Saturday, May 31, 2025

EDII Hosts “24th Convocation”; 74 Students Graduate Across Entrepreneurship Programmes


Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, a 'Centre of Excellence' recognised by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, celebrated its “24th convocation of academic programmes” at its Ahmedabad campus. The event was graced by chief guest Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, Former Secretary, DRDO and Distinguished Scientist. Also present on the occasion were Shri Rakesh Sharma, President – EDII and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IDBI Bank Limited; Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII; and esteemed members of the EDII Governing Board including Mr. Rajesh R. Gandhi, Managing Director, Vadilal Industries Limited, Ahmedabad; Mr. Rahul Bhave, Managing Director and CEO, IFCI Limited, New Delhi and Ms. Purnima Bhargava, CGM & Head, Learning & Employee Engagement, IDBI Bank Ltd.

74 graduates were conferred with diplomas and graduating certificates, at the 24th convocation, across academic programmes including the Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Entrepreneurship (PGDM - E); Post Graduate Diploma in Management-Innovation Entrepreneurship & Venture Development (PGDM-IEV)and Fellow Programme in Management (FPM). The ceremony marks a notable milestone, celebrating the academic journey and success of graduates as they step into entrepreneurial roles across industries/ institutions.

This year’s graduating batch represents 74 (Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Entrepreneurship-64 students; Post Graduate Diploma in Management – Innovation Entrepreneurship & Venture Development - 8 students; Fellow Programme in Management – 2 students) students from 12 states. While 21 students of PGDM-E have finalised their 5 year Perspective Growth Plan, 43 students of this programme have prepared Detailed Project Report (DPR). Students have also secured Grant sanctions from the student start-up innovation policy. Some of the business identified domains include: Providing small-scale wind turbines for commercial and residential applications; software designed to tackle the everyday challenges of time management in a professional setting; Fast, Safe, and Reliable Blood Delivery; installing digital lockers in residential buildings, allowing couriers to drop off packages securely, Residents receive mobile alerts and can collect parcels anytime; beneficiation of iron ore in dry and viable methods to obtain a desirable ore grade and without using precious water resources; innovative products for electrical efficiency & user comfort and many other contemporary opportunities.

Dr. V. K. Saraswat inspired the graduating students with an invigorating speech with insights into India’s evolving and growing entrepreneurial landscape and how each of their contributions will add to the nation-building. He said, “Your ability to navigate ambiguity, make decisions with incomplete information, and adapt strategies based on new realities will determine your sustained impact. Cross-cultural communication proves critical in our interconnected world. India's diversity, be it linguistic, cultural, or economic, demands entrepreneurs who can design solutions that resonate across communities and contexts. Global collaboration demands understanding how to work effectively with partners from different cultures while maintaining authentic Indian perspectives. He added, every solution you develop, every enterprise you build, every innovation you pursue must be measured not just by its commercial success but by its contribution to India's comprehensive development. We stand at an unprecedented moment in India's journey, where the vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed India by 2047, is not merely a government policy but a collective aspiration that requires entrepreneurs like you to be its primary architects”

Shri Rakesh Sharma, President – EDII & Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IDBI Bank Limited, said, “This year, in April EDII celebrated its 43rd Foundation Day. In over four decades of its journey, the Institute has played a crucial role in establishing entrepreneurship as a familiar discipline.  Today when the nation talks about employing entrepreneurship as a tool to enhance productivity, competitiveness and overall efficiency, EDII continues to remain centre stage in leading and reinforcing this development. The Institute’s nationwide presence is instilling entrepreneurial behaviour across a diverse cross-section of people.”

Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, shared, “Since the inception of EDII, we have worked consistently to nurture entrepreneurial talent capable of leading with innovation, integrity, and impact. EDII’s meticulously designed curriculum integrates academic rigour with practical exposure, equipping students with a deep understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems, strategic thinking, and ethical leadership. With the wings that we have provided, I am sure our students are going to fly to newer heights. To add to this flight is the inspiring presence of Dr. Saraswat. It is a pleasure to have him grace this convocation and guide our students.”

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII.

Friday, May 30, 2025

Marriott Bonvoy Launches Members Get Even More, Offering The Best Rates To Members Planning Their Monsoon Getaway


Planning a monsoon getaway? Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program is giving members an exclusive 10% off on stays across 127 hotels in India. Book anytime from now until  July 30th 2025, and unlock special rates that bring your dream holiday one step closer. Members can also apply the new offer on all existing offers on the app & website too. It is a steal deal truly!

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, craving a hilltop retreat, planning a family break, or mixing business with a bit of leisure – this limited-time offer lets you do it all for less. Plus, you’ll continue to earn Marriott Bonvoy points for future escapes. Think luxury for less at stunning destinations like JW Marriott Goa, The St. Regis Goa, Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar, Westin Himalayas Resort & Spa, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa, Udaipur Marriott Hotel, and many more.

Marriott Bonvoy members continue to get benefits such as free breakfast and hi-speed Wi-Fi and also earn additional point as per member tier. Own the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC bank credit card? Earn additional 08 points on every INR 150 spent.

Book your perfect monsoon stay on the Marriott Bonvoy app or website – and let the rewards flow.

How to book:

For bookings: Click here or Marriott Bonvoy app or www.marriott.com (Bonvoy membership required - sign up for free)

Stay Period: 27th May to 31st July 2025

Where: All Marriott Bonvoy properties across India  

Why Managing Thyroid Matters When You Have Diabetes


In India, about 1 in 10 adults have a thyroid disorder, and around 1 in 11 adults live with diabetes.[1] But what many people don’t know is how often these two conditions are connected. In fact, approximately 1 in 4 people with Type 2 diabetes also have hypothyroidism,[2] a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive. This overlap is not coincidental as both conditions affect how the body uses energy.[3]

Understanding the linkage between thyroid & diabetes

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It regulates the body’s metabolism, which affects how the body uses and stores energy. Thyroid hormones and insulin are like the body's energy managers. Thyroid hormones help control how fast your body uses energy, while insulin helps manage your blood sugar levels. Together, they play a big role in keeping your metabolism running smoothly. So, when the thyroid function is disrupted, it can affect blood sugar control, and vice versa.[4]

Dr Rohita Shetty, Medical Affairs Head, Abbott India said, “People living with diabetes are usually aware of their blood sugar levels and know how to manage the fluctuations. But many symptoms of thyroid disorders might go unnoticed, even though they can impact blood sugar levels.[5] Thyroid health and blood sugar levels are more linked than you might think. That's why it's important to get regular thyroid check-ups. With the right care, thyroid disorders can be managed effectively, allowing people to live healthy and active lives.”

Dr. Mahesh DM, Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, “Thyroid conditions are often neglected, with a large percentage of the population living with undetected issues and, as a result, not seeking the necessary care. Many people with diabetes may have thyroid problems without noticeable symptoms, which can range from fatigue, memory lapses, sleeping difficulties and excessive weight gain to constipation, dry skin, cold intolerance, muscle cramps, and puffy eyelids. [6] An underactive thyroid can also result in fluctuations in energy levels, weight, mood, and heart rate, as the gland plays an important role in regulating these functions and supporting the body’s healthy development. This is why regular check-ups for thyroid function are important, especially for people with type 2 diabetes.”

Research shows that diabetes combined with thyroid disorders can increase the risk of kidney issues, poor heart function, and issues with blood circulation.[7],[8] These can lead to complications like diabetic retinopathy (happens when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina), nerve damage, and heart disease.[9]

Types of thyroid disorders that influence blood sugar control:[10][11][12]

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

Hypothyroidism slows down how the body processes insulin. This means insulin stays in the bloodstream longer, which can cause unexpected dips in blood sugar. It slows down metabolism, leading to weight gain and increased insulin resistance. This can make it harder to keep blood sugar levels under control. Among people with diabetes, the most common type of thyroid disorder is subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid gland isn’t functioning normally, but there aren’t any visible symptoms.  Type 2 diabetes can also increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism due to changes in how the immune system functions.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism speeds up metabolism. This causes the body to absorb glucose from food more quickly. However, cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This makes it challenging for people with diabetes to maintain stable glucose levels.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism affect blood sugar levels, requiring regular monitoring and management.

Managing the Dual Diagnosis

Addressing thyroid dysfunction can help with diabetes control. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and timely medication as advised by your doctor, can help keep both thyroid and blood sugar levels in check.  Regular screening for thyroid function and blood sugar testing, as advised by your doctor, can ensure that any changes are diagnosed early.

Taking care of yourself by staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep can really help. If you have both thyroid disorders and diabetes, you might need to pay extra attention to your health, by doing so can make you feel better and give you more energy to enjoy your favorite activities.

Jollygunj Launches Third Outlet At The Galleria Mall, Yelahanka


* A bold new chapter in Bengaluru’s bar culture begins

Brookfield Properties has announced the opening of Jollygunj, a vibrant rooftop bar concept by Byg Ventures at The Galleria Mall. This launch marks Jollygunj's third outpost in Bengaluru, bringing its unique blend of bold design, inventive mixology, and irreverent charm to North Bengaluru.

A Bold New Chapter in Bengaluru's Bar Culture

Jollygunj celebrates classic Indian decadence with a contemporary twist, offering a distinctive experience that encourages connection, celebration, and elevated socializing. With its smart design and high energy, Jollygunj reflects the evolving preferences of Bengaluru's nightlife enthusiasts.

