Author: Sutun Nayak

  • IDFC FIRST Bank Collaborates with FPSB India as an ‘Approved Corporate Partner’ to Advance Financial Planning Excellence in the Country

    IDFC FIRST Bank Collaborates with FPSB India as an ‘Approved Corporate Partner’ to Advance Financial Planning Excellence in the Country

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 21: IDFC FIRST Bank signed an MoU with FPSB India, the Indian subsidiary of Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd., as an Approved Corporate Partner (ACP), marking a significant step toward strengthening professional standards in financial planning and advancing upskilling opportunities for its management and private banking team within the banking sector.

    • MoU aims to deepen financial planning expertise, empower professionals, and drive ethical growth within the private banking space.
    • FPSB India to upskill IDFC FIRST Bank’s Wealth Management Regional Managers through specialized training and certification programs

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed under FPSB India’s ACP initiative, which brings together leading financial institutions to promote financial planning excellence and professional certification across India.

    The collaboration aims to:

    • Upskill IDFC FIRST Bank’s Wealth Management Regional Managers through specialised training and certification programs.
    • Support hiring initiatives and create enhanced career pathways for CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals.
    • Conduct joint programs and strategic engagements to foster financial planning excellence and strengthen the financial planning ecosystem.

    Representing IDFC FIRST Bank, the MoU was signed by Mr. Rahul Singh, Country Head – Private Banking.

    From FPSB India, the signing was led by Mr Chandrakant Sureka, Interim CEO, accompanied by Ms Teena Rawal, Head – Business Development; Mr Rajesh Singh, Regional Manager, North & East India and Mr Sharath N, Management Trainee.

    Mr. Dante De Gori, CEO, FPSB International (FPSB Ltd.) said, “This partnership underscores the growing recognition of financial planning as a critical profession worldwide. Through corporate collaborations like IDFC FIRST Bank in India, we are collectively building a future where financial professionals are better equipped to serve individuals and families with integrity, competence, and care.”

    The discussions during the meeting also explored future initiatives, including enhancing campus placements for FPSB India’s integrated programs, which will further support industry-ready talent development.

    Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Chandrakant Sureka, Interim CEO, FPSB India, said “We are delighted to welcome IDFC FIRST Bank as an Approved Corporate Partner. This collaboration reflects our shared vision of empowering financial professionals with globally recognised knowledge and skills.”

    With this partnership, FPSB India continues to expand its network of corporate collaborators committed to advancing financial education, ethical standards, and professional excellence in India’s financial services industry.

    About FPSB India

    FPSB India is the leading financial planning body in India and is dedicated to establishing, upholding, and promoting professional standards in financial planning across the country.

    FPSB India offers the globally recognised CFP® certification, which represents excellence in financial planning through rigorous competency and ethical standards. It is home to over 3,215 CFP® professionals in India and part of a global network of organizations representing more than 230,648 CFP® professionals worldwide.

    FPSB India is the Indian subsidiary of Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. (FPSB Ltd.), the global standards-setting body for the financial planning profession and owner of the international CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification program.

    FPSB Ltd. owns the CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and CFP® outside the United States. FPSB Ltd. licenses these marks to FPSB Institute India Pvt. Ltd to administer the CFP® certification in India. For more information, visit india.fpsb.org.

    If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

  • Ironwood Appoints Balaji Raghavan to Lead Affordable Housing Portfolio

    Ironwood Appoints Balaji Raghavan to Lead Affordable Housing Portfolio

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 26: Ironwood has appointed Balaji Raghavan to lead its affordable housing and real estate development initiatives, strengthening its position in one of India’s most resilient residential segments.

    This follows Ironwood Education Limited’s agreement to acquire 100% of Trio Infrastructure Private Limited (TIPL) through a share swap, as disclosed in its BSE filing dated February 26, 2025. The no-cash transaction makes TIPL a wholly owned subsidiary of Ironwood.

    On November 25, 2025, the Board of Directors also approved raising funds through a preferential issue or private placement and appointed Raghavan as Additional Director and Managing Director.

    Further, the company’s board approved a preferential issue, proposing marquee investors such as Capri Global Capital, Darius Pandole, former MD & CEO of JM Financials Private Equity, and Sanjiv Rastogi.

    Raghavan brings over two decades of experience across mortgage finance, real estate investments, and development. He helped build India’s modern mortgage business at ICICI Bank, managing a ₹60,000 crore home-loan portfolio. He later created a leading real estate investment platform at IIFL, deploying over ₹12,000 crore across 100-plus transactions with major developers and global investors.

    Since 2021, he has focused on affordable housing development in Mumbai, bringing deep insight into homebuyer needs, credit gaps, and India’s urban housing deficit.

    Under his leadership, TIPL is developing the first phase of a 2,52,000 sq. ft. residential project in Madhuban Township, Gokhivare, Vasai East, offering 1 BHK and 2 BHK homes. A second phase of 1,50,000 sq. ft. is planned for the next financial year.

    The project is progressing on schedule, supported by strong sales traction and stable financial backing from SBI and customer collections.

    Ironwood is also advancing approvals for two additional affordable housing projects expected to launch within six months.

    If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

  • DevDarshan Overseas: Faith, Fragrance, and a Family Vision Since 1954

    DevDarshan Overseas: Faith, Fragrance, and a Family Vision Since 1954

    New Delhi [India], November 26: Across India, mornings often begin with a simple ritual. A quiet prayer, a lamp being lit and a gentle fragrance filling the room. Behind that everyday moment sits decades of effort, belief and careful craftsmanship. DevDarshan Overseas has been part of that story since 1954, when Late Sh. Sagar Chand Jain started a small unit in Samana, Punjab with just ₹1,500 and a clear dream. From that modest beginning, the company has grown into one of the fastest growing names in spiritual and home-fragrance products, while still staying true to its roots in purity and tradition.

    In the early years of independent India, setting up a local unit was more than enterprise – it was participation in nation-building. Inspired by the call to support indigenous manufacturing, Sh. Jain chose a path that served both devotion and employment. He focused on creating quality dhoop and agarbatti that people could trust on every home altar. That commitment to clean burn, reliable aroma, and fair pricing helped DevDarshan Dhoop evolve from a local business into a brand recognised for consistency and respect for tradition across the country.

    Today, DevDarshan Overseas offers a thoughtfully curated range that honours those roots while embracing modern life. The portfolio includes classic incense sticks for daily rituals, rich dhoop sticks for a more intense spiritual atmosphere, and refined sambrani blends for traditional ceremonies that call for a deeper, temple-like feel. The brand also crafts practical puja accessories, from a simple agarbatti stand for everyday use to convenient agarbatti with stand gift sets designed to keep rituals safe, neat, and centred on the act of prayer rather than on managing the smoke or ash.

    What began in one town now reaches homes across India and far beyond. DevDarshan has built strong domestic distribution and reliable global shipping so that families and temples around the world can access authentic products with ease. For many people abroad, lighting dhoop batti or a familiar fragrance from DevDarshan is a way to keep a piece of home close, whether they are performing a festival puja or taking a quiet moment of reflection after a long day.

    Leadership has remained within the Jain family, which has helped preserve the original values of the brand. Chairman Sh. Bhanwar Lal Jain and Managing Directors Sh. Pardeep Kumar Jain, Mr. Atul Jain, Mr. Jagrit Jain, and Mr. Bhavi Jain guide the company with a shared focus on integrity, responsibility, and steady innovation. Each generation has added new processes, technology, and design ideas, while keeping one core promise unchanged: every product bearing the DevDarshan name should feel worthy of use in a place of worship.

    As lifestyles evolve, spiritual products are no longer confined to temple shelves and pooja rooms. People now look for holistic ways to shape the mood and energy of their homes, offices, and studios. DevDarshan has responded by expanding carefully into home-fragrance and home-essentials segments and introduced Nirvana Aromatic Indulgence. Alongside devotional staples, the brand offers room freshener formats and elegant scented candles that work just

    as well for a relaxed evening at home as they do for a special gathering. This balance between heritage and contemporary use helps DevDarshan connect with younger consumers who want spaces that feel calm, rooted, and aesthetically pleasing.

    Search behaviour reflects this shift. Someone typing “pooja store near me”, “pooja shop near me”, or “puja store near me” is rarely looking for just one item. They are searching for a trusted ecosystem of puja essentials, fragrant companions, and thoughtful gifts. By being present across neighbourhood retailers, organised retail, and digital marketplaces, DevDarshan makes it easy for customers to discover its range – whether they walk into a local outlet or arrive via a search for a specific incense or devotional accessory.

    At the heart of DevDarshan’s growth lies a deep understanding of how fragrance and ritual shape memory. A single stick used at dawn can anchor a family’s daily routine. A familiar blend reserved for festivals can signal joy and togetherness year after year. Guided by this insight, DevDarshan selects and blends ingredients like sandalwood, guggal, loban, and rose to create compositions that feel both traditional and fresh. Care is taken with burn quality, smoke output, and fragrance balance so that the atmosphere feels soothing rather than overpowering.

    The company’s story is also one of resilience. Over seven decades, DevDarshan has navigated changing market conditions, evolving consumer tastes, and a growing global interest in spiritual and wellness products. Through it all, three commitments have stayed constant: dependable quality, fair value, and respect for the consumer’s faith. Those principles have helped the company earn its place among India’s most trusted names in dhoop and related ritual offerings.

    From a small workshop in Samana to a respected global presence, DevDarshan Overseas continues to carry the fragrance of Indian tradition into new spaces and new generations. Whether it is a family lighting incense for their evening prayer, a young professional exploring mindful living products, or a devotee far from home seeking familiar rituals, DevDarshan stands ready with thoughtfully crafted options that honour both the past and the future of spiritual living.

    If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at pr.error.rectification@gmail.com. We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.

  • Praveg Limited Secures Prestigious Government Mandate for Sardar Patel at 150th Unity March – Pad Yatra

    Praveg Limited Secures Prestigious Government Mandate for Sardar Patel at 150th Unity March – Pad Yatra

    Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], November 26: Praveg Limited, a leading integrated events and experiential tourism company, is pleased to announce that it has received a major work order from the Sports, Youth Service and Cultural Activities Department, Government of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, for the execution of the Sardar Patel @ 150th Unity March – Pad Yatra, a nationally significant event scheduled from November 25, 2025 to December 6, 2025. The March commence from Karamsad and conclude at the Statue of Unity, Kevadia.

    Speaking on the occasion, Dr. CA Vishnu Patel, Chairman of Praveg Limited, said, “We are truly honoured to receive this prestigious mandate from the Government of Gujarat. Praveg has historically been a strong performer in the Events & Exhibitions segment and has successfully delivered several landmark projects over the years. Over the last two years, the Company strategically concentrated on expanding the Hospitality segment, which resulted in exceptional growth and positioned Praveg as a leading eco-responsible luxury hospitality brand in India. During this phase, the Events & Exhibitions segment did not receive equal attention, as our management and resources were extensively engaged in developing and scaling hospitality operations.

    With a solid foundation now established in hospitality, In the first half of FY 2025–26, with a solid foundation now in place, we have redeployed a dedicated team and renewed strategic focus on the Events & Exhibitions segment, and We are pleased to see the positive outcomes of this shift, as demonstrated by multiple prestigious work orders recently received including the Hon’ble Chief Minister event ‘World Lion Day 2025’ and infrastructure augmentation work for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas 2025 at the Statue of Unity, and now this significant mandate for the Sardar Patel @ 150th Unity March – Pad Yatra. These back-to-back achievements reaffirm our strong credentials and government confidence in Praveg.

    We sincerely thank our investors and stakeholders for their patience, support and trust over the last two years, during which significant investment and effort were directed toward building a strong hospitality business. With the renewed momentum in Events & Exhibitions, along with continued hospitality growth, we are confident of delivering improved financial performance, better operating leverage, optimized overhead absorption, and stronger value creation for our shareholders. The Company is now well-positioned to accelerate growth across both verticals and generate robust results in the coming periods.”

    Under this prestigious turnkey mandate, Praveg will undertake comprehensive infrastructure development and event execution across multiple locations along the route. The Company’s responsibilities include end-to-end planning, design, implementation, coordination, and on-ground management to ensure seamless delivery of the event.

    The scope of work encompasses, among other components:

    • Setup of Swagat platforms

    • Construction of performance stages

    • Deployment of a dedicated management team for the Pad Yatra

    • Branding and communication installations

    • Setup of Sardar Sabha platforms

    • Transportation, logistics and operational coordination

    The event is expected to witness the participation of dignitaries, prominent public leaders, and large gatherings, with the inauguration to be presided over by a high-profile dignitary. The estimated project value is INR 9.96 crore plus applicable GST.

    About the Event

    The Sardar Patel @ 150th Unity March – Pad Yatra is a historic national tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. Designed to encourage unity, youth participation, national pride and cultural celebration, the march connects Patel’s birth place Karamsad to the global landmark Statue of Unity.

    If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at pr.error.rectification@gmail.com. We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.

  • Francis Charlie D’Souza — The Visionary Leader Redefining Real Estate Standards in Mumbai

    Francis Charlie D’Souza — The Visionary Leader Redefining Real Estate Standards in Mumbai

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 26: In the fast-evolving world of Mumbai real estate, where trust and innovation are essential, Francis Charlie D’Souza has emerged as a visionary leader who blends modern design, sustainability, and uncompromising integrity. Over the years, he has become a respected name in property development across Malad and Goregaon, where his projects are transforming the urban lifestyle for thousands of homebuyers.

    A Journey Driven by Passion and Purpose

    From the very beginning of his career, Francis Charlie D’Souza believed that real estate development should be more than constructing buildings — it should create meaningful communities. His mission has always been to design living spaces that promote comfort, convenience, and well-being.

    Guided by these principles, he has successfully delivered multiple residential and mixed-use projects that emphasize sustainability, thoughtful planning, and modern amenities. His professional journey reflects resilience, steady growth, and a clear long-term vision. Despite market changes and increasing competition, Francis Charlie D’Souza continues to uphold his reputation for delivering value-driven developments.

    The D’Souza Standard: Excellence in Every Detail

    What truly distinguishes Francis Charlie D’Souza is his meticulous attention to detail. Every project under his leadership undergoes a stringent process of planning, design, and execution — ensuring transparency, ethical practices, and timely delivery. This commitment has won the trust of both investors and homebuyers.

    Across Malad and Goregaon, his developments are widely regarded as urban landmarks. With spacious layouts, green landscapes, and premium materials, his projects set new benchmarks for quality living in Mumbai’s bustling real estate market.

    Building a Sustainable Future

    At a time when sustainability has become a fundamental responsibility, Francis Charlie D’Souza is championing eco-friendly construction practices. His developments incorporate energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, open-air architectural layouts, and natural ventilation — all contributing to a reduced environmental footprint.

    He envisions a greener, more inclusive Mumbai, where every structure contributes positively to the city’s long-term well-being. For him, development is not about constructing tall buildings alone — it is about building a balanced and sustainable future.

    A Legacy of Trust, Leadership, and Vision

    Integrity, transparency, and collaboration form the foundation of Francis Charlie D’Souza’s leadership. Whether engaging with customers, partners, or employees, he maintains an open communication style that has strengthened long-standing relationships and driven business excellence.

    As he expands his presence across Mumbai’s western suburbs, Francis Charlie D’Souza remains dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and nurturing trust. His journey continues to inspire emerging developers, proving that ethical leadership and visionary thinking can coexist to shape the future of Indian real estate.

    If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at pr.error.rectification@gmail.com. We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.

  • The Grand New Delhi Unveils an Exciting New Sunday Brunch at DKK & DKK Garden

    The Grand New Delhi Unveils an Exciting New Sunday Brunch at DKK & DKK Garden

    New Delhi [India], November 26: The Grand New Delhi is set to redefine weekend indulgence with the launch of its vibrant Sunday Brunch, starting from November 30, 2025, at Dilli Kanteen Kitchen (DKK) and the scenic DKK Garden. Crafted for guests who love flavour-packed experiences, lively music, and relaxed afternoons, the new brunch promises a deliciously memorable start to every Sunday.

    The experiences have been curated under the guidance of Restaurant Manager, Mr Bikram Kharayat, whose expertise brings a refined yet inviting touch to the brunch experience. The culinary selection is led by Director of Culinary Sourabh Chandel, who adds his signature creativity and modern approach to every element of the spread.

    The brunch features an indulgent array of flavours, beginning with the vibrant Indian Street Food Corner, where regional favourites, nostalgic snacks, and Chaat selections bring the lively spirit of the country’s markets to the table. Guests can then explore a beautifully curated Italian Antipasti selection showcasing premium cold cuts, marinated vegetables, artisan cheeses, and fresh Mediterranean-inspired bites. The excitement continues with an authentic American barbecue station offering smoky, flame-grilled meats prepared fresh and served with classic accompaniments. Adding to the richness of the experience, the live carving station offers perfectly roasted meats, sliced to order, with hearty, comforting flavours that elevate the Sunday feast.

    No brunch at The Grand would be complete without a decadent finale, and The Grand Dessert Selection ensures a sweet ending to the afternoon. Guests can indulge in handcrafted pastries, international desserts, classic Indian sweets, and the highlight of the section—a flowing chocolate fountain that brings joy to both adults and children alike. Every bite is designed to offer a blend of indulgence, nostalgia, and pure delight.

    Enhancing the atmosphere is a live DJ, setting the perfect rhythm for a relaxed yet lively Sunday afternoon. Families will also appreciate the thoughtfully curated kids’ activities, making the brunch a wholesome and enjoyable outing for all generations. Whether choosing the warm indoor charm of DKK or the refreshing greenery of the DKK Garden, the brunch exudes comfort, energy, and leisurely elegance.

    Sunday Brunch Pricing:

    • INR 3500++ Non-Alcoholic Brunch
    • INR 4800++ Alcoholic Brunch

    Timings: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
    Venue: DKK & DKK Garden
    For Reservations: +91 7428080773 | +91 9717774933

    To know more about the hotel, visit: https://www.thegrandnewdelhi.com

    Follow us on:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrandnewdelhi
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1H4PyiwW4s/

    Celebrate Sundays with flavours, music, and unforgettable moments—only at The Grand New Delhi’s Sunday Brunch.

    If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

  • NAFED Showcases Farmer-Centric Innovation and Quality Products at IITF 2025

    NAFED Showcases Farmer-Centric Innovation and Quality Products at IITF 2025

    New Delhi [India], November 26: National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) is making a substantial impact at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, currently underway at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. With a vibrant pavilion, NAFED is highlighting its farmer-centric initiatives, diverse product portfolio, and technology-driven advancements.

    A key attraction is the participation of NAFED-supported Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs). These FPOs have set up dedicated stalls, displaying a range of unique products including honey, dry fruits, saffron, pickles, millet-based foods, and various regional specialities. Their presence reinforces NAFED’s continued commitment to empowering farmer groups and enhancing market access for rural producers.

    The pavilion also features an extensive array of NAFED-branded products. Pulses, dry fruits, spices, rice, ready-to-cook mixes, and ready-to-eat foods form part of the domestic range, while NAFED’s export offerings—such as frozen foods, protein bars, peanut butter, and namkeens—are drawing significant interest from visitors for their quality and reliability.

    NAFED

    Adding to visitor engagement, a live NAFED Tea counter has become a popular experience zone, serving freshly prepared tea and attracting steady footfall. This interactive element offers guests an enjoyable break while allowing them to explore NAFED’s expanding product basket.

    The organisation is also highlighting its digital initiatives, with a dedicated IT section showcasing innovative platforms. A highlight is the newly launched auction portal, NAFEX.in, designed to promote transparent and technology-enabled agricultural commodity trading.

    NAFED’s Managing Director, Shri Deepak Agarwal, IAS, visited the pavilion and interacted with FPO members, visitors, and NAFED staff. His visit helped energise teams on the ground and emphasised NAFED’s mission to innovate and upscale its service delivery continually.

    As IITF 2025 progresses, visitors are praising NAFED’s diverse exhibits, the quality of its products, and the opportunities extended to farmer groups. NAFED’s presence remains a major highlight of the fair, reflecting its dedication to supporting farmers and delivering trusted food products to consumers across India.

    For more information, please visit: https://www.nafed-india.com/ 

    PNN Business

  • Mumbai to Become the Global Epicenter of Spiritual Unity at the “Gita Jayanti Mahotsav 2025” Organized by Swami Atmasthananda Seva Pratishthan & Indo Occidental Symbiosis

    Mumbai to Become the Global Epicenter of Spiritual Unity at the “Gita Jayanti Mahotsav 2025” Organized by Swami Atmasthananda Seva Pratishthan & Indo Occidental Symbiosis

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 26: The Gita Jayanti Mahotsav 2025 is a week-long spiritual and cultural celebration to be held from 30th November to 6th December 2025 at Vishnu Maidan, Bangur Nagar, Goregaon (West), Mumbai. This grand event is being organized by Swami Athmasthanada Seva Pratishthan in collaboration with Indo Occidental Symbiosis, Supported by Government of Maharashtra, Department of Tourism. This celebration will be held under the central theme of “World Brotherhood.”

    The Mahotsav is not merely a celebration, it is envisioned as a Gala Festival of Devotion, Art, and Knowledge, bringing together saints, scholars, and artists from across India to spread the divine message of the Bhagavad Gita and the eternal teachings of Lord Krishna.

    The festival will be blessed by the sacred arrival of the Shri Ram Paduka from Ayodhya, symbolizing the spiritual essence and sanctity of the occasion. Devotees from all walks of life will gather to offer prayers, seek blessings, and immerse themselves in the holy atmosphere.

    The celebrations will commence on 30th November 2025 with a grand cultural tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and  Ahiliyabai Holkar. Over 50,000 devotees and guests are expected to participate in this inaugural event, which will include a special theatrical and musical presentation titled “Shiv Charitra”, celebrating the valor, vision, and legacy of Maharashtra’s great icons.

    The evenings will be graced by some of India’s finest artists- Sonu Nigam, Tejashree Amonkar, Maestro Swapan Chaudhari, Tanmoy Bose, Zanai Bhonsle, and many others who will perform soulful tributes through music, dance, and drama, celebrating the lives and works of these legends

    The vision of the Mahotsav is to revive the spiritual and cultural consciousness of India and to share the profound message of the Gita  “Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya…” l reminding today’s generation of their divine purpose and inner strength.

    The Gita Jayanti Mahotsav aims to connect the youth with the timeless wisdom of the Gita. To achieve this, over 10,000 schools from across the country will participate through campaigns, workshops, and interactive sessions, designed to impart spiritual values, leadership qualities, and moral strength drawn from the teachings of Lord Krishna.

    Throughout the seven days, the Mahotsav will feature a harmonious blend of Maha Aarti, Gita Path (chanting sessions), student and teacher recitations, and world-class cultural performances by some of India’s most celebrated maestros.

    The event will be guided by a distinguished committee of leaders and cultural figures dedicated to promoting the global message of the Gita:

    Chief Advisor : Smt. Asha Bhosle – Padma Vibhushan and Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia – Padma Vibhushan

    Chairman: Padmashri Anup Jalota,

    Vice-Chairpersons: Shri Shreekant Mundada – Chairman, Rajya Seva Ayog & Minister, Maharashtra Government

    Vice President : Shri Mukul Bhadana – Social Worker and Politician from Rajasthan, Dr. Chavi Asrani – Associate Professor- O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, Seema Srivastava, Baddya Raj Nahar

    Secretary: Shouvik Dasgupta – Indian Art & Culture Entrepreneur

    Executive Members: Dr. Shailendra Singh Tomar, Madhuri Pal, Dr. Rakesh Mohan

    Trustee: Swami Nityeshanand Maharaj – Gujarat

    Additional members includes Yogesh Lakhani, Namita Bose, Nirmal Ram, Prabha Kamble, Anup Kedia, Tushar Mujumdar, Abhijit Chatterjee, Sannyal, Shriram Vani, Chetan Kumar Pathak, Jyotiram Maharat, Nitin Shankar, Vishal Namaskar, Bijaylaxmi Taparia, Hemant Soni, Mughal Roy, Sanjeev Joglekar, Neha Sabhlok, Bittu Bhushan Baraskar, and Subham Narayan

Shouvik Dasgupta says _“The International Geeta Jayanti Mahotsav 2025 will stand as a symbol of world brotherhood, blending India’s spiritual essence with its cultural and artistic brilliance. Our goal is to create a space where devotion meets dialogue, and tradition meets timeless wisdom”_

Each day of the Mahotsav will begin with sacred rituals and continue with devotional programs filled with spirituality and culture:

    4:30 AM: Mangal Aarti

    5:30 AM: Puja and Ved Path

    7:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Collective Gita Chanting by Saints and Devotees

    10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Gita Havan & Krishna Bhajans

    12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Sadhu Bhandara

    5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Donation & Spiritual Contributions

    7:00 PM onwards: Cultural & Tribute Performances

    Each of the seven days will be dedicated to great legends who have devoted their lives to Indian culture and spirituality. Every evening will feature special performances, musical tributes, and dance presentations honoring these icons:

    30th November – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj & Ahilyabai Holkar

    1st December – Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankar

    2nd December – Padma Vibhushan Kishori Amonkar

    3rd December – Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj

    4th December – Padma Vibhushan Shiv Kumar Sharma

    5th December – Bharat Ratna Bhimsen Joshi

    6th December – Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar

    If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

  • India Takes Historic Leap In Responsible AI Governance

    India Takes Historic Leap In Responsible AI Governance

    Global Summit on AI for Mental Health Charts National Roadmap with ‘Bharat-First’ Framework

    Landmark Gathering at India International Centre Sees Former Cabinet Secretary, Senior Bureaucrats, and Tech Innovators Forge Consensus on Ethical AI for Mental Healthcare

    New Delhi [India], November 26: In a historic convergence of policy, technology, and compassion, the Global Summit on AI for Mental Health 2025, held at the India International Centre, culminated not just in dialogue, but in a decisive, action-oriented national mandate. The event, marked by the formidable presence of India’s most respected policy architects, served as the launchpad for a native, ‘India-first’ ecosystem designed to ensure Artificial Intelligence serves the unique mental health needs of Bharat.

    The summit’s gravitas was defined by its Chief Guest, Shri Prabhat Kumar, IAS (Retd.), Former Cabinet Secretary and President of the IC Centre for Governance, who lent his monumental authority to the proceedings. In a symbolic moment, he led the dignitaries in dedicating the Bharat Responsible AI Framework to the nation, signalling a collective and unwavering commitment to a sovereign tech future.

    The strategic vision and architectural backbone of this national initiative were steered by Shri Balvinder Kumar, IAS (Retd.), the driving force behind the summit. A former Secretary to the Government of India and a man with a decade-long commitment to an India-first tech ethos, Shri Kumar formally declared the UDAAN AI Mental Health Solutions Framework and the Bharat Responsible AI Forum. His leadership exemplified the ‘action bureaucrat’ spirit, translating vision into a tangible, governance-ready architecture. “This is not another talk shop,” he underscored. “This is about building executable frameworks that are rooted in our soil.”

    The summit was notably attended by a ‘Who’s Who’ of the Indian governance ecosystem, including Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, IAS, CEO of the National Health Authority, Shri Deepak Bagla, Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, Dr. Sudha Goel, Senior Consultant (Health), NITI Aayog, Dr. Prachi Sharda, WHO Mental Health Consultant, Ms. Ira Singhal, IAS, UPSC Topper 2014, Dr Rajesh Mishra, MD, NICSI and a host of other senior IAS officers, both serving and retired, creating a powerful tacit endorsement for the initiatives launched.

    The execution and narrative force of the summit were powered by a dedicated leadership team. The strategic announcements for the Bharat Responsible AI Forum, the Emerging Technology Council, and the AI Mental Health Innovation Fellowships (AMHIF) were made by Shri Aman Bandvi, the summit’s co-convenor and a recognised futurist. Orchestrating the monumental gathering was Shri Yash Arya, Founder GlobalSpin Forum and a niche event leader for over two decades and an ethical AI advocate.

    This collective effort was bolstered by a core organizing team including Ms. Sakshi Chhapolia, Dr. Sumit Dubey and Dr. Poonam Tyagi, Co-Founders of UDAAN AI, Ms. Bhavna Sharma, Partner at Ishaa Creations, Dr. Vijay Goel, Shri Debi Prasad and Ms. Deepshikha Kashyap from GlobalSpin Forum, and Dr. Sachin Goyal of UDAAN Skill Academy, whose seamless coordination was instrumental in translating a bold vision into a landmark reality.

    A highlight of the summit was an inspirational address by Ms. Ira Singhal, IAS, whose powerful personal journey and advocacy for mental health and disability inclusion brought a profound human perspective to the technological discourse.

    Key Outcomes and Institutional Milestones:

    1. The Bharat Responsible AI Forum & Framework: A first-of-its-kind multi-stakeholder body, established with the IC Centre for Governance, dedicated to advocacy, governance, and policy for ethical AI, firmly embedded in Indian ethos.
    2. The UDAAN AI Mental Health Solutions Framework: A comprehensive, practice-oriented framework for organisations, educational institutions, and healthcare providers to deploy AI solutions responsibly.
    3. The Emerging Technology Council: A think-tank unveiled with a formal charter, committed to strategic foresight and strengthening the national innovation ecosystem.
    4. Inaugural AI Mental Health Innovation Fellows (AMHIF): A fellowship to develop India-specific research on workplace mental resilience, creating a pipeline of future-ready talent.
    5. Industry Backing: Leading startups and corporates, including UDAAN AI, BharatGPT, HRAI, MindPeers, Lisners, Wysa, and TalktoAngel, became inaugural signatories to the charter, committing to its principles.

    International Validation: Global Experts, Indian Solutions

    The International Technical Session featured luminaries:

    • Dr. Peter Phiri (UK): AVATAR VR-assisted therapy expert
    • Dr. Laura Vowels (Switzerland/UK): Digital health and family therapy
    • Dr. Stephanie Okolo (US Army): CBT in military mental health
    • Dr. Hikari Takashina & Dr. Fumito Takahashi (Japan): Awarefy’s AI-driven mental wellness research

    Their unanimous observation: India’s frameworks are more comprehensive than many Western equivalents—particularly UDAAN’s emphasis on cultural adaptation, linguistic diversity, and community-centered care.

    Dr. Phiri’s Remark: “The UK’s AI in health regulation is fragmented. India has the opportunity to leapfrog by building integrated, sector-specific frameworks from the start. UDAAN AI is that framework.”

    Outcome-Oriented: Beyond Talk, Toward Action

    What distinguished this summit from routine conferences was its actionable outputs:

    1. Frameworks Ready for Deployment: UDAAN AI and Bharat Responsible AI Charter aren’t aspirational—they’re implementation-ready with defined assessment criteria, certification processes, and institutional homes.

    2. Institutional Commitments: The Centre of Excellence, Emerging Technology Council, and AMHIF Fellows program have dedicated budgets, timelines, and leadership teams.

    3. Policy Pathways: NHA’s interest in MHAIMM certification creates a clear government adoption route—not hypothetical but probable.

    4. Ecosystem Activation: 30-40 startups registering for Phase 1 of the Centre of Excellence network means implementation begins immediately, not in a distant “Phase 2.”

    5. Research Pipeline: AMHIF’s call for students generated enthusiastic response—fellowships will launch by Q1 2026, producing India’s first cohort of AI-mental health governance experts.

    Positioning The Summit as the Apex Platform

    Several factors establish the Global Summit on AI for Mental Health 2025 as the definitive annual gathering on this theme in India:

    1. Unmatched Convening Power: No other forum has assembled Former Cabinet Secretaries, serving IAS officers, NHA/NITI Aayog/WHO leadership, international experts, and startup founders under one roof for a full day of structured deliberation.

    2. Concrete Deliverables: Unlike talk-shops, this summit launched frameworks, signed charters, announced fellowships, and constituted councils.

    3. Government-Ecosystem Bridge: By positioning bureaucratic wisdom (Shri Balvinder Kumar), ethical advocacy (Yash Arya), and futurist execution (Aman Bandvi) as co-leaders, the summit achieved legitimacy across constituencies.

    4. Bharat-Centric Discourse: In an era of imported frameworks, the summit’s India-native, culturally rooted approach resonated—filling a vacuum in policy discourse.

    5. Institutional Permanence: With IC Centre for Governance as anchor and annual plans declared, this becomes a recurring national dialogue, not a one-off event.

    Corporate & Startup Ecosystem: From Spectators to Stakeholders

    The summit succeeded in converting corporate and startup players from passive attendees to active governance partners.

    Bank of Baroda (Presenting Partner): India’s leading PSU bank’s participation signals growing recognition that mental health impacts workforce productivity—and AI-driven Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) need quality standards.

    CMR Green Technologies (Presenting Partner): Their involvement reflects the sustainability-mental health nexus—climate anxiety, eco-distress—emerging areas where AI can play a role.

    Startup Signatories (WYSA, MindPeers, Lisners, TalktoAngel, UDAAN AI): By signing the Bharat Responsible AI Charter, these companies voluntarily submitted to ethical scrutiny—a maturity rare in startup ecosystems typically averse to regulation.

    HR Association of India (represented by Dr. Vikas Vats): The Association’s presentation on “Human Intelligence 3.0”—integrating AI, psychology, and ancient Indian cognitive science—demonstrated India’s unique capacity to blend tradition with technology.

    BharatGPT’s Vision: Shri Taresh Verma’s presentation positioned India as a global hub for multilingual, sovereign AI—aligning with the summit’s Bharat-first ethos.

    The Global Summit on AI for Mental Health 2025 has unequivocally positioned itself as the apex forum on the subject. It successfully moved beyond deliberation to deliver a consensus-driven action plan, setting a definitive course for a future where India’s technological advancement is synonymous with its ethical commitment to the mental well-being of its billion-strong population.

    The organizers are also thankful to gifting partners, KIWI Kisan Window and Indian Nurserymen Association.

    If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

  • Karnika Industries Reports Robust Profitability in Q2 & H1 FY26; Margins Expand Sharply

    Karnika Industries Reports Robust Profitability in Q2 & H1 FY26; Margins Expand Sharply

    Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 25: Karnika Industries Limited (NSE: KARNIKA), one of the leading manufacturers and traders of ready-made garments for children, announced its Unaudited Financial Results for the Quarter and Half Year ended September 30, 2025 (Q2 & H1 FY26), as approved by the Board of Directors.

    Key Financial Highlights – H1 FY2025-26

    Particulars H1 FY26 H1 FY25 % Chg YoY
    Total Income (₹ Lakhs) 10,404.55 9,852.72 ↑ 5.60%
    EBITDA (₹ Lakhs) 2,046.48 1,643.67 ↑ 24.51%
    EBITDA Margin (%) 19.67% 16.68% ↑ 299 bps
    Net Profit (₹ Lakhs) 1,246.44 1,034.63 ↑ 20.47%
    Net Profit Margin (%) 11.98% 10.50% ↑ 148 bps

    Key Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2025-26

    Particulars Q2 FY26 Q2 FY25 % Chg YoY
    Total Income (₹ Lakhs) 6,983.77 7,225.14 -3.34%
    EBITDA (₹ Lakhs) 1,455.68 1,121.55 ↑ 29.79%
    EBITDA Margin (%) 20.84% 15.52% ↑ 532 bps
    Net Profit (₹ Lakhs) 938.88 725.82 ↑ 29.35%
    Net Profit Margin (%) 13.44% 10.05% ↑ 340 bps

    Management’s comment:

    “This has been a steady and profitable quarter for the Company. Despite a marginal dip in topline, we improved our margins significantly, driven by better product mix, tighter cost controls, and rising share of higher-value children’s apparel. Our Q2 EBITDA grew nearly 30% YoY while Net Profit rose 29% YoY, reflecting strong operational efficiency.

    FY26 continues to be a year of positive developments for us. We secured multiple sizable orders across India, expanded our presence in key children’s wear clusters, and strengthened engagement with our long-standing customer base that contributes over 90% of revenues. With increasing demand for quality kids garments and our asset-light, job-work-led manufacturing approach, we are well positioned for sustainable growth.

    We remain focused on expanding production capabilities, deepening our design-driven offerings, and enhancing brand presence across domestic and export markets.”

    If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at pr.error.rectification@gmail.com. We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.