Archive: July 31, 2025

Steel Mahakumbh Roadshow held in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, July 31, 2025 — The Steel Mahakumbh Roadshow, a precursor to the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 scheduled for September in Mumbai, was held in Hyderabad on Wednesday evening at Taj Deccan. The event brought together key stakeholders, experts, and industry leaders to deliberate on the future of steel in India’s evolving infrastructure landscape.

Organised by the Telangana Iron & Steel Manufacturers Association (TISMA) under AIIFA Sustainable Steel Manufacturers Association with support from the Ministry of Steel and UNDP, the roadshow focused on critical themes such as Green Steel, energy efficiency, and market outlook for the sector.

Yogesh Mandhani, President of AIIFA, noted that as the country prepares for the Maha Kumbh Mela, the role of steel in building resilient infrastructure is central to the national agenda. He added that the industry must also evolve to meet sustainability goals.

Prakash Goenka, Project Chairman, emphasised that the roadshow series aims to foster knowledge exchange and promote best practices. “Our focus is on building a greener and more efficient steel ecosystem in alignment with the infrastructure growth,” he said.

He raised concerns regarding the BIS Draft Standards, specifically for steel bars. “Thanks to AIIFA’s intervention, the draft has been kept in abeyance,” Goenka noted, while urging BIS to align standards with India’s unique conditions—tropical climate, coastal regions, and high-phosphorus iron ore.

Goenka also reiterated the critical role of the secondary steel sector, which produces 65% of the nation’s steel bars, mainly through induction furnaces. This sector:

• Generates thousands of crores in tax revenue,

• Provides millions of jobs to both skilled and unskilled workers,

• Supports local economies and MSMEs,

• Reduces import dependence by utilizing domestic scrap.

“Affordable steel from this sector makes the dream of owning a home possible for millions of middle-class families,” he added. He appealed to Mr. PV Srikanth, Director & Head, BIS Hyderabad, to send favourable recommendations to BIS Delhi.

India, now the 2nd largest steel producer in the world, manufactures over 151 million tonnes of crude steel annually. It is also the largest producer of sponge iron

• Between 2016–2024, India’s steel output grew at a 5% CAGR, outpacing China (2.76%) and the global average (1.77%).

• From 2022, capacity increased by 9.14%, while consumption grew by 12.86%.

• Current installed capacity: 205 MTPA, with a vision to reach 300 MTPA by 2030 and 500 MTPA by 2047.

Yogesh Mandhani emphasized the urgent need for sustainability, skill development, and Mini Steel Plant innovation to meet future challenges.

Mr. R. Ravi Kumar, President of FTCCI, extended support for a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme in power and emphasised that business should not be in the hands of a few big people, indicating towards draft BIS proposal

Anil Agarwal, steel industry veteran and former FTCCI President, said that secondary steel, especially through the Induction Furnace route, is necessary for India’s sustainability, inclusive and rapid infrastructure growth. Strengthening this sector is key to achieving India’s vision of 5 trillion dollar economy and Viksit Bharat 2047.

Mr. PV Srikanth, Director & Head of BIS Hyderabad, presented updates on BIS 1786 draft standards and upcoming regulations.

The roadshow concluded with a robust presentation on India’s infrastructure boom, market opportunities, and the need for a resilient, green, and competitive steel industry

ICCPL, Known for Its PR Expertise, Bags the Account of VHD Group

SPPSPTM Hosts Orientation Program 2025 to Welcome Future Pharma Professionals

Mumbai, 31 July 2025: The induction programme 2025 for new students of the Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management (SPPSPTM) at the NMIMS Mumbai Campus was held on a solemn and elegant note at the Mukesh Patel Auditorium on July 14, marking the beginning of a transformative academic journey for aspiring pharmacy professionals.

The program commenced with the registration of new students, followed by the traditional lamp lighting, the chanting of the Saraswati Vandana, and the NMIMS Anthem, to dispel the darkness of ignorance with the light of wisdom and to instill a collective spirit of unity, pride, and belonging among students and faculty.

In his welcome address, SPPSPTM Dean Dr. Jagannath Sahoo shed light on the institution’s academic ethos and its remarkable journey from a modest beginning to establishing multiple campuses across the country. He emphasised, “The core principles of a meaningful education and career in Pharma include a strong scientific foundation, analytical and problem-solving skills, effective communication skills, and commitment to ethical and regulatory practices.” He also highlighted the academic excellence of the Mumbai campus, which has been consistently recognised among the top institutions in the country—proudly securing a place in the Top 10 Pharmacy Institutes in India, as per the NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework) rankings.

NMIMS, recently reaccredited with the prestigious NAAC A++ grade and an outstanding CGPA of 3.67 out of 4.0, remains dedicated to maintaining academic excellence and valuebased education across its campuses.

Shri Rasik Raman Das ji, Monk, Author and Mindset Coach, Gold Medalist in Engg and an M.Tech. from IIT Bombay, bestselling author of ‘Be the Smarter You’, and Founder Director of InPlug Academy, graced the event as Chief Guest. Drawing from his distinguished career, he shared with the students pragmatic insights on the power of a positive mindset for success and happiness in both professional and personal life.

The gathering was also addressed by Honorary Secretary, SVKM and Mentor, SPPSPTM, Dr. Jayant Gandhi and Pro Vice Chancellor, NMIMS, Dr. Meena Chintamaneni. A special felicitation was held for Mr. Keith D’Souza for securing All India Rank in NIPER JEE & GPAT 2025.

Dr Sahoo gave an overview of SVKM’s NMMIS and SPPSPTM and introduced the esteemed faculty and staff members.

Following lunch and meeting with parents, Director, Pharma. Tech. Mgmt., Prof. Jagadish Audipudy gave a powerful keynote address on “Optimising Dual Degree for a Successful Career in Pharmaceutical Industry,’ which offered the students invaluable insights into the career paths they can choose.

Delivering the Vote of Thanks, Dr Sarika Wairkar, Associate Dean, SPPSPTM, expressed gratitude to all the distinguished guests, faculty members and student coordinators for making the ceremony a success.

New students were introduced to various committees, councils and forums by the Student Committee Heads of B-Gyaan; TEC, Isthmus Urjja; Excalibur and Kshamta. This was followed by a Q&A Session wherein Dr. Sahoo, Prof. Audipudy, Dr. Yogesh Kulkarni and Dr. Wairkar patiently answered all queries from the new batch.

The audience rose for the National Anthem to close the inaugural session with dignity and patriotic reverence. The event set a profound and aspirational tone for the year ahead, laying a solid foundation for a purpose-driven and intellectually enriching and socially aware academic life at NMIMS SPPSPTM, Mumbai.

Southern States Poised for High-Growth Driven by GCCs & Advanced Manufacturing: CBRE-CII Report

Bangalore, July 31, 2025: CBRE South Asia Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading real estate consulting firm, and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), today launched a joint report titled, ‘Shaping The Future: The Real Estate Vision 2030 For Karnataka And Beyond’. The report highlights opportunities in the southern states for high growth in technology and scaling (Global Capability Centers) GCCs, including advanced manufacturing in electric vehicles, electronics, and aerospace.

Sectors such as life sciences and tourism industries also present a vast potential in the southern states, it added. The report was released in the presence of Mr Tushar Giri Nath, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Urban Development Department, Government of Karnataka. Mr Ashwinder R Singh, Core Member, CII Karnataka Real Estate Conference Chair, CII Real Estate NR & Vice Chairman, BCD Group, Mr Rabindra Srikantan Chairman, CII Karnataka State Council 2025-25 & Managing Director, ASM Technologies, Mr Gaurav Kumar, Managing Director, Capital Markets & Land, CBRE India and Dr Prashanth Reddy, Co-Chair, CII Karnataka Real Estate Conference & Managing Director, Fundermax.

The report highlights the dynamic economic landscape across the five southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Kerala. This is evidenced by robust growth spanning a diverse spectrum of industries, notably IT/ITeS, tourism, and critical manufacturing sectors such as automotive and electronics. The collective strength of this region is firmly established upon a diversified economic base, a world-class talent pool, infrastructure, and proactive government policies.

The report positions Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad as the leading cities driving Southern India’s real estate momentum, each offering unique sectoral strengths and long-term growth potential. These cities are underpinned by world-class infrastructure, strong occupier demand, and expanding institutional investment.