Signature Offerings with a Side of Surprise

Jollygunj's music-focused ambiance, adult-only entry, and defined dress code create a unique nightlife experience. Designed for those seeking high-energy evenings with a curated crowd, Jollygunj focuses on shared moments, expressive interiors, and an unmistakable vibe.

The menu boasts 15 signature shots, including the whisky-forward Angrezi and the innovative Zabardast. The culinary experience features elevated interpretations of local street food favorites, such as Jolly Mutton Seekh and Clubhouse Fish Fry.

A Space that Speaks to the City

Rooted in an ecosystem philosophy, Brookfield Properties curates environments where commerce, culture, and community converge—transforming spaces into destinations. The addition of Jollygunj to The Galleria mall reflects our placemaking philosophy—curating spaces that prioritize lifestyle and community. The launch strengthens the dynamic mix of experiential retail, dining and leisure, while further expanding Brookfield Properties’ growing retail portfolio in India.

Ajay Gowda, Partner at Byg Ventures, stated, "We're thrilled to partner with The Galleria Mall, which shares our passion for creating spaces that celebrate energy, expression, and connection. With our third location in Yelahanka, we're bringing that spirit to North Bengaluru, where community and good times come together without compromise."

Venue Details:

 Location: Rooftop, The Galleria Mall, Yelahanka

 Timing: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Daily

 21+ only | Dress code in effect

About Jollygunj:

Jollygunj is a vibrant rooftop bar concept by Byg Ventures, offering a unique blend of bold design, inventive mixology, and irreverent charm. With three locations in Bengaluru, Jollygunj is redefining the city's nightlife experience.

About The Galleria Mall:

Brookfield Properties manages over 55 million sq. ft. of high-quality real estate across India. The Galleria Mall is a premium retail destination within this portfolio. As India’s first mall to receive the prestigious 5S Platinum Certification, it brings an international experience to local connoisseurs. The mall features a wide range of offerings including a spacious 800-seat food court, fine dining restaurants, a nightclub, and a curated selection of leading fashion and lifestyle brands—all under one roof.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Launches “50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour”


* ‘Bookings Open’

Celebrating half a century of iconic touring excellence, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) announced the launch of “2025 Gold Wing Tour – the 50th Anniversary Edition”. As this legendary nameplate turns fifty, the Gold Wing Tour continues to set the benchmark in luxury touring. Bookings for the same are now open and it will be exclusively sold via the company’s premium BigWing Topline dealerships. The 50th Anniversary Honda Gold Wing Tour has been priced at Rs. 39.90 lakh, ex-showroom Gurugram (Haryana).

Announcing the launch, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are ecstatic to introduce the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour in India. The launch of the 2025 Gold Wing Tour commemorates an iconic journey that began in 1975. Over the past five decades, the Gold Wing platform has evolved into a symbol of class, comfort, and endurance. The 50th Anniversary Edition is a tribute to this unmatched legacy and a celebration of our commitment to engineering excellence for long-distance touring connoisseurs.”

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are delighted to launch the 50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour for our Indian customers. With this special 50th Anniversary Edition, we aim to offer a riding experience that perfectly blends innovation, luxury, and power. This is more than just a motorcycle – it’s a tribute to a generation of motorcyclists who believe in the art of luxury touring. We are glad to announce that the bookings for the new Gold Wing Tour are now open and customer deliveries of this flagship luxury tourer will begin in India from June 2025 onwards.”

50th Anniversary Gold Wing Tour: The Art of Luxury Touring

The 2025 Gold Wing Tour boasts a cutting-edge style with a distinctive silhouette that balances aerodynamic efficiency and majestic road presence. Moreover, it gets a special Gold Wing emblem with 50th Anniversary and ‘since 1975’ detailing, commemorating the motorcycle’s important milestone. Enhancing its modern design is a full-LED lighting system and airflow-optimized air vents which helps the bike slip through the air efficiently while still offering the great ergonomics that are a staple to long days on the open road.

In terms of equipment, the new Gold Wing Tour gets a feature-rich cockpit with a 7.0-inch full-colour TFT display that provides riding, navigation & audio information. Moreover, it now features first-in-class wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for connectivity and gets a new welcome screen saying “Since 1975” when the motorcycle is turned on. Touring comfort is further elevated with an extended electric screen for excellent wind protection, improved audio system speakers to deliver rich sound at all speeds, Bluetooth connectivity with two USB type-C sockets, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and a host of other features.

At the heart of the new Honda Gold Wing Tour is a massive 1833cc, liquid-cooled, 4 stroke, 24 valve, flat six-cylinder engine that churns out 93 kW power and 170 Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). Engineered for long hauls and responsive acceleration, this engine offers seamless performance even under demanding touring conditions.

