Latest news with #SeemaSingh
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Not everyone who votes in Knoxville lives here, and the little-known rule is totally legal
A little-known rule allows some who don't live in Knoxville city limits to vote in city elections. The property-qualified voting provision allows any Tennessee resident who owns property in Knoxville city limits to have a say in deciding the city's leaders. In a primary election, those voters can make a difference. There are only 287 property-qualified voters, but that number is enough to sway a low-turnout race like the Aug. 26 primary. In 2021, the last city council race that didn't have a citywide position on the ballot, 9,998 people voted in the primary election across five districts. One council member, Seema Singh, won her district by just 59 votes. It's a sweet deal for property owners: registering to be a property-qualified Knoxville voter doesn't cancel your current registration address where you live, according to the Knox County Election Commission. Only two other cities in Tennessee extend the option to out-of-city voters. What are the requirements to be a property-qualified voter in Knoxville? In order to cast a Knoxville ballot, property-qualified voters must: Own land within city limits that's at least 4,000 square feet Have owned that property for at least six months before Election Day and until the election Be registered to vote elsewhere in Tennessee Provide proof of ownership at the time of voter registration, including a certified deed or most recent city tax bill Only one owner from a property can be property-qualified. How can I register to be a property-qualified voter? The deadline to register to be a property-qualified voter in the Aug. 26 election has passed. It's the same as the regular deadline to register to vote in an election To register for the next election, voters must do the following on the Knox County Election Commission's mail-in registration form: Write or type "property qualified" on the form in a noticeable manner. On the "residential address" line, write the address of your qualifying property. On the "mailing address" line, write the address where you receive your mail. Mail the completed voter registration form to the Knox County Election Commission, P.O. Box 51530, Knoxville, Tennessee 37950. The election commission will review your application and reach out with any questions about the property. The Tennessee Secretary of State's online voter registration form cannot be used. How many property-qualified voters are there? As of July 14, there were 287 Knoxville property-qualified voters. How many property-qualified voters can cast ballots in August? Out of the 287 Knoxville property-qualified voters, 242 can vote in the city council primary election on Aug. 26. The other 45 are in District 5, which does not have a council seat up for election this year. However, all voters, including property-qualified voters, can cast a ballot in the Nov. 4 sales tax referendum. How do property-qualified voters cast ballots? Property-qualified Knoxville voters must vote absentee by mail. If a property-qualified voter is registered, the election commission will automatically send them an application for an absentee ballot. The election commission will take absentee ballot applications up until 10 days before the election. Absentee ballots must be mailed back in time for the election commission to receive them before polls close on Election Day. Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email: This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knoxville elections allow out-of-town voters who own property Solve the daily Crossword
Time of India
08-08-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Women Who Inspire Progress
The ET Inspiring Women Conclave & Awards – West 2025, presented by Meghashrey NGO by Seema Singh, an initiative of OMS – A division of Times Internet Limited, was a powerful celebration of women who are leading change and redefining leadership across India. Held at Grand Hyatt, Mumbai on 29th of July 2025, this first-ever edition brought together women from various fields — pioneers, innovators, and leaders — whose journeys continue to shape India's future. With the theme 'Progress for All', the event highlighted a core message: real progress happens only when everyone moves forward together — across gender, age, and geography. It was a moving tribute to strength, determination, and bold leadership. This year's conclave stood out for its focus on women who are not just part of India's growth but are actively building it. From business leaders and entrepreneurs to stars in media, tech, and the arts — the event became a space where bold ideas were shared and new partnerships were born. It created an inclusive environment that fostered meaningful dialogue, inspired action, and celebrated impact at every level. The day featured inspiring panel talks, engaging fireside chats, and impactful keynotes that explored women's evolving role in leadership and the need for more inclusive, supportive ecosystems. The award ceremony honoured women whose work shows purpose, passion, and perseverance. Their stories of hard work, quiet courage, and commitment lit a spark for many future leaders. Supported by Meghashrey NGO, led by social activist Seema Singh, the event stood for equality and empowerment. With strong support from across industries and sectors, the conclave proved that when women are empowered, society thrives — culturally, economically, and socially. The event ended on a high note — full of hope, inspiration, and a renewed determination to keep pushing forward. Because when women rise, India rises. Meghashrey NGO, Founded by Seema Singh: Delivering Inclusivity & Empowerment Meghashrey NGO, led