Herbalife India Partners With Rising Cricket Star Yashasvi Jaiswal

Herbalife India, a premier health and wellness company, community, and platform, proudly announces its partnership with rising cricket star Yashasvi Jaiswal. This collaboration amplifies Herbalife India’s commitment to enhancing athletic performance through premium sports nutrition in India.

Over the years, Herbalife has been a steadfast supporter of top athletes, providing them with the nutritional tools necessary to achieve remarkable success. The partnership with Jaiswal highlights Herbalife's belief in the power of sports to promote health and community engagement.

Jaiswal's inspiring journey from a small town in Uttar Pradesh to the Indian national cricket team is a testament to his resilience and dedication. Starting his cricketing career at just ten years old, he has faced numerous challenges, making him a role model for aspiring athletes. This partnership reflects a shared vision of using sports to encourage well-being and inspire positive change.

Ajay Khanna, Managing Director, Herbalife India, said, “We are excited to partner with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who truly represents hard work and excellence. His journey shows the determination we value at Herbalife. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary in India, this journey reflects our growth and success in empowering athletes through proper nutrition. We believe that our science-backed products and expert support are essential for athletes to perform at their best. Together with Yashasvi, we aim to inspire young athletes across India to pursue their dreams and prioritize their health.”

Yashasvi Jaiswal said, " I am excited to be part of Herbalife's nutrition and wellness journey. Access to proper nutrition is key for helping athletes maintain peak performance and endurance, and I am thrilled to partner with Herbalife. They not only provide nutritional support but also promote overall well-being.

Herbalife sponsors over 150 athletes, teams, and leagues across the globe, supporting them with quality sports nutrition products at all stages of their training and competing. In India, Herbalife continues to support cricket and non-cricket athletes like Smriti Mandhana, Lakshya Sen, Manika Batra, Mary Kom and Palak Kohli. Herbalife has supported major teams and sporting events, including the Official Nutrition Partnership with Team India for the Summer Olympics in 2016, 2021, and 2024, the Commonwealth Games in 2022, and Special Olympics Bharat in 2023. Additionally, Herbalife was the Official Nutrition Partner for 7 Pro Kabaddi Teams in Season 8 and has been the Official Presenting Sponsor of IRONMAN 70.3 Goa since 2022, among other partnerships.

About Herbalife International India Private Ltd.

Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company, community and platform that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed food products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle to live their best life.

For more information, visit https://www.herbalife.com/en-in 

MIT-World Peace University Study Traces Changes In Dragonfly Populations Over Time

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at MIT-WPU, Pune, revealed the population dynamics  of dragonfly species in Pune based on historical and contemporary data. Researchers found that eight species previously recorded in historical data are now absent, suggesting possible local extinctions due to unplanned urbanization, increased water pollution, and shifting weather patterns. The study also records addition of twenty-seven species compared to historical data, a significant number achieved due to citizen science and increased awareness regarding documentation of insect diversity. The study identifies shifts in dragonfly populations caused by factors such as changing land use, rapid urbanization, and data gaps.

The study also recorded the presence of five endemic species from the Western Ghats, reinforcing Pune’s ecological significance for Odonata studies. This first-of-its-kind study examines the long-term temporal distribution of odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) in the Pune district, shedding light on species losses and gains over nearly two centuries.

The research, led by Dr. Pankaj Koparde (Faculty, Department of Environmental Studies, MIT-WPU Pune), along with Arajush Payra (PhD Scholar) and Ameya Deshpande (Alumnus), presents a comprehensive analysis of historical and contemporary records. Primary data was collected between 2019 and 2022 across 52 localities in the Pune district, while historical records from the mid-19th century were reviewed through 25 published articles and citizen science data.

Researchers from MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) have published this groundbreaking study, titled “Odonata Diversity in the Timescape of Pune District Adjoining the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot,” in the International Journal of Tropical Insect Science (Springer Nature Publishing).

“Dragonflies are crucial insect predators that help regulate mosquito and pest populations in urban areas. Their role is comparable to that of tigers in a forest ecosystem. Monitoring their populations is essential for assessing environmental health,” said Dr. Pankaj Koparde, lead researcher of the study.

Compared to historical records, researchers today have access to advanced data collection techniques, citizen science initiatives, and increased awareness, allowing for a more refined understanding of biodiversity trends. The study also identifies Warje and Vetal Hills, along with Pashan Lake, as the most species-rich locations within the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits.

Building on these findings, MIT-WPU researchers are currently studying the impact of urbanization and water pollution on dragonflies along the Mula River. They are also establishing long-term monitoring projects to track diversity changes over time.

“We need to prioritize the conservation of urban green and blue spaces such as hills, grasslands, rivers, and lakes. Sustainable development planning is crucial to preserving natural ecosystems amid rapid urban expansion,” stated Arajush Payra, co-researcher on the study.

This study is part of a larger research initiative on dragonfly diversity across the Western Ghats, funded by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. The researchers hope their findings will inspire more studies on biodiversity shifts across various taxa and encourage the establishment of long-term monitoring projects to aid conservation efforts.

"The Z Connect Festival: A Month Of Music, Dance, And Unforgettable Moments At The Galleria Mall!"

The Galleria Mall was abuzz with energy as it hosted the Ultimate Z Connect Festival, a high-octane celebration of Gen Z brands, creativity, music, dance, and non-stop fun! From 7th to 23rd February 2025, the mall transformed into a vibrant hub where youthful, energetic crowds gathered to explore and engage with their favorite Gen Z brands like Snitch, Neeman’s, Zouk, Bewakoof, Kica Active, Derma Co., Aqualogica and more, all under one roof. This event offered an unparalleled space for self-expression, where attendees could celebrate life and discover the latest trends across fashion, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle.

Each weekend brought something new and exciting, making it impossible for anyone to miss out! The festival kicked off with electrifying performances like the iconic Black Ice Crew dance show on February 7th, followed by a throwback Vinyl Night Out on February 8th, featuring top DJs spinning nostalgic beats. On February 9th, art lovers got creative at the Sip & Paint event, bringing their passion to life on canvas. Whether it was Fuzz’s Bring Your Dog to the Mall Day (Feb 11), or the Style under 3000 challenges with Bewakoof and Snitch (Feb 12), there was something for every trendsetter.

Trivia lovers tested their knowledge at the Pop Quiz Night on February 13th, while Valentine’s Salsa Night on February 14th got hearts racing with rhythm and romance. The high-energy Epic DJ Nights on February 15th kept the crowd partying until the last beat. Those seeking a moment of Zen could unwind at Pawasana Yoga with Puppies on February 16th, blending relaxation and adorable puppies for the perfect balance.

Throughout the festival, Neeman’s photo ops on February 19th allowed attendees to model the latest trends, while fierce competition sparked at the Dance Battle Qualifiers on February 21st. The grand finale on February 23rd saw the best dancers clash in the Dance Battle Finals, with the ultimate crown up for grabs.

The Z Connect Festival proved to be the ultimate destination for anyone craving fun, creativity, and unforgettable moments. People marked their calendars, brought their friends, and celebrated music, dance, and culture in full force at The Galleria Mall. The Z Connect Festival was undeniably the event of the season!

Javed Akhtar On Modern Masculinity: “Anger Must Challenge Power, Not Oppress The Weak” At Alliance Literature Festival

* Javed Akhtar captivated the audience at the Alliance Literary Festival with his thought-provoking views on modern masculinity, emphasizing that true anger should challenge systemic power, not oppress the vulnerable.

* The fourth edition of the festival, hosted by Alliance University, Bengaluru, featured over 120 speakers from 25 countries, including notable personalities such as Javed Akhtar, Asako Yuzuki, Anil Kumble, and Sanjay Patel, celebrating Asian culture, literature, and art under the theme The Asian Century.

