15, Jul 2024
Path to Progress: Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society’s 24th Annual Science Awards Winners Revealed
Dr Priya Abraham, Sr. Prof from CMC Vellore and Former Director of the National Institute of Virology, Pune delivered the Annual Oration Lecture.
Only 27% of the population has taken booster doses. We are pushing the government to bring the booster doses back so that more should take them for their safety: Dr Priya Abraham.
KVRSS enters its 25th year. It plans to develop a state-of-the-art science center complex.
Hyderabad, July 15th, 2024…….Dr. K. V. Rao Scientific Society’s 24th Annual Science Awards Function was held Saturday night at B. M. Birla Science Centre, Hyderabad.
KVRSS has been involved in promoting science by spotting and recognizing talent at the school and university levels for the past 24 years.
Prof. (Dr.) Priya Abraham, Senior Professor, Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, and Former Director, National Institute of Virology, Pune delivered the KV Rao Memorial Oration. She was part of the ICMR team that developed the COVAXIN vaccine
She presented the 24th Annual Memorial Oration “The Making of an Indigenous COVID Vaccine and More” where she dwelled on the arduous task of developing the first Indigenous antibody detection assay (Kavach ELISA) which was used in the four national serosurveys for COVID-19 and the collaboration with industry in making a candidate vaccine. Dr Priya and her team worked throughout the pandemic, and it was their relentless effort which helped India come out of the pandemic with minimal casualties.
Speaking on the occasion she said a vaccine takes 10 long years to be developed. But during a crisis like a pandemic, it was developed in just ten and half months. Scientists are not the soldiers at the borders like our fauzi but they are civilian fauzi, she said.
Speaking further she said only 27% of the population has taken a booster dose which is not good. Everyone must take the booster dose. I am in my capacity pushing to the government to bring the vaccines back into the market and encourage more to take booster doses, she said.
The Covid vaccines must be commonly available in the market for people to take booster doses she said
Many countries have realized the need for pandemic preparedness to counter any pandemics that may hit in the future.
Mr. Partho Pratim Kar, Joint Managing Director, Jaykay Enterprises Limited, New Delhi was the Chief Guest. He is an industry leader and pioneer in Indian Retail and works extensively in diverse areas of the social sector including schools. Good teachers make up the good school and not National Education Policy. We need to focus on how to develop good teachers. Teaching has to be by choice and not by default.
Both the guest gave away the 24th Annual Research Awards, 19th School Talent Awards, 13th SPARK Innovation Awards, and 4th SMART (Science Meets ART) Awards.
During the function, the 24th Annual Research Awards were presented to encourage research in basic sciences. It recognized exceptional research in fundamental scientific disciplines by students under the age of 30 across India.
19th School Talent Awards are initiated in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Science & Technology (APCOST). These awards acknowledge exemplary science projects presented by students from various districts, particularly government schools, based on a designated theme provided by the Department of Science and Technology. Scholarship opportunities were awarded to select students.
The 13th SPARK Innovation Awards were given to stimulate the young minds of India, Students present Science Models with Concepts. 40 Projects were selected for final presentations
4th SMART (Science Meets ART) Awards were initiated to celebrate National Science Day and to let school students visualize science. This program fosters a visual understanding of science among school students, the SMART program encourages the creation of models that translate mathematical concepts into engaging stories.
Recently the Society established a Science Innovation Centre and a Mobile Science Lab to offer interactive and accessible science experiences for school children. These initiatives have demonstrably impacted over 10,000 students in the past two years.
As KVRSS enters its 25th year, ambitious plans are underway to develop a state-of-the-art science centre complex. This innovative facility will be designed to provide a vibrant space for learning, exploration, and enjoyment of science for all.
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- By Rabindra
10, Jul 2024
Pune’s Real Estate Boom – Is Now the Perfect Time to Invest?
By-Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
Pune, one of India’s most vibrant real estate markets, has experienced rapid changes over the past few years. Latest data from leading real estate consultancies show a scenario of strong housing price increases and ongoing changes in market dynamics, pointing towards further price hikes in the future.
According to real estate consultants Anarock, Pune and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) saw over 50% of the overall housing sales in Q2 2024 among the top seven cities. This is a resounding statement for Pune — a city once considered the laid-back cousin of the financial capital and is now competing in the same league.
Rising Property Prices: A Continuum
Recent data from various leading consultancies clearly show Pune’s trend of rising property prices. There has been a significant 20-23% year-on-year increase compared to Q1 2023. This resilience and rising demand are driving prices higher. Several factors explain Pune’s growing housing prices
– Economic Growth & Employment Opportunities: Pune’s real estate market has improved significantly due to its development into a major IT and manufacturing center. High demand from professionals seeking homes near their workplaces has led to a surge in property values in and around IT parks and manufacturing hubs.
– Infrastructure Development: Ongoing and planned infrastructure improvements such as road extensions, new flyovers, and the Pune Metro are boosting the city’s property values and connectivity. This dynamic is evident across Greater Pune, which includes the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the infrastructure-driven Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC).
– Shift in Housing Segments: Pune’s housing market is now driven by mid-range and premium-to-luxury housing, thanks to higher demand for such options. The higher purchasing and borrowing power of the target clientele supports ongoing price increases.
So – Buy Now or Later?
To answer this very important question, it is necessary to consider some fundamentals. Pune’s strong economic growth draws professionals and families from various industries. The city offers a high livability quotient, better housing affordability, and a superior climate compared to neighboring Mumbai. It also boasts top-grade healthcare and education options and proximity to Mumbai, Maharashtra’s main economic hub.
Pune has delivered an overall residential price appreciation of well over 20% in just one year. Naturally, both end-users and investors find the city very appealing, especially considering its rapid growth since 2020, which saw Pune’s lowest year for housing demand in the last decade due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Job losses, economic disruption, and the disappearance of construction labour brought building activity to a halt. The lockdowns caused a significant decline in real estate market demand and supply.
But in 2021, the market began to bounce back powerfully. With a 17% year-on-year increase, Pune saw the highest property sales since 2013. Buyer confidence increased steadily. In 2023, the Pune housing market rebounded remarkably. The current year is poised to set new benchmarks.
The writing is clearly on the wall — there is no stopping the Pune housing market, and a wait-and-watch stance can cost buyers dearly. For those who want to buy a home in Pune, either to live here or to reap investment returns, there is a strong argument for acting now. Historical data and current patterns clearly imply that the city’s property values will keep rising.
Given the continuous growth of the city and its expanding economic base, homes bought now will deliver significant value addition over time. Pune is currently second only to Mumbai in new residential launches and sales and is also attracting increasing interest from institutional investors eyeing its commercial real estate market.
This means more workplaces, more jobs, and even higher housing demand driving prices steadily northward. For potential buyers and investors, the message is clear – there is no equity in waiting for a more opportune time in Pune’s thriving housing market.
About the Author:
Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience
5, Jul 2024
Kargil War – The Turning Point book launched in Bengaluru by Governor of Arunachal Pradesh
Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Launches Kargil War Book
In a glittering ceremony on 3rd July at the Army Officers Institute in Bengaluru, Lt Gen K T Parnaik (retd), the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, launched a book titled “Kargil War – The Turning Point”. Authored by late Col M B Ravindranath, VrC, a war hero and son of the soil hailing from Davangere, the memoir vividly recalls the challenges that the author and his unit 2 RAJ RIF faced, as they attacked Tololing during the Kargil War 25 years ago. Several attacks to evict the Pakistani troops from the formidable Himalayan heights had failed, when Ravi and his warriors went into battle at Tololing. After a bitterly fought battle, 2 RAJ RIF soldiers stood victorious on Tololing at dawn on 13 June 99. This was the Turning Point in the war, and Indian troops thereafter destroyed several Pakistani posts in the next month, and evicted the treacherous Pakistani Army in the Drass – Kargil Sector.
Col MB Ravindranath, VrC, who hails from Davangere is an alumnus of Sainik School Bijapur and NDA, Pune. He was the Commanding Officer of 2 RAJ RIF when the unit moved into the Drass area to evict Pakistani soldiers from the heights overlooking the Leh Highway. He led his unit to victory, and after his unit command was over, he took premature retirement and returned to his roots to handle the family business. He penned his experiences passionately before he passed away in April 2018 after a massive heart attack.
The book Kargil War – The Turning Point traces the events of those months, as Ravi prepared his infantrymen for the battles, the fears that he had to overcome, the plans that he made and finally his leadership on the icy mountain ridges during the attacks. The book also highlights the sacrifice of bravehearts like Major Acharya, MVC, Major Vivek Gupta, MVC, Lt Kenguruse, MVC, Capt Vijayant Thapar, VrC and such others. At the book launch event organized by Ravindranath’s family, several of his colleagues and friends joined and paid tribute to him. Lt Gen Mohinder Puri (retd), Ravi’s Division Commander during the war described Ravindranath’s commitment, resilience, courage and bold leadership. Lt Gen KT Parnaik, the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh described how the troops fight for the honour of their units, their clans and for the nation. He highlighted his personal association with late Col M B Ravindranath. Col David Devasahayam, CMD of the Radiant Group, a corporate leader and colleague of Col Ravindranath, also recalled the commitment and enterprise of Ravindranath. Former Services Chiefs Admiral Karambir Singh, General Manoj Naravane and Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria also graced the book launch ceremony.
“Kargil War – The Turning Point” is an intimate narrative that captures the essence of the courage and resilience of Indian soldiers. Written in a gripping style, the book brings out the formidable positions held by the Pakistanis which our troops overcame valiantly. The Kargil War of 1999 remains a pivotal moment in India’s military history, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Armed Forces in defending the nation’s sovereignty. “Kargil War – The Turning Point” pays homage to these extraordinary individuals and their families, offering readers a poignant insight into the sacrifices made and the triumphs achieved during this critical period. “Kargil War – The Turning Point” is now available at leading bookstores nationwide and online platforms.
As we celebrate the Rajat Jayanti of the Kargil Victory this month, it is apt to salute our valiant soldiers who guard our frontiers with dedication and fortitude. Jai Hind!
11, Jun 2024
Greater Pune – A Urban Expansion Benchmark by PMRDA
By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) oversees an extensive and strategically significant territory now collectively referred to as Greater Pune. It covers both urban and rural regions.
The two key territories under Greater Pune are the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). PMRDA also governs the pivotal Talegaon Dabhade and Lonavala Municipal Councils – the former a strong and growing industrial hub, and the latter arguably Maharashtra’s favourite tourist destination.
Beyond these municipalities, PMRDA also administers numerous suburban and rural areas which are vital for Greater Pune’s expansion and development. These include the rapidly developing industrial hotspots Chakan and Pirangut, as well as Pune’s pre-eminent and pioneering IT hub Hinjawadi.
Among the rural areas are Mulshi, Maval, Khed, Haveli, and Junnar, which are important for their agricultural contributions and potential for future development. Known for their scenic landscapes, Mulshi and Maval are already attracting considerable real estate development.
As can be seen, Greater Pune is vast and diverse and showcases PMRDA’s governance across many major urban centres, IT hubs, industrial zones, and rural areas.
Over the past decade, Greater Pune’s exponential growth stands as a strong testament to PMRDA‘s strategic planning and robust implementation of development initiatives. But is this pace of growth really necessary? Let’s look at the facts.
Population Growth and Urbanization
As of 2024, Pune’s population is estimated to be around 7.35 million in the metropolitan area and approximately 4.44 million within the city limits. Its vast talent pool across all employment categories is Greater Pune’s greatest asset, and this population needs to be accommodated.
It stands to reason that the region’s real estate sector has been booming. According to data from MahaRERA (Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority), there has been a consistent rise in the launch of new housing projects. In 2023 alone, Pune saw over 50,000 new homes launched, while Pimpri-Chinchwad added 20,000.
Prominent real estate developers have been having a field day – or rather, a field epoch – launching massive projects to aid this expansion. Given that home seekers in Greater Pune are looking for options across categories, a large number of these projects offer modern amenities that cater to the middle and upper-middle-class homebuyer segments.
While the supply of affordable housing projects has been more muted due to decreased demand, the market is replete with options even in this category.
Infrastructure Development
Across the length and breadth of Greater Pune, PMRDA has consistently focused on infrastructure development as a cornerstone of the region’s urban growth. One prime example is the Pune Metro which, in just the first phase, will connect key areas like Hinjewadi, Shivajinagar, and Pimpri. The reduced commute time creates more housing demand across all areas.
Additionally, the 128 km Ring Road will decongest city traffic by giving Greater Pune an alternative road travel route and connecting various parts of the region across major highways and economic zones. For Pune’s economic triple engine of IT, manufacturing, and the services sector, this spells gold and will massively boost trade and commerce. According to recent reports, absorption in Pune’s commercial office space reached 6.5 million square feet in 2023.
Sustainable Urbanization
PMRDA‘s commitment to Greater Pune includes a strong focus on sustainable urbanization. It has now made it mandatory that green spaces and energy-efficient designs be included in all new projects. Also, digital infrastructure, smart transportation, and efficient waste management have been prioritized.
Social Infrastructure
The growth of Greater Pune extends beyond just economic and infrastructural development. PMRDA is keenly aware that for overall quality of life and livability, adequate social infrastructure to support its growing population is of paramount importance. Not surprisingly, the region under its aegis boasts top-grade schools and colleges, hospitals, and recreational amenities.
To summarize…
Under the able administration of PMRDA, Greater Pune’s urban expansion has emerged as one of the most impressive success stories of planned growth, economic prosperity, and sustainable development. It sets a new benchmark for urban and urbanizing India, demonstrating how strategic governance and innovative planning can create a thriving, modern metropolis.
With continued focus on infrastructure, sustainable development, and quality of life, Greater Pune is poised to be a model city for the future, embodying the aspirations of a rapidly urbanizing nation.
About the Author:
Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience
27, May 2024
Women Role Models in STEM Shine at myAvtar Career Conference, 2024
Bengaluru, May, 2024: Avtar Group, India’s leading Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Solutions firm, hosted the myAvtar Career Conference (MACC) at Karnataka Trade Promotion Organization (KTPO), Bengaluru today.
myAvtar Career Conference (MACC), the career extravaganza brought together inclusive companies and a vast pool of women talent from the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) under one roof. Participating Companies included, Aditya Birla Group, Publicis Sapient, Broadridge Financial Solutions India Limited, Moody’s, Renault Nisan Tech, IBM India, Google Cloud, HDFC ERGO, ACT, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Gallagher, Happiest Minds Technologies Limited, Stryker, Verisk, AKJ Somaiya Institute Of Management, among many others.
Tailored for Women in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM), MACC offered a unique platform to connect, collaborate, and converse with like-minded professionals, industry-leading companies, and renowned experts in the industry. The conclave was an ecosystem designed to foster learning, sharing, and networking for women in the STEM field; an opportunity to explore new horizons in the STEM field, to grow personally and professionally, and to unlock a world of possibilities. The conference witnessed a large gathering of students, educators, professionals, and industry leaders who shared their knowledge, experiences, and insights.
Avtar Group also announced the winners of their inaugural “Women in STEM” Awards. This Awards recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of women who are making significant strides in the STEM fields. In STEM Icons 15 plus years of work experience category, Vaijayanthi Srinivasa Raghavan Senior Director, UPS India Technology Centre, Priya Kanduri, CTO, SVP – Cyber Security Services, HappiestMinds Technologies Limited, Deepti Singh, Deputy General Manager- Head of Department System Installation, Renault Nissan Tech have received top 3 awards. In STEM Divas 8-15 years of work experience category, Subbulakshmi Ramkumar, Deputy Manager, RNTBCI, Yogita Bhanwaria, Senior Manager, Biocon Biologics Limited, MuthuSusithra Devarajan, Team Manager, Broadridge Financial Solutions have received top 3 awards. In STEM Stars 2-8 years of work experience category, Nishtha Mahendru, Consultant, Applied Innovation Exchange, Capgemini, Nidhi Raut, Sr. Engineer, Renault Nissan Technology Business Centre India (RNTBCI), Indujaa Thangavel, Broadridge Financial Solutions have received top 3 awards.
“One of the key sectors that has the potential to boost women’s workforce participation, is the STEM industry. While 43%of STEM graduates are women, they make up only 28% of the STEM workforce. Moreover, women drop out of the workplace due to childbirth, childcare and elder care. Consequently, only 3 percent of women hold CEO posts in the STEM Industry. While research has established that improving women’s workforce participation can boost India’s GDP by 27%, more women in STEM would set the stage for inclusive innovation and solution designs that are equitable for all. Women have historically been underrepresented in STEM, yet they bring invaluable perspectives and ideas to these fields. MACC awards recognizes the exceptional talent, the brilliance, and diverse perspectives of women in STEM,” said Dr Saundarya Rajesh, Founder – President, Avtar Group announcing the awards at the myAvtar Career Conference today in Bengaluru.
“Through MACC, we are acknowledging the remarkable work being done by women in STEM and also addressing the systemic barriers they face. Our goal is to create an environment where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive and drive progress,” added Dr Saundarya.
At the conference, three organizations with the “Best Programs for enabling women in STEM” – Biocon Biologics Pvt Ltd, Kyndryl and Molecular Connections Pvt Ltd were also recognized.
In addition to the awards, the myAvtar Career Conferences hosted a series of panel discussions, skilling tracks conducted by IBM, Google Cloud, Johnson & Johnson and Publicis Sapient exclusively for women. The event also provided a platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, collaboration, further strengthening the presence and influence of women in the STEM field.
The conference hosted in the hybrid mode –saw an attendance of over 3000 women at the on-ground event, while there were over 2000 attendees virtually. Companies opened up jobs from entry-level to senior-level positions across India – Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Pune, Bhubaneshwar, Madurai and Coimbatore.
10, May 2024
Akshay Tritiya Parna Mahotsav held
Hyderabad, May 10th, 2024….108 Jains who fasted by eating alternative day for the past one year broke their fasting by consuming sugar cane juice today at Dadawadi Jain Temple at Karwan.
Some of the people who fasted were as old as 86 years done young were just 19
It had more women than men. Some of them have fasted for 35 years.
The ceremony is called Akshay Tritiya Parna Mahotsav. It kicked off yesterday and concluded today.
Earlier all these 208 Jain’s drawn from across India, including 32 from the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad were ceremoniously taken in 25 well-decorated chariots in a km-long procession from Saibaba Temple in Gudi Malkapur to Dadawadi Jain Temple Karawan.
Vimlabhai Kochar from Nashik has been fasting by eating alternative day for the past 35 years. Kantha Bhai has been fasting for 16 years. Ugam Bhai Gandhi is an 81-year-old woman who has been fasting for the past 24 years. Kishore Golechs from Secunderabad who is into the cycling business has been fasting for 24 years. Sangeetha Kothari, a 52 years old woman has been fasting for the past 7 years.
Sunitha Vinod, 52 from Nashik has done first time. Krishi Bandari, a 19-year-old girl from Hyderabad has done fasting a second time. Says, that fasting has taught her to exercise control on anything we do excessively. It has also taught me a very good discipline in life.
Mahendra Lunwath from Hyderabad who has been fasting for 20 years said it is mind control over food. I decided in mind and I never had any problem in fasting. He urged youngsters and first-timers to start fasting at least once a week. In an era where food is available at the click of a mouse from food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato, fasting is the only way forward to exercise control over food. We are what we eat. Obesity is on the rise. The best way is to fast at least once a week he said
The fast-breaking ceremony was organized under the guidance of Jain Guru Dr Samkit Muni Ji and two other Jain Monks.
On this day about 2000 Jains from across India such as Nashik, Pune, Jodhpur, Karnataka, and Chennai, and Hyderabad participated
108 Jain’s ended their year-long alternate fasting with sugar cane juice disclosed Swarupchand Kothari, Gautam Chand Dank, Sajjan Gandhi, Annaraj Bafna, and Vinod Kimtee, the office bearers of the organising body.
In Jainism, Akshaya Tritiya is important as it commemorates the first Tirthankara, Rishab dev Bhagwan, ending his one-year asceticism(severe self-discipline and avoiding all forms of indulgence) by consuming sugarcane juice poured into his cupped hands. Some Jains refer to the festival as Akashya Tritiya Parna Mahotsav. The ascetic practices include simple living, begging, fasting, and ethical practices such as humility, compassion, meditation, patience, and prayer. Akshay Tritiya Parna Mahotsav brings to an end to such a year-long strict self-discipline.
Akshay Tritiya Parna Mahotsav was organized by Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh, Greater Hyderabad
16, Apr 2024
Motorola Solutions signs up with Arya Omnitalk to promote professional and commercial radios
Bengaluru, 16th April 2024: Pune-headquartered Arya Omnitalk, a joint venture between two of India’s most reputed business houses, Arvind Ltd. and the JM Baxi Group, has secured an exclusive partnership with Motorola Solutions to distribute Professional and Commercial Radios in India.
Arya Omnitalk operates three business divisions, namely Shared Mobile Radio Services (SMR), GPS-based Fleet Tracking and Management Solutions, and Toll and Highway Traffic Management Systems (HTMS). Under this collaboration, Arya Omnitalk will exclusively distribute Motorola Solutions’ MOTOTRBO Portfolio of products, along with continuing to distribute Wave PTX and associated services.
A leading provider of PMRTS (Public Mobile Radio Trunking Services), CMRTS (Captive Mobile Radio Trunking Services), and Broadband Push-to-talk devices, Arya Omnitalk holds licenses to operate in 18 cities including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Indore, Kolkata, Bharuch, Navi Mumbai, Gurgaon, Noida, Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Vadodara, Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Jaipur.
These radios are specially designed for organizations operating in today’s fast-moving business environment. They allow real-time, instant communication among teams, improving coordination in fast-paced environments. It allows cross-platform compatibility and works across various devices and platforms, ensuring seamless communication between different teams and devices within the company. These radios connect teams spread across different locations and facilities. It can integrate with existing communication systems and tools, streamlining processes and enhancing overall connectivity within the company.
These radios provide secure communication channels, crucial for the industries where confidentiality and data protection are paramount. It enables swift response during emergencies or critical situations, ensuring immediate communication for rapid decision-making and crisis management.
These services cater to important sectors such as Municipal Corporations, Manufacturing, Security, Oil & Gas, Transport and Logistics, Warehousing, Educational Institutes, IT/ITeS, Hospitality, Hospitals, Embassies, Mines, and Construction.
Speaking of the occasion, Mr. Paresh Shetty, CEO, Arya Omnitalk said, “We are thrilled to announce our continued partnership with Motorola Solutions, further solidifying the trust we’ve built with the brand and customers over the years. This exclusive partnership grants us the opportunity to sell best in class products in India. Our commitment remains unwavering in delivering unmatched customer experiences, ensuring every interaction mirrors our dedication to excellence and satisfaction.”
22, Mar 2024
Union Living to launch 500 Beds Across Three Build-to-Suit Co-living Properties in Mumbai & Pune
Mumbai, March 22nd, 2024—Union Living, a leading co-living startup, is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Build-to-Suit (BTS) co-living housing properties in Mumbai and Pune. The new BTS properties will include 200 beds property named ‘Southside’ in Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, 150 beds property named ‘Terra’ in Juhu, Mumbai, and 150 studio apartments in Koregaon Park, Pune.
Union Living is dedicated to improving the co-living experience with modern, secure, and customized accommodations. This initiative represents a major milestone in the co-living sector, offering tailored living spaces designed for students and young professionals.
Co-funded by Rishab Soni and Parth Soni in 2020, Union Living is expanding its portfolio with the addition of these new beds. By June 2024, the company’s operational co-living beds are set to increase to 1,500 across nine properties in Mumbai and Pune.
The company caters to both students and working professionals. It also provides short-term stay facilities. The company provides rental accommodation at a starting price of Rs 20,000 per bed. The rate goes up to as high as Rs 45,000 per bed.
“We are thrilled to introduce first-of-its-kind build-to-suit co-living accommodation in Mumbai,” said Parth Soni, Co-Founder of Union Living.
“These BTS properties have been meticulously designed in-house by a dedicated team of architects, in collaboration with a panel of students, to ensure that their specific needs and preferences are seamlessly integrated into the design,” added Parth.
Rishabh Soni, Co-Founder of Union Living said, “Build-to-suit properties offer superior space utilization and custom-designed layouts, enhancing functionality and efficiency. Such properties can accommodate additional amenities and features that enhance the overall user experience. With long-term lease agreements, build-to-suit projects provide stability and predictability for rental income. Overall, they maximize space utilization, design flexibility, and financial benefits for operators, investors and property owners.”
Union Living’s BTS properties are scheduled to go live in May 2024 in Mahalakshmi, with plans to sign an additional 1,000 beds in the near future. These developments signify the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint and enhancing the co-living experience across Mumbai.
The demand for co-living spaces and build-to-suit properties has been steadily increasing, driven by factors such as urbanization, rising student and working professional populations, and changing lifestyle preferences.
Union Living’s innovative approach to co-living accommodation underscores its commitment to delivering exceptional living experiences that cater to the evolving needs of today’s residents. By combining quality construction, thoughtful design, and personalized services, Union Living aims to redefine the standards of co-living in Mumbai and beyond.
21, Feb 2024
Phoenix Marketcity, Pune Presents the Great Indian Restaurant Festival
New Delhi, 21st February 2024 – Phoenix Marketcity Pune in collaboration with Swiggy Dineout, is thrilled to present the Great Indian Restaurant Festival from February 7th to March 31st, 2024. During this exciting period, patrons can relish up to 50% discounts on their dining bills at a variety of participating restaurants.
The Great Indian Restaurant Festival is a celebration of Pune’s rich and varied culinary landscape, providing an opportunity for food enthusiasts to explore and savor a wide range of cuisines. With discounts of up to 50% on dining bills, the festival aims to make the dining experience not only enjoyable but also budget-friendly for all patrons.
The festival boasts a stellar lineup of some of Pune’s finest dining establishments, including Cha Cha Cha, Punjab Grill, Shizusan, Ishaara, Puno, and Social, among others. Each restaurant will showcase a unique and delectable menu, promising a diverse culinary experience for all attendees.
Swiggy Dineout, a leading platform for discovering and booking dining experiences, is excited about the collaboration. The partnership with Phoenix Marketcity for the Great Indian Restaurant Festival aligns seamlessly with the mission to create memorable dining experiences. The platform looks forward to providing the best offers and deals to users, ensuring they have a delightful time exploring the culinary delights on offer.
Whether craving the robust flavors of North Indian cuisine, the exotic tastes of Asian fusion, or the eclectic offerings of modern gastronomy, the Great Indian Restaurant Festival at Phoenix Marketcity, Pune, promises something for every palate. Food enthusiasts are encouraged to make reservations early to savor the culinary delights at Cha Cha Cha, Punjab Grill, Shizusan, Ishaara, Puno, Social, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in an extraordinary dining experience while enjoying up to 50% off on dining bills.
Make your reservations now to savor the culinary delights at Cha Cha Cha, Punjab Grill, Shizusan, Ishaara, Puno, Social, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in an extraordinary dining experience while enjoying great discounts on your bills.
16, Feb 2024
The Lexicon Schools Host STEAM Fest
The Lexicon Schools recently hosted STEAM Fest, a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. The event showcased numerous projects and activities, embodying the school’s commitment to providing a holistic education integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
STEAM education nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for the 21st- century workforce. It promotes transparent evaluation and cultivates self-discovery, empowering children to create tangible solutions and become lifelong learners.
Reflecting on the success of the fest, Mr. Pankaj Sharma, President, The Lexicon Group of Institutes, Chairman & MD, Pune Times Mirror, Civic Mirror, and MultiFit, remarked, “STEAM education is essential for preparing students for the challenges of the future. With focus on not only the ‘how’ and ‘what’, but also the ‘who’ and ‘why’, the STEAM Fest is specifically designed to develop future innovators. At The Lexicon Schools, integrating STEAM into the curriculum fosters well-rounded individuals equipped to tackle the dynamic, multifaceted challenges of the modern world, ensuring their education remains relevant and future-proof.”
Participants engaged in different projects, exemplifying the fusion of art, science, technology, and engineering. The young minds delved into math-related activities and presented projects focused on cleanliness and hygiene. Primary students delved into robotics, and environmental sustainability at the fest. Their projects on mechanical water pumps and balloon cars displayed their grasp of engineering principles, while the exploration of the water cycle and projects on thermal conductivity delved into scientific concepts. Moreover, an anatomical display of the human body provided valuable insights into biology, and the air quality monitoring project raised awareness about the pressing issue of air pollution.
Senior students engaged with advanced concepts, such as IoT and road safety. They also created kaleidoscopic displays, developed rainwater detection systems, and presented anatomical models.
STEAM education, with its integrated and holistic approach, aids students in perceiving challenging subjects from different perspectives. Through hands-on projects, students explored creative processes and utilized various methods of inquiry and investigation, cultivating a diverse set of hard and soft skills.
Mr. Nasir Shaikh, Group Chief Executive Officer, The Lexicon Group of Institutes, EduCrack, & EasyRecruit+, added, “STEAM taps into children’s natural curiosity. If you’ve ever tried to find answers to a long series of questions asked by a child, you know how inquisitive they are about the world around them. STEAM lessons focus on deep questioning and finding novel solutions rather than memorizing standard facts and figures that can easily
be ‘Googled’.”
Education is not just about academic achievement; it’s about cultivating a mindset of inquisitiveness, innovation, and collaboration. The Lexicon Schools exemplified this by providing a platform for students to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. By integrating STEAM-based learning, The Lexicon Schools are shaping the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.