Coupled with advanced safety aids and innovative electronics for seamless performance, including a Throttle-By-Wire (TBW) system, dual-channel ABS, traction control and Airbag, it guarantees a ride that’s both thrilling and safe. The Gold Wing Tour comes with four riding modes - Tour, Sport, Econ and Rain, each with distinct settings that help tailor the riding character of the motorcycle.

The 50th Anniversary Honda Gold Wing Tour will be available in a single DCT variant with Bordeaux Red Metallic colour and has been priced at Rs. 39.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Gurugram). Customers can book this flagship luxury touring machine exclusively at Honda’s premium BigWing Topline dealerships with deliveries commencing from June 2025 onwards.

IDEMITSU Honda Racing India Riders Arrive In Malaysia For 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship Round 2


As the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) heads towards its second round, the IDEMITSU Honda Racing India team is gearing up for the weekend challenge at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.

The Round 2 presents a significant opportunity for IDEMITSU Honda Racing India riders to demonstrate their skill and determination at one of the most demanding and competitive circuits on the 2025 ARRC calendar. The season opener was held in Thailand this April, where young talents Kavin Quintal and Johann Reeves Emmanuel finished their best at 13th position (in race 2) and 15th position (in race 1), respectively. Since then, the team has been refining its approach, with a clear focus on enhancing performance and securing crucial points in the upcoming races.

With a cumulative total of 4 points so far this season, the team remains focused on building momentum and delivering stronger results in the upcoming rounds of the Asia Production 250cc (AP250cc) class, starting with the Round 2.

Sharing his thoughts, Kavin Quintal said, “Sepang is always a demanding circuit — fast, technical, and incredibly challenging. But that's exactly what makes it exciting. Round 1 in Thailand was a mixed bag for me, I knew I had to stay focused and fight hard. Finishing 13th in Race 2 gave me confidence and showed that our efforts are heading in the right direction. We are working on being sharper, faster & more consistent. I am looking forward to taking another step forward in Round 2.”

Looking forward to Round 2, Johann Reeves said, “Round 1 was a big learning experience for me, it showed me what’s possible with focus and determination. Every lap helped me understand the competition better. Sepang is a technical circuit that demands precision, and I have been working closely with the team to improve performance. I am feeling more confident heading into Round 2 and excited to keep building on what we have started.”

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Zuno Champions “Mental Health Awareness” With ‘Say Hi’ — A Campaign To Spark Real Connection


Zuno General Insurance, a new-age digital insurer, has launched a heartfelt campaign, ‘Say Hi’, as a reminder of the power of small gestures—especially in today’s fast-paced, hyper-digital world where meaningful connections often take a back seat. Marking with the Mental Health Awareness Month, the campaign encourages people to pause, reconnect, and check in on those around them with just one powerful word: Hi.

When life moves at the speed of scrolls and swipes, genuine connection can get left behind and silent struggles overlooked. We leave messages unread, miss chances to check in, or forget to follow up with the people who matter. Sometimes, the people we pass by every day may be the ones silently struggling. “Say Hi” is rooted in a simple but profound insight: that reaching out — even with just a Hi — can open the door to healing, comfort, or a meaningful conversation.

Behind every screen or silence, someone may be waiting to be heard and seen. Zuno’s latest campaign, ‘Say Hi’, is a reminder that a small gesture can make a big difference.

“At Zuno, ‘easy, breezy, surely’ isn’t just a brand promise, it’s a way of being. We are here to make life a little lighter not just through insurance, but by fostering real, human connections. Our brand’s signature outreach symbol signifies connection, and this campaign brings that philosophy to life. Whether it’s simplifying claims or the act of reaching out, Zuno is committed to making the hard stuff a little easier including talking about mental health,” said Ketan Mankikar, Vice President & Head of Marketing, Zuno General Insurance.

The campaign captures everyday scenarios where moments of disconnection quietly creep in—between colleagues at work, old friends, and even within families through thumb stopper videos and reels. It is being promoted across digital platforms to capture attention and spark reflection.

In addition, Zuno is hosting an interactive AMA (Ask Me Anything) session on Instagram with a mental wellness professional, allowing users to ask questions via comments or DMs. The expert will respond to these queries through a video message on the brand’s social media page, marking the culmination of the initiative.  

The SayHi campaign aims to foster genuine conversations, encourage empathy, because sometimes all it takes is a simple ‘Hi’.

Watch the reels here:

 1. PG Stories - https://youtube.com/shorts/809SCjPq_JQ?feature=share

2. Office Moments - https://youtube.com/shorts/T1GJ6dMKN0w?feature=share

3. Last Bench - https://youtube.com/shorts/gjJ3D0lxZbE?feature=share

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