The fourth edition of the Alliance Literary Festival emerged as a premier platform for intellectual discourse, celebrating the rich literary, artistic, and cultural landscape of Asia. Hosted by Alliance University from February 13-15, the festival revolved around the theme "The Asian Century," emphasizing Asia's evolving influence on global narratives.

The festival brought together over 120 thought leaders from 25 countries, including distinguished figures such as Sanjay Patel, Nandan Kamath, Urvashi Butalia, Prayaag Akbar, Arun Yogiraj, Don Palathara, Ravikumar Kashi, Shiv Aroor, Asako Yuzuki, and Rajdeep Sardesai. Discussions spanned Asia’s economic rise, the impact of migration, environmental challenges, the ascent of Asian athletes, and the continent’s role in education, sports, and innovation. This dynamic convergence of minds fostered intellectual exchange, cultural preservation, and meaningful societal transformation.

Among the festival’s standout moments was an electrifying discourse by the celebrated poet, lyricist, and screenwriter Javed Akhtar, who explored the evolving paradigms of masculinity and the role of anger in societal transformation. He emphasized that righteous indignation should challenge systemic injustices rather than be wielded against the vulnerable. Reflecting on the archetype of the Angry Young Man in cinema, he noted that this figure, often misunderstood, symbolized disillusionment with entrenched inequalities rather than oppression.

“Anyone who is angry with the weaker, the dispossessed that is not anger. That person is a bully, masking insecurities. True anger should be directed toward the powerful, those benefiting from unjust structures. Anger toward the weak is nothing more than cowardly tantrums,” remarked Javed Akhtar. He further examined the shifting portrayals of masculinity in contemporary cinema, warning against entitlement and misplaced aggression replacing genuine struggles. He underscored the role of parenting in shaping gender attitudes and called for a cultural shift that encourages individuals to embrace vulnerability alongside strength.

While addressing the younger generation, Akhtar highlighted the importance of staying relevant in an evolving world: “Relevance is not about rigidly holding onto past wisdom but about embracing evolving perspectives. Openness, curiosity, and adaptability are key. The youth today have a sharper moral and aesthetic compass than we did.”

The festival was inaugurated by Mani Shankar Aiyar, Former Panchayati Raj Minister, who emphasized the indispensable role of dialogue in shaping the 21st century. Sporting legends Anil Kumble and Dr. Anju Bobby George inspired audiences with their compelling narratives of resilience and perseverance.

Blending literary discourse with cultural vibrancy, the festival featured a Chhau dance performance, a semi-classical martial and folk tradition from West Bengal, alongside a Kathak recital by the celebrated artist -Hari. Comedy infused the atmosphere as stand-up artist Shraddha Jain, popularly known as 'Aiyyo Shraddha', brought laughter with her witty and engaging act.

Reflecting on the festival’s profound influence, Dr. Anirudh Sridhar, Dean of Thought Leadership at Alliance University, remarked:

“As this dynamic three-day literary confluence draws to a close, we take pride in cultivating a space where diverse voices converge, ideas flourish, and the transformative power of literature ignites minds. The enthusiasm from students and the literary fraternity has been truly heartening, reaffirming the necessity of such platforms in shaping perspectives and fostering creativity.”

Adding to its legacy, the festival also witnessed the launch of "Suburbian," an avant-garde magazine by Alliance University's MA (Creative Writing) department, introduced by eminent Japanese authors Asako Yuzuki, Kanako Nishi, and Erika Kobayashi.

With its fusion of literature, culture, and intellect, the Alliance Literary Festival 2025 reaffirmed its standing as a beacon of thought and creativity, championing discourse that shapes the future of Asian identity and global dialogue.

wienerberger India Is Commited Towards Building A Sustainable Future: Mr. Monnanda Appaiah

By Manu Sharma

Wienerberger India is a company that manufactures clay building materials in India. They also import specialty products from other factories. Wienerberger India's goal is to provide sustainable, high-quality building materials for Indian consumers. 