by social activist and entrepreneur Seema Singh, is among the forerunners of driving impactful change across underprivileged communities in India. With a strong focus on healthcare, education, and community upliftment, Meghashrey aims to transform countless lives through its grassroots initiatives. Under Seema Singh's leadership, the organization has become a beacon of hope for those often left at the margins of progress. Seema Singh's unwavering commitment to social change stems from her belief that true empowerment begins with equal access — to opportunity, resources, and recognition. It was this very belief that inspired Meghashrey to partner with the ET Inspiring Women Conclave & Awards – West 2025. The event's inclusive theme, 'Progress for All,' aligned perfectly with Meghashrey's core philosophy. By supporting the conclave, Meghashrey aimed to amplify the voices of women changemakers, encourage dialogue on inclusive leadership, and celebrate those rewriting the rules with courage and compassion. Their participation reflected a shared vision — where progress is not just a privilege for the few, but a movement powered by the many. Through this platform, Meghashrey reaffirmed its mission to enable, uplift, and inspire a more equitable tomorrow. ET- Inspiring Women West- 2025 : SURVEY METHODOLOGY The objective of this research was to conduct a survey, research the probable's, nominations and recommend the final list of recipients for the coveted ET- Inspiring Women West- 2025 using robust methodology. Avance Insights has developed a nominee assessment form and an objective analytical framework to assess the nominees for ET- Inspiring Women West- 2025 in various categories. The survey had these modules, i.e. Desk Secondary Research, Approach for sharing fact file, Factual survey (Participatory Survey) to arrive at the analysis & identify the results of business entities /personalities and Performers and Individuals owned/ managed by women in different categories. A comprehensive list of business entities /personalities and Performers and Individuals owned/ managed by women was generated with the help of the internet, social media, print -magazines, and other publications. The business entities /personalities and Performers and Individuals owned/ managed by women were sent the factual data questionnaire and then rigorously followed up through telephone, email, and personal visits. The kind of work done by the nominees with focus on innovation and value propositions, contribute to the business world, society, and nation at large, Vision for the further addition of value to business world, society, and nation in future. In addition, feedback of each nominee was assessed through multiple tools such as social media profile scan and customers/ colleagues or public feedback. All data was objectively analyzed to assess the eligibility and suitability of the nominee for the award. The study was conducted in the West starting from the 3rd week of May 2025. Awards: Namrata Gupta Khan Namrata Gupta Khan Awarded For -Entertainment and Talent Management. Devanshi Chouksey Devanshi Chouksey Awarded For - Multi-Speciality Health sector Neihaa Rathi Neihaa Rathi Awarded For - Indian Spice and Food Industry Jawairia Anis Merchant Jawairia Anis Merchant Awarded For - Global Culinary Experiences Vidya Jaiswal Vidya Jaiswal Awarded For - Real Estate Sector Sonali Hingorani Sonali Hingorani Awarded For - Strategic Leader within Global Education Shahdokth Mudakavi Shahdokth Mudakavi Awarded For - Indian Origin Global Educationist Parul Rana Parul Rana Awarded For - PVC Additives Manufacturing Industry Namrata Goel Namrata Goel Awarded For - Driving Change in Education Shraddha Saawant Shraddha Saawant Awarded For - Meaningful Podcasting Disclaimer: Content Produced by Optimal Media Solutions – A Division of Times Internet Ltd
India Gazette
15-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Operation Sindoor gets public support in Mumbai led by social activist Seema Singh
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 15 (ANI): Social activist Seema Singh on Thursday led a patriotic evening in Mumbai that brought together kids and locals to show their support for the Indian Army and the government. The gathering was a tribute to Operation Sindoor, India's recent military action across the border in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. Kids were seen waving the tricolour as they stood beside Seema Singh, who was seen proudly holding the national flag. While speaking to ANI, Seema lauded the Indian Army and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their strong response and decisive action. 'Everyone knows, we Indians, we believe in non-violence, but when the time comes, we must all show our strength for the safety and peace of our country. We step forward to respond to our enemies. And what Operation Sindoor represents is not just a name. It's a sentiment. The sisters who have lost their husbands -- we are very grateful that our country's Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately took action on this and gave orders to all soldiers to bring justice to these sisters,' Singh told ANI. Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, targeted terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The strikes were conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack; however, in a swift reaction, the Indian government suspended the Indus Water Treaty signed in 1960 between the two countries, following a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting a day after the attack. The operation led to the deaths of over 100 terrorists from groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. In his address to the nation on May 12, PM Modi stated that after the surgical strike in 2016 and the airstrike in 2019, Operation Sindoor now forms India's policy against terrorism. The Prime Minister referred to India's suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and stated that water and blood cannot flow together. He also mentioned that any future talks with Pakistan will only focus on terrorism and the vacating of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which remains under illegal occupation. He further emphasized that Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, has set a new benchmark in India's fight against terrorism and established a new standard and a new normal. (ANI)
Business Upturn
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
The Wedding Pie: WeddingSutra's study on why everyone, from MBAs, CAs, and Bollywood stars want their share
Wedding jobs are not just about planning. Right from creative professionals to those who know their way around paperwork are finding their niche here. MUMBAI, India , May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — There was a time when the idea of a well-educated or professionally qualified individual making a career in weddings was unheard of. But fast-forward to 2025, and India's $75 billion wedding industry has become one of the most dynamic and competitive business sectors, attracting serious professionals, from MBAs and chartered accountants to engineers, designers, and Bollywood's biggest names. Take the wedding of businesswoman Seema Singh's daughter last month, where Shahid Kapoor performed on stage while Karan Johar and Sushmita Sen entertained as emcees. It wasn't just a star-studded affair — it was a meticulously orchestrated production with dozens of specialized businesses working behind the scenes, from catering and hospitality to design and decor, entertainment, content creation and social media agencies. Parthip Thyagarajan, co-founder and CEO of says the industry has evolved far beyond mandapwalas and florists. Today, the wedding ecosystem is a magnet for ambitious entrepreneurs, large-scale event management companies, and talent agencies. There are few formal barriers to entry, but the stakes are high — couples and families demand seamless execution and are looking for creative ideas at every step. Achint Nag, founder of Krayonz Entertainment, knows this firsthand. Two decades ago, he was organizing club nights and corporate conferences, with little thought of entering weddings. But in recent years, his company has expanded into the luxury wedding space, orchestrating destination weddings in Rajasthan's palace hotels and at luxury beach resorts across the world. Nag points out that every major corporate events firm now wants a slice of the wedding market, drawn by its high-margin opportunities and relationships with rich and famous Indian families. It's not just creative entrepreneurs making waves. Finance professionals, corporate strategists, and family business inheritors are stepping in to meet the demand. Neha and Darshan Shroff , co-founders of Momente Wedding Planners, left high-powered finance jobs in the UK to launch their business back home in India . Neha Shroff , a chartered accountant, says their success lies in combining creativity with business rigor. Destination weddings for 500 or more guests aren't just about beautiful setups — they require deep expertise in contracts, compliance, vendor management, and money movement, sometimes across hundreds of suppliers. Photography, design, and personalization have also exploded into specialized micro-industries. Hardik Gada , co-founder of SeventybyTwo Wedding Stories, comes from a family of photographers and graphic designers but carved his own cinematic, brand-driven niche in wedding photography. His wife, Rima, an MBA in finance, brought in the operational backbone to scale the business. Yogi Trivedi's Oragraphy, now an internationally recognized name, began when he rented a camera for a cousin's wedding — today, it's a powerhouse. In Kolkata , Studio13 founder Neha Jhunjhunwala crafts elaborate invites and stationery that serve as the storytelling blueprint for high-profile weddings . She says their work is no longer about 'just an invite' but about creating a visual and emotional signature for the entire celebration. 'Entrepreneurs are finding room to launch everything, from guest management apps and mobile spas to highly curated gifting solutions and live event experiences,' says Harshal Kothari , Founder of Rising Events. He adds: 'Hotel veterans who once competed for top hospitality jobs are now shifting into the wedding space, seeing it as an exciting, fast-moving industry with global appeal and premium clientele.' What makes weddings such an attractive business bet is that they are recession proof, and as was seen in 2020, pandemic proof. Even if the in-person guest list shortens, those who can do everything possible to ensure that elaborate invites and even food parcels and sweets reached the homes of those they wanted to seek blessing from. Once a destination is deemed wedding worthy, its fortunes change, explains Harshal Kothari : 'Wedding worthy means the destination ranks high on many counts — hospitality, good connectivity, availability of local vendors to meet infrastructure needs, and most importantly, luxury stays that speak volumes about the families of the bride and groom.' A combination of tradition and transformation, Indian weddings will always be built on strong cultural foundations — but they're also evolving, creating space for specialists across sectors, all converging to serve one of the most resilient consumer markets in the country. As Thyagarajan puts it, India's wedding ecosystem is no longer about just putting together a pretty event. It's a business where trust, innovation, and a deep understanding of 'return on experience' determine an entrepreneur's success. About WeddingSutra Founded in 2000, serves as the ultimate guide for couples and their families, connecting them with top-tier wedding planners, caterers, entertainers, photographers, makeup artists, decor designers, and more, to create truly unforgettable weddings. Photo: View original content to download multimedia: Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PR Newswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
Business Standard
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
The Wedding Pie: WeddingSutra's study on why everyone, from MBAs, CAs, and Bollywood stars want their share
PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 8: There was a time when the idea of a well-educated or professionally qualified individual making a career in weddings was unheard of. But fast-forward to 2025, and India's $75 billion wedding industry has become one of the most dynamic and competitive business sectors, attracting serious professionals, from MBAs and chartered accountants to engineers, designers, and Bollywood's biggest names. Take the wedding of businesswoman Seema Singh's daughter last month, where Shahid Kapoor performed on stage while Karan Johar and Sushmita Sen entertained as emcees. It wasn't just a star-studded affair -- it was a meticulously orchestrated production with dozens of specialized businesses working behind the scenes, from catering and hospitality to design and decor, entertainment, content creation and social media agencies. Parthip Thyagarajan, co-founder and CEO of says the industry has evolved far beyond mandapwalas and florists. Today, the wedding ecosystem is a magnet for ambitious entrepreneurs, large-scale event management companies, and talent agencies. There are few formal barriers to entry, but the stakes are high -- couples and families demand seamless execution and are looking for creative ideas at every step. Achint Nag, founder of Krayonz Entertainment, knows this firsthand. Two decades ago, he was organizing club nights and corporate conferences, with little thought of entering weddings. But in recent years, his company has expanded into the luxury wedding space, orchestrating destination weddings in Rajasthan's palace hotels and at luxury beach resorts across the world. Nag points out that every major corporate events firm now wants a slice of the wedding market, drawn by its high-margin opportunities and relationships with rich and famous Indian families. It's not just creative entrepreneurs making waves. Finance professionals, corporate strategists, and family business inheritors are stepping in to meet the demand. Neha and Darshan Shroff, co-founders of Momente Wedding Planners, left high-powered finance jobs in the UK to launch their business back home in India. Neha Shroff, a chartered accountant, says their success lies in combining creativity with business rigor. Destination weddings for 500 or more guests aren't just about beautiful setups -- they require deep expertise in contracts, compliance, vendor management, and money movement, sometimes across hundreds of suppliers. Photography, design, and personalization have also exploded into specialized micro-industries. Hardik Gada, co-founder of SeventybyTwo Wedding Stories, comes from a family of photographers and graphic designers but carved his own cinematic, brand-driven niche in wedding photography. His wife, Rima, an MBA in finance, brought in the operational backbone to scale the business. Yogi Trivedi's Oragraphy, now an internationally recognized name, began when he rented a camera for a cousin's wedding -- today, it's a powerhouse. In Kolkata, Studio13 founder Neha Jhunjhunwala crafts elaborate invites and stationery that serve as the storytelling blueprint for high-profile weddings. She says their work is no longer about 'just an invite' but about creating a visual and emotional signature for the entire celebration. "Entrepreneurs are finding room to launch everything, from guest management apps and mobile spas to highly curated gifting solutions and live event experiences," says Harshal Kothari, Founder of Rising Events. He adds: "Hotel veterans who once competed for top hospitality jobs are now shifting into the wedding space, seeing it as an exciting, fast-moving industry with global appeal and premium clientele." What makes weddings such an attractive business bet is that they are recession proof, and as was seen in 2020, pandemic proof. Even if the in-person guest list shortens, those who can do everything possible to ensure that elaborate invites and even food parcels and sweets reached the homes of those they wanted to seek blessing from. Once a destination is deemed wedding worthy, its fortunes change, explains Harshal Kothari: "Wedding worthy means the destination ranks high on many counts -- hospitality, good connectivity, availability of local vendors to meet infrastructure needs, and most importantly, luxury stays that speak volumes about the families of the bride and groom." A combination of tradition and transformation, Indian weddings will always be built on strong cultural foundations -- but they're also evolving, creating space for specialists across sectors, all converging to serve one of the most resilient consumer markets in the country. As Thyagarajan puts it, India's wedding ecosystem is no longer about just putting together a pretty event. It's a business where trust, innovation, and a deep understanding of 'return on experience' determine an entrepreneur's success. About WeddingSutra Founded in 2000, serves as the ultimate guide for couples and their families, connecting them with top-tier wedding planners, caterers, entertainers, photographers, makeup artists, decor designers, and more, to create truly unforgettable weddings. Photo:
