The prestigious Miss Glam World 2025 beauty pageant, hailed as one of the most elite global competitions, has officially commenced its intensive grooming sessions at SAJ Earth Resort, Kochi, and Vibe Munnar.
Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd., under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi Pegasus, the event has brought together contestants from across the globe for a week-long program of personality development, cultural exchange, and empowerment.
The participants will undergo rigorous training in etiquette, communication, stage presence, and social impact, all curated to bring out the best in each delegate. The initiative not only focuses on external beauty but also celebrates inner strength, leadership, and purpose.
The much-anticipated grand finale is scheduled to take place on July 17 at Gokulam Park, Kochi, where contestants will showcase their grace, talent, and global camaraderie in a spectacular evening of glamour and inspiration.
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Starting with just three vehicles and no prior industry experience, Manoj Padikkal transformed Padikkal Travels into a trusted name in school transport and tourism through relentless determination, consistency, and a focus on quality. He shares how one opportunity grew into a long-term vision driven by innovation, discipline, and people-centric values. From integrating AI for enhanced safety to building strong industry relationships, his journey is a blend of tradition and technology. More than just managing vehicles and routes, his story is about building trust, upholding responsibility, and making a meaningful difference through dependable service.
In the early days of Padikkal Travels, what was the biggest learning curve you encountered as a newcomer to the industry?
When I launched Padikkal Travels in 2003, I had no background in the transport sector. What truly set things in motion was the support of a trusted contact who believed in my potential and gave me a chance to manage transport services. Sensing the opportunity, I decided to take the plunge with just three vehicles. From that point on, it’s been a continuous learning curve. The most unexpected challenge was stepping into an industry I knew little about—but I was driven to make the most of the opportunity and grow from every experience.
Was there a specific reason or experience that made you focus on the transport sector?
The journey into the transport sector wasn’t something I had planned. It began with a single opportunity. Someone saw a potential in me and offered me my very first contract. I didn’t have experience, but I had determination. After successfully handling that, nearby schools began reaching out, asking if I could take on their transport services, too. That’s when it clicked. I saw a real opportunity to build something meaningful. What started by chance turned into a calling. I realised that with hard work, trust, and consistency, I could create a service that made a difference in people’s daily lives.
Alongside school transport, you’ve built a strong presence in travel and tourism. How different is it in terms of challenges and customer expectations?
Travel and tourism come with their own set of challenges. But compared to school transport, it’s definitely more flexible. School transport demands constant vigilance; you’re responsible for the safety of young children every single day. There’s no room for error. Even a single day off isn’t an option, and if a bus breaks down, it has to be resolved immediately. The expectations are much higher because parents are trusting you with what matters most to them. In tourism, while safety is still a priority, the urgency and emotional responsibility aren’t as intense. Managing school transport teaches you discipline, precision, and accountability, and those values carry over to every other part of the business.
In a service-oriented industry like transportation, what strategies have helped you consistently meet client expectations and resolve issues efficiently?
It begins with building the right team. A strong HR foundation allows us to recruit individuals who not only have the necessary skills but also share our core values—safety, punctuality, and professionalism. We also maintain strict control over vehicle upkeep; all our buses are serviced regularly at our in-house garage to ensure they’re always in top condition. Just as crucial is communication—we prioritize client feedback, conduct regular site visits, and keep open lines of communication at all times. When problems do arise, we address them swiftly and personally. In this line of work, trust is everything, and how you respond makes all the difference.
Over the years, what guiding principle has shaped the way you lead and grow your business?
One principle I’ve always followed is to never compromise on quality and to remain accessible to clients at all times. In a people-centric business like ours, consistency and reliability are what earn long-term trust. Many of our clients have been with us for more than a decade, and that loyalty comes from strong relationships, not just service contracts. Being available, responsive, and committed to high standards every single day has been the key to building and maintaining enduring partnerships.
Your business spans several states and serves many institutions. How do you ensure consistency in service across different locations?
Consistency starts with building a strong foundation, clear systems, well-trained staff, and a shared commitment to quality. Across all our locations, we follow the same standard operating procedures and maintain strict checklists for vehicle maintenance, safety protocols, and daily operations. Our teams are regularly trained and monitored to ensure they uphold the same standards, no matter where they are. We also conduct site visits, gather regular feedback from clients, and stay in constant touch with our teams on the ground. It’s this hands-on approach and attention to detail that help us deliver a seamless experience across the board.
Have there been any moments of feedback from a parent, student, or school that deeply impacted how you see your work?
Definitely. Some of the most impactful lessons came from the early stages of the business, when we received critical feedback. Rather than seeing it as a setback, we took it as an opportunity to improve. That input helped us refine our systems and raise our standards. One piece of advice that stayed with me was to never become complacent—always keep evaluating and evolving. A moment I often recall is when a school principal said, “I never have to worry about transport anymore.” It wasn’t a grand statement, but it spoke volumes about the trust we had built. Feedback like that reminds us of the responsibility we carry and the value of consistency.
Running a demanding business often comes with personal sacrifices. How has your family supported you through the challenges of this journey?
In this line of work, challenges are constant—be it sudden breakdowns, staff shortages, or regulatory changes. During those unpredictable moments, my family’s support has been my foundation. They’ve encouraged me to stay the course during tough phases and have shown patience through long hours and high-pressure situations. More than just emotional support, they’ve given me clarity. When you’re making decisions that impact so many people daily, having a steady, grounding presence matters immensely. Their belief in me and the purpose behind what I do has helped me stay focused, resilient, and committed.
You hold key positions in transport associations like the Kerala Interstate Bus Operators Association and the Bus Operators Confederation of India. How has this exposure shaped your perspective on industry-wide challenges, and do you use those insights to influence your own business decisions?
Being in leadership roles within these associations has given me a much broader view of the transport industry. It’s made me aware of how different the rules, regulations, and taxation systems are across states, what works in one state can be completely different in another. I’ve also seen firsthand some of the key challenges we all face, like driver shortages, regulatory hurdles, and the slow pace of technological adoption in the sector.
At the same time, these roles have helped me build strong networks and stay ahead of industry changes. The insights I gain from discussions with operators across the country often inform how I run my own business. Whether it’s preparing for policy shifts, adopting new technologies, or simply learning from the experiences of others. It keeps me grounded but also forward-looking.
How are emerging technologies like AI shaping the way you manage your transport operations today?
AI is already making a meaningful impact on how we operate at Padikkal Travels. We’ve adopted several smart technologies—AI-based systems help us detect and prevent drunken driving, monitor driver fatigue, and instantly alert us if a driver appears drowsy. GPS integration allows us to optimise routes for better punctuality, while in-bus cameras offer live monitoring to ensure both driver accountability and passenger safety. We also use fuel theft alert systems to curb misuse and enhance operational efficiency. These tools have raised our safety standards, improved reliability, and deepened client trust. In today’s landscape, embracing such innovations isn’t a choice—it’s essential for sustainable growth.
Based on global best practices, what changes would you like to see in India’s school transport system?
I’ve always admired the structured approach seen in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, where school transport is handled with exceptional discipline and care. One standout practice I’d love to see adopted in India is the strict enforcement of road rules around school buses—particularly the rule that prohibits overtaking a bus when children are boarding or disembarking. These countries also have clearly designated zones for pick-up and drop-off, with traffic systems that prioritize student safety. While India has made notable progress, we still lack this level of infrastructure and driver discipline. Adopting such global standards could greatly enhance safety and bring much-needed structure to our school transport system.
Manoj Padikkal with his Family – (From Left) Megha Manoj (Daughter), Madhav Padikkal (Son), Reshmi Manoj (Wife), and Manoj Padikkal (Seated)
Can you share how your family contributes to the business and the role they play in its growth?
My family has been the backbone of this entire journey. My wife, Reshmi Manoj, who holds a postgraduate degree, is a Director at Padikkal Travels and plays a vital role in managing day-to-day operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Our daughter, Megha, is also a Director in the company. She has a BA in Economics (Honours) from Christ College, Bengaluru, and recently completed her MA in Public Policy from O.P. Jindal Global University, Delhi. Her academic background adds a unique policy-oriented perspective to the business.
Our son, Madhav, is currently in the 12th grade in Bengaluru, studying arts and humanities. He has already shown great interest in joining the business in the future. As a family, we’ve worked together to build Padikkal Travels into one of the most trusted names in school transport across South India. It’s been a collective journey rooted in shared vision, dedication, and mutual support.
What core mindset do you believe every aspiring entrepreneur should develop?
The most important shift in mindset is understanding that success doesn’t happen overnight. It demands relentless hard work, discipline, and consistency—every single day. Challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them defines your path.
Even after all these years, there are nights I’m working till 2 a.m., only to wake up again at 4 a.m. to make sure everything is in place. That kind of dedication isn’t optional—it’s what the business requires. Dreaming big is important, but dreams only come true when you back them with unwavering effort and a never-give-up attitude.
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Indian logistics magnate Dr Vijay Sankeshwar, Chairman and Managing Director of VRL Group, has been named the recipient of the 19th MBA (Multibillionaire Business Achiever) Award, a prestigious honour celebrating extraordinary business impact and social commitment. The award, conceptualized by Dr. Ajit Ravi, is presented by Unique Times in partnership with Manappuram Finance Ltd. The grand recognition ceremony will take place on July 17th at the Sree Gokulam Park Convention Centre, Kochi.
A pioneering figure in India’s transport sector, Dr Vijay Sankeshwar becomes the first-ever recipient from Karnataka, marking a milestone in the award’s pan-India expansion. His leadership has transformed VRL Group into one of India’s most prominent logistics and fleet enterprises.
The award also grants him induction into the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF)—a global forum for high-impact business leaders, envisioned by Dr Ajit Ravi and reserved exclusively for MBA Awardees.
The MBA Award continues to highlight Indian entrepreneurship on a global platform, emphasizing values of responsibility, ethics, and nation-building.
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A Ukrainian drone strike targeted a factory in the Russian city of Izhevsk on Tuesday, resulting in three fatalities and 35 injuries, according to regional governor Alexander Brechalov via his Telegram channel. Although Brechalov did not disclose the facility’s name, Ukrainian security sources informed Reuters that the attack was carried out by long-range drones operated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
The reported target, the Kupol plant, is known for manufacturing drones and air defense systems and is part of the state-owned Almaz-Antey defense conglomerate. Videos shared by a Ukrainian official showed black smoke rising from what appeared to be a cluster of buildings, reportedly the plant’s production and storage facilities. The strike also caused a significant fire at the site.
Governor Brechalov stated that he had briefed Russian President Vladimir Putin about the incident. Izhevsk is a major defense hub and also houses the globally recognized Kalashnikov arms manufacturing enterprise. Reuters noted that it could not independently verify the claims made by the Ukrainian official.
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has warned of “clear legal consequences” for those organizing or participating in the Budapest Pride march, following a police ban on the event. The march, scheduled for this weekend, has been deemed illegal under new legislation passed in March, which allows authorities to prohibit LGBTQ parades on the grounds of child protection and use facial recognition technology to identify attendees and impose fines.
Orban defended the ban during a state radio interview, urging citizens to respect the law while stating that Hungary remains a “civilised country” where police should aim to convince people, not confront them. “We are in the world not to make each others’ lives more difficult but easier,” he said, calling this principle the essence of Christianity.
The ban has drawn criticism from human rights groups and Western allies, with over 30 countries, including Britain, France, and Germany, expressing support for Hungary’s LGBTQ community. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also urged the Hungarian government to allow the march. Orban compared her intervention to Cold War-era Soviet control, accusing Brussels of trying to dictate how Hungarians should live.
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NATO leaders gathered in The Hague for a landmark summit that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described as “historic,” with all 32 member nations expected to commit to raising defence spending to 5% of national GDP. US President Donald Trump attended his first NATO summit since 2019, receiving public praise from Secretary General Mark Rutte for his “decisive action in Iran” and efforts in securing alliance consensus. The summit opened with a royal dinner hosted by King Willem-Alexander, with working sessions scheduled to be brief but significant
The 5% defence investment goal, more than double NATO’s long-standing 2% benchmark, marks a dramatic shift in alliance priorities, spurred by growing concerns over Russian aggression. While 3.5% will be allocated to core defence, the remaining 1.5% covers infrastructure and cybersecurity. Despite initial resistance, major players including Germany and the UK pledged to meet the target by 2029 and 2035 respectively. However, nations like Spain and Belgium voiced concerns, with Madrid seeking an exemption—an idea firmly rejected by Rutte, threatening alliance unity.
Meanwhile, the summit takes place under the shadow of renewed violence in Ukraine, with Russian missile strikes killing 20 and injuring over 160 civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is set to meet Trump during the summit, arrives amid growing calls for NATO members to scale up support for Kyiv. As train services from Schiphol Airport faced suspected sabotage, Dutch authorities are investigating the incident, emphasizing the tense geopolitical climate surrounding the high-stakes summit.
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More than 100 Labour MPs have backed a move to block the government’s controversial welfare reform bill, which aims to cut disability and sickness-related benefits to save £5bn annually by 2030. The MPs have signed a reasoned amendment that could potentially halt the bill’s progress if selected by the Commons Speaker and supported by a majority. Critics argue the proposed changes, which would tighten eligibility for the Personal Independence Payment (Pip), could push an additional 250,000 people—including 50,000 children—into relative poverty.
Despite mounting dissent, Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden defended the reforms, citing the projected doubling of people on long-term sickness and disability benefits by the end of the decade. He stressed the need for action to manage rising costs, which are forecast to reach £70bn annually by 2030. The government maintains that £1bn will be invested to support people back into work, though Labour MPs argue the impact assessments are inadequate and the consultation process insufficient.
Labour’s internal rift deepened after several MPs, including select committee chairs and recently elected members, joined the rebellion. The resignation of whip Vicky Foxcroft and the backlash over earlier votes on winter fuel cuts have galvanized support for the amendment. As the vote looms next week, pressure is mounting on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with rebel MPs determined to send the government “back to the drawing board” and reconsider the reforms’ long-term consequences.
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London’s Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has expressed his “shock and frustration” over a planned protest in support of Palestine Action, set to take place in central London on Monday. The protest, backed by 35 groups including the Stop the War Coalition and MEND, follows a high-profile break-in by Palestine Action activists at RAF Brize Norton, where red paint was sprayed on military aircraft in protest against the UK’s support for Israel.
With Home Secretary James Cleverly reportedly preparing to formally proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation, Sir Mark described the group as an “organised extremist criminal group”. He stressed that while the Met currently lacks the legal authority to prevent the protest, conditions under the Public Order Act have been imposed. Protesters will only be allowed to gather between 12:00 and 15:00, and not within the designated exclusion zone covering much of Westminster.
Palestine Action confirmed on social media that the protest will be held at Trafalgar Square, outside the restricted zone. Meanwhile, human rights groups including Amnesty International and figures like Baroness Shami Chakrabarti have voiced concerns over the proposed ban, warning it could criminalise peaceful dissent. The move to proscribe the group has drawn both praise and criticism across the political spectrum amid ongoing debates over protest rights and the war in Gaza.
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is facing a major political crisis following the resignation of senior Socialist Party (PSOE) leader Santos Cerdán, who is under investigation for alleged corruption. Audio recordings released by investigators appear to show Cerdán discussing commissions paid for public contracts, forcing his resignation from both the party and parliament. Although Sánchez himself is not directly implicated, the scandal has shaken his administration, especially since he had previously defended Cerdán against media allegations.
The investigation also implicates former transport minister José Luis Ábalos and his advisor Koldo García. Meanwhile, Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez, is being probed for business irregularities, and his brother faces trial for alleged influence peddling. Sánchez has denounced the investigations as politically motivated attacks from the conservative People’s Party (PP), far-right Vox, and segments of the judiciary. Despite the mounting pressure, he has vowed to complete his term, insisting that the government’s work on healthcare, housing, and climate policy must continue.
Opposition parties have intensified calls for Sánchez’s resignation, accusing him of leading a corrupt administration. The political fallout has left the left-wing electorate demobilized while energizing conservative voters. While Sánchez still holds a fragile majority with the support of nationalist and left-wing allies, further revelations could undermine his position. As he prepares to attend a NATO summit in The Hague, questions about his political survival and Spain’s defense spending commitments loom large.
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Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara from the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap, was released on unconditional bail after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on a terror-related charge. He is accused of displaying a flag in support of the banned organisation Hezbollah during a recent performance in the city. The 27-year-old arrived at court accompanied by fellow band members Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), where a packed courtroom and supporters gathered to witness the proceedings.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered Mr Ó hAnnaidh to return for a hearing on 20 August, and acknowledged difficulties in finding an Irish language interpreter. Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove clarified that the charge was not about Mr Ó hAnnaidh’s political views or support for Palestine, but specifically about alleged support for a proscribed group. Defence lawyer Brenda Campbell KC countered that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter. The courtroom was filled with journalists, Irish language advocates, and MPs including John Finucane and Paul Maskey.
Outside the courthouse, supporters held Palestinian and Kneecap flags, while others wore “Free Mo Chara” T-shirts and displayed placards defending free speech. The crowd applauded the group’s arrival and cheered slogans challenging historical discrimination. Kneecap, known for its provocative political stances and Irish-language advocacy, has faced past controversies, including a UK government grant dispute and a Gaza-related performance at Coachella. Their growing influence recently culminated in a BAFTA-winning film depicting their rise to fame.
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