The Vienna-headquartered company has its India's manufacturing facility is located in Kunigal, Karnataka, 70 km west of Bangalore. The facility is highly automated and uses robots for material handling. The facility uses locally available raw materials and energy to produce bricks. Some of the products include Porotherm Smart bricks, Aspect Clay Ventilated Façade tiles, and more. Infact, Porotherm Smart bricks are lightweight, durable, and have good thermal and sound insulation and their products are rated by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and the Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) by TERI.

An Exclusive Conversation with Mr. Monnanda Appaiah, Managing Director, wienerberger India talks on the company's growth, expansion plans and also its commitment to create sustainable building solutions, its recent CSR initiative, and its plans for expansion."

Q 1. Manu Sharma: wienerberger India has recently completed the Yediyur CSR project, which provided 19 eco-friendly homes to underprivileged families. Can you tell us more about this initiative?

Monnanda Appaiah: We're proud of this project, which showcases our commitment to sustainable living and giving back to society. We used our state-of-the-art walling material, Porotherm Smart Bricks, to build these homes, ensuring superior thermal insulation and comfortable living spaces. We used the product to show that Porotherm can be used to build affordable homes as well. These load- bearing hollow bricks ensure huge overall saving in construction cost as you don't need beams, plastering or painting. 

Q 2.  Manu Sharma: That's impressive. What inspired wienerberger India to take up this project?

Monnanda Appaiah: As a responsible corporate citizen, we believe in contributing to the betterment of society. We identified a need for homes for a group of people below poverty line in Yediyur and decided to take action. This project is a testament to our values and vision.

Q 3. Manu Sharma: wienerberger India has received two awards for sustainable practices. Can you elaborate on your sustainability initiatives?

Monnanda Appaiah: Sustainability is at the core of our business. We're committed to reducing our ecological footprint through innovative building solutions, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, and waste reduction initiatives.

Q 4. Manu Sharma: Can you tell us about your state-of-the-art factory in Kunigal?

Monnanda Appaiah: Our factory in Kunigal is a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability. With an investment of around ?300 crores from our parent company in Austria, we've established a world-class manufacturing facility that produces high-quality building materials. Our factory is equipped with cutting-edge technology and employs over 250 people.

Q 5. Manu Sharma: Who are some of your prominent customers?

Monnanda Appaiah: We're proud to have worked with some of the leading builders and developers in South India, including Prestige Group, Brigade Group and Sattva among others. Our products, particularly Porotherm Smart Bricks, have been well-received by the market, and we're committed to continuing to innovate and meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Q 6. Manu Sharma: What are wienerberger India's expansion plans, and how do you see the company growing in the next few years?

Monnanda Appaiah: We're planning to increase our production capacity and expand our presence in markets beyond South India. We're also exploring new product lines and innovations to stay ahead in the market.

Q 7. Manu Sharma: Finally, what message would you like to convey to your customers and stakeholders?

Monnanda Appaiah: We're committed to providing innovative, sustainable building solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. We value our relationships with our stakeholders and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the communities we serve.

As wienerberger India continues to grow and innovate, its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility remains at the forefront of its business strategy. With its pioneering efforts in sustainable building solutions, the company is poised to make a lasting impact on the Indian building materials sector.

Genpact Joins Forces With WWF-India And WOTR To Drive Climate Action In India

 

·   Restoring the Chambal-Yamuna River ecosystem - impacting 50,000 farmers and conserving 5000 sq km of landscape area

·   Promoting climate-resilient sustainable agriculture in Rajasthan - saving 128Mn liters of water and helping 1600+ farmers increase crop productivity by 30%

·   Projects highlight Genpact’s ongoing commitment to driving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impact and building a more sustainable and resilient future for all

Genpact (NYSE: G), a global advanced technology services and solutions company, today announced a collaboration with two leading non-profit organizations in India, the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) India and the Watershed Organization Trust (WOTR), to address the pressing challenges of climate change and support sustainable development initiatives across the country.

With WWF-India, Genpact aims to restore the ecological health of the Chambal-Yamuna River system, enhance biodiversity, and support conservation efforts. In addition, the collaboration with WOTR focuses on strengthening climate resilience in Rajasthan. This involves implementing community-led water harvesting initiatives and promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices.

“Climate action is not just an environmental issue; it’s a social and economic imperative,” said Piyush Mehta, CHRO and Country Manager, India, Genpact. “As a purpose-driven company, Genpact is committed to driving positive environmental and social impact. Our collaborations with WWF-India and WOTR are a testament to this purpose in action, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable, better world for all.”

Genpact’s project with WWF-India is centered on revitalizing the Chambal-Yamuna River basin, a critical freshwater ecosystem that supports 77% of the global breeding gharial population and is home to India’s national aquatic animal - the Ganga River dolphin. This project is expected to:

Benefit around 50,000 farmers by improving water security

Improve the population of river dolphins and gharials (crocodiles) along an 80-km stretch of the river

Conserve 5000 square km landscape, safeguarding biodiversity

Develop a multi-stakeholder framework for long-term conservation.

“The Chambal River, being a unique and critical freshwater ecosystem, holds an immense potential to realize the vision of a healthy Ganga, said Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF-India. “Through this initiative, WWF-India will work with key stakeholders, including local communities, the Governments of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, and the National Mission for Clean Ganga, to enhance understanding of the river—its hydrology, morphology, ecology, and governance to develop valuable insights and pave the way for long-term conservation of one of India’s important perennial rivers.”

With Genpact’s support, WOTR will work in the drought-prone region of Karauli, Rajasthan. Over the next three years, the project is expected to:

Create and restore water harvesting structures capable of saving 128 million litres of water

Introduce resilient farming techniques to help over 1600 farmers increase their crop productivity by up to 30%

“WOTR's partnership with Genpact in Karauli, Rajasthan, exemplifies a strategic approach to climate resilience and sustainable development,” said Prakash Keskar, Executive Director, WOTR. “By implementing water harvesting structures and climate-smart agriculture, we're addressing critical water scarcity issues while empowering farmers. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to build resilient rural communities and showcases the power of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful environmental and social impact.”

About Genpact:

Genpact (NYSE: G) is a global professional services and solutions firm delivering outcomes that shape the future. Our 125,000+ people across 30+ countries are driven by our innate curiosity, entrepreneurial agility, and desire to create lasting value for clients. Powered by our purpose – the relentless pursuit of a world that works better for people – we serve and transform leading enterprises, including the Fortune Global 500, with our deep business and industry knowledge, digital operations services, and expertise in data, technology, and AI.

About WWF:

WWF-India is committed to creating and demonstrating practical solutions that help conserve India's ecosystems and rich biodiversity. With a conservation journey spanning over 50 years, WWF-India works towards finding science-based and sustainable solutions. Our holistic and integrated approach assists in addressing challenges at the interface of development and conservation. WWF-India is part of the WWF network, with offices in over 100 countries. We work in different geographical regions pan-India through state and field offices. The uniqueness lies in the interconnectedness of our work and its impact across thematic areas, including conservation of key wildlife species, management of their habitats, rivers and wetlands, climate change adaptation, driving sustainable solutions for business and agriculture, and empowering local communities as conservation stewards. WWF-India also works to combat illegal wildlife trade and bring environmental education to students through outreach and awareness campaigns.

For more details, please visit our website and social media pages: 

http://www.wwfindia.org, Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube 

About WOTR:

WOTR is a nationally and globally recognised leader and think tank in rural development. Committed to eradicating the root causes of rural poverty, WOTR champions ecosystem rejuvenation and the strengthening of community resilience to climate change. By enhancing water availability, improving land and agricultural productivity, diversifying livelihoods, empowering women, and bolstering the health and well-being of vulnerable rural communities, WOTR has made significant strides in transforming rural landscapes. The organisation's unique approach brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including practitioners, academics, researchers, trainers, and policy makers, fostering collaborative efforts to build the resilience of rural communities. In the course of over 3 decades, WOTR has worked in 7,255 villages across 10 states in India, positively impacting the lives of 7.92 million people.

For more information, visit www.wotr.org and follow us on LinkedIn, X, YouTube and Instagram

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Inspires Young Innovators With 24-Hour Toyota Hackathon 2025 In Bangalore

Reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation in road safety and celebrating ‘Road Safety Month’ (January 18 – February 17, 2025), Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the successful completion of the 24-Hour Toyota Hackathon 2025 at R V Institute of Technology & Management, JP Nagar, Bangalore. This event marked the third and final chapter of TKM’s hackathon series for the year, following its successful editions in Delhi and Mumbai.

The Bangalore hackathon brought together over 400 young innovators from grades 9 to 11, representing nearly 100 schools. Participants showcased their creativity and technical acumen in developing practical solutions to critical road safety issues, aligning with TKM’s broader vision of achieving zero traffic fatalities. Graced by the presence of the Chief Guest Mr. S. Girish IPS Deputy Commissioner of Police, West along with TKM’s senior leadership, including Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head of State Affairs highlighted Toyota’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of changemakers.

India records the highest number of annual road crash fatalities globally. Each year, the country witnesses over 1,50,000 fatalities due to road accidents, with road traffic injuries being the leading cause of death for people aged 5-29 years. Recognizing this, TKM’s hackathon series across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore has engaged students in the 2024-25 academic year, generating over 400 innovative concepts from Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore aimed at addressing these challenges. By fostering critical thinking and solution-oriented approaches, the initiative equips young minds to tackle modern road safety challenges. It serves as a platform that not only unlocks the potential of these innovators but also transforms them into ‘Change Agents,’ driving positive behavioural changes within their communities and contributing significantly to advancing road safety.

Participants tackled themes such as Road Safety Awareness and Education, School Zone Safety, Traffic Management, and IoT Integration in Road Safety. They were encouraged to develop both digital and policy-driven solutions capable of reducing road accidents and saving lives. Each hackathon followed a structured five-phase journey: Team Selection and Idea Submission, Boot Camp Shortlisting, the 24-Hour Hackathon, and Incubation Support for the top teams. Out of 100 initial teams, 33 teams advanced to the final phase, with three winning teams receiving continued mentorship to refine and implement their solutions.

Present at the occasion, Chief Guest Mr. S. Girish IPS Deputy Commissioner of Police, West said, “The Toyota Hackathon is a testament to the power of young minds when given the opportunity to innovate. It is inspiring to see how students are channelling their creativity to address a critical issue like road safety. Initiatives like this not only nurture future leaders but also instil a sense of responsibility and purpose in creating a safer world. The enthusiasm and ingenuity I witnessed today reaffirm my belief in the potential of our youth to drive positive change. I applaud Toyota Kirloskar Motor for this impactful initiative and look forward to seeing these solutions translate into real-world benefits for society.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs, TKM, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, safety is at the heart of everything we do. The Toyota Hackathon is a reflection of our belief that empowering young minds to innovate is key to addressing societal challenges like road safety. By equipping students with the tools and mentorship to tackle real-world challenges, we are not only addressing road safety but also building a community of changemakers dedicated to societal progress. We remain committed to supporting their journey from ideas to implementation, ensuring safer roads for everyone.”

Road safety and education form the cornerstone of Toyota’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The Toyota Hackathon, launched in 2018, complements the Toyota Safety Education Programme (TSEP), which has reached over 800,000 students since 2007. As the grand finale of the 2025 series, the Bangalore hackathon has set the stage for a brighter and safer future, showcasing the remarkable impact of empowering youth to address pressing societal challenges. With every milestone achieved, TKM reaffirms its leadership in advancing sustainable mobility and road safety.