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United News of India
03-07-2025
- Business
- United News of India
Growth Stories Summit and Awards 2025, Mumbai by TheCconnects Magazine Global C-Suite Community Platform
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 2: TheCconnects, a global C-Suite community platform, successfully hosted the Growth Stories Summit & Awards 2025 on June 27 at the iconic The Classique Club, Andheri West, Mumbai. The event witnessed an extraordinary convergence of trailblazers, entrepreneurs, educators, technologists, and social changemakers from across the country. It celebrated those who have redefined boundaries, led with vision, and inspired communities through innovation and impact. This grand summit was not only an award ceremony, it was a powerhouse of insights, stories, and synergy. Designed to bring together thought leaders and changemakers under one roof, the evening served as a space for networking, collaboration, and recognition of extraordinary efforts across business, technology, media, education, sustainability, health, and more. TheCconnects July Magazine Launch Adding to the excitement, the summit also marked the official launch of TheCconnects July 2025 Magazine Edition, featuring Ussuof M Khan, Founder & CEO of CoFindinLeads, on the cover page. The magazine showcases 35 inspiring growth stories, a curated collection of voices, journeys, and milestones that are shaping the future of business and society. Each story in this edition is a testament to the human spirit, innovation, and resilience, from startups disrupting industries to individuals championing mental health, education, green technology, and women-led enterprises. Celebrating Transformational Leaders: Awardees at a Glance A major highlight of the event was the honoring of 35 distinguished individuals and organizations with prestigious awards. These achievers are change agents who have made significant strides in their respective fields. From AI to filmmaking, from education to urban development, from fashion to food tech, the diversity of awardees reflected the inclusive ethos of TheCconnects Ussuof M Khan – Best B2B Software Solution Provider of the Year Founder & CEO of CoFindinLeads, Ussuof M Khan has revolutionized B2B lead generation with AI-powered, automation-driven software solutions. His client-centric platforms help businesses scale efficiently, making him a pioneer in B2B SaaS. Featured on the July 2025 magazine cover, his journey is one of vision and value. Avinash Chauhan – Visionary Leadership Award for Social Impact Founder of Mazi Saheli Charitable Trust, Avinash Chauhan leads with empathy. Through counseling centers and community outreach, his organization addresses mental health and women's empowerment in underserved communities, breaking stigma with compassion. His leadership is shaping a more inclusive and emotionally aware India. Dr. Stuti Nilesh Pardhe – Excellence in Mental Health Advocacy Award As the Founder of Etsah Trinity INC, Dr. Pardhe has championed mental health awareness through innovative programs and consulting. Her work bridges psychological well-being and corporate culture, fostering healthier workspaces and personal growth. Her initiatives are reshaping how mental wellness is integrated into daily life. Shieldworkz – Industrial OT Security Leader Award Shieldworkz is a leading provider of cyber-physical system (CPS) cybersecurity, specializing in Operational Technology (OT) security for critical infrastructure. The company offers comprehensive solutions including proactive monitoring, risk evaluation, expert consulting, and threat intelligence reporting. Shieldworkz helps organizations establish Security Operations Centers (SOCs) or deploy SOC-as-a-Service models, ensuring operational resilience and robust protection against evolving threats. Tapasya Shukla – Game-Changer in 360° Brand Management Award Founder & CEO of Veroma Media, Tapasya Shukla is redefining brand strategy through integrated storytelling, media innovation, and digital engagement. Her agency supports brands across sectors to evolve with authenticity, creativity, and consistency, setting a new benchmark in holistic brand management. Dr. Mrittika Mal – Innovator in Holistic Health Advocacy Award A spiritual wellness expert, Dr. Mrittika Mal blends psychology, fitness, and healing into a unified wellness ecosystem. Her approach empowers individuals to transform their lives through inner alignment, physical well-being, and mental clarity, making her a torchbearer for modern holistic health. Deepak Patil – Nation Builder Through Technology Award Founder & CEO of Resilient Lab, Deepak Patil is known for creating inclusive, tech-powered platforms that serve marginalized communities. His innovations in AI, IoT, and digital access are not only commercially impactful but also socially transformative, helping bridge the digital divide in India. Brahmanand Siingh – Trailblazer in Biographical Cinematic Storytelling Award A national award-winning filmmaker, Brahmanand Siingh is the creative force behind acclaimed films like Jhalki, Pancham Unmixed, and Kaagaz Ki Kashti. His work authentically documents real-life stories that inspire, educate, and move audiences, establishing him as a pioneer in socially relevant cinema. Aditi Tathagat Gosalia – Employability Skills & Value Education Trainer Award Senior Employability Coach at Eduvacancy, Aditi Tathagat Gosalia equips students and professionals with critical life and workplace skills. Her focus on communication, confidence, and value-driven development has helped countless individuals build careers rooted in competence and character. Dr. Digambar Tayade – Lifetime Achievement in Urban Development and Social Arts A retired civil engineer from MMRDA Mumbai, Dr. Tayade has devoted his life to improving civic infrastructure and integrating art into public spaces. His work reflects a rare blend of technical expertise and cultural sensibility, leaving a lasting mark on Mumbai's urban landscape. Cast Artists – Best Artist Collaboration Platform Cast Artists is a global platform empowering artists and influencers to showcase their talents. Create and customize your portfolio, connect with potential clients worldwide, and discover exciting opportunities. Whether you're a musician, actor, designer, or content creator, Cast Artists helps you get hired directly by customers, growing your career. Mayoor Shah – Cross Media Creative Excellence Award As Director of Reflections, Mayoor Shah is known for his creative leadership in film, digital media, and design. With a unique visual style and narrative approach, he bridges multiple platforms to tell compelling stories that engage and influence. His work is a masterclass in integrated creative communication. Bindi Thakkar – Most Inspiring Leadership in Beauty & Personal Care Award Founder of Makeover Lifestyle Pvt. Ltd., Bindi Thakkar redefines beauty as a journey of self-love and empowerment. Through her brand, she promotes inclusive skincare and grooming solutions while mentoring women entrepreneurs. Her mission is to nurture confidence from within, making beauty more meaningful and accessible. Dr. Vikash Raj – Best Startup Enabling Financial Intermediation Through AI CEO of Investigen Technologies LLP, Dr. Raj has developed an AI-driven fintech platform that simplifies investment planning and credit access. His startup is bridging the gap between financial institutions and underserved populations, democratizing financial services through intelligent algorithms and user-friendly tools. Revanasiddeshwar Pagadekal & Umesh Katagi – Distinguished Innovators in Home Automation Award Managing Partners of Exttreme Corp, this duo is shaping the future of smart living. Their innovations in home automation deliver seamless control, energy efficiency, and security for modern households. Their work is transforming traditional spaces into intelligent environments across India. Pratik Prakash Jadhav – Visionary Entrepreneur with a National Mission Award Founder of Exim Internationals and Sab Kuch Bollywood, Pratik Jadhav is a dynamic entrepreneur who blends entertainment, retail, and innovation. With a mission to revolutionize the consumer experience and promote Indian creativity globally, he stands out for his bold and scalable business vision. Dr. Pravin D. Potdar – Iconic Leader in Molecular Medicine Award Former HOD at Jaslok Hospital, Dr. Potdar is a pioneering researcher in molecular diagnostics and genetic medicine. His contributions have advanced cancer detection and personalized therapy in India. A mentor to many, he continues to influence medical research and clinical excellence. Irfan Yunus Khatri – Mastermind of Modern Tax Strategy Award Founder of HalfPace Finance & Tax Consultants, Irfan Khatri simplifies complex tax systems through smart planning and digital tools. With a client-first approach, he offers tailored tax solutions for individuals and businesses, earning trust as a strategic partner in finance. Prahalad Singh Patel – Iconic Leader in Real Estate & Financial Solutions Award Managing Director of Prowave Consultants, Prahalad Singh Patel has reimagined real estate consultancy by integrating financial planning, legal advisory, and ethical business practices. His leadership brings transparency and value to clients navigating India's fast-growing property market. Dr. Subhash Kumar Sharma – Best-Selling Author & Iconic Mentor Award Founder of SKS Universe, Dr. Sharma combines entrepreneurship, coaching, and literature to empower individuals toward excellence. His best-selling books and mentorship programs focus on personal mastery, business strategy, and life transformation. A true guide, he is shaping the next generation of change-makers. Shehaan Mune – Trailblazing Teen Technopreneur Award Founder of Prepshotz Edutech, Shehaan Mune is an inspiring young innovator transforming digital learning at just 17. His platform offers interactive, gamified tools for academic preparation, making education more engaging and accessible. He exemplifies how age is no barrier to entrepreneurship and impact. Vadiraj K.N. – Award for Creating Social Impact Through Visionary Cinema Producer at Prabhu Kunj Productions, Vadiraj K.N. creates films that spotlight social issues with cinematic excellence. His work merges entertainment with advocacy, offering compelling narratives that challenge norms and inspire change. He stands out as a filmmaker who uses the screen to spark national conversations. Souvik Biswas – Trailblazer in Affordable Gourmet Experiences Award Founder of Nine Bees & Company, Souvik Biswas is democratizing fine dining by offering gourmet-style experiences at inclusive prices. His ventures blend culinary creativity with accessibility, making luxury cuisine a part of everyday life for wider audiences. He's redefining hospitality through taste and purpose. Dr. Vijaykumar Gawali – Global Leader in Clinical Research & Talent Development Co-Founder of ClinverseEdge, Dr. Gawali leads innovation in clinical trial training and pharmaceutical education. His efforts focus on nurturing skilled professionals for India's growing clinical research sector. With a vision rooted in excellence and ethics, he's developing global leaders in medical science. Vineet Arya – Emerging Leader in Real Estate Innovation Award Founder of Magicgates Real Estate Advisory, Vineet Arya blends data, technology, and integrity to help clients make smarter property decisions. He is known for modernizing real estate consultation through transparency and trust, especially for first-time buyers and young investors. Aarti Arya – Independent Fashion Entrepreneur of the Year Founder of Aarti Design Studio, Aarti Arya creates fashion that balances trend and tradition. Her collections celebrate Indian fabrics and craftsmanship with a contemporary twist. As a solo entrepreneur, she empowers women and artisans, building a brand rooted in cultural pride and modern flair. Dr. Anil Kumar Singh – Excellence in Strategic Sales Leadership Award As Senior Director – Sales at NTT DATA, Dr. Singh is a veteran in enterprise tech sales. Known for driving scalable growth, strategic partnerships, and high-performing teams, he has helped expand digital transformation across industries through visionary sales leadership and client success. Kalsekar M. Hussain – CEO of the Year – Digital Excellence Award Founder of 366DigitX, Kalsekar M. Hussain leads a full-stack digital services firm that accelerates business growth through performance marketing, branding, and automation. Under his leadership, the company has helped numerous SMEs thrive online, earning him recognition as a transformative force in digital entrepreneurship. Hemanth Pulavarthi & Rajesh Chintada – Future-Ready Leadership in IT Education Award Co-founders of HRA GROUPS IT Services, they're committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry in the tech sector. Their training programs are aligned with real-world skills, empowering thousands of students to become job-ready and technically proficient in a rapidly evolving IT landscape. Anvesh Perada – Infinity Renaissance Catalyst Vanguard Award A polymath author and researcher, Anvesh Perada blends scientific thought, philosophy, and personal transformation in his work. His interdisciplinary approach fosters intellectual growth and conscious living, inspiring a new generation of thinkers. He is a catalyst for holistic development across education, wellness, and innovation. Dr. Subodh Sakpal – Outstanding Contribution to Market Research & Insights Award Consumer insights expert at Cargill India, Dr. Sakpal applies data analytics to guide brand strategy and innovation. His work enhances understanding of Indian consumer behavior, contributing to better product-market fit. He's recognized for turning research into actionable value for both businesses and customers. Jude Samson – Silver Age Model Award At 66, Jude Samson is breaking stereotypes and redefining beauty standards in the fashion industry. As a model and media personality, he inspires individuals to embrace aging with style, dignity, and confidence. His late-career journey is a statement of courage and self-reinvention. Arjun Chatterjee – Innovative Excellence in Digital Platforms & Solutions Founder of Runtime Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Arjun Chatterjee builds agile, user-focused digital platforms that solve real business challenges. His solutions range from enterprise tools to customer engagement systems, making him a trusted name in the digital transformation space. Aditi Singh & Jennifer Singh Bhakuni – Pioneers in Fin-Legal-PropTech for BFSI Transparency Co-Founders of PropLegit Global Pvt. Ltd., they are transforming real estate legal compliance through AI-driven title verification. Their innovation ensures transparency and fraud prevention in property transactions, particularly benefiting the banking and insurance sectors. They are redefining trust in India's property tech ecosystem. Rahul Rameshbhai Gandhi – Media Trailblazer Award – 12 Years of Excellence Managing Director of Diya News Agency, Rahul Gandhi has built a legacy of ethical journalism and impactful storytelling. With a career spanning over a decade, his media work emphasizes integrity, public service, and regional development. He continues to elevate standards in regional news broadcasting. Final Words The Growth Stories Summit & Awards 2025 Mumbai Edition was not just a ceremony, but a movement celebrating real impact. From emerging entrepreneurs to lifetime achievers, the evening was a reminder that leadership rooted in purpose is the true catalyst for change. TheCconnects continues its journey to spotlight and support those who are not just dreaming big, but building boldly. Stay tuned for the next edition in this inspiring series of stories, success, and shared futures. Contact: Name – Yamini E Email – contact@ Phone: +91 9133110730 If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.
The Hindu
27-05-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Study finds stingless bees increase crop yield, quality
GUWAHATI A new study has shown that stingless bees, which produce a high-value honey with a distinct flavour, can increase the yield and quality of crops. Researchers from Nagaland University's Department of Entomology identified Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera, two species of stingless bees, as the most efficient among 11 insect varieties recorded foraging on chilli booms in the open 'under low hill conditions'. The yield and quality of chilli and other crops increased several times when these stingless bees were introduced as pollinators under greenhouse conditions, the study published in the latest issue of the International Journal of Farm Sciences said. Entomologists Avinash Chauhan and Imtinaro L. of the university based in Nagaland's Lumami are the authors of the study. Their research over 10 years also yielded methods to minimise losses while rearing stingless bees for quality honey production free from impurities. 'Stingless bees can be used for pollination without fear of being stung. They are known for their popular medicinal honey and pollination potential, which paves the way formulation of crop pollination calendars to benefit all stakeholders. The honey produced by the bees during the experiments also provided extra income besides good crop production,' Dr Chauhan said. Of the 11 insect species observed on chilli crops 'grown as per good agricultural practices', syrphid flies, houseflies, and stingless bees were found to have foraged the most. The yield and quality parameters under different modes of pollination revealed that bees were superior pollinators. The researchers found that the fruit set in stingless bee-pollinated king chilli (Capsicum chinense) increased to 29.46% over the non-pollinated crop (21% yield). Similarly, the fruit set in chilli (Capsicum annuum) increased by 7.42% over the non-pollinated crop. The seed weight, an indicator of viability or germination, also increased by 60.47% when pollinated by the stingless bees. 'We are now working to improve the beekeeping rearing techniques and promote scientific beekeeping with honey bees and stingless bees for better honey production and pollination of crops. The focus is also to raise awareness among the people for the conservation of other wild honey bees and pollinators,' Dr Chauhan said. The other crops used for the stingless bee pollination test included cucumber, ash gourd, watermelon, tomato, pumpkin, brinjal, and dragon fruit. The potential of these bees as pollinators for fruits such as mango, guava, gooseberry, and Indian jujube was also observed and recorded. Stingless bees are reported primarily from the northeastern, eastern, and southern Indian States. In the northeast, these bees are reared traditionally in homestead apiaries.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Buzzing discovery: NU researchers find how stingless bees boost crop yield and quality
1 2 Guwahati: Researchers at Nagaland University (NU) discovered two species of stingless bees, Tetragonula iridipennis Smith and Lepidotrigona arcifera Cockerell, that enhance agricultural productivity through pollination. The introduction of these stingless bees as pollinators in greenhouse farming has improved crop yields and quality across various plant species. These bees offer safe pollination services without the risk of stings, while also producing medicinal honey that provides additional income opportunities. Research findings by NU researchers demonstrated that chilli crops pollinated by these bees show enhanced production and quality compared to non-pollinated crops. NU researchers said conservation efforts are necessary for stingless bees, A dorsata, A florea, and other wild species like halictid, syrphid, and Amegiella bees to address pollination deficits. Studies show king-chilli experienced a 29.46% increase in fruit set versus 21% in non-pollinated crops. For chilli (capsicum annuum), fruit set and healthy fruits increased by 7.42% and 7.92%, respectively, over non-pollinated crops. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like [Click Here] - 2025 Top Trending Search - Local network access Esseps Learn More Undo Seed weight, indicating viability, rose by 60.74% with stingless bee pollination. The researchers said this pioneering research explores the pollination capabilities of stingless bees and honey production quality, contributing to improved income and sustainable farming. Avinash Chauhan, leading this research at NU's department of entomology, said, "The research outcomes of the last seven to 10 years provided the different stakeholders with lots of opportunities to rear the stingless bees for quality honey production without fear of mixing impurities in honey and minimising bee losses, which led to more profitability in this profession. We are still working to improve the beekeeping rearing techniques and to promote scientific beekeeping with honey bees and stingless bees for better honey production and pollination of crops. The focus is also to raise awareness among the people for the conservation of other wild honey bees and pollinators."
NDTV
26-05-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Nagaland University Researchers Identify Stingless Bee Species To Increase Crop Yield
Nagaland University identifies stingless bee species for agriculture Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera boost pollination efficiency. Pollination by stingless bees improves yield and quality of chilli crops. New Delhi: Researchers at Nagaland University have identified stingless bee species that can be used to increase quality and quantity of agricultural yield through pollination, according to officials. The stingless bee species identified are Tetragonula iridipennis Smith and Lepidotrigona arcifera Cockerell. The research has been published in several reputed, peer-reviewed journals, including International Journal of Farm Sciences. According to Avinash Chauhan, Scientist and Principal Investigator (AICRP Honeybees and Pollinators), Department of Entomology, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, "Stingless bees could be used for pollination without fear of being stung. They are known for their popular medicinal honey and pollination potential, which paves the way formulation of crop pollination calendars to benefit all stakeholders. The honey produced by the bees during the experiments also provided extra income besides good crop production." "Our team found that chilli crop, when pollinated by these bees, increases the crop production and quality as compared to crop where pollination is not accomplished. For supplementing the pollination deficit in chilli, stingless bees and honeybee species like A dorsata, A florea and other wild bees like halictid bees, syrphid bees and Amegiella bees need to be conserved," Chauhan added. In king-chilli the per cent fruit set was increased to 29.46 per cent over non pollinated crop (21.00 per cent). Likewise in Chilli (Capsicum annum), the fruit set and healthy fruits were increased by 7.42 per cent and 7.92 per cent over non-pollinated crop. Similarly, seed weight which is an indicator of viability or germination increased by 60.74 per cent when pollinated by stingless bees. This is the maiden attempt to work out the pollination potential of stingless bees and quality production of honey, which led to increased income and sustainable livelihood. Earlier, it was difficult to use honeybees for pollination of crops (inadequate pollination) due to their natural attributes. "The research outcomes of last seven to ten years provided the different stakeholders with lots of opportunities to rear the stingless bees for quality honey production without fear of mixing of impurities in honey and minimising bee losses, which led to more profitability in this profession," he said. "We are still working to improve the beekeeping rearing techniques and to promote Scientific beekeeping with honey bees and stingless bees for better honey production and pollination of crops. The focus is also to raise awareness among the people for the conservation of other wild honey bees and pollinators," he said. Stingless bees are reported from North East India, Eastern India and Southern Indian States, with recent additions from North, Central and Western Indian states. Unlike all the states where stingless bee rearing is still in nascent stages in North Eastern and Southern states, the stingless bees are reared in the traditional manner in homestead apiaries. However, in the last 7-10 years, the scientific domestication of these bees involving the development of scientific hives and mass multiplication of stingless bee colonies using queen cells is achieved in Nagaland and is extended to other states like Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.
India Today
26-05-2025
- Science
- India Today
Stingless bees can increase crop yields by 29%, shows Nagaland University research
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, researchers at Nagaland University have been able to demonstrate how stingless bees can boost crop output and quality through pollination -- without the stinging to the research, fruit set in king chilli increased to 29.46% from 21% with these bees as the the common chilli (Capsicum annuum), fruit development in healthy condition increased by nearly 8%, and seed weight, an indicator of enhanced germination, increased by over 60%.advertisementThe team, led by Dr Avinash Chauhan, All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Honeybees & Pollinators' Principal Investigator, discovered that the two species of stingless bees, namely Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera, not only improved fruit production but also improved seed viability in chilli and king IS THIS RESEARCH IMPORTANT? Dr Chauhan further stated that this technique is meant to fill the gap of pollination in crops, especially where honeybee use is emphasised the need to preserve other pollinators like Apis dorsata, Apis florea, halictid and syrphid bees. Honey being extracted from stingless bees as part of a study conducted by Nagaland University advertisement"The last 7 to 10 years of research gave us strong results. We not only had more crop yields, but the honey from these bees also generated extra income," Dr Chauhan added."We're working on improving beekeeping practices and promoting awareness regarding the conservation of wild pollinators," he crops on which the research was carried out are cucumber, watermelon, citrus, tomato, brinjal, and dragon isolated and duplicated stingless bee colonies from forest areas native to them into scientific hives and then these hives were planted in open fields as well as greenhouses. ABOUT STINGLESS BEESStingless bees are widespread in the North East, South and Eastern parts of India. Scientific domestication of stingless bees has been done in Nagaland and subsequently extended to Meghalaya and Arunachal research is an important step towards sustainable agriculture and conservation of pollinators. Future research will further explore the pharmaceutical value of stingless bee honey and examine other lesser-researched crops like passion fruit and chow chow.
