Poets Gather to Honour Chandrama Devi at Memorial and Recitation Festival
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Poets Gather to Honour Chandrama Devi at Memorial and Recitation Festival

Kujanga,: On the occasion of the Dwadashi (12th-day death ritual) of Chandrama Swain, wife of village elder Durlabh Charan Swain from Nabadia village in Kujanga block, a memorial meeting, poet assembly, and devotional evening (bhajan sandhya) were organized.

The event, held under the guidance of poet Manasi Prabha Swain, was attended by Minister of Industries Sampad Swain, who paid floral tributes to the departed soul.

Prominent attendees included Paradeep Municipality Chairman Basant Biswal, Balikuda-Erasama MLA Sarada Prasanna Jena, Dr. Surendra Mahapatra, Kujanga Block Chairperson Ninarani Sahu, Pratap Parida, Sudhal Kumar Swain, renowned industrialist Madanmohan Swain, Sudarshan Swain, and Ranjan Swain, along with many local elders, political leaders, public representatives, and relatives. All shared heartfelt words about Chandrama Devi’s sacrifice, spiritual devotion, and virtues.

More than 50 poets from across the state participated in the poetry recitation session. Among them were Ananga Mohapatra, Golakbihari Palai, Kailash Pradhan, Bishnupriya Das, Baburam Choudhury, Sabita Nayak, Rajashree Swain, Jibananda Adhikari, Erasama Block Chairperson Lakshmipriya Swain, Meerangini Dei, Digambar Raut, and journalist Dushmanta Majhi, among others.

Dr. Bijaya Ketan Upadhyay Visits Nabarangpur to Review Odia Language and Culture Initiatives
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Dr. Bijaya Ketan Upadhyay Visits Nabarangpur to Review Odia Language and Culture Initiatives

Nabarangpur, Today, a review meeting was held at the District Council Conference Hall in Nabarangpur under the chairmanship of Dr. Bijaya Ketan Upadhyay, Director of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department and Nodal Officer for Nabarangpur District. The meeting focused on the progress of various schemes being implemented in the district, with the participation of concerned departmental officers.

The meeting was attended by District Collector Dr. Shubhankar Mohapatra, Additional District Collector (Revenue) Bishwajit Barman, Deputy Collector Prakash Kumar Mishra, Additional Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad Jadumani Nayak, and other officials.

At the beginning, the District Collector welcomed all departmental officers and asked them to present detailed reports on their respective departments’ schemes.
Key schemes discussed included:

Health and Family Welfare

Antyodaya Housing Scheme

Rural Aroma

Drinking Water Supply

Setu Bandhan Scheme

Education

Subhadra Scheme

Poshan Abhiyan (Nutrition Campaign)

Tribal Hostels

Honorable Tribal Development

AMRUT Scheme

Rural Electrification

Transportation

Public Grievance Redressal

Dr. Upadhyay emphasized that Nabarangpur is an aspirational district, and it is crucial that the targets of all planned schemes are achieved so that the beneficiaries receive the intended benefits effectively.

Health Department Update:
According to health department data, 4,49,272 Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana cards have been distributed in the district. Out of the 395 sanctioned doctors, 217 are currently working, with 178 positions vacant. Among 646 nursing officers, 304 are working and 342 posts are vacant. Of 117 pharmacists, 79 are on duty and 38 positions are unfilled.

Antyodaya Housing Scheme:
Out of 3,859 beneficiaries, 2,062 have been issued work orders.

Education Department:
There are 1,101 primary schools, 579 upper primary schools, 225 secondary schools, and 60 higher secondary schools in the district.

Subhadra Scheme:
Out of 3,18,977 applications, 2,91,666 have been approved and 2,89,826 beneficiaries have received funds in their bank accounts.

Child Marriage Prevention:
From 2020 to February 2025, a total of 1,425 child marriages have been prevented in the district.

SSD Department:
There are 8 higher secondary schools, 23 high schools, 13 girls’ high schools, 47 Ashram schools, 3 Sevashrams, and 1 Eklavya Model Residential School under the SSD (Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste Development) Department.

At the end of the meeting, Additional Executive Officer Jadumani Nayak extended a vote of thanks.

IndianOil’s XTRAPOWER Fleet Card Bags SKOCH Gold Award 2025
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IndianOil’s XTRAPOWER Fleet Card Bags SKOCH Gold Award 2025
Hyderabad,/Pune April 21,2025: IndianOil’s flagship XTRAPOWER Fleet Card Loyalty Program has been honoured with the SKOCH Gold Award 2025 in the Digital Transformation – Business Process Transformation category.

Presented during the 100th SKOCH Summit, the award recognises IndianOil’s sustained efforts in driving innovation and delivering customer-centric digital solutions for the transport and logistics sector. The program has transformed fuel management for fleet operators through a secure, seamless, and technology-enabled platform.

The award was received by Team IndianOil from Mr. Sameer Kochar, President, SKOCH Development Foundation.

The SKOCH Awards are among India’s most prestigious recognitions, celebrating excellence in governance, finance, technology, and social impact. IndianOil’s selection followed a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process, culminating in a final presentation on March 11, 2025. This year’s awards saw strong participation from leading banks, government institutions, technology firms, and private sector organisations.

The XTRAPOWER Fleet Card Program continues to be a trusted solution for lakhs of fleet operators across India, offering real-time control, transparency, and value-added benefits to streamline fuel purchases and operations.

Sunil Nehra Appointed CEO – IT Staffing at FirstMeridian
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Sunil Nehra Appointed CEO – IT Staffing at FirstMeridian

India’s IT sector ended the fourth quarter of FY’25 on a stable note by reporting a revenue growth of 1-3% year-on-year, which indicates a cycle of measured expansion and changing global priorities. While this reflects that companies are showcasing a more targeted approach to global technology investments, the demand for digital transformation still continues to thrive.

Investments towards AI/ML, cloud computing, data engineering, automation etc. have been steady which signals a long-term confidence in emerging technologies. This steady demand for new age technologies has influenced hiring trends. As it is estimated that the IT hiring industry will grow by 7-10% in the first half of 2025, nearly 4-4.5 lakh new jobs in FY26, hiring in multiple regions of India will experience a gradual upward momentum.

The sentiment on fresher hiring in FY’26 remains positive which indicates strong demand for entry level roles. With India’s young talent showing impressive niche skill sets in emerging technologies, companies are turning towards investing in upskilling programs which bridges the gap between specialized skills and building a robust pipeline of talent for future growth.

With IT hiring, the focus has transformed to creating high-impact and resilient teams who can work in tandem with the demands of the industry.

Overall, it is safe to say that the sentiment for the quarter has been cautious yet constructive one.

Looking Up Chakkar This Social Media Study Reveals Key Vertigo Insights
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Looking Up Chakkar This Social Media Study Reveals Key Vertigo Insights

Nowadays, it’s common to search online for health information. Especially, in the case of feeling dizzy or experiencing “chakkar,” people likely look for answers immediately on the internet. A quick search brings up countless articles and videos, but people often confuse vertigo symptoms with dizziness or lightheadedness[1].

Close to 70 million people in India have symptoms related to vertigo.[2] Unlike brief dizziness, vertigo can be persistent and impact overall well-being.

The Reality of Vertigo in India:

A survey conducted by Abbott in collaboration with IQVIA highlights that 44% of people have been living with Vertigo for more than a year, experiencing episodes once a week. Many mistake vertigo for low blood sugar, low blood pressure, dehydration, or stress. Only 48% of those with dizziness get. Even after diagnosis, people often delay seeking medical help until it’s absolutely necessary.[3]

Dr Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director, Abbott India, “Globally, vertigo affects 1 in 10 people at some point in their lives. Early signs like dizziness, unsteadiness, and nausea are often missed. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent future issues. By spreading awareness, encouraging early diagnosis, and supporting those with vertigo, we can help everyone stay balanced and live fulfilling lives.”

The Role of Dr Internet:

A study in the International Journal of Clinical Skills, supported by Abbott, shows a growing trend of people turning to social media for health information. Over two years, the study analyzed about 6,900 posts, including 4,353 conversations on vertigo. Results reveal that 65% of those searching for vertigo online are women. Most questions (51%) are asked on X (formerly Twitter), followed by 46% on medical forums, with YouTube also being popular. While these resources are helpful, it’s important to verify health information with medical professionals.

This study also addressed common questions and misunderstandings about vertigo. 51% of people wanted to learn more about its causes, and diagnosis. “Dizziness” was a highly searched symptom, with about 0.1 million searches. Some users asked if vertigo was related to their other conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cervical spondylosis. Others questioned the difference between vertigo and dizziness. Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis were trending topics among sufferers on various social channels.

Dr Sudhir Kumar, Professor and Head of Neurology Department, Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, “Vertigo is a symptom, not a disease. It’s usually caused by a problem in the inner ear’s balance system. Although there’s plenty of information about vertigo online, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate and timely diagnosis. Following prescribed treatments and exercises can help manage vertigo and its symptoms.”

Managing Vertigo Effectively

A few simple steps to manage vertigo effectively and improve quality of life.

  • Seeking Right Information: The study found that most queries (54%) came from middle-aged adults, followed by young adults (27%) and elderly patients (19%). Medical forums are used by 46% to seek advice from healthcare professionals and validate medications.  If you have vertigo or related symptoms, consult a doctor for timely diagnosis.
  • Consistency Matters: Regular checkups help monitor symptoms and adjust treatments. Incorporating gentle exercises like yoga and walking can enhance balance and reduce vertigo symptoms.
  • Enhancing Sleeping Position: Your sleep position affects vertigo. Sleeping on your back with your head elevated can reduce episodes, while sleeping on your side can trigger them.[5]

Using available resources for information and getting the right help can support people with vertigo live healthier and better.

ICICI Prudential Life Profit After Tax Rises to 1,189 Crore in FY2025
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ICICI Prudential Life Profit After Tax Rises to 1,189 Crore in FY2025

Performance highlights: FY2025

  • VNB grew by 6.4% to ₹ 2,370 crore in FY2025
  •  Profit after Tax (PAT) registers a growth of 39.6% to ₹ 1,189 crore in FY2025
  • Strong RWRP growth of 15.2% in FY2025
  • Robust growth in retail protection of 25.1% and retail new business sum assured of 37% in FY2025
  •  13th month persistency of 89.1% at FY2025
  • Total in-force sum assured witnessed a growth of 15.6% to ₹ 39 lakh crore on March 31, 2025
  • Final dividend of ₹ 0.85 per share declared

Life Insurance registered a strong growth of 39.6% in its Profit After Tax (PAT) to 1,189 crore for FY2025. The Value of New Business (VNB), which represents the present value of future profits, stood at  2,370 crore with a VNB margin of 22.8% in FY2025.

The total Annualised Premium Equivalent (APE) grew by 15% year-on-year to 10,407 crore in FY2025. Retail protection business APE grew by 25.1% year-on-year to 598 crore in FY2025. Annuity business grew at a two-year CAGR of 31.4% in FY2025. The Company’s retail New Business Sum Assured (NBSA) grew by 37% year-on-year to

3.32 lakh crore in FY2025. The total in-force sum assured, which is the quantum of life cover taken by customers of the Company, grew by 15.6% year-on-year to 39.43 lakh crore.

The Company has a well-diversified distribution network, ensuring its presence across platforms and touchpoints preferred by different customer segments. Proprietary channel which includes Agency and Direct together grew by 15.2% in FY2025.

In FY2025, APE contribution from agency, direct, bancassurance, partnership distribution, and group channels stood at 28.9%, 14.4%, 29.4%, 10.9% and 16.4% respectively.

The assets under management of the Company stood at 3.09 lakh crore as on March 31, 2025. This is an outcome of the trust reposed in the Company by customers, growth in new business, strong persistency and robust fund management.

The Company’s robust risk management framework has enabled it to have a record of zero non-performing assets since inception. The solvency ratio was 212.2% as on March 31, 2025, against the regulatory requirement of 150%.

The Board has approved a final dividend of  0.85 per equity share for FY2025.

The Company’s commitment to sustainability is central to its vision of building an enduring institution that serves the protection and long-term saving needs of customers with sensitivity. The Company continues to be the highest rated Indian insurer as per two leading ESG rating agencies. The current ESG rating of ‘AA’ ascribed by MSCI makes the Company, one of the top-rated life insurers in India.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Anup Bagchi, MD & CEO, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance said, “We are pleased to announce that we have crossed  10,000 crore APE for the first time, marking a significant milestone in our growth journey. Notably, we have also provided insurance coverage to over 9 crore lives as on March 31, 2025. Our Retail Weighted Received Premium (RWRP) growth of 15.2% in FY2025, demonstrates our ability to deliver superior performance in a competitive landscape. This has resulted in a robust year-on-year growth of 39.6% in Profit After Tax to 1,189 crore for FY2025. Our FY2025 Value of New Business stood at  2,370 crore with a margin of 22.8%.

Our nimble multi-channel distribution allows us to adapt swiftly to the shifting macro- economic conditions and launch products as per the customer demands. The same was demonstrated with the addition of ‘ICICI Pru Gift Select’, a non-par product with guaranteed income in January 2025 given the growing trend towards wealth preservation.

Our retail protection and annuity APE registered a strong 2-year CAGR of 30% plus, reflecting our focus on these segments.

Our 13th month persistency ratio of 89.1% at FY2025, underscores the customers’ trust in the Company. It is also evident by our Company topping the Net Promoter Score (NPS) across insurers for the third year in a row, as revealed in the Hansa Research’s latest Life Insurance CuES 2025 report.

We have an industry leading claim settlement ratio of 99.3% in FY2025, with an average turnaround time of 1.2 days for non-investigated individual death claims.

In line with our commitment to delivering value to our shareholders, our Embedded Value (EV) and AUM both have grown at a five-year CAGR of above 15% in FY2025, echoing the robustness of our financial foundation and long-term value creation capabilities.

Moving forward, we remain committed to enhancing customer experience through innovative product propositions, seamless onboarding, best-in-class servicing and claims settlement. Our resilient balance sheet and strong solvency position provide the stability and foundation to support sustainable growth in the years ahead.”

 Definitions, abbreviations and explanatory notes

  • Annual Premium Equivalent (APE): APE is a measure of new business written by a life insurance company. It is computed as the sum of annualised first year premiums on regular premium policies, and ten percent of single premiums, written by the Company during any period from new retail and group customers.
  • Retail Weighted Received Premium (RWRP): RWRP is a new business measure very similar to APE for the retail (also referred to as individual) business with the only difference being that the regular premiums considered here are first year premiums actually received by the life insurer and not annualised. It is the sum of all retail first year premiums and ten percent of retail single premiums received in a period.
  • Total Weighted Received Premium (TWRP): TWRP is a measure of total premiums from new and existing retail and group customers received in a period. It is sum of first year and renewal premiums on regular premium policies and ten percent of single premiums received from both retail and group customers by the Company during the period.
  • Persistency: It is the most common parameter for quality of business representing the percentage of retail policies (where premiums are expected) that continue paying premiums. Regular and Limited pay persistency in accordance with IRDAI Master circular on Submission of Returns 2024 dated June 14, 2024.
  • Cost Ratio: Cost ratio is a measure of the cost efficiency of a Company. Expenses are incurred by the Company on new business as well as renewal premiums. Cost ratio is computed as a ratio of all expenses incurred in a period comprising commission, operating expenses, provision for doubtful debts and bad debts written off to total weighted received Premium (TWRP).
  • Embedded Value (EV): EV represents the present value of shareholders’ interests in the earnings distributable from the assets allocated to the business after sufficient allowance for the aggregate risks in the business
  • Value of New Business (VNB) and VNB margin: VNB is used to measure profitability of the new business written in a period. It is present value of all future profits to shareholders measured at the time of writing of the new business contract. Future profits are computed on the basis of long-term assumptions which are reviewed annually. VNB is also referred to as NBP (new business profit). VNB margin is computed as VNB for the period/APE for the period. It is similar to profit margin for any other business.

Conrad Pune Launches ConREAD to Spark Literary Conversations
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Conrad Pune Launches ConREAD to Spark Literary Conversations

Pune– Conrad Pune, the city’s leading luxury destination is all set to turn a new page in the city’s cultural story with the launch of ConREAD, a signature monthly initiative that brings together authors, thinkers, and passionate readers for a compelling exchange of stories, ideas, and debates. Launching on 21st April, just ahead of World Book Day, ConREAD aims to create a thriving community for those who find joy between the pages and meaning in conversations.

Mr.-Abhishek-Sahai

Curated to celebrate the written word, ConREAD will host monthly meet ups where punekars can meet their favourite authors in an intimate setting. An extension of Conrad Pune’s ethos, where hospitality meets culture, ConREAD is a movement to encourage intellectual exchange, deep dive into emerging publishing trends, and exclusive interactions with leading authors. From literature to finance, to real-world insights, ConREAD will serve as a dynamic platform where ideas take center stage.

The inaugural edition will feature the celebrated and bestselling author and stock market expert Ms. Devina Mehra, in conversation with Mr. Neil Borate, Head of Personal Finance at Mint. Together, they will dive into her latest work Money, Myths and Mantras – The Ultimate Investment Guide, followed by an interactive Q&A and book signing, giving readers a chance to connect directly with the minds behind the books they love.

Speaking about the launch, Mr. Abhishek Sahai, General Manager, Conrad Pune, shared, “With ConREAD, we are opening our doors to a new kind of luxury which is intellectual, immersive, and community-driven. This series is our way of giving back to the cultural fabric of Pune by creating a space where book lovers and thinkers can gather, converse, be bold and stay inspired. We’re thrilled to launch this journey with Ms. Devina Mehra and look forward to many more chapters to come.”

Excited for being part of ConRead, Author Devina Mehra shared, “I’m excited to be part of the inaugural edition of ConREAD at Conrad Pune. The combination of my two favourites, books and investing/ finance in spaces that feel open, warm, and genuinely curious, sounds just perfect. And I have no doubt this evening will be just that. I truly appreciate Conrad Pune for creating a space where stories, questions, and real-life insights could flow freely. I look forward to sharing my journey and insights with everyone.”

Set against the elegant backdrop of Conrad Pune, each edition of ConREAD will blend the charm of literary discovery with the signature warmth and hospitality of Conrad, creating moments that are as thought-provoking as they are unforgettable. It’s a community where the love for books finds its tribe.

SunAct and Smita Memorial Launch South India’s First CAR T-Cell and Bone Marrow Transplant Centre
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SunAct and Smita Memorial Launch South India’s First CAR T-Cell and Bone Marrow Transplant Centre

Kochi, April 18, 2025 — In a landmark collaboration that bridges visionary science with decades of clinical excellence, SunAct Cancer Institute and Smita Memorial Hospital, founded by the Father of Medical Oncology, Dr. Suresh H. Advani (Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan), today announced the opening of South India’s premier Centre of Excellence in CAR T-Cell Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplantation at Smita Memorial Hospital in Thodupuzha, Idukki district, Kerala.

The Centre was inaugurated on the auspicious occasion of Vishu by Ms. V. Vigneshwari, IAS, District Collector and District Magistrate of Idukki, in the presence of Dr. Advani, SunAct’s co-founders Dr. Vijay Patil and Dr. Ashay Karpe, and other dignitaries from the oncology and healthcare ecosystem.

This collaboration, formalised in March 2025, represents a significant stride in delivering affordable, globally benchmarked cell and gene therapies to India, with a strong emphasis on precision oncology, pediatric care, and access to global clinical trials.

Dr. Suresh H. Advani, Founder, Smita Memorial Hospital, stated: “Over the decades, I have witnessed the evolution of cancer care in India — from limited options to remarkable possibilities. This new Centre of Excellence represents the next frontier: where science, compassion, and collaboration come together to transform patient outcomes. I am proud to see this movement rooted in Kerala, and confident that with SunAct’s scientific leadership, we are building a model for the future of oncology in India.”

Dr. Vijay Patil, Co-Founder, SunAct Cancer Institute, said: “We are honoured to launch the first Centre of Excellence in CAR T-Cell Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplantation in South India. With the visionary guidance of Dr. Suresh Advani, we are committed to making the most advanced cancer therapies — previously only available in elite global centres — both accessible and affordable for Indian patients. This marks a pivotal step in our mission to bring world-class precision oncology to every corner of India.”

Dr. Ashay Karpe, Co-Founder, SunAct Cancer Institute, noted: “This collaboration is a convergence of cutting-edge science and seasoned clinical wisdom. By combining SunAct’s pioneering Cell and Gene Therapies with Dr. Advani’s clinical legacy and Smita Memorial’s infrastructure, we are setting a new benchmark for how cancer should be treated — precise, humane, and accessible.”

Scientific Breakthroughs for Indian Patients

The newly launched Centre introduces India’s first CAR T-Cell Therapy for solid tumors — a major milestone in global oncology and currently unavailable elsewhere in the country. In addition to CAR-T, the Centre will offer: – TCR (T-Cell Receptor) Therapies

–  TIL (Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes)

–  Gamma Delta T-Cell Platforms

–  Gene Therapies

–  A dedicated Pediatric Oncology Program

The Centre will also accelerate access to Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT), clinical trials, and new immunotherapies — reinforcing a shared commitment to next-generation care.

Vision and Impact

This partnership goes beyond treatment. It marks the beginning of a pan-India movement to revolutionise cancer care, anchored in Indian scientific innovation and global collaboration: – Developing Made-in-India CGT platforms for Indian patient biology

–  Creating equitable access to elite therapies across underserved regions

–  Launching internationally benchmarked clinical trials from Tier-2/3 cities

–  Building a training ecosystem to develop the next generation of oncologists, researchers, and CGT specialists

–  Attracting global partnerships for joint research, biomanufacturing, and IP co-development

This Centre of Excellence is designed to become a lighthouse project — setting the standard for oncology care, research, and patient impact across India.

A Track Record of Scientific Firsts: SunAct’s Milestones

–  2023 – Establishment of SunAct Cancer Institute

–  May–July 2024 – First CAR T-Cell Therapy in India for Rhabdomyosarcoma, Ovarian Cancer, Head & Neck Cancer, and Esophageal Cancer

–  August 2024 – First TCR targeting TP53 mutation (Cholangiocarcinoma), First CAR T-Cell for Small Cell Lung Cancer

–  September 2024 – First KRAS TCR & HER2+ CAR T-Cell Therapy for Gastric Carcinoma, Colorectal, and Salivary Gland Cancers

–  October 2024 – First bispecific CS1-BCMA CAR-T (Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma), First bispecific TCR targeting TP53 & APC (Colorectal Cancer)

–  November 2024 – First Claudin 18.2 CAR-T Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer

–  January 2025 – First CAR-T Therapy for Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)

–  February 2025 – First Dual CD19/CD20 CAR-T Therapy for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)

James Cameron-Produced ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ to Premiere on National Geographic
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James Cameron-Produced ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ to Premiere on National Geographic

New Delhi, April 18 This Earth Day, embark on an unforgettable adventure with Emmy® and BAFTA Award-winning Nat Geo Explorer Bertie Gregory (@BertieGregory) in ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’! Executive produced by National Geographic Explorer-at-Large and Academy Award®-winning filmmaker James Cameron and Emmy and BAFTA winners Ruth Roberts and Martin Williams from Talesmith, this latest installment in National Geographic’s Emmy-winning “Secrets of” franchise takes viewers of all ages to the farthest corners of the world to witness penguin behaviours captured on film for the first time – showcasing the cute and fluffy flightless birds as they brave some of the most extreme environments on Earth. Narrated by Blake Lively (‘Another Simple Favor’), the three-part series starts on Tuesday, April 22 at 7 PM on National Geographic, with all episodes streaming on JioHotstar.

In April 2024, Nat Geo unveiled breathtaking emperor penguin footage captured by Bertie at the Ekström Ice Shelf in Antarctica for the series. A television first, the crew recorded an astonishing sight: hundreds of emperor penguin chicks leaping from a 50-foot cliff into the icy ocean below, emerging unscathed. To date, the clip has garnered 74 million views on Nat Geo’s TikTok account – its best-performing video ever – and has received over 165 million views across all of Nat Geo’s social platforms. One year later, ‘SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ will showcase the full spectacle of this remarkable behavior, along with new footage that was not initially included in the viral video.

While many documentaries have explored penguins, SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS’ takes it to a whole new level. Talesmith’s team, led by Bertie and over 70 world-class scientists and filmmakers, embarked on a two-year, globe-spanning adventure – from the rocky beaches of Cape Town and the icy shores of South Georgia Island to the tropical Galapagos and Namibia’s desert caves – capturing penguins like never before. Pushing the boundaries of wildlife filmmaking, a three-person crew endured an astonishing 274 days filming on the Ekström Ice Shelf in Antarctica, home to a colony of 20,000 emperor penguins. Facing one of the planet’s harshest environments, they captured never-before-seen moments like a bonded pair of emperors practicing egg transfers with a snowball to hone their skills for the moment they would need to transfer a real egg, tenacious chicks navigating brash ice amid climate change, and young penguins using their beaks to hoist themselves out of a crevasse.

With breathtaking, award-winning cinematography and cutting-edge camera technology, the series captures even more never-before-seen and rare moments in the wild. For the first time, witness healthy “rockaroni” chicks – a rare hybrid of rockhopper and macaroni penguins – offering a fascinating glimpse into potential evolution and adaptation. Other remarkable scenes include a brave rockhopper fending off a southern sea lion, the first-ever footage of a hidden cave colony of African penguins, and clever Galapagos penguins teaming up for a daring heist: stealing fish straight from pelican beaks and skillfully herding sardine bait balls.

The family-friendly series taps into the passion and expertise of world-renowned scientists and conservationists, including National Geographic Explorer and marine biologist Dr. Pablo Borboroglu, conservation biologist Dr. Michelle LaRue, African penguin expert Dr. Andrea Thiebault, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Gustavo Jiménez Uzcátegui, penguin expert Dr. Jessica Kemper, and marine biologist Dr. Katta Ludynia.

Episodes include the following:

  • ‘Heart of the Emperors’

Premieres April 22 at 7 pm

The emperors are the largest and strongest penguins, living in the coldest and most extreme environment on Earth. Embedded with an Antarctic colony, National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory encounters social skills never filmed before, discovering bonds forged from birth between family, friends and strangers are the difference between life and death.

  • ‘Survival of the Smartest’

Premieres April 29 at 7 pm

Millions of years ago, a group of penguins left the ice, riding powerful currents and arriving in strange new lands. They reshaped traditions for deserts and tropics – and even to live among humans. Tested to the extreme, they became perhaps the smartest of all penguins. National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory discovers the penguins’ problem-solving, “talking” and enduring search for new worlds.

  • ‘Rebels with a Cause’

Premieres May 6 at 7 pm

It takes a special type of courageous penguin to survive the fierce Southern Ocean, but 40 million crowd its isolated, rocky outposts, and they are some of the most successful penguins on Earth. National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory follows the rockhoppers, gentoos, and macaronis to discover a world of risk-takers, rebels, and unconventional parents.

Previous “Secrets of” seasons include ‘SECRETS OF THE OCTOPUS’, narrated by Paul Rudd; ‘SECRETS OF THE ELEPHANTS’, narrated by Natalie Portman; and Emmy-winning ‘SECRETS OF THE WHALES’, narrated by Sigourney Weaver.

SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS is produced by Talesmith for National Geographic. Emmy Award-winners James Cameron and Maria Wilhelm for Lightstorm Earth are executive producers. BAFTA and Emmy Award-winner Bertie Gregory serves as lead storyteller, cinematographer and producer. For Talesmith, Emmy and BAFTA-winning executive producers are Ruth Roberts and Martin Williams. Series producer is Serena Davies. Pam Caragol is executive producer for National Geographic.

NIIT acquires iamneo to strengthen footprint in Digital Skilling Ecosystem
Rutuparna Rath news
NIIT acquires iamneo to strengthen footprint in Digital Skilling Ecosystem
Gurgaon – April 18, 2025 – NIIT Limited, a global leader in skills and talent development, has acquired 70% stake in iamneo a leading provider of technology training solutions through an AI powered and deep skilling SaaS platform focused on enhancing tech hiring, training, and learning outcomes for universities and enterprises.
This strategic acquisition unlocks substantial growth opportunities, enabling NIIT and the Company to deliver robust, outcome-driven learning solutions at scale for undergraduates and early career professionals through University and Corporates.
Anand Rathi Investment Banking acted as the buyside Investment Banking advisor to NIIT Limited, providing end-to-end strategic and transaction advisory. This marks the firm’s strong execution capabilities and deep domain expertise across the education and skilling domain.
Mr. Vijay Thadani, Co-founder & MD, NIIT Limited. said, Anand Rathi Advisors played an important role in structuring a balanced, win-win deal. Their perseverance, domain insight, and strategic inputs were invaluable to the success of this acquisition.”
Mr. Samir Bahl, CEO, Anand Rathi Investment Banking, commented: “This transaction exemplifies the growing convergence of AI, digital learning, and workforce readiness. We are proud to have supported NIIT in this strategic acquisition that deepens its digital skilling portfolio and enhances its relevance in a rapidly evolving talent ecosystem. At Anand Rathi, we remain committed to advising forward-looking businesses in the education and technology sector.”