in leadership roles. Unlike traditional theory-heavy courses, the CMO Fellowship emphasizes practical, real-world skills. One of the highlights of the program is the proprietary ZETA framework developed by Sindhu Biswal, Chief Mentor of the fellowship, which has successfully grown brands such as Filter Copy, Finance with Sharan, and the Raj Shamani Podcast.

Metvy Founders Shawrya and Rajan shared, “We at Metvy believe that people should get to learn from people they aspire to be like through high quality fellowships. Imagine getting to learn Marketing from multiple CMOs with personalised guidance. Sindhu, Shahbaaz and Sushant understood this vision well as top marketing leaders – and we are excited to partner with them for this.”

Shahbaaz, Head of Marketing at Cult, emphasized, “All marketing is supposed to perform, build the brand and deliver to business goals. Marketers today run the risk of becoming irrelevant if they don’t learn to apply this principle. Unfortunately currently there are too many outdated or fragmented approaches to this, and it’s a pleasure to solve for this”

Sindhu and Sushant, co-founders of Buzzlab, added, “Marketing taught through recorded video courses is outdated. You can’t teach someone marketing in 1hr or 1 day or 1 week. Hence, we are doing what is right for people.”

The CMO Fellowship is designed to equip aspiring marketing leaders with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to excel in today’s marketing field. The program offers gamified mentorship sessions, live projects, and direct mentorship from top CMOs, preparing fellows to tackle the challenges of modern marketing leadership and distinguishing them from their peers.

VOC Automotive Launches First Store in Pune, Targeting 100+ stores across western India this year

India – October 14, 2024 – VOC Automotive, the pioneering leader in multi-brand two-wheeler services, proudly announces the grand opening of its first outlet in Pune. Located at Dhayari Phata Rd, Garmal, Dhayari Phata, this new store marks a significant milestone in VOC Automotive’s ambitious expansion into the western region of India. After the success across South India, this launch further strengthens VOC’s mission to offer reliable, top-tier services for two-wheeler owners across the country.

Why Pune?

Pune, often referred to as the “Queen of Deccan” and the “Cultural Capital of Maharashtra,” is a vibrant and growing city known for its industrial and IT growth. With numerous tech hubs and a booming automotive market, Pune holds a commanding market share in western India. In fact, approximately 30 to 35 out of every 100 vehicles sold in India are purchased in Pune, making it one of the largest automotive markets in the region. This growth, combined with Pune’s reputation for quality service and timely delivery, makes it an ideal location for VOC Automotive to expand its footprint. Furthermore, Pune’s demand for convenience and quick services aligns perfectly with VOC’s specialization in providing seamless and hassle-free two-wheeler maintenance, meeting the needs of a fast-paced, tech-driven environment.

Expansion Plans

This Pune store is part of VOC Automotive’s larger vision to open over 100 stores across India by the end of this year. However, the company has already signed 162 locations in South India and is actively working towards expanding its network to over stores in western India. Overall, VOC currently operates across locations nationwide, within the southern region. With growing demand for dependable two-wheeler maintenance and repairs, VOC Automotive’s expansion reflects its commitment to providing quality, convenient services tailored to meet the specific needs of each market. The Pune store is equipped with cutting-edge facilities and a team of highly skilled, certified technicians offering services ranging from routine maintenance to exclusive service plans. Customers can expect quick, efficient, and reliable service designed to deliver the best possible experience.

Lokesh S, Director of VOC Automotive, expressed his excitement about the Pune launch:“We are thrilled to bring our trusted two-wheeler services to Pune. This new outlet represents our commitment to expanding our footprint and making VOC’s services accessible to riders across the country. Pune is a strategic location for us, and we look forward to building strong connections with the local community.”

Venkatesh BM, CEO of VOC Automotive, added “The launch of our Pune outlet is a significant step in our journey towards opening stores across India. We are confident that our focus on customer satisfaction, combined with our state-of-the-art technology and skilled workforce, will help us continue to redefine the two-wheeler service industry. This expansion is only the beginning, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.”