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Naura Productions Unveils a Four-Film Cinematic Universe: A ₹1000 Crore Opportunity for Indian Investors

Naura Productions Unveils a Four-Film Cinematic Universe: A ₹1000 Crore Opportunity for Indian Investors

Mumbai/Chandigarh, 25-08-2025– India’s entertainment sector is entering its next great growth cycle. With global demand for South Asian content projected to cross USD 50 billion by 2030, there is a narrow window for visionary investors to seize first-mover advantage. Talented filmmaker and producer Dilpreet Singh today announced the launch of a four-film cinematic universe, an ambitious project positioned at the intersection of art and commerce – and now open to strategic Indian investment.

The Indian film industry has already proven its economic weight. In 2023 alone, India’s domestic box office crossed ₹12,200 crore, OTT subscription revenues crossed ₹16,000 crore, and Indian-origin content grew 27% year-on-year in overseas markets. Yet despite this boom, the global narrative around India remains focused on Bollywood stereotypes. [Project Name] intends to disrupt this pattern.

“This is not about making another film,” says Dilpreet Singh. “This is about positioning Indian cinema – particularly Punjabi-rooted storytelling – as a serious global product with returns, reach, and respect. For investors, it represents a chance to enter a market poised for exponential growth, with a project designed from day one to travel across borders.”

This is not about speculation. This is about foresight. When India’s IT wave rose in the 1990s, a handful of investors became billionaires by backing visionaries early. When Indian real estate globalized in the 2000s, those who moved quickly defined the skylines of cities. Today, cinema is India’s next frontier – and [Project Name] is the flag planted on that frontier.

The Business Case for Investment

  • High-Growth Market – The global OTT market is projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2027. South Asian content is one of its fastest-growing verticals, driven by the diaspora and global audiences seeking fresh voices.
  • Diversified Revenue Streams – Life Is Not a Board Exam’s financial model covers box office (domestic + international), OTT rights, satellite rights, music rights, and merchandising. Conservative estimates project 3–4x return on investment within 16 months of release.
  • Global Diaspora Leverage – Over 30 million overseas Indians form a high-consumption base for culturally rooted yet globally appealing stories. The Punjabi diaspora alone contributes billions annually in remittances and cultural investments.
  • Festival + Awards Circuit – Strategic positioning of the film in global festivals increases both prestige and commercial value, opening doors for co-productions and international distribution deals.

Why This Project Stands Apart

Unlike conventional films that rely on either Bollywood glamour or regional loyalty, Family in the Lunch Box and Life Is Not a Board Exam are structured as hybrid cinematic products:

  • Global Appeal, Local Soul – Suspense-driven structure with emotional depth, keeping audiences engaged every six minutes, a proven technique in Western screenwriting.
  • High Production Value – Partnerships across Mumbai, Toronto, and Los Angeles ensure world-class visual standards.
  • Scalable IP – Beyond the films, potential spin-offs include web series, merchandise, educational content, and franchise-building.
  • Cross-Industry Partnerships – Talks are underway with OTT platforms and international distributors, ensuring wide reach and pre-release monetisation.

Investor Positioning

For Indian investors, early entry provides unique advantages:

  • Executive Producer Status – Prominent branding across international festivals, premieres, and platforms.
  • Priority Returns – First layer of profit-sharing before wider disbursement.
  • Cultural Legacy – Beyond ROI, investors gain association with a project positioned to be the first truly global Punjabi-rooted cinematic movement.
  • Portfolio Diversification – Film investments are increasingly recognised as an alternative asset class, uncorrelated to traditional equities or real estate.

The film industry has historically rewarded bold investors. Reliance Entertainment’s early bets on co-productions with DreamWorks created global recognition. Yash Raj Films’ expansion into international markets multiplied valuations. Today, Naura Productions represents that same inflection point for Punjabi-rooted global cinema.

A Limited Window

Investor seats are deliberately restricted to ensure focused participation. Discussions are already in motion with potential collaborators in Mumbai and Toronto. The production timeline targets release in October 2025, aligning with peak OTT and theatrical growth cycles. Early investors will lock in maximum equity and visibility.

“This is not a request – it is an opportunity,” Dilpreet Singh emphasizes. “In five years, people will ask who had the foresight to back the project that changed the face of Indian cinema. Those who act now will not just see financial returns – they will own a piece of history.”

About Dilpreet Singh

Dilpreet Singh is a writer and producer with a unique global background – roots in Punjab, training across Ahmedabad and Mumbai, and over five years of experience in cinematic storytelling. His body of work blends spirituality, suspense, and drama into stories designed for international markets. Through Life Is Not a Board Exam, he aims to place Indian cinema firmly on the global map.

Investor Contact

info@nauraproductions.com | +91 93163 59690 | www.nauraproductions.com

Cricmax Connect, Rashmika Mandanna, and Vijay Deverakonda Bring Youth Cricket to the Madison Avenue India Day Parade

Cricmax Connect, Rashmika Mandanna, and Vijay Deverakonda Bring Youth Cricket to the Madison Avenue India Day Parade

New York City (New York) [US], August 22: On Sunday, August 17, 2025, Cricmax Connect took part in the Madison Avenue India Day Parade, bringing youth cricket to one of the largest celebrations of Indian heritage in the United States. The day’s programme featured live cricket demonstrations, team showcases, and storytelling sessions that highlighted the journeys of young athletes, connecting sport with community pride.

As Float No. 10 in the parade, Cricmax Connect’s contingent carried players, youth ambassadors, and special guests. The float engaged crowds along the parade route with vibrant performances and community interaction. Cricket activities continued on Park Avenue after the parade, allowing families and children to experience the sport firsthand in a festive, community-driven setting.

The day concluded with a Gala Dinner at Cipriani, where USA national cricket team players Smit Patel and Saiteja Mukkamalla joined athletes, dignitaries, community leaders – Mayor of New York City Eric Adams, and special guests Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda to celebrate the spirit of unity and cultural pride. “Being part of an event like this is about more than just the sport,” said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder and CEO of Cricmax Connect. “It’s about connection, representation, and giving the next generation a place on a stage that celebrates who they are and where they come from. Seeing young players carry the spirit of cricket into a celebration of our shared heritage was a powerful reminder of how sport can unite communities.”

The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) underscored the importance of youth participation in this year’s event, noting how the presence of emerging cricket talent alongside celebrated cultural icons resonated deeply with the crowd. “The India Day Parade is a platform for honouring our traditions while showcasing the energy and promise of the future,” said Ankur Vaidya, Chairman of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), “Having young cricketers and renowned figures like Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda together for India Day celebration brought a new vibrancy to the celebrations and inspired countless children in the crowd.”

The August 17 programme marked the conclusion of Cricmax Connect’s Independence Week celebrations in New York City, which earlier included flag hoistings at the Consulate General and Times Square, as well as the ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building.

Cricket Makes History at Times Square: First-Ever Match Played in New York City Landmark

Cricket Makes History at Times Square: First-Ever Match Played in New York City Landmark

New York City (New York) [US], August 21: In a historic first, cricket was played at Times Square, transforming the world’s most iconic crossroads into a cricket pitch as part of India Day celebrations led by Cricmax Connect and the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).

The three-day celebration began on August 15, 2025, with a flag hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General of India in New York, where dignitaries and community leaders gathered, and U.S. national players Saiteja Mukkamalla and Jessy Singh were honoured with felicitations. That afternoon, Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda joined representatives from Cricmax Connect and FIA for a ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in the Indian tricolour.

On August 16, 2025, the celebrations culminated at Times Square, where Indian film star Vijay Deverakonda led a spirited flag hoisting ceremony, joined by FIA members and community representatives. Adding to the pride of the occasion, U.S. national players Sai Mukkamalla, Yasir Mohammed, and Smit Patel also participated in the festivities, representing the growing presence of cricket in America.

The defining and most unforgettable moment came when, for the very first time, a cricket match was staged at Times Square. In the symbolic opening, Consul General Amb. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan took strike as the first batsman, with Mr. Satnam Singh Sandhu bowling the first ceremonial pitch. What began as a ceremonial gesture quickly turned into a vibrant celebration, as U.S. national players, community leaders, kids and guests all picked up the bat and ball, bringing the energy of cricket to the heart of Manhattan.

The crowd at Times Square, filled with Indian Americans, cricket fans, and curious New Yorkers, cheered as players showcased the sport, proving that cricket’s spirit transcends borders. For many, witnessing a live cricket game in one of the world’s most iconic locations was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“Cricmax Connect was created to give cricket in the U.S. a true grassroots foundation, a pathway where young talent can dream big and find real opportunities,” said Vinay Bhimjiani, Founder & CEO of Cricmax Connect. “To see cricket being played for the very first time at Times Square is not just historic, it is symbolic of the sport’s rise here. Our vision is to make cricket a part of America’s sporting fabric, and this moment proves that the future of the game in the U.S. has never looked brighter.”

For Media Queries, reach out to

Khushboo Thakkar: Khushboo.manifestorypr@gmail.com

Visitor Guard® comments on the impact of tariffs on US visitor health insurance premiums

Visitor Guard® comments on the impact of tariffs on US visitor health insurance premiums

Virginia, US, August 21 – Visitor Guard®, a leading provider of visitor and travel health insurance for international travelers to the United States, today addressed the potential impact of newly implemented and proposed tariffs on US visitor health insurance premiums.

The U.S. government’s new tariff measures, targeting a wide range of imported goods, extend to several categories directly tied to healthcare delivery. These include imported medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and pharmaceutical ingredients—critical components of the U.S. healthcare system. As these tariffs take effect, industry analysts warn of rising costs across the medical supply chain, with implications for both patients and insurers.

“Healthcare in the United States is already among the most expensive in the world,” said Chiranth Nataraj, founder of Visitor Guard®. “For international travelers—especially elderly visitors—the stakes are high. If tariffs increase the costs of treatments, prescription drugs, and hospital services, those expenses will inevitably flow through to insurance claims and could result in higher premiums for visitors in the future.”

Tariffs and Their Ripple Effect on Healthcare Costs

Visitor Guard® explains that visitor insurance premiums are closely tied to the underlying cost of medical care in the U.S. When tariffs raise prices on imported hospital equipment, imaging machines, or surgical tools, these additional costs are often reflected in hospital billing rates. Likewise, higher costs for active pharmaceutical ingredients—much of which are imported—could increase the price of prescription medications.

Prescription drugs represent a significant portion of healthcare expenses for visitors, particularly older travelers who may require ongoing medications or emergency prescriptions during their stay. If the cost of these drugs rises due to tariffs, insurance providers may face higher claim payouts, creating pressure to adjust premium rates.

“The impact may be most pronounced in specialized medical care,” said Nataraj. “Much of our advanced healthcare infrastructure—from MRI scanners to life-saving surgical instruments—relies on globally sourced technology. When these supply chains are disrupted or made more expensive, the result is higher treatment costs, which ultimately influence the price of visitor insurance coverage.”

Implications for Comprehensive Visitor Insurance Plans

Comprehensive visitor health insurance plans—which often include hospitalization, diagnostic testing, emergency treatment, and prescription drug benefits—could be particularly affected. Since these plans cover a broad range of medical services, any increase in hospital or pharmacy billing rates directly impacts insurers’ cost structures.

For instance, a visitor hospitalized for pneumonia may require diagnostic imaging, specialized medications, and extended inpatient care—all of which could become more expensive if tariffs raise the cost of the underlying resources. Over time, insurers may need to revise premiums to maintain plan sustainability.

The Importance of Coverage Amid Rising Costs

For travelers visiting family, attending business engagements, or staying in the U.S. for extended periods, these developments underscore the importance of securing adequate visitor health insurance. Without coverage, a single hospitalization can cost thousands of dollars—costs that are expected to rise further if tariffs drive up the price of care.

Visitor Guard® emphasizes that while insurance can shield travelers from catastrophic expenses, maintaining affordability in the face of changing global trade policies will be an ongoing challenge.

Visitor Guard®’s Commitment to Affordability and Transparency

While tariff policies are outside the control of the insurance industry, Visitor Guard® is taking proactive steps to mitigate their potential impact on customers.

“Our mission has always been to help travelers make informed choices about their coverage,” Nataraj stated. “We can’t control government trade policy, but we can control how we respond. By negotiating competitive rates with our carriers, streamlining claims processes, and educating our customers about coverage options, we aim to protect travelers from the full brunt of these cost increases.”

The company is also committed to monitoring regulatory developments and assessing market conditions so that any necessary premium adjustments are communicated clearly and transparently to customers.

About Visitor Guard®

Visitor Guard® is a trusted provider of visitor health insurance for travelers to the United States, offering curated selection of plans from top-rated insurance carriers. The company specializes in coverage for visiting parents, international students, and business travelers, with benefits that include hospitalization and inpatient care, emergency medical evacuation, acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage, prescription medication benefits.

With a focus on education, transparency, and personalized customer service, Visitor Guard® helps travelers secure the protection they need at competitive rates.

For more information or to request a quote, visit www.visitorguard.com.

Media Contact:

Pallavi Sadekar

Email: contact@visitorguard.com

Phone: (804) 325-1385

Svadharma Launches India’s First Integrated Career & Talent Growth Platform: From Mock Tests to Jobs – All in One Place

Svadharma Launches India’s First Integrated Career & Talent Growth Platform: From Mock Tests to Jobs – All in One Place

Bengaluru, India – 20-08-2025: In a country where over 300 million students and millions of job seekers face a challenging and competitive career journey, Svadharma has launched a one-stop digital platform to help people prepare, grow, and succeed – from school to senior corporate roles.

Combining mock testing for all levels, psychometric assessment, career counselling, recruitment services, and digital marketing expertise, Svadharma aims to redefine how India approaches education-to-employment.

The Challenge: A Broken Career Pipeline

India produces more graduates than any other country, yet a large percentage remain unemployed or underemployed. The reasons?

Students often choose the wrong career path due to lack of guidance.

Exam preparation is fragmented and stressful.

Recruiters struggle to find candidates with the right fit.

Institutions lack data-driven insights into student strengths.

“We saw a massive gap between talent and opportunity,” says Milind Aihole, Co-Founder of Svadharma and a seasoned recruitment leader with over two decades of experience in global talent acquisition. “Students are testing in isolation, professionals are applying blindly, and recruiters are hiring without true psychometric insights. We decided to fix all of it, in one place.”

The Svadharma Solution

The platform is India’s first to blend academic preparation tools with professional growth enablers.

  • Mock Testing for Every Level – From Grade 1 to PhD, Svadharma offers smart, adaptive mock tests for school exams, competitive entrances, government jobs, and professional certifications, using AI analytics to pinpoint weaknesses.
  • Psychometric Assessments – Scientifically designed tests reveal strengths, personality traits, and ideal career paths.
  • Career Counselling & Guidance – Expert counsellors provide personalised roadmaps, including 1:1 mentorship sessions and actionable growth plans.
  • Recruitment Services – For employers, Svadharma enables precision hiring using psychometric data and skills testing. Job seekers get a profile boost with verified results and endorsements.
  • Digital Marketing Services – Institutions and businesses can use Svadharma’s marketing team to amplify brand reach and attract the right audience.

Why Svadharma Stands Out

  • All-in-One Approach – No other Indian platform combines these services under one roof.
  • AI & Data-Driven Insights – Deep analytics make preparation and hiring smarter.
  • For Students and Professionals – Grows with you from school to leadership roles.
  • Industry Expertise – Led by seasoned professionals in recruitment, HR, and digital growth.

India’s Education & Employment Future

The timing couldn’t be better. As National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 promotes holistic, skill-based learning, Svadharma aligns perfectly with its vision.

With the rise of remote work and global hiring, Indian talent is competing worldwide. “Our mission is to give every learner and job seeker the tools to win, not just participate,” says Milind Aihole. “This isn’t just another ed-tech or HR-tech platform; this is India’s career compass.”

Impact Potential

  • Students gain clarity on careers, ace exams, and build confidence.
  • Parents get scientific insights into their child’s abilities.
  • Institutions improve student outcomes and placement rates.
  • Employers get better hiring matches, saving time and reducing attrition.
  • Businesses leverage proven digital marketing to grow faster.

Early Adopters Speak

One final-year engineering student shared:

“I used to jump between multiple apps for test prep, aptitude tests, and job hunting. Svadharma brought it all together. After my psychometric test, I realised I was chasing the wrong job profile. Today, I’m preparing for a role I’m truly suited for – and acing the mock tests.”

How to Join

The platform is live at www.svadharma.co.in, with free sign-up for early users and onboarding packages for institutions and recruiters.

For partnerships and media inquiries:

info@svadharma.co.in

+91-9964440346, +91-9845811190

About Svadharma

Founded by Mr Keshav Reddy and Milind Aihole, Svadharma is a Bengaluru-based career and talent development platform committed to helping individuals and organisations realise their full potential. The name “Svadharma” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “one’s true path or duty” – exactly what the platform helps users discover and achieve.

Aquigen Bio Sciences Pioneers Sustainable Biotech Solutions Amid Rising Global Demand and Critical Supply Chain Needs

Aquigen Bio Sciences Pioneers Sustainable Biotech Solutions Amid Rising Global Demand and Critical Supply Chain Needs

August 04, 2025 – Pune, India – Aquigen Bio Sciences is proud to be a pioneer in a new era of sustainable biotechnology, designed to meet the increasing global demand for advanced scientific solutions while strengthening critical pharmaceutical and industrial supply chains. As a leading Contract Research Organization, Aquigen Bio Sciences continues to set industry standards with its commitment to innovation, reliability, and safety across the biotechnology landscape.

“Our mission has alays been to empoer researchers and innovators across the globe. By focusing on sustainable practices and scientific rigor, Aquigen Bio Sciences delivers solutions our clients can truly trust. From API & Intermediates to the most advanced impurity standards and custom synthesis projects, our passionate team is dedicated to pioneering innovation hile maintaining the highest ethical and quality benchmarks,” said the CEO of Aquigen Bio Sciences, emphasizing the company’s unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, global compliance, and the long-term well-being of patients and the planet.

Innovation and Excellence in API & Intermediates

Aquigen Bio Impurity supplier and manufacturer is uniquely positioned to assist pharmaceutical, biological, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries by designing and optimizing synthetic routes for research-grade molecules. The company’s dedication to quality and safety can be seen in its robust catalogue of API & Intermediates, each produced to the highest standards to support drug discovery and development pipelines globally. With a focus on efficiency, scalability, and regulatory alignment, Aquigen ensures its offerings remain reliable across every stage of R&D. Backed by a team of experienced chemists and modern infrastructure, the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation in complex synthesis.

Comprehensive Impurity Standards Portfolio

Recognizing the growing need for precise and traceable impurity profiling, Aquigen Bio Sciences offers a world-class suite of impurity standards, from degradation and process impurities to medicinal chemistry molecules and building blocks. The company’s impurity standards are essential for accurate method development and regulatory compliance.

Specialty Product Focus:

  • Includes nitrosamines such as NDMA, NDEA, NMBA, which are strictly controlled, precisely characterized and designed to support analytical excellence.

Trusted Supplier of Nicotine Impurity Standards:

Quality & Characterization:

  • All reference materials are developed under rigorous quality systems
  • Supplied with comprehensive characterization data to ensure consistency and reliability

Leadership in Custom Synthesis and Deuterated Labelled Compounds

Aquigen Bio Sciences is not only a supplier of off-the-shelf standards but also an industry leader in custom synthesis. With a team of highly experienced synthetic chemists, the company can design and develop bespoke molecules and intermediates tailored to client specifications. This ability enables the rapid acceleration of clients’ research programs.

In addition, Aquigen Bio Sciences has expanded its capabilities in deuterated labelled compounds, which are critical for advanced pharmacokinetic studies and other applications demanding isotopically labeled materials.

Addressing Global Challenges and Ensuring Sourcing Reliability

Supply Chain Resilience: The pandemic revealed critical vulnerabilities in global pharmaceutical supply chains. Aquigen Bio Sciences is addressing these by improving transparency, sustainability, and responsiveness. This ensures clients receive dependable access to hard-to-find reference standards and novel impurity classes.

Support for Complex Molecules: Aquigen offers high-purity reference standards for complex molecules like Lenacapavir and its impurities, aiding development of advanced antiviral agents through robust analytical tools.

Agile Innovation Pipeline: The company’s flexible development capabilities allow for rapid response to new regulatory requirements and emerging therapeutic trends

Technical Capabilities & Infrastructure

  • A 17,000 ft. advanced manufacturing facility in Pune, equipped to handle production at scales ranging from milligrams to kilograms.
  • A dedicated R&D center featuring high-tech laboratories and a team of 50+ scientists, backed by robust QC teams and cutting-edge analytical tools including HPLC, NMR, and
  • Expertise in synthesizing impurities, genotoxic nitrosamines, degradation products, deuterated isotopes, peptides, and intermediates.

Why Aquigen Bio Sciences Matters?

  • Regulatory-ready: Compliant with compendial and ICH Q3A/B standards, with CoA (HPLC, NMR, MS) included.
  • Fast & flexible: Custom synthesis for rare impurities with quick
  • Global reach: Serving 25 + countries across pharma, biotech, labs, and

The Way Forward:

Aquigen Bio Sciences is poised to lead the next chapter in impurity standards and sustainable biotechnology, and is trusted across India and beyond for its expertise. The company continues to drive innovation through custom solutions and research-centric development. As global demand for responsible, high-quality biotech solutions accelerates, Aquigen Bio Sciences remains committed to empowering pharmaceutical and industrial progress, paving the way for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Explore Aquigen Bio Sciences’ comprehensive range of products, including nitrosamine impurity, Nicotine impurity, and Lenacapavir impurity standards

Contact:
Aquigen Bio Sciences Pvt Ltd
Pune, Maharashtra 412108
Phone: +91 7030123794
Email: bd@aquigenbio.com
Visit: www.aquigenbio.com

La Trobe University and IFFM honour India’s Independence Day with Aamir Khan, celebrating cultural and research partnerships

La Trobe University and IFFM honour India’s Independence Day with Aamir Khan, celebrating cultural and research partnerships

Melbourne [Australia], August 19: As part of the longstanding partnership between La Trobe University and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), Indian cinema legend and humanitarian Aamir Khan has joined La Trobe’s Chancellor, the Hon John Brumby AO, and the IFFM to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day.

La Trobe’s partnership with IFFM spans more than 16 years. Partnerships and Innovation: A Celebration of India’s Independence with Aamir Khan, brought together industry leaders, researchers and cultural icons in Melbourne, Australia, on Friday, 15 August, to explore how collaborations drive sustainable development.

The event highlighted the shared goals of La Trobe University and Khan’s Paani Foundation to empower communities through sustainable agriculture, water conservation and food security.

Joining the Chancellor at the prestigious event was Victorian Minister for Veterans, Minister for Small Business and Employment, and Minister for Youth, the Hon Natalie Suleyman MP, Commonwealth Assistant Minister for Citizenship and International Education, the Hon Julian Hill MP and Federal MP Tim Watts.

The event showcased La Trobe University’s collaborative research into food security and sustainability, including ag-tech solutions to improve milk quality, advanced sensor and robotics technologies for water quality monitoring and community-led action plans, such as the Clean River Ganga initiative, alongside efforts to strengthen agribusiness supply chains between India and Australia.

These initiatives closely mirror the Paani Foundation’s work in drought-prone regions of India, supporting farmers in watershed management and sustainable agriculture practices.

“La Trobe University is proud of its long-standing and diverse collaborations with India,” the Hon John Brumby AO, Chancellor of La Trobe University, said.

“Our 16-year partnership with the Indian Film Festival and our growing research ties across the subcontinent reflect our commitment to global engagement, cultural exchange and social impact. This event was a powerful celebration of those values.”

IFFM Director Mitu Bhowmick also reflected on the significance of the occasion.

“India’s Independence Day is a moment of pride and unity, and we were thrilled to celebrate it with our partner La Trobe University, which has supported the festival since its inception. This event beautifully captured the spirit of collaboration between cinema, education and community development.”

La Trobe University’s longstanding partnership with IFFM includes student placements, cultural programming and academic collaborations.

The University has also established the Asian Smart Cities Research Innovation Network (ASCRIN), which supports sustainable development and innovation across India and the broader region.

La Trobe University and India

  • La Trobe has been a proud partner of the Indian Film Festival in Melbourne since it began in 2010.
  • La Trobe is in the top 1 per cent of universities worldwide. *QS Top Universities, 2025, QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities; Webometrics, 2025, Webometrics Ranking July 2025.
  • The University has a proud record of educating students from India, with around 11,000 people born in India among its alumni.
  • La Trobe University is one of the founding members of the Australia India Institute.
  • The IIT Kanpur – La Trobe Research Academy was established in 2020.
  • Asian Smart Cities Research Innovation Network (ASCRIN), was founded by La Trobe in 2019 and is now its single largest research internationalisation initiative, with joint investment of more than AUD $43 million (Rs 235 crores). It is a partnership designed to improve sustainability, liveability and efficiency of Asian cities. Partners in the network include Tata Institute of Social Science, the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) and Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS-Pilani) which includes more than 250 researchers and over 70 joint-PhD projects.
  • In 2024, the University announced that it would be establishing a Bio Innovation Corridor with India’s Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council and the Bangalore Bioinnovation Centre, to support the development of research and innovation.
  • In 2025, BBC and La Trobe University jointly organised a 12-week IND-AUS LaunchPad Pre-Accelerator program, bringing together 11 high-potential Indian startups for intensive mentoring, market readiness training and cross-border networking to fast-track their global expansion.
  • Also in 2025, La Trobe University will launch the IGNITE LAB, a joint initiative with the BBC to support Indian startups expanding globally. The BBC-La Trobe Continuation Program (Bangalore) will offer a pathway for Australian startups engaging with India via BBC as part of the IND-AUS LaunchPad framework.
  • Dignitaries La Trobe University has hosted from the Indian subcontinent include Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi, Kapil Dev, Malaika Arora Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijat Joshi and, most recently, actor, producer and women’s equality advocate, Shah Rukh Khan.
  • La Trobe has awarded two Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarships, providing a life-changing opportunity for an aspiring female researcher from India to make a meaningful impact in the world.
  • La Trobe University is one of only two universities in Australia teaching Hindi and the only Australian University to teach a subject on the history, music and storytelling of popular Hindi cinema.
  • The La Trobe Library collection houses more than 38,000 volumes of monographs, journals, magazines and government publications from India, one of the largest collections in Australia.

Media enquiries

Australia: Robyn Grace – r.grace@latrobe.edu.au, 0420 826 595

India: Achal K Paul – achal@buzzcomm.in, +91 98101 62377

Goodera hosts Karma Summit Asia 2025, Asia’s Largest Corporate Volunteering Summit

Goodera hosts Karma Summit Asia 2025, Asia’s Largest Corporate Volunteering Summit

Attended by 150+ Companies and 300+ CSR Leaders from across the world

Bangalore, 14th August 2025: Goodera, the global leader in employee volunteering, successfully hosted Karma Summit Asia 2025 on August 6-7, 2025 at Clarks Exotica, Bengaluru. The event brought together 150+ companies, 300+ CSR leaders, and some of the most impactful changemakers and non-profit voices in the region to shape the future of employee volunteering. As Asia’s largest corporate volunteering summit, Karma Summit served as a catalyst for bold ideas, impactful conversations, and meaningful action in the purpose-led business ecosystem.

Speaking on the occasion, Abhishek Humbad, Founder & CEO of Goodera, said, “The Karma Summit is not just a platform, it’s a global call to action for purpose-driven collaboration. This year’s edition brought together leaders from across industries who are reimagining the future  of volunteering in shaping a more compassionate, connected world. The insights, partnerships and commitments forged at the summit reflect a powerful shift towards scalable, sustained impact. We are proud to catalyze this movement and excited to see how it transforms the future of employee engagement and social responsibility.”

The event marked the launch of the VQ India 2025 Report, Goodera’s annual benchmarking study analyzing ESG disclosures from over 70+ leading Indian companies. The report offers data-driven insights into the evolving role of volunteering within corporate ESG strategies. Key findings highlight a 40% higher workforce participation in Indian companies vis-a-vis the global benchmark for corporate volunteering. India’s median workforce volunteering rate reached 31%, reflecting a deepening sense of purpose among employees. Technology companies led the way with 35% participation and a strong engagement depth of 4.7 hours per volunteer.

Goodera also announced Community Missions, a bold new initiative shaped by insights from an in-depth Community Pulse Study conducted by the team. The five missions, Light-A-Life, AI for All, Leap India, Green India, and Educate India, aim to light up 10 million lives, build global AI literacy, upskill 1 million youth and women, plant 1 million trees across Indian cities, and transform education for 1 million government school children.

The 2-day summit included insightful sessions and unfiltered conversations with topics ranging from running volunteering programs across geographies to making space for employees to show up despite packed calendars, building champion networks, and embedding purpose into everyday work. From expert panels and keynote talks to immersive community circles, the summit featured thought leaders discussing AI in volunteering, disaster preparedness, volunteer champion networks, and Gen-Z  engagement.

In addition to strategy sessions and curated conversations, attendees experienced Goodera’s signature Volunteering Safari and Experience Zone, a set of immersive, hands-on service activities and long-term missions, co-created with local nonprofits. The delegates also participated in hands-on volunteering experiences powered by Goodera’s proprietary technology and logistics infrastructure that enables it to do events in 1000+ cities around the world.

As companies across Asia rethink employee engagement, community responsibility, and the future of work, Karma Summit Asia 2025 underscored the power of volunteering to bring meaning back to the workplace. With momentum from Bengaluru, Goodera now looks ahead to taking its mission of building a more empathetic workforce on a global stage.

About Goodera

Goodera is the world’s leading platform for corporate volunteering, on a mission to make volunteering accessible to every employee in the world. Headquartered in Bengaluru with teams across the U.S., India, and Europe, Goodera enables enterprises to design, manage, and scale impactful volunteering experiences across in-person, virtual, and skill-based formats.

Founded in 2014, Goodera serves over 500+ global enterprises, including 65+ Fortune 500 companies such as Amazon, IBM, ServiceNow, EY, and Paypal. Its curated network of 50,000+ nonprofits across 1000+ cities and 100+ countries allows companies to connect their employees with causes that matter—from climate action and disaster response to education, gender equity, mental health, and more. To date, Goodera has enabled over 2 million employee volunteers to contribute millions of hours to community service, supporting NPOs and grassroots organizations in both urgent relief and long-term development initiatives.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Divya Narayan
+91 99725 22047 | divya.narayan@goodera.com

Urban Plus Insights Reveal, How Gurugram’s 8 to 77% Circle Rate Hike is Reshaping 2025 Property Valuations

Urban Plus Insights Reveal, How Gurugram’s 8 to 77% Circle Rate Hike is Reshaping 2025 Property Valuations

Gurugram (Haryana) [India], August 13: Gurugram’s property market has entered a new chapter following the Haryana government’s decision to revise circle rates across the city. The updated rates have increased between 8% and 77%, depending on location, bringing official property valuations much closer to prevailing market prices.

According to Urban Plus, a leading real estate advisory

“Prime real estate Hotspots such as Golf Course Road, MG Road, and Dwarka Expressway are expected to witness the most significant adjustments. These changes will directly impact stamp duty, registration fees, and taxation, meaning that buyers, sellers, and investors all will feel the effects. Which results in reshaping buying and selling strategies across the city.

This revision will reduce under-reporting, ensure fairer property pricing, and create a more transparent market environment,” Mr. Shailesh Singh (Director Sales) Urban Plus Infrabuild.

The change is also expected to boost confidence among NRI investors, offering greater clarity in valuations and transactions. Urban Plus recommends prospective buyers to reassess their budgets and focus on emerging corridors in New Gurugram and upcoming infrastructure zones that retain strong growth potential despite the rate increase.

“With this adjustment, Gurugram’s property market is entering a more mature and transparent phase, one that benefits those who choose their investments thoughtfully.” Added by Mr. Singh

As Gurugram adjusts to this new pricing reality, Urban Plus remains committed to guiding clients through informed decisions that align with both market trends and individual goals.

Urban Plus

Ashwagandha or Actives? Why CITTA Says You Don’t Have to Choose.

Ashwagandha or Actives? Why CITTA Says You Don’t Have to Choose.

CITTA redefines Indian skincare by pairing age-old rituals with proven scientific actives because Indian skin deserves both.

Pune, India – 12 August 2025: For decades, Indian consumers have been caught between two worlds, the comfort of age-old skin rituals passed down by generations and the allure of science-backed actives dominating global skincare. But CITTA, a fast-growing premium Indian brand in skin, hair, body, and baby care, is proving that you don’t have to choose.

With its core philosophy deeply rooted in tradition backed by science and “Modern Science. Indian Soul.” –  CITTA is rewriting the skincare rulebook by formulating products that merge ancient Indian wisdom with modern dermatological efficacy.

Why This Matters for Indian Skin

Indian skin is melanin-rich, often sensitive, and exposed to tropical climate challenges from intense UV to high humidity and pollution. Many global formulations aren’t designed with these factors in mind, leading to ineffective or even damaging results.

CITTA’s hybrid formulations are designed specifically for Indian biology, lifestyle, and climate, making them more relevant and effective than one-size-fits-all global products.

“Indian skin deserves more than a turmeric label or a Western copy-paste,” says Akanksha, passionate product lead, CEO & co-founder of CITTA.

“Our products are born from India’s time-tested rituals, but they go through rigorous scientific validation in the lab. Because tradition without proof is nostalgia, and science without culture is just sterile.”

When Ashwagandha Meets Actives

CITTA’s latest range celebrates hybrid skincare:

  • Ashwagandha + Hyaluronic Acid: Stress-relief meets hydration. Perfect for Indian skin fatigued by pollution, screens and seasonal shifts.
  • Turmeric + Niacinamide: The glow of haldi enhanced by the pigmentation-reducing power of niacinamide.

Each formula is tailored to melanin-rich, sensitive, tropical-climate-prone Indian skin a category long underserved by global brands.

Science. Soul. Skin.

CITTA doesn’t identify as an Ayurvedic or herbal brand. Instead, it represents a third way in skincare where rituals are honoured, but not blindly followed. And where ingredients are emotional, but also evidence-backed.

Its products are:

Dermatologically tested and approved, clinically formulated and have skin-friendly pH, free from parabens, sulphates, and unverified herbal claims.

Designed and manufactured in India, for Indian skin and values.

From Dadi-Nani’s Kitchen to the Dermatologist’s Desk

The CITTA journey began with a personal frustration, the lack of safe, effective baby products that respected Indian traditions without compromising on safety. This question sparked the brand’s creation:

“Can I create something safe, rooted in tradition, but made with science?” says Monisha, Cosmetic Engineer, mother of two, and Co-founder of CITTA.

“As a mother, I wanted products that I could trust without second-guessing ingredients. As a cosmetic engineer, I knew how to transform our dadi-nani ke nuskhe into lab-validated, stable formulations that truly work for Indian skin.”

Today, that vision has grown into a brand trusted by thousands of Indian parents and skincare enthusiasts and available on online platforms, in curated offline stores, and even in pediatric clinics.

The COO’s Perspective

While Monisha and Akanksha lead the product innovation, CITTA’s scale and market impact owe much to its operational vision.

“Our mission goes beyond selling skincare,” says Tanay, COO & Co-founder of CITTA.

“We are building a global-ready Indian brand that can stand on the same shelves as the world’s most respected names without losing its Indian soul. That means rigorous supply chain standards, responsible sourcing, and pricing that delivers true value to the consumer.

About CITTA

CITTA is a skin, hair, body, and baby care brand designed for Indian skin, rooted in age-old rituals and powered by modern science. The brand is committed to redefining clean, culturally relevant skincare for Indian consumers with formulations that are sensorial, effective and deeply familiar.