The Lalit Suri Hospitality School has announced the launch of its 2025 Short-Term Skill Certification Programs aimed at enhancing employability and professional readiness across key sectors of the hospitality industry. The new certifications include programs for Demi Chef De Partie, Guest Services Associate, and Front Office Assistant.

The initiative is designed to provide learners with hands-on training and practical experience that aligns with the evolving needs of the hospitality sector. Each program integrates classroom instruction with real-world exposure through paid apprenticeships, ensuring that participants acquire the skills necessary to meet industry standards.

The Demi Chef De Partie program focuses on culinary operations, equipping participants with knowledge in food preparation, kitchen supervision, and hygiene management. Trainees gain the ability to assist senior chefs, manage stock and kitchen functions, and maintain high standards of safety and efficiency.

The Guest Services Associate certification centres on operational excellence in housekeeping and guest care. Participants learn to communicate effectively with guests, ensure privacy and hygiene standards, and maintain professional service practices. The curriculum also includes modules on laundry management and workplace safety, providing comprehensive exposure to guest services.

The Front Office Assistant program prepares learners for front desk and guest relations responsibilities. Participants are trained in welcoming guests, handling day-to-day operations, managing communication, and maintaining service protocols that reflect professional hospitality standards.

The Lalit Suri Hospitality School maintains its commitment to delivering job-ready education with a strong focus on employability, practical learning, and 100% placement support.

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With extensive experience in public policy and international bilateral relations, Yashodhara brings a decade of expertise within the UK-India corridor. Most recently, she led the India advocacy team at the UK-India Business Council, driving forward British industry priorities in the region. Her earlier roles include senior positions at the UK’s Department for Business & Trade, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the US-India Business Council, and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, along with journalistic contributions at The Economic Times.

The appointment comes at a pivotal moment, following the announcement of a new UK-India trade agreement projected to boost bilateral trade by over £25 billion by 2040.

Launched in 2023, Coventry University’s India Hub in New Delhi is central to its global engagement strategy, focusing on partnership development, research collaboration, and educational initiatives between India and the UK. As the University advances toward becoming the first English university licensed to open a campus in India’s GIFT City, Yashodhara’s leadership is expected to play a vital role in shaping this vision.

Yashodhara Dasgupta said, “I am delighted to lead Coventry University’s India Hub and to foster impactful collaboration between the University and India. Higher education, skilling, R&D, and innovation are at the heart of India’s development agenda, and Coventry University is uniquely positioned to contribute meaningfully. The recent UK-India FTA announcement underscores the growing strategic alignment between our countries, and I look forward to advancing this partnership.”

Professor Richard Wells, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) at Coventry University Group, added: “The opening of our Hub in New Delhi marked a significant step in strengthening our global footprint. Yashodhara’s experience in international trade, policy, and cross-sector engagement makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead this initiative. We are confident she will bring dynamic leadership to the India Hub as we deepen our engagement with this key region.”

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These women play a vital role in the Rice Fallow Management project, a prominent initiative led by the Government of Odisha, and their contributions are immensely valuable.

The celebration primarily aimed to honour the leading women farmers who are spearheading change in rice fallows and sharing knowledge with fellow farmers from self-help groups. More than 150 women farmers from both districts attended the event, including 55 members from Women Self-Help Groups in Bargarh and 49 from Kalahandi.

“Thank you for acknowledging us and inviting us to this International Women’s Day event. It brings us great joy and motivates us to strive even harder for change,” shared Farmer, Kamala Pradhan. “Farming can be challenging for women, but when our efforts are recognized and appreciated, it fills us with happiness. We are grateful to ICRISAT for recognizing our hard work and for celebrating with us today.”

The program began with an interactive session aimed at evaluating the experiences of women farmers engaged in this new initiative. Women exchanged insights on introducing pulses in rice fallows and discussed the crucial aspect of ensuring seed availability for the future and its contribution to achieving seed security for themselves and other women.

Women leaders, who played pivotal roles and inspired many others to participate in the Rice Fallows Project, were also recognized for their significant contributions.

“We are delighted to be part of the Rice Fallow Management program,” shared Members of the Maa Laxmi Self-Help Group. “It has brought us closer to ensuring food security and providing a little extra income for our households. We learned new cultivation techniques for our fallow land, which have enabled us to produce more food, resulting in a very successful crop this season.”

ICRISAT staff provided special attention to the concerns of women farmers by sharing knowledge on seed production and storage techniques to encourage the preservation and reuse of seeds. The exchange of insights on traditional and modern seed systems highlighted unique opportunities for women farmers to contribute to sustainable agriculture.

Director General of ICRISAT, Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, commended the team for facilitating these crucial discussions which highlight the enduring legacy and the evolving role of women in ensuring agricultural resilience and food security.

“The experiences and contributions of women farmers are vital to achieving food security and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices. On this International Women’s Day, we are proud to honour these leading women farmers who are driving change and inspiring us all to work even harder for a better future,” said Dr Hughes.

News source: ICRISAT

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About SWAYAM

SWAYAM, the online course platform offering university-level education for a vast number of learners, was inaugurated in 2017 by the Ministry of Education. With over 72 lakh enrolments since 2017, SWAYAM has a massive reach across the country. It has now expanded with NEP 2020 to the newly launched platform SWAYAM Plus, which features industry-aligned courses to enhance employability of youth with in-demand skills across numerous domains. Developed with industry leaders like L&T, Microsoft, CISCO, SWAYAM Plus offers multilingual content, AI-guidance, credit recognition, and diverse employment pathways.

The Collaboration of SWAYAM Plus and The Job Plus

The collaboration between SWAYAM Plus and The Job Plus is pivotal in delivering high-quality hospitality skilling nationwide, empowering individuals to address the industry’s skill gap. This collaboration is fuelled by The Job Plus’s exceptional industry-led skilling investment, crafted in partnership with the hospitality industry. The organization aims to encompass the entire hospitality industry, which includes over 30 million jobs. This broader approach allows for a wider range of individuals to be catered to and addresses the diverse needs of the sector. By expanding the scope, opportunities are provided for the existing workforce, previously limited by growth, to upskill and progress to the next level in their careers.

The Job Plus is dedicated to fostering excellence in hospitality skilling and youth employability, and this partnership with the Ministry of Education serves as a resounding testament to their dedication to advancing these objectives nationwide.

The Job Plus will be training individuals in three main departments – Food & Beverage, Front Office, and Housekeeping, with a focus on employability-linked development.

The Launch of SWAYAM Plus

The launch event of SWAYAM Plus was held on 27^th February, 2024, at JW Marriott Hotel, Aerocity, New Delhi, marked the exchange of MoUs with industry partners, including The Job Plus.

The new platform was inaugurated by Honourable Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, along with him, the event was graced by notable dignitaries including Secretary of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy; Chairperson of UGC, Prof. Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar; Chairperson of NCVET, Dr. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi; Chairperson of NASSCOM, Shri Rajesh Nambiar; Director of IIT Madras, Prof. V Kamakoti; Chairman of AICTE, Prof. T.G. Sitharam; and Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Shri Govind Jaiswal, and other esteemed academicians and dignitaries.

At the launch event, The Job Plus reiterated its wholehearted alignment with MoE’s vision of equipping students with skills to enhance employability. It emphasized fostering collaboration between the industry and education as a crucial aspect of this endeavor.

“This partnership with the Ministry of Education represents a significant step forward for The Job Plus in expanding access to high-quality, employability-linked hospitality skilling resources,” states Natwar Nagar, Founder of The Job Plus. “We are committed to working collaboratively with the government and industry partners to equip individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the evolving hospitality sector.”

Divya Krishan, the Vice President of The Job Plus said, “This collaboration with Swayam presents a valuable opportunity to tap into the vast talent pool and bring it into the hospitality industry. Swayam’s impressive growth, with enrolments exceeding 72 lakhs in 2023, underscores its potential to reach a diverse range of individuals. By leveraging Swayam’s extensive reach, we can unlock the latent potential of individuals who may have been previously overlooked by traditional educational avenues.” 

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In a world where fast food and processed meals dominate our dining tables, the quest for a healthier, more organic lifestyle has never been more crucial. “A Good Life – Healthy and Organic Food & Drinks” champions this noble pursuit, emphasizing the importance of a nutritious diet for people of all ages and the impact of organic food. Embarking on this journey, we delve into the heart of what makes a diet not just palatable, but beneficial for our well-being.

At its core, a good life is sustained by food choices that do more than just satisfy hunger. It’s about selecting meals, fruits and vegetables and beverages that are rich in nutrients, low in harmful additives, and produced in harmony with nature. Organic food and drinks play a pivotal role in this, offering a cleaner and more environmentally friendly approach to eating. By choosing organic, we reduce our exposure to pesticides and chemicals, and we support sustainable farming practices that are kinder to our planet.

While customized diets such as the Whole30 or Paleo diet have grown in popularity in recent years, there is no compelling need for you to follow one of these regimens in addition to consuming more healthily. Such tailored diets are better suited to persons who have certain dietary sensitivities or are on a weight-loss regimen. The key to eating healthily is organic food consumption, as well as choosing the correct meals and consuming the right adequate amounts.

Here is a list of the top 10 healthy foods and drinks from across various food groups.

Mixed seeds and Nuts

Mixed seeds and dry fruits should be included in everyone’s healthy and organic food and drink diet plan. They are high in nutrients and give refined carbs, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, as well as plenty of energy! That isn’t everything. They are high in dietary fibre, which keeps your digestive system running smoothly.

They offer healthy fats, fueling your blood cells and aiding brain function. They, like nuts, decrease inflammation in the body, which slows ageing and lowers the risk of heart disease. They include plant sterols, which help control cholesterol levels and lower the risk of cancer. They are high in trace minerals, including selenium, magnesium, copper, and zinc, which our bodies need. Seeds, when ingested regularly, can help prevent weight gain over time.

Green Tea

Green tea has been acclaimed for decades in Asian nations for its health advantages; Americans just recently caught on. While most of us think of green tea as a healthy drink that hydrates and calms the spirit, it actually does serve you more than it.

Green tea is filled with a high concentration of polyphenols, which prevents some forms of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. According to research, it can also help avoid abrupt spikes in blood sugar after meals, which is especially advantageous for patients with type 2 diabetes. Experience this warm and calming lemon thyme green tea and make it a part of your daily routine.

Avocado

Consuming just one or two avocados every week provides you with all of the importance of organic monounsaturated fats, Vitamin B6, and plenty of folates. It may, for example, lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and overall mortality while also encouraging a healthy complexion and hair, enhanced energy, and weight control. You may toast it with salt and pepper or a piece of cheese if you prefer.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice a vibrant and tangy elixir, is more than just a delightful beverage; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits. It is one of the most nutrient-dense drinks on the market. This colourful fruit juice is rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from harm and reduce inflammation. It is a great organic food and health essential and is high in immune-boosting vitamin C, giving it one of our favourite cold-fighting healthy beverages.

Extracted from the ruby red seeds of the pomegranate fruit, this juice is packed with punicalagins and anthocyanins, which are instrumental in protecting the body against free radicals and reducing inflammation.

Regular consumption of pomegranate juice is linked to improved heart health, as it aids in reducing high blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and enhancing blood flow. It’s also a friend to fitness enthusiasts, helping in muscle recovery and endurance improvement.

For those seeking a boost in their immune system, the vitamin C and E content in this juice is a natural fortifier. Additionally, its antiviral and antibacterial properties make it a great ally in maintaining overall health. The potential benefits of pomegranate juice extend to improving memory and cognitive function, making it a smart choice for a healthy diet. With its deep, rich flavour and myriad health benefits, pomegranate juice is a delicious way to nurture your body.

Beet Juice

Looking for a few reasons to include beets in your diet? Beets have several health advantages, beginning with the reality that they are an excellent source of folic acid, magnesium, and nitrates.

Nitrates are converted inside our system into nitric oxide, which decreases one’s blood pressure and boosts overall blood flow in the body. According to a few studies, it’s a fantastic drink to take before workout sessions and exercises to enhance stamina. Take a juicer and create this delicious nutritious drink and have it anytime.

Lemons

Lemons, the zesty citrus fruits known for their bright yellow hue and tangy flavour, are more than just a garnish or a flavouring agent; they are a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits.

Lemons are often referred to as the world’s healthiest food and provide flavour to baked products, sauces, salad dressings, marinades, drinks, and sweets, and they are also high in antioxidants.

High in vitamin C, lemons are excellent for boosting the immune system, making them a go-to during cold and flu season. This vitamin C also plays a role in skin health, helping to reduce signs of ageing and promoting a brighter complexion. Lemons have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which help in fighting infections and soothing sore throats.

Lemons have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can help to slow the development of cancer cells. It offers a similar amount of Vitamin C as present in oranges. To be fit and energized simultaneously, add a slice of lemon to your cup of tea or water bottle.

They are also known for their digestive benefits; the acidity in lemon juice can enhance digestion and, when taken with warm water, can act as a gentle detoxifier and aid in preventing constipation. Additionally, lemons are a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health, and their low calorie and high water content make them a weight loss-friendly food.

Incorporating lemon into your diet can be as simple as squeezing some into your water, adding it to teas, or using it in dressings and marinades. With their refreshing taste and multitude of health benefits, lemons are a wonderful and versatile addition to a healthy diet.

Lentils

Lentils, small but mighty legumes, are a nutritional treasure trove and a staple in many cuisines around the world. They are like small beans, develop in pods, and come in different varieties, such as red, brown, black, and green variants. This powerful legume is strong in fibre and protein, and it adds fantastic flavour and texture to any dish. Lentils are frequently used as a meat alternative in traditional dishes by vegans and vegetarians. You can add it to salads, soups, and stews for additional flavour.

They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans. Packed with essential nutrients, lentils are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. This high fibre content also contributes to heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and manage blood sugar levels, making lentils beneficial for those with diabetes or at risk of heart disease.

They are a great source of iron, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall vitality, especially important for those who don’t consume meat. Lentils are also loaded with B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, all vital for neurological health and overall well-being.

Their versatility in the kitchen is unmatched; they can be used in soups, stews, salads, and even as meat substitutes in various dishes. Low in calories and virtually fat-free, lentils are an ideal component in a weight management diet. With their earthy flavour and satisfying texture, lentils are not just a smart nutritional choice, but also a delightful addition to any meal.

Spinach

Spinach is excellent in salads, and when it’s not as crisp, it’s great in smoothies, pasta dishes, and soups.

This nutritionally green superfood is widely accessible in a variety of forms, including fresh, frozen, and tinned. It is one of the healthiest vegetables on the earth, providing Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and vital folate while being low in calories. You can also sauté it with onion and serve it in an omelette for a quick and nutritious lunch.

Oatmeal

Oats are one of the healthiest grains on the planet. For years, this whole-grain powerhouse has loaded substantial nutrients and hearty taste into breakfast. It’s one of the few delicious meals that are both healthy and delicious.

They’re a gluten-free whole grain that’s high in vitamins, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Weight loss, decreased blood sugar levels, and a lower risk of heart disease are some of the benefits. Therefore, oats are one of the most nutritious meals available.

Coconut Water

The flavour of this tropical water is refreshing. There is no denying that this nutritious drink which is both organic and conventional can hydrate the body while also providing a surprising quantity of potassium.

Potassium is essential for keeping a healthy pulse and controlling blood pressure. Enjoy this sparkling coconut water if you prefer carbonation. (This is one of our favourite healthy carbonated beverages.)

This guide is not just a set of dietary recommendations; it’s a celebration of food that nourishes the body and soul. Whether you’re a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who wishes to make more informed food choices, “A Good Life – Healthy and Organic Food & Drinks” is your companion in this delicious and rewarding journey towards better health and a more sustainable lifestyle. Join us as we explore the wonderful world of organic cuisine, where every bite is a step towards a healthier, happier you.

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The tour will also witness the UK premiere of Zakir Hussain’s Triple Concerto featuring Hussain along with Niladri Kumar on the sitar and Rakesh Chaurasia on the bansuri in London, Birmingham and Edinburgh.

Following the successful Autumn 2023 Season in Mumbai, the country’s first and only professional orchestra, the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI), is proud to announce its forthcoming UK tour commencing on November 29 across seven cities including Coventry, London, Cambridge, Croydon, Bradford, Birmingham and Edinburgh. 

The 17-year-old orchestra will be returning to the UK after its well-received maiden tour of the country in 2019. The tour will exhibit the orchestra’s calibre in playing complex classical compositions as well as its unique strength in being able to showcase a signature piece, specially commissioned by the orchestra, that represents a meeting of the classical traditions of South Asia and the West. 

The SOI, based in Mumbai at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), under its Music Director, Marat Bisengaliev, celebrated many milestones this year including performing with legendary conductor Zubin Mehta who described it as “a really very fine orchestra that can be compared with a lot of good ensembles all over the world.”

Shortly after the riveting concerts, the SOI ushered in its Autumn 2023 Season in September which was undoubtedly one of its most ambitious seasons. It featured esteemed conductors Alpesh Chauhan OBE and Richard Farnes, pianist Pavel Kolesnikov and welcomed celebrated cellist, Steven Isserlis, for his India debut.

The world premiere of the SOI-commissioned Triple Concerto by Zakir Hussain in September recorded two sold-out shows and received an overwhelming response. The one-of-a-kind season was applauded by the audience in Mumbai and other concertgoers from different parts of the country. The orchestra’s UK Tour will be an extension of the SOI Autumn 2023 Season featuring the same artists and the UK premiere of the Triple Concerto. 

Khushroo N. Suntook, Co-founder, Symphony Orchestra of India and Chairman, NCPA, expressed, “The SOI’s seventeenth year has been special. The SOI co-founder and Music Director Marat Bisengaliev and I are pleased to witness the orchestra’s journey and hope that this is only the beginning.”

She added, ” The Autumn 2023 Season was a great success assisted by the excitement around the NCPA’s commissioning of a Triple Concerto for the tabla, sitar and bansuri played by the three great maestros— Zakir Hussain, also the composer, Niladri Kumar and Rakesh Chaurasia. We can safely say that it was one of the most successful seasons of the SOI in living memory. The same artists are now preparing to go to the U.K. The tour promises to be a remarkable musical celebration and we look forward to presenting it to the audiences in the UK.”

The UK Tour 2023 schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, November 29, 2023: Coventry, Warwick Arts Centre, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.
• Thursday, November 30, 2023: London, Cadogan Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
• Friday, December 1, 2023: Birmingham, Symphony Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
• Saturday, December 2, 2023: Bradford, St. George’s Hall, featuring Richard Farnes and Marat Bisengaliev.
• Sunday, December 3, 2023: Edinburgh, Usher Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
• Tuesday, December 5, 2023: Croydon, Fairfield Halls, featuring Richard Farnes and Marat Bisengaliev.
• Thursday, December 7, 2023: Cambridge, Corn Exchange, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.
• Friday, December 8, 2023: London, Cadogan Hall, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.

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In the realm of corporate social responsibility, few names shine as brightly as Shiv Nadar’s. Renowned as an industry titan in digital technology and could computing spaces, Nadar’s legacy extends far beyond the boardroom. His commitment to philanthropy has left an indelible mark on countless lives, reshaping communities and fostering a brighter future for generations to come.

SHIV NADAR FOUNDATION

At the heart of Nadar’s philanthropic endeavours is the belief that education is the cornerstone of societal progress. His vision led to the establishment of the Shiv Nadar Foundation in 1994, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming education in India. One of the foundation’s flagship initiatives, the Shiv Nadar University, stands as a testament to his commitment to nurturing young minds. Located in Uttar Pradesh, this multidisciplinary university provides world-class education to students, fostering innovation and creativity.

HEALTHCARE

Nadar’s philanthropic efforts are not confined within the walls of educational institutions; they extend to healthcare as well. The Foundation’s healthcare initiatives focus on providing accessible and affordable healthcare services to underserved communities. Through numerous medical camps and initiatives, thousands have received medical aid, ranging from basic check-ups to life-saving surgeries. Healthcare initiatives extend to the Shiv Nadar University campus as well. The university has a healthcare centre with 24×7 paramedic staff and an ambulance on standby for emergencies.

EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES

One of the most notable examples of Nadar’s impact on education can be seen through the Vidya Gyan schools, a chain of institutions established by the Shiv Nadar Foundation. These schools aim to identify and nurture exceptional talent from rural areas, providing them with high-quality education, mentorship, and exposure to a world of opportunities. By breaking the barriers of privilege, these schools empower bright minds to dream big and achieve their goals.

ART & CULTURE

Nadar’s philanthropic influence also extends to the realm of art and culture. The Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, named after his wife Kiran Nadar, stands as a beacon of artistic expression. Housing an impressive collection of contemporary and modern Indian art, the museum not only preserves the country’s cultural heritage but also promotes emerging artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their talent.

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Additionally, Nadar’s commitment to social change is evident through his support for initiatives promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. The Foundation’s programmes focus on providing education and skill development opportunities to women, enabling them to become financially independent and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

GLOBAL IMPACT

Beyond the borders of India, Nadar’s philanthropy has made a global impact.

He has contributed significantly to charitable causes around the world, supporting initiatives related to education, healthcare, and social welfare.

His generosity knows no bounds, transcending geographical barriers to uplift lives on a global scale.

What sets Nadar apart as a philanthropist is not just the magnitude of his contributions but also the holistic approach he adopts.

By addressing various facets of societal development, from education to healthcare and beyond, he creates a ripple effect that transforms entire communities.

His initiatives not only offer immediate relief but also sow the seeds of lasting change, fostering self-reliance and resilience among those he touches.

In essence, Nadar’s philanthropic journey is a testament to the transformative power of generosity and vision.

Through his unwavering dedication to education, healthcare, and social causes, he has become a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.

As his initiatives continue to flourish and inspire, Nadar’s legacy as a visionary philanthropist will undoubtedly endure, reminding the world of the immense impact one individual can have in shaping the destiny of nations and the lives of millions.

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This unique and historically significant pin badge, once sold by the renowned Indian princess and activist Sophia Duleep Singh, is set to be a highlight of the new ‘Indian Army at the Palace’ exhibition at Hampton Court Palace for 2023.

This rare item, used by Sophia Duleep Singh in her efforts to support the Indian Army, now takes its place in a comprehensive display. The exhibition aims to shed light on the lesser-known narratives of Indian Army soldiers who were stationed at Hampton Court Palace in the early 20th century. It features an array of never-before-seen artefacts, photographs, films, and personal accounts, offering a vivid glimpse into this intriguing chapter of history.

Set to tell the forgotten history of the Indian soldiers that camped on its grounds in the early twentieth century, the display explores the story in detail for the first time, including the soldiers’ experiences in camp, as well as press and public reactions to their stay.  

Princess Sophia’s Legacy: Honouring Indian Soldiers of WWI

The ‘India Day’ badge is the same as those sold by Princess Sophia, a former resident of the  Palace and daughter of Maharaja Duleep Singh, in 1918 to raise funds for the Indian  Army in World War I.

During the war Sophia was particularly keen to emulate and help the hundreds of thousands of Indians who were fighting, becoming the Honourable Secretary of the YMCA War Emergency Committee, with one event raising funds for 50,000 huts for the comfort of Indian soldiers.

She also visited and even nursed troops at Brighton Pavilion and other hospitals for Indian soldiers. The rare pin badge, which is only 2.5cm high, depicts an  Indian elephant and is part of a new acquisition of Indian Army material for Historic Royal  Palaces – the charity that cares for Hampton Court Palace – going on display for the first time.  

A Journey Through History, Culture, and Perception in Early 20th Century Britain

The new display shares the stories of the Indian soldiers who took up residence on four occasions on the Hampton Court estate for the Coronations of King Edward VII in 1902,  King George V in 1911 and George VI in 1937, as well as for the First World War Victory  Parade in London. It will explore their experience within camp and more generally in  England, with many of them visiting the country for the very first time.

Efforts were made in the camps to meet the cultural and religious requirements of the soldiers from many ethnic communities, and the soldiers were entertained with excursions to attractions in London and across the country. Visitors to the display will learn about the daily experiences of the soldiers camped on the grounds, from food and rationing to entertainment, travel and religious accommodation.

Through press and public reactions, it will also look more widely at the sometimes negative perceptions of the South Asian presence in Britain in the early twentieth century, as well as its impact. Their contribution to these historic occasions will be commemorated, overlooking the very grounds in which they stayed over a century ago.  

The Indian Army at the Palace display will bring together a range of never-before-seen objects including photographs, maps, postcards and even a surviving military uniform, as well as the rare pin badge. The items will include many from the Historic Royal Palaces’ collection – which also go on display for the first time – including an official plan from one of the camps, press cuttings depicting the soldiers’ arrival at Hampton Court station, and Indian soldiers in and around the Palace grounds.

Shared Histories: South Asian Community Lends Personal Artifacts to Enhance Hampton Court’s Indian Army Exhibition

These objects will be displayed alongside a  collection of items on loan from the South Asian community. The public call out to the South  Asian community earlier this year, alongside work with community partners, has yielded some moving results – including objects submitted by direct descendants of the soldiers who once camped at Hampton Court Palace.

Items selected include a 32nd Sikh Pioneers Indian  Army Officer’s tunic, medals and photos belonging to soldiers from the 1902 and 1911  contingents, original photographs of the Gurkha regiment in the 1919 parade and newspaper articles depicting the visits.  

Historic Royal Palaces has worked closely with local South Asian community groups throughout the exhibition process, supporting them to share their stories and objects as part of the display. Representatives from the groups – which include A Little History of the Sikhs,  who develop tours and lectures to introduce Sikh, Anglo-Sikh and Panjabi history to new audiences – have helped to expand the Palace’s history to include these stories and to select some of the objects on display. Community groups have also contributed to the object labels and short films, sharing their reflections on the items and history being told.

  Highlighting Hidden Histories

Zakira Begum, Interpretation Officer, at Historic Royal Palaces said, “We’re really excited to be shining a spotlight on the stories of the Indian soldiers encampment at Hampton Court  Palace, celebrating the contribution that they made to the Palace’s history. Working with  South Asian community partners has been a key part of bringing this story to life, and we look forward to sharing their objects with our visitors as part of the display. We believe that  our work is enriched by the involvement of a wide range of people and perspectives, and  working with the community has been instrumental in creating this new display for our  visitors.” 

Historic relationship between the Indian Army and Hampton Court Palace

Dr Tejpal Singh Ralmill, military expert at A Little History of the Sikhs, said: “In 2021, and  2022, the Standing with Giants project has given us a platform to shine a light on the historic relationship between the Indian Army and Hampton Court Palace. This manifested in the form of presentations and tours. It was clear that our audiences were intrigued to hear of the hidden stories of our forefathers contained within the walls of the Royal Palace, and a  connection that nearly all were unaware of. “

He added, “It is therefore pertinent that these stories are further explored. Through our research and outreach work, we have established connections with descendants of Indian soldiers who resided in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace in the first half of the twentieth century at historic events such as Coronations. It has been  fantastic to develop upon this research and support the team at Historic Royal Palaces to  interpret submissions from our community to the call-out and to work on the content of this  important part of the Palace’s history.” 

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Dare to dream. Visualize a world without limits. Close your eyes and imagine that passport of yours with a smattering of multicoloured stamps, each one a grand adventure, a memory cherished. With an abundance of exotic destinations around every corner of this vast, beautiful world, whittling down your ultimate travel bucket list can indeed pose quite a challenge.

With so many global travel experiences on offer, it might be difficult to pick your great bucket list excursions. Because, what, you may ask, qualifies a vacation as a true bucket-list contender? It’s a question as varied and unique as the travellers who dare to pose it.

So, whether it’s the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights, the winding journey of an open road, or an experience yet unnamed that calls out to you, take that leap of faith. Every item on this curated list is more than a destination; it is an opportunity to collect a treasury of experiences, to live a thousand lives in one, and to kindle the flame of wanderlust that will keep your travel dreams eternally glowing.

We share a curated list of 12 phenomenal experiences for global travel:

Photograph Arizona’s Upper Antelope Canyon

Arizona’s Upper Antelope Canyon is a geological marvel carved by time and the relentless forces of water and wind. This slot canyon is famous for its undulating sandstone walls that glow with radiant hues of red, orange, and pink as sunlight filters down from above. It is one of the most photographed locations in the American Southwest and rightfully so.

 A walk through the sinuous passages feels akin to navigating a labyrinth from a different world, etched with mesmerizing patterns of swirling rock. The guided tours offered by the Navajo Nation are the only means to access this protected site.

Go underground at The Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul offers an entirely different but equally awe-inspiring journey. This enormous underground water reservoir dates back to the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. With its dimly lit, forest-like assembly of 336 marble columns, each reaching 9 meters high, it creates an atmosphere of haunting beauty. Reflections of the column head ripple on the water’s surface, generating a mesmerizing mirror effect.

The unique Medusa column bases artfully carved and mysteriously inverted, add an intriguing note of history and myth to the site. Traverse the wooden walkways, the distant drip of water echoes, amplifying the sense of stepping back in time.

Trek the Himalayas

There are plenty of pathways in the Himalayas to accommodate all adventure enthusiasts, so you don’t have to summit Mount Everest to demonstrate you can hike the Himalayas. The Himalayan mountain range consists of hundreds of mountains spanning India, Nepal, China, Pakistan, and Bhutan — the majority of people wanted to travel to India or Nepal. Stick to the colder, clearer months of the year, from April to November.

There are several hikes to select from, but for those who simply would like to rest and enjoy the beauty of the range, there are lodges and luxury resorts that can suit the more easygoing tourist.

Walk Along China’s Great Wall

The Great Wall, which stretches over 21,000 kilometers, may not be walkable in its entirety, but it is well worth a visit. You may experience the architectural marvel in a variety of ways, including walking (have excellent shoes), cycling, helicopter rides, and even cable cars in some locations.

We suggest visiting the Great Wall of China during the warm months of the year, from March to May in the spring and September to November in the autumn. Hire a trip guide to fully appreciate the history and hidden mysteries of the old Chinese Empire. Thus the sight of hiking the full length of China’s Great Wall would be life-changing.

Experience the ancient ‘lost city of Petra

This Unesco World Heritage Site has long enthralled visitors with its beautiful sandstone architecture and history. It is about 3000 years old and was formerly the headquarters of the Nabataeans, a nomadic Arabian tribe who were merchants and crafters.

The city was subsequently forgotten, only to be rediscovered by Bedouin, who started living in the caverns in the 1980s. The intriguing city was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, and every tourist who visits may witness why.

Tourists to the huge 102-square-mile complex are overwhelmed by the magnificence of the Siq, the winding narrow canyon that was once a commerce channel. It was a focal point for religious processions, to the renowned 128-foot-high Treasury structure. Jordan has a record for being one of the friendliest and most inviting nations in the Middle East.

View the Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands are a scientific paradise that hides natural secrets not found anywhere else on the planet. The islands stimulate reflection and astonishment as the birthplace of Charles Darwin’s ideas on evolution by natural selection.

Many of the natural animals are specific to the length of islands off Ecuador’s coast, including 200-year-old tortoises, enormous pink and yellow land iguanas, and flightless cormorants. The Galápagos Islands, which are situated at the confluence of three ocean currents, are home to a diverse wide range of aquatic life. The airport was opened with ecological and recycled materials and runs on solar and wind power, indicating that ecotourism has become a big industry in recent years.

Explore the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most stunning wonders and should be on everyone’s bucket list. Nature’s method of giving us a free light display is the dancing lights in the northern and southern hemispheres. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights in the North) is during the winter, from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m.

If you intend to remain up all night in the open to see this incredible spectacle, bring plenty of warm clothes and hot drinks. Viewing the northern lights is thus a transforming event that many people wait years, even a lifetime, for seeing since the circumstances must be ideal for this stunning show to occur.

Marvel upon geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, home to 60 per cent of the world’s geysers (including the park’s most famous, Old Faithful), is a sensory overload. There is still something to surprise, from eggy whiffs of roaring, hot springs that burst over a scorching terrain to the exhilarating sight of bison, elk, bears, and wolves dashing by.

Yellowstone became the first national park in the United States on March 1, 1872, and it now attracts over 4 million visitors each year. Rugged gorges, mountains, and woods abound, ideal for hiking, strolling, climbing, trail running, as well as other outdoor pursuits.

Visit the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef, one of Australia’s greatest treasures, is a 2,000-kilometer coral reef ecosystem off the coast of Queensland. With so much scenic scenery, visitors have the choice of diving or snorkeling directly into the bright blue ocean to completely engage themselves in the reef or admiring the magnificence from afar by taking in breath-blowing vistas from an aircraft or helicopter tour.

Whales, dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, and porpoises, as well as around 1500 kinds of fish and billions of other microscopic marine critters, all call the Great Barrier Reef home.

Amaze at the extraordinary power of Iguazú Falls

The ferocious Iguazu Falls are a breathtaking display of nature’s strength, and they are freely reachable from both Brazil and Argentina. The cascades are produced by a sequence of numerous waterfalls that stretch over about two miles (3 kilometers) and combine forces to create spectacular.

The adjacent national park, which covers 67,720 hectares and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, makes it more interesting. As Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) thunders over the cliffs, several rainbows can be seen when the spray and falling water are illuminated against the light.

Get up close and personal with elephants in South Africa

You won’t believe this, you’re standing next to a youthful bull elephant who could or might not be poised to charge. Even as a junior jumbo, it’s enormous – about a third the size of the Asian elephants you would have experienced in Thailand or India.

Trekking safaris are more emotional than vehicle safaris because they take you back to your roots. Addo Elephant Park in the Eastern Cape is the third-largest national park in South Africa and home to the world’s densest elephant population, making it a must-see attraction for any tourist.

Float on a mirror surface at Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt lake, is converted into a vast mirror after rain, where the borders between sky and ground dissolve. The horizon vanishes as the flat salt surface reflects the clouds.

The lake, which covers 4085 square miles (10,582 square km) and is located at a height of 3653 meters (11,984 feet) in the Bolivian altiplano, is as captivating when dry, with the white fractured surface as that of another planet. There are even geyser sites to see, and flamingos swarm to high-altitude waters of aquamarine.

This curated selection of global adventures is only a starting point for your adventures

Every corner of our magnificent planet beckons with a unique allure, a secret charm that cannot be truly captured, but only experienced. This curated selection of global adventures is a starting point, an open invitation to the world, a call to broaden your horizons and immerse yourself in the myriad cultures, landscapes, and mysteries that await.

So, whether it’s the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights, the winding journey of an open road, or an experience yet unnamed that calls out to you, take that leap of faith. Every item on this list is more than a destination; it is an opportunity to collect a treasury of experiences, to live a thousand lives in one, and to kindle the flame of wanderlust that will keep your travel dreams eternally glowing.

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Today’s Traveller : Please explain the concept of the inclusive Social Ecosystem Model (SEM)?

Stefano Greco : It is a relatively new developmental model promoted some years ago by the G20 during the German and Argentinian presidencies. Contraposed to the inequalities generated by contemporary business practices, the Social Ecosystem Model aims to develop an inclusive and sustainable educational, social, and economic growth for city regions.

In simple terms, the idea is to utilize open digital technologies to establish permanent networks composed of educators, entrepreneurs,  and representatives from the local public authorities and civil society. The mission of the Social Ecosystem Model is to break the current socio-economic trends, characterized by the unfair, unsustainable, and unethical distribution of wealth.

We live in a time where the number of billionaires is constantly increasing, the middle class is vanishing, and the inequalities inside the communities are continuously increasing. Is this sustainable? When we think of Silicon Valley, we automatically refer to digital enterprises, to success and money. Away from the mainstream image, the IT boom in California resulted in an unsustainable rise in real estate prices, leading to the gentrification of entire residential areas. Likewise, you’ve probably never heard of the explosion of chemical pollution resulting from the production of digital hardware.      

Acknowledging the potential equality (and disparity) power of digital technologies, the SEM represents one of the possible answers to the contemporary unsustainable patterns.  It is crucial to explain that the SEM – like any other innovative socio-political or economic model – will never emerge naturally.

In other words, the SEM could be implemented on a large scale, only after a breakthrough decision operated by political and financial leaders. To make the SEM work, the division of roles, duties, and tasks between public and private actors needs to be drastically reformulated, setting ethical demarcations for a better distribution of wealth. 

Today’s Traveller : Do you see educational systems keeping up with the new parameters of education/skill development in a digital age?

Stefano Greco : Yes and no. As a logical deduction of what was discussed earlier, due to an inhomogeneous scenario it is not possible to provide a single answer. The digital era is expected to widen the gap between elite education and mass education. In the history of humanity, education has always been a conservative sector.

Simultaneously, ranging from kindergarten to the university level, education is gradually adapting the curricula to the digital age. Of course, updating methods of teaching is always a time-demanding exercise, subject to failures and revisions. To reimagine education does not imply the simple introduction of technology in the class. The most important and difficult challenge is to train students to be productive without the support of technology.

The advancement of robotics, as well as subsequent developments in the field of software and mechatronics, will change the labour market. As in the movies set in the future, machines and robots will replace humans for a multitude of tasks.  In this scenario, the strategic responsibility for the education sector is to ensure that students master and command IT devices, rather than to contribute to the creation of a reverse scenario where students become completely dependent on technologies.  

Today’s Traveller : How can inclusive education help institutions make their students job-ready for the future?

Stefano Greco : This question is relatively easy to answer. Mostly in democratic countries, learning based on uncritical memorization is obsolete, unproductive, and volatile. Inclusive education is a useful investment only when it is supported with valid learning methodologies. Schools and universities need to welcome people from disadvantaged backgrounds, but in order to empower these students, up-to-date learning outcomes are required.   

Societal problems are becoming more complex. The current labour market request for problem-solving capabilities will be soon replaced by the recruiters’ demand for workers capable of analyzing and understanding problems.

In the current scenario, the competition in the workplace is likely to further increase the skills and remuneration gap in the labour force. Inclusive education is an essential component to tackle inequalities.  At the same time, it is indispensable to remind that promotion of inclusive education is useless without parallel investments for pedagogies favouring the development of critical, analytical, and creative skills among the students.

Today’s Traveller : How do we create bridges to expensive higher education to make it available to those students who can’t afford it?

Stefano Greco : For this goal the role of the state and the public policies are crucial. There is no alternative solution. Governments are required to include education at the center of their budget laws. Developing an accessible high-quality public education is the only approach to create inclusive higher education.  

Unfortunately, we often observe the opposite.  Public financial investments in higher education, and education tout court, hardly meet the requirements on the field. There are several causes for this. In the first instance, the positive outcomes of investments in education arrive in the long term.

Governments aiming for electoral success are unlikely to invest in sectors that could bring positive results after a decade. The shortage of political vision is one of the tragedies of our troubled contemporary times. Due to diverse exogenous and endogenous factors, the national governments are progressively losing their traditional role of wealth redistribution.  As a result, the societal responsibilities allocated to the state collide with the public financial straits.            

In this scenario, a winning strategy to build an inclusive qualitative education must be matched by a serious and coordinated commitment of the global political and economical leaders in fighting corruption and fiscal avoidance, resolving any other issue behind the inability of the states to meet their traditional societal responsibilities.    

Today’s Traveller : In what ways can we make education more aligned to reflect local job requirements and business growth?  

Stefano Greco : Among the aforementioned challenges, this could be the easiest to solve.  Similar to what is suggested in the Social Ecosystem Model, the local socio-economic scenario can be improved with the smart development and deployment of open digital technologies – combined with the effective integration of the best representatives from the education, business, civil society, and public sector.

The continuous interaction between educators and entrepreneurs could address the skill gap between graduates’ and employers’ requirements. The involvement of the local authorities could be instrumental to smartly invest the public funds for business growth. The involvement of civil society would ensure the creation of an inclusive developmental model, targeting social and environmental progress.

As the problems affecting our lives are constantly growing in terms of complexity, it is not advisable to give credit to gurus promising simple and dogmatic solutions to compounded problems. Not recognizing the unsustainability of our times is a mere attempt to be blind towards problems that before or later humanity will have to solve.

For how long can we continue to pass down collective problems to future generations? How will our generation be remembered in history books? The moment has come to ensure that technological innovation is paired with human development.  This is no longer a choice, but an irreversible collective necessity.

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