featured News

The UK government has proposed a significant expansion of its ban on bottom trawling, a destructive fishing method that drags heavy nets across the seafloor, threatening marine habitats. The plan would extend protection from 18,000km² to 48,000km² in English offshore waters, covering 41 out of 181 designated Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Environment Secretary Steve Reed warned that without urgent action, marine ecosystems could face irreversible damage. A 12-week public consultation is open until September 1, targeting feedback from the marine and fishing industries.

The move comes as global attention focuses on ocean protection at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. Sir David Attenborough voiced strong opposition to bottom trawling, calling it destructive and indiscriminate, with his latest documentary showcasing the damage it causes to seabeds and marine life. Environmental groups including Greenpeace UK and The Wildlife Trust welcomed the UK’s proposed ban as a long-overdue and vital step toward marine conservation and climate protection.

Meanwhile, international efforts are intensifying to ratify the High Seas Treaty, which aims to protect 30% of global oceans by 2030. French President Emmanuel Macron, co-hosting the summit with Costa Rica, announced that 15 more countries had ratified the treaty, bringing the total to 47—still short of the 60 needed for it to come into force. Macron also called for a moratorium on deep sea mining, condemning recent efforts by the U.S. to issue permits as “madness” that endangers biodiversity and violates international norms.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

featured News

Retail giant Marks & Spencer (M&S) has reportedly suffered a major cyberattack by ransomware group DragonForce, who sent a direct, abusive email to CEO Stuart Machin and several top executives. The message, sent from a compromised employee account on April 23, contained disturbing language and confirmed for the first time that the company’s servers had been encrypted, leaving M&S unable to process online orders for more than six weeks. The hackers claimed to have stolen customer data and shared a darknet link for ransom negotiations, suggesting they were aware of M&S’s cyber-insurance coverage.

The attack allegedly originated through the compromised account of an employee from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which provides IT services to M&S. Although the email appeared to come from the employee’s M&S address, TCS has denied any involvement, stating the message was not sent through their systems. Neither M&S nor TCS has publicly confirmed details about the breach, but cyber-security experts have verified the authenticity of the email seen by BBC News.

DragonForce, which has also claimed responsibility for a recent cyberattack on Co-op, is known for providing ransomware tools and extortion services to affiliates. Experts suspect links to the notorious Scattered Spider collective—a loosely organized group of mostly Western teens using platforms like Discord and Telegram. The UK’s National Crime Agency is investigating the group, while the hackers behind the retail attacks continue to threaten further disruption, stating, “We’re putting UK retailers on the Blacklist.”

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

featured News

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a sweeping £15.6 billion investment in public transport infrastructure across England, targeting metro mayoral areas in the Midlands, North, and West Country. The five-year funding plan—set to run from 2027/28 to 2031/32—includes major allocations for tram, train, and bus networks, with £2.5bn earmarked for expanding Greater Manchester’s tram lines and £2.4bn to extend Birmingham’s network. Other key investments include £2.1bn for West Yorkshire’s Mass Transit programme, £1.8bn for extending the North East Metro, and £1.6bn for Liverpool’s transport links.

The move signals a break from the Treasury’s traditional Green Book investment rules, which Reeves criticised for their bias towards London and the South East. By revising these guidelines, the Chancellor aims to correct regional imbalances and respond to criticism of economic stagnation and service cuts. The Labour government had reviewed many of the same transport proposals after coming to power in July, claiming they were previously unfunded under the Conservatives’ Network North scheme, which followed the cancellation of HS2 north of Birmingham.

While regional mayors largely welcomed the funding, opposition voices expressed scepticism. Conservative and Liberal Democrat figures warned that past promises had often failed to materialise, urging the government to back words with delivery. Reeves hinted at further announcements in next week’s Spending Review, which will detail Whitehall departmental allocations and could include a new Manchester-Liverpool rail link.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

featured News

The UK government has warned it may take legal action against former Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich to ensure the £2.5 billion proceeds from the club’s 2022 sale are directed toward Ukrainian humanitarian aid. The funds have remained frozen in a UK bank account since the sale, as Abramovich was sanctioned following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. While the government insists the money must support those suffering in Ukraine, Abramovich has argued it should benefit “all victims of the war,” including those in Russia.

In a joint statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed frustration over the ongoing deadlock, stating they are “fully prepared to pursue this through the courts if required.” They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the money reaches humanitarian causes in Ukraine as quickly as possible, criticizing the lack of progress in reaching an agreement with Abramovich. Despite the oligarch receiving a special license to sell the club under strict conditions, including that he would not profit, negotiations have stalled over differing interpretations of how the funds should be allocated.

The legal ownership of the money remains with Abramovich under UK law, but sanctions prevent him from accessing it. The impasse has drawn criticism, including from a House of Lords committee that labeled the delay “incomprehensible” and said it reflected poorly on both Abramovich and the UK government. The committee also noted that a more binding commitment should have been secured at the time of the sale.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

featured News

At the confluence of innovation, leadership, and forward-thinking, the Manappuram Unique Times Conclave 2025 emerged as a seminal event in India’s business landscape. Hosted at the refined Le Meridien Kochi, the conclave brought together thought leaders under the visionary theme, “How to Create Value in Your Business.” Spearheaded by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd under the stewardship of Dr Ajit Ravi, this year’s conclave reinforced its position as a transformative platform for idea exchange and enterprise evolution.

With CA Vivek Krishna Govind of Varma & Varma, Chartered Accountants, steering the panel discussion, the conclave welcomed a powerhouse of leaders: V P Nandakumar (MD & CEO, Manappuram Finance Ltd), Dr Sumitha Nandakumar (Executive Director, Manappuram Finance Ltd), Dr. Jolly Antony (Chairman, Vibe Munnar and Managing Director, Fog Resort & Spa), CA Sreejith Kuniyil (Founder, CAPITAIRE & PravasiTax), Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff (CEO, Therefore I’m), Navas Meeran (Chairman, Group Meeran & CEO, Eastern Condiments), Sir Sohan Roy SK (Founder, Chairman & CEO, Aries Group), and Muhammed Madani K (Founder & MD, ABC Group).

Each shared invaluable wisdom on value creation amidst today’s business complexities. From financial empowerment to digital innovation, ethical leadership to sustainability, the panel explored the vital elements shaping resilient enterprises. Attendees walked away empowered, enriched, and equipped to redefine value within their organizations.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography

featured News Uncategorized

The Mrs Kerala Global 2025 title has been rightfully claimed by Dhanya Sanjeev, in a grand spectacle held at Le Meridien, Kochi on May 26th. The esteemed event, powered by Alcazar Watches and DQUE, was orchestrated by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, a pioneer in creating empowering platforms for women. Harsha Sunny and Devika Vijaykumar were named first and second runners-up, respectively. The title winner was crowned by Revathy Mohan (Mrs Kerala Global 2024), while Dr Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus, and Jebitha Ajit, Managing Director of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, crowned the first and second runners-up, respectively.

12 talented women competed in the finale, reflecting excellence and elegance. Their performances turned the event into an inspiring celebration of personality, intellect, and charisma.

Subtitle Winners

Mrs Kerala Solidarity – Tintu Bissy

Mrs Kerala Fashionista – Devika Vijaykumar

Mrs Kerala Inspiring – Harsha Sunny

Mrs Kerala Vivacious – Devika Vijaykumar

Mrs Kerala Ramp Walk – Athira Sreedharan

Mrs Kerala Congeniality – Ramya P

Mrs Kerala Talent – Dhanya Sanjeev

Mrs Kerala Humaneness – Dhanya Sanjeev

A special panel, including Revathy Mohan (Mrs Kerala Global 2024), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Operations, Aries Group), Regi Bhaskar (Fashion Photographer), and Nisha Mathew (entrepreneur, actor, and producer) judged winners. The iconic gold crowns were presented by Preeti Prakash from Parakkat Jewels, reinforcing the sense of accomplishment for the winners.

The pageant saw robust backing from influential partners. While Alcazar Watches and DQUE led as main partners, additional support came from Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, Parakkat Resorts, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, and Green Media. Co-partners who enhanced the event’s reach and visibility included Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Aiswaria Advertisements, Europe Times, Times New, UT World, DQUE Soap, DQUE T-shirts, DQUE Watches, Unique Times, Akshay Inco, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

Finalists who took the stage were Anjela Francis, Athira Sreedharan, Devika Vijaykumar, Dhanya Sanjeev, Harsha Sunny, Prineesha Thomas, Ramya P, Rikhina Akhil, Saritha S N, Sheeja Naveen, Surya Suresh, and Tintu Bissy. More than just a pageant, the event stood as a tribute to the entrepreneurial, social, and personal aspirations of women across Kerala.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography

featured News

At the grand finale held on May 26th at Le Meridien, Kochi, Shwetha Jayaram from Kerala was crowned 14th Alcazar Watches & DQUE Miss Queen of India 2025, with Livya Liffy from Kerala securing the first runner-up spot and Kavya Bali from Jammu & Kashmir taking home the second runner-up title. The title winner was crowned by Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi and Jebitha Ajit, Managing Director of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd. The first runner-up was crowned by Sajan Varghese, Chairman & MD of SAJ Hotels and Resorts, and Dr. Jolly Antony, Chairman of Vibe Munnar and Managing Director of Fog Resort & Spa. Dr. G. N. Ramesh, Rotary Governor, and Major Ravi crowned the second runner-up.

This year’s competition welcomed 14 charismatic contestants representing the various Indian states. They underwent comprehensive grooming sessions by industry experts to prepare for the national stage. The competition was structured around three elegant rounds — a traditional round in lehenga, a contemporary western wear segment, and a final evening gown round.

Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, the pageant stood apart as the only one in the nation to eliminate the bikini round, reinforcing its values of dignity and cultural representation. The Miss Queen of India platform serves as a gateway to global pageants such as Miss Asia, Miss Asia Global, and Miss Glam World.

Regional Title Winners

Miss Queen North – Ritu Roat (Rajasthan)

Miss Queen West – Rupvardhini Kumar Saste (Maharashtra)

Miss Queen East – Bhupali Modak (West Bengal)

Miss Queen South – Sanjana Akasam (Telangana)

Subtitle Winners

Miss Talent – Rupvardhini Kumar Saste (Maharashtra)

Miss Solidarity – Mayuri Mishra (Maharashtra)

Miss Fashionista – Ritu Roat (Rajasthan)

Miss Congeniality – Deepika Krishnamurthy (Karnataka)

Miss Ramp Walk – Livya Liffy (Kerala)

Miss Humaneness – Shwetha Jayaram (Kerala) 

Miss Inspiring – Karishma Avinash Kadam (Maharashtra)

Miss Vivacious – Shwetha Jayaram (Kerala)

Esteemed personalities formed the judging panel, including Hari Anand, Harmeet Singh Gupta, Magen Fernandes, and Abhijeet Adurkar. Winners proudly wore gold crowns designed by Preeti Prakash of Parakkat Jewels, while subtitle awards were determined by a panel of distinguished evaluators.

The event was presented by Alcazar Watches and DQUE, with powered by partners including Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, Parakkat Resorts, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, and Green Media. Co-partners contributing to the success of the event were Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Aiswaria Advertisements, Europe Times, Times New, UT World, DQUE Soap, DQUE T-shirts, DQUE Watches, Unique Times, Akshay Inco, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

This year’s 14 contestants were:
Akshitha Sathyanarayana (Karnataka), Bhupali Modak (West Bengal), Deepika Krishnamurthy (Karnataka), Karishma Avinash Kadam (Maharashtra), Kavya Bali (Jammu & Kashmir), Livya Liffy (Kerala), Mayuri Mishra (Maharashtra), Meenakshi Unnikrishnan (Kerala), Ramyani Roysarkar (West Bengal), Ritu Roat (Rajasthan), Rupvardhini Kumar Saste (Maharashtra), Sanjana Akasam (Telangana), Shhukra Surryavanshi (Maharashtra), and Shwetha Jayaram (Kerala).

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography

featured News

Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd successfully hosted the 13th edition of Miss Queen Kerala on May 26th, 2025, at Le Meridien Kochi, where Durga Surendran was crowned the winner. Ashwaria Ullas and Soumya S Thomas were named the first and second runners-up, respectively. The prestigious pageant was presented by Alcazar Watches and DQUE.

The winner and first runner-up were crowned with golden tiaras by Pegasus Chairman Dr Ajit Ravi and Pegasus Global Private Limited Managing Director Jebitha Ajit. Sajan Varghese, Chairman & MD, SAJ Hotels and Resorts crowned the second runner-up.  A dazzling gold crown specially crafted by Preethi Prakash of Parakkat Jewels graced the heads of each triumphant winner, in a truly befitting tribute to their remarkable achievements.

The judging panel included eminent names such as Dalu Krishnadas (Fashion Choreographer), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Operations of Aries Group), Konchitha John (Miss Queen Kerala 2019, Model & Pageant Groom), and Reji Bhaskar (Fashion Photographer).

A total of 20 finalists were selected from across Kerala to compete in a series of three rounds, evaluating elegance, confidence, and personality.

Subtitle Winners

Miss Talent: Lakshmi Abhirami R Iyer

Miss Solidarity: Rosmi Shaji

Miss Fashionista: Ashwaria Ullas

Miss Congeniality: Harshitha J Pisharady

Miss Ramp Walk: Harshitha J Pisharady

Miss Humaneness: Lakshmi Abhirami R Iyer

Miss Inspiring: Durga Surendran

Miss Vivacious: Chyra Rose Luiz

In addition to the main partners Alcazar Watches and DQUE, Powered by partners included Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, Medimix, Parakkat Resorts, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, and Green Media. Co-partners were Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Aiswaria Advertisements, Europe Times, Times New, UT World, DQUE Soap, DQUE T-shirts, DQUE Watches, Unique Times, Akshay Inco, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

The participants of this year’s competition were:
Abhivandana S, Aiswarya Padmakumar, Aneeta L, Anet Anna K L, Anna Mariya Manoj, Ashwa, Ashwaria Ullas, Athulya Nagarajan, Chyra Rose Luiz, Durga Surendran, Gahazy Shiju Kunnath, Gayathri Pradeep, Glanciya Glodis, Harshitha J Pisharady, Irin Geovin, Lakshmi Abhirami R Iyer, Manisha Prem, Rosmi Shaji, Rubina Ross, and Soumya S Thomas.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography

featured News

The 18th edition of the prestigious Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award was conferred upon Sir Sohan Roy SK, Founder Chairman & CEO of Aries Group, at a spectacular ceremony held at Le Meridien, Kochi. The award was presented by V.P. Nandakumar, MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd and the first-ever recipient of the MBA Award. Dr Ajit Ravi, the visionary founder of the MBA Award and the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), and also the Chairman of Pegasus, was present at the event.

With this honor, Sir Sohan Roy SK becomes a member of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), one of the wealthiest business clubs in the world. FICF is an exclusive forum for business leaders with assets exceeding ₹1,000 crore and a demonstrated commitment to social responsibility. Notably, FICF is the first elite business club globally that does not charge any membership fee, making it a unique platform where success and service go hand in hand.

The Manappuram MBA Award, established to recognize business excellence combined with strong social values, has previously been awarded to distinguished entrepreneurs such as V.P. Nandakumar, Joy Alukkas, M.A. Yusuff Ali, T.S. Kalyanaraman, P.N.C. Menon, Gokulam Gopalan, Dr. Ravi Pillai, M.P. Ramachandran, Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Sabu M. Jacob, Dr. Viju Jacob, Dr. A.V. Anoop, Dr. Varghese Kurian, Adv. P. Krishnadas, and Dr. Hafeez Rahman.

Continuing its legacy, the MBA Award remains a beacon of excellence—honoring visionary business leaders who not only achieve remarkable success but also lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

Bussiness featured News

Pegasus Global Private Limited, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi, is set to host the sixth edition of the Manappuram Unique Times Business Conclave 2025 on May 26th at Le Meridien, Kochi. This year’s theme, “How to Create Value in Your Business,” will focus on building enterprises that go beyond profit-making to positively impact society and the economy. The conclave is expected to bring together some of the most prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the country.

The distinguished panel of speakers includes V.P. Nandakumar, Managing Director and CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd; Dr. Jolly Antony, Founder & CEO of Al Safina Travel, Vibe Munnar, Fog Resort Spa, and Zeus Resort; CA Sreejith Kuniyil, Founder of CAPITAIRE & PravasiTax Solutions Pvt Ltd; Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff, CEO of Therefore I’m; Navas Meeran, Chairman of Group Meeran and CEO of Eastern Condiments Pvt Ltd; Sir Sohan Roy SK, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Aries Group of Companies; and Muhammed Madani K, Founder and MD of ABC Group. The discussion will be moderated by CA Vivek Krishna Govind of Varma & Varma Chartered Accountants.

Attendance at the conclave is by invitation only and requires a valid entry pass. Those interested in being part of this high-impact business event are encouraged to contact 98460 50283 to request a pass. The conclave promises engaging conversations on purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the future of value-centric businesses.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright