PUNE: In a moment of pride that resonates with this deeply held philosophy, VTP Realty has been honoured with the 16^th CIDC Vishwakarma Award for Excellence in Construction, Health, Safety, and Environment. This accolade for its landmark projects, VTP Bellissimo and VTP Sierra, in Pune, is more than an award; it is a powerful validation of the brand’s unwavering commitment to creating not just beautiful homes but healthier and safer ecosystems that nurture every aspect of life.

Following a meticulous evaluation process and on-ground inspection by the jury panel, the honour was conferred upon VTP Realty by the Board of Governors of the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) under the category of ‘Health, Safety and Environment’. The recognition was awarded for the developer’s exemplary practices demonstrated at VTP Bellissimo, Hinjewadi Phase 1, and VTP Sierra, Pashan-Sus Baner Road, both benchmark residential developments in Pune. These projects stood out among national entries for their well-integrated health and safety measures, environmentally conscious planning, and commitment to holistic community living.

The Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) advises the government on policy, standardises contracts, trains skilled and managerial manpower, and grades construction entities. This quasi-government organisation followed a stipulated method of scrutiny to announce VTP Realty as the winner. Upon nomination every real estate contender is required to share detailed presentations on sustainability measures undertaken, which is then audited by an experienced jury representing different government bodies and verified in presence of senior management of every real estate brand on various technical aspects such as green construction rules, project completion status, quality control, design, and related matters. This is followed by a surprise audit inspection, in which detailed scrutiny is done on-site. Acing at every level, VTP Realty stood victorious in this five-month-long, pan-India selection procedure amid top national players.  

Speaking about the achievement, Sachin Bhandari, Executive Director & CEO of VTP Realty, said, “This award from CIDC is a proud moment that reflects our relentless commitment towards responsible and future-ready development. This recognition reinforces our pursuit of building thoughtful spaces that enrich lives while upholding the highest standards of safety, health, and construction excellence.”

This prestigious honour from CIDC stands as a powerful testament to VTP Realty’s relentless pursuit of excellence across every facet of real estate development. Today, VTP Realty is not only recognised as Pune’s undisputed leader in the real estate industry but is also celebrated among the top real estate developers in India. With a sharp focus on innovation and customer-centric design, VTP Realty consistently sets new industry benchmarks. As the brand continues to shape Pune’s skyline with iconic developments and reimagine luxury living, it remains committed to building vibrant communities that inspire pride and elevate the lifestyles of the customers.

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HYDERABAD: At the recently held WAVES Summit 2025 at Mumbai, a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Game Developers Association of India (GDAI) and the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC- set up by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India), marking a significant milestone in promoting collaboration, innovation, and growth in India’s rapidly evolving gaming and esports ecosystem.

This strategic partnership is designed to enhance cooperation between the GDAI and SEPC across key industry dimensions, including investment facilitation, international promotion, industry engagement, skill development, and global market access.

As part of the MoU, GDAI and SEPC have committed to promote bilateral investment opportunities, joint ventures, and business delegations to stimulate economic and technological collaboration; build a consortium of companies to amplify India’s gaming and esports export capabilities; foster technological advancement in areas such as AR/VR, gamification, AI, metaverse, animation, and visual effects; drive skill development and training initiatives to strengthen India’s talent pipeline and industry readiness amongst other goals to showcase India’s potential in video gaming, esports, and related emerging technologies.

Speaking about the MoU, Dr. Abhay Kumar Sinha, Director General, SEPC,  “This partnership is a key step towards boosting India’s services exports in the high-growth gaming and esports sector. By aligning with GDAI, we aim to unlock global market opportunities and strengthen India’s position as a leading exporter of creative and digital services.”

Sharing his views on the association with SEPC, Sridhar Muppidi, Chairperson,  GDAI, said, “This MoU is a major step toward positioning India as a global player in the gaming and esports sector. By working together, GDAI and SEPC aim to unlock new economic opportunities and help Indian developers, designers, and entrepreneurs reach new heights.”

Sridhar further added, “This partnership also reflects the government’s growing interest in recognising gaming and esports not just as entertainment avenues but as significant contributors to India’s digital economy and export potential.”

The MoU further encourages cooperation in software development, internet technologies, data analytics, and immersive technologies to empower start-ups, creators, and enterprises.

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 A seasoned community leader, Syed brings years of experience in nonprofit leadership and civic engagement to the City Council. He served as President of the Naperville Public Library Board and holds board positions with Loaves & Fishes Community Services and 360 Youth Services—organizations dedicated to strengthening families and empowering residents.

 In his speech, Syed highlighted his priorities of fiscal responsibility, responsive governance, and strategic investment in community needs.

 “I am humbled and honored to stand before you tonight as your newly elected City Council Member,” Syed said. “This moment is not mine alone—it belongs to every resident, every volunteer, and every voter who believed in a vision of transparent, responsible, and community-centered leadership.”

 He emphasized Naperville’s long-standing tradition of innovation, safety, and inclusivity, while acknowledging the importance of adapting to future challenges through collaborative and thoughtful policymaking.

“Budgets should reflect our values,” Syed added. “City government should be as responsive as the people it serves. I will advocate for smarter growth, support small businesses, and invest in services that uplift families and strengthen our neighborhoods.”

 Syed closed his remarks by thanking his wife, family, campaign team, and the residents of Naperville for their trust and support.

 “Together, we will continue to make Naperville not just a great city, but a truly inclusive one, where every voice is heard and every resident can thrive.”

Photographs and Press release by: Asian Media USA

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“I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the people of Naperville have placed in me,” said Syed on election night. “This victory belongs to all of us—every volunteer who knocked on doors, every supporter who donated, every resident who believed in the promise of a city that works for everyone.”

Syed’s campaign focused on priorities that resonated with voters across Naperville, including sustainable development, environmental stewardship, transparent governance, economic resilience, and investing in public safety and city services. As President of the Naperville Public Library Board and a longtime advocate for local nonprofits like Loaves & Fishes and 360 Youth Services, Syed brought a record of thoughtful, results-driven leadership to the race.

“This campaign was about building a Naperville that honors its values and embraces its future. I’m eager to get to work with my colleagues on the Council to implement our shared vision—and to listen, engage, and lead with integrity,” Syed added.

He also took time to thank outgoing council members and all those who have served the city before him. “I stand on the shoulders of those who have led Naperville with dedication. I’m grateful for their service and look forward to working in that same spirit.” Syed added

Syed will be sworn in later this spring.

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NEW YORK: On October 31st, 2024, people of Indian descent worldwide celebrated Diwali, the auspicious festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and wisdom over ignorance. Diwali is becoming a mainstream event all over America and across the world. Diwali was celebrated at the White House, at Capitol Hill, with Governors, Mayors, and County officials. Several state governors declared the day a state holiday. New York City observed Diwali as a public school holiday. Indian Diaspora groups have been celebrating the event from October to November.

GOPIO chapters have been promoting the Diwali celebration at city, county, and state levels as well as through public institutions such as public libraries. Extending the festivities to November, the Connecticut Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) and Stamford Mayor’s Multicultural Council celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on Sunday, Nov. 17th, 2024, at Stamford’s Ferguson Library.

The program started with a welcome by GOPIO-CT Executive Vice President Mahesh Jhangiani who reiterated GOPIO’s mission of fostering cultural exchange and ideas within the community. This was followed by the Library’s ELL, Citizenship & Cultural Programs Manager Yelena Klompus, and Ms. Ana Gallegos, Secretary of Stamford Mayor’s Multicultural Council. This is the fourth year that the Library and GOPIO-CT have partnered to organize Diwali at the library.

The event celebrated the warmth and unity of the community. Attendees gathered to experience lively and colorful performances, from dances to Hinduism myth-busters. It showcased fifteen captivating performances with a wide variety of local dance schools and Hindu organizations. As if it couldn’t get any better, a Mehendi booth was set up, inviting guests to embrace the beauty and artistry of traditional Indian designs.

About 75 children performed Indian classical, folk, and Bollywood dances. The event brought a festive atmosphere with a lot of Diwali decorations in the library. Many from the American community participated in the celebration.

Groups of dancers at the GOPIO-CT and Ferguson Library Diwali event

Groups of dancers at the GOPIO-CT and Ferguson Library Diwali event

Children who performed at the Diwali Event with event coordinators

After the performances, everyone gathered to enjoy a variety of delicious Indian dishes including crispy samosas, keeping the buzz of excitement alive as they shared food and laughter. The afternoon was interspersed with music, dance, and learning. Participants mingled with each other building cherished memories and a sense of belonging that lit up the faces and hearts of everyone present. All speakers in the beginning highlighted the importance of raising awareness of Indian culture through events like these – Ana Gallegos, Carmen Hughes, Shobhna Bhatnagar, Meera Banta, and Sonal Patel represented the Stamford Mayor’s multicultural council team.

The program was coordinated by GOPIO-CT Board Member Sonali Gannu along with Yashaswi Jhangiani and the MC was Mirat Joshi who introduced all the groups and kept the guests engaged with spirits high. He also introduced GOPIO as a non-profit non-partisan organization and acknowledged its other officials present, GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, GOPIO-CT Immediate Past President Ashok Nichani and Board Members Meera Banta, Totty Narang, and Anita Mathur.

GOPIO Executive VP Mahesh Jhangiani concluded the program by thanking everyone and announcing the upcoming programs of the chapter which include a seminar on December 13th – an informational session on tax and financial planning due to government changes and on December 24th – A session for high school students (juniors and seniors) to meet up with young adults who have just graduated from college and young professional to learn how to prepare for their next step(s) ahead.

Mehendi artist at work and the audience at Ferguson Library Diwali show

Over the last 19 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policymakers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. GOPIO-CT – Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic, and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs, and contributions of people of Indian origin through community programs, forums, events, and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.

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Oussama Kaissi, the Secretary-General of AMAN UNION, emphasized the vital role of the Union in fostering economic stability and growth through collaborative efforts. “Our meeting today not only addresses the crucial aspects of our existing programs but also sets the stage for welcoming new members into our Union. This expansion is a testament to our collective commitment to enhancing economic resilience and prosperity across the region,”

Adding to this, His Excellency Eng Saad Alkhalb, CEO of Saudi EXIM Bank, expressed his delight: “We are glad to host this significant meeting and commend the Union Executive Council for their exemplary efforts. We eagerly welcome the invaluable contributions from all member ECAs as we discuss avenues to enhance cooperation and drive the development of the Export Credit Insurance Industry at our region. This meeting is an important step for the local, regional & int’l connectivity of trade & transport networks among member countries. Saudi EXIM Bank is keen to put forward the integration agenda with all ECAs in the region and beyond”.

The meeting delved into several key areas, including the progress of the Union’s initiatives in training and development, performance enhancement, and the strategic operations of its specialized committees. These discussions underscore the Union’s proactive approach to addressing the dynamic needs of its membership and the broader economic landscape.

Further, the Executive Council laid out comprehensive plans for the upcoming Annual Meeting of the Union, scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024. This event is expected to bring together top leaders and decision-makers to chart the future course of economic cooperation in the region. Mr. Abdullah Alsabeeh, Director-General of Dhaman, Chairman of the AMAN Union Executive Council indicated that this meeting addressed several topics of high importance for the members of Aman Union. The meeting discussed Academic and professional training courses for the junior and middle management staff of our member ECAs, the upgrading of the Aman Union Database as well as a plan for the establishment of a dedicated Secretariat General for the Union” said Mr. Alsabeeh.

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The Second District Advisory Council, which is comprised of senior business leaders, generally meets three times a year to provide the New York Fed President and New York Fed leadership with high-level insights about business and economic conditions in the Second District. Members of the Council serve three-year terms. The next meeting of the Council is scheduled for November 6, 2023.

Bliss is the president of U.S. Group Health at Teladoc Health, a telemedicine and virtual healthcare company. Bliss oversees the company’s U.S. group business growth, strategy, and client and commercial operations. Previously, Bliss was the chief client officer at Teladoc Health. Earlier, she held executive roles at various health and health tech organizations, including serving as chief of staff for Best Doctors, a company acquired by Teladoc in 2017. Bliss has a bachelor’s degree in industrial psychology from Nichols College.

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WASHINGTON DC: Join the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC) for their in-person public meeting on September 13th at the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington D.C. This meeting will allow Council Members to recap engagements from the past year and deliberate policy recommendations before a public audience. SBA Administrator Guzman will answer the Council’s questions, and the Council will answer yours. To save yourself a seat, be sure to register ASAP.

REGISTER

The National Women’s Business Council (NWBC) is a non-partisan federal advisory committee created to provide advice and policy recommendations to the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration on economic issues of importance to women business owners. To learn more, please visit www.NWBC.gov.

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The council will comprise four members, namely Fr. Sebastian James – Education and Vice Principal, St Xavier’s Collegiate School, Rakesh Joshi – Regional Director of Schools, Apeejay Education Society, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Wasil – Chief Executive Officer, Goldline Education and Sarvesh Srinivasan – Director, GEAR Innovative International School.

The council will have quarterly meetings and a dedicated focus on technology, people, process, and policy for schools aiming to drive innovation. By collaborating closely with educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, Teachmint will strive to create a comprehensive approach that incorporates the best educational practices into the ISP, empowers learners, and educators, and paves the way for a brighter future.

Sanjay Radhakrishnan, Head – of Strategy & Excellence – at Teachmint, said, “We believe that collaboration and innovation are essential to transform the education ecosystem. Through the Teachmint Changemakers Council, we will harness the collective expertise of education professionals on a long-term basis and drive transformative learning experiences. Together with our council members, we are excited to shape the future by leveraging technology, fostering inclusivity, and empowering educators and learners to thrive in the digital age.”

A spokesperson for the Teachmint Changemakers Council said, “We are elated to be working with the brilliant minds of Teachmint as they truly understand the potential of technology in education. We believe there is an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impact on the education ecosystem. By combining our expertise and their innovative platform, we can revolutionize the way education is delivered, ensuring accessibility and enhanced learning experiences for all.”

The Teachmint Changemakers Council will share workable and realistic insights with insights into the aspirations and expectations of all the key stakeholders including parents, students, and teachers. In addition to this, Teachmint is also exploring setting up a Strategic Advisory Committee of education leaders across policy and experience in large-scale learning systems deployment. This will empower Teachmint to enable a transformation and facilitate NEP readiness in the education ecosystem at scale.

By harnessing their collective wisdom and collaborating closely, Teachmint aims to revolutionize education delivery and empower educators to create transformative learning experiences for students worldwide. Together with the council, Teachmint will work on the digitization of the school ecosystem, and capability development for stakeholders in alignment with the National Education Policy 2020.

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