In terms of sectoral momentum:

• IT/ITeS continues to be the dominant driver across all three cities, accounting for a significant share of office leasing.
• Life sciences is gaining prominence, particularly in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, backed by the presence of global R&D centres and innovation parks.
• Electronics manufacturing is anchored in Chennai, supported by robust exports and supply chain infrastructure.
• Rising interest in data centres, premium residential developments, and warehousing is shaping the next wave of real estate growth across both metro and Tier-II locations.

Next Wave of Opportunities in Southern States As They Aim for USD 1 Trillion Economies

As India sets its sights on becoming a USD 30-trillion economy by 2047, the Southern states will be an indispensable driving force behind this ambition. There is ample growth opportunity among these states across sectors, and it can be tapped into through targeted measures.

Karnataka

Objective- USD 1 Trillion economy by 2032

• Fostering New Economic & Employment Hubs Beyond Bengaluru: Implement development plans for Tier-II and Tier-III cities, targeting investments in infrastructure (roads, rail, airports, digital connectivity), social amenities (housing, healthcare, education), and industrial/tech parks
• Enhancing research and development: Strengthening the financial outlay of the state’s R&D ecosystem through public-private partnership and though collaboration with premier educational institutions
• Accelerating manufacturing: Clear district-wise vision for focus sectors such as automobile, pharmaceuticals, machinery through integration of technologies
• Boosting tourism and hospitality: Focus on coastal and eco-tourism by building infrastructure and incentivising start-ups in the sector

Tamil Nadu

Objective- USD 1 Trillion economy by 2030

• Pioneering Industrial leadership:
• :Leveraging its existing leadership, the state should promote smart manufacturing across key sectors including electric vehicles, semiconductor manufacturing, and niche electronics
• Developing industrial townships: Development of industrial townships, including industrial parks and housing facilities for workers; developing port-led industrial corridors for seamless logistics
  Data centres (DC):
• Tamil Nadu’s strategic location, dependable power supply, and extensive land availability collectively position it as a prime destination for significant data centre development, attracting leading operators.
• Fostering a sustainable talent ecosystem: Enhancing industry-linked higher education, reskilling through short-term certifications

Telangana

Objective- USD 1 Trillion economy by 2036

• Bolstering regional connectivity: Prioritising advancements in transportation and digital infrastructure to facilitate seamless movement and communication
• Driving growth in biotechnology sector: Life sciences- Pharma villages along the Hyderabad-Nagpur and Hyderabad-Bangalore highways; the sector contributes nearly 3% to the state’s GSDP, double the nation average
• Boosting aerospace and defence sector: Developing aerospace and defence research institutions fostering skill development and cutting-edge technologiesImplementing smart urban planning: Integrating smart city initiatives to optimise resource management and efficiency

Kerala

Objective- USD 1 Trillion economy by 2047

• Enhancing Kerala IT Policy, 2023: Relaxing FSI and development norms for IT parks, designate IT/ITeS as an essential service and implement a subsidy program for GCCs
• Developing sector-specific policies: The government should consider strategically developing and implementing dedicated policies targeted at incentivising sectors such as data centres, fintech, and semiconductors, among others
• Boosting tourism: Leveraging Kerala’s established tourism infrastructure, additional government investment and private participation could amplify the sector’s overall economic impact

Mr. Tushar Giri Nath, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Urban Development Department, Government of Karnataka, in his keynote address, said, “As Karnataka continues to witness rapid urbanisation, it is imperative that our growth story remains inclusive and well-planned. We must not only expand physical infrastructure but also build robust social infrastructure to ensure that development is holistic and not isolated. A strong transportation grid, integrated urban planning, and well-aligned policy frameworks are critical as we move towards developing Tier 2 and 3 cities as the next growth engines. The government is committed to creating a policy environment that supports the real estate sector, and we encourage deeper engagement between the industry and authorities to drive collaborative, sustainable, and equitable urban development across Karnataka.”

Ram Chandnani, Managing Director – Leasing, CBRE India, said. “Southern India is not only mirroring the region’s economic strength, it is architecting the future of India’s real estate landscape. The convergence of high-quality infrastructure, proactive governance, and a deep talent pool has turned cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai into global investment attractions. What is equally compelling is the rise of Tier-II cities where targeted development and policy support are unlocking new opportunities across asset classes. This dual-track growth makes the South a blueprint for sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-led urban development”

Gaurav Kumar Managing Director, Capital Markets & Land CBRE India, said, “The Southern India region is diversifying across sectors, from Grade A office and data centres to high-value life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and warehousing. This shift is being driven by both global capital inflows and domestic occupier demand, reinforced by state-level reforms and infrastructure expansion. As India moves toward its USD 30 trillion economic ambition, Southern India will remain a critical lever delivering scale, resilience, and future-readiness across commercial and investment-grade real estate.”

Aman Choudhari, Past Chairman, CII Karnataka & Managing Director, Surin Automotive Pvt Ltd remarked, “CII remains committed to driving a future-ready real estate ecosystem through collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. As Karnataka leads the way in industrial growth and urban transformation, we must align infrastructure development with ESG principles to ensure inclusive and climate-resilient cities. This CII Karnataka Second Edition Real Estate Conference 2025 is a step forward in shaping that collective vision.”

“Karnataka is at the forefront of India’s real estate growth across residential, office, retail, and hospitality sectors. As we look toward 2030, innovation, sustainability, and integrated development will define our journey. This conference sets the platform for bold ideas, shared learnings, and collaborative action to shape a future-ready real estate ecosystem for Karnataka and beyond.”, said, Ashwinder R Singh, Core Member CII Karnataka Real Estate Conference Chair CII Real Estate NR & Vice Chairman BCD Group.

“The real estate opportunity in South India is immense and deeply interconnected. With cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Visakhapatnam driving innovation, we must now shift towards a regionally integrated approach rooted in sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth. The 2nd Edition CII Real Estate Conference 2025 marks a critical step in unlocking South India’s urban potential by bringing together industry, policy, and design to build cities that are not only smarter and greener, but also more equitable and future-ready” said, Prashanth Reddy, Co-Chair CII Karnataka Real Estate Conference & Managing Director, Fundermax.

EaseMyTrip Announces Azadi Mega Sale: Exciting Discounts On Travel Packages, Flights, Hotels and More

New Delhi, July 31, 2025: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading travel-tech platforms, has announced its much awaited ‘Azadi Mega Sale’ from 29th July to 6th August 2025. During this period, EaseMyTrip is proud to offer a diverse lineup of discounts on the wide range of travel services of the platform. Travelers can grab attractive offers on flights, hotels, buses, cab bookings, and holiday packages. In order to honour the spirit of 79th Independence Day, EaseMyTrip is even offering exclusive discounts of up to 79% OFF on selected stay options.

To access these offers, customers can use the promo code ‘EMTAZADI’ while availing the services through the EaseMyTrip’s app or website. Moreover, customers can enjoy additional discounts and enhance their travel experience if they make a booking using the credit cards of ICICI, BOBCARD, and AU Small Finance Bank. The offer becomes more irresistible as every transaction during the sale period offers a chance to win gift vouchers from our selected brand partners. During the sale period, the top spender will have the opportunity to win amazing offers from Nasher Mile, IGP, and Goodwyn Tea.

For the upcoming sale, EaseMyTrip has collaborated with reputed airline partners like Malaysian Airlines, Egypt Air, ITA Airways, Air Astana, Kuwait Airways, American Airlines, Air India, Air Mauritius, Akasa Air, Air India Express, AF/KL/DL, British Airways, Indigo, Lot Polish, Qantas Airways, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabia Airlines, Spice Jet, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Batik Air, Uganda Airlines, and Air Canada.

The exclusive prestigious hotels teaming up with EaseMyTrip for the sale are Sterling, Starlit, WelcomHeritage, Pride, Club Mahindra, Byke, Justa, Fern, Ginger, Vits, Sayaji, Neemrana, AM Kollection, Cygnett, Amritara, Spree, Bloom, Zone By The Park, One Earth, Suba Group, Lords, The Clarks, Royal Orchid, OTHPL, Clarks Collection, Le roi, Renest, Treehouse, Citrus Prime, Brij, fab, OYO, ITC, Shrigo, FAB, Fortune, Housr Corporate stays, Eight Continents, Vesta Hotels & Resorts, Fateh Collection, Aceotel, Moustache, OPO Hotels, Saltstayz, Summit Hotels & Resorts, Sumi Yashshree Hotels & Resorts, Sinclairs Hotels & Resorts, Mount Hotels, Hotel Sonar Bangla, and Hotel Polo Towers Group.

Customers can even explore a range of thoughtfully crafted holiday packages to some of India’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations, including Corbett, Nainital, Manali, Himachal, Sariska, Ranthambore, Agra, and Jaipur.

Mr. Sanchit Chopra, Chief Marketing Officer of EaseMyTrip commented, “We are excited to bring back our most awaited Independence Day Sale. From spontaneous escapes to long-awaited vacations, these special deals at our Azadi Mega Sale are there to make travel more accessible and joyful. At EaseMyTrip, we believe freedom is best experienced through travel. To honour India’s 79th Independence Day, this time with select stays offering up to 79% OFF*, we’re inviting every free-spirited explorer to take off and celebrate freedom their own way.”

So let’s embrace the spirit of freedom by grabbing offers and discounts of Azadi Mega Sale exclusively from 29th July to 6th August on EaseMyTrip’s app and website.

Arissa Khan Walks for Aisha Rao at India Couture Week 2025 in a Whimsical Celebration of Craft and Couture

New Delhi, July 31, 2025: Fashion muse Arissa Khan graced the runway at India Couture Week 2025, walking for the celebrated designer Aisha Rao in her debut ICW presentation titled “Wild at Heart.”

Arissa wore one of the show’s most captivating looks, an exquisitely hand-embroidered lehenga featuring intricate floral and fauna motifs, with elements of wild gardens, birds, and mirror work storytelling. The pastel-toned ensemble was highlighted by a bold waistband detail that read “Wild at Heart,” merging emotion with edge and staying true to Rao’s narrative-led design language.

The structured blouse was adorned with multicolored crystals and appliqué work, while a sheer dupatta dusted with sequins added soft contrast and drama. Her floor-grazing braid and statement emerald earrings completed the look, balancing maximalist embellishment with editorial finesse.

Arissa Khan said: The vision, the artistry, and the energy made every fitting, every detail, and every step on that runway felt extraordinary. I’m so honored to have been a part of this dream.

Her walk was a highlight of the show, drawing attention for its elegance and confidence. Known for her presence at global fashion events, including Cannes 2024- 2025 and Paris Couture Week, Arissa continues to shape the space where couture meets conscious creativity.

Lancôme Redefines Luxury in Lip, Fragrance & Skincare Innovation

Idôle NOW: A New Dawn in Modern Perfumery

Step into a luminous new era with Idôle NOW, Lancôme’s radiant floral scent infused with nature and elevated by science. Reinventing the iconic Clean & Glow accord, it blends sustainably extracted Orchid accord and Rice extract, wrapped in warm vanilla tones. Created with breakthrough scent trek technology, Idôle NOW celebrates bold femininity and collective change. Encased in a fiery sunrise bottle, it’s a symbol of a new generation ready to lead with light, strength, and unity.

Lip Idôle Squalane-12 ButterGlow™: The Future of Lip Beauty is Here

Lancôme proudly introduces Lip Idôle Squalane-12 ButterGlow™, a groundbreaking lip hybrid that fuses intense hydration with vibrant color. Powered by 12% plant-based squalane and 96% natural-origin ingredients, this next-gen formula delivers a buttery-soft finish, long-lasting moisture, and 18 universally flattering shades curated by Lisa Eldridge and Sheika Daley. Enriched with biotech rose oil, ceramides, shea and jojoba butter, it offers clinically proven results—reducing dryness and fine lines in just 7 days. Housed in rose gold, crystal-inspired packaging, Lip Idôle ButterGlow™ is where lip care meets couture color.

Génifique Ultimate: One Year of Repair in One Week

Lancôme revolutionizes skincare with Génifique Ultimate, the new-age serum that repairs one year of visible skin damage in just one week. Backed by 27 years of research and 10 patents, the formula features Beta-Glucan-CM—a biotech-powered active proven to accelerate skin recovery and outperform hyaluronic acid. With 90 trillion Beta-Glucans in every drop, plus pre- and probiotic fractions, pure licorice extract, and high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, Génifique Ultimate delivers unparalleled results in radiance, smoothness, and firmness. Refillable, sensorial, and designed for all skin types, it is the new standard in repair science.

With this I would like to explore participating in Raksha Bandhan gifting guide, beauty round-up, or festive feature, these icons represent the best of what beauty can offer in